Gary Williams's (dirgwill) Blog

POLE POSITION RACEWAY, FRISCO, TEXAS

Gary Williams, Frisco Texas Homes For Sale (Keller Williams Realty Central) — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 02:27:34 -0800

POLE POSITION RACEWAY, FRISCO, TEXAS Pole Position Raceway, Frisco, Texas opens at 11AM, Thursday, December 15, 2011. This indoor Kart track will offer a new, exciting recreation adventure in the Dallas-Fort Worth area for adults and children alike. INDOOR KARTING IN FRISCO TEXAS Pole Position Raceway offers a new recreation destination for North Texas residents. This indoor karting facility allows for year-round, climate controlled kart racing. The course is a quarter of a mile long, and offers a thrilling experience. At Pole Position, you will race in high-performance European built electric karts that are capable of speeds up to 45 mph, according to Pole Position CEO Jason Williams. The sense of speed is magnified since racers sit just 1 inch off the ground while navigating the curves and corners of the one-fourth mile long indoor track. THE POLE POSITION FRISCO RACES Each race lasts about 10 minutes. Customers can arrive individually or in groups and race with others who are present. In addition to the adult Karts, children at least 48" tall who can safely drive, can participate in their own races in Karts made especially for them. DIRECTIONS The Pole Position Raceway in Frisco is located at 10550 John W. Elliot Drive. The location is approximately one-half mile north of Pizza Hut Park, near the Field House. It is between Main Street and Eldorado Parkway, just east of the North Dallas Tollway in Frisco, Texas. ********************************************* Gary Williams, Realtor Keller Williams Central Phone 214.808.3974 email: GaryDeanWilliams@gmail.com FriscoTexasHomeSweetHome.com

DENTAL SPECIALIST IN FRISCO TEXAS

Gary Williams, Frisco Texas Homes For Sale (Keller Williams Realty Central) — Sat, 03 Dec 2011 04:08:32 -0800

DENTAL SPECIALIST IN FRISCO TEXAS I had the unfortunate need of a dental specialist in Frisco, Texas, this week. I don't wish this on anyone else, but most of us will have such a need at some time in our lives.My dental adventure started with a visit to my regular family dentist, Dr. Dominic Nuosce at Frisco Family Dentistry. I had been having some pain in a tooth. Dr. Nuosce had warned me on a previous visit that I would eventually need a crown on that tooth. and that the tooth would "talk to me" when it had gone as far as it could. The tooth started talking to me loud and clear a few days ago. I got in to see Dr. Nuosce, and he said I needed a ROOT CANAL. I have never had a ROOT CANAL before, but have heard awful things about them. Phrases like "I would rather have a root canal than ...(enter something unpleasant) entered my mind." Dr. Nuosce referred me to a dental specialist in Frisco, Texas, for the root canal.I saw the specialist, Dr. Micah L. Porter, D.D.S. of The Endodonic Group, Inc. yesterday. I told Dr. Porter I had never had a root canal before, but had always heard it was one of the most painful experiences possible for mankind. He laughed, and told me I would hardly feel any pain at all. An hour later, Dr. Porter had finished the root canal, and sent me on my way with a packet of prescription strength Motrin to take every 6 hours for 24 hours. I was surprised that the worst part of the procedure was the injections to numb the area, and those were not bad at all. Dr. Porter told me if I experienced any unusual pain to call him anytime, day or night. That was comforting. A couple of hours later, after the numbing agent had worn off, there was NO PAIN. I even accepted a dinner invitation from friends, and was able to enjoy the evening. Now, a day later, there is still no pain. I have conquered a major fear in my life - the once dreaded root canal. Although I hope I will never need to see a dental specialist in Frisco, Texas, again, if I do, I know an endodontist who will take great care of me - Dr. Micah L. Porter, D.D.S., of The Endodonic Group, Inc. in Frisco, Texas. ********************************************* Gary Williams, Realtor Keller Williams Central Phone 214.808.3974 email: GaryDeanWilliams@gmail.com FriscoTexasHomeSweetHome.com

TOWNHOUSE FOR LEASE IN PLANO TEXAS

Gary Williams, Frisco Texas Homes For Sale (Keller Williams Realty Central) — Thu, 01 Dec 2011 04:32:51 -0800

TOWNHOUSE FOR LEASE IN PLANO TEXAS I have been talking by email to a potential new client for the past month. His apartment lease expires soon, and he wants to lease a two bedroom townhouse in Plano, Texas. His budget is $1200 a month for rent. I have him on a prospect gateway that automatically sends him new listings. Why do I want this new client who is looking for a $1200 a month townhouse for lease in Plano Texas? He asked me yesterday if I would show him one of the townhomes that is available in Plano. Although the one he asked to see has 3 bedrooms and is listed for $1350 a month, I decided to show it to him since it is vacant and is similar to what we could expect to find in a typical townhouse for lease in Plano, Texas. It would give him an idea of what the market is like in the area. The showing went well. The Plano townhouse was in great condition. I told this young man that there were two bedroom townhouses in Plano, Texas that come on the market from time-to-time, and can be leased for $1200-$1400 a month. He said he would call me when one pops up on his prospect gateway. I will keep in touch with him. I fully expect I will eventually lease him a townhouse in Plano, Texas. and my commission from the transaction will be about $350. Is this client worth the effort for a potential commission of $350? Yes! I will give him the same great level of service he would get if he was buying a home. My experience tells me that some lease clients turn into purchase clients. Plus, I'm sure this young man has friends and family. If I give him outstanding service, maybe, just maybe, he will tell them about me. I want to serve him, his friends, and his family for the next several years, and I will tell him that. So that is why I want this lease client, and will work hard to find him just the right townhouse for lease in Plano, Texas. ********************************************* Gary Williams, Realtor Keller Williams Central Phone 214.808.3974 email: GaryDeanWilliams@gmail.com FriscoTexasHomeSweetHome.com

MY SISTER CALLED WITH A REAL ESTATE QUESTION

Gary Williams, Frisco Texas Homes For Sale (Keller Williams Realty Central) — Mon, 21 Nov 2011 09:09:47 -0800

MY SISTER CALLED WITH A REAL ESTATE QUESTION My sister called today with a real estate question. She lives in Tyler, a Texas city about 120 miles from me here in Frisco, Texas. I was excited to hear from her for personal and professional reasons. Her husband died of a heart attack about 15 years ago, then her only child was killed in a car accident a few years later. Her grandson is in college and lives with her. She and I are only two years apart in age, and don't see each other as often as we should. She had mentioned to me a year ago that she had plans to sell the house she lives in, and I asked her to let me know when she was ready and I would refer her to a good real estate agent in the Tyler area. The thought of a small referral fee entered my mind then and again today when she started talking real estate. She began asking a lot of questions, and I wanted to show my expertise and answer them. After all, I am supposed to be the family real estate expert here in Texas! However, her questions quickly turned legal: the house she lives in was owned by her daughter, who had recently remarried weeks before her untimely death, but the daughter left the house to the grandson in the will, and does the daughter's surviving husband who has remarried have any claim to the house ...you get the picture. I had to punt and tell her she needs to consult an attorney, because I am not qualified to answer the legal questions she was asking. I hated to not be able to help her, but I know the rules - real estate agents can't give legal advice. At least we were able to wish each other a Happy Thanksgiving. Real estate can wait! ********************************************* Gary Williams, Realtor Keller Williams Central Phone 214.808.3974 email: GaryDeanWilliams@gmail.com FriscoTexasHomeSweetHome.com

QUAKENADOS IN OKLAHOMA

Gary Williams, Frisco Texas Homes For Sale (Keller Williams Realty Central) — Wed, 09 Nov 2011 04:40:40 -0800

QUAKENADOS IN OKLAHOMA QUAKENADOS IN OKLAHOMA? WHAT ARE QUAKENADOS ANYWAY? One of my friends from Oklahoma posted this picture on his Facebook page today. I can't vouch for the veracity of the photo, but I understand the sentiment behind it. The past several days have been eventful for my friends in Oklahoma. There have been several earthquakes in the state, centered along a fault line east of Oklahoma City, according to news reports. One of the quakes was a magnitude 5.6 according to the U.S. Geological Service. I felt one of the earthquakes here in Frisco, Texas, which is about 175 miles south of the epicenter. My chair shook, with me sitting in it. It was the first earthquake I have felt since moving from central California many years ago. In addition, a cold front that moved across the area spawned at least one tornado two days ago. A local Dallas TV station showed live footage of the tornado as it tore through an area north of Fort Sill, Oklahoma. Although my friends in Oklahoma are somewhat unnerved by the earthquakes and tornadoes in the state, I'm glad they are keeping their sense of humor about the events.********************************************* Gary Williams, Realtor Keller Williams Central Phone 214.808.3974 email: GaryDeanWilliams@gmail.com FriscoTexasHomeSweetHome.com

THE MARINE AND THE CHRISTMAS TREE

Gary Williams, Frisco Texas Homes For Sale (Keller Williams Realty Central) — Mon, 07 Nov 2011 04:34:18 -0800

THE MARINE AND THE CHRISTMAS TREE A few months ago I had the honor of serving Mike, a man in his mid-twenties who recently had been discharged from the Marines. He was an Iraq War veteran. His wife was quiet and left the talking and decision making to him. Their two young daughters were with them. They had been living in an apartment in San Diego, and he had accepted a job here in the Frisco, Texas area. My mission was to find these first-time buyers a Frisco, Texas home. The first item on the agenda was to find out what they were looking for in a home. Over the course of a conversation in my office their wants and needs emerged: 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, and a game room suitable for a pool table. A location close to an elementary school was also important. Nothing unusual for a young family. I did a quick mls search and found three homes in Frisco to show them that afternoon. The homes showed well. All were in great neighborhoods, and each was close to one of Frisco's exemplary rated schools. Mike and his wife looked closely at all three homes, but none of them were "just right." Mike spent a lot of time checking out the front part of each house - looking out the front windows. We made plans to go looking again 3 days later. The next time out, Mike again spent time at the first house checking out the area by the front windows, so I asked him, "what are you looking for?" His answer surprised me. "I want a good place for a Christmas Tree-a big Christmas Tree!" Wow. I had not expected that answer from this young Marine, but it was powerful knowledge for me to have. Later, we came upon a home that had a front dining room with a bay window. Mike and I visually measured the bay-area for a Christmas tree. It would work, we both concluded. The rest of the house met their needs, and it is now their home. The lesson for me? Pay close attention to my clients when showing them homes. All of their wants and needs may not be spoken during the initial meeting, but they will be communicated in some way as we spend time together. And even battle-hardened Marines have soft spots in their hearts. I look forward to driving by Mike's home this holiday season to see his Christmas tree lights shining brightly in the front window of his family's Frisco home. Semper Fi, Mike. ********************************************* Gary Williams, Realtor Keller Williams Central Phone 214.808.3974 email: GaryDeanWilliams@gmail.com FriscoTexasHomeSweetHome.com

FRISCO TEXAS BABY BOOMER'S RETIREMENT PLANS

Gary Williams, Frisco Texas Homes For Sale (Keller Williams Realty Central) — Wed, 02 Nov 2011 04:57:53 -0700

FRISCO, TEXAS BABY BOOMERS RETIREMENT PLANS The baby boomer generation, born between 1946 and 1964, revealed some of their retirement plans in a recent article published in the Dallas Morning News. The article presents information from an AP-LifeGoesStrong poll conducted October 5-12, 2011. The poll found that boomers listed as extremely important or very important the followng : Living in a home that is all on one level-46%. Living close to their children-50%. Being close to medical care-39% of poll respondents. Being close to shops and services-38%. How can the baby boomers' needs be met in Frisco, Texas? As a Realtor, I can use the resources available to me to locate one story homes, including those at Frisco Lakes by Del Webb, an age 55+ community. There are two medical centers in Frisco - Baylor Medical Center Frisco and Centennial Medical Center. Minutes away in Plano, TX are three medical centers, including the Baylor Heart Hospital. Several major medical centers are located in nearby Dallas, including Baylor University Medical Center. The needs of just about anyone, regardless of age, can be met by the shops and services available in the Frisco area. What about living close to your children? If your adult children are like mine they may be drawn to relocate to the Frisco/North Texas area by our strong economy, just as mine did when I moved here after completing my first career a few years ago. If not, the area is well-served by DFW International Airport, and Dallas Love Field. Frisco, Texas is a great place for baby boomers to enjoy the second half of their lives. ********************************************* Gary Williams, Realtor Keller Williams Central Phone 214.808.3974 email: GaryDeanWilliams@gmail.com FriscoTexasHomeSweetHome.com

FRISCO, TEXAS-STONEWATER CROSSING

Gary Williams, Frisco Texas Homes For Sale (Keller Williams Realty Central) — Fri, 21 Oct 2011 08:25:22 -0700

STONEWATER CROSSING IN FRISCO, TEXAS STONEWATER CROSSING is a new premier community in west Frisco on Stonebrook Parkway. There are still a few building lots to choose from in phase one of the neighborhood. Phase two will open in 2012. There will be about 250 homes in Stonewater Crossing when it is completely built out. Homes are being built with front-entry garages which eliminates the need for unsightly alleys. STONEWATER CROSSING is located on the far west side of Frisco, just across Stonebrook Parkway to the north from the age-restricted Frisco Lakes by Del Webb community. New homes are being built by Highland Homes and American Legend Homes. New Homes are priced from the low $300,000s to well over $400,000, and range in size from just over 2300 to 4000 square feet. THE STONEWATER CROSSING amenity center includes an inviting pool, cabana, and a well equipped playground for children to enjoy. You may take a relaxing stroll through a manicured park-like setting complete with scenic ponds, fountains, and beautiful landscaping. For golfers, The Golf Club at Frisco Lakes is an 18-hole championship golf course located within the Del Webb Frisco lakes Community which is just across Stonebrook Parkway from Stonewater Crossing. SCHOOL INFORMATION - The highly acclaimed Frisco Independent School District serves Stonewater Crossing. School assignments for the 2011-2012 school year are as follows: Students in grades K-5 attend Sparks Elementary; Students in grades 6-8 will attend Pioneer Heritage Middle School; Frisco High School serves grades 9-12. (School attendance boundaries are subject to change by Frisco ISD). Frisco is an exemplary rated school district. DRIVING DIRECTIONS - From the Dallas North Tollway, go west on Lebanon Road, then right (north) on FM 423, and left (west) on Stonebrook Parkway to the community. PHOTO GALLERY OF STONEWATER CROSSING ********************************************* Gary Williams, Realtor Keller Williams Central Phone 214.808.3974 email: GaryDeanWilliams@gmail.com FriscoTexasHomeSweetHome.com

THE DOCTOR TOLD ME TO LOSE A FEW POUNDS

Gary Williams, Frisco Texas Homes For Sale (Keller Williams Realty Central) — Fri, 21 Oct 2011 08:15:40 -0700

THE DOCTOR TOLD ME TO LOSE A FEW POUNDS I went to my family doctor here in Frisco, Texas today for a general check-up and to get a flu shot. Everything was going well at the start of the visit: A nurse came in and took my blood pressure and pulse. The readings were normal. She had me get on the scales and recorded my weight. Another nurse came in and gave me the flu shot. Didn't hurt a bit. Next, the doctor came in and noted that I had gained a few pounds in the past year, and told me I needed to lose them. I told her I would...and I will. So tomorrow, I will start a diet. But today, when I left the doctor's office, I had a special mission to accomplish. I went here: And I didn't order this: But I did get one of these: NOW THAT'S THE WAY TO START A DIET, DON'T YOU AGREE? ********************************************* Gary Williams, Realtor Keller Williams Central Phone 214.808.3974 email: GaryDeanWilliams@gmail.com FriscoTexasHomeSweetHome.com

BASEBALL AT ITS BEST - THE 2011 WORLD SERIES AND ME

Gary Williams, Frisco Texas Homes For Sale (Keller Williams Realty Central) — Fri, 21 Oct 2011 03:52:20 -0700

BASEBALL AT ITS BEST-THE 2011 WOLD SERIES AND ME The Saint Louis Cardinals and the Texas Rangers in the World Series is a double dream come true for me. I am an original Texas Rangers fan. I lived in Fort Worth, Texas, in 1972 when the former Washington Senators became the Texas Rangers and started playing ball in Arlington, Texas. The stadium was just a few miles from my apartment, and my brother and I went to several games that first season. I remember the team's manager was the legendary Ted Williams, and to the best of my recollection the 3rd base coach was former White Sox great Nellie Fox. Fox carried the biggest wad of chewing tobacco in his cheek I had ever seen. Good tickets to the Rangers games in 1972 were cheap - about 3 or 4 dollars. I was fresh out of college then, so if the tickets would have been more, I would not have been able to afford them. My career with the Veterans Administration took me away from the Dallas/Fort Worth area, but I always followed the team and considered myself a Rangers fan. BUT THEN In the year 2000 I was transferred to Saint Louis to be the Director of the VA's office there. My office was just a few blocks from the Cardinal's Busch Stadium. It was easy to take an afternoon off from work and walk to Busch and enjoy a ball game. I quickly became a Cardinals fan, and still am today. It just happens to you when you live in Saint Louis. The Cardinals fans are the most avid and loyal in the world. They know the game inside and out. Opening day of each new season is almost as big a holiday as Christmas. I was there for Albert Pujols' rookie season. He is one of the all-time greatest baseball players ever, and a fine human being. AND THEN I moved back to the DFW area in 2004 and settled in Frisco, Texas. Frisco is home to the Rangers' Double A team, the Frisco RoughRiders, who play in Dr Pepper Ballpark near Stonebriar Mall. The Rangers play in the new Ballpark in Arlington, which is just 35 miles southwest of Frisco. I'm still a Rangers fan, and attend a couple of games a year. This is a competitive World Series. Games one and two were each decided by one run, and the series is tied. Now that the Series is moving from chilly Saint Louis to (hopefully) warm and dry Arlington, the "experts" are predicting the balls will be flying out of the park. Low run games, high run games, pitcher's duels - they are all good. This is a World Series where my team will surely win. The Rangers are my team, and so are the Cardinals. Some say I can't have it both ways, but I say "why not?" ********************************************* Gary Williams, Realtor Keller Williams Central Phone 214.808.3974 email: GaryDeanWilliams@gmail.com FriscoTexasHomeSweetHome.com

STONEWATER CROSSING IN FRISCO, TEXAS

Gary Williams, Frisco Texas Homes For Sale (Keller Williams Realty Central) — Tue, 04 Oct 2011 04:42:22 -0700

STONEWATER CROSSING IN FRISCO, TEXAS STONEWATER CROSSING is a new premier neighborhood in West Frisco on Stonebrook Parkway. With fewer than 250 home sites planned when the community is complete, Stonewater Crossing is much smaller than some of the huge master planned communities in the area. It is know as a "Boutique Community" with the goal of being small enough to allow neighbors to get to know each other as they enjoy the community's amenities. THE STONEWATER CROSSING amenity center includes an inviting pool, cabana, and a well equipped playground that children are sure to enjoy. You may take a relaxing stroll through a manicured park-like setting complete with scenic ponds, fountains, and beautiful landscaping. Several golf courses are just minutes away. STONEWATER CROSSING is located on the far west side of Frisco, just across Stonebrook Parkway to the north from the age-restricted Frisco Lakes by Del Webb community. New homes are being built by Highland Homes and American Legend Homes. New Homes are priced from the low $300,000s to well over $400,000, and range in size from just over 2300 to 4000 square feet. SCHOOL INFORMATION - The highly acclaimed Frisco Independent School District serves Stonewater Crossing. School assignments for the 2010-2011 school year are as follows: K-5 will attend Sparks Elementary; Students in grades 6-8 will attend Pioneer Middle School; Frisco High School serves grades 9-12. (school attendance boundaries are subject to change by Frisco ISD). Sparks, Pioneer, and Frisco High are all exemplary rated schools. DRIVING DIRECTIONS - From the Dallas North Tollway, go west on Lebanon Road, then right on FM 423, and left on Stonebrook Parkway to the community. GARY WILLIAMS - A Frisco, Texas, Realtor with Keller Williams Central. I live, worship, work and shop in West Frisco. Please call me if you would like more information about Stonebrook Crossing or other Frisco area communities. PHOTO GALLERY ********************************************* Gary Williams, Realtor Keller Williams Central Phone 214.808.3974 email: GaryDeanWilliams@gmail.com FriscoTexasHomeSweetHome.com

FRISCO, TEXAS 5 BEDROOM HOMES FOR SALE PRICED UNDER $300,000

Gary Williams, Frisco Texas Homes For Sale (Keller Williams Realty Central) — Mon, 03 Oct 2011 06:31:44 -0700

FRISCO, TEXAS 5 BEDROOM HOMES FOR SALE PRICED UNDER $300,000 Do you need a 5 bedroom home, but aren't ready to pay a fortune to get what you need? Look at the Frisco, Texas 5 bedroom homes for sale priced under $300,000. Get yourself some elbow room! Both new and pre-owned homes are available now. Do you want to live in one of the Dallas area's most upscale cities, with all the amenities it has to offer, but want to avoid the prohibitively high cost of housing often associated with such a community? Check out the selection of Frisco, TX 5 bedroom homes for sale for under $300,000. Do you want to live in the exemplary rated Frisco Independent School District (FISD), in a five bedroom home that costs less than $300,000? With the good selection of 5 bedroom homes priced under $300,000 available in Frisco ISD, now is the time to make the move. Look HERE to see these new and pre-owned homes in Frisco priced under $300,000. I look forward to helping you make your selection. Call or text me at 214.808.3974.-- Gary Williams, Frisco Realtor Keller Williams Realty Central PEOPLE FIRST, THEN BUSINESS********************************************* Gary Williams, Realtor Keller Williams Central Phone 214.808.3974 email: GaryDeanWilliams@gmail.com FriscoTexasHomeSweetHome.com

BE CAREFUL, YOU COULD GET SHOT SHOWING THAT HOUSE

Gary Williams, Frisco Texas Homes For Sale (Keller Williams Realty Central) — Wed, 28 Sep 2011 00:56:29 -0700

BE CAREFUL, YOU COULD GET SHOT SHOWING THAT HOUSE! THE CASTLE DOCTRINE AND REALTOR SAFETY Be Careful, you could get shot! Are you sure the owner or resident of the property you are about to show knows you are going to be there? What is the mental state of that person, and is he/she armed? Could there be someone home that did not get the word that you have an appointment to show the house that is listed for sale or lease? Might that person think someone is trying to break into the house? Texas, like many other states, has a Castle Doctrine Law that allows people to protect themselves and their homes, without a duty to retreat, if they have reason to believe their safety is threatened. I have heard some describe this law as "shoot first, ask questions later" or "make my day" when one is in their home or car and feels threatened by a perceived intruder. What can you do? Here is what I do: When arriving at the house I am going to show here in the Frisco, Texas area, first I ring the door bell. Next I knock on the door. Then I ring the doorbell again. Only then do I use my Supra key to get the house key out of the lock box. When I open the door, I announce in a loud voice, "REALTOR," REALTOR." Then when I step inside the house, I make the announcement again. I do this for every house I show, even if it is supposed to be vacant. Would you say my actions are overkill? I say better overkill than be killed. The safety of my clients and me is at stake. ********************************************* Gary Williams, Realtor Keller Williams Central Phone 214.808.3974 email: GaryDeanWilliams@gmail.com FriscoTexasHomeSweetHome.com

Why You Need To Pay Attention To The Details Of Homeowners Assn Rules

Gary Williams, Frisco Texas Homes For Sale (Keller Williams Realty Central) — Mon, 26 Sep 2011 12:14:54 -0700

Homeowners Associations are an important part of most urban communities in Texas. The Homeowners Association rules, sometimes called the Code of Covenants or Restrictive Covenants, place limits on how you can use or alter the property you are buying. I am re-posting this blog written by Gary Wotal of Flower Mound for your information.For first time homebuyers and also move up buyers into more expensive homes or planned communities You Need To Pay Attention To The Details Of Homeowners Association Rules. A REALTOR can arrange the paperwork to get these covenants and restrictions in your hand prior to finalizing your purchase. The details are important cause you need to know the annual fee which may be $150 per year to $3,000 per year and beyond. In some cases just to water flowers at the entry. What is prohibited? Ham radio antennas, mobile homes, pick up trucks in the driveway, specifying the length of your grass, types of shingles, placement of a satellite dish antenna, size house minimum and maximum for neighborhood, and the architectural review board information in case you want to add an eight foot fence. Many states have teeth in HOA power where violations or not paying your dues they can take away your house. Scary stuff. Pay attention or the details of the rules of the game with HOA's will kill you !!!********************************************* Gary Williams, Realtor Keller Williams Central Phone 214.808.3974 email: GaryDeanWilliams@gmail.com FriscoTexasHomeSweetHome.com

FRISCO TEXAS FALL LAWN CARE TIP UPDATE

Gary Williams, Frisco Texas Homes For Sale (Keller Williams Realty Central) — Thu, 15 Sep 2011 12:21:16 -0700

FRISCO, TEXAS FALL LAWN CARE, LATE SEPTEMBER UPDATE Sunday morning, September 25, 2011, I was listening to the Neil Sperry Gardens radio show on WBAP in Dallas. On his show, Neil was very specific and emphatic that pre-emergent weed preventer needs to be applied this week to keep those unsightly winter weeds from germinating. A few dollars spent on a bag of pre-emergent this week, along with a few minutes spent applying it, can keep your lawn looking great throughout the winter and early spring. FRISCO, TEXAS FALL LAWN CARE TIP Now is the time to complete two critical tasks to keep your lawn healthy and looking nice throughout the fall, winter and early spring. By doing so, you will increase your home's curb appeal and show your pride of ownership. This advice comes from Neil Sperry of McKinney, Texas, whose name has been synonymous with Texas gardening for over 40 years. I encourage you to subscribe to Sperry's free e-Garden Newsletter at www.neilsperry.com. From Neil Sperry's web site: "Question:What is the plant with the scalloped leaves and little purple flowers in early spring, and how do I get it out of my lawn? Answer: That's henbit, and it's really annoying. The good news is, it's also easy to eliminate. Simply mowing the plants down once they have started to form their flower buds will usually kill them. They are reluctant to send up new shoots. You can also use a broadleafed weedkiller to control existing plants in late November or mid-February warm spells (follow label directions, especially as they pertain to temperature). Best option of all, however, is to apply a pre-emergent in mid-September to keep them ever from sprouting. You can also use the broadleafed weedkiller and pre-emergent treatments to deal with dandelions, clover and chickweed, among other annual broadleafed weeds." Sperry also advocates the application on lawns of a high-nitrogen content fertilizer during September in the Frisco, Texas area. Both the pre-emergent weed preventer and the fertilizer are available at local garden centers. ********************************************* Gary Williams, Realtor Keller Williams Central Phone 214.808.3974 email: GaryDeanWilliams@gmail.com FriscoTexasHomeSweetHome.com

IS IT A BANK OR THE BOOGIEMAN? A HAPPY ENDING

Gary Williams, Frisco Texas Homes For Sale (Keller Williams Realty Central) — Fri, 09 Sep 2011 04:56:27 -0700

IS A BANK OR THE BOOGIEMAN? A HAPPY ENDING A while back I wrote the a post about a short sale I was working on. At the time I was unsure about how the deal would end, and had serious doubts we would be able to close without significant complications. I am happy to report the transaction closed without a hitch. As soon as the bank representative returned from vacation, she looked at the additional information we had submitted in her absence and approved it within an hour. The "bank" was Litton in Houston, and I would not hesitate to work with them again on a short sale. For reference, the following is my original post: Am I Dealing with a Bank or the Boogieman? After showing several homes to my gentle 1st time buyers, they settle on a modest home that is well within their budget. "It is a short sale(I explain that to them), it has been on the market for five months without an offer being submitted, and the other agent says she has it cleared through Mr. G at a small bank for a quick and easy close." "Great" they say. "We want it." I submit an offer for them, asking the seller to pay closing costs. Mr. G at the bank says it is an acceptable offer. We wait for written confirmation and prepare to close. Then Miss Closer from the bank intervenes and says "I can't submit this offer to the investor because the buyers are using conventional financing and asking for seller concessions. The investor has strict guidelines we must follow. We can only submit offers with seller concessions if the buyer's financing is FHA or VA. Resubmit your offer showing the buyers are using FHA or VA financing, or remove the request for seller concessions." Her closing words are "I'm leaving for vacation, so if you want to get this done quickly, I must have the revised offer by 11am tomorrow." I tell my reasonable buyers of the complication. "No problem", they say after consulting with their loan officer, "we will go FHA instead of conventional, even though the financing will cost us a little more." I resubmit the offer, but it is not possible to get it in by the 11am deadline set by Miss Closer. Now we wait and hope Miss Closer from the bank is enjoying her vacation. Are we dealing with a bank or boogieman? We'll see what happens next.********************************************* Gary Williams, Realtor Keller Williams Central Phone 214.808.3974 email: GaryDeanWilliams@gmail.com FriscoTexasHomeSweetHome.com

FRISCO, TEXAS MEADOW CREEK STREET PROJECT UPDATE

Gary Williams, Frisco Texas Homes For Sale (Keller Williams Realty Central) — Fri, 08 Jul 2011 14:05:33 -0700

FRISCO, TEXAS MEADOW CREEK STREET REHAB PROJECT UPDATE The project to replace the pavement along Talley Lane in the Meadow Creek neighborhood of Frisco, Texas has begun. Workmen have been busy for several days marking underground utilities, getting construction signage staged, and installing temporary mailboxes. The project involves replacing the pavement of Frisco's Talley Lane from Prestwick Drive to Country Down Lane. This length of Talley Lane will be closed to traffic from Monday, July 11, 2011, until repairs have been completed. Estimates by the City of Frisco are that the street project will take about 45 days. The brick mailbox enclosures along Talley Ln. will be disassembled to allow room for the operation of construction equipment. Temporary mailbox pods have been installed at the corner of Talley Lane and Country Down Lane for residents to use until the street reopens and their permanent mailboxes have been reinstalled. At a recent meeting, Arthur Hartle, the Frisco, Texas, manager for this project said when the streets in Meadow Creek started deteriorating just 2 or 3 years after they were built, Frisco instituted more stringent requirements for developers so that other streets would last for several decades. Although the street rehab project will be an inconvenience to Frisco's Meadow Creek residents, they will be rewarded with a new street without the unsightly cracks and pooling water they have endured for the past several years. Meadow Creek is a quiet neighborhood of about 150 homes on the far west side of Frisco, Texas. ********************************************* Gary Williams, Realtor Keller Williams Central Phone 214.808.3974 email: GaryDeanWilliams@gmail.com FriscoTexasHomeSweetHome.com

CELEBRATE FREEDOM

Gary Williams, Frisco Texas Homes For Sale (Keller Williams Realty Central) — Sun, 03 Jul 2011 18:49:41 -0700

MY COUNTRY, MY EMBLEMS Happy Independence Day. May God Bless America. ********************************************* Gary Williams, Realtor Keller Williams Central Phone 214.808.3974 email: GaryDeanWilliams@gmail.com FriscoTexasHomeSweetHome.com

THE VILLAGES OF WOODLAKE, LITTLE ELM, TEXAS

Gary Williams, Frisco Texas Homes For Sale (Keller Williams Realty Central) — Wed, 29 Jun 2011 01:43:11 -0700

THE VILLAGES OF WOODLAKE, LITTLE ELM, TEXAS The Villages of Woodlake is a quiet neighborhood of single family homes in Little Elm, Texas. It is comprised of approximately 1,000 homes located between Eldorado Parkway and Walker Lane in the heart of the primary residential area of Little Elm. The Villages of Woodlake in Little Elm, Texas is in a convenient location. Near the north end of the community is the new, academically recognized, Little Elm High School. Less than a mile east is a major shopping area at the intersection of Eldorado Parkway and FM 423. The shopping area has two "big box" stores, Lowe's home improvement center, and WalMart. The shopping area also has several places to eat. An Applebee's opened recently. Other casual dining places include Palios Italian, Mexigo, Dickeys BBQ, and Joe's Pizza. Fast food establishments include McDonalds, Burger King, Wendys, Popeyes Chicken, KFC, Taco Bell, and Panda Express. To work off the calories from all the eating places, a 24-Hour Fitness is also located in the shopping area. A new Kroger Marketplace is nearing completion close to The Villages of Woodlake. The huge Kroger Marketplace will anchor a new retail shopping center in Little Elm. The Villages of Woodlake in Little Elm, Texas has a well equipped playground as well as walking trails. A feature not found in most communities is a small community lake. Fishing is allowed on a catch-and-release basis. The lake is for the use of Villages of Woodlake residents exclusively. Currently, there are 12 homes listed for sale in The Villages of Woodlake, Little Elm, Texas. The smallest is a 3 bedroom, two bath, one story home containing 1376 square feet, listed for sale at $109,000. At the other end of the spectrum is a spacious two story house with 3574 square feet. It has 5 bedrooms and 3 baths, and is priced at 165,000. An additional benefit of buying a house in Little Elm, Texas, is that most homes in the city, including those in The Villages of Woodlake, is designated by the U.S. Department of Agriculture as eligible for no down payment, 100% financing. Some restrictions apply, so check with your mortgage professional to see if you qualify. If you are looking for a great place to live at a reasonable price, you may find your dream home in The Villages of Woodlake, Little Elm, Texas. ********************************************* Gary Williams, Realtor Keller Williams Central Phone 214.808.3974 email: GaryDeanWilliams@gmail.com FriscoTexasHomeSweetHome.com

LITTLE ELM TEXAS INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION WITH FIREWORKS

Gary Williams, Frisco Texas Homes For Sale (Keller Williams Realty Central) — Tue, 28 Jun 2011 04:37:54 -0700

LITTLE ELM, TEXAS INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION WITH FIREWORKS ON JULY 4TH. Little Elm Park in Little Elm, Texas, will be a fun place to be Monday evening, July 4, 2011. The Town of Little Elm, Texas, will host its annual Independence Day July Jubilee on July 4, 2011, from 5 PM until about 11PM. The celebration will be family oriented and will include food and goodies from vendors. There will be live music, and of course, the grand finale will be a great fireworks display on the shore of Lake Lewisville. Little Elm is one of the fastest growing towns in North Texas. The Independence Day celebration is a great way for the town to showcase its location and the recreational opportunities Lake Lewisville has to offer, while letting residents and visitors alike show their love for our country on this day we reserve to show our patriotism. ********************************************* Gary Williams, Realtor Keller Williams Central Phone 214.808.3974 email: GaryDeanWilliams@gmail.com FriscoTexasHomeSweetHome.com

FRISCO LAKES BY DEL WEB, FRISCO, TX - IT'S LIKE SUMMER CAMP FOR ADULTS

Gary Williams, Frisco Texas Homes For Sale (Keller Williams Realty Central) — Fri, 24 Jun 2011 12:40:20 -0700

FRISCO LAKES BY DEL WEBB, FRISCO, TEXAS - "IT'S LIKE SUMMER CAMP FOR ADULTS" I spent time visiting Frisco Lakes by Del Web in Frisco Texas today. Frisco Lakes is an age-restricted community on the west side of Frisco, Texas. Because Frisco Lakes by Del Web is age-restricted, at least one resident must be 55 or older, and no one under age 19 can live there permanently. Community rules do allow grand kids and children to stay with the eligible resident for 90 days of the year. As I drove through the community and approached the model home area, I saw a small advertising sign that quoted a resident named Diane who said "I never knew a community could be so much fun. It's like summer camp for adults." After a quick tour of the huge amenity center, checking out a lengthy list of daily events, and taking a look at the golf course, I think I would agree with Diane if I lived in Frisco Lakes by Del Web. A staff member told me there are presently 1100 homes in Frisco Lakes, with plans for 1200 more. Base new home prices in Frisco Lakes range from $149,990 to $330,990, according to a sheet in the community's visitor package. Building lots are available. Currently, there are 16 resale homes on the market in the community listed from $164,900 to $439,000. Frisco, Texas is loaded with great places to live, and I would add Frisco Lakes by Del Webb as one of them. It is a place for those age 55 and better to live in comfort and be as active as they want to be. Like Diane says, "it's like summer camp for adults."********************************************* Gary Williams, Realtor Keller Williams Central Phone 214.808.3974 email: GaryDeanWilliams@gmail.com FriscoTexasHomeSweetHome.com

FRISCO, TEXAS TO BEGIN STREET REHAB PROJECT FOR MEADOW CREEK

Gary Williams, Frisco Texas Homes For Sale (Keller Williams Realty Central) — Wed, 22 Jun 2011 09:22:17 -0700

FRISCO, TEXAS PLANS JULY 2011 START FOR MEADOW CREEK STREET REHAB PROJECT The City of Frisco, Texas will soon be starting a street rehab project for Meadow Creek, a neighborhood on the far west side of the city. The first phase of the project will begin on or about July 5, 2011, and is expected to take about 45 days to complete. Other phases will be on a year-by-year basis as funding becomes available, according to Frisco city officials. The summer 2011 phase of the project will involve the complete replacement of Talley Lane between Prestwick Drive and Country Down Lane. Talley Lane is an East/West residential street that runs from Prestwick Drive in the Meadow Creek subdivision, to Rio Blanco Drive in The Trails of West Frisco. During the construction, affected Talley Lane residents will need to access their homes via their alleys. They will be notified about changes to their mail delivery by the City of Frisco and/or the Postal Service. Frisco's Meadow Creek residents were briefed about the project by city engineers in an April 2011 meeting at City Hall. The rehab project will improve the functionality and appearance of Meadow Creek's streets, according to city officials. ********************************************* Gary Williams, Realtor Keller Williams Central Phone 214.808.3974 email: GaryDeanWilliams@gmail.com FriscoTexasHomeSweetHome.com

I'm Going To Write My First Blog Next Week

Gary Williams, Frisco Texas Homes For Sale (Keller Williams Realty Central) — Fri, 17 Jun 2011 12:31:15 -0700

Hi everyone. I'm writing this letter to let you know I have decided to write my first blog next week. This is an irrevocable decision. I have been an Active Rain lurker for nearly a year, every since my Frisco, Texas real estate friends Loreena Yeo and Janeil Lester told me about AR. I even went to Rain Camp in Dallas last month, and won a Kodak movie camera I plan to start using soon. My next task is to decide what I should blog about. There seem to be endless possibilities. I could write about my lunch experience today at the Chick-fil-A in The Colony, Texas. The place was so crowded it was hard to find a parking place, but the food was great. The drive through line nearly stretched to the street. And who knew Chick-fil-A hosts a Daddy Daughter Date night on the eve of Father's Day (reservations can be made online at daddydaughterdate.com)? I'm thinking Chick-fil-A gets more business than the new In N Out Burger place a couple of miles away in Frisco that all the ex-Californians around here are so crazy about. I need to check that place out too. Or I could write about this young couple I'm working with who are 1st time home buyers. They were ready to make an offer on a home in Murphy, Texas, when I said "why don't we take a look at this other house about a mile away that is a short sale." They loved it, and now we are going down the bumpy road that sometimes leads to a short sale close. It is a good thing they have a lot of patience, or at least I hope they do. Maybe I'll write about the Del Webb age restricted Frisco Lakes community I drove past twice today. I wouldn't mind living there myself, but my wife says she is too young. I've been eligible for several years, and she is not that much younger than me; please don't tell her I said that. If I don't write about one of these topics, I can always sort through the ideas I have written down on the backs of old contracts, Post It notes, paper bags - well you get the idea. And then there are those thoughts that keep bouncing off the inside of my head that keep me awake some nights. Maybe I'll choose one of them to blog about so I can finally get some rest. Well, thanks for listening to me, and I'll be talking to you again soon. Next week. For sure. Gary Williams, Keller Williams Central, GaryDeanWilliams@gmail.com********************************************* Gary Williams, Realtor Keller Williams Central Phone 214.808.3974 email: GaryDeanWilliams@gmail.com FriscoTexasHomeSweetHome.com