Localism: Conroe, TX

Easy Thanksgiving

Tue, 02 Dec 2008 14:23:30 -0600

How was your Thanksgiving?? Mine was great but not home made. This year I decided to make it easy on myself and try a not-so-homemade Thanksgiving. It worked out so well I think I have started a new tradition. The "Let's Take It Easy Thanksgiving". First I ordered a smoked turkey, which was a 2 person helper. Little Hanna's dance school made money by selling the turkeys and I had a ready made main dish. Well, what's turkey without dressing (stuffing)? To the rescue came Stove Top, yes you heard it right, Stove Top Stuffing. I added some fresh onion, mushroom and some extra seasoning and no-one had any idea it wasn't homemade. Move on to the side dishes; frozen and placed in my own baking dishes. I'm telling you I am on a roll. Oh yes, speaking of rolls, mine were frozen and placed out to rise so that just as the family came milling around the kitchen they saw me put them in the oven. Oh, what a good Mom! Dessert, a piece of cake, so to speak. Ready made from the supermarket, add a little whipped cream on the pumpkin pie and some sprinkles on the chocolate cake. Decorate the table with a pretty tablecloth and fresh flowers and my family thoroughly enjoyed the meal. But I think they especially enjoyed the fact that I was not so stressed that I couldn't enjoy it with them. What am I thankful for this Thanksgiving? I am thankful for the super market and the fact that I was able to let go of all the preconceived notions that if it isn't homemade it isn't good. Mostly I am thankful for my wonderful family and especially those perfect Granddaughters. What can I work out for Christmas dinner?? Any suggestions?

Article by: Carol Hawkins

Is Real Estate Still a Good Investment?

Tue, 02 Dec 2008 11:13:34 -0600

There is not a day that goes by that someone does not stop and ask me, "Is real estate still a good investment?" I love that question because it allows me to share the really good news about real estate. For those of you who study the economic history of our country, there are common ups and downs in the economy. The market changes and everyone must make a shift.

Historically however, owning land, homes and businesses in the United States has been an overall better investment than many have fared in the stock market. With real estate, especially in our area, this tangible asset has held its own. Of course we have seen prices take a dip but that is a simple market correction. What goes up will go down and also what goes down will come back up.

Real estate ownership has and always will be the American dream. We can never forget the importance of this fact. Now more than ever, I personally am very glad that my assets are in real estate. I am always drawn back to the scene in Gone With the Wind where Scarlett O'Hara is gripping the soil in her hands while her father tells her that owning land is everything.

Because home prices are lower right now, it is the perfect time to purchase. Consider buying a home to lease out. You can get some great deals out there, turn around and lease it and have instant mail box money. In fact, the statistics are very strong towards a leasing market! When the market is up again, you can considering selling the leased property at that time. The options are endless.

I believe that Texas is still the best kept secret! More and more people however, are figuring this out and our school enrollment that keeps increasing every year in Montgomery County is a huge indication of this. Owning property now I believe will be a great bet as the demand for housing continues to increase in Montgomery County.

I recently heard J.R. Moore, our county Tax Assessor speak. I was highly encouraged with the report that he had on Montgomery County. Folks, take a look at this report. You can find the report on the website for Montgomery County. I believe that you too will be as encouraged as I am.

So yes, Scarlett - now is a good time to consider investing in real estate! Don't wait around and think about it tomorrow - take action today!

Article by: Paula Hamilton

Lake Conroe Real Estate

Informed Buyers

Mon, 01 Dec 2008 11:02:26 -0600

Everyone is talking about the market being a "Buyer's Market". So, what does that really mean?

A true Buyer's Market indicates that there are more Seller's than Buyer's which results in Buyer's having an advantage when choosing to buy a new home. With more inventory out there, Buyer's typically have a better choice of homes to choose from.

Even though it is a Buyer's Market, it is still good to be an informed buyer. You need to know the market to truly know if a home is a good buy or not. Also, you need to be a strong buyer. A strong buyer is one with good credit scores, pre-approved by a lender, being able to offer a good closing date and have the ability to present solid earnest money.

Working with a licensed Real Estate Buyer's Agent is always advised. Buyer's Agents work on behalf of THE Buyer, not the seller. As a buyer, you want someone who is looking after your best interests. Licensed Texas Realtors use a form called the Buyer Representation Agreement. This agreement is very important to you the Buyer. The agreement can be made for only one day or for a specific time frame.

A Buyer's Representation Agreement allows an agent to represent you in all areas of your transaction. The Buyer's agent will be able to provide you with comparative market analysis on the areas that you are interested in. Being provided with the latest information will allow you the buyer to make the most informed and competitive offer.

Working with a buyer's agent also gives you the advantage of knowing your contract has been presented properly, inspection reports items to be negotiated and all other areas of the transaction represented on your behalf.

When you are ready to buy a home, make sure and find a qualified buyer's agent who has experience in your local market. Your home buying experience will be much easier when you have an agent on your side that you know you can trust and depend to fully represent you.

Now that the market favors you the Buyer, what are you waiting for? The good deals are out there right now and the best deals will go first. With the great interest rates, now is a key time to get busy and find that new home you have been waiting for!

Article by: Paula Hamilton

Lake Conroe Real Estate

The Crighton Players Present: Scrooge! (the Christmas Musical)

Sun, 30 Nov 2008 09:37:01 -0600

The Crighton Players Present: Scrooge!(Christmas Musical)

Dec 5th, 6th, 12th, 13th 2008 at 8 PM with Matinees Nov 30th, Dec 7th, Dec 14th @ 2pm in the new Owen Theater on 225 Metcalf Street, Conroe, Texas 77301

The Crighton Players are a non-profit Local Theater Group. They put on wonderful shows and are a treasure of Conroe.

For More information and online Tickets Visit The Crighton Players Web site here.

Merry Christmas!

Marion Honored at Small Business Awards

Tue, 25 Nov 2008 10:21:31 -0600

Last Thursday, the entire Franke Team supported Marion at the Lone Star College Small Business Awards Dinner at the Waterway Marriott. What an awesome event this was! The Franke Team filled up three tables as we cheered on Marion! We all had a lot of fun being "out of the office" for awhile. Sometimes you just gotta play!

Although Marion did not win the overall award, it was truly an honor being recognized for her efforts as a small business. Marion told us that being in the finals for this award validated all of her hard work over the years as a woman and a Realtor. We are very proud of her and we are proud to be a part of such an awesome team!

Marion and her husband Bruce have always given back to the community in many, many ways. From the Heart Association, Montgomery County Food Bank, local scholarships, Law Enforcement and much more, the Franke's tirelessly give from their hearts!

Next year we will be back and Marion WILL be the winner! She deserves it!

Article by: Paula Hamilton

Click Here for a Photo Gallery of the event