Keeping your home safe

Keeping your home safe can be rewarding and fun to do.  Many times the things we do on a normal day to day routine produces a safe environment.

Keeping the lawn in good shape not only gives your home more curb appeal, but lowers the chances of a fire spreading from another area to your home. Keeping bushes, leaves, and other growth away from your exterior walls helps also to prevent foundation problems and control insects that may be harmful or damaging to your home.

Keeping your garage clean and organized is another area that some of us neglect. Combustibles such as paint, gas, and cleaners should always be treated with respect.

It’s also very easy to start out with an extra extension cord in your home and branch it off to 15 different powered devices. Remember there are just 2 little wires to supply everything you have plugged into your wall per outlet. Also some breaker boxes hang weather for long periods of time. They can become filled with insects. Sometimes breakers won’t trip when they are supposed to due to corrosion. The purpose of a breaker is to stop the flow of electricity of the wires coming from it. If the wires pull more amperage than they are rated for by being overloaded or a direct short the breaker should trip.

Homes with wood burning fireplaces should have the chimney cleaned and inspected along with the insert periodically. Every winter when you first build a fire, you should make sure the chimney is clear of anything that might burn or prevent smoke and sparks from going up and out. If you have an attic fan, it should never be turned on if fireplace is going.

Water hoses that are connected to the outside of the home during winter can cause the plumbing to freeze and even burst.

Most of us know these things. They have become a way of life for some of us older home owners. Others have learned the hard way. I’m writing this to help that one person from going through a bad experience that could have been avoided.

Each season, I evaluate the primary concerns that we all hear about on the news. There are many tragic things we don’t hear about. I know several Firefighters and they want you to keep your homes safe too.

Please keep your home safe. It is your castle.

Rick Jackson

Dreams Do Come True

Oklahoma City Real Estate

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This home has been loved and cared for by one owner since it was built. Recent updates include new carpet and paint, Central heat and air, hot water tank are approximately 5 years old, roof was replaced in August 2010. There are two outbuildings in the backyard, carport, plus a 1 car garage. All in a quiet established neighborhood. Put this one on your list to see because it won't last long!

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$154900 MLS® 6300 S. Hiwassee Road

443343 (Unnamed Areas - Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, US)

Details

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Completely remodeled from the studs out. Four bedroom, 2 bath. New hardwood flooring. New Kitchen appliances, new bathrooms, new carpet, insulation. New roof in 2004. 16X30 deck. 36X36 barn built in 2007. 3 additional outdoor storage buildings. Mid/Del School District. This is a great buy! Large Bedrooms

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$115000 MLS® 3332 NW 18th Street

OKCMAR (Linwood - Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, US)

Details

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Amazing 2bd,1 bth,Formal Dining,Updated Kitchen,Appliances negotiable,Touch Screen Alarm System,Hardwood Floors,Home Completely Repainted,Large Closets, Carpeted Bedrooms,Cvrd Front Patio,Can lights,Historic Linwood, next to everything, Penn Square Mall, Oklahoma City University, University of Oklahoma Health Science Center,Chesapeake Energy. Newer Windows,garage offered as-is, call today to see your new home! Home located in 73107 Zip Code.

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$90000 MLS® 1465 Rancho Drive

303 (Stanford II - Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, US)

Details

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PERFECT HOME FOR LARGE FAMILY WITH 5 LARGE BEDROOMS....Built in 1949 on a Corner Lot with Backyard Access....Walking Distance to Grant High School....Fenced Backyard with 2 Storage Buildings......Newer Roof and Newer Double Glazed Energy Effiecent Windows.....Kitchen amenities include Lots of Oak Cabinets, Counter Space, Built-in Elect Stove/Oven, Dishwasher, Disposal, Breakfast Bar, Lzy Susan,Stainless Sinks.....Large Living Room with 2 Dining Areas plus Inside Utility Room......Home needs some TLC. Call today for your own personal showing.

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$125000 MLS® 8628 NW 91st Street

444202 (Rambling Acres - Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, US)

Details

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This is a wonderful two story home located on a cul-de-sac lot. Nice neighborhood & close to expressway, shopping & schools. All four bedrooms are good size with great closet space. Kitchen has plenty of counter space & cabinet space for storage. There are two dining areas which one could be used as another living room. The backyard is private & peaceful. Very clean & in move in ready condition.

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$91500 MLS® 6001 NW 26th St.

OKMAR (White Oak Village - Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, US)

Details

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So cute!! So affordable!! Large fenced, treed, corner lot, with very well kept home. View your street happenings and front door from your kitchen table. Got to see this extremely well-kept home.....

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$117000 MLS® 4300 SE 87th

306 (Cedar Ridge Traditions - Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, US)

Details

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$439900 MLS® 5201 Ne 48th St

(Oklahoma City - Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, US)

Details

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$121900 MLS® 4609 NW 59 Terr

OKC - NW (Williams Spring Hill - Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, US)

Details

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Wonderful home located in desirable Rollingwood area, clsoe to shoppin, restaurants and schools. Home totally remodeled: new carpet throughout, kitchen updated with new cabinets, oversized ceramic tile, stainless steel dishwasher, tile back splash and new fixtures. Private fenced backyard which is perfect for private entertaining. Buyer to verify sf.

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$62000 MLS® 8613 S Independence

OKC - SW OKC (Cambridge lll - Del City, Oklahoma, US)

Details

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$59900 MLS® 6100 N Brookline Avenue, #22

OKC - NW (Normandie - Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, US)

Details

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Nice upper unit (no neighbor above)! Three (3) beds, washer dryer hookups, fresh paint and natural colors, new roof in 2010, TWO pools to choose from, condo fee pays insurance, ext maintenance, water, trash and sewer. Lots of light in this 1211 sf unit and priced at less than assessor market value - take a look. Why rent?

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$525000 MLS® 2616 Elmhurst

oklahoma city, ok (Nichols Hills Wilshire - Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, US)

Details

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$119900 MLS® 6704 Elk Canyon Rd

(Canyon North - Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, US)

Details

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$164900 MLS® 733 SW 156th Pl

(Stone Meadows - Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, US)

Details

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Asking for help with real estate

Asking for help with real estate.  I do it.  One of my hobbies is playing music.  I started when I was about six years old. Playing music is probably what I like to do as much as any of my other hobbies.  I have put a lot of time, effort, and some money into getting where I am on the musical ladder.  Yes, I have had to ask for help.  I have also been compensated for doing it.  But at the same time, I do it for fun, and because I had been given the ability to do so, find it gratifying.  What does this have to do with being an Oklahoma City Realtor?
It goes along the same lines as of being a Realtor.  We research properties, call other Realtors, schedule showings, and drive all over the Oklahoma City area showing property.  We go to meetings, attend inspections, and go to continuing education classes.  We work on our web sites, blog, and spend a lot of time on the phone.
Am I complaining?  Absolutely not.  It's all part of the title.  To me it's like being a musician.  If you only played for money, you might not play much.  Both occupations have their perks.  In fact, being a Realtor may be more satisfying than playing.  When you have helped someone get into a home where they can relax and get on with things that they enjoy out of life, it's means more than playing a perfect concert.

The main point of this article is to make sure that clients don't feel like their wasting our time when they contact us.  When we put our shingle out with the big sign that said REALTOR, we knew what it was about.  We are professionals that help others buy and sell homes.  Most of the things asked of us we can do with very little effort.  Our Broker, Paradigm AdvantEdge is always behind us for support.  We also have many other resources.  All of our resources and training has the same intent. The goal to help you with your Real Estate needs.
Don't let your fear of contacting a professional prevent you from letting your dream come true.

I hope you dance this year,

Rick Jackson W/Paradigm AdvantEdge LLC

www.DreamsDoComeTrue.Us

Possessing your new home

Possessing your new home.  Possession at the time of funding is written into many contracts to buy real estate.  In Oklahoma contracts there is always a blank to add the possession occurrence into.  Actual funding generally happens at the closing.  This is after you have done a final walk through of the home your purchasing and are satisfied with any repairs or other terms of the contract.
It’s got to be one of the greatest feelings you can have after all the signatures are completed and the keys and *garage door opener are turned over to you.
Now it’s your home to move into.  You have probably already figured out where the furniture is going. 
Congratulations. You have just completed a process that you might have been very nervous about when you called a Realtor.
*if applicable

Rick Jackson
Paradigm AdvantEdge, LLC
Cell  405-826-8599
www.DreamsDoComeTrue.Us

Mount Scott Oklahoma

Mount Scott in Oklahoma is one of several mountains in the state of Oklahoma.  This elevated piece of real estate is my favorite because of it's rapid escalation from the lower areas that surround it.  Located just northwest of Lawton Oklahoma, you can drive to the summit of Mount Scott in less than 20 minutes, get out of your car and see for miles.  The view from the top presents lakes with a breath taking view over the large rocks of granite that covers the mountain.
Nearby are some famous places to eat such as the Meers Store and Restaurant.  Medicine Park is located at the main entry to the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge where Mount Scott is located.  There are many attractions in this area to see.  You can easily spend an entire day without a lot of driving enjoying yourself with your family just looking at the wildlife, antiques, picnicking, biking, backpacking, fishing, swimming, rock climbing, or just enjoying the view.
Mount Scott is south west of Oklahoma City and the drive is a little over 1.5 hour drive on the H.E. Bailey Turnpike.  If you get the opportunity, take a trip down to see what words can't describe.  This is one large area of real estate.
Just saying:
Rick Jackson

W/Paradigm AdvantEdgePublish Post

What's going to happen to me

What's going to happen to me. A year ago my family left me. I'm in foster care of a major lending company from another state, and I'm only a number. Before, I was loved and had a purpose in Oklahoma. I provided a comfortable environment to a family that I belonged to. We spent Christmas together and had many good times. Although we went through some bad times, I never thought they would leave me. I know they didn't want me to end up this way, but for what ever reason here I am. I'm all alone. I know I'm not the only foreclosure. We are all over the country. There is probably one of us in your neighborhood.
Bugs and other insects are picking on me. My paint is pealing, and my roof is withering away. If there was just a little love inside me, I would be alright. But as it's going, I will be flat on the ground someday and only pose a danger to some innocent child or become a fire hazard. At least they could clean me up and leave a nice lot. Maybe put up a gazebo in my memory.
Sure, a lot of families want to adopt me because I'm cheep. But once they see me and find out how much it would cost to support me, they walk away never to return. No one will loan them the money that I need to keep me alive.
I can only hope that some investor see the potential that lies within me, and makes an offer on me. I hope they have the patience to deal with my foster lender and won't expect to get me overnight. I hope they have the ability to see that I can be resuscitated and brought back to life. Then maybe I can start all over with a new family. They can hang lights on me at Christmas and cook sweet smelling foods that will breath life into me again.

Foreclosures are a serious problem in our country. Putting myself in the foreclosure's place was painful for me. I didn't write this to offend anyone, but only to bring awareness so that maybe someone out there may come up with an idea to help one of the many properties that Realtors get asked about.
I would like to see investors starting companies to buy and refurbish these homes up.  This could make them money as well as offer more affordable homes to buyers who don't qualify to buy foreclosures, but can't afford new homes. It would offer jobs to contractors and others in the area.  It would pump money  int the supply companies and strengthen the economy while making money for their firm.  They could offer 1 year warranties just like a new home.
Call me optimistic, a dreamer, or anything else you want to.  But don't call me to buy a foreclosure unless you know what your getting into.

Trulia Homes for sale are not always there

Trulia homes for sale are not always still active on the market.  It’s not Trulia’s fault, but it does cause some confusion to buyers.
I have been contacted by Trulia leads several times about homes in the last month, to find the property was already sold.
I recommend that anyone seriously  looking for a home, to work with a local Realtor in the area in which they are searching for property.  The Realtor can set up a search on Oklahoma’s Multi Listing System that will benefit the client in many ways.
The MLS system will immediately send the properties that are on the market to the interested buyer.  It will continue to do so for 180 days by default, and of course be extended as long desired.  You can opt out any time.
The MLS system also notifies the recipient each time there is a price change on a property, or pictures are added.  When you find a home, you can contact the Realtor that is assisting you and make arrangements to see the property or make an offer.
Today I researched 3 houses that a Trulia Lead was interested in, to find that they were all sold.
If your seriously looking for a home, contact a realtor today and have them set  you up a search on the local MLS service provider.  This is just one of the many ways a Realtor can serve you when it’s time for you to find a home.
Trulia offers some great information about areas, buying, selling, or statistics about homes.  It’s a great web site for those researching real estate.  However, when it comes time to make your move, I recommend you seek a professional pertaining to the type of service that you require.
Thank you for reading,
Rick Jackson
Helping you make your Dreams Come True

Oklahoma City Homes for Sale

Oklahoma City Homes for Sale are easier than ever to look through with Dreams Do Come True Real Estates Web Site. We have done a little tweaking and brought together many properties sorted by city, neighborhood, bedrooms, and price on our new page called Oklahoma Area Property

Please feel free to contact us if there is any information you may need concerning these properties. If you would like to receive MLS listing via email, please contact us and tell us what your looking for.
Contact Us
Sincerely,
Rick Jackson

Finding the right home shouldn't be such a trick. Especially with all the sophisticated tools Oklahoma Realtors are paying for. Many times finding the right home is a challenge. Since the MLS system is no better than the information entered into it, specific scenarios won’t always yield the results that clients are looking for.

An example is: I’m looking for that dream home with a work shop, a pool, and cable available. Also it would be a plus if livestock were permitted. .75 to 2 acres. Somewhere on the west side of Oklahoma City, near Yukon, Mustang, or Piedmont.

After many searches, I have came close. My client knows what he wants and I'm pretty sure I know what he is looking for. Had all properties been set up correctly, it would have save us both a lot of driving and looking. Even after finding a property with the above anonymity's, we still need to find one that's priced right and has the features he wants in a home.

I'm thankful for patient clients. I'm also glad to see all these homes on the market. Even if there not for this specific client, they may interest someone else. Knowing more about properties is an asset to a Realtor. I know that these homes are for someone and that someday someone will buy them for their dream home.

Rick Jackson

Alex Real Estate

Alex Real Estate popped into my thoughts today as I Googled search phrases for various cities across the nation. Being competitive in the internet real estate market varies from location to location. For example, when typing "Sacramento Realtor" into a Google search today, I received About 2,350,000 results (0.22 seconds). When typing "Edmond Realtor" I got a return of about 104,000 results (0.18 seconds). That is 2,246,000 more results for the Sacramento search than the Edmond search. When typing "Chicago Realtor" the result was about 1,080,000 results in(0.35 seconds).

For grins and giggles, I typed "Alex Realtor" into the little, but powerful Google search box and was a little shocked when it displayed About 731,000 results (0.20 seconds). But as I looked down the through the hits, I realized there was not much of anything to be found about Alex, Ok. The little town where I had graduated from High School was not connected to the search phrase "Alex Realtor". Refining the search phrase to "Alex, OK, Realtor resolved the problem and I was able to find property and Real Estate Agents for this local area. Most of the listing for Alex were from Agents in nearby towns, however being more specific in the search achieved the results I was after. I saw some very nice properties listed near Alex. It's a quiet little town near the Washita River, located between Chickasha and Lindsay on Oklahoma State Hwy 19.

As I thought about searching and phrases, I related it to how communication with others with our verbal skills should be just as specific as searching for information on the internet. Maybe sometime when we request information from our spouses, children, or coworkers, we should be more accurate to avoid getting a lot of unnecessary or incorrect information back.

Keeping you informed:

Dreams Do Come True

Selling your home in Oklahoma

You can look at the statistics for Oklahoma County and see a drop in the housing market. What you don't see is the selection of inventory going down hill. Smaller homes such as those needed for a lot of first time buyers that want to take advantage of the First Time Buyer Tax Credit are hard to find. As you search for a home you will find a lot of houses on the market, but the really nice ones, that don't need a lot of work and will pass the inspections and appraisals of the Mortgage Companies are really hard to find.
I believe this depletion of quality homes will inspire more of those wanting to sell and upgrade to a larger home. With the First Time Home Buyer Tax relief, ambitious lenders that will guide first time buyers through credit repair, and offer some of the best interest rates we have seen in a long time, it has suddenly turned into a good time to sell.
If you have taken care of your home and are waiting until the market picks up, it's time to start looking at the numbers.
If you want to buy a home, and have been waiting for a better opportunity, you should consider getting qualified with a lender and finding a Realtor who has experience with the latest assistance in home buying.

American Dreams Do Come True