5 Tips to Get Your Finances in Order and Save Money in Your New Home

By Paige Tepping

Buying a new home can be an exciting adventure, especially for first-time buyers. But the process isn’t all fun and excitement—owning a home comes with increased responsibilities and challenges that many new buyers haven’t previously faced. Before you get into the routine of day-to-day life in your new home, there are certain things that can be done to help you save a little money.

According to The Simple Dollar blog, the following tips will help homeowners save money while still living comfortably in their home.

1. Check the insulation. If your new home has an attic, make sure you take a peek around before you begin using the room for storage. It is especially important if you have an unfinished attic to check and be sure there is at least six inches of insulation around the entire room. Take the time to thoroughly inspect the insulation and replace any areas as needed.

2. Lower the temperature on your water heater. If you’re looking to save some money on your energy bill, turn your hot water heater down to 120 degrees Fahrenheit. If your water heater is a few years old, you may want to think about adding an extra layer of insulation to keep the heat where it’s needed.

3. Create a home maintenance checklist. Even though you have just moved into a new home, home maintenance can’t be forgotten. Create a home maintenance checklist now and be sure to go through the list at least once a month. Include any maintenance projects you can think of—including tasks that may only need to be completed every few months. This way nothing will get overlooked and you can take preventive action which will help extend the life of your appliances.

4. Hang your clothes up to dry. While drying your clothes in the dryer is a huge convenience for many homeowners, it also eats up a lot of energy. If you’re looking to save both energy and money, invest in a clothes rack where you can hang your clothes to dry.

5. Install energy-efficient appliances. Energy-efficient appliances may cost more upfront, but in the end, they will save you plenty of money. Do your homework before heading to your local Lowe’s and be sure to go for appliances that are reliable and energy efficient.

Copyright© 2011 RISMedia, The Leader in Real Estate Information Systems and Real Estate News. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be republished without permission.

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

For Tulsa plumbing services, contact Markwayne Mullin, Mullin Plumbing, 918-258-6636 or www.mullinplumbing.com.

Need electrical service in Tulsa? Contact Larry Murray of Murray Electric, 918-835-9605 or www.murrayelectric.com.

For Heating and A/C Services in Tulsa, call Stephen Taylor, Air Assurance, 918-258-HEAT or www.airassurance.com.

For more Tulsa maintenance professionals, visit www.tulsahomecare.com.

Top 5 Ways to Make Moving Less Stressful

Moving into your brand new 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.

Sincerely,
Darryl Baskin

For all your Tulsa real estate information, contact Darryl Baskin , McGraw Realtors, 918-258-2600 or www.homeguidetulsa.com.

For all your Tulsa moving needs, contact Mike Ellingson, Relocation LLC, 918-459-6683 or www.relocationllc.net.

For all your Tulsa area junk removal, contact David Tittle of I-Haul USA at 918-261-4008 or www.ihaulusa.com.

10 Ways to Get Rid of Mold in Your Home

Whether you’re a home buyer, homeowner, or home seller, mold poses a wide range of problems, from cosmetic issues to serious health hazards. According to the Alliance for Healthy Homes, more than 1,000 types of molds have been found in U.S. homes, and approximately 6-10 percent of the general population, and 15-50 percent of people who are genetically prone to develop allergies, are allergic to mold.

Surprisingly, some of today’s advanced building techniques unwittingly foster mold growth in the home. As buildings are increasingly designed to prevent the infiltration and exfiltration of air, the materials used lock in moisture and humidity. Older homes are at risk thanks to leaky windows and roofs that bring in even more moisture.

Finding and removing mold is of the utmost importance, whether you intend to sell your home in the near future or not. Here, from home inspection experts, Pillar To Post (www.pllartopost.com), are 10 tips for combating mold in your home:

1. Call in a home inspection professional to assess water-damaged areas.

2. Keep humidity low. Humidity levels should be under 40% in order for mold to stop its forward march.

3. Replace any carpets and furniture that have ever been significantly damaged (i.e., saturated in water), even if they look OK on the outside.

4. Carpet in a bathroom or basement is never a good idea. Remove any that exists in those areas in your home.

5. Use an air conditioner during the summer months, even if it’s set at a relatively high temperature, like 80. Use fans to circulate air.

6. Dust and clean furniture regularly, and vacuum carpets at least once a week (make sure your vacuum has a HEPA filter).

7. Provide adequate ventilation in hot areas. The kitchen and bath are two of the highest-risk rooms for mold. Install exhaust fans in the kitchen and bathroom.

8. When you’re shopping for house paint for big or small painting projects, ask the sales rep about mold inhibitors you can add before painting.

9. Does your central air system have a fan from the Ford Pinto era? If so, replace it with a high-performance electrostatic air filter. Your local HVAC technician can help with this.

10. Don’t neglect areas underneath the house—have a professional drain and ventilate all sub-basement areas, especially crawl spaces.

If you do find mold in your home, remove it with a store-bought anti-fungal solution, or get rid of it with a weak bleach solution—1 cup bleach in 1 gallon of water. Or, if mold exists in a larger area, call in a professional to help.

As a Member of the Top 5 in Real Estate Network®, I, along with my team, have a wealth of real estate and homeownership information that may be of help to you. Feel free to contact our team any time to learn more about this important information, and be sure to forward this article on to any friends or family that may be interested as well.

For all your Tulsa Real Estate needs, contact The Baskin Real Estate Specialists of McGraw Realtors, 918-258-2600 or www.darrylbaskin.com.

For professional Tulsa, OK. mold removal, contact Roger Fisher, PCC Cleaning and Restoration, 918-641-1111 or www.pcccr.com.

For high performance air filters delivered to your door, visit www.filters4me.com.

For Tulsa Air Conditioning Service, contact Stephen Taylor, Air Assurance, 918-258-COOL or www.airassurance.com.

For wholesale flooring in Tulsa, OK. contact Jim Ecrette, Prosource Wholesale Flooring, 918-252-7711 or www.prosourcefloors.com/tulsa. Remember to ask for Darryl Baskin's wholesale pricing.

Improving Indoor Air Pollution

Indoor air pollution can pose many health risks, including: allergies, asthma, and even cancer. The average person spends about 30% of their day at work and 75% of their day indoors . These simple solutions can improve the air quality in your home:

• Avoiding smoking and the use of chemicals indoors
• Using building materials that don't emit toxins. Ask your builder for some eco-friendly building options.
• Dehumidifying in moist areas
• Ensuring adequate ventilation
• Using air filters that help reduce air pollutants
• Replacing older heating and a/c units
• Installing carbon monoxide detectors, ventilation systems, and air purifiers
  

For information on quality air filters to improve indoor air quality, contact Rick Butefish at Filters4Me.com or 918-292-8600.

To build a new Tulsa, OK home, contact Rick Oberlender of US Building Systems at 918-734-1293.

For Heating and A/C Service in Tulsa, contact Stephan Taylor, Air Assurance, 918-258-HEAT or www.airassurance.com.

Consider This Before Building Your Tulsa Home...

When building a new home, there are so many decisions to make, from the location and builder to which carpet and paint to choose. Keep the following tips in mind when you decide to build a new home.

• Location- Work with your Tulsa Area Realtor when purchasing land and building your home to make sure that the location you desire will fit your budget as well as the style and size you want in your home. Don't find out after purchasing that you can't do what you want or that the market will not handle your specific plans.
• Building- Select your builder carefully! Ask for recommendations from your Realtor, after all they work with builders everyday. Ask builders for referrals and contact them. Ask plenty of questions and don't be afraid to get more than one quote!
• Products- Once you have purchased land, selected a builder, and begun the building process, there will be many products to choose. Ask about your options and shop around in advance to make sure you get what you want at the price you want. When selecting roofing products and styles- keep in mind your budget, style of home, and the weather in your area. Remember that by adding ridge vents or using certain materials you can decrease your energy costs. When selecting flooring products- remember to check wear, stain resistance, and even product type (such as carpet, tile, or hardwood). When considering which extras you might want- Think about preventing pests before you move in. 1. Have a Sentricon HD Termite Elimination system installed up front to ensure that termites will not be a problem. 2. Consider using glass mulch in your flowerbeds. Glass mulch will not attract pests like traditional wood mulch, never washes away, and it looks great. Finally, decide if you want any home automation or home theater systems installed. It is easy to have installation done up front before walls and furnishings are in place.
• Mortgage Options- Check with your Tulsa mortgage banker to find out what mortgage options are available to you. For example, can you qualify for a VA or Rural Home Loan? Also, make sure you know your budget and how much down-payment you have. If you have less than 20% to put down, ask about loans that require less down-payment!

Want more information? Contact these professionals or visit www.tulsahomecare.com:

Home-Building in Tulsa, Oklahoma- Rick Oberlender of US Building Systems at 918-734-1293 or usbs@att.net.

Tulsa Real Estate- Darryl Baskin, McGraw Realtors, 918-258-2600 or www.darrylbaskin.com.

Tulsa Mortgage Needs- Steve Currington, Currington Mortgage at 918-810-0092 or www.curringtonmortgage.com.

Tulsa, OK. Roofing- Judy Smith, A-Best Roofing, 918-587-1426 or www.abestroofing.com.

Flooring Products: Jim Ecrette at ProSource Wholesale Floorcoverings at 918-252-7711 or www.prosourcefloors.com/tulsa. Don't Forget to ask about Darryl Baskin's Pricing Discount!

Tulsa Area Pest Control- Mother Natures Pest and Lawn, 918-362-2000 or www.pestsecret.com.

Glass Mulch in Tulsa- Leigh Murray, Garden Glass of Oklahoma, 918-232-0210 or www.gardenglassofoklahoma.com.

Tulsa Electrical Services- Larry Murray, Murray Electric, 918-835-9605 or www.murrayelectric.com.

Tulsa Plumbing Services- Markwayne Mullin, Mullin Plumbing, 918-258-6636 or www.mullinplumbing.com.

Tulsa Home Automation Installation- Keegan Beck, KMB Enterprises, 918-527-1031 or www.kmbenterprisesllc.com.

Could a Short Sale Help You?

What is a short sale and could it help you?

Basically, a short sale is when the homeowner owes more on their home than it is worth and the lender allows the homeowner to sell the property for less than the mortgage balance. This can allow the homeowner to sell the property and avoid the foreclosure process. This also causes less damage to credit than a foreclosure.

To qualify for a short sale the homeowner must have the following issues:

1. Financial Hardship
2. Insolvency (not enough cash or assets to pay off mortgage balance)
3. Monthly Shortfall

For more information on how you can Stop Your Tulsa Foreclosure today, contact The Baskin Real Estate Specialists at 918-258-2600 or www.stopmytulsaforeclosure.com.

When You Move, Don't Pack These!!

Packing and moving can be a lengthy and stressful process. Knowing what to pack is simple, right? Not always! There are some items that should not be packed when you are using a moving company. Hazardous items are actually illegal for movers to transport. The following items should not be sent in the moving van:

• Pant and paint thinners
• Ammunition and firearms
• Gas, Propane, or Oil
• Flammable or explosive materials
• Aerosols
• Acetone products
• Stereo
• Matches
• Valuable items
• Pets

For a complete list of items Tulsa moving companies can’t move or to move your Tulsa area property, contact Mike, Relocation LLC, at 918-455-6683 or www.relocationllc.net.

For junk removal services in Tulsa, contact David Tittle, I-Haul, 918-261-4008 or www.ihaulusa.com.

For your Tulsa real estate needs, contact The Baskin Real Estate Specialists at McGraw Realtors, 918-258-2600 or www.darrylbaskin.com.

Mortgage Disclosure Improvement Act...

Lenders have always had to disclose the overall cost of your loan and other information during the lending process. This includes fees and the actual Annual Percentage Rate. Lenders that are not reputable would play games with the rate by adding fees. Many clients would close with a higher rate because the lenders would change the fees at the last minute. This act requires that lenders redo the Truth in Lending disclosure if the APR goes up by .125% or more. It also requires that closing must wait 3-7 days so that the buyers have time to understand any changes that may have happened. This can sometimes cause an issue when purchasing a home because this waiting time can't be waived. It is required and closing will sometimes be delayed. This also can increase costs for the seller and buyer for items such as interest, storage costs due to delayed closing and more.

For your Tulsa mortgage, contact Steve Currington with Currington Mortgage at 918-810-0092 or www.curringtonmortgage.com

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

Handling an Insurance Claim..

When homeowners file an insurance claim, many times, homeowner's find that insurance adjusters can't answer questions about their policy. That's because, many times, insurance adjusters are sub-contracted by the insurance company and are not familiar with your specific policy. To help alleviate that problem, make sure that you ask plenty of questions about your policy before you purchase it. Find out what is covered and what isn't. Also keep in mind that many policies stipulate that you have to file a lawsuit within 1 year of the claim or you will waive any right to do so. If there are problems with your claim, you may need to file a lawsuit before the year is up in order to make sure that your time doesn't run out and you are stuck with repairs that you can't pay for. To avoid being put into that position, work ahead, ask questions, and do your research.

For Tulsa Area Homeowners Insurance, contact Mike Tedford of Tedford Insurance at 918-299-2345 or www.tedfordinsurance.com.

For legal advice on insurance claims in Oklahoma, contact Paul Boudreaux of Richardson, Richardson, Boudreaux at 918-492-7674 or www.rrblawok.com.


For Tulsa Home Maintenance Professionals, visit www.tulsahomecare.com or talk to the professionals listed here:

Roofing Repairs in Tulsa, Judy Smith, A-Best Roofing, 918-587-1426 or www.abestroofing.com
Disaster Restoration in Tulsa, OK, Roger Fisher, PCC Cleaning & Restoration, 918-641-1111 or www.pcccr.com
Tulsa Electrical Repair, Larry Murray, Murray Electric, 918-557-3020 or www.murrayelectric.com

Ice House Fitness Center, Bixby, OK

Laws Affecting Your Oklahoma Move

Did you know that the Oklahoma Corporation Commission requires insurance coverage and licensing for moving companies?

Not too long ago, an inter-city moving company was exempt from licensing and insurance laws but now faces penalties and fines for not holding these policies and coverages. Although the law took effect in 2009, homeowners are still sometimes deceived by companies who present a low bid but offer no coverages for damage or loss. Before you hire a mover, research their company and reputation carefully. Make sure that you can trust them with all of your belongings.

For more information on these regulations affecting your Tulsa move or for an estimate contact Mike at 918-459-6683 or www.relocationllc.net.

For all your Tulsa, Oklahoma area real estate needs, contact The Baskin Real Estate Specialists of McGraw Realtors, 918-258-2600 or visist www.homeguidetulsa.com.

If you have questions regarding Oklahoma legal issues, contact David Keesling with Richardson, Richardson, Boudreaux, Keesling at 492-7674 or www.rrblawok.com.

Termite Damage and Tulsa Property Value

Termites are everywhere. Whether you realize it or not, they are in virtually every area with dirt in Oklahoma. Whether it be your home or commercial property, termite damage will not only cost you money to repair and exterminate, but can also cost you value when you decide to sell your property. Properties that have a history of termite damage, treatment and repair can be the hardest hit. To avoid damaging your property value, contact a professional exterminator to exterminate. One of the most effective termite treatments around is the Sentricon Baiting System. Only select exterminators can install and care for these systems. Don't settle for just anyone to install a system. Ensure that they are qualified to install the Sentricon System and will guarantee the extermination of termites as well as check the system monthly! Also, make sure that you have repairs done quickly to prevent further damage.

For more information on the Sentricon Baiting System in Tulsa or other pest control needs in the Tulsa, OK area, contact Duane Montgomeryof Montgomery Exterminating at 918-438-4885 or www.montgomeryexterminating.com.

For information on what affects Tulsa property value or things to consider before purchasing a home in the Tulsa area, contact Darryl Baskin, McGraw Realtors at 918-258-2600 or www.darrylbaskin.com.

For all your Tulsa mortgage needs contact Steve Currington of Currington Mortgage at 918-394-LOAN or www.curringtonmortgage.com

Protecting Your Oklahoma Home and Family from Fire!

Fire can be a devastating event. It damages everything in its path and can cause serious injury and death. To help protect your family and home from fire, read on.

• Be prepared ahead of time! Being prepared is probably the most important step of all. This step involves many things. First, make sure you have Oklahoma homeowner's insurance in the event of a fire. Second, have a fire escape plan with all the necessary items such as escape ladders, fire extinguisher, smoke detectors etc. Third, practice your fire escape plan. If you have children, this is especially important. Take time to discuss what to do in the event of a fire and practice this at all hours of the day and night. Don't take for granted that they know what to do.
• Avoid unnecessary risk! Cigarettes, fire places, and appliances are common causes of fires in the home. To avoid these risks, make sure that all cigarettes are put out before going to bed or if you are sleepy. Consider putting them in a glass of water to be safe. Make sure that fires in your fireplace are completely out. If you use it often, install a screen and glass door for extra safety. Finally, avoid putting appliances near furniture. Appliances and heaters placed near furniture can often overheat and cause a fire to start. When a fire starts from any one of the items above, they often start very slowly and smolder for a long time before actually catching fire and being detected.
• Test your smoke alarm! It is very important to test your smoke alarm often to ensure that it is working properly. Also replace the battery at least once per year, even if it appears to be working. If your smoke alarm seems to go off regularly when there is not a problem, such as during cooking, consider moving it a few feet away. If your smoke alarm is 10 years old, replace it.
• Keep Emergency Numbers on Hand! Keep emergency numbers near all phones in case of fire or emergency.
• No matter how much we prepare, we can't completely prevent fires in our home. should a fire occur, remember to call your insurance agent and Tulsa area home maintenance professionals to take care of any damage and ensure insurance coverage of repairs.

Contact these professionals for questions or quotes:

Homeowners Insurance Coverage in Tulsa, OK- Mike Tedford, Tedford Insurance, 918-299-2345 or www.tedfordinsurance.com.
Roofing Repairs in the Tulsa, OK area- Judy Smith, Abest Roofing, 918-587-1426 or www.abestroofing.com.
Fire Damage and Restoration in the Tulsa area- Roger Fisher, PCC Cleaning and Restoration, 918-641-1111 or www.pcccr.com.
Tulsa, OK. Electrical Repair- Larry Murray, Murray Electric, 918-835-9605 or www.murrayelectric.com
Plumbing Repair in the Tulsa, OK. area- Mullin Plumbing, 918-258-6636 or www.mullinplumbing.com
Junk Removal in Tulsa- David, I-Haul USA at www.ihaulusa.com or david@ihaulusa.com

De-stressing the Closing Process

Buying and Selling a home can be a stressful process, but when the closing process doesn't happen smoothly, it can add even more stress. Here are a few tips to help the closing process happen without a few of the most common glitches. First, listen to the professionals. If your real estate agent or mortgage broker gives you suggestions for the closing and moving process, heed their advice. They see problems regularly and can help you avoid some of the most common problems. Second, pack and move out of the house as early in the day, or even the night before, as possible and schedule closing for the afternoon. For buyers, schedule the final walk through earlier in the day as well. This added time should help with any unplanned delays. Third, consider adding a little extra expense to your budget in case there is a delay in closing and storage or hotel costs are needed or you need to hire a professional for an unexpected home repair. Finally, ask for a final settlement statement a day or two in advance of closing so that there last minute surprises are kept to a minimum.

For more information on the closing process or if you are in need of Tulsa area closing services, contact JJ Pierce, FirsTitle, 918-493-2241 or www.firstitle.com

For all your Tulsa mortgage needs, contact Karen Heston, Bank of Oklahoma, 918-488-7353 or kheston-boklo.mortgagewebcenter.com

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

Guide to Buying Condo Insurance

When purchasing insurance for your condominium, there are several important things to keep in mind. First, know your covenants and bylaws. Each condo association is different and has different covenants and bylaws. With some, if the condo is destroyed, they will rebuild the outside but the owner is responsible for everything from the sheetrock in. This type of information will help your insurance agent determine the proper coverage for your policy. Also, remember that you may be responsible for extra fees if the condo association falls short of funds (to replace the roof, for example). That can also be added as coverage for your policy.

For more information about condo insurance or renters insurance in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, contact Mike Tedford, Tedford Insurance, 918-299-2345, or www.tedfordinsurance.com

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

Why do I need a survey when I build a new home or addition?

When you decide to build an addition or a new home in Tulsa, you will need a survey. A survey shows where the property lines are as well as any buildings, easements, driveways, or encroachments on the property such as a neighbor’s driveway. You might say, “I don’t need a survey, I have a plat map”. A plat map only shows the property boundaries, it doesn’t show easements or encroachments which can cause a problem with a legal title. A survey will ensure that anything you are building is not on someone else’s property or easement. It will also help if you have acreage and decide to sell some of it later.

For more information on Tulsa, OK. land surveys, titles, and the closing process, contact JJ Pierce at First Title at 918-493-2241 or www.firsttitle.com.

For real estate in the Tulsa, Oklahoma area contact Darryl Baskin, McGraw Realtors, 918-258-2600 or www.darrylbaskin.com.

Finding Your New Neighborhood

Finding Your New Neighborhood
by James Kim

Moving is an incredibly strenuous task in and of itself, but finding your new home could be just as stressful. One of the biggest components to finding the right house for your family is picking the neighborhood. Location is crucial, as any real estate mogul will tell you. If you know nothing about Austin real estate, for example, but you want to move to Austin, the process of finding a neighborhood could be extremely daunting. But not to worry -- there are several things to consider that can make your choice a tad easier.

1. Kids

Do you have children? If so, you will need to be near a school, preferably one of prowess. websites like Great Schools give you the rankings and standardized test scores of different schools in your area of interest. This could give you a better idea of what area is right for you. Of course, if you don’t have children, you probably don’t want or need to be near a school. However, keep in mind that being near a school can be a huge selling point and could help you sell your house later on down the road.

In addition to the school, you’ll probably want to get close to places like parks or a local pool if you have children.

2. Commute

How far is the area from your job? Is it near a congested intersection? Will you have to muddle through traffic every morning? If you can avoid being stuck in traffic daily, I think we can all agree that you should probably do so. Being close to public transportation could assuage your traffic situation.

You may also want to ask yourself how close your area is to amenities such as grocery stores, malls, restaurants, etc. While everyone wants a quiet area, it can be a huge burden to have to drive 30 minutes every time you need something at the grocery store.

3. Safety

This is probably the most important factor to consider when looking for an area for your new home. The Realty Times provides several excellent suggestions about how to investigate safety in your area, including inquiring at the local police department and talking to local business owners. You can also visit sites like Family Watchdog to examine general crime ratings and to check to see if any sex offenders live in the area.

4. The “Feel” Factor

Research can only tell you so much. In order to cover all your bases, visit your prospective neighborhood at several different times of day so that you’re not caught off guard later. Suppose, for example, that you are looking into a hip, downtown location. During the day, it could seem like the perfect find. But, at night, the area explodes with noise. You will want to be prepared for these types of scene-changes. A tenured real estate pro who specializes in the area will be able to help you get more of a “feel” for the area.

Finding the perfect home is never an easy task -- make things easier on yourself by approaching the process step-by-step. Methodically researching can assure that you will find a house that will fit you and your family for years to come.

James Kim writes for Austin Real Estate service Homecity.com. HomeCity combines powerful online Austin MLS search technology and other online tools with personalized real estate services to provide clients with the knowledge they need to make the right buying and selling decisions.


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

For Tulsa moving and storage, contact Mike Ellingson of Relocation LLC at 918-459-6683 or www.relocationllc.net

Don't let a friend lose their home to foreclosure!

Visit us online at www.homeguidetulsa.com Darrylbaskin.Breport@blogger.Com, If someone you know has fallen or will soon be falling behind on mortgage payments, the fear of the unknown can be overwhelming. But local real estate agents with training and resources of Certified Distressed Property Experts have an inside edge to help troubled homeowners. Read more to find our how we can help you or someone you know avoid foreclosure. The Baskin Real Estate Specialists

The Baskin Real Estate Specialists, McGraw Realtors
10131 S. Yale Ave., Tulsa OK 74096 918-258-2600


Visit http://www.homeguidetulsa.com

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Abandoned Homes Can Decrease Your Property Value!

The article, "Battling the Neighborhood Eyesore" posted on Realtor.org says that "foreclosures will affect 91.5 million nearby homes by 2012 and reduce property values of these homes by $20,300 per household". For homeowners trying to sell their homes, losing an average of $20,000 in the value of their home is not pleasing. What can homeowners and neighbors of these abandoned properties do to reduce the chances of losing value on their homes? The article mentioned above gives several tips to help keep these abandoned homes from looking like an eyesore and therefore reducing property value of nearby homes. Read on for more information.

Abandoned homes can be an unpleasant sight. Overgrown lawns, boarded windows, sagging gutters, and unsightly mold—not to mention, a higher risk of fires, vandalism, rodents, and mosquitos.

Properties are often left to deteriorate while in foreclosure limbo; the owner is already gone but the bank can’t take possession until the foreclosure process is finalized.

So what happens when you have to sell the property next door? According to research by the Center for Responsible Lending, foreclosures will affect 91.5 million nearby homes by 2012 and reduce property values of these homes by $20,300 per household.

“We were getting a lot of complaints from real estate professionals about these properties looking unkempt and asking what we can do about it,” says Bud Humbert with Century 21 Associates in Waldorf, Md., and also the chairman of the legislative committee for the Southern Maryland Association of REALTORS®. On behalf of his association, Humbert, also an REO specialist, approached Charles County officials to request that they update the county’s nuisance abatement law to include a "clean and lien " provision. The rule would allow the county to step in and clean up vacant properties and put a lien on them for the cost of the cleanup. Other cities and counties have enacted similar ordinances.

If that neighborhood eyesore is bringing down your listing, here are some steps you can take:

Notify the homeowners’ association. Most HOAs will pay to have the grass mowed and take care of maintenance issues, and then tack the expense on to the HOA bill, which will have to be cleared by the bank before the property sells, Humbert says.

Investigate local and state laws. Some states, such as California, will fine owners for not maintaining properties. New Jersey passed a law that puts banks in charge of maintaining the property from the beginning of the foreclosure process. Whom should you contact with your gripe? Start with your city’s building division; it’s often in charge of making sure a vacant property is boarded and secured. The bylaw department can check for building code vio­lations, the fire department can inspect for fire hazards, and the police can help if there’s vandalism.

Make property boundaries clear. "We are called on to handle this situation frequently, " says Margaret Innis, owner of home staging company Decorate To Sell in Andover, Mass. "On the outside, fences make good neighbors; so does landscaping with arborvitae shrubs—a fast fix worth the investment. Inside, use plantation blinds turned down so the light comes in but the view does not. "

Help with cleanup. Stepping in to help with the maintenance can be tricky. Regardless of your good intentions, your actions could be considered trespassing. First figure out who owns the property, which can be a challenge in itself, and then offer your assistance. Some cities and counties have started a vacant property registration that makes it easier to locate the owner. When Andy Hood, with Weichert, REALTORS®–Covington Group in Madison, Miss., struggled to sell a condo that overlooked the patio of a foreclosed property, he called the neighbor and asked if he could clean. "The woman was grateful and accepted my offer, " he says. "I hauled away a truckload of junk, pressure-washed the exterior, washed the patio furniture, and weeded and pruned her flower beds and shrubs. " Hood’s listing sold immediately after.

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

Tulsa, OK. Area Homes for Sale

Sapulpa, OK Home for Sale

602 Cross Timbers Blvd.
The Lakes at Cross Timbers
$329,000

3 Bedrooms
2 Full 1 Half Bathrooms
3 Car Garage

Broken Arrow, OK. Home for Sale

1705 S. Juniper Ave.
Village Park
$159,900

3 Bedrooms
2 Bathrooms
2 Car Garage

Jenks, OK. Luxury Estate for Sale

11425 S. Louisville Pl.
The Estates of Waterstone
$2,850,000

6 Bedrooms
6 Full 2 Half Bathrooms
7 Car Garage

For more information on these Tulsa, OK Area Homes for Sale or to buy or sell Tulsa, OK real estate, contact Kelly Howard of McGraw Realtors at 918-230-6341 or www.kellyhowardhomes.com

Tulsa, OK. Area Horse Ranch For Sale...

Gorgeous Horse Ranch for Sale in Mounds, OK!

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 this Tulsa, OK Area Luxury Ranch For Sale or for all your Tulsa, OK. luxury real estate needs, contact Kelly Howard of McGraw Realtors at 918-230-6341 or www.kellyhowardhomes.com.

Mortgage Rates Rise...

Freddie Mac reported that mortgage rates are on the rise after being at a "standstill" last month. Despite this, mortgage rates are very affordable. Read the article, "Mortgage Rates on the Rise" found at Realtor Magazine below:

After being mostly at a standstill the past month, long and short-term mortgage rates were moving up this week, reports Freddie Mac in its weekly mortgage market survey.

"Mortgage rates followed Treasury yields higher over the holiday week but remain quite affordable by historical standards,” says Frank Nothaft, chief economist at Freddie Mac. “For instance, interest rates on all mortgage outstanding in the first quarter of this year averaged just under 6 percent. With today's rates, these home owners who have the ability to refinance could shave $169 per month in interest payments on a $200,000, 30-year fixed mortgage."

To buy a Tulsa home while rates are still low, contact Kelly Howard, McGraw Realtors, 918-230-6341 or www.kellyhowardhomes.com.

Why Sellers Should Consider a Pre-Inspection

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Why Sellers Should Consider a Pre-Inspection

Traditionally in the real estate process, an inspection is requested by a home buyer around the time they are applying for a mortgage. In fact, more than 85% of home buyers request an inspection as a way to uncover hidden faults and costly repairs that may need to be taken care of. In today’s buyer’s market, revealing such faults prior to closing can serve as a bargaining chip for sellers, forcing the seller to either accept a lower price or foot the bill for repairs prior to closing.

That’s why an increasingly important strategy for home sellers in today’s market is to have your property inspected before even putting it on the market. Here are some reasons why:

• When potential buyers are considering your home, knowing that an inspection has already been done can make your home much more attractive to them. A pre-inspection can give you an important competitive edge by making buyers more confident about placing a bid on your home; with a pre-inspection, buyers know there will be no hidden surprises awaiting them down the road.
• If defects are uncovered once the buyer has already placed a bid and is applying for a mortgage, you are suddenly under the gun to either accept a lower offer or cough up the funds for repairs. Conversely, a pre-inspection allows you to take care of any repairs within your own timeframe. If expensive repairs are uncovered before putting your home on the market, you can budget accordingly over a period of time and comparison shop for the best pricing.
• A pre-inspection also allows you to decide which repairs are not necessary before putting your home on the market. Certain problems you might have been worried about may turn out not to be as bad as you originally thought…and, therefore, not make a difference in how you price your home.
• Having a pre-inspection affords you more control in the negotiating process. Being aware of your home’s pros and cons in advance, helps put you in the driver’s seat when it comes to price negotiations. In fact, a pre-inspection allows you to price your home more accurately in the first place.

As a Member of the Top 5 in Real Estate Network®, I, along with my team, have a wealth of real estate and homeownership information that may be of help to you. Feel free to contact our team any time to learn more about this important information, and be sure to forward this article on to any friends or family that may be interested as well.

Darryl Baskin Darryl@DarrylBaskin.com McGraw Realtors Office: 918-258-2600 http://www.DarrylBaskin.com

Posted via email from The Baskin Report

Tulsa Area Homes for Sale...

Secluded Owasso, OK Luxury Home For Sale

15601 East 82nd Street North
in Owasso, OK.

$1,900,000

4 Bedrooms
4 Full, 2 Half Bathrooms
4 Car Garage

__________________________________________________


Updated Owasso, OK Home!

11607 E. 84 Ct. N.
Three Lakes Village in Owasso, OK.

$94,900

3 Bedrooms
1 Full, 1 Half Bathrooms
2 Car Garage
_____________________________________

Gorgeous Horse Ranch for Sale in Mounds, OK!

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 homes for sale or for all your Tulsa, OK. real estate needs, contact Kelly Howard of McGraw Realtors at 918-230-6341 or www.kellyhowardhomes.com.

Consumers are Making Better Money Habits...

According to a recent article, "Recession Helping to Raise Awareness of Credit Scores and Leading to Start of Good Money Habits" at RISMedia.com, consumers are becoming more aware of and beginning to make better decisions with their money. They are striving to make better money habits. According to that article:

"Budgeting and Cash Flow:

• 25 percent of users have been late at least once on their monthly bills in the last year;
• Of those who said they were behind on their bills, 28 percent are concerned they will never catch up;
• Of those respondents with children, 64 percent did not currently make any contributions to an education fund;
• Less than half (48 percent) of those surveyed keep a budget to track monthly expenses and cash flow. This is down from 52 percent in 2010.

Credit Scores and Cards:

• 18 percent of respondents have maxed out at least one of their credit cards, down from 22 percent in 2010;
• 31 percent pay off their balances in full every month. This is down from 36 percent in 2010;
• When surveyed about the amount of credit card debt they are carrying, respondents with current debt stated:
-Less than $5,000: 27 percent
-Between $5,000-10,000: 16 percent
-More than $10,000 in debt: 20 percent
• Only 6 percent of users did not know their credit score.

Retirement:

• 39 percent of survey takers are scared or uneasy about their prospects for retirement;
• Nearly half of respondents said they plan to retire between 60-65, while 16 percent said they don’t ever see being able to retire"

When it comes to buying a home, these financial decisions and money habits can make a huge difference in getting a good mortgage rate to buy a home and not being able to get a mortgage at all. Begin today by making better money habits!

To buy a Tulsa home for sale, contact Kelly Howard, McGraw Realtors, 918-230-6341 or www.kellyhowardhomes.com.

Remodeling? Know which Projects Will Increase Your Home's Value

With many home buyers choosing to stay put as opposed to selling their home in the current marketplace, remodeling projects are gaining new ground. However, before you set out on your remodeling project, the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) advises homeowners to make sure they’re getting the most value out of their remodeling dollars.

In my years of experience as a real estate professional, I have seen first-hand how the right home improvements can add to your home’s value…especially today when equity has been so hard hit. Wise remodeling decisions will also help command a higher selling price if and when it comes time to put your home on the market. To help guide you, NARI offers the following suggestions when considering a remodeling project:

• Exterior home improvements such as roofing, siding, windows and doors are subject to the elements and usually need to be replaced after a number of years. In terms of re-sale value, updated exteriors give sellers an edge over buyers who are attracted to your home before entering.

• According to Energy Star, half of a home’s energy use is dedicated to heating and cooling. If a system is more than 10 years old, it may be time to replace it. New, energy-efficient systems are not only more cost-effective but are also better quality.

• All homes benefit from increased insulation and sealing, regardless of climate. Older homes are traditionally under-insulated compared to new homes, and recent insulation innovations like spray foam or cellulose increase the ability to trap air inside. Proper insulation evens temperature flows, reduces energy use and has long-term benefits.

• Kitchen and bath renovations continue to be winning remodeling choices, as homeowners continue to see the value in updating high-functioning areas of the home that are used frequently. Be sure to take universal design concepts into account, increasingly incorporated into kitchen and bath areas to accommodate people of all sizes, abilities and ages.

While it may be acceptable to handle cosmetic updates to your home on your own—such as painting—be sure to contact a qualified professional for larger remodeling jobs like the above. Also, if your home remodel is large scale in nature—and potentially cost prohibitive—consider “phased” remodeling, where projects are broken into phases over time, for a long-term project plan.

Feel free to contact our team any time to learn more about this important information, and be sure to forward this article on to any friends or family that may be interested as well.

Sincerely,

Darryl Baskin, McGraw Realtors, 918-258-2600 or www.darrylbaskin.com.

For Tulsa maintenance professionals, visit the link or check out the professionals below....

For Tulsa heating and a/c repair, contact Stephen Taylor, Air Assurance, 918-258-COOL or www.airassurance.com.

For Tulsa remodeling, contact Rick Oberlender, US Building Systems. 918-734-1293.

For Tulsa plumbing installation and repair, contact Mullin Plumbing, 918-258-6636 or www.mullinplumbing.com.

For Tulsa electrical repair and installation, contact Larry Murray, Murray Electric, 918-557-3020 or www.murrayelectric.com.

For Tulsa roofing installation and repair, contact Judy Smith, A-Best Roofing, 918-587-1426 or www.abestroofing.com.

Do you know enough to get a good mortgage?

Last month, RIS Media presented an article entitled, "Nearly Half of Home Buyers Surveyed Don’t Understand Essential Information about Mortgages". Do you know enough to ensure that you can make an educated decision and get a good mortgage?

Here is some surprising information found in that article:

• "More than half (57 percent) of prospective home buyers who were polled do not understand how adjustable rate mortgages (ARMs) work."
• "One-third (34 percent) of the respondents who are prospective home buyers do not understand that lender fees are negotiable and that they vary by lender."
• "Nearly half (45 percent) of polled prospective home buyers believe that they should always buy mortgage discount points when obtaining a mortgage."
• "More than half (55 percent) of prospective home buyers in the study do not understand that mortgage rates vary throughout the day."
• "More than one-third (37 percent) of prospective home buyers who were polled believe that pre-qualifying for a loan means they have secured financing."
• "More than two in five (42 percent) of the polled prospective home buyers do not understand that Federal Housing Administration (FHA) loans are available to ALL buyers."

One way to ensure that you are well educated about mortgages, before you get one, is to do your research. Zillow.com offers lots of great information about mortgages and other real estate related fields. Click the link for more information.

Another way to make sure that you get the best mortgage, is to use a knowledgeable, experienced, and well respected mortgage broker. Selecting the right mortgage broker can mean lots of savings for you in the long run, as well as prevent a lot of hassle and run-around.


To read the original article, "Nearly Half of Home Buyers Surveyed Don’t Understand Essential Information about Mortgages" visit the link.

For all your Tulsa mortgage needs, contact Steve Currington, Currington Mortgage, 918-394-5626 or www.curringtonmortgage.com.

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

Tulsa, OK. Home For Sale...

Tulsa, OK. Home for Sale

5821 East 101 Place
Forest Meadows Addition in Tulsa, OK.

$317,000

4 Bedrooms
2 Full 1 Half Bathrooms
2 Car Garage
3 Living Areas

For more information on this Tulsa, OK. Home for Sale or for all your Tulsa residential real estate needs, contact Kelly Howard, McGraw Realtors, 918-230-6341 or www.kellyhowardhomes.com.

Lawmakers Fight Over 20% Downpayment Requirement

Currently, a proposed law would require a 20% downpayment for all Qualified Residential Mortgages. There are concerns by many lawmakers and real estate professionals that this requirement would hinder the recovery of the real estate market. Read on for more details about this proposed law and how lawmakers are attempting to change the federal regulators minds...

More Lawmakers Fight 20% Down Payment

A proposed 20 percent down payment rule for qualified residential mortgages is too high, argues a growing group of lawmakers in the House of Representatives.

Late last week, about 240 lawmakers in the House sent a second letter to federal regulators urging them to lower the down payment rule on QRMs. Last month, about 150 lawmakers had signed a letter urging the same.

"The resultant reduction in demand for housing, due to an overly burdensome government dictate, would only add to the challenges the housing market faces, and could threaten a full-fledged economic recovery from years to come," the most recent letter reads.

The 20 percent down payment rule arises from an effort of several federal agencies that have been trying to urge more responsible lending and borrowing. The agencies created a proposed risk-retention regulation under the Dodd-Frank Wall Street reform law, which requires lenders that securitize mortgage loans to retain 5 percent of the credit risk unless the mortgage is considered a safe mortgage or a “qualified residential mortgage.” (FHA and VA mortgages would be exempt.)

QRMs would be exempt from the 5 percent credit requirement but would have to meet certain guidelines, such as the proposed 20 percent down payment requirement. Borrowers with less than 20 percent down could then be forced to pay higher fees and interest rates.

A 20 percent down payment requirement would cause more first-time buyers to flee from the already fragile housing market, analysts at Capital Economics say.

The National Association of REALTORS® also has been an outspoken critic of the proposal, saying that a 20 percent down payment requirement would jeopardize a housing recovery.

Source: “More Lawmakers Join Major Push to Reduce QRM Down Payment,” HousingWire (June 20, 2011)

To read the original article in Realtor Magazine, "More Lawmakers Fight 20% Down Payment", visit the link.

For Tulsa, OK. real estate needs, contact Kelly Howard, McGraw Realtors, 918-230-6341 or www.kellyhowardhomes.com.

Termites, When Will You Get Them in Your Home?

I am sure that there are many who are saying that they have never had termites in or around their home. In Oklahoma, the saying goes that "it's not if you get termites, it's when you get termites". According to our friends at Montgomery Exterminating, termites "break down plant and wood material" by tunneling underground until they get to a source of that material, your home for example. One of the main problems with termite damage is that they eat from the inside out. When you finally see the damage, often you can end up with structural damage as a result. In addition to your home, they will eat furniture, paper, fences, cloth and books.

Did you know?

• Termites on earth outweigh humans on earth!
• Over 5 million homes have some type of termite damage.
• Termite damage is more common than storm, fire, and earthquake damage.
• Your homeowners insurance will not likely cover termite damage.

So, what do you do to prevent termites from damaging your home?

Montgomery Exterminating uses the Sentricon Colony Elimination System to kill the termite colony and prevent any further damage to your home. For more information on Tulsa, OK. termite elimination or the Sentricon Colony Elimination System, contact Duane Montgomery, Montgomery Exterminating, 918-438-4885 or www.montgomeryexterminating.com.

Summer Cleaning Tips!

Now that Summer is officially in full swing, many homeowners are cleaning out their home. When cleaning out your home, remember these tips to make the decisions even easier:

1. Have I used the item within the last year? Will I use the item within the next year?- If the item hasn't been used in the last year, it is unlikely that you won't use it this coming year, so consider getting rid of that item.
2. Is this a sentimental item?- If the item has sentimental value and you have the space to store it, then keep it if you want. Remember though, some of us think that everything has sentimental value, so limit your sentiment or you will be overflowing!
   
3. Does this item hold monetary value?- If you don't use or can't store the item, consider selling it or giving it to someone who would appreciate it.
   
4. Do I have room for this item?- If the answer is no, then store it or get rid of it.
   
5. Is this item usable?- If the item is broken, too old, or unusable, consider recycling it.
   

For all your Tulsa, OK. Junk Removal, contact David, I-Haul of Tulsa, 918-852-2146 or www.ihaulusa.com.

For Tulsa, OK. Storage and Moving Solutions, contact Mike Ellingson, Relocation LLC, 918-459-6683 or www.relocationllc.net

10 Ways to Get Rid of Mold in Your Home

Whether you’re a home buyer, homeowner, or home seller, mold poses a wide range of problems, from cosmetic issues to serious health hazards. According to the Alliance for Healthy Homes, more than 1,000 types of molds have been found in U.S. homes, and approximately 6-10 percent of the general population, and 15-50 percent of people who are genetically prone to develop allergies, are allergic to mold.

Surprisingly, some of today’s advanced building techniques unwittingly foster mold growth in the home. As buildings are increasingly designed to prevent the infiltration and exfiltration of air, the materials used lock in moisture and humidity. Older homes are at risk thanks to leaky windows and roofs that bring in even more moisture.

Finding and removing mold is of the utmost importance, whether you intend to sell your home in the near future or not. Here, from home inspection experts, Pillar To Post (www.pllartopost.com), are 10 tips for combating mold in your home:

1. Call in a home inspection professional to assess water-damaged areas.

2. Keep humidity low. Humidity levels should be under 40% in order for mold to stop its forward march.

3. Replace any carpets and furniture that have ever been significantly damaged (i.e., saturated in water), even if they look OK on the outside.

4. Carpet in a bathroom or basement is never a good idea. Remove any that exists in those areas in your home.

5. Use an air conditioner during the summer months, even if it’s set at a relatively high temperature, like 80. Use fans to circulate air.

6. Dust and clean furniture regularly, and vacuum carpets at least once a week (make sure your vacuum has a HEPA filter).

7. Provide adequate ventilation in hot areas. The kitchen and bath are two of the highest-risk rooms for mold. Install exhaust fans in the kitchen and bathroom.

8. When you’re shopping for house paint for big or small painting projects, ask the sales rep about mold inhibitors you can add before painting.

9. Does your central air system have a fan from the Ford Pinto era? If so, replace it with a high-performance electrostatic air filter. Your local HVAC technician can help with this.

10. Don’t neglect areas underneath the house—have a professional drain and ventilate all sub-basement areas, especially crawl spaces.

If you do find mold in your home, remove it with a store-bought anti-fungal solution, or get rid of it with a weak bleach solution—1 cup bleach in 1 gallon of water. Or, if mold exists in a larger area, call in a professional to help.

As a Member of the Top 5 in Real Estate Network®, I, along with my team, have a wealth of real estate and homeownership information that may be of help to you. Feel free to contact our team any time to learn more about this important information, and be sure to forward this article on to any friends or family that may be interested as well.

Sincerely,

Darryl Baskin, McGraw Realtors, 918-258-2600

For professional Tulsa, OK. mold removal, contact Roger Fisher, PCC Cleaning and Restoration, 918-641-1111 or www.pcccr.com.

For high performance air filters delivered to your door, visit www.filters4me.com.

For Tulsa Air Conditioning Repair and Replacement, contact Stephen Taylor, Air Assurance, 918-258-COOL or www.airassurance.com.

For wholesale flooring in Tulsa, OK. contact Jim Ecrette, Prosource Wholesale Flooring, 918-252-7711 or www.prosourcefloors.com/tulsa. Remember to ask for Darryl Baskin's wholesale pricing.

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

Spectacular Tulsa, OK. Luxury Home For Sale...

Tulsa, OK. Luxury Home For Sale

1714 East 35th Street
Adams Estates in Tulsa, OK.

$749,900

5 Bedrooms
5 Full, 2 Half Bathrooms
4 Living Areas
2 Car Garage

For more information on this spectacular Tulsa, OK. luxury home for sale or to buy or sell Tulsa, OK. real estate, contact Kelly Howard, Tulsa Luxury Property Group at McGraw Realtors, 918-230-6341 or www.kellyhowardhomes.com.

Storm Damage and Insurance Claims

1. The first stage of the claim process - getting started:

I have a storm claim - what do I do?
The first step in the claims process is reporting your damage to your insurance company. Call your insurance company to report the claim. At this stage, your call will most likely be directed to someone gathering basic information such as contact information and broad general information regarding your loss. This person most likely will not be the adjuster assigned to assess and evaluate your claim and is not the person who will ultimately decide on insurance benefit payments to you. It is important to provide answers to any questions asked at this stage.

What if I cannot find my policy?
Immediately ask your insurance company or agent for a complete copy of your insurance policies, including your declarations page. That policy is the contract between your insurance company and you. You need a copy to understand what coverage types are available to you in case you later need to tell your lawyer this information. Some of these coverages may be difficult to understand. Basic
coverage types in these policies include dwelling, other structures, personal property
and loss of use. Common additional coverages include debris removal, property
collapse, and reasonable repairs. Also, the policy will also determine amounts of
coverage as well as any exclusions, conditions, and deductibles regarding coverage.
The debris removal coverage, if available, may be particularly helpful at this early stage
to pay to clear your property. While this fact sheet addresses residential homeowner’s
insurance, commercial property insurance can cover both physical structures and
property as well as loss of business and income as a result of a disaster.

I have been assigned an adjuster, so what happens now?
An adjuster’s job is to investigate the claim for the insurance company. Determining what caused the damage and placing a value on the damage are part of this stage. You should expect the adjuster to inspect the damage initially and provide guidance as to what you can do to move the claim forward. You should ask the adjuster what you should do to assist in the claims process. Take notes of any instruction given to you. If you do not understand anything, ask for clearer instruction or explanation.

The adjuster assigned to me does not work for my insurance company. Should I be concerned?
Oftentimes, following a natural disaster with widespread damage like we
experienced on April 27th, insurance companies will employ what are called
“independent” adjusters to help handle claims due to the high volume of claims coming
in. This does not change any obligation of your insurance company. The policy between
you and your company remains in effect and must be honored regardless of whether
the adjuster is a direct employee of your insurance company or an “independent
adjuster.”

I do not like my adjuster. What can I do?
You have an obligation under your insurance contract to cooperate with your insurance company. This might include answering questions you feel are unnecessary or impossible to answer at this time. Do not forget your obligation to cooperate. If you refuse to cooperate, you may be giving your insurance company an opportunity to not pay your claim, in whole or in part. That does not mean you have to accept any payment offer from the company. Instead, this means you have to provide information asked by the company or adjuster. If you find you cannot work well with your adjuster, you may request another one. Some policies provide for this right, while other policies do not. Prior to making this request, review your policy. Under the strain from and the recent destruction, such a request may also slow down your claim.

I cannot live in my home. What can I expect from my insurance company?
Determine what “Additional Living Expense” coverage you have from your adjuster and your policy. "Additional Living Expenses" generally includes hotel or restaurant bills; the limit in terms of specific dollar amounts or percentage of coverage are usually defined. Make sure you understand the limit - the maximum total amount of coverage - you have so you can budget your living arrangements. This coverage is designed to provide a comparable standard of living after a loss. Ask what documentation you need to provide to continue this coverage while you are displaced from your home.

**For part two of this article, visit www.darrylbaskin.com/baskinreport

For Tulsa, OK. legal questions regarding storm damage and insurance claims, contact David Keesling, Richardson Richardson Boudreaux Keesling at 918-492-7674 or www.rrblawok.com.

For all your Tulsa, OK. insurance needs. contact Mike Tedford, Tedford Insurance, 918-299-2345 or www.tedfordinsurance.com.