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5622 Braemar –Chase at Stonebriar Designer finishes throughout plus soffit lighting every room! 3 Wet Bars make this a perfect entertaining home! Billiards Room adjacent to gameroom; Theatre style media! Wine Cellar! Oversized kitchen with dual dishwashers, gas cooktop & double ovens! Pretty private patio area! 3 / 3.1 / 2 Car
$525,000
1820 Winding Creek –Gentle Creek Estates Texas Hill Country fashioned home on 1.99 creek lot! Enjoy the serene walking trail to the creek or bask in the cool waters of your private pool! 2 Gamerooms, Cabana Room with second kitchen, Safe Room, Exercise Room, Hobby Room! Media with full wet bar – this home has it all! 5 / 5.1 / 3 Car $1,350,000
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Walk to Elementary School from this fabulous family home! Every bedroom has a large sitting area and bath access! Master with see-thru fireplace into bath! Media has full wall screen! Huge kitchen with granite counters & island! 4 / 3.1 / 2 Car
$319,900
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5405 Grasmere-Kingsborough in Old Shepard Place Entertain in grand style in this Plano home. Mature trees line the circle drive-up! Oversized rooms that flow with ease! 5 Crystal Chandeliers that glow brightly! 3 Fireplaces; Pool & Spa with private pool bath and outdoor shower! Study and Gameroom! 4 / 4.2 / 3 Car
$750,000
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4736 Druid Hills Drive - Heritage Green Custom builder’s personal residence, the finish out is superb with handscrapped hardwoods, designer lighting, custom cabinetry, & more! Treetop views from the sparkling pool, huge patios & balcony off gameroom. Butler’s pantry with wine refrigerator & ice maker. 5 / 4 / 3 Car
4149 Glenhurst Lane - Shaddock Creek Hard to find downstairs media with full service wet bar! 3 Fireplaces, Hardwood floors that extend most of the downstairs including the master bedroom; Executive study with built-ins; Oversized island in the kitchen; All bedrooms with full, private baths with granite counters. Gated Motor court! 5 / 5.1 / 3 Car $710,000
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THE
Paulette Greene 972.733.5277
1603 Foard – Creekside at Stonebriar 5377 Summer Star Lane – Stone CreekVillage 12473 Winding Hollow – Newman Village
Top of the line finish-out in this Zachary Custom home! Stunning wood accents, beamed ceilings, designer drapes & wall finishes! Oversized kitchen with huge island! Wine cellar! All bedrooms are large with private baths.Gameroom has balcony to view the creek! Private patio plus a pool and spa! 3 / 3.1/ 2 Car / Study / Gameroom
$550,000
Stunning Shaddock custom home that offers upgrades including handscraped hardwood floors, designer lighting, plantation shutters, iron & wood balustrade and a gourmet kitchen with stainless appliances & gas cooktop. Floorplan offers study or 5th bedroom down, gameroom and media room. Home features a storm shelter under the stairs. Walk to Bledsoe Elementary! 4 / 4 / 3 car garage / Study / Gameroom / Media Room
$435,000
This one has it all – premier lot location plus an incredible outdoor living center with fireplace (wired for media), plus pebbletec pool & spa! Hardwoods most downstairs! Media includes projector & screen! 5 / 5.1 / 3 Car Garage / Study / Gameroom / Media / Pool & Spa
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Panoramic golf course views from oversized verandas – easterly facing yard for maximum summer enjoyment. European inspired architecture and designer finishes throughout! Master with private fireplace & luxurious bath retreat! 4 / 4.1 / 3 Car Garage / Study / Formals / Gameroom / Unfinished Bonus Room / Golf Course Lot
Mediterranean on corner lot with impeccable finish out. Former model home has beamed ceilings, groin vaults, custom cabinetry, iron details. Bi-level media room, covered veranda & balcony with greenbelt views. Gorgeous kitchen has oversized island, commercial gas cooktop. Private master retreat with spa like bath, seamless shower & deep soaking tub. 3 / 3.1 / 2 Car / Study / Gameroom / Media
Gorgeous home on corner lot with a spacious floorplan! Gourmet kitchen offers a gas cooktop with Austin stone alcove, granite, & huge pantry. Upgrades include handscraped hardwoods, decorative lighting, plantation shutters, iron & wood balustrade & lots of closets! Study & oversized game room plus media with huge wetbar. 5 / 4.1 / 3 car garage / Study / Gameroom / Media
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ON THE COVER
inside How does your garden grow? Don’t let North Texas water restrictions turn your oasis into a wasteland. See Page 8.
looking for houses with
SPOUSES
7
COVER PHOTO COURTESY METRO CREATIVE GRAPHICS
keep your castle on
STURDY GROUND five rules for confidently buying short sales and
CONTACT US
FORECLOSURES
liz McGATHEY E DITOR 972-398-4206 lmcgathey@starlocalnews.com
cindy MOLINARI A RT D IRECTOR 972-398-4259 cmolinari@starlocalnews.com
kelsey KRUZICH PHOTOGRAPHER
972-398-4200 kkruzich@starlocalnews.com
A DVERTISING D IRECTOR 972-398-4203 nbliss@starlocalnews.com
della HEMPHILL S ALES M ANAGER 972-398-4201 dhemphill@starlocalnews.com
MyCastle Frisco is published monthly by Star Community Newspapers, 624 Krona Dr Ste 170, Plano, TX 75074-8304. The entire contents of My Castle Frisco Copyright 2012 by Star Community Newspapers. No portion may be reproduced in whole or in part by any means without the express written permission of Star Community Newspapers. Additional copies are available for purchase by contacting customer service at 972-4249504.
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MYCASTLEMAGAZINE.COM AUGUST 2012
12
know what goes and what stays in
10
HOME BUYING
get in order with your
FINANCES nathen BLISS
11
8
keeping plants alive amid
WATERING WOES
5
instant home and garden makeover with the
THREE P’S
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BAHAMA BAY ENLIGHTENMENT TROPICAL HIBISCUS
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How to use the three Ps of decorating for an instant home and garden makeover
p
3 Looking for a trendy home and garden makeover that gives instant gratification and doesn’t require a lot of time and resources? The latest trends in fashion and home decorating are drawing inspiration from the bright colors and laidback attitudes of the tropics. “Vibrant tropical colors are influencing home decor and gardens this summer,” said Doug Jimerson, editor-in-chief of gardening for Better Homes and Gardens. Whether you want to makeover a deck, patio or porch, add some tropical flair by following the “three Ps” of outdoor design: plants, paint and punch. PLANTS
“New tropical plants are easy to grow for any outdoor space,” Jimerson said. “With fantastic colors and foliage, it’s simple to add splashes of intense color throughout your garden, deck and patio.”
Jimerson suggests going big and bold with gorgeous blooms of colorful hibiscus that come in dozens of bright tropical colors. “Whether you’re planning a summer luau, graduation party or just want a restful retreat, decorating your backyard with easy care, sunloving hibiscus offer a blaze of color for any occasion,” Jimerson said. “Cut hibiscus flowers floating in water make an exotic centerpiece, and using the blooms as garnishes takes al fresco dining to the next level.” New Bloomtastic! and Patio Tropics! tropical plants from Hines Growers offer immediate color and impact for any sized garden, deck, porch or patio. Simply leave them in their pretty pots to add lush flowers and foliage to your outdoor spaces or grow them throughout your landscape for a pop of vivid color. One of the best hibiscus varieties is Bahama Bay Hibiscus “Amazon Queen” with huge MYCASTLEMAGAZINE.COM AUGUST 2012
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blooms that match the Pantone Color Institute color of the year, Tangerine Tango. Pair it with the new bright yellow Bahama Bay “Enlightenment” hibiscus and add some Tiki lights for a festive garden party or luau. “People have already warmed up to mandevilla for splashes of intense color throughout gardens and outdoor spaces and use them to create a natural privacy screen on trellises and arbors. And don’t be afraid to mix plants, colors and textures when decorating your outdoor spaces,” Jimerson said. Cool tropicals like desert rose have a unique bonsai-like appearance. Adenium Kissable Pink, Red and Blush come in eye-popping colors and striking flowers and best of all, can be overwintered indoors. For a garden party in a pot, the new Bougainvillea Garden Party Patio Tree’s multi-colored flowers bring tropical flair and a formal topiary appearance to gardens, entryways and outdoor living areas like patios and decks. To see a full range of tropical plants and more inspiration, visit www.hines growers.com.
ground. They’re going to make a vibrant statement.” An accent wall on a deck or patio painted in key lime or ocean blue instantly transforms a space. Carry the tropics inside with a less saturated color like a warm mango tone or pair a rich, intense color accent wall with neutrals. If you want to turn up the heat, try one of the eight new Bambino and Babybino bougainvillea in rich colors for a blast of gorgeous blooms for decks, poolside, patios and porches. PUNCH
Adding tropical patterns and fabrics into your decor brings flexibility and endless possibilities. Cushions in tropical colors, throw pillows with bold floral designs and tropical inspired linens on the table are an easy way to add punch to your outdoor decor.
Use a single pattern to underscore your tropical theme or mix things up with a variety of prints and stripes. Keep in mind the many patterns that fall into the tropical category, including floral, greenery, and ocean and beach elements. Think Hawaiian shirts. Then kick it up a notch with a new intriguing Black Hawaiian Spider Lily, Crinum Purple Dream. “Crinum’s exotic-looking dark purple almost black foliage and deep pink flowers on dark red stalks is trendy and looks nice mixed in the landscape or in containers,” Jimerson said. Surround yourself with lush tropical flowers and foliage for immediate impact and tropically inspired colors to turn your home into your favorite staycation paradise. ■
Courtesy of Hines Growers, ARA
PA I N T
Paint is one of the easiest, most economical ways to create a tropical feel inside or out. Choosing a color that reminds you of the beach sets the theme for your overall design. Margie Grace, of Grace Design Associates, and a member of the Association of Professional Landscape Designers (APLD), advises not to limit painting to just walls. “Paint an old set of chairs Caribbean blue, containers coral red and sunshine yellow,” she said. “Just remember when choosing a shade, tropical colors aren’t going to fade into the backPATIO TROPICS BAMBINO BOUGAINVILLEA AND MANDEVILLA
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Spouses looking for houses PARDUES PROVE MARITAL BLISS AT HOME AND WORK “I’m not sure if I could work with my spouse.” That is the phrase Ken and Linda Pardue often hear when someone discovers that the married couple run their own business together. “We have a lot of people say that to us, but they probably haven’t tried it,” Linda said. “It’s worked out really well for us.” The Pardues run their own real estate business through Keller Williams Realty, buying and selling homes in the communities of Allen, Plano, Frisco, McKinney, Little Elm, Dallas, Prosper and Flower Mound.
point where you have to stop and not depend 100 percent on that person,” Ken said. “With a spouse, it’s different. We have a great trust in each other and it shows in our business.” Since moving to Frisco, the Pardues have become active in their community. They’ve seen a lot of growth in the area despite the recession. Ken explained that unlike area communities here, home prices in Las Vegas and some in Florida climbed too fast before experiencing a steep decline. In this area, Ken said,
prices curved slightly upward and went down just slightly. “That’s the difference in this area and what we went through in the recession and the areas that were hit. We didn’t have to go through that,” Ken said. “Going through this current recession has made us [as a couple] a lot stronger, and I think we’re better as a result of it.” For information about the Pardues and their business, visit www.parduegroup.com. ■
emilyHILL, ehill@starlocalnews.com
THE
Kay Cheek
TEAM
But as the two have learned, it takes careful managing, flexibility and respect to keep it successful. “I think we’re better together than individually,” Linda said. “We are enjoying being able to do this together and feel very blessed to be doing this.” Married for 13 years, Ken and Linda have been a professional team since April 2002, when they moved to Frisco to set up their business, using their previous work backgrounds as an inspiration to get into the real estate world. With more than 30 years of experience in the major commercial construction industry, Ken focuses his talents on meeting the clients and supervising the remodeling of homes. With an interest in redoing homes, Linda uses her background in the corporate world for the contracts and brokering aspect of real estate.
972-733-8025 kaycheek.com
“We got to a point in our life where we could do something different and we thought it’d be fun,” Linda said. The two may go their separate ways during the day, but they work toward a common goal. “I would say that we may be a little bit unusual as a couple in that we are both leaders and have strong opinions and personalities,” Linda said. “What we’ve figured out is that we have to [decide] who is in charge of what so we don’t step on each other’s toes.” Both Ken and Linda find it easier to work together and rely on someone whom they have complete trust. “I worked my whole life in the corporate world, and having to depend on employees, no matter how great the trust is and how much you rely on it, there’s a
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MAINTAINING HEALTHY PLANTS AMID
water RESTRICTIONS
8 MYCASTLEMAGAZINE.COM AUGUST 2012
Summer can be a trying time for plants and gardeners alike. Fighting off drought and heat is no small feat with severe water restrictions and constant temperatures over 100 degrees.
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Summer can be a trying time for plants and gardeners alike. Fighting off drought and heat is no small feat with severe water restrictions and constant temperatures over 100 degrees.
“What you can do is put plants in a border around your yard, that way, not all of your garden will receive direct sunlight.” he said. “You can even put a bucket over smaller plants to ward off the heat.”
Dusty Pilgrim of the Frisco Wilderness Center understands the plight of water restrictions and says to check local regulations.
To add to the problems, most Texas plant life is not indigenous and therefore has more water needs than the climate can provide.
“One of the main problems with gardening is that you run into city restrictions,” Pilgrim said. “They change depending on your neighborhood, so you should check what you’re able to do for your garden first.”
“Most of the plants in Texas are invasive species, so they require much more water than local plants,” Pilgrim said. “The hardest part of the summer for gardening is keeping them watered daily, which is difficult when faced with drought restrictions.”
He also suggests providing cover to protect plant life when temperatures become excessive and water is limited. “You want to create shade whenever possible,” Pilgrim said. “The heat beating down on plants is probably the biggest threat to your garden.” To do this, Pilgrim recommends planting your garden strategically to minimize overheating of flowers.
If you’re lucky enough to not be encumbered by water restrictions, it can be a key tool in keeping your plants safe. “Once the temperature hits peak heats, extra watering is really the best approach,” Pilgrim said. “Otherwise, your plants may just get scorched by the heat.” However, the root of the problem may be the plants themselves being ill-suited for Texas weather. “Generally, the best thing you can do is replant your garden with native species,” Pilgrim said. “Because once the drought hits, there’s not much you can do to recover.” When fall comes, several more options become available to aid your garden. “One of the things you can do to keep plants alive, especially grass, is to not mow your lawn,” Pilgrim said. “You may have to check with local restrictions, but more leaves and taller grass will provide some shade and help plants retain moisture.” Additionally, the turn of the season makes way for ideal conditions for various new flowers. “Lantana is probably one of the sturdiest plants in Texas,” Pilgrim said. “Butterflies love them, and they’re drought resistant. “Red Agave is a great landscape flower, as well. And Red Yucca – hummingbirds love their flowers.” ■
mattWOOD, staff writer
MYCASTLEMAGAZINE.COM AUGUST 2012
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GETTING YOUR
FINANCES IN ORDER
For those considering buying a home, the current real estate market presents some unique opportunities. One of the side effects of the economic roller coaster ride of the past few years is that home prices have gone down and more homes have gone on the market. For buyers, that means more choices and better deals. However, those same tumultuous years also can teach buyers a lesson: Make smart buying decisions and be wise with your finances. Impulsive buying is never a good idea when it comes to a purchase as significant as a home, but it was something of a trend at the height of the mid-2000s. Now, with banks lending far more cautiously, you need to be absolutely certain that your finances are in order – and healthy – to be able to get the best deal on your purchase. There are a number of steps you can take to get ready to buy a home, and you might need to work on them simultaneously. Consider that you’ll need to start saving, if you haven’t already, but you’ll also need to review your credit score and do what you can to either maintain it or work toward healthier credit. Both of these tasks will help make the home-buying process better for you.
rates. And because you’ll be paying off your home for years to come, it’s important to get the best rate possible. Start by checking your credit report. You’re entitled to one free check of your report, from TransUnion and other credit reporting agencies every year. As much as you need to check your report to find out what shape your credit is in, it’s also essential to review it for inaccuracies or fraudulent activity, both of which can have a negative impact on your score. If your credit health needs some work, start taking action immediately. Paying bills on time, reducing your overall debt and limiting new credit inquiries can all help to build your credit – but be patient as it can take time for your positive actions to take effect. Nevertheless, the sooner you make the effort, the sooner you’ll see results.
Making a prudent decision about buying a house comes down to an honest assessment of what you can afford. Keep in mind that you might be approved for a loan that’s larger than what is practical for you to afford. While it may be tempting to buy a pricier house, the stress of struggling to make payments could diminish your enjoyment of your new home and even put you at financial risk. One rule of thumb is that most borrowers can afford a home loan that runs about two and a half times their annual salary. Buying a home is a complex process, but one that is ultimately very rewarding when done right. By organizing your finances well in advance, you’ll help set yourself up for success. For more information about credit and buying a home, visit www.transunion.com. ■
Courtesy of TransUnion
Your credit is an important factor in determining the terms under which you can get a mortgage. Broadly speaking, the better your credit is, the more positively you’ll be viewed by lenders – and that can lead to better interest
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Keep your castle on sturdy ground Triple-digit temperatures are officially here, and in North Texas that means a boost in business for foundation repair companies. Dry, cracked dirt around a house’s foundation can cause the foundation to fail and result in repair bills that can easily cost from $7,000 to $10,000. Luckily, soaker hoses are a more financially friendly option and will eliminate many foundation problems before they start, said Justin Harbor of Frisco-based 1st Choice Foundation Repair. The owner of the 22-year-old business recently sat down with MyCastle Frisco and answered a few questions about what causes foundation problems, and what to look for in a reputable foundation repair service. W H AT A R E S O M E S I G N S HOMEOWNERS SHOULD LOOK F O R T H AT M AY R E V E A L F O U N D AT I O N P R O B L E M S ? What you should be looking for are 45-degree angle cracks above the windows inside the house that are visible through the Sheetrock. When you go outside, you are looking for windows that are pulling away from the house. Also, if you go to a
How a $10 soaker hose can help ward off costly repairs corner of the house, there are usually two pieces of trim that are mitered together. If you look straight up and the trim is coming apart, the only way that can be happening is if that corner of the house is falling. If that is happening, you should probably call a foundation repair company and at least get it checked out. Just remember that houses less than 10 years old are covered by the builder’s warranty, so you need to call the builder if you have foundation problems on a newer house, not a foundation repair company. H O W D O E S A R E PA I R C O M PA N Y D E T E R M I N E I F WORK NEEDS TO BE DONE? We will use a zip level to take elevation readings throughout the house. What we are looking for is any elevations that are out of tolerance, which is typically regarded as a 1-inch drop in 20 feet. Anything more than that will be considered out of tolerance and may need repaired. All of the cities around here require you to have a building permit to do any foundation work, and the only way to pull a permit is to have a structural engineer’s report. If a company tells you they have an engineer on staff, you need to be cau-
tious since that engineer is getting paid by and working for the company, not for you. I always tell people to obtain your engineer’s report, don’t go through the company. That way, you are dealing with the engineer directly and you know they are working for you. HOW DO SOAKER HOSES H E L P K E E P A F O U N D AT I O N IN GOOD CONDITION? When you use a soaker hose, you are not really watering the foundation, you are watering the soil surrounding the foundation. By setting the hose 18 inches away from the foundation, the water [seeps] down through the dirt and makes the dirt between the hose and the foundation fall in on the foundation. That is what holds the foundation in place. If you don’t use a soaker hose, when you walk around the foundation you will see a gap of a separation between the dirt and the foundation. When that happens, your foundation has to support itself. You should use soaker hoses year-round, not just when it gets hot outside. Once you suck the moisture out from 2 to 3 feet under the surface and it gets rock hard, good luck ever getting that moisture back into the ground. It could rain 2 feet, and because the dirt is so hard and compacted, it just runs off and never soaks into continued on page 12
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5
rules
Buyers are still clamoring for real estate deals in this turbulent market. Foreclosures and short sales offer some of the best bargains, but also have a higher risk level. Still, more than four in five adults think foreclosures and short sales can be good deals, according to a recent American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) survey. Some analysts say the rebound has begun and home prices may rise by the end of 2012. This means now may be buyers’ last chance to take advantage of affordable properties and low interest rates. If you want to score a bargain before the housing market recovers, you’ll need to follow a few rules to invest with certainty. Make a wise investment by adhering to these five rules while shopping distressed properties: RULE 1: POSITION YOURSELF FOR SUCCESS
Before starting your search, get preapproved for a mortgage so when a good deal presents itself, you’re positioned to submit a bid right away to be the first offer on the bank’s desk. Work with an experienced real estate agent who can help guide you through the daunting sea of foreclosures and
continued from page 11
the ground. WHY ARE SOAKER HOSES I M P O R TA N T ? W H Y C A N ’ T A REGULAR SPRINKLER SYSTEM BE USED INSTEAD? Water sprinklers don’t work as well as soaker hoses because they are simply providing surface water. Typically, when your sprinklers go off, the water runs away from the house, especially when it is very dry. You might as well be running your sprinklers on your concrete. With a soaker hose it is a very concentrated drip. Soaker hoses should be placed about 18 inches away from the foundation and buried just under the surface. I tell people
12 MYCASTLEMAGAZINE.COM AUGUST 2012
for buying a foreclosure or short sale with confidence
short sales. Bidding can be complicated and time-consuming, especially when working with a home sale needing bank approval. A good agent will know how to navigate through the paperwork and red tape.
fied Inspector (ACI) to ensure your inspector is experienced, as many states have minimal licensing requirements. To find a local ACI, use ASHI’s “Find an Inspector” tool on www.ASHI.org. RULE 4: BUDGET FOR REPAIRS
RULE 2: DO YOUR RESEARCH
A real estate agent can help you with research, but it’s wise to do some on your own. Are there any undisclosed liens on the property? Is the seller behind on his property taxes? What permit records does the city have on file? This information will be critical during decision-making. Work with your agent to ensure the contract requires any delinquent taxes, liens or assessments will be paid prior to you taking ownership of the property. RULE 3: ALWAYS GET A HOME INSPECTION
Eighty-four percent of adults surveyed by ASHI said they would be more likely to purchase a distressed property after a home inspection has determined its condition. A home inspection gives you the confidence to move forward with your purchase because you’ll have as much knowledge as possible about the condition of the property. An inspector will visually examine the condition of the home’s roof, attic and insulation, foundation, basement and structural components, as well as interior plumbing and electrical systems. Be sure to find an ASHI-Certi-
to run them for one hour a day, three times a week for a slab foundation; and for one hour a day, two times a week for a pier-and-beam house. A soaker hose typically only uses one gallon of water per foot for each hour it is used. So if you have 75 feet of hose, you are only using 75 gallons per day, almost the same amount you would use if you were taking a long shower. IS THERE ANYTHING TO LOOK FOR WHEN HIRING A FOUND AT I O N R E PA I R C O M PA N Y ? Remember there is no licensing required to own a foundation repair company and no requirements set by the state. Anyone can open up a company, so if it seems too good to be true, it probably is. If
When looking at short sales and foreclosures, remember price is only one aspect to consider. A home will almost always require some type of repair. After receiving your inspection report, you can estimate costs associated with necessary repairs, maintenance or energy-efficient improvements. RULE 5: ASSESS THE NEIGHBORHOOD
Location should be a top consideration when purchasing real estate, and in a tough housing market, it’s even more important. A home has limited worth if it’s located in a less desirable neighborhood. High foreclosure rates can turn a once-desirable neighborhood into one many might likely avoid. These locations are likely to see a slower recovery than more populated or favorable areas less affected by the economy. Make location as important as price when making a purchase decision. Protect yourself with knowledge and expert advice to make a confident, smart decision about your largest investment. ■
American Society of Home Inspectors, ARA
you see guys out there charging less than $200 a pier, you should proceed with caution. Most companies with a good warranty are going to charge $300 to $350 per pier. People are motivated by price, but choosing a company solely based on price can be a fatal mistake. You should check out companies by using the Better Business Bureau and Angie’s List. You also want to make sure the company has insurance in case someone on the crew gets hurt you won’t be held liable for their injuries that occurred while working on your house. To contact 1st Choice Foundation Repair, visit www.1stchoicefoundation.com or call 214-5379407. ■
billCONRAD, bconrad@starlocalnews.com
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Know what STAYS and what GOES The question of what conveys, or is inFIND OUT BEFORE When a property changes hands, what goes with it? cluded, with a property can be more comYOU CLOSE Unless otherwise stated in the sales contract, you won’t plicated than you think. It’s important that The best thing to do when you’re considerby the time you, whether a buyer or seller, find a comfy couch and huge flat-screen TV waiting for you when ing making an offer on a home is to ask reach the closing table, you know exactly what comes with it. Then, if you really you move in. But what about curtains, carpets or mirrors? which items go on the moving truck and like a piece of furniture or an appliance – which ones stay behind. Here are some or it’s just more convenient for you to keep but don’t assume anything – and don’t trust the inforconvey, guidelines to help you determine what’s included or excluded what’s there – ask the seller for it in the contract. mation online. The final word on what stays or goes is the in a sale. sales contract. Your Realtor can negotiate for something to be included S TA R T W I T H T H E C O N T R A C T in the sale, like the TV in the bedroom or the washer and IT’S ALL NEGOTIABLE A property includes anything permanently attached to the dryer, and the worst the seller can say is no. Just be sure So what’s attached to the home and what isn’t? The contract house or anything that would cause significant damage to reyou’re not derailing the purchase of your $250,000 language says that the brackets for a wall-mounted flatmove. That definition leaves some room for interpretation, so dream home over a $500 set of drapes. screen TV stay with the house, but the TV does not. Any perthe Texas Real Estate Commission’s “One to Four Family manently installed or built-in appliance stays; that usually Residential Contract (Resale),” used in most transactions inFor more information about buying and selling real estate includes the oven or stove but may not include the refrigeravolving the resale of residential property, dedicates a section in North Texas, visit LoneStarHomes.com. tor. There’s a long list of items in the contract that usually to this topic. convey with the house, but everything is negotiable – that’s ■ Courtesy of the Collin County Association of Realtors why there’s a section for exclusions. Paragraph 2 of this contract covers the improvements, attachments and accessories that stay with the property. It also deals specifically with exclusions – items usually included with the sale that are excluded from a particular transaction. DON’T BELIEVE EVERYTHING YOU SEE ONLINE Some online listings mention specific improvements like “gorgeous kitchen upgrades with stainless steel appliances.” That doesn’t necessarily mean those stainless steel appliances come with the house. Certain built-in appliances may
sales stats $332,439 $418,671 $254,287
■
167 314
250
75033
■
75034
■
75035
84
48
43
SALES PRICE
SALES CLOSINGS
DAYS ON MARKET
ON AVERAGE
NUMBER OF SALES
ON AVERAGE
Information courtesy of Collin County Association of Realtors, April 1, 2012 - June 30, 2012
MYCASTLEMAGAZINE.COM AUGUST 2012
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Starwood • Stonebriar Creek Estates Latera • Villages of Stonebriar Park
5604 Coolwater Cove • Frisco $899,900 • 5 Bed/5.1 Bath/4 Car Gar.
Traditional Pearce beauty with oversized light rooms. Extensive handscraped HW floors,plantation shutters,9'' baseboards, doublestack custom moldings,wrought iron balusters,dual staircases,2 utility rooms, 4-car garage, 4 living areas. Mstr,guest & study down. 3BRs (all with full bath access)& gameroom & oversized media room with wet bar & ref up! Large isl kit with brkfst bar open to FR & brkfst nook. Floor to ceiling rock FP in FR-stunning!
Judi Wright 214.597-2985 Ebby Halliday Realtors
3 Fox Glen Run • Stonebrair Creek Estates
5652 Montreaux Drive • Villages of Stonebriar $824,900 • 4 Bed/4.1 Bath
$2,500,000 • 7BR/8.1BA/4-Car/3.19 Acre Pool/Spa/TennisCourt - Elegant estate in gated community! This home features nine living areas–including downstairs & upstairs media rooms, and game & billiards rooms. Incredible backyard with huge play yard, gated pool/spa, cabana with kitchenette, covered and open patios, and play house!
Lovely home with beautiful drive-up! This sensational home was the first Energy Star compliant home to achieve 5 stars in Frisco! Desirable features include hand scraped wood floors, impressive architecture, game & media rooms, wine room, bonus room (could be 5th BR), outdoor fireplace, & pool
The O'Gorman Group 972.715.0190 Ebby Halliday Realtors
The O'Gorman Group 972.715.0190 Ebby Halliday Realtors
3053 Seneca Dr. • Villages of Stonebriar Park
6000 Chamberlyne Dr. • Starwood
5274 Monterey Drive • Starwood
$998,000 • 5 Bedrooms/4.1 Baths
$1,695,000 • 7 Bed/6.2 Baths/3 Car
$3,300,000 • 5 Bedrooms/5.2 Baths
This exquisite traditional offers the ultimate in designer finishes and refined taste! Five bedrooms with walk-in closets and expansive game/media room! The wonderful backyard retreat presents a saltwater pool with rock waterfalls, raised spa, private garden area, and covered/open patios.
The O'Gorman Group 972.715.0190 Ebby Halliday Realtors
Magnificent home in gated Starwood with unique architectural detail throughout! Beautiful wood floors & cathedral beamed ceilings! Media room, master with fireplace, expansive covered patio, large play yard, and separate entrance guest quarters–perfect for guests, in-laws, or nanny!
The O'Gorman Group 972.715.0190 Ebby Halliday Realtors
Absolutely exceptional Mark Smith custom home on a heavily wooded creek lot in prestigious gated Starwood! This stunning home features custom finished walls, unique chandeliers, towering ceilings, and plenty of spaces for entertaining. The open & airy formal living room is adorned with a wall of windows, a hand-carved cast stone fireplace, a floating curved staircase.
The O'Gorman Group 972.715.0190 Ebby Halliday Realtors
LUXURY COMMUNITIES IN FRISCO, TEXAS
5041 Oak Knoll Lane • Starwood $899,900 • 4 Bed/4.1 Bath Unbelievable French traditional on wooded creek lot in gated Starwood! Large game room with wet bar and media room with theater equipment, gourmet kitchen, and backyard paradise with pool, spa, covered & open patios, built-in grill, lush landscaping, and steps leading to the creek!
The O'Gorman Group 972.715.0190 Ebby Halliday Realtors
6307 Pintail Lane • Starwood $1,274,900 • 4 Bed/4.3 Baths Wonderful soft contemporary home on premium creek lot in gated Starwood! The spacious entry way opens to the fabulous dining room with butler's pantry, and oversized living room with a fireplace, limestone floors, and two-story wall of windows overlooking the creek. Enjoy the lovely gourmet kitchen, which features built-in refrigerator/freezer, granite countertops, huge island/breakfast bar, and breakfast nook overlooking the beautiful backyard.
The O'Gorman Group 972.715.0190 Ebby Halliday Realtors
2782 Montreaux Dr. • Villages of Stonebriar Park
6088 Rachel Drive • Starwood
5348 Quail Run• Starwood
11865 Verona Court• Latera
$774,900 • 3 Bedrooms/3.1 Baths
$724,900 – 5 Bdrms/4.1 Baths/4 Living
$469,900 – 4 Bedrooms/4 Baths
$729,900 – 4 Bedrooms/3.1 Baths
Exquisite French traditional in guard gated community. Hand scraped floors thru most of downstairs. Formal dining offers view of landscaped yard. Family rm w vaulted ceiling, wood beams, stone FP & built-in cabinets. Kitchen w breakfast bar, granite & island. 8 gas burner stove top with pot filler, double convection oven & WIP. Unfinished room could be media or 4th BR.
Exceptional Custom Home boasts courtyard design, extensive millwork, rich woods, exposed brick, & a gourmet kitchen. Entertain with ease with outdoor living overlooking a pool, spa, & fireplace. A wine grotto opens to the pool & private backyard. Sure to Impress! More at www.6088Rachel.com
Beautifully updated Starwood home. Rare floor plan,2 story entry,all new GE Profile SS appl,granite countrs,tumbled travertine bk splash,new paint,master bath completely remodeled w travertine tile,granite counters,new faucets,floating glass,added 7 oak trees in back for privacy,new electronic gate & fence,wood floors,bronze knobs,much more!!
Stunning custom home located in the gated community of Latera.Originally builders personal home.Details galore!Hand scraped flooring,all wood windows,mud rm,groin vault ceilings,huge master closet,marble in baths,spa like master bath jacuzzi tub,shwr w 3 heads ,cort yd,out door kitchen & fire pl,salt wtr pool & spa,fenced play yd,dble iron doors,much more
The O'Gorman Group 972.715.0190 Ebby Halliday Realtors
Christie Cannon 469.951.9588 LUXURY HOMES by Keller Williams Realty
Michelle Campbell 972-365-0916 Keller Williams Realty
Michelle Campbell 972-365-0916 Keller Williams Realty
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2595 Preston Rd Ste. 200 Frisco, TX 75034 972.712.2341
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2240 South Stemmons Ste. 100 Lewisville, TX 75067 972.353.5667
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Lynn Slaney Silguero Ebby Halliday Realtors lynnslaney@ebby.com 972-588-8449
Page 16
Christina White Coldwell Banker christina.white@cbdfw.com 972-989-2010
Michelle Campbell Keller Williams Realty michellecampbell@kw.com 972-365-0916
Debi Leavitt Ebby Halliday Realtors debileavitt@ebby.com 972-567-9107
Carmen Roberts Ebby Halliday Realtors carmenroberts@ebby.com 972-533-6444
16 Agents • 7 Real Estate Companies Janice Berg Ebby Halliday Realtors janiceberg@ebby.com 972-365-5103
Let one of these Top Local REALTORS from Group 1...Sell Your Home!
Jeff Cheney Keller Williams Realty jeff@jeffcheney.com 214-707-7320
Angie Boyd Ebby Halliday Realtors aboyd@ebby.com 972-489-3254
Patty Smith Private Label Realty pandpsmith@gmail.com 214-450-5002
REAL ESTATE NETWORK Choose One Realtor with the Power of Many Tom Robertson Century 21 tomc21@aol.com 972-741-6006
FRISCO | PLANO | PROSPER | CELINA | MCKINNEY | ALLEN | DALLAS
Christina Klement Coldwell Banker
Sammy Gardner Frisco Home Center
christina.klement@cbdfw.com
sammy@friscohomecenter.com
214-923-5920
469-853-7463
Rusty Pierce RE/MAX Preston Point rustypierce@msn.com 214-850-7809
Judi Wright Ebby Halliday Realtors judi@judiwright.com 214-597-2985
Ted Cox Coldwell Banker 214-300-1015 ted.cox@cbdfw.com
Christie Cannon Keller Williams Realty christie@christiecannon.com
Group One Realtor Network proudly supports Frisco Family Services. Members have pledged a percentage of their earnings to Frisco Family Services in an effort to give back to the community.
Preston Point CBDFW.COM
469-951-9588