JUNE 2018
PONTOTOC HOMES Real Estate Guide to Pontotoc County & the surrounding area A Supplement of the Pontotoc Progress
CHERIE MATTHEWS REAL ESTATE PAGE 8
FEATURING
First Choice Bank page 10
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TABLE OF CONTENTS Patty Turk Properties, LLC The Red Door Service Supply - NAPA Distinctive Design Mossy Oak Properties Cherie Matthews Real Estate First Choice Insurance Washington Holcomb Tractor Company Dennis Cox First Choice Bank Feature Southern Hills Realty & Appraisal
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Create a sale-worthy showplace
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Washington Holcomb Tractor Company
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Pickens Pest Control
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Service Supply - NAPA
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Making a family move easier
Select the right fertilizer for your needs How to banish pet odors How to create an eye-catching gallery wall First Choice Bank
Crye-Leike Realtors For Advertising Information:
Contact Angie Quarles at 662-489-3511 Published by Pontotoc Progress 13 Jefferson Street • P.O. Box 210 • Pontotoc, MS 38863
Designed by Chelsea Williams of the Pontotoc Progress
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First Choice Bank Supporting financial growth in Pontotoc since 1900 10| PONTOTOC HOMES
Photo by Galen Holley
First Choice President and CEO Buddy Montgomery (right) talks with Jim Sappington.
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or more than a century, the bank has bolstered the creation of commerce and economic growth in Pontotoc County, and provided a financial backbone for a growing community, and today, through innovation and visionary leadership, it continues to be a stalwart of trust and integrity. “We only succeed to the extent that the good people of Pontotoc County succeed,” said Buddy Montgomery, as he looked out the second-story window of his office, in the heart of downtown Pontotoc. Cars drove slowly down Main Street, and people milled about, walking to pay water bills, or to grab a bite at local cafes. Montgomery, who, in 1993,
Galen Holley
The Pontotoc Progress took over as the sixth president, as well as the CEO and chairman of First Choice Bank in Pontotoc, was dressed casually but neatly, the kind of understated yet professional attire that puts him at home with the working folks who come into the bank throughout the day. “Economic progress, job opportunities, education, everything pertaining to a better life for the people of Pontotoc County and the surrounding areas, we believe that community banking is a vital part of all of it,” Montgomery said. In the downstairs lobby, New Accounts Representative Scherrie Goree, escorted customer Jim Sappington to the front. Sappington was dressed in a Carhartt coat and cowboy
hat, and Montgomery caught him to shake hands. “We’re hands-on here,” said Montgomery. “We believe that personal relationships and face-to-face meetings go a long way.” That hometown touch has been a hallmark of First Choice since it opened as state-chartered Merchants and Famers Bank in 1900. The first location was in the old Salmon and Wilson Store. Eight years later, the bank received a national charter and became First National Bank of Pontotoc. To bring services closer to more people’s jobs and homes, the bank expanded to branches in Ecru and Toccopola, just after the turn of the century. It continues providing that con-
venience today in Ecru. “We get a great, local clientele here, who might not regularly visit the downtown location,” said Brooks Corder, senior vice-president of the bank and manager of the branch at 236 Hwy 15. Corder took a moment to say hello to Brenda Powell, as she chatted with New Accounts Representative Cathy Quarles. “I started with the bank right out of college,” said Corder. “It’s satisfying to see clients who were walkins, when I started, who are now local business owners. They’ve grown in business as I’ve grown in banking, and we like to see that.” Just down Hwy. 15, at the First Choice branch in Ecru,
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Mike Fadhel made a deposit, and cashier Kelly Tzib called him by first name. Fadhel turned to leave, and Assistant Vice-President and Branch Manager Rob Chittom caught up with Fadhel and shook his hand. “We know him well. He’s a friend,” said Chittom, patting Fadhel on the shoulder. The Ecru location, which opened in 2011, provides a handy service for Ashley Furniture employees, Chittom said, as well as helping form the backbone of a revitalized cultural and commercial landscape in the small town. Getting to know people is part of the First Choice philosophy, Chittom said. “We see customers as more than their credit reports,” said Chittom. “When people talk to us, they’re talking not just to their banker, but to their friend. The personal relationships we form with customers tell us their values, and lead us to better business relationships.” In the downtown headquarters, framed pictures show past presidents and dignitaries, people who, even before the Great Depression, helped provide the leadership and financial security that helped Pontotoc grow. J.H. Salmon, W.A. Boone, Al Duff, John H. Salmon and Farrell Berryhill, are a few of the names that employees and many of the clientele know. All were pillars of the community, and, as are many employees today, involved in community service that extends beyond working hours. “Our community is our bank,” said Senior Credit Officer Shane Clayton, “We donate to all three county schools and help with special projects.” Fostering local business and creating jobs, as well as adding value and improving the quality of life in Pontotoc
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Photo by Galen Holley
Branch Manager Rob Chittom (right) shakes hands with Mike Fadhel.
Photo by Galen Holley
Loan Officer Shane Clayton talks on the phone in his office.
Photo by Galen Holley
Jerry May conducts business with teller Eller Givhan.
Photo by Galen Holley
Mike Powell (left) chats with Branch Manager Brooks Corder.
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Photo by Galen Holley
Brenda Powell talks with New Accounts Representative Cathy Quarles (left).
Photo by Galen Holley
Seated near the front entrance, Ruth Hall greets customers with a smile.
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County, are the goals of lending, Clayton said. First Choice currently carries $178 million in loans, 60 percent of which are with Pontotoc County residents and businesses. Unlike many other banks, which do not offer loans of less than $2,500, First Choice works with borrowers who need smaller amounts. Technology and a shifting, growing population have necessitated innovations in the business, including the creation of online and mobile banking and the accompanying security. Whereas many banks today rely on outside companies for those services, First Choice personnel handle operations in-house. Leading that team is Vice-President and Cashier Julie Henry. “We do our own processing, and have our own computer system, which updates nightly, so we don’t’ use as much paper these days,” said Henry, who also supervises and provides support to an expert team of compliance officers, making sure the bank meets all state and federal regulations. “Having operations in-house gives us greater flexibility and control in helping our customers and providing the services they need,” Henry said. “For example, decisions are made here pertaining to new technologies, like our mobile app and other
Photo by Galen Holley
Bridget Sanders talks with teller Kelly Tzib.
services.” In 1996, shareholders formed Pontotoc BancShares Corp., a holding company of which First National Bank of Pontotoc became a wholly-owned subsidiary. For various reasons, mostly having to do with competition and the types of services the bank would offer, according to Montgomery, in 2015 the institution’s leadership converted the national charter to a state charter, and changed the name to First Choice Bank. In 1933, fire destroyed the old Sawilmon Hotel, at the
corner of Main St. and W. Jefferson St., the building into which the bank moved for its second location. The town built it back, and today, after numerous renovations, First Choice encompasses the entire block. Bank leaders are encouraging retail to utilize the space. At the southern end of the block is First Choice Insurance Inc., a new service that Montgomery said fits well with the financial products the bank already offers. Just before the noon rush on Friday, teller Etta Lindsay prepared her drawer and chatted
with the occasional customer. “We have a personal history with people in this community, both among employees and customers,” said Lindsay, who, over nearly three decades with the bank, has worked in everything from bookkeeping, to compliance, to being a cashier. “We ask about each other’s children and spouses. We work together, live together and pray together,” Lindsay said. Across the counter from Lindsay, Montgomery also waited for the midday influx of customers.
“I’m very grateful to our board, who have the best interest of this community at heart,” said Montgomery. That board includes Montgomery, along with Clayton and Henry, as well as Robert W. McDonald III, Larry Russell, Michael Simon, and Jon S. McDonald. “I believe that our renovations and expansions, as well as our expanded services, demonstrate our commitment to being here, to putting down deep roots for a long time,” Montgomery said.
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Create a sale-worthy showplace
The sentiment “don’t judge a book by its cover” can be applied to many situations. When it comes to selling their homes, homeowners should remember this adage as they prepare their homes for prospective buyers. Statista indicates that there were 560,000 houses sold in the United States in 2016. The Canadian Real Estate Association said a record 536,118 residential properties changed hands in 2016, marking a 6.3 percent increase from 2015. Homeowners who want to make their properties stand out can take the following steps.
De-personalize the home
Homeowners fill their spaces with family photos, heirlooms, personal interests, and other conversation pieces. Prospective buyers may not be able to
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see past personal belongings and may even be distracted by them. For example, buyers who have strong beliefs about animal welfare may not buy a home displaying hunting trophies. Remove personalized items where possible, replacing them with generic items.
Put things in storage
Rent a storage unit to house items that can make a home appear cluttered. Clean out closets and cabinets, so that when buyers “snoop” during appointments or open houses they see orderly storage areas. If closets are brimming with stuff, buyers may assume the house doesn’t have enough storage space and move on.
Improve the exterior
HGTV says that curb appeal is crucial to making a strong
first impression. A messy or lackluster landscape can turn buyers away even before they reach the front door. Mow the lawn and make sure shrubbery has been trimmed. Seasonal potted flowers and plants can help make the house look polished. Repair cracks or damaged walkways, and consider a fresh coat of paint on trim around windows and doors. Pressure-wash siding if necessary.
bathrooms look like a spa. Stack a few pretty washcloths tied with ribbon, add some scented candles and faux plants and buy bathmats and towels in coordinating tones. Remove extraneous items from kitchen counters and replace them with vases of flowers. In addition, set up dining spaces as if one were sitting down to a meal, and ensure appliances are sparkling clean.
Make it light and bright
Skip the fish, bacon or other aromatic meals for a few days, as such foods can leave lingering aromas. Baked goods, vanilla and cinnamon might make for more appealing scents. Making a home sell fast involves preparation and the knowledge that buyers are often greatly influenced by their first impressions.
Open up all of the drapes and blinds, and turn on overhead lights so the house is well-lit. Add table lamps or other fixtures to especially dim rooms.
Create a hotel experience
Forbes
suggests
making
Use common ‘scents’
Select the right fertilizer for your needs For plants to truly flourish, the right growing conditions and soil that offers the right nutrients is of paramount importance. Fertilizer enhances soil so that plants and flowers can thrive. However, fertilizer is not a one-size-fits-all mix. Choosing fertilizer can be a little overwhelming thanks to the variety of formulations available at neighborhood lawn and garden centers. Shelves contain all-purpose products, such as those billed as vegetable fertilizer, and even formulations geared toward specific flower varieties. Others may feature buzz words like “all-natural” or “organic,” and consumers may not be sure just what they need to keep plants healthy. The following guidelines can help any would-be gardener or landscaper grow more vibrant plants.
Start with a soil test
It’s difficult to determine what plants need without an accurate picture of what’s going on in the ground. A soil test can paint a picture of what’s going on and indicate if any nutrients are lacking. A common misconception is that gardeners fertilize plants. But fertilizer amends the soil that feeds plants, according to the soil-testing lab professionals at Virginia Tech. Soil types vary by region, and conditions may even vary between spots on a landscape. Testing where the plants will be placed can yield the most accurate results. Soil tests are available at gardening centers and online. Otherwise, landscaping professionals can conduct tests.
Know the N-P-K ratio
Most fertilizers will come with information concerning the nutrients within. Most notably it will have a breakdown of
how much nitrogen (N), phosphorous (P) and potassium (K) is in the mix. Judging by the soil test, gardeners can choose a product that will give them the right ratio to amend the soil for the type of plant they are hoping to grow. Complete fertilizers often have NPK in the formulation. Incomplete fertilizers may have only one or two nutrients. This allows a person to customize fertilizer even more without overdoing it with a particular nutrient.
Grow plant knowledge
A cursory knowledge of the plants being planted in the garden also can be helpful. Gardeners must recognize that some plants will not tolerate excess amounts of a particular fertilizer component, while some may need more. Checking books out of the library, seeking information online and consulting with landscaping experts will help expand homeowners’ knowledge about plant types and the needs of each particular plant they hope to grow.
Solid and liquid fertilizer
Fertilizers are generally sold in pellets, spikes and liquid forms. Pellets or granules are dispersed over large areas and will gradually offer nutrients when the soil is watered. Liquid fertilizer is concentrated and fast-acting. These may be used for container plants or smaller areas. Spikes usually are placed in houseplants or to feed individual trees or shrubs. Depending on the formulation, fertilizer may need to be reapplied once a month or more. Consult the product packaging for the correct application advice. Fertilizer amends soil to grow stronger, more resilient plants.
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How to banish pet odors from a home
Dogs, cats, birds, and lizards have evolved from wild animals and outdoor companions to become beloved, largely domesticated members of the family. The number of pets in homes across the country continues to grow. According to Statista, as of March 2017, 94.2 million cats and 89.7 million dogs were estimated to live in the United States as pets. Canada’s Pet Wellness report estimates that there are approximately 7.9 million cats and 5.9 million dogs in Canada. Over time, pet owners grow accustomed to their pets’ antics, messes and even their odors. Dealing with smells is par for the course for pet owners, and many become desensitized to certain common
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smells. But when company is on the way or people are thinking about selling their homes, pet odors must be addressed. Even though it will take effort, homeowners can freshen their homes and eliminate unpleasant pet-related smells. • Find ways to ventilate. Odors can build up inside closed environments and prove overpowering. Opening windows when applicable, using exhaust fans and encouraging cross-breezes can air certain odors from the home. • Clean frequently. Cats and dogs can leave behind fur, dander, food messes, and more. Eliminating the debris that pets create can reduce odors. Sweeping, vacuuming and mopping floors can help as well. Don’t forget to vacuum
draperies and furniture, and consider purchasing cleaning appliances specifically designed for homes with pets. • Keep on top of accidents and litter boxes. Puppies and even adult dogs may have their share of accidents. Cats may avoid litter boxes if they are not cleaned frequently and then soil around the house. Be sure to clean up pet waste messes promptly. Baking soda and vinegar solutions are all-natural ways to clean up and can help remove urine odors more readily. Also, look for safe deodorizing cleaning products that can be used on carpeting, flooring and upholstery. • Purchase an air purifier. Air purifiers can help remove odors and allergens from the air. They’re relatively inex-
pensive and can be placed in rooms that pets frequent. • Wash pet blankets and beds. Launder pet beds, cloth toys, blankets, and any other items that pets lounge on. Sweat, saliva and dander can cause these fabrics to become stinky, and, in turn, make the house smell worse. • Keep pets clean. Most pets are very good at self-grooming, but can benefit from a spa treatment once in awhile. Dogs that spend ample time outdoors or frequently get wet and dirty may need routine baths. Ask a professional groomer what he or she recommends to address potent pet odors. Neutralizing pet odors takes effort, but it can make for a more pleasant-smelling home environment.
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How to create an eye-catching gallery wall Gallery walls, also called moment walls, are one of today’s hottest home decor trends. Gallery walls enable homeowners to create visually appealing groupings of photos, frames, wall art, and much more to dress up any room in the house. Gallery walls can make a statement in the living room, add finesse to an entryway or showcase special items along a staircase. One need only do a quick internet search or browse through lifestyle magazines to see examples of gallery walls for inspiration. Anyone with a little determination can design a gallery wall. • Find your muse. The first
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step to creating a gallery wall is to choose a theme. If floral prints are your thing or you love abstract art, build your gallery around these elements. You can even use color or frame style as the coordinating factor. • Take your time. Some people rush into creating gallery walls, and that can be a mistake. Spend time picking out pieces and trying different combinations before you take out the hammer and hardware. The mix should be captivating and look like it was a curated collection. Some pieces can be high-end, while others may be picked up at flea markets or even be your own artwork or photography.
• Experiment with dimensions and levels. Gallery walls need not be restricted to flat photos on a wall. Texture and depth can be used in wall designs. Intersperse shelving, sconces, wooden letters, clocks, and more to make the gallery even more eclectic. Feel free to build the gallery around items that are in the house, such as windows or televisions. This can help electronics blend into the design. • Establish your focal point. Pottery Barn suggests making the center of the display at eye level, roughly 66 inches off the ground. Then build the gallery out from around that focal point. There are many patterns that can be built into the
gallery, from “spiral” to “centered” to “reflection” designs. • Create a template. Lay the gallery design on the floor and cut newspapers or other paper to the size of each piece. Use masking tape to position these guides on the wall, trying a few arrangements until you are happy with the finished product. Then replace the paper with the artwork. • Hang items with precision. Don’t skimp on technique. Use a ruler, level and the right tools. This ensures pieces are straight and in line with others. Gone are the days when large pieces of artwork fill empty walls. Gallery designs add statements and can balance rooms in creative ways.
Making a family move easier
Whether or not to relocate can be a difficult decision. Sometimes such decisions are borne out of necessity when a parent is relocated by his or her company. Other times it is a personal reason to try out a new neighborhood or upgrade to a larger home. Date from the U.S. Census Bureau indicates a stable annual rate of moving hovering at around 12 percent of the population since 2008. Whatever reason is behind a move, it can take some time to adjust to both the idea of moving and the new living space — especially for children who may seem disconnected from the decision. The following tips can make the transition a little easier for families.
Talk about it
Do not blindside children with a move. Begin having conversations as a family as soon as the possibility of moving arises. Involve the children in some of the decisions. Ask about the features they want to see in their new home. Explain that people, be it prospective buyers, real estate agents or movers, will be visiting your current home and that this may be a little disruptive. Talk about the reasons for the move, such as a new job or that the family has outgrown the space. Kids can process much more than many adults give them credit for.
Discuss any concerns
Children may have concerns about the move that differ from adults’. Many of these may pertain to fears about making new friends or coursework at a new school. Let them voice their opinions. Removing some of the mysteries by visiting schools or local hangouts before the move is made can assuage some fears.
Create some familiarity
Set aside boxes or bins that will house kids’ toys or things that the family recognizes. These may include photographs, games, throw blankets, or the creature comforts of home. Make these the first items that are unpacked upon moving into the new house.
Use the agent as a resource
Many real estate agents live in the towns where they make their living. Find out if the agent can set up a meet-andgreet or if he or she knows of any clubs or leagues that suit your family’s interests. Making a few introductions ahead
of time will give children and adults some familiar faces on their first days in their new home. Families shouldn’t shy away from making their own introductions as well. Knocking on a few neighbors’ doors and letting them know a new family is coming to the street can pave the way for familiarity and friendships.
Stay in touch
Encourage children to stay in touch with their current friends. Video chat enables kids to see and speak with peers. When things settle after the move, arrange for a surprise play date where children can introduce their old friends to newer ones.
Stick to a routine
One of the ways to breed familiarity is to stick to the same routine. If a big Sunday family dinner was the norm, continue the tradition in your new home. Wake in the morning and go to bed at the same time. According to Vanessa Lapointe, a registered psychologist in Surrey, British Columbia, structure and routine are key for children. Try to focus on one new thing at a time to minimize stress. Moving can be exciting and scary at the same time. Children may be anxious about the process, but families can work together to iron out the kinks and settle into their news homes successfully.
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