September 2020 HomeFinder by kdhnews

Gloria Ashmore Owner, Realtor® Ashmore Group, Inc. txazrealtor@yahoo.com

PEOPLE’S CHOICE HOMES in all price ranges 338-6295 Direct (254) 554-6710 Office (254)

www.fthoodrelo.com

“ The Real Estate Source For You!

SALES

NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY MANAGERS

6009 Siltstone, Killeen LIVE YOUR BEST LIFE NOW IN A HOME SURROUNDED WITH

STYLE, SPACE, AND TREES!

Starting with its beautiful rock front entry to the covered patio in the back to the open floor plan, it shows quality! From the open kitchen with its stainless-steel fridge, large pantry, granite counter work center with sink to its quality-built cabinets in dark wood, you can see into the living room and share conversations! This home has a corner fireplace, hard wood flooring throughout, 4 bedrooms with one that would make an excellent study, library, or music room; with 3 baths, there will always be one for guests as well. Recessed and pendant lighting, bronze fixtures, sink in the utility room are just a few of the outstanding features. End your day by sipping that cold Texas tea on the covered patio or under the trees in the back yard. You can watch your guests or family enjoy the extended yard before retiring to the primary suite with large tub, double vanity, and separate shower. What a day! What a life! Make it yours by calling NOW!

Ashmore Group #13923

$277,100.

RENTALS 2601 LAIN, K .............................3/2 ........................................ $950 2214 WHEELER, APT B, K ...........1/1 ........................................ $450 2808 LEROY CIR, APT A & C, K ..3/2 ....... ASSIGNED PARKING....... $700 ATTENTION OWNERS WANTING OR NEEDING PROPERTY MANAGEMENT JOIN THE ASHMORE GROUP INC REAL ESTATE FAMILY! 50+ YEARS OF EXPERIENCE TO OFFER YOU, CREDIT CHECKS ON APPLICANTS, INSPECTIONS ON RENTAL PROPERTIES, ONLINE TRACKING FOR OWNERS, PERSONAL SHOWINGS TO PROSPECTS, REFERRALS UPON REQUEST AND MORE DETAILS WITH JUST A CALL!

Do the Math:+ -x % BUYING A HOME NOW MAY BE MORE AFFORDABLE AND SAVE SOME CASH (BPT) - At a time when the strength of the U.S. economy and personal finance is on most renters’ minds, low down payment mortgage options are more appealing than ever. With mortgage interest rates being at historic lows, it is possible to qualify for a home loan while keeping a rainy day fund. Private mortgage insurance (MI) has been around for decades and helped over 1.3 million homebuyers last year. It is a temporary cost that allows for a down payment as small as 3% of the purchase price. While some borrowers wait until they save 20% for a down payment, the added years of saving can translate to higher interest rates and more expensive home prices. “Renters who are on the hunt to buy should do the math and consider what is best for them, because many times they will find that buying with a low down payment insured mortgage is in their best interest. It may enable

them to attain homeownership sooner than they otherwise could, which helps them take advantage of historic low rates and keep some of their savings intact,” said Lindsey Johnson, President of U.S. Mortgage Insurers (USMI). If you are one of these renters looking to buy your first home but don’t have 20% down, don’t worry, you are not alone. According to the National Association of Realtors, the median down payment in 2019 was 6% for first-time buyers. It is true you can qualify for a conventional mortgage with a down payment as small as 3% of the purchase price. In today’s market, it could take a family earning the national median income up to 21 years to save 20%, according to calculations by USMI. How can buying now save you money later? Consider you want to purchase a $275,000 home. When you account for closing costs (about

3% of the sales price), a 5% down payment is $13,750 versus $63,250 in cash for 20% down. With a 740 credit score at today’s MI rates, your monthly MI payment would be about $115, which is added to your monthly mortgage payment until the MI can be cancelled. MI typically cancels after five years. With home price appreciation, today’s $275,000 home will likely cost more in the years ahead. This will also have an impact on the necessary down payment and length of time required to save for it. There are other variables in the equation too, such as interest rates. As interest rates rise, so too will the cost of mortgage financing. Not all MI is the same. Importantly, so-called “FHA Loans” are government-backed loans insured by the Federal Housing Administration versus a private insurer. These mortgages require a slightly higher down payment, the insurance is permanent, and the monthly premiums generally cannot be cancelled. Make sure you do the math. There are many online mortgage calculators that can help. Check out lowdownpaymentfacts.org to learn more.

Home Home Improvements Improvements That That May May Affect Affect Your Your Homeowners Homeowners Insurance Insurance (BPT) - Many of today’s homeowners have been inspired by house-flipping shows to learn practical tips and savvy tricks to either increase their home’s resale value or, for those who prefer to stay put, refresh their living space for its long-term use. While these shows highlight the newest trends that resonate with new buyers or help customize a house to an owner’s current needs, what they don’t tell you is how remodeling might affect your homeowners insurance coverage. “Building an addition and adding square footage, renovating a kitchen or bathroom, or other significant changes made to a home will increase its value,” said Jane Li, Mercury Insurance director of product management. “One thing that can’t be overlooked, however, is that these renovations will also increase the home’s replacement cost if it is damaged or destroyed, so it’s very important that homeowners also adjust their insurance policies to ensure the home is properly insured in the event disaster strikes.” Here are four improvements Li recommends discussing with your insurance agent before making upgrades.

Roof Replacement The roof is the primary source to protect a home against the elements, providing shelter from rain, hail, wind, summer heat and winter cold. It’s likely not the first thing that comes to mind when a homeowner thinks of renovations but, eventually, it will need to be replaced to keep doing its job properly. “The age of your roof factors into your homeowners insurance coverage because, as it gets older it becomes more likely to leak, which can cause structural damage,” said Li. “Certain roofing materials - like clay or concrete tile, slate or metal - provide added protection against wind and wildfires if you live in an area that’s prone to these conditions. If properly maintained, these materials also have a longer lifespan than an asphalt-shingled roof, which tends to last about 20 years.”

“..If you decide to install a pool, be sure to also build a fence with a locking gate around it.”

2 Installing a Pool Pools are a great way to cool off when temperatures climb and are also a nice centerpiece for outdoor entertaining. However, putting in a pool also adds to your liability risk, which will increase your homeowners insurance premium. “If you decide to install a pool, be sure to also build a fence with a locking gate around it,” said Li. “The fence should not connect to the dwelling and, if possible, it should be built using fire-resistant material.”

Replacing

Plumbing Fixtures Sometimes, all it takes to give your kitchen or bathroom a new look is to swap out your old sink for a new one. If you decide to replace some of your home’s plumbing fixtures, it’s important to make note of the upgraded materials as they may be of a higher quality - and thus have a higher replacement cost - than the original equipment. It’s also a good time to consider installing a water-leak detection system, as claims due to water-related damages, like bursting or leaking pipes, or malfunctioning appliances, are the most commonly filed homeowners insurance claims, according to Mercury Insurance. “Many leaks can be difficult to detect since most pipes are enclosed inside walls,” said Li. “We recommend installing water-leak sensors or shut off devices if you are making plumbing upgrades, because they can be very helpful in preventing extensive water damage. Some can automatically shut off the home’s main water supply if a leak is detected and might even qualify you for a discount on your insurance.”

Revamping If you decide to your landscaping replace some of your home’s plumbing fixtures, it’s important to make note of the upgraded materials as they may be of a higher quality - and thus have a higher replacement cost - than the original equipment.

The trees, bushes, plants and stonework you choose can add to your home’s curb appeal and, in areas with dry climates that are prone to wildfires, your landscaping may even increase your home’s insurability. “A good landscape in fire country will endure firebrands for days, intense heat for weeks, and do both without igniting,” said Douglas Kent, wildfire expert, author and professor of land management at California State Polytechnic University, Pomona. The five feet closest to your home is where you should retrofit with fire retardant materials and conduct simple maintenance like clearing away dead plants, and cleaning gutters and decks of leaves. The next 30 feet from your home should be green and clean landscaping, with lawns kept free of debris. Trim tree limbs so they are at least 10 feet away from your home and trim unruly bushes. Keep your lawn well-manicured and plants healthy. Hard surfaces like asphalt and concrete also work well in this space. Finally, the next 70 feet should contain thinned out vegetation, removing flammable plants and brush surrounding your home. Trees should also be at least 20 feet apart. Whether you plan to live in your home for many years to come or sell it to a new homeowner, be sure to assess your homeowners’ coverage needs annually as long as it’s your property.

SR-Belton, TX: GNR-Killen,TX:

PLAN 1571

PLAN 1784

PLAN 2045 $192,300 $175,100

$180,500 $161,800

$165,900 $151,500

SR-Belton, TX: GNR-Killen,TX:

$201,600 $181,800

$187,600 $164,900

$172,700 $154,000

Specializing in Custom Homes and Commercial Construction

PLAN 2122

PLAN 1971

PLAN 1594

SR-Belton, TX: GNR-Killen,TX:

$210,500 $189,900

$187,900 $164,900

$173,500 $154,750

WWW .JDBTX. COM

254.518.1162

PLAN 2224

PLAN 1973

PLAN 1676

(254) 526-5117

www.jwchomesales.com

3800 S W.S. Young Dr Ste 101 • Killeen, TX Jim Wright, Broker • TX Lic # 277160

HOMES FOR SALE

6101 SILTSTONE, KILLEEN

1902 WALKER PLACE BLVD, COPPERAS COVE

2402 SHOEMAKER DRIVE UNIT #A-B, KILLEEN

4 Bedrooms • 2.5 Bathrooms

4 Bedrooms • 2 Bathrooms

Features: 10’ ceilings, ceiling fans, corner fireplace, Tile back splash in kitchen, solid service counter tops, built-in microwave, w/vent-ahood, self-cleaning oven, dishwasher, refrigerator, garbage disposal, lots of counter top space, and cabinets, island and pantry. Large breakfast area with tile floors. Jetted tub in mst. bath, Four-sided brick with stone accent and large patio. Full yard sprinkler system, oversize garage w/opener and extended driveway. Tenant occupied. MUST give 24 hour notice to show.

Features: This beautiful corner lot 4 bedroom 2 bath home. Has newly installed carpet, fresh interior paint throughout, new cabinets, new counter tops, new fixtures and all brand new stainless steel Samsung appliances. Also has new roof, new gutters and a new HVAC system. This brick and stone, side entry garage.BEHIND the privacy fence the lot extends almost to the power pole. Park your RV or work trailers etc in the additional space. Beautiful mature trees in front and back yard and sprinkler system to boot.

Features: Nice income producing duplex with double car port, fenced yard and great rental history located close to Fort Hood. 24-hour notice required to show. Roof: 3-Side Masonry.

FOR SALE: $199,900 MLS #418280

FOR SALE: $$259,995 MLS #414665

FOR SALE: $143,500 MLS #413142

2,275 sq.ft.

2 Bedrooms • 1 Bathroom

2,190 sq.ft.

CALL JIM at (254) 289-3145

CALL SUZANNE at (254) 289-9526

515 MARGARET LEE, COPPERAS COVE

4 Bedrooms • 2.5 Bathrooms 2,507 sq.ft.

1,700 sq.ft.

CALL JIM WRIGHT at (254) 289-3145

1405 BUNDRANT DRIVE UNIT #A-C, KILLEEN

2 Bedrooms • 1.5 Bathroom 2,960 sq.ft.

Features: This beautiful 2 story home has 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths and a 2 car garage. It has a formal dining, or could be a second sitting area or an Office. Master bedroom is downstairs and kids rooms upstairs. Great loft that would be great for kids homework, games or family movie night. Living room features a traditional fireplace. Kitchen has lots of counter top space, plenty of custom cabinets, a sit down study area and a spacious walk in pantry. Master bedroom is large and the walk in closet is Super Large!

This property features three, two bedroom, 1-1/2 bath units that are 100% occupied. Unit A lease expires 04/30/21 Rent $450.00 Mo. Unit B lease expires 05/31/21 Rent $450.00 Mo. Unit C lease expires 06/30/21. Rent $450.00 Mo. Appointment must show a MINIMUM OF 24 HOURS in advance.

FOR SALE: $180,000 MLS #410569

FOR SALE: $179,000 MLS #417148

CALL SUZANNE at (254) 289-9526

COMMERCIAL PROPERTIES

CALL JIM WRIGHT at (254) 289-3145

www.texasccim.com

LEASE PRICE REDUCED

PRICE REDUCED!!!!!!

NEW OFFICE ON STAN SCHLUETER

MEDICAL OFFICES FOR LEASE

RETAIL BUILDING FOR LEASE OR SALE

440 E CENTRAL TEXAS EXPY, HARKER HEIGHTS

4201 STAN SCHLUETER LOOP, KILLEEN

2703 E. STAN SCHLUETER LOOP, KILLEEN

2025 MEMORY LANE, HARKER HEIGHTS

202 E BEELINE LN, HARKER HEIGHTS

NEW Retail-Office space just completed at the corner of Central Texas Expressway and Cheetah Drive in Harker Heights. Great Location with good visibility and access from Central Texas Expressway. Excellent paved-off street parking on all four sides of the building.

The lease price on these two very nice office suites on Stan Schlueter have been reduced to $1.10 psf. One is 900 sq. ft and the other is 1,490 sq. ft. and both have good off-street parking. Available immediately. Call 526-5117

This NEW office is 1,145 s.f. and is available immediately and features multiple offices, lobby and private ADA bathroom with vinyl planking flooring.

Have two very nice medical offices in Harker Heights. Both feature multiple exam rooms and doctor’s offices and are set up for medical care. A free-standing building at 625 E. CTE and another at 2025 Memory Lane in Harker Heights.

This 3,800 s.f. building is For Lease for $3,200 a month or For Sale for $395,000. Located at 202 Beeline in Harker Heights, this property is well priced for the size.

CALL JIM WRIGHT at (254) 526-5117 FOR NNN LEASE

CALL JIM WRIGHT at (254) 526-5117 FOR LEASE

CALL JIM WRIGHT at (254) 526-5117 FOR LEASE OR SALE

JWC RENTALS 14150-1 CALL FOR AVAILABILITY

1612 Velma, Copperas Cove 3 Bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms, Dogs Only $975 Rent, $975 Deposit CALL FOR AVAILABILITY

2100 Schorn Unit B, Killeen 2 Bedrooms, 1 Bathroom, Pets Allowed $895 Rent, $895 Deposit CALL FOR AVAILABILITY

4504 Bluestem, Killeen 3 Bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms, Small Pets Only $1,200 Rent, $1,200 Deposit CALL FOR AVAILABILITY

2102 Sandstone, Killeen 3 Bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms, Pets Allowed $995 Rent, $995 Deposit

CALL FOR AVAILABILITY

124 E. Blancas, Copperas Cove 3 Bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms, No Pets Allowed $925 Rent, $925 Deposit CALL FOR AVAILABILITY

2214 Garrett, Killeen 3 Bedrooms, 2.5 Bathrooms, No Pets Allowed $1,050 Rent, $1,050 Deposit CALL FOR AVAILABILITY

410 Justin Unit A, Harker Heights 3 Bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms, Pets Allowed $795 Rent, $795 Deposit CALL FOR AVAILABILITY

2305 Purser, Killeen 3 Bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms, Pets Allowed $925 Rent, $925 Deposit

CALL FOR AVAILABILITY

535 Nathan, Copperas Cove 4 Bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms, Dogs Only $1,350 Rent, $1,350 Deposit CALL FOR AVAILABILITY

5604 Lions Gate, Killeen 3 Bedrooms, 2.5 Bathrooms, Pets Allowed $1,250 Rent, $1,250 Deposit CALL FOR AVAILABILITY

9401 Cricket, Killeen 3 Bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms, Dogs Only $1,050 Rent, $1,050 Deposit CALL FOR AVAILABILITY

2909 Trailridge, Killeen 3 Bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms, Pets Allowed $1,025 Rent, $1,025 Deposit

CALL FOR AVAILABILITY

1204 Tanglewood, Harker Heights 3 Bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms, No Pets Allowed $1,025 Rent, $1,025 Deposit CALL FOR AVAILABILITY

2006 Godman, Killeen 3 Bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms, Pets Allowed $1,050 Rent, $1,050 Deposit CALL FOR AVAILABILITY

1306 Becker, Killeen 3 Bedrooms, 1.5 Bathrooms, Pets Allowed $875 Rent, $875 Deposit CALL FOR AVAILABILITY

212 Sims Ridge, Nolanville 4 Bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms, Pets Allowed $1,275 Rent, $1,275 Deposit

The VILLAGE at Clear Creek Luxury Apartments Situated in an ideal location, the VILLAGE at Clear Creek, is conveniently located near business, retail, residential, Metroplex Hospital, Central Texas College, and Fort Hood. Wherever you need to be, this location covers it all! 2 Bedroom/2 Bathroom • Living Room Pre-Wired for Slim Line TV • Basic Cable and Internet Package Included • Covered Balconies • 1 Car Garage with Opener Available • Vinyl Plank Floors • Washer and Dryer Connections • Ceiling Fans in Bedrooms

JWC RENTALS 14150-2

2710 Clear Creek Rd., Killeen, TX

CALL FOR AVAILABILITY Jim Wright

(866)

686-5266

Owner/Broker TX Lic #277160

www.jwcrentals.com

JWC has a “first come, first serve” policy with Rental Properties. JWC will not hold a property. Prices and property availability are subject to change.

How to Choose a

REAL ESTATE AGENCY

Finding a good agent often means finding a reputable real estate agency.

Buying, selling or property managing a home is a major event. And because of complicated contracts, forms and a significant investment, it’s one that you’ll want to take on with the help of a real estate professional. Finding a good agent often means finding a reputable real estate agency. These days, it seems like every town has more then its share of real estate businesses. But choose wisely, all are not equal. You should ask and check with your local business bureau for suggestions about good agencies in your area. Once you have a list of possibilities, do some research. Find out how long the agency has been in business. Ideally, you want people who know your community. If the real estate agency is merely a side business, it might not give you the best results. Buying, selling and property managing your home is a full- time job. Look on the internet and read customer service reviews. They should also have an impact on your overall impression of the agency. Once you have narrowed your list, contact some businesses and ask them questions. You should know about their listing fees, commissions and property management cost. Choose an agency that has connections with the community, a sharp understanding of neighborhoods that interest you, and solid contacts with other realty companies. This assumes major importance when you’re selling or going to property manage your current house, because the agency usually handles the sale or management while the realtor helps you find your new one. The marketing strategy and advertising is what makes each agency unique. It will greatly influence the sale or finding a tenant for your home. Although most companies might look the same, real estate agencies have a preference for the kind of

properties the show, sell or property manage. These concentrations might include commercial properties or high-end homes. Try to find a business with a focus that concentrates on selling or property managing homes similar to yours. Look at an agency’s listings to see if your home would fit in nicely with their existing clients. If you were purchasing a home or having your current home property managed, would you find their listings easy to read and informative? The size of the agency will have an impact on your experience. Small agencies can provide more personalized service, but they may not have the networking advantages of a large company. Big agencies have more opportunities to network and sell or manage your home, but they may have to divide up their time among many clients. Be prepared to ask an agency the following questions if you are selling or looking for a property manager for your home: •How will you advertise my home? Will you use the internet and newspapers? •How many pictures of my house will appear online? •On which sites will my home be featured? •Do you have other homes that have recently been sold or rented in this price range? •How long has the agency been selling or managing homes in my neighborhood? •What makes your agency unique? The biggest financial decisions you will make in your lifetime are buying, selling or property managing your home. Protect your investment and peace of mind by choosing the best and most trustworthy real estate agency you can find.

Weather the Storm Prepare early for power outages and other storm impacts

(Family Features) Surging spring temperatures can bring volatility that translates into major weather events. The 2020 storm season could see above-average probability for major hurricanes hitting the United States coastline and the Caribbean, according to the annual Colorado State Tropical Meteorology Forecast. As those in the paths of seasonal storms know, property damage and power outages come with the territory. Being prepared for weather disasters and power outages is critical to protecting property, productivity and well-being. Assess external threats. Before storm season arrives, take inventory of potential problems outdoors that could be exacerbated by bad weather. For

example, trees may need trimming if limbs threaten power lines, the house or other structures on your property. Also examine the house for necessary repairs, such as loose guttering, shutters or shingles that may need to be secured and torn screens, all of which can worsen in heavy weather and cause more damage. Another consideration is items that could topple in heavy winds, such as barbecue grills or lawn furniture. When possible, look for ways to secure these items so they don’t take flight, aren’t destroyed or cause additional damage. Assemble emergency resources. An overnight storm is no time to discover your flashlight batteries are dead or you don’t have the right size

batteries to replace them. Making time to update your stash of storm supplies before weather hits can save some frustration and help ensure you’re prepared to safely wait out the storm. In addition to replacing flashlight batteries and checking that they’re in good working order, if you don’t have a light source in every room it’s a good plan to place flashlights or lanterns in rooms where you may need to be able to see in an emergency. The idea is to give everyone in the family the ability to illuminate their path and move safely through the house no matter where they are when the lights go out. Part of your preparation should also include restocking your first-aid kit. Some items in the kit, like ointments and medications, can expire so you’ll

Making time to update your stash of storm supplies before weather hits can save some frustration and help ensure you’re prepared to safely wait out the storm.

How Big of a Generator Do You Need? It can be easiest to determine which type of home standby generator system is right for your household by first thinking about what items your family needs to remain functioning normally during a power outage. The number of home appliances or electrical loads you want to power will determine the size and cost of the generator. There are generally three different types of standby generators, which vary based on how much your home needs to power:

need to replenish anything you’ve used and double-check that the contents are still safe to use. If you don’t already have them, be sure to add a batteryoperated radio and a portable power bank so you have access to news updates and can charge a low phone battery. Take inventory of your nonperishable food items to ensure you have plenty of options on hand in the event power stays off through one or more meals. You may also want to stockpile some books and board games for convenient access to entertainment while your power is down. Make power plans. Because power outages area near certainty during severe weather season, reliable electricity is a necessity for powering work, school and daily life. An appropriately sized standby generator can ensure your home power doesn’t miss a beat when faced with seasonal storms. Because standby generators are fueled by natural gas or liquid propane, the tank doesn’t require regular

refueling with gasoline which means no last-minute trips to the gas station when your generator runs out of gas. “Standby generators can power an entire home, and because they are wired to the home’s electrical system so there is minimal interruption,” said Brian Northway, Briggs & Stratton field service manager. “When a storm knocks out power, the generator automatically takes over to deliver power, allowing you to take care of family and accomplish what you need to rather than worry about the power outage.” Generators with a smart power management system, such as the line of units offered by Briggs & Stratton, can help manage high-wattage appliance priority. These power management technologies allow a homeowner to prioritize the power they need during an outage at a lower upfront acquisition cost. Learn more about standby power options at powernow.com.

Select Circuit Home Generators: Power Essential Appliances A select-circuit generator system is a cost-effective way to power your home’s basics to get you comfortably through a power outage. These units can power up to 10 electrical loads in your home, including the fridge, some lights, television and the microwave. Managed Whole-House Power Generators: Smaller, More Power A standby generator equipped with a smart power management solution gives your family the benefits of whole-house power with a smaller, more affordable generator system. These home generator systems can power all your electrical needs, including up to two air conditioners. Whole-House Generators: Maximum Backup Power Needs Whole-house standby generator options are typically used as backup power solutions for extralarge and luxury homes. They power an array of high-wattage appliances, from double ovens to hot tubs with commercial-grade performance.

ADVERTISING YOUR HOME SERVICES IN THE DAILY HERALD CLASSIFIEDS? For only an additional $10 your business can be added to next monthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s edition of HomeFinder, and catch the eyes of our readers!

Ask your sales representative for more information or contact (254) 501-7500.

CONCENTUS MEDIA #14153