The Oklahoman Real Estate by OPUBCO Communications Group

LISTING OF THE WEEK

HOUSE PLAN

Traditional brick home

Elegance plus style

The Listing of the Week is a large, traditional two-story brick house with four bedrooms in Edmond’s Oak Tree neighborhood.

The Jamison blends traditional and present-day styling in a plan that is at once elegant and informal.

PAGE 3F

REAL ESTATE

Mi-Ling Stone Poole

THE OKLAHOMAN | NEWSOK.COM

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 18, 2010

HOME SHOWCASE BUILDER VALUES WIFE’S SKILL AT INTERIOR DESIGN

ASK MI-LING

New York holds many landmarks During a recent trip to New York, I journeyed out to investigate the touted Brooklyn Heights neighborhood and some of the landmark buildings. PAGE 4F

IN BRIEF

BUILDERS RELEASE GUIDELINES

The media room is loaded with creature comforts in John Baxter’s feature house in the Southwest Showcase of Homes, which continues through Sunday. PHOTO BY STEVE GOOCH, THE OKLAHOMAN BY TIM FALL Special Correspondent trfall@gmail.com

As a homebuilder for more than two decades, John Baxter has learned who he can and can’t trust. Trustworthy: Ginger, his wife of 27 years and design partner in JB Homes, the company they started in 1992. Not trustworthy: himself — when it comes to choosing carpet colors, that is. Baxter’s 2,904-square-foot custom home at 12616 Olivine Terrace is one of two featured show homes in the Southwest Showcase of Homes, which continues from 1 to 7 p.m. today and Sunday, featuring 40 homes in 24 additions open free to the public. Baxter’s home is in the Rockport addition, on S Portland Avenue between SW

119 and SW 134. Baxter recalled turning over the interior decoration details of a speculative home to Ginger in the company’s early days. “She put in a hunter green carpet,” Baxter said. The carpet was to finish the family room of a model he was completing in the Ranchwood Villas addition. Baxter was certain it was “the ugliest thing I’d ever seen,” but he asked a neighbor to stop by and provide a second opinion. “She did stop by,” Baxter said, “and brought a friend.” The neighbor raved about the carpet. The neighbor’s friend did one better. “He bought the house right on the spot,” Baxter said. “And I never doubted Ginger’s decisions again.” Baxter’s featured home for the

Homebuilder John Baxter shows the house his JB Homes built for this year’s Southwest Showcase of Homes. The house is at 12616 Olivine Terrace in the Rockport addition near SW 125 and S Portland Avenue. PHOTO BY STEVE GOOCH, THE OKLAHOMAN

Southwest Showcase is filled with examples of his own taste and experience as a builder, and Ginger’s refined eye for details. With four bedrooms and a

study that flow around an open kitchen and living room, the home is family-ready. An upstairs media SEE SHOWCASE, PAGE 2F

Now may be time for single homebuyers A 24-year-old dietitian made a major move forward a few days ago when she closed on a spacious, two-bedroom condo near the community hospital where she works. It was a step endorsed by her financial adviser. “She got a great deal on the condo, and her monthly payment will be just $50 more than her rent on a smaller apartment nearby. Also, she’s thrilled to be an owner,” said Arlen Olberding, her financial planner. He doesn’t advise all his young, single clients to pursue a home purchase. Obviously, anyone lacking a steady job should postpone home buying, as should those who intend to leave their current position for further education. Yet for those who are securely employed and settled, such as the dietitian, Olberding sees multiple advantages to buying in the current market. “In this economy, some are scared to buy real estate. But right now you have a lot of great deals out

Ellen James Martin SMART MOVES

there and some of the lowest mortgage rates in U.S. history,” said Olberding, who heads a financial planning firm affiliated with the Garrett Planning Network (www.garrett planningnetwork.com). He contends that another point in favor of buying soon is that rents are steadily rising in many communities, driven higher because current stringent credit standards mean fewer people can qualify to buy a home. Therefore, more are turning to rental housing. “Where rents are rising, home buying can be a comparatively better deal than a few years ago,” he said. Still, Olberding cautions potential homebuyers against the expectation of

significant home price appreciation in the next several years. “First and foremost, buying a home now should be the right lifestyle decision for you. Think of it less as an investment choice and more as a living expense,” he said. Are you a young single considering a home purchase? If so, these pointers could prove useful: Choose a place that keeps you within your financial comfort zone. Many now facing foreclosure were first-time buyers who used an adjustable-rate mortgage to finance their purchase. They were able to qualify for the introductory “teaser rate” on the home loan. But once the ARM adjusted upward, they were in over their heads. Who was to blame? In some cases it was the lender who failed to fully explain the terms and conditions of the home loan. In other instances, the borrowers were at fault for accepting a mortgage they couldn’t afford. Either

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BuilderBooks, the publishing arm of the National Association of Home Builders, just released the fourth edition of Residential Construction Performance Guidelines, the industry’s most widely accepted reference on how homes should perform. Available in contractor and consumer versions, this fully revised and updated reference helps builders and remodelers successfully manage customer expectations while delivering high-performance homes. Both versions of Residential Construction Performance Guidelines are available at www.BuilderBooks.com or by calling (800) 223-2665.

way, they might have avoided foreclosure had they used a fixed-rate loan, said Merrill Ottwein, a real estate broker and former president of the National Association of Exclusive Buyer Agents (www.naeba.org). “I’ve never been in love with any type of adjustable-rate mortgage. All ARMs introduce an element of risk. That’s especially worrisome in this kind of an economy,” Ottwein said. He also cautions all homebuyers — and especially young singles — against taking any mortgage (fixed or adjustable) that feels uncomfortably large. “Decide on your affordability target right from the start — before you go home shopping. After that, don’t let your real estate agent or lender inch you up above your comfort zone,” Ottwein said. Pick an energy-efficient place. Once moved in, many first-time homebuyers are surprised by the size of

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their home’s upkeep expenses. They hadn’t expected to spend so much for everything from electricians’ bills to mulch for the garden. The size of their energy bills also comes as a shock. “Unless you buy an energy-efficient home, you’ve got a big risk for rising power costs looming ahead,” he said. Ottwein encourages first-time buyers to educate themselves on the topic of energy-efficient housing by going to the Internet. One website that provides a wealth of information on the subject, www.energystar.gov, is sponsored by the Department of Energy, along with the Environmental Protection Agency. Also, he said you should be sure to ask the home inspector you hire to evaluate the energy efficiency of any property you plan to buy in advance of a final commitment for its purchase. To contact Ellen James Martin, e-mail her at ellenjamesmartin@gmail.com. UNIVERSAL UCLICK

FEEDER MAKES MEALTIME NEATER The Neater Feeder contains the mealtime messes that pets — and sometimes people — can make. The feeding system is an elevated container that holds food and water bowls. It has walls to contain stray bits of food and splashed water, as well as openings to allow spilled water to drain into a reservoir below. The feeder comes in two sizes, one for cats and small dogs and the other for large dogs. Leg extensions can be purchased to raise the feeder even higher. The product can be ordered at www.neaterfeeder.com. Prices range from $34.99 to $65.98, plus shipping.

INDEX Permits Harney Stone Handy

5F 6F 7F 9F

SEPTEMBER 18, 2010

REAL ESTATE

THE OKLAHOMAN | NEWSOK.COM

Left: John Baxter of JB Homes built this house at 12616 Olivine Terrace in southwest Oklahoma City as one of two feature homes in the Southwest Showcase of Homes, which continues through Sunday. PHOTO BY STEVE GOOCH, THE OKLAHOMAN

Showcase: Plan adds outdoor space FROM PAGE 1F

room, decorated for the Showcase by Family Leisure of Oklahoma City, seals that impression. Baxter said he tweaked the Fillmore Design Group floor plan to increase the outdoor living space, adding patio square footage and a fireplace. Situated on a cul-desac in the Rockport addition, the home’s traditional design is accented by custom kitchen cabinetry, an arched foyer and lush, colorful landscaping. Baxter said the home is for sale for $338,800. The home was built with an Energy Star package, including blown-in insulation to pump up the R-values of the walls and attic. Baxter, who plans to complete nine homes by the end of 2010, broke ground on the showcase house in January. He said the wet, cold winter and spring weather had slowed his construction schedule “like a lot of other builders in town.” JB Homes’ other houses range from 1,800 to 3,500 square feet and are in Yukon, Piedmont and Oklahoma City. The second feature home in this year’s Southwest Showcase of Homes is by Tom Pollard of TLP Custom Homes at 1113 Ryan Road in Moore’s Rock Creek addition, off of SE 4 between Bryant Avenue and Sunnylane Road. Marvin Haworth, Southwest Homebuilders Association board member and owner of Marvin Haworth Homes, said he expected strong turnouts for this year’s Southwest Showcase.

The outdoor living area of the feature home by John Baxter features a fireplace. PHOTO BY STEVE GOOCH, THE OKLAHOMAN

Left: Sunlight glances off of a desktop in the JB Homes feature house in the Southwest Showcase of Homes. PHOTO BY STEVE GOOCH, THE OKLAHOMAN

Right: The kitchen is meant to be the center of family life in John Baxter’s Showcase home. PHOTO BY STEVE GOOCH, THE OKLAHOMAN

THE OKLAHOMAN | NEWSOK.COM

REAL ESTATE

HOUSE PLAN

SEPTEMBER 18, 2010

LISTING OF THE WEEK

The Listing of the Week is at 409 Country Club Terrace in Edmond. PHOTO PROVIDED

Home offered at Oak Tree The Listing of the Week is a large, traditional two-story brick house in Edmond’s Oak Tree neighborhood. The 8,674-square-foot home has four bedrooms, 4½ baths, six living rooms, two dining rooms and an attached fourcar garage. The formal living room has a fireplace and wet bar. The family room has a fireplace. The kitchen has eating space, a breakfast bar, pantry, double ovens, granite countertops and a wet bar with wine cooler. The master bedroom has a sitting area, walk-in closet and bath with whirlpool tub. The home has a covered deck, workshop, storage area, a hob-

Plan is elegant yet informal The Jamison blends traditional and present-day styling in a plan that is at once elegant and informal. Traditional elements include a covered porch, arched windows and a deck. Bold columns, a cameo window and planters overflowing with vegetation provide contemporary flavor. Vaulted ceilings create a sense of openness in the formal living spaces at the core of this plan. Widely spaced columns support plant shelves that delineate the boundaries of the dining room, living room and hallways. A small powder room, tucked into the passageway to the kitchen, is close to everything. Everyday activities take place in the large, open family room-kitchen. The cooking island is set at a diagonal to create an unusually shaped triangular kitchen. Having the vegetable sink right across from the range offers increased efficiency in food preparation. The eating bar adds still more counter space. Utilities and a walk-in pantry

are conveniently located between the kitchen and the garage. On the far side of the kitchen, a glass door in the nook leads onto a large deck. Bedrooms are clustered together at the left. Luxury amenities in the owners’ suite include a large walkin closet, a private bathroom with two lavatories and an enclosed toilet and shower. Glass blocks brighten the bathing alcove. Each of the Jamison’s secondary bedrooms has direct access to a dualcompartment bathroom. The bedroom closest to the entry porch could be outfitted with French doors and used as a den or office. For a review plan, including scaled floor plans, elevations, section and artist’s conception, send $25 to Associated Designs,

1100 Jacobs Drive, Eugene, OR, 97402. Please specify the Jamison 10-081 and include a return address when ordering. For more information, call (800) 634-0123.

by room in the garage with heat and air and a circle drive. The home, built in 1987, is listed for $625,000 with Charles Tritthart of Keller Williams Realty. The home will be open from 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday. From Kelly Avenue and Sorghum Mill Road, go north to the Oak Tree entry, proceed east on Country Club Drive to Country Club Terrace. For more information, call 3302626. 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.

REAL ESTATE

SEPTEMBER 18, 2010

THE OKLAHOMAN | NEWSOK.COM

Trip highlights what’s special about Brooklyn, N.Y. When I think of Brooklyn, N.Y., the Brooklyn Bridge, “The Cosby Show” and Spike Lee’s movie “Do the Right Thing” come to mind. I have friends who live in Brooklyn, and I’ve always heard wonderful things about the city and the great neighborhoods. During a recent trip to New York, I checked into the Marriott at the Brooklyn Bridge and journeyed out to investigate the touted Brooklyn Heights neighborhood and some of the landmark buildings. My aunt Carole and her husband Vernon from North Carolina joined me for a walking tour and a hunt for historic landmarks and other interesting buildings. Our first stop was Columbus Park at Court Street and Montague. There we were greeted by the Green Market, a farmers market filled with delicious fruits, vegetables, pastries, seafood, wine and arts and crafts and one of the largest variations of homegrown tomatoes I’ve ever seen in New York City. My favorite building at the intersection was the oldest building in Brooklyn, known as Borough Hall, a stately Greek Revival-style building charac-

Mi-Ling Stone Poole ASK MI-LING

terized by large Ionic columns. The hall was completed in 1849. Borough Hall was the original city hall of Brooklyn before the city merged with the city of New York and Kings County in 1898. The building was designed by architect Gamaliel King. Nearby, the MontagueCourt building, built in 1928 and designed by H. Craig Severance, is known as the tallest office building in Brooklyn, standing at 462 feet and 38 floors. The style is a neo-Renaissance. Another jewel in Brooklyn is the St. Ann & Holy Trinity Church at Montague and Clinton. We ventured into this 1847 Gothic Revival structure and were impressed by the beauty and grandeur of the space. We were catapulted back in time when the pipe organ was being played. Of course, the highlight of my day was taking in the

New associate at Paradigm AdvantEdge FROM STAFF REPORTS

Steve Mann has joined Paradigm AdvantEdge Real Estate’s south office, 1530 SW 119, as a sales associate. He is a native of the metro area and studied political science at Oklahoma State University. He is a licensed broker, and in 1978 he purchased one of the first real estate franchises in Oklahoma. He has been in the real estate business for more than 30 years. He is a member of the Certified Appraisers Guild of America and in 2004 was recognized as Champion Auctioneer in Oklahoma and one of the International Top 50

Steve Mann

Champion Auctioneers. He is the vice president of the Cleveland County Fair Board and will serve as president of the Oklahoma City Metro Association of Realtors in 2011.

views of the Brooklyn Bridge and the Manhattan skyline from the East River promenade. The Brooklyn Bridge is the oldest suspension bridge in the United States, dating to 1893; it connects the Manhattan boroughs to Brooklyn. The short distance from Manhattan and the views of the Statue of Liberty and the skyline are no

doubt the biggest reasons why Brooklyn Heights is a premiere location to live in New York. But living in Brooklyn Heights is not cheap. One local real estate office posted info on brownstones and condos ranging from $500,000 to $4 million per unit. After staying in Manhattan on numerous occasions, I could feel the dif-

ference in attitude and lifestyle. Brooklyn Heights was a true community, where families walked hand in hand up and down the streets, and folks popped in the local ice cream shop for a quick treat. I didn’t feel the hustle and bustle of Times Square. I chatted with local vendors, did a little window shopping and enjoyed spending time with my

family while taking in the beautiful architecture of Brooklyn Heights. To see more of my trip to Brooklyn Heights, go online to www.youtube. com/comfortzoneradiotv. Now go out and create your own unique comfort zone! If you have a decorating dilemma, contact Mi-Ling Stone Poole through her website, www.Mi-Ling.com.

THE OKLAHOMAN | NEWSOK.COM

Permits Oklahoma City

Troy D. Rhodes & Co. Inc., 4400 Northwest Expressway, church, erect, $2,683,750. TAP/The Architectural Partnership, 1100 SE 66, office, remodel, $800,000. Smith & Pickel, 1000 N Lee Ave., hospital, remodel, $600,000. Steve Momtazzadeh, 5101 SE 155, residence, erect, $400,000. Chad Hefty Custom Homes, 11601 Marbella Drive, residence, erect, $348,000. Manchester Elite Homes LLC, 14508 Yorkshire Lane, residence, erect, $310,700. D.R. Horton, 2320 NW 153, residence, erect, $294,400. Manchester Elite Homes LLC, 14617 Paddington Ave., residence, erect, $263,650. D.R. Horton, 7605 Meadow Lake Drive, residence, erect, $263,000. Taber Built Homes LLC, 16236 Josiah Place, residence, erect, $250,000. Gary Owens Carpet & Construction Inc., 5225 Horizon Blvd., residence, erect, $240,000. Divine Investments LLC, 8512 NW 112, residence, erect, $220,000. Manchester Elite Homes LLC, 14517 Sedona Drive, residence, erect, $215,100. Remington Builders Inc., 13608 Keswick Lane, residence, erect, $210,000. The Roberts Group, 17705 Griffin Gate Drive, residence, erect, $210,000. Christopher Lee & Co., 16408 Josiah Place, residence, erect, $200,000. First Star Homes, doing business as Turner & Son Homes, 2421 NW 176, residence, erect, $200,000. Nashert Construction, 8337 Candlewood Drive, automotive repair-wash, add-on, $200,000. Taber Built Homes LLC, 1612 NW 157 Circle, residence, erect, $200,000. Vesta Homes Inc., 4901 SW 124, residence, erect, $200,000. VP Homes, 11237 NW 101, residence, erect, $200,000. R&R Homes LLC, 7617 Jesse Trail, residence, erect, $197,000. Jeff Click Homes LLC, 17425 Golden Hawk Lane, residence, erect, $190,000. Robin Ridge LLC, 2420 NW 154, residence, erect, $185,000. Adams Kirby Homes LLC, 11804 Volterra Way, residence, erect, $180,000. Jeff Click Homes LLC, 2429 NW 176, residence, erect, $180,000. Jeff Click Homes LLC, 2429 NW 175, residence, erect, $180,000. Vesta Homes Inc., 12629 Smithfield Lane, residence, erect, $180,000. Taber Built Homes LLC, 5005 NW 153, residence, erect, $170,000. Robin Ridge LLC, 2412 NW 154, residence, erect, $160,000. Robin Ridge LLC, 15409 Cardinal Nest Drive, residence, erect, $155,000. Vintage Custom Homes LLC, 3716 Lambeth, residence, erect, $140,000. Marathon Builders Inc., 8400 SW 26, residence, erect, $120,000. Marathon Builders Inc., 2816 Coventry Manor Drive, residence, erect, $116,060. Martinez Masonry Construction LLC, 15108 Kyle Drive, residence, erect, $115,000. Ideal Homes of Norman LP, 2333 SW 137, residence, erect, $108,000. Alan Stuck Custom Homes, 9304 NW 76, residence, erect, $100,000. R&R Homes LLC, 4905 Kindling Lane, residence, remodel, $100,000. Shepherd Mall, 2401 NW 23, office, remodel, $100,000. Ideal Homes of Norman LP, 18505 Charla Drive, residence, erect, $87,000. Ideal Homes of Norman LP, 2813 NW 185, residence, erect, $86,000. Riggs (Clyde) Construction, 3700 S MacArthur Blvd., office, remodel, $85,000. Rausch Coleman Homes LLC, 4716 SE 81, residence, erect, $80,000. Scottie L. Smith, 3612 Basinger, residence, erect,

$80,000. 7-Eleven LLC, 12237 N Council Road, retail sales, remodel, $60,000. Chester Douglas, 3745 NW 24, residence, erect, $50,000. Ronald Lewis, 2536 SW 28, residence, erect, $45,000. Gary Darrow, 11431 S Cemetery Road, residence, erect, $40,000. John Buskirk, 8500 Oak Hill Road, storage, moveon, $40,000. John Buskirk, 8500 Oak Hill Road, storage, moveon, $40,000. John Buskirk, 8500 Oak Hill Road, storage, moveon, $40,000. John Buskirk, 8500 Oak Hill Road, storage, moveon, $40,000. John Buskirk, 8500 Oak Hill Road, storage, moveon, $40,000. Elliott & Co. Architects Inc., 2624 N Classen Blvd., restaurant, remodel, $35,000. Ch4 Quality Homes LLC, 13608 Cascata Strada, residence, erect, $30,000. D.H. French Construction Co. Inc., 5201 S Peebly Road, barn, erect, $25,000. 2618 NW 67, 6900 N May Ave., recreation center, remodel, $20,000. William B. Welch, 17200 SE 59, storage, erect, $20,000. Mass Development, 14201 N May Ave., retail sales, remodel, $17,000. Doug Poff, 11816 Twisted Oak Road, residence, addon, $14,000. Chris Daugherty, 13301 Buckboard Road, barn, erect, $12,700. Johnathan Majid, 10501 Joshua Drive, residence, add-on, $10,000. Robert J. Hamilton,

REAL ESTATE 14600 S Anderson Road, storage, erect, $8,000. Mueggenborg Construction, 2532 Somerset Place, residence, add-on, $6,800. Ray Taylor With Tuff Shed, 3404 NW 22, residence, fire restoration, $6,000. Tony Basolo, 12601 St Lukes Lane, residence, remodel, $6,000. Lue Nelson, 709 Ketch Drive, manufactured home, move-on-mobile home park, $6,000. Smith & Pickel, 6001 N Western Ave., temporary

building, move-on, $5,000. James Brittan, 2100 NW 118 Terrace, residence, remodel, $5,000. Moises Roblos, 2229 SW 35, residence, add-on, $5,000. Dustin Perrino, 2219 NW 17, residence, remodel, $4,500. Dan and Linda Gardner, 15420 Lily Garden Lane, residence, add-on, $3,300. Jason Ma, 427 Tumbleweed Road, storm shelter, install-storm shelter, $3,150. Robert J. Hamilton,

SEPTEMBER 18, 2010 14600 S Anderson Road, storage, erect, $3,000. Lindsey Poarch, 1105 NW 176, residence, addon, $2,700. Cedar Built USA, 1540 SW 24, storage, erect, $2,500. Marla Nones, 5825 W Reno Ave., retail sales, remodel, $2,500. Marla Nones, 5835 W Reno Ave., shell building, remodel, $2,500. Danilo Deloerc, 612 NW 89, canopy-carport, erect, $2,300. Lesley Lirley, 10429 SE 59, accessory, erect,

$1,000.

Demolition Cherry Truck & Wrecking, 12100 N Bryant Ave., residence. M&M Concrete & Wrecking Inc., 628 NE 29, vacant. Chester Douglas, 3745 NW 24. Ray Taylor, Tuff Shed, 3404 NW 22, residence. Michael Nevard, 8100 SW 3, storage. Bill Walker, 212 SE 52, storage. Roy L. Simmons, 1540 SW 24, residence.

REAL ESTATE

SEPTEMBER 18, 2010

THE OKLAHOMAN | NEWSOK.COM

Beware of pitches promising credit repair WASHINGTON — Recession-hammered homeowners’ credit scores are on the decline across the country, say scoring industry experts, and that makes more consumers vulnerable to scams that purport to erase delinquencies, judgments, foreclosures and other problems from files at the three national credit bureaus, Equifax, Experian and TransUnion. A Federal Trade Commission settlement in early September with a Florida “credit repair” company provides a fresh example. The FTC’s complaint against Clean Credit Report Services Inc. of North Miami alleged that the firm promised clients it could boost their credit scores dramatically and quickly — even if derogatory information was accurate and current. In national radio advertisements, plus Internet and TV pitches, Clean Credit said it could make

Kenneth Harney THE NATION’S HOUSING

records of “late payments, collection accounts, charge-offs, repossessions and bankruptcies” disappear from credit files, the FTC’s complaint says. The firm used testimonials from people identified as clients. The FTC cited a testimonial from one woman who said that she needed a minimum 600 credit score to obtain a loan but had only a 480 when she contacted Clean Credit. “I got into the CCRS club,” the woman recounted in the testimonial, “and did what they told me to do. Two months later I got responses from Equifax that said a bunch of stuff was deleted. When I pulled

my (credit) report online I realized that I had a 621. I couldn’t believe this really works.” The FTC complaint said that Clean Credit went beyond mere promises of short-term “repair,” but in telephone sales talks with prospective clients, the company held out the prospect of “permanently and legally” eliminating negative information. The firm allegedly claimed that the target for clients was a 650 to 700 FICO score at the end of the file-scrubbing process. Customers were charged upfront fees averaging $400, said the FTC, but once they paid the money, the company did “little, if anything, to fulfill the promises made.” Clean Credit’s disgruntled customers filed complaints with state and local authorities, and the FTC, which oversees the Credit Repair Organizations Act, then took on the case. Under that law, compa-

Takeover scheme targets vacant homes in Florida BY SALLY KESTIN Sun Sentinel

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. — Imagine going to a house or condo you own and finding a stranger living there who claims the property no longer belongs to you. It’s happening across Florida and other parts of the country through what authorities say is abuse of a centuries-old concept known as adverse possession. Dating back to Renaissance England, adverse possession allowed people to take over abandoned cottages and farmland, provided they were willing to live there and pay the taxes. These days, officials said, the legal doctrine is being misused by squatters, trespassers and swindlers to claim ownership of vacant or foreclosed homes. In Florida’s Broward and Palm Beach counties alone, adverse possession claims have been filed on some 200 homes in recent months. Three of the four people behind the claims have been arrested, and police are investigating the fourth man, who along with his father, a convicted mobster, tried to take over properties in Hollywood, Fla. “We look at this as another con job, another getrich-quick scheme,” said Don TenBrook, a Broward state prosecutor of economic crimes. “You’re starting to see them pop up all over the place. It’s been spawned by the real estate crisis.” A bill in the Florida Legislature this spring would have helped cut back on the abuses and better protect Florida property owners, but it failed to pass — the result of political retribution, state Rep. Ron Schultz, one of the sponsors, told the Sun Sentinel. “We tried to nip this in the bud, but that didn’t quite work,” said Schultz, a Republican. “This is becoming a fairly wide scam in Florida.” Antonio Vurro owned an empty rental home in Sunrise, Fla., that he was trying to sell when he discovered in February that someone had moved in, changed the locks and was trying to open a utility account. “There were boxes all over the place and a mattress in each room,” Vurro said in a recent interview. “This is not right. It’s my house.” The occupant, Fitzroy Ellis, told Vurro he was entitled to take over the home because it was aban-

We look at this as another con job, another get-rich-quick scheme. You’re starting to see them pop up all over the place. It’s been spawned by the real estate crisis.” DON TENBROOK,

STATE PROSECUTOR

doned. Police disagreed, and Ellis, 64, is now in the Broward County Jail charged with six counts of grand theft. Ellis tried to claim a total of 48 properties in Broward, including a $1 million house in Coral Springs, through a company he formed called Helping Hands Properties Inc., county official records show. He told a Plantation, Fla., police detective he planned to rent out the houses and condos and could offer tenants a good price “since he didn’t have to pay anything for the homes,” according to a police report. Ellis, who is representing himself, wrote in court documents that the allegations against him are “false and an abuse of power.” The attempted takeovers are more fallout from Florida’s declining housing market, said Dennis Koehler, a West Palm Beach lawyer. “People who are upside down just choose to leave the property, let it sit,” he said. “Some people have decided, ‘Hey, this is an opportunity for me.’” The opportunity involves a new twist on a very old law, dating to 16thcentury England. Adverse possession allows nonowners of a property to eventually take ownership if they pay the taxes, occupy, maintain and improve the land for a period of years — seven in Florida. The purpose was to prevent abandoned properties from sitting idle with no one paying taxes on them. It’s been used mostly to take over abandoned farmland or settle boundary disputes, such as a fence or building encroaching on a neighbor’s property. In theory, vacant houses also can be taken through adverse possession, if the seven-year window passes and the property owner makes no attempt to pay the taxes or liens — an unlikely scenario, especially when a bank is laying claim through foreclosure, property experts say. And claimants risk breaking other laws if they

trespass, break into a home or try to collect rent without being the actual property owner. Even if someone claiming adverse possession manages to occupy a home legally and pays taxes on it, “an owner could come in the sixth or seventh year and say, ‘I want my property back,’ ” Koehler said. MCCLATCHY-TRIBUNE INFORMATION SERVICES

nies and individuals who claim to be able to fix consumers’ credit files are prohibited from making “untrue statements” and may not charge or collect money in advance. Credit repair services are frequently pitched to homeowners on the Internet, via direct mail or through mortgage loan officers. According to both Fair Isaac Inc., whose FICO score is widely used in the mortgage industry, and VantageScore, a joint venture among the three national credit bureaus, scores have sagged in recent years because millions of consumers have fallen behind on credit cards, mortgages and other debts. Lower scores, in turn, are preventing many homeowners from qualifying for new or refinanced mortgages under toughened underwriting standards imposed by lenders and investors such as Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.

In the FTC settlement, Clean Credit and its officers agreed to forfeit substantial assets, including a $165,000 bank account balance, six commercial and three residential real estate properties in South Florida, another commercial property in Bogota, Colombia, along with a 1992 Mercedes S300. The proceeds from the sales of these and other assets are expected to be deposited by the FTC into a special restitution fund for Clean Credit clients. The agreement also requires the firm and its principals to pay $14.4 million for restitution should the financial statements they submitted for settlement purposes prove to be inaccurate. Robin Rock, an FTC attorney in Atlanta, said the $14.4 million represents an estimate of what consumers were charged for credit repair services they never received. An attorney representing Clean Credit, Andres Montejo of Miami,

declined to comment on the allegations in the FTC complaint or the settlement terms. The takeaway here for anyone with depressed credit scores who nonetheless is seeking a mortgage: Don’t believe claims of credit repair operators who say they can perform miracles on your credit files, boosting your scores overnight and keeping them that way permanently. They can’t. If the delinquencies and other derogatory information in your files are accurate and current, the only way to boost your scores is to reverse your previous credit behavior and make responsible use of your credit accounts over time. Not only are advance fees for credit repair red flags for scam operations, they’re also blatant violations of federal law. E-mail Ken Harney at kenharneyQ@earthlink.net. WASHINGTON POST WRITERS GROUP

REAL ESTATE

THE OKLAHOMAN | NEWSOK.COM

SEPTEMBER 18, 2010

Problem sets liability for unsafe chimney DEAR BARRY: We bought our home about two years ago, and no fireplace or chimney problems were disclosed by our home inspector. But this week we hired someone to remove birds that were inside the chimney, and we were told the chimney is unsafe. Whom do we call to file a claim, our warranty company or the home inspector. Linda DEAR LINDA: To say that a chimney is unsafe is a vague generalization. First, you need specifics. Chimneys can be unsafe for reasons that are costly and complicated or affordable and routine. For example, a missing or damaged spark arrester makes a chimney unsafe,

Barry Stone INSPECTOR’S IN THE HOUSE

but the repair is simple and inexpensive. The same would apply to a chimney that is encrusted with creosote and needs to be swept. On the other hand, a chimney that is unsafe because of structural cracks, deteriorated mortar or lack of a flue liner would involve major expense, including possible reconstruction. Before making a claim of liability, this question needs to be answered.

Regardless of the answer, this is most likely a pre-existing condition, and warranty companies typically do not pay for such claims. Therefore, the home inspector’s lack of disclosure could be the main issue. If the chimney defects were visible and accessible at the time of the inspection, those conditions should have been disclosed. Exceptions would include inaccessibility due to wet or freezing weather or a chimney top that is too high to reach with a common ladder. If circumstances were favorable to chimney access, the home inspector was probably negligent. The first thing to do is to call the inspector and re-

quest a reinspection of the chimney. At that point, you can discuss the question of financial liability. DEAR BARRY: The property next to my house is owned by a high-rent slumlord. His front yard is overgrown with weeds and littered with trash. This has raised complaints from several neighbors, but everyone is afraid to mess with him because he is a karate instructor and a bully. The trees in his yard are damaging my fence, cracking my driveway and rubbing against my roof. He has made it plain that he intends to do nothing about this. What can I do? Lisa

DEAR LISA: Finding a solution to this problem could be difficult. With a normally problematic neighbor, issues can be discussed and legal pressure can be applied without fear of retaliation. But with someone who is a bully by nature, who knows what problems could develop if you stir the pot? You should get some legal advice to see what options are available. It might be possible for the municipality to enforce some health and safety regulations without your name being mentioned. As a side note, there was a homeowner who had a similar problem with a neighbor’s trees. He treated the soil on his own side of the fence with

a defoliant. The trees died. The owner of the trees had no choice but to remove them. Of course, I’m not suggesting that you employ such far-reaching measures. To write to Barry Stone, go online to www.housedetective.com. ACCCESS MEDIA GROUP

REAL ESTATE

SEPTEMBER 18, 2010

THE OKLAHOMAN | NEWSOK.COM

Regulator prepares changes in reverse mortgages BY MARY ELLEN PODMOLIK Chicago Tribune

The Federal Housing Administration isn’t talking publicly about it, but the agency could be getting ready to lessen the upfront costs of reverse mortgages for some borrowers. However, the agency could be reducing the amount seniors can borrow from their homes. In a recent conference call with industry participants, FHA officials said they were finalizing plans to offer a home-equity conversion mortgage with almost no upfront mortgage insurance premium attached, according to the National Reverse Mortgage Lenders Association. The FHA also may tinker with the traditional product in a way that increases the overall borrowing costs. “HUD is looking at options to provide a lower-priced (homeequity conversion mortgage) op-

tion,” said Lemar Wooley, a spokesman for the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. “We are still working out the details. Our basic plan is to make the product more attractive, while limiting FHA’s exposure to risk.” A home-equity conversion mortgage is a federally guaranteed reverse mortgage designed to let homeowners 62 or older tap into the equity in their homes. The loans and accrued interest don’t have to be repaid until the owner sells the home, dies or fails to live there for one year, but the loans have traditionally carried significant upfront and annual expenses. According to participants on the conference call, home-equity conversion mortgages would be split into two products this fall: a “standard” loan and a “saver” loan. The saver loan would have an upfront mortgage insurance pre-

mium of 0.01percent of a home’s value, but the amount of funds that could be borrowed, known as the principal limit, would be reduced by at least 10 percent, lowering the risk to the FHA, which guarantees the loans. Because a smaller amount could be borrowed, the saver loan could be marketed as an alternative to a home equity line of credit to seniors on fixed incomes who can’t make the monthly minimum interest payments required on such lines of credit. Under the standard loan, the upfront mortgage insurance premium charged by the FHA would remain 2 percent of the property value (or a max of 2 percent of the FHA maximum loan limit of $625,500), and the principal limit would be cut by 1 to 5 percent of a home’s value, depending on the borrower’s age. The upfront mortgage insurance premium would remain 2 percent, said industry participants

briefed on the plan. For both loans, the monthly mortgage insurance premium, which is 0.5 percent of the mortgage balance for a traditional home equity conversion mortgage, would rise to 1.25 percent. “For someone who needs a chunk of money, but not a huge chunk, we believe this will significantly broaden the appeal,” said Peter Bell, president of the National Reverse Mortgage Lenders Association. “They’re very smart changes.” In the past few months, several reverse mortgage lenders decreased origination fees and closing costs, partly in a bid to increase demand for the product and partly to pass along some of the profit they’ve made as investors scooped up the loans on the secondary market. The saver product would further reduce the upfront borrowing costs. The National Council on Aging, which has advocated the de-

velopment of a more flexible reverse mortgage product for some time, views the coming changes as welcome news that the industry is moving past the one-sizefits-all mentality. However, the advocacy group also sees potential pitfalls. “The more flexibility there is, the more chance there is to be talked into (something) that doesn’t make sense,” said Barbara Stucki, vice president of home-equity initiatives for the National Council on Aging. In the past year, consumer advocates have voiced concerns about the marketing techniques used to tout reverse mortgages to seniors, a potentially vulnerable class of consumers. Beginning Sept. 11, consumers interested in home-equity conversion mortgage have to undergo expanded counseling to better understand their options. MCCLATCHY-TRIBUNE INFORMATION SERVICES

REAL ESTATE

THE OKLAHOMAN | NEWSOK.COM

SEPTEMBER 18, 2010

Screw anchor an answer for concrete Bolting framing, fixtures, tools or anything Installation else onto concrete has never been easy. Installation of the Titen anchor is simple. Wedge anchors have been the standard First, you need to determine the size of the choice for years, but they are difficult to in- mounting holes in the item you are planning stall correctly and can place additional lateral to bolt down. Then, using the chart provided strain on the concrete due to by Simpson, determine the their expansion, making them correct anchor diameter. For unsuitable for use close to the example, if you were bolting edge of a concrete slab or down a tool or other fixture Paul foundation wall. Many other has mounting holes that Bianchina that types of anchors don’t have are 9/16-inch in diameter, you sufficient strength to meet would want to use a 3 code requirements for framing ⁄8-inch-diameter Titen. installations. The next step is to drill the HANDY @ HOME One high-strength solution installation hole. Using the to this construction problem Simpson chart, determine the that’s also relatively easy to use is the Titen correct diameter of hole for the size of Titen HD Heavy Duty Screw Anchor. The Titen HD anchor being used. It’s important to drill a is manufactured by Simpson Strong-Tie, a hole of the correct diameter — the anchor company known for its wide selection of steel won’t drive into a hole that is undersized, and hangers and other fastening and connector it won’t bite well and give the proper holding supplies for construction. It looks somewhat strength if driven into a hole that’s too large. like a conventional lag bolt, but all similarity You’ll also need to calculate the depth of stops there. the hole, determined by the thickness of the Titens install into predrilled holes with no fixture being bolted down as well as the additional anchors or shields, and are simply thickness of the concrete you’re working screwed into place. For tool and equipment with. The hole should then be drilled about installations, they’re also easily removable if ½-inch deeper then the embedment depth the equipment needs to be moved. of the bolt, which allows space for the resultTiten anchors have very widely spaced ing dust to settle before installing the bolt. threads, and the edges of the threads have For example, if you were bolting a fixture serrated teeth that allow the anchor to ac- that was ½-inch thick, and the concrete was tually cut into the sides of the hole. They have 6 inches thick, you would probably select a a hex head for use with conventional sockets, 5-inch-long Titen anchor, which would give and the bottom of the head flares out into a you 4½ inches of penetration into the slab, washer that provides a clean finished appear- and drill your hole about 5 inches deep (4½ ance. The underside of the washer has ratchet inches of embedment plus ½-inch). You can teeth that provide additional protection also drill the hole to the specified depth — in against the bolt working loose if subjected to this case, 4½ inches — and then blow out the vibration.

Condominiums, Townhouses For Sale 304 Price Reduced $5000 Extra sharp 2bd 1.5ba 2-car, ch/a, new roof & siding, only $54,900 Fidelity 692-1661

Farms, Ranches For Sale, Okla. 308

AUCTION

Acreage For Sale

302

ACREAGE HOME SITES AVAILABLE » The Ranches at Olde Tuscany 1+Ac Moore Schls » Olde Tuscany III 5-10 ac Moore Schools » The Timbers 5 ac Moore Schools » Montecito 1+ ac Norman Schools » Belleau Wood 1+ ac Edmond Schools » Stillbrook Glen 2.5-10 ac Bridgecreek Schools Call Mike 317.0582 landmarkfinehomes.com Visit one of our fully furnished model homes today! *We build on your lot or ours*

Receiver’s Sale 102.56 acres of vacant land close to Council and SW 55th. Sale to take place on 9/30/2010 at 10:00 AM at 120 North Robinson, Suite 1920, Oklahoma City, OK. For bid package and more info please contact Mike Hunter at 405-235-3040 or mjhunter@ turnaroundpro.com. FOR SALE BY OWNER: 4008 acres all in one parcel. Approx. 10 mi SW of Sayre, OK. Hay stack Creek and other creeks run through the property. Big trees, good hunting, good cow operation, corrals, ponds. $695 per acre. 806-248-7224 or 806-676-6503 or night 806-354-0253 Sod Farm 137 acres between OKC and Yukon. Rock home 3bd, 3000sf, total elec irrigation well w/1/2 mi. 4" plastic pipe. Barns w/13,500 sf coverage w/12,000 sf cemented floors, $685,000. 405-463-0127 PIEDMONT OPEN SAT 2-4 & SUN 2-5. Model home. New hms on 1/2 ac lots. Info also available for new hms in other additions. From NW Expwy & Sara Rd go 4.5 mi N Cleaton & Assoc 373-2494

4.7 acres, 2005 home with 30x50 shed wired with 220 and a 3/4 acre pond stocked. $232,000 call 405-301-3605 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 BUILDING SITES PIEDMONT 3/4 and 1 Acre Lots, Close In-Good Streets Leon 373-4820 Overland Ex Realty 5A (MOL) corner lot at County Line Rd & Tyler Dr. Newcastle Sch. Pipe & cable fence, pond $100,000 ‘ 405-392-3221 1-28 acres » All Areas Owner Financing Woodlake Properties 405-273-5777 www.property4sale.com 6A Mustang 29K cash Great buy 417-2176 www.homesofokcinc.com 2000 ft 2 story 2.5A U-fix 39K cash » 417-2176 www.homesofokcinc.com 3.5A Nice 4bd, 3ba, 2car Wash sch • 417-2176 www.homesofokcinc.com CLOSE IN NOBLE 5 wooded acres, $173.71 per month. 226-2015co

10AM, 9/18: The Ventress Ranch, Lexington, OK. 376+ Acres, 4000 SF Executive Home, Pool, 3000 SF Deck & Cabana, 36x72 Shop, Pasture, Meadows, Woods! No Minimums - No Reserves! Adjoins Wildlife Refuge! Viewings Sept 4, 5, 6, 11 & 12, 10AM 5PM. JB Robison Auctioneers 918-256-5524 JBRauctions.com

Farms, Ranches For Sale Out-of-State 309 McClellan Creek RanchTX 3520 +/- Ac*11 +/- Ac Lake/Bass *Deer*Turkey *Quail*House*Live Water *Springs*Ponds*Meadows* Johnny Street 806-847-7400 www.streetsrealestate.com Pavillion WY, 20A ranch 2bd home. 4 wells, outbldgs, fence/crossfence new school. Ideal for dev elopment call For details $500K » 307-856-6080

RE for sale Bethany/ Warr Acres

311

312

BANK OWNED 2/2/2 shop encl patio, 1826sf, .68 ac $115.9KArlene CB 414-8753 BANK OWNED 5 or 6/3.5/3 4585sf, 1.68 acres. Nice! $324.9KArlene CB 414-8753

Del City

313

Financing Lease Purchase Homes 2, 3, 4 bedroom, All Areas, Ready for move in. Call 973-4322 for info or visit buyahouseinoklahoma.com 4005 Corbett • 473-3247 www.homesofokcinc.com

Edmond

314

ATTENTION! $179,000 3bd 2.5ba Home for $110,000 Patrick@Allied 740-6616

MWC

317

OWNER FINANCING $2000 down. no credit ck 321 E Fairchild 2/1 $49,000 »» 410-8840 »»

324

PRICE SLASHED BY THOUSANDS! 3 bd + office, just blks from Surrey Hills golf course & pool. 2ba, 2car approx 1879' priced @ $154,885 Cindy Cleaton & Assoc 373-2494 Sharp Spacious 2-story 4bd, great area, basement, new carpet, fresh paint ch/a Seller will pay closing $99,750. Fidelity RE 692-1661, 417-1963 Financing Lease Purchase Homes 2, 3, 4 bedroom, All Areas, Ready for move in. Call 973-4322 for info or visit buyahouseinoklahoma.com 2506 NW 20 Renov 4/2K /2, 4621 NW 33 Terr Renov 4/2K /2 503-5057 www.homesofokcinc.com OWNER FINANCING $2000 down No Credit Ck 2133 Cashion 2/1 $58,000 ¡¡ 410-8840 ¡¡ 8432 NW 85th, complete remodel, 3/2/2, 2153 sf, $134,950 924-0213 SU 2-4 3020 FAIRFIELD Immaculate Dollhouse Elite Realty Team ATTENTION! $185,000 3bd 2ba Home for $119,950 Patrick@Allied 740-6616 1449 NW 99 (417-2176) www.homesofokcinc.com

OKC Southeast

FSBO 6213 NW 31, 3/2/2 new decor PC sch, 1700' mol, 118K, may carry w/good ref, 787-7666

Choctaw

OKC Northwest

325

1340 SE 41 Everything New! Com. to buyer's agent.ch&a.3/1 $59,500. 245-4008 Extra cute 2bd 1.5ba, ch/a, 2-car gar, only $51,500 Fidelity 692-1661

OKC Southwest

326

Financing Lease Purchase Homes 2, 3, 4 bedroom, All Areas, Ready for move in. Call 973-4322 for info or visit buyahouseinoklahoma.com

Piedmont

327

PRICE REDUCED! Stunning hm in Windmill Park walk to tennis ct or park 4/3/3 w/circle dr, formal din. Approx 2365' $253,900. Cindy Cleaton & Assoc 373-2494 GREAT COUNTRY HOME 6735 Mustang Rd NE 3Bd, 4Ba, Game Rm + office 30x50 Shop on 9+ AC. More Land Available $675K Leon 373-4820 Overland Exp Realty

318

5215 HART DR NE 5Ac 5Bd, 3K Ba, 2 Liv, 1 Din, 2 Car, New Roof & Gutters. Lots of Updates Pipe & Cable Fence $375K Leon 373-4820 Overland Ex Realty, Inc

Financing Lease Purchase Homes 2, 3, 4 bedroom, All Areas, Ready for move in. Call 973-4322 for info or visit buyahouseinoklahoma.com

Seller pay 3% buyers closing! Brick 3bd 2ba ch/a-frpl-outbldg-2 car. Upgrades! Call! 670-1411 or 640-8550 Malone’s Prop

Moore

EXECUTIVE HOME Gated community. Owner will provide 90% financing 405-641-0124 3bd brk, 1.5 b, ch&a, 2car gar/opnr. Fenced, new carpet, paint, appls & ctr tops $89,000. 364-0356

Norman

322

2 bed, 2 bath, 2 car Garden Home in Gated secure community. 405-788-4209

OKC Northeast

323

Family Home

AUCTION

$5,000 Opening Bid Tues. Sept. 21st 6:30 pm 725 Musgrave Blvd. OKC Open Houses: Sept. 12th & 19th 20bid30.com 918/639-7653 Bid Loud Auctions Keller Williams Realty 9420 NE 46 » 417-2176 www.homesofokcinc.com

Suburban, NW

(El Reno, Guthrie, Cashion, Deer Creek,

Etc.)

332

OPEN HOUSE SA SU MO ELRENO 20min from OKC 109 S. O Ave. Reduced $10,000! Out of town owner. Nice 3bd 1ba new roof & carpet- on 4 lots! $49,500 619-987-2639

Open Houses 334.2 PIEDMONT OPEN SAT 2-4 & SUN 2-5. Model home. New hms on 1/2 ac lots. Info also available for new hms in other additions. From NW Expwy & Sara Rd go 4.5 mi N Cleaton & Assoc 373-2494

Mobile Home Parks Community /Acreages 338 BACK TO SCHOOL SPECIAL! Free month's rent in. No application fee. wac Yukon schools 3bd/2 bath. All electric. Going fast. Call 787-0136 or 495.1463 Manager Special! Get it while its hot!! let us help you with your mobile home moving costs. Yukon Schools call for details 821-0297/495-1463 We'll PAY to have YOUR Home moved to any one of Our parks. Conditions apply Call 326-5728 for Details Want FREE lot rent? Call for more info. Conditions apply 405-326-5728

Mobile Homes, Manufactured Houses 339 Price Reduced! New 3bd/2ba Mobile Homes already on land located in Shawnee, Prague, Cromwell & Harrah Owner Financing Woodlake Properties 405-273-5777 www.property4sale.com Don’t Make A $10,000 Mistake! Come see us at the State Fair, Gate 9! Sept 16-26 New Homes Starting at $29,995. Mention this ad for special promotion! Maxey's Homes 631-3600 Special Program Own Land/ Family Land use land to get new home. Quick & E-Z Program. We do it all for you. 1000 furniture package with purchase 888-878-2971 405-204-4163 Repo or New Land/Home Packages set up on 1 to 5 acres. Quick & E-Z. Call for Details. 888-878-2971 405-635-4338 HOMES YOU CAN AFFORD WOW- 3bed. Shingle Roof Vinyl siding $19900 or $315mo. wac 405-787-5004 FREE Down Payment Money For Cherokee & Caddo members Call to find your home today 405-470-1330 3bd 2ba DW on acreage w/pond. Less than $500 mo, WAC 631-3609 3/2 Bath set up in quiet park. Ready to move in. 405-631-7600 405-602-4526

Real Estate Auctions

342

Land Auctions NW Oklahoma Live water,good Hunting, tracts of 952 acres, 480 acres 160 acres & 40 acres smithcoauctions.com 580-994-6004 Smith & Co. Auction & Realty, Inc.

Real Estate Notices

345

DO NOT Call Unless… Foreclosure/Behind Paymt Overleveraged/Repairs Call/Web 800-Sell-Now.com I BUY HOUSES Any condition. No cost to U 495-5100

Heard of a SHORT SALE? SELL YOUR HOUSE TODAY! Foreclosure/behind Pymts 340-9879/HouseKings.com I BUY & SELL HOUSES 27 YRS EXP 650-7667 HOMESOFOKCINC.COM

Vacation Property For Sale 347 Tenkiller Lake, 7 acres, close to Pine Cove Marina. Water, elect., gated. $39,500 Will finance Owner, 918-640-8556

Commercial RE Business Property For Sale 351 For Sale or Lease 4000 N. Stiles, 2,300sf Off, 1800sf WH+1300sf small WH 405-820-7710

ESTABLISHED RESTAURANT SEALED BID AUCTION SAT SEPT 25 • 10AM 2500sf. SE Of Norman Owner Retiring. By appt. Percy Moreu Land & Auction 405-226-2015 Owner of well established western Oklahoma contract manufacturer wishes to retire. $4.5 million annual revenue, $700K profit. » 918-748-7995 » Franchise Donut Shop Price Reduced, Busy Location, New Equip. 474-3435

Investment Property For Sale 355

Industrial Property For Rent 361

Village/ Nichols Hills 329.5

Large Family Home Wellston - 35 min from OKC PRICE REDUCED! Vintage 2 story rock house on SH-66B. MUST SEE. 4bed, 2.5ba, 4 Car Garage, 2,800 MOL Traditional full basement, inground pool, 2 +ac., $185,000. (405)356-2979

Warehouse/Office I-40 & Meridian, 2200-4819sf, 946-2516

330

SU 2-4 624 McConnell Great Floor Plan Elite Realty Team OP SU 2-4 8012 Heather Glen, New Construction Elite Realty Team

Out-of-State Property

341

COLORADO LAND 5 acres in Southern mountains. Fishing, camping, hunting, skiing, $99 down, $149/month. Call 772-324-8913

Apartments Edmond

Efficiency/1 bed apts. All bills paid, $599/mo + $200 dep. 887-3232 No credit check TOP LOCATION! Pd. wtr/garb. Near malls. Try Plaza East•341-4813

MWC

424

1 & 2 BEDROOMS, QUIET! Covered Parking Great Schools! 732-1122 $200 OFF RENT 1 & 2 bedrooms. Spring Tree Apartments. 405-737-8172.

Mustang

Office Space For Rent

363

GREAT Space OFFICE

OKC Northwest

431

Totally furnished, util. incl. Singles, 1 & 2 Bdrm suites 405-881-1446 $199 MOVE IN SPECIAL 2BED Townhomes $599 Windsor Village 943-9665 No Deposit, No App Fee. Large 2 & 3bds, PC Schls, W/D hk, A/C 722-0787 Bills pd clean quiet furn eff/1bd $100/wk&up 10& Penn 751-7238/640-9413 800 N. Meridian: 1bd, all bills paid & weekly rates available. 946-9506 Mesta Park 804 NW 21 2bd 1ba 1000sf $600/mo $400dp 409-7608 no sec8

426

431

Spring Special

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

787-1620 Pick Your Own Special + No App Fee! Some restrictions apply La Villa Apartments 848-6000 or 728-3432

OKC Northwest

OKC Northeast

29 SE 33rd, 1bd, stove & fridge, water/gas pd $350 29 SE 37th 3bd 1.5ba $495 681-7272

453

3615 NW 51st Amazing Duplex close to Baptist/ Deaconess, 1300sf 2bd 2bath 2car gar fireplace $900mo $900dp Must see! No pets 409-7608 no sec 8 New Luxury Duplex 13516 Brandon Place 3/2/2, fp, Deer Creek Schls, near Mercy. Model open 10-4 842-7300

OKC Southwest

455

2 bed unfurnished, bills paid, no pets, $550 + deposit. 232-9704

Garage Apartments

461

OKC SW 1 bed, stove & fridge, no pets, bills paid, $450mo + dep. 232-9704 $199 To Move In Se Habla Espanol Carriage Square Apts 634-6380

Nice Efficiency$345 Gas pd 1608 NW 16th 232-9101

Hotels/Motels 462

$99 SPECIAL Lg 1bdr, stove, refrig., clean, walk to shops. $325 mo. 632-9849

Furnished/Unfurnished Bills Paid » Wkly/Monthly Wes Chase Apts, Elk Horn Apts, Hillcrest 943-1818

RE for rent

San Tee Apts. 1 bed $325/mo $85/deposit Plus elec 685-2909 9a-5p 523 SW 26th Garage Apt 1bed 1bath Upstairs $325mo $175dp 409-7989 $99 Move In Special!!! Lg 1 and 2 Bdr, $325 to $395 mo. 632-9849 Furn 1BD most bills Paid + EMSA, no sec 8 and no pets, 524-2730

Yukon

438

Yukon Rent Specials 1 bd From $359 2 bd From $459 3 bd From $559 For info & specials 354-5855

Condominiums, For Rent

Del City

441

2720 SW 74th unit 18, extra sharp 2bd townhouse, ch/a, built in appliances, washer/dryer hookups, patio area, only $550 Fidelity RE 692-1661

Quail Springs Condos 1 bd, 1 ba, w/d, fp, fridge c. fans, d/w, mwv, cvd prk, sec gates, pool, wtr, $600, Brenda 722-3882

The Plaza 1740 NW 17th K Off Special 1bd, 1ba 750sf, wood floors, all elec, $450 mo, $200dp. No sec8 409-7608

NW 40th & Penn-2 bed, 2 bath condo, gated, $850 month + $800 deposit. Call Paula, Metro Brokers @ 410-6728

2528 NW 12th 1bd 1ba K off Special 900sf, $400mo $200dp 409-7989 no sec8

Grand Pointe Condo 2 story remod, 3 bd, 3 ba, 2 car, DR/LR w/FP, w/d, gated, pool, tennis crt $1300 mo » 842-9699 Hemingway -Gated, 2 bd, 2 ba, (1st Floor), W/D, F/P, Appls, pool, covered parking $725 mo. 210-5803 Gated NANTUCKET Condos All appls. 2bd 2ba $700 mo » 488-4951 3245 NW 50th #244 2 bed 2 bath $550 mo TMS Prop 348-0720

Convenient NW Locations: I-40 & Meridian NW Expressway & May Britton/Lake Hefner Parkway 200-6000sf 946-2516

$99 Move-In Special 1bd 1ba $295-350, stove, fridge, very clean 625-5200 NW 50th and Portland, Remodel, from $525/mo. »» 405-692-5584 »»

Choctaw

1, 2 & 3-Room Suites $150 & up ¡ 50th & N. Santa Fe area 235-8080

MAYFAIR GARDENS Historic Area! Secure, wash /dry hardwd flrs 947-5665

2 bed, ch&a, stove & refrig, no pets/no smoking $500/mo. 386-3362

Duplexes

Edmond

466

HOMES FOR LEASE www.executivehome rentalsokc.com 3-4BRs $1000-$3000 Welcome Home 877-884-7434 2616AshebriarLn4/3/2 $1900 1928 NW 173 4/2/2 $1299 722 Littler 3/1 $750 2712SummrstTrl3/2/2$1000 Express Realty 844-6101 www.expressrealtyok.com

468

Lrg 4 bd, 1K ba, lrg open living, dining, kitch, lrg fncd bkyd, CH/A, enclosed frnt porch, crprt, $785mo + $600dep. Appt call 830-3091/830-5793 V-Nice, 1 mi E of Tinker, 3/1, ch&a, util rm, $525 + $300, no pets, 732-4351. 203 E Rickenbacker3bd$495 3404WillowCreek2/1/1$450 Others Free List 605-5477 2/1/1, centrl. HVAC, fncd yard. Nice, Newly redec. No Sec. 8. 760-3550 9100 Jennifer Pl 3/1/1$525 3605WoodsideDr3/1/1 $475 681-7272 3bd 2ba, nice, Sec 8 ok 228 Windsor Way ch&a w/d hkup $550, 436-4648 3BR, 2BA, 2 car gar, 10 min from Tinker Base, $1000/mo. 405-921-2480

Moore

469

EXECUTIVE HOME Gated community. Lease with Option to buy 405-641-0124 2617 SW 103 3/2/2 $895 2002 Fox 3/1.5/2 ch/a $795 Others Free List 605-5477 Almost new 3/2/2, Avail Oct. 1. I-240 & Sunnylane $795+ dep 863-2999 1808 SunriseDr 3/1.5/2$800 Home&RanchRlty 794-7777

Mustang 443

465.5

3925 SE 14 Pl 3/1.5/2 $695 3117 Overland 3/1.5/2$695 2000 Ina Mae 4bd $595 4032 Thomas 3bed $495 4324 SE 38 3bd $450 Others Free List 605-5477

MWC

Briargate 1718 N Indiana K Off Move in Special! 800sf 1bd 1ba, cha, all elec, wood floor, $450mo, $200 dep. No sec 8 409-7608

» MOVE IN SPECIAL » LARGE 1, 2 & 3 BEDS Rockwell Arms, 787-1423

6100 S. Cox, completely remodeled 3bd, new roof, new siding, new carpet, fresh paint, only $475 Fidelity RE 692-1661

3410 Cameron Ct. All appls, No pets. $650 mo J Watson Rlty, 755-2510

8012 NW 7th Pl Unit 324 extra sharp 1bd, 1.5ba, 1-car garage w/opener, new wood floor in living room, ch/a, $500 Fidelity RE 692-1661

Furnished/Unfurnished Bills Paid » Wkly/Monthly Wes Chase Apts, Elk Horn Apts, Hillcrest 943-1818

OLDETOWNE 2 bed 1 car attached 9129 Pepperdine 769-7177

Block 42 in downtown OKC 2/2/2 $2200 month CALL 405-231-2119 Welcome Home Sales & Management Services

OKC Southwest

433

MOORE — Home Creations, Oklahoma’s largest homebuilder, recently placed 43rd in the 2010 Metro 50 Awards, sponsored by the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber. Metro 50 recognizes the Oklahoma City metro area’s fastest-growing, privately owned companies for the year and ranks them based on their percentage of annual growth. This year marks the second time Home Creations has won the award. The company, owned by Jalal and Mohammad Farzaneh, placed 17th in 2003. Established in Norman in 1996, Home Creations builds homes in Oklahoma City, Tulsa and Lawton. According to the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber’s website: “The Metro 50 Award allows both emerging companies, as well as companies that have exhibited a substantial history as an established business, to be recognized. Metro 50 companies demonstrate positive growth in revenues; growth in the number of employees; creativity/entrepreneurship; and business development through the expansion of facilities, customer base or markets.”

OKC Southeast

Large 2bd 2ba 2car gar golf course view. $850mo 1yr lease. 722-2924

$201 Total Move-In Cost Energy Eff., $301 move in/1 bd, $401 move in/2 bd. $1 First Week Rent Weekly Avail: Effic $115 1bd $125, 2bd $165 Disability & Social Security recipients welcome 616 SW 59th, between Western&Walker634-4798 Drug free environment Not all bills paid

FROM STAFF REPORTS

OKC Downtown 473.5

2 bd 1 ba duplex $475 mo $300 dep. 220 Windsor Way. 405-582-2057

•ABC• Affordable, Bug free, Clean » 787-7212»

751-8088

2810 Dorchester Dr Apt 5 spacious 2bd 1.5ba, large living area, ch/a, completely remodeled, $575 mo Fidelity RE 692-1661

**ALL BILLS PAID** $149 1ST Mo. on 1 beds 946-0588 2 Beds, too DREXEL ON THE PARK

446

Quiet Casady!

Williamsburg Townhouses 7301 NW 23rd

MWC

2530 NW 11th, 1bed 1ba stove fridge fresh paint& crpt $475 mo 618-7338

422

1 bed, all bills paid, $550. 1 bed, independent living w/ meals, $900. VA & Section 8 ok. 205-2343

Established Business For Sale

OKC Northwest

2 Bed $525

Put this 3 ac, 360' frontage to work, or sit back, enjoy scenery, serenity, wildlife. Middle of city park, 8701 NW 10th St. 405-787-2840

Oklahoma Property For Sale 340

Yukon

1134 West Main 6000sf warehouse space avail downtown, overhead doors $2000mo $1000dp 409-7989

Commercial Property For Sale

Rural Blanchard - 1920's 2-story, 4 bed, 4 ba, 1.7 ac, barn, $275K 485-3200

Nic. Hills Sub 2762 sf. Beautiful 4 bed 3 bath $249K Owner Carry Might Lease 409-7877

1800 sf, whse & office, heat & air, 12x12 O/H doors, paved parking. Nicoma Park, 1 yr lease + dep. $675/mo 630-0394

Efficiency/1 bed apts. All bills paid, $599/mo + $200 dep. 887-3232 No credit check

4/2 Bath set up w/2.5 Acres. Call for Details 888-878-2971 405-413-7257

Land & Home We do it all 5.75% for a limited time THCOK.COM 405-787-4035

2100 Sq Ft Office/ Warehouse 4309 SW 119th Fully insulated, 130k BTU Hi Eff Heater, 3 phase electric, ADA bathroom, 14' overhead door and walkthru 825/month WWS Development, LLC 405-692-6123

LOCAL INVESTOR I Buy Houses Cash Fix -up - Foreclosures Tax Liens-Divorce Moving out State eyebuyhousesok.com 405-464-1175

OPEN SA SU 2-5 TUTTLE 6904 Lewis Ln » 3/2/3 on 3/4Acre (N of Hwy 37 on Morgan Rd) $160,000 Contact 405-639-8679

329

DW on Acreage, 4 Bed/ 2Bath, 2350 sq ft, 2 car garage ¡ 405-412-6236

INMAN NEWS

346

REDUCED TO SELL! Cash Flow Rental Prop. Handyman Specials Owner financing avail. 1224 NE 19th $28,000 2118 N Prospect $28,000 740 NE 36th $28,500 5021 Fairmont $59,500 All Prices Negotiable Kruger Investment Jim 235-9332/812-1657

Tuttle/ Newcastle

Remodeling or repair questions? E-mail Paul at paulbianchina@inman.com.

417-2176 Real Estate Wanted

Metro builder recognized

accumulated dust with compressed air. Drilling into concrete requires the use of a carbide-tipped drill bit designed specifically for use in masonry. If you have only a couple of holes to drill, you can use a conventional electric- or battery-powered drill. However, if you have a lot of holes to drill or if the concrete is old and hard, you’ll have much better results with a hammer drill, which combines a circular drilling motion with an in-and-out hammering motion that is much more effective on concrete. Hammer-drills can be rented at most rental yards, and you can get the necessary drill bit there as well. Once the holes have been drilled and cleaned, position the piece of equipment you’re bolting down over the holes. Insert the Titen anchor bolt through the fixture base and into the hole, and tighten it using either a socket wrench or an impact wrench. Tighten the bolt until the integrated washer below the head contacts the fixture, and you’re all done. For framing installations, Titen anchors can typically be used in place of conventional anchor bolts for many types of installations. You’ll want to be sure to check with your local building department for specific information and requirements. Titen anchors can be bought at most lumberyards, home centers and hardware stores, sometimes by special order. They are available by the box only, with quantities ranging from 10 to 50 depending on the diameter of the anchor. You can find them online at www.simpsonanchors.com/catalog/ mechanical/titen-hd/.

Warehouse Space For Rent 363.5

470

HOMES FOR LEASE www.executivehome rentalsokc.com 3-4BRs $1000-$3000 Welcome Home 877-884-7434

474

40 acre ranch with 4 stall horse barn & riding arena 4/3/3, 3650 sq/ft $4000 a month. CALL 405-231-2119 Welcome Home Sales & Management Services 900 NE 81 4/2.5/1 $795 509 N Kelham 4/2/1 $695 3328 NE 14 3 bed $495 1718 E Madison 2bd $450 Others Free List 605-5477 2 bd, 1 ba, 1 car, liv, formal din/den, breakfast room, sun room, basement, $600 mo, 305-7344 5609 NE Grand Blvd. 3bd 1.5 bath, double car garage $750/mo 408-5836 2016 Hardin Ave, 4 bed, 1 ba, $750 mo, $500 dep, no sec 8, 405-476-3643 229 NE 16th 4bd 2ba immaculate, min. from Bricktown, 436-4648

OKC Northwest

475

12721BrandonPl3/2/2 $995 11220 Windmill 3/2/2$1295 9701 Devore 3/2/2 $950 1744 Carlisle Rd 2/1/1$725 Express Realty 844-6101 www.expressrealtyok.com CasitaBlanca Contemporary Condo 2618 NW 50 2bd 2ba 2car $1250mo $1000 dep 1300 sf Stainless Appls, California Closets much more 409-7608 1928 NW 30th 3bd 1ba, basement $495 3041 NW 29th 3bd 1ba, ch/a $525 681-7272 2317N Hammond3/1/1$650 336 NW 88 3/2/2 $595 220 NW 89 3/1.5/1 $595 3728 NW 29 2bd $395 Others Free List 605-5477 7401 NW 6 Terr, 3 bd, 1.75 bath, den/fireplace $690/mo Coming Soon • 408-5836 • 1333 NW 105 St, 3 bed, 2 bath, 2 car, ch&a, rent $750, dep $750, no sec 8, no pets, 519-2845. 924 NW 109th K off move in special. 3bd 2ba 2car 1300sf $850/mo $800dp 409-7608 no sec8 2 bd, 1 ba, 26th & Portland, W/D hkup, fncd, no sec. 8, carport, $450 1st/ last mo + dep 601-7762. 2/1/1 Wash/Dryer hkups $525 + deposit , MG Realty ¡ 831-0207 4917 N. Detroit, 3bd, 1.5ba, 2car, ch&a, $675 mo. no pets, 942-2948 709 NW 25th, lrg 2bd 1ba, ch&a, nice, w/d hkup, $500, 436-4648 1540 NW 48th 2 bd 1 ba, ch&a, w/d hkup, $675mo $400/dep.850-9795 3420 NW 26th, 3/1/1, CH/A, W/D hkup $775mo $580dep. 701-1722 For 3bd homes & apartments, go to katpropertiesllc.com 2528 NW 40 2bd 1.5 bath $575mo »» 748-8520 www.redbudrealestate.com 1418 NW 49th, 2 bed, 1 bath, 1 car, appls, w/d hookup, ch&a 570-5865 1 bed in rear, $425 + dep 1819K NW 38th wtr/gas pd. 943-8999 900 N. Warren, 2 bed, Move-In Ready $500mo 405-240-7076 Lovely 4bd 2ba brick home Near school $965 603-7665

OKC Southeast

476

709 SE 61 3 bed $595 1724 SE 51 3 bed $595 1521 SE 45 4 bed $595 6321 Johnmeter 3bd$495 1122 SE 21 2 bed $450 Others Free List 605-5477 HOMES FOR LEASE www.executivehome rentalsokc.com 3-4BRs $1000-$3000 Welcome Home 877-884-7434

476

$350mo »» $200dep 6 bedroom, 701 SE 20, 405-412-6881 2 bedroom 334 SE 42nd $450 per month. Call 820-4507

OKC Southwest

477

7108 Danner 4/2.5/2$995 2617 SW 103 3/2/2 $895 1120 Straka 3/2/2 $795 5321 Blackwelder 3bd $650 2712 SW 53 3bd ch/a $650 3029 S Madole 3bd $650 1026 Straka 3bd $595 3120 Parkview 2bd $450 2805 SW 33 2bd $450 3220 Goff 2bd $395 3744 SW 41 2bed $395 3816 SW 41 2bed $395 612 SW 44 2bed $395 Others Free List 605-5477 2236 SW 59th Pl 3bd 1ba 2car, 2 living ch/a $875 2509 Texoma Dr 3/1/1 ch/a $650 2401 SW 43rd #7 1bd apt, total elect, water paid $325 681-7272 New Rivendell Exec Home 408-4168 Luxury indoor pool & spa Fully equip'd media & wrkout rooms $5400/mo Openhouseok.com 2705 SW 60th Place. 3bed 2bath 1 car garage, $750mo $550 deposit. section 8 ok. 314-8541 Rent Houses for Military Personnel Available SW OKC, Moore & Del City. Call 519-5511 Large 3 bed, 2bath $625mo. $250dep. 2bd $500mo $250 dep. 631-8039 1bd 1ba duplex, new paint & carpet. Lg deck & yard. Quiet. $300mo 596-8410 Section 8 only, 2 bed, 1 bath, appliances, fenced, $500. 685-8240

Tuttle/ Newcastle

481

Bridgecreek, 2bd/2ba, 1 acre. Mobile Home $500mo +dep. 392-4717

Village/ Nichols Hills 481.5 10704 Greystone. Great 2bd 1K ba 2liv new paint dbl drv $700+d 216-5833

Norman

473

Cedar Creek addition K off first months rent 3/2/2 $1095 a month Gated community. CALL 405-231-2119 Welcome Home Sales & Management Services HOMES FOR LEASE www.executivehome rentalsokc.com 3-4BRs $1000-$3000 Welcome Home 877-884-7434

Yukon

482

HOMES FOR LEASE www.executivehome rentalsokc.com 3-4BRs $1000-$3000 Welcome Home 877-884-7434 Open Plan-Cath Ceiling 3b/2b/2c, fp, ch&a $850 + dep. 760-9950

Mobile Home Rentals 483 WHY RENT WHEN YOU CAN OWN? Easy financing with no credit needed. Yukon schls

405-815-7245

2 bd 1 ba, w/appls incl. W&D, Edmond Schools, storage shed, No pets. 348-6240 or 623-1181 $ FREE RENT 1ST MO $ 2BR $395+, 3BR $495+, MWC NO PETS 427-0627

Senior Living 489.5 Mustang/Edmond Efficiency/studios, all bills paid + 3 meals w/laundry & housekeeping, $899/mo. 887-3232

10F

REAL ESTATE

SEPTEMBER 18, 2010

City offers loans to improve energy efficiency of homes FROM STAFF REPORTS

Oklahoma City homeowners wanting to save money on electric and gas bills by making their home more energy efficient can apply for a green home loan offered through the city of Oklahoma City. The loans are offered to Oklahoma City residents whose household income is $100,000 or less. Residents have up to 36 months to pay back their loan, which can be up to $10,000. “Greening your home makes a lot of financial sense,” said Autumn Radle, Oklahoma City’s sustainability director. “Homeowners can save money by making moderate improvements and their home is far more comfortable during the summer and winter.” Some of the upgrades that can be made

Jack McWilliams

Realtor completes FHA program FROM STAFF REPORTS

Realtor Jack McWilliams has completed training in the Federal Housing Administration’s 203(k) Home Purchase and Renovation Loan Program and has become a member of RE-buildUSA, an organization of lenders, home improvement and real estate specialists. McWilliams is a sales associate with RE/MAX Preferred Properties, 3705 W Memorial Road, No. 1310.

with a loan include: Installation of energy-efficient windows or exterior doors. Adding more insulation to the attic and walls. Replacing inefficient window units with central heat and air. Installation of a new heat pump. Replacing a dark-colored roof with a cool roof that reflects the sun. The city Residential Energy Efficiency Loan Program is administered by the Community Action Agency of Oklahoma City and Oklahoma-Canadian Counties Inc. For more information, call 232-0199. The funds for the loan program are Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant funds from the Department of Energy via the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.

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