Midtown Tulsa Real Estate - Lori Cain

$115,000 Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, Full brick, immaculate, deck, landscaped, extras!

Lori Cain - Midtown Tulsa Real Estate (Chinowth & Cohen Realtors) — Tue, 09 Mar 2010 10:29:02 -0600

Lori Cain | Chinowth & Cohen Realtors | 918-852-5036

1204 West Knoxville Street, Broken Arrow, OK

Updated, remodeled, immaculate. Open spacious floor plan, fireplace, wrap-around deck, custom built shed. Full brick.

3BR/1BA Single Family House

offered at $115,000

Year Built	1979
Sq Footage	1,322
Bedrooms	3
Bathrooms	1 full, 0 partial
Floors	1
Parking	2 Car garage
Lot Size	7,488 sqft
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

This full brick, traditional home is updated and move-in ready. You will love the open & spacious floor plan and beautiful wood flooring
throughout. The third bedroom or office is separate from the other two bedrooms and is bright with natural sunlight. The wrap-around
deck, nicely landscaped yard and storage shed are extras you will love!

Complete home remodel in 2006 including laminate flooring, canned lights, ceiling fans, vinyl windows, counter tops.

Complete remodel in bathroom, interior and exterior paint. All lights have dimmers. New roof with a ridge vent in 2008. Open floor plan.

The shed is custom made by a finishing carpenter. Dimension are 12' x 14' and height is 12-1/2' tall. It is double floored, has two
skylights, two lofts, and solar light with a remote control. The wrap-around deck has built-in benches & storage under the benches.

MLS: 1006513

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

- Central A/C	- Central heat	- Fireplace
- High/Vaulted ceiling	- Hardwood floor	- Tile floor
- Living room	- Office/Den	- Dining room
- Dishwasher	- Stove/Oven	- Microwave
- Laundry area - inside	- Balcony, Deck, or Patio	- Yard

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

- Move-In Ready: truly excellent condition

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Full brick traditional	Arched covered entry
Huge open living	Cozy fireplace seating
Updated, open kitchen	Large dining off kitchen

Contact info:

Lori Cain

Chinowth & Cohen Realtors

918-852-5036

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Mar 9, 2010, 7:02am PST

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Let's Get Connected!

If you're looking for homes for sale in Midtown Tulsa, OK or just more information on Midtown Tulsa Real Estate, you can visit my primary website at www.loricain.com

PlaniTulsa and Preserve Midtown: working to keep charm and integrity in midtown Tulsa real estate and neighborhoods

Lori Cain - Midtown Tulsa Real Estate (Chinowth & Cohen Realtors) — Tue, 09 Mar 2010 00:19:37 -0600

PlaniTulsa and Preserve Midtown: working to keep charm and integrity in midtown Tulsa real estate and neighborhoods

Wednesday March 10, 2010 is the Last Chance for Your Voice to be Heard in Support of PlaniTulsa!

Please take a few moments to go to www.PlaniTulsa.org and read the comments blog. Individuals are asking that language protecting our established neighborhoods be removed from the final document. From the very beginning, citizens clearly indicated they want stable neighborhoods.

Go to YouTube and watch the PreserveMidtown video to see why it is important that we stabilize our neighborhoods.

If you support PlaniTulsa as written and want the new comprehensive plan to include language that protects your neighborhood, please go to www.PlaniTulsa.org and leave your opinion or attend the last citizen's meeting on Wednesday, March 10th at 1:30 p.m. and speak directly to the Planning Commission.

PlaniTulsa and Preserve Midtown: working to keep charm and integrity in midtown Tulsa real estate and neighborhoods

Information courtesty of Preserve Midtown: PreserveMidtown is a grassroots, non-partisan, volunteer community based organization founded in May, 2007.

We are a resource for resident property owners concerned about neighborhood issues.
We believe in balanced and compatible residential land use planning.
We care about growth management including protecting the environment.
We are concerned about traffic, utility infrastructures and escalationg costs of housing for all Tulsans.
We support neighborhood-friendly development.

PreserveMidtown Mission: To provide information and advocacy for resident property owners concerning issues affecting their property, neighborhoods and the city of Tulsa.

Preserve Midtown Tulsa Real Estate - build homes that fit the neighborhood!

Lori is a residential Realtor serving the greater Tulsa area, and specializing in midtown Tulsa real estate. Please visit Lori’s web site, LoriCain.com or call 918-852-5036.

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Let's Get Connected!

If you're looking for homes for sale in Midtown Tulsa, OK or just more information on Midtown Tulsa Real Estate, you can visit my primary website at www.loricain.com

Components of the real estate offer - what to consider when you receive an offer on your home for sale

Lori Cain - Midtown Tulsa Real Estate (Chinowth & Cohen Realtors) — Thu, 04 Mar 2010 10:23:11 -0600

Components of the real estate offer - what to consider when you receive an offer on your home for sale - When a Seller receives an offer on their home for sale, it’s important to look at all the components of the offer.

The Buyer didn’t offer full price - are you surprised?

Did the Buyer ask you to pay part of their closing costs? How much did they ask you to pay in repairs? Did they ask for a home warranty? Does the Buyer want to close in a time frame suitable to you?

Let’s compare the components of two real estate offers and assume that your home is listed for $200,000.

Buyer A offers $190,000, has conventional financing and is paying 20% down, asked for $500 in repairs and would like to close in three weeks.

Buyer B offers $198,000, has FHA financing and is paying the required 3.5% down-payment, asked for 3% in closing costs ($5,940), asked for $1,000 in repairs, asked for $500 in new guttering, a $420 residential service agreement and would like to schedule closing five weeks out.

Buyer A’s offer will net $189,500 and you will no longer be paying utility bills in three weeks.

Buyer B’s offer will net $190,140 -- $640 more than Buyer A’s offer.

Do you see that Buyer B’s offer is beginning to look like a shopping list? The more a Buyer demands, the more red flags are raised.

Components of the real estate offer - what to consider when you receive an offer on your home for sale

There’s much to be said for what Realtors refer to as a “clean offer,” which means that the components of the real estate offer are simple, clean and less demanding. While at a glance, the offer with the higher sales price seems more attractive, it may not be when you put pencil to paper.

With each offer, your Realtor will prepare a “Net to Seller,” showing what you will net based upon the components of the real estate offer. Look at the bottom line. In this example, Buyer B’s offer will net $640 more, but this Buyer may be more difficult to work with. Remember that some re-negotiating may occur after inspections are done and repair bids are obtained. Which Buyer do you think will agree to repair a few items after closing instead of demanding that you repair every tiny thing found by the inspector?

Earnest money, repairs, residential service agreements, type of financing, closing costs - these are all components of the real estate offer that you will consider when you receive an offer on your home for sale.

Of course, you will most likely counter any initial offer that you receive that is less than full price. The longer your home is on the market, the more negotiable you will have to become. So, don’t be offended by what you consider a “low-ball offer” the first week on market. Evaluate all the components of the real estate offer and counter with your Realtor’s guidance.

Lori is a residential Realtor serving the greater Tulsa area, and specializing in midtown Tulsa real estate. Please visit Lori’s web site, LoriCain.com or call 918-852-5036.

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________

Let's Get Connected!

If you're looking for homes for sale in Midtown Tulsa, OK or just more information on Midtown Tulsa Real Estate, you can visit my primary website at www.loricain.com

Tips and Tricks for First-Time Home Buyers - just in time for the April 30, 2010 stimulus deadline!

Lori Cain - Midtown Tulsa Real Estate (Chinowth & Cohen Realtors) — Tue, 23 Feb 2010 20:30:16 -0600

Tips and Tricks for First-Time Home Buyers - just in time for the April 30, 2010 stimulus deadline!

Because I am working with so many first-time home buyers at the moment, I thought I would write one general outline for all to follow.

Your first step as a first-time home buyer is to speak to a Lender to determine what type of financing you should use, how much money you will need for a down-payment and how much you can spend on a home. Which type of financing you choose as a first-time home buyer will depend on your credit score, how much down-payment you can afford, etc. I am not a Lender and will not advise in this area, but I do list several excellent Lenders from which to choose on my Preferred Vendor list. My favorite Lender is Julian James-Thomas, of 1st Capital Mortgage, by the way, 918-274-1519.

Once you know the amount you can comfortably afford, search for a Realtor to represent you in your first-time home buyer home purchase transaction. DO NOT search the internet and call the Realtor who has the property listed. You will want to work with ONE Realtor who clearly understands your goals and objectives and who will represent only your interests. If you call the Realtor who has the property listed, he/she will represent both you AND the Seller. While this can be done ethically, don’t you think you’d be better off with your personal and exclusive representation? Remember that the Seller pays the Buyer’s Agent’s commission, so this representation IS FREE to you.

Ask friends for referrals, interview Realtors and ask for references. I pride myself on my negotiating skills, but don’t take my word for it - ask for contact information of my previous clients and read my testimonials! Do find a full-time Realtor and don't be guilted into using your cousin who sells real estate part-time.

Start shopping online. Your Realtor can set up a customized search for you that is much more fine-tuned than the searches you can do on the internet. If you want a specific lot size, inside laundry, master bedroom on the first level - we can search for all this! Do a little shopping from home and narrow down your possibilities before you get in the car to actually visit homes.

Tips and Tricks for First-Time Home Buyers - just in time for the April 30, 2010 stimulus deadline!

Start shopping in person. Take your camera and a note pad. Ask questions. Is this home priced reasonably? How long has it been on the market? What is the age and number of layers of the roof? Have any major components been updated (heat, air, electric, plumbing, hot water heater) - these can be costly repairs down the road, so don’t fall in love with a house and ignore the sagging roof!

Fall in love with your future home and write an offer.

Follow your Realtor’s advice as to how much to offer, how much earnest money to put down, what to ask for in repairs and Seller’s concessions. I’ll write a bit more about this tomorrow. The housing industry is still strong in Tulsa and surrounding areas, and we’re not giving houses away yet - so be prepared to learn about the components of an offer and how to get yours accepted.

Good luck to all first-time home buyers! We’re excited for your future! 65 days until the deadline for first-time home buyers to get your contracts written - we can do it! Get started today!

Lori is a residential Realtor serving the greater Tulsa area, and specializing in midtown Tulsa real estate. Please visit Lori’s web site, LoriCain.com or call 918-852-5036.

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________

Let's Get Connected!

If you're looking for homes for sale in Midtown Tulsa, OK or just more information on Midtown Tulsa Real Estate, you can visit my primary website at www.loricain.com

A Lender’s Appraisal Does Not Care About Your Upgrades

Lori Cain - Midtown Tulsa Real Estate (Chinowth & Cohen Realtors) — Fri, 26 Feb 2010 08:37:26 -0600

This post from an Indiana Mortgage Lender is a MUST-READ for home sellers, particularly the last paragraph. Of course home buyers are going to choose your home because of the landscaped yard and granite counter tops, but make sure the comps are there to support your sales price! Please call me if you have any questions!

Lori is a residential Realtor serving the greater Tulsa area, and specializing in midtown Tulsa real estate. Please visit Lori’s web site, LoriCain.com or call 918-852-5036.

Via Tony Grego with American Bank Mortgage Group - 317-714-8080:

Do you feel that pricing a home is a little like throwing darts these days? Sometimes you hit, most times you miss?

At the end of the day Realtors have a next to impossible job trying to help clients price their home. I don't think I ever met anyone that wants to lose money but most homes we price today should reflect a lower price than a few years ago. Now I'm on the mortgage side of things but I hear the same things. My house is worth XXX,XXX due to:

"I have nicer landscaping."

"I just replaced the carpets."

"I just repainted the walls."

"I just had the bathroom toilet fixed."

"I had my furnace replaced last year."

Realtors work very hard with comparables, pictures and stats to help support the price. I'm not saying that these upgrades are not important. They just don't really add value. They add eye and curb appeal to help a potential client say yes to the listing.

What goes into a Lender's Appraisal?

For Fannie Mae, Click here

For Freddie Mac, Click here

For FHA, Click here

Most homes are financed. So these appraisal standards are important when you price. Remember we are in a Lender's Market. Nothing will turn a buyer off more than working hard on a price agreement only to find out the appraisal comes in short. So to best serve our clients remember that most of the weight for your pricing strategy must be Lender comps.

At your service,
Tony Grego
Senior Mortgage Banker American Bank - Indianapolis, IN Branch
www.getmyratequote.com
www.tonygrego.com to learn more about me

317-348-0280 direct line
317-536-3754 fax
"Bankers with vision, helping people with dreams!"

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Let's Get Connected!

If you're looking for homes for sale in Midtown Tulsa, OK or just more information on Midtown Tulsa Real Estate, you can visit my primary website at www.loricain.com

50 Inexpensive Tips to Dramatically Increase the Value of Your Properties

Lori Cain - Midtown Tulsa Real Estate (Chinowth & Cohen Realtors) — Fri, 26 Feb 2010 08:06:45 -0600

This Pennsylvania Realtor posted an EXCELLENT list of tips for home sellers!

Via Tai DeSa (Significa Corporation):

50 Inexpensive Tips to Dramatically Increase the Value of Your Properties

By Tai A. DeSa, Significa Corporation

Professional landlords and investors involved in property flipping should constantly seek to improve their property value while keeping costs low. Below is a list of 50 tips that we shared with our property investment club (the Lehigh Valley Real Estate Investors Group).

Tip #1: Add a basic alarm system. The number one concern for any resident is security. If a homeowner or tenant does not feel secure, then eventually they will move elsewhere. Many security alarm providers have lucrative introductory offers for equipment and/or installation. If you provide an alarm system for your tenants, raise the rent and offer a "free security system." Or, have your tenants pay the monthly monitoring fee.

Tip #2: Install matching light fixtures and ceiling fans. Consider some track lighting with dimmers to highlight artwork or showcase a particular part of the room. Consider flex track lighting or suspended track lighting. The addition of a dimmer switch makes your lighting more versatile and is a great mood enhancer. Ceiling fans add value, and you may want to consider adding them in place of staid old light fixtures. If you don't want to replace existing ceiling fans, make sure you clean the dust off the blades and update the decorative pulls at the end of the chain.

Tip #3: Do some basic landscaping, particularly in the front yard. The front yard is the first thing that potential buyers see, so don't miss out on your chance to pique their interest. Prospective buyers and tenants make up their minds about your home as they walk the first 10 feet from their car to your front door. A junky yard will make them think that you've neglected maintenance. A pristine yard will reassure them that your home is well kept. Focus on a clean cut, straighten up the lawn edges, freshen the landscaping and add some color spots or striking shrubs for impact. Mulch is inexpensive, so use it. If your yard lacks interest, consider constructing a retaining wall. Use railroad ties, bricks, or stones to construct that wall. The landscape design should complement your home's style and colors.

Tip #4: Get a new front door, or give the existing one a facelift. Paint the front door a complementary but bold color. Choose a color that says, "Look at me!" Once you're finished painting the door, install a new doorknob that emphasizes sturdiness and class. Also install a new kick-plate that matches your lockset finish. Remember, while your prospective homebuyer or tenant is waiting for you or the real estate agent to let them in, they are observing your front door. If you have an old storm door, get rid of it. If you really feel the need for a storm door, install one of those with a lot of window space to highlight the bold color of your front door.

Tip #5: Install some blinds and window shades. Certain rooms could really use blinds or shades to emphasize style. The best places to start are the living room, kitchen, master bedroom, and master bathroom. These are the four rooms that prospective buyers and tenants will study most when evaluating your property. Pick window shades that complement existing furniture or your paint color. If you want to stick with inexpensive vinyl blinds, then make sure all the blinds in the room are a matching color. When showing a home during the day, you should always have your blinds and shades open to let in abundant light (unless you've got a clear view of the mess in your neighbor's backyard).

Tip #6: Get rid of photographs of people. You may love Aunt Matilda, but you don't need to have her portrait posted all over the home you're showing! Prospective buyers and tenants need to imagine themselves living in the home, not you and your family. If you are going to put up photos, display pictures of nature.

Tip #7: Clean off the tops of the water heater, furnace, oil tank, washing machines, and any other mechanical fixture. Most homeowners don't bother to do this at all. Clean the dust and grime off the top of your furnace, water heater, oil tank, washing machines, and so on. This makes these devices look newer, well-maintained, and clean. If you have a dirty-looking furnace, don't be surprised if your buyer demands a concession for a new furnace. Don't say I didn't warn you!

Tip #8: Make sure every light bulb in the house works. Always make sure that every light bulb in your home works. If the prospective homebuyer or tenant can't see your place, then you can't expect them to like your place. When people see lamps with one good bulb but three burned-out ones, they think that you don't maintain the residence and they worry about other deferred maintenance. Where it's safe, use higher wattage light bulbs in your lamps for a bright, warm atmosphere. Also consider slightly pink-tinted or full spectrum "natural" light bulbs to create a warm glow for your home. Don't forget about the bulbs in your basement and in your exterior lamps.

Tip #9: Place decorative flowers and candles throughout the home. Fake (or real if you can water them regularly) flowers work wonders. You can often buy fake flowers at yard sales or in the clearance section of stores. Candles give the home a romantic or warm feel. Scented candles are best. Some scents are so strong that homebuyers can smell them even when the candle isn't burning. Once you've sold or rented the home, pack the flowers and candles in a box and stage your next property.

Tip #10: Place magazines about luxury homes around the house. Magazines about elegant homes or sophisticated styles can put prospective homebuyers and tenants into the mood. When they see that bright, shiny issue on your nightstand or coffee table, they envision your property as the stylistic new home that they wish to live in. Grab some copies of Our House®, Elegant Homes, Beautiful Homes^TM, and Better Homes and Gardens^TM.

Tip #11: Refinish your hardwood floors. Most people like hardwood floors, particularly if the floor has a luster to it. If your hardwood floors are stained, you still may able to sand them and apply a darker finish that hides stains. If your hardwood floors don't need to be sanded but have dull spots or cracks, try some off-the-shelf refinishing agents or cleansers. Murphy's® Oil Soap or Rejuvenate polish are personal favorites to restore that classic wood look.

Tip #12: Get rid of clutter. Space sells. If you have clutter, don't stuff it in your closets, or your basement, or your garage. Throw it out or rent some storage space. Prospective buyers and tenants should not feel hemmed in because of all the boxes you have laying around or those old rickety chairs you can't seem to discard.

Tip #13: Shampoo your carpet. Yes, many people like new carpet for obvious reasons. However, we can't always afford to buy new carpet, for obvious reasons. Rent a carpet cleaning vacuum or hire a shampoo service. The proper detergent and equipment can get rid of old stains and make odors disappear.

Tip #14: Place air fresheners throughout the home. You'd be amazed at how easy this one is but how many people don't actually do it. Potpourri and air fresheners set the mood. People tend to associate fresh scents with cleanliness and purity. Be careful not to overdo it with the air fresheners, or people will think you're trying to hide an odor.

Tip #15: Powerwash the exterior of the home. Road dust builds up under overhangs and coverings. Mold, moss, or insects may accumulate on your siding. By powerwashing your place, you'll make your house that much more inviting from the street. Even though there's a For Sale sign in the front yard, be advised that many passersby will not call the phone number if the house looks dirty or old. If they do call the number, they may be looking to give you a lowball offer because they think you can't afford the upkeep.

Tip #16: Install brushed-nickel or brass switch plate and wall outlet covers in the master bedroom, the kitchen, and the dining room. Many places I've seen for sale or rent do not have matching switch plates and outlet covers. Some are ivory, some are brown, some are white, and most are dirty. New outlet covers and switch plates can cost anywhere from a few cents to several dollars. You may want to consider installing brushed-nickel or brass covers in your most heavily trafficked rooms. These covers give the room a look of elegance and style.

Tip #17: Replace those old, worn-out doorknobs. I've seen doorknobs that are over 80 years old and have been painted over several times. Ugh! Doorknobs can be some of the most dirty, bacteria-infested items in the house, and don't your prospective buyers know it! Replace those old doorknobs with new ones. If you have a brass theme in the room, go with brass. If it's brushed-nickel you like (and that's "in" nowadays), then go with that look.

Tip #18: If you have a paved driveway, reseal it. If your driveway is already paved but is cracked or otherwise in bad shape, repair it and/or use a driveway sealer. A sharp-looking driveway is the first thing a prospective buyer or tenant sees because that's what they're driving toward. Besides, the sealer prevents existing cracks from becoming worse.

Tip #19: Compile a full list of the warranties on the appliances and fixtures, and leave that list on the kitchen counter. If your home has been repaired in recent years, such as a new roof, or if you've replaced major appliances, be sure to have the receipts on hand to show interested buyers. Better yet, type up a list of the warranties and leave copies of that list on the kitchen counter. Many homebuyers need to feel secure that items in the house are in good working order. If your house is the only one with warranty information, these buyers may be more likely to make an offer (and a good one at that).

Tip #20: Run an air purifier to get rid of those lingering odors. You're used to the odors in your house, but trust me, no one else is. If a thorough cleaning and some well-placed potpourri don't do the trick, then it's time for an air purifier. I have an EcoQuest air purifier, and it eliminates the bacteria that can cause odors. There are less expensive purifiers on the market, so take your pick. A good place to run an air purifier is the basement.

Tip #21: Refinish your vinyl or tile floors. Clean your vinyl and tile floors. If that isn't enough, then it's time to find the right chemicals, solutions, or polymers to make those floors look like new. Tile floors may need new grout. Perhaps you need to replace a cracked tile (I should hope you bought one or two extra tiles way back when for just such a need). Regarding vinyl floors, I am a fan of Rejuvenate polish. You can use a flat mop to apply it, and it fills in cracks and shines the floor.

Tip #22: Spend a day looking at Open Houses held by property sellers. After observing what other people do with their homes, you'll view your property with a fresh perspective. Plus you'll get a feel for what the market values are in your neighborhood. Top athletes check out the competition. Top businesspersons check out the competition. You should too.

Tip #23: Oil your door hinges so they don't squeak. You may not notice the squeaking hinge because you've heard it so many times, but buyers will wonder what else needs maintenance. Oil those hinges. Also make sure that every door opens and shuts with ease. Sometimes doors get misaligned and they don't shut unless you apply lots of pressure.

Tip #24: Replace your doorbell if it is old or worn. One of the first things a prospective homebuyer notices is the doorbell. Is it old? Does it work? Does anyone in the house hear the bell? Imagine if you're home, waiting for a prospective homebuyer to stop by, and you can't hear them ringing the bell. Doorbells are inexpensive items, and a new one (at least a new button) will impress your visitors.

Tip #25: Clean, clean, clean. Once the potential buyer walks through your front door, they should be wowed by the cleanliness. A sparkling home just screams that it's been properly maintained. Even if you clean regularly, chances are, there are things you don't notice because you live there. Consider spending a couple hundred dollars and bring in the professionals for a thorough cleaning. With a window cleaning, your house will surprise you with a new look.

Tip #26: Modernize that kitchen. As the hub of family interaction, the kitchen is the heart of the home. Brighten the cabinets with a fresh coat of paint or some updated hardware. Add a new faucet or light fixtures to rejuvenate the space or change the window coverings for a more modern feel. Buyers are always interested in the kitchen, so try a quick facelift that will turn up the heat on your bottom line.

Tip #27: Brighten up rooms with new paint. This one is obvious but many people still don't do it (or do it properly). New paint may be one of the most effective dollar-for-dollar value enhancers. You can hire a professional or do it yourself. Choose neutral colors for most rooms, but don't be afraid to use a bold color (red? black? violet?) on a wall or two to create contrast or style. Just don't go crazy with the bold colors. Also consider painting the walls and trim complementary colors.

Tip #28: Give the master bedroom a bold and romantic look. People associate the master bedroom with romance, authority, comfort, and style. Give the people what they want! Buy some new bed sheets or throw pillows. Consider a new comforter. Set up candles and flowers. Get rid of junk. Don't leave any clothes laying around.

Tip #29: Add crown moulding. It is available in countless colors, widths, and styles - from simple to elegant; classic to contemporary. Moulding can give an ordinary looking room the special touch needed to make it really stand out.

Tip #30: Add landscape lights or a decorative street lamp. A classy street lamp gets attention, even during the daytime. Landscape lights can really establish security and elegance at the same time. I've seen prospective homebuyers view a home during the day, and then insist on coming back at night to see how the place looks. You don't have to overspend, but consider adding or updating your exterior lamps.

Tip #31: Install a new mailbox. Mailboxes can be relatively inexpensive. Install a new one so your prospective buyers and their prospective houseguests don't have to look at that dingy old thing on the front of the house.

Tip #32: Remove weeds from between concrete slabs and walkways. This is a sure sign of property neglect and a big turn off for potential buyers. Nowadays, you can buy weed-killing chemicals that destroy unwanted plant life in hours. Or you can try a solution of 20 percent bleach and 80 percent water.

Tip #33: Build a new garage or add a carport. Every homeowner knows the advantages afforded by a garage, and every prospective buyer will see a garage as a big plus. A new home garage is a great property enhancer that increases the market value of the home. Carports are a less expensive option. Many basic carports retail for $795 to $995. I've seen people fall in love with the interior of a home but fail to put in an offer because they complained about the lack of a garage.

Tip #34: Install an automatic garage door opener. Another fine way to increase property value is to install a garage door opener. Select a model with a multi-code garage door opener remote that routinely changes the code for additional security.

Tip #35: Enhance your porch or doorstep with pots or baskets of blooming annuals. This is an inviting and fragrant way to boost visual appeal and add eye popping color. You can find flower pots at dollar stores, and a bag of topsoil may cost only slightly more than a dollar. I like to keep flower pots at many of my properties for sale, and once they've sold I take the pots (flowers and all) and plant them on the doorstep of the next property I want to sell. A tip to keep the flower pots light is to place some empty water bottles in the base and cover them with soil. Sometimes the flowers won't need a lot of dirt, and the empty bottles create space but not added weight. Make sure you water the plants often enough, because dead plants will have the opposite effect of what you intend.

Tip #36: Give your old BBQ grill a makeover. Degrease it first, rinse well; repeat if necessary. Once totally clean and dry, refinish it using a bright fireproof/high-temperature paint. Select a color that complements your home's exterior look. Or try something fun that will really stand out, such as orange, yellow, or blue.

Tip #37: Install shutter and window box sets that match. Shutters and window boxes add charm and character to a home. Some people prefer to place fake flowers in the window boxes, while others prefer the real thing.

Tip #38: Install a skylight dome or roof skylight. People like natural light, especially light from above. Skylight installation also increases natural lighting in rooms; making them more inviting and cheerful.

Tip #39: Build a mini herb pantry. Many homes are sold based upon the setup of the kitchen. An herb pantry can be something as simple as a cubby hole built into the wall between studs. Or it may be a closet area converted into an herb pantry with a glass door.

Tip #40: Add something "green," like solar panels. Green is good these days (or any day). Many homebuyers need to feel like they are doing something good for the planet, while saving money at the same time. Solar panels are en vogue again. Consider installing some of them. Another green activity that enhances value is to add insulation where it's needed.

Tip #41: Empty out that cluttered basement. Many basements can be downright scary. You certainly don't want that impression. When selling your property, I suggest you empty out the basement as much as possible. Take your junk to the trash dump or place it in storage. Homebuyers need to sense that they have lots of open space (to store the junk they have in storage).

Tip #42: Trade in those old, leaky faucets for shiny new ones. We all know that kitchens and bathrooms can attract buyers, or repel them. The centerpiece of any kitchen or bathroom is the sink, and the centerpiece of any sink is the faucet. Replace them yourself or hire a handyman. You'll often find perfectly good faucets on the clearance shelf at home improvement stores.

Tip #43: Change the filter in your air conditioner. You want to avoid that musty, stale smell when it is operating. Whether it's a window air conditioner or a central air system with ductwork, change the filter.

Tip #44: Hang a large mirror in the living room. It creates virtual space and the illusion of greater size. Buyers and renters love open space. Give it to them!

Tip #45: Make sure the colors of your kitchen appliances match. A kitchen with a yellow refrigerator, a stainless steel range, and a white microwave may look okay to you, but it doesn't look right to buyers. Make sure you match the colors. This may not require purchasing all new appliances. Sometimes it's a matter of ordering the right color panels.

Tip #46: Hang new towel bars and toilet paper holders. Once you've replaced the bathroom faucet, you'll want to change the towel rack and toilet paper holder to match it. Always make sure that you have a roll of toilet paper on the holder. I suggest you hang a decorative towel on the bar too. That makes the bathroom look complete.

Tip #47: Run a dehumidifier. A perpetually damp basement or bathroom can be the breeding ground for mold, odors, and insects. Neither mold nor odor nor insect helps your cause. Run a dehumidifier to dry out the air and cut down on the musty smell.

Tip #48: Paint the fence or railings surrounding your home. A freshly painted fence creates a tremendous Wow! factor. Prospective homebuyers often observe the exterior of a property before even considering whether to view the interior. If your exterior is old and decrepit, then you simply won't have many showings. By repainting the fence, you may even inspire your neighbors to paint their fences and railings to keep up with you. Spray paint works well on metal or cast-iron railings. Be sure to use primer first.

Tip #49: Install new street numbers on the front of your home. When prospective buyers or tenants are driving around the neighborhood trying to find your address, their eyes will gravitate toward bright, shiny, new street numbers. I should hope that those shiny numbers are affixed to your house. It only costs a few dollars to buy new brass or brushed-nickel numbers to boldly identify the front of your property. This is money well spent.

Tip #50: Use throws in colors that match the room to cover up worn sofa and chair upholstery. You could attempt to buy all new furniture to spruce up a room in the place you want to sell or rent. Or if all new furniture is not in your budget, buy some throws and pillows to place on your furniture.

Thank you for taking the time to read our blog on how to increase the value of your properties. We hope that these tips will aid you in your property investment buying and selling. We at Significa are grateful to be aligned with people like you.

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About the Author: Tai A. DeSa is Chief Executive Officer of Significa Corporation, a professional real estate investment company based in Pennsylvania (www.significacorp.com and www.significadeals.com). DeSa is a graduate of The Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania. Prior to entering the real estate investment business, he served as an officer in the U.S. Navy. He is the oldest in a family of 11 children and was valedictorian of his high school class. DeSa is also an Associate Broker with Keller Williams Real Estate (www.thetaidesateam.com). He is an organizer of the Lehigh Valley Real Estate Investors Group (www.lvrig.com) and an Area Director with Business Network International (www.bnidvr.com).

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Let's Get Connected!

If you're looking for homes for sale in Midtown Tulsa, OK or just more information on Midtown Tulsa Real Estate, you can visit my primary website at www.loricain.com

What Buyers need to know about FSBO (For Sale by Owner) properties

Lori Cain - Midtown Tulsa Real Estate (Chinowth & Cohen Realtors) — Thu, 18 Feb 2010 11:52:57 -0600

What Buyers need to know about FSBO (For Sale by Owner) properties

My favorite Lender, Juliana James-Thomas of 1st Capital Mortgage, contacted me about a client interested in purchasing a FSBO property - “for sale by owner.” She was concerned that he didn’t have his own representation and that he may be paying too much for the property. The Buyer feels rushed to make an offer on the property because the Sellers have offered to pay a portion of his closing costs and have come down from their original list price.

Juliana asked me to investigate to determine if the Buyer was indeed getting a good price on the “for sale by owner” property. He is getting pre-qualified in preparation to make an offer. Many Lenders wouldn’t care whether their client are actually paying a fair price, but Juliana takes a very personal and ethical approach to lending, which is why she builds client relationships for life.

I did some quick research on the property, and the “for sale by owner” property is over-priced by at least $10,000. In fact, the Sellers are asking almost $30,000 more than they paid for the property four years ago and from what I can tell from our MLS data (Multiple Listing Service), they have made limited improvements since their purchase.

Even IF Seller and Buyer agree on price, this property may have a problem appraising for the agreed-upon sales price, and that won’t be discovered until the Buyer has already spent $400 on an appraisal and possibly $500 on inspections. What happens then?

What Buyers need to know about FSBO (For Sale by Owner) properties

Often Buyers think they will get a better deal on For Sale by Owner properties because the Seller is not paying Realtor commissions. In actuality, Sellers rarely pass that savings along to the Buyer. Without having Realtor representation, a Buyer will often pay too much for a property and not negotiate needed repairs or know to ask for a residential service agreement.

Buyers, please take advantage of the many services a Buyer’s agent can offer you. We can access records to determine what was originally paid for a property, what improvements have been made, what the Sellers owe on the property and much more.

We help people buy houses every day, so we can craft an offer asking for the appropriate amount for repairs, closing costs, home warranties and more. We will be aware of what will likely be an appraisal requirement and will know if the house will appraise for the amount paid.

We will guide you through the buying process -- the largest investment you will make in your life time.

With the deadline approaching for 1st-time home Buyers to be under contract by April 30th, please contact me if you are considering purchasing a home.

Time is of the essence and Buyer representation is PRICELESS.

Lori is a residential Realtor serving the greater Tulsa area, and specializing in midtown Tulsa real estate. Please visit Lori’s web site, LoriCain.com or call 918-852-5036.

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Let's Get Connected!

If you're looking for homes for sale in Midtown Tulsa, OK or just more information on Midtown Tulsa Real Estate, you can visit my primary website at www.loricain.com

Components of a real estate offer: what a first-time home buyer needs to know

Lori Cain - Midtown Tulsa Real Estate (Chinowth & Cohen Realtors) — Thu, 25 Feb 2010 08:39:02 -0600

Components of a real estate offer: what a first-time home buyer needs to know

Our first-time home buyer has been pre-qualified with a Lender and has been shopping online and in person with his/her Realtor.

Now you’ve found the perfect house and are ready to make an offer.

The first thing your Realtor will do is prepare a CMA (Comparative Market Analysis) to show comparable properties in the neighborhood and what they have sold for. We study what has been sold in the past six months and use this data to determine a fair market value price. What you decide to offer depends on how quickly the properties are selling in that particular area, how long the property has been on the market and other factors - your Realtor representing you will advise you.

In the price range in which first-time home buyers are shopping, the pricing may not be as competitive as you might expect as we near the deadline to get under contract.

Although we consider the purchase price the largest component of a real estate offer, other components come in to play.

Are you asking the Seller to contribute towards your closing costs?
How quickly can you close?
Are you asking for a residential service agreement and home repairs?
Are you writing a large earnest money check to make your offer look attractive?
What TYPE of financing are you using?

When the Listing Realtor presents an offer to his/her Seller, he/she will point out:

Sales price
Amount of earnest money
Type of financing (FHA, VA, conventional, RD, cash)
Amount requested in repairs
Seller concessions (amount Seller may contribute towards Buyer’s closing costs)
Closing date
Other additional provisions

Components of a real estate offer: what a first-time home buyer needs to know

If you are looking at a home your heart is set on and it’s possible for it to receive multiple offers, you want to begin with a clean and attractive offer. If you have the funds available, write a STRONG earnest money check - in our area, 1% of sales price is typical, but I encourage first-time home buyers to write their earnest money check for a larger amount if they intend to make a “low-ball” offer.

If first-time home buyers NEED to ask the Seller to contribute to your closing costs, it may be necessary to offer more than list price. Keep in mind that the property must appraise for the amount you are going to borrow, and you don’t want to spend money on an appraisal and inspections if it’s not likely to appraise. Again, your Realtor can advise you in this area.

TYPICAL first-time home buyers are using FHA financing and paying the minimum 3.5% down-payment. Your closing costs can be $4,000-$7,000, depending on the price of the home.

The expenses you can expect to pay up front include:

Appraisal $375-$400
Earnest money: 1% of sales price
Inspections: $300-$500

Some home inspectors will be willing to be paid at closing, but may expect a credit card on file, should your contract fall through.

Good luck to first-time home buyers in crafting your offer. Rely on the skills of a competent, full-time Realtor to advise you and represent you.

Lori is a residential Realtor serving the greater Tulsa area, and specializing in midtown Tulsa real estate. Please visit Lori’s web site, LoriCain.com or call 918-852-5036.

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Let's Get Connected!

If you're looking for homes for sale in Midtown Tulsa, OK or just more information on Midtown Tulsa Real Estate, you can visit my primary website at www.loricain.com

Countdown: 65 days until the deadline for first-time buyers to get your contracts written

Lori Cain - Midtown Tulsa Real Estate (Chinowth & Cohen Realtors) — Tue, 23 Feb 2010 09:53:22 -0600

Countdown: 65 days until the deadline for first-time buyers to get your contracts written - Do you feel the frenzy beginning as we approach the deadline for first-time buyers to get their contracts submitted to qualify for the stimulus credit? As of today, February 23, 2010, the April 30th deadline is 65 short days away.

The phone is beginning to ring daily with calls from first-time buyers just beginning the process. Yesterday I received a call from a first-time buyer who had yet to speak to a Lender.

First-time buyers - please take notes! You must speak to a Lender first to know whether you qualify and for what amount you can qualify. Unless you are using VA financing or a Rural Development loan, you will need a minimum 3.5% down-payment which can be gifted from a family member.

There are also closing costs associated with your home purchase, and while you can ask for Seller assistance for much of this cost, there are limitations.

65 days until the deadline for first-time buyers to get your contracts written

Are you prepared to purchase? Do you have money socked away for the down-payment and closing costs, earnest money, appraisal and inspections? Do call a Realtor or a Lender if you don’t know where to begin, but do it quickly.

The process of underwriting your loan is tedious and a good Realtor will NOT take you house-shopping until you are approved for a loan. You don’t want to look at $150,000 homes, only to find out that you can only qualify for a $120,000 home - you’ll be disappointed!

The stimulus credit is a great incentive for first-time buyers who can purchase a home and keep their mortgage payment (including property taxes and homeowner’s insurance) at or below the amount currently paid in rental payments.

The stimulus credit is a great incentive for first-time buyers who feel secure in their employment.

If you are just beginning the process of your home purchase, please visit my Preferred Vendor list to locate a mortgage Lender to call. In addition to getting qualified, you still have to shop, so 65 days is not a lot of time. Once you know how much you can spend, please call me to set up a customized home search for you.

65 days until the deadline for first-time buyers to get your contracts written - we can do it! Get started today!

Lori is a residential Realtor serving the greater Tulsa area, and specializing in midtown Tulsa real estate. Please visit Lori’s web site, LoriCain.com or call 918-852-5036.

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Let's Get Connected!

If you're looking for homes for sale in Midtown Tulsa, OK or just more information on Midtown Tulsa Real Estate, you can visit my primary website at www.loricain.com

Florence Park Bungalow for Sale - Midtown Tulsa Real Estate

Lori Cain - Midtown Tulsa Real Estate (Chinowth & Cohen Realtors) — Sun, 21 Feb 2010 11:38:17 -0600

This Florence Park bunaglow for sale has possibly the highest pitch roof in the neighborhood. Cozy covered porch invites you right in! Offered at $167,900.

The first thing you’ll notice when you walk into this beautiful bungalow is the stunning vaulted ceiling in the great room. You can fit one tall Christmas tree in this room! The beautiful stone on the art deco fireplace will capture your attention along with the recently finished hardwoods original to the house and the detailed crown molding throughout.

To the right of the great room is a second living area or office with four windows providing much natural light.

The formal dining room is separated from the Great Room and kitchen area by arched doorways and is accented with beautiful crown molding.

The kitchen includes an adjacent breakfast nook with bay windows. The kitchen/nook area has ceramic tile flooring and counter tops are an attractive black granite.

Kitchen cabinets are maple and stainless steel range/oven, vent hood and sink are new. The inside utility is conveniently located off the kitchen area.

The center bedroom is large enough for a queen-size bed, and back bedroom has TWO closets and private entry to back patio. Hardwoods throughout, new light fixtures and ceiling fans throughout.

Yard is fully fenced. Full size two-car detached garage has additional storage in back, and there is also a storage shed in corner of lot. Trees were all recently trimmed by local arborist, Greg Cole. New roof 2010.

Completely updated 2 bedroom, 1 bath, 2 car detached garage, storage shed
Fenced back yard
Refinished Hardwoods throughout (done by Gil DeLozier)
Fresh paint throughout (Jane Halliwell, Prime Painting & Restoration)
Trees trimmed (by Tulsa arborist, Greg Cole)
Crown molding, arched doorways
Vinyl, energy-efficient, tilt windows throughout
Tile in kitchen and breakfast nook area with bay windows; original tile in bath
Inside utility
2 living areas - one with vaulted ceiling
Art Deco Fireplace w/gas logs
Kitchen - maple cabinets, granite counters, new SS appliances
All new light fixtures and ceiling fans throughout
New door knobs and door handles throughout (except for original glass ones)
New hot water heater (2009)
New insulated exterior metal doors
New programmable thermostat
New roof on home and detached garage
Patio for entertaining; covered front porch
Brick, English style bungalow

Visit here to see more photos and a virtual tour of this Florence Park bungalow for sale.

Now that you’ve seen this great home, let me tell you a bit about the area and neighborhood!

Florence Park is one of the nicer, yet still affordable historic midtown subdivisions in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Within Florence Park are some of the most beautiful bungalows – architectural wonders, sidewalks, parks and manicured lawns.

Florence Park has always been a special and revered neighborhood within our midtown Tulsa community. The architecture of homes built in the 1920s through mid 1930s is varied and unique - ranging from English style bungalows to adobes to traditional brick. No two homes look the same and you’ll find welcoming side-walks and beautiful old trees.

Within Florence Park are two actual parks. Pratt Park is on the 1600 block of Florence Avenue, and that’s where the Florence Park Neighborhood Association typically has its seasonal get-togethers. There are grills, picnic tables, drinking fountains and play equipment for the kiddos.

The second park, actually named “Florence Park” borders 21st Street between Gary Avenue and Florence Place. It has a water fountain for the kids to enjoy during the hot summer, jungle gym equipment, picnic tables and a tennis court.

Florence Park has an active Neighborhood Association with voluntary dues among residents. Officers and committees meet regularly and general meetings are held on a quarterly basis. Topics discussed include neighborhood safety, park maintenance, tree restoration and historical preservation. A quarterly newsletter is provided.

Florence Park boundaries are from the Broken Arrow expressway (west) to Harvard (east); Cherry Street (or 15th Street, north) to 21st Street (south). Just five blocks south of the University of Tulsa, Florence Park is minutes away from Utica Square Shopping Centre and the hub of popular restaurants on Cherry Street.

Florence Park is truly a tight-knit community within our midtown Tulsa community. We visit as we garden and manicure our lawns and as we walk our dogs. We watch each other’s homes and know when something or someone is out of place in the neighborhood.

It’s a great place to live!

Lori is a residential Realtor serving the greater Tulsa area, and specializing in midtown Tulsa real estate. Please visit Lori’s web site, LoriCain.com or call 918-852-5036.

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Let's Get Connected!

If you're looking for homes for sale in Midtown Tulsa, OK or just more information on Midtown Tulsa Real Estate, you can visit my primary website at www.loricain.com

3 Tips to Getting Your Website to the First Page of Google ~ Social Media Advisors

Lori Cain - Midtown Tulsa Real Estate (Chinowth & Cohen Realtors) — Thu, 18 Feb 2010 09:28:04 -0600

This is exceptional information for anyone who has a web site or who blogs - written by Jeremy Blanton, co-owner with Jason Crouch of 210 Consulting!

Via Jeremy Blanton (210 Consulting~ Social Media Advisors):

The concept of getting your website to the first page of Google seems like an almost impossible task to many. People spend months writing more and more content for their site, getting backlinks, and editing things without ever getting your website to the first page of Google. You feel defeated when your site stays on page 17 and just won't budge. Then one day you get a call from a company who promises “if you give us $395.00 per month, we will put your site on the first page of Google.” The part that these telemarketers neglect to mention is that the moment you stop paying them, your website will drop faster than lead balloon. As a former real estate agent, I used to get these calls regularly.

So, how can you actually get your website to the first page of Google? Well, there are a couple of really basic principles that you’ll need to implement. The “basics” are just that – basic. Before I share these, first you need to learn to not over-complicate things. Here are 3 easy steps to getting your website to the first page of Google:

1. Good, solid, keyword-rich content. So what is quality keyword-rich content? Basically, it’s content that gives something of value to consumers and search engines. You need to have keyword-rich posts that answer the questions your consumers have. Do not just spit out some random words and call it a post. If you write just to write and do not really have purpose, you are basically wasting your time if you are trying to get business. Develop a gameplan for your content and stick to it.

Ten well-written, targeted, keyword dense posts will bring a greater result than 100 posts that are thrown together quickly, with topics all over the place, and which contain piles of typos, grammatical errors, and more. This is a prime example of the principle of quality over quantity for the greatest result possible.

2. Writing Consistently on Your Blog. Many times people start working on getting their website to the first page of Google and after the first month or so they simply give up. One of the key factors to getting your website on the first page of Google is to consistently offer fresh content on your site. The easiest way to do this, of course, is to integrate a blog into your page.

You don’t need to have a Masters degree in English to have an effective blog. You just need to publish 2-3 good, quality posts each week that offer valuable content to your readers that are also written with your primary keywords in mind. One of the biggest excuses that I hear is that a business does not have time to write. According to HubSpot, businesses who blog receive 55% more visitors than companies who do not.

Here’s a simple time management strategy: On the weekend or whenever you have a few spare hours, (watching a football game, relaxing by the fire, etc.), sit down and write 2 or 3 really good quality posts. Then, on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday you can launch these pre-written posts. You can then take the rest of the week to respond to comments, etc. To the consumers and search engines, it appears as though you have written new content on three different days.

This practice is far healthier for your rankings than writing a bunch of content one day, then waiting 7-10 days to write more. Why? The search engines are constantly visiting your page to index more content. The freshness is important when it comes to Google’s indexing algorithm. Also, they see a constant stream of new stuff instead of a bunch on one day, then a week of dormancy until you get around to posting again. This is also helpful for your consumer audience of readers. If you publish 3-4 posts all at once, the likelihood of those posts bringing you good consumer traffic from those subscribed to your blog is minimal. Most consumers will read maybe one post, but will not have the time, attention span, or energy to read multiple posts.

3. Link, Link, Link! The more sites that are pointing links at your page (especially when titled with the keywords you are trying to achieve) will produce a great return. One easy way to get some great links pointing to your site is to make sure you have added your business site to your profiles on any and all networks you participate in. Links from higher ranking sites help the search engines realize that these sites recognize your website.

It is kind of like when Oprah endorsed KFC’s new grilled chicken promo. In no time, there were over 2 million coupons printed and many were left missing out on the promotion because of lack of supply. Links from reputable sites make your own site seem more reputable.

One thing for sure, you need to make positive that the links you insert places are actually working for you. Many networks block the search engines from following the links to prevent spam. (I will be writing more about this in the future.)

Another great way to get links, is to ask your friends and family members to place a link on their blogs, websites, etc. Two things with regards to linking: do not pay a link farm service. Search engines don’t value these links – I could go into great detail about why, but just rest assured that it’s a waste of time and money. The other tip is to not do a reciprocal link when possible. This means, if your brother links to your site, do not put a link back to his.

A detour. An easy alternative to reciprocal links is to have a link triangle. In this case, your brother links to your site, you link to your parents, and your parents link to your brother’s page. All links are one-way and none are going back and forth. The more links you can have pointed at your site, the better it will help in getting your website to the first page of Google. You can think of each link as a “vote” for your site.

If you implement just these three tips, it will help get your website onto the first page of Google. Obviously, there are plenty of other factors that contribute to this phenomenon. If you take these and not only integrate into your website, but also into your blog, the most vital part to your website, you will start seeing results in a rather quick fashion. These three items I discussed alone can make or break the effectiveness of a website.

If you have any questions, let me know. And by the way, 210 Consulting- Social Media Advisors offers some really great personal coaching taught by myself and Jason Crouch on this subject.

Photo Credits: http://www.flickr.com/photos/mklingo/245562110/ & http://www.flickr.com/photos/spiderpop/2798740868/
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I am the Co-Founder of 210 Consulting- Social Media Advisors. If you would like more information on any of the topics discussed in this blog, please contact me directly.

Feel free to subscribe to my blog to keep up to date with my latest posts of tips & tricks to enhance your experience on ActiveRain. If you would like, you can sign up to receive updates via email directly in your inbox.

Also, lets connect on these great social networks:

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If you're looking for homes for sale in Midtown Tulsa, OK or just more information on Midtown Tulsa Real Estate, you can visit my primary website at www.loricain.com

Social Media in Plain English

Lori Cain - Midtown Tulsa Real Estate (Chinowth & Cohen Realtors) — Thu, 18 Feb 2010 09:06:40 -0600

This video is a great way to explain the phenomena called "Social Media." It's not complicated - it's just this simple. If you're confused about Social Media, take three minutes to watch this video. Thanks, Clint Miller for allowing me to re-blog this!

Via Clint Miller (Real Estate Client Referrals, LLC (RECR)):

Social Media in Plain English

Now that I am working closely with several people in my local area in teaching businesses the power of social media, I am constantly on the hunt for new, innovative ways to explain why they should be involved in networks like Twitter and Facebook, etc...

This is one of the best examples I have ever found as to why social media exists, why it works, and why so many are turning towards it to help build their businesses!!

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Let's Get Connected!

If you're looking for homes for sale in Midtown Tulsa, OK or just more information on Midtown Tulsa Real Estate, you can visit my primary website at www.loricain.com

Homes for Sale in Florence Park in midtown Tulsa, Jan/Feb 2010 – Market Snapshot Florence Park in midtown Tulsa for February 15, 2010

Lori Cain - Midtown Tulsa Real Estate (Chinowth & Cohen Realtors) — Mon, 15 Feb 2010 08:32:33 -0600

Homes for Sale in Florence Park in midtown Tulsa, Jan/Feb 2010 and Market Snapshot for Florence Park in midtown Tulsa February 15, 2010* - Florence Park's northern border is 15th Street (Cherry Street); southern border is 21st Street; western border is the Broken Arrow Expressway and eastern border is Harvard.

There are currently 14 single family homes for sale in Florence Park in midtown Tulsa and four homes pending. The listing prices of these homes ranges from $105,000 to $269,000 and the median home price in Florence Park in midtown Tulsa for single family homes pending sale is $193,492.

Click here to request a current list of homes for sale in Florence Park in midtown Tulsa real estate.

As of February 15, 2010, 17 homes sold in Florence Park in midtown Tulsa in the past six months, with the low sales price of $119,000 and high of $317,000 - average sales price of $175,823.

The average size of homes sold in Florence Park in midtown Tulsa is 1,606 square feet, mostly 2 bed, 1 bath, 1 car garage.

Are you interested in what is going on in the hyper-local real estate market at this moment? The market snapshot shows homes for sale and homes recently sold, including price.

If you are buying or selling a home in Florence Park in midtown Tulsa real estate, please contact me as I offer extensive knowledge of the area, an aggressive marketing program and strong negotiation skills. When midtown Tulsa real estate is your focus, please call me!

* Based on information from the Greater Tulsa Association of REALTOR'S® MLS. Display of MLS data is deemed reliable but is not guaranteed accurate by the MLS.

Lori is a residential Realtor serving the greater Tulsa area, and specializing in midtown Tulsa real estate. Please visit Lori’s web site, LoriCain.com or call 918-852-5036.

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Let's Get Connected!

If you're looking for homes for sale in Midtown Tulsa, OK or just more information on Midtown Tulsa Real Estate, you can visit my primary website at www.loricain.com

The Salon at Philtower: Amanda and Ashley style the new within heritage of the old

Lori Cain - Midtown Tulsa Real Estate (Chinowth & Cohen Realtors) — Sun, 14 Feb 2010 07:19:13 -0600

The Salon at Philtower: Amanda and Ashley style the new within heritage of the old

What better place for my friends Amanda Woolman Burn and Ashley Thompson to open their new salon, but in the lobby of the grand Philtower building - actually in the same corner where a “Barber Shop” existed for many years.

Amanda is a nail technician, offering manicures and pedicures; Ashley is a hair stylist. The two have worked together in various shops over the years, but finally ventured out on their own in one of Tulsa’s finest and most renowned examples of architecture.

Of course, their salon is called quite simply, “The Salon at Philtower.”

Amanda and Ashley's patrons will follow wherever they go, and for some, navigating the one-way streets and downtown parking has been a challenge. But, once you enter the lobby of the magnificent Philtower building, it absolutely takes your breath away.

Built in 1927, the Philtower Building in Tulsa, Oklahoma, represents the late Gothic Revival style embellished with Art Deco details. Located on Boston Avenue, Tulsa’s premiere architectural corridor, it was conceived of as the link between the then-proposed Union Train Station to the north and the soaring Boston Avenue Methodist Church to the south. Features in this amazing 24-story building include marble travertine, brass, mahogany walls and fabulous chandeliers.

The building included on the National Register of Historic Places.

The Salon at Philtower: Amanda and Ashley style the new within heritage of the old

Downtown Tulsa seems poised to undergo a renaissance of sorts, a return of the relevance that characterized it in the heady days of the Oil Boom and the decades that followed. Recently downtown has seen a revitalization of the Brady Arts District and the passage of a proposal to build a world-class arena, among other exciting developments. The Philtower converted floors 12-20 to private luxury residences, creating Tulsa’s first ever mixed-use high rise.

I can’t write about Tulsa architecture without mentioning local artist, Celeste Vaught, who is on

a journey of painting Tulsa architecture in her new Series, Tulsa, Brick x Brick. Celeste has painted the entrance of the Philtower Building, included in this post. Celeste’s paintings highlight the heritage of Tulsa Architecture and can be found on her web site.

If you’re looking for a great hair cut and style, manicured fingers and toes and a huge piece of Tulsa’s rich history, look no further than the Salon at Philbrook. Call for an appointment: 918-808-0943 or friend Amanda on Facebook.

Lori is a residential Realtor serving the greater Tulsa area, and specializing in midtown Tulsa real estate. Please visit Lori’s web site, LoriCain.com or call 918-852-5036.

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Let's Get Connected!

If you're looking for homes for sale in Midtown Tulsa, OK or just more information on Midtown Tulsa Real Estate, you can visit my primary website at www.loricain.com

R you insulated?

Lori Cain - Midtown Tulsa Real Estate (Chinowth & Cohen Realtors) — Thu, 11 Feb 2010 10:15:46 -0600

Catchy title and good information for home owners!

Lori is a residential Realtor serving the greater Tulsa area, and specializing in midtown Tulsa real estate. Please visit Lori’s web site, LoriCain.com or call 918-852-5036.

Via Dallas Chambers (Re/Max Agents Realty):

Insulation is an important factor in keeping your heating and cooling costs down. The higer the R value of insulation, the greater its resistance to heat flow. The higher its resistance to heat flow, the greater its ability to keep heat inside your home in the winter and keep it outside in the summer.

The insulation in your home should meet or exceed these values: walls R-13, floors - R-19 and ceilings R-30. Your ductwork should have a minimum R-6 insulation (2.5 inch duct wrap), and all joints and seams in the ductwork should be tightly sealed.

Dallas Chambers

RE/MAX Agents Realty

Office: 770-922-7777 X316

Cell: 770-595-1541

Web: http://dallaschambers.agentsrealty.com

E-Mail: dallasc@remax.net

Each Office Independently Owned and Operated. All information deemed reliable but not guaranteed.

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________

Let's Get Connected!

If you're looking for homes for sale in Midtown Tulsa, OK or just more information on Midtown Tulsa Real Estate, you can visit my primary website at www.loricain.com