Vacation Pictures

 

Mt. Rushmore...don't they look bold.

Crazy Horse..a wonderful monument...and they don't take out tax dollars.

Lake on the Beartooth Scenic drive from Red Lodge MT to Cooke MT
about 9000 elevation

Moose inside Yellowstone.  Aren't they beautiful?

Old Faithful

See how clear and deep this geyser is.. the reason it looks so
clear is the reflection off the crystals in the water.  This was an
inactive geyser with the vents still showing.

Yellowstone canyon!  Awesome!

Mesa Falls in Idaho...the rainbow over the falls was magnificence!

This was called cave falls as there are caves under the falls.

The foothills of the Tetons at Dubois WY.

I hope you enjoyed these pictures of our beautiful country! 
There is no where any more beautiful than America!
It is truely America the beautiful!

 

Family FUN for the Summer!

Entertaining Ideas for your Childrens Summer!  And cheap.....tooooo.

Make your own mini golf....Get your kids involved in making their own golf course, for them it will probably be as much fun as playing.  Don't go out and buy things....use what you have handy.  Make a ramp from some bricks and aluminum siding;  use an old pipe (large enough for the ball to roll through); make a water trap out of a small bucket set in the ground.  Use your small plastic containers (placed in a little hole in the ground) to catch the ball...(or if you don't want to dig a hole) stake a plastic cup sideways to catch the ball.  Let the kids think up other ideas (like I said sometimes it is as much fun to prepare as it is to actually play.   AND HAVE FUN!

Do a backyard camp out.....Kids love to campout.  If you can't do it out side, do what my sister did with her grandchildren...use the garage, just put on the fans, (if you don't have a tent) just put down some blow-up mattress on the floor, and let them make up stories.  If they don't know any stories, be prepared with your own (ghost stories are always the best).  Let them have snacks that they don't usually get.  AND HAVE FUN!

Do a picnic in the park.....I recently took my nephews to the park and they loved it.  To make it a little different, try doing something like a picnic around the world.  Each week pick a country, fix a lunch that would be served in that country, and even play games that the kids in that country might be playing on their summer vacation.  You really don't have to make this hard ... just research a little about the country on line and I'm sure you will find plenty of info.  Let the kids get involved in the planning!  But most of all HAVE FUN and build some memories with your kids!

Parade of Homes Lubbock 2010

Tuscan Villas...off Indiana just past 98th Street..East of Kohl's.  You may have to Park in Kohl's parking lot.  If you park on any of the streets be sure you do not block the driveways of the residents.

Bacon Crest
The home below shows you the style of homes in this area. Bacon Crest is off Iola and 82nd St.

Don't miss any one of these four areas of Lubbock you will not be disappointed.  You can see Orchard Park and LakeRidge South in an earlier post.  Take a look at them also ... they are beautiful.

Aleene Embry

806-790-7001

http://www.besthomesinlubbock.com/

aembry@remaxlubbock.com

2010 Parade of Homes Lubbock

     June 5 - 20, 2010  Parade of Homes

           Orchard Park  Tuscan Villas
          Lakeridge South  Bacon Crest

Times:Monday - Friday  5:00PM-8:00PM
Saturday - Sunday 1:00PM-6:00PM

Price:  $10.00 Adults
           $  5.00 Children 2-12
Aleene Embry
806-790-7001
http://www.besthomesinlubbock.com/
aembry@remaxlubbock.com

Parade Of Homes 2010 Lubbock TX

It's time for the Parade of Homes in Lubbock TX.

  June 5 - 20...2010.

You will not want to miss some of the best homes in Lubbock!  Again you will be treated to the beautiful new sub-division of Orchard Park, LakeRidge South, and Bacon Crest.  Here is a quick look at a couple of homes that are in the subdivision of Orchard Park and LakeRidge South.  The homes are fantastic!

These two homes are in Orchard Park, you will not be viewing either of these but as you can see the homes are just wonderful.

This is the entrance to LakeRidge South!  And here is a sample of the type of homes you will get to see in this neighborhood.  Here again you will not be viewing these two, but homes that you will see will certainly not disappoint you.

SPRING IS HERE LOOK UP AND OUT AND SEE THE BEAUTY

Spring is here!  See some of the beautiful trees of Lubbock, TX

This is a great time of the year to live in Lubbock.  The trees are coming out and the tulips are blooming.  Our sunsets and sunrises are spectacular and usually the sky is so blue you just want to touch it.  Lubbock has many things to offer for all it citizens and vistors alike. 

I hope you enjoy seeing these beautiful pictures.

Aleene Embry

RE/MAX Lubbock

806-790-7001

aembry@remaxlubbock.com

http://www.besthomesinlubbock.com/

Listing your Home??? What about PETS???

 "PETS ON THE PREMISES"

If you are planning to list your home be sure your agent knows about ALL your pets and your needs in regard to them.

One of the most important things you need to keep in mind......you are trying to sell your home so you want to make it as easy on the real estate agents and your pets.  Pets can impact the showing and sale of your home.  We know you love all your animals however not all buyers do.  Even if buyers love pets they don't want them jumping all over, barking and smelling up the house.  So if these are issues have your agent put a note in the listing and also in the house.

These little tips help get your home sold!! And rememeber GOAL is to get your home SOLD!!!

Call me if you would like to get a free market analysis!
Aleene Embry.....806-790-7001
aembry@remaxlubbock.com
RE/MAX Lubbock

PLANTING A NEW TREE

         ITEMS TO REMEMBER WHEN PLANTING A TREE

1. Utility Locator.....CALL 811 to find buried lines before you dig
2. Large Hole.........It should be twice as wide as the root ball, but only as deep as the root ball itself.
3. Use Existing Soil....Refill with the soil that you took out.  Tamp the soil to eliminate air pockets.
4. Mulching...........Putting 2-3 inches of mulch around the base will help keep the soil damp and promote growth.
5. Stake the Tree.. Tie it loosely, and check the tie frequently.  Do not tie tight as it will cut the tree.

To find more information on trees and all thing related go to:   www.arborday.org

Aleene Embry
http://www.besthomesinlubbock.com/

REFINANCING -- YES OR NO

As always you hear everything...Friends/Family and even those that you don't know will tell you what you need to do.  It is always good to listen to what people have to say, but you need to one decide for yourself.  Here are some issues you will need to take into consideration:

First of all you need to think about how long you plan on staying in the home!
Look at your monthly mortgage decrease versus the amount of months you intend on staying in the home!
If for instance you plan to sell your home prior to recouping all your costs of the refinancing it might not be a good move to pursue a re-fi.

Before pursuing a re-finance:

1. What is your break-even point?  Divide the cost of re-fi by your monthly savings.  You will need to figure in all the points and fees (these will be called "discount fees or origination fee".  These are the cost that the lender charged to close the re-fi.  One point = one percent of the loan's value.)
2. Does the up-front cost, knowing the number of months you plan to say in the house, save you any money?
3. Make sure you look at the interest rate.  Is it fixed or variable?  Make sure you know to help you decide if refinancing is for you.

Now that you have checked out all of these issues and you decide to go ahead with the re-fi, be sure you
SHOP AROUND......ASK QUESTIONS......TALK TO LENDERS.

Last but certainly not the least of the process.....READ EVERYTHING!!!!!!!

Call if I can help you:
Aleene Embry
RE/MAX Lubbock
806-790-7001
aembry@remaxlubbock.com
http://www.besthomesinlubbock.com/

Suggestions for a Quick Sale

Home Improvements that may help you get a leg up on your computation.

First impressions are always important .....so make sure the home's entry shines!

• So if the front door needs painting...paint it (paint is cheap repair)
• Clean that vinyl/metal siding (power wash it .. some of the mobile car companys can help you do this and are ver reasonable)
• Add color by adding potted plants (but if you do this..keep them watered and make sure they are groomed

Out of date bathrooms .....if you are in the 70s a few things will help

• First of all making sure it is CLEAN
• Paint and if wallpapered then take it off
• Try to get rid of the gold .....replace fraucets, knobs, towel racks, toilet paper holders, and the out-dated lighting.....try to replace with nickel or the polished silver (just something new)
• Change out the shower head
• REDO the caulking around the bathtub.....the black mold look is OUT ..Make sure that the tub and caulking shines

Paint the rooms

• Your rooms will look much fresher, and smell good.  Make sure you do a professional job if you do it your self....Don't get smugs on the ceiling!
• Make sure it is a earth tone

If your flooring needs addressed...DO SO

• First of all make sure it is clean!  If you only have the money to clean it...do that.  If it is in bad condition, try to change it out. 
• A good scrubbing can go a long way.

Have all those old light fixtures...Might think about changing them out

• There are some great lights that can be purchased rather cheaply.
• If you don't have the money to change ... then make sure your current ones are CLEAN and shine.  Make sure the light bulbs all work.
• Dark or poorly lit rooms turn off most buyers.

And LAST but NOT LEAST....DECLUTTER your HOME

• If you have a lot of furniture in a room, move some of it to storage!  REMEMBER you are trying to SELL your home.  Buyers need to see how much space you have in your rooms.
• You are moving...so start packing up...this will help you later and will make your home show a lot better.
• If you are not going to need everything where you are moving...SALE some of the things that you aren't going to be using anyway and make enough to pay for the storage.

REMEMBER:  not every improvement has to be expensive.  Lots of small things make a big difference in a buyer's eye and mind.  And remember that clean and a home that smells fresh will go a long way in getting it sold.

Aleene Embry

806-790-7001

http://www.besthomesinlubbock/

aembry@remaxlubbock.com

MAKING YOUR HOME SAFER

A ROOM-BY-ROOM GUIDE TO MAKING YOUR HOME SAFER

How to prevent the leading causes of home injuries, from slips and falls to smoke and fires.

Bedroom

• Fire...Since smoke can further hindr visibility, keep a rechargeable flashlight plugged in by your bedside to light your way or to signal firefighters. 
• Childproofing...Install window guards.  They aren't a substiture for parental supervision, but they do provide reassurance.  Check the crib.  Make sure it meets safety standards.  Keep cords away from the crib and keep crib away from the windows, if possible.

Bathroom

• Slips, Trips, Falls...For extra support getting in and out of a slippery shower, attach a grab bar to your shower wall (be sure it is installed into a stud).  Add nonskid decals.  Make your bath mat nonslip with rubber backings.

For all the other tips check out:  www.bit.ly/safetyhouse

This is an article form REALSIMPLE by Jennifer Jafarzadeh

There are a lot of other tips and information on my website that you might like to check out, so look at http://www.besthomesinlubbock.com/

Aleene Embry

RE/MAX Lubbock

aembry@remaxlubbock.com

http://www.besthomesinlubbock.com/

806-790-7001

Bathroom Battle

• Having trouble with the TOLET >>> Stains such as hardwater or rust...pour table salt on the stain then squeeze fresh lemon onto a scrub brush and scrub the area.
• BATHTUB got a ring>>>for extra stubborn rings use the salt and might need a little lemon juice also.  Glycerine soap .. supposely causes less build up.
• TILE / GROUT >>>Scrub with a paste made from liquid castile soap and baking soda. Rinse with hot water.  White vinegar will kill mold and mildew that have built up on the tile and grout.  An easy way to apply is with one of the small sponge paint brush (then you can just throw it away).
• Shower Curtains getting a build up >>>instead of buying new...just throw it in the washing machine on a cold cycle with some liquid detergent and a cup of vinegar.  Once it starts to wash shut it off and let it soak for a couple of hours, then finish the wash.

Vinegar, baking soda, and hydrogen peroxide are really wonderful cheap products that works wonders in cleaning.  Sometimes you might try using hot vinegar (just heat it up). 

Hope this help you at least a little.  Have a great day!

Aleene Embry

RE/MAX Lubbock

806-790-7001

aembry@remaxlubbock.com

http://www.besthomesinlubbock.com/

Leaky Basement?

When you have a leaky basement you have a NIGHTMARE!  But then I guess I don't have to tell you that?!  Mold and Mildew build up is a hazard to you and your family's health.

Here are a few tips and techniques you can do to help your basement stay dry and a healthier place to be:

1. Install Eaves and Gutters - this is a great way to keep from having standing water around the foundation of your home.  And it is one of the less expensive things you can do to protect you, your family and your property.
2. Pour Rocks Around the Sides of Your Home - at the base of the foundation.  Rocks absorb some moisture therefore helping keep water from standing.
3. Make sure Outdoor Faucets don't Leak.
4. Painting your Basement - use a waterblocker paint on the basement walls.  Several different type of paint can be used to seal the concrete blocks (that most basements are made of) so they don't weep causing moisture.
5. Try to Re-Landscape - Is your landscape causing water to stand?  You might need to build up and check the sloping of the yard. 

If you have other questions you really need to consult with a professional.
Hope this helps you some!

Aleene Embry

RE/MAX Lubbock

806-790-7001

aembry@remaxlubbock.com

http://www.besthomesinlubbock.com/

10 "Most Wanted" Features in a New Home

According to the International Builders Show "2010"

At the International Builders show in Las Vegas it was told that buyers today want a more cost effective architecture, so the home builders are trying to find a balance between what buyers want and a good price point!

Here are the 10 "MOST WANTED" feature in a new home for 2010

1.  Large Kitchen with large Island

2.  Energy Efficient appliances, High Efficiency Insulation and Windows

3.  Office/Study

4.  Main Floor Master Suite

5.  Outdoor Living Room

6.  Ceiling Fans

7.  Master Suite Soaker Tub

8.  Exterior Brick and Stone

9.  Walking Paths and Playgrounds

10.  Two Car Garage

http://finance.yahoo.com/family-home/article/108701/the-10-must-have-features-in-todays-new-homes.html

Aleene Embry

RE/MAX Lubbock

806-790-7001

aembry@remaxlubbock.com

http://www.besthomesinlubbock.com/

Regal Park Beauty

Home of Distinction in a Neighborhood of Distinction!

REGAL PARK

Some of the features that will impress you:

Basement...311 sq. ft

Office or Second Living

Privacy Fence

3 Car Garage and Extra Parking

Large Kitchen

All Rooms are Very Nice Size

3 Nice Trees in the Front

Beautiful Master Suite

and Many Many More Features Check out:

http://www.besthomesinlubbock.com/template40/nextpage.asp?lnv=10765376

Aleene Embry, REALTOR

RE/MAX Lubbock

806-790-7001

aembry@remaxlubbock.com

http://www.besthomesinlubbock.com/

Frequently asked Real Estate Questions ........ From the Best Homes In Lubbock

Frequently asked Real Estate Questions

From Aleene with the Best Homes In Lubbock

Q.  How much does it cost to work with a real estate agent?
A.  If you're a buyer, nothing!   If you're a seller you pay the fee.

Q.  What houses will you show me?
A.  I can show you any home on the market - whether it's a RE/MAX listing or any other companies listing.

Q.  Missing out on any new listings (new homes on the market)?
A.  We will talk about what features are important to you, then I will go through the listing inventory and pull out the ones that meet your needs.  You will select the homes you want to see.  I can also email you all the new listing that fit your needs while we are looking.

Q.  How much will my down payment be?
A.  Your lender determines this.  As the lending laws have changed over the past year, it is very important that you contact a lender.  You will need to do this so that when we find the home you like you will already have your pre-approval letter.  I have a list of lenders that my clients have used in the past and they have received great customer service.

Q.  What about closing cost?
A.  This is another issue you lender will advise you on.

Q.  How much money do I need for down payment?
A.  The laws are changing on this also, so it depends on what type of loan you get.  FHA/Conventional/VA  these are different types each requiring a different amount.  When talking to your lender you will be able to find this out also.

Q.  How soon can I move in (closing date)?
A.  Most closing take at least 30 to 45 days.  If you are paying cash the closing can be a shorter time.

Q.  If I make an offer, how much should I offer so that I don't pay to much?
A.  When I represent a buyer, I do a market analysis on the property.  This will ensure that you pay a fair market price for the home.  I will go over the terms of the contract so you will know exactly what you are offering.

Q.  What is the condition of the home I have selected?
A.  I advise you to get an inspections on the house.  I have a list of inspectors that you may pick from, call and arrange a inspection.  You will need a home inspection and a pest inspection.  Of course this is optional so it is up to you.

If you have more questions, just call or email me

 Aleene Embry

RE/MAX Lubbock

Cell: 806-790-7001

E-Mail: aembry@remaxlubbock.com

WebSite: http://www.besthomesinlubbock.com/

I love referrals!! I help people invest in real estate! Check out my website for details.

Selling a Home is Best Done When the Homeowner and Real Estate Agent Work Together

Aleene calls it:

     THREE P'S

OF SELLING A HOME

1. Price:            Pricing your home is one of the most important steps in getting your home sold.  We will campare the price of homes sold in the last three to six months.  This will reflect the price range that your home needs to be listed.  Pricing it correctly from the start is really crucial!
2. Product:      This is your home.... The PRODUCT that you are trying to sell.  As all products it need to be in the very best condition or people will either reject it or will expect it to sell for a lower price.  For instant if you buy a new table, you expect it to be in great condition or you expect it to be on SALE.  It is your (the Seller) job to keep this in mind when getting your home ready to be listed and shown.  The condition and smell of your home is very important when trying to sell your home.                                

Prospects see the outside first so be sure you keep the exterior as clean and nice as possible.  Grass cut, weeds weeded, trees and shrubbery trimed.  Check your exterior paint job....does it need work?

Inside...should be spotless, and get rid of those items that you have accumulated and are not using. DeClutter....remove, remove, remove...this helps people see the room.  Be sure the garage is as clean and neat as possible.  Have your home cheery, light and bright.  Remember...would you buy a dark house?  Your job is have the house in great condition!

    3.  Promotion:  When you list your home this is your real estate agent's job.  In order to get your home sold they will need to have a great marketing plan.

REMEMBER IT TAKES TEAM WORK TO GET THE BEST RESULTS

 IN THE SELL OF YOUR HOME!

CALL OR EMAIL ME IF YOU ARE CONSIDERING SELLING YOUR HOME:

Aleene Embry

aembry@remaxlubbock.com

http://www.besthomesinlubbock.com/

806-790-7001

 

Best Homes In Lubbock PRESENTS Home for Sale 6609 Brentwood Lubbock TX

A Remington Park Beauty

6609 Brentwood

Lubbock, TX

One of the two living rooms.  This one has wood flooring and the other has carpet.

 They are both very large rooms.

Large Kitchen with great natural lighting.  You will love the amount of cabinets and the great counter space.

This house features:

2 living areas

3 bedrooms

2 baths

2 car garage

hardwood floors in living area and master bedroom

tile in all wet areas

hugh covered patio in the back

sprinkler system

and many many more

2146 Square Feet

Call or email me for other information.  I look forward to hearing from you.

Aleene Embry

806-790-7001

http://www.besthomesinlubbock.com/

aembry@remaxlubbock.com

           

Do Your Best to DONATE FOR HAITI RELIEF....American State Bank

Breedlove Foods, Inc., a non-profit humanitarian aid organization in Lubbock TX is gearing up to respond to the urgent need resulting from the disastrous earthquake in PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti.

Breedlove is committed to humanitarian relief efforts worldwide, primarily by producing highly nutritious food aid.  They dehydrate food products so they are easly transported to areas that have had a disaster.  They sent tons and tons of food for the Tsunami emergency  in 2005.  In the last 7 years they have sent more than 60 millions servings of food aid to Haiti, and now that Haiti has suffered this horrible earthquake they need to send even more so we ask you to DONATE>>> see below and check out their website.

http://www.breedlove.org/

DONATE...All gifts should be designated to "Haiti Earthquake Relief"
To make it easy just drop off your donation at American State bank, they have set up an account!

Aleene Embry
http://www.besthomesinlubbock.com/
aembry@remaxlubbock.com
806-790-7001

DO YOUR BEST TO DUMP YOUR DEBT

Now that it is a new year have you set a goal for paying off that credit card debt!  With a plan and some determination , you can do just that no only improve your credit score but take control of your credit and maybe...even make your life a little less stressfull.

Credit Cards

• 
  
  Stop adding to the debt
  
  
  
• 
  
  Give yourself a weekly cash allowance, once you have spent the cash you are out for the rest of the week....SO BE CAREFUL ABOUT HOW AND WHERE YOU SPEND IT
  
  
  
• 
  
  Leave your credit cards at HOME....out of sight out of mind
  
  
  
• 
  
  Have only a couple of cards with good accounts (having too many hurts your credit)
  
  
  

Lower Your Interest Rate

• 
  
  Check with the card company and see if you can work out a deal on a better rate.  If you have a good credit score you can usually negotiate a better rate.
  
  
  
• 
  
  Transfer balances with high interest rate to a lower interest rate card and look for offers with low introductory rate that will help you get your debt paid off (always read the fine print..ie. hidden fees or cost).  ALSO REMEMBER DON'T ADD TO THE DEBT JUST BECAUSE THE INTEREST RATE IS LOWER, THE PURPOSE IS TO GET RID OF THE DEBT.
  
  
  

Have a PLAN

1. 
   
   Make a list of all the debt...with the existing balance, minimum payment and interest rate.
   
   
   
2. 
   
   Determine which card or debt to pay off first...usually the high interest rate is the one you need to address first.
   
   
   
3. 
   
   Pay as much money on the one that you need to pay off first and pay the minimum on the others.
   
   
   
4. 
   
   Do your best to payoff  then once that card is paid off, take the same amount you've been paying on that card and add it to the minimum payment of the next card.  Continue this and you will soon be debt free!  The secret here is NO MORE CHARGING!
   
   
   
5. 
   
   Keep a card for emergencies only, and do not charge on it unless it is an EMERGENCY!
   
   
   

If you will do this you will soon be able to put away or invest that same amount, because you are now acustom to not having that amount of money.....so PAY YOURSELF....SAVE...INVEST

NOW YOU MIGHT WANT TO CONSIDER THAT YOUR BEST BET IS TO BUYA HOME OR IF YOU OWN YOUR HOME MAYBE MOVING UP.