River Valley Real Estate March 2020

River Valley Real Estate

&HOME March 2021

The Hub at Providence Luxury Townhomes!

River Valley Real Estate

&HOME

FEATURES

CONTENTS

FORT SMITH BOARD OF REALTORS.............................................................................................3

March 2021

GREATER FORT SMITH HOME BUILDERS ASSOCIATION .............................................4 CHANGE YOUR SPACE CHANGE YOUR MOOD......................................................................8 SLEEP WELL..................................................................................................................................................9 SMART HOUSE HUNT ...........................................................................................................................14 SIMPLE WAYS TO CREATE AN OUTDOOR RETREAT.......................................................15

The Hub at Providence Luxury Townhomes!

GERMS EVERYWHERE .........................................................................................................................21

Cover design by Christy Morrison

Multi Media Sales Executive

River Valley Real Estate

Bethanie Starr

Design Coordinator

Christy Morrison

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The opinions and observations expressed in River Valley Real Estate & Home are those of the respective authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Times Record.

Volume 13, Number 11 River Valley Real Estate & Home, a magazine of the TImes Record published 12 times a year.

&HOME INDEX OF ADVERTISERS

Arvest Bank ..............................................................24 McGraw Realtors....................................................11

Chuck Fawcett Realty.....................................16-17 Medlock & West Realty.......................................... 5

Cobblestone ............................................................... 6 Ronald Ragon Realty ............................................22

First Financial Bank ..............................................10 Stoneshire ................................................................20

© Copyright 2020 Times Record

Advertising information is available from Bethanie Starr at (479) 353-3995 or bstarr@localiq.com

Greater Fort Smith Home Builders Assn .....23 Weichert Realtors - The Griffin Company....18-19

Keller Williams Platinum Realty ...... 7 & 12-13 Western Arkansas Title ......................................... 7 2 | MARCH 2021 - RIVER VALLEY REAL ESTATE & HOME

WHEN A HOME IS TOO LOUD Aaron Brewer, President Fort Smith Board of REALTORS® The ability to work from home during the pandemic has been a blessing for many people, but it has also made some acutely aware of the absence of one element helpful for productivity: QUIET. Many have taken to barricading themselves in closets or hiding in their cars to insulate themselves from chatty household members or noisy street sounds. Echo-prone open floor plans have exacerbated the problem as family members concurrently try to do their jobs or attend remote school.

Noise can impact resale. Realtor.com® studies show that sellers of homes within a 2-mile radius of an airport tend to see discounted prices of 13.2% compared to similar homes elsewhere in the same ZIP code. Sellers near train tracks see average discounts of 12.3%, followed by 11.3% for nearby noisy highways. Noise reduction can be as simple as adding a $50 door seal or as complex as spending $10,000 or more for full-home soundproofing.

Here is a range of recommendations: √ Cover hard surfaces. Hard, highly reflective surfaces are among the worst sound offenders. Use softer materials, such as area rugs with a sound-absorbing pad underneath and fabric-covered furniture. √ Reduce echoes in open spaces. In open floor plans, sound can bounce everywhere. Try bookcases— even just half-full—against walls to help absorb sounds. Artwork can also be used as a sound barrier. √ Seal doors and windows. Install acoustic door seal kits that fit snugly around doors or window edges to reduce sound coming through cracks. √ Add sound-absorbing shades or drapes. Roman shades, using heavy fabric, can help reduce noise, as can cellular shades and plantation shutters. Heavy drapes and curtains—think suede or velvet— are also effective at absorbing outside noise. √ Go green. In addition to improving air quality, houseplants can help reduce noise. (They are most beneficial on hard-surface floors.) Consider a tall, potted Norfolk pine in room corners.

When clients walk into a home and hear an echo, it can be a turnoff. Placing an area rug with a specialized pad or putting a plant in the corner (even if it is artificial), or adding a bookcase can make a big difference when it comes to sound.

Copyright NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®. Reprinted with Permission.

RIVER VALLEY REAL ESTATE & HOME - MARCH 2021 | 3

NEW HOME SALES ARE NOT SLOWING DOWN

BY STEPHANIE STIPINS, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR THE GREATER FORT SMITH ASSOCIATION OF HOME BUILDERS A new year often marks the beginning of a new life chapter. In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, more Americans are interested in purchasing homes.

According to the National Association of Home Builders’ (NAHB) latest Housing Trends Report, survey responses show that the share of Americans who are considering the purchase of a home in the next 12 months increased in the fourth quarter of 2020.

are buying a home for the first-time declined slightly at the end of the year, except for boomers. Among the boomer generation, the share of first-time home buyers rose from 20 percent to 25 percent in the final quarter of 2020 compared to a year earlier.

Geographically, the share of adults with plans to buy a home rose in all four regions during this period, led by the Northeast (up nine points to 19 percent) and the West (up six points to 18 percent). Across regions, significantly fewer prospective buyers in the Northeast (55 percent) are 1st-timers compared to a year earlier (65 percent). The share was flat in the West and changed slightly in the Midwest and South.

The survey reports that interest among Americans who are considering purchasing a home increased by four percentage points higher than a year earlier.

The change in interest represents the largest yearover-year gain in the three-year history of the survey question. The gain shows the coronavirus outbreak continues to impact Americans’ propensity to want to More than a third (37 percent) of perspective home buy homes. buyers expect that finding the right home will get Millennials are the generational group that stands easier in the months ahead, compared to less than out in their intent to buy a home. Between the fourth a quarter (23 percent) a year ago. The improvement quarters of 2019 and 2020, the share of millennials in buyers’ perceptions on availability reflects the fact planning a home purchase rose eight points to 27 that more new and existing homes were sold in 2020 percent. The share increased six points to 18 percent than any year since 2006. among Gen Xers, three points to 16 percent among For more information about home buying in the Gen Z, and was flat among baby boomers.

Greater Fort Smith area, please visit: When it comes to first-time prospective home buyers’ www.fortsmithhomebuilders.com or give us a the interest among different generations shifts call at 479-452-6213; we would be happy to help dramatically. The share of prospective buyers who connect you to a qualified home builder.

4 | MARCH 2021 - RIVER VALLEY REAL ESTATE & HOME

Alice Medlock Principal Broker 479-651-7221

Steve Pixley

479-652-5400

Curtis Bledsoe 479-831-7004

Kelli Smith

Leigh Medlock 479-651-7222

479-222-2323

Lee Pixley

Tammy Howard

Clay Shackelford

479-462-4902 479-651-9869

479-650-8656

Gary Rowe

479-595-1480

906 Main Street • Van Buren, AR • www.realestatearkansas.com FOR PERSONALIZED SERVICE & PROVEN RESULTS

MWR 2884-905 W. RIVER ST. OZARK AR. Vintage home, currently a B&B with 6 bedrooms, 5 baths, 2 story home with 3 levels plus basement. 140 ft. river front, gorgeous river front view. Home only $325,000, home, furnishings & everything needed to run B&B for $375,000. One of a kind unique Ozark property.

RIVER VALLEY REAL ESTATE & HOME - MARCH 2021 | 5

A HOME BUILDER YOU CAN TRUST One of the most important decisions you’ll make in searching for a new home is choosing the right home builder. It’s an involved process requiring the talents and cooperation of dozens of planners, workers and inspectors.

At Cobblestone Homes, we have over 30 years of experience building quality, energy efficient homes in the Fort Smith region.

As a third-generation builder, we have the experience needed to make sure everything comes together the right way so you can begin making a lifetime of memories in your new home.

Rocky Walker Owner/Builder 7030 Taylor Avenue • Suite 5 Fort Smith, AR 72916

cobblestonehomes.info

6 | MARCH 2021 - RIVER VALLEY REAL ESTATE & HOME

Gaylene Calhoun Ron Calhoun 479-965-6336 479-651-7474

2817 HWY 22 West, Charleston This Home has had a Total Make-Over from Top to Bottom! Tastefully decorated & adorned this 3 Bed, 2.5 Bath, Open Concept Liv./Din. has a Sun Porch, Large Shop w/ R.V. Storage, Beautiful Pergola & a HUGE Pavilion w/Hot tub for out-door Entertaining!

Approx. 1.61 ac. Smoke free & no indoor pets. Immaculate!

REDUCED $337,000

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RIVER VALLEY REAL ESTATE & HOME - MARCH 2021 | 7

CHANGE YOUR

SPACE, CHANGE YOUR MOOD PHOTO COURTESY OF AMERICAN SIGNATURE INC.

More Content Now

S

ometimes a small change can make a big difference for stylish interior design, especially when it comes to arranging furniture. The way pieces are placed can make a room feel welcome and inviting or confusing and closed off.

Furniture arrangement can be tricky.

Personal taste is part of the equation when purchasing furniture and decor, but taste has nothing to do with arranging a room, said Ricky Gonzalez, visual merchandising creative director at Value City Furniture and American Signature Furniture.

“Even though taste and the things you like are important, you also have to understand the functionality of a room. Sometimes your taste gets in the way of functionality,” he said.

To make your space look amazing, consider what your goals are.

“Great moments can be created when you consider the use of space. For example, if you are entertaining, you have to consider how much space you have and balance out your seating and tables,” Gonzalez said.

How will you be using the room? Do you want a cozy sanctuary or a party place? Do people have to move through to get from one

room to another? Do you want an open floor plan or a more divided one?

“Before changing a room, find an image of what you like. This will make it easier than creating from nothing,” Gonzalez said.

Go for good energy Arranging a living room according to feng shui, which is a way to orient and organize a room to positively affect mood and well-being, works well to create a pleasing environment.

“I do not follow all the principles but pay attention to how the furniture faces when one walks into the room,” Gonzalez said. “And, understanding how you plan to use that room is key to creating a space for great moments.”

Create a focal point “Rooms should always be anchored by a main piece, and making that piece special means you will smile every time you walk into that room,” Gonzalez said.

While many living rooms spotlight the TV, a better alternative would be a statement piece of furniture like a sectional sofa or design aspect of a room such as a fireplace, picture window, eye-catching piece of art or striking architectural feature.

Clear a path Regardless of a room’s size, it should be easy to navigate. Crowded rooms are less

8 | MARCH 2021 - RIVER VALLEY REAL ESTATE & HOME

functional.

“Don’t clutter up the entrance of a home or room, and make sure two people can fit through entry areas,” Gonzalez said.

To view or not to view When it comes to windows the most important thing is whether you want to see the view, Gonzalez said. Ignoring the windows, first determine where you would place seating or table.

“Then you can look at where the windows are. You can always put a sofa in front of windows with a sofa table behind and add curtains or window treatments to diminish the light,” he said.

Finishing touches “To complete a room and mark the space, rugs are great. They can make a room look bigger or smaller depending on the room needs,” Gonzalez said.

Use accents to add style.

“Lamps and chandeliers anchor spaces, too.

Chandeliers are my favorite to use whenever possible,” he said.

Once you start rearranging furniture, finish the room.

“If you don’t finish it fully, you tend to give up and try another style before completing what you started,” Gonzalez said.

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By Melissa Erickson

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Melissa Erickson

FREEPIK.COM

More Content Now USA TODAY NETWORK

S

urely, no one looks forward to losing an hour of sleep when we “spring ahead” for Daylight Saving Time, but especially not the many Americans who are already sleep deprived.

“About 40% of adults are not getting enough sleep, according to the National Institutes of Health.

That’s between 50 and 70 million people,” said Michael Jaffee, vice-chair of the Department of Neurology, University of Florida.

The American Academy of Sleep Medicine recommends adults get seven hours of sleep a night, while kids and teens should get eight hours.

Serious health effects The health effects of sleep deprivation are well known and widespread. Not getting enough sleep leads to increases in chronic health conditions including heart disease, diabetes, obesity, basthma and depression, Jaffee said.

In older populations, chronic lack of sleep is linked to an increase in the brain protein amyloid that is associated with impaired brain function and Alzheimer’s disease, Jaffee said.

The change to Daylight Saving Time can leave children and adults feeling tired and cranky and unable to concentrate. Studies have shown that there is an increase in motor vehicle accidents after the change to Daylight Saving Time, Jaffee said. The day after the spring time change, sleepdeprived people are at increased risk of heart attack and stroke, he said.

“Productivity at work declines, which could be because of a decrease in cognitive performance because of sleep deprivation,” he said.

A study from about 10 years ago found that workers resorted to “cyberloafing,” or killing time on the internet, because they found it more difficult to concentrate at work due to loss of sleep, Jaffee said.

There are even reports of an increase in workplace injuries, he said.

Certain people are more vulnerable: people with preexisting sleep disorders such as insomnia, shift workers, teens who would naturally go to sleep later and wake later if they could, and children who are transported to school in darkness, Jaffee said.

If possible, plan ahead several days before to reduce the negative effects from the time change.

“Gradually adjust sleep and wake times by 15 minutes. Instead of doing it all at once, do it in smaller chunks,” Jaffee said.

Ease the biological transition of your body’s circadian rhythm by going outside and getting some sun on the Sunday morning of the time change, Jaffee said.

Turn off screens a couple hours before bedtime. While it’s a big challenge for many people, the blue light from phones, tablets and TVs suppresses the body’s ability to release melatonin, a hormone that clues your body in to when it should sleep and wake, Jaffee said.

Reenter the work week proactively by getting a good night’s sleep on Sunday night, Jaffee said.

What’s next for DST? Daylight Saving Time has been around for over 100 years, but experts at the American Academy of Sleep Medicine are pushing for change to a year-round fixed permanent standard time. From a purely biological, scientific perspective, Jaffee agrees, as do many educators, environmental activists and even religious groups who link prayer times to sunrise and sundown.

The movement is gaining traction, and several states want to end the tradition.

“It’s being talked about at the federal level,” Jaffee said.

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RIVER VALLEY REAL ESTATE & HOME - MARCH 2021 | 9

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Serving the Fort Smith and Hot Springs Metropolitan Areas

Visit us online at www.McGrawRealtors.com

For more information, call Ro Mar Brunk at 479.226.2762.

FORT SMITH 1120 Garrison Ave 479.226.3931

GREENWOOD 1411 W Center St 479.996.6121

HOT SPRINGS 508 Ouachita Ave 501.881.3331

ROLAND 311 E Ray Fine Blvd 918.503.6515

Linda Brixey Fort Smith 479.651.5995

Ro Mar Brunk Fort Smith 479.226.2762

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Tonia Hobbs Greenwood 479.719.5488

Amy Jo Hutcherson Greenwood 918.839.8946

Elaine Leonard Greenwood 479.629.1570

Amy McClure Greenwood 479.926.1001

Nathan McDowell Fort Smith 806.570.2463

Tim Metcalf Hot Springs 501.860.0032

Danny Mills Greenwood 479.252.1010

Sheila Reid Greenwood 479.462.6184

Svetlana Simmons Hot Springs 501.363.0202

Susie Sparkman Greenwood 479.597.6288

Wanda Ulmer Greenwood 479.650.3222

Cindy Wheeler Fort Smith 479.420.4014

Brett Winton Fort Smith 479.561.6053

2021 McGraw, REALTORS®. All Rights Reserved. McGraw, REALTORS® has relied upon information provided by sellers, third parties, tax authorities and official government records and may contain inaccuracies of which McGraw, REALTORS ® is not aware. ®Equal Housing Opportunity.

RIVER VALLEY REAL ESTATE & HOME - MARCH 2021 | 11

MONICA IBISON, EXEC. BROKER

@IBISONREALTORS 479.926.6363

kwfortsmith.com

GREAT INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITY

1120 Flat Rock Circle, Van Buren

4024 Mac Arthur Drive, Fort Smith

1807 South S St., Fort Smith

Nice 2 Bedroom 1 Bath brick home with a spacious living room and eat in kitchen. Large full bathroom and extra closets. Fenced yard and 1 car garage located on a quiet street. Great rental history and a fabulous opportunity to bring in extra income! Tenant occupied Please do not disturb tenant. Confirmed appointments required. $72,000

This delightful 2 Bedroom 1 Bath home has an updated kitchen, bathroom and separate laundry space with extra storage. Hardwood floors and charming details can be found in the vintage home. Spacious fenced back yard including a storm shelter. Tenant occupied Please do not disturb tenant. Confirmed appointments required. $78,000

Charming 2 Bed/1 Bath with all hardwood floors and tile in kitchen and bathroom. Beautiful builtins. Charming front porch and spacious fenced back yard. Centrally located close to Ramsey and Fairview with city parks and trails nearby. Tenant occupied please do not disturb tenant - Confirmed appointments required. $87,000

3,000+ SQ/FT AND A POOL!

UNDER CONTRACT IN RECORD TIME!

UNDER CONTRACT

Professional Photos Coming Soon

SOLD

1230 N. Waldron Rd., Fort Smith

414 Casey’s Court, Lavaca

2627 Parkway Lane, Van Buren

An opportunity like this one simply doesn’t come along often Retro/Modern one level home on .40 acres just down from UAFS with easy access to I-540 for commuting offers plenty of family space! Multiple living spaces indoors and out, 3,056 sq/ft. filled with hardwood floors, custom built-in storage, family room addition with fireplace; formal dining room and a fabulous outdoor entertaining space including an oversized covered porch and inground swimming pool. Call or text Monica to make your private viewing appointment today! $225,000

Better than new! With over 2,000 sq/ft of upgrades, updates and improvements this 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath home will be snapped up before you know it! Open concept kitchen with island and ample dining area flows to the living room where the fireplace is the focal point. Vaulted ceilings, fresh paint inside and out (including doors), vinyl plank flooring and plenty of storage. All bedrooms are upstairs along with the laundry room for ultimate convenience. Cul de sac location with the best neighbors around and a large privacy fenced backyard and entertaining area. Call or text Monica for your private showing. Listed at $230,000

Elegance abounds in this lovely 3,301 sq/ft home! Filled with custom features such as crown molding, large windows and a very well appointed floor plan. 4 bedrooms and 3 full baths situated in a split bedroom plan including a private guest suite and plenty of space to enjoy the company of family and friends. Impressive kitchen with island, pantry and stainless appliances. Granite throughout with plenty of storage and the bonus room upstairs makes the perfect media room. 3 car side entry garage; a huge laundry room and a formal dining room.

Views from the porch and flagstone patio will absolutely steal your attention from even the best backyard paradise. $379,000

PINNACLE POINT ESTATES AND POINT ROYAL ESTATES CHARLESTON, ARKANSAS Choose from 1/2 acre to 1+ acre lots in Pinnacle Point or Point Royal Estates subdivisions in Charleston, Arkansas. Build your next home in this sought after location among well presented homes with plenty of space between neighbors. Lots are ready to build with city utilities at the street and all the conveniences you want are just a few minutes away including quaint downtown Charleston boasting locally owned boutiques and restaurants. Regardless of which lot you choose, you are certain to enjoy the views, the quiet surroundings and the unique hometown atmosphere that this big hearted small town delivers.

Lot prices ranging from $19,950 to $29,950 For More Information Contact Monica Ibison (479) 926-6363

12 | MARCH 2021 - RIVER VALLEY REAL ESTATE & HOME

Monica & Jeremy 479.926.6363 ibisonrealtors.com @ibisonrealtors

Experience Integrity Results Since 2006

RIVER VALLEY REAL ESTATE & HOME - MARCH 2021 | 13

EMBARKING ON A SMART

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I

t may be thrilling to grab a realty rag off a sidewalk stand and begin shopping for a new home. However, a spontaneous emotional response — especially when considering a second dwelling in a vacation spot — may result in regret. Breathe deeply and make a plan.

Realtors undoubtedly agree that a first step is to secure a good Realtor.

Re/Max Elite Realty agent Lori Newton finds homes for many seeking to live full-time or seasonally in the Blue Ridge Mountains. She advises clients to “know what you can afford, and have a pre-approval letter from your lender.” These convey seriousness regarding the hunt, points out Newton.Then comes the “fun” part — actually house hunting.

Essentialhomeandgarden.com encouraged consumers to formulate a checklist of basics, needs and wants. Rank each by order of importance.

Some items on the list might be:

LOCATION • Is it close to resources? • Schools? • Is the area safe?

• Is it easily accessible in all kinds of weather?

• How are roads? •Traffic?

SPACE Take a tape measure to determine whether sizes of rooms, ceilings, windows and doors are adequate.

Ideally, drive by homes both day and night. An idyllic setting by day may turn rowdy after sunset with neighbors who like to party.

STORAGE Is there room for essentials, toys, hobby-related items and keepsakes?

14 | MARCH 2021 - RIVER VALLEY REAL ESTATE & HOME

CLEANLINESS If the exterior and interior smell, are a mess, are overrun with bugs or show signs of mold, there may be dire, money-pit issues at stake. Of course, a home inspection will reveal serious concerns, but an untidy house showing is a red flag.

While at a home, first do an enjoyment walk-through to experience the house.Then walk through again to take in practical details; snap photos of specific likes and dislikes.

Finally, jot down questions for a Realtor or owner, and keep a tally of possible and necessary repair and renovation expenses above the price of the home.

SIMPLE WAYS TO CREATE AN

OUTDOOR RETREAT

Making an outdoor space an enticing, relaxing and soothing retreat requires a few basic design techniques.

Many involve lighting, which sets the tone for outdoor living ambiance.

Country Living last March shared “dreamy ways” to use lighting outdoors:

• Drape string lights across and through plants and bushes; hang them from a wall, fence or railing; bunch them in a see-through bucket or planter.

Many lights in a bed of ivy will make a space glow.

• Take a cue from outdoor French café vignettes, for example, and make a sort of awning over a seating area by running string lights back and forth from existing or free-standing poles, or from the corners of a pergola.

• Wrap lights around trees.

• Make DIY rustic chandeliers with grapevine balls (available at craft stores), white lights and twine, and hang in a corner or over a seating area.

• Secure rope lights along a garden border for a soft glow.

To avoid having an unsightly cord to plug in, consider individual or strings of solar- powered lights; they are available in all styles from modern to mission and either hang or adhere.

And, of course, candles, candles and more candles are the ultimate in calming illumination.

Flameless candles are a safe choice.

Smells are important as well. Plant herbs such as lavender, mint, lemon verbena and thyme in pots or in a garden close to the outdoor living space.

Choose outdoor-durable textiles and rugs in comforting hues. House Beautiful last May showed off such upholstery fabrics as Sunbrella’s

“Sailcloth Salt” and “Cilantro” and Perennial’s cornflower blue cushions. Soft, subtle colors tend to elicit a restful response.

Keep accessorization to a minimum, perhaps a vase filled with fresh-picked flowers and squishy, soft decorative pillows of varying depths and sizes.

Finally, if doable for the space, a swing, swinging chair or swinging bed is the ultimate lure to an outdoor space. Just make sure it is wide and deep enough to curl up on and in.

RIVER VALLEY REAL ESTATE & HOME - MARCH 2021 | 15

4720 Rogers Ave., Fort Smith 1505 East Main Street, Van Buren 9026 Mayswood Pl., Fort Smith 741 West Center, Greenwood www.chuckf aw cettr ealty.com

Aimee Montgomery Ashlee Milton Bill Coleman Brenda Love Crissy Wilkinson Heather Chapman Debi Rakes 918-680-0389 479-310-0305 479-420-7867 479-461-6448 479-831-8980 405-269-3944 479-207-3108

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Stephanie Burton 479-222-3520

Jeannie Wester 479-459-2394

Joshua Jetton 479-883-6492

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Mike Taber 479-208-0364

Nigel Bearden 479-739-5668

Ralph Bogner Jr 479-883-9784

Ray Hubbs 775-764-1288

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Tyler Jones Becky Ivey Patricia Branson 479-353-2881 479-221-7640 479-651-2092

Kim Kelly 479-208-2028

Becky Hoopengarner Charlie Caster 479-650-5551 479-651-7665

Lindsey Martin-McGowan Melina Wilson Melissa Hallmark 479-651-0827 479-883-1745 479-285-0871

Steve Layne 479-461-7426

Jerel Driscoll Martha Rudell Denton Branson Derald Porter 479-883-5983 479-650-4711 479-883-6277 479-650-0596

Suzannah Fritchman 479-883-0869

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Kristi Smith Debbie Dolan Patsy Jones Kelly Dyer Joe Stanfill Kathleen Halliburton 479-461-6130 479-650-3141 479-806-8253 479-652-0278 479-597-0990 479-650-3932

Robert Steel 479-650-7163

Sharon Brigance 479-223-1614

Marie Norman Monta Scharbor Randall Sanderson Linda Yother Larry Stanfill 479-461-2660 479-597-8042 479-719-2058 479-675-6153 479-883-2206

Fort Smith • 479-782-9500 4720 Rogers Ave., Fort Smith www.fsrivercityrealty.com

16 | MARCH 2021 - RIVER VALLEY REAL ESTATE & HOME

Chuck Fawcett Aimee Edens 479-285-3052 479-462-2609

Glenda Edwards 479-883-9564

Cindy McClendon 479-414-2747

Shelly Blaylock 479-461-6626

Joseph Ioimo 334-220-1575

3000 Blackburn, Fort Smith $299,900 5BD/4BA

4518 Industrial Park Rd, Van Buren $295,000

1108 5th Terr, Barling $279,999

2 warehouses, mobile home, house, all on 2 acres.

4BD/4BA 2,579 sq ft

2720 1/2 Towson Ave., Fort Smith $450,000 .75 acres 16,800 GBA

2117 S. 88th St., Fort Smith $425,000 3BD/2.5BA

0001391336-01

RIVER VALLEY REAL ESTATE & HOME - MARCH 2021 | 17

3500 Old Greenwood Rd | Fort Smith, AR 72903 479-648-8000 | WeichertGriffin.com

Marty Anderson

Dave Adams

Steve Bateman

Enrique Bravo

Sarah Bravo

479-719-0923

479-883-6778

479-414-9495

479-652-1248

479-652-1247

Realtor®

Executive Broker

Realtor®

Realtor®

Realtor®

Marty.Anderson@WeichertGriffin.com

Dave.Adams@WeichertGriffin.com

Steve.Bateman@WeichertGriffin.com

Enrique.Bravo@WeichertGriffin.com

Sarah.Bravo@WeichertGriffin.com

Hazel Brown

Cathy Carter

Jeri Cockram

Laura Colburn

Cathy Covey

479-461-4165

479-414-8855

479-651-3572

479-883-8051

479-806-0611

Realtor®

Associate Broker

Realtor®

Realtor®

Realtor®

Hazel.Brown@WeichertGriffin.com

Cathy.Carter@WeichertGriffin.com

Jeri.Cockram@WeichertGriffin.com

Laura.Colburn@WeichertGriffin.com

Cathy.Covey@WeichertGriffin.com

Doug Elmore

Lisa Elmore

Drew Fortson

Elizabeth Gist

Jonella Graham

479-806-9816

479-651-5189

870-843-9369

479-461-0666

479-459-5079

Realtor®

Vice President

Realtor®

Realtor®

Managing Broker

Doug.Elmore@WeichertGriffin.com

Lisa.Elmore@WeichertGriffin.com

Drew.Fortson@WeichertGriffin.com

Elizabeth.Gist@WeichertGriffin.com

Jonella.Graham@WeichertGriffin.com

Leslie Hatfield

GaeVon Hoover

Jordan Johnson

Charlotte King

Chris King

479-650-0218

479-883-7997

479-849-6894

479-461-6700

479-650-8658

Realtor®

Executive Broker

Realtor®

Realtor®

Realtor®

Leslie.Hatfield@WeichertGriffin.com

GaeVon.Hoover@WeichertGriffin.com

Jordan.Johnson@WeichertGriffin.com

Charlotte.King@WeichertGriffin.com

Chris.King@Weichertgriffin.com

Kevin King

Wayne King

Polina Larson

Xavier Laster

Rigo Manjarrez

479-650-0130

479-461-5156

501-762-2296

479-629-1539

479-420-7609

Executive Broker

Executive Broker

Realtor®

Realtor®

Realtor®

Kevin.King@WeichertGriffin.com

Wayne.King@WeichertGriffin.com

Polina.Larson@WeichertGriffin.com

Xavier.Laster@WeichertGriffin.com

Rigo.Manjarrez@WeichertGriffin.com

Jeff Marks

Rebecca Morter

Calissa Newberry

Margie Newberry

Sarah Newton

479-414-1193

501-628-2088

479-357-9364

479-207-3656

479-218-2363

Realtor®

Jeff.Marks@WeichertGriffin.com

Realtor®

Rebecca.Morter@WeichertGriffin.com

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Realtor®

Calissa.Titus@WeichertGriffin.com

Realtor®

Margie.Newberry@WeichertGriffin.com

Realtor®

Sarah.Newton@WeichertGriffin.com

NEW LISTINGS Barling

Laura Colburn 479-883-8051

Booneville

1001 Partridge Place $213,800

2615 E Highway 10 $187,500

ML#1040136

ML#1040206

3 BEDS | 2 BATHS 1,658 S.F.

Fort Smith

Wayne & Charlotte King Team 479-461-5156

Fort Smith

3916 Morris Drive $87,500

1910 Wirsing Avenue $76,500

ML#1040290

ML#1040292

3 BEDS | 2 BATHS 1,339 S.F.

Wayne & Charlotte King Team 479-461-5156

Greenwood

Smart Agents 479-259-2504

3 BEDS | 2 BATHS 1,055 S.F.

Hartford

256 Kings Mountain Loop $150,000

2835 W 252 Highway $125,000

ML#1040329

ML#1040145

3 BEDS | 2 BATHS 1,365 S.F.

Lisa Elmore 479-651-5189

Huntington

Smart Agents 479-259-2504

3 BEDS | 2 BATHS 1,652 S.F.

Justin Rogers 479-629-1733

3 BEDS | 2 BATHS 1,216 S.F.

Mansfield

22903 Highway 71 $109,900

9796 Dayton Road $335,000

ML#1040067

ML#1040017

3 BEDS | 1 BATHS 1,548 S.F.

Lisa Elmore 479-651-5189

3 BEDS | 3 BATHS 3,240 S.F.

FORT SMITH 479-242-4000 · SPRINGDALE 479-756-1003 · FAYETTEVILLE 479-935-4090 · BENTONVILLE 479-268-5500

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germs

everywhere

How to protect against all sorts of winter virusess H

By Melissa Erickson More Content Now

W

elcome to the germiest time of the year, when it’s time to protect yourself and family from cold, flu and COVID-19, all contagious viruses.

It’s not possible to avoid getting sick entirely, but you can lessen your likelihood and prevent serious symptoms, said pharmacist and healthy living expert Dr. Lisa Leslie-Williams.

Since the pandemic began, lots of things have changed, Leslie-Williams said: “The ways we educate our kids, play and work have all been greatly affected. However, many of the things we are now doing to keep safe are things we should have been doing before and should continue doing in the future.”

Use caution with what you touch.

“Doorknobs, toilet seats and grocery store carts are big hotbeds for germs,” Leslie-Williams said. To stay safe, wipe them down with disinfecting spray or wipes. Avoid using public restrooms if possible.

At home, bacteria and viruses can spread from person to person and from surfaces to people. Disinfect high-touch surface areas like kitchen and bathroom counters, faucets, handles, switches, countertops and computer keyboards. Change dish and hand towels frequently, and wash your hands frequently.

We should all know by now that proper hand washing with soap and water is the best way to prevent the spread of illness. Good hand hygiene requires washing hands rigorously with soap under running water for 20 to 30 seconds.

“When it comes to your home, indoor air is two to five times more polluted than outdoor air. So invest in air purifiers and place them in your most highly trafficked rooms,” LeslieWilliams said.

Avoid tracking germs into your home by removing shoes as soon as you enter and leave them at the door.

“Get each member of your family a pair of house shoes or swap out comfy socks for use inside the home,” LeslieWilliams said.

Often neglected, toothbrushes can be a breeding ground for germs.

“Avoid contaminating them by keeping toilet seats closed when flushing, so that germs don’t inadvertently find their way into your mouth,” LeslieWilliams said.

Disinfect toothbrushes once a week in a solution using 3% peroxide.

“Dilute 1 teaspoon of peroxide with one cup of water and allow toothbrushes to soak overnight to keep germs and reinfection at bay,” LeslieWilliams said.

Boost your natural immunity by adopting healthy habits such as drinking plenty of water, getting fresh air and exercise, and eating a balanced diet.

For the foreseeable future, face masks are the height of fashion.

“No matter if you and your family are at work or at school, remember to wash reusable face masks and face coverings at least one a week. Keep them intact by using an enclosed mesh laundry bag,” Leslie-Williams said. “Giving those masks a good laundering with plenty of hot water and gentle laundry soap will help keep the ones you love healthier throughout the season.”

RIVER VALLEY REAL ESTATE & HOME - MARCH 2021 | 21

Build Your Dream Home

Affordable Luxury...

No Money Down, No Closing Cost, Monthly payments as low as $795

Visit our website or Facebook for directions

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Models Open Everyday

RonaldRagonRealty.com 22 | MARCH 2021 - RIVER VALLEY REAL ESTATE & HOME

Member Spotlight JUSTIN GREEN

PRESIDENT, GREATER FORT SMITH ASSOCIATION OF HOME BUILDERS OWNER, JUSTIN GREEN CUSTOM HOMES Justin Green, owner of Justin Green Custom Homes, has worked as a home builder and developer for the last 25 years. As a 2nd generation home builder he has served twice as President of the Greater Fort Smith Association of Home Builders. He’s been the Home Showcase Contractor for 3 years. He joined the organization after friends encouraged him to join by showing him all the benefits the association offered. He says of the organization, “We are a family. Builders that are supposed to be my competitors are some of my best friends. We all want each other to succeed.” Justin is married to his wife of 22 years and a father of two girls.

He teaches Sunday School for teenage boys and is a member of the First Baptist church in Lavaca, AR. As a motto, Justin likes to ask, “You don’t have time to do it right but you have time to do it again?”

LACIE WITCHER

GODFREY & BLACK BRICK & STONE Lacey Witcher, a Fort Smith native, loves being involved with the Greater Fort Smith Association of Home Builders and helping her community grow. She works in the family business as the office manager for Godfrey & Black Brick & Stone. The best part of her job is helping people design the home of their dreams. As a member of GFSAHB, she believes that the organization brings positive relationships through community involvement and growth.

She lives with her husband, Garret and their three children, Will, Beau, and Ruby, along with two dogs, one cat and several chickens. She tries to live by the motto “God did not give me a spirit of fear and I know that through Him I can do all things.”

(479) 452-6213 5111 ROGERS AVE SUITE 531, FORT SMITH, AR 72903

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