Denton County Texas Lakefront Properties If you have buyer clients or prospects who are consistently asking for waterfront property for either a second home, retirement, or just living on a lake on a full time basis to get away from the rat race in town... in today's market, the dream is closer to reality as far as affordability in many areas.  Denton County Texas has many of those affordable Lakefront Properties!  Lake Lewisville, Lake Ray Roberts, Lake Grapevin, and Lake Dallas are the lakes in Denton County and all have residential properties along their shores.  Currently there are over 60 active lakefront properties for sale in Denton County, ranging in prices from $150,000 to $2,200,000.  Buyer's looking for Denton County Lakefront Property will find the best deals this year! Dent... 02/23/2010

My hope is to provide a small bit of helpful information about the community of Highland Village, Texas as well as highlight the wonderful lakefront homes it has to offer.   Highland Village, Texas was formally made into a city in the early 1960's, so it hasn't been around too entirely long.  Interestingly enough, it started as a small community of people that were drawn there to build their homes right on the lakefront, being that the city is located halfway between Denton and Dallas on the south side of Lake Lewisville.  According to Wikipedia, in the last 20 years, people have begun to flock to the area and the city has had to react.  Being that it is primarily a residential area, again, founded by people eager to build lakefront homes (and the desire of residents to keep the city a ... 09/04/2009

In a note to the reader at the beginning of this collection, Amy Tan admits that, "The Opposite of Fate is, in effect, really a series of "musings," each one linked to the other by her own "fascination with fate, both blind and blessed, and its many alternatives." These alternatives, she goes on to say, "can be summed up in one word—hope."This is very much a book about life's twists and turns, its tragedies and small joys and the sometimes silly or even desperate actions we take to avert a particular course of events. Regardless of the unique direction of each story, the notion of fate is a central tenet, and will inevitably lead readers to look at their own lives and the role fate plays therein.It's been awhile since I've read this book, but recent occurrences in my life brought me ba... 02/11/2009

Yesterday, excitement was in the air as traders came back into the market with money in both fists.  To balance their risk tolerance, money was flowing freely into both the safe haven of Bonds as well as the Stock market.  As mortgage rates improve, this opens the door to more refinancing.  As refinances take place, mortgages are paid off leaving portfolios of Mortgage Back Securities with more cash and less securities.  This means they have less risk...and lower performance. Mortgage Portfolio Managers are holding too much cash, so these big mortgage portfolio's park this money in Treasuries - thus driving the yield on the 10-year Note lower. This is called convexity buying.  As I've said before, the media continues to be off base when they say that "mortgage rates are tied to 10-year ... 11/05/2008

The polls are open and Election Day has finally arrived.  Early voting has had higher turnout than previous elections and today's turnout is expected to be strong as well with reports of very long lines already. A big job awaits our new President.  How will he handle the current economic downturn and challenges we are facing on Wall Street and Main Street?  And what will he tackle first?  Today is likely to be a quiet day in the markets as traders wait for the results of today's Election.  Bonds are slightly improved and having little reaction to news items.  Is this the calm before the storm? During the day, there may be a lot of noise with news channels calling states early.  It is very possible we will experience some short term volatility at the end of the day. The market may react ... 11/04/2008

It was no surprise yesterday afternoon when the Fed announced their Interest Rate Decision.  The Fed cut 50 basis points as expected, lowering the short term overnight rate to 1%.  This is the lowest level since June 2003.  There was little reaction in the markets to the news, as it was anticipated.  This morning, it seems that Halloween came early bearing no treats.  The Gross Domestic Product (GDP) declined in the third quarter.  GDP is a measure of the total production and consumption of goods and services in the U.S.  After a reading of 2.8% growth in the second quarter, third quarter showed a decline of 0.3% and consumer spending declined for the first time in 17 years and at the fastest pace in 28 years.  While we've all felt the pressure inflation has brought, it is now showing u... 10/30/2008

With many people you will encounter in real estate business transactions and also in your personal life, sometimes I wonder if they don't know that they are not playing their music. I think all of us have something very unique to offer to others and the world. Think of it like your sheet music with your very unique song. It seems to be more spontaneous that it comes out of us when we are very young but gets dulled as we get older. Can you imagine that? Getting dulled to yourself? Who ought to know you better than you? Well many forget who they really are, their interests, dreams and desires. I do think this being de-sensitized to ourselves comes from the distraction of busyness. Now more than ever we can drown our own world with the noise from the outside.         Look at children for e... 09/10/2008

Active Homes: 122     Asking Price Range: $165,000 - $2,156,601 Average Asking Price: $378,477 Pending Sales: 27 Asking Price Range: $105,000 - $749,900 Average Asking Price $244,815 Sold Single Family Homes in Highland Village from April 1, 2008 - April 30, 2008: 22 Average Days on Market: 70 days (8-343 days) Average Sold Price: $274,644 Average Ask Price to List Price Ratio: Home sellers got an average of 98.2% of asking price for their Highland Village Single Family Home. For information specific to your Highland Village neighborhood, please visit http://www.dfwmarketsnapshot.com/ & register for your FREE Neighborhood Market Snapshot posted by Leigh Bates 05/12/2008

The Highland Village Fire Department (must say they are a fabulous group of people) conducts monthly courses to residents and non-residents of Highland Village.  Training covers CPR for adults, infants, children and AED Training.  The next class will be held on Thursday, June 12, 2008 from 6:00pm to 9:00 pm.  The cost is $25.00 for residents and $35.00 for non-residents.  You will never know when you might need to use CPR.  Space is limited so sign up today.  05/06/2008

It's that time of year again!  Time for the Highland Village, RED WHITE and BLUE Festival!  If you didn't go last year or the years before that, then you must go this year.  You won't find a better fire works show  ANYWHERE!  The festivities start at 7:00 AM with the 1K/5K run.  at 9:00 AM starts the Family Fish Out and at 11:30 is the Arbor Day Proclamation.  At 5:00 PM the gates open for the music from Wade Bowen and Reckless Kelly.  Then of course you have all the bounce houses, face painting etc.  And who can forget the food and fireworks!  Love it!  I'll be there, hope to see you too.  05/06/2008

Do you live in Highland Village, Texas?  Do you want too? Thinking about it?  Or just want to know what's going on in them there parts? (that's hick talk for you folks)  Well, the city of Highland Village not only has a web site to check out but now has the City Connections monthly newsletter!  Stay informed of upcoming events, important city info as well as on going project details like the Inland Trail or the Heritage Hawks!  Visit www.highlandvillage.org and check it out! 05/06/2008

Highland Village Central Fire Station Ribbon Cutting We've been needinga new fire station in Highland Village for a while now.  Well, it's finally here and I know the city and the Firemen are really proud of it.  The new Central Fire Station, located at 1200 Highland Village Road, is now  open. So trot on in there and have a tour.  Take the kids and let them toot the horn on the big red engine!  Oh yeah, and by the way...The Highland Village Business Association, Flower Mound Chamber and Lewisville Chamber will hold a ribbon cutting on Wednesday, May 7 at 10:30 a.m. 05/02/2008

Spring is here, and the cleaning has begun! The Neighbors of Rolling Hills Estates is having their annual garage sale - THIS Weekend Friday and Saturday from 8am - 3pm.Whether you live in the neighborhood and need to get rid of the "extras" or you are looking for a good buy - I guarantee this is the place to be!Look for Furniture, Clothing, Electronics, Kitchen Appliances and so much more. See ya there!If I can provide more information about Highland Village and surrounding areas, or the housing market in general, or otherwise assist you in your homes search, please contact me by phone or text at (972) 824-2088 or email me at leigh@thetrinitygroup.org.Visit us at www.leighbates.com. 04/29/2008

Out here in Suburbia Central, a major step has been taken to focus on all different types of home dwellers.  In my opinion, townhomes are for a variety of homeowners.  Even though there are many complexes that may target "empty nesters" or "young executives", these types of homes can be an attractive choice for anyone from 18-85 and beyond.  Recently, the city of Highland Village, where I happily call home, approved its' first town home and mixed-use development.  The development will include 77 luxury town homes featuring six floor plans ranging from 1550-2500 square feet, with first floor master bedrooms and rear entry two car garages.  Prices will start from the low to mid $200,000's.  The District of Highland Villagewill also include retail shops, professional office space and resta... 03/24/2008

If you are a resident of Highland Village, there is no doubt that you enjoy the vast trail system. With the newest retail development, and the Spring right around the corner, you are sure to see more and more residents enjoying the great outdoors.The first segment, City Trail(2.7 miles), of the Inland Trails System is complete and ready for you to enjoy!City Trail  is 2.7 miles and runs from Sellmeyer to Hwy 2499 and includes five amenity stations.  It is the first trail section that has been completed.A pedestrian tunnel connecting City Trailto future trails located on the west side of FM 2499 is currently in the design phase. The tunnel is currently being designed by TxDOT consultants HNTB, the firm who has prepared the construction documents for FM 2499.  The City contracted HNTB to ... 01/08/2008

Well the controversial Wally world finally opened and I just hadto go.  It's definitely not your average Super Center.  The outside is constructed of Austin Stone and is highlighted by the 100 year old Pecan tree smack dab in front.  You don't see the large "always" sign because it's not there.  Neither is the Tire and Lube.  That was replaced by a Bike Repair shop.  Gotta love that!  I have to confess, I was one of the petitioners who didn't want Big Box Retail" in our town.  Mostly because of the huge tax abatement they usually get and the thought of what it would be like when they moved to the next town and left us with an extra large empty eye sore.  Well, being the most unique store in Texas, we have to feel some sort of pride and happiness.  It's not at all what I thought it would... 11/14/2007

Every year the Highland Village Women's Club and the City organize an event called "Our Village Glows".  It's a tree lighting ceremony with local choirs (my 4th grade daughter being one of them!), carolers, cookie decorating and even SANTA!  The residents of Highland Village are truly excited about this event and are grateful to our city and Women's Club for getting it together.  Come join in the fun!Call or email if you need more info.  972-317-7430 or parks@highlandvillage.org  11/14/2007

After much controversy, and a LONG construction period, Wal-Mart is set to open it's doors November 7th at 8am, after a Ribbon Cutting and Grand Opening Ceremony at 7:30am.This new Wal-Mart Supercenter in Highland Village is like no other. It has been specially designed to fulfill the shopping needs of the local community with innovative features that include a bike shop, children's entertainment area and a new approach to fresh food.  The store is also built to minimize its impact on the environment; it's the third High-Efficiency Supercenter to open this year. This new Supercenter was constructed from local input using limestone, large windows, and a standing seam metal roof to create a store that resembles ranches in the Texas hill country. Most importantly, a staple of our society, ... 11/06/2007

Looking for more information on Rolling Hills Estates, or just interested in keeping up with recent Real Estate trends?Rolling Hills Estates is a community of homes located just off of Village Parkway and Justin Rd in Highland Village, just north of recently opened Shops of Highland Village.Homes were constructed beginning in 2000 by Coventry Homes, Stone Creek Custom Homes & Beazer Homes.  1. Currently Active Homes2917 Butterfield Stage Rd, currently listed at $245,900 2824 Butterfield Stage Rd, currently listed at $319,000819 Shady Meadow Dr, currently listed at $325,0002817 Butterfield Stage Rd, currently listed at $340,000907 Saddlebrook Dr, currently listed at $375,0002822 Butterfield Stage Rd, currently listed at $268,000 (under Option Contract as of 10/28/2007)2. Pending Sales270... 11/01/2007

Finally!  We can go shopping in the long anticipated Shops at Highland Village.  It is now open for business!  Located at the northwest corner of FM 2499 and FM 407, shop retail stores, visit restaurants and enjoy services at one location. Some of the shops include  Sweet N Sassy, Talbot's, Bath and Body Works and Gymboree to name a few.  Rockfish, Snuffers, and Potbelly's are great places to eat.  So now that the weather is getting nice, go visit!  Not forgetting across FM 2499 is the Marketplace at Highland Village with retail stores and restaurants too. The new Wal-Mart is scheduled to open November 7 and will be unlike any other Wal-Mart in the country. Let's Go Shopping! 10/19/2007