Premium Properties - January 2017 by Mena Newspapers, Inc.

EENE FR E O K TA

JANUARY 2017

January 2017

Is Your Clothes Dryer Energy Efficient? (StatePoint) If you are looking to be more energy efficient at home, you are in good company. Consumers nationwide are looking for new ways to reduce their energy use in their single-family homes, condominiums and apartments because using less energy helps save money and builds a more sustainable planet. Fortunately, great strides have been made in efficiency for major appliances that would have been unimaginable decades ago. One noticeable exception, until recently, has been clothes dryers. In 2012, the average electric clothes dryer used almost as much energy annually as the average refrigerator, dishwasher and clothes washer combined, according to a report from the Natural Resources Defense Council. Here are a couple of things to consider that can help you select a sustainable dryer that also fits the design of your home.

Review Ratings The most respected guide for sustainability in appliances is the Association for Home Appliance Manufacturers (AHAM) Sustainability Standards. Before making its ratings, AHAM considers a broad range of product attributes, including energy and water efficiency, manufacturing and materials. AHAM just started providing standards for dryers. To check its free rating and review other resources, visit aham.org.

gentle on clothes, because they don’t heat the air as much as a traditional dryer. There are two types: condenser and heat pump. The most efficient are the heat pump dryers, which use a refrigeration system to dry and recycle air before returning it to the drum. Consumers can choose from two Whirlpool brand dryer sizes that range from a compact model to a 7.4 cu ft HybridCare True Ventless Heat Pump Dryer. Ventless dryers have another major benefit. They can fit into spaces beyond the laundry room -- such as closets in condominiums and apartments -- because there’s no need for a vent, just an electrical outlet. With many home designs moving from traditional layouts with a laundry room to open designs, this allows a washer and dryer to be placed virtually anywhere in the home. The future of sustainability is often more simple than we envision. While smart technology sparks the imagination, valuable innovations will focus on the tried-andtrue benefits of making appliances energy and water efficient, while maintaining a standard of high quality. Energy efficient solutions can not only meet expectations of resilience and sustainability, but also provide more options for homeowners and multifamily dwelling residents.

Buying a Home? Don’t Underestimate ‘Location, Location, Location’ (StatePoint) If you are in the market for a home, you are probably weighing a range of factors, including size, amenities and architectural style. But experts say that the old adage “location, location, location” should never stray from one’s thoughts. “Location not only affects your daily life in countless ways, but it also has an unquestionable influence on the current and future value of your home,” says Charlie Young, president and chief executive officer for Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. Young points to The Coldwell Banker Home Listing Report, billed as the most extensive home price comparison tool in the US, as a good place to begin your research. The report, which can be found by visiting bit.ly/ coldwellbanker2016HLR, analyzes the average listing price of more than 50,000 four-bedroom, two bathroom homes on ColdwellBanker.com between January 2016 and June 2016 in more than 2,000 markets. The findings reveal that while the national average listing price for a sample size home of $320,120 can buy a sim-

The Loft

ilar home in nearly 1,300 markets across the country, there are some major outliers on both ends of the price spectrum. In Detroit, the country’s most affordable market, the average listing price of a sample size home is less than $65,000. However, in Saratoga, California -- the most expensive market -- that same size home costs nearly $2.5 million, fueled by the region’s high-tech enterprise. But Young says not to view home prices as a yardstick for quality of life, “You can find a great place to live in most markets. In fact, Detroit has

been experiencing a renaissance in the last few years. An invigorated community, culture and a resurgence of young professionals, is making it an affordable, viable city in which to settle down and build roots.” Another major location factor homebuyers should take into consideration is the local school system. Even if you don’t have a child in the family, schools can play a major role in home value. But remember, location matters beyond pure finances and can affect every aspect of your life, like the length of your commute, the presence

of parks, the walkability of the surrounding area, and the relative safety of the neighborhood. Other factors to consider may include doing a bit of research. How large is the community and does it fit with the type of place in which you want to raise your family? Will your new home be situated near key shopping destinations for daily staples like groceries, dry cleaning and other necessary services? Will your new community wind up costing you more in local taxes or other municipal fees? A bit of advance checking can help you make the best choice for your needs. So while you are counting bathrooms, admiring a newly shingled roof or imagining yourself enjoying a prospective property’s pool, don’t forget location and its potential impact on your lifestyle and your wallet.

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This relatively new type of dryer is changing the energy efficiency equation. Ventless dryers recycle air within the unit, and offer an ideal way to help reduce energy consumption. They are also

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

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January 2017

Alarming Survey Shows People’s Poor Home Maintenance Habits

(StatePoint) Proper home maintenance can preserve your home, while saving you money and headaches in the future. However, a new survey from Erie Insurance conducted by Harris Poll reveals Americans have alarmingly poor upkeep habits. “By overlooking common DIY projects, homeowners are not only putting themselves at risk for major financial loss, but also are exposing their families to dangerous hazards,” says Joe Vahey, vice president and product manager at Erie Insurance. In an effort to help people become more aware of what they can be doing to protect themselves, the experts at Erie Insurance list five commonly overlooked areas of the home that should be regularly inspected and maintained:

Inspect Your Roof Replacing or repairing a roof is one of the biggest expenses a homeowner may have and the need to do it often comes without warning. Nationally, the average homeowner spends about $6,600 to install a new roof, according to HomeAdvisor, but prices can soar upwards of

Check the Furnace

$20,000 depending on certain factors. But the Erie Insurance survey found that nearly one in four homeowners (23 percent) admits they never inspect their roof or have it inspected only if there is a problem. Even scarier, nearly a third (27 percent) of those who own a house either mistakenly believe their insurance will pay for damage that occurs to their roof over time, such as through normal wear and tear or have no idea how their insurance works regarding this type of damage. Insurance generally only covers things like roof damage from unexpected storms.

Unclog Gutters and Downspouts Nearly one out of four homeowners (24 percent) say they never care for their gutters and downspouts.

Clogged gutters can cause water to flow down the sides of a home and pool around its foundation, often leading to major issues like uneven floors, cracks in walls and interior water damage. This type of claim, also known as seepage, is often not covered under your home insurance policy.

Clean Out Dryer Exhaust One in five homeowners (21 percent) admit they never clean their clothes dryer ducts, unless they have a problem. Unfortunately, the most common cause of dryer fires is failure to do a thorough cleaning. According to National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), dryers cause roughly 15,500 home structure fires, 29 deaths, 400 injuries and $192 million in direct property loss each year.

Only 36 percent of homeowners have their furnaces inspected and serviced at least once a year. According to NFPA, U.S. fire departments respond to an estimated average of 56,000 home fires involving heating equipment. These fires resulted in annual losses of 470 civilian deaths, 1,490 civilian injuries, and $1 billion in direct property damage per year.

Clean Sump Pump and Pit Sump pumps are used to remove excess water from homes, but 44 percent of those who own one admit to never cleaning it or the pit, unless they have a problem. Water damage due to sewage and drain backups generally requires additional insurance coverage beyond a standard policy. Without that coverage, it could end up costing you, on average, $2,156, according to Home Advisor. Protect your family and your investment with proper maintenance, and if you’re unsure what your policy covers, contact your insurance agent. They’ll work with you to determine what you need to be protected.

Simple Steps to Protect Your Family from Fire, Carbon Monoxide and Other Threats

(StatePoint) While life can be complicated, sometimes the simple solutions are the best ones, particularly when it comes to protecting your family from household hazards. The “Change Your Clock, Change Your Batteries” program espouses that philosophy. For the 29th consecutive year, the campaign led by the Energizer brand and the International Association of Fire Chiefs, has reminded families of the life-saving habit of changing and testing the batteries in smoke alarms and carbon monoxide. A whopping 50 percent of home smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors have non-working batteries, according to the National Fire Protection Association. “A home that contains smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors is only safer if these devices actually work,” says Michelle Atkinson, chief consumer officer, Energizer. “Testing your devices and updating their batteries are simple and critical steps to keeping your family comfortable and secure.” Atkinson also points out that these days; many families rely on more than these traditional safety devices to protect their family and home. Investigate new smart devices and apps offering security and peace-of-mind, such as lights, locks and security systems that are

connected to the Internet and your smartphone. “Smart connected home technologies are keeping families safer, when operational,” says Atkinson. “Remember, these tools, along with flashlights and other home safety devices require reliable battery power as well.” Take this opportunity to update batteries in all your devices that enhance home security and comfort. Safety advocates say preparing your family is crucial. Make sure everyone, especially children, knows what your alarms and detectors sound like and what to do if they go off. A critical yet simple safety practice is to keep flashlights with fresh batteries at your bedside for help in finding your way out of your house and signaling for help in the event of a fire or other emergency. Also, keep a stash of high-quality 9V, C, D and AA batteries to power vital safety devices whenever necessary. For longterm protection, opt for batteries designed to prevent damaging leaks, like Energizer Max and Ultimate Lithium batteries. More safety tips and resources can be found at energizer.com/homesafety. Energizer reminds you to change your batteries. It’s easy, it’s simple, and it might just save a life.

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

January 2017

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How Boomers are Disrupting the Housing Market

New Year’s Resolutions for a Healthier You (StatePoint) As the Boomer population ages and retires, massive shifts in the housing market are to be expected. One current popular trend with these older Americans is manufactured housing in land-lease communities, where homes are placed on leased land and the overall price of the home is lower than other types of homes. And many of these communities offer senior-friendly amenities. “While land-lease communities are popular with people of all ages, those over 55 may particularly appreciate the affordability and lifestyle benefits they deliver,” says Richard Jennison, president and CEO of the Manufactured Housing Institute. Manufactured homes can cost an average of $68,000, compared with $276,000

for a single-family sitebuilt home. There’s also more home for the buck: as they often cost up to 20 percent less per square foot than site-built homes, with comparable interior finishes. For those who are retired or approaching retirement, affordability is a significant factor to consider. Additionally, such homes are quite easy to customize over time in order to meet the changing needs and abilities of an individual. Furthermore, many land-lease communities on which manufactured homes are situated are dedicated to those over 55 years old, and some come with amenities like community clubhouses with scheduled activities, exercise facilities, swimming pools and lakes for boating and fishing. Boomers and retir-

ees who are anticipating less mobility in the years to come are finding communities with “everything at their fingertips” to be a built-in defense against isolation, and a convenient and practical alternative to a conventional neighborhood. Wellgroomed grounds, and nice landscaping, common to these communities, can provide convenience to those possibly unable of doing their own yardwork. Information about these types of manufactured homes and communities can be found at facebook.com/Manufactured-Housing-Institute. “If you are looking for a home in which to age-in-place, don’t rule out a manufactured home in a landlease community,” says Jennison. “They offer a neighborly environment with a strong sense of community.”

(StatePoint) New Year’s resolutions can be a double-edged sword. While many of us feel inspired to make goals to improve our health, happiness and wellbeing, we often find the changes hard to sustain, and sometimes end up reverting back to old practices. Check out these tips for starting and maintaining a healthier lifestyle.

Baby Steps Many people start a new year hoping to improve their fitness routines and eating habits, and quickly become discouraged when results aren’t immediate. Instead of cancelling your new gym membership and opting for a box of chocolates by Valentine’s Day, set achievable and realistic goals to stay on track. If losing weight is the objective, aim for 10 pounds instead of 50. If you succeed at losing the first 10, celebrate and make a new goal. Instead of adopting an extreme diet, cut back on one snack a day or incorporate a smoothie as a healthy meal replacement. Use ingredients

like fresh fruit, dark leafy greens, flax or chia seeds -- even savory vegetables like beets -- the possibilities are endless.

Fuel Up to Get Fit Sticking to fitness goals takes the right fuel. Eating whole foods instead of processed foods will give you more and longer-lasting energy. Plus, a whole-food diet is more simple and sustainable than restrictive calorie counting or elimination diets. Powering your body with snacks like low-fat yogurt topped with granola, fresh hummus and whole-grain pita, or an apple and peanut butter, will carry your body through a workout and help you feel fuller longer. To make delicious homemade nut butter, throw three cups of roasted, unsalted peanuts or cashews into a high-powered blender like a Vitamix machine and blend for a minute or so. The result is a gooey, good-foryou treat that will provide ample energy for healthy pursuits. While grocery shopping, stick to the outer

perimeter of the store and pick up nutrient-rich and versatile ingredients like avocados, chickpeas, bananas, nuts and spinach, that can stand alone or be mixed into everything from healthy salads to frozen desserts.

Indulge Your Sweet Tooth Being healthy and eating whole foods doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice your sweet tooth. Before you plunge into a tub of cookie dough, consider other ways to curb cravings. Make your own, customized wholefood ice cream without artificial colors, flavors or preservatives using a blender. Varieties like apple pie and spiced strawberry will delight without guilt. Or try a simple sorbet: blend two peeled oranges, two tablespoons sugar and four cups of ice. Use a blender with special settings for this purpose, such as the Vitamix Professional Series 750. Its Frozen Dessert program, one of the machine’s five pre-programmed settings, allows you to make an easy, healthy dessert in minutes.

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January 2017

Financial Planning Basics:

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Even if you’re busy, make the time for planning a budget. It may feel like work now, but feeling financially secure will offer you peace of mind. Don’t get bogged down by the stress of financial planning. Instead, focus on positive steps you can take to achieve your goals. Spend more time with your family cooking. Work toward your next job promotion. Ace your next exam.

Coupons are a great way to save money and stretch your budget. Retailers like Dollar General offer online digital coupons that can be downloaded on a desktop computer or by using a smartphone. You can sign up by visiting dollargeneral.com/coupons and can receive additional savings during seasonal “Fast Way to Save” promotions, where exclusive coupons are available only to Dollar General digital coupon subscribers.

Remember to Treat Yourself

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To help stick to your budget, skip pricey restaurants. Instead, save money and spend the evening cooking with your family. For affordable and simple ideas for cooking favorite dishes, consult resources like Dollar General Easy Meal recipes at dollargeneral.com/ easymeals.

Stay Positive

say experts, is to set a budget and stick to it. To help, the discount experts at Dollar General are offering some useful tips to assist you in this task and avoid financial stress.

Take Advantage of Coupons

(StatePoint) It can be easy to let your finances fall by the wayside when juggling work, family, school and other priorities. The most basic financial planning everybody should do,

Pack Your Own Lunch

Easy Tips to Stick to a Budget

Just because you’re sticking to a financial plan doesn’t mean you can’t treat yourself. Budget time and money to indulge in your favorite activities like a night at the movies, seeing your favorite sports team in action, or going bowling.

January 2017

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Vacation Destinations Where You Can Stretch Your Dollar in 2017 (StatePoint) Getting more out of a vacation starts with finding ways to stretch your travel budget. To help, travel deals publisher Travelzoo recently unveiled the top six destinations where Americans will find the strongest deals in 2017. “We predict three trends will influence travel deals next year. Increased choice for flights, a strong U.S. dollar, and hotel openings will create increased supply leading to competition and more deals,” says Michael Stitt, president, North America of Travelzoo, which recently unveiled its annual “Wow Deal Destinations” for 2017.

Florida’s Gulf Coast Seven new hotels opened in 2016 in the Clearwater area, including the luxury Opal Sands Resort. A new Wyndham Grand Resort on Clearwater Beach is among several upscale brands opening their doors in 2017. Budget airline Allegiant flies into St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport from 20 U.S. cities, and nearby Tampa airport is serviced by most major U.S. carriers, resulting in heavy competition and frequent airfare sales.

Paris, France

The French department of tourism reports a 1.8 million drop in the number of visitors to Paris for the first 10 months of 2016 compared to 2015. If this trend continues, it will put pressure on Parisian hotel rates. At the same time, a favorable exchange rate and sharp increase in low-cost flight options mean Americans can experience the French capital for the lowest price in recent years.

New Zealand

The number of airline seats to New Zealand has doubled this year, with three top airlines introducing direct flights from the U.S. The increased competition means packages that used to cost $2,000 per person can now be found for as little as $1,299. Travelzoo deal experts also recommend the Air New Zealand Explorer Pass, a cost-effective way to see the country from North Island to South Island.

Washington, D.C. A slew of new hotels makes now the time to visit a city that’s already popular with deal-seekers. Washington, D.C. has a huge number of free attractions, including world-class museums like the newly opened National Museum of African-American History & Culture on the National Mall. Fourteen new hotels this year and 16 opening next year will likely drive down room rates. For deals, consider weekends, when business travelers leave town.

For more information on the 2017 Wow Deal Destinations, visit the Travelzoo blog at travelzoo.com/blog/2017wow. This year, consider taking advantage of the trends identified by experts that can make amazing destinations affordable and convenient.

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United Kingdom The British pound hit a 31-year low after the U.K. voted to leave the European Union in June 2016. A weak pound, coupled with a drop in airfares means increasingly aggressive deals available to U.S. travelers.

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January 2017

Family-Friendly

Tips to

Transform Your Home this Season

(StatePoint) Transition your interior décor when temperatures drop -- it’s a great time to tap into your creativity and make a statement. Here are some ideas -- big and small -- to freshen up your home this season.

Play with Colors

Make-Over a Room

Capture Some Art

Change your front door color. Have fun with colors like spice amber, plum, navy, black, or whatever color makes your heart happy. Or paint a piece of furniture with a lacquer paint to add a high sheen and a fun splash of color. Cooler weather means cozier interiors. Take steps to change your décor to suit the changing weather.

Update your framed photos around the house. If you have children, let them get creative and contribute to the overall design. Give them the phone or tablet and let them capture what the season means to them: nature, family, friends or whatever!

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Make your home cozier by installing a soft, but durable carpet. Just remember to consider your household dynamics when making a selection. “Those with pets or children will want to keep in mind that spills and stains can be a common occurrence and select a family-friendly carpet,” says Jennifer Bertrand, Designer for Flooring America and Flooring Canada. Make life easier with material designed to release pet hair and reduce pet stains. For example, the Stainmaster PetProtect Carpet and Cushion system is designed with pets in mind and is extremely durable to withstand the activity of a busy family with pets. More information can be found at FlooringAmerica.com.

Have fun turning vintage wool blankets into pillows. Or if you just want to purchase items, seek out plaid patterns or materials that are full of textures and heavier weights. If you have pets, be wary of knit pillows, as animal hair can get stuck in the material. Look for tight weave fabric to fit into your lifestyle.

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When the weather is cool, think rich colors like plum, navy and amber. Bringing in a unique color palette will inspire you to make other changes as well, from painting a fireplace to adding an accent wall to incorporating a tile backsplash.

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

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Start the New Year off with a Home of your own! We have homes for all budgets! #2000

Updated 2 bedroom 2 bath home. Walk into a beautiful and cozy living and dining area. You will love the kitchen right off the dining area, nicely lit, with dishwasher, under cabinet lighting, granite counter tops and gas range. Ceiling fans throughout. Large bedrooms, master bedroom has been newly remodeled with a shower that you will love. This home also has updated electric and plumbing and a new roof in 2009. There is a large unfinished basement with access inside the home as well as out. Only $99,500! #2004

Sit on the porch and watch the planes. Brick home on 2.5 acres--fenced area for the horse. There are 3 bedrooms and 2 baths. The kitchen has been enlarged and an island added. The original hard wood floors have been brought back alive. Living room has fireplace. There is an office/computer area. Back deck is new and a carport/patio closed in by a storage building. $114,000 #1857

Sit on the deck & watch the fish jump in the pond. S of pond is the Nat. Forest. Enter the L.R. with wood floors and brick fireplace with insert, and overhead Beams. A pass through to the kitchen. A great dining area has bay window to enjoy the view. Master has wood floors with built-ins but the sitting area is carpeted for the cozy feeling. 2 walk-in closets. The 2nd bedroom has 3 closets and opens into the sun room which serves as the 3rd bedroom. Wood heat + CH&A. 80 acres of pasture & woods.

#2020

Lovely Brick home on 5 acres. The Living room has vaulted ceiling, beautiful tiled fireplace and wood laminate floor. Open to kitchen-divided by bar, custom oak cabinets and tile floor. There are 3 bedrooms and 2 baths. Arched windows accent the roomy bedroom. 2 car garage.. $190,000 #1833

Beautiful Trilevel Brick home. Open concept with formal living area and family area which has a fireplace and flows into kitchen area with island. Music room could be 5th bedroom. Split floor plan with great master spa and walk in. The 3rd bath is off the kitchen. Steps lead down to the MAN Cave. Fenced back yard with an in-ground swimming pool with new liner and pump. Deck off the family room. $198,000 #2021

Your family will enjoy this Newly Remolded trilevel 4-bedroom/3.5bath home. Fresh Paint, New Windows, New flooring throughout! Has a Large Master suite with walk-in closet & slate walk-in shower and granite top vanity, living room with wood floors & gas fireplace. Inviting kitchen with Custom built Cabinets, breakfast bar, garbage disposal, 3 part sink, electric range, dishwasher, separate ice maker, & bay window. Inviting covered back patio with 2 storage areas (one could be a Man cave or Hobby Room).

#1831

In the heart of Mena, this home won't last long. This remodeled 2 bedroom, 2 bath features the typical high ceilings accenting this Victorian style home with wrap around porch, carport, small shop for crafts or hobbies, and a pecan tree. A new roof in 2009. It has some of the original doors and framing (see photos). Add your finishing touches for the perfect kitchen and dining room combination. Enjoy the ambient sunlight through the windows in the living room. The carport and shed are a plus. Call today! #2018 There's room to grow in this 2-bedroom/2bath country home in Mena. This traditional floor plan delivers a casual living room with carpeting, built-in bookcases, user-friendly kitchen with pantry, work island, bonus room for hobbies, over-sized yard, storage building, shed. Price to Sell at $45,000 #1843

Bonus! This property offers two lots in town, 3 bed 1 ba vinyl sided home with a little bonus shotgun house. Spacious eat in kitchen with large window, mud/laundry room, mature pecan, plum trees and rose bushes. A great starter home or rental property! Sold as is. $34,999

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January 2017

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January 2017

6 Tips to Battle Everyday Messes (StatePoint) When it comes to cleaning up after children, it often feels impossible to keep up. Don’t let the housework get the best of you; there are strategies that can help make being a parent just a little bit easier. Check out these helpful tips to ensure the kids are having fun, while your home stays tidy -and your sanity remains intact.

1. The Cleanup Game.

In the words of Mary Poppins, “In every job that must be done, there is an element of fun. You find the fun, and -- SNAP! -- the job’s a game!” Hold children accountable for picking up after themselves, by making it seem like less of a chore and more like a game. Issue each child a challenge, such as asking him or her to pick up as many red toys as possible before a timer expires. If successful, consider giving a small reward.

2. Sticky-Finger Solution.

Even the pickiest of eaters can’t say no to a sticky peanut butter and jelly sandwich. However, the remnants on dishes can be a nuisance to wash. Ease the pain and upgrade to a faucet with extra power options, such as Power Clean spray technology, available on select Moen kitchen faucets. Power Clean makes clean-up fast and easy. You’ll soon notice peanut butter, tomato sauce and other tough-to-rinse foods are no longer an issue.

Easy Ways to Make Your Bathroom Safer

3. Arts and Crafts Aftermath.

There’s nothing more entertaining than a messy arts and crafts hour. From finger paints and crayons to markers and glitter, it’s all fun and games until mom has to wipe up the aftermath -- especially the glitter. Easily tidy up glitter spills with a lint roller. It works wonders on all surfaces including clothing and furniture. For embedded sparkles, use rubber gloves to loosen them from the surface, then roll over the area with a lint brush or vacuum.

4. Keep Towels Handy.

Spills and messes can often seem endless. Keep towels close by and easy to access for the entire family by installing a towel ring or towel bar in the kitchen. For instance, the new Press & Mark installation system by Moen makes it easy. It features a washable ink stamp to show users exactly where to drill, and select accessories even include a self-adhesive level, helping to ensure proper and accurate installation.

(StatePoint) You may think of your bathroom as a relaxing oasis. Unfortunately, bathrooms are actually the site of 200,000 injuries annually nationwide, according to the National Safety Council. These incidents happen to people of all ages -- from young children who may see the bathroom as a play area, to expecting women whose balance may be off kilter, to seniors.

5. When in Doubt, Dance.

Burn some energy and get the family involved in housework by enjoying a nightly pick-up session. Crank up the music and dance your way around the room until everything is back in order. Assign each family member a task, like dusting or organizing, and groove your way to a more orderly abode.

6. Make Every Bath a Safe Bath.

After a long day of peanut butter sandwiches and finger painting, bath time brings about a sense of calm. But did you know that children younger than five account for 43,000 slips and falls in the bathroom annually? That’s one accident every 12.5 minutes, according to Nationwide Children’s Hospital research. Keep bath time fun and safe for little ones by installing a grab bar. Opt for one that pulls double-duty and features a shelf for added storage of shampoo and rubber duckies.

You can reduce the risk of falling by adding grab bars near the toilet, along the showerhead wall and on the back wall of the tub or shower. Grab bars also provide assistance for getting in and out of the tub, as well raising or lowering yourself onto the toilet. Because people of all ages are prone to injury, adding these safety features is a good idea for every household.

And these days, you can do so without compromising on style -- brands like Moen offer grab bars in different sizes, finishes and styles, so these elements can blend seamlessly into any décor. With a few simple considerations, you can prioritize safety in your home’s bathrooms.

January 2017

How to Make a Successful Offer in Today’s Housing Market

inventory is low, the sooner you can make an offer, the better. Get pre-approved if you know you’ll need a mortgage to buy. It will help you act fast and make a confident offer. • Make a solid offer. A strong offer will be comparable with other sales and listings in the neighborhood. A licensed real estate agent who is active in the neighborhoods you’re considering will be instrumental in helping you put in a solid offer based on recent sales of similar homes, the condition of the house and what you can afford. Always ask the seller for a home warranty as part of your initial offer. That way, you’ll be covered if appliances or mechanicals fail or break down after you’re in the home. Set your offer apart from the competition by including a letter to the seller, or offer the seller the ability to rent back their home for some period of time after closing. This can be your chance to connect beyond just dollars. Talk to your agent about other ways to make your offer resonate.

• Prepare to negotiate. Be prepared for counteroffers. The two things most likely to be negotiated are the selling price and closing date. Given that, you’ll be glad you did your homework first to understand how much you can afford. Your agent will aid the negotiation process, giving you guidance on the counteroffer and making sure that the agreed-to contract terms are met. • Get a home inspection. Once you’ve signed the purchase contract, always get an independent home inspection so you know the true condition of the home. If the inspection uncovers undisclosed problems you can typically re-negotiate the terms or cancel the contract. More tips, insights and homebuying resources can be found by visiting my hom e. f re d d i e m a c . com. While house hunting is fun, homebuying should not be taken lightly. For best results, get prepared. Smart strategies can help you make a successful offer on a property.

What to Know about Your Drinking Water

(StatePoint) Recently there has been growing concern about the quality of the water we drink, outside and inside our own homes. Homeowners across the country realize that potential contaminants can compromise the quality of water that comes out of the tap at home, work or other community sources. At a time when safe tap water is not necessarily a given, consider investing in an easy-touse and maintain water filtration system that can be used at-home or on-the-go to improve water quality. For example, LifeStraw, first introduced for people in developing countries without access to safe water and for victims following natural disasters, now makes a range of water filters and purifiers designed for uses like emergency preparedness, outdoor recreation, travel and everyday hydration. The refillable LifeStraw Go water bottle features a built-

in filter, and removes 99.9999 percent of waterborne bacteria (including E. coli and salmonella) and 99.9 percent of waterborne chlorine, organic chemical matter, bad taste, and muddiness. As an added bonus for the charitably-minded, consider that improving your own water quality can have a global impact, too. One in 10 people globally lack access to safe water, according to the World Health Orga-

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(StatePoint) Prospective homebuyers can get encouraged by the current market. Nearly 68 percent of homes sales today are to individual buyers compared to 53 percent in 2011 when investor and cash deals were at their peak. Still, competition for housing is hot. “In a competitive market, your offer may be one of many. But you can take steps to increase your chances of success,” says Chris Bowden, senior vice president of HomeSteps, the real estate sales division of Freddie Mac. The experts at HomeSteps and Bowden are offering homebuyers five important tips for making an offer in today’s market: • Understand your finances. While it’s not nearly as fun as house hunting, fully understanding your finances is critical to helping you determine your price limit and whether your budget can cover necessary upgrades, as well as monthly expenses for general upkeep and utilities, which can run hundreds of dollars monthly. • Act fast. When home

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nization and UNICEF. Through the “Follow the Liters” humanitarian program, for each LifeStraw purchased, one school child in a developing community in Africa receives safe drinking water for an entire school year. For more information, visit lifestraw.com To learn more about drinking water quality, visit the US Environmental Protection Agency at epa.gov.

Locally owned and managed since 1934 with innovative financial products to meet your needs. We welcome the opportunity to serve you. Stop by any of our 3 convenient locations: MENA • HATFIELD • WICKES

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January 2017

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Vicki Agee Sales Associate 234-3626

Janet Corcoran Associate Broker 394-8541

Eudell Head Sales Associate 216-3544

Norma Trammell Executive Broker 216-4313

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

Amanda Warrington Sales Associate 234-8114

Donna Yuronka Sales Associate 234-3010

Tiffany Lane, CRB Principal Broker/ Owner

www.century21perry.com • www.century21.com

8272 CITY LOT! Cleared, original part of Mena, owner is a licensed real estate broker. $15,900. 8876 MOBILE HOME & 12 AC - Open floor plan, separate master suite with two closets and large bathroom, kitchen features a pantry and an extra spot for office area, built in china cabinet in dining area. Storm shelter, large pond, storage building, lots of privacy! $69,900. 8901 EASILY ACCESSIBLE home in Wickes! This 3 br, 1 1/2 bath, ranch style brick home with metal roof is your next address. Situated on 1/2 ac on Highway 278E. $75,000. 8907 MANY POSSIBILITIES - Big lot - where the current owner has a cabinet shop that can be yours!! Plenty of room on this lot to also build a home. This 300x145 lot is in a fabulous location among top quality homes! $79,500. 8908 QUIET, PEACEFUL & READY TO MOVE RIGHT IN!! Large open spaces greet you in this 3 br, 2 ba treasure on 3 beautifully landscaped acres in Hatfield. Huge master Suite with Jacuzzi tub, large walkin closets, CH/A, nice covered breeze way, patio, 24x36 two car garage, 24x36 shop, 36x20 pole barn, pond, located on a paved road. $169,900. 8910 GREAT LOT – Inside city limits, borders a creek. Very secluded. Our pleasure to show this property at bargain price! $6,000.

8911 5 ACRES – Located in a high demand area, not too far out in the county. Wet weather creek on the property, some utilities available, located on a hillside, ready for your home or cabin! $19,000. 8912 5 ACRE FARMETTE - 3 br, 2 ba, traditional ranch style home. Accentuated by recently installed 50 year architectural shingles. Bonus/sun room as well. Located west of Hatfield in Oklahoma. $84,900. 8913 LOVELY ESTATE!! Over 2,580 sq ft, master suite that is incredibly expansive! Luxurious appointments in the master ba, and room for a living suite inside the mbr, located down a private hall with closets. Large liv rm and den, formal din, WBFP, just outside the city limits, on 29 ac w/fencing, a pond, and creek. Barn and shop. Can split off house and less acreage. $249,900 8914 LAKEWOOD ESTATE RETREAT – Stocked pond, access a private lake - only a few miles from the city limits on almost 4 ac! 3 br, 3 remodeled baths, new quartz kitchen countertops, updated cabinets, all appliances less than 7 years old, new roof and gutters in 2008, fireplace, his/hers master closets, whole-house generator. Washer, dryer, refrigerator, butcher block and hanging pot rack stay. $189,900. 8915 QUALITY, CONVENIENCE, COMFORT – Brick, 2 br, 2 ba, plus dining room, living room and sunroom. Outside quarters. Beautiful yard with spring-fed pond. $103,000.

8932 READY TO GO! A country cottage, fully furnished, 1 br cabin and separate guest house. Two sheds and two carports all on 10 wooded ac. $199,000. 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. $85,000. 8934 LOG HOME in the country...cute 3 bedroom, 1 bath home on one acre, needs TLC, would make a great rental property!! $65,000. 8935 SO MUCH POTENTIAL - 3 br, 2 ba home is ready to move into. CH/A plus gas log stove in living area. Kitchen features stainless steel appliances, laundry rm, patio, porch, fenced yard, garage, gazebo, green house on cul-de-sac. $99,900. 8936 COUNTRY CLOSE TO TOWN! 3 br, 2 ba on 1 ac outside city limits. The large master suite has 2 separate closets and its own bathroom,split floor plan. CH/A, and a pellet stove for extra warmth. Kitchen is loaded with cabinets, new electric range all around a movable center island. $110,000.

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January 2017

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Expose your Business to Home Owners and Buyers! Premium Properties of the Ouachitas is a special monthly tabloid publication designed to acquaint readers with the county’s most sought-after real estate.

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Contact: Vicki Agee 479-234-3626 or Andrew Berry 479-234-0577 for details.