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Malisa Spivey & Damon Crelia

Tips for Home Maintenance

Air Conditioning System

-Routine Maintenance Tips

  • To ensure efficient operation, check filters every month. Clean or replace as needed.
  • Have annual system maintenance service performed one month before the cooling season begins.
  • Keep the condensing unit free of debris.
  • Trim shrubs and plants near condensing unit to ensure proper air flow/circulation.
  • Bent condensing unit fins can be straightened with a fin comb.

-Quick Fixes

Problem: Water leaks into the walls or ceiling.

  • Make sure the drain line is not restricted and condensation drains freely.

Problem: Unit constantly cycles on and off.

  • Call a qualified professional to clean the evaporator and fan.

Problem: Air conditioner doesn't make air cool enough.

  • Keep the area around the exterior condensing unit clear of leaves, bushes and other obstructions to ensure adequate airflow.
  • Clean or replace the air filter.
  • Create shade for the unit.
  • Secure the insulation firmly to the suction line (large line) and replace any worn-out insulation.

Heating System

-Routine Maintenance Tips

  • Check filters every month.
  • Smell around the appliance for gas odors.
  • Visually inspect exhaust vent for rust, damage or deterioration.
  • Have annual system maintenance service performed one month before the heating season begins.

-Quick Fixes

Problem: There is no heat at all.

  • Check for blown fuses or a tripped circuit breaker.
  • Replace the drive belt.
  • Call a qualified professional.

Problem: Your rooms aren't warm enough.

  • Replace the filter.
  • Clean the registers; remove obstructions blocking register.
  • Seal the leaking ducts with duct tape.
  • Call a qualified professional.

Problem: Soot collects in your house.

  • Replace the filter.
  • Call a qualified professional to clean heating system.

Problem: The blower makes unusual noises when the burner is off.

  • Tighten the setscrews of the pulley.
  • Replace the blower mounts.
  • Replace the drive belt.
  • Adjust the belt tension.
  • Call a qualified professional.

Electrical System

-Routine Maintenance Tips

  • To help prevent power outages, make sure there are not too many appliances plugged into one circuit.
  • Regularly use self-test button on ground fault circuit interrupters/arc fault circuit interrupters to ensure proper working order.

-Quick Fixes

Problem: No electricity to an outlet.

  • Check circuit breaker box.
  • Try plugging in another item to that outlet.
  • Check all other outlets.
  • Call a qualified professional.

-Technical Terms

Circuit Breaker:

A device for interrupting an electric circuit to prevent excessive current, as caused by a short circuit, from damaging the apparatus in the circuit or from causing a fire.

GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter):

A life safety device commonly used in outdoor, bathroom and kitchen locations that limits ground fault to 5 milliamps.

Plumbing System

-Routine Maintenance Tips

  • Toilet paper should be the only product flushed down a toilet.
  • Maintain water softener according to manufacturer's recommendations.
  • Water filters and icemaker filters should be changed according to manufacturer's recommendations.
  • Avoid using your garbage disposal if you're on a septic system.
  • Drain sediment from water heater tank according to manufacturer's recommendations.

-Quick Fixes

Problem: little or no water from the faucet or shower head.

  • Check to ensure water shut-off valves are completely open. Remove aerators and clean them as needed.
  • Call a qualified professional.

-Technical Terms

Shut-off valve:

A valve that controls the flow of water to an individual fixture, allowing water supply to be stopped to one fixture without affecting the water supply to other fixtures.

Aerator:

A device that exposes air or causes air to circulate through the water line.

Range/Oven

-Routine Maintenance Tips

  • To avoid damaging the burners/heating elements, do not use extra-large and heavy cooking pots or pans.
  • If you have a self-cleaning oven, do not use any other method to clean it.
  • Mineral deposits on the electric heating element can be cleaned with vinegar.
  • Clean or change range hood exhaust filters regularly.

-Quick Fixes

Gas Range

Problem: A surface burner doesn't light.

  • Ensure gas shut-off valve is turned to the open position.
  • Follow the manufacturer's instructions for relighting the pilot.
  • Repair or replace spark igniter.

Problem: Pilot light doesn't remain lit.

  • Use a small wire to clean the port.
  • Try to prevent drafts near the range.
  • Replace thermocouple.

Electric Range

Problem: The range is not working at all.

  • Check for blown fuses or a tripped circuit breakers. If you don't find a problem, call an electrician.

Problem: One of the elements doesn't heat.

  • Check each part for continuity and replace if necessary.

Refrigerator

-Routine Maintenance Tips

  • Clean the interior shelves, shell and gaskets every three months.
  • Once a year, clean the coils on the back or underneath with a vacuum cleaner.
  • 37ºF is an ideal temperature for your refrigerator compartment and 0ºF for the freezer.
  • If the door gasket is sealing properly, it should hold a dollar bill in place when closed.

-Quick Fixes

Problem: The refrigerator is not running, no sound can be heard and the interior light is out.

  • Check for blown fuse or tripped circuit breaker.
  • Check plug and replace the cord if damaged.

Problem: The Refrigerator constantly cycles on and off.

  • Clean the coils with a vacuum only.
  • Call a qualified professional.

Problem: The Refrigerator has stopped running, the light is on and you hear an occasional clicking.

  • Replace fan if necessary.
  • Test the thermostat and replace if necessary.

Problem: Frost forms rapidly or the unit does not defrost.

  • Open door less often.
  • Adjust the door hinges to ensure a tight door seal.
  • Clean or replace the gasket. Leaks in the door seal will make it difficult to maintain desired temperature.

Washer

-Routine Maintenance Tips

  • To adjust the level of your washing machine, turn the legs clockwise to lower them or counter-clockwise to raise them.
  • Inspect cold and hot supply hoses for cracks or deterioration.

-Quick Fixes

Problem: Washing machine does not operate.

  • Check for blown fuses or tripped circuit breaker.
  • Open the water shut-off valves.

Problem: Washing machine doesn't fill with water.

  • Check and clean the hot and cold inlet hose filters.
  • Straighten the water supply hoses.
  • Turn the timer slightly or press the buttons firmly.

Problem: Water doesn't stop filling the tub.

  • Check the overflow switch and replace it.
  • Replace the timer or call a qualified professional.

Problem: Tub fills with water but machine doesn't run.

  • Make sure the lid is closed. If it is, ensure switch is fully pressed.
  • Lighten load and wait 15 minutes for the motor to reset.

Dryer

-Routine Maintenance Tips

  • Clean the lint screen after each load of clothes has been dried.
  • To adjust the level of your clothes dryer, turn the legs clockwise to lower them or counter-clockwise to raise them.

-Quick Fixes

Problem: Dryer does not operate.

  • Check for blown fuses or tripped circuit breaker.
  • Check the door switch and replace if necessary.
  • Check the timer control and replace if necessary.

Problem: Motor runs, but the drum doesn't run.

  • Open the unit and look for obstructions around the drum.
  • Replace the belt.
  • Check the drum assembly and repair/replace if necessary.

Problem: Drums turns, but clothes remain wet.

  • Clean the lint screen and the exhaust vent.
  • Check the thermostat and replace if necessary.
  • Check the heating element and replace if necessary.
  • Check the timer and replace if necessary.

Problem: It takes too long to dry a load.

  • Clean the lint screen and exhaust vent.
  • Reduce the load and try again.

Garbage Disposal

-Routine Maintenance Tips

  • To clean the disposal, feed a full tray of ice cubes through it while running cold water.
  • To prevent stoppages, remember to run water during use and for at least twenty seconds after you finish.
  • Make sure rubber splashguard is not damaged or missing.
  • Avoid using a garbage disposal if you are on a septic system.

-Quick Fixes

Problem: Garbage disposal does not operate.

  • Check for blown fuses or tripped circuit breakers. If the disposal is plugged into a wall outlet, ensure the outlet has power.
  • On continuous-feed models, check the wall switch. On batch-feed models, check the stopper switch.
  • If the flywheel is jammed, free it using the supplied tool or a long wooden spoon handle. Push the reset button.

Problem: Motor hums but unit doesn't grind.

  • Free the flywheel using the supplied tool. Push the reset button.
  • Call a qualified professional.

Problem: The disposal grinds things too slowly.

  • Run more cold water when using the disposal.
  • Only dispose of materials allowed by the manual.
  • Replace defective parts

Random Thoughts on the Waco Real Estate Market

Compared to last year......Blah, Blah, Blah. I think we all know that compared to last year, the year before, and they year before that the market is down, but does that mean that it is a bad market? Hmmm, wonder what we would be complaining about if the market was up from all the past years, can you imagine how hard it would be to own a home? Does, California ring a bell to anyone?

We are still selling homes and people are still buying, thankfully at an affordable price. Sure you actually have to have a JOB, have good CREDIT, and some MONEY down to invest in your new home (I know can you believe the restrictions they put on home buyers these days), but the American Dream is still a reality.

Today in the news I heard that the City of Waco has gained national attention as part of Business Week's Best Places to Start Over. Weighing in at no. 14.

Business Week based the rankings on the percentages of companies who say they're planning to hire in the third quarter of 2009.

I would much rather hear about the positive things that are happening in America, and sure, its not what it use to be, but really I am glad. I believe, that which doesn't kill us, makes us stronger.

We are the Innovative Realty Group and in Today's market, economy, you need someone who is innovative, ahead of the rest and ready to face upcoming challenges with strength and determination. Don't get me wrong, I love the numbers and you can see all of them below or at www.mymarketreports.comand they tell a true story, but it is time to get off the pity pot and start coming up with innovative ideas on how to survive our new world. It can and will be done, unfortunately some will not survive but, I personally refuse to give up. If you look at the graph below, we are steadily climbing in sales, and the average sales price over the last four years is $126,156 (keep in mind that the numbers for 2009 are from Jan - May), so I think overall we will be just fine this year. *These numbers we taken from the Waco Association of Realtors MLS and they are deemed accurate but not reliable.

Look at the bright side, Homes are affordable in Waco, there are plenty to choose from, if you are a new home owner, or have not owned a home in the last 3 years you are eligible for the $8,000.00 Tax Credit, this is money in your pocket, not a reduction of taxes, and according to Business Week, Waco plans to start hiring more people third quarter of 2009.

I often wonder why people settle for mediocre when you can expect the best experience possible. If you like upfront, honest, on-going communication, and you want to sell your house for the most possible money in the least amount of time, or you want a great deal on your new home, PLEASE call us today, we can and will help, and I promise you will love your experience, just read some of our testimonials.

Weekly Foreclosures Listings for 6.22.09

Here is your weekly REO listings. This week they are sorted by price, so feel free to take a look and make some offers. If you have any questions regarding any of the lisitngs please know that we are here to help! IF you are curious as to what the market is doing, please visit www.mymarketreports.com

MLS # Address City Zip DOM Price Original Price Bedrooms Baths Lot Size Sq. Ft.
132256 511 WILLOW WAY McGregor 76657 21 $20,000 $20,000 3 1 60 x 132 1312
131961 4212 KNOLL DR Waco 76708 45 $25,000 $25,000 3 2 50x125 1387
132113 3601 N 27TH Waco 76708 32 $33,000 $33,000 3 2 City lot 1563
132450 1500 LAKE SHORE DR Waco 76708 14 $33,500 $33,500 2 1 Condo 0
132365 708 E COMMERCE Mexia 76667 19 $34,900 $34,900 3 2 69x115 2382
132434 2401 GURLEY AVE Waco 76706 12 $35,000 $35,000 2 1 92 x 174 1239
131764 290 LYNDON DR woodway 76712 59 $36,000 $40,000 3 2 141x136 0
132512 3301 N 23RD Waco 76708 7 $36,630 $36,630 2 1 .16 1072
131767 313 11TH Waco 76701 57 $40,700 $40,700 3 2 .1894 1658
131803 1112 W 7 TH McGregor 76657 54 $41,900 $45,000 2 2 .38 acre 2088
130526 119 MEADOWBROOK ROBINSON 76706 147 $44,000 $55,000 3 2 75X150 1514
132133 1624 181 BOSQUE CO RD Clifton 76634 34 $44,900 $44,900 2 1 17558 sq 1386
132573 3641 PECAN LN Waco 76705 3 $45,000 $45,000 3 2 0.314 1441
130844 2117 HOMAN AVE Waco 76707 124 $46,500 $45,700 3 2 50' x 165'+/- 1336
132262 1411 N 7 TH Waco 76707 24 $47,000 $47,000 3 2 50 X 110 1168
132530 3816 HUBBY AVE Waco 76710 6 $49,500 $49,500 3 1 City lot 1831
132111 606 E OAK West 76691 33 $49,900 $54,900 4 2 Large Lot 3029
131364 3113 ALEXANDER AVE Waco 76708 84 $49,900 $54,000 3 2 70 X 130 1684
131779 314 LCR 240 Mexia 76667 59 $49,900 $60,000 3 1 2 Acres 1378
132470 112 SILVER RIVER RD Waco 76705 10 $50,000 $50,000 3 2 0.71 1420
132521 3804 TRICE Waco 76707 6 $51,000 $51,000 3 1 0.00 1399
132531 612 N BARBARA Waco 76705 38 $54,000 $60,000 3 1 0.20 1202
131223 3404 CUMBERLAND AVE Waco 76707 95 $59,500 $65,900 4 2 City lot 1772
132475 1000 N 43RD WACO 76710 11 $69,000 $69,000 3 2 city 1679
131337 4006 COVE DR waco 76705 87 $69,600 $87,000 3 2 0.3960 1512
132301 8541 GREEN BRANCH DR Woodway 76712 24 $69,900 $69,900 3 2 100x127 2040
132571 312 INGRED AVE Waco 76705 3 $70,000 $70,000 4 2 0.3409 1481
131342 1633 CR 3505 Valley Mills 76689 84 $74,900 $90,500 4 2 1.75 acres 2200
131148 209 SUNSET Hewitt 76643 101 $79,900 $89,900 3 1 65x133 & 35x140 1522
132519 3721 WINGATE DR Waco 6 $80,000 $80,000 3 2 0.18 1711
132410 2225 ROSEWOOD DR Waco 76710 45 $83,700 $93,000 3 2 0 1955
132192 904 N BRAZOS Whitney 76692 26 $84,900 $84,900 3 2 .50 AC 1212
130638 162 OAKVIEW CIR Waco 76705 139 $87,300 $97,000 3 2 0.516 1346
131336 4021 N 27TH waco 76708 87 $89,000 $89,000 4 2 90x209 1906
131068 3621 KENWOOD DR Waco 76706 107 $94,900 $94,900 3 2 75x122 0
132276 10817 LILRY DR Waco 76708 20 $103,950 $103,950 4 2 .24 AC 1730
132263 9509 RENO DR Waco 76712 24 $109,000 $109,000 3 2 60 X 120 1225
132402 9902 FOREST VIEW DR Woodway 76712 48 $117,000 $130,000 4 3 0.2974 3518
131931 1036 DANE DR HEWITT 76643 45 $125,000 $133,737 4 3 80X120 2024
132162 10129 ARAGON DR Waco 76708 31 $139,900 $139,900 4 2 .2021 1724
132453 719 Wooded Crest Woodway 76712 14 $140,000 $140,000 3 2 CITY 1614
132416 774 HACIENDA WESLEY RD Waco 76706 45 $162,000 $180,000 4 3 2.533 3630
131963 8202 WOODCREEK DR Woodway 76712 45 $164,300 $164,300 3 2 .52 acre 2284
132559 3108 CHEROKEE LN Waco 76712 4 $168,900 $168,900 4 2 75.96 X 140 2181
132532 390 MITCHELL Lorena 76655 5 $169,900 $169,900 3 2 2.7 2339
132509 1002 Prairie Ln McGregor 76657 7 $180,000 $180,000 4 3 .48 acre 2800
130929 292 HARRIS CREEK RD McGregor 76657 118 $196,300 $230,900 5 3 0.69 AC 3454
132574 928 PRINCESS DIANA DR Mcgregor 76657 3 $208,000 $208,000 3 2 0.2696 1996
131706 2215 RIDGEWOOD DR Waco 76710 65 $450,000 $450,000 3 2 Large City Lot 4285

*The information above is deemed accurate but not reliable.

Villlages at Twin Rivers - Market Report

Nestled just off the South and Middle Bosque rivers, minutes out Highway 84 from central Waco, Villages at Twin Rivers welcomes you to savor the joys of a premier master-planned community. Pick a patio home or spacious lot overlooking Bear Ridge, Waco's newest championship golf course. The Twin Rivers site takes advantage of its country atmosphere ­ fresh air, stars at night ­ and matches it with the best of city-style amenities. Stroll the greenbelt that links these enclaves to an 8-acre lake. Catch your breath by the pool or spend it on the tennis courts of the recreation center. You're home . . . at last.

Each village is linked to the other and to the lake by a lavish green space, complete with the convenience of a generous sidewalk and a track for walkers, joggers, bladers and bicyclists. Fully landscaped areas and golf course overlooks build views into your workout. For variety, zip over to the 3-acre recreation center. Swim to your heart's content in the swimming pool. A fully equipped bathhouse adds an extra element of convenience and luxury. Sneak in a set or two on one of the tennis courts or bring your children to the safe and kid-friendly playground.

Curious about the schools?

A key amenity of the Villages is the Midway Independent School District, already considered a jewel by many McLennan County residents. Competitive in both academics and athletics, the district stresses a complete education - along with extras such as orchestra beginning as early as fifth grade.

The entire district is rated "Exemplary" - the highest honor given by the Texas Education Agency, and rare for a school district this size. Advanced programs begin in elementary school to offer students an early head start. By high school, a well-established Advanced Placement program can guide your child to college credit before even entering a college classroom.

The academic journey begins with South Bosque Elementary School, an "Exemplary" campus only minutes east on 84 from your new home.

In addition to the Accelerated Reader program and Venture program for gifted and talented students, the school offers a green classroom, music and physical education programs for all students. Kindergartners and first-graders reap the benefits of Saxon phonics and math. South Bosque stresses parental involvement, welcoming parents as partners in education.

At Midway Intermediate School, students will continue in Accelerated Reader programs or the Venture program for gifted and talented students. A strong fine arts program allows all fifth graders to delve into art and music. They can even opt to take beginning orchestra. Sixth graders can elect classes in art, choir or orchestra.

Midway Middle School builds the foundation your children will need to excel in high school courses and beyond. In addition to Accelerated Reader programs, pre-Advanced Placement courses begin here - launching students on the path to receive college credit early. Other elements of the school are just as outstanding - from foreign language and art programs to band, stringed instrument and choral opportunities.

Midway High School's dedicated sports programs complement an outstanding tradition of preparing students for college. Extensive Advanced Placement courses prepare students for the tests to earn college credit and a head start on their undergraduate degrees. The girls' softball team is legendary, and students can excel in programs ranging from soccer and swimming to volleyball, track and, of course, football and basketball.

Need a copy of the bylaws? Download Homeowner Bylaws

Out of all the 91 Homes that sold -

24 - Three Bedroom, Two + Bath

64 - Four Bedroom, Two + Bath

5 - Five Bedroom, Three Bath

This is a wonderful community to live in and if you are looking for an absolutley stunning home, please view 1108 Charing Cross at http://www.propertypreviews.com/realestate/4900/1108_charing_cross_dr._waco_tx

*The above numbers are taken from the Waco Assocation of Realtors MLS and are deemed reliabe but not guaranteed.

Weekly Foreclosure Listings for 6.15.2009

Hope everyone had a great weekend. It was HOT!!!!!! Summer is here and school is out and I am ready for school to be back in session as my grocery bill may decrease somewhat! Hope you all had a chance to look at the market report numbers at www.mymarketreports.com and see that we are steadily getting better. I didn't say great, I said better. As you can see for yourselves, the foreclosure listing isn't growing by leaps and bounds, as a matter of fact, it is staying pretty constant.

As ususal if you need any assistance or have any quesions, please do not hesitate to contact one of us. (254) 648-0898.

MLS # Address City Zip DOM Price Original Price Bedrooms Baths Sq. Ft.
131148 209 SUNSET Hewitt 76643 94 $79,900 $89,900 3 1 1522
131706 2215 RIDGEWOOD DR Waco 76710 58 $450,000 $450,000 3 2 4285
131068 3621 KENWOOD DR Waco 76706 100 $94,900 $94,900 3 2 0
131825 401 WASHINGTON Eddy 76524 46 $75,000 $75,000 3 2 1058
132162 10129 ARAGON DR Waco 76708 24 $139,900 $139,900 4 2 1724
131223 3404 CUMBERLAND AVE Waco 76707 88 $59,500 $65,900 4 2 1772
132111 606 E OAK West 76691 26 $49,900 $54,900 4 2 3029
132276 10817 LILRY DR Waco 76708 13 $103,950 $103,950 4 2 1730
132133 1624 181 BOSQUE CO RD Clifton 76634 27 $44,900 $44,900 2 1 1386
131342 1633 CR 3505 Valley Mills 76689 77 $74,900 $90,500 4 2 2200
132453 719 Wooded Crest Woodway 76712 7 $140,000 $140,000 3 2 1614
132450 1500 LAKE SHORE DR Waco 76708 7 $33,500 $33,500 2 1 0
131364 3113 ALEXANDER AVE Waco 76708 77 $52,900 $54,000 3 2 1684
131779 314 LCR 240 Mexia 76667 52 $49,900 $60,000 3 1 1378
131803 1112 W 7 TH McGregor 76657 47 $41,900 $45,000 2 2 2088
132113 3601 N 27TH Waco 76708 25 $33,000 $33,000 3 2 1563
132263 9509 RENO DR Waco 76710 17 $109,000 $109,000 3 2 1225
132262 1411 N 7 TH Waco 76707 17 $47,000 $47,000 3 2 1168
131963 8202 WOODCREEK DR Woodway 76712 38 $164,300 $164,300 3 2 2284
130929 292 HARRIS CREEK RD McGregor 76657 111 $196,300 $230,900 5 3 3454
132434 2401 GURLEY AVE Waco 76706 5 $35,000 $35,000 2 1 1239
132256 511 WILLOW WAY McGregor 76657 14 $20,000 $20,000 3 1 1312
131931 1036 DANE DR HEWITT 76643 38 $125,000 $133,737 4 3 2024
131764 290 LYNDON DR woodway 76712 52 $40,000 $40,000 3 2 0
132416 774 HACIENDA WESLEY RD Waco 76706 38 $162,000 $180,000 4 3 3630
132470 112 SILVER RIVER RD Waco 76705 3 $50,000 $50,000 3 2 1420
132410 2225 ROSEWOOD DR Waco 76710 38 $83,700 $93,000 3 2 1955
132402 9902 FOREST VIEW DR Woodway 76712 41 $117,000 $130,000 4 3 3518
132286 2504 PRAUSE RD China Spring 76633 13 $50,000 $50,000 3 2 1120
130638 162 OAKVIEW CIR Waco 76705 132 $87,300 $97,000 3 2 1346
131337 4006 COVE DR waco 76705 80 $69,600 $87,000 3 2 1512
131336 4021 N 27TH waco 76708 80 $89,000 $89,000 4 2 1906
132291 3216 EDMOND AVE Waco 76707 45 $56,700 $63,000 3 1 1275
132423 207 APPLEGROVE Waco 76704 38 $50,000 $50,000 3 2 1238
132413 2201 WINDSOR AVE Waco 76708 38 $45,000 $50,000 3 1 1257
130844 2117 HOMAN AVE Waco 76707 117 $49,900 $45,700 3 2 1336
131961 4212 KNOLL DR Waco 76708 38 $25,000 $25,000 3 2 1387
132301 8541 GREEN BRANCH DR Woodway 76712 17 $69,900 $69,900 3 2 2040
132365 708 E COMMERCE Mexia 76667 12 $34,900 $34,900 3 2 2382
132192 904 N BRAZOS Whitney 76692 19 $84,900 $84,900 3 2 1212
*Information contained herein is deemed reliable but not guaranteed.