Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Should I Consider a Pre-Nup?
One thing that all parties should ensure, when planning a pre-nup is independent counsel. Another is honesty and full disclosure of each parties assets. Without full disclosure, the agreement may not be valid later on.
To discuss a Bixby, OK. pre-nuptial agreement or other legal issues, contact Richardson Law Firm, at 918-492-7674 or www.rrblawok.com
For all your Bixby, OK. real estate needs, contact Darryl Baskin, McGraw Realtors, 918-258-2600 or www.darrylbaskin.com
Monday, April 25, 2011
Tulsa, OK. Area Home For Sale with REDUCED PRICE...
11607 E. 84 Ct. N.
Three Lakes Village in Owasso, OK.
$94,900
3 Bedrooms
1 Full, 1 Half Bathrooms
2 Car Garage
For more information on this Owasso, OK home for sale or to buy or sell real estate in the Bixby, OK area, contact Kelly Howard of McGraw Realtors at 918-230-6341 or www.kellyhowardhomes.com.
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Answers to 5 Common Questions About Default
Unfortunately, in today's slowly recovering economy, many homeowners continue to find themselves in financial trouble. As a Member of the Top 5 in Real Estate Network®, I, along with my team, have worked with many clients over the past few years to help resolve their financial dilemma in the best way possible. There are many options available to distressed Bixby, OK. area homeowners -- unfortunately, most people are not aware of what these options are.
To help clarify confusion and shed light on optimal homeowner options, real estate finance expert Marian Anthony, answers five questions distressed homeowners often have:
1. Should I intentionally default on my home mortgage?
You’ve probably heard of people "intentionally" or "strategically" defaulting on their mortgage, willing to take the hit to their credit in favor of freeing up cash flow in the short-term. Rather than defaulting, however, homeowners should talk with their real estate professional about the potential for a short sale. A short sale could lead toward the debt showing as "settled" on your credit. Walking away and allowing the bank to foreclose still allows the second lender to render a judgment -- and possibly garnish your wages. You may also have to file for bankruptcy to recover from the credit nightmare.
2. As a borrower, what are some ways I can gain leverage with my lender?
One way to gain leverage with a lender is to establish a "substitute mortgage" -- a security pledge that is offered to the seller's lender with a third party for a lesser amount of the current payment. Over time, this will result in a significant amount of collected funds that can be used as negotiating leverage to release the borrower from the debt, or dictate terms for a favorable loan modification.
3. Why have loan modifications and foreclosures become the predominant answer for so many in distressed property situations?
The reason why loan modifications and foreclosures have become the answer for so many is because many real estate professionals erroneously consider the short sale process to be too complex. It is essential to work with a real estate professional who is equipped with the right forms and contact information, and who knows how to orchestrate a short sale transaction.
4. Why is a short sale strategy more advantageous than a foreclosure?
The reduced payoff in a short sale can release you from the debt obligation. This often allows you to re-establish your credit faster and re-enter the market much wiser. A foreclosure can ruin a homeowner's credit and take much longer to recover from.
5. I’ve heard borrowers in default need a 'General Public Disclosure?' Why?
Many people are not aware of the alternatives available to them when facing foreclosure. Knowing your options, as detailed on a General Public Disclosure document, can make all the difference in establishing a deal that's in the homeowners' best interest.
Remember that every distressed homeowner's situation is unique; therefore, it is essential to contact a real estate professional -- and often an attorney -- to determine the best possible solution for you. My team is happy to assist, so please feel free to contact us, and please pass this important information on to others in need.
For all your Bixby, OK. real estate needs, contact Darryl Baskin, McGraw Realtors, 918-258-2600 or www.darrylbaskin.com.
For a Tulsa Mortgage, contact Steve Currington, Currington Mortgage, 918-394-5626 or www.curringtonmortgage.com.
Easy Ways to Make Your Bixby, OK Home More Earth Friendly
RISMEDIA, April 19, 2011—Roughly 500 million people around the globe celebrate Earth Day (April 22), according to Associated Content. With Earth Month celebrations gearing up, Ziploc wants to empower families to get involved in recycling efforts through easy household solutions that are adaptable to any family’s daily routine.To buy or sell Bixby, OK. real estate, contact Kelly Howard, McGraw Realtors, 918-230-6341 or www.kellyhowardhomes.com.In an effort to offset the amount of product waste that could potentially end up in landfills and motivate families to do their part to recycle and protect the environment for future generations, Ziploc has partnered with Recyclebank, one of the leading sustainable action platforms designed to motivate and enable individuals to make a collective impact on the environment. From recycling and reusing everyday kitchenware to being mindful of water and energy usage, families can incorporate these simple, earth-friendly tips into their kitchen routines:
Increase Recycling Efforts
Recycle items that you no longer need and participate in community recycling initiatives. Community support for recycling of common and uncommon goods can vary from place to place.
Use “Smart” Kitchen Supplies and Appliances
When buying supplies for your kitchen—whether an appliance, cooking pan or piece of cutlery—choose durable and high quality kitchenware to withstand the test of time. Also, save energy (and potentially reduce your gas bill) by using smaller kitchen appliances when cooking small amounts of food. For example, heating water in an electric kettle rather than a teapot on the stove or cooking small or medium sized portions of food in the microwave instead of the regular oven use less energy.
Store Meals in Reusable and Multi-Purpose Containers
When preparing and storing meals for the family, try using multi-purpose containers, which are available in a variety of sizes and shapes. They not only help families stay organized and get more out of meals (and reduce waste) by keeping food fresh, but they are also microwaveable, freezer-safe and are perfect for storing leftovers or carrying lunch to work.
Conserve the Household Water Supply
For a cold beverage, keep a cool pitcher of water in the fridge instead of letting the tap run until water gets cold. Refill one water glass or reusable bottle throughout the day so there will be fewer items to wash. After eating, don’t rinse dishes with water—just scrape off the excess food and load directly into the dishwasher. Tests by Consumer Reports showed that pre-rinsing usually isn’t necessary and by skipping it you can save 20 gallons of water per load.
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
10 Tips to Improve Your Chances of Getting a Mortgage on Favorable Terms
Sue Stewart, senior vice president for Move, Inc., offers the following tips to help first-time buyers improve their chances of getting a mortgage on favorable terms.
1. Pay down debt. Before you apply for a mortgage, reduce your total debt (monthly payments on credit cards, auto loan, student loans, consumer loans) to help reduce your overall debt-to-income ratios and improve your credit score. Generally, your ratio should be 36% of your gross monthly income. Also, the total of your housing expenses alone, whether you are renting or buying, should not exceed 28% of your monthly gross income.
2. Clean up your credit. About half of all renters think they don’t have good enough credit for a mortgage, but most don’t really know. Obtain your free credit report from each of the three credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian and TransUnion) and carefully review them, noting all negative items. Contact creditors to correct inaccurate or outdated items. It will take time, but you need to raise your credit score to a minimum of 680 and ideally to 720 and above to qualify and to avoid being penalized with a higher interest rate.
3. Make no new large purchases and don’t apply for new credit before or during the period that you are applying for a mortgage all the way up to closing. Lenders check credit reports at the time of an application and again right before closing. Last minute questions about your credit can cause a delay, a higher interest rate, or a denial from a lender. Wait to buy the new furniture until the house is yours.
4. Increase your down payment. This will reduce the loan-to-value ratio and increases the likelihood of getting a loan and better terms from your lender. Increasing your down payment immediately increases your equity, reduces the amount you borrow and reduces your monthly mortgage payment. If you are in need of down payment assistance, more than 4,000 local and state governments offer workforce house assistance for low- to medium-income buyers. Some require homeownership education, which can be very helpful.
5. Gather documents beforehand. Don’t wait until the last minute and find yourself having to scramble for paperwork that supports your employment status, assets and credit. Have all the necessary documentation ready for review when you apply. Collect your income tax returns, pay stubs, bank and financial statements and student loan paperwork. Stay on top of your documentation as time passes while your application is pending, and get updated documents, such as pay stubs, to your lender.
6. Anticipate closing costs. Closing costs, which can run 5-7% of your total transaction add up quickly and must be paid in cash—in addition to your down payment. Be prepared to have adequate cash on-hand.
7. Determine the type of loan you need. Fixed rate? Adjustable? FHA or VA? Fifteen or 30-year term? Jumbo? Second trust? These decisions aren’t just financial; they also reflect your lifestyle, your risk tolerance and the programs for which you might qualify. Do your homework and make a decision before you go house hunting. Don’t let someone talk you into a different game plan to stretch your finances to afford a particular property.
8. Ignore “bait rates.” Some mortgage advertising can be misleading with low rate promises. Beware. These “bait rates” are only for those with extraordinary credit with no contingencies. Your rate will be based on many factors: your credit, your debt-to-income and loan-to-value ratios, the size and type of your loan, where you live and the day you lock your rate, etc. You won’t know what your rate will be until your application is accepted. By then, it may be too late for you to find a competitive rate from another lender. Instead, pick a lender you trust, who will work with you and help you find the best all-around deal.
9. Negotiate a lower home sales price. Getting a better deal on your home not only works for you, it works for your lender because it lowers your loan-to-value ratio. Prices are still falling in many markets and sellers are eager to make a deal. If you’re not sure what a property is worth, you can ask your REALTOR® for a comparative market analysis.
10. Have a cash reserve. A good rule of thumb is to have at least three months salary saved as a cushion before you buy. This will help with your ratios and enable you to afford and cover closing costs.
For all your Bixby, OK. real estate needs, contact Darryl Baskin, McGraw Realtors, 918-258-2600 or www.darrylbaskin.com.
For a Bixby, OK. mortgage, contact Karen Heston, BOK Mortgage, 918-488-7353 or http://kheston-boklo.mortgagewebcenter.com/Default.asp?bhcp=1
Monday, April 18, 2011
Top 5 Ways to Make Your Bixby, OK. Move Less Stressful
Moving into your brand new Bixby, OK. home is one of the happiest, most exciting moments of your life. Unfortunately, it can also be one of the most stressful. The perils and pitfalls of packing up your possessions and safely moving them to another location -- whether around the corner or across state lines -- can turn this momentous occasion into a nightmare.
As a Member of the Top 5 in Real Estate Network®, I, along with my team, have helped many clients over the years not just find the home of their dreams, but smoothly move into it as well. There are several important steps to take to ensure a successful move, such as these suggestions from Mayflower Transit:
- Have the right supplies - Gather up cartons, bubble wrap, packing tape and newspapers before you pack your first box. That includes marking pens, so you can label each box with its contents and intended location in your new home.
- Get a head start - The sooner you begin, the more stress-free you will be. Aim to fill and mark at least two or three boxes each day. While you are packing is the best time to de-clutter. Throw out or give away items you will likely not want in your new home.
- Pack your own valuables - As you pack, set aside valuables or irreplaceable items such as jewelry, heirlooms or pieces of artwork that you'd feel more comfortable moving yourself. This should include important paperwork and photos.
- Notify important contacts - Make a list of utilities at both locations that need to be notified of your moving date. Check off each as you make arrangements for shut-off and turn-on dates. List and contact creditors, Internet providers, and anyone else who will need your new address, including magazine and book or movie subscriptions. Don't forget to file your change of address with the post office at least a week before you move.
- Prescriptions and pets - Be sure you have enough prescription medications to see you through your moving period - and be sure to transfer existing prescriptions to a pharmacy in your new area. If you have pets, make plans well ahead of time as to where to keep them during the move - and how you'll transport them to your new home.
Simple steps like the above may seem like common sense, but in the throes of such a major life experience, it's the details that often get overlooked and cause the most problems. Please e-mail our team for more moving strategies and feel free to forward this information to friends and family who may also be making the big move.
For all your Bixby, OK. real estate needs, contact The Baskin Real Estate Specialists of McGraw Realtors, 918-258-2600 or www.darrylbaskin.com.
Tulsa, OK. Area Homes for Sale...
Bixby, OK Luxury Home for Sale!10824 S. 93 E. Ave.
Bixby, OK. in The Legends Addition
$725,000
5 Bedrooms
5 Full 1 Half Bathrooms
5 Living Areas
3 Car Garage
602 Cross Timbers Blvd.
The Lakes at Cross Timbers
$339,000
3 Bedrooms
2 Full 1 Half Bathrooms
3 Car Garage
Broken Arrow, OK. Home for Sale1705 S. Juniper Ave.
Village Park
$159,900
3 Bedrooms
2 Bathrooms
2 Car Garage
Friday, April 15, 2011
How to Qualify for a Mortgage in Today's Credit Crunch
There may have never been a better time to buy a home than right now. Earlier this month, interest rates dropped again -- the average contract interest rate for 30-year fixed-rate mortgages decreased to 4.79% from 4.93%, according to loanrateupdate.com -- and there is still plenty of inventory, keeping home prices relatively low in our area.
Those positive factors, however, are often offset by tighter lending standards, causing many to shy away from applying for a mortgage. As a Member of the Top 5 in Real Estate Network®, however, I, along with my team, have learned that it really boils down to four main factors that will impact a lender's decision:
- Your ability to make a downpayment - usually between 3% and 20% of the purchase price -- of course, the larger the downpayment, the better your odds of securing the mortgage.
- Two years of steady employment - at the same job or in the same field.
- Good (but not necessarily perfect) credit score - these days, around 660 may do it.
- Monthly income between two and three times the estimated monthly mortgage payment.
My team has had many clients, however, who have qualified for a mortgage without completely meeting the above criteria ... so don't rule yourself out too soon. There are several other steps you can take to secure a mortgage, such as these ideas from BusinessWeek:
- Meet with a lender anyway. You may find out that you qualify after all, and if not, the lender can tell you exactly which areas to focus on in order to qualify in the near future.
- Ask your real estate agent if they work with a particular lender or mortgage broker. An experienced agent works with many lenders and may even offer in-house mortgage services.
- Get a co-signer. This isn't easy, because if you default on a loan, the co-signer will be responsible for paying it. But if you know someone with good credit who has great faith in your ability to pay, a co-signer could be a workable option.
- Plan for the future. If it turns out you cannot qualify for a home loan right now, have your real estate agent help you map out a plan for improving your credit qualifications over the coming months. If you make homeownership a serious goal, you should be able to qualify in the not-too-distant future.
For more information about applying for a mortgage, please feel free to contact our team. And be sure to share this email with family and friends who might also be considering a home purchase -- this market is just too good to miss out on!
Sincerely,
Darryl BaskinFor all your Bixby, OK. real estate needs, contact Darryl Baskin, McGraw Reators, 918-258-2600 or www.darrylbaskin.com.
For a Tulsa Mortgage, contact Steve Currington, Currington Mortgage, 918-394-5626 or www.curringtonmortgage.com.
Thursday, April 14, 2011
Why Bixby is a Great Place to Live...
NEWS RELEASE
CENSUS COUNT CONFIRMS BIXBY’S STATUS AS A HIGH GROWTH COMMUNITY WITH A VERY POSITIVE DEMOGRAPHIC
The recently released 2010 Census counts contain some very interesting information, confirming the city of Bixby’s reputation as a very high growth community with a very positive demographic, says Trish Richey, the City of Bixby’s Economic Development Director. “These facts, along with our high quality of schools, status as a very safe community with a stable, progressive government, a strong chamber of commerce, and very attractive quality of life, continue to make Bixby a top choice for people and businesses looking to relocate to the Tulsa metro area, “ Richey said.
Citing data produced through last year’s decennial census process, combined with result of other research and analysis, Richey has assembled an impressive listing of facts and figures which help her and other City officials communicate to people who may not be familiar with our community why they should consider relocating their home or business to Bixby:
1. Bixby was one of the fastest growing cities in the state of Oklahoma this past decade, and second fastest growing in the Tulsa metro region, having grown by 57%
2. At just under 21,000 people, now the 20th largest city in the state, having moved up from 32nd
3. Bixby has a very positive demographic, and features a very attractive quality of life. Its excellent school system is one of its a major attractions, along with its quality neighborhoods, friendly small town feel, with many community amenities, and significant commercial development potential, including along the Arkansas River
4. Our percentage of citizens holding B.S. degrees or higher is very high, (at 38%, more than 2/3rds higher than statewide average). Earlier this year, Bixby was pleased to become home to Southern Nazarene University’s new Northeast Oklahoma branch campus
5. Has the highest median home values in the Tulsa Metro Region (at $168,500, is 70% higher than the state as a whole)
6. Has the highest Per Capita Income in the Tulsa Metro Region, (at $34,004, is 51% higher than state as a whole)
7. And the growth continues! Last year, while most cities saw declines in # of building permits, Bixby’s grew by 22%, the highest growth rate of any city in the Tulsa metro region
8. Featuring a stable, progressive city government, Bixby has a very low crime rate – a recent report confirmed that Bixby was again the safest city in Oklahoma for communities its size
9. Bixby has a dynamic Chamber of Commerce which has experienced a very high growth rate. Recently recognized as one of the top 10 chambers its size in the nation.
10. Bixby’s new 100 acre Bentley youth sports park, just recognized for top design in the state by the Oklahoma Recreation Sports Society, connects to an extensive trails system
11. The new 4,500 seat Spirit Bank Event Center regularly hosts world-class entertainment and numerous events which attract visitors from throughout the region.
12. In 2009 CNN Money.com selected Bixby as one of its Best Places to Live in America, designating it one of America’s best small towns.
Bixby Mayor Ray Bowen, who himself can often be heard citing Bixby as “the best place in Oklahoma in which to live, play, and do business”, was recently recognized by the Bixby Metro Chamber of Commerce as the 2010 Citizen of the Year for his leadership and non-stop efforts to promote the City he clearly loves. “Bixby is a wonderful community, with a rich heritage and strong future. Behind the great economic statistics, you’ll find simply the best character of people you’ll find anywhere, who make newcomers quickly feel at home here,” he said.
Bowen explained that Bixby’s high growth rate makes passage the City’s upcoming April 5th $10 million General Obligation (G.O.) Bond issue particularly important for the community. “The four propositions which comprise our upcoming G.O. bond election are designed to address critical traffic safety, quality of life and public safety needs of our growing community. Like successful businesses, communities seeking to continue to progress need to continually reinvest in themselves,” Bowen said. “Fortunately, due to retiring of other bonds and growth-induced increase in our bond capacity, we are able to make these additional infrastructure improvements without raising taxes,” he added.
For more information on Bixby, OK. contact:
Trish Richey
Director Economic Development
E-mail: trichey@olp.net
To buy or sell real estate in Bixby, OK. contact Darryl Baskin, McGraw Realtors, 918-258-2600 or www.darrylbaskin.com.
Easy Energy-Saving Ideas for Spring
Spring is finally upon us, which means things will be heating up in no time...including your electric bill.
In today's economy, it's important to reduce expenses wherever possible, especially those costs related to your home. As a Member of the Top 5 in Real Estate Network®, I, along with my team, have seen how seemingly small steps in home maintenance can yield big results in terms of savings. Whenever working with clients, therefore, we make sure to point out the various ways they can save energy. Not only is it good for the environment, it's good for your household budget as well.
Here are some great energy-saving ideas to look at this spring:
Start at the top. Now is the perfect time to make sure your roof has adequate ventilation. As the weather gets increasingly warmer, heat builds up in your attic and good ventilation is critical to cutting cooling costs and protecting your shingles, as well.
Check your cooling system. An annual inspection is key to keeping your air conditioning system at peak performance. Early spring is the best time to call a local contractor to schedule a check-up. Make sure air conditioning units are free of obstructions inside and out. When embarking on spring clean up, be sure to trim bushes, and clear leaves and other debris away from your outdoor condenser.
Consider a furnace replacement. You may be using your furnace less as the weather warms up, but if it's an older model, now may be the time to take advantage of end-of-season sales to replace it with one that's more energy efficient.
Landscaping plays a part. Plant trees on the south and west side of your house to provide cooling shade.
These are just some of the ways to help reduce energy costs and also protect one of your greatest investments...your home. Please e-mail our team for more home ideas and be sure to pass this information on to your fellow homeowners as well.
Sincerely,
Darryl Baskin
For all your Bixby, OK. real estate needs, contact The Baskin Real Estate Specialists at McGraw Realtors at 918-258-2600 or www.darrylbaskin.com.
For all your Bixby, OK. roofing needs, contact Judy Smith of A-Best Roofing at 918-587-1426 or www.abestroofing.com.
For other ways to cut your Bixby, OK. electric bill and for all your Bixby, OK. electric installation and repair, contact Larry Murray of Murray Electric at 918-557-3020 or www.murrayelectric.com.
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
Increasing Your Bixby, OK. Home's Value...
These New York brokers suggest the following:
WHAT CAN DECREASE A PROPERTY’S VALUE
- Chipped plaster or broken bathroom tiles: Knock $500 to $5,000 off an offer
- Dirty rugs: Subtract $5,000
- Clutter: Subtract 5 to 15 percent from sales price
WHAT CAN INCREASE A PROPERTY’S VALUE
- Fresh towels and throw pillows (estimated cost: $700): Add $25,000 to sales price
- New lights (cost: $2,000 replacing lighting fixtures and $250 for a professional lighting designers expertise): Add $32,500
- Professional paint job (estimated cost: $10,000): Add $50,000 to the sales price
- Replacing cabinets (estimated cost: $20,000 on new kitchen cabinets and paint): Add $107,000
To read the entire article, "Real Estate Math: What Can Increase and Decrease a Home's Value", visit the link.
For more information on Bixby, OK. home value or to buy or sell Bixby, OK. real estate, contact Kelly Howard, McGraw Realtors, 918-230-6341 or www.kellyhowardhomes.com.
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
South Tulsa Luxury Homes for Sale...
Exquisite Custom Luxury Home in Bixby, OK.15080 S. Columbia Ave.
The Estates of Posey Creek Farms in Bixby, OK.
$1,250,000
4 Bedrooms
3 Full 2 Half Bathrooms
4 Living Areas
3 Car Garage
__________________________________
19983 S. Sheridan Rd
Mounds, OK. with 80 Acres
$2,699,000
4 Bedrooms
3 Full, 2 Half Bathrooms
5 Living Areas
3 Car Garage
_____________________________________
For more information on any of these Tulsa, OK area luxury homes for sale or to buy or sell real estate in the Bixby, OK area, contact Kelly Howard of McGraw Realtors at 918-230-6341 or www.kellyhowardhomes.com.
Sunday, April 10, 2011
Bixby, OK. Home for Sale
New Construction in Bixby, OK!14558 South Urbana Court
The Auberge in Bixby, OK.
$214,900
2 Bedrooms
2 Full 1 Half Bathrooms
2 Car Garage
For more information on this Bixby, OK home for sale or to buy or sell your Bixby, OK area home contact Kelly Howard of McGraw Realtors at 918-230-6341 or www.kellyhowardhomes.com.


Saturday, April 9, 2011
Tulsa, OK. Area Homes for Sale...
Elegant Luxury Home For Sale in Bixby, OK.13420 S. Lewis Ave.
$999,000
13420 South Lewis Avenue in Bixby, OK
The Estates of Hampton Hills Addition
5 Bedrooms
5 Full, 1 Half Bathrooms
3 Car Garage
_______________________________________
Exquisite Luxury Home for Sale in Jenks, OK.10808 South New Haven Avenue
Belmont Addition in Jenks, Oklahoma
$1,895,000
4 Bedrooms
4 Full 2 Half Bathrooms
4 Living Areas
4 Car Garage
_________________________________
11607 E. 84 Ct. N.
Three Lakes Village in Owasso, OK.
$99,500
3 Bedrooms
1 Full, 1 Half Bathrooms
2 Car Garage
_____________________________________
For more information on any of these Tulsa, OK area homes for sale or to buy or sell real estate in the Bixby, OK area, contact Kelly Howard of McGraw Realtors at 918-230-6341 or www.kellyhowardhomes.com.
Friday, April 8, 2011
Is There a Housing Shortage Coming to Bixby?
Want more information on the housing shortage? Visit the original article, "Housing Shortage on the Horizon", here.
Don't wait for a housing shortage in Bixby, OK. To buy or sell Bixby, OK. area real estate, contact Kelly Howard, McGraw Realtors, 918-230-6341 or www.kellyhowardhomes.com.

