The Oklahoman Real Estate by OPUBCO Communications Group

LISTING OF THE WEEK

HOUSE PLAN

Traditional home

Charming A-Frame

The Listing of the Week is a traditional home in a gated neighborhood with a pool and yard maintenance covered by the homeowners association fee in northwest Oklahoma City.

Designed as a vacation retreat home for a couple or single, the Arnett is as charming as it is compact.

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REAL ESTATE

Barry Stone

INSPECTOR’S IN THE HOUSE

THE OKLAHOMAN | NEWSOK.COM

SATURDAY, MAY 19, 2012

CHECK PERMIT HISTORY Don’t worry about someone attacking your home over building code issues. If you want to know the status of an addition, go to the building department and ask for the permit history of the property. PAGE 6F

IN BRIEF SPRAY-ON LEAK SEAL

Brock Harrison and Abel Beck’s Tudor revival-style home at 2536 NW 12 is one of several stops on the 14th annual Miller in May Home & Garden Tour from 10 to 4 p.m. Saturday. PHOTOS BY STEVE GOOCH, THE OKLAHOMAN

Neighbors display creativity MILLER IN MAY | HOME AND GARDEN TOUR SHOWS HANDIWORK, VISION OF RENTERS AS WELL AS OWNERS Sharing the beauty

BY DYRINDA TYSON For The Oklahoman dyrinda@gmail.com

Don’t let the elegantly padded bathroom walls fool you — that was not part of the original plan. “It started off as a paint job gone wrong,” said homeowner Brock Harrison. Once he and co-owner Abel Beck moved into the cozy Tudor revival at 2536 NW 12, one of several stops on the Miller in May home tour from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, they decided to repaint chocolate-colored walls in the hall bathroom. “It was supposed to be gray,” Harrison said with a grimace. “Baby blue is what it turned out to be.” “And I said, ‘I’m not painting it again!’ ” Beck added with a laugh. So Harrison put his professional sewing skills to work, layering padding and elegant striped fabric over the walls. The result, paired with a dark wooden vanity and elegant hardware, is miles away from baby blue horrors. Harrison’s creative touch is evident throughout the house, from rich, layered draperies to decorative pillows to the aqua-and-black Medusa painting dominating the fireplace mantel in the living

The dining room at the home of Brock Harrison and Abel Beck home at 2536 NW 12.

And despite the baby blue debacle, the 1,400-square-foot home, built in 1925, didn’t require major work. “We only made changes we wanted to make,” Beck said. More work has gone into Gregory Wyatt and Ashely Chambers’ Tudor revival a few blocks away at 2605 NW 13, where modern and antique elements mix with ease. The first challenge after he bought Brock Harrison Abel Beck it in 2009, Wyatt said, was simply room. Bold colors and mixed tex- buying furniture. tures create a look that’s both “I lived here a long time with grounded and modern. nothing, just a bed,” he said.

Tickets for the 14th annual Miller in May Home & Garden Tour can be bought for $10 at any of the participating homes. Proceeds go toward beautifying the neighborhood as well as special events throughout the year. New streetlights in the neighborhood are among the beautification projects. “We’ve put in 13 new lights in the past year,” said Mike Stuart, whose home is also on the tour. Established by developer George Miller in 1907, the Miller neighborhood has a mix of homes heavy on Tudor revivals and Craftsman bungalows, and treelined medians along NW 12 cover the tracks where street cars once ran. Renters and homeowners are active in the Miller Neighborhood Association. Tour chairman Mickey Barnard is among the renters. His duplex is on the tour, and Barnard, an interior designer, helped Wyatt and Chambers get their home ready for the tour as well. “There seems to be a lot of color on this tour,” Barnard said. Other homes on the tour are: SEE MILLER, PAGE 2F

Quality contractors can be crucial Nearly all homeowners must hire contractors for repairs and cosmetic upgrades before their property goes up for sale. Sometimes the jobs are small, like repainting a front door or repairing a shaky stair railing. Other times they’re large, like replacing a leaky roof or rebuilding a broken deck. “Your home is your biggest asset, and if you hire the wrong contractors that could be very expensive,” said Cheryl Reed, communications director for Angie’s List, a fee-based website that maintains a database of consumer reviews on service providers throughout the U.S. and Canada (www.angieslist. com). Besides the fiscal hazards of botched contracting, homeowners also face the danger of “(busting) their budget on unwarranted overcharges for the work done,” said Sid Davis, a veteran real estate broker and author of “A Survival Guide to Selling a Home.” Davis said there are plenty of reputable contractors willing to work for a reasonable rate, but homeowners must often work to

Ellen James Martin SMART MOVES

find them. Here are several pointers for home sellers who need contractors’ services: I Book your contractors in advance if possible. For many contractors, the flow of work is lumpy. Perhaps one month they’re overbooked, and then the next they have no work at all. If you can fit your jobs into holes in their schedule, they might give you favorable terms, said Eric Tyson, a personal finance expert and co-author of “House Selling for Dummies.” I Reach out broadly in search of the best contractors. Ask for referrals from friends, neighbors or work associates who’ve had recent work done. Along with names gathered

from your immediate circle, Tyson said it’s often wise for home sellers to collect referrals through the real estate agent they plan to hire to list their property. Contractors hired at the recommendation of a real estate agent are likely to be more attentive to your job, fearing that botched work could tarnish their reputation within the local real estate community. I Get ample estimates to help ensure that you don’t overpay. “Time-consuming though it is, I recommend you get at least three to five estimates for any job expected to cost $1,000 or more,” Davis said. “The surprising thing is that there’s often little correlation between price and quality. So people who cast a wide net can often get both low cost and topquality work.” I Preview contractors’ work by visiting customers’ homes. Once you’ve created a shortlist of contractors based on pricing and reputation, you might assume the next best step is to ask for references. But Davis said this isn’t always the most informative way

to determine the quality of their workmanship. Rather, he suggests you go and visit the homes of a few recent clients to judge for yourself. “Who knows? The references a contractor gives you could be his cousins or someone he paid to say nice things,” Davis said. The photos shown on a company’s website can also give you a deceptive picture, he said, because they might have been altered electronically. I Make sure you get all the major details of your jobs in writing. “A good contract should contain a description of the work to be done, the contractor’s start and completion dates and a full outline of the costs — including penalties for missed completion dates,” she said. “Without a contract, it’s very hard to make your case in court,” if something goes awry. To contact Ellen James Martin, email her at ellenjamesmartin@gmail.com. UNIVERSAL UCLICK

RustOleum LeakSeal promises to stop leaks instantly. The sprayon coating is designed to fill cracks and gaps while remaining flexible. It dries to a black finish and works on metal, vinyl, plastic, PVC, concrete and other surfaces. Among the items it will seal are sunroofs, skylights, gutters, roofs, ductwork, vents and flashing, the company said. Rust-Oleum LeakSeal is available at stores that sell hardware or paint. You can search at www.rustoleum.com for a nearby retailer that carries RustOleum products, but call first to make sure the store stocks LeakSeal. The suggested retail price is $9.99.

CLEANING SLIDING DOOR TRACK Q: How do you clean the metal tracks of sliding patio doors? A: Remove the loose dirt with a vacuum cleaner outfitted with a crevice tool, or brush it out with a paintbrush. Then you can remove the sticky residue with a cloth dampened with mineral spirits, window manufacturer WindowPro said. Stretching the dampened cloth over a putty knife or similar blade may help you reach into the tracks better. WindowPro recommends spraying the tracks with spray silicone after they’re cleaned to help the doors slide better. Don’t use a petroleum-based product such as WD-40, because it will attract dirt. MCT INFORMATION SERVICES

INDEX Permits Bianchina

9F, 10F 10F

SATURDAY, MAY 19, 2012

REAL ESTATE

THE OKLAHOMAN | NEWSOK.COM

LEFT: Dusty Peck and Dr. Darin Stockton’s home at 2719 NW 11 is on the Miller in May tour. PHOTO BY PAUL B. SOUTHERLAND, THE OKLAHOMAN

Miller: Tour shows homes, gardens FROM PAGE 1F

I 2719 NW 11 — Dusty Peck and Dr. Darin Stockton (home and garden). Peck and Stockton, past participants in the tour, will show off a renovated kitchen and their revamped backyard. I 2533 NW 13 — Dr. Deanna Ward (home and garden). On her first tour, Ward will show off her restored home — down to meticulous details such as the doorknobs — as well as her collections such as the Berkey & Gay bedroom furniture dating from the 1920s and Wedgewood Queensware china. I 2617 NW 14 — Dorene Shadid (home). Shadid has renovated 16 homes in the Miller neighborhood, and this is one of her latest projects. Work includes an enlarged kitchen and many updates. I 2537 NW 15 — Greg Groenke (home). Formerly home to a schoolteacher who lived there 50 years, the house was remodeled last fall before Groenke, also a teacher, moved in. This is the second property he has rented in the Miller neighborhood. I 1114 N Miller Ave. — Mickey Barnard (duplex). Barnard channeled his creative energies into turning his one-room duplex into a special retreat. I 1215 N Villa Ave. — Stuart Hall Properties (apartment). This joint effort be-

Mickey Barnard, chairman of the Miller in May Home & Garden Tour, rents a duplex at 1114 N Miller Ave. Renters and owners are active in the Miller Neighborhood Association. PHOTO BY PAUL B. SOUTHERLAND, THE OKLAHOMAN

Mickey Barnard, chairman of the Miller in May Home & Garden Tour, shows a garden that is on the tour. PHOTO BY STEVE GOOCH, THE OKLAHOMAN

tween Mike Stuart and Bruce Hall was on the 2011 tour, when it had been stripped to the studs. This year finds the studio apartment more finished with a new bathroom and kitchen.

I 1221 N Miller Ave. — Mike Stuart and Bruce Hall (hospitality garden). Originally the home to developer George Miller and his family, the stately Miller Mansion has been on the tour several times.

This year the backyard will serve as the hospitality garden where guests can enjoy refreshments around the pool. The yard this year features a new elevated deck.

ABOVE: Gregory Wyatt shows the living room of his and Ashely Chambers’ home at 2605 NW 13 in the Miller neighborhood. PHOTO BY STEVE GOOCH, THE OKLAHOMAN LEFT: Stuart Hall Properties (Mike Stuart and Bruce Hall) presents a renovated studio apartment at 1215 N Villa Ave. on the Miller in May Home & Garden Tour. PHOTO BY PAUL B. SOUTHERLAND, THE OKLAHOMAN

Greg Groenke’s home at 2537 NW 15 is on the Miller in May Home & Garden Tour taking place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday. PHOTO BY PAUL B. SOUTHERLAND, THE OKLAHOMAN

REAL ESTATE

THE OKLAHOMAN | NEWSOK.COM

Churchill-Brown adds Luong Michelle Luong has joined Churchill-Brown & Associates Realtors’ north office at 4401 W Memorial Road, Suite 109, as a residential real estate sales associate. She has lived in the Oklahoma City area for 24 years.

Davis attends top conference Kirsten Olsen

Prudential hires Fischer EDMOND — Prudential Alliance Realty, 3434 S Boulevard, has hired Chelsea Fischer as a customer care specialist in the ecomm department. She works for Jared Kennedy, director of strategic operations. She is responsible for customer development and correspondence with online visitors.

Athena Parker

Parker joins Keller Williams MIDWEST CITY — Athena Parker has joined Keller Williams Realty, 1716-A S Post Road, as a residential real estate sales associate. She works for Integris Southwest Medical and recently obtained her real estate license. She majored in sociology at the University of Central Oklahoma and lives in Midwest City.

Cassie Dodd

Keller Williams adds Dodd MIDWEST CITY — Keller Williams Realty, 1716-A S Post Road, has added Cassie Dodd as a residential real estate sales associate. She previously worked for homebuilding company Home Creations as a new homes sales consultant. She studied business at Rose State College and graduated from the University of Central Oklahoma.

LISTING OF THE WEEK

Michelle Luong

First American Title, 133 NW 8, has added Kirsten Olsen to its sales team. She has a state real estate license and previously worked in First American Title’s Home Warranty Division.

Paradigm adds Brannon Carla Brannon has recently joined Paradigm AdvantEdge Real Estate’s north office at 16301 N May Ave. as a residential real estate sales associate. She holds a bachelor’s degree in language and literature from Sterling College in Sterling, Kan., and furthered her studies of biblical history and literature at World Harvest Bible College in Ohio. Previously, she worked as an office administrator for medical billing and management companies.

Ross joins Almaraz sales team Connor Ross has joined the Linda Almaraz sales team at Paradigm AdvantEdge Real Estate’s north office, 16301 N May Ave., as a residential real estate sales associate.

Chelsea Fischer

First American adds Olsen

Chanda Davis

Chanda Davis, managing broker at Churchill Brown & Associates Realtors, recently attended the annual by-invitation-only 2012 REAL Trends Gathering of Eagles conference in Dallas. This year’s event attracted more than 250 principals and CEOs from the nation’s 500 largest residential real estate brokerage firms, plus senior management of the largest real estate franchise organizations.

SATURDAY, MAY 19, 2012

Previously, he worked in a restaurant. He is a graduate of Putnam City North High School in Oklahoma City, where he played on the top-performing 2010 soccer team.

The Listing of the Week is at 6532 NW 109 Place

PHOTO PROVIDED

Traditional 2-bedroom home secure in gated neighborhood The Listing of the Week is a traditional home in a gated neighborhood with a pool and yard maintenance covered by the homeowners association fee in northwest Oklahoma City. The 1,786-square-foot home at 6532 NW 109 Place has two bedrooms, two baths, one living room, a formal dining room and an attached two-car garage. The living room has a vaulted ceiling and a fireplace. The kitchen has a breakfast bar and eating space. The master bedroom

has a bath with whirlpool tub, double vanities and walk-in closet. The home has a covered patio, open patio and security system. The home, built in 1994, is listed with Paul and Fran Brooks of RE/MAX Preferred Properties. For more information, call 990-0548. Nominations for Listing of the Week are welcome. Send information on single-family homes to The Oklahoman, Richard Mize, P.O. Box 25125, Oklahoma City, OK 73125. Nominations may be faxed to 475-3996.

SATURDAY, MAY 19, 2012

REAL ESTATE

THE OKLAHOMAN | NEWSOK.COM

Barresi aids Habitat’s Women Build program FROM STAFF REPORTS

Beth Howard stands in front of her home, the house featured in the 1930 painting “American Gothic” in Eldon, Iowa. MCT PHOTOS

Turning an iconic house into home as easy as pie BY ALANA SEMUELS Los Angeles Times

ELDON, Iowa — Beth Howard sits at her kitchen table on a Sunday morning and pulls back the curtain to peer at a group of rosycheeked youths taking pictures on her front lawn. They pair off to stand side by side in the pose familiar to millions — the dour farmer with a pitchfork, the unsmiling woman beside him in front of the white house. No one notices the woman in flannel pajamas sitting inside. “People seldom know that people live here, much less that there’s someone watching them from the other side of the curtain,” said Howard, who rents the house made famous in Grant Wood’s painting “American Gothic.” Living in a tourist destination means shrugging when some of the 13,000 annual visitors catch her moisturizing in the nude or in the bathroom. The interior of the house is off limits to visitors, but Howard’s lease with the owner, the state historical society, includes a clause stating that she has to be nice to interlopers. Those who peek inside see hardwood floors decorated with throw rugs, brightly colored couches and a collage depicting the Gothic house above the kitchen sink. The house, which has appeared in countless parodies, including those featuring Klingons and Miss Piggy, has captivated Howard. She misses it when she’s away and said that when she went to see Wood’s painting at the Art Institute of Chicago, she wanted to jump into the painting and go home (a security guard had to ask her to step away from the artwork). “You can smell the history,” she said of her adopted home. “It’s very soothing — I feel connected to my ancestors.” Howard said the house and its place in art history moved her to sit down and write a book about her life, “Making Piece: A Memoir of Love, Loss and Pie.” The dwelling had inspired Grant Wood, just returned from making art in France and Italy, to paint a tribute to his native state. The 700-square-foot house was built in 1881 and sold to Charles and Catherine Dibble, who lost it after failing to pay taxes. It is now creaky and old. Square nails poke out of the wooden floorboards, the paint is peeling and the stairway is so small it’s a better fit for a child than an adult. It was the big gothic window on the second story that struck Wood in 1930, when he was driving through Eldon with a friend. The intricate window, ordered from a Sears catalog, looked out of place in the modest house on the prairie. Wood immediately wanted to paint the plain house and its fancy frill. “He saw it as humorous,” said R. Tripp Evans, author of “Grant Wood: A Life.” “It embodied everything that was both com-

Beth Howard makes a banana creme pie in the house in Eldon, Iowa, that inspired Grant Wood’s 1930 painting “American Gothic.”

ical and endearing about Midwestern culture.” For Howard, 49, embracing the Midwest has been a bit more of a challenge. Living in a centuryold house miles from the nearest city is a new experience for Howard, who spent her 20s and 30s in the faster-paced world of the West Coast. Last summer, a 6-footlong bull snake crawled into the bathroom and draped itself over the doorknob. Howard ran and got her neighbors, Don and Shirley, Bob and Iola. The men took it out of the house, bashed in its head with a rake and then threw it in a tree. Howard also ran over a snapping turtle in her Mini Cooper, another

occasion to summon the neighbors. “It’s always ‘Bob, get your boots on. I need you!’ ” Howard said. Tourists sometimes tramp into the house, ignoring the sign that says “Private residence. Please do not disturb.” At night, they’ll train their headlights on the house and pose for pictures. Then again, the rent is just $250 a month. “We’ve always looked for the right renter because of the historic nature,” said Jerome Thompson of the Historical Society. “Someone who can stand a little bit of being in the public spotlight.” MCT INFORMATION SERVICES

A construction crew of women volunteers worked alongside Oklahoma state schools Superintendent Janet Barresi on May 4 to raise the walls of a new Central Oklahoma Habitat for Humanity house at 8537 Durland Way as part of Habitat’s Women Build program. The house, in Habitat’s Hope Crossing addition at NE 83 and Kelley Avenue, is being purchased, at cost and interest-free, by a family of five. They are looking forward to owning their own home in a safe neighborhood and being able to provide their children a safe environment to grow up in and call home for many years to come, Habitat officials said. The Women Build program, underwritten by Lowe’s, recruits and educates women to build and advocate for simple, decent and affordable houses in their communities. The four-week build runs to June 2. Participating are volunteers from Lowe’s, Central Oklahoma Home Builders Women’s Council, Salvation Army Auxiliary, Oklahoma City Republican Women’s Club, Word of Flame, Texas Roadhouse, Oklahoma Gas and Electric Co., Oklahoma Christian University softball team and Tinker Air Force Base. Central Oklahoma Hab- TOP: State Schools Superintendent Janet Barresi, itat for Humanity is a non- honorary chairman, works at a wall raising for a Cenprofit, ecumenical Chris- tral Oklahoma Habitat for Humanity Women Build project in Habitat’s Hope Crossing addition at NE 83 tian housing ministry that and Kelley Avenue. ABOVE: Barresi, second from left, provides affordable hous- poses with a few of the project volunteers. ing for hardworking, limitPHOTOS PROVIDED ed-income families. The organization has built 1990, all sold at cost and www.CentralOklahoma more than 600 homes in with no interest charged. Habitat.org or call 232central Oklahoma since For more information, visit 4828.

THE OKLAHOMAN | NEWSOK.COM

REAL ESTATE

SATURDAY, MAY 19, 2012

Tighter credit stymies intentions to build ‘green’ BY JOE TASCHLER

Milwaukee Journal Sentinel

The 39th annual Symphony Show House, christened the Jazz Age Manor, at 440 NW 15 in Heritage Hills, will be open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and from noon to 5 p.m. to close a three-week fundraiser for public music education. PHOTOS BY NATE BILLINGS, THE OKLAHOMAN

Symphony Show House enters its final weekend BY DYRINDA TYSON For The Oklahoman dyrinda@gmail.com

Things are humming right along at the 2012 Symphony Show House as it enters its final weekend. “Sales for the opening weekend were epic,” said Michelle Winters, spokeswoman for the Oklahoma City Philharmonic. The new Musical Mystery Tour, which has visitors scouting each room for musical elements and a chance at prizes, has been a big draw, she said. The 39th annual show house, christened the Jazz Age Manor, at 440 NW 15 in Heritage Hills, opened to the public May 5 and will be open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and from noon to 5 p.m. Tickets are $15 at the door or online at www.symphony showhouse.com. Organizers from the Oklahoma City Orchestra League went into this year’s show house with hopes of selling 10,000 tickets over its three-week run and 1,000 the opening weekend alone, Winters

Steve Calonkey, Susie Pickett and Katelynn Calonkey of Mister Roberts Fine Furniture designed Room 19.

said. A winner will be selected from the correct entries Saturday. The manor, echoing English-style elements in its arched windows and intricate red brickwork, was built in 1925. Thoracic surgeon Marvin Peyton and his wife, Sandra, bought it in 1983 and lived there 28 years, raising their two children there and working to restore the old home to its former glory. Designers amped it up for the fundraiser, layering textures and colors

Nora Johnson of Gold N Design designed Room 17 at the Symphony Show House.

throughout the house to create an atmosphere both elegant and comfortable, with unusual touches. Designer Nora Johnson of Gold N Design layered copies of foreign currency behind the shelves of the bar area downstairs, transforming a butler’s pantry into a “Cash Bar.” Designer Paige Lammerts-Brown of Rampaige Design added crossstitched pillows to chairs in the “Green Room” just beyond the kitchen to honor her mother, Dottie

Lammerts, a former show house chairman. Even the public restroom tucked under the garage apartment out back got a makeover. Designers Angel Peck and Kristin Ford of Fancy Like That! juxtaposed an earthy palette with brightly colored doors and accents to open up the space, turning it into a “Fancy-Full! Bathhouse.” League President Rhonda White has worked through her share of show houses. “It’s a very different experience every year,” she said, “Different kinds of problems and different kinds of rewards.” Proceeds from the show house fund the philharmonic’s education programs. The project entails many hours of work and many volunteers, said cochairman Debbie Minter. “But at the end of the day, it’s about what you’ve really done for the philharmonic and public music education, and it’s a really good feeling to know you’ve had some part in it,” she said.

Colorful pool balls accent Room 21, by Rosinna Gies and Tony Webb of Amini’s Galleria, in the basement.

MILWAUKEE — Wellqualified borrowers with sterling credit, Eva and Daryl Lehman didn’t expect to have a problem getting a mortgage when they set out to build their dream home in Wisconsin’s Sheboygan County. They soon found that landing the mortgage for the green-built home was akin to running headlong into a 12-inch-thick insulated concrete wall. “On my best day, I couldn’t make this up,” Eva Lehman said of the mortgage process. “I’m not that creative.” The Lehmans are among those being squeezed by a mortgage market that for certain types of new residential construction — including environment-friendly construction — has become difficult to navigate. A variety of factors are contributing to the situation: government regulation, cutting-edge “green” construction technology, risk-averse lenders, and a dearth of comparable home sales on which to base an appraisal. And it’s not just environment-friendly building at issue. Real estate appraisers say the housing market remains stubbornly weak. And finding comparable sales data on which to base appraisals is a challenge. “We have the worst residential real estate market here in over 20 years,” said Richard Larkin, owner of Larkin Appraisals in Elm Grove, Wis. “I was active in the early ’80s, and this is quite possibly worse.” In fall 1981, single-family home mortgage interest

rates were 19 percent, he said. “There was almost no lending going on. It effectively shut down the market. Now we have an economy that has effectively shut down the market.” Green construction is not immune from the housing downturn. Green, or sustainable, building is the practice of creating and using healthier and more resource-efficient models of construction. The problem is often a lack of comparable sales numbers, a necessary and scrutinized portion of real estate appraisals that are done every time a mortgage is granted. If there are few comparable sales, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac won’t buy the mortgages from lenders for resale to investors. The companies make up what’s known as the secondary mortgage market. “You’ve got to have comparables, particularly if you’re a bank that’s maybe going to sell the loan to Freddie or Fannie,” said Kurt Bauer, president and CEO of the Wisconsin Bankers Association. “They’re not going to buy the loans unless you can justify the price, and how you do that is by comparable sales.” That’s become difficult. Never mind something that is green-built, such as the insulated concrete form house built for the Lehmans. “We’re even running into problems on traditional homes, where the underwriting standards have become so strict,” Donald Chudnow, co-owner of Chudnow Druck Valuation Inc., a residential real estate appraisal service. MCT INFORMATION SERVICES

SATURDAY, MAY 19, 2012

THE OKLAHOMAN

THE OKLAHOMAN | NEWSOK.COM

Buyer questions addition, fears possible teardown Children are shown playing on a Swing N Slide set up with rubber mulch to reduce injuries in this photo from Lowe’s. PHOTO PROVIDED

Safer ground: lots of options for play surfaces BY MELISSA KOSSLER DUTTON For The Associated Press

Joshua Barry knows that wipeouts are inevitable when children are climbing and sliding on outdoor play sets. So he placed shredded rubber under and around the climbing toys his two children use in the backyard of their home in Aurora, Ohio. “It gives me peace of mind knowing there’s a little bit of cushioning,” he said. Safety experts say it’s important to address the area around a swing set or climbing equipment. “Each year hundreds of thousands of children are treated in emergency rooms for playground injuries, and these are preventable,” said Dr. Brunilda Nazario, senior medical editor at WebMD, a health information website. The key to avoiding injuries is adding surface materials that will cushion a fall, said Kate Carr, president of Safe Kids, a Washington, D.C.-based organization dedicated to preventing childhood injuries. Asphalt and concrete are too hard, as are grass and turf, Nazario said, since normal wear and tear destroys their quality and absorption properties. Good options include rubber mulch, wood mulch, sand, fine gravel or safety-tested rubber mat, which are more forgiving than grass and dirt are when a child falls, Nazario said. How deep you should lay the ground material depends on what you use and how high the play equipment is. The U.S. Product Safety Commission recommends using at least 9 inches of mulch or shredded rubber for equipment up to 7 feet high. For sand or pea gravel, the commission recommends at least a 9-inch layer for equipment up to 5 feet. Mulch — either wood or rubber — is a better choice than sand or gravel because it provides more shock absorption, said Rick Jess, vice president of merchandising for lawn and gardening at Lowe’s headquarters in Mooresville, N.C. Wood mulch is less expensive than rubber, but it decomposes and fades and has to be added to each year, he said. Rubber mulch, which is increasingly popular, lasts much longer. It also is more than double the price of traditional mulch, he said. “It holds its color,” he said. “It doesn’t wash away. It doesn’t decompose.” Although cheaper than mulch, sand and pea gravel have become less popular surfaces for backyard play sets because they don’t stay put as well, said Ace Hardware’s Lou Manfredini in Chicago. “With sand and pea gravel, it’s a mess issue. Sand moves around the yard quite a bit and can even get tracked into the house on kids’ shoes.” Parents also should carefully choose the location of their set, Nazario said. She recommends shady areas where the

ground is level and there are no low-hanging branches or wires. Play set safety tips: I Place the equipment at least 6 feet in all directions away from obstructions such as fences, buildings, trees, electric wires or laundry lines. Keep as far away as possible from streets and driveways. Consider erecting a fence between the equipment and traffic. I Maintain equipment properly, following manufacturer’s guidelines. Check often to make sure bolts are tightly anchored, and cut off or cap protruding bolt ends, which can cause cuts or catch on clothing. Caps or nuts should be flush with the surface, with no gaps or spaces that could create a hook. I Inspect wood equipment for splinters and cracks. It’s also a good idea to round off edges of wood with a sander. Sand it and apply a wood sealer according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Make sure hooks and chains on swings aren’t worn or too rusty. I Don’t allow a freeswinging rope on equipment or trees. Loose ropes can form a loop or noose and strangle a child. Ropes that are securely anchored to the ground are OK as long as they aren’t frayed.

DEAR BARRY: Where have you been all my life, or at least since we bought our home? Here’s our problem. A den was added to the house some time in the past, and we don’t know if the work was permitted. We’re afraid to ask about a permit because we don’t want someone to order the addition torn down. How can we find out if the addition is legal without risking a bulldozer invasion of our property? Gina DEAR GINA: Don’t worry about someone attacking your home over building code issues. If you want to know the status of the addition, go to the building department and ask for the permit history of the property. This is not an unusual request and should not raise any eyebrows. The documents they give you will include the original building permit and any subsequent permits for additions or alterations. If the addition was not permitted, it might be possible to obtain an asbuilt permit. That is a

Barry Stone INSPECTOR’S IN THE HOUSE

building permit that allows the municipal inspector to review the addition and either approve it or make demands for upgrades. If the addition is unpermitted and you prefer to leave it as-is, that is also an option, but you’ll need to disclose the lack of a permit when you sell the property. DEAR BARRY: After buying our home, we learned that there are asbestos floor tiles under the carpets in every room in the house. Shouldn’t our home inspector have looked under the rugs? Shouldn’t he have known that old 9-by-9 tiles installed up until the mid 1970s may have been made with asbestos? Bill DEAR BILL: Home inspections do not include the raising of carpet. That

is something that home inspectors simply do not do. If your inspector had known about the 9-by-9 tiles, he might have mentioned the possibility of asbestos, but that is uncertain because environmental hazards are not within the scope of a home inspection. In most cases, 9-by-9 tiles do contain asbestos fibers, but this type of asbestos-containing material is not regarded as a significant health hazard because the fibers are embedded in a hard asphalt medium. The fibers cannot be released into the air without shredding the material. If the tiles remain covered by carpets or by other types of flooring, they should never pose a health problem. To write to Barry Stone, visit him on the web at www.housedetective.com.

ACTION COAST PUBLISHING

Don’t worry about someone attacking your home over building code issues. If you want to know the status of the addition, go to the building department and ask for the permit history of the property. This is not an unusual request and should not raise any eyebrows.

THE OKLAHOMAN

NEWSOK.COM

SATURDAY, MAY 19, 2012

REAL ESTATE

THE OKLAHOMAN | NEWSOK.COM

HOUSE PLAN

Mortgage aid A-frame offers panoramic view pays off for some Designed as a vacation retreat home for a couple or single, the Arnett is as charming as it is compact. Windows, stacked three high, fill most of its Aframe rear wall, offering a panoramic view of the sea, lake, mountains or other natural landscape. This plan is economical to build, heat and maintain. Its footprint, including porches, is only 31 feet wide and 38 feet deep. Clean-lined batt and boards cover the exterior, while sleek twin columns support covered porches on both the front and side. A lofty, two-story, vaulted ceiling adds to the expansive sense of openness in the great room. Warmth radiates out from the traditional wood stove to dry damp clothing and ease the chill out of icy fingers and toes. And owners who install a stove with a glass front can indulge in the relaxing pleasure of watching multicolored flames and the dancing shadows they cast. The kitchen is comparatively large for a home this size. It has a roomy walkin pantry, and plenty of counter space. A raised conversation bar rims the outer edge of the angled peninsula. Sitting here on a cold day, you can soak up heat from the wood stove while chatting with folks in the kitchen and breathing in all the delightful cooking aromas. Storage closets line the hallway that leads to the front porch, bathroom, and combination utilityhobby room. Laundry appliances hide behind fold-

BY MCCLATCHY-TRIBUNE INFORMATION SERVICES

ing doors, so this space could also double as a guest room. The sleeping area of the Arnett’s owners’ suite could be an entirely open-

ended loft or sectioned off behind the landing for more privacy. The owners’ bathroom boasts a luxurious spa tub. A review plan of the Arnett 30-419,

including floor plans, elevations, section and artist’s conception, can be purchased for $25 by phone, mail or online. Add $5 for shipping and handling. Associated Designs, 1100 Jacobs Drive, Eugene, OR, 97402. www.associateddesigns.com. (800) 634-0123. ASSOCIATED DESIGNS

LOS ANGELES — A newly streamlined government plan to reward homeowners who diligently pay their underwater mortgages is proving a bonanza for banks, which by one estimate may pocket $12 billion in extra revenue by refinancing loans. The revisions to the Obama administration’s 3-year-old Home Affordable Refinance Program have yielded mixed results for homeowners, according to analysts and mortgage professionals. Some responsible homeowners are indeed getting lower-interest loans despite owing far more than their homes are worth. But others have loans that don’t qualify, or must jump through hoops the plan was supposed to eliminate, such as on-site appraisals and extensive paperwork. What’s more, homeowners who get new loans are being stuck with higher rates than necessary, often half a percentage point or more, according to critics, because banks are refinancing only their own borrowers, instead of competing against one another.. “The banks should charge lower than the market interest rate because the new version of the program means less work and less risk for them. Instead, they are charging more,” said Amherst Securities analyst Laurie Goodman, who titled a recent report on the program “And the Winner

Is … the Largest Banks.” The program is a key part of President Barack Obama’s efforts to bolster the ravaged housing market. Administration officials including Housing and Urban Development Secretary Shaun Donovan are pressuring Congress to pass a law enabling the program to be used to help more homeowners. “There’s a real urgency here because interest rates today are at the lowest level they have ever been,” Donovan testified recently before the Senate Banking Committee. In response, Sens. Robert Menendez, D-N.J., and Barbara Boxer, D-Calif., said that they would introduce legislation to extend streamlined refinancing to all underwater Fannie and Freddie borrowers and eliminate appraisal and upfront fees for homeowners using the program to obtain new loans. The Home Affordable Refinance Program is less controversial than relief plans for delinquent borrowers. Few have objected to its goal of helping homeowners who pay their loans on time but can’t refinance at today’s record low rates because their home values have plummeted. To qualify, borrowers must owe more than 80 percent of the current home value. They can’t have missed a payment for the past six months and are allowed to have been late by 30 days only once in the last year. As this year began, nearly 1 million loans had been replaced using the program.

REAL ESTATE

THE OKLAHOMAN | NEWSOK.COM

Building permits Oklahoma City Minal Hotel LLC, 4601 SW 15, hotel-motel, erect, $4,000,000. Paul Aughtry Architect, 12201 N May Ave., bank, erect, $1,500,000. Architects Collective, 2737 NW 140, apartment, erect, $1,462,500. Architects Collective, 2737 NW 140, apartment, erect, $1,386,000. Architects Collective, 2737 NW 140, apartment, erect, $1,386,000. Architects Collective, 2737 NW 140, apartment, erect, $1,386,000. Architects Collective, 2737 NW 140, apartment, erect, $1,386,000. Architects Collective, 2737 NW 140, apartment, erect, $1,129,920. Architects Collective, 2737 NW 140, apartment, erect, $1,041,480. Architects Collective, 2737 NW 140, apartment, erect, $1,041,480. Architects Collective, 2737 NW 140, apartment, erect, $1,041,480. Architects Collective, 2737 NW 140, apartment, erect, $1,041,480. City of Oklahoma City, 9600 N Oklahoma Ave., recreation center, erect, $1,000,000. Homeworks Design Co., 8100 NW 134 Terrace, residence, erect, $944,283. Lingo Construction Services, 123 Robert S. Kerr Ave., canopycarport, erect, $750,000. Pop Holdings, 7612 S Western Ave., restaurant, erect, $450,000. JAH Realty LP, 2229 NW 138, business, remodel, $438,000. Adam Wallace, 14105 N Eastern Ave., office, erect, $425,000. Natalie Young-Schneider, 13201 SE 104, residence, erect, $415,000. The Roberts Group, 16800 Little Leaf Lane, residence, erect, $400,000. CSRS Inc., 2501 W Memorial Road, restaurant, remodel, $400,000. Shops @ Quail Springs SC LLC, 14220 N Pennsylvania Ave., shell building, erect, $386,000. Avalon Homes & Properties LLC, 7201 NE 121, residence, erect, $379,000. Diversified Construction, 4634 Enterprise Drive, officewarehouse, remodel, $365,000. Chris Ryan Homes LLC, 15550 SE 44, residence, erect, $300,000. Crossings Community Church, 14600 N Portland Ave., parking, install, $300,000. Hadlock Fine Homes LLC, 1504 SW 113 Place, residence, erect, $300,000. Ron Walters, 3501 NE 63, office, erect, $275,000. The Roberts Group, 17300 Clove Hill Place, residence, erect, $265,000. Jeff Click Homes LLC, 19404 Fieldshire Drive, residence, erect, $260,000. Terry Covey Custom Homes,

8621 NW 70, residence, erect, $260,000. City of Oklahoma City, 9600 N Oklahoma Ave., canopy-carport, erect, $250,000. Manchester Green Homes LLC, 18801 Chestnut Oak Drive, residence, erect, $242,100. Remington Builders Inc., 9312 NW 133 Court, residence, erect, $238,000. J.W. Mashburn Development Inc., 14104 Cadorna Strada, residence, erect, $230,000. Timber Craft Homes LLC, 17309 Ridgewood Drive, residence, erect, $229,300. E-Z Living Homes Inc., 4808 SW 127, residence, erect, $225,000. Brookshire Homes LLC, 11304 SW 37, residence, erect, $220,000. Mike Gray, 7200 S Hudson Drive, residence, erect, $214,000. Architects Collective, 2737 NW 140, accessory, erect, $208,810. Architects Collective, 2737 NW 140, accessory, erect, $208,810. Architects Collective, 2737 NW 140, cabana-gazebo, erect, $208,810. Architects Collective, 2737 NW 140, cabana-gazebo, erect, $208,810. Architects Collective, 2737 NW 140, clubhouse, erect, $208,810. Brookshire Homes LLC, 11220 SW 37, residence, erect, $200,000. Earl Austin Construction Co., doing business as Austin Homes, 8412 NW 124 Circle, residence, erect, $200,000. Earl Austin Construction Co., doing business as Austin Homes, 8413 NW 123 Circle, residence, erect, $200,000. McCoy Architects, 12001 SE 104, school, add-on, $200,000. Merryfield (M.D.) Inc., 2136 Pine Creek Ave., residence, erect, $200,000. Katleron Construction Inc., 19105 Pinehurst Trail Drive, residence, erect, $195,000. Taber Built Homes LLC, 19213 Blossom Court, residence, erect, $190,000. Architects Collective, 2737 NW 140, 11 permits, apartment, erect, $186,930. S&D Homes, 716 Evening Drive, residence, erect, $186,000. Two Structures LLC, 8328 NW 142, residence, erect, $182,000. Med Tech Construction Inc., 3000 SW 104, medical clinic-office, remodel, $180,370. Central Precast, 131 NE 37, warehouse, erect, $180,000. Ed Scribner, 8401 S Interstate 35 Service Road, office-warehouse, erect, $180,000. Ed Scribner, 8405 S I-35 Service Road, office-warehouse, erect, $180,000. Samples (Mark) Homes LLC, 7416 Jack Drive, residence, erect, $178,000. Dodson Custom Homes LLC, 3213 NW 192 Terrace, residence, erect, $177,200.

Farms, Ranches For Sale, Okla. 308 AUCTION: 160 Ac. near Hinton, OK. Great hunting/farm with nice small cabin, pond, trees May 24, 6pm 405-376-4551 kencarpenterauction.com

Homes For Sale

309.9

1N to 10A, E. of OKC, pay out dn. before 1st pmt. starts, many are M/H ready over 400 choices, lg trees, some with ponds, TERMS Milburn o/a 275-1695 paulmilburnacreages.com

Rock home, wood floors, nice yard, 2340 SW 20th, steal for $17,900 cash, 405-301-6495. OWNER FINANCING $5000 down No Credit Ck 2728 Texoma 4/1, 66,000 ¡596-4599 ‘ 410-8840¡

BY OWNER, 5 ACRES, TENKILLER LAKE and Illinois River area. Will finance with small down pmt. and $169 mo. 918-774-3741 OWNER FINANCING 1-10 Acres Many Locations Call for maps 405-273-5777 www.property4sale.com

Open 2-4 3/2/2 Moore Sch 11817 Cedar Valley Ter. NM Rlty 613-9739

Abandoned D/W Repo set up on 5 Acres!! Ready to move in. Free phone application 405-631-7600 NEW 3bd/2bth $1500 down, 7.5% $281mo. 405-324-8010 REPO REPO REPO 4bd/3bth $648MO. wac 405-324-8000

Rent to Own: Nice 2&3bd MWC $350&up 390-9777

8017 SUNNY POINTE LN close to TINKER near HEART HOSPITAL 4bed, 2ba, 2 Car 2010 $145,000 580-682-0440

Updated Brick 3/1 extra parking, newer roof & ch/a, wood floors $84,000 Realty Experts 414-8753 Bank Owned 3bd 1ba 2 liv PC Schls, .23 acre $62,900 Realty Experts 414-8753

DEER CREEK SCHOOLS 27x44 mobile home on 1 ac 3 spacious bd/2ba $28,000 Call or text 405-570-9547 for info

Double Wide REPO Like New $395mo. wac 405-577-2884

Complete Rebuild brick home & property $5500 Call 512-239-8435

FSBO OPEN HOUSE Sun 2-4, 4240 Old Farm Rd. 2080sfmol, 3/2/2, $184K, 641-2950

7000 Aurelia Road, residence, add-on, $75,000. Tom Spector, 2720 N Robinson Ave., apartment, remodel, $75,000. Paul Odom Jr., 8301 S Pennsylvania Ave., retail sales, remodel, $75,000. Gerson Flores, 1317 SW 26, residence, erect, $70,000. McCoy Architects, 5301 Dimple Drive, canopy-carport, addon, $60,000. Allen Porter, 3 E Main, office, remodel, $54,120. City of Oklahoma City, 9600 N Oklahoma Ave., canopy-carport, erect, $50,000. Showmart Transport, 3308 SE 89, manufactured home, moveon-mobile home park, $50,000. Raymondo Salazar, 2433 NW 1, residence, add-on, $50,000. Wynn Construction Co Inc., 321 N Harvey Ave., office, remodel, $50,000. Bobby Wiley, 19816 SE 92, manufactured home, move-on, $40,000. J. Howell Construction Inc., 12616 Old Country Road, residence, add-on, $40,000. RGD Signature Homes, 5609 N Ross Ave., residence, add-on, $35,000. City of Oklahoma City, 9600 N Oklahoma Ave., canopy-carport, erect, $30,000. Callahan Steel Buildings, 3625 Frisco Ranch Drive, accessory, erect, $25,000. The J Group Construction LLC, 5309 N Everest Ave., residence, add-on, $25,000. Vanguard Development, 7313 S Western Ave., retail sales, remodel, $25,000. Traywick Construction, 608 NW 9, medical clinic-office, remodel, $20,000. No name provided, 18825 Red Oak Drive, accessory, erect, $20,000. Christopher Williamson, 720 NE 73, accessory, erect, $19,000. Taber Built Homes LLC, 19004 Butterfly Blvd., residence, erect, $18,000. Santos Lujan, 3233 SW 45, residence, fire restoration, $15,000. Turnage Construction Inc., 14401 S Blackwelder Ave., storm shelter, add-on, $15,000. Severo Zamora, 9009 NW 10, manufactured home, move-onmobile home park, $12,000. Charles and Monica McClure, 2220 NW 48, storage, erect, $5,700. Dale Garrison, 11117 SW 7 Circle, storm shelter, install-storm shelter, $5,000. Elias Rivera, 2645 SW 26, residence, add-on, $5,000. Kathy E. Jones, 9301 Shady Grove Road, storm shelter, install-storm shelter, $4,895. Barbara Ebert, 821 NW 117, storm shelter, add-on, $4,700. No name provided, 5117 SW 123, storm shelter, install-storm shelter, $4,595. Bob Reese, 6333 Harden Drive, storm shelter, installstorm shelter, $4,500. Dale and Connie Bettes, 1216 NW 194, storm shelter, installstorm shelter, $4,500. Jorge Cruz, 19433 Currant Drive, storm shelter, installstorm shelter, $4,500. Robert Lucas Jr., 624 SW 103

Place, storm shelter, installstorm shelter, $4,295. John and Patricia Marks, 7420 NW 132, storm shelter, installstorm shelter, $4,050. Daniel Fox, 12200 Cantle Road, storm shelter, installstorm shelter, $4,000. Darrel Bradley Fruit, 3224 Rockhampton Ave., storm shelter, install-storm shelter, $4,000. Rodrick Norwood, 4837 SE 87 Terrace, storm shelter, installstorm shelter, $3,800. No name provided, 11441 Lakeridge Run, storm shelter, install-storm shelter, $3,800. Vortech Storm Shelters, 5708 NW 162, residence, installstorm shelter, $3,500. Vortech Storm Shelters, 9608 Misty Hollow Lane, storm shelter, install-storm shelter, $3,500. Vortech Storm Shelters, 10225 Fawn Trail Road, install-storm shelter, install-storm shelter, $3,500. Shoma Lb Sumar, 13100 Rock Canyon Road, storm shelter, install-storm shelter, $3,450. Derrick Hamilton, 7324 NE 116, storm shelter, install-storm shelter, $3,395. Marc Despiau, 5317 NW 115, storm shelter, install-storm shelter, $3,395. No name provided, 11004 Rock Ridge Road, storm shelter, install-storm shelter, $3,395. Christopher Stuart, 2620 NW 163, storm shelter, install-storm shelter, $3,300. Lawrence Tricano, 3036 NW 70, storm shelter, install-storm shelter, $3,300. Wilbur Butler, 8833 NW 114 Circle, storm shelter, installstorm shelter, $3,300. Duane Stark, 7416 NW 104, storm shelter, install-storm shelter, $3,250. Casey Lee, 4817 Jay Matt Drive, storm shelter, installstorm shelter, $3,200. Shane Helterbrand, 6017 NW 155, residence, install-storm shelter, $3,200. Johnnie Brazeal, 10704 NW 38, storm shelter, install-storm shelter, $3,195. Michael Hohmann, 1212 NW 196, storm shelter, install-storm shelter, $3,195. Scott Bentley, 13913 Briarwyck, storm shelter, install-storm shelter, $3,195. Jimmy Dewayne and Danielle S. Lankford, 12701 S Harrah Road, manufactured home, move-on, $3,150. Chris James, 17212 Hawks Ridge Lane, storm shelter, install-storm shelter, $3,100. Dale Slaughter and Lanie James, 2328 NW 158, storm shelter, install-storm shelter, $3,100. Janis Yearout, 2209 SW 93 Place, storm shelter, installstorm shelter, $3,100. Jeffery W. and Gina M. Yearout, 3224 SW 104 Terrace, storm shelter, install-storm shelter, $3,100. Pam Koenig, 4017 NW 70, storm shelter, install-storm shelter, $3,100. Damon and Jessica Musick, 3312 Rockhampton Ave., storm shelter, install-storm shelter, $3,000. SEE PERMITS, PAGE 10F

Commercial RE

5824 S. Shartel Avenue Very Nice 2 bed, 1 bath, 1 car $43,500 ¡ 550-2145 BY OWNER 3BR near Lake Best area $123.9K 603-4775

New Generation Homes LLC, 13225 NW 1, residence, erect, $175,000. Ideal Homes of Norman LP, 18600 Mesa Road, residence, erect, $165,000. Merryfield (M.D.) Inc., 2205 Sycamore Creek Ave., residence, erect, $165,000. City of Oklahoma City, 9600 N Oklahoma Ave., canopy-carport, erect, $160,000. Gary Owens, 12129 SW 17, residence, erect, $160,000. Taber Built Homes LLC, 19100 Butterfly Blvd., residence, erect, $160,000. Vesta Homes Inc., 9009 Misty Lane, residence, erect, $156,000. Bobby Judy, 16401 Shadybrook Drive, residence, erect, $150,000. Caymus Homes LLC, 8513 NW 127 Circle, residence, erect, $150,000. Western Construction, 2401 NW 23, office, remodel, $150,000. Paul Odom Jr., 8201 S Pennsylvania Ave., retail sales, relocate, $150,000. Cutter Homes, 2332 Chase Way, residence, erect, $145,000. M&D Homes LLC, 2405 Coles Creek Lane, residence, erect, $140,000. Dodson Custom Homes LLC, 18217 Haslemere Lane, residence, erect, $137,200. R&R Homes LLC, 10704 SW 35, residence, erect, $135,000. J&A Homes LLC, 19201 Grassmere Way, residence, erect, $130,000. Oklahoma Affordable Homes LLC, 1504 Asher, residence, erect, $130,000. Dodson Custom Homes LLC, 18400 Haslemere Lane, residence, erect, $127,600. Anthony McDermid, 829 W California Ave., retail sales, remodel, $125,000. Oklahoma Affordable Homes LLC, 12012 SW 14 Court, residence, erect, $125,000. Jim Earp, 8504 St. Elmo Court, residence, erect, $120,000. Tanya Turner, 5740 N Classen Blvd., restaurant, remodel, $115,000. Morton Builders, 12950 N Morgan Road, barn, erect, $110,000. Home Creations, 18123 Groveton Blvd., residence, erect, $103,700. Rausch Coleman Homes LLC, 8528 SW 44 Court, residence, erect, $100,000. Rausch Coleman Homes LLC, 9608 Kylie Drive, residence, erect, $100,000. Rausch Coleman Homes LLC, 9609 Lauren Drive, residence, erect, $100,000. Ideal Homes of Norman LP, 9528 SW 27, residence, erect, $84,000. Home Creations, 12104 NW 133 Terrace, residence, erect, $82,800. Ideal Homes of Norman LP, 11433 NW 131, residence, erect, $82,000. Home Creations, 12100 NW 133 Terrace, residence, erect, $78,400. Ideal Homes of Norman LP, 1808 NW 143, residence, erect, $78,000. Roberts (Corbyn) Homes Inc.,

SATURDAY, MAY 19, 2012

Special Gov't Program! Own Land/Family land ZERO DOWN! New and Repo homes avail. E-Z qualify by phone. Top dollar for your TRADE in. $2,000 furn allowance with purchase. WAC 405-631-7600 405-834-8814

1.7 acres with 2200 sq ft brick home, near I-35, 140 ft frontage on NE 23rd, $69,000 cash, 301-6495.

Great for investor or first time homebuyer! 3bd home, fenced yard, ch/a $32,900 Fidelity RE 692-1661, 410-4300

Call for Maps! See why we sell more acreages than anyone in Okla. E of OKC. o/a 275-1695

Nice 3bd brick home 1.5 bath, 2 living areas, ch/a, completely remodeled, only $67,250 Fidelity RE 692-1661, 410-4300

3bd 2ba open floor plan 98 Ridgecrest dbl wide in nice ElReno Park $40,000 295-2559 leave msg.

5 ACRES in Blanchard 2 miles West, 1K South. McClain Bank 527-6503

Nice 3bd home, 2 living areas, carport, fresh paint, nice area, only $64,900 Fidelity Real Est 692-1661, 410-4300

Cash 4 Clunkers! Guaranteed $5,000 for any trade towards down pymt of new home. WAC 405-631-7600 405-834-8814

Established Business For Sale C-Store lease or sale. $40K + inv. $2500/month 405-474-1249 Liquor Store For Sale $70,000 + Inventory 405-226-9870

Office Space For Rent 7608 N Western Ave Retail/Office space, 1200sf avail, 370-1077 GREAT Office Space Various NW locations 300-6000sf 946-2516

$100 Off

1st Mo Rent 1&2 Bedrooms Furnished & Unfurnished NEWLY REMODELED GATED COMMUNITY

CAVE CREEK ON ROCKWELL

SEC 8 - Duplex 16th & Ann Arbor $5102bdr-$350 dep. 694-3634

$99 Move In

Putnam Heights Plaza 1bed, ch/a, Dishwasher 1830 NW 39th 524-5907

495-2000

on Selected Units LARGE TOWNHOMES & APARTMENTS • Washer, Dryers, pools • PC Schools, fireplaces

WILLIAMSBURG 7301 NW 23rd

787-1620

ALL BILLS PAID $239 - 1st Mo 1 Beds Quiet, Park, Pool 293-3693 DREXEL ON THE PARK

775 acres sold in 5 tracts Washita County, OK. Excellent farmland & grass. May 26th. www.putmanauction.com or 580-660-1149

$249 FIRST MONTH School is Out Special 14 Huge Floor Plans 416-5259 TUSCANY VILLAGE

Quiet Casady

Large 2bd $575 751-8088

Owner carry with down. Nice homes & fixers. 417-2176. www.homesofokcinc.com I BUY HOUSES Any condition. No cost to U 410-5700

I BUY & SELL HOUSES 27 YRS EXP 650-7667 HOMESOFOKCINC.COM

VERY, VERY QUIET Near mall, schls, hosp, Try Plaza East 341-4813

Free Month Rent! 1&2bd QUIET! Covered Parking Great Schools! 732-1122

MAYFAIR Great location! 1/2 bd W/D hdwd flr quiet secure ngbrhood ¡947-5665

3037 North Rockwell

Florence 429 NW 11th Midtown Studio, Granite Counters, CHA, Free Laundry $675mo $400dp; downtown view $750 mo 409-7989 No section 8

AUCTION: 160 Ac. near Hinton, OK. Great hunting/farm with nice small cabin, pond, trees May 24, 6pm 405-376-4551 kencarpenterauction.com

Furnished/Unfurnished Bills Paid » Wkly/Monthly Wes Chase Apts, Elk Horn Apts, Hillcrest 370-1077

The Plaza 1740 NW 17th 1bd 1ba, 800sf, ch/a, wood floors, $550 mo $250 dep 409-7989

800 N. Meridian 1bd All bills paid 946-9506 •ABC• Affordable, Bug free, Clean » 787-7212»

$99 SPECIAL Lg 1bdr, stove, refrig., clean, walk to shops. $345 mo. 632-9849 Furnished/Unfurnished Bills Paid » Wkly/Monthly Wes Chase Apts, Elk Horn Apts, Hillcrest 370-1077 $99 Move In Special!!! Lg 1 and 2 Bdr, $345 to $420 mo. 632-9849

Condominiums, Townhouses For Rent 441 2720 SW 74th unit 18 nice 2bd townhome 1.5ba ch/a washer dryer hkups only $550 Fidelity Real Est 692-1661, 410-4300

1 BEDROOM APT. ALL BILLS PAID $480/MO. $400 DEPOSIT 405-200-5818 Oakwood Apts 5824 NW 34th St. 1bd 1ba 800sf, all electric, $350mo $175 dep, no Sec 8 409-7989

3615 NW 51st 2bd 2bath 2 car, 1300sf, $925 mo $925dp 409-7989 no sec8

Bills Paid

Furnished/Unfurnished Weekly/Monthly 370-1077

Houses for rent

Super Nice, quiet area 2bd, appls, Sec 8 Ok $650 2217 NE 19¡424-2201pm 2212 NE 26, Nice brick home. 2/1/1 $500/mo 732-3411

3BD in elite area, walk to lake & trails $965 603-4775

12901 NE 10th Unit 1 spacious 2bd mobile home, clean, fenced $495 Fidelity692-1661, 410-4300

Nice 3 room Cottage on gated acreage in South Edmond $500 740-8061 Exec 3bd 2.5ba 2story Copperfield. strm shel fp. $1500 + dep 822-1960

3 bed, 2 car 1.5 bath Sec 8 OK. Near NE 12 & Douglas $650+$650dep 408-4620 » » 818-5360 3 bedroom. 1 bath, cent/air, Sec. 8 welcome. No pets. 405-672-0877 4308 Meadow Prk 3/1.5 $725 Free List 681-7272

833 E Eubanks 3/1 $495 Free List 681-7272

KAT Properties-Apt & Homes for rent. Scan this with your phone app

Near NW 63 & May very nice 2bed 1bath 1 car gar ch&a $695 mo, $650 dep. no pets no sec 8 691-5479 609 NW 110th 3bd 2ba 2car gar, $850mo $800dp 1200sf 409-7989 no Sec8 2, 3 & 4 bd House/Apt, All elec. W/D/ Hook-up Sec 8 Welcome 235-4328 7032 Stony Creek, 3/2/2 fp, fenced, $975mo $900dep TMS Prop 348-0720 Exec Home-Greens 2liv 2din 3bed 2ba 2car FP 15316 Inverness $1250 830-3399 1033 Hoyt 3/1/1 $595 Free List 681-7272

1012 Jet - Nice 2/1/1 $550 » 732-3411

1412 SW 24th St 4/3/2 2-story Pets Ok $1300+ dep. 285-0305, 823-6550

3 bed, 2 bath, detached garage with shop, dining rm, kitchen, 210 SE 70th, $800 mo, 405-685-6151.

804 SW 1st 3bd 1ba 1150sf $750 mo $650 dep WAC Home&RanchRlty 794-7777

3bd 1ba, 1152 SE 18th St $750+ $650dep Sec 8 Ok Avail Now 405-812-0096

5 acres, clean/nice, ready now, ch&a, 3/2/2, new paint, $1500 mo + $1000 dep + 2 studios free. 15601 S. May Ave., 410-9751. 3212 Dumas Lane nice 2bd home with 1car garage, fresh paint, new carpet, only $495 Fidelity RE 692-1661, 410-4300 3bed 1.5bath 2liv areas, RENT TO OWN, down pymt negotiable $750mo 606-6655 3000 SW 37th 3bd 2ba, den and carport $625 Free List 681-7272 1304 SW 81st, 3 bed, 2 bath, ch&a, $950/mo, $600 deposit, 631-5695.

GUTHRIE 2509 W Okla 3/2/2 $825 Express Realty 844-6101 www.expressrealtyok.com For rent/sale, McLoud, 3 bd, 2 ba, MH, 12 acres, $900/mo, 414-4004.

3 bed, 2 bath, new appls 9809 Waverly Ave. $825mo Call 229-7437

725 Eastridge 3/2/2 $1195 Express Realty 844-6101 www.expressrealtyok.com 1021 Hyacinth Hollow 3/2/2 hardwd flrs in bdr. $995 285-0305, 823-6550

Rent to Own: Nice 2&3bd MWC $350&up 390-9777

10F

REAL ESTATE

SATURDAY, MAY 19, 2012

THE OKLAHOMAN | NEWSOK.COM

Child safety, easy upkeep benefits of pondless water There’s nothing quite like the sound of water bubbling in your backyard. A water feature can become an eye-catching landscaping feature, or a cool and tranquil backdrop that also helps block unwanted traffic or neighborhood noise. A water feature can also be a great do-it-yourself project that just about anyone can tackle. The term “water feature” can mean different things to different people. But if you want a stunning, low-maintenance option that’s customized to your yard and your style, consider going “pondless.” Also known as a “disappearing pond,” pondless water features eliminate the open pond that requires periodic maintenance to prevent algae and other problems, along with potential safety issues for small children. Instead, they use a water reservoir, a recirculating pump and some type of rock or other feature from which the water flows. The water filters down through a rock base over the reservoir and disappears, to be recycled endlessly.

Basic components Pondless water features can be large or small, simple or elaborate. Their design is pretty much limited only by your imagination, ambition and budget. But they all share the same four basic design elements: I The reservoir: This is simply a big, relatively shallow round or square box made of a tough, highimpact resin. The box is solid on the bottom and sides to retain the water, and is perforated or slotted on the top to hold the rock while allowing the water to drain through. The top also has a removable plate to access the pump. Reservoirs come in a few different sizes, depending on how much water you want the system to process. I The pump: This is a submersible, 110-volt electric pump specifically designed for these applications. It sits inside the reservoir, with a filter on the inlet side to filter out impurities, and a hose on the outlet side that’s routed to wherever you want the water to come out. There are several different sizes available, depending on the amount of flow desired. I The water outlet: The water coming from the pump exits through some type of visible outlet, and this is where your creativity can have free rein. Many water features utilize a natural piece of basalt as the center piece of the design, which is drilled to receive the hose coming from the pump. You can find basalt in many sizes and shapes, and you can use one piece alone or a grouping of several pieces with the water tumbling over all of them. Other options include decorative jugs, vases of any size or shape, actual water fountains, cherubs and other garden statues, pieces of discarded masonry, and many other objects. I Base rock: Finally, you’ll want to cover the reservoir with a layer of rock where the water flows and disappears. There are many different types, sizes and colors of rock to choose from, depending on your personal preferences. You can mix and match sizes and colors, as well as incorporating pieces of natural wood, metal sculptures and other objects you might like.

Putting it together Select an area for the water feature, and lay out the general size and shape you want. Remember that the overall size of the rock base can be the same size as the reservoir, or it can be substantially larger. Next, excavate a hole for

A pondless water feature has numerous benefits. PHOTO BY PAUL B. SOUTHERLAND, THE OKLAHOMAN ARCHIVE

Paul Bianchina HANDY @ HOME

the reservoir itself. The hole should be a little wider and a little deeper than the reservoir, to allow for leveling and backfilling. Place a layer of sand in the bottom of the hole to make it easier to level the unit and protect it from rocks. Check the level in all directions; pack some additional sand into the hole around the base to stabilize it; and then backfill up to the level of the top lip. If you’re installing a heavy water feature such as a piece of basalt, it’s typically installed next, directly on top of the reservoir for stability. Be sure you have adequate help for lifting this into place; some larger pieces will even require a forklift or other machinery. Route the hose through the hole in the rock, and seal it with an approved sealant. Install the pump in the reservoir and connect the

hose. Route the wire from the pump to an exteriorapproved, GFCI-protected (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) electrical outlet, but don’t plug the pump yet. Make sure the inside of the reservoir is clean, then fill it with clean water. Activate the pump and test all the connections and the flow rate. If everything looks good, install the access door on the top of the reservoir, then cover the top of the reservoir with the base rock.

Shopping You can sometimes find small water feature kits, with a reservoir, pump and all the other components, at home centers, warehouse stores and other retailers. For larger pump and reservoir equipment, check with any local retailer that handles landscaping supplies, including nurseries or sprinkler dealers. They’ll either have the materials you need in stock or they can easily order them for you. They can also work with you on the proper sizing of the pump. You can also find what you need online; start with a search for “disappearing water features,” and go

from there. For basalt and other rock, check with any local retailer of rock supplies. They can also drill rock for you if you find a specific piece that you like, and can assist you with delivery and placement. As far as the electrical wiring is concerned, consult with a licensed electrician to have the proper GFCI outlet installed near the water feature. Remodeling and repair questions? Email Paul at paulbianchina@inman.com. All product reviews are based on the author’s actual testing of free review samples provided by the manufacturers. INMAN NEWS

Permits FROM PAGE 9F

Dustin Demory, 11621 Hastings Ave., storm shelter, erect, $3,000. James Cottrell, 2640 NW 168 Terrace, storm shelter, install-storm shelter, $3,000. Jeremy Long, 8040 Sunny Pointe Lane, storm shelter, install-storm shelter, $3,000. Jerry and Jody Prince, co-trustees, 4113 NW 48, storm shelter, installstorm shelter, $3,000. Pratima K.C., 5401 NW 23, retail sales, remodel, $3,000. Richard and Sherri Hooper, 1500 SW 122, storm shelter, installstorm shelter, $3,000. Stewart Jones, 12520 Clarence Court, storm shelter, install-storm shelter, $3,000. Tim and Tina Stewart, 17117 Bridle Ridge Circle, storm shelter, installstorm shelter, $3,000. Ward Combs, 3112 Buckingham Place, storm shelter, install-storm shelter, $3,000. Maria del Rosaro Morales, 1129 SW 62, residence, fire restoration, $3,000. Allen Ellis, 2804 SW 138, storm shelter, installstorm shelter, $2,995. Emily Whittington, 2252 NW 197, storm shelter, install-storm shelter, $2,995. Jeremy Warren, 19409 Vista Ave., storm shelter, install-storm shelter, $2,995. Mary Richardson, 3412 Windsor Blvd., storm shelter, install-storm shelter, $2,995. Tom and Sondra Mount, 3829 NW 69, storm shelter, install-storm shelter, $2,995. Two Structures LLC, 8308 NW 141 Circle, storm shelter, install-storm shelter, $2,995. Udayakiran Modugu, 18305 El Greco Drive, storm shelter, installstorm shelter, $2,995. No name provided, 15512 Summit Parke Drive, storm shelter, installstorm shelter, $2,995. Tobias Miller, 14100 Pecan Hollow Terrace, storm shelter, install-storm shelter, $2,900. Nick Morrison, 712

Greenfield Drive, storm shelter, install-storm shelter, $2,895. No name provided, 9921 S Brookline Ave., storm shelter, install-storm shelter, $2,895. Nicholas Clements, 1513 SW 134 Terrace, installstorm shelter, installstorm shelter, $2,825. Taber Built Homes LLC, 15213 Western Vista Drive, storm shelter, installstorm shelter, $2,800. Paul Copeland, 10205 SW 28 Circle, residence, install-storm shelter, $2,780. Edward and Lisa Miles, 15416 Milanese Ave., storm shelter, install-storm shelter, $2,700. Marisa Ridley, 3440 Oakcliff Drive, storm shelter, install-storm shelter, $2,700. Norma Riffle, 12305 Whispering Hollow Drive, storm shelter, installstorm shelter, $2,700. Tom Newton, 6445 S Drexel Ave., storm shelter, install-storm shelter, $2,700. Michael Dean Ingram, 18705 Chestnut Oak Drive, storm shelter, installstorm shelter, $2,500. Nekda Marie Minick, 3413 NW 23, business, remodel, $2,500. Griffin Properties, 9024 SE 29, supplement, supplement, $2,500. Ideal Homes of Norman LP, 9501 SW 26, storm shelter, install-storm shelter, $2,300. Gladys Cook, 3213 SW 37, storm shelter, installstorm shelter, $2,250. Sooner Carports, 2533 NW 40, canopy-carport, add-on, $1,700. Dao Nguyen, 617 SW 68, canopy-carport, add-on, $1,500.

Demolitions MCC & Associates, 6233 Northwest Expressway, bank. MCC & Associates, 7612 S Western Ave., auto garage. K&M Wrecking LLC, 2600 Drakestone Ave., residence. K&M Wrecking LLC, 8300 S Hiwassee Road, residence. Bobby Wiley, 19816 SE 92, residence. Memo Construction, 2644 SW 44, single-family residence. James Pfenning, 1035 Harris Ave., garage.