Homeowners in Norman, Oklahoma like their homes to work harder (and smarter!) for every hard-earned dollar they spend on maintenance and improvement. They're no longer looking for bigger spaces; instead, they want flexible, efficient spaces that create order. They're also looking for ways to preserve their weekends, by focusing on maintenance-free exteriors.
This week and next, we'll look at some home improvement trends which have been found by houselogic.com to improve the way homeowners live happily with their homes.
The hottest new thing is maintenance-free siding. It lives just as long as we do, and requires a lot less upkeep. One of the fastest-growing sectors of the siding market is a combination of cement, sand, and cellulose fibers, known as fiber-cement siding. It looks just like wood, but doesn't rot, burn, or fall prey to termites and other insects.
Fiber-cement siding runs around $5 to $9 per square foot, and has an 80% return on investment. Sure, it's a little more expensive than wood, vinyl or aluminum siding, but that's offset by the fact that it's virtually maintenance-free. Wood requires repainting every four to seven years; fiber-cement needs to be repainted every seven to 15 years. Other than that, you'll just need to clean and do a little caulking each spring!
Homeowners are no longer interested in “museum rooms” that are used twice a year (dining rooms and living rooms). Instead, we're looking for convertible spaces that change with our needs.
Foldaway walls turn a private study into an easy-flow party space. Walls can consist of anything from fancy glass panels ($600 to $1,600 per linear foot, depending on the system); or they can be simple vinyl-covered accordions ($1,230 for 7 ft. by 10 ft.). And don’t forget area rugs that easily define, and redefine, open spaces.
Lots of people are turning an extra bedroom into a laundry room. If you’re in the mood to remodel, that mudroom or extra bedroom can be used to house the washer and dryer, hang hand-washables, and store bulk boxes of detergent. A perfect space will already have plumbing hookups, or is adjacent to rooms with running water. This will save on plumbing costs.
Tune in next week for more hot remodeling tips. If you need help with refinancing your home in Oklahoma City, Norman, Moore, Blanchard, Mustang, and Newcastle please contact me online, give me a call at 405-366-1111, or check out my website.
If you are buying or selling a home in the Norman, Oklahoma area, you need to hire a realtor. Perhaps you plan on selling your home yourself, but do you know the ins and outs of marketing a home? Do you know how to negotiate a contract of sale? There are plenty of other ways in which a realtor can be very helpful if you're buying or selling a home in the Norman, Oklahoma area. These are the top 8 reasons to hire a realtor:
If you are buying or selling your home in Midwest City, Blanchard, Edmond, Shawnee, or Oklahoma City, and would like the assistance of an experienced realtor, please contact me online, give me a call at 405-366-1111 or check out my website.
Before you open your Norman-area home for showings, you'll want to take a tour through the house to inspect if for repair needs, safety hazards, and areas that need cleaning. You'll also want to ensure that you and your possessions are protected. Preparing your Norman, Oklahoma-area home for showings is critical to making a good impression on prospective buyers and, ultimately, getting offers on your Norman-area home.
You are legally obligated to tell your buyer about the physical condition of your Norman-area home. This includes whether it has termites or other pests, and the condition of the walls and other structural elements. Ideally, you should address these issues before you put your Norman-area home on the market.
Protecting visitors from possible injury on your property and yourself from lawsuits is another area you'll want to cover before opening your Norman-area home for showings. Take a walk through your house and attend to any safety problems. Examples include:
Along with making sure you take care of safety and repair issues, you will also want to make sure your Norman-area home looks neat and clean. Pay close attention to these areas:
Security is also an important concern when you are showing your Norman-area home. Unfortunately, some people pose as buyers so that they can burglarize your home later. Take precautions when showing your home to strangers:
Preparing your Norman, Oklahoma, area home for showings involves a great deal of planning. An experienced realtor can help you get ready for showings.
If you are selling your home in Midwest City, Blanchard, Edmond, Shawnee, or Oklahoma City, and would like the assistance of an experienced realtor, please contact me online, give me a call at 405-366-1111 or check out my website.
As a rule, it's a good idea to refinance if you plan to stay in your Norman-area home long enough to warrant the closing costs. You will also want to wait until rates are at least one percent below your current mortgage interest rate.
How do you determine whether you can justify the closing costs of refinancing? You'll, of course, need to know how much the closing costs are. Asking potential lenders is a great way to learn this information. Normally, closing costs are about three to six percent of the loan amount. Closing costs can be folded into the loan.
Another thing to consider is the current mortgage payment on your Norman-area home. You'll also need an idea of what your new payment will be. Again, your potential lenders can tell you this. How long do you plan to stay in your home? If you're thinking about moving within a year or two, refinancing may not be a good option. To help you calculate your savings, many banks have an online mortgage payment calculator on their websites.
Here's an example of how to determine your savings:
| Amount Refinanced | $200,000 |
| Closing Costs for New Loan | 4% or $8,000 |
| Current Mortgage | 6% or $1,199 per month |
| New Mortgage | 5% or $1,074 per month |
| Monthly Savings | $125 |
With a monthly savings of $125, you need to determine how long it will take for that $125 to add up to your $8,000 closing costs. In this case, it will take 64 months (more than 5 years) to cover your closing costs. If you are not planning to stay in your home that long, refinancing may not make sense. On the other hand, if you stay in your home for another 10 years, you'll have saved $7,000 ($125 x 120 months [ten years] less $8,000 [closing costs]).
The important thing to remember is that you shouldn't refinance your home just because it seems like everyone else is doing it. Refinancing your home should be something you do because it makes economic sense for you.
If you need help with refinancing your home in Midwest City, Blanchard, Edmond, Shawnee, or Oklahoma City, please contact me online, give me a call at 405-366-1111 or check out my website.
What is the best method for deciding where to live? It's about the place, people, activities and what goes on in the neighborhood. How do you find the best spot for your family?
Here are some things that might sway where you choose live. 
Education: There's not just one type of school anymore. Pick one - private, charter, magnet, public - a fairly wide option from which to choose. The public systems typically adhere to district boundaries in order to enroll; though since some states are reconsidering changing this method, you will want to be very clear on it when looking for a house. Visit schools in specific areas where you can visualize living, where your kids might attend school. Ask to check out the rooms your kids may be assigned, and if possible have a conversation with the teachers. Do your homework on ratings, teachers, administration, and curriculum, anything that will help with a decision. Don't be afraid to ask questions.
Local Economy: If your choice of places to move to is dictated by your job, the employer will probably have a good amount of data on the area economy. If you're moving to be closer to family and will need to find a job, call the local Chamber of Commerce, research the community online - checking all the surrounding areas too. What's the success for employment? What's the unemployment rate? Review recent companies, large and small, that might have moved to the area. What industries have been in the community and offer steady employment with no layoffs? What is the average timeframe for a house to sell? Are home prices rising, dipping or holding? Attend a local event, such as a farmers market, and talk to vendors or consumers. Are they friendly, comfortable, willing to share the community news?
Investment: Everyone wants the purchase of a home to be a good investment. These past few years, people have experienced some disappointment. Homeownership is at least partially about making an investment. Over time you hope to build equity in your home, allowing you to have not only a large asset, but also the ability to "move up". Be aware of foreclosed homes in neighborhoods, as they tend to pull values down. Understand some neighborhoods appreciate more quickly than others.
Home Values: Are the homes going up in value? Today's market is still edgy and areas have experienced depreciation. All of this is a direct result of the recent recession, but is typically not the norm. Generally, the value of homes increase about 5 percent per year. Ask your local real estate agent for the stats on past appreciation rates.
Neighborhood: What does the prospective area look like? Drive around, check the yards and the homes. Do houses and yards look well tended - nice paint, in good repair, mowed, manicured? The neighborhood should show care and attention. If there's junk around, lawns unkempt, paint peeling, think about whether this will be a good investment as well as a safe place to live. Real estate agents often say "It's location, location, location."
Research: Be aware of local crime rates. Safety for you, your family and your property should be of utmost importance when buying a home.
Amenities: Define what your family likes to do and look for those options. Some want walkabiity to restaurants, parks, and shopping. If you look for entertainment close by, check it out. What works for you? Look for the churches you might frequent or gyms to work out at. Consider all the options you might want and those you will need.
You can find a great place that fits you now and grows with you in the future. If you review options and do your research, you can make a wise choice.
If I can help you with buying your home in Midwest City, Blanchard, Edmond, Shawnee, or Oklahoma City, please contact me online, give me a call at 405-366-1111 or check out my website.
Specializing in the Moore/Norman/South Oklahoma City Metro areas. New construction & move up homes specialist.
Hello, and thank you for visiting my site. My name is Jason Nedrow and I am a top-producing Realtor® in the South Oklahoma City, Moore, Norman, and Blanchard area. My family and I live in the great state of Oklahoma, and have long enjoyed working and living here. If you're looking for a new home, you've come to the right place-and I'm here to make sure you'll make the right choice!
I have created a powerful website at www.okhomesnow.com to provide you the listings you want to see without the headache of having to deal with multiple sites and realtors. If you want to buy a home in Moore, for example, you can see how many homes are on the market with the amenities you need, at the price point you seek. Please enjoy the site and if you need any assistance or are ready to get stated on your real estate adventure, please feel free to contact me. This dynamic site is inclusive of most of the market and is updated in real time via our local MLS.
My specialty is working with builders and helping you realize your dream of buying a newly constructed home. We have many new developments the area that offer you the chance to be the first owner of a great home. If you are a repeat buyer who would prefer a pre-owned home, you will find that housing prices in the area are so reasonable that you can find your dream home at an affordable price.
Worried about selling in a challenging economy? I also offer a YOUR HOME SOLD 45 DAYS GUARANTEE so you don't have to worry if you need to sell your home before you can buy.
The city of Moore, Oklahoma, is conveniently located north of Norman and just south of downtown Oklahoma City. It is also a 15-minute drive to WillRogers World Airport. Many professionals choose Moore real estate for this very reason, that it is an easy commute to many areas in and around Oklahoma City. Founded in the land run of 1889, it is known not only for its historic areas such as Old Town, but for its high-standing public school system as well. Over the last 10 years, Moore has experienced economic growth and continues to flourish with new business and construction..
Moore OK Real Estate is spread over more than a dozen neighborhoods, all of which offer options that will suit a wide range of lifestyle preferences. Whether you're looking for the convenience of an urban setting-which includes shopping centers and strip malls, among others-or country charm-we have numerous lakes and parks-you're certain to find the right property in the diverse Moore OK real estate market. You can enjoy Moore's many restaurants and entertainment spots including The Warren Theatre. Like golf? Tee it up at any of the three golf courses or take a stroll at one of the eight public parks Moore offers. If you're looking to make a good long-term investment, or you're planning to relocate to a community with an exceptional quality of life, don't settle for anything less than Moore, OK.
Oklahoma City, OK
Oklahoma City luxury homes are your gateway to living the good life in one of the best places to live in the country. Oklahoma City is teeming with activity and productivity, featuring a variety of economic sectors, an array of colleges and universities, numerous venues for sports fans and culture aficionados both, and a wealth of scenic spots for respite and recreation.
South Oklahoma City is an easy drive to many areas in and around the metro region. This area is located close to all major highways, Will Rogers World Airport, Tinker Air Force Base, and Bricktown. Major employers such as Chesapeake, Devon, Dell, and Boeing are all reasons for relocation to Oklahoma City. Oklahoma City has been noted for having one of the strongest housing markets in the country, which is why the city has continued to grow in record numbers. The Oklahoma City school district is the largest in Oklahoma and The Oklahoma City University is well-known for its law and theatrical departments.
Home to the to all types of attractions, such as The National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum, the Oklahoma City Zoo, and Remington Race Track, there is never a dull moment in this city.
Norman, OK
The city of Norman, Oklahoma is a century, yet continues to be a community brimming with property development, new construction, and simply superb living. The Norman, OK real estate market has remained stable despite the current economic crisis, and that in itself is an indication of how solid the city is.
Norman is most well-known for being home to the University of Oklahoma, whose campus spreads out over 3,000 acres and whose influence is felt throughout the city. The university was named one of the top 10 "Best Value Public Colleges" by the Princeton Review in 2007. Norman is a college town, and like many college towns, it features a colorful cultural and entertainment scene, eclectic shopping ,and dining options, and a highly educated populace.
Norman also boasts a strong technology-based economy, a wealth of museums and cultural venues, and a wide range of Norman, OK real estate to choose from. Norman, OK real estate has something for the luxury searcher or comfort seeker, the generous spender or the modest investor alike
Other Great OK Cities:
Downtown Oklahoma City · Blanchard · Edmond · Yukon
If you wonder if you are putting your confidence in the right agent, my company, Century 21 Goodyear Green is the largest Century 21 office in Oklahoma. We have received many awards for performance and service and are affiliated with state and local real estate association as well as local builders' associations. (See the full list here.) At Goodyear Green, we measure our performance in terms of customer satisfaction. Our goal is to provide superior service at all times. Our testimonials below say more than our awards ever could:
"My wife and I want to express our gratitude for all you did to help us sell our house and purchase a new one. Your expertise and hard work was invaluable and without a doubt the most important part of our success.
"As you know, our intention with this move was to get into a new home that will serve eventually as our retirement home. While the house we were selling was in pretty good shape and had a decent curb appeal, the neighborhood was extremely weak. Both my wife and I felt we would be lucky to break even. But we were chasing our dream; so we moved forward and contacted you for help.
"From the beginning you were pointedly honest with us and the challenges we faced. You had done your research before our initial meeting and told us the average selling time for our neighborhood was 100 days and the average sell price per square foot was around $58-$60. You were candid about what to expect. You didn't sugarcoat anything and we appreciated that
"But, as you know, we had an unexpected outcome. Primarily through your ability to market our home, we ended up selling in 15 days; and we got $63 per square foot. A dream quickly realized and about $5000 more than we had thought possible
"The story does not end here, however. You also helped us negotiate the minefield that was the home inspection and coordinated everything up to closing on the house we were selling. Then you helped us with the contract on our new house and guided us through our own new home inspection and eventual closing.
"Both my wife and I work for the United States Air Force at Tinker AFB. There is a phrase we commonly use called "cradle to grave". This basically means from the start of a program, project, or weapons system to the end. That's how we feel about the support you gave us. You helped us from the beginning when we put our house on the market all the way until the end when we closed on our dream/retirement home. It's hard to imagine how you would have done more; or how we could have done it without you."
"Throughout moving to multiple states, and working with a greater number of realtors, my view of real estate agents was somewhat tainted. I saw a world of "Yes!" men and women that would tell me whatever I wanted to hear, in order to make the sale. So in our last move from South Carolina to Oklahoma, any realtor we chose was battling uphill against a closed mind.
"Despite the above, I immediately noticed Jason's approach to selling/buying homes was different. His manner was professional and no-nonsense. He told me what I needed to hear to make the right decision, and not what I wanted to hear so that he could sell the house. It's rare to see a realtor attempt to find a house that suits the buyer, rather than mold the buyer to accept the house. Viewing homes with Jason is a chance for the buyer to comment on and make up their own mind about a house. It's not just another opportunity for the realtor to practice their sales pitch
"Jason is very familiar with the area, its history, present, and more importantly, future. This knowledge is one of the many, key components, that will factor into the smart purchase of a home. I have, and will continue to recommend Jason to anyone looking for a realtor in the greater Oklahoma City Area?
I would like to take this opportunity to commend Mr. Jason Nedrow for the outstanding job that he performed while selling our home
Jason has the utmost professional attitude while at the same time being friendly and personable. He has the ability to make you feel comfortable when dealing with the immense legal issues and establishes a trust that, through his recommendations, you are making the right decisions regarding the sale of your home.
He is very diligent and has a great go-getter attitude. Regardless of our home being priced in the high end of our neighborhood's market value, he was able to sell it in a little over a month. His suggestions were very beneficial in aiding us in the steps we needed to take to sell our home and obtain the highest price possible.
He stayed in close contact with us either by phone or mail to keep us abreast of any and all situations and issues
In my opinion, Jason's efficiency made the whole transaction as painless an experience as possible and I would definitely recommend him to anyone that I knew who was selling a home and needed a good realtor.
"I don't think anyone would sit back and say that they enjoy the experience of buying and selling a
home unless they are in the real estate business. I found that under the care and attention of
Jason Nedrow that there was never a moment that I regretted moving. Jason saw to every detail
in a very professional manner and in a timely fashion.
"Jason handled all the repairs to my home by calling all the right people and keeping the price to me, the client, as minimal as possible yet met the demands of the buyer. There was never a day that I had to miss work to see to the repairs or issues surrounding the sell of my home. Jason was always there to handle those frustrating matters. Jason quickly helped me find a house to meet my needs once a contract on my home was signed and made sure that everything was done to keep the contract in place until closing without causing any undue stress to me the client.
"Bottom line, Jason really did work for the client to the letter and my concerns were his concerns. There is not a doubt in my mind that the first person I would think of as a recommendation for a realtor to my friends and family would be Jason Nedrow and I know that their experience will be just as rewarding."
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