Tuesday, August 31, 2010

South Tulsa Area Homes For Sale!

Bixby OK Luxury Ranch For Sale- Front View.jpg

Gated and Secluded Luxury Estate in Bixby, OK

1724 East 151 Street
in Bixby, OK.

$2,675,000


5 Bedrooms
6.5 Bathrooms
4 Car Garage


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South Tulsa Area Home For Sale- Front View.jpg

New Construction in Bixby, OK!

14558 South Urbana Court
The Auberge in Bixby, OK.

$224,900

2 Bedrooms
2 Full 1 Half Bathrooms
2 Car Garage


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Home For Sale in Jenks, OK.jpg

Charming Old World Home in Jenks, OK!


6338 East 111th Place
Woodfield Village in Tulsa, OK.

$325,000

3 Bedrooms
2 Full 1 Half Bathrooms
2 Car Garage

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Tulsa, OK Luxury Home For Sale- Front View.jpg

Gorgeous Luxury Estate on Over 1/2 Acre in Bixby, OK.


11707 South Fulton Avenue
Forest Hills Estates in Bixby, OK.

$785,000

4 Bedrooms
3 Full 2 Half Bathrooms
3 Car Garage



For more information on residential real estate in the Tulsa, Oklahoma area or for more information on these South Tulsa, OK area homes, contact Kelly Howard of McGraw Realtors at 918-230-6341 or www.kellyhowardhomes.com.

Monday, August 30, 2010

Five Questions You Should Ask Your Tulsa, OK Mortgage Banker.

  1. How much down-payment do I need to buy a house? If you are a veteran or buying in a rural area you can get 100% financing and seller can pay closing costs. If you are Native American you may be eligible for a Hud 184 loan. This loan requires as low as a 1.25% down-payment, depending on the amount of the loan. FHA requires a 3.5% down-payment, Conventional a 5% down-payment, and Investment loans a 20% down-payment.
  2. What are Points/Origination Fees? Point and Origination Fees are additional fees paid at closing to lower your interest rate. 1 point is $1000
  3. How do I find out exactly what my closing costs, fees, and other things are when I am comparing Tulsa mortgage companies and their rates? Ask for a Good Faith Estimate. Look at fee lines 800-900. Compare the rate, points/origination fee, and other items within that range.
  4. What constitutes a rural development loan? It is all based on the population or an area. Owasso and Glenpool are still rural and are eligible for a rural development loan. USDA Rural Development website can give you more information about an area you are interested in.
  5. How do Tulsa Mortgage Bankers get paid? My commission is based on the volume I produce. The more I produce the higher percentage I make.
If you have questions about a Tulsa mortgage, contact Steve Currington of Currington Mortgage at 918-810-0092 or www.curringtonmortgage.com

For all your Tulsa, OK real estate needs, contact Darryl Baskin of McGraw Realtors at 918-258-2600 or www.darrylbaskin.com

Sunday, August 29, 2010

How to Buy a Home From a Tulsa, OK Builder

How Home Builderʼs Negotiate
This common question has some uncommon answers. Home builders in the Tulsa, OK area - just like any other home seller - have their own agenda based upon the type of home they are building, their own personal philosophies of building new houses and the market forces which affect any home seller anywhere. Despite the exponential differences these variable can create, there are common practices which make buying a new home in Tulsa and the surrounding communities somewhat consistent between them.

How much should I offer on a brand new home?
Like any other home a buyer falls in love with, the reason the buyer likes the house is because it stood out as the best overall value of the houses that are available. This often means it is priced well to begin with. Therefore, while you may still be able to negotiate a better deal, donʼt be so eager to steal the property that you forget this important fact. Consider your second choice. Would you rather pay full price for your favorite or get a discount on your second favorite. An honest answer to this question will tell you if you are making a price decision based on negotiation pride or market value.

Home builders pay for workers.
Often, buyers think of home builder as “Big Corporate America,” “Big Oil,” “Real Estate Dynasties,” and such. While there are some legendary home builders with deep pockets, most are just small business people who have taken extraordinary risk to build a home. Even those well-funded builders have a bottom to their funds and have to manage their business efficiently. What you are hiring is a manager of the complex home building process. Negotiate a good deal but make sure you pay enough for the builder to be profitable or you could find your new dream home encumbered with contractor liens. This will quickly turn into a nightmare.

Interested in building a new home in Tulsa, OK? Call Rick Oberlender of US Building Systems at 918-518-5913 or email him at usbs@att.net

Saturday, August 28, 2010

Protecting Your Tile Floor from Stains

Did you know that there is an easy way to protect your tile floor from moisture, stains, and mildew? Simply seal your tile grout. After tile is installed and grouted, it is important to seal the grout in order to prevent moisture, stains, and mildew from seeping into the grout. Sealing your grout will also enable you to clean your tile less often since it helps prevent dirt from getting into the grout. Here are the basic steps to seal the grout on your tile floor:

  1. Wait a minimum of 48 hours after your tile is installed before you attempt to seal the grout. Some installers recommend that you wait 2-3 weeks before sealing. This helps ensure that the grout is completely set.
  2. Use a silicone or water based grout sealer and apply with a paintbrush. You can also buy spray on grout sealer for more convenience.
  3. Remove excess sealer from the tile before it has a chance to dry.
  4. Allow the sealer to dry for at least one hour.
  5. Apply another coat using the steps above. (Some installers recommend a second and even third coat of sealer)
  6. To find out if you need a second or even third coat of sealer, test the sealer by dropping a little water on the grout. If the water beads up, no need for another coat. If it doesn't, simply apply more coats of sealer until the water beads up on the grout.
  7. Remember that grout sealer has a potent smell. To avoid the smell, get out of the house for a while until it has a chance to dry and air out. Also, read and follow the directions on the bottle carefully.

For all your Tulsa, OK area flooring needs, contact Jim Ecrette at ProSource Wholesale Floorcoverings at 918-252-7711 or prosourcejim@tulsacoxmail.com. Remember to ask for Darryl Baskin's flooring discount.

Friday, August 27, 2010

Signs of Structural and Termite Damage in Oklahoma

Whether you own or are purchasing a home, damage caused by structural problems or termites can be bothersome and left untreated can cause very serious and expensive damage. Some issues are easy to discover and are noticed quickly; others take time and are discovered after substantial damage is done. Keep a watch for these signs of structural and termite damage:

Termite Damage
  • Sagging floors or ceilings
  • Traces of a dust like substance
  • Areas that look water damaged
Structural Damage
  • Cracks in the brick
  • Separation of the fascia boards
  • Doors or windows that stick
  • Cracks in the sheetrock
  • Sloping, uneven, soft, or squeaky floors
  • Cracks in floor tiles
  • Tears or wrinkles in the wall

If you suspect termite damage to your Tulsa, OK home, contact Duane Montgomery of Montgomery Exterminating at 918-438-4885 or www.montgomeryexterminating.com.

For Tulsa, OK structural damage questions and repairs, contact Jonathon Knapp of Residential Repair at 918-621-1020 or www.residentialrepairinc.com.

Thursday, August 26, 2010

Tame that Angry Beast!

Buying and selling your Tulsa, OK home can be a very frustrating experience. At times, you might even find yourself so irritated that you feel like you have become an angry beast. Whether your real estate woes have precipitated the anger or simply everyday stresses, read on to help tame that angry beast.

  • Write in a journal. When you find yourself getting angry over that seller or buyer that simply won't budge, consider writing in a journal. For some people, this is the perfect way to release the tension and anger without causing harm to your health, your relationships, or yourself.
  • Find a stress reliever. Relieving stress can be done in many ways. Some very popular and productive ways include exercising, doing a project, or working around the house. You might find that taking a drive or simply deep breathing works well for you. Experiment, whatever you find that works for you, remember to do it often.
  • Take an adult time out. Probably all of us have heard of time out when it comes to kids. but very few of us take a time out ourselves. When you begin to get angry over that real estate problem, take a time out. You may need to take a break from whatever is causing the anger and give yourself a few minutes before you continue with it.
  • Change your thinking. Sometimes we make the situation worse because we assume something. If your real estate agent says something that offends you or does something that makes you mad, think the best of them. It is likely that they didn't intend it to come across that way. If you have the courage, ask them about it. It is probably just a misunderstanding.
Remember that anger and stress can bring on a multitude problems including relationship issues, high blood pressure, heart attacks and much more. Before allowing anger over a real estate problem get the best of you, ask yourself if it is worth it.

For all your Tulsa, OK. real estate needs, contact Kelly Howard of McGraw Realtors at 918-230-6341 or www.kellyhoward.com.

Home Sales In Tulsa Down, Apartment Rentals Up

Home Sales In Tulsa Down, Apartment Rentals Up

Wednesday, August 25, 2010

South Tulsa Luxury Homes for Sale!

Some of South Tulsa's Finest Luxury Homes for Sale...


New Construction in Gated Luxury Neighborhood!

12204 South 68th East Avenue
Woodmere Addition in Bixby, Oklahoma
$935,000

5 Bedrooms
4 Full 1 Half Baths
4 Car Garage
_________________________________


European Designed Home in Gated Community!

6010 East 117th Street
River Oaks Addition in Bixby, Oklahoma
$2,500,000

5 Bedrooms
5 Full 2 Half Bathrooms
4 Car Garage

________________________________

Magnificent Gated Estate!

777 West 106th Street
The Estates at Stone Bluff in Jenks, Oklahoma
$2,999,000

5 Bedrooms
7 Full 1 Half Bathrooms
3 Car Garage


For more information on any of these Tulsa, Oklahoma area luxury homes or to buy or sell your home in the Tulsa, Oklahoma area, contact Kelly Howard of McGraw Realtors at 918-230-6341 or www.kellyhowardhomes.com

Monday, August 16, 2010

Tulsa, OK Condos For Sale




Enjoy the View from these Charming Spacious Condo's just Steps Away from the River Parks. Downtown and major interstates are only minutes away.


3731 South Riverside Drive
Tower Court Condo's in Tulsa, OK.

$172,900

3 Bedrooms
2 Full 1 Half Bathrooms
2 Car Attached Garage
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3727 South Riverside Drive
Tower Court Condo's in Tulsa, OK.

$169,900

3 Bedrooms
2 Full 1 Half Bathrooms
2 Car Attached Garage
________________________

3729 South Riverside Drive
Tower Court Condo's in Tulsa, OK.

$169,900

3 Bedrooms
2 Full 1 Half Bathrooms
2 Car Attached Garage


To sell your Tulsa, OK area Condo or to find condominiums for sale in Tulsa, contact Kelly Howard of McGraw Realtors at 918-230-6341 or www.kellyhowardhomes.com



Saturday, August 14, 2010

Luxury Home for Sale in Jenks Oklahoma

Jenks Luxury Property Front View.jpg

720 West 108th Place
Aberdeen Falls in Jenks Oklahoma


$1,695,000

5 Bedrooms
5 Full, 1 Half Bathrooms
5 Living Areas


Extraordinary Mediterranean Style Residence, Classic & Stately. Be Prepared to Enter a World of Opulence Exceeding Every Buyers Expectations in Architectural Design, Craftsmanship & Attention to Detail!

Jenks Luxury Property Kitchen.jpg

Jenks Luxury Property Master Bedroom.jpg

Jenks Luxury Property Theatre Room.jpg

Jenks Luxury Property Pool View.jpg


For a list of luxury homes for sale in Jenks Oklahoma and for all your Jenks OK real estate needs contact Kelly Howard of McGraw Realtors at 918-230-6341 or visit www.kellyhowardhomes.com.

Saturday, August 07, 2010

School Time!

It's back to school time again.  Whether you are a high school student, college student or parent, read on for some tips on how to make that college application sail right through.

Start with a plan!
You can't plan early enough when it comes to college.  Many of the best universities require that you have a high GPA and are well rounded in academics, sports, music, school clubs, and community service. In order to ensure that you have the requirements, you need to know which schools you want to attend.  Once you have your list, do your research!  Know what is required at each school.  Don't forget your school guidance counselor.  They can help you understand all the rules and requirements and give you great suggestions on which courses and clubs will help you achieve your goal.  In addition, remember to take the proper school entrance exam.

Competition Counts...
Don't think that you have to be the perfect student in order to get into a top school.   Be a competitor.  Do the best you can in every class but also remember not to take it too easy.  Take an honors class or a class that is more challenging and do your best in it. Also, begin to focus your course and extracurricular activities on an area that you love and in a field that you want to major.  It is often better to do one thing really well than to do many things halfheartedly.  Oh, and don't forget to take your SAT exam.


Finish with a Bang.
For High School Seniors, it is easy to let things slide a bit.  Don't lose focus and intensity!  You are almost there but it is important not to let the excitement of graduation get you off course.  Now is the time to focus on your essay and finals.  Make sure your essay is well written and on topic.  Don't wait to the last minute!  Start your essay early so that you have plenty of time to read and edit. 

When applying to schools, make sure you select more than one.  There will probably be your dream school, but it is important to also apply to several others as well.  Make sure that you are accepted and can complete your education.  If your top choice doesn't accept you, don't give up hope.    Consider enrolling in one of the colleges that did accept you and work toward the goal of transferring to your dream school in a year or two. And, if your dream school said no, ask them why!  Knowing this information can help you work toward a successful transfer later.



To buy or sell a home in the Tulsa, OK area, contact Kelly Howard of McGraw Realtors at 918-230-6341 or www.kellyhowardhomes.com.


Tulsa, OK metro area home sale prices continue to increase

Monday, August 02, 2010

What to Consider When Buying a Home

Thanks to the perfect storm of low prices, attractive inventory, and affordable interest rates, this continues to be a lucrative time to invest in a home, whether it be a first home, a move-up home, or a second home.

Choosing a home is no easy process, however, and many factors must be carefully weighed before making your selection. As a member of the Top 5 in Real Estate Network®, I, along with my team, advise our clients to pay careful attention to a few details in particular when considering a home—these important details will significantly impact your long-term happiness in the home as well as the home’s appreciation over time. So, as you begin to consider properties in our neighborhood, here are a few issues to think about that may help you find exactly the right home for you and your family:

Type of home: One-story or two, single-family, duplex or condo? How will paying homeowner dues affect your overall buying power? Will a swimming pool be a bonus or a hindrance? Making these decisions in advance will help you focus on the right types of home to look at.

New or existing: A new home is all shiny and clean, but will carry with it some hefty initial costs such as landscaping and window coverings. An existing home will have many of these things, but repairs or renovations that may need to be made will also impact your budget.

Features: Weigh the costs of gas vs. electric heating and cooling, and the possible need for fencing. How important is a fireplace? Does the home have enough bedrooms and bathrooms to support your family in the coming years?

Ease of maintenance: What is the condition of the roof? The appliances? Will you have to paint the interior or exterior and/or replace the carpeting? Be sure to factor in such costs in your budget and your negotiations.

Location: Do you want to be in the city or in the country? Nearer to libraries, parks and entertainment or set among tall trees and lakes? What about the need for public transportation? Nearby hospitals and schools?

Crime rate and public schools: Check with local enforcement and local residents to get a feeling for statistics and quality. We can also provide you with up-to-date statistics on this information.

Economic stability: Whether an area is growing or not can affect its future property value—as will the economic stability of the area.

Property tax: Examine the annual amount of real estate taxes and other assessments levied in the neighborhoods you are considering.

We can help find the answers to the above concerns as well as provide more suggestions on what to look for in a new home—just e-mail our team. Also, please pass this article onto others who may benefit from this information.

To buy or sell your Tulsa, OK area home, contact Darryl Baskin, McGraw Realtors at 918-258-2600 or www.darrylbaskin.com.

For all your Tulsa, OK area roofing needs, contact Judy Smith of A-Best Roofing at 918-587-1426 or www.abestroofing.com.

For all your Tulsa, OK area home maintenance needs and more, visit www.tulsahomemaintenance.com.

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Darryl Baskin
The Baskin Real Estate Specialists
McGraw Realtors
8040 S. Sheridan Rd.
Tulsa, OK 74133

918.258.2600 Ofc
918.398.5110 fax
918.740.0077 cel

www.DarrylBaskin.com
www.BaskinCommercial.com
www.TulsaLuxuryPropertyGroup.com

Make a difference in a child's life. Speak for a child in court. www.TulsaCasa.org

Sunday, August 01, 2010

US Cell Phone Emergency Numbers

Some of you may have received various emails claiming that you can dial *112 or *77 (among others) from your cell phone in any state to contact the highway patrol or police. According to snopes.com, that is incorrect. Dialing 911 is the only official emergency number in the United States. There are, however, other helpful emergency numbers that you can dial from a cell phone to reach highway patrol to report accidents and other highway problems. Check out the numbers for Oklahoma and neighboring states:

  • Oklahoma, dial *55
  • Texas, dial *DPS or 911
  • Louisiana, dial *LSP
  • Arkansas, dial 501-296-1860 or 911
  • Missouri, dial *55
  • Kansas, dial *HP or *KTA
  • Colorado, dial *CSP, *DUI, or 911
  • New Mexico, dial 505-827-9301
For a complete list of emergency numbers by state, visit one of these websites: 911dispatch or ou.edu. Of course, it can be confusing trying to remember which number works in which state, especially if you are just traveling through. Therefore, it is easiest to simply dial 911.

To buy or sell real estate in the Tulsa, OK area, contact Kelly Howard of McGraw Realtors at 918-230-6341 or www.kellyhowardhomes.com.