Premium Properties - June 2017 by Mena Newspapers, Inc.

EEOne FTRake June 2017

June 2017

Premium Properties

Local business takes pride in restoring homes By Jeri Pearson editor@menastar.com A local restoration services company has been doing business in Mena since 1981. Despite their services being sought after across the country, ACCI Restoration and Resources owners, Rickey and Donna Morse, have no plans to relocate and said they enjoy operating from Donna’s hometown. “Mena has been really good to us and we are proud to be a little part of it,” Ricky Morse said. “We could go to a bigger city and do a lot more, but we are not interested. “We want to be a ‘Ma and ‘Paw,’” he continued. “We do as well as some, or even better than a few of the guys in the bigger cities. But we like country living and this is where we want to be.” ACCI generally serves areas between Fort Smith and Texarkana, but frequently goes farther than that to meet the needs of their customers. One commercial client contracts with ACCI to manage retails stores in the south, as far away as Alabama, and the company is often recruited for jobs from a broker in New York City. Morse started the business in 1981 as a vacuum cleaner repair shop and offered rental services. “Ladies were asking to not only rent cleaners, but also that we do the work,” Morse said. “I saw a an opportunity and devel-

oped the business in that area.” Morse purchased his first major piece of equipment, costing $17,000. “We had kids at home at the time, and that was a major expense,” he said. “Everyone told me I was going to go down and that it was the worse thing I could have done.” After making the investment, Morse was on his way home when buyers remorse set in. “I was so nervous I got sick on the trip back,” he said. “I thought I had screwed up. Turns out it was really the best things I could have done. It increased my business 10 fold.” The Morses spend many hours each year staying current on training and industry best practices. They pride themselves in being IICR (Institute Inspection Cleaning Restoration) certified. “That is a standard setting group that gives us

our knowledge and training so we can do jobs correctly,” Morse said. “In fact, if a customer wants us to do a job and not adhere to guidelines and industry standards, we will refuse the job.” ACCI offers a variety of maintenance and restoration services, which are often sought after disasters such as flooding and fires. “We are certified in areas like carpet cleaning, fire damage and restoration, mold remediation, and water damage restoration,” More explained, noting certification is important because of the hazards associated with these issues. “There are toxic molds and carcinogens involved with much of what we do,” he said. “After we do a job, testing is done to make sure we have removed mold spores. If we missed something, we would have to do the job again, but I’m proud to say we have never had

that happen. We have a great track record.” To treat for mold issues, ACCI uses products including a chlorine treatment bomb and a serum hydrogen peroxide. “This chlorine bomb, if you don’t mix it properly, it will blow up. It has to be used correctly,” Morse said. “The other method we use for mold is a serum, and it is a real high powered hydrogen peroxide we use in conjunction with a $4,500 prayer. These tools and gadgets are expensive, but it does a nice job getting rid of mold” Morse said he is often called the gadget man for the wide assortment of specialized tools for restoration projects. Zip-containment walls, and machines to create negative air are also used during mold remediation jobs. “Everything has to be under suction because if

See ACCI, Page 7

Is home as safe as it can be? Premium Properties

June 2017

Prevent accidents and injuries in the home and community Homes are supposed to serve as sanctuaries, but safety hazards may be lurking in many homes. Thousands upon thousands of people fall victim to unintentional injuries each year because of simple safety mistakes made around the house. According to the security company A Secure Life, unintentional injuries result in an average of 21 million medical visits each year in the United States. Many people may not realize that some of the more common home injuries can be prevented. The National Safety Council

encourages everyone to be aware of home hazards and to take proper safety precautions. Here are some of the more common causes of intentional injury and death at home and how to prevent members of your household from falling victim to them. Poisoning Many substances found in typical households contribute to poisonings each year. In recent years, prescription drug overdose has become one of the leading causes of unintentional poisonings. Prescription opioids and

heroin killed more than 33,000 people in 2015, more than any year on record, says the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Nearly half of all opioid overdose deaths involve a prescription opioid. Safer, more effective alternatives to pain management may reduce the number of deaths linked to opioids. All medications should be kept out of the reach of children. Medications should be kept in original packaging and taken only for prescribed reasons, and prescription drugs should never be shared.

Children should be supervised in baths and pools to reduce their risk of drowning.

Falling Falling is a concern at any age, but it is the No. 1 cause of death for individuals ages 71 and older, according to the NSC. Hazardous conditions at home, and not necessarily age, contribute to many instances of falling at home. Removing clutter, rearranging furniture to facilitate movement around the house, improving lighting and visibility, and installing grab bars in high-traffic areas are just some ways to reduce the likelihood of falling inside a home.

Drowning The CDC reports that, between 2005 and 2014, there were an average of 3,536 fatal unintentional drownings (non-boating related) each year in the United States. That equates to about 10 deaths per day. Drowning remains a major concern for children age 14 and under. Summer swimming and boating-related activities can increase the risk of drowning as well.

Instances of drowning can be prevented by providing barriers between homes and pools. Children should never be left unsupervised in the bath or near bodies of water. Adults should avoid alcohol when swimming or boating. Homeowners who are aware of common home hazards and take steps to reduce such hazards can dramatically lower the risk of accidents at their homes.

Realtors® From Arkansas Head to Washington in Support of Homeownership People generally know of Realtors® as the local real estate professionals who put their expertise to work helping clients buy and sell homes. But the core of what Realtors® do is serve their communities, helping people achieve the dream of homeownership and supporting the institutions that make Arkansas a great place to live. That mission is front and center this week as dozens of Realtors® from our community head to Washington, D.C. for the National Association of Realtors®’ Legislative Meetings & Trade Expo. Members of the Arkansas Realtors® Association will use the week to sharpen their skills and stay current on the legislative and regulatory issues facing their clients. But most importantly, Realtors® will meet with

members of Congress and leaders inside the administration to show their support for the policies that make homeownership possible for millions of Americans. Whether it’s reminding legislators to make flood insurance a priority or defending important tax policies like the mortgage interest deduction, Realtors® are protecting the interests of homeowners everywhere.

That includes 7,717 Realtors® right here in Arkansas. Homeownership matters, and Realtors® are doing their part to keep the dream alive. House to House is distributed weekly by the Arkansas REALTORS® Association. For more information on homeownership in Arkansas, readers may visit www.ArkansasRealtors.com.

Jeremy D. Thornton, President

MENA TITLE COMPANY, INC.

“ON THE COURTHOUSE SQUARE” SERVING POLK COUNTY SINCE 1899 LET US HANDLE YOUR NEXT CLOSING, TITLE INSURANCE, OR CONTRACT ADMINISTRARTION. 301 DeQueen St. (478)394-5264, ext. 307 Mena, Arkansas 71953 Fax: 394-5258 Email: jeremy@menatitlecompanyinc.com 3982v

June 2017

Premium Properties

Help your landscape survive drought House to House: The Principal Drought is a serious condition that can impact landscapes and natural resources tremendously. Drought occurs when there is a serious shortage of water, due in part to lackluster precipitation combined with hot, arid weather. As early as March of this year, a large portion of the United States already was experiencing extreme drought and severe drought conditions, according to the National Climatic Data Center. The western coast of the United States as well as middle American states are notorious for drought conditions, but drought can occur anywhere should precipitation be scarce, particularly during the summer season. When droughts occur, restrictions often are placed on watering lawns or washing cars. People are urged to conserve water in any ways they can. It can be disconcerting to see all of one’s landscape dry up during a drought, and some homeowners wonder how they can preserve some of their plantings. The first step is to minimize or stop fertilization of lawns, says the University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension. Fertilizers often can cause the lawn to use up more water, so hold off on fertilization until wetter conditions return. Homeowners also should keep their lawns mowed at a higher height than normal. Raising the mowing height can encourage the development of deeper roots in the grass. Taller grass also will shade the soil and

Broker holds the Key

By: Gary Isom, Executive Director of the Arkansas Real Estate Commission In Arkansas, whenever a consumer engages the services of a real estate agent, it is that agent’s Principal Broker who opens the door to the consumer’s legal relationship with the real estate firm.

roots, reducing, in some effect, the rate of evaporation. Watering smartly also can help. Underground irrigation systems will deliver water right to the roots of lawns and plants, rather than having the water settle on top. These types of systems reduce the amount of water that is wasted on sidewalks, driveways and other nonliving areas, because they’re specially laid out to deliver water where it’s needed. For those without such a system, keep sprinklers located only on green surfaces and turn down the pressure of the spray so water is not caught in the wind and blown elsewhere. Lawns do not need daily watering to thrive. If strict restrictions are placed on watering, heed them. Although the lawn will brown, it can be revived. Lawns without adequate water will simply go dormant. When conditions improve, the lawn can bounce back. Homeowners

may

want to direct watering to delicate plants and trees that would benefit more from the water. In fact, many experts say that trees should get watering priority over lawns during droughts. To conserve water, homeowners can fill 5-gallon buckets with water and poke small holes in the bottom of the buckets so water can be delivered slowly and consistently to tree roots and garden beds. Drought can be a time of stress for many plants. Homeowners should reduce gardening efforts and disturbances as much as possible. Now is the time to curtail mowing, thatching, aerating, planting, and pruning. Let the landscape rest as it uses its energy to survive the harsh conditions. In addition to these management tips, homeowners can take precautionary measures against drought by choosing native, drought-tolerant plants and using mulch to keep the soil moist.

Every Arkansas real estate firm has one and only one Principal Broker. All other agents work under the supervision of that Principal Broker. All agency relationships including listing contracts, right to sell agreements, buyer representation agreements, etc. are legally between the consumer and that Principal Broker. Whenever a consumer selects a real estate agent to help them sell or purchase real estate, the consumer is certainly entitled and actually wise to ask the agent who their Principal Broker is. If the agent doesn’t know who their Principal Broker is, that’s the first sign the consumer should shop around some more before making a selection. A second type of licensed broker is an Executive Broker. There is no limit to how many Executive Brokers can be licensed in one real estate firm. Executive Brokers also work under the supervision of the Principal Broker; however, Executive Brokers are authorized to supervise other agents in the firm. Real estate firms with a large number of licensed agents often need Executive Brokers for effective and adequate supervision. The other two categories of real estate licensure in Arkansas are

Associate Broker and Salesperson. These are basically the same with the one exception that an Associate Broker may upgrade to an Executive Broker or Principal Broker license, assuming they have completed all the educational requirements. Associate Brokers and Salespersons have no licensing capacity to supervise other agents. Business cards and advertising do not always include the proper license category for the agent with whom the consumer is working. Fortunately, there is an easy way to make this distinction. Every licensed agent is required to carry a pocket card which includes a license number. The license number will have an alpha prefix of “PB”, “EB”, “AB” or “SA” which clearly defines the type of license the agent holds. License numbers also appear on the agent’s license that is to be displayed in the office of the real estate firm. Additionally, a Roster Search under the Online Services tab at the AREC website www.arec. arkansas.gov will display the license number for each agent. While consumers are

encouraged to call the Real Estate Commission when you encounter a problem with your transaction in which one of our licensed agents is involved, many problems can be solved by contacting the Principal Broker of the firm. That is the one person who is responsible for all activities of persons licensed with the firm. The Principal Broker may very well direct you to an Executive Broker who is more familiar with the transaction. Either way, Principal Brokers will undoubtedly prefer a chance to settle the matter before it gets to us, and we also want them to have that opportunity as it can save the consumer valuable time and expense. In the event the problem cannot be resolved, however, AREC offers consumers an avenue to file a formal complaint. For more information, contact the Real Estate Commission at 501-683-8010. House to House is distributed weekly by the Arkansas REALTORS Association. For more information on homeownership in Arkansas, readers may visit www.ArkansasRealtors.com.

Premium Properties

June 2017

What to look for during roof inspections

clogged or damaged, they cannot direct water away from the house properly. Snow, leaves and other debris needs to be cleared from gutters to help them function at optimal capacity.

Cold weather can be tough on a home, and perhaps no part of a home is more vulnerable to harsh winter weather than its roof. Fallen snow can equate to several pounds of pressure placed on a residential roof. Roofs do not often collapse under heavy snowfall. But adverse winter weather conditions can compromise roofs in other ways. Water leakage and damage to the roof’s interior are just two of the potentially problematic issues that can arise when roofs are battered by cold, blustery weather. That’s why many home improvement specialists advise homeowners to conduct roof inspections prior to the start of winter. Many homeowners can conduct their own cursory roof inspections, but they may not know exactly what to look for. The National Roofing Contractors Association says that there are certain key areas to inspect that may reveal some telltale signs of roof damage.

• Attic leaks or water

• Look for protective granules wearing off. If gutters are filled with the sandy granular material that coats roofing shingles, that may be a sign of an aging or damaged roof. • Inspect flashing. Professional roofers can rec-

ognize properly installed flashing, the material that connects the roof to other parts of the house that adjoin the roof, like skylights or a chimneys. Poorly installed flashing can cause leaks. Stains that appear below chimneys or near

attic windows may indicate new flashing, and not new shingles, is needed. • Gutters and downspouts should be in good condition. A roof is the sum of its parts, and that includes downspouts and gutters. If the gutters are

Get to the root of issues with your home’s roof before they become bigger problems once winter arrives. A thorough inspection can reveal problems that may prove costly if ignored.

RICH MOUNTAIN ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE, INC. We look forward to serving your needs! 3578v

• Curled, cracked or missing shingles may prove troublesome. Inclement weather can test the strength of even the most durable roofs. Even though many roofs are designed to last up to 30 years, some may need to be replaced early, particularly when they have been exposed to harsh weather over a period of years. Individual shingles can be replaced as spot treatments, but if the damage is widespread, a new roof may be necessary.

elsewhere might signal issues with the roof. Figure out if water inside the home is coming from the roof. Water stains do not always indicate problems with the roofing, but it’s better to be safe than sorry.

• Animals and insects can cause damage, too. It’s not just poor weather that homeowners need to consider with regard to roof damage. Boring insects and animals may cause problems with roofs as well. A roof inspection may shed light on potential pest problems. Holes or nesting materials may indicate that an animal or animals are using the attic as a shelter from the elements.

WE’RE HERE FOR YOU!

3983v

Your Local Energy Partner 515 Janssen • Mena, AR 71953 • (479) 394-4140

June 2017

Select Realty Bobbie Himel

Office: (479) 394-7676 • Fax: (479) 394-7677 • Toll Free: (877) 394-7676

Le-Ann Holmes Realtor/Owner (479) 234-7310

Helping your dreams become a reality

Jan Atchley

Sandra Thomas Deana Thomas

OSE, MA, ABR, CRS, GRI, CRB Executive Broker (479) 243-6475

Realtor (479) 234-3952

Realtor (479) 234-7572

Misty Miller Administrator (479) 394-7676

Visit us online at www.menaselectrealty.com

#1796 SUMMER FUN STARTS HERE! 2 Bedrooms, 2 Baths, ½ bath! Approx. 1,350 sq. ft. & 5 acres! Living room has fireplace! Vaulted wood ceilings & walls! Kitchen has breakfast bar! Wrap around deck & Sand filtered well! Additional acreage avaliable! MLS# 15031127 $ 249,000

#1832 DREAM COME TRUE! 5 Bedrooms, 3 Baths, ½ bath! Approx. 3,926 sq. ft. & 5 acres! Wall of windows next to gas fireplace! Kitchen has bar, double ovens! Gameroom & office! Mother in law apt! MLS# 16013157 $329,000

#2018 A SLEEPING BEAUTY! 2 Bedrooms, 2 Baths! Approx. 1,160 sq. ft. & .63 acre! Casual living room with carpeting! Kitchen with pantry & work island! Bonus room for hobbies! Over-sized yard! Storage building & shed! MLS# 16034874 $45,000

#2020 TAKE A CLOSER LOOK! 3 Bedrooms, 2 Baths! Approx. 1,780 sq. ft. & 5 acres! Living room has vaulted ceilings! Beautiful tiled fireplace! Arched windows! 2 car garage! MLS # 16035618 $ 190,000

#2028 BUILT FOR COMFORT! 2 Bedrooms, 1 Bath, ½ bath! Approx. 1,502 sq. ft. & .42 acre! New flooring though-out house! Deck off the back! Carport attched to the house! Detached garage & storage building! MLS# 17005191 $76,900

#2033 SWIM TIME! 3 Bedrooms, 2 Baths! Approx. 2,296 sq. ft. & 40 acres! In ground pool and shop! Mix of woods & pasture! Central heat & air! Long, gated driveway! MLS# 17007838 $184,000

# 2035 BEAT THE HEAT! 3 Bedrooms, 2 Baths! Approx. 1410 sq. ft. & 1.54 acres! Fireplace has gas log w remote start! All new windows & doors! Addition of a safe room! 2 back patios with rock work! New hardy board siding! MLS # 17008108 $139,900

#2041 DON’T DELAY; CALL TODAY! 2 Bedrooms, 1 Bath! Approx. 2,226 sq. ft. & 30 acres! Home needs some TLC! Have steel beams & concrete floors! Opportunities for acres! MLS# 17013423 $72,500

#2042 HOLD YOUR FAMILY REUNION HERE…. 3 Bedrooms, 2 Baths! Approx. 1,600 sq. ft. & 43 Acres! 3 New studio cabins! 2 RV Hook ups! Out door moive pavilon & Gazebo! Outdoor cooking area! MLS# 17014634 $989,000

5307V

Owner / Principal Broker (479) 437-9348

It’s the sign of success! 2611 Hwy 71 S • Mena, AR 71953

Premium Properties

ACCI • Continued from Page 2 spores are released the job wasn’t done correctly,” he explained. “Anytime you have moister, the mold will grow back, because the spores recolonize.” ACCI also specializes in air duct cleaning, which leaves the customer with an HVAC system covered with six months of mold growth prevention.

A thermal hydrometer shows the relative humidity in a room and allows

“Another tool we use is the moister meter, which tells how much moister is in an object,” Morse said. “Everything has moister, but when we get into an area that has elevated levels, we know there is a problem.” While repairing water damage keeps business flowing, restoring items after a fire also lights the way for many of the jobs worked by ACCI. Removing soot and smoke damage to items is possible with yet another specialty tool at ACCI, which works with insurance adjusters. Using ultrasonic and deionizing technology, ACCI can restore delicate collectables and even computers.

2211A

DUGAN RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL LAWN CARE LANDSCAPING PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

479-394-2699

Donna Morse has attended several trainings on the methods they use and said she it is a great feeling to help someone get their personal belongings, home and life back after a tragedy. The Morses gained much of their restoration and construction experience working in the New Orleans area after Hurricane Katrina in 2006. “That was a nightmare. Water had set as high as three foot for a month,” Rickey Morse said. “It smelled horrible and the mold was so bad- every-

thing was contaminated. “It was really bad down there... everyone was discontent... just a big time tragedy,” he continued. “But the experience we gained…. can’t put it into words.” Morse said the time spent working in New Orleans was a crash course for the business to make a big start in restoration services. “We had just been doing smaller insurance claims locally, from minor problems like a hotter heart or pipe breaking,”

he said. “We had never walked into a scenario where snakes and fish were swimming through the house. It was a whole different ballgame. We gained a lot of experience and learned a lot about construction during that.” Since that time, Morse became a licensed Arkansas contractor. “That allows me to pack your house like a moving company, move it to our premiss,” he explained. “During that

time, we can get guys in to demo and remodel and deodorize the house and build it back after a disaster.” Rickey agrees with his wife and said being able to bring life back to a home and family is a rewarding part of his business. For more information about ACCI Restoration and Resources contact Ricky or Donna Morse by calling 479-394-1840. 2193L

“It applies so much suction, that you won’t be able to get a drop out of a carpet or pad that was once saturated with water.”

ACCI to use formulas to calculate how much dehumidifying needs to be done to get a home above the dew point.

2022L

Other specialty tools include a high powered floor vacuum that can dry carpet and pads with water damage.

June 2017

Montgomery County’s Most Active Real Estate Company Offering Homes, Farms, Acreage, Lots, River and Lake Properties

Using the Most Current Marketing Tools to Sell

Take “ACTION” on your real estate needs! 125 Hwy 270 East P.O. Box 540 Mount Ida, AR 71957

1-870-867-2000 www.actionrealtyar.com

PIP’S

AIR CONDITIONING AND HEATING

515 DeQueen Street • Mena, AR 71953

Office Hours: Monday - Friday • 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Office: 479-394-1588 Emergency Number: 479-385-1009 Tom Pipkin, Owner HVAC LIC #2117733 Pipkint@sbcglobal.net www.pipsair.com

Owner, Tom Pipkin, has 22 years experience and over 100 years of Carrier Technology at his fingertips. This makes Pip’s the one to call for all your sales, service and installation needs!

June 2017

Vicki Agee Sales Associate 234-3626

Eudell Head Sales Associate 216-3544

Premium Properties

Norma Trammell Executive Broker 216-4313

Tiffany Lane, CRB Principal Broker/ Owner

www.century21perry.com • www.century21.com

8862 COX LAKE AREA - Nice home in established neighborhood, 3 br, 2 ba, 1376 sf, original hardwood floors in living room, new windows. MLS#16004440 $68,000. 8910 GREAT LOT – Inside city limits, borders a creek. Very secluded. Our pleasure to show this property at bargain price! MLS#16026329 $6,000. 8925 61 ACRES & HOME! Beautiful 61 ac farm featuring unique custom built, 1940 sq ft house, pastures fenced and cross fenced. Two ponds, two barns (with horse stalls and views). MLS#16031881 $265,000. 8942 HOUSE AND GUEST HOUSE - 3.3 acres, imagine the view of the mountain range from the front porch. Beautiful log home, outbuildings, 3 br, 1 ba, detached garage and shop. Separate little cottage, 1 br, 1 ba, separate utilities. Trees and pond on property. open, country close to town! MLS#17000995 $74,900. 8951 MULTI-PURPOSE BUILDING – Name your business! Ready to start working? Used as a gift shop. Price includes all fixtures and inventory. New roof in 2016, 7 separate inside booths, reception area. MLS#17004168 $80,000. 8961 CUTE HOME Neat, low maintenance, wellmaintained house on city lot in M e n a . Some recent updates on this 3 br, 1 ba home on quiet street. MLS#17010106 $79,900.

8933 COUNTRY COTTAGE 2 br, 2 ba, and a bonus room. New insulated windows, separate utility room, lots of cabinet space in kit w/built-in range and new counter-tops, a large master br with a vaulted ceiling, new sliding glass door, and private deck. Garage/workshop, recently installed filter system on the well, and fenced area on 1 ac, surrounded by mountains and close to National Forest. MLS#16035687 $85,000. 8941 HILLSIDE RET R E A T surrounded by mountain views, not far from town, with a large front porch overlooking a private pond. Spacious rooms, a wide hallway, breakfast nook, large eat-in kitchen, separate laundry, plus a game/recreation room, CH/A and a wood burning stove, 2 water heaters! Washer, dryer and refrigerator stay. National Forest boundaries, a two-car garage/shop, extra storage, and so much more. MLS#17000811 $204,900. 8956 HUGE HOME AMAZING PRICE! 3 br, 3 updated baths, large rooms, updated kitchen...too much to mention!! Lots of storage, fireplace, extra office space, laundry room, central heat and air, many outbuildings, but needs a little bit more work. On a paved road, 1.8 acres, just a few minutes from Mena in the Potter area. Want a great deal? This is IT! MLS#17006114 $68,000. 8958 HOME IN THE COUNTRY! Cute home on 7 ac, separate dining room, separate den/family room, also has a laundry room. Screen porch, and a storm shelter! Rock accents in the den, wood stove in the living room, storage building. Case Number #031-384165. HUD homes are Sold AS IS. www.chronossolutions.com Bid at www.HudHomeStore.com. MLS#17007082 $49,500.

5308V

1118 Highway 71 S. • Mena, AR 71953 (479)394-6500

Amanda Warrington Executive Broker 234-8114

8891 GORGEOUS LANDSCAPING Beautiful home on almost 2 ac in Mena City Limits. Corner lot with trees and small creek! Handicapped accessible. Kitchen has granite counters and a bay window. MLS#16018050 $99,900. 8960 PARTIALLY REMODELED - Large front porch to watch the world go by...nice big corner lot, driveway entrance on two streets, 3 bedroom, 2 bath home, nice open kitchen/dining area, very recent remodel! Priced to sell - call today to see! MLS#17009140 $129,900. 8964 AWESOME VIEW! Includes 1 1/2 story home, new kitchen and appliances. 15 acres, fenced for animals, above ground pool, spa. New windows, roof. Close to Mena. Ready to move in! Decks and patios for entertaining - a must see! MLS#17013087 $239,900. 8965 DUPLEX Live in one side, and rent the other. Very nice duplex, 2 bedroom 1 bath, each side, inside laundry, pantry, all electric, stove, refrigerator, and dishwasher. Central heat and cool, located on large 100x130 lot. Each duplex is 720 sq ft, 1440 total for duplex. Owner is a licensed real estate broker in Arkansas. MLS#17013207 $110,000. 8968 DON'T MISS OUT on this opportunity to live in one of the best subdivisions in Mena, for an amazing price! This is a special home, ready for you to make new memories. Beautiful park-like lot, large trees, and a well-cared for home all awaits you. Roof is only 7 years old, 3 br, 2 bath, laundry room, large glass doors and front windows open the house up to wonderful views. Priced to sell! MLS#17015026 $99,900.

Let One Of Our Professionals Show You The Beauty Of The Ouachitas!

Premium Properties

June 2017

A Realtor: Your Key to Buying a Second Home With low mortgage rates, home values rising and rental demand remaining strong, investment buyers are holding their ground in the real estate market. Since 2014, sales to individual investors have made up roughly one-fifth of all sales and have risen each year. According to the National Association of Realtors® annual Investment and Vacation Home Buyers Survey, nearly 2 million vacation and investment properties were purchased in 2017. With a steady stream of investment purchasers in the market, interested buyers should remember to turn to a Realtor®, a member of the National Association of Realtors®, for advice before buying that vacation home or investment property. “A Realtor® is your expert professional when it comes to buying a home. He or she will help you find the right property that fits your budget and will negotiate on your behalf to ensure you get the best deal,” said Maurice Taylor, 2017 Arkansas Realtors® Association President. If you are considering buying a second home for your family’s vacation getaways or as an investment property for additional income, here are some important tips to keep in mind: Call a professional Realtors® can help point to areas with the best properties for vacation or investment homes. NAR’s survey found that buyers typically purchased a vacation property 200 miles from their primary residence. “Even if you are familiar with the targeted search area, chances are

you are not up to speed on local market conditions. That’s where a Realtor® can come in and educate you on demand levels and future resale value in the area,” said Maurice Taylor, 2017 Arkansas Realtors® Association President. Get your finances in order Getting a mortgage these days can be difficult,

especially for secondhome owners. “Adding another mortgage is going to expand your debt-toincome ratio, and you’ll likely need to make a substantial down payment on any second-home purchase,” said Maurice Taylor, 2017 Arkansas Realtors® Association President. So be ready to dive into some paperwork with your agent at your

side to ensure you can find the best property within your budget at the most favorable terms. Brush up on rental regulations Many second-home owners rent out their property to earn extra income. If you are planning to rent out a second home, be sure to understand the rules and regulations affiliated with

rental agreements. Laws can vary from one town to another, so it is crucial that you understand all the local ordinances before you open the door to tenants in your home. Working with a Realtor® will give you insights on the rules and laws of a property before you decide to make an offer. By working with a Realtor® and the proper

planning and patience, the second home you have been dreaming of can be right within your reach! House to House is distributed weekly by the Arkansas REALTORS® Association. For more information on homeownership in Arkansas, readers may visit www. ArkansasRealtors.com.

House to House: Protect Your Home from Increased Crime During Summer Months While the summer months are often characterized by warmer weather and the smell of sunscreen, they’re also the peak season for burglaries.

it comes to preventing a burglary. It’s important that homeowners are aware of actions they can take to protect themselves and their property.

There’s an uptick in crime rates during the summer months, but many people don’t think it will happen to them. “Burglary and theft are two of the most common household property crimes, and they’re also the easiest to prevent.

The Arkansas Realtors® Association compiled the following list of tips to help homeowners protect their property and themselves during the summer months:

According to the Department of Justice and the FBI, property crimes are ‎11 percent more common during the summer months and almost three out of four burglaries occur at a residential property. The average loss per burglary is $2,322. Small actions make a big difference when

• Lock doors and windows. Open doors and windows are one of the most common points of entry for a criminal looking to break into a residence. It’s important to keep doors and windows locked at all times, even when you are outside working in the yard. •

Use specialty locks. Not only should doors and win-

dows be locked at all times, but homeowners should make sure the locks they’re using are a bit more complicated than the average lock. On average, burglars will spend less than a minute trying to break into a home, so using a lock that will frustrate thieves is an easy way to prevent a break-in.

• Lock and label large items. It’s important to protect all personal property, including larger items that you store in a garage or outside. Lock larger items such as lawn mowers, bikes, grills, etc. and engrave them with your initials so that you can identify your property in case it is stolen.

• Home Security Systems. A simple and effective way to deter crime and protect your home is a security system. FBI burglary rates of homes state that 1 in 3 homes without a security system will fall victim to a burglary as compared to 1 in 250 homes that do have a security system. The purpose of a security system won’t help if you don’t use it… Remember to set it while you are away (or at home.)

• Be careful on Social Media. Every picture, tweet, post and check-in regarding vacations can be an opportunity for someone with bad intentions to gather valuable information and make your home an easy target for theft. • Light things up. Outdoor lights are a great deterrent to criminals who don’t want to be seen. Focus especially on the rear and sides of your

home. • Be aware of neighborhood activity. You know your neighborhood better than most, so be a good neighborhood watchdog, and alert police to unusual activity. • Protect yourself. Not only do you have to worry about your property, but you also have to worry about protecting yourself. Beware of con artists running home improvement scams and deception burglaries, and be sure not to leave personal information lying around. House to House is distributed weekly by the Arkansas REALTORS® Association. For more information on homeownership in Arkansas, readers may visit www.ArkansasRealtors.com.

June 2017

Premium Properties

The dos and don'ts of basement finishing Remodeling a basement is a popular home improvement project. A finished basement makes the space more functional and, when done correctly, can add a considerable amount of living space to a home. Finishing a basement pays dividends in additional space in a home that doesn't require the same level of investment as putting an addition on the house. Also, the groundwork for a finished room is already there, as most basements are already set up with a poured concrete floor and some walls, usually cinder blocks. Some electrical components, plumbing and the creature comforts of drywall and a more inviting floor might be all that's necessary to finish a basement. The process can be labor-intensive, and many people prefer to leave it to a professional contractor. Whatever finishing method is chosen, homeowners should follow the proper procedures when doing the work. DO start with a detailed plan. Measure out the basement and mark any items that cannot be moved, such as a furnace, water heater or pipes. Create a design board that showcases the materials you plan to use on the project. Think about ways you plan to arrange furniture and consider all of the possible uses for the room. Will it be a home theater? Will someone be sleeping down there? Each scenario will require certain amenities and safety requirements. DON'T plan to finish the entire basement. Doing so will leave you without a storage or utility area where you house holiday decorations, tools, lug-

gage and similar items. DO get the scoop on building codes. Knowing what the municipality allows in basement remodeling will help you to customize a plan that is functional, safe and legal. No one wants to be slapped with fines for failing to follow the rules. Plus, failure to meet building codes could mean the work that has been done must be torn out and redone. It pays to follow the chain of command and secure permits while having all work inspected. DON'T overlook adequate lighting in your refinishing plan. A basement is likely one area of the house that has limited natural light pouring in. With traditionally small windows, or no windows at all, a basement needs ample lighting in its design scheme. This may include a combination of overhead and task lighting. Ample lighting will help the room feel like part of the house and not just a forgotten storage area. DO take into consideration moisture issues in the basement. Many basements are plagued by moisture issues ranging from water seepage to condensation forming on walls. These situations may vary depending on the weather throughout the year. Certain materials may need to be used to mitigate water issues before finishing can take place. The installation of water-barrier systems, drainage, sump pumps, or encapsulation products could drive up the cost of a basement renovation. It is essential to have a professional assess the basement water issues prior to starting any finishing work.

DON'T simply cover up potential hazards, such as mold or mildew. Have them treated instead. Otherwise, you could have a breeding ground behind drywall that could lead to unsafe conditions in the home. DO have a radon test. Radon is a hidden killer that can cause lung cancer. Because it occurs naturally in the soil and water surrounding a home and is impossible to detect without a specialized test, many people are unaware of the presence of radon until it is too late. Radon may be more concentrated in the basement, where the foundation is touching the soil. Therefore, rule out radon before considering renovation of a basement area. DON'T limit furniture choices to one type. You may need to be flexible in your furniture choices, even selecting modular pieces, like sectionals, because entryways to base-

ments may have small doorways or obstructions that make adding furniture more challenging. DO keep the possibility of flooding in the back of your head. Homes that are near waterways or at low elevation may be at risk of flooding. Basements are especially susceptible to flood damage. Therefore, think about the practicality of finishing a basement if you are prone to flooding. If you decide to move ahead, take certain precautionary measures, such as keeping electrical wiring up higher and using a more water-resistant flooring material, like tile or vinyl. House important electronics and items on shelves so they are not at ground-level. Finishing a basement is a job that can add a lot of usable space to a home. Go about the project in the right way to keep within budget and have a room that is safe and functional.

Premium Properties

June 2017

Going tiny or going home By Cheyenne Blake Premium Properties

Tiny living is one of the fastest growing trends in our fast-paced society. Individuals and even families, are feeling the call to downsize their life and live more fulfilling lives. People sell or give away a large portion of their belongings, learn to live more frugally, strive to be debt free, and make the most of life. As this trend grows, so do the variety of options. There are so many different options of tiny living to choose from and you can choose what best fits your situation and dream! Do you have the desire to travel and live comfortably? Are you passionate about your hometown but want to live uniquely? Do you want move-in-ready or do you dream of building your dwelling with your own two hands? So, what are your options? A growing trend is a tiny home on wheels. These tiny dwellings are a cross between a fully functioning house and the convenience of an RV or camper. You can buy them pre-built, build them

yourself, or work with a contractor to make your vision a reality. While the average tiny home on wheels is approximately 300 square feet, they can range from 100 sq. ft. to 500 sq. ft. The bases of these houses are usually flatbed trailers of a certain length and then the houses are built taller to add space. The size of your home will determine if it will be easy to pull with a regular size SUV or pickup, or if you’ll need to hire a professional mover. A fast growing trend amongst the younger generation is the “skoolie.” If you haven’t guessed by now, a skoolie is a bus, most typically a school

bus, which has been converted into a tiny home. This make a great project for the do-it-yourselfer and the adventurer. One of the reasons that these bus conversions are so popular with young adult is because it can be very inexpensive to start. If you’re looking in the right places, you can often find a retired school or church bus that still runs for as low at $300. With a bus, you already have a moving vehicle, a shell to work with, and all the natural light you need! Once you get all the seats removed, if they weren’t already, you can begin to customize the bus to your dream adventure home!

Often an overlooked choice, the yurt is another growing trend amongst the free-spirited and nature-loving folks. A yurt is made up of a heavy-duty canvas material over a rounded wooden frame.

They can range anywhere from 115 sq. ft. to 706 sq. ft or more depending on how you arrange your living space and if you choose to combine spaces. A yurt can be looked at as a glorified tent or a very

minimal shelter. Although yurts do not take much to build, they do well to protect you from the elements will keeping you in touch with nature. Most people choose to have little to no indoor plumbing or electric in their yurts. If you choose a yurt, you can choose the size you desire and purchase the kit that fits your lifestyle and budget. Popular yurt kits can cost as little as $5,000 or up to $12,000 or more. The kit enables you to be a part of your home by building it yourself without needing and sophisticated structure or planning. This is a great option if you love to live simply and make the most of your time in nature.

4904V

June 2017

Premium Properties

Holly Springs Real Estate

1114A Hwy 71S • Mena, AR 71953 • Toll-Free 888-394-4200 www.hollyspringsrealestate.com

5309V

Keith and Sharon Aleshire 479-243-5341 • 479-394-8514

Don Brewer 479-234-3530

Inez Hendricks 479-234-2728

Shannon Hunter 479-216-1932

Catherine Miller 479-216-0278

3641-Enter the foyer of this elegant brick home in Mena and view the spacious living room that features a fireplace adapted to pellet stove and back French door that leads out to a lovely back porch surrounded by flowering shrubs. The charming kitchen is ready for your special touches and there’s a nice dining area. The master suite includes large walk in closet, private bath and a delightful sun filled bonus room/office with custom builtins and another pellet stove for your comfortable enjoyment. There are two more bedrooms and a hall bathroom plus a large 2 car garage. The lot is over 1/2 acre, level and landscaped beautifully. The property includes a very nice 22’ x 32’ shop/garage! MLS16019655 $179,000

3736- Gorgeous farmette with large 3 bedroom, 3 bath brick home! One bathroom is Handi-cap accessible. This 19 acres includes 2 ponds, luscious pastures fully fenced, shop, storm shelter, barn and chicken coop, On a paved road, this is perfect for horses or whatever you want! MLS17013957 $126,000

Michelle Hicks 479-216-6717

Hershel Bell 479-243-5613

Mamie Page Office Manager

3734- A House with Timeless Elegance. This well loved home is sun-filled with a bay window in the living room and large bright windows throughout the spacious interior. Lovely hardwood floors continue throughout the bedrooms, hallway, living and dining room. The fireplace and arched doorway in the living room and dining room are another feature of the home. There’s a sweet country kitchen with a gas range, lots of cabinets and an island. Deep storage cabinets are great in the hallway, the guest bath has double vanities, a tub, and a step in shower. The Master includes a walk in closet and a half bath. The home has been freshly painted inside and out! Screened back porch leads to the laundry and a 2 bay carport.that has an upstairs studio/bedroom w/bathroom creating a 2115 sq ft 4 bdr/2 1/2 bath home for your enjoyment. The fenced, level, double lot also has a water well, pecan tree and a fig tree making the back yard a gardener’s dream! Plus-- there’s Boathouse! MLS17013677 $139,500

3729-The Cossatot River runs through it. This 3 bedroom, 2 bath dwelling on 3.3 acres makes a near-perfect getaway. Currently used as a weekend rental, it sleeps 10 with the 3rd bedroom a bunk-room sleeping 6. RV hookup provides room for additional occupants. It has central heat & A/C, with lots of storage and builtins. Double carport, fenced yard for security and pets. Picnic area, screened gazebo, and shop/storage building. Joins the National Forest and a paved road. All this near the ATV trails at Shady! MLS17012547 $185,000

3746- East of Cove with bent towards survival property--40 acres m/l. The home has living room and kitchen,1 bedroom, 1.5 baths, and 12x40 bunkroom, . Outside is about 80% wooded, plus open pasture areas, chicken coop, approx 45x45 steel barn with manger, property is partially fenced with a great pond, plenty of deer here. Comes furnished with a tractor and equipment. MLS17014940 $95,000 3647-Check out this Spacious Building on Reeves Street. There’s a reception area, kitchen, restroom and 2 large multi-purpose rooms that are Handicap accessible. Convenient circle driveway in the front. Parking and fenced side yard. MLS16020498 $149,900

3702-What a Pretty Setting! Set back from the road among good shade trees this property has a large front lawn facing the road. Spacious with 1794 sq ft there’s a great room, kitchen w/ island, and big utility room. There’s a split floor plan w/ large master suite, and 2 more bedrooms and bath. Nice carport and porch. The 2.99 acres also includes nice outbuildings and a big Shop. Close in to Mena for great convenience! MLS17001229 $95,000

3574Spacious Home Includes An Apartment! 3 bedroom, 2 bath, brick home comes with large living room w/ fireplace, across the breeze way you have a 2 car garage with 780 sq ft apartment above the garage which also has ½ bath. There is a 30 x 36 shop for your hobbies and also a storage building. MLS15030454 $129,500

WE’RE HERE FOR YOU!! CHECK OUT ALL OF THE PROPERTIES FOR SALE IN THE WONDERFUL OUACHITAS AT WWW.HOLLYSPRINGSREALESTATE.COM