Tiffany & Tonya 's Blog

85 LORENE VAN ALSTYNE TX

Tiffany & Tonya - Sharkey/ Peek Group (Ebby Halliday Realtors) — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 13:13:31 -0600

COME SEE THIS BEATUIFUL COUNTRY HOME IN VAN ALSTYNE

CONTACT THE SHARKEY PEEK GROUP FOR A PRIVATE VIEWING.

An Irresistible Country Custom Home. All the bells and whistles are here in this home with Custom Iron Front Door, Wood Floors, Stainless Appliances, Elegant Light Fixtures, and Wonderful Windows Overlooking the Estate Sized Lot that is 1.51 Acres. A Media Room, Game Room, Large Covered Patio,and a Lovely Sitting Area and Second Fireplace in the Master. Granite in Baths and Kitchen. 3 Car Garage & a Storm Cellar .

5833 BASSINGHALL PLANO TX

Tiffany & Tonya - Sharkey/ Peek Group (Ebby Halliday Realtors) — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 13:09:05 -0600

COME SEE THIS BEAUTIFUL PLANO REAL ESTATE HOME.

CONTACT SHARKEY PEEK GROUP FOR A PRIVATE VIEWING.

UPDATED! MUCH DESIRED WILLOW BEND. MARBLE ENTRY,PLTN SHUTTERS THRUOUT,GRANITE IN KITCHEN,WET BAR, ALL BATHROOMS, LNDRY ROOM. STUDY OR 4TH BR DOWN.UPDATED CARPET & C-TILED FLOORS, C SHAPED FL PLAN W-VIEW OF POOL-SPA.OPEN FAMILY ROOM,KITCHEN, BKFST RM. KITCHEN HAS DBL OVEN, SS APL, TUMBLE MARB. BK SPLASH. WET BAR W-WINE RACK. MASTER SUITE W-HYDRO TUB.GUEST BATHROOMS UPDATED W-TRAVERTINE. HDWD FLOORS. NO WALLPAPER. CUSTOM WALL TEXT&PAINT. ROOF 9-09

RISING LAND PRICES FORETELLS OF STRONG HOUSING MARKET IN PROSPER TEXAS

Tiffany & Tonya - Sharkey/ Peek Group (Ebby Halliday Realtors) — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 21:28:12 -0600

Rising land prices foretells of strong housing market in PROSPER TEXAS.

Overall housing outlook looks good in the long term as the DFW area continues to see steady population growth with a significant portion of that growth looking for detached single family homes. Low cost of living continues to bring relocations to the area.

I have to laugh when, on the one hand, I see all of the doom and gloom about the collapse of the housing market and on the other hand, look at the boom and boom of cost of Collin County land. If land is selling at higher and higher prices that foretells a strong housing market next year. This housing is not part of a housing bubble in danger of collapse.

Collin County has seen very moderate value growth in comparison to east and west coast housing markets where strong double digit appreciation has prevailed. Availability of raw land for new development and low barriers to entry for home builders has kept the Collin County market in check. Homeowners should not be fearful of any sharp value declines but instead should generally expect mediocre value increases with the exception of select unique sought-after developments such as in Prosper.

Higher interest rates has brought some calming to the breakneck pace of new home starts in the area, particularly in the first home and move-up markets. However, the strong demand for raw land in outlying areas continues to evidence homebuilders confidence in the future of the market.

Completion of the Dallas North Tollway up to US 380 in the fall of 2007 will bring many developable tracts online and we will see housing starts grow significantly in northern towns, such as Prosper, which were previously less accessible.

We are also seeing greater demand for attached product -- particularly townhomes. Many builders looking for opportunities to cater to the empty nester, young professional and young married markets have found success in townhome product. Townhome developments in mixed use environments such as Legacy Town Center have done especially well.CONTACT TIFFANY SHARKEY AND TONYA PEEK FOR ALL YOUR PROSPER TEXAS REAL ESTATE QUESTIONS 214-356-4472.

RAISING ROOFS IN PROSPER TEXAS !!

Tiffany & Tonya - Sharkey/ Peek Group (Ebby Halliday Realtors) — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 21:22:19 -0600

Builders think they’ve found sweet spot

RAISING ROOFS: Luxury home builders have found success in a sagging housing market by building in the upscale Preston Hollow neighborhood of Dallas and the city of Prosper.

In a North Texas housing market where starts are off a third from last year’s pace, mortgage lenders are cutting staff, Realtors are competing aggressively for a contracting number of sales and the number of foreclosures is the only thing on the rise, the first sign of hope — be it however modest — has emerged.

Houses in the $250,000 to $300,000 price range actually saw sales increase by 0.7% in the second quarter from 2,412 to 2,450, according to research by the housing consultant Residential Strategies.

While that number is far off the North Texas housing market’s glory days from earlier this decade, every other price point has continued to see dramatic drops, according to Residential Strategies data. Houses priced from $111,000 to $200,000, for example, saw a drop in sales of 14% in the last quarter. And closings on high-end homes — those costing $501,000 or more — did no better than hold steady.

Prosper builders are responding, with starts on houses in the $251,000 to $300,000 price range up 6.4% in the last quarter. All other price points saw a decrease, as many builders are trying to unload their inventory of finished homes.

“There’s lots of activity in different parts of the region,” said Bob Morris, executive officer of the Home Builders Association of Greater Dallas. “It’s not new spec-built product. It’s been sitting on the market for six to eight months. There’s no rational reason to bring new product into the market.”

The numbers reflect “current market realities.It’s difficult for builders to get reasonable financing for houses at lower and higher price points.

“The segment of population that can afford homes are in the above-median price bracket,” he said. “And a lot of these buyers may be saying now is a good time to hire a builder who might be selling a $250,000 or $300,000 house that a year ago would have been a $300,000 to $350,000 house.”

‘Not business as usual’

Nationally, home sales are off by 62% since the peak of the housing market in January 2006, according to numbers from Residential Strategies. In the Dallas-Fort Worth area, closings are off 32% from their peak.

“It’s not business as usual, but it’s not a disaster,” said Tiffany Sharkey, with Ebby Halliday Realtors. “You’ve got to readjust.”

And that’s what many builders have done, he said. Custom builders that had ventured into lower- and midpriced homes have moved back to houses priced between $350,000 and $600,000, Sharkey said.

“They just went back to their roots, figuring there was still a market there and more money to be made,” he said. “It’s gotten pretty competitive.”

Drees Custom Homes has houses for sale in more than 30 communities in the area, said Jamie Ovalle, director of marketing. Out of those, there are about five that have homes priced in the $150,000 range. Most of the new building is in the higher-end, Ovalle said, and the majority of the company’s sales are near Drees’ midpoint range of about $280,000.

Drees homes are selling well in areas like McKinney, Fate and Allen, Ovalle said, without disclosing sales figures. “It’s what’s hot at the moment,” she said.

The top market areas, according to Residential Strategies, include Prosper,Southlake, Frisco, Allen, Castle Hills, Keller, Colleyville, Plano and Lucas. In many of those areas, homes priced at $300,000 and up are driving the housing market.CONTACT TIFFANY SHARKEY AND TONYA PEEK FOR MORE INFORMATION ON PROSPER AVAILABLE HOMES 972-977-2254.

PROSPER TEXAS WHERE EVERYONE MATTERS

Tiffany & Tonya - Sharkey/ Peek Group (Ebby Halliday Realtors) — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 13:30:51 -0600

“Where everyone matters.”

MOST ACCOUNTS agree that Prosper began in 1846 as a beacon for settlers drawn to North Texas’ black prairie soil - rich, fertile land that nurtured a thriving cotton crop. By 1850, two settlements had been established here a mere three miles apart. Called Rock Hill and Richland, they coexisted until 1902 when the St. Louis and San Francisco Railroad came through the area and forced them to merge. A new name was adopted for the hybrid community - one that spoke of the prosperous living conditions and the prosperous crops harvested that year. And so it was that the town of Prosper was born. In 1914, with 500 residents living here, Prosper was incorporated with a commission form of government. It served for decades as a market center for area farmers and their abundant cotton and corn crops.

To this day, Prosper has managed to retain its 19th century country charm, carefully controlling its growth to that end. Unlike the bustling cities of Dallas, Plano and Frisco that lie just a few miles south, Prosper is characterized by estate-size home sites, pristine rolling hills and vast expanses of open land. Here, you’ll discover an alluring lifestyle in beautiful homes that populate quiet neighborhoods.

PLANNED GROWTH

If ever there was a Cinderella story about a sleepy country hamlet blossoming into a world-class, cutting-edge community, Prosper is it. From its humble 19th century roots, the town is in the midst of double-digit growth. Nearly a dozen master planned residential developments have broken ground in the past two years, with new home prices averaging $360,000. There are currently 135,000 people living within a 7-mile radius of Prosper. The vast majority of those gravitating here are young professionals with household incomes averaging $130,000.

To accommodate this population boom, numerous roads are being widened and others are being constructed. The Dallas North Tollway, working its way ever north from Dallas, is undergoing a planned 17.5-mile extension, running north from Hwy 380 in Prosper to FM 121 in Grayson County. Naturally, this phenomenal progress will also mean an expanding business base, an explosive growth in retail space and the construction of new schools. It all adds up to an extraordinary quality of life in one of the fastest-growing cities in North Texas. CONTACT TIFFANY SHARKEY LOCAL PROSPER RESIDENT/REALTOR WHO CAN ANSWER ALL YOUR PROSPER TEXAS REAL ESTATE NEEDS 972-977-2254.

WHY LIVE IN PROSPER TEXAS?? WHY NOT ??

Tiffany & Tonya - Sharkey/ Peek Group (Ebby Halliday Realtors) — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 13:27:54 -0600

MOST PEOPLE long for a residential setting far removed from the town and their frenzied work environment. They want to go home to a place where they can kick back, relax, enjoy the fresh air and take in the sounds of nature, not the din of traffic rumbling in the distance. That place is Prosper. While the town is quickly evolving from its rural roots, its small town sensibility has not been lost. It pervades every neighborhood - from the historic residential areas that have existed for decades to the fabulous new developments boasting homes in excess of $1 million.

Shopping, dining, entertainment and business centers are within easy reach, giving you the best of both worlds- life in a quiet country setting with all the conveniences and excitement of the big city.

Quick accessibility to all parts of the Metroplex via Dallas North Tollway and Hwy 380, Preston Road and Central Expressway.
Spacious ¼ acre to one acre-homesites as well as acreage properties
The outstanding Prosper ISD with explemary ratings and brand new, state of the art facilities
3A State Champion Football team
Neighborhood services and restaurants
Unmatched community spirit.
Unlimited shopping within 10 to 20 miles at Stonebriar Center,in Frisco, Plano’s Park & Preston, Legacy Town Center and Shops of Willowbend and The Dallas Galleria.
A town with big plans, but the determination to maintain its quality of life.

Why Prosper? Perhaps that’s best answered with a visit. Then the only question would be: “Where else but Prosper?”CONTACT TIFFANY SHARKEY A PROSPER RESIDENT/REALTOR FOR ALL YOUR PROSPER REAL ESTATE NEEDS 972-977-2254.

PROSPER TEXAS

Tiffany & Tonya - Sharkey/ Peek Group (Ebby Halliday Realtors) — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 13:24:58 -0600

PROSPER TEXAS

JUST 5 MINUTES north of the bustling Dallas North Tollway cities of Frisco and Plano lies the Town of Prosper, Texas. Its peaceful setting beckons families to move north to experience its wide open spaces, small town charm, city convenience and close knit community. Bursting with pride for its first rate education and state championship sports teams, Prosper offers a quality of life most families in North Texas don’t even know exists. From picturesque ranches to beautiful master-planned communities with amenities like golf courses, hike and bike trails, fishing ponds and swimming pools, riding trails and equestrian centers, Prosper has something for everyone. Uniquely positioned at the crossroads of Preston Road and US Highway 380, the Town of Prosper lies ready for you to discover it’s small-town quality of life while serving your family with the finest in education, amenities and immediate access to all the Metroplex has to offer. Just follow the Dallas North Tollway to US 380 and discover how life was meant to be enjoyed. Welcome Home.CONTACT TIFFANY SHARKEY OR TONYA PEEK FOR ALL YOUR PROSPER TEXAS REAL ESTATE NEEDS 972-977-2254.

BEAUTIFUL GREENS IN PROSPER TEXAS

Tiffany & Tonya - Sharkey/ Peek Group (Ebby Halliday Realtors) — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 13:17:59 -0600

Gentle Creek Golf Club In Prosper Texas

Gentle Creek Golf Club

The ninth hole at Gentle Creek in Prosper was voted one of the best par threes in the state by Texas Golf voters.

Description

Prosper sits near the Denton-Collin county line, directly in the path of the northward extension of the Dallas North Tollway. As commuters begin using the new portion of the Tollway between U.S. Highway 380 and State Highway 121, they are bringing a wave of construction projects to the small town of about 7,000. Shopping centers, office complexes and new home developments are planned for the once-sleepy town. Population is expected to reach 80,000 at build-out. The Prosper school district now has three elementary schools, one middle school and one high school.

History

According to the city's Web site, the first settlers arrived in the area in 1846. Between 1850 and 1902, two settlements existed: Rock Hill, two miles south of the present town, and Richland, one mile north. The establishment of the St. Louis & San Francisco Railroad in March of 1902 led the two communities to merge, forming the town of Prosper.

Demographics

• Population: 7,000 (estimated as of 1/1/08 per city of Prosper)
• Average age: 31.4 (2007 per city of Prosper)
• Average household income: $102,778 (2007 per city of Prosper)
• Crime stats: (For 2007, according to the Texas Department of Public Safety) no murders, no rapes, no robberies, no aggravated assaults, 22 burglaries, 111 thefts and 2 vehicle thefts.
• School information: www.prosper-isd.net

RECENT DALLAS MORNING NEWS ARTICLE ABOUT THE NEW PROSPER HIGH SCHOOL

Tiffany & Tonya - Sharkey/ Peek Group (Ebby Halliday Realtors) — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 13:07:42 -0600

Big new high school in Prosper builds small-town pride

Coleman Street heads north out of tiny Prosper past porches and hayfields until it passes a column-studded brick edifice that seems to span the horizon.

Welcome to the modern American high school, Texas style. Prosper High School is a $113.5 million, 590,000-square-foot behemoth, complete with a medical tech lab, a restaurant-worthy kitchen, a greenhouse, a broadcast studio and, of course, an indoor football practice facility. All this in a still-sleepy town of just 7,000 people.

The school opened last week at half its capacity, but district officials say it will soon fill up as families push north from crowded suburbs like Frisco and McKinney.

So like some of the area's new schools, it's a symbol of growth's march, but also a community's search for identity and even Texas pride.

"This is more than bricks and mortar," said Drew Watkins, Prosper ISD's superintendent. "This is a community facility. This is what the community wanted. And when they say best, they mean best, not just pretty good."

This school doesn't have a gym. It has three. One is an arena. The auditorium seats nearly 1,000 people and will be the town's only theater.

Every classroom has four computers and an interactive white board that teachers use to project and manipulate images from their computers. Flat-screen televisions flash announcements throughout the day.

And while some districts create separate centers for career-focused programs, Prosper has fit them all in one building. And it has added a garage for auto mechanics in its wing dedicated to career and technical education.

The building already adorned with "State Champions," thanks to the football team, houses the indoor multipurpose field and a weight room that rivals private gyms.

The lecture hall and airy hallways give the school a collegiate feel, which Watkins said is intentional.

"Most of our parents are college educated and want their kids to have that experience," he said. "We want them to have a competitive edge, to think beyond Collin County – nationally and internationally."

There is a competitive edge as well for big, new schools when it comes to attracting good teachers.

Watkins said, "Teachers want to teach in a place like this."

CONTACT TIFFANY SHARKEY AND TONYA PEEK FOR MORE INFORMATION ON PROSPER ISD AND HOMES AVAILABLE IN THE PROSPER ISD 214-356-4472.

PROSPERING IN PROSPER TEXAS

Tiffany & Tonya - Sharkey/ Peek Group (Ebby Halliday Realtors) — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 13:02:49 -0600

Located mainly in Collin County, with a small portion spilling over into neighboring Denton County, Prosper is a community brimming with potential. Right in the heart of one of the fastest growing regions in Texas and the rest of the country as a whole, this small town is welcoming new residents and businesses practically every day, and Prosper, Texas homes and land are becoming increasingly sought-after among homebuyers of all kinds.

Conveniently connected to the rest of the Metroplex through the North Tollway, Preston Road and Highway 380, Prosper’s location has inspired its business leaders to coin the catchy “All roads lead to Prosper” marketing slogan. The town started life as a farming community in the mid-1800s and eventually became a railroad stop before it incorporated in 1914. Today, agriculture is still a vital part of Prosper’s economy, which is becoming more and more diversified every year.

The town’s mix of rural and suburban makes it appealing to buyers looking for the wide, open spaces of the country, but who don’t want to do without the fun and excitement of the city. Prosper, Texas homes and land come in a variety of shapes and sizes, so you’re certain to find a home or neighborhood that will meet the needs of your lifestyle.

Providing full service to its residents, Prosper also has a variety of parks, hiking and biking trails, sports facilities, and places of worship. Children here are served by the top-performing Prosper Independent School District.CONTACT TIFFANY SHARKEY OR TONYA PEEK FOR ALL YOUR PROSPER TEXAS REAL ESTATE NEEDS 214-356-4472.

All You Ever Wanted To Know About Prosper Texas

Tiffany & Tonya - Sharkey/ Peek Group (Ebby Halliday Realtors) — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 12:58:16 -0600

Prosper Texas

LEARN MORE ABOUT Prosper, TX

Formerly two towns, Rock Hill and Richland merged becoming the town of Prosper in 1902. However, Prosper was not officially incorporated until 1914. Since then, Prosper has blossomed into a population of more than 6,000 Texans. Many families and young professionals choose to make Prosper home due to its proximity to Dallas and Fort Worth (optimal commute times) offering residents the opportunities of big city living within a close distance, excellent schooling, as well as its small town charm.

The Prosper Texas Community

Served by the Prosper Independent School District, children that attend schools in Prosper tend to do just that; prosper. The Prosper Independent School District is "committed to excellence"* and has proved its commitment by continuing to be a TEA recognized District. Schools in the district include:

Baker Elementary School
Folsom Elementary School
Rucker Elementary School
Prosper Middle School
Prosper High School

Children that attend schools in Prosper continually achieve higher scores than the state average each year. If you are moving to Prosper and have children they are sure to receive a first-rate education.

Business is also booming in Prosper. If you would like to start a small business here now is the time. With an ever growing population, new homes in Prosper popping up each year, and new business developments under way, you can find the perfect spot to set up shop.

Prosper Texas Real Estate

Are you looking for a home with a huge backyard? Do you prefer French Country architecture? Or perhaps you are looking to buy a new home? Prosper homes range in cost from $200,000 to $1,500,000 and have every luxury imaginable available to Prosper home buyers. Learn about Prosper neighborhoods like Artesia - The Parks, Artesia - The Vistas, Artesia - The Falls, Gentle Creek Golf Club, and Lakes of La Cima. Let Tiffany & Tonya guide you in your search for Prosper real estate. Tell us exactly what you are looking for and we'll find Prosper homes to match your needs and desires.CONTACT TIIFANY SHARKEY AND TONYA PEEK FOR ALL YOUR PROSPER HOME INFORMATION 972-977-2254.

Prosper Entertainment & Recreation

Located in Collin County as well as within the Dallas Fort Worth Metroplex, living in Prosper allows residents the opportunity to enjoy a small town atmosphere every day with the option to drive a short distance to enjoy entertainment in the big city. You may be lucky enough to see LeAnn Rimes gallivanting around town as she owns a luxury home in Prosper.

Within a short drive you can see the Dallas Cowboys play football or Dallas Stars play hockey throughout the year. However, if the sports scene is not your cup of tea, you can always check out other entertainment venues in the surrounding areas of Frisco, Plano, McKinney, and of course Dallas and Fort Worth. Stonebriar Centre in Frisco provides an excellent arena for those looking to shop the day away.

Prosper itself is home to many fabulous restaurants for your family to enjoy such as Mr. Jim's Pizza, Piccadilly Circus Pizza, Carmela Winery, or even the Cotton Gin Cafe.

Prosper Texas also promotes an active youth by offering opportunities to youth to participate in sports including basketball, baseball, cheerleading, football, softball and volleyball through the Prosper Sports Association. There is also Cindy's School of Dance for the ballet enthusiast. By participating in Prosper sports your children will learn the value of teamwork, develop athletic skill, and help promote an active lifestyle.

TEXAS IS AMONG NATIONS STRONGEST ECONOMIES....

Tiffany & Tonya - Sharkey/ Peek Group (Ebby Halliday Realtors) — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 00:53:48 -0500

Nation's Strongest Economies
Texas cities top the list
According to a study by the Brookings Institution, the five largest metros in Texas were among the strongest economies in the nation during the second quarter of 2009 (S.A. still among top cities, by William Pack, San Antonio Express News, Sept. 15, 2009, and DFW economic, housing markets among top in U.S., analysis finds, by Steve Brown, Dallas Morning News, Sept. 15, 2009). San Antonio was the only city to rank in the top 10 among the nation's 100 largest metropolitan areas in all four factors used to score cities - employment, unemployment rates, home prices, and productive output. Austin, Dallas-Fort Worth, El Paso, and Houston also came in among the top 10 best performing areas.CONTACT TIFFANY SHARKEY OR TONYA PEEK 972-977-2254 ABOUT PROSPER TEXAS AND IT'S BOOMING REAL ESTATE!

OPPORTUNITIES FOR TEXAS VETERANS....

Tiffany & Tonya - Sharkey/ Peek Group (Ebby Halliday Realtors) — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 00:48:15 -0500

Homeownership Opportunities for Texas Veterans

Since the days of the Texas Republic and Sam Houston, Texas has given its veterans land in recognition of military service. While the state no longer gives land to veterans, there are still plenty of housing opportunities such as low interest loans for land, homes, and home improvements.

After World War II, the state created the Texas Veterans Land Board (VLB) in 1946 to administer a new program that would provide low-interest, long-term loans to Texas veterans for the purchase of land. Since then, more than 120,000 Texas veterans have taken advantage of this self-supporting program. (Issuing bonds authorized by voters fund the program. The veterans who participate pay for the bonds and the cost of administering the program.)

In 1983, the Legislature created the Veterans Housing Assistance Program to assist Texas veterans in purchasing a home, also funded by bonds. In 1986, the VLB expanded the Veterans Housing Assistance Program, adding the Veterans Home Improvement Program to provide below-market-interest-rate loans to qualified Texas veterans for home repairs and improvements to their existing homes. Needless to say, there's a wealth of options provided by this program alone for veterans across the state.

About the Veterans Housing Assistance Program
Texas veterans can use all three Texas veteran loan programs at one time. That means, if needed, you can receive a land loan, a housing loan and a home improvement loan. And, these special loan programs for Texas veterans are not associated with the federal Veterans Administration. So, even if you've used your VA benefits, you may still be eligible for the state loan programs.

The Veterans Housing Assistance Program (VHAP) provides financing up to $200,000 toward the purchase of a home to qualified Texas veterans. Loans for $45,000 or less may be originated through the Texas Veterans Land Board's direct loan program.

There is no maximum sales price with the VHAP; however, the VLB can only loan up to $200,000 toward the purchase. If the purchase price is more than $200,000, the VHAP can be used in conjunction with Federal Housing Administration (FHA), Veterans Administration (VA), or conventional financing. This is known as a "two-note loan" and must be originated by a participating lender.

Keep in mind that the VHAP is not a refinancing program. If you have an existing loan on your home, you can't use the VHAP to lower your interest rate, nor can it be used as a down payment on a home. It can only be used as a first lien on your primary residence.

Other housing benefits for veterans
The Land Board also offers other housing-related benefits for veterans. For example, through the Greenbuilding Program, veterans can reduce their interest rate even further (by as much as 0.3%) by using "green" materials and features in their homes. The TVLB assigns number values to "environment friendly" building materials and features that save energy and water.

Veterans who achieve a required minimum score when building or purchasing a new home, or remodeling an existing home, are eligible for the reduced interest rate. Kermit the frog was wrong - it IS easy being green (in Texas)!

There's also the Veterans with Disabilities program, which offers a half-percent interest rate reduction to those veterans who have a service-connected disability of 10% or greater (as verified by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs).

Finally, the Veteran Teachers Program is for veterans or their spouses who are currently certified by the Texas Education Agency and who work as Texas teachers, or veterans who agree to become certified Texas teachers. Educate Texas' children, and you could be eligible for a half-percent interest-rate deduction.

Eligibility requirements
To be eligible to participate in the Texas Veterans Loan Programs, applicants must have:

Served no fewer than 90 continuous days on active duty (including active duty for training) in the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard or United States Public Health Service (unless discharged sooner by reason of a service-connected disability), or a reserve component of one of the listed branches of service, or have enlisted or received an appointment in the Texas National Guard after completing all initial active duty training requirements as a condition of enlistment or appointment, or have completed 20 years in a reserve component so as to be eligible for retirement as a condition of enlistment or appointment, or, if currently an active duty member of a listed service or a full-time reservist, have completed the initial service obligation;
Served after Sept. 16, 1940 (for Texas veterans who entered the armed services before Jan. 1, 1977, and who have been discharged from active duty less than 30 years, certain interest-rate incentives may be available for housing or home improvement loans);
Been honorably discharged;
Been a bona fide resident of Texas at the time of entry into the military or must have resided in Texas for at least two consecutive years immediately prior to filing an application; applicant must be a bona fide Texas resident at the time the application is made (a bona fide resident is someone who is living in Texas with the intent to remain in Texas). Presence in Texas due to military service alone does not establish bona fide residency); and
Have successfully repaid any previous TVLB loan within the same loan program. A loan is considered repaid when the account has been paid in full by the original veteran purchaser or last approved assignee. Any active TVLB loans in programs other than the one for which application is being made must be in good standing.

Whether you served in the Army, Air Force, Navy, Marines, National Guard, or any of the armed services, it's easy to take advantage of these great programs that thank you for your service to our country. For more information, contact the Texas Veterans Land Board at 800-252-VETS or CONTACT TIFFANY SHARKEY OR TONYA PEEK AT 972-977-2254 FOR MORE INFO ON VA LOANS.

TEXAS PROPERTY TAXES AND PROPERTY APPRAISALS...

Tiffany & Tonya - Sharkey/ Peek Group (Ebby Halliday Realtors) — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 00:38:34 -0500

Property taxes and appraisals
As a group, Texas REALTORS® work in the public-policy arena to help reduce the state's heavy reliance on property taxes. In 2009 and 2007, we urged passage of appraisal-system reforms in the Texas Legislature to make the process more fair and transparent, and easier for homeowners to contest their property appraisals. In 2006, we led the charge for historic property-tax cuts in a special legislative session. We'll continue to work on your behalf on both these fronts: lowering your property-tax rates and closing loopholes in the appraisal system. After all, it doesn't do much good to lower your tax rates when appraised values continually shoot up to overtake any tax savings.

Learn more about the property-appraisal process.
Learn more about property-tax cuts.

Homeowners insurance
In the 2003 legislative session, Texas REALTORS® led the fight to make homeowners insurance more affordable.

Learn more about this issue.
Get ideas on how to lower your homeowners insurance costs.

Transfer taxes and fees
The Texas Association of REALTORS® supports property-tax relief, but does not support new taxes and fees that single out the most steady contributor to our economy: real estate. We oppose measures that would diminish real estate's contributions to the Texas economy or increase the cost of homeownership in the state. One idea that continues to crop up among some legislators is a real estate transfer tax, also sometimes referred to as a fee. Either way, it's an additional tax that hits consumers at the absolutely worst time: when you're scrimping and saving to buy a home, or trying to sell your home. Texas currently does not have a statewide real estate transfer tax, and we should keep it that way.

Learn more about this issue.

Point-of-sale
Real estate transfer taxes and fees are applied at the point of sale, when homebuyers and sellers can least afford it. So sometimes are other measures. In Austin, for example, some city leaders want to mandate energy-efficient retrofits to all homes at the point of sale.

Learn more about this issue CONTACT TIFFANY SHARKEY OR TONYA PEEK 214-356-4472.

Other Issues

Municipal utility districts
Municipal utility districts, also known as MUDs, provide water, sewage, and drainage services to residential neighborhoods that are not served by local water districts. Read more

Homeowners associations
Some neighborhoods have their own homeowners associations. Whether membership is voluntary or mandatory, homeowners associations provide benefits and services to their members in exchange for dues or fees.

Eminent domain
Eminent domain is governmental taking of private property for the public good. Cases involving individual homeowners are extremely rate. Read more

Water rights
Cheap, plentiful, and good-quality water is essential to a good quality of life. Some Texans have it, while others want it. Read more

Transportation
More and more homebuyers are taking proximity to work into account when choosing their new home's location.

Moving to TEXAS

Tiffany & Tonya - Sharkey/ Peek Group (Ebby Halliday Realtors) — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 00:29:09 -0500

Moving to Texas

Congratulations and welcome to the Lone Star State. Texans are friendly people. In fact, our name comes from the Caddo Indian word tejas, which means friend. We are very proud of our state - and you will be, too. There's an old saying among naturalized Texans, "I wasn't born in Texas, but at least I got here as fast as I could."

Texas' size is matched only by its diversity - people of different cultures coexist and several different industries flourish. You'll also find a variety of food, music, languages, entertainment, employment opportunities, professional sports, and outdoor activities.

The Texas Department of Information Resources has put together TexasOnline.com, a nationally recognized, award-winning portal for the citizens of Texas. You'll find links to Web sites for counties, cities, chambers of commerce, schools, and libraries. You will also find answers to questions about state laws, state government, required business licenses, taxes, and much more. We specialize in Frisco, Texas & Prosper, Texas as well as Plano, Allen & McKinney CONTACT TIFFANY SHARKEY OR TONYA PEEK FOR MORE INFO ON MOVING TO TEXAS 214-356-4472.

WHAT'S YOUR HOME WORTH ??

Tiffany & Tonya - Sharkey/ Peek Group (Ebby Halliday Realtors) — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 02:25:41 -0500

What's your home worth?

When putting your home on the market, there are two ways to go about estimating what your property is worth. The first is a professional appraisal, and the second is a comparative market analysis (CMA). If you are thinking about listing your home, talk to your Texas REALTOR® about hiring a professional appraiser, conducting a CMA, or doing both.

A professional property appraisal is done by a certified appraiser and estimates your home's value based on a variety of things, including square footage, design and floor plan, the neighborhood, schools, landscaping, any additions or updates, and more. The cost of an appraisal varies and usually can be done in an hour or so. If you get an appraisal and then decide you are not quite ready to sell, don't assume that appraisal will be very helpful in the future. Markets can change quite rapidly. If you determine that a professional appraisal is right for you, ask your Texas REALTOR® for a reputable appraiser in your area.

In addition to finding a professional appraiser, your Texas REALTOR® can also conduct a CMA for you. A CMA is a market analysis that compares similar properties in the area that have recently sold. This is an informal assessment that can go a long way in establishing a benchmark of where your asking price should be.CONTACT TIFFANY SHARKEY OR TONYA PEEK FOR CMA FOR YOUR HOME 214-356-4472.

DRIVE UP APPEAL

Tiffany & Tonya - Sharkey/ Peek Group (Ebby Halliday Realtors) — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 02:22:51 -0500

Drive-up appeal

While your home may be amazing on the inside, it won't help if you can't get a buyer through the front door. The most effective method for attracting buyers is to enhance your property's drive-up appeal. This is a prospective buyer's first impression of your home. Whether you are looking to sell or just want to spruce up your largest investment, here are four quick and easy projects to upgrade your Prosper or Frisco home and yard ...

Trim the edges. When walks and driveways lose their edge, creating a first impression of neglect, it's time to bring out the hand or power edger to cut back the grass. Creating a stark contrast between the sidewalk and the yard will give your property a well-manicured look.

Seal the driveway. Typically, a large portion of your property is the driveway, and a smooth black driveway can make the whole house look new. If your home's driveway is gray and weathered, consider recoating it with an asphalt sealer.

Clean out the gutters. Gutters clogged with leaves, debris, etc., cause water to leak out and stain the siding. This can definitely cause a home to look older than it actually is. Remove debris - leaves, twigs, pine needles, mud, gum wrappers, dandelion fuzz - at least three times a year.

Wash it. Clean away the dirt with a pressure washer. You can either rent one or buy one. A good pressure wash can take years off your home.CONTACT TIFFANY SHARKEY OR TONYA PEEK 214-356-4472 FOR MORE DRIVE UP APPEAL TIPS.

DO I HAVE TO DISCLOSE ??

Tiffany & Tonya - Sharkey/ Peek Group (Ebby Halliday Realtors) — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 02:20:13 -0500

Do I have to disclose?

Intentionally withholding information about a property when you sell can have serious legal consequences. Talk to your Texas REALTOR® and attorney and make sure you understand your disclosure responsibilities. You don't want to inadvertently leave something out - and then deal with the expense, hassles, and possible legal consequences later. The TAR Seller's Disclosure Notice asks sellers to provide buyers with copies of inspections reports from the past 4 years.

Disclosure also applies to federal laws. For example, those selling homes built before 1978 must provide buyers with specific information regarding lead-based paint.

Don't be afraid to disclose information about your property. Disclosure laws were created to protect buyers, but they also protect sellers. If all the information about a property is revealed up front, you're less likely to be involved in disputes after the sale.CONTACT TIFFANY SHARKEY OR TONYA PEEK FOR ALL YOUR REAL ESTATE QUESTIONS 214-356-4472.

ENTICE BUYERS WITH EXTRAS

Tiffany & Tonya - Sharkey/ Peek Group (Ebby Halliday Realtors) — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 02:08:16 -0500

Entice buyers with extras

If you're putting your home on the market, or if it has been on the market for a while without solid offers, you may consider including some appliances, furniture, or other extras in the asking price. This could help you attract buyers.

Nobody is suggesting that you part with valuable antiques or sentimental items, but you probably aren't that attached to your washing machine. Maybe you're moving to a home that won't be able to accommodate your outdoor furniture-if that's the case, you could offer your existing patio table and chair setup to your potential buyers. It might turn into the reason he buys your home instead of a similar place up the street. Also, not only will the buyer appreciate the extras, but if he accepts, you don't have to worry about moving or selling extra stuff.

This might also save you money and aggravation. If the refrigerator, washer, and dryer don't come with you, movers will be cheaper-or your back will be happier.

If you don't have the latest and greatest appliances, this can be a great chance to upgrade. Leaving items behind gives you a legitimate reason to buy new ones.

Downsizing is a common reason for many people to move. So if the home you're moving into is smaller than the one you're selling, this is a great opportunity to trim down your furniture inventory.

If you're allowing appliances to convey, provide any owners manuals or warranties that you still possess. Potential buyers will appreciate this gesture.

Enticing your buyers with extras is a good way to make your home stand apart. Look at this as a win-win situation. You reduce your moving burden slightly, upgrade your appliances, or downsize, while the buyer has a more complete home when he moves.CONTACT TONYA PEEK OR TIFFANY SHARKEY 214-356-4472 FOR ALL YOUR REAL ESTATE QUESTIONS.

COMING TO YOUR SENSES

Tiffany & Tonya - Sharkey/ Peek Group (Ebby Halliday Realtors) — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 02:02:21 -0500

Coming to your senses

The more you do to prepare your home for market, the more money you can expect to pocket at the closing table. First impressions are critical to selling a home for the right price, and improving the sensory appeal is just one way you can stage your home to sell. Here are a few things you can do to capture the most interest in your property:

Hire a professional cleaning crew to come in and make your home sparkle. Make sure to get your windows cleaned inside and out, too.
Shine up your appliances, especially if they are old. Old and shiny beats old and dull any day.
Clean out storage rooms and closets. Pack up your old figurines and tabletop collections, or have a garage sale. Let the buyer see the room, not just the stuff in it.
Make sure pets are outside or, better yet, gone completely. As much as we love our pets, they can really distract a buyer's experience.
Light a candle. Do not use a scent that's too aromatic, but a fresh clean scent should do the trick.
Put some fresh flowers in the kitchen. Kitchens go a long way in helping to sell a home, so the importance of making your kitchen appealing can't be underestimated.
Don't cook anything too pungent just before showing your home. Odors can be a huge turnoff during an open house.
Turn off the TV and turn on (at a low volume) some soft music.

There are many ways to increase your home's sensory appeal. You can get some good ideas by touring model homes to see how they are staged to appeal to buyers. For more tips on staging your home to sell, talk to your Texas REALTORS TIFFANY SHARKEY OR TONYA PEEK 214-356-4472.

AN INSPECTION IS A GOOD INVESTMENT!

Tiffany & Tonya - Sharkey/ Peek Group (Ebby Halliday Realtors) — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 01:58:51 -0500

An inspection is a good investment

Whether you're buying or selling a home, it's crucial to include a thorough home inspection as part of the process. It's something consumers often overlook because, as we all know, buying or selling a home can get expensive and expenses add up quickly. While it might be tempting to ignore this piece of the puzzle, it's one of those investments that are a real payoff in the end. Here's why:

Consumers can only see so much on pre-owned homes. A home inspection goes beyond the cosmetic to give buyers a clear look at what's behind the walls.
From a new-construction standpoint, consumers often think an inspection on a brand new home is a waste, but things do come up that aren't found on a building or city inspection. For example, the hot and cold water indicators on faucets may have been inadvertently reversed. A minor fix, to be sure, but potentially dangerous for families with small children.
From a seller's standpoint, offering an inspection to potential buyers goes a long way to ensure peace of mind.
The cost of inspections hasn't increased by more than $50 in the last 10 years; total cost is about $250 to $300, so the expense is well worth it.

The bottom line is that a home inspection is the best financial investment consumers can make.CONTACT TONYA PEEK AND TIFFANY SHARKEY FOR RECOMMENDATIONS ON GREAT HOME INSPECTORS 972-977-2254.

ONCE PRE-APPROVED DON'T DO ANYTHING TO CHANGE YOUR CREDIT REPORT

Tiffany & Tonya - Sharkey/ Peek Group (Ebby Halliday Realtors) — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 01:52:46 -0500

Once pre-approved, don't do anything to change your credit report

Once you're pre-approved, do not buy anything on credit, or even let anybody do an inquiry on your credit until you close your new home; many lenders re-check customers' credit before funding. An inquiry is recorded on your credit history when somebody checks your credit, like a car dealership. It lowers your score, and can cause a loan to be denied if you're marginally approved. An actual credit purchase also raises your back-end ratio, which is even more dangerous. Talk to your loan officer before you consider making any credit purchase.CONTACT TONYA PEEK OR TIFFANY SHARKEY 214-356-4472 FOR ALL YOUR REAL ESTATE NEEDS.

RISK V/S REWARD- PAYOFF DEPENDS ON WHAT THE CLIENT WANTS

Tiffany & Tonya - Sharkey/ Peek Group (Ebby Halliday Realtors) — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 01:48:58 -0500

Risk vs. reward: Payoff depends on what the client wants

Whether you're buying or selling a home, putting yourself in the shoes of those involved with the property-either as homeowner or prospective homeowner-can go a long way toward real estate success. For example, if a buyer isn't pre-approved, they're passing on that risk to the seller.

If a property is in great condition, the long-term risks of the buyer are minimized-and they should expect to pay a higher price because they're taking less risk on a property. The same goes for properties that have been pre-inspected. If the seller fixes repairs in advance, the reward will be higher for both the buyer and the seller.

I always tell buyers to look at a property in the context of its condition and value based on the degree of maintenance and repairs they expect to make over the years. Some properties are more maintenance free than others; it just depends on what the buyer wants in a house. But by being realistic from the outset and setting your expectations, the reward will usually outweigh the risk.CONTACT TIFFANY SHARKEY AND TONYA PEEK FOR ALL YOUR REAL ESTATE QUESTIONS 214-256-4472.

PECAN TREES PROVIDE SHADE AND CLUES

Tiffany & Tonya - Sharkey/ Peek Group (Ebby Halliday Realtors) — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 01:45:37 -0500

Pecan trees provide shade and clues

The shade of a big pecan tree in the yard can be a wonderful attraction when you're looking for a home. But it might also provide you with some troubling clues about the property's past...and future.

Pecan trees love water and often grow in or near flood prone areas. Ask the seller whether the property has ever flooded or if it is located in a flood hazard zone.

One of the surveyor's jobs is to determine if the property is located in the 100-year Special Flood Hazard zone as designated by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Federal Emergency Management Agency. But don't rely on the survey alone. It is not all that uncommon for some areas to flood even though they are not officially designated as being in the 100-year Special Flood Hazard Zone.

Ask folks in the area whether their houses have ever flooded. Doing some investigating can tell you whether the property has "lots of wonderful shade" or if it's just plain shady.CONTACT TIFFANY SHARKEY AND TONYA PEEK FOR ALL YOUR REAL ESTATE RELATED QUESTIONS 972-977-2254.

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PECAN TREES PROVIDE SHADE AND CLUES