Surround Sound Basics

The main difference between a home theatre system and a TV is the surround sound. For surround sound to work and sound its best, you need 2-3 speakers in front of you and 2-3 speakers on your sides and in the back. Most of the noise you hear will come from the speakers in the front. When the noise is being made by someone on the left side of the screen, you will hear more noise out of the speaker on the left. The same thing goes for the right side speaker. Having a speaker in the center of the front is very important because it helps balance the sound from each side. Finally, the speakers in the back act as a filler for background noises.

To have a home theatre system or home automation system installed in your Bixby, OK home, contact Keegan Beck of KMB Enterprises at 918-527-1031 or www.kmbenterprisesllc.com.

It's Spring Cleaning Time!

This time of year many of us decide to do our Spring Cleaning. Often, we realize that we have way too much stuff! Whether you are Spring Cleaning or have just realized that you have way too much stuff, read on for valuable information to make the cleaning process much less painful.

When cleaning or organizing, here are your five basic options: Keep it, Store it, Sell, it, Donate it, and Throw it Away. The hardest part is trying to put that stuff in the right category. To make this a little easier, ask yourself these questions:

• Does this item add positive value to my life or does it make me feel bad?
• Does this item have sentimental value? Is it a family heirloom?
• Have I used this item or worn these clothes in the last year months?

If the item is in the keep pile consider storing it. Larger items or items that you decide to keep but still don’t have room for can be put into storage. Remember to think about insurance coverage and special needs for certain items, such as temperature, parking, etc.

If you are getting rid of the item, follow these basic rules to categorize that “stuff”!

• Throw it away if it is torn, ripped, broken, or stained.
• Sell it if it is something that you think someone else would buy or could imagine someone else using. These items can be sold in a garage sale, consignment store, or even online.
• Donate items that are in good shape and would be helpful to others. Places like Salvation Army and Goodwill take many donations and pick up in certain areas. Also remember that some items like children’s toys, book and videos can be donated to children’s hospitals and other organizations with needy or sick children. Be creative and check around. There are many worthwhile places to donate good used items.

For information on storage facilities, rental costs, and other storage tips call Mike Ellingson, Relocation LLC at 918-459-6683 or www.relocationllc.net.

For all your real estate needs in the Bixby OK. area contact Darryl Baskin, McGraw Realtors at 918-258-2600 or www.darrylbaskin.com.

Top 5 Pitfalls of Selling Your Own Home

The Top 5 Pitfalls of Selling Your Own Home

While it is certainly understandable why some people would like to avoid paying a real estate agent’s commission—especially in today’s economy—homeowners need to be aware of the serious pitfalls that can occur before they embark on the process of selling their own home.

As a member of the Top 5 in Real Estate Network®, I, along with my team, have had many clients enlist my services after losing valuable time and money attempting to sell their own home. What seems like a relatively easy undertaking at first, can become a time-consuming and overwhelming process. We’d like to share with you some of the most significant snags that often occur when selling one’s own home:

1.  Ineffective marketing. Most homeowners simply lack the resources necessary to effectively market their own home. Working with a professional real estate agent, such as a member of the Top 5 in Real Estate Network®, however, usually means your home will be marketed to the widest group of potential buyers possible, both through digital and print advertising, virtual tours, and online listing portals.

2.  Mispricing your home. In order to sell your home quickly for the best possible price, pricing your home correctly is critical. This very nuanced process of choosing the right listing price, however, is always best left to a real estate professional. Most who sell their own homes price too high, resulting in their home sitting on the market for an extended period of time. And, unfortunately, the longer a home remains on the market, the less desirable it becomes for buyers.

3.  Missing documentation. These days, a real estate transaction requires more documentation than ever before. It’s virtually impossible for the average homeowner to be aware of all the forms necessary to complete a real estate deal, and missing paperwork will bring any transaction to a grinding halt.

4.  Overlooking legalities. The risk of overlooking important legalities, such as disclosure and compliance regulations that vary from state to state, is high for most homeowners. The average person is, understandably, not well versed in the many laws that govern the sale and purchase of a property.

5.  Dealing with unqualified buyers. If you accept an offer from an unqualified buyer, you can delay the sale of your home indefinitely. A professional real estate agent will take the necessary steps to work with a lender to ensure a buyer is qualified before accepting their offer.

In most cases, owners end up exhausting more dollars than they would have paid in commission when attempting to sell their own home. If you would like more information on selling your home, please e-mail our team. We also encourage you to forward this email to anyone you know who might be considering taking on the monumental task of selling their own home.

Posted via email from The Baskin Report

Post Winter Home Inspection

Winter has come and gone and Spring is here. April's showers bring May flowers, but the rains may also bring other things too. Pest Problems! Moisture is one of the main ingredients needed for many pest invasions, such as termites or carpenter ants around your home. Post-winter exterior home inspections (and subsequent home repairs) become very important in the early Spring to help prevent these and other possible invaders throughout the Summer months ahead. What should you look for when inspecting for areas vulnerable to pests? Keep this list in mind.

• Broken downspouts and gutters- are they in need of repair?
  
• Ice dam areas that causes moisture and rotting wood to your roof- can they be repaired?
  
• Missing roof tiles or shingles- are they replaced/repaired?
  
• Misplaced splash blocks or misdirected or turned over splash blocks- are they righted?
  
• Leaking hose bibs
• Are there areas around your home that hold water ? Is there proper grading and drainage around your home to remove water?
• Is there any structural wood-to-soil contact, creating a pathway for termites?
• Firewood stacked and stored against the home's perimeter- can it be moved away or stored off of the ground?
• Any vegetation touching the structure- is it trimmed back?
• Gaps around utility conduit openings- are they sealed?
• Screening on vents to the outside of the home- are they in place?
• Screens on windows- are they ripped or compromised in any way?
• Door sweeps and weather stripping on doors- are they secure and in place?
• Is the lighting around the home conducive to pests? Do you need yellow light bulbs that attract fewer insect pests, and thus spiders?
• Do you have chimney caps and are they in place to exclude large animals like raccoons?
• Louvers and venting in attic- are they secure/not compromised?
• Is your siding intact?
• Are your eaves intact?

Does this list just seem like too much to check for? Don't have the time?

For a thorough inspection to help prevent a pest invasion in your Bixby, OK home or to have your Bixby, OK home treated for pests, contact Duane Montgomery of Montgomery Exterminating at 918-438-4885 or www.montgomeryexterminating.com.

For roofing installation, repairs and inspections in the Bixby, OK area, contact Judy Smith, A-Best Roofing at 918-587-1426 or www.abestroofing.com.

For all your Bixby OK area landscaping needs, contact Nathan Vaughn of Bluum Outdoor at 918-599-8500 or www.bluum.net.

ORU girls basketball schedule 2010-2011.pdf

Negative Equity in Oklahoma

Did you know that Oklahoma ranks #1 in states with the least number of homeowners with negative equity in their home. It wasn't too long ago that many people were getting 2nd and 3rd mortgages on their property. This means that they have negative equity. This can be a problem for many reasons, but is especially difficult when you want to sell your property. When you have negative equity many homeowners can't sell their property unless they have cash on hand to pay the overage. When this happens, homeowners shouldn't expect their property to sell for what they have into it. It will only sell for what it is worth. That may be more than what is owed or less than what is owed.

When you go looking for a property remember to find an experienced agent to help you make a wise decision. A good Realtor will show you homes you like but also comparable properties. This enables buyers to see what properties in that price range look like. Without a knowledgeable and experienced Realtor buyers can find that they have negative equity as soon as they buy a home.

For all your Bixby, OK mortgage needs and for questions about negative equity in Oklahoma, contact Karen Heston of BOK Mortgage at 918-230-9432 or visit her website.

To avoid negative equity in your next Bixby, OK area home purchase, contact Darryl Baskin, The Baskin Real Estate Specialists of McGraw at 918-258-2600 or www.darrylbaskin.com.

Top 5 Ways to Use a Tax Refund

Top 5 Ways to Use a Tax Refund

Thousands of Americans are receiving income tax refunds from the U.S. government, with the IRS reporting an average refund of $2,940 this year. In the current economy, consumers can make strategic choices to make sure that refund pays off for them.

As a member of the Top 5 in Real Estate Network®, I, along with my team, am often asked about financial matters, including advice on smart ways to manage income tax returns. According to Freedom Tax Relief (www.freedomtaxrelief.com), many tax refund recipients might be thinking of creative ways to spend that cash as the economy starts to recover. But before getting carried away, they suggest thinking more long term.

Freedom Tax Relief suggests the following as the top ways to wisely spend an income tax refund:

1.  Pay down credit card and other high-interest debts (including payday loans). Few investments can top the rate of return for eliminating debt. Paying off credit card debt at typical interest rates effectively makes an investment that returns 20 percent or more per year. The only caveat: Be certain you change your mindset as well. If you pay off debts, only to charge up the credit cards or sign for a new car loan a few months later, you have ultimately gained nothing. If credit card debt is your problem, cut up or freeze your credit cards to ensure you do not re-create the same problem you have left behind. Use a debit card for future purchases that require a card.

Ready to pay down your debt? List and pay secured debts first (mortgage, car). Mortgage payments should take absolute priority. Then list unsecured debts (credit cards, loans) in order of highest interest rates. Make minimum payments on all but the highest-rate card. Use every cent of available income to make large payments on the card with the highest rate. When that card is paid off, apply the big payment plus the old minimum payment on the next-highest rate card until it is paid off. Continue until all debt is eliminated.

2.  Create an emergency fund. The Great Recession has pointed out the importance of an emergency fund. Those who do not yet have enough readily accessible money set aside to cover several months' worth of expenses should consider a tax refund a prime opportunity to create a fund that ultimately includes 6-9 months' living expenses. These amounts are not necessarily equal to salary. Instead, they should include only what the household would spend if it were in dire straits. House these savings in a money market fund or rolling CDs so that the money earns interest and cannot easily be spent -- but can be accessed in an emergency.

3.  Make sure you have adequate insurance. Everyone should have health, auto, and home or renters insurance. If dependents rely on breadwinners' income, look into life insurance. Consider an umbrella policy to protect from additional liability. And if the household could not survive without an income, purchase disability coverage. This is a huge savings step – one trip to the emergency room or one minor accident can easily end up costing thousands or tens of thousands of dollars out of pocket.

4.  Fund the future. Contribute to retirement savings, whether an individual or Roth IRA, 401(k) or other plan.

5.  Invest in the home. Homeowners might consider using refunds to cover major or minor maintenance to make sure no bigger (and more expensive) problems arise down the road. In addition, these capital improvements can create additional equity in a home.

No matter how big or small the amount, and despite the temptation to celebrate and splurge, make your choice on what to do with any refund carefully, experts say. Take time to make sure your money works for you and helps build wealth.

For more information, e-mail our team, and please forward this email on to anyone you believe will benefit.

Posted via email from The Baskin Report

Oklahoma Achievers Under 40 Honored

Christy Counts, founder and president of the Central Oklahoma Humane Society, addresses attendees at the luncheon honoring Oklahoma's leaders under 40 years old.  The Journal Record, Oklahoma's source for business news holds the event each year promoting future leaders for the state of Oklahoma.

Posted via email from The Baskin Report

From Our Team: 10 Tips to Rebuilding After a Bankruptcy

10 Tips to Rebuilding After a Bankruptcy

As a rule of thumb, bankruptcy is the least desirable option available to you when your finances have gotten out of control. However, if your financial situation has been going downhill for an extended period of time, your credit standing is probably so bad that filing for bankruptcy really won’t do much to make it worse, with one exception: A bankruptcy remains on your credit report for 10 long years. With this in mind, creditors will know that once you file bankruptcy, you cannot do so again for seven years.

As a member of the Top 5 in Real Estate Network®, I, along with my team, am well versed in some of the ways you—or someone you know—can start to rebuild your financial life after bankruptcy. Here are 10 tips from consumer credit experts ApprovalGuard.com:

1.  Plan your credit recovery. Take it slow and easy, do it right and don’t exceed what you can afford.

2. Learn more about how credit works through the Internet, counseling services or a service. Do it right and know what you’re doing.

3. If your credit report contains inaccuracies about debt that was discharged through your bankruptcy, contact the creditor or the credit bureaus to request a correction.

4. If you didn’t have enough savings to survive a setback, get serious about savings for an emergency fund. In the current economy you need at least 12-16 months.

5. If your problem was overspending, create a written budget and stick to it.

6. If your problem was related to medical bills, seek out a solution for insurance.

7. To re-establish a strong credit profile, you need a good history of payments from credit cards and installment debt such as autos, student loans or a home loan.

8. The rebuilding process requires you to use credit responsibly. Use only a small portion (30% or less) of your available credit line and ensure you make a payment every month.

9. When you start to re-establish your credit, consider a “secure” credit card. Such cards are usually backed by your savings account or money you place in escrow to cover 100% of your credit line in case you don’t pay your payment.

10. You may be able to apply for a home loan in as little as two years after the discharge of your bankruptcy, however, expect to pay higher fees and interest rates.

When you are ready to rebuild, make sure you understand credit and how to use it responsibly. Feel free to e-mail our team for further information and please forward this e-mail to family and friends to keep them in the know as well.

Posted via email from The Baskin Report

Reinspection Due To State of Emergency

> Heads up for Tulsa home buyers and home sellers... Due to Tulsa and surrounding counties being included in the State of Emergency, some lenders are requiring that the property be reinspected prior to the closing. The charge for this is approximately $100.

Posted via email from The Baskin Report

Quest Coffee House Opens in Historic Downtown Bixby, OK

Quest Coffee House is now open 7a-7p in a historic piece of Bixby, OK real estate - Bixby's original bank building. Other businesses credited with saving the historic area include Jakes Place BBQ, Scott's Hamburgers and the Ice House Fitness Center. Downtown Bixby is located West of Memorial Drive at approximately E. 153rd St. S.

Posted via email from The Baskin Report

Quest Coffee House Opens in Historic Downtown Bixby, OK

Quest Coffee House is now open 7a-7p in a historic piece of Bixby, OK real estate - Bixby's original bank building. Other businesses credited with saving the historic area include Jakes Place BBQ, Scott's Hamburgers and the Ice House Fitness Center. Downtown Bixby is located West of Memorial Drive at approximately E. 153rd St. S.

Happy 40th Birthday to Teresa

Thank you for being a fantastic wife and fabulous mother!
>

Posted via email from The Baskin Report

Top 5 Remodeling Headaches to Avoid

Top 5 Remodeling Headaches to Avoid

Whether you’re adding a room to accommodate an expanding family or remodeling to increase value, home renovations can be one of the best investments you make, especially in today’s economy. The key to a successful remodel, however, is knowing what mistakes to avoid.

As a member of the Top 5 in Real Estate Network®, I have advised many clients on what renovations will offer the best return on their investment and pay dividends when the time comes to sell their home.

According to a Consumer Reports poll, the most popular remodeling projects for homeowners are kitchens (19%) and bathrooms (17%). In another survey, however, Consumer Reports asked 6,000 readers to reveal what went wrong when they remodeled their kitchens and baths and how much those mistakes added to the overall cost of their projects. Here's how to avoid their mistakes and save:

1.Don't rush in. Changing plans is the most common, but costliest remodeling gaffe. Be sure to leave time for research and create a comprehensive plan, listing every product.
2.Prepare for the unexpected. There's a lot going on behind the walls. Unexpected water damage was an issue with 17% of bathroom remodels, while structural problems caused headaches for 10% of kitchen projects. A good contractor will be able to anticipate such problems, allowing the homeowner to budget accordingly.
3.Don't chase the “low ball.” Contractors are lowering their profit margins due to the tight market, but they often make up their costs in labor or other areas. Readers who went for “low-ball” pricing ended up spending a median of $1,500 extra for labor on their kitchens and $1,000 extra on their bathrooms. Don't sign a contract with a lot of open-ended amounts for products and materials—these are called "allowances," in contractor speak.
4.Get the paperwork in order. Have the contractor attach copies of his or her up-to-date license, insurance, and workers' compensation policies to the written contract. He or she should also get permits and provide a lien waiver when the job is done; this will keep suppliers from contacting the homeowner for unpaid bills.
5.Focus on the boring bits. Specifying lighting and placement of trash cans are not much fun, but are critical to the process. For example, the proper exhaust fan will prevent mildew in baths and vent odors in kitchens.

Following the above advice will help ensure a successful—and profitable—remodel. For more information or for contractor referrals, please e-mail me. And please forward this email on to anyone you know in the midst of remodeling—don’t let them make these same mistakes.

Posted via email from The Baskin Report

Monday Morning Market Condition Report - April, 2010, data included - 7 county MSA, All Prices, Pre-owned and New Construction in MLS, SINGLE-FAMILY RESIDENTIAL ONLY! Source: NORES (Tulsa MLS)

Subject: Monday Morning Market Condition Report - April, 2010, data included - 7 county MSA, All Prices, Pre-owned and New Construction in MLS, SINGLE-FAMILY RESIDENTIAL ONLY! Source: NORES (Tulsa MLS)

Average and Median Prices trend slightly down & considered stable. April, 2010, Median Price was $129,900.

April, 2010, Average Sold Price $153,927.

Supply and Demand on a linear basis trends are steady. Supply/Demand trending up in past 2 to 3 months.

Significant Month’s Supply of Inventory statistic for April, 2010. (Based on contracts being written monthly)

NAR MSI is based on closings during month and lags behind previous chart based on contracts being written.

Linear trend is slightly up but last 4 months demonstrate favorable activity of contracts being written.

Need to know more about micro markets and/or price ranges? Contact me. 

Thomas E Allen, CRP, RAC Member

Thomas E Allen Appraisals, LLC

PO Box 702438

Tulsa, Ok 74170-2348

(918) 481 3500  FAX (918) 477 2044

TomAllen@TulsaCoxMail.com   or TomAllen@RAC.net

Relocation appraisals, destination due diligence, loss mitigation, REO analysis-appraisal, consulting, mortgage loan appraisals for origination, review appraisals, market condition analysis, forensic studies, and collateral value estimates.

© 2010 Thomas E Allen Appraisals, LLC  All rights reserved. 

Posted via email from The Baskin Report

Expensive Tulsa OK real estate...

There are currently three houses over one million dollars with contracts pending in Bixby and Jenks, Oklahoma. All three of them are sold by McGraw Realtors. Nineteen homes remain on the market over 1 million dollars. The finest Tulsa area homes are represented by www.TulsaLuxuryPropertyGroup.com of McGraw Realtors.

Posted via email from The Baskin Report