Local News and Events

Selling your home can be a significant financial event, and it's important to understand how capital gains taxes may apply. Fortunately, U.S. tax law offers generous exclusions for homeowners under certain conditions, and with proper recordkeeping, many can reduce or eliminate their tax burden altogether.Here's what every homeowner should know about capital gains, exclusions, and the importance of documenting improvements.What Are Capital Gains?Capital gain is the profit you make from selling your home. It's calculated as the difference between your adjusted cost basis and the sale price (minus allowable selling costs, such as real estate commissions).Sale Price ... (Purchase Price + Capital Improvements + Selling Costs) = Capital GainCapital Gains Exclusion for Your Primary ResidenceUn... 01/12/2026

  Find a New Best Friend at the New Year’s ʻOhana Festival, January 11th, 2026Hawaiian Humane Society is hosting a dog adoption event during the Japanese Cultural Center’s 2026 New Year’s ʻOhana Festival.Shelters are currently facing high capacity, making these community events vital for spotlighting long-stay pets and reducing barriers to ownership. Research shows that adoption specials—including fee-waived events—do not impact the quality of care or commitment a pet receives in its new home, making these initiatives a win-win for the community and the animals. When: Sunday, January 11, 2026Time: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PMWhere: Japanese Cultural Center (2454 South Beretania St, Honolulu) Can’t adopt right now? You can still support their mission by fostering, volunteering, or donating to help ... 01/10/2026

Turning the Tide for Buyers in 2026 — Policy + Market Shifts Could Change EverythingIf you’ve been watching the housing market lately, you’re seeing real signs of change. Between lower mortgage rates finally showing up, growing policy pushback against large institutional buyers, and new housing affordability measures gaining traction — 2026 could look very different for homebuyers.Institutional buyers have dominated the market for years, buying up single-family homes and squeezing out everyday buyers. I’ve worked firsthand with hedge funds — even as one of the exclusive agents in Florida for Blackstone Invitation Homes — and I can tell you it’s rarely good for local markets long term. Contractors get squeezed, agents get squeezed, fees get squeezed — it’s favorable for spreadsheets, not... 01/10/2026

New Listing with Acreage in North Crestview!   Take a look at this aerial tour of 6062 Garden City Road, Crestview, FL (MLS 988448) a spacious 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath ranch style home sitting on 1.39 acres surrounded by mature trees and peaceful scenery.This property offers the perfect blend of privacy and convenience minutes from the Crestview Post Office, Publix, local schools, and parks, yet tucked away on a quiet road. Inside you’ll find over 2,000 sq ft of living space, a comfortable floor plan, fireplace, fenced backyard, and even a separate apartment area ideal for guests or extended family.   6062 Garden City Rd, Crestview, FL 32539 $160,250   BuyAFloridaVacationHome.com Watch the full video on YouTube   01/10/2026

If you're searching for a well maintained, move in ready home south of I 10 in Crestview, this new listing in Alicia Place deserves a close look. Located in a quiet cul de sac, 149 Strike Eagle Drive is a spacious all brick 3 bedroom, 2 bath home offering nearly 2,000 square feet of living space, an open layout, and a private fenced backyard.As a Real Estate Owned (REO) property, it’s a great opportunity for homebuyers and investors alike to secure a quality home in a sought after location at a competitive price.🏡 Property OverviewAddress: 149 Strike Eagle Drive, Crestview, FL 32536Subdivision: Alicia PlacePrice: $267,900Bedrooms: 3Bathrooms: 2Sq Ft: 1,985Lot Size: 0.31 acresYear Built: 2013Garage: 2 carConstruction: All brickMLS 989205 $267,900This home sits at the end of a cul de sac,... 01/10/2026

A Saloon!  In Searcy AR, dry county?This is a newly found photograph labeled with Matthews Saloon 1906 that is being shared with us for this blog.  The lender found it in her parent's collection and knows nothing about it and hopes the Searcy Sleuths can provide more information.  A super Super Sleuth has done some searching and has come up with the following interesting information.  Here is what he has supplied and has written his own blog and let me share it.  I have shortened his summary somewhat with his permission.This is written by Don Thompson, super Searcy Sleuth.  A photo of this framed print owned by a Searcy, Arkansas resident was taken by Barbara Duncan. She asked me to comment on it.The prohibition movement gained momentum in the first decade of the twentieth century as Ar... 01/11/2026

 NEW DRONE TOUR 174 Villacrest Dr CRESTVIEW, FL! MLS 988762 $199,000Take a look at this spacious split level 3 bedroom, 2 bath home in Northview Estates now available as an REO property. Located just minutes from I 10, Antioch Elementary, Davidson Middle, and Crestview High, this home offers tons of potential for buyers or investors.  Property Highlights:• Split level design with multiple living spaces• Vaulted ceilings + fireplace• Master suite with sitting area, fireplace, office/craft nook & balcony• Enclosed patio overlooking a large fenced backyard• Kitchen with breakfast bar + gas stove• Attached 2-car garage & roomy driveway• 1,681 sq ft | Built 1993• Located in Northview Estates 3rd Addn  Watch the full drone tour here: If you're searching for a Crestview home with character, sp... 01/10/2026

Naples, Florida, is a stunning coastal city that offers an idyllic escape for beach lovers. With its pristine white sand beaches, calm turquoise waters, and abundant sunshine, it’s no wonder that Naples is often considered a beach lover’s paradise. Whether you want to relax under the sun, enjoy water sports, or explore vibrant beach clubs, Naples has something for everyone. This article will explore why Naples is a top destination for beach enthusiasts and how you can make the most of your visit.The Natural Beauty of Naples BeachesNaples boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the United States. The soft, powdery sand stretches for miles along the Gulf of Mexico, creating a perfect setting for sunbathing, beachcombing, and picnicking. The calm waters are ideal for swimming and wadi... 01/10/2026

NorthWest Crossing (NWX) isn't just another neighborhood in Bend – it's a community by design. Developed on roughly 486 acres by the West Bend Property Company in the early 2000s, NWX pairs tree‑lined streets and welcoming front porches with a thoughtful mix of homes, parks, schools and local businesses. The result is a walkable, small‑town atmosphere that feels like a modern take on Bend's classic neighborhoods, yet it enjoys easy access to downtown and the Old Mill.Architectural Charm & Housing ChoicesNWX stands out for its variety of architecture. Instead of cookie‑cutter models, the developers sold individual lots to a guild of builders so streetscapes would feel diverse and timeless. Craftsman‑style cottages sit alongside modern farmhouses and contemporary townhomes, all linked by ... 01/09/2026

... you should stop by their new location at 209 Main Street South right under the Coldwell Banker Real Estate Office. Timmothy wrote this comic with an article from The Northern Sentry in mind.I have enjoyed shopping there many times. I wouldn't say this is purely a relic store as each time I have been to 3D more and more new items are taking over the store. That being said the big draw for me is the records that they have on hand. I don't know where they find them but they are usually in good playable condition.The new location is larger than the old and I think better organized however just like their old location several steps are involved and unlike the old location these steps are outside.  01/10/2026

The Bellingham Library is hosting a talk on '10 Steps to Researching the History of Your House in Bellingham' on Thursday, February 5th from 6:30-745pm.What is a house history?A house history is a collection of information about a home’s past. At its simplest, it could be old photos showing the house at different times over the years, or maybe a scrapbook filled with pictures, newspaper clippings about neighborhood events, and mentions of past residents. For some, it’s more about the architectural story describing the style and noting any changes made to the structure. For others, it’s the tales of the people who lived there over the years. A house history can be any combination of these elements, depending on what the current residents of an older home choose to include.This program is... 01/11/2026

I see different numbers being posted about the number of pools in The Villages, Florida.  I decided to go straight to their website and check for myself.  Before I start let me explain we have four different types of pools here, Family, Adult, Sports, and Country Club which are the membership pools.  Villages residents and those with guest ID’s can use Family, Adult and Sport Pools.  All total we are looking at 128 pools listed on The Villages website.Starting with Family Pools there are 38 of them, guidelines are simple, approved life vest, noodles, unbreakable mask, goggles, and small plastic buckets are allowed in the pool.Next Adult Pools and there are 70 of them and about the rules but you must be over 30 to use the pool.Sports Pools there are 13 of them.  This the pools they use f... 01/15/2026

Journaling for Friday, January 9 January is Mental Wellness Awareness Month, National Blood Donor Month, and Cervical Cancer Awareness Month. What can you do to make you or your loved ones safer, loved, and healthier in January?  Mental Wellness Awareness Month Do you make other people feel valued, respected through genuine attention, asking them questions without comparing your life experiences to theirs? Do you make it a habit to leave others a lasting, positive impression about who you are without making conversations all about you? Can you remember what Maya Angelo famously stated, "People will never forget how you made them feel." In 2023 in the USA, approximately 49, 316 people died by suicide. Approximately 48,800 people died in 2024 by suicide. Data for 2025 is not yet available... 01/09/2026

Let’s Say THANK YOU to Our Law Enforcement Officers Today is National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day. I can’t pretend to know what it is like to be on the front lines…willing and prepared to put my life in jeopardy to save and serve my community. I can tell you what it’s like to be a relative of several law enforcement officers. You say a prayer every day they go to work, asking for them to return home safely. When the news reports that an officer has been injured, or worse, you say another prayer.  And when you see others throw bricks at them for no reason other than they were paid to do so, you want to step in and fight for them. The 2025 stats… 111 federal, state, county, municipal, and U.S. Territories officers died in the line of duty in 2025, representing a 25% decrease compared... 01/09/2026

Shifting markets don’t scare experienced agents — they reward smart strategy. Here’s what I’m seeing in Nixa right now:✅ Homes aren’t flying off the shelf like they did — buyers are taking time and comparing options.✅ Pricing has to be precise — “just test the market” usually costs you later.✅ Condition matters more — clean, staged, move-in-ready homes stand out fast.✅ Negotiation is back — closing costs, repairs, and rate buydowns are on the table again.Bottom line: This isn’t a bad market — it’s a skill market. The best-prepped sellers win, and buyers finally have breathing room.📩 Message me if you want a quick, no-pressure pricing check for your Nixa home.Photo AI generated 01/08/2026

Montgomery County Pet Food PantryPets shouldn’t go hungry. If you need pet food or supplies, @MCASAC  is hosting Pet Food Pantry distributions coming up on Jan. 10 and Jan. 14, in partnership with MCPAW. https://ow.ly/Nyiy50XTbeFThis is a Montgomery County, Maryland announcement. Chrysanthemum, Longwood Gardens,Kennett Square, Pennsylvania USA IMG 6736Canon PowerShot G11 CameraPhotograph by Roy KelleyRoy and Dolores Kelley Photographs 01/09/2026

Before the Boardroom: How Avon Ladies and Female Real Estate Agents Redefined Business Earlier today, Lise Howe posted about S&H Stamps which were something I totally remember when growing up in the 1950's. That got me to thinking about another thing I totally remember growing up in the 1950's:  The Avon Lady and the "Ding Dong, Avon Calling" commercial. Avon celebrates 140 years of empowering women in 2026 — not just through beauty, but through opportunity. Founded in 1886, Avon was a disruptor from the start. At a time when women had few opportunities to work outside the home, Avon offered them a chance to earn their own income by selling products to their friends and neighbors. No doubt Avon was the precursor to other similar business models for well-known companies like Tupperware, ... 01/08/2026

Journal Entry for 1/8/2026 Public Safety Announcement from Local Police Departments Significant road closures today, January 8, 2026, for a T.V. production, possibly related to big projects linked to Taylor Sheridan (creator of Yellowstone). Production was cancelled in December to resume filming early January 2026. Drivers need to avoid SH 121 Business near FM 3040 (Flower Mound Road). Due to stunts, driving maneuvers, simulated crash and off-road driving, the closures will affect both directions of SH-121 Business between Forestbrook Drive to the north and Vista Ridge Mall Drive to the south, officials said. Traffic on Round Grove Road and Denton Tap Road will also be impacted. City officials said detour routes will be clearly marked during the closure. There will be heavy police prese... 01/08/2026

Auburn University Football Schedule 2026: Get Ready for Game Day!The Auburn University Football Schedule 2026 is here, and fans are already getting fired up for another unforgettable season on The Plains! Whether you’re tailgating outside Jordan-Hare Stadium, road-tripping to an away game, or just planning your Saturdays around kickoff, it’s shaping up to be a fall packed with SEC showdowns and orange-and-blue pride.So, Auburn fans — are you ready for game day?  2026 Auburn Tigers Football Schedule Date Opponent Location Venue Sep 5 Baylor (Aflac Kickoff Game) Atlanta, GA Mercedes-Benz Stadium Sep 12 Southern Miss Auburn, AL Jordan-Hare Stadium Sep 19 Florida Auburn, AL Jordan-Hare Stadium Sep 26 Vanderbilt Auburn, AL Jordan-Hare Stadium Oct 3 @ Tennessee Knoxville, TN Neyland Stadium O... 01/08/2026

We are going to explore the four country clubs between the 6’s.  If you aren’t familiar with the term between the 6’s is from County Road 466 and 466a, the Lake Sumter area.  We are starting with Cane Garden Country Club which is in the middle of the 6’s.  Great place, love the view while having drinks or dining on the patio.  Here is their website: www.CaneGardenTheVillages.comHow about we start with breakfast, everyday from 9:00 until 11:00 they serve breakfast.  They have a great breakfast menu which you can view online.  Next lunch which I have had there a few times, you might want to try the pizza!  How about specials?  They have daily dinner specials along with “Burger Bar Monday” and “Rueben Saturdays” from 11:00 to 4:00 featuring nine different Reubens to choose from.There is a ... 01/08/2026