Merry Christmas and Treasure Your Loved Ones

Happy Holidays and Merry Christmas to all around the world.  God Bless our Soldiers and those who have lost loved ones during these times. 

Looking forward to a great New Year with a positive outlook on the future of Real Estate.

Take the time to hug your loved ones, because you'll never know when it will be the last.

I love you Mikkelle.

In Memory of My Little Angel

March 22, 2000 - December 12, 2011

Thanksgiving Decorating and Desserts!

Better Homes and Gardens has great tools for designing the home of your dreams from adding color to changing out furniture and adding art and now check them out for their best of the Season.  Great Dessert and Decorating ideas just in time for thanksgiving!

Living Social

LivingSocial.com for the best daily deals in Houston.  I've done it, it works!  It's free with no obligation, just sit back until you see a deal you can't pass and Go for It!

RE/MAX is America’s #1 Real Estate Network

Thanks to people like you, RE/MAX is the top choice of Americans buying and selling real estate.

•Most real estate sold.

•Most productive agents.

•Most recognized name in real estate.

•Most Share of Voice in national TV advertising.*

•Most visited real estate franchise website (remax.com).**

•Most professional designations earned by agents.

•Most countries served, far more than most competitors.

This week in Houston

Check out what's going on in the Bayou City this week!

RE/MAX 360's Caring Bear Foundation Recognized by RE/MAX of Texas

Kimberly,

Thank you for taking the time to speak with me today!  I was incredibly moved by the story of your Caring Bears Foundation.  I’ve published your article on our website: http://remaxoftexas.net/news/2011/11/remax-360-establishes-caring-bears-foundation 

RE/MAX 360 Caring Bear Foundation

RE/MAX 360 Raises OVER $3,000 for the Susan G Komen Foundation!

Our First Annural RE/MAX 360 - Komen Silent Auction for the Cure & Crawfish Boil was no doubt a HIT!

It was held at Big Woodrow's 3111 Chimney Rock yesterday, 5/14/2011 from 4-8.

We had a raffle for a Pitt's & Spitt's BBQ Pit, Congrats to Monique Modica for winning!

We had several other winners as well, winning a facial from Soteria Skin Spa, a Massage from Soteria Skin Spa, a $75 gift card to SushiPOP, a $25 to Ruggles Cafe Bakery, a couple of pair of iPod - MP3 player earbuds, a pink ribbon water bottle, 2 $50 gift cards to Big Woodrow's and MORE.

WE RAISED OVER $3,000 for the Susan G Komen Foundation!

Paris Green played live, acoustic style and rocked it.  We not only helped a good cause, RE/MAX 360 through a party like only we know how!

We'll be running in the Race for the Cure in October and raising more funds until then.  Check out Facebook for updates and learn how you can become involved!

Annual RE/MAX - Komen Silent Auction for the Cure - May 14th

2011 Charity Committee Members

RE/MAX 360 is committed to being a big part of our community.  You are all aware of our affiliation with the Children's Miracle Network and the Susan G Komen Foundation through RE/MAX.  It is our goal to gain exposure in our community and surrounding communities as a voice for these Charitable Organizations. 

 

Your New 2011 Charity Committee

 

As a public speaker for Children's Miracle Network and a Miracle Agent, I have had the pleasure of meeting so many new people, people who will help us grow our business.  As the event coordinator of the Silent Auction for the Cure,  benefiting the Susan G Komen Foundation - Houston Affiliate, I have also had the pleasure of meeting people who will help us in our efforts and once again, help us grow our business.  I am also the captain for Team RE/MAX 360, 2011 Race for the Cure.

 

It is my promise to my officers, members and all agents of RE/MAX 360 to represent you to the best of my ability.  To support you and your efforts.  To answer your questions, provide you with the material you need and the information about the causes we support.

 

To my officers and members, it my promise to you to keep you informed of progress, organize meetings with the help of my executive assistant; with your support, recruit sponsors & volunteers, organize events and provide an agenda prior to each meeting.

 

I am your Chair of the Charity Committee, Kimberly Stephens 

 

With a Tremendous amount of event planning and coordination skills, currently facilitating a member social group of almost 1000 here in Houston, please welcome your Vice-Chair of the Charity Committee, Danielle Wegner. 

 

With excellent organizational and people skills, this gentleman, A member of NRG (NEXTGEN Realtor Group) helped with the 'Rebuilding Together Houston' exterior home repairs for a disabled elderly Houstonian this morning. Way to go!  Please welcome the Executive Assistant to Chair, Randy Canales. 

 

With a style of his own, creative in his ways, innovative in launching RE/MAX 360 to another level in Social Media, this gentleman, A member of the NRG (NEXTGEN Realtor Group) also helped with the 'Rebuilding Together Houston' exterior home repairs for a disabled elderly Houstonian this morning.  Way to go!  Please welcome our Public Relations Officer, Jay Clemente. 

 

A man who needs no introduction, innovative in business and always moving forward, giving us the leading edge in our industry, Please welcome our Interim Treasurer, Thai Klam.  It is a great honor to have him graciously step in as our temporary officer until this position is filled.  Thank you Thai!

 

Please welcome the rest of Our Charity Committee Members!

 

Toke Ettehadieh, Michelle Gonzalez, Isabel Torres, Melanie Downing & Quyen Nguyen

 

Thank you to all of those who have agreed to Volunteer at our Events!  If you would like to volunteer, please contact me.  Volunteers will receive free t-shirts, we must get an accurate head count.  It will be FUN!  Don promises ; )

 

I will be sending a confirmation e-mail for volunteers soon to keep an accurate, up to date list.  Please reply, even if you have already talked to me.

 

 

 

MEMBER OF THE MONTH - TOKE ETTEHADIEH

 

With a Master's in Social Work and International Affairs, we are pleased to have Toke as a Member of our Team!  As a Top Producer we all know that she is VERY busy and successful, yet she was the very first to respond saying she 'would love to be involved'.

 

Toke We applaud you!  You have a $25 gift card to Olive Garden waiting for you, Thank you!

 

 

 

Congratulations and THANK YOU all!

 

April 16th 2011 in Houston

Astros vs. Padres

April 16, 2011

For it's root, root, for the home team... Check out the Astros vs. Padres at Minute Maid Park!

 

 

Houston Pet Expo

April 16, 2011

The Houston Pet Expo is a woofing, chirping, and meowing good time for the whole family! If you are a pet owner or hope to become one - this is the place for you!

Houston Museum District Walking Tour

April 16, 2011

The Houston Museum District is one of the few areas in the country with such a dense population of museums, public art, contemporary architecture, and landscape design. On this 2-hour walking tour you will experience the quintessential Modernism of Mies van der Rohe, the structuralist view point of Gunnar Birkert, and the simplicity and craft of Isamu Noguchi.

 

Disco Green 3 Electronic Music Festival

April 16, 2011

Discovery Green

Disco Green returns to Discovery Green with internationally renowned house music DJs to create human energy that is free for all.

 

Hairspray

April 16, 2011

Miller Outdoor Theatre

"You Can't Stop the Beat!" with this energetic musical. Enjoy the award-winning musical "Hairspray" outdoors for free.

 

Stroll for Epilepsy

April 16, 2011

Houston Zoo

It's not a run or walk, but rather a fun day at the zoo for a great cause! Join the fun and help stomp out epilepsy!

 

Manna Fields Farm Spring!

April 16, 2011

Here's a fun, easy going, family outing! Put on your play clothes and pack a picnic lunch and head on out to Manna Fields Farm this Spring! Enjoy the spring flowers in the Butterfly Garden and take a special Hay Ride to feed the cows and the new calves.

Bayou Fest

April 16, 2011

Bayou Fest Houston will raise money and awareness for the Layla Grace Children's Cancer Research Foundation in it's fight against childhood cancer, as well as help rejuvenate the music scene in Houston, Texas, bringing notice to the extraordinary talent of the core group of high end talented bands based in Houston and regionally.

 

 

 

 

Heroes For Children Photo Shoot 2010

They Smile and if that doesn't make you cry I don't know what will

On The Street With RE/MAX

Miracles Every Minute

In the time it takes to read this, RE/MAX Associates will help Children's Miracle Network provide:

3 Heart Surgeries
4 Cancer Treatments
23 Children with Emergency Care
Countless Hugs and Smiles

It only takes a Minute to Make a Miracle
Ask me how you can help

A special Thank you to Ana Ruiz and Mr. and Mrs. Dumoit for helping me make miracles this month!

OPEN HOUSE TOMORROW - SUNDAY 1-4

Beautiful 3000 sq ft home for sale, sits on 3 lots of land. Breathtaking backyard you're sure to fall in love with. Stainless appliances stay with home, total remodeled bathroom, in fabulous condition, really well kept. 3 bed/2 bath/2 car garage with RV hookup/spacious utility room, indoor/sunroom/media room/ energy efficient shatterproof glass storm doors at every entry. Long stunning porch and security motion detectors that let you know when guests have arrived.

easy access to freeways, food and shopping. All of the amenities of city life with the down home country feel.

Highland Parks Prestigious Circle Drive, Great Location!

Lots of Squirrels, birds, flowers and nature. A must see!

SUNDAY 1-4
111 Circle Drive, Cleveland, TX

for more information contact me, I'm a REALTOR!

111 Circle Drive Video to Smart Phone - SCAN HERE

For more information contact me!

10 Important Questions to ask a Home Inspector

1. What does your inspection cover?

The inspector should ensure that their inspection and inspection report will meet all applicable requirements in your state if applicable and will comply with a well-recognized standard of practice and code of ethics. You should be able to request and see a copy of these items ahead of time and ask any questions you may have. If there are any areas you want to make sure are inspected, be sure to identify them upfront.

2. How long have you been practicing in the home inspection profession and how many inspections have you completed?

The inspector should be able to provide his or her history in the profession and perhaps even a few names as referrals. Newer inspectors can be very qualified, and many work with a partner or have access to more experienced inspectors to assist them in the inspection.

3. Are you specifically experienced in residential inspection?

Related experience in construction or engineering is helpful, but is no substitute for training and experience in the unique discipline of home inspection. If the inspection is for a commercial property, then this should be asked about as well.

4. Do you offer to do repairs or improvements based on the inspection?

Some inspector associations and state regulations allow the inspector to perform repair work on problems uncovered in the inspection. Other associations and regulations strictly forbid this as a conflict of interest.

5. How long will the inspection take?

The average on-site inspection time for a single inspector is two to three hours for a typical single-family house; anything significantly less may not be enough time to perform a thorough inspection. Additional inspectors may be brought in for very large properties and buildings.

6. How much will it cost?

Costs vary dramatically, depending on the region, size and age of the house, scope of services and other factors. A typical range might be $300-$500, but consider the value of the home inspection in terms of the investment being made. Cost does not necessarily reflect quality. HUD Does not regulate home inspection fees.

7. What type of inspection report do you provide and how long will it take to receive the report?

Ask to see samples and determine whether or not you can understand the inspector's reporting style and if the time parameters fulfill your needs. Most inspectors provide their full report within 24 hours of the inspection.

8. Will I be able to attend the inspection?

This is a valuable educational opportunity, and an inspector's refusal to allow this should raise a red flag. Never pass up this opportunity to see your prospective home through the eyes of an expert.

9. Do you maintain membership in a professional home inspector association?

There are many state and national associations for home inspectors. Request to see their membership ID, and perform whatever due diligence you deem appropriate.

10. Do you participate in continuing education programs to keep your expertise up to date?

One can never know it all, and the inspector's commitment to continuing education is a good measure of his or her professionalism and service to the consumer. This is especially important in cases where the home is much older or includes unique elements requiring additional or updated training.


source http://www.hud.gov/offices/hsg/sfh/insp/inspfaq.cfm from HUD

My first Miracle Home - 111 Circle Drive

Imagine yourself relaxing on a bench with your eyes closed listening to rippling water and the song of birds and wind playing with the trees, breathing in crisp fresh air filled with aromas of Japanese Jasmine and an assortment of soft floral smells. 

Now imagine opening your eyes to find yourself in your own backyard haven.  An array of vivid colors serve as a backdrop to the beautiful scenery.  You see white, orange, pink, purple and green, scattered about the expanse of land while Squirrels and Birds feed only feet away from you.  You see a small wooden bridge leading across the rippling stream, lined with moss rock, filled with river rocks, a fountain on one end and a waterfall at the other.  A red bird flies over for a quick bath as a cool breeze tickles your nose and sunlight dances through the shadows of towering longleaf pines warming your face.
Nestled in the heart of beautiful Uptown Cleveland, in Highland Park, rests a beautiful 3,000 square foot home on three lots of nature filled land where your story begins. 

With each Miracle Home sold, a donation is made to the Children't Miracle Network by the RE/MAX agent on behalf of the client.  75% of the funds raised go directly to our local hospitals like Texas Children's Hospital.  RE/MAX and their 'Miracle' Programs with Children's Miracle Network has raised over $100 Million dollars to help our sick children in need.  Texas Children's Hospital saved my child's life several times and is a big part of my life.  This is my way of giving back.  A special Thank you from me to all of the RE/MAX agents who participate in this wonderful program and the buyers and sellers who allow us the opportunity.

Who will have to wait to file their tax returrns This Year?! Me...

Anybody else out there filing an itemized deduction?  If you are, you are in the same boat I am.  The waiting boat.  As are educators and those claiming higher education tuition and fees deductions.

If you are using a standard deduction and using the Lifetime Learning Credit or other educational credits aside from the higher education, the IRS website states there will be no delays for those people.

The start of the 2011 filing season will begin in January for the majority of taxpayers. However, last week’s changes in the law mean that the IRS will need to reprogram its processing systems for three provisions that were extended in the Tax Relief, Unemployment Insurance Reauthorization and Job Creation Act of 2010 that became law on Dec. 17.

People claiming any of these three items — involving the state and local sales tax deduction, higher education tuition and fees deduction and educator expenses deduction as well as those taxpayers who itemize deductions on Form 1040 Schedule A — will need to wait to file their tax returns until tax processing systems are ready, which the IRS estimates will be in mid- to late February.

And we wait..

In the mean time, REALTORS and soon to be REALTORS - don't forget All accredited colleges and universities are eligible educational institutions. Additionally, vocational schools and other postsecondary institutions are also eligible.  Champions School of Real Estate IS Accredited. 

For Income Limitations on Education Tax Benefits see full article.

Are you qualified for The Residential Energy Efficiency Program (REEP)?

The Residential Energy Efficiency Program (REEP) provides income-qualified Houstonians the opportunity to receive weatherization measures in their homes at no charge.

The City of Houston has the ability to offer REEP through a $23 million grant from the Department of Energy. We are currently taking applications from Houstonians who meet the income guidelines listed in the table below. REEP is designed to reduce energy consumption for Houstonians by installing energy efficiency upgrades; such as, weather-stripping, caulking, wall and attic insulation, air conditioners, refrigerators, solar screens and more. The efficiency upgrades are based on an assessment of what your home needs to make it more energy efficient.  All of this is done at no cost to homeowners. If you rent your home, you may also apply with the consent of your landlord. We expect to weatherize approximately 10,000 homes by the end of 2011.

What We Provide
After we do an initial assessment of your home and specific needs we can provide, your home may qualify for the following measures: 

• Weather-stripping
• Window caulking
• Attic insulation
• Energy efficient light bulbs
• Solar Screens
• Room Air Conditioners
• Refrigerators
• Duct Sealing

This is an income-based qualification, if your income falls within the parameters and you are interested in making your home energy efficient, please apply for the program.

For income qualifications and an application, view the source and read the full story on the houstontx.gov website.

Not qualified, maybe you know someone who is who could use the upgrades.

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Happy New Years

Who is making a resolution?

A New Year resolution is a commitment that an individual makes to a personal goal, project, or the reforming of a habit. This lifestyle change is generally interpreted as advantageous. A New Years Resolution is generally a goal someone sets out to accomplish in the coming year. Some examples include resolutions to donate to the poor more often, to become more assertive, or to become more environmentally responsible.
source

40 to 45% of American adult make one or more resolutions each year.
Among the top new years resolutions are resolutions about weight loss, exercise, and stopping to smoke. Also popular are resolutions dealing with better money management / debt reduction.
The following shows how many of these resolutions are maintained as time goes on:
- past the first week: 75%
- past 2 weeks: 71%
- after one month: 64%
- after 6 months: 46%
While a lot of people who make new years resolutions do break them, research shows that making resolutions is useful. People who explicitly make resolutions are 10 times more likely to attain their goals than people who don't explicitly make resolutions:

New Year's resolvers (sample = 159) and comparable nonresolvers interested in changing a problem later (sample = 123) were followed for six months via telephone interviews. Resolvers reported higher rates of success than nonresolvers; at six months, 46% of the resolvers were continuously successful compared to 4% of the nonresolvers.

source

TOP 10 New Years Resolutions

New Year's Eve has always been a time for looking back to the past, and more importantly, forward to the coming year. It's a time to reflect on the changes we want (or need) to make and resolve to follow through on those changes. Did your New Year resolutions make the top ten list.?

1. Spend for time with Family & Friends

2. Fitness & Excercise

3. Diet and Weight Loss

4. Quit Smoking

5. Enjoy Life More

6. Quit Drinking

7. Get out of Debt

8. Learn Something New

9. Help Others

10. Get Organized

source

The History of the New Year's Resolution

The tradition of the New Year's Resolutions goes all the way back to 153 B.C. Janus, a mythical king of early Rome was placed at the head of the calendar.
With two faces, Janus could look back on past events and forward to the future. Janus became the ancient symbol for resolutions and many Romans looked for forgiveness from their enemies and also exchanged gifts before the beginning of each year.
The New Year has not always begun on January 1, and it doesn't begin on that date everywhere today. It begins on that date only for cultures that use a 365-day solar calendar. January 1 became the beginning of the New Year in 46 B.C., when Julius Caesar developed a calendar that would more accurately reflect the seasons than previous calendars had.
The Romans named the first month of the year after Janus, the god of beginnings and the guardian of doors and entrances. He was always depicted with two faces, one on the front of his head and one on the back. Thus he could look backward and forward at the same time. At midnight on December 31, the Romans imagined Janus looking back at the old year and forward to the new.

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So, Happy New Year and may you achieve new things through discipline and action!