Take It Easy in Broken Arrow, OK. with Home Automation!

Wouldn't you love to have someone turn on the lights at a moments notice? What about the home theater system or even the security system? No need. With home automation, you can control all of these things and more with a remote. All from the comfort of your favorite chair.

What exactly is home automation? Home automation involves using a remote control or another device to control multiple parts of your house, which can include: lighting, security, telephone, temperature, sprinklers, windows, and more. Home automation systems can even allow you to change the temperature of your home from a cell phone while you are away!

Can you afford to have a home automation system in your Broken Arrow, OK area home? Find out by contacting Keegan Beck of KMB Enterprises at 918-527-1031 or http://kmbenterprisesllc.com/

For home maintenance professionals in the Broken Arrow, OK area, visit www.tulsahomecare.com.

What is a Title Company?

When buying or selling Broken Arrow, OK. real estate, you will encounter many different types of companies that, together, help you complete your real estate transaction. One of these companies is the title company. The title company will carefully examine the title or abstract on the property being purchased and gather information from buyers and sellers as well as all land and court records. They will verify that the information in it is correct, check for judgments or liens against the property, and correct any problems that arise. When closing comes, they will take care of any funds disbursements, transfer property ownership, and take care of title insurance.

For a reputable title company in the Tulsa, OK area, contact JJ Pierce, Closings of Tulsa, at 918-493-2241 or www.closingsoftulsa.com.

Pending Home Sales Increase!

Although the economy is seeing some slow signs of improvement, there is still far to go. For those trying to buy or sell a home and for real estate professionals, the improvement is welcome news. A recent article found on RISMedia.com, "Pending Home Sales Continue Uptrend", says that "The Pending Home Sales Index, a forward-looking indicator, increased 2.0% to 93.7 based on contracts signed in December from a downwardly revised 91.9 in November. The index is 4.2% below the 97.8 mark in December 2009. The data reflects contracts and not closings, which normally occur with a lag time of one or two months."

The improvement of the PHSI in attributed partially to more jobs and improved economy, which are giving buyers better conditions with which to purchase an affordable home.

To read the original article on RSIMedia.com, "Pending Home Sales Continue Uptrend", click here.

To buy or sell your Broken Arrow, OK area home, contact Kelly Howard, McGraw Realtors, 918-230-6341 or www.kellyhowardhomes.com.

Things to Consider Before Building a Broken Arrow, OK Home!

When building a new home in Broken Arrow, OK, there are so many decisions to make, from the location and builder to which carpet and paint to choose. Keep the following tips in mind before you decide to build a new home.

• Location- Work with your Realtor when purchasing land and building your home to make sure that the location you desire will fit your budget as well as the style and size you want in your home. Don't find out after purchasing that you can't do what you want or that the market will not handle your specific plans.
• Building- Select your builder carefully! Ask for recommendations from your Realtor, after all they work with builders everyday. Ask builders for referrals and contact them. Ask plenty of questions and don't be afraid to get more than one quote!
• Products- Once you have purchased land, selected a builder, and begun the building process, there will be many products to choose. Ask about your options and shop around in advance to make sure you get what you want at the price you want. When selecting roofing products and styles- keep in mind your budget, style of home, and the weather in your area. Remember that by adding ridge vents or using certain materials you can decrease your energy costs. When selecting flooring products- remember to check wear, stain resistance, and even product type (such as carpet, tile, or hardwood).
• Mortgage Options- Check with your mortgage banker to find out what mortgage options are available to you. For example, can you qualify for a VA or Rural Home Loan? Also, make sure you know your budget and how much down-payment you have. If you have less than 20% to put down, ask about loans that require less down-payment!

Want more information? Contact these professionals or visit www.tulsahomecare.com:

Home-Building in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma- Rick Oberlender of US Building Systems at 918-734-1293 or usbs@att.net.

To discuss a Broken Arrow, OK Mortgage- Karen Heston of BOK Mortgage at 918-488-7353 or visit her website.

Roofing in the Broken Arrow, OK. Area- Judy Smith of A-Best Roofing at 918-587-1426 or www.abestroofing.com.

Broken Arrow, OK Flooring Products: Jim Ecrette at ProSource Wholesale Floorcoverings at 918-252-7711 or www.prosourcefloors.com/tulsa. Don't Forget to ask about Darryl Baskin's Wholesale Pricing!

For all your Broken Arrow, OK real estate needs, contact The Baskin Real Estate Specialists of McGraw Realtors at 918-258-2600 or www.darrylbaskin.com.

Some of South Tulsa's Finest Luxury Homes for Sale...

Jenks, OK Luxury Home for Sale

720 W. 108th St. in Jenks
Aberdeen Falls Addition

$1,695,000

5 Bedrooms
5 Full 1 Half Bathrooms
4 Car Garage

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New Construction in Bixby, OK!

12204 South 68th East Avenue
Woodmere Addition in Bixby, Oklahoma
$899,900

5 Bedrooms
4 Full 1 Half Baths
4 Car Garage
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Magnificent Gated Estate in Jenks, OK!

777 West 106th Street
The Estates at Stone Bluff in Jenks, Oklahoma
$2,999,000

5 Bedrooms
7 Full 1 Half Bathrooms
3 Car Garage


For more information on any of these Tulsa, Oklahoma area luxury homes or to buy or sell your home in the Tulsa, Oklahoma area, contact Kelly Howard of McGraw Realtors at 918-230-6341 or www.kellyhowardhomes.com

Tips to Improve Your Credit Score...

Credit scores have a variety of uses. Those of us that have bought or rented a Broken Arrow, OK home have had our credit score checked. We have also had it checked when we are applying for a credit card. Did you know. however, that many employers will check your credit score when you apply for a job. Having a low credit score can, in some cases, keep you from getting the job you want. There are many things that you can do to increase your credit score, or at least keep it from going down. Read on for a few tips from "Polishing Credit Score Can Open Financial Doors", an article by Eve Mitchell (RISMEDIA).

1. Most importantly, check your credit report and score regularly. If you find any errors, follow the procedure with the credit bureau and get it corrected. Checking your report for errors might save you from further problems.
2. If you don't have any credit cards, or you only have 1 or 2, consider opening one or two more accounts. This can increase your credit limits as well as allow you to diversify your credit.
   
3. Keep your balances low on all your credit cards and avoid late payments. When your balance is too high or you make a late payment or no payment, it will adversely affect your credit. A good rule of thumb is to only charge to your credit card what you can pay off within the month.
4. Besides your credit cards, make sure your payments are on time on all of your other bills, including your mortgage. Failing to keep your payments current might cause a lower score once the company reports the late payments.
5. If you have had a credit card for several years, keep it. The longer you have had a card, the longer your credit history, which can help your scores.

You might also be asking, what is a good credit score anyway? Mitchell gives the following information in her article:

Credit scores, which can range from 300 to 850, are based on a number of factors, but primarily come down to how well you pay off your bills.

-760 or higher: Excellent. Your score is well above the average score of U.S. consumers and clearly demonstrates to lenders that you are an exceptional borrower.

-725 to 759: Very good. Your score is above average and demonstrates to lenders that you are a very dependable borrower.

-660 to 724: Good. Your score is near the average. Most lenders consider this a good score.

-560 to 659: Not good. Your score is below the average. Some lenders will approve loans with this score.

-Lower than 560: Bad. Your score is well below the average and demonstrates to lenders you are a very risky borrower.

For more information or to read the entire article, click on the link below- "Polishing Credit Score Can Open Financial Doors".

To buy or sell Broken Arrow, OK area real estate, contact Kelly Howard, McGraw Realtors, 918-230-6341 or www.kellyhowardhomes.com.

FAST Forward Plan

Public transportation / mass transit is an important discussion for the future of the Broken Arrow area and will certiainly have an impoact on local housing and commercial real esate growth and values. Join the discussion. To learn more, watch this video.

South Tulsa Area Luxury Homes for Sale

Exquisite Custom Luxury Home in Bixby, OK.

15080 S. Columbia Ave.
The Estates of Posey Creek Farms in Bixby, OK.

$1,250,000

4 Bedrooms
3 Full 2 Half Bathrooms
4 Living Areas
3 Car Garage
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Gorgeous Horse Ranch for Sale in Mounds, OK!

19983 S. Sheridan Rd
Mounds, OK. with 80 Acres

$2,699,000

4 Bedrooms
3 Full, 2 Half Bathrooms
5 Living Areas
3 Car Garage
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Exquisite Luxury Home for Sale in Jenks, OK.

10808 South New Haven Avenue
Belmont Addition in Jenks, Oklahoma

$1,895,000

4 Bedrooms
4 Full 2 Half Bathrooms
4 Living Areas
4 Car Garage

For more information on any of these Tulsa, OK area luxury homes for sale or to buy or sell real estate in the Broken Arrow, OK area, contact Kelly Howard of McGraw Realtors at 918-230-6341 or www.kellyhowardhomes.com.

A Budget Friendly Way to Update Your Broken Arrow, OK Home

It is not uncommon to hear homeowners discuss updating their home. Many times, they will be doing larger scale remodeling projects, such as the kitchen or bathroom. With the economy as it is, and the real estate market in much of the country hurting, homeowners are looking for less expensive ways to update their home. According to an article, "Paint Offers Inexpensive Way for Homeowners to Freshen and Update Their Homes" by Debbie Zimmer, paint is an ideal choice. Debbie says that by painting a few walls or simply updating the colors, you can inexpensively freshen your home. Here are three basic choices for Broken Arrow, OK homeowners who choose to paint:

1. Stick with Neutrals- Debbie says that many homeowners can opt for neutral colors. This keeps their options always open for a new color scheme or design by simply selecting different accessories in the room. It also helps avoid extra work or money spent remodeling when the color becomes out of date.
2. Calming Blues- These are called "Well-worn colors" and are in blue family whether that be denim to blue-gray. Blue is also a calming and peaceful color that is perfect for creating a "perfect retreat" from the day's stressful events.
3. Shine, Shine, Shine- High gloss and metallic colors are becoming more popular in parts of the home. They also reflect light and help to brighten a room.
   

No matter your color choice or your budget, do a little research before you choose. Take some time when selecting your colors and consider the items, such as furniture, that will be in the room you are painting. If you are unsure of the color, paint a small area of the wall first and give it a couple of days to a week.

To read the original article, "Paint Offers Inexpensive Way for Homeowners to Freshen and Update Their Homes" by Debbie Zimmer, click the link above.

To buy or sell Broken Arrow, OK real estate, contact Kelly Howard, McGraw Realtors, 918-230-6341 or www.kellyhoward.com.

South Tulsa Homes For Sale...

Bixby, OK Luxury Home for Sale!

10824 S. 93 E. Ave.
Bixby, OK. in The Legends Addition
$725,000

5 Bedrooms
5 Full 1 Half Bathrooms
5 Living Areas
3 Car Garage
Bixby School District

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Charming Old World Home in Jenks, OK!

6338 East 111th Place
Woodfield Village in Tulsa, OK.

$325,000

3 Bedrooms
2 Full 1 Half Bathrooms
2 Car Garage

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New Construction in Bixby, OK!

14558 South Urbana Court
The Auberge in Bixby, OK.

$214,900

2 Bedrooms
2 Full 1 Half Bathrooms
2 Car Garage


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Gated and Secluded Luxury Estate in Bixby, OK

1724 East 151 Street
in Bixby, OK.

$2,675,000

5 Bedrooms
6.5 Bathrooms
4 Car Garage


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Gorgeous Luxury Estate on Over 1/2 Acre in Bixby, OK.

11707 South Fulton Avenue
Forest Hills Estates in Bixby, OK.

$725,000

4 Bedrooms
3 Full 2 Half Bathrooms
3 Car Garage

For more information on these Tulsa, OK area homes for sale or to buy or sell your Broken Arrow, OK area home contact Kelly Howard of McGraw Realtors at 918-230-6341 or www.kellyhowardhomes.com.

Tulsa, OK Area Luxury Home For Sale

Luxury Home for Sale in Jenks, OK.
10726 S. Lakewood Ave.
The Gates at Forest Park

$4,200,000

6 Bedrooms
7 Full 4 Half Bathrooms
5 Car Garage

For more information on this Jenks, OK. Luxury Home for Sale or for Broken Arrow, OK real estate needs, contact Kelly Howard, McGraw Realtors at 918-230-6341 or www.kellyhowardhomes.com.

New Years Resolutions- Tips to Stick With It!

Every year, many of us set New Year's Resolutions but according to a recent article, most of us will break that resolution by the end of January. The same article included some great tips on how to turn those resolutions into reality. Read on for some great information.

RISMEDIA, January 6, 2011—Did you know that 90% of Americans break their New Year’s Resolutions by January 31st? You can prevent this from happening, and turn your resolutions into a reality by following the tips listed below.

Tip 1: Be clear and specific
People are always coming to me and telling me “I want to be more successful.” Is this your goal for the New Year? If so, then start to think in specifics. What does success mean to you?

Here’s a guideline to get you started. Imagine yourself doing work you love and be specific. Imagine yourself working with your ideal clients. What characteristics do you want them to have? Do you want them to be decisive, motivated, and up beat?

What income do you want to make in the next year? How many transactions do you want to do this coming year? How many transactions per month?

Once you have answered these questions, you will have a more clear idea of what it means to “be successful.” Every person’s definition of success is different. All you have to do is be crystal clear about your own personal definition of success.

Tip 2: Know your blocks and obstacles
Ask yourself what blocks and obstacles you will have to overcome to reach your goals. Take an inventory of your own self-limiting beliefs. Here are some of the most common self-limiting beliefs that I hear from my clients:

-“I don’t have what it takes to succeed in today’s market”
-“I’m not assertive enough to market myself”
-“I’m not educated enough to be successful”
-“Who am I to have an abundance of prosperity?”

Dig down and find out which self-limiting beliefs have been stopping you. With the help of a mentor or a coach, these can easily be changed. If you don’t change them, they will continue to hold you back.

Do you feel stuck? People often report feeling like “I have one foot on the gas and one foot on the brake.” That’s a pretty good indication of self-limiting beliefs or self-sabotaging strategies.

What is a self-sabotaging strategy? This is a pattern that never allows you to break free of old patterns and move forward. Procrastination and avoiding marketing are examples of how people often sabotage themselves.

To turn your resolutions into a reality, resolve to replace self-limiting beliefs with empowered beliefs and reverse self-sabotaging strategies.

Tip 3: What areas do you need to develop?
In my 14+ years of coaching entrepreneurs to double or triple their incomes, I always find that there are areas that need to be developed. For example, a lot of my clients have never mastered the art of prospecting. This may not have been such a big issue in the last 10 years, but in today’s changing market, you need to learn how to become an expert in prospecting.

What holds you back? Are you afraid to make calls? Some of my clients were even afraid to make calls to their sphere of influence before they received some coaching to find out how easy that can be. I find that when we know what to say, making the call is easy.

How confident do you feel about your marketing presentation? How about speaking in front of a group? Do you find there are areas that need to be developed? Set some specific action steps to help you get the training you need—whether it’s a coach, a mentor, a training group, books or CDs. Don’t let those areas slide if you want to turn your resolutions into a reality.

Tip 4: Have a timeline and a plan
So you want to be successful? By what date? Stephen Covey suggests that we “begin with the end in mind.” If you project your success out to a year from today, what action steps do you need to take?

Start by noticing the areas that you want to have as your main focus. For most entrepreneurs, the areas they want to focus on are: confidence building, marketing, and time management. What are your main focus areas? Once you determine them, create your strategies.

How will you build confidence, learn to market yourself and improve your time management?

A huge factor in the success of your plan is to build in some accountability. As an entrepreneur, you know how easy it is to let accountability slide. After all, you are your own boss.

This is a big reason why people hire coaches, mentors, or join a master mind group. They want some help in holding themselves accountable. If you create a set of action steps for the week, you are much more likely to do them if you are reporting to somebody at the end of the week. That person should ask you, “how did your action steps go?” Do you think you will be more likely to do them if you know that someone else cares?

Tip 5: Visualize the end result
Did you know that most top athletes mentally rehearse and visualize themselves performing at their best? If you’re really serious about manifesting what you want this year, take advantage of this important strategy.

Picture yourself in a year from now having all the money you want. See yourself living in the house of your dreams, driving the car that you always desired. Visualize yourself being appreciated by your clients and your family. Feel the positive feelings that this gives you. Do you feel calm, confident, and empowered? What other feelings come up for you?

Follow these five tips and you are guaranteed to turn your resolutions into a reality.

For more information on this article, "5 Tips to Turn a Resolution Into a Reality" or the author, Dr. Maya Bailey, visit the link above.

For your Broken Arrow, OK. area residential real estate needs, contact Kelly Howard, McGraw Realtors at 918-230-6341 or www.kellyhowardhomes.com.

Tulsa, OK. Area Homes for Sale

Sapulpa, OK Home for Sale

602 Cross Timbers Blvd.
The Lakes at Cross Timbers
$339,000

3 Bedrooms
2 Full 1 Half Bathrooms
3 Car Garage

Broken Arrow, OK. Home for Sale

1705 S. Juniper Ave.
Village Park
$165,000

3 Bedrooms
2 Bathrooms
2 Car Garage

Jenks, OK. Luxury Estate for Sale

11425 S. Louisville Pl.
The Estates of Waterstone
$2,850,000

6 Bedrooms
6 Full 2 Half Bathrooms
7 Car Garage

For more information on these Tulsa, OK Area Homes for Sale or to buy or sell Broken Arrow, OK real estate, contact Kelly Howard of McGraw Realtors at 918-230-6341 or www.kellyhowardhomes.com