October Real Estate Showcase 2010

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DentonRC.com

Denton Record-Chronicle

November 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? Here’s a list Page 24

Tips for selling your home Page 6

Container gardens add color in winter Page 12

Look inside for a list of area cities and schools Page 18

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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!

KC

WILLIAMS WILLIAMS (940) 383-2712 R E A L T O R S

Kathy Rogers

940-206-3032 Cell

Brent Chow

940-453-5159 Cell

Jim Miller

940-594-4000 Cell

Lone Star Pride • Superstar Service

Wanda Perry

940-736-8776 Cell

&

®

1-800-6-DENTON (outside TX)

williamsandwilliams.realtor.com

Mace Renfro

940-391-2286 Cell

Merry Sklar

940-891-5878 Pager

Ed Williams

940-566-2712

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“Eddie” Williams III 940-368-2043 Cell Virginia Williams

We Know Denton County...its people, its land, & its opportunities!

Let us put our knowledge & expertise to work for you!

1000 N. CHICO AVENUE, DECATUR * Unbelievable * Updated * Brick * 1,210+ sf * 3 bdrms * 2 baths * Spectacular Master * Wood laminated & Certile flrs thruout * Recent DW & Range * Oversized Utility Rm * Designer paint * Trees galore * Covered Patio & stg bldg * Just a short ride to Metroplex * MLS #11471184 * EVELYN/REX, 940-595-1609

PO ND

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

"HIGH QUALITY 4 BDRM HOME ON CORDELL"...

TO ES SE TA TT TE LE

$8 ,00 W/ 0 HO GU R TT SE ER BA S RN

2.02-AC SANGER RANCH...

940-595-1609 Cell

Sonya Smith

940-366-0315

*1 -O W NE R

1823 Vintage. Just Listed! To settle estate! Only $199,900!! BEST BUY in prestigious Eagle Pass Addition at Oakmont. One-owner 1-story 4-2-2 with 2,514 sq ft custom built home by Morrison. 2 living, 2 dining, full screened sun porch, beautiful landscaped gorunds and much, much more!! Huge estate sale of all contents on October 15th and 16th!! Won’t Last! See and buy Today!

Call Brent 940-453-5159

$5 ,0 00 W PIPE /G AT FE ES NC IN G

8920 Chisum Rd., Sanger, TX * HORSE PROPERTY, 2912 Savill Gardens * Call Mace, 940-391-2286 for more U.S.A... Totally Updated * 1,287+ sf * 3 bdrms * 2 baths info. * 2-car garage * Brick * New wood & vinyl flrs, paint, light fixtures & clng fans, inside & outside AC units, MW, DW, Kitchen cntrtops, Stovetop, blinds * Awesome sandy soil * MLS #11494181 * Eddie, 940-368-2043

MAKE A SPLASH...DIVING POOL & LAKE LEWISVILLE included...

DI R ACECT CE L SS AK E

BA RN & SH OP

SP AR KL IN G

RE LO

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...

UN CL T OS & E SA TO M ’S

940-594-9145 Cell

Evelyn Hand

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

C GR O E M A M T U FO T R E R S

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

LA N DS .

CA 35 PE 7+ D AC G RO U N DS

DECATUR LIVING AT ITS BEST...

940-391-2379 Cell

Rex Hand

RE DU CE D

NEW CORP OWNED/RELO LISTINGS •DENTON: • 3637 Palmetto Court, Windstone at Oakmont, 4-3.5-2, $141,900 • 8712 Seven Oaks, 2,086+ sf, 4-2-2, blt 2000, $111,900 • 1702 N. Haven, 3-2, 1,784sf, Blt 1979, $108,900 • 3716 Logan Dr., 1,698+ sf, 3-2-2, blt 2005, $115,000 FLOWER MOUND • 2921 Hugo Ct, 1 Acre, 4-3-3, Pool, $310,900 FORT WORTH: • 5541 Smokethorn, 3,619+ sf, 5-3.5-3, blt 2003, Corner Lot, $224,900

1815 Clark * Call Sonya, 940-366-0315 for more info.

8172 Country View * Call Rex/Evelyn Hand, 940-5951609 for more info.

LAKE DALLAS • 409 Stoneleigh, 2,208+sf, 3-2.5-2, blt ‘99, $157,900 LITTLE ELM: • 2701 White Oak, 2,917+ sf, 4-2.5-2, Blt 2003, $139,900 SANGER: • 8172 Country View, 2 Acres, 4-2.5-3, Pool, $251,900

UPCOMING CORP OWNED/RELO LISTINGS CORINTH * Brampton Dr. DENISON * 525 E. Texas HASLET * 11817 Buffalo Hollow Ct. LEWISVILLE * 1232 Winnipeg KELLER * 11700 Latania Ct. KC

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Real Estate

HOWCASE November 2010 Advertiser Index

Calloway’s ....................................................................................................................................................10 Carpets Plus ..................................................................................................................................................28 Century 21, Judge Fite Co ..............................................................................................................................9 CRS Page ......................................................................................................................................................15 Ebby Halliday, REALTORS®. ........................................................................................................................27 Ebby Halliday, REALTORS®, Flower Mound ................................................................................................26 First American Title ......................................................................................................................................11 First State Bank ............................................................................................................................................30 Gohlke Building Products ............................................................................................................................29 Jimmy Brown, REALTORS® ............................................................................................................................8 Keller Williams Realty ..................................................................................................................................32 Keller Williams Realty - Marianne Lamb..............................................................................................23 Keller Williams Realty - Rahna Raney, Toni Martin, Fran Hannah, Belle Speir, Nancy Hundley, Nora Matheny, Sarah Fitzpatrick, Nancy McMinn................................................................................21 Ken Stockdale, REALTOR® ..........................................................................................................................22 Lane Real Estate - Myra Oliver, Eddie Lane..................................................................................................31 Morelle Miller, REALTOR® ............................................................................................................................9 Real T Team ....................................................................................................................................................2 Real T Team - Results Team ..................................................................................................................20 Sendera Title..................................................................................................................................................14 Vanderlaan Real Estate ..................................................................................................................................17 Williams & Williams, REALTORS® ................................................................................................................3 Williams & Williams REALTORS ®..........................................................................................................5

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 KC

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WILLIAMS WILLIAMS &

E

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L

T

O

R

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

SF

AC RE S

$4 6

2, 40 BA 0+ RN/SF

7

We know Denton County—its people, its land, its opportunities!

Let us put our knowledge & expertise to work for you!

"JAGUAR CAR INCL W-FULL $"...

PREMIER HORSE TRAINING FACILITY-AUBREY...

11 03 10

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

YOUR VERY OWN LAKE TEXOMA RESORT...

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

B 40 O X2 AT 5 ST 2G BA W Y /E DR LE Y C T

M FRILLI ON ON T $ VI LA EW K S E

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$49 sf * 1.5+ AC N DALLAS RANCH...

"3.98-AC TUSCAN VILLA EST IN N TX HILL COUNTRY"...

20-AC. WORKING RANCH NO. TX. HILL COUNTRY...

SF

SF

4, 01 8+

2, 14 0+

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

GU N & ITE LA P KE OO L

505 NORTH DRIVE, GORDONVILLE, TX * "ONLY $149,900 & FULLY FURNISHED"...Loc in exclusive Cedar Point Boat Club gated community * 1,344+ sf * 4 bdrms * 2 1/2 bas * 2-story * Screened-in front porch * Wood Deck * Updated * Just walk in w-your swimsuit * Everything interior & exterior stays * Common features--Boat, Fishing, Swimming Ramps, Park Pavillon * Across from famous Texoma's Islands * MLS #11494290...VIRGINIA, 940-391-2379

LI VI NG

407 E BROADWAY STREET, GAINESVILLE * $69,900 * 1 blk N of Historic Downtown Gainesville *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

RE ST N RI O CT IO NS

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

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BA RN S

12 CR 2114, GAINESVILLE, TX * Prime Butler’s Hill

PERFECT FOR HOME BUSINESS SETUP...

LAKE TEXOMA TREASURE W/LAKE VIEWS

BEST $ IN SAVANNAH...

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. * 1 Mile from Lake Ray Roberts * EDDIE, (940) 368-2043

O W N ER

Ranch in North TX Hill Country * 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 * Abundance of Wildlife * RELO * Reduced $95,000 - NEW PRICE $329,900 * MLS #11457081 * VIRGINIA, 940-391-237

RE LO

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$5

R E D U C E D

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563 CR 1452, BONHAM * $590’s* 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/blt-ins, rich millwork * Family Rm w-gas fp, Octang clg, rounded wall of windows * Sumptuous Master Wing * UpProjection Media Rm * Outdr Kitchen w-wbfp, flagstone*Elect avg $200 per month * MLS #11423074 * VIRGINIA, 940-391-2379

FR ON 12 TI AC NG R FMES 45 5

13601 HWY 5, VAN ALYSTYNE, TX 75495 "NESTLED IN SECLUDED POCKET OF VAN ALYSTYNE"... * Perfect for Home/Business, Car Collector, Horses & Treasured Pets, Dog Boarding...Endless Possibilities * 3 bdrms * 2 bas * Old World Charm & Character * Living Rm w-gas fp, antique Colonial mantel, banks of sunlit wndws * Study w-knotty pine panel * Orig wood flrs * Lender approval required * $106,900...VIRGINIA, 940-391-2379

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

1817 AZALEA * $104,900 * 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 * VIRGINIA, 940391-2379 KC

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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 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 long-term trends.

Net proceeds Once you’ve decided on a price range, the REALTOR® can help you calculate an estimated 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.

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

FILE PHOTO

These tips can help you realize your goal for selling your home. 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.

You want a period that’s long

enough to motivate your REALTOR® to advertise your home and respond to buyers, yet short enough to allow you to change to a different company if you become unhappy with the REALTOR®’s service.

Remember that the listing agreement is a contract. You should get a copy for your records. Your REALTOR® is bound to the terms just as you are. You can expect the REALTOR® to keep appropriate information confidential and effectively market your property.

Step 4: Marketing your property Preparing your home In preparing your home for viewing by prospective buyers, remember that people buy on emotions. Your home has to feel right, or buyers will look elsewhere. Ask your REALTOR® and some honest friends to look at your home objectively and suggest ways to make your home more inviting and sellable. Consider both the exterior and interior. Since you will be appealing to buyers’ feelings, you need to pay attention to detail. An extra $50 you spend on red geraniums or new bath towels might mean a significant increase in a buyer’s offer.

Clean your home thoroughly and make minor repairs such

as tightening towel racks and gluing wallpaper edges. For larger repairs, consult your REALTOR® as to whether repairing the item will generate a good return on the sale.

Repainting the woodwork may be worth it, but replacing the carpet may not. Hire a professional inspector to examine your house for structural and mechanical defects. Get an inspection early, and you can avoid surprises.

Honesty and candor If your home has a major problem you don’t intend to correct, be candid about it.

Don’t paint over the water marks on the ceiling to hide a leaky roof. Buyers will find out about the problems anyway, especially if they are smart shoppers and hire a professional to inspect your home. In an age when lawsuits are as common as family sit-down dinners, it pays to be open about everything.

You should consider including a one-year residential service contract with the sale of your home. This buyer perk is a common practice and helps ease concerns. Typically, after the first year, the buyer has the option of renewing the coverage at his or her expense. A residential service contract is simSee SELLING on Page 7

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REAL ESTATE SHOWCASE

Real Estate

From Page 6

Selling ply an agreement with a company to repair certain items on the property if such items fail to function or are in need of repair (for example, air conditioning unit, heating equipment, plumbing system, etc.).

Attracting and screening buyers As part of the overall marketing strategy, your REALTOR® may arrange a tour of your home for local REALTORS® and perhaps schedule an open house for the public. Your REALTOR® may also run ads in local newspapers, Web sites, and other publications tailored specifically for the type of home you are selling. As responses come in, your REALTOR® will screen out sightseers and half-hearted inquirers and make appointments with the serious prospects.

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 to look around and ask questions. If you must be there, let the REALTOR® handle the showing. Sit quietly and be courteous, but avoid engaging the buyer in conversation. The REALTOR® needs the buyer’s complete attention to show

FILE PHOTO

Keep your lawn mowed and ready for showing when selling your home. your home properly.

Fair housing REALTORS® are required by law to make your property available to all persons without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, disability, or familial status. Your REALTOR® will not discuss any matter that may potentially discriminate against any person.

Step 5: The offer When a buyer makes an offer on your home, your REALTOR® will contact you promptly. The REALTOR® will scrutinize the document, review it with you carefully, and answer your questions. The written offer lays out all the terms of the proposed transaction—the price the buyer is willing to pay and the financing terms—and becomes a binding contract if you sign it.

The offer may be contingent 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 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 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.

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08 Real Estate

11 03 10 Serving Denton Over 40 Years 1800 N. Carroll Blvd., Ste. F, Denton, TX 76201 www.jimmybrownrealtor.com 940-566-1515 info@jimmybrownrealtor.com

714 Bernard Need property near the UNT campus? This beautifully treed 0.53 acre tract has an older frame house and is zoned DR-2. Be sure to consider this property if it meets your criteria. $225,000.

Professional guidance...

Personal service...

Everyday...

Bernie Kay Brown

Ernest Briggs

Terry Roberts

Ronnie Roberts KC

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

8920 Tucker, Cross Roads 76227 – 4/2.5/2 - Open living areas downstairs and bedrooms are up. Formal living & dining have wood laminate floors. Oversized family room opens to the kitchen and breakfast area. One bedroom is large enough for a pool table! Small covered porch in large fenced backyard. $120,000 MLS - #11482011

3910 Teal Drive, Denton 76208 – 3/2/2 – Amazing kitchen, huge pantry, black appl., c-tile, abundant cabinets & counters.

Ceiling fans throughout, designer paint, spacious living w/ cast stone FP & built-ins; flexible 2nd living or dining space; large master has jetted tub & separate shower; large yard w/ fence & sprinkler. $139,500 – MLS #11491978

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219 S. 2nd Street, Sanger 76266 – 3/2/2 - Precious historic 2story home was built in 1915 and completely restored in 2003!

Wraparound porch, wood floors, oversized garage. Double gates to RV, boat or trailer storage. Corner lot. Updated kitchen complete with custom cabinets. $139,900 – MLS #11492302

2009 Barton Springs, Corinth 76210 – 3/2/2 - Fresh paint & carpet; ready for move-in! Covered front porch w/ fan & large back deck with entrance from dining or master bedroom (room for hot tub!). Airy island kitchen has gas range & pantry-utility combo. Spacious open living/dining w/ fireplace; split 3rd bedroom could be office. Plenty of storage space, easy access to I35. Come see! $129,900 – MLS #11492002

2400 Miranda Place, Denton 76210 – 3/2/2 - Beautiful, onestory home in Forest Meadows features decorative lighting, 10' ceilings, lots of arched doorways. Open living & dining areas.

Kitchen has SS appliances, island, lots of cabinets and countertop space. Master has sitting area. Master Bath has walk-in closet, double sink, garden tub & oversized shower. Large backyard has covered patio. $155,000 – MLS #11487750

2501 Timber Ridge Lane, Flower Mound 75028 – 5/2.5/2 – Investors! Property located in the heart of desirable Flower Mound. Three living areas, large kitchen, master bedroom on first floor, mature trees, and easy access to shopping & airport.

Home is waiting for your cosmetic TLC. $192,000 – MLS #11485823

1600 Buena Vista Drive, Denton 76210 – 4/2/2 – Multi-tiered backyard paradise w/ lush landscaping, flagstone patios & walkways, pool & spa, pergola, covered outdoor kitchen & grill!

Recent carpet & paint, fireplace, great kitchen, master bath w/ separate shower & dual vanities; bedroom w/ wall of built-ins makes a great study; radiant barrier & solar screens for low utility bills! - $194,900 – MLS #11488087

1801 Manchester Way, Corinth 76210 – 4/2.5/3 – Backyard paradise on corner lot! Spacious rotunda w/ arches; cook’s delight island kitchen w/ granite counters & 2 pantries; hardwoods; 2 fireplaces; extensive built-ins, recent carpet & designer paint; large master w/ bay window seating; mature trees, stamped concrete patio; attic storage, too! - $274,895 – MLS #11483364

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

208 Royal Oaks Place, Denton 76210 – 4/3/3 - Great floor plan, elegant finish! Tiled entry, circular staircase, formals, wet bar, butler's pantry, great room; island kitchen, double ovens, gas cooktop, built-in desk; master w/ sitting area; master bath has loads of storage, jetted tub for 2, & dual vanities; 4th bedroom or study down w 2nd full bath. Upstairs are 2 beds, 1 bath, game room & balcony! Wooded lot; sun room & hot tub! $339,000 – MLS #11485225

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

Corner lot, Ponderosa Valley (FM 2449), Ponder 76259 – Lot 1R, Block B – Beautiful residential lot, approx. 5 acres, ready for you to BUILD YOUR DREAM HOME! Conveniently located near I-35W, US 380 & Hwy 287 - no city taxes! When you enter Ponderosa Valley, turn right on Cartwright Trail; the lot is the first lot on the right. Fronts both FM-2449 & Cartwright Trail. $135,000 – MLS #11481904

real estate is

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CENTURY21JUDGE FITE COMPANY

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C

A LLOWAY’S

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N U R S E R Y®

© 2010 Calloway’s Nursery 0231-10FA

The future value of your home

From season to season, generation to generation the value of your home remains a principal asset.

From roof to foundation you care for it. You paint, spackle and polish. You hire tradespeople for the tough tasks. And you mow, rake and prune...because the outside is as important to your home as the inside.

Garden surroundings give life to the stone, concrete and wood. They create outdoor rooms for family and friends...spaces to gather, picnic, play and contemplate. Your garden areas expand your home, beautify it and make it part of the land.

Plants do more than provide “curb appeal” and your lifestyle is richer for it. Everyone in the neighborhood knows. And so does every prospective buyer. So if ever you decide a move is required, your gardens will help you fetch full value.

CALLOWAY’S

Stop by today and enjoy the most beautiful plants in Texas!

Open Daily

Join the Garden Club mytexasgarden.com

N U R S E R Y®

17 Stores in North Texas. In Denton: 1601 Dallas Drive 940-591-8865

KC

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Things are looking up at First American!

MARLENA LAN Ma

ena E S C RrlO laneE es cr o wW OoF F IC E R mlane@fi ffi ce r rstam.com

RraACHAEL H cH el WARD HO ow E S C R OaW es cr o w O F F IC E R ard

rmhoward@o ffi ce r rmhowar firstam.com

Real Estate

11 03 10

STACIE HO LBE St a

ie Holber RT B R A NcC ANAGER t B ra n ch H M m an ag er sho lbert@firstam

.com

SSCc OTT HUG ott LE

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 KC

12

REAL ESTATE SHOWCASE

Real Estate

11 03 10

FILE PHOTO/STORY FROM TDMN ARCHIVES

Containers spruce up indoors and outdoors Millions of us grew vegetables in 2009, and retail nurseries, publishers and manufacturers of garden products clearly believe the trend will not abate in 2010.

In response to a potential audience that includes some 41 million households (according to stats from the Garden Writers Association Foundation), retailers are stocking aisles with new varieties of herbs and vegetables as well as compact selections suitable for small-space gardening.

The range of containers in which to grow vegetables has expanded, too. From classical glazed and footed urns and upside-down tomato and pepper baskets to $5 party tubs drilled with drainage holes,

mixed containers that supply food as well as ornamentation top today's gardening trends.

A Georgia landscape architect and author of four books on container gardening, Pamela Crawford, recently published a colorful how-to manual that addresses the questions of beginners as well as longtime gardeners intrigued by the idea of combo containers whose "thrillers" are vegetable plants.

Easy Container Combos: Vegetables & Flowers (Color Garden Publishing, $19.95) is more, however, than an idea book. Crawford tested 1,768 plants in 221 containers; 1,376 failed. She faults her own lack of knowledge about vegetables Crawford is a lifelong flower gardener - for most of the prob-

lems. But she also says she could find no research about how vegetable plants responded to being raised in containers.

The book details 18 common vegetables that are easy to grow in containers and seven that are difficult to cultivate in containers or just plain difficult.

Some standouts: a cherry tomato vine climbing an ornamental obelisk and underplanted with Dragon Wing begonias, heliotrope and sweet potato vines; a cool-season window box with ornamental cabbages, pansies and spiky juncus, of the rush family; and a 31-inch-tall, cobalt-blue glazed urn overflowing with a single summer squash plant, its yellow fruits dangling like Christmas ornaments.

13

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

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

Naomi Hampton Branch Manager/Escrow Officer

Kristen Kromer Escrow Officer

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

Phone 940-440-0201 Fax 940-440-0901 Serving the Surrounding Areas KC

15 Real Estate

Helping you navigate the road home Virginia A. Williams, CRS, CCIM, CRP, CRB, GRI, LTG, RRC

Barbara Russell, CRB, CRS, GRI O: 940/566-2730 H: 940/368-7672 Barbara Russell, REALTORS

O: 940/383-2712 M: 972/434-SELL Williams & Williams, REALTORS

Myra Oliver, CRS, GREEN, GRI

Jim & Linda McKissack, CRS

O: 940/594-6466 Lane Real Estate

Marianne Lamb, CRS, ABR

O: 940/484-9441 M: 940/383-6683 Keller Williams Realty

D: 940/591-0616 O: 940/484-9411 Keller Williams Realty

Kaye Spence, CRS O: 940/591-6609 H: 940/387-8690 Keller Williams Realty

Rahna Raney, CRS, ABR 940/391-0016 Keller Williams Realty

11 03 10

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

Toni Martin, CRS M: 940/391-6844 Keller Williams Realty

Wanda L. Perry, CRS, GRI O: 940/383-2712 X238 M: 940/736-8776 Williams & Williams, REALTORS

Certified Residential Specialists offer unique expertise due to advanced study and a proven record of experience.

KC

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11 03 10

Marla Carrico Realtor®

Morelle Miller Broker

marlacarrico@hotmail.com

Josh White Broker

josh@dentonhomeguide.com

(940) 387-7514

(940) 395-0414

1811 Bolivar, Denton,TX

IN

CO NT RA CT

(940) 390-9518 www.marlacarrico.com www.dentonhomeguide.com

1605 Mallard ~ Corinth

1451 Trent ~ Krum

1222 Emerson ~ Denton

Pristine 4-2-2, split bedroom home in coveted Hawk-Crownover-Guyer district. 2 living & 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. $169,000.

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.

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 countertops, 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.

209 Joshua Street ~ Denton

Cute, clean, and ready to go. This darling 3-2-1 has new paint, new carpet, and looks fabulous. Lovely backyard has covered back patio, trees, and is just down the street from some new construction. Lovely tile in the foyer and in the dining room. Ceiling fans in bedrooms and den. Garage has an automatic garage door opener. Close to shopping, schools, etc. Great opportunity for an excellent home at an affordable price! $89,900. Call Marla 940-395-0414.

905 Skylark ~ Denton 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.

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.

2600 Church Drive ~ Corinth Executive 4 bedroom, 3 bath home on 3 acres surrounded by oak trees with 2 deluxe freestanding 2 bedroom guest homes complete with fireplace and laundry facilities.

Property has superior horse facilities with 5 stalls, tackrooms, paddock, AC, full bath, and hay storage. There are 14 garages, plus an additional homestead barn with electricity, shop, and plenty of room for equipment storage. $625,000. Call Marla 940-395-0414.

11866 FM 2153 ~ Sanger

14721 Eaglemont Drive ~ Little Elm

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.

Pristine 3 bedroom, 2 bath house in Frisco Ranch. Beautiful arches and art niches add wonderful character to this open concept home.

Kitchen is large with lots of cabinets, countertop space, breakfast bar and tile backsplash. Master suite has separate sitting room and huge walk-in closet. Master bath includes 2 sinks with vanity space, garden tub and shower. The backyard has a covered porch to enjoy your evenings. This is a must see. $184,500. 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.

KC

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Selling Denton & the North Texas Area For Over 30 Years

Real Estate

11 03 10

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

Debbie Vanderlaan Broker

Visit Our New Website www.northtexascountryliving.com

991 Lakeview Ct, Copper Canyon $1,109,000 * Stunning 5,222 sf, 4 bd, 4.1 bath * 10+ Acres Fronting Shared Private Lake * 6-Stall Barn w/Workshop & Living Quarters

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, Sand Volleyball, Tennis Courts

10902 Clear Creek, Sanger $695,000 * 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

3513 Granada Trail, Denton $349,000 * Custom 3,722sf Residence w/ 4/3.1/3 * Large Heavily Treed Lot * Backyard Features Gunite Swimming Pool

3113 Triple Crown Court, Denton $649,500 * Stunning 5,222 sf, 4 bd, 4.1 bath * Rests On Over .5 Acre in South Denton * Open Floor Plan Perfect For Entertaining

$379,000

KC

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11 03 10

REAL ESTATE SHOWCASE

Who to contact for cities and schools Denton County communities range in size from nearly 100,000 to just over 500 — from the suburban areas in southern Denton County to the smaller, agriculturally surrounded communities in the north.

In the central part of the county, Denton and the Lake Cities (Corinth, Hickory Creek, Lake Dallas and Shady Shores) continue to deal with the growth flowing north and west from Dallas and Collin counties, respectively.

The following information from the North Central Texas Council of Governments includes population estimates and contact information for each of the county’s many communities.

Argyle 2010 pop. est.: 3,400 506 N. Highway 377 P. O. Box 609 Argyle, TX 76226 940-464-7273 Fax: 940-464-7274 www.argyletx.com Aubrey 2010 pop. est.: 2,600 107 S. Main St. Aubrey, TX 76227 940-440-9343 www.aubreytx.net Bartonville 2010 pop. est.: 1,400 1941 E. Jeter Road Bartonville, TX 76226 817-430-4052 Fax: 817-430-9433 www.townofbartonville.com Corinth 2010 pop. est.: 19,750 3300 Corinth Parkway Corinth, TX 76208 940-498-3200 Fax: 940-498-3247 www.cityofcorinth.com Cross Roads 2000 census pop.: 603 1401 FM424

Cross Roads, TX 76227 940-365-9693 Fax: 940-665-6898 www.crossroadstx.gov Denton 2010 pop. est.: 110,300 215 E. McKinney St. Denton, TX 76201 940-349-8200 972-434-2520 (metro) Fax: 940-349-8236 www.cityofdenton.com Double Oak 2010 pop. est.: 2,600 320 Waketon Double Oak, TX 75077 972-539-9464 Fax: 972-539-9613 www.double-oak.com Flower Mound 2010 pop. est.: 62,950 2121 Cross Timbers Road Flower Mound, TX 75028 972-874-6000 Fax: 972-874-6460 www.flower-mound.com Hickory Creek 2010 pop. est.: 3,750 1075 Ronald Reagan Ave. Hickory Creek, TX 75065 940-497-2528 Fax: 940-497-3531 www.hickorycreek-tx.gov Highland Village 2010 pop. est.: 15,250 1000 Highland Village Road Highland Village, TX 75077 972-899-5132 www.highlandvillage.org Justin 2010 pop. est.: 3,150 415 N. College Ave. P.O. Box 129 Justin, TX 76247 940-648-2541 www.cityofjustin.com Krum 2010 pop. est.: 4,000 102 W. McCart St. P.O. Box 217 Krum, TX 76249 940-482-3491 www.ci.krum.tx.us

FILE PHOTO

Denton County communities range in population from 500 to more than 100,000.

Lake Dallas 2010 pop. est.: 7,300 212 Main St. P.O. Box 368 Lake Dallas, TX 75065 940-497-2226 www.lakedallas.com Lewisville 2010 pop. est.: 96,450 151 W. Church St. P.O. Box 299002 Lewisville, TX 75057 972-219-3400 972-434-1112 (metro) www.cityoflewisville.com Lincoln Park 2000 census pop.: 517 110 Parker Parkway Aubrey, TX 76227 940-365-2839 Little Elm 2010 pop. est.: 24,000 100 W. Eldorado Parkway Little Elm, TX 75068 214-975-0400 www.littleelmtx.us Northlake 2010 pop. est.: 2,300

1301 FM407 P.O. Box 729 Northlake, TX 76247 940-648-3290 www.town.northlake.tx.us Oak Point 2010 pop. est.: 2,700 100 Naylor Road Oak Point, TX 75068 972-294-2312 www.oakpointtexas.com Pilot Point 2010 pop. est.: 4,100 102 E. Main St. P.O. Box 457 Pilot Point, TX 76258 940-686-2165 www.cityofpilotpoint.org Ponder 2010 census pop.: 1,150 405 Shaffner St. P.O. Box 297 Ponder, TX 76259 940-479-2396 www.pondertx.com Roanoke 2010 pop. est.: 7,500 108 S. Oak St.

Roanoke, TX 76262 817-491-2411 www.roanoketexas.com Sanger 2010 pop. est.: 7,050 201 Bolivar St. P.O. Box 1729 Sanger, TX 76266 940-458-7930 www.sangertexas.org Shady Shores 2010 pop. est.: 2,450 P.O. Box 362 101 S. Shady Shores Road Lake Dallas, TX 75065 940-498-0044 www.shady-shores.com/ The Colony 2010 pop. est.: 40,100 6800 Main St. The Colony, TX 75056 972-625-1756 www.thecolonytx.gov

SOURCE: North Central Texas Council of Governments

REAL ESTATE SHOWCASE High Schools Denton High School — 1007 N. Fulton St., 940-369-2000, enrollment: 1,339 John Guyer High School — 7501 Teasley Lane, 940-369-1000, enrollment: 2,128 Billy Ryan High School — 5101 E. McKinney Ave., 940-369-3000, enrollment: 1,700 Fred Moore High School — 815 Crosstimbers, 940-369-4000, enrollment: 29 Middle Schools Calhoun Middle School — 709 Congress St., 940-369-2400, enrollment: 611 Ronnie Crownover Middle School — 1901 Creekside Drive, Corinth, 940-369-4700, enrollment: 864 McMath Middle School — 1900 Jason Drive, 940-369-3300, enrollment: 764 Navo Middle School – 1701 Navo Road, Aubrey, 972-347-7500, enrollment: 887 Strickland Middle School — 324 E. Windsor Drive, 940-369-4200, enrollment: 871 Tom Harpool Middle School— 9601 Stacee Lane, Argyle, 940-369-1700, enrollment: 738

FILE PHOTO

This year, the Popo and Lupe Gonzalez School for Young Children opened in the Denton school district on Long Road near the LaGrone Advanced Technology Complex.

Elementary Schools Borman Elementary School — 1201 Parvin St., 940-369-2500, enrollment: 434 Evers Park Elementary School — 3300 Evers Parkway, 940-369-2600, enrollment: 583 Ginnings Elementary School — 2525 Yellowstone, 940-369-2700, enrollment: 569 Hawk Elementary School — 2300 Oakmont, Corinth, 940-369-1800, enrollment: 770 Hodge Elementary School — 3900 Grant Parkway, 940-369-2800, enrollment: 561 Houston Elementary School — 3100 Teasley Lane, 940-369-2900, enrollment: 666 Lee Elementary School — 800 Mack Place, 940-369-3500, enrollment: 643 McNair Elementary School — 1212 Hickory Creek Road, 940-369-3600, enrollment: 611 Eugenia Porter Rayzor Elementary School — 377 Rayzor Road, Argyle, 940-369-4100 enrollment: 621 Newton Rayzor Elementary School — 1400 Malone, 940-369-3700, enrollment: 536 Pecan Creek Elementary School — 4400 Lakeview Blvd., 940-369-4400, enrollment: 590 Providence Elementary School – 1000 FM2931, Aubrey, 940-369-1900, enrollment: 740 Savannah Elementary School — 1101 Cotton Exchange Drive, Aubrey, 972-347-7400, enrollment: 491 Tomas Rivera Elementary School — 701 Newton St., 940-369-3800, enrollment: 633 Wayne Stuart Ryan Elementary School — 201 W. Ryan Road, 940-369-4600, enrollment: 499 Wilson Elementary School — 1306 Windsor Drive, 940-369-4500, enrollment: 707 Ann Windle School for Young Children — 901 Audra Lane, 940-369-3900, enrollment: 334 Webb-Blanton Elementary — 9501 Stacee Lane, Argyle, 940-369-0700, enrollment: 451

Olive Stephens Elementary — 133 Garza Road, Shady Shores, 940-369-0800, enrollment: 305 Area school districts Argyle ISD — 800 Eagle Drive, Argyle, TX 76226, 940-464-7241 Aubrey ISD — 415 Tisdell Lane, Aubrey, TX 76227, 940-365-2721 Krum ISD — 809 E. McCart St., Krum, TX 76249, 940-482-6000 Lake Dallas ISD — 315 E. Hundley, Lake Dallas, TX 75065, 940-497-4039 Pilot Point ISD — 829 S. Harrison, Pilot Point, TX 76258, 940-686-8700 Ponder ISD —400 W. Bailey St., Ponder, TX 76259, 940-479-8200 Sanger ISD — P.O. Box 2399, 601 Elm St., Sanger, TX 76266, 940-458-7438 Private schools Community School — 2046 Scripture St., 940-382-3216 Countryside Montessori — 610 Dallas Drive, 940-483-1133 Denton Calvary Academy — 1910 E. University Drive, 940-320-1944 Immaculate Conception Catholic School 2301 Bonnie Brae St., 940-381-1155, parochial; 3 years old to eighth grade Liberty Christian School — 1301 S. U.S. Highway 377, Argyle, 940-294-2000 The Selwyn School — 3333 W. University Drive, 940-382-6771 Higher-education University of North Texas With 151 buildings on 500 acres, the University of North Texas campus is a city within the city of Denton. UNT enrolls more than 30,000 undergraduate and graduate students.

For more information, visit www.unt.edu.

Texas Woman’s University TWU is a major university, the largest one primarily for women in the United States, with enrollment of more than 10,000.

TWU’s high-rise residence halls, academic facility and administrative buildings dominate Denton’s skyline.

For more information, visit www.twu.edu.

North Central Texas College Located off Interstate 35E at 1500 N. Corinth St. in Corinth, the Denton County branch of North Central Texas College has seen enrollment rise to more than 4,000 students.

The three-story, 75,000-square-foot facility, opened in 2000, can accommodate 6,000 students.

NCTC also serves Cooke and Montague counties, with its main campus in Gainesville.

For more information, visit www.nctc.edu/.

NOTE: Enrollment numbers are from June 2010.

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20 Real Estate

C O N TR A C T

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

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

Ron Hebert & Lance Yuzbick

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

IN

R E M O D E LE D

TE LA U C MA IM

C O N TR A C T

11 03 10

IN

The Results Team “Creating Customers For Life!”

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

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. $149,900

N E W

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Ron Hebert REALTOR®

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

Yuzbick & Lance REALTOR ®

940-898-8815

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

More pictures and virtual tours at

www.results-team.com

KC

21 Real Estate

3956 Overlake

408 Brockett

Cute one owner home. Large family room with fireplace. Covered deck, mature trees. Great for entertaining. 3-2-2. $104,500. Belle Speir

Just reduced to $124,900. 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. Rahna Raney

306 Wilson

3933 Miramar

3/2/2 Lakeview home. Many mature trees.

Beautifully maintained, corner lot. Remodeled, balcony. $140,000. Belle Speir

11 Puddin Hill

7516 Sunburst Trail – Ryan Ranch

3512 Lipizzan Dr.– Wheeler Ridge Sub.

Huge price reduction! $399,000. 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. Toni Martin & Rahna Raney

Lovely popular legacy flr plan – Very bright & open. Beautiful kit. w/cherrywood cab. A lot of cab. & counter space. Bkfst bar, skylight, kit opens to family rm. 2 liv. & 2 eating areas. Split bdrms – designer colors, tiled flrs, close to schools & shopping & park. $159,900. Toni Martin

2225 Southway

1125 Oakcrest

LI ST IN G

Beautiful 2-story Mercedes. Corian countertops, open kitchen, gas appliances. Sun room and covered patio. Shows like a model. $229,000, 4-2.52. Nora Matheny

Can’t beat this price per sq ft. Seller wants a quick sale for this pretty 3/2/2. Very open flr. plan. Spacious living rm w/corner fireplace, good sized bedrooms, lg. eat-in kit. Close to pool & club house. $121,500. Rahna Raney, Toni Martin

N EW

PR O VI D EN C E

LI ST IN G

Elegant 3/3/2 in gated Ellison Park. Great floorplan, corner lot. $214,900. Imogene Evans

N EW

ED C U ED R

1105 Ellison Park

11 03 10

R ED U C ED

R ED U C ED

AU B R EY

R ED U C ED

Bringing You & Your Home Together

1625 Victoria – N.E. Denton

2129 Crestmeadow

Immaculate, bright and open. Kitchen w/island, A vacation every day on the lake. multiple cabinets, formal dining could easily be Call Fran Hannah 940.391.6050. Great service is study. Large breakfast area, nice landscaping. priceless!

Close to UNT and new Walmart. 3/2.5/2. $123,900. Toni Martin & Rahna Raney

$125,000. Beautiful home with many extras. Low e-dbl. 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.

Rahna Raney

Wilson

2 Lots (Pearl Cove and Crow)

100 Acres, horse country. Pasture, trees. 10 min1831 Crow - Close to UNT..75 acre.$64,000.

761 Pearl Cove - Beautiful wooded acre + lot in Emerald utes from Lake Ray Roberts. Nice area. Rahna Raney Sound at Lake Lewisville - $99,000.Toni Martin

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

®

®

SA N G ER

PR O PL VID AC EN E C E

Need a workshop? This well-kept 4/2/2 home offers you a 2-car gar. plus a sep. 24x32 brick shop with porch, 220 wiring, window unit, shower, sink, commode also installed. Lg. corner lot – Wilson & Ryan schools. $239,900. Rahna Raney, Toni Martin

201 Diane Drive

1051 Providence Blvd.

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!

Diane Drive has redone the kitchen with stainless five-burner cooktop, dishwasher, microwave, granite counters, new center island. All flooring downstairs is new with tile in the foyer, downstairs bedroom, kitchen and wood scraped flooring in den, living/dining area.

Beautiful corner treed double lot with wrapped porch. Lovely curb appeal and upgrades are fabulous. $229,500. Nancy McMinn

Rahna Raney,

Nora Matheny,

Belle Speir,

(940)391-0016

(940)453-4358

(281)467-6552

REALTOR®

REALTOR®

REALTOR®

Sarah Fitzpatrick, Nancy Hundley, REALTOR REALTOR (940)206-5575 (281)467-6552 ®

®

KC

22 Real Estate

Ken Stockdale,

11 03 10

REALTOR®

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

W NE

N O

ET K AR M

35 OAK FORREST CR. – 5/3.5/3 Great family Forrestridge home w/beautiful details, large kitchen, lots of living areas, lovely yard w/pool. MLS# 11470773. $349,000 D CE U D RE

LD SO

1926 LAURELWOOD – 4/3 Detached garage.

Great for RV parking. Wilson School. Owner will help w/repairs. MLS# 11380147. $100,000

G IN D N PE

1900 LE SAGE – 3/2/2 2 living and 2 eating areas, split master, quality home w/ceramic tile.

MLS# 11424098. $147,000

1

1815 WILLOWWOOD – 4/2.5/2 Huge treed lot (.64 acre), circle drive. Close to UNT. MLS# 11398638. $145,000

RE AC

T LO

1516 WILLOWWOOD – 3/2 nice home on one acre lot w/trees. Room for garden. MLS# 11410121. $144,900

S EE TR

513 W. WINDSOR – 3/2/2 with formal dining.

Seller will pay for new carpet. MLS# 11204314. $139,900

D CE U D RE

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# 11424104. $139,000

See these homes on REALTOR.COM KC

23

In Celebration of Thanksgiving

Real Estate

11 03 10

Gavin and Marianne Lamb APPRECIATE the 100 + families we have assisted in 2010 and all our past clients who have faithfully referred their friends and families to us for the past 19 years!

T OUR P E C E AC HANKS! S A E L P ET R E C N SI

These great homes are available for your holiday happiness: 3820 Granada Trail-$569,900-5/5.5/5 home on corner w POOL/ Montecito 3913 Andrew Avenue-$339,000-4/3.5/3 Great Deal-Thistle Hill 8716 Wyatt Circle-$296,000-4/3.5/2 Lantana 6705 Smoketree Trail-$259,500- 3/2.5/2 The Preserve/ All the upgrades 8723 Cherry Lee Lane-$248,000- 4/2.5/2 Lantana 2645 Whispering Trail-$209,900- 5/3.5/2 Foreclosure in Little Elm 2107 Vintage Drive-$209,900- 4/2.5/2 Short Sale-Oakmont 4509 Black Walnut-$179,900- 4/2/2 Custom Upgrades/The Preserve 2513 Great Bear-$172,500- 4/2.5/2 Best Deal/ Wind River 1231/1232 Cordell Street-$162,500 2/2 Duplex w Carport 1303/1305 Cordell Street- $162,500 2/2 Duplex w Carport 1302/1304 Crescent Street- $162,500 2/2 Duplex w Carport 7412 Riverchase Trail- $154,500 4/2/2 Corner lot in Ryan Ranch

6749 Red Rock Trail- $109,900 3/2/2 Foreclosure in Fort Worth 3015 Mason Avenue- $118,900 4/2/2 Foreclosure in CorinthContract Pending 254 Country Court- $754,900 4/4.5/3 Foreclosure in BartonvilleContract Pending 709 Skylark- $166,900 3/2/2 Southridge Beauty/Sold 10260 Los Barrow- $120,900 3/2/2 Foreclosure coming in Fort Worth 187 Castleridge A & B- 3/2/2 New Duplex Foreclosure coming in Little Elm 3801 Huckle Berry- 3/2/2 Foreclosure coming in Fort Worth 4265 Jenny Lake- 5/2.5/2 Foreclosure w/POOL coming in Keller 4668 Park Bend- 4/2.5/2 Foreclosure coming in Fort Worth 4004 Quail Run- 8 Acres Foreclosure coming in Flower Mound 1618 Suncrest- 3/2/2 Foreclosure coming in Fort Worth

940 591-0616 www.mlamb.com

Lamb’s Real Estate Connection

Marianne Lamb, Owner/Agent Gavin Lamb, Agent/Buyer Consultant Jennifer Titterington, Listings Coordinator

KC

24 Real Estate

11 03 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 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 flooding 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

FILE PHOTO

Follow these few steps to buy a new family home in today’s market. 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 firsttime 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, See BUYING on Page 25

25

REAL ESTATE SHOWCASE

Real Estate

From Page 24

Buying 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 con-

tract 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 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 cal-

culate 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 basic kinds of documents 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 See BUYING on Page 30

11 03 10

26 Real Estate

11 03 10

The Best Address In Real Estate SANGER

10862 Gregory Rd.

JUSTIN

6562 Tim Donald

DENTON

113 Old Alton Dr.

PONDER 12281 Hill Country Cr.

$800,000. 3/2/4, approximately 75 acres. Fabulous kitchen w/brick accents around gas cooktop and surrounding eating bar. 70 x 80 metal insulated bldg (airplane hangar) w/ apartment with 2 baths. Adaptable to many uses!

Dianne Otwell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (214)354-0720

$459,900. 3/2/2, on 30 beautiful acres in Ponder School District. Split bedrooms, wood and tile floors. 3stall barn with workshop. Updated kitchen. Long covered back patio.

$430,000. 4/3.1/2 single-story on 4.83 acres.

Fenced/cross-fenced for horses. Barn, tack room. Split master, high ceilings, gourmet kitchen w/granite counters. Lots to see!

$299,900. 3/3.1/3, sitting on 1.25 acres! All bedrooms down with master split. Austin stone FP opens to SS kitchen w/walk-in pantry. Upstairs game room has half bath. Many upgrades. Bring horses!

Jill Bridges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (214)704-0679

James Chastain

Jill Bridges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (214)704-0679

HICKORY CREEK 222 Barkley Dr.

JUSTIN

HICKORY CREEK

$259,900. 4/3/2, incredible view! Island kitchen w/granite countertops looks over family room & FP. Private backyard w/open patio & fountain has beautiful view of Lake Lewisville. Master has sitting area.

$227,000. 3/2/2, charming 1-story on fabulous lot with views of pond & mature trees in back. Recent updates: wood floor, carpet, paint, textured paint, fans, c-tile around shower & tub in master. See-through FP between master & living area.

Jeannie Seth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (214)215-0895

$189,900. 4/3/2 in Northridge has living room w/vaulted ceiling, brick FP, wet bar, wood floors. Master has access to backyard. Loaded with upgrades, great storage, sprinkler system, solar power system & panels.

Michelle Atkins . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (972)355-5671

$259,900. 5/3.2/4, on 1 acre! Home features separate living for two families. #1 is 3 bdrm, 2.1 baths wtih 3car gar. & 2nd home is two bedroom, 1.1 bath w/oversized 1-car gar. + climate controlled storage. A mustsee! Both have great amenities!

Donna Robichaux . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (972)355-5639

JUSTIN

JUSTIN

PONDER

DENTON

6028 Tim Donald

511 S. Hardeman Cir.

1317 Valley Dr.

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (972)355-5633

244 Barkley

201 N. Frederick

DENTON

2124 Savannah Trl.

Mitzy Ferguson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (972)355-5641

4713 Fox Sedge

$199,900. 3/2/0, tri-level home on 6 acres. Wood plank flooring, balcony off master, covered back area. Close to Alliance, TX Motor Speedway. All pastures cross fenced, 3-stall barn + loafing sheds. Updated home.

$167,500. 4/2/2 on pie-shaped lot. Great kitchen w/recent tile and easy access to both living areas for entertaining. Tile in all wet areas. Large yard w/trees backs to beautiful open pasture.

$164,900. 3/2.1/0, custom home on .75 acre. Split bedrooms, clean, bright, open floor plan. Huge trees, small barn in back. RV/boat parking. Enclosed back porch & separate office or storage room.

$163,900. 3/2/2, one-owner home. Upgrades include custom quality light fixtures, wood floors, 41� cabinets & more! C-tiles in walkways. Master planned community w/pool & playground, scenic trails.

Jill Bridges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (214)704-0679

Kay T. Moore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (940)391-3058

Jill Bridges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (214)704-0679

Kathey Anthony . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (972)355-5636

PONDER

202 Southpeak Ln.

JUSTIN

411 Silver Mine

DENTON

928 Beechwood Dr.

$159,900. 4/2/2, split bedrooms, 4th bedroom could be study. Living-dining area open to kitchen w/breakfast room & bar. Oversized master with privacy off the breakfast area with suite bath, separate shower.

$157,900. 3/2/2, open kitchen, family room w/bay window in breakfast area. Corner FP & large picture window. Brushed nickel hardware, granite, raised ceilings.

Loaded kitchen. Sitting area in master.

$125,000. 3/2/2, eat-in kitchen opens to family room w/brick FP. Nice kitchen w/center island. French doors from living area lead to patio and large yard. Separate utility room.

Jill Bridges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (214)704-0679

Lois Lyles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(214)215-4656

Brenda Taylor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (972)489-4050

Flower Mound Office • 972-539-3000 6000 Long Prairie Road, Flower Mound, TX 75028

KC

27 Real Estate

11 03 10

Ebby...

The First Name In Real Estate!

940-891-3229

$259,000 1901 Canyon Ct.

1234 Mallard Creek

$249,900

602 Magnolia

$94,500

Nice, well-maintained 3 bedroom, 2 bath, brick home with wood-burning fireplace (gas starter), utility room, covered patio, 2-car garage, fenced yard, and storage building. Great location close to everything. Jack Ragsdale 972-989-2716

SHSH O AD R Y ES $150,000

Spacious 4 bd, close to TWU and UNT, wet bar, large sun room and living areas. A little TLC makes this one a fabulous buy! Alana Hosea 214-796-4684

180 Greathouse

$307,750

This 5 bd, 4 living area, 4 bath, 3-car garage in exclusive Cielo Ranch has ample space for your needs.

Come see for yourself! Patrice Easley 817-797-1449

PR VIOV LL ID AGEN E CE

D EN TO N

A U BR EY

K EL LE R Fantastic 4 bedroom, 3 bath, quality-built home -recently updated - in prestigious Highland Oaks. Beautiful .26-acre heavily treed lot that backs up to creek and greenbelt, with rear-entry oversized garage and privacy gate for beauty and security. Very elegant home with all desired amenities. Huge privacy deck in back to enjoy nature at its best. Great for entertaining. A MUST SEE for the nature lover. Jack Ragsdale 972-989-2716

$189,900

Open, bright 3/2/2. Tropical landscape with awesome pool. Easy access to I35, TWU, UNT. This is a MUSTSEE! Patrice Easley 817-797-1449

$136,000 621 E. University Dr.

Great starter home! Open floor plan, garden spa tub in master bath. Covered patio. Sherry Harris-Bryant 936336-0895

1151 Cogburn Ct.

9915 Birch Dr.

$107,900

Great 3-2-2 in Providence Village! Open floor plan, designer colors throughout, fabulous kitchen upgrades!

Shawn Strodoski 469-233-0641

D EN TO N

Custom home on 2 ac. 3 bd, 2 bath, 2-car garage. Light and bright open floorplan. No need to preview. This home has it all! Shawn Strodoski 469-233-0641

$169,500

Enjoy 2 acres of country living! Ponder 3/2/2 manufactured home w/loads of amenities! Bring your horses!

Anna Blalock 940-458-3348

1407 Sweetgum

501 Diamond Point Dr.

A U BR EY

PO N D ER 3647 Sweet Lee Ln

SA G IN AW

O A K $299,900

Very nice approx 15.5 acres. 4 bd, 2 bath home, large 2-car garage, covered patio, storm shelter, barn. Great horse property! Jack Ragsdale 972-989-2716

$78,500

3 bedroom, 1 bath, fireplace, covered front and back porch. Jamie K. Miller 817-505-6886

D EN TO N

PO IN T

PO IN T PI LO T 1012 Berend Rd.

$548,500 516 S. Hampshire

Contemporary home in Oak Shores Estates. Open flr plan, 2.5 baths; Master has see-thru fireplace.

Incredible amenities! Patrice Easley 817-797-1449

4501 Rhone Dr.

$140,000

What a deal! 4 bd home in great condition on a large landscaped corner lot! Includes a community pool and playground. Alana Hosea 214-796-4684

PR VIOV LL ID AGEN E CE

$543,000 2500 W. Oak Shores

Quality custom home in prestigious Shadow Brook Place. 4 bdrm, 4 bath, 2 living areas, 3.5- car garage.

Jack Ragsdale 972-989-2716

D EC AT U R

3600 Bentley Ct.

C R O SS

D EN TO N

R O A D S

denton.ebby.com

3201 Teasley Lane, Suite 601 Denton, TX

$149,900 863 Post Oak

3 bedroom, 2.5 bath, luxury townhome, 1 mile north of the square in Decatur. No other like it in Wise County, would make Highland Park residence envious. Stone front, high ceilings, granite c-tops, tile backsplash, black upgraded appl. including refrig, master bedroom suite includes separate shower and garden tub. Separate utility room and large 21' x 21' garage. Unmatched covered back porch and deck with wisteria-covered arbor. Jack Ragsdale 972-989-2716

$120,000

Previous model home with four 10' x 10' office spaces in enclosed garage area. 2 bedrooms, 2 baths, 3 living areas, 2 dining areas, including 10' x 34' game-media room up. Home could be changed to a 3 bedroom and 2-car garage with a little modification. Great investment property. Great location. Jack Ragsdale 972-9892716

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OPEN: Mon. - Thurs.

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

Real Estate

11 03 10

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

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REAL ESTATE SHOWCASE

Real Estate

11 03 10

How to save on energy costs Take your home’s temperature with Thermal Imaging Audits from Denton Municipal Electric. DME’s free Thermal Imaging audits are a powerful way to diagnose your home’s energy efficiency. The auditor uses a thermal imaging camera to quickly identify thermal flaws in your home’s shell. Some examples of flaws are: improper wall insulation, open areas in the attic that may disturb loose fill insulation, uncontrolled air infiltration through windows, doors, ducts, and both plumbing and electrical holes. As a bonus, each customer who schedules a Thermal Imaging Audit also receives a Water Audit. The Water Audit consists of detecting leaks in the home, how to read your water meter, and water con-

FILE PHOTO

servation information.

The Thermal Imaging Audit can last about one hour, depending on the home and curiosity of the home owner. When the audit is complete, our Energy Auditor will discuss all the findings with the home owner, show any infrared pictures that may have been taken, and make any necessary recommendations for your home to be more efficient.

Denton Municipal Electric’s Energy Audit Program has been designed to increase energy efficiency awareness and help lower monthly utility bills by providing energy-saving tips for homes and businesses. Sign up for a Thermal Imaging audit by calling 940-349-7137.

How it Works Denton Municipal Electric offers two

ways for customers to participate in the Energy Audit Program: Customers can schedule a home or business appointment with a DME Energy Auditor. The Energy Auditor will conduct a walk-through audit of the customer’s home or business and discusses personal energy usage habits while pointing out areas that can be improved to help increase energy efficiency. Increasing a home or businesses energy efficiency can also help to lower electric bills. To schedule an appointment with an Energy Auditor, please call (940) 349-7137 or fill out the form listed below.

For Home For residential customers who want to take advantage of the Energy Audit

Program, but simply do not have the time to meet with an Energy Auditor, DME now offers an online home audit that can be completed from the comfort of the customer’s home or business. Denton Municipal Electric is pleased to offer Energy Depot for Homes®, an online tool to help homeowners better understand and manage energy usage and costs. This free service is a one-stop resource for energy information where homeowners can: Create a personalized Energy Profile report on your home’s annual energy use and cost of each energy system and major appliance in your home. The report also provides recommendations on how to lower energy use and cost at your home.

- City of Denton

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) KC

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REAL ESTATE SHOWCASE From Page 25

Buying 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. 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. As a buyer you may sign a buyer representation agreement with a REALTOR®. Prepaids. You should be

aware that your closing costs will include prepayment of an escrow account to cover insurance and taxes. And, seek the advice of an attorney before entering into a binding agreement

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Lane 111 W. McKinney Denton, TX 76201

BROKER

940-384-7378

CO RI NT H

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. $139,900. Call Myra!

3201 Windridge Lane – Wonderful family home on corner lot. This home was recently painted inside and ceramic tile installed in bathrooms and laundry room.

Open floorplan with large eat-in kitchen, split bedrooms, and large living area with fireplace. Beautifully done in neutral colors. $139,900. Call Myra!

3533 Sundown Boulevard – Fabulous one-story home in Sundown Ranch. This home has a split floorplan, wood floors, ceramic tile entryway and kitchen. Backyard is a great outdoor space with a covered flagstone patio, storage building, and an eight-foot privacy fence. This home shows like a model home. $199,900. Call Myra!

DE NT O N 613 Sun Valley – This home has 3 bedrooms and 1.5 baths with an efficiency apartment or mother-in-law suite attached to main house. Garage has been converted to a one-bedroom, one-bath apartment. Great deal for two families or a large family. $119,900.

SA NG ER

AC RE S 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. $164,900. Call Myra!

www.myraoliver.com

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.

HU RI NT DG ER E S

SO UT HR ID GE 12 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! $359,900. Call Myra!

DE NT O N

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

11 Highview Circle – Prestigious Forrestridge.

Remarkable one-story on almost half-acre treed lot.

Amenities include wood floors in the living area, granite countertops with island and tiled backsplash, very spacious bedrooms, sprinkler system, wet bar, plantation shutters, carpet replaced 2010, 3-car garage, brick fireplace, gated covered front porch area and covered back porch. This home has it all and won't last long. $250,000. Call Myra!

DE NT O N

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!

Broker Associate REALTOR® CRS, GREEN, GRI

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. $134,900. Call Myra!

11 03 10

Myra Oliver

1414 Hunters Ridge – Exclusive Hunters Ridge custom home on a wooded lot featuring a beautiful pool and backyard paradise. A private natural setting with city amenities. Very open floorplan with an abundance of windows showing off the wonderful outdoor space.

Large eat-in kitchen with granite countertops, island and desk area. Upstairs one bedroom, bath and extra living area. The formal dining can also be used as a study.

Oversized laundry room and garage. $359,900. Call Myra!

DE NT O N

Eddie Lane

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.

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

940-484-9411 Denton Area Market Share Totals

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