September Real Estate Showcase 2010 by Denton Media Company

DentonRC.com

Denton Record-Chronicle

Sept. 1, 2010

Real Estate

HOWCASE

A monthly guide of Denton County property for sale & information on buying, selling and enhancing property

To advertise in Showcase, please call 940.566.6823

Buying a home? Hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a list Page 24

Tips for selling your home Page 8

Looking for ways to save? Think rebates! Page 23

Top trees for your North Texas landscape Page 19

02 Real Estate

09 01 10

When it’s time to upsize, downsize or customize, let our TEAM of professional agents work for you.

Working to serve ALL your real estate needs! • Existing Homes • New Construction • Lots & Acreage • 1031 Exchanges • Personal & Investment Property • Foreclosures & Short Sales

View the MLS or contact us at info@realtteam.com www.realtteam.com

940-243-7653 (SOLD)

Denton C ounty’s

Largest In dependen t Real Est ate Comp any

Be a Real T Team FAN!

WILLIAMS & WILLIAMS R

S®

Lone Star Pride • Superstar Service

(940) 383-2712

williamsandwilliams.realtor.com

1-800-6-DENTON (outside TX)

940-736-8776 Cell

Mace Renfro

940-391-2286 Cell

Merry Sklar

940-891-5878 Pager

Ed Williams

940-566-2712

Rex Hand

940-594-9145 Cell

Evelyn Hand

940-595-1609 Cell

Sonya Smith

940-366-0315

EX QU I GA SIT RD E E EN NG S LIS H

W AL K TO UN T

1013 Denton St, Denton * Seemingly transported from a gentler time when life in historic Denton on fabled Denton St moved at an easier pace * Immaculate English Cottage * 2 bdrm, 1 bath, 1-car garage * Recent paint inside & out * Plumbing & Electrical updated * Wood flrs under carpet * Oversized .23 Ac landscaped grounds * Stg Bldg * $78,900 * #11455978 * Eddie, 940-368-2043

CORP OWNED/RELO IN SANGER

TROPICAL GRECIAN PARADISE IN HICKORY CREEK W/LAKE ACCESS...

NEW CORP OWNED/RELO LISTINGS

AC LO T

CO RP A S BU PR T OPS ER TY

12 CR 2114, Gainesville, TX * Prime North TX Hill Country Ranch * 3 bdrms * 2 bas * Great Rm w-stunning stone fp * Spacious Island Gourmet Kitchen w-KitAid refrig, blt-in China Hutch, beam clngs * Upstairs Balconies * Cov verandas wspectacular sunrises, sunsets * Wkshop w-Guest Qtrs * 1,200+sf Barn * 2nd Barn w-pens * Well+Woodbine Wtr * Private Lake * RELO * $340's * MLS #11457081 * VIRGINIA, 940-391-237

$6 1/S F

1392 Krahl Road, Valley View * UNBELIEVABLE $ for RANCH * Located 1.5 miles E. of I-35, N. of Valley View, & 3 miles from Lake Ray Roberts * 1,556+sf * Single-story * ’87 blt * 3 bdrms * 2 baths * 2-car carport * Huge living * Dining w/FP * Gleaming hardwood flrs * Large wood deck * 400+ ft well * Fenced & cross-fenced w/smooth wire perfect for horses * $150’s * WANDA, 940-736-8776

.7 05

G SP U A N R IT K E LIN PO G O L

• 8172 Country View, Sanger, 2 Acs, 4-2.5-3, Pool, $275,900 • 2921 Hugo Ct, Flower Mound, 1 Acre, 4-3-3, Pool, $319,900

703 N. 7th Street, Sanger * Resting on prime corner lot * 1,550+ sf * 3 bdrms * 2 baths * 2-car garage * Sparkling wood flrs * Spacious rooms galore * Bonus Rm * Central H/A * Storm Shelter * Outside boasts large Metal Bldg, Parking Slab, Century-old trees * Walk to historic Downtown Sanger, Schools, Churches * $95,000 * MLS #11452528 * MACE, 940-391-2268

19 Oak Circle, Hickory Creek * Spectacular updated brick villa on .295+ Ac abutting Corps property * 2,293+sf * $89 sf * 4 bdrms * 2.5 bas * Oversized 2+ car side entry gar * Living w-gorgeous fp & banks of windows * Chef’s delight kitchen w-gorgeous granite countertops, dbl ovens * Morning rm * Formal dining * Master wing & 2nd bdrm (could be 2nd living) down * Up—2 bdrms, 1 bath * Outside boasts covered patio, arbor, 3-tier terraces, diving pool * Just walk down to lake * $206,250 * VIRGINIA, 940-391-2379!

09 01 10

BD RM S

DYNAMIC DENTON DEAL ON DENTON ST... BA RN S

Real Estate

'SPECTACULAR SOUTHRIDGE STEAL'...

20-AC. ‘BUTLER HILL’ RANCH... 2

940-391-2379 Cell

1005 Sandpiper Drive, Denton *$130’s * WOW...Your search is over * Best Value in S'ridge * Rare, rare 4 bdrm luxury for only $69 sf * Top-of-line finish outs * Oversized major rms * Formal Dining & Morning Rm * Inviting fp * Recent roof, HVAC, insulation, low maintenance upkeep * No HOA...MLS #11416549, BRENT, 940-453-5159

GU N & ITE LA P KE OO L

BA RN & SH OP

PO ND

Wanda Perry

2100 Knob Hill Drive, Corinth* $214,900 * $83/sf * 2,561+ sf * 4 bdrms * 2.5 bas * 2-car garage * 3 Living-formal Living; Family Rm w/gorgeous colonial gas log fp * Upstairs Spectacular GameRm * Master Wing down w-jetted tub, sep shower, his-&-her dressing areas * Formal Dining * Chef's delight Kitchen, eating bar, Refrig incl * Morning Rm * 3 large secondary bdrms up * Exquisite detailing thruout...MLS #11424696, JIM, 940-594-4000

5-ACRE VALLEY VIEW RANCH PARADISE... SP AR KL IN G

*1 -O W NE R

940-594-4000 Cell

UP DA TE SG AL OR E

1812 N. Elm St, Denton, TX * $154,900 * Endless possibilities for a thriving business location * Attornies, medical, dentist, beauty care, bed & breakfast, the list goes on and on. Presently, longstanding successful tailor shop * Inviting spacious porch * beautiful etched glass entry door * hardwood floors * professional area for your clients’ or friends’ relaxation * Shaded lot with front and private rear parking, easy to extend your business or parking * Storage, carport * many updates * kitchen. * MLS #11390018 * REX/EVELYN HAND, 940-595-1609

HA SP VE AR N KL HE IN AT G PO BLU OL E /SP A

RE DU CE D

O FF E R S !

RE LO

940-453-5159 Cell

Jim Miller

Virginia Williams

'KNOB HILL KNOCKOUT IN OAKMONT'S KNOLL'...

B R IN G

940-206-3032 Cell

Brent Chow

“Eddie” Williams III 940-368-2043 Cell

We Know Denton County...its people, its land, & its opportunities! Let us put our knowledge & expertise to work for you! DENTON’S PRIME COMMERCIAL LOCATION...

Kathy Rogers

• 1707 N. Colorado, Decatur, 3-1, Corner lot. $49,900 • 5541 Smokethorn, Fort Worth, Corner lot, 5-3.5-3, 3,619 sf, blt 2003, $238,900

• 3637 Palmetto Court, Windstone at Oakmont Denton, 4-3.5-2, $174,900

Evelyn/Rex, 940-595-1609

WILLIAMS & WILLIAMS, REALTORS® WELCOMES SONYA SMITH, REALTOR 940-366-0315 ®

04 Real Estate

09 01 10

Real Estate

HOWCASE

September 2010 Advertiser Index Carpets Plus ....................................................................................................................................................9 Century 21, Judge Fite Co ............................................................................................................................27 CRS Page ........................................................................................................................................................6 Cudd Realty ..................................................................................................................................................24 Dentex Realty ................................................................................................................................................17 Ebby Halliday, REALTORS®. ........................................................................................................................15 First American Title ......................................................................................................................................30 First State Bank ............................................................................................................................................18 Gohlke Building Products ............................................................................................................................14 Jimmy Brown, REALTORS® ..........................................................................................................................26 Keller Williams Realty ..................................................................................................................................32 Keller Williams Realty - Marianne Lamb..............................................................................................12 Keller Williams Realty - Rahna Raney, Toni Martin, Fran Hannah, Belle Speir, Nancy Hundley, Nora Matheny, Sarah Fitzpatrick, Nancy McMinn................................................................................13 Ken Stockdale, REALTOR® ..........................................................................................................................21 Lane Real Estate - Myra Oliver, Eddie Lane..................................................................................................31 Morelle Miller, REALTOR® ..........................................................................................................................10 Re/Max Masters - Karin Seligmann ..............................................................................................................29 Real T Team ....................................................................................................................................................2 Real T Team - Results Team ..................................................................................................................16 Sendera Title....................................................................................................................................................8 Tremont Custom Homes ..............................................................................................................................22 Vanderlaan Real Estate ..................................................................................................................................20 Williams & Williams, REALTORS® ................................................................................................................3 Williams & Williams REALTORS ® - Brent Chow ..................................................................................7

Real Estate Showcase is published by The Denton Publishing Co., a subsidiary of A. H. Belo Corporation. Sales Representatives may be reached at 314 E. Hickory St., Denton, TX 76201 (9-5 M-F); 940.566.6823; or at classdisplay@dentonrc.com IA

WILLIAMS WILLIAMS &

Real Estate

S®

Lone Star Pride • Superstar Service

Virginia Williams, ABR, CCIM, CIPS, CRB, CRP, CRS, GRI, LTG, RCC, RRC, SRES Cell (940) 391-2379

940-383-2712

800-6-Denton (outside of Texas) virginiawilliams.realtor.com LAKE TEXOMA TREASURE W/LAKE VIEWS

PERFECT FOR HOME BUSINESS SETUP... FR ON 12 TI AC NG R FMES 45 5

$5 3/S F

RE LO

09 01 10

W.E. “Eddie” Williams, III, Broker Specializing in Farms & Ranches, Acreage, Residential & Commercial Cell (940) 368-2043

We know Denton County—its people, its land, its opportunities! Let us put our knowledge & expertise to work for you!

R E D U C E D

"PONDER'S 'PEACH OF A DEAL'... RA 1 NC AC HE RE TT E

$5 0 S F

BEST $ IN SAVANNAH...

PREMIER HORSE TRAINING FACILITY-AUBREY...

"$55 PER SF W/SPARKLING GUNITE POOL & SPA"...

AC RE S

LI V IN G

2, 84 0+

151 STONE RAIL DRIVE *Step out on your front porch or into your backyard & smell fresh country air * Absolutely meticulous 1,568+ sf manufactured home * 3 bdrms * 2 baths * 3 car oversized detached garage & workshop * Spacious Great Rm w-blt-in Media Cntr * Chef's delight Kitchen w-serving/work area, B'fast Bar * Formal Dining * Master Wing w-garden tub, sep shower * Spacious secondary bdrms w-large walk-in closets * Exemplary Ponder Schools * Great access to the Metroplex * MLS #11452031 * VIRGINIA, 940-391-2379

2, 40 BA 0+ RN/SF

10169 FM 455, PILOT POINT * $500’s * Horse Country, USA * Great for commercial and/or horse property * Built 2007 * 2,500+ sf home * 3-2 1400 sf wraparound porches * Stained concrete floors, ss appls * Refrigerator remains * Well * Price Reduced. Seller will look at all offers. * Minutes from Lake Ray Roberts * EDDIE, (940) 368-2043

O W N ER

1852 HILLCREST CR, GORDONVILLE * $99,900 * 1,860+sf * 2 or 3 bdrms * 2 baths * 2+ car garage * Up-Huge Living Rm w/wood-burning fp, Well-equip Kitchen, Dining, balcony all overlook gorgeous Lake * Down-Bdrms, 2nd Living (could be 3rd bdrm) * Bonus Rm * Garden Rm w/work counter * Spacious Utility * Free-standing wood stove * Storage galore * Many updates * Room for the big Boat, RV in 38x24 insulated Workshop * Fish in morning * Come home for lunch * Ski in afternoon * Set Sail in evening. * MLS #11429811 * VIRGINIA, 940-391-2379

.2 0

"JAGUAR CAR INCL W-SALE OF HOME"...

"3.98-AC TUSCAN VILLA ESTATE"...

"HIGH QUALITY HOME ON CORDELL"...

407 E Broadway Street, Gainesville * $69,900 *Located in Central Business District * Perfect for home/business setup * Endless possibilities-Professional, Medical Offices * Resting upon magnificent coveted .21+-Ac grounds * Updated 1,518+ sf * 3 generous-size bdrms perfect for offices * 2 baths * Renovations maintain Old World charm w-updated amenities * Orig wood flrs, baseboards * Spacious wrap-around porch * Wood Deck * Stg Bldg * MLS #11384340 * VIRGINIA, 940-391-2379

1, W 800 O + R S K F SH D O ET P

563 CR 1452, BONHAM * $624,900* Exceptional Foyer w-imported 12' entrance dbl iron custom drs leads you into 4 bdrms * 3 bas * 3 car garage * Formal Dining w-turret, exquisite chandelier * Huge Gourmet Chef's delight Island Kitchen w-granite cntrtops, Viking gas range, KitAid appls * Butler's Pantry * Study w/bltins, rich millwork * Family Rm w-gas fp, Octang clg, rounded wall of windows * Sumptuous Master Wing * Up-Projection Media Rm * Outdr Kitchen w-wbfp, flagstone*Elect avg $200 per month * MLS #11423074 * VIRGINIA, 940-391-2379

TO ES SE TA TT TE LE

SF 4, 01 8+

$4 6

VI CT H OR IST IA OR N, IC C. 18 96

BD RM S

1507 LYNWOOD STREET, GAINESVILLE * $157,900 * Spectacular 3 or 4 bdrm * 3 baths * 2+ car garage * 3 or 4 Living--Study, Family Rm w-fp & banks of sunlit windows, Formal Living/Music Rm, Upstairs Media Rm & Library area w-blt-ins * Oversized covered patio * Arbor * Heated gunite diving pool w-attached spa * RELO * MLS #11380527 * VIRGINIA, 940-391-2379

LI VI NG

3851 ELM BOTTOM CR * Money making machine...Approx. $3,500 per month income stall rentals * Exquisitely decorated brick, stone, 3-2.5-2+ * Living, stone fp * Formal dining * Morning rm * Wellequip kit * Exceptional bldgs, 7-stall barn, 24x23 tack rm, hot & cold water, hay stg, 14’ isleway, automatic water * 10’ lean-to * 120x180 arena * Pipe, cable fenced, cross fenced * Adjoining 3-Ac country est can also be purchased other separately or together. * $459,900 * Also for lease $2500 per mo. * EDDIE, (940) 368-2043

1817 AZALEA * $107,000 * 3/2/2 w/rear entry garage * Family room w/corner fireplace * Sunrm or study overlooking grounds * Spacious kitchen w/wellequipped appliances, including gas cooktop stove, oven, & generous work surfaces * Master suite, complete w/wardrobe room & outside doors leading to porch * Large banks of windows illuminate the interior * Spectacular sprinklered grounds... MLS #11359241 * Short sale subject to lender approval, $109,000 * VIRGINIA, 940-391-2379!

1704 CORDELL STREET, DENTON * $109,900 * Established n'hood * Brick * 4 bdrms * 2 baths * 2 car garage * 1-story * Hardwood flrs under carpet * .18 Acre treed landscaped sprinklered grounds * 2 Storage Sheds in back yard * Same family lived in home over 40 Years * Walk to Schools, Churches, Shopping, etc. * MLS #11466338 * EDDIE, 940-368-2043

06 Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve sharpened our skills. Real Estate

09 01 10 Melanie Ferguson, CRS C: 940/484-8187 Ferguson Realty Group 972/672-3341

Myra Oliver, CRS, GREEN, GRI O: 940/594-6466 Lane Real Estate

Marianne Lamb, CRS, ABR D: 940/591-0616 O: 940/484-9411 Keller Williams Realty

Virginia A. Williams, CRS, CCIM, CRP, CRB, GRI, LTG, RRC O: 940/383-2712 M: 972/434-SELL Williams & Williams, REALTORS

Jim & Linda McKissack, CRS O: 940/484-9441 M: 940/383-6683 Keller Williams Realty

Barbara Russell, CRB, CRS, GRI O: 940/566-2730 H: 940/369-7672 Barbara Russell, REALTORS

Mariella Cudd, CRS, GRI, CDRS, SRES O: 940/484-0036 H: 940/595-5540 Cudd Realty

Kaye Spence, CRS

Toni Martin, CRS

O: 940/591-6609 H: 940/387-8690 Keller Williams Realty

M: 940/391-6844 Keller Williams Realty

Rahna Raney, CRS, ABR

Wanda L. Perry, CRS, GRI

940/391-0016 Keller Williams Realty

O: 940/383-2712 X238 M: 940/736-8776 Williams & Williams, REALTORS

Put us to the test! Certified Residential Specialists offer unique expertise due to advanced study and a proven record of experience. IA

Fall Into Great Deals on a New Home 2111 Oakcrest Court, Corinth $209,900

$199,900

Welcome Home! Your search is over! This one-owner custom-built home features spectacular grand entry, custom upgrades throughout including plantation shutters, built-ins and so much more. Beautiful hardwood floors in formal dining with custom-built study or great 4th bedroom. Freshly painted deck with recent new fence, recent HVAC, and more. Pride of ownership and charm abound in this lovely home. Won't last! See Today!

1685 Autumn Breeze Ln, Lewisville

$144,900

Welcome Home! The search is over! The true definition of THE PRIDE OF OWNERSHIP in this MOVE-IN READY RARE 1-story 4 BEDROOM2-2 1,547 sq ft home adorned with charm and curb appeal nestled on rare over. 37 of an acre pool-sized landscaped grounds! New roof 2009, new skylights 2009, new custom 8 ft fence 2009, recent new carpet, paint, remodeled bath, and the list goes on and on. SHOWS LIKE A MODEL HOME! THIS ONE WILL NOT LAST! SEE AND BUY TODAY!

1173 Seaborn Rd., Ponder

Real Estate

09 01 10

$142,900

Welcome Home! The search is over! You have arrived where modern charm meets country feel! Delightful 3-2 1,531 sq. ft. updated move-in ready cottage nestled on 1 acre manicured and landscaped grounds just minutes from I35. Large 12x27 artist workshop with separate storage plus another 10x13 separate storage. RV parking, Nice refreshing above-ground pool, recent roof, appliances, and more! Won't Last! See today! Best value per sq. ft. with acreage in Ponder area!

Call Brent

for any and all: 1005 Sandpiper Dr., Denton

$154,900

$139,900

WOW! Your search is over! BEST VALUE IN SOUTHRIDGE AREA/Welcome home where curb appeal and charm abound with the true definition of THE PRIDE OF OWNERSHIP in this 4-2-2 2,015 sq. ft. home nestled on 24 breathtaking European-styled custom-designed landscaped grounds. Over-sized rooms, 2 dining, tile floors, inviting fireplace, recent New Roof, HVAC, recent insulation, needs no painting with low maintenance siding. NO HOA/WON’T LAST! SEE TODAY! PRICED TO SELL!

2808 Anysa Ln, Denton

$77,500

To settle Estate. A rare DIAMOND OF VALUE nestled in a setting radiant with much higher priced homes and captivated by towering oak trees and designer landscaping. This 2-2-1 one-owner estate home is loaded with rustic artistic charm including natural woods, stained concrete floors, designer floorplan, and much more. PRICED TO SELL AND WILL NOT LAST! SEE AND BUY TODAY! GREAT FIRST HOME OR INVESTMENT! WOULD BE CHEAPER THAN RENTING! Make This HOME TODAY!

• Residential and Commercial Real Estate Sales • Estate Sales • Senior Adult Relocation Specialist • Bank Owned Relo & Foreclosures • Land

2304 Clermont Ln., Denton

$139,900

$134,900

It is time to sit back, relax,and enjoy life! Welcome home to this oneowner 3-2-2 1,655 sq. ft. custom-built low maintenance garden home nestled in the heart of popular Villas of Piney Creek within walking distance to malls, banks, doctors’ offices and more!10 ft. ceilings, beautiful tile floors, open floorplan, formal dining, and more. Front yard care included in HOA dues, low maintenance backyard with flagstone patio with Southwest feel. Won't last! Priced To Sell!

$43,000

300 Willow Stone, Cooper Crossing, Denton $134,500

To settle Estate! Great first home or investment opportunity with fantastic income potential! 4-1.5 1,244 sq. ft. with large living and second living. Best price per sq. ft. in southeast Denton! Won't last! See Today!

Wow! The search is over! This one shows like a model home. 3-2-2, 1681 sq. ft., with very open floorplan with 2 spacious living areas, split bedrooms, chef's delight kitchen, large master and much more! Custom décor touches throughout. Relaxing open backyard with patio. Won’t last. See today!

921 Hill St., Denton

Brent Chow Realtor®/Auctioneer

940-453-5159

www.relocationwithease.com TX Lic. 9187

WILLIAMS & WILLIAMS R

S®

Lone Star Pride • Superstar Service IA

08 Real Estate

09 01 10

REAL ESTATE SHOWCASE

Six steps to selling a home From the Texas Association of REALTORS® Step 1: Choosing a REALTOR® Selling a home is one of the largest decisions of your life. The first thing to do is to find a Texas REALTOR® you trust. Ask your friends and relatives who have sold homes recently for their recommendations. Or, you can use the finda-REALTOR® search to locate one in your area. Before working with a Texas REALTOR®, you should know that their duties depend on whom the they represent. The REALTOR® who lists the property for sale represents the owner. Your REALTOR®’s sole duty is to ensure that your home sells quickly, easily, and

at a suitable price. All brokers must treat you honestly and fairly regardless of whom they represent. If you choose to have a REALTOR® represent you, you should enter into a written contract that clearly establishes the obligation of both parties and specifies how your REALTOR® will be compensated. Step 2: Setting a price When setting a price, the important thing is to be realistic. If the price is too high, you may not find a buyer. Too low, and you cheat yourself out of money. Appraisal Regardless of what you originally paid for your home and the cost of improvements you have made, the only price that matters is what the market will

FILE PHOTO

Follow these few steps to sell your home and put the ‘Sold’ on your ‘For Sale’ sign. bear at the time you decide to sell. You may consider hiring an independent real estate appraiser with specialized training and experience. Don’t rely on assessed valuations made for tax purposes. Such valuations may not be reliable

indicators of value, as they are usually made using mass appraisal techniques. Comparative market analysis Whether or not you get an appraisal, your REALTOR® can develop a comparative market analysis. This analysis will describe homes in your area that have recently withdrawn from the market and may compare specific features of your home to others—the value of a corner lot, a city view, or an extra bedroom, for example. The analysis may also point out market fluctuations caused by the opening of a new school or business, as well as longterm trends. Net proceeds Once you’ve decided on a price range, the REALTOR® can help you calculate an esti-

mated amount you might net from the sale. If you have owned your home for several years, you may have built up sizable equity. Equity is the difference between the value of your home and the balance on your mortgage. After subtracting what you owe on your mortgage, ask your REALTOR® what costs you will incur in closing. These may include title fees, taxes, a penalty for prepaying your mortgage, brokerage commission, attorney fees, and charges for preparing and recording documents. Finally, ask your tax adviser or attorney about the tax implications of your proposed sale.

See SELLING on Page 11

S EN D ERA T IT L E Our knowledgeable escrow officers are here to provide you with excellent service!

Aubrey Office 958 Hwy 377 South Ste. 100 Aubrey, TX 76227

Phone 940-440-0201 Fax 940-440-0901 Serving the Surrounding Areas Naomi Hampton Branch Manager/Escrow Officer

Kristen Kromer Escrow Officer IA

OPEN: Mon. - Thurs. 8 - 5:30 Fri. 9 - 4 Sat. 9 - 4 Closed Sunday

Make your home

Beautiful

Tile Wood Counters Shutters

Bamboo Solid Woods Laminate Woods Hand-Scraped Hard Woods Visit us on the web at

www.CarpetsPlusTx.com

2303 Colorado Blvd., Denton, Tx

940.382.4340

12 MONTHS NO INTEREST with approved credit

09 Real Estate

09 01 10

10 Real Estate

09 01 10

Marla Carrico Realtor®

Morelle Miller Broker

Josh White Broker

marlacarrico@hotmail.com

josh@dentonhomeguide.com

(940) 395-0414

(940) 390-9518

(940) 387-7514 1811 Bolivar, Denton,TX

www.marlacarrico.com www.dentonhomeguide.com

1605 Mallard ~ Corinth

1451 Trent ~ Krum

Pristine 4-2-2, split bedroom home in coveted Hawk-Crownover-Guyer district. 2 lvng & 2 dining areas, large rooms, large closets. HUGE kitchen has brkfst bar, island, pantry, tile floors, huge skylight, lots of cabinets, lots of counter space, new gas range. Open to den, with gas-log fireplace. Master is large with sep. tub and shower, two sinks, vanity space, and large walk-in closet. 8 ft. privacy fence covered back patio, hot tub, sprklr. syst. $175,000. Call Marla 940-395-0414.

Custom-built country estate on 4 acres, 4.8 miles from intersection of 380 at I35. Hardwood floors, soapstone countertops, stainless steel appliances, high-end cabinetry, walk-in pantry, open concept floorplan, split bedrooms, porte-cochere, media room, exercise room. Fourth bedroom has french doors and could be an office. Each bedroom has its own bathroom. Horses are permitted. Quality throughout, move-in ready. $359,500. Call Marla 940-395-0414.

1222 Emerson ~ Denton Custom-built 1955 colonial charmer has the updates you are looking for. Brick floors in family room with wood beams and estate-sized fireplace. Gorgeous master bathroom with travertine floors, marble coutertops, jetted tub, huge shower. Kitchen has granite countertops and lots of cabinets. Large rooms with lots of storage. Large treed yard with covered deck that overlooks the pool. Poolhouse out back and circle drive in the front. $175,000. Call Marla 940-395-0414.

Shady Shores and N Corinth

916 Dixon ~ Denton

112 McCubin ~ Valley View

2 acres on the corner of Shady Shores and N. Corinth $150,000. Please call Josh White - 940-390-9518 for more information.

3/2/2 Great home located within close proximity to Loop 288. $117,000. Please call Josh White 940-390-9518 for more information.

Building for sale. Located on the Square of Valley View and close to I-35. Great for anyone wanting to start a restaurant. Appliances also for sale. $199,000. Please call Josh White 940-390-9518 for more information.

2200 Palmer Drive ~ Denton Charming 3 bedroom cottage with hardwood floors, 2 dining areas. Lots of sunlight, good storage, big beautiful backyard. Lots of original features that add to the charm. Close to TWU. $97,000. Call Marla 940-395-0414.

802 Lake Bridge ~ Lake Dallas Nice 3 bedroom, 2 bath home near the lake. Home includes marble countertops in kitchen, lots of closets, lots of storage. $144,000. Call Marla 940-395-0414.

411 Stoneleigh Cr. ~ Lake Dallas 3 bedrooms, 2 and a half bathrooms, 2,458 square feet, cul-desac, next to greenbelt, $169,900. Call Marla 940-395-0414.

905 Skylark ~ Denton

11866 FM 2153 ~ Sanger

3469 Livingston ~ Carrollton

Mid-century modern home meets California contemporary. Large home on beautifully treed lot. Home has 2 living areas, 2 dining areas, spacious bedrooms, master bedroom has private sitting area and private balcony. Kitchen has been updated with tile countertop, tumbled travertine backsplash, new sink. Wonderful storage throughout this home. You will feel like you are on vacation in your own home. $225,000. Call Marla 940-395-0414.

Gracious country estate with 4 bedrooms, 4 and a half bathrooms, on 2 acres. Home features hardwood floors, wood-burning fireplace, media room, second master bedroom, crown molding, gated entry, playground, in-ground gunite pool with sun platform. Energy features include radiant barrier, solar screens, 3 ac units, 2 hot water heaters. $499,000. Call Marla 940-395-0414.

Great house, great price, great location! Charming 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom home with 2 living rooms and dining room. Mature landscaping with covered front porch and covered back patio with builtin grill, large garage. Recent paint, tile, and updates-new carpet on it's way. $144,500. Call Marla 940-395-0414.

LAND AVAILABLE • 0 Hartlee Field Rd, 9 acres, $490,050, off 428 near Denton water park. • 0 FM 2153, 2 acres, $99,000, beautiful treed acreage on hill overlooking Sanger. IA

REAL ESTATE SHOWCASE

Real Estate

From Page 8

Selling Step 3: Signing a listing agreement After you choose a REALTOR®, you will most likely sign a listing agreement—a contract in which you agree to allow a REALTOR® to sell your home during a given period and pay the REALTOR® a fee when your home sells. Most REALTORS® are independent contractors who work for a company operated by a licensed real estate broker. The amount of compensation you pay a broker is negotiable, but the REALTOR® will generally follow the company’s policy regarding compensation. The amount of the fee will be spelled out in the listing agreement. Make sure you understand how the fee will be paid before signing. Exclusive listing Most REALTORS® will ask for an exclusive right-to-sell listing. This means that you will owe the broker a commission regardless of who finds a buyer during the listing period. In other words, if you decide to sell the house to your cousin, your broker still gets a commission. In an exclusive listing, the broker is usually motivated to work harder to sell your home. It’s possible that a REALTOR® from another company will find a buyer for your home. In that case, your broker is the listing broker, and the second agent is the cooperating broker. Many times the listing broker will agree to pay the cooperating broker a fee from the amount you pay the listing broker. Your listing broker cooperates with other brokers who procure buyers interested in your property and offers to compensate the other brokers for procuring a buyer. Cooperating and compensating other brokers is discussed in the listing agreement you sign with the listing broker. Length of listing The listing agreement will specify how long you agree to list your house with a company.

When the showings begin, keep your home clean and ready. Your REALTOR® will try to give you advance warning before showing your home but be prepared anyway. If people drop by and are not with a REALTOR®, it’s best not to show them your home. Ask for their names and phone numbers and refer them to your REALTOR®. Purposeful absence When a REALTOR® comes to show your home, it’s best if you are not there. Many buyers feel like intruders when the owner is present; they tend to hurry away. Letting the buyers walk through your property at their own pace will help put them at ease. They will feel free FILE PHOTO/DRC to look around and ask quesWhen selling a home, consider landscaping to add that curb appeal for the first drive-by. tions. If you must be there, let the REALTOR® handle the All it takes are a few plants and a little time and effort to add an extra touch., showing. Sit quietly and be You want a period that’s long tion to detail. An extra $50 you You should consider includ- courteous, but avoid engaging enough to motivate your spend on red geraniums or ing a one-year residential serv- the buyer in conversation. The REALTOR® to advertise your new bath towels might mean a ice contract with the sale of REALTOR® needs the buyer’s home and respond to buyers, significant increase in a buyer’s your home. This buyer perk is a complete attention to show yet short enough to allow you offer. common practice and helps your home properly. to change to a different compaFair housing Clean your home thoroughly ease concerns. Typically, after ny if you become unhappy with and make minor repairs such the first year, the buyer has the REALTORS® are required by the REALTOR®’s service. as tightening towel racks and option of renewing the cover- law to make your property Remember that the listing gluing wallpaper edges. For age at his or her expense. A res- available to all persons without agreement is a contract. You larger repairs, consult your idential service contract is sim- regard to race, color, religion, should get a copy for your REALTOR® as to whether ply an agreement with a com- national origin, sex, disability, records. Your REALTOR® is repairing the item will gener- pany to repair certain items on or familial status. Your REALbound to the terms just as you ate a good return on the sale. the property if such items fail TOR® will not discuss any are. You can expect the REAL- Repainting the woodwork may to function or are in need of matter that may potentially TOR® to keep appropriate be worth it, but replacing the repair (for example, air condi- discriminate against any perinformation confidential and carpet may not. Hire a profes- tioning unit, heating equip- son. effectively market your proper- sional inspector to examine ment, plumbing system, etc.). Step 5: The offer ty. your house for structural and Attracting and screening buyWhen a buyer makes an mechanical defects. Get an ers Step 4: Marketing As part of the overall mar- offer on your home, your inspection early, and you can your property keting strategy, your REAL- REALTOR® will contact you avoid surprises. TOR® may arrange a tour of promptly. The REALTOR® Preparing your home Honesty and candor If your home has a major your home for local REAL- will scrutinize the document, In preparing your home for viewing by prospective buyers, problem you don’t intend to TORS® and perhaps schedule review it with you carefully, remember that people buy on correct, be candid about it. an open house for the public. and answer your questions. emotions. Your home has to Don’t paint over the water Your REALTOR® may also The written offer lays out all feel right, or buyers will look marks on the ceiling to hide a run ads in local newspapers, the terms of the proposed elsewhere. Ask your REAL- leaky roof. Buyers will find out Web sites, and other publica- transaction—the price the TOR® and some honest about the problems anyway, tions tailored specifically for buyer is willing to pay and the friends to look at your home especially if they are smart the type of home you are sell- financing terms—and becomes objectively and suggest ways to shoppers and hire a profes- ing. As responses come in, your a binding contract if you sign make your home more inviting sional to inspect your home. In REALTOR® will screen out it. The offer may be contingent and sellable. Consider both the an age when lawsuits are as sightseers and half-hearted exterior and interior. Since you common as family sit-down inquirers and make appointwill be appealing to buyers’ dinners, it pays to be open ments with the serious prospects. See SELLING on Page 14 feelings, you need to pay atten- about everything.

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TI VA T

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D E R $569,900

11939 Cartwright Trail

D E C U D E R 4509 Black Walnut

$184,900

Beautiful home that is in walking distance to exemplary elementary school. Home features wood floors, granite, built-ins, clean and immaculate. Formal living and formal dining all open, butler’s pantry could serve has a wet bar area, eat-in kitchen w 42-inch cabinets, island, walk-in pantry, breakfast bar. Split bedroom arrangement, ceiling fans in all bedrooms, vaulted ceilings thru-out, and open patio area in fenced backyard. This home is ENERGY STAR RATED! What a great way to save on utility bills!

LI ST IN G

See more photos at www.mlamb.com or call 940-591-0616.

1627 Santa Fe Trail

$138,500

IMMACULATE HOME! This is a MUST-SEE to really appreciate all the upgrades! Tile floors thruout the entire first floor. Formal dining is all open and one large room with the family room, great space! Brick wood-burning fireplace with custom mantel all open to eat-in kitchen with granite countertops, smooth cooktop range, upgraded sink, and breakfast bar. Large utility room with pantry shelving, freezer space, and a dog door that goes out into the backyard. All bedrooms up! Oversized master bedroom w/walk-in closet. Master bath features garden jet tub, his-hers sinks, tile floors. The 2 additional bedrooms both have walk-in closets. There is a small sitting area up as well as a great ffice space! LANDSCAPED FLOWER BEDS IN BACKYARD. See more photos at www.mlamb.com or call 940-591-0616.

2107 Vintage Dr

$250,000

2513 Great Bear

$209,900

Very open floorplan with tons of upgrades that were done in the past year... Welcoming covered front porch! Open entry with tile floors that opens to formal dining, study with glass French doors (can double as 5th bedroom), oversized living area with custom decor, crown molding, new and updated light fixtures and ceiling fans in 09, tiled faced fireplace with gas logs. Light bright and open kitchen with ample cabinet and counter space.

LANTANA home updated (like new)… $0% Down 100% USDA loan available! Updated upgrades! HOA dues of $128 per month include 5 pools, 5 tennis courts, 2 fitness centers, front & side yard maintenance, basic cable, and home security monitoring. Do nothing and move right into this great 4 bedroom, 2.5 bath home with private backyard with formal living & formal dining! Beautiful wood floor entry leads to huge family room with rock fireplace all open to kitchen with new granite countertops, tile backsplash, new fixtures, breakfast bar, and walk-in pantry. Incredible master suite includes bath with new Travertine flooring, separate shower, soaking garden tub and Travertine tile-faced see-thru to master bedroom fireplace. Landscaping yard with sprinkler system. DO NOT WAIT! Call to schedule your personal showing or visit our website at www.mlamb.com to see additional pictures. See more photos at www.mlamb.com or call 940-591-0616.

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See more photos at www.mlamb.com or call 940-591-0616.

8723 Cherry Lee Ln.

See more photos at www.mlamb.com or call 940-591-0616.

R ED U C ED !

$259,500

Great home with all the upgrades! Tile floors thru-out, crown molding, granite countertops in kitchen, bathrooms, utility, and sink in garage. Study off entry with glass French doors that can double as 4th bedroom with closet in it. Formal dining can double as study if needed. Kitchen w upgraded stainless steel appliances, gas cooktop, island, 2 walk-in pantries, breakfast bar all open to family room with stone floorto-ceiling wood-burning fireplace. Split bedroom arrang. with master bath complete w tiled shower w seat, garden tub, linen closet, and walk-in. Utility room has dual access from master bedroom and hall w cabinets, sink, and closet space. 2 additional bedrooms w large walk-in closets, game room can double as 2nd living area. Garage w sink and insulated door. Covered patio w waterfalls, and landscaped flower beds, hot tub neg. Ranger Security Sytem .

$296,000

Tile floors in formal dining, formal living, kitchen, bkft, and family room. Crown molding, window seats, granite countertops in kitchen, gas cooktop, butler’s pantry, large eat-in kitchen with ample cabinets and counter space, walk-in pantry, utility room with freezer space and built-in shelves. Gas log fireplace and vaulted ceilings in family room. Master w sitting area, see-thru fireplace to master bath w garden tub, sep. sinks, and tiled shower w seat. Study off entry w walk-in closet. Upstairs are 3 additional bedrooms all with walk-in closets, ceiling fans, 2 full baths, linen closets, game room plus built-in desk area. 2 and half car garage, solar screens, open patio area. HOA dues include 5 pools, 5 tennis courts, 2 fitness centers, front & side yard maintenance, basic cable, and 24-hour home security monitoring, Lantana Live See more photos at www.mlamb.com or call 940-591-0616.

SH O R T

R L P E U A R S C E H A S

D E C U D E R 6705 Smoketree Trl

8716 Wyatt

$398,000

MOST OF THE FURNITURE STAYS WITH HOME!!!! This is an amazing home, CUSTOM thru & thru, all ceramic tile floors, rounded corners, custom cabinets and built-in entertainment center. Master closet like no other! Very diverse floorplan! NOT ONE DETAIL has been overlooked! Granite, stainless steel appliances with refrigerator that stays! Oversized utility room leads to master closet. CORNER LOT, 3rd car garage with heat & air-tandem parking. YOU HAVE TO SEE TO BELIEVE!!! The formal living can be converted to a study or 4th bedroom. 3rd bedroom is currently being used as a media room. 2nd bedroom has its own bathroom for added privacy. VERY CLEAN IMMACULATE HOME! Covered patio on 2-acre lot in the COUNTRY! Top rated school district. See more photos at www.mlamb.com or call 940-591-0616.

ELEGANT HOME with all that you would expect ... Hand-scraped hardwood floors, vaulted cathedral ceilings, tons of built-ins thru-out. Not one detail has been overlooked. Formal living & dining, great room w/brick wdburning fp. One-of-a-kind master quarters, cook’s dream of a custom kitchen, granite, gas cooktop, floor-to-ceiling windows in breakfast area w/built-in cabinets make entertaining a joy. Laundry room has Sub-Zero ref. built-in, sink, built-in linen closets, and then a walk-in storage closet or 2nd walk-in pantry. Double staircase leads to 3 living areas, 4 bedrooms, 4 full baths up. Pool has spa, covered patio area, open courtyards, dog kennel, 3-car detached garage, electric gate and basketball court. See more photos at www.mlamb.com or call 940-591-0616.

SA LE

R 3820 Granada Trail

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Real Estate

$175,000

709 Skylark

$166,900

Great home with all the space needed for entertainment! Formal living and formal dining all open, large kitchen w/island, ample cabinets and counter space, tile backsplash, all open to light bright breakfast area and family room. Family rm w/tile-faced gas log fireplace, vaulted ceilings, all open. Master down, 3 additional bedrooms up w/walk-in closets as well as full bath and attic storage. Open patio w/large deck area and fenced yard.

Beautiful custom home! IMMACULATE well kept home... Wood floors in entry, living room and hallway, formal dining off entry that opens to living room with crown molding, gas log fireplace, accent mirrors, & custom drapes. Kitchen w-tile floors, electric cooktop, ample custom cabinets and counter space all open to breakfast area. Game room or 2nd living area off breakfast area with crown molding. Oversized utility room and garage w-built-in cabinets, Master bedroom features crown molding, ceiling fan, entry to game room and large master bathroom with garden tub, hishers sinks, linen closet, separate tiled shower, large walk-in closet. Large open patio area in backyard with great space for the kids or entertaining.

See more photos at www.mlamb.com or call 940-591-0616.

Foreclosure Listings:

Contracts Pending:

5612 Frost Lane – $262,900 – Flower Mound 11173 Silver Horn Dr. – $249,900 – 4/2.5/2 – Frisco 2645 Whispering Trail – $219,900 – 5/3.5/2 – Little Elm 1505 Ridgecrest – $174,900 – 4/4/2 – Southridge 3015 Mason – $130,900 – 3/2/2 – Corinth 1017 Bull Run – $81,200 – 3/2 – Near TWU 6632 Betty Drive – $75,899 – 3/2/2 – Wataguga

3624 Big Horn – $148,900 – Foreclosure – Sundown Ranch 1534 Knottingham – $98,900 – Foreclosure – Little Elm 2304 Crestmeadow – $89,900 – Foreclosure – North Denton 101 W. Aurora Vista Trl – $181,900 – Foreclosure – Aurora 1104 Pennsylvania – $149,000 – SOLD in 1 DAY! – Southridge 4241 Gladney Lane – $123,900– Foreclosure – Keller

940-591-0616 www.MLAMB.com Marianne Lamb Owner/Agent

mlamb@kw.com Gavin Lamb Agent/Buyer’s Specialist

AU B R EY

306 Wilson

408 Brockett

8912 Hickory

2304 Brooklake

3404 Sundown Blvd.

2129 Crestmeadow

4604 Trumpet Vine

605 Francks Circle

Just reduced to $140,000. 3/2/2 Lakeview property. Lovely home with lots of trees. Maintained beautifully. Belle Speir at 281.467.6552

$249,900. Perfect floorplan, spacious kitchen with island. Excellent, convenient neighborhood. Call Rahna Raney 940.391.0016

$129,900. Beautiful home with many extras. Low edbl. hung windows, solar screens, ceramic tile, recent carpet, paint and microwave. Bkft bar, fireplace and open kitchen make a charming combination. 2nd bath has been remodeled recently. Rahna Raney 940.391.0016

$159,900. Well-maintained very livable home in super area with excellent schools, walking paths, corp property with lake and paths. Rock fireplace with split bedrooms, bar island kitchen. Wonderful backyard with large covered patio with beautiful custom wood designed pergola. Rahna Raney 940.391.0016

2 Lots (Pearl Cove and Crow)

1831 Crow - Close to UNT. .75 acre. $64,000. 761 Pearl Cove - Beautiful wooded acre + lot in Emerald Sound at Lake Lewisville - $105,000. Call Toni Martin at 940.391.6844

1125 Oakcrest

1051 Providence Blvd.

1509 Gatewood

A vacation every day on the lake. Call Fran Hannah 940.391.6050. Great service is priceless!

Southern charmer - 3 living areas, French doors, screened-in back porch. Large backyard, beautiful landscaping. Call Fran Hannah 940.391.6050. Great service is priceless!

Fran Hannah, Nancy McMinn, REALTOR REALTOR (940)367-2987 (940)391-6844 (940)391-6050 Toni Martin, REALTOR®

09 01 10

$149,900. Lovely home in established neighborhood. Backyard oasis with gunite pool, landscaped, and private patio area. Recent paint, carpet and some updates. Rahna Raney 940.391.0016

$2,200,000. Beautiful lakefront and lakeview property on Lake Lewisville. More property available in this parcel of land to create a large development for possible condo or townhomes. Call Rahna Raney 940.391.0016

Wilson

100 Acres, horse country. Pasture, trees. 10 minutes from Lake Ray Roberts. Nice area. Rahna Raney

D EN TO N

$16,900. Three lots for sale. Nora Matheny at 940.453.4358

A FABS B OL U U LO T U ELY S!

521 Hettie

Just reduced to $169,900. Marvelous country home in quiet Krum. 1 acre, trees, and creek. 4 bedrooms, master down. Super huge 2nd living on 2nd floor. 4car garage and workshop. Call Rahna Raney 940.391.0016

PR O PL VID AC E E NC E

$460,000. Quiet and secluded horse country property with barn, workshop, storage building and separate mobile home on property. 3 septic systems. Home is cozy and comfortable. Master down and 2 bedrooms up. Call Rahna Raney 940.391.0016

Just reduced to $139,900. Lovely Aubrey country home on .7 acre, perfect for garden. 4/2/2 plus 2 living areas, two dining. Large covered porch, corner lot, trees, storage and shop. Call Rahna Raney 940.391.0016

PR O VI D EN C E

11 Puddin Hill

Real Estate

D EN TO N

R ED U C ED

Bringing You & Your Home Together

3721 Hermalinda Dr.

Natural light galore, gourmet kitchen, abundant storage, plantation shutters, wood flooring. Beautifully landscaped! Call Fran Hannah 940.391.6050. Great service is priceless!

$129,500. 3 bedroom, 2 bath with 1,698 sq. ft. Study or nursery next to master bedroom. New carpet paint.Very open living area. Nancy 940.367.2987

Rahna Raney,

Nora Matheny,

Belle Speir,

(940)391-0016

(940)453-4358

(281)467-6552

REALTOR®

Sarah Fitzpatrick, Nancy Hundley, REALTOR®

(940)206-5575

REALTOR®

(281)467-6552

14 Real Estate

09 01 10

REAL ESTATE SHOWCASE From Page 11

Selling on the buyer selling a home first or obtaining an inspection. Ask your REALTOR® how these terms affect you and whether the offer is in line with the market. The offer describes the property, states who pays for which closing costs, and specifies dates of closing and possession. Along with making the offer, the buyer may place some earnest money with the escrow agent as a sign of good faith. The earnest money will be kept in an escrow account and applied to the buyer’s down payment or closing costs when the sale closes. Your options In reviewing the offer, you have three options: accept, reject, or make a counteroffer. A counteroffer is a rejection of a buyer’s offer with a simultaneous offer from you to the buyer. Carefully review the figures compiled earlier to determine your net proceeds—closing costs may be quite different from earlier calculations. Discuss the possibilities with your REALTOR®, your attorney, and a tax adviser. Seller’s disclosure In most residential sales, Texas law requires that the seller deliver a seller’s disclosure notice to the buyer on or before the effective date of purchase. This document provides important information about the seller’s knowledge of the

FILE PHOTO/TDMN

Unique details are the selling points for any home. condition of the property. Complete the notice to the best of your knowledge and belief. Your REALTOR® will most likely ask that you complete the notice at the time the listing is first taken. Copies of the completed notice will be made available to those looking at your property. Lead-based paint disclosure If your property was built before 1978, federal law requires that before a buyer is obligated under a contract to buy the property, the seller shall: 1) provide the buyer with a lead hazard information pamphlet (as prescribed by EPA); 2) disclose the presence of any known lead-based paint or hazard; 3) provide the buyer with a lead hazard evaluation report or records available to the seller; and 4) permit the

buyer to conduct a risk assessment or inspection for the presence of lead-based paint or hazards. A contract for the sale of property built before 1978 must contain a statutorily prescribed Lead Warning Statement to the buyer. Your REALTOR® will provide you with the forms necessary to comply with the law and will suggest procedures to follow in order to comply. Accepting the offer Once you and the buyer agree on terms and sign the contract, the buyer will generally have to find a lender and apply for a loan. Your REALTOR® may monitor the loan process, which could last several weeks. During this time, your REALTOR® will also be busy

coordinating other arrangements to prepare for the final sale. Title search As part of the process, the title company may order a survey of your property and research the title to your home, making sure the chain of title is clear. Clearing the title may require paying off liens—that is, any monetary claims against your property. Examples are: mechanic’s liens, unpaid state and federal tax liens, court judgments, and probate considerations (if a co-owner has died). The product of the title search can be in the form of title insurance, abstract of title, or certificate of title, depending on what is commonly used in your area. Inspection and repairs If the buyer requires it, your REALTOR® can coordinate an inspection of your home. A buyer may hire an inspector to review many items in the property such as the structural components, mechanical items, electrical systems, and plumbing systems. The inspector will report to the buyer the items that the inspector finds to be in need of repair. Most likely, the buyer will provide a copy of the inspection report to you and may ask you to complete certain repairs. Don’t be surprised if the inspection notes some items in need of repair. An

inspector is trained to see items and defects that are not obvious to you and your REALTOR®. No matter how new or well-maintained a home is, an inspector may find some items in need of repair . Step 6: Closing the deal Closing the deal The sale formally ends at the closing table. In most transactions, the closing lasts less than an hour and often occurs at the title company office. Your REALTOR® and the buyer’s agent may be present. A title company officer or escrow agent will preside. Be sure to bring your driver’s license to the closing (DPS identification cards and passports are also acceptable). Basic documents The sale actually consists of two transactions: 1) transferring the property to the buyer, and 2) paying off the existing mortgage on your home (or allowing the buyer to assume your mortgage). To transfer the property, the title company will present documents proving that you have the title. Proceeds of the sale may be disbursed at closing or shortly thereafter, once all the paperwork and verifications have been processed. When you give your house key to the new owners, the sale is complete.

GENE GOHLKE BUILDING PRODUCTS

• Vinyl Windows • Window Glass Replacement • Screen Repair • Solar Screens 612 E McKinney Denton, Texas 76201

940-382-1502 (See Gohlke First) IA

15 Real Estate

09 01 10

Moving? We can help!

Let One of Our Experienced Agents help you today! 940-891-3229 denton.ebby.com 3201 Teasley Lane, Suite 600 Denton, TX

Ebby . . .

The First Name in Real Estate

16 Real Estate

A C R E S 4. 55

6804 Riverchase Tr. – Denton 4/2/2 in Ryan Ranch Subd. All new in 2010: paint inside & out, cpt, ceiling fans, fixtures, door hardware, faucets, sink, dishwasher, stove, blinds & more. 2 living, 2 dining, fireplace, tile in all areas except bedrooms, split bedrooms, master bath has his & her sink, garden tub & shower, large walk-in closet. $159,900

1209 Triangle Rd. – Valley View 3/2.5/2 on 4.55 acres with lake view. 30x50 barn w/5 stalls and 2 tack rooms, additional 3 stall barn, guest house, fenced and cross fenced. Light & open floorplan, huge rooms, chef’s kitchen, wood floors, floor-to-ceiling brick fireplace, covered patio, upstairs deck with spectacular views. $249,900

B E D R O O M S 6

W NE

904 Barbara St. – Denton Custom new construction home by Jay Johnson Homes. 3/2/2, light & open floor plan, split bedrooms, large fenced yard with landscaping package. Buy now and you can make your own personal choices to make this dream home all yours. Choose this home or pick any lot in the subdivision. $118,900

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8100 Hidden Path – Denton 6 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, 2-car garage, 2 living areas plus a bonus room. 3,078 sq. ft., light & open floorplan, master bedroom downstairs, master bath has his & her sinks, garden tub & sep. shower, walk-in closet. Tile in kitchen, breakfast, bathrooms, utility rm & entry. Large fenced backyard, close to schools, parks & shopping. $159,900

LI S TI N G

NE W 2401 Regina Dr. – Denton Spectacular 4/2.5/2 family home on a large corner lot with beautiful landscaping, solar screens, covered cedar arbor, flagstone patio, sprinkler system and storage shed. The light & open floor plan is perfect for entertaining. Handscraped wood floors, tile, designer paints, custom countertops in kitchen, slate backsplash, upgraded fixtures, window treatments and 2-inch blinds are just a few of the highlights. The large master bedroom is downstairs. Master bath has his & her sinks, separate garden tub & shower and a walk-in closet. This house has it all and is move-in-ready!! $184,900

C O N N S E TR W U C TI O N

8727 Dayton Dr. – Lantana 4/3.5/2 in the Heritage Addition of Lantana. Light & open floor plan with over 3,500 sq. ft. Tile, hardwoods, frieze carpet, designer paint, iron staircase spindles, brick & stone fireplace. Kitchen has huge granite island, granite counters, tumbled marble backsplash, 42-inch cabinets. Master bedroom down, 3 bedrooms up, media room, game room, & bonus room in attic. $319,900

PR IC E

NE W

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B E D R O O M S

09 01 10

25 Wellington Oaks Cir. – Denton

4617 Indian Paint Way – Denton 3/2/2 immaculate & barely lived in home w/a light & open floorplan. Tile in kitchen, breakfast, utility & both bathrooms. Rounded corners, 2-inch blinds, security, sprinklers, tons of countertops & cabinets, huge utility & pantry are just a few of the highlights. Split bedrooms, master bath has his & her sinks, formal dining can be used as a study/office. Great location close to schools, shopping & parks. $139,900

Ron Hebert

Lance Yuzbick

REALTOR®

4/3/2 stunning custom home on a gorgeous landscaped lot in Forestridge Estates. This amazing house is so clean & move-in ready! Master & 2nd bedroom downstairs and 2 bedrooms upstairs. Light & open floor plan, tile, new carpet, granite counters, tile backsplash, tons of built-ins, butler’s pantry, crown molding. Master bath has his & her sinks, 2 walk-in closets, Jacuzzi tub, sep. shower. Covered back patio, sprinklers, amazing landscaping, extra parking. Don’t miss your chance to call this one-ofa-kind home yours! $299,900

2612 Chancellor Dr. – Flower Mound 4/2.5/2 with a light & open floorplan. Wood floors, tile, frieze carpet. Large kitchen w/island and tile backsplash overlooks the breakfast & family rooms. Brick fireplace, built-ins, 2-inch blinds, security, sprinklers, updated fixtures. The master bath has just been updated with all new tile floors, new tile shower, new tile surround the garden tub, new cabinet & 2 sinks. Two-tier wood deck, wood fence, great location close to schools, shopping & parks. $189,900

Ron Hebert & Lance Yuzbick

940-898-8815

The Results Team “Creating Customers For Life!”

More pictures and virtual tours at

www.results-team.com

17 Real Estate

DENTEX REALTY WANTS YOU!

09 01 10

Stop throwing away your hard earned commissions. $50 per month. $500 per transaction. HUD Broker, Locally owned and operated.

Rita Rogers, Owner/Broker

940.383.9777 1005 W. University, Suite 101 â&#x20AC;˘ Denton, TX 76201 IA

18 Real Estate

09 01 10

REAL ESTATE SHOWCASE

10 ways to turn your home green Making your home more environmentally friendly isn’t just good for the Earth, it could save you money, while you and your family live in a healthier setting. Here is how… Light bulbs: Switch to an ENERGY STAR qualified compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs). They use 75% less energy than incandescent bulbs and last 6- 10 times longer. You’ll save energy and money, and reduce the green-

house gas emissions that contribute to global climate change. Protect the environment of today and tomorrow – start by changing a light! If every American home replaced just one light bulb with an ENERGY STAR qualified bulb, we would save enough energy to light more than 3 See GREEN on Page 19

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REAL ESTATE SHOWCASE

Real Estate

From Page 18

Green million homes for a year, more than $600 million in annual energy costs, and prevent greenhouse gases equivalent to the emissions of more than 800,000 cars. Draft Windows and Doors: Keep the blustery cold air outdoors by stopping drafts at windows and doors. Place a draft dodger—a long fabric tube—along the edges where cold seeps inside to stop it in it’s tracks. You can find some at gaiam.com. You can also make your own dodger by filling a large athletic sock with pebbles and tying a knot at the end of it. Before you leave your house for the day, close your drapes over the windows. This will help minimize the amount of cold air that seeps inside too. Tip: The heavier the drapes, the better they’ll perform! Fireplaces: Make sure the damper on your fireplace is completely closed. Keeping a damper open all winter is like having a small window open. Not sure if it’s open or closed? All you have to do is place a featherweight plastic bag, such as a grocery store bag, in the fireplace; if it flutters, it’s open. By keeping the damper closed this will save you energy and money by keeping the cold out. Dishwashers: Only run full loads to save water and let everything air dry after the final rinse instead of using the heated dry option. Just open the door and let the steam condense right off. Refrigerators: Keep in mind that refrigerators run 24-7, and account for about 25% of a household’s energy use. To ensure that your fridge is working efficiently, do the “dollar test”. Close the fridge door unto a dollar bill and check to see how much effort it takes for you to pull it out. If it comes out easily, the seal isn’t tight enough which means it’s leaking cold air and needs to be fixed. Another test, open the fridge door and let go. If it doesn’t shut by itself, it needs to be re-stabilized. Shift the whole fridge until it’s level and then try again. If your fridge is older than 10 years, consider replacing it with an Energy Stargraded one where you will save around 9% off your electric bill each month. Home offices: Your computer is a real energy hog, so be sure to remove the screen saver and turn your pc off to sleep mode. The average household, home office equipment such as printers, cell phones and Blackberries are using electricity if they are plugged into an outlet, even if they are turned off. This is called phantom load. Instead you should plug them all into one surge protector and turn off or on the entire strip. Simply put, less energy= less population. Junk Mail: Even after signing up to have your name taken off direct marketers lists, those catalogs and CDs for online services still keep showing up in your mailbox. Simply circle the return address and write, “Return to Sender” on the mailer and pop it in the mailbox. It will then be returned to the original sender, at their expense, and then they’ll get the message loud and clear to

take your name off the list. Electronic Waste: Start a collection of electronic waste in your office today. Collect disks, cd’s, diskettes, zip disks, printer cartridges, cables, and broken small computer accessories. Box them up and send them to Green Disk where for a small fee they’ll recycle it all. Go to greendisk.com Cleaning: Germs be gone! When you need to disinfect your kitchen or bathroom countertops of germs don’t reach for toxic, chlorine bleach. Instead consider rubbing alcohol. It kills germs and evaporated quickly. You could also use a non-toxic biodegradable all-purpose cleaning product along with a micro-fiber towel that uses millions of microscopic fibers to catch dirt and bacteria and then wash after each use instead of throwing away paper towels. Check out Mrs. Meyers Clean Day cleaners that are made from naturally derived ingredients such as corn, sugar cane, coconut, and palm. Miinimizing Dirt: Stop wearing shoes inside your house! It’s estimated up to 80% of all household dirt is brought inside by shoes and clothes. You can cut down on allergy causing dirt by leaving your shoes at the door. Another very important factor to consider, according to the Environmental Protection Agency: shoes worn in homes are a leading source of harmful lead, brought into a home via contaminated lead.

09 01 10

FILE PHOTO

Energy Saving Checklist

Top native trees in North Texas

Instead of this - try this and save…

Pecan, Carya illinoesis (70 feet tall x 70 feet top width) American elm, Ulmus Americana (70’ x 70’) Shumard red oak, Quercus shumardii (70’ x 50’) Sycamore, Platanus occidentalis (70’ x 40’) White ash, Fraxinus Americana (70’ x 60’) Bald cypress, Taxodum distichum (60’ x 30’) Bur oak, Quercus macrocarpa (60’ x 60’) Cedar elm, Ulmus crassifolia (60’ x 40’) Water oak, Quercus nigra (60’ x 40’) American sweetgum, Liquidambar styraciflua (50’ x 30’) Escarpment live oak, Quercus fusiformis (50’ x 50’) Osage orange, Maclura pomifera (50’ x 50’) Red mulberry, Morus rubra (50’ x 50’) Afghan pine, Pinus eldarica (40’ x 30’) Chinese pistache, Pistacia cheninsis (40’x 40’) Common persimmon, Diospyros virginiana (40’ x 30’) Eastern red cedar, Juniperus virginiana (40’ x 30’) Lacebark elm, Ulmus parvifolia (40’x 30’) Texas ash, Fraxinus texensis (40’ x 30’) Carolina laurel cherry, Prunus caroliniana (30’x 30’) Winged elm, Ulmus alata (30’ x 30’) Eastern redbud, Cercis Canadensis (25’ x 25’) Crepe myrtle, Lagerstroemia indica (20’ x 15’) Eve’s necklace, Sophora affinis (20’ x 15’) Mexican plum, Prunus Mexicana (20’ x 20’) Possum haw holly, Illex deciduas (20’ x 15’) Rough-leaf dogwood, Cornus drumondii (20’ x 15’) Southern wax myrtle, Myrica cerifa (20’x 20’)

Setting your thermostat to 70° in the winter. Set it to 65° (especially comfortable at night). $80 to $100 a year. Setting your water heater to 130°. Set it to 120°. $15 a year. A 75-watt incandescent light bulb.An 18-watt CFL light bulb. 4 cents an hour, or about $88 a year if the bulb is lit for 6 hours a day. A traditional computer monitor. An LCD monitor. $20 a year. Washing clothes on a hot/warm cycle. Switch to a warm/cold wash cycle. 10 cents a load. Washing several times a week. Wash and dry your clothes back-to-back in one stint. $1 a session or $52 a year. Using a top-loading clothes washer. Use a front-loading washer. As much as 40-cents a load. A pre- 1993 refrigerator. A new Energy Starrated refrigerator. $120 a year. Rinsing dishes before placing them in the dishwasher. Load dishes into the dishwasher as they are. 6,500 gallons of water, or $30 a year on average. Leaving gaps in your ductwork. Seal your loose house “shell”. $300a year.

20 Real Estate

09 01 10

VANDERLAAN REALESTATE.COM

(940) 591-7963 David Vanderlaan Broker Accredited Land Consultant

Debbie Vanderlaan Broker

David@VanderlaanRealEstate.com

2947 Bud Williams Road, Justin $374,900 * 8.85 Ac w/2,410sf Brick Residence * 3-Stall Barn With Hay Storage & Tack Room * Storage Barn w/Loafing Shed & Lighted Arena

3470 Shepard Road, Aubrey $2,800,000 * 101.9 Acres in Sought-After Green Valley Area * 2 Custom Austin Stone Residences * Deep Water Well, Co-op Water, Unimproved Pastures

10120 Hilltop Road, Argyle $4,875,000 * 20.8 Private Acres Covered With Trees & 4 Ponds * Gorgeous Custom 8,500 sf Residence * Golf Greens, Frisbee Golf, Sand Volleyball, Tennis Courts

10902 Clear Creek, Sanger $790,000 * 61.1 Acres Offering 360-Degree Panoramic Views * 6-Stall Barn, Equipment Barn, Outdoor Arena * 3,616 sf, 4 Bedroom Residence

10638 Rector Road, Sanger $525,000 * 22 Acres Featuring 2 Residences * Trees, Creek and Abundant Deer & Turkey * 41 Acres Available for $625,000

5309 Bristol, Flower Mound * Gorgeous Home in Bridlewood * Custom Features Throughout * 3,503 sf, 4/3.1/2

$395,000

2904 Destin Drive, Denton $325,000 * Custom Home in Southmont * 3,375 sf, 3/2.2/2 * HOA Includes Community Pool & Tennis IA

21 Ken Stockdale,

Real Estate

REALTOR®

09 01 10

940-387-8677 “Celebrating 37 years in Denton!” Kathy and I want to thank you for 37 wonderful years in Denton. Our mission is still to provide quality service at a fair price. Please ask about our reduced real estate fee program by calling 940.387.8677 or emailing us at kenstockdale11@yahoo.com! Thank you, Ken Stockdale

D CE U D RE

N SO IL W

1926 LAURELWOOD – 4/3 Detached garage. Great for RV parking. Wilson School. Owner will help w/repairs. MLS# 11380147. $100,000

W NE

N O

S EE TR

1900 LE SAGE – 3/2/2 2 living and 2 eating areas, split master, quality home w/ceramic tile. MLS# 11424098. $152,500

T KE AR M W NE

1815 WILLOWWOOD – 4/2.5/2 Huge treed lot (.64 acre), circle drive. Close to UNT. MLS# 11398638. $157,500

L O O H SC

N O

T KE AR M

D CE U D RE

1516 WILLOWWOOD – 3/2 nice home on one acre lot w/trees. Room for garden. $144,900

LD SO

2002 LEE DR. – 3/2/1 great home for parent to buy for student in very nice condition. Has been Yard of the Month. MLS# 11426138. $109,900

513 W. WINDSOR – 3/2/2 with formal dining. Seller will pay for new carpet. MLS# 11204314. $139,900

601 W. WINDSOR – 3/2/2 on nice corner lot in great neighborhood. Highlights include split master, large fireplace in family room, wooden deck in beautiful fenced yard, sprinklered, and some trees. MLS# 11421104. $139,000

LD SO

609 W. WINDSOR – 3/2/2 well kept home. Freshly painted. Covered patio. MLS# 11426137. $144,900

See these homes on REALTOR.COM IA

22 Real Estate

Denton’s Exclusive Community of Custom Homes

09 01 10

Shadow Brook Place... Experience the classic charm of old world architecture amid a scenic landscape of towering trees, lush greenbelt and 10-acre pond in Denton, Texas. 1/2 to 3/4-acre homesites offer natural beauty and distinct design for that exclusive one-of-a-kind residence starting in the upper $500’s. Shadow Brook Place offers the ultimate in fine custom homes and homesites, the ultimate in lifestyle and the ultimate in quiet sophistication.

The Villas of Shadow Brook Place... Experience Denton’s premier development of upscale garden homes. This distinguished community represents elegance and grace with timeless architecture. As with the Estate homes, each and every home is customized from concept to move-in with the features and specifications requested by the owner. Homes include a private courtyard, rear entry garages, beautifully landscaped courtyard street with additional parking for guests of residents, and exclusive location with access to private greenbelt. The Villas of Shadow Brook Place start from the upper $500’s. 35E

Teasley La

F m 1 83 0

Hobson Lane

Forrest Ridge

For more information, contact Jim Strange at 940-391-3178 or 940-380-0014.

El Paseo

Ryan Road

www.tremontcustomhomes.com • tremontconstruction@verizon.net IA

REAL ESTATE SHOWCASE

Find out about the homebuyers assistance program Family size: 3 $48,700 - $39,551 $39,550 - $30,401 $30,400 or below

Provides homeownership opportunities for low and moderate-income families to become first time homebuyers. Assistance is in the form of a forgivable loan that is due and payable upon the sale, home equity loan, lease or transfer of title. The maximum amount of assistance per household is determined by program guidelines. Funds can also be used to lower monthly payments. Please note that the following are an overview of the guidelines. For the comprehensive program guidelines, please call the Community Development Division. Minimum Eligibility Qualifications Live in the city limits of Denton for the past 12 months Be a U.S. citizen or a legal resident Must be a first-time homebuyer or have not owned a home in the past three years. Cannot have more than $10,000 in liquid assets. An amount above $5,000 must be invested in the home. Household income cannot exceed income limits for family size (see chart below). 1 - family size $37,850 maximum yearly income 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

$43,300 $48,700 $54,100 $58,450 $62,750 $67,100 $71,400

What Type of House Qualifies? Single-family home must be in the city limits of Denton (condos and town homes are acceptable) Sales price of the house cannot exceed $125,000 and be within Denton city limits. The maximum sale price increased to $145,000 if the newly constructed home is Energy Starqualified. House must be safe, decent and sanitary Recommend that the house contain sufficient living/sleeping space Property must be occupied by the seller, buyer or vacant for at least 60 days. Independent home inspection by a state

Family size: 4 $54,100 - $43,951 $43,950 - $33,801 $33,800 or Below Family size: 5 $58,450 - $47,451 $47,450 - $36,501 $36,500 or below

FILE PHOTO

licensed inspector is required Pre 1978 house must be free of any deteriorated paint. HAP offers three forgivable loans at zero interest (See chart below for the three loans available). What Costs Will The Program Cover? The program will assist with the buyer’s down payment, closing costs and prepaids Buyer has to contribute 1.125% of the sales price, a portion of their own money to buy the home Gap funds may also be available for lowincome households to help with the difference between the sales price and the maximum loan amount Buyer’s Contribution and Maximum HAP Assistance The following are the three levels of assistance through the program and minimum amount that a buyer has to contribute to the purchase of their home. Family Size: 1 $37,850 - $30,751 moderate income $30,750-23,651 low income $23,650 or below very low income Family size: 2 $43,300 - $35,151 $35,150 - $27,051 $27,050 or below

Contact Editor Dawn Cobb to submit info at 940-566-6879

Family size: 6 $62,750 - $50,951 $50,950 - $39,201 $39,200 or Below Buyer’s Minimum Contribution: 1.125 percent of sales price How to receive assistance Attend a homebuyer education workshop. Workshops and one-to-one pre-purchase counseling are available through Consumer Credit Counseling of North Central Texas at (800) 856-0257. Contact a lender from the List of Participating Lenders (See below). Find your “dream home” and enter into a purchase agreement HAP lender will submit your application for assistance When the buyers application is received, the Community Development Division will begin processing the request for assistance Several steps of eligibility must be met before applicant qualifies. Applicant is subject to all guideline changes. Community Development Division (2nd. Floor of City Hall East) 601 E. Hickory Street, Suite B Denton, TX 76205 (940) 349-7726 (940) 349-7753 email address: communitydevelopment@cityofdenton.com — Information provided by the City of Denton

Real Estate

09 01 10

24 Real Estate

09 01 10

REAL ESTATE SHOWCASE

Six steps to buying a home From the Texas Association of REALTORS®

Step 1: Choosing a REALTOR® Buying a home is one of the largest purchases and biggest decisions of your life. The first thing to do is to find a Texas REALTOR® you trust. Ask your friends and relatives who have bought homes recently for their recommendations. Or, you can use the finda-Texas REALTOR® search to locate one in your area. Before working with one, you should know that the duties of the REALTOR® depend on whom they represent.

Many REALTORS® specialize as buyer’s agents, representing clients who are searching for their next home. These agents can save you time and money by researching properties based on your criteria, helping you secure the best mortgage rates, counseling you on the offer amount and terms most favorable to you, and negotiating on your behalf. For buyers, there’s really no downside to hiring a REALTOR® because the seller generally pays buyer’s-agent commissions. Many buyer’s agents have earned the Accredited Buyer Representative (ABR®) designation from the National Association of REALTORS® Real Estate BUYER’S AGENT Council. Learn more about

FILE PHOTO

Follow these few steps to buy a new family home in today’s market. ABR® and other designations. If you choose not to use a buyer’s agent, you could negotiate directly with the listing agent representing the owner. All brokers must treat you honestly and fairly regardless of whom they represent.

If you choose to have a REALTOR® represent you, you should enter into a written caontract that clearly establishes the obligation of both parties and specifies how your Texas REALTOR® will be compensated. Step 2: Deciding what you need and want Needs and wants list Before you start looking, make a list of what you want and need. Once your list is made, go back over it and decide what is most important—which items are musts and which you are willing to give up. Assign each item a priority so that you will know what to look for as you begin house hunting. Location Deciding where you want to

live may be the single most important factor in choosing a home. Location to employment centers, shopping centers, schools, major traffic arteries, and other attractions are important and have significant influences on value. Your choice of location may be limited somewhat by the price you can afford. Even so, make sure you consider such things as: prices of properties and property taxes; distance to work, schools, shopping, and entertainment; proposed changes in land use such as commercial shopping centers and roads, and potential hazards such as floodSee BUYING on Page 25

Mariella Cudd 940-595-5540 940-484-0036 O 940-536-3996 F

$197,500

5508 Balmorhea, Argyle

$312,500

3013 Broken Bow, Denton

Top Dollar For Your Home

$359,500

3829 La Mancha, Denton

Free Report Reveals How to Set Your Asking Price When Selling Your Home. www.aGetPrice.com Free Recorded Message: 1877-550-6099 ID# 131 Developer’s Dream 4001 N. Locust St

Beautiful 4-3-2 or 3-3-2 Custom home on a creek! UltraHigh Efficient Gameroom, Study, Formal 5-3.5-2, Formal LA, 2 DA Home, Concrete & Steel Dining. Located in 2 Gamerooms, 1 Oversized 4-3-2, Media room or 4th Country Lakes of Argyle Garage for storage, Upgrades bedroom, 1/2 acre, Open Plan 7112 Frost $1450

6724 Hayling $1650

4-2.5-2 2 LA, 2 DA Guyer High School

4-3-2 2 LA, Study Guyer High School

Cudd Realty, Inc. - 2412 Old North Rd, Bldg #104, Denton, TX 76209

$22,100 / Acre 43+/-Acre Inside Loop 288 Zoned 6 Units/Acre High Terrain, Low Price

New Home Site 3612 Falcon Court High End Neighborhood 3/4 Acre Cul-de-sac Trees, Homes Range $500-$700K

$116,900 IA

REAL ESTATE SHOWCASE

Real Estate

From Page 24

Buying

ing and noise from a nearby airport or highways. Type of home and lot A single-family detached home typically provides more living space and land area than other types of living units and permits you greater freedom (less restrictions) to remodel, expand, paint, and alter the appearance. If you don’t like spending leisure time on yard work, consider a condo or garden (patio) home. Condos and garden homes often offer shared greenbelts and garden areas or membership in private recreational facilities such as swimming, golf, and tennis. New vs. older homes Preowned homes usually have established yards, and the neighborhood or subdivision is usually built-out. On the other hand, they may require more maintenance. New homes are not without problems. Although they require less maintenance in the first few years, you may have to put in landscaping and call the builder back to correct faults. And if buildings are still active in the area, you may have to endure nearby construction. You could already have your dream home in mind. Then again, you might not know what you like until you see it. Either way, your Texas REALTOR® will listen to your preferences and help you find the perfect home. Step 3: What can you afford? There are typically three major areas of concern when deciding what you can afford: down payment, qualifying for a loan, and closing costs. Down payment A conventional loan typically requires a down payment. It is not uncommon for buyers to place a down payment of 10% to 20% of the purchase price. For example, on an $80,000 home, a down payment of $8,000 to $16,000 in cash may be warranted.

Government-backed loans, insured by the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) and the Veterans Administration (VA) are particularly useful to first-time buyers and often require 5% or less as a down payment. Generally, a higher down payment means better loan terms and a lower interest expense on the mortgage. Qualifying for a loan A lender will determine how much they think you can afford. But remember, just because the lender says you can afford one price doesn’t mean that’s what you should spend. Be wise and thoroughly examine how much you should spend on a home. Be prepared to provide the lender with a two- to five- year financial history that contains the following: Income—gross monthly income as well as employment history, education, and any secondary income such as bonuses, dividends, and child support. The lender may require a letter from your employer, W-2 forms, or, if you are selfemployed, recent tax returns. Assets—current checking account balances, savings accounts, stocks and bonds, certificates of deposit, other property, insurance policies, and pension funds. Credit—debts on cars and appliances, debts on all credit cards, and history of debt repayment. Your lender may ask for a credit report, so you may want to clear up any known negative terms in advance. Your Texas REALTOR® can help you determine what price range and monthly payment you can afford. The monthly payment typically consists of principal, interest, taxes and insurance—PITI, for short. Step 4: The offer What to offer A REALTOR® can help you find your perfect home, but only you can decide how much

you are willing to offer for it. Ask your REALTOR® about the selling prices and marketing time of other houses in the area. Once you have determined the amount you are willing to spend, your REALTOR® will help you prepare a written offer. In most transactions you will offer to deposit earnest money with the escrow agent, showing your sincerity in making a reasonable offer and abiding by the terms of the written contract. Contract forms Your REALTOR® will help you prepare an offer using standard forms. The offer, if accepted, will become a binding contract. This document is the most important paper you will sign because it lays out all the terms of the transaction. It contains: a legal description of the property, any property that will be transferred with the home, (blinds, curtains, fireplace screens, etc.) the price financing conditions and contingencies amount of earnest money deposit name of the escrow agent and title company proration of insurance, taxes, and interest fees to be paid and who pays for which rights to inspect the property and for repairs to be made dates of closing and possession what happens if either party defaults on the contract Inspections and warranties Before signing the contract, take precautions to protect yourself against unseen defects in the home. An inspection by a qualified inspector can provide you with unbiased opinions about the condition of the foundation, mechanical systems, plumbing systems, appliances, etc. If you can, accompany the inspector at the time the inspection is conducted.

It’s also a good idea to get a termite and other wooddestroying insect inspection. You may also want to have your REALTOR® request that the seller furnish you with a one-year residential service contract as part of the deal. This is common practice with the purchase of existing homes (after the first year, you’ll have the option of renewing coverage at your expense) and ensures that certain items will be repaired by the company if they fail to function after you move in. If you buy a new home, the builder may offer a warranty as well. Whether you get a residential service contract or receive any other warranty, find out how claims will be processed and how any necessary repairs will be made. Seller’s options The REALTOR® working with you will present the contract to the seller’s agent or seller. The seller has three options: accept, reject or make a counteroffer—a rejection of the offer with a simultaneous offer from the seller to the buyer. If the seller makes a counteroffer, you then have the same three options. This process goes on until a suitable price is agreed upon by both parties. Binding contract Once you and the seller agree to the written terms and both of you sign, the document becomes a binding contract. Be sure that you pay close attention the terms. Otherwise, you may waive some contractual rights. The contract may also set out other contingencies that have to be satisfied, so read the contract carefully and comply with its requirements. If repairs are required, the contract will specify who will bear the cost of the repairs, who will arrange for the repairs, and when the repairs must be made. Before you close, be sure that the condition of the property meets the required condition specified in the contract.

Step 5: Financing Finding financing Once a contract becomes binding, you’ll probably have to arrange for financing. Depending on the terms of the contract, the purchase of the home may be contingent upon you finding the right financing. Lenders Most homebuyers get loans through savings institutions and mortgage bankers and, to a lesser extent, from commercial banks, credit unions, other private sources, or even the seller. Sellers often can offer a competitive interest rate and attractive terms. Check on specifics. Types of loans In general, three broad categories of loans are available: 1. Private vs. government loans. Most mortgage loans are made by savings institutions, banks and mortgage companies. Generally, a lender will require you to buy mortgage insurance, particularly if you make a low down payment. This insurance may be paid at closing or added to the loan amount. VA loans require no mortgage insurance, but only qualified veterans may apply for them. Mortgage insurance protects the lender, to a degree, in the event of default. On government (FHA and VA) loans, the government does not actually loan the money but rather guarantees (or insures) to repay the lender if you default for some reason. Government loans have important advantages—they generally require a lower down payment than conventional loans and often have a lower interest rate or points. On the down side, government loans limit the amount you can borrow, often take longer to process, and sometimes have higher closing costs. 2. Fixed rate vs. adjustable rate. On a fixed rate mortgage, the interest rate stays the same See BUYING on Page 28

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26 Real Estate

09 01 10 Serving Denton Over 40 Years 1800 N. Carroll Blvd., Ste. F, Denton, TX 76201 www.jimmybrownrealtor.com 940-566-1515 info@jimmybrownrealtor.com

PRICED TO SELL! Nice 3 bedroom, 1.5 bath, 2-car garage house in East Denton near Loop 288. Living area opens into kitchen/breakfast area. Three nice-sized bedrooms with Jack & Jill bath. Fenced yard. Call today to see this one. $85,200.

Bernie Kay Brown

Ernest Briggs

ZONED DR-2 Need land near UNT? This older home on beautiful wooded lot, is in the heart of UNT. The .53 acre tract is zoned DR-2. Lots of potential. $225,000.

Terry Roberts

Ronnie Roberts

Make your NEXT move YOUR BEST MOVE! #1 Century 21 in Texas 21 Offices in North Texas www.century21judgefite.com

Real Estate

09 01 10

607 Pearl Street, Denton – 1914 arts & crafts estate with 5 bedrooms, 3 full & 2 half-baths. Updated kitchen & bathrooms; wood floors & paneling, magnificent staircase, full basement & finished attic/play room. $399,999. MLS #11445923

1408 Fox Hollow, Denton – 4/3 on wooded lot! Wood & slate floors downstairs; 4th bedroom/study down. Hard floors & 3 bedrooms upstairs; over-sized garage w/ 240 sq ft workshop. Large deck overlooks greenbelt. $194,900. MLS #11446911

106 Blue Bonnet Circle, Justin – Home in beautiful Meadowlands has large open living area, kitchen w/ breakfast bar, 2 dining areas, master with separate vanities & separate tub/shower; full sprinkler, covered patio. $149,900. MLS #11452010

1001 Live Oak, Denton – 3/2/2 on corner lot just blocks from Wilson Elem. All hard floors, formals, family rm w/ fireplace, large bedrooms. Silestone kitchen counters, fixtures, recent 16 SEER AC. Huge yard, full sprinkler. $173,500. MLS #11459644

1408 Mandarin Dr., Sanger – 3/2/2 just 1 block from park! Split bedrooms, walk-in closets; large living area open to kitchen & dining. Affordable! $99,900. MLS #11446789

9028 Wild Rose, Cross Roads – Charming 3/2/2 in master planned community w/ many amenities. Open & inviting floor plan features wood-burning fireplace, master bath with garden tub & separate vanities. Possible short sale. $109,900. MLS #11456211

7074 Cedar Lake, Aubrey – 4/3 on 2.4 acres, nearly 2,200 sq ft, carport + 600 SF detached garage & workshop. Income-producing doublewide also on property. Lots of trees! $195,500. MLS #11451690

108 Moonlit Path, Shady Shores – 4/3.5/3 on half-acre corner lot. Elegant formal dining, island kitchen, master with private sitting area; 3 bedrooms & game room upstairs; heated gunite pool & spa. $269,900. MLS #11445354

12825 Kingsgate, Rhome – Stunning 4/2.5/2 in Shale Creek – 3,200+ sq. ft., soaring ceilings, elegant trim & picture-frame paneling, dramatic oak staircase, island kitchen, game room, study, much more! Low utility bills, too! $169,900.MLS #11457273

Denton–940-320-4355 Sanger–940-458-7007

Search by MLS # for more photos, virtual tours & info on REALTOR.com, CENTURY21.com, or CENTURY21judgefite.com

s i e t a t s e l a e r

great! AT

CENTURY21JUDGE FITE COMPANY

WWW.C21JUDGEFITE.COM IA

28 Real Estate

09 01 10

REAL ESTATE SHOWCASE From Page 25

Buying over the life of the loan, usually 15 or 30 years. That means your payment will not change except for adjustments on taxes and insurance. Adjustable rate mortgages (ARMS) have interest rates or monthly payments that can go up or down over time. These mortgages typically start out with a lower interest rate, lower monthly payments, and lower fees and points than fixed rate mortgages and often appeal to first-time homebuyers, younger couples who expect their incomes to grow in the coming years, and people who might not have much cash for down payment and closing costs. If you consider an adjustable rate mortgage, ask the lender to explain the terms fully. Ask about the interest-rate cap (the maximum rate you will be charged no matter how high rates go in the market), the index that will be used to calculate future interest rates, and how index charges will affect your mortgage. 3. Assumable vs. new loan. Some loans, particularly FHA and VA loans as well as some adjustable rate mortgages, are assumable. That means a buyer can assume an existing loan usually on the same terms as the previous owner. Assuming a loan may save some costs and time. As the buyer, you would typically pay the lender a fee at closing for processing the assumption. The true price of financing When shopping for a loan, don’t judge the loan by the interest rate alone. Compare several items in the entire loan package, including: Points on a low-interest-rate loan can be double those for a loan with a higher interest rate, causing you to pay more up front. Total fees charged by the lender. Some lenders will absorb the cost of many services, while others do not, so ask in advance. Term. In general, the longer the life of the loan and the

more fixed the payment, the more you can expect to pay over the life of the loan. For example, a 30-year, fixed-rate loan will cost more in interest than a 15-year, fixed-rate loan. Penalties. Ask what penalties will be charged if you pay off the note early. A prepayment clause could require you to pay a penalty if you pay off the loan early, such as refinancing the loan at a later time. Loan approval process From the lender’s viewpoint, approving the loan, based on your financial standing, is only part of the risk; the other part is the property itself. The lender may require an appraisal to verify that the home is worth the loan as well as a physical survey to discover any encroachments on the property. Repairs may be required. Insurance must be purchased. Verifications of employment, deposits, and other matters must be obtained. Loan documentation and conveyance instruments must be drawn and approved. In addition, the title company must research the title and arrange for paying off any liens, taxes, and other costs. All these conditions and others must be satisfied before a transaction can close. Hazard insurance As another protection, the lender may require insurance to protect against fire and storms. (Flood insurance could be required if the house is in a flood plain.) Even if not required by a lender, it’s probably a good idea for you to consider all types of insurance. Step 6: Closing the deal The closing is the end of weeks or even months of research and decision making. The closing could last less than an hour but may take longer, depending on the complexity of the transaction. It often occurs at the title company’s office. The title company officer will explain each document before you sign. You may want your attorney present as well. Two kinds of documents

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Curb appeal is one of the things people look for when buying or selling a home. The presentation pulls passersby inside to see other highlights of the property. If buying a home were stictly a cash transaction, you would simply hand over the money and receive the deed. More than likely, however, you are borrowing money for the home, which means that you are actually making two transactions—acquiring the loan and buying the home. As a borrower, you will sign a note promising to repay the loan and a deed of trust (also known as the mortgage) pledging the house (or other collateral) as security for the note. You will also sign numerous other papers including acknowledgments, disclosures, surveys, certificates, etc. Be sure to read each document carefully. Ask questions if you do not understand anything. There are no dumb questions. Seriously consider having your attorney present at closing. As a homebuyer, you will present a cashier’s check (or other good funds) to the seller, sign a document that itemizes closing costs (the lender will have given you an estimate in advance), and pay your share of the closing costs. In return,

you will receive a deed, transferring ownership rights to you. The home is yours At the end of the meeting, you will likely receive keys to the property. At that moment, the home will be yours. Occasionally, possession of the property will occur after closing. For example, the seller may have negotiated with you for a few extra days after closing, or the loan will not immediately fund, or other concerns. But, in most transactions, you will be the new owner at the end of closing. Some other points to keep in mind: Buyer/seller agency. It’s important to understand who your REALTOR® represents— buyer or seller. The REALTOR® will provide you with information about representation. As a buyer you may sign a buyer representation agreement with a REALTOR®. It will discuss the scope of the REALTOR®’s representation. Prepaids. You should be aware that your closing costs

will include prepayment of an escrow account to cover insurance and taxes. REALTORS® are required to make properties available without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, disability, or familial status. Be sure to have a property inspected by licensed inspectors to determine: a) the condition of the property (structural, mechanical, electrical items, etc.); b) any environmental conditions (asbestos, leadbased paint, toxic materials, etc.); c) wood-destroying insects; and d) other matters. Brokers are not qualified to perform such inspections. Residential service contracts can offer repair to appliances, electrical, plumbing, heating, cooling, or other systems in the property. Be sure to obtain a policy of title insurance or have an abstract of title reviewed by an attorney of your choice before buying a property. Seek the advice of an attorney of your own choice before entering into a binding agreement

Karin Seligmann’s

Real Estate

Featured Homes for Sale! Call Karin to view these fine homes TODAY! (940) 391-1131

09 01 10

karinsells@yahoo.com • karinsellsrealestate.com

$325,000

4/3.5/3—Spacious 3,535 sq. ft. Former builder’s personal home. Almost .5 acre lot with 30 mature oak trees. Luxury moldings, hardwood floors throughout, custom colors. 4 bedrooms, 2 living rooms and a sun room. Side entry 3-car garage. Talking Ad#2079

Southridge

$179,900 $174,900

4/2/2—Incredible 2,262 sq. ft. floorplan offers gleaming hardwood floors, extensively remodeled master bath, updated hall bath, recent appliances in the kitchen. Park-like oasis backyard with an oversized deck. Talking Ad#2077

Hunters Ridge

$409,000

$210,000 $205,000

NEW PRICE – 4/3/2 Wonderfully updated home w/new kitchen, granite counters, new cabinets, & appliances. Wood flooring & fresh paint! Big tree shaded backyard w/multilevel flagstone patio. Talking Ad#2070

Call our 24-Hour Talking Ad Hotline For More Information! Call (800) 580-8859, Wait for Prompt, Enter Talking Ad#

Southridge

$192,500 $188,990

4/2.5/2—Park-like setting surrounds this lovely brick home. Elegant formal living & formal dining. Big family room with fireplace. Kitchen w/island. Oversized master suite. 4th bedroom is perfect for study. Talking Ad#2058

Southridge

$249,900 $239,900

4/3.5/2—Spectacular 3,335 sq. ft. home on .42 acres, circle drive & oak-shaded yard. Magnificent floor-to-ceiling windows & stone fireplace. Master suite features fireplace & built-ins. Talking Ad#2061

Montecito Del Sur

$320,000

3/3/3 Stunning home on .48 Acres with Pebbletec pool/spa plus huge backyard w/flagstone patios. Gourmet kitchen, open to family room. Gleaming wood floors. Study or 4th bedroom. Gameroom up. Talking Ad#2071

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4/5/3—Beautifully renovated luxury home on .5 acres. Hardwood floors throughout. 16x15 kitchen, 4 bedrooms, 4 full and 2 half baths, 3 living areas, 3-car garage, lots of storage space. Talking Ad#2091

Southridge

PO OL /S PA

Southridge

Oakmont

$435,000 $399,900

4/4.5/3 4,451 sq. ft. Pool & Spa overlook Golf Course! Huge kitchen w/granite counters. 3 living rooms, 2 dining areas. Guest room w/full bath. Jetted tubs in 3 bathrooms! Spectacular custom home! Talking Ad#2051

Oakmont

$239,900 $219,900

5/3.1/2 — Incredible 3,282 sq.ft. floorplan offers 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, study, 3 living rooms, & 2 dining areas. Huge kitchen is open to the family room. Downstairs master suite w/private bath. Downstairs in-law suite. Talking Ad#2056

Argyle

$575,000 $549,900

4/4/3—Three acres w/ barn & horse pasture! 4,011 sq. ft. home w/ wood floors & granite counters. 4 bedrooms, 4 full baths, 3 living areas including gameroom, 2 dining areas, & 3-car garage. Talking Ad#2094

Call our 24-Hour Talking Ad Hotline for More Information! Call (800) 580-8859, Wait for Prompt, Enter Talking Ad#

30 Real Estate

09 01 10

Things are looking up at First American!

MARLENA LAN Ma

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STACIE HO LBE St a

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B U S IN E S S Hugley Y B u si n es s D E V E LO shugley@firsD ev el o pPmMenEtN T

tam.com

3541 Teasley, Suite 100, Denton, TX 76210 OFFICE

940.383.2357 q

FAX

866.373.9048 IA

Lane 111 W. McKinney Denton, TX 76201

Eddie Lane BROKER

940-384-7378

2516 N. Carroll Blvd. — Great investment property or first time homebuyer home. 3 bedrooms with 1 bath. Fantastic treed yard. Updates include kitchen cabinets and countertops. Schools to be verified. $64,900

REALTOR® CRS, GREEN, GRI

232 Woodland Street – Beautiful, well maintained older home with hardwood floors, large den with fireplace, large covered patio overlooking a massive backyard with large pecan trees. Two storage buildings. Terrific area. $149,900

KR UG ER VI LL E SA NG ER

111 Bent Oak Drive – Exceptional custom home with extensive landscaping, covered back patio with a wine garden, fruit trees, vegetable garden, and dog kennel. All with views of neighboring pond. Total backyard paradise. This home boasts a very open floorplan with split 4 bedrooms, ceramic tile entryway, formal dining, living and kitchen, gas cooktop, walkin panty, and designer custom paint. This one has it all! $259,900. Call Myra!

8302 FM 2450 – Great view from your back porch. Wonderful country property on 1.13 acres. This home has wood floors in the living area. Master suite is oversized wtih a great walk-in closet and stained concrete floors. Covered back porch with a storage shed and a fenced in yard. Call Myra! $129,900.

SO UT HR ID GE

DE NT O N AC RE S 12 2001 Whitefish Court – Great location in a neighborhood with a community pool. Home is in a cul-desac and has an open floorplan with kitchen open to living room. $169,900. Call Myra!

www.myraoliver.com

2136 Woodbrook Street – Prestigious Southridge. This one-story home has an excellent floorplan with 4 bedrooms, 3 full baths, large living area with wall of windows overlooking a sparkling saltwater pool, split floorplan, covered back patio. $198,900. Call Myra!

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pride in ownership shows in this home. Great open floorplan, 18-inch ceramic tile in kitchen and entryway, backyard has an open patio with removable cover and a built-in sandbox, great corner lot, open and bright with 2 living areas. Outside painted in June 2010 and interior painted in July 2010. $149,900. Call Myra!

1042 W. Sherman – Your own oasis on 11 acres, minutes out of Denton and Aubrey. Log cabin accents and river rock fireplace add to the warmth and charm. Great house for entertaining inside and out. Covered BBQ and fire pit are awesome for outdoor gatherings with lots of trees and 3 ponds. A hand-crafted wraparound island is the focal point of the grand kitchen. The custom wood finishes are magnificent. Must see! $375,000. Call Myra!

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CO RI NT H DE NT ON 2329 Lookout Ln. – Impeccably mantained and

2917 Osage Lane – Fabulous home in Wind River with custom paint and decorator touches. This home has a covered back patio for viewing the water. Wonderful oversized 16x30 upstairs gameroom with a balcony overlooking the water. The kitchen has a stainless island and stainless appliances, open to the living area which has a beautiful fireplace and plantation shutters, very light and bright. $189,900

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SA NG ER

HUD Broker

1622 Nightingale Lane – Immaculate home with a very open floorplan, 3-car garage, ceramic tile, gas fireplace, and eat-in kitchen. Home has an extra room that could be used as a 4th bedroom, additional living area or office space. Master suite has a wonderful oversized walk-in closet, garden tub, separate shower with double vanities. This home won't last long! $169,900. Call Myra!

09 01 10

Myra Oliver

940-594-6466

www.eddielanerealestate.com

9 Chukar Lane — Shows like a model home. Wonderful one-story with a very open floorplan, 3-car garage, ceramic tile, vaulted ceilings, garden tub, covered porch and split bedrooms. Kitchen has an abundance of cabinets, excellent countertop space and a sit-down desk area. $139,900. Call Myra!

Real Estate

922 Bayfield Dr. – Lovely 3 bedroom, 2 bath, 2-car garage, all brick home with fireplace, open floor plan, fenced backyard, and high ceilings. $112,900.

32 Real Estate

09 01 10

J.D. Power & Associates Reports: Keller Williams Realty is #1 in Customer Satisfaction!

940-484-9411 Denton Area Market Share Totals