real estate advisors

Real Estate Advisors Magazine . 855-482-9990 . www.realestateadvisorsmagazine.com 1

2 Real Estate Advisors Magazine . 855-482-9990 . www.realestateadvisorsmagazine.com


TABLE OF CONTENTSLocal Real Estate Market . . . . . . . . . 4Home Listings . . . . . . 5, 10-15,20,22Banner Year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6The Mortgage Minute. . . . . . . . . . . . 7Selecting the Right Agent. . . . . . . . . 8Lots & Land . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9Moving With Your Horse . . . . . . . . . 16Title Tidbits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17What Should You Expect From Your Property Manager? . . . . . . . . . . 18Lake Homes Still Selling! . . . . . . . . 21Contact an Agent . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

EdiTOr / PuBLiShErTammye Rushing817-573-8801

OFFiCE122 North CrockettGranbury, TX 76048

AdVErTiSiNGJim Galley

817-559-1511

Real Estate Advisors is a monthly publication with news and advertising

designed exclusively for the Real Estate reader. No reproduction or transmission in any form of this publication is allowed

without publisher consent. The Real Estate Advisors is a publication of

Century 21 Shirley Hooks, INC. All rights reserved.

© 2014 Century 21 Shirley Hooks, INC.

Freddie is an analytical, results oriented REALTOR®. Before obtaining her Real Estate License in 1974, her education was in accounting. She loves selling real estate, working to find buyers the perfect property or finding the perfect buyer for her sellers. Freddie believes that listening is the key. She wants her clients

to remain her clients for life, so making them happy is her #1 goal! Freddie is extremely active in community affairs since her move to Granbury in 1978. Granbury New Comers Club helped her get to know many people and make new friends. Early on she became a joiner: The Opera Guild, 2 terms as President, 3 terms as Vice President; the Granbury Women’s Club; the Chamber of Commerce; the Granbury Association of REALTORS®; and a strong supporter of Mission Granbury. She serves on the Board of Directors for the Granbury Association of REALTORS® and has for 7 years. Freddie is totally devoted to her profession. She is the only REALTOR® in Hood County who is a graduate of the Floyd Wickman Master Sales Academy as well as continually taking courses to keep her abreast of and knowledgeable of the latest rules and regulations needed to enable her to be a Top Producer. Freddie was voted “Most Dedicated REALTOR®” by her peers and for a very good reason. If you are looking for honesty, integrity and a hard worker, call Freddie today.

FREDDIECRAWFORDREALTOR ®

Steve Fortner, the #1 producing agent in volume at Century 21 Shirley Hooks, has most recently become known as the man who can sell a lake home at full price with little to no water in the lake. Steve has made his mark in Granbury and surrounding areas by prospecting for and finding buyers that fit a home

perfectly. Steve worked for Verizon for over 25 years in executive management. These years of sales and marketing created a foundation for extremely strong sales and relationship skills. From the minute a home is listed, Steve is prospecting for buyers using his vast network of C-Level executives across the country. Steve has a very pragmatic style. He explains the facts very clearly in a negotiating situation. Steve fights for his buyers and sellers with a passion unlike any other. Steve has been a real estate professional since 2008 and has been with Century 21 Shirley Hooks since 2009. Although luxury homes are Steve’s target market, he has sold homes from all areas of Hood County. The great thing is, Steve treats all the buyers and sellers the same, each with respect and passion. Steve has sold over $17 million in homes over the last 7 years. Steve is active in the Granbury area fight for the lake and attends community meetings and events on a regular basis. Steve shows his enthusiasm for real estate through dedication, extraordinary service, proven results, and consummate professionalism.

STEVEFORTNERREALTOR ®

2013 CENTuRY 21 SHIRLEY HOOkST O P P R O D U C E R S

TOP AGENTBY VOLUME

TOP AGENTHOMES SOLD


A V IEW OF THE LOCAL REAL ESTATE MARKET

HOOD COuNTYSales in Hood County are up 9.2% over the same period in 2013. Days on market have decreased 18.3% going from 147 days to just 120 days. 120 days from listing to sold is a great indicator of the market. The market is moving in the right direction! Inventory is down 20.6% or 8.7 months of supply. With the market moving in the right direction, there has never been a better time to list your home. The average price per square foot has risen slightly in Hood County from $92 to $94. However, the price per square foot rose by $4 over the last 2 years! The average listing price is up slightly at $257,627. Hood County continues to prove to be a very strong market. Century 21 Shirley Hooks has many more buyers than we have listings. If you have ever considered selling your home, you need to think really hard about doing it now!

JOHNSON COuNTYJohnson County sales are up a healthy 13.3% over the last year. Days on market are down 13.7% from 94 days to 81 days. This is a great indication that lenders are moving much more efficiently now. Inventory is down an astounding 21.2% from 6.7 months to just 5.3 months. The average price per square foot is up 9.5% over last year from $66 to $72. The average listing price is up 7.5% at $182,680. In Johnson County, homes are selling very closely to what was listed. Homes sell for 94% of list price which is up 2.4% over the last 2 years. This is another indica-tion that the market is strong and sellers are not losing on the sales price to get homes sold. It is a great time to list your home in Johnson County.

ERATH COuNTYErath County sales are up 17.6% over the same time period last year. Sales in this county have been inching up consistently over the last year. Inventory is down by 27% to just 9 months of inventory. This makes for a great seller’s market. Days on market are down 11.8% from 141 days to 124.

SOMERVELL COuNTYSales in Somervell County are up an amazing 15.2% over the same period last year! However, days on market have remained fairly constant at 151 days vs. 166. Inventory is down 16% or 13.1 months so there is a fairly healthy supply of inventory from which to choose. The average list price is up 5.3% at $301,950 and homes are selling at 92.7% of list price.


LUXURY 855-482-9990 WWW.CENTuRY21SHOOkS.COM

B E N T W A T E r

#181 4/3/2 Bentwater development. The home boasts large kitch-en-living-dining area. The master has fantastic bath-closet-sun-room. Pool-spa outdoor area with pergola complement. $499,900

#106 3/2/2 Beautiful golf course home with many upgrades. Priced below replacement cost. Granite-stainless-custom cabinets. Motor-ized screens on tiled patio w cooking center. $334,900

#416 4/3/2 Amazing Property with Guest House w kitchenette, full bath 2x6 Exterior walls. Barn-workshop or 3 garage 2 stalls for horses or turn them into outdoor living space. $407,000

#240 3/2/2 The kitchen is a chef’s delight with hard surface coun-tertops & an island. The back porch is a perfect place to relax and enjoy the serenity of waterfront living. $329,000

#1401 4/2/2 Easy maintenance with tiled living & dining areas, Solid Surface Countertops, New Stainless Steel Appliances, and Spacious Walk-In Shower. $319,900

#421 3/3.5/3 Beautiful home on the 17th Fairway. Spectacular views overlooking the golf course and pond. Large master bedroom with his and her bath. Oversized three car garage. $379,000

G O L F C O u r S E

W A T E r F r O N T A d d i T i O N A L G u E S T h O u S E

E A S Y M A i N T E N A N C E B E A u T i F u L G O L F C O u r S E V i E W


2013 was another great year for Century 21. Century 21 Shirley

Hooks earned the esteemed position of #1 office in sales for all

of Hood County! As the managing partner, I first want to thank all of

our customers for choosing Century 21 over and over again. Repeat

business truly becomes the hallmark of a great company over time.

However, we are extremely proud to say that in 2013 Century 21

Shirley Hooks worked with more Granbury newcomers than ever

before. This clearly proves our internet marketing strategy is bringing

buyers from other areas of Texas and the uS on a consistent basis.

Over the past 10 years, new real estate companies have come and

gone in Hood and surrounding counties. Century 21 Shirley Hooks has

supported Hood and surrounding counties for over 25 years. When I

ask our buyers and sellers why he or she chose a Century 21 agent to

handle the sale or purchase of their home, they all say the same thing.

“Your Century 21 agents are professional and despite the size or price

of my home, my agent treated me like king and queen of a castle. I

was treated wonderfully from the first to the last appointment.” In

Hood and surrounding counties, Century 21 Shirley Hooks has always

been the best all-around company that serves all buyers and sellers

regardless of where they live or are looking to live. We believe

everyone deserves to have a home, regardless of whether it is a luxury

home on the water,

an affordable family home, or the first home for a young couple. It is

our goal to help all of our customers visualize their dream home, find

their dream home, and own their dream home. We stay beside our

customers from the beginning, through the middle, after closing and

when each decides to downsize, move up, or transfer to another

location years later.

If you are considering listing your home or buying

a home, we recommend that you start your search

with the best search tool there is, Century21.com. As

pictured to the left, Century 21 drives more unique

visitors to the website than any other brand or local

office. More people across the united States use

Century 21.com to search for homes than any other

brand or company as measured by ComScore the

leading internet marketing research company.

We believe if you can Dream of a new home, you

can see it and if you can See it, you can certainly own

it! Thanks again to all of our customers and our real

estate professionals and partners. 2013 was a great year and 2014 is

shaping up already to be the best year yet!

*As stated by NTREIS from 01/01/2013 – 12/31/2013

ANOTHER BANNER YEAR OF PERFORMANCE FOR CENTURY 21 SHiRLEY HOOKS!

by Tammye Rushing, Managing Partner

TAMMYE ruShiNGManaging Partner Century 21 Shirley Hooks

[email protected]


THE MORTGAGE MINuTE SOLViNg THE CREDiT PROBLEM The first step in securing financing for your home will be a review of your credit. For many home buyers, understanding credit can be a difficult puzzle to solve. Your credit score is a numerical representation of the likelihood to repay. The three major bureaus: Equifax, Experian, and Transunion, each use various formulas based on the Fair Isaac Corporation credit scoring system, known as FICO. These scores range from as low as 309 up to an 850. Credit scores are important because they can disqualify you should you not meet the minimum credit standards (varies by lender), affect your interest rate, and raise your insurance costs. Credit scores are composed of five factors each carrying a weight of the credit score: 1. Payment history (35%) – Paying your accounts as agreed is the most important factor regarding your credit. The number of late payments, collection accounts and negative public records such as bankruptcies, foreclosures, judgments, can all drop your score. 2. Balances (30%) – High balances on your credit and the types of credit opened are also another key factor. Higher balances on revolving lines of credit (credit cards) can have a significant impact on your score. Paying these balances under 30% of their credit limit can raise a credit score in a relatively short period of time. 3. Length of History (15%) – The longer the account is open, the better the score. It is better to keep a small balance on accounts that have been open for a longer period of time in order to maximize the credit value on these accounts. 4. Types of Credit (10%) – A mixture of credit types will also increase your credit score. At least one revolving line of credit will have a significant impact on your credit. Short-term loans such as Pay Day loans, “No payment until” loans and the like should be avoided. 5. New Credit (10%) – Credit opened less than 12 months history and numerous credit inquiries can also negatively impact your score. In preparing for a home purchase, avoid opening new lines of credit or having a lot of credit inquiries.

An example of a healthy mix to build a good credit score: two installment loans carrying a balance, no more than three revolving lines of credit using less than 30% of the credit limit, and no collections, late payments, or public records within the last 12 months. By solving the credit puzzle, you are able to unlock the potential to home ownership, build long-term credit and save money by getting the best rates. If you would like more information about credit or would like to receive a free copy of your credit report, simply fill out a loan application on my website at www.loansbygrant.com or contact me directly at 817-368-3052.

GrANT d GriGGSTexas Licensed

Residential Mortgage Loan OriginatorNMLS #843835

Gateway Mortgage Group, LLC669 Airport Freeway, Ste. 306 • Hurst, TX 76053

817.368.3052 mobile817.484.6635 office • 1.855.854.7461 fax

[email protected]


Finding the right listing agent is the most important factor in the

successful sale of your home. However, it is not easy. When looking for

an agent, consider several factors:

1. Professionalism is a must. It is important to remember that the

Realtor® you choose is representing you and you must feel confident

that your listing agent is always dressed appropriately, on-time, pos-

sesses strong oral and written skills and, above all, exhibits integrity.

2. Reputation/Experience! If your agent has 10 to 20 years of experi-

ence and strong references, you are well on your way to selling your

home. An experienced agent knows how to negotiate and avoid road

blocks that can prevent a home sale from imploding.

3. Finally, make sure that our agent has a good working partnership

with all venues involved in the sale of your home (other real estate

companies, mortgage firms, title companies, inspectors, etc.). Selling

a home in today’s marketplace requires experience, skill, and a great

network of potential buyers. Step 1 for success is to select the right

agent for the job. Interview no less than 3 agents and select the one

that you believe meets and exceeds the criteria listed above. Feel free

to contact me for a free market assessment of your home. I need more

properties for my buyers.

3 CR IT ICAL FACTORS IN SELECTiNg THE RigHT AgENT

TAMMY DILL, Realtor®

Century 21 Shirley Hooks


MLS# 12048048 Cleburne. Future site of your new home! Around the corner from Adams Elementa-ry! $9,500

MLS# 12048038 Cleburne vacant lot ready for you to build a house! Around the corner from Adams Elementary! $14,900

MLS# 11977795 Cleburne. This very private, cul-de-sac home site in the Falls. Across the street from the 17th tee $29,900

MLS# 12048799 Cleburne. Prime location in The Retreat. Building site backs up to small lake. $36,000 MLS# 12027567 Cleburne. Beautiful half acre lot backs up to a community lake and green belt zone. $50,900

MLS# 11923104 Granbury. Heavily treed interior lot in Canyon Creek. Beautiful gated neighborhood with community pool $3,500

MLS# 12054796 Granbury. Build-ing lot ready for your dream home. $4,900

MLS# 12015217 Granbury. Nice level lot ready for a new home, gated subdivision. $5,000

MLS# 11961883 Granbury. Level lot in Indian Harbor, ready for your site built home. Community has Club House, Pool, Marina, Boat Dock, Parks and more $7,500

MLS# 12103316 Granbury. 5 lots being sold together at the front of Lake Granbury Harbor, lots are considered part of the subdivision, but face and are accessed on Tin Top Hwy $10,000

MLS# 11817582 Granbury. Pie shaped lot on Seminole Trail. Great building site with panoramic view of downtown Granbury. $12,990

MLS# 12013841 Granbury. Level building lot across from Indian Harbor Club House and Community Pool. $15,000

MLS# 12036967 Granbury. Two level lots. Blocks from the marina and teen center. Great gated community with lots of perks. $17,000

MLS# 12054572 Granbury. Beautiful residential lot with nice mature trees on a cul-de-sac. Amenities include

golf course, tennis courts, gated entry with guards. $17,500

MLS# 12049771 Tolar. Great location, right by schools! Large green grass lot for the price! Excellent small school district. $22,500

MLS# 11954884 Granbury. 50x50 camper lot with 40x17 metal RV cover, 10x20 patio cover, 10x16 wood shed. $25,000

855-482-9990 WWW.CENTuRY21SHOOkS.COMLOTS & LAND

The Century 21 Shirley Hooks Staff ready to serve all your Real Estate needs!


DECORDOVA 855-482-9990 WWW.CENTuRY21SHOOkS.COM

#303 3/3/2 Split-level 3 bedroom on the golf course on DeCordova Bend course. Very close to the club house. Home has a large master downstairs with a fireplace. $121,688

F i r E P L A C E i N M A S T E r !

#307 2/1.5/0 Awesome main-body view of Lake Granbury! Deep water, with boat dock and jet ski lift. No problem getting your boat in the water here! $199,000

M A i N B O d Y L A K E V i E W

#311 3/2/2 Split bedrooms, vaulted ceiling and fireplace. Second living area can also be a third bedroom. $179,900

C h A r M i N G

##305 3/2/2 This home has a spacious open kitchen and dining area and includes an island. Also has a formal dining room in the 2146 sq ft home. The living area has a wood burning fireplace. $174,900

O P E N K i T C h E N

#306 3/2.5/2 New granite countertops, cabinets, paint, new floors throughout, new appliances and new slate shingled roof. This home is perfect for a young family. $139,900

G r E A T F A M i LY h O M E

#310 3/2/2 This home has been well maintained with newer AC, roof, metal garage door, sprinklers, etc. and is located on a quiet creek. $135,000

C u T E C O T T A G E


RESIDENTIAL 855-482-9990 WWW.CENTuRY21SHOOkS.COM

#126 3/2/2 Master Bath With Garden Tub and Walk In Shower. Nice Storage in Hall. Large utility Room. Fenced Yard with Open Patio and Storage Building. $139,000

G r E A T M A S T E r B A T h !

#164 4/3/0 Old Historical part of Granbury on this side of town! One of the biggest houses on the block. Two master bedrooms, one with a fireplace and the other with a deck. $180,000

T W O M A S T E r S

#109 3/2/0 This charming home has hardwood floors, updated kitchen and bath. Play pool, gorgeous back yard with mature trees on a large lot. $162,000

h A r d W O O d F L O O r S

#409 3/2.5/2 Afternoon shade at back of house to enjoy overlook-ing #3 green of golf course Study overlooking golf course with built in desk exercise room with shower, room for golf cart in garage. $249,900

G O L F C O u r S E

#169 3/2/2 Open Concept, Split Bedrooms & Study, HIGH END FINISHES Including WOOD Floors in Living & Master, GRANITE Counters, Tumbled Marble Backsplash, STAINLESS Appliances. $159,500

h i G h E N d F i N i S h E S

#172 3/2/2 Great family home on Ft. Worth side of Granbury so easy for commuting & close to HEB! Great curb appeal! $144,900

W O N d E r F u L F A M i LY h O M E



#406 2/2/0 Air conditioner. 12 Inches extra insulation in ceiling.Large kitchen with all appliances. Condo member’s pool. $76,000

L A r G E K i T C h E N

#173 5/3.5/2 Spectacular layout, huge home, wonderful family oriented place to live! This home has a split bedroom floor plan. Master bedroom is downstairs with walk in closet and jetted tub. $200,000

S P E C T A C u L A r F L O O r P L A N

#189 4/2/2 New carpet and new paint inside and out! Shows like new! Great floor plan with lots of windows, 4 bedrooms, 2 baths, with computer area/study that could be second living. $189,900

L O T S O F W i N d O W S

#162 3/2.5/2 Beautiful backyard with live oak trees, covered patio, and pool. Great for entertaining. Storage shed. Garage has finished plywood walls with workbench. $210,000

B E A u T i F u L B A C K YA r d

#203 3/2/2 Features new carpet, paint. New roof on home, shed, and the boat dock which has been repaired. Fabulous screened porch that overlooks shaded landscaped backyard. $149,900

F A B u L O u S L A N d S C A P i N G

#420 3/2/0 Open concept living with breakfast bar opening to kitchen. kitchen has designer track lighting & tumbled stone back-splash with ceramic tile on flooring. $131,000

O P E N C O N C E P T



#407 3/2/2 This lovely home has an open floor plan with lots of windows. The kitchen is every cook’s dream with a large island with a glass cooktop. $222,500

d r E A M K i T C h E N

#102 3/3/2 Vaulted ceilings, gutters around house, large privacy fenced back yard, carpet in all bedrooms and living rooms, de-signed trim tile in kitchen. $245,000

V A u LT E d C E i L i N G S

#103 2/2/2 Living area has gas fireplace and opens to covered porch with slate floors and ceiling fans. Stainless appliances and granite countertops throughout. $249,900

S T A i N L E S S A P P L i A N C E S

#178 3/2/2 Great home on Ft. Worth side. New interior and exterior paint, new carpet, and the roof will be replaced before closing. $114,000

A L L N E W P A i N T

#161 3/2.5/3 Open floor plan with beautiful cupboards and built-ins. Study is currently being used as 4th bedroom. Large corner lot with gazebo in back yard. $299,999

B E A u T i F u L B u i LT - i N S

#183 3/1/0 Right around the corner from Tarleton State!! Excel-lent location for investment property OR great for first time home buyers! $54,900

G r E A T i N V E S T M E N T


FARM & RANCH

#518 3/2.5/0 Country living in private setting on 6 acres of sandy soil surrounded by lots of Oak trees. Enjoy sitting outside while you watch wildlife and nature! $239,750

#515 3/2/3 On 160 acres one of few large acreage properties in the area close to town. Great property and location with many possibilities. OWNER WILL DIVIDE! $1,986,720

#517 4/2/2 On 110 acres. This property has it all with 3 tanks, barns, 3 different living quarters in barns, outdoor arena, fenced, pens for horses, cattle, or goats. $1,400,000

#520 3/2.5/0 One owner custom built stone home on 30 acres. Ag exempt. Features include fully covered porches, oversize carport with storage, & gourmet kitchen with huge island. $579,000

#212 4/3/2 On 18 acres luxurious master retreat & expansive cov-ered porches. The 1-1 guest house has a screened porch, saltillo tile & stainless steel appliances. Great for horses. $575,000

#125 3/2.5/0 Country home on the Brazos River. 11.5 acres of beautiful, rolling country side. 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath, 2 stories, and barn. Also includes study. $274,000

W O N d E r F u L S h A d E T r E E S C L O S E T O T O W N

C u S T O M B u i LT h O M E A C r E A G E

L u X u r i O u S r E T r E A T B r A Z O S r i V E r F r O N T

855-482-9990 WWW.CENTuRY21SHOOkS.COM


#706 20 great acres to build that dream home! Would make an awesome horse property. Close to town on paved road. Additional acreage can purchased. $210,000

#812 15 acres. From the back you can see Johnson County. Space on one side up front for 6 RVs, all rented. Place for 4 more. Income is $1650 a month. Wonderful income producing property. $199,921

#710 40 acres. Between Granbury, Stephenville, & Glen Rose. Level open field with 5+ or - acres wooded mixture of hardwoods and cedar at front of property, perfect for your dream home. $391,800

#818 15+ acres. Mostly level to rolling with entrance off Hwy 4 just pass the veterinarians office. There is also access off Thorp Springs Road at the intersection of Thorp Springs and FM 4. $210,000

#708 20 acres. Located in a gated community, this twenty acres is heavily treed and populated with turkeys and other wildlife. Beauti-ful views abound from this wonderful property. $190,000

#703 21+ acres. Very wooded home site, with great vistas. Great lot to build your dream home on. Very private and secluded. $110,000

RAW ACREAGE C L O S E T O T O W N i N C O M E P r O d u C i N G P r O P E r T Y

L E V E L T O r O L L i N G A C r E S W O O d E d

G A T E d C O M M u N i T Y W O O d E d h O M E S i T E



Moving from one home to another can be a stressful experience. Now, add large animals, horses, tack and equipment, and stress levels can skyrocket!

There are few things tougher than hunting for and

purchasing that perfect new equestrian home and

property. The following tips and suggestions are from my

30 years experience as a horse owner and REALTOR®.

GET QuALIFIED! This is the most important step. Do this

before you go shopping for your property. Find a lender

that will be able to prequalify you and the horse property

you are buying. Some lenders do not loan on horse

property, so you must find one that is willing to lend in

this specific market. Century 21 Shirley Hooks can provide a list if you

need one.

DECIDE ON YOuR PROPERTY NEEDS. Now that you’re qualified

and know you want property for your animals, set your priorities.

Decide which is most important, the house or the animals. If you have

an unlimited budget, this will not be a concern. If you are like most,

you will have to decide if you’ll take a smaller house to have the

livestock or horse facilities you require. Maybe you just need a pen

for one horse and would like a large home. Can you build a barn and

pens if you find your ideal home? If you’re involved in extensive horse

activities, you may require a larger facility.

FIND YOuR REALTOR®. Not only do you need a REALTOR®

experienced in finding your home, you need someone who’s

knowledgeable about your animals’ needs. Professionally licensed and

trained, a REALTOR® can save you time, money, and frustration. Not

all agents know about horses, cattle, sheep, pigs, or other animals.

Ask family, friends, and neighbors for recommendations about agents.

Ask the agent about his/her experience and find out about their firm.

Do they have experience with animals or property allowing animals?

Does this agent understand the facilities needed in an effective barn?

Features needed in the water supply, etc.

CHECkLIST:

Have available for your REALTOR® the following information:

• Number of family members and their ages.

• Number of bedrooms and baths needed.

• Locations preferred.

• Special school districts required.

• House amenities required: ie pool, fireplace, privacy, highway

access, recreational facilities, etc.

• Size of property required (acreage)

Also, make a list of the types and numbers of animals. Pigs and

exotic animals may require a certain zoning as compared to horses or

sheep. Let your agent know what you do with your animals. If you trail

ride, do you need access to trails out of your house or can you haul?

Do you need an arena? Do you want to live in the mountains, flats,

hills, or close to the city?

It’s up to you to educate your REALTOR® as to your requirements.

The more information your agent has, the easier it is to find just the

right property. As a REALTOR® who specialized in horse property, I can

tell you that I can NEVER have too much information. Good luck and

happy trails.

PACkING uP AND MOViNg WiTH YOUR HORSE

by Linda Nelson


TITLE TIDBITS WHAT iS A TiTLE SEARCH? Title insurance companies have protected the American dream of

homeownership for more than a century and the behind-the-scenes

work of title insurance agents ensures the quick and secure transfer of

land, giving consumers and lenders confidence in their investment. On

closing day, a homebuyer not only attains ownership of a property, the

buyer also walks with the assurance that his interest in the property is

protected. This is all achieved through the professionals working in the

land title insurance industry.

When someone purchases a home, how can they be sure that there

are no problems with the home’s title and that the seller really owns

the property? Problems with the title can limit a homeowner’s use and

enjoyment of their property, as well as bring financial loss. That is the

purpose of a title search and title insurance.

What happens if a problem arises after a homebuyer moves in?

This is an additional benefit provided by the title insurance industry. An

Owner’s Policy of Title Insurance remains in effect for as long as the

policyholder (or their heirs) owns the property that is insured. A claim

could actually be filed 50 or 100 years after the policy was issued. And

an Owner’s Policy covers legal expenses involved in defending the title

on behalf of the homeowner.

Let’s face it — a homebuyer certainly has more than enough to

think about during the closing process when purchasing a new home.

An Owner’s Policy provides peace of mind that comes from knowing

their investment is protected.

The American Land Title Association helps educate consumers

about title insurance so that they can better understand their choices

and make informed decisions. Homebuyers, regulators, and legislators

are encouraged to check out the website, www.homeclosing101.org, to

learn more about title insurance and the closing process.

I have been in the Title Industry for almost eighteen years and I pride

myself on keeping up with the industry changes as does Porter Title, We

want to be more than your Title Company, we want to be your Partner

in the closing process, We realize purchasing a home is one of the most

important things you will ever do. For more information feel free to

contact us.

Porter Title- 817-578-2000 or

[email protected]


We believe you should expect a

minimum of five best practices, ev-

ery day, in everything your property

manager does for you.

1. Successful property managers are … ConSiStent

Property managers must be consistent, especially when enforcing the

laws set forth by the Texas Real Estate Commission. Property Managers

must constantly monitor properties and tenants to ensure all parties

are communicated with consistently and within the laws and regula-

tions set forth by the State of Texas. Consistency comes in the form of

account statements, tracking history of repairs, and collecting rents on

time but professionally.

2. Successful property managers are … ReSpeCtful

A good property manager has to be respectful of every person he or

she represents, from the owner of the property to those who are leasing

the property. Don’t mistake respect for “let everyone get away with

everything”, though. A property manager should be very firm but yet

manage situations between the property owner and the tenant. Without

this intermediary, issues get out of hand very quickly.

3. Successful property managers are … pRagmatiC

The best property managers try to stave off problems before they rear

their heads. For instance,

they conduct background

checks… and actually read

the results and base tenant

decisions upon them. (You’d

be surprised how many prop-

erty managers ignore red

flags on background screen-

ing results!) They conduct

regular site inspections to

protect property owners and

ensure tenants are acting in

accordance with lease terms.

4. Successful property managers

are … pRoblem SolveRS

There is no shortage of problems that

arise when you have a tenant leasing

a property. Just as any home or building owner knows, repairs must be

done, issues must be resolved quickly yet cost effectively, and tenants

must be held to the care instructions outlined in the lease. An effective

property manager will pro-actively contact property owners for mainte-

nance needs and repair requests. A good property manager will act in

accordance with property owner wishes but still provide recommenda-

tions that are based in sound real estate experience.

5. Successful property managers are … timely

Nothing is worse for a tenant than to call in a repair or service need

and not receive a call back in a timely fashion. More so, nothing can be

more costly to a property owner if repairs are not completed cost effec-

tively and within budget. Tenants are protected by several sections of

the property management agreement. Tenants have many rights. Only

a timely and pragmatic property manager can ensure that the relation-

ship between tenant and property manager is positive and effective.

If you have considered leasing your property before but haven’t

moved forward, this is a great time to give us a shout. Sign up with us

as a property owner during the month of January and receive a free

property analysis report and

free Property Condition report.

There are more people looking

for rental property than there

are properties to rent. If you

have considered leasing be-

fore, now is the time to con-

tact us. Call Nathan at

817-573-8801 or email

[email protected].

WHAT SHOuLD YOu EXPECT FROM

YOUR PROPERTYMANAgER?


Committed to Excellence. Exceeding Expectations.

All loans subject to credit approval. Rates and fees subject to change. Mortgage financing provided by PrimeLending, a PlainsCapital Company. Equal Housing Lender. © 2014 PrimeLending, a PlainsCapital Company. PrimeLending, a PlainsCapital Company (NMLS: 13649) is a wholly owned subsidiary of a state-chartered bank and is an exempt lender in TX. V070213.

Call today to discuss your purchase or refinancing needs.

Working together with you and with each other, we want to help establishcommunity roots that grow deep and wide. As lending professionals, weknow the local housing market as well as we know how to get to the localmarket.

In our profession, we want to help you with the big decisions about your future home; as your neighbors, we simply want to point you in the right direction.

Shaundra HardtMortgage Banker

682.365.3700

[email protected] Santa Fe DriveWeatherford, TX 76086NMLS: 419421


#610 3/2/0 An unbeatable location in the Heart of Granbury, near shopping, dining & the City Beach. This little gem has been pol-ished to perfection! $84,900

#111 2/1/1 Cute two bedroom cottage, with open kitchen, and nice den. Bonus room off kitchen can be third bedroom, game room, or study. $79,000

#611 3/1/0 Great getaway nestled in the trees. This is a super nice weekender. Nice flooring throughout with large kitchen that comes with appliances. $78,500

#142 2/1/1 Perfect home to downsize. Large living area. Nice din-ing and kitchen area that comes with some appliances. utility room with storage. $69,900

#119 4/2/1 Large home with 2 living areas, fireplace, formal dining area, & huge kitchen. Great starter home. 3 lots and garage or shop. $68,500

#609 3/2/0 Two lots that make a big backyard. Owner has done lots of work to the backyard to make it very nice and enjoyable. Clean inside very open. Separate master. Property is also for lease. $68,000

AFFORDABLE u N B E A T A B L E L O C A T i O N ! i N C O M E P r O d u C i N G P r O P E r T Y

L A r G E L i V i N G A r E A S h A d E d G E T A W AY

h u G E K i T C h E N B i G B A C K YA r d



Granbury is such a wonderful place to live! A great hometown just

doesn’t say what we hope to say when speaking of all that Granbury

has to offer. As a real estate company that has sold Granbury and

surrounding areas for over 30 years, we still continue to sell the value

proposition to buyers looking to move to the area. Selling the city’s

attributes isn’t difficult. However, finding properties for all the buyers

looking for various price ranges can be very difficult at a time when

the local news spreads a gloomy national real estate outlook.

Home sales are up, but inventory is down. Century 21 Shirley

Hooks continues to look for sellers across all of our market areas. Re-

gardless of what the news or papers may say, we are still selling lake

front properties. Over 90 lake front and canal properties sold in 2013

in Hood County and another 14 lake view properties sold. Century 21

Shirley Hooks sold 20% of those lake front homes

and guess what?, our List to Sales price average

was 98.9%. That means that our sellers received

98.9% of the sales to list price. That doesn’t mean

that sellers must take

severe “hits” in their selling expectations. This

simply means that your agent must work extra

hard to find the right buyer for your property.

Targeted marketing is required and every agent

should be using specific target marketing across all

types of buyer pools.

Here is a snapshot of the home sales in each of

the areas of Granbury that Century 21 targets . The

market is anything but slow. Rather it is consistently

growing stronger.

Number of Properties Sold in 2013

Golf Course . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74 homes

Lake front . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94 homes

View of the Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105 homes

Commercial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 homes

We offer living solutions to fit all your needs.

Waterfront • Luxury • Retirement • Family

For more information call Tammye at 817-573-8801 or email

[email protected].

LAkE FRONT & V IEWS OF THE LAKE HOMES STiLL SELLiNg!


FOR LEASE 855-482-9990 WWW.CENTuRY21SHOOkS.COM

A C C E S S T O P O O L & G O L F

#1510 3/2/2 What a deal! Owner pays fees so renter has access to pool, golf, etc. On large lot with small creek behind. Two large living areas and newly updated kitchen. $1200

#1509 2/1/0 Nice roomy singlewide on 2 lots. Refrigerator, dish-washer and range. New AC, carpet, paint and blinds. New hot water heater. Very cute. $750

#1507 1/1/0 INCREDIBLE picture window in living room with a view of beautiful Lake Granbury and shade trees, large living room, FIRST floor unit. $675

#1502 3/3/0 Lovely home that is secluded in a 20 acre tract. Must see. Home overlooks Long creek with lots of trees and a fish stocked pond. $2800

#1505 4/3.5/2 There is a boat dock with lift, a hot tub and the yard is fenced. Game room upstairs with a half bath. $2400

#1511 3/2/2 Beautiful kitchen, versatile floor plan, the living room den is also large enough for a pool table. Dining room could be in three different places. $1250

r E A L LY r O O M Y !

W A T E r F r O N T B E A u T i F u L V i E W O F L A K E

L A K E F r O N T B E A u T i F u L K i T C h E N


OUR AGENTS 855-482-9990 WWW.CENTuRY21SHOOkS.COM

JuDYADDISON

[email protected] 254-459-9993

CAROLE ALFORD


CARLA BANDERA


LISA BuRWELL


FREDDIE CRAWFORD


RON DACuS


TAMMY DILL


JuDY DRAGER


RICk DuRMON


DON EICHLER


STEPHANIE EOFF


DEBBIE FAIR


BOBBIE FALLIN


DAN FICk


STEVEN FORTNER


DONNA HuDSON


PATTI JARMAN


REDA kAY


SuSAN MASSEY


GINA MITCHELL


DEANNA MONTGOMERY


LINDA NELSON


RAVONDA POTTER


GARY PROCTOR


CAROL RODGERS


AMY SAuNDERS


kOWEBA SPRINkLE


kARA TOWNS


CARRI TuGGLE


BECkY WHEATLEY


GARY WHEATLEY


JIM WILLIAMS


TOMGAGE


BILLHOOkS


SHIRLEYHOOkS


24 Real Estate Advisors Magazine . 855-482-9990 . www.realestateadvisorsmagazine.comA Sagora Senior Living Community

(817) 573-3434 100 Watermark Boulevard, Granbury, Texas 76048

AL# 104023, 104024

Lakestone Terrace and Waterview are set up to provide you with the best meals, activities and wellness programs to help keep you focused on your lifelong goals. At our Sagora Senior Living communities, you can be as active as you want or live your life in leisure. Our dedicated associates are here to help you create the lifestyle you prefer.

Call the communities below to schedule a chef-prepared lunch and learn more!

ALL-inCLuSive Living At A greAt priCe!

Lakefront Homes · Independent LIvIng

assIsted LIvIng · memory Care

WaterviewLife.com

StAy in ControL of your Life

(817) 573-1214916 E Highway 377, Granbury, Texas 76048

Lakefront Homes

Independent LIvIng

LakestoneTerrace.com

real estate advisors - april 2014

Documents

real estate license

real estate reader

steve fights

granbury womens club

publication of century

granbury new comers

shirley hooks