Corpus Christi, TX by OnlineBooks

CORPUS CHRISTI, TX / COASTAL BEND

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HOME & LIFESTYLE GUIDE

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Volume 33, Issue 4

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(361) 877-0625 GET ZAPPAR ZAP THE CODE

5601 MARTINIQUE DR 3BR/2BA brick home on a corner lot across from park. Large backyard. $174,900

613 MEADOWBROOK DR Immaculate Meadowbrook 3BR/2BA home lovingly cared for. Spacious open kitchen. $224,900

4350 OCEAN DR 204 2714 QUEBEC DR Views of the Bay, Downtown 3BR/2BA, new carpet, some skyline. 3BR/2.5BA, Floor to interior painting. Could use a ceiling windows. little TLC. Let's make a deal!! $325,000 $159,500

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CORPUS CHRISTI

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CORPUS

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LE GUIDE HOME & LIFESTY 32, Issue 13

, TX / CO

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HOME &

Volume

LIFESTY Volume

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32, Issue

CORPUS CHRISTI, TX / COASTAL BEND

Christina Stokes Owner/Publisher

361.249.0820 Email:

HSIDE Location The PERFECT SOUT t Lakes within the Grea SOUTH CONTACT:

TEX onGENE GUERNSEY AS BEAUTY 20+

SHARON

/- Acr Realtors For more , Inc & Associates info, Text18 es and see 361-993-80 page 2 for R844952 to 52187 more .com Gene@GeneGuernsey com details. www.GeneGuernsey.

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ERIC BLUN

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STAND OUT & GET RESULTS with Multimedia Marketing Packages for Real Estate Professionals 2305 Newpoint Parkway Lawrenceville, GA 30043 770-962-7220 NewPointMediaGroup.com

Mary Melick

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Owner/Broker

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marymelick@gmail.com â&#x20AC;¢ www.marymelick.com For more information and photos, TEXT the code on the property to 52187 !

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RBCDWTT Upscale, Exceedingly PRIVATE, one owner GATED Joya Del Mar townhome. On canal near Packery Channel & Gulf of Mexico. Walk to beach! Deeded boat slip w/cover, lift accommodates 25' boat. 14813 Leeward Dr #403. $294,500.

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Majestic Island Home on Premier Fingertip lot overlooking JFK Causeway and Laguna Madre! Sweeping views of water and sky form most rooms. Elevator, 2 master suites, 2 living area. 2006 Parade of Homes! 13505 Ducat Ct. Offered at $714,000.

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Island Casita with Southwest Flair! Unique CMU construction, (concrete masonry unit) w/9x6 block provides strength, energy efficiency, low utility bills year round. Immaculate vacation home. Rooftop patio! 15610 Finistere. Offered at $230,000.

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RBBYJNT Beautiful New Construction Island! Move-in ready, 2 master suites, Energy Star with many Green features. High end finishes and excellent workmanship by Superior H&M Homes. 4BR, 3BA, 2 living, 2 dining areas, 2,687 sq. ft. Come see! 15113 Dasmarinas Dr. Offered at $384,241.

994-9393 www.homes-metro.com

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RBCDQLL Ideal Island Waterfront Home... Almost fingertip! Remodeled by Aston Design, well priced, immaculate! Home is south facing on cul-de sac. Perfect for entertaining under palapa or gated courtyard patio pergola. 13521 Port Royal Ct. $524,900.

Rose Cavada Navalta (361) 688-0005

Vicky Correa (361) 688-5103

For more information and photos, TEXT the code on the property to 52187

RBCCPRM CALALLEN SCHOOL DISTRICT! Renovated 4-3 home on almost half acre. Everything has been done for you! Tile and hardwood floors throughout except 2 carpeted bedrooms. Kitchen with huge island, gas stove, and granite counter tops. $174,900. CALL VICKY. MLS:339077

RBCCQZJ GREAT HUNTING GROUNDS! Nice ranch in San Diego, TX! Surrounded by large ranches. 41 acres. Relaxing and peaceful getaway. No water. No electricity. Blinds and feeders convey $124,400. CALL ROSE. MLS:338257

RBCBNLD LOCATION! Lots of square footage for the price. 4-2, 2 living areas, tile, laminate and parquet flooring throughout. Lots of storage. Huge lot with in-ground pool. Close to hospitals and shopping. Needs TLC. $142,000. CALL VICKY. MLS:339199

RBBHGRR GREAT INVESTMENT! Multi-family 4-Plex on Southside in Wooldridge. Each unit is spacious with 2-2 each. Two units have fireplaces. Great location - Great buy! $279,900. CALL ROSE. MLS:330697

RBCCJCP MOVE IN READY Recent A/C system, interior paint, ceramic tile floors in living & kitchen. Carpet in bedrooms. Spacious kitchen, detached garage. Close to schools & shopping. $94,900. CALL VICKY. MLS:339663

RBBZMNG FANTASTIC LOT in Lago Vista! Custom build your dream home on this unique lot that backs up to the Oso Creek. Beautiful views! Gated subdivision with a beautiful lake for your enjoyment! $224,900. CALL ROSE. MLS:337651

Beverly Dirks BROKER ASSOCIATE

ABR, CDPE, CRS, GRI, MRP, SRS, TRES Sales and Property Management Cell: 361-244-0290

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RE/MAX Professionals

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E-mail: Bev@BevDirks.com www.CoastalBendRealEstate.net

Mary Beth Delano, Broker â&#x20AC;¢ 361-985-9393 Each Office Independently Owned & Operated

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3 BEDROOM, 2 BATH, 2 CAR GARAGE offers a nice Kitchen, Awesome 3BR/2BA floor plan. Refrigerator and Deep Freezer stay with the house. Backyard has a nice patio. Roof is only one year old. $176,000 | For More Info Text RBBHLDZ to 52187

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AWESOME VIEW OF NORTH BEACH Completely furnished 2BR/1BA Condo. New:A/C, HW Heater, Carpet in Master, Flooring in Kitchen and Hallway. Enjoy sitting on the Patio, and taking a walk on the Beach. $136,000 | For More Info Text RBBZPHP to 52187

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CUTE 3 BEDROOM 2 BATH, 2 CAR GARAGE. Nice kitchen and dining room. Nice size bedrooms. Roof is 2 years old. Dishwasher is almost 2 years old. Fresh Paint, Crown molding. Nice starter home. Huge back yard, big enough for a pool. Great for Family BBQ's. More pictures coming soon. $161,000 | For More Info Text RBCBZRC to 52187

EXCELLENT OPPORTUNITY! Build your Dream home, minutes to Laguna-Shores Marina, Fishing, Boat Barns, Restaurant's, other Lodging. Many opportunities, Seller retains mineral rights. $725,000 | For More Info Text RBBHLDV to 52187

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$137,550 | For More Info Text to 52187

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FOR RENT! Beautiful Townhome with View of the Bay. 3BR/2BA, 2 car garage. Lovely Sunroom or Office has view of the water. Nice kitchen with large pantry. 2 Bedroom's upstairs, Master is down. $2,600/MO | For More Info Text RBBYJNY to 52187

THIS 2 BEDROOM, 2 1/2 BATH TOWNHOUSE is move in ready. Nice backyard patio and a 2 car garage. New Roof in June 2018.

BRASELTON HOME with 3 Bedrooms, 2 Baths, nice kitchen with gas stove, breakfast bar and view of living room. Master bath has garden tub, walk-in closets. Split bedroom plan. Nice back yard with patio. $199,500 | For More Info Text RBCFNLZ to 52187

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BUILD YOUR HOME ON THIS NICE LOT on Starling Drive in Edna. Close to the Bay. Lovely Lot in Cape Carancahua Subdivision. $20,000 | For More Info Text RBCCBGZ to 52187

LOVELY 4 BEDROOM, 2 BATH, 2 CAR GARAGE is ready for you. Corner lot with a Great Back yard, large enough for a pool. Lots of storage, new dishwasher, 2 refrigerators and washer and dryer stay. Separate workshop located in garage. $218,900 | For More Info Text RBCBKVT to 52187

Reserve your spot here to get your home

LISTED and SOLD!

I also provide Professional Property Management!

Call or EMAIL me TODAY!

361-244-0290 Bev@BevDirks.com

SOLD

LOVELY HOME! 4 Bedrooms, 2 Baths, 2 car garage with awesome backyard. On 1.03 Acres. Nice Large Family room to enjoy with fireplace. Wood Laminate flooring, Stairs have been redone with Wood, no carpet. Master Bedroom can be up or down stairs. $175,200 | For More Info Text RBCFNLY to 52187

Selling Corpus Christi Since 1971

Se Habla EspaĂąol GET ZAPPAR ZAP THE CODE

(361) 991-9111 1-800-621-6980 www.GroupOneCC.com Karen King, Broker

GORGEOUS HOME with master down & accessible to backyard & patio. 4/2.5/2, kitchen offers custom cabinets, granite counter tops, breakfast nook & large space for dining table. Gas fireplace is dual use to living room & kitchen. Tile throughout. $315,000. 7314 Gingerberry Dr. MLS:339950

BE AMAZED! One-of-a-kind home! 4/3/2 with 3-way split plan. Living room has a bank of large windows overlooking yard & patio. Updated kitchen with granite counters. 1/4 acre lot, irrigation system, gardening shed in back. $267,900. 5317 Bromley. MLS:340407

MEADOWBROOK New Roof in 2018, windows in 2015, recent paint. 4/2/2 split plan, two back to back living areas connect with double sliding doors. Covered patio, viewed from the living/ dining/kitchen areas. $239,900. 754 St Pius Dr. MLS:337536

RANCHO VISTA S/D Wonderful 3/2.5/2 plus study floorplan, large downstairs family room & upstairs game room. *DOWNSTAIRS* master includes tall, cathedral ceilings. Two lakes with fountains create beautiful evening walks at sunset! $235,000. 7213 Brown Dr. MLS:340413

VIEW OF THE GULF and Padre Island from this 2/2.5 condo. Fully furnished & beachy decorated. 2 balconies; one off master, one off living room. Complex offers heater pool, large hot tub. Pets allowed. $235,000. 14802 WINDWARD Dr 230. MLS:339536

LOCATION AND VIEWS! Enjoy the view from the balcony overlooking North Beach and Corpus Christi Bay. 2/2 unit split plan with open living, dining & kitchen. Windows all across the back let in natural light. Furnishings in unit will convey. $179,900. 4242 Gulfbreeze Blvd 404. MLS:338539

BAY RIDGE! 3/2/2 home has a comfortable open floor plan, ceramic tile & carpet. Washer/ dryer & black appliances. This beautiful home is move in ready! $175,000. 1140 Imperial St. MLS:340310

COMFORTABLE TOWNHOME is freshly painted & ready for new owner! Large living room, brick fireplace, dining off kitchen. 2/2 with one up/ one down, both have large closets & nice baths. Small fenced area out front. $98,500. 7252 THE MANSIONS S-2. MLS:338874

Call Claire Wavell Essing! Selling Villa Del Sol for over 23 years! 361-563-7938 anytime!

VILLA DEL SOL CONDOS ON CORPUS CHRISTI BAY Perfect vacation condos on North Beach, centrally located, convenient to Lexington Museum, TX State Aquarium, Downtown Bayfront. All Villas are One Bedroom with additional bunk area, have a beach & bay view from balconies, and furnished. Prices range from Mid $50,000 to $80,000. Call Now!.

361-241-5363 1-800-500-3652 GET ZAPPAR ZAP THE CODE

e-mail: corpuschristihomes@holtzclawherrmann.com Visit all Corpus Christi Homes at:

4250 Five Points Road #8 Corpus Christi, Texas 78410

www.holtzclawherrmann.com

For more information and photos, TEXT the code on the property to 52187

RBCCNCC

RBBZSQY

BEAUTIFUL 3/3.5/3 HOME with open living with stone fireplace, kitchen designed for the chef, master with fireplace, gazebo in large back yard with gas fire pit, sprinkler system for the lush yard. $480,000. CALL JUDY 361-215-7953. MLS:338879

WOOD RIVER HOME is move-in ready! Beautifully updated 4BR/2.5BA home on wooded corner lot. Remodeled kitchen, formal DR, living area with fireplace. Shaded back yard, wooden deck, rear wrap garage. $310,000. CALL JUDY 361-215-7953. MLS:337801 G

RBBJGCC

RBCFLMV

CALALLEN! 4/4/2 on 4.61 acres with extra office, 2 living areas, pool, pool house 2400 sq ft barn. $749,000. CALL BONNIE 361-726-9246.

RBCFLMW

RBCFLMX 3309 SHALLOW CREEK DR 3 BR, 2 Bath, open living & kitchen, granite counters, large garage and storage barn. $178,000. CALL VICKEY 361-946-1781. MLS:340679

RBCFLMY LARGE 1/2 ACRE LOT - ORANGE GROVE Across from Schools, MUST SEE, updated, 3/2 w/ large kitchen, new flooring, paint. CALL FOR PRICE. CALL SHARON 361-850-0851.

4138 RIPPLING CREEK DR 3 BR, 2 Bath split plan. Living room & den with Fireplace. Nice yard, covered patio. $164,900. CALL VICKEY 361-946-1781. MLS:340517

CALALLEN WOOD ESTATES HOME Subdivision Park & walking trails behind home! 4/2.5 approx 2648 sq ft. Call to SEE and CALL FOR PRICE. CALL SHARON 361-850-0851.

RBCFLMZ YOU WON'T FIND ANYTHING like this on Lake Corpus Christi, 5000 sq ft W/F home with almost 4 acres with large garden. $435,000. CALL LARRY 361-244-7657. MLS:30913

RBCFLNB WHO DOESN'T WANT TO LIVE on the water? Lake Corpus Christi 3/2 home with 2 living areas, fenced yard and pier. $143,000. CALL LARRY 361-244-7657. MLS:339910

GREAT LOCATION!! PEACEFUL CALALLEN Large lot, almost half acre with privacy fence. 3/2 Brick home with 2 car attached side entry garage. ALSO Includes a detached 2 car garage/ shop!! $198,000. CALL SHARON 361-850-0851. MLS:337669

RBBZSRH

RBBHLJD CUSTOM 3/3/3 RANCH STYLE HOME on 1.6 acres. Pool/spa w/outdoor kitchen. Interior remodeled w/granite & hardwood flrg. $329,000. CALL ERIC 361-813-7007. MLS:328981

RBBJGCF 3/2 HOME ON 50 ACRES 9' ceilings, crown molding, Austin cut stone FP, S/S appliances. 30x40 barn w/electric. Tremendous views! $510,000. CALL ERIC 361-813-7007. MLS:335637

RBBHMZY FABULOUS LAKE C.C. Waterfront, furnished home with open living area, game room, lighted pier, and pontoon boat. $365,000. CALL TRICIA 361-701-0763. MLS:335648

Home buying can be both exciting and stressful. After all, there are so many factors that impact your decision, from the liveliness of a neighborhood to the quality of a local school district. But, an area’s affordability usually ranks among a home buyer’s most pressing concerns. When estimating the total cost of living of a home in a given area, there’s more to consider than the mortgage. Don’t forget about property taxes, that annual fee you’ll be paying as long as you own the property. Even if the price may seem manageable on paper, sizable property taxes could cut into your disposable income more than you might initially expect.

HOW PROPERTY TAXES WORK

While the specific property taxes you face might differ significantly by local market, there are some general similarities that anyone looking to buy a home should understand. That way, you might be able to find an effective way to minimize your property tax burden.

HOW PROPERTY TAX IS CALCULATED

Property tax is calculated as a percentage of the appraised monetary value of a piece of property. It is collected by state and local governments in the United States and most property tax receipts go towards funding public services such as education, law enforcement, and local infrastructure. The property tax rate (sometimes referred to as the “millage rate”) is determined by local governments. A municipality will hire a tax assessor to estimate the current market value of a property. Property tax is then applied only on the assessed value, not on the purchase price. Property tax is usually applied only on real property, although personal property can sometimes be subject to property tax as well. Real property is deﬁned as land and buildings, while personal property includes items like cars and boats that might occupy the real property. Imagine that you live in an area with a 2% property tax rate on real property. Following a real estate appraisal of $100,000, you will then face $2,000 in annual property taxes, calculated by multiplying the 2% property tax rate on the $100,000 assessed property value. Now imagine there is a property tax increase from 2% to 2.5% in your municipality. Assuming no change in the appraisal value of your property, your property taxes will now jump to $2,500. If the appraisal on your property simultaneously comes in higher at $110,000, you would now face a property tax burden of $2,750.

It’s important to pay attention to the expected future value of a property you might be looking to purchase as well as the property tax rates of that area. And, if current urban housing trends are any indication, expect those taxes to only increase when purchasing property in one of the cities with the fastest rising real estate prices in the U.S. This means that while the estimated current market value of the property may increase, you will have to shoulder a heavier property tax burden in the meantime.

PROPERTY TAX FORECASTING TRENDS FOR 2019

The Tax Foundation recently released their 2019 State Business Tax Climate Index and has provided separate property tax analysis, which is an intuitive way to see how your state compares to others over the last few years. Heading into 2019, states like Arkansas, North Dakota, Oklahoma and Wyoming have fallen in the property tax rankings, while Alaska and Delaware gained a whopping fifteen and eleven places respectively from 2018. With that said, North Dakota still ranks 6th amongst all 50 states, so it’s important to consider the absolute rank of each state in addition to its yearover-year change. For those looking for detailed property tax information across the entire U.S., the Lincoln Institute has published an expansive study comparing property taxes across all states in 2017. So, when estimating the cost of purchasing a new home, don’t forget to factor in property taxes as an unavoidable recurring expense. To do so, you must understand how property taxes work and what to look for when evaluating the affordability of a neighborhood. No matter what the price tag of your new home, understanding property taxes, and how they might fluctuate year over year, is the surest way to keeping your finances firmly under control.

TIPS TO PREPARE YOUR HOME FOR

SUMMER BY KELLEN OWINGS

Summer is almost here, which means it’s time to prepare your home for the warm weather and activities that come with it. Follow these tips to help you get ready for the summer months.

CHECK YOUR COOLING SYSTEM. Check that your air-conditioning units are running properly especially with high temperatures coming. If you have an AC unit that you run daily, make sure to wash the ﬁlters every month. This helps it run more efﬁciently, which in turn keeps the energy bill down. PREPARE THE GRILL. Heat the grill for 10 minutes at a high temperature so it’s easier to scrape off built up grime and grease from the inside of the grill. Then use warm water and soap to wash the burners, grates, drip tray and exterior. TRIM TREES. Strong summer thunderstorms can cause branches to scrape against your house or break off, causing damage, so trim them now. CHECK YOUR SPRINKLERS. Grass gets dry in the summer, so you may have a sprinkler system. Run the system to check for any damage that occurred since last summer, such as broken heads or leaks.

PEST CONTROL. Summer months also bring bugs. Spray the exterior with insecticide to create a bug barrier. Repair or replace screen doors or windows that have holes or tears to keep bugs out as well. If it’s bad enough, call an exterminator. PROTECT THE DECK. Inspect the boards of your deck, railings and spindles to make sure they’re all secure. Prevent splinters by sanding down any areas that are starting to splinter and tighten any loose screws. Protect the deck against the sun and summer storms by applying a sealant and wood stain. TOUCH-UP PAINT. Touching-up your house with a fresh coat of paint protects your house from water damage and mold. Before painting, pressure wash the exterior walls of your home to remove dirt stains and mildew that paint can’t cover. By following these tips, your home will be well prepared for a long, fun summer ahead.

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Glenn Peterson

Broker/Owner

361-765-7117

grp1966@aol.com

Johneen Cawyer 361-765-4248

Nancy Weber 361-816-2088

Marshall R. Matthews 361-876-6675

nancy4275 @gmail.com

jcawyer @stx.rr.com

Joseph Ramirez 361-658-6691

OUR LISTINGS ARE SELLING FAST! CALL US TO GET YOUR HOME SOLD FAST TOO! For more information and photos, TEXT the code on the property to 52187 G

RBCGQQL VILLAGE AT LAKES This 4/2.5/2 PLUS an OFFICE that could be the 5th bedroom if needed. Many updates and is in a spacious cul de sac. Two large living areas, formal dining, updated kitchen with granite counters and tiled backsplash, wood laminate floors. Carpet in all bedrooms, wood burning fireplace, updated light fixtures. All bedrooms are located upstairs. $255,500. CALL GLENN 361-765-7117. MLS:339836

RBCGQQR FANTASTIC HOME built in the 10920's in very desirable Del Mar neighborhood. Walking distance to Cole Park and 5 minutes from Downtown. 3/2/2, kitchen with granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, 5 burner gas stove, built in microwave, built in wine rack. Original hardwood floors. $199,500. CALL GLENN 361-765-7117. MLS:340956 5K

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RBBHMCH COUNTRY CLUB TOWNHOMES located close to the lake. Large living area with fireplace and wet bar. Marble floors in kitchen. Spacious Master. $210,000. CALL GLENN 361-765-7117.

RBBHMCX COUNTRY CLUB ESTATES Large family home with 4/2/2 has been completely re-done. Kitchen with island, large master, den with fireplace. Large back yard and rear wrap garage. $365,500. CALL GLENN 361-765-7117. MLS:334434

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RBCGQQM COZY HOME with 2/1/2, large kitchen, dining, living areas. Detached garage and a nice large Back yard. Exterior has just been painted. This is a perfect starter home for a first time home buyer or for someone wanting to downsize. $109,500. CALL GLENN 361-765-7117. MLS:340337

RBBHMCR BEAUTIFULLY MAINTAINED 3BR/1.5BA home has a unique old style feel. Great first home for a new family. Come take a look today!! $110,000. CALL GLENN 361-765-7117. MLS:311135

RBBHMCF GREAT OPPORTUNITY to own an office building fronting S. Staples. High traffic count, close to everything. Currently 100% occupied. 10 parking spots in front, 7 in back. $475,000. CALL GLENN 361-765-7117.

Residential & Commercial Property Management Available

361-884-0707

SMART HOMES CAN HELP PREVENT BREAK-INS By Kellen Owings

10 PAINT TOUCH-UPS FOR A SHOW-READY HOME When you’re away or on vacation, the last thing you want to worry about is the security of your home. In addition to a home security system, smart home technology can help deter burglars and protect your property so you can relax with a peace of mind.

Four ways smart home technology can help are: Randomizing lights A smart burglar can quickly notice when lights are turning on at the same time in the same rooms every night. While smart to put your lights on a timer, a static schedule isn’t enough. Smart lights, however, can be set on a much more random schedule that varies from day to day and room to room, making it look like someone is actually home. Motion-activated lights Don’t just install motion sensing lights at the front door; place them near the garage, back entrances and the backyard to thwart burglars coming from any direction. Some models come equipped with a camera, two way audio and a siren should you need to sound the alarm. Video doorbell Smart doorbells like the Ring will let you know when any activity is occurring at

your front door. Two way audio allows you to talk to whoever might be knocking, so if it’s someone who is supposed to be there, you can unlock the door and let them in. If it’s a stranger, you can tell them to leave. Turn on music or the TV You can set times for your TV to turn on or your speakers to stream music via a smart device. A device called the Harmony Hub allows you to set a TV to come on at different times each day and play TV. The sound of music or TV may be enough to scare a burglar off. By pairing the latest smart technology with a home security system, your home will be well prepared and protected while you’re away. Contact your local home security company to discover all of the options you have for security, including smart features.

SAFETY TIPS FOR YOUR ELECTRICAL SYSTEM By Kellen Owings

Our home’s electric system and the safety of it is often something we take for granted. From just hitting a switch to light a room, to plugging in electronics and charging devices, we don’t really think of the electrical current coursing through the house. However, it’s important to consider whether or not your homes electrical system is safe. The following tips will help you keep you and your house safe from the dangers of electricity. Know your electrical system better. Look at your circuit breaker and see what runs on each current. Learn the limit for electrical overloads as well. An overload can cause an electrical ﬁre, which spread quickly. Use generators responsibly. If a storm knocks out your power a generator is great for keeping important appliances like refrigerators and hot water heaters running. However, they can quickly turn dangerous if overloaded. Also, give them ventilation, as they can introduce poisonous carbon monoxide. Practice extra care around water. Swimming pools and hot tubs are great, but keep electronics and electricity away from them. Keep the stereo speakers at a distance and dry off before using any electrical items. Also, be mindful in the bathroom, and keep hair dryers or curlers away from the sink or tub.

Go easy on the extension cords and plugs in outlets. Extension cords are great for reaching a little further, but remember to use them safely. Don’t chain multiple cords together, and don’t use items that pull more electricity than the cord can handle. Same goes for an electrical outlet socket splitter. Making these items handle too much can cause them to overheat, short or even cause a ﬁre.

Follow these tips for safety, and always err on the side of caution when it comes to electricity. Always contact your local electrician when electrical problems or concerns arise. It may also be beneﬁcial to call one out to your home so that they can assess the safety of your electrical system.

HAVE A

BIG FAMILY? HEREâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S SOME HOUSE HUNTING TIPS By Kellen Owings

Having a large family can be great, but if there is one “drawback” it’s that you will need more space in a home to meet everyone’s needs and keep them comfortable. With a large family, you’ll need a larger house, because a home with three bedrooms and one bathroom isn’t going to cut it. You will need to look for homes with as much living and storage space as possible. To help in your search for a home, consider looking for a house with the following features:

Look for a big yard A bigger yard provides room for all of your kids’ activities. Younger children can play on a play set, while older kids practice sports. If you have a family pet or pets, the larger yard is better for them too to run around and play. A large yard is also perfect for having friends over or for large family gatherings in the summer. Find a Home with a Finished Basement or Attic With younger children, having one of these rooms is perfect to have as their playroom – a place where the kids can play without you having to worry about the good living room furniture getting messed up. And when your kids get older, a space like this will allow them privacy and room to have friends over. And later on, when a child is home from college, or even living at home for a bit post-graduation, these spaces are ideal for providing a feeling of “their own space.”

At Least Four Bedrooms While younger children can share bedrooms, older kids will need a room to themselves. If you can afford to, having a bedroom for each child is the way to go. Also, private or shared bathrooms for the kid’s rooms will help make getting ready in the morning easier for everyone in the house. A Large Garage or Driveway A two car garage will allow both parents to keep their cars free from the elements and off the street. A large garage will also provide storage space for things like sports equipment. And as your kids get older and get cars of their own, a large driveway will provide parking space and room to come and go. To help in your search for a larger home to fit your large family, enlist the help of a trusted real estate company and realtor to help find the right home.

Stop by for a Free List of 120 Beautiful Homes and 4 ugly ones. Tim B. Teas MBA, Broker, MBA, EJD

4737 Mt. Vernon Dr. Corpus Christi, Texas 78411

ATC METRO PROPERTIES, INC.

Michael Alexander Al Ayala Hunter Benke Lillian Braunstein Irma Cavazos Vicky Correa Roy DelBosque Crystal Dobbs Dana Chayer-Griffis Sherry Halbrook

361-877-7130 361-510-6172 361-215-0649 361-877-1722 361-991-1257 361-688-5103 361-877-3701 361-688-4664 361-876-6556 361-774-6858

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