Recent Blog Posts

It seems that people need a laugh – especially on Friday. So, we dig back in to classic comedy scenes from a much better age of television. Some clips I found from past TV comedy when TV comedy meant something far different from today. A more innocent time and a time of real quality. Hope you enjoy the clips. Due to the length, there is just 1 clip per week. Enjoy! 12/01/2023

2111 Great Oak Dr, Tallahassee, FL Photos Maps & Local Schools Print Click here to Get Directions$275000 3 Beds - 2 Baths - 0.57 sqft Lot Nestled in the quiet neighborhood of Holly Hills, this fantastic three bedroom, two bathroom all brick home has so much curb appeal and old Tallahassee charm! Situated on a spacious and private double lot, this classic property is lives large with gleaming hardwood floors throughout most of the home, a well appointed kitchen with updated countertops and stainless steel appliances, a separate sunroom off of the oversized living area with an abundance of windows for much desired natural light throughout, and double doors leading out to the massive back deck overlooking the fully fenced yard! Updates have been completed (2016 Roof and 2018 Water Heater)... 12/01/2023

Substantial Increases in Cost of Living The 2023 Self-Sufficiency Standard (SSS) report released by Montgomery County’s Community Action Agency shows substantial increases in the cost of living, particularly in housing and childcare costs. The Self-Sufficiency Standard describes how much income families of various sizes and compositions need to earn to live without public or private assistance in specific geographic areas. The report is a measure of income adequacy based on the costs of basic needs for working families: housing, childcare, food, health care, transportation, miscellaneous items, the cost of taxes and the impact of tax credits. The SSS changes based on the number of people in a household and the ages of the children.The report shows that a Montgomery County family of four... 12/01/2023

Timmothy's cartoon brought two images to mind when I read it. #1 as a little five pointed star dressed like a cowboy with a revolver in it's hand and...#2 it reminded me of an old album cover by Shaun Cassidy. Shaun Cassidy was a teen TV Star on the show The Hardy Boys/Nancy Drew Mysteries and then he moved into the music business. I always loved this album cover even though I don't think I ever listened to his music (I worked at a record store for three years while in High School and there are several album covers that will forever be etched into my mind). Shooting Stars, back to the subject, we have all known them. I can think of one outstanding shooting star in our Real Estate Market. Unlike the back cover to Shaun's LP she never fell and is still a very active and successful agent t... 12/01/2023

A recipe from the kitchen of Debe Maxwell, CRS   RECIPE: Roasted Butternut Squash (with Cranberries and Goat Cheese) This is a tried and true recipe that we love to have in our home - especially on cooler fall & winter nights. For some reason, butternut squash tastes better to me when it's cooler outdoors! Endre Barath, Jr. asked for a tried and true recipe using butternut squash so, his request became my post!  INGREDIENTS: 1 butternut squash (about 2.5 lbs) 2 Tablespoons olive oil ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon salt and pepper to taste 1 cup fresh cranberries 2 Tablespoons honey 1/3 cup crumbled GOAT cheese Parsley to garnish   DIRECTIONS: Pre-heat the oven to 400º. Start by peeling, remove the seeds and cutting butternut squash into cubes. In a medium size bowl, add diced squash and mix ... 12/01/2023

It has been a wonderfully busy day of appointments and a delightful celebration of a couple of birthdays with a dozen of my NAWBO friends.Happy Birthday, Ann and Bonnie I am thankful that during this evening of celebration, I received an offer on one of my favorite listings. And I am grateful to have everything so convenient; I reviewed the offer and sent it to my sellers for signatures. Since it was late, I will hopefully ratify it in the morning.My office is not just a workplace; it's my Command Center where I am the most productive.From this office, I have a view of the changing seasons, and I even get to wave to the mail carrier every day. Some days, I even have friendly deer who stop by to nibble on my bushes. (I did not have to leave my desk to snap this photo.) The remote-control... 11/30/2023

Modern Home for Sale North of Fort WorthMake Your Bid NOW!Modern home for sale north of Fort Worth boasts a gorgeous style and luxury inside and out. The spacious open floor plan features exquisite rustic style from the ceramic tile floors to the distressed wood accents to the barn doors. There are 3 spacious bedrooms and 3 full bathrooms. The primary bedroom and a guest bedroom each have an ensuite bathroom. Upstairs is an open space full of potential. Outside is an above ground pool, a rock fireplace on the covered porch, a shop with a partially finished apartment in it, a she-shed and a storm shelter. Located less than an hour from Fort Worth.Special terms and conditions, and Buyer's Premium apply for all sales.Information About Brokerage ServicesTexas Real Estate Commission Consumer... 11/30/2023

Are you in your Golden Years? Ready to downsize or lead a relaxing enjoyable life with sunshine and things to do? Arizona has many such communities with Age restricted neighborhoods detached homes for sale in Phoenix metro . See here on this link and following with listings on the MLS with pictures, prices, details map locations and more in a full page format. Separately, for, the largest metro area in the state, here are all single family all detached homes for sale in the Phoenix Arizona MLS. (Photo:Fususu, Pixabay)Age Restricted Active Lifestyle Homes For Sale in Phoenix Metro Area (55+ with some lower age variations)For a FREE MLS (Full Page) search of  Age restricted neighborhoods detached homes for sale in Phoenix metro and create your own free MLS Search Portal.Sun City one of fi... 11/30/2023

Thank you, Debe Maxwell, CRS , for inspiring me to write these gratefulness posts. I was not sure if I would be able to do all four, but I managed to get it done. Thank you again.Now with that said, I am so grateful for being in such a good place financially, that we can afford a great deal of luxury when it comes to cooking and eating gourmet food, to name one subject. Just as a background, I have managed to collect, as most of my regular readers know over 190 + cookbooks in the past 29 years. Some were gifts from friends and Active Rain peeps, they know who they are so I will not embarrass them😊. Many of these cookbooks were written by Michelin rated Chefs whose restaurants we had the pleasure of dining in. Not just here in the United States but in Europe as well. Honorable mentions g... 11/30/2023

New Construction Community in Decatur, GA. Seven units off the ground at the moment and Five more to follow.  Presented at $899,900.00 - $939,900.00  Call me for more details: Anthony Acosta, Associate Broker with Harry Norman, REALTORS (404)797-9907 Cell404-233-4142OfficeAnthony.Acosta@HarryNorman.com  Overlook at Moda Townhomes – Elevating Decatur LivingDiscover luxury living at Overlook at Moda Townhomes, a modern townhouse community in Decatur, GA. Elevate your lifestyle with unique features, including private elevators, open floor plans, rooftop terraces, and top-notch amenities. Enjoy a pool, deluxe appliances, floor-to-ceiling windows, a fireplace, and premium lighting. Conveniently located, with easy access to shopping, dining, and a quick commute to downtown Decatur and midtown... 11/30/2023

Just Sold - EOG Townhome in Laurel's Mayfair NeighborhoodSold in just 4 days for over list price and settled in less than 20 days!!  This end of group townhome was listed in as-is condition.  It showed well but because it was an Estate Sale it was being sold as is. The estate received multiple offers and they chose the offer that they felt was the best opportunity for them to have a quick sale with the least number of challenges. Do you own a home in Laurel's Mayfair neighborhood? Are you thinking about selling your home? Many buyers missed out on this opportunity and they are waiting for another home nearby, could it be yours?Let's talk about your real estate needs.  Interest rates dropped again today, so maybe it's time to think about making a move. Let's talk. 11/30/2023

Found in my email this morning: Writing advice from Samuel Langhorne Clemens - otherwise known as Mark Twain.If people lived that long, he would have been 188 years old today.And as much as things change, they also stay the same. Mark Twain's quotes are always wise, and this one is no exception: “Substitute ‘damn’ every time you’re inclined to write ‘very’; your editor will delete it and the writing will be just as it should be.” If you don't have an editor to hold you down, just restrain yourself!Instead of filling your copy with adverbs, try looking for more descriptive verbs.  11/30/2023

According to to the most recent data, US oil production reached a record of 13.24 million barrels per day of output this past September.For those curious about the Europe situation (involving Russia), know this, the US is helping with shoring up Europe's crude oil needs along with Qatar supplying loads of LNG to the European Union.I don't have an inside track, this is all public news that has been available and can be verified.  11/30/2023

Texas Ranch Land for Sale in Palestine TXMake Your Bid Now!Texas ranch land for sale in Palestine TX is over 130 acres, more or less, with 8 pastures of organic coastal Bermuda grass. There are 4 ponds which always have water. As well as fencing, this property also has a main barn, a stud barn with veterinary room and both with living quarters. As well as a shop large enough to accommodate the semi truck bringing in the hay deliveries. Special terms and conditions, and Buyer's Premium apply for all sales.Information About Brokerage ServicesTexas Real Estate Commission Consumer Protection NoticeTo Contact the Texas Department of Licensing and RegulationMyers Jackson License DisclosuresMyers Jackson TX Broker 0698695Myers Jackson TX Auctioneer TDLR 17057  11/30/2023

In our series, Real Estate: By The Numbers, we're exploring effective strategies to enhance your home's curb appeal. Whether you're preparing to sell your home or just want to make a great impression, boosting curb appeal can significantly increase your home's value and attractiveness. Here are eight practical ways to make your home stand out, offering benefits for both sellers looking to captivate potential buyers and homeowners wishing to beautify their space.1. Revitalize the Exterior PaintFor Both Sellers and Homeowners: A fresh coat of paint can transform the look of your home. Choose colors that complement the style of your home and appeal to a wide range of buyers. Even touching up trim and shutters can make a big difference.2. Landscape for SuccessFor Both Sellers and Homeowners... 11/30/2023

 In our series, Real Estate: By The Numbers, we address a pivotal aspect of buying or selling property: the importance of open communication with your real estate agent. An experienced and reliable agent is a crucial ally in navigating the complex world of real estate. Whether you're a first-time buyer, a seasoned investor, or looking to sell your home, knowing the right questions to ask can significantly enhance your experience. Here are seven essential questions that can provide valuable insights and guide your decisions in the real estate process.1. What is Your Experience in the Local Market?For Both Buyers and Sellers: Understanding your agent's familiarity with the local market is crucial. An agent who is well-versed in the area's real estate trends, pricing, and community feature... 11/30/2023

It is important to celebrate the roles that women have played in improving so much for so many.   Women have played pivotal roles in history and they deserve our gratitude.   If it weren't for countless women serving in positions to enact change, women would not have gained so much.   For those women, I am grateful! There are so many outstanding women who have accomplished so much that it would be foolish to start a list for fear of eliminating even one amazing woman.  For this post Thankful Challenge, I'd like to focus on one amazing woman - Rosalynn Carter.   Rosalynn faced challenges like a lot of women growing up in the 1940's.   Women were still expected to wear dresses in public, in schools, everywhere.  Women weren't assuming leadership roles, much less being given the opportunit... 11/30/2023

On November 30, 2023, National Association of Realtors® (NAR) reported that nationwide pending contract signed home sales lower 1.5% to an index of 71.4 in October of 2023 from September of 2023, and decreased 8.5% from October of 2022.Pending home sales index in the Northeast declined 2.7% to an index of 64.8 in October of 2023 from September 2023, but fell 6.5% from October of 2022.Pending home sales index in the Midwest lost 0.4% to an index of 73.8 in October of 2023 from September 2023, and dropped 10.3% from October of 2022.Pending home sales index in the South down 1.9% to an index of 85.6 in October of 2023 from September 2023, and decreased 7.1% from October of 2022.Pending home sales index in the West lower 6.0% to an index of 51.8 in October of 2023 from September 2023, and d... 11/30/2023

Teamwork Makes the Dream Work 🌟 As the leader of our all-women's real estate team here in the heart of beautiful Charlotte, I'm bursting with pride and gratitude. Our journey in the Charlotte real estate market, through its highs and lows, has been nothing short of extraordinary - and it's all thanks to my incredible team and our loyal clients. Last month, something amazing happened…We were honored as Charlotte's Best Real Estate Team for 2023!  One of my favorite clients phoned me to congratulate me when this was announced in The Charlotte Observer saying, “This accolade isn't just a trophy on your shelf—it's a testament to the dedication, hard work and passion that the three of you pour into your work every single day.”Of course, I thanked her profusely and explained that we are also ... 11/30/2023

That wonderful Invincible Feeling.We have all felt it and wished we could hang on to it forever BUT as Titus found out when he walked off the end of the table, a fall will often come shortly after. I don't know if any of us can say we feel invincible as Real Estate agents... as in I know I am going to get the listing or the sale every single time we go out on a call. Real Estate, like gravity, is a very humbling master. I did once have a position where I honestly felt that way, and then I went into Real Estate.Thank God for Grace!Grace is available in so many aspects of life. As children most of us can remember moments of grace our parents blessed us with when we misbehaved. And not just parents but also, grandparents, siblings, teachers, friends, and even those we may have wronged by o... 11/30/2023