Pat Starnes' Snippets

It can't be good when your city is mentioned on the Weather Channel or the national news. A winter blast is predicted across the Deep South, especially along the I-20 corridor. The experts are predicting 1-3 inches of snow for Atlanta, Birmingham, Meridian and Jackson.

The south typically isn't prepared for snow, since we don't usually see accumulation. We don't know how to drive in the white stuff, and schools are usually closed if there is the slightest mention of snow in the forecast.

Snow has been the primary topic of conversation today, and it hasn't started to fall yet! But bring it on. I am ready. My pantry is stocked with the essentials...coffee, cream, sugar, Dr. Pepper, and chocolate. I bought a new magazine on the way home this afternoon. I have clean clothes, the plants are covered and the pipes are wrapped (I think). As long as it isn't too cold and we lose power, we'll be fine. But have your emergency plan ready, just in case.

An exciting new program is making funds available for Mississippi homebuyers to purchase bank owned foreclosures throughout the state. The program, "Home Buyer Advantage" hasn't received a lot of press, but it is a tremendous opportunity.

Don't confuse this program, which is funded by the Mississippi Development Authority (MDA) through Congress's Neighborhood Stabilization Program with the $8,000 Federal Tax Credit. They are two separate homebuyer incentive programs. And guess what? You could be eligible for BOTH credits!

The "Home Buyer Advantage" is designed to prevent neighborhood decline from having too many foreclosures. The requirements are relatively simple, but the highlights are as follows:

• The foreclosure you wish to purchase MUST BE your primary residence. This is not a program for investors.
• Current homeowners ARE eligible (as long as they occupy the foreclosed property).
• There are household income limits based on the county in which the property is located. For Madison, Rankin, and Hinds Counties, the income limit cannot exceed $47,650.
• Applicants must spend eight hours in a pre-purchase homebuyer education class (through a HUD-approved counselor).
• You must qualify for a mortgage.
• The purchase price of the property must be 1% BELOW the current appraised market value.
• The purchase price cannot exceed $238,000.

For further information, visit MS Home Corp or contact this Realtor.

This is a rare opportunity to enjoy relaxed waterfront living on the Ross Barnett Reservoir in Brandon, MS. This property will be available for viewing Sunday, October 25th between 3-5 p.m.

304 Forest Point Drive

$247,500

Directions to 304 Forest Point

• Completely Updated - Approximately 2200 square feet
• Formal living room with hardwood flooring
• Formal dining
• Great room with fireplace, hardwood floors, and lots of windows
• 3 BRs/ 2 Baths
• 2 Car attached garage
• Waterfront Deck
• 150 feet of waterfront on Ross Barnett Reservoir
• Private Boat Slip
• Scenic Nature Island behind property

Listing compliments of Rita McIntosh, McIntosh and Assoc., LLC

Contact Pat Starnes at 601-278-4513 for further information

The Home Builders Association of Jackson will showcase their members' craftsmanship this weekend during the Fall Parade of Homes. Homes are available for viewing Saturday and Sunday (October 24-25) from 1-5 p.m.

126 Huntington View, Brandon, MS 39047

New homes throughout Hinds, Madison, and Rankin counties will be on tour. Click on this link for a map and list of properties.

Prices start in the mid $150s.

Photo compliments of Deep South Custom Homes

Flowood Corner Bakery Deli will open for business Monday, April 20.

A reader requested a list of stores that has leased space at Market Street, so I put on my sleuth's cap and headed for the mall. Among the stores already open for business are J.C. Penney's, DSW Shoes, Bed Bath and Beyond, MiGis, and Dick's Sporting Goods. But the yummiest store slated to open is sure to be the Corner Bakery Deli.

When I stopped by today, the staff was in training. They graciously offered a menu so I could see what delicious foods would be served. Although I was NOT able to procure a pre-opening snack, I was successful in scoring the opening date.

Corner Bakery Deli will be open 6:30 a.m. - 9:30 p.m. They serve paninis, salads, and breakfast items.

Flowood Market Street is growing. Michael's is hiring and will soon join the list of new store openings. Many of the smaller spaces are still available for lease.

Market Street Stores Set to Open

New Stores Open at Flowood MS Market Street