Pat Starnes' Snippets

Snow in Brandon and Metro Jackson ... Will it or Won't it?

Pat Starnes (McIntosh and Associates, LLC) — Thu, 11 Feb 2010 16:22:09 -0600

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.

Pat Starnes, a Realtor since 1988, specializes in Mississippi Residential Real Estate and can assist you with buying or selling in the Jackson MS Metro area.

Search homes for sale in Brandon, Pearl, Flowood, Madison, Ridgeland, Florence, Bryam, or Jackson, MS.

Written and Published by Pat Starnes REALTOR

McIntosh and Assoc., LLC

434 Katherine Drive

Flowood, MS 39232

601-278-4513 - cell

601-936-2007 - office

Composting Renews Your Soil, or is that "Soul"?

Pat Starnes (McIntosh and Associates, LLC) — Thu, 11 Feb 2010 11:35:09 -0600

I accidentally created a compost bin a few weeks ago. While raking leaves from my front lawn, I completely filled my 45-gallon trash can. Because the leaves were wet from a recent rain, I scooped (raked) them directly into the trash can with no liners or bags. Suddenly I had the "ah ha" moment and my compost bin was born.

You see, I don't have "dirt" in my yard. Rather, I have Yazoo Clay, which needs all the nourishment it can get. By springtime I should be able to supplement my landscaping with nutrient-rich compost from my fall leaves and other organic materials. In addition to enriching my "soil", composting is good for the "soul".

Doing good things for the planet can start in your own back yard!

If you are interested in composting, refer to this list of suitable materials.

Pat Starnes, a Realtor since 1988, specializes in Mississippi Residential Real Estate and can assist you with buying or selling in the Jackson MS Metro area.

Search homes for sale in Brandon, Pearl, Flowood, Madison, Ridgeland, Florence, Bryam, or Jackson, MS.

Written and Published by Pat Starnes REALTOR

McIntosh and Assoc., LLC

434 Katherine Drive

Flowood, MS 39232

601-278-4513 - cell

601-936-2007 - office

MS Home Buyer Advantage Offers Free Money To Buy Foreclosures

Pat Starnes (McIntosh and Associates, LLC) — Mon, 01 Feb 2010 11:13:43 -0600

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.

Pat Starnes, a Realtor since 1988, specializes in Mississippi Residential Real Estate and can assist you with buying or selling in the Jackson MS Metro area.

Search homes for sale in Brandon, Pearl, Flowood, Madison, Ridgeland, Florence, Bryam, or Jackson, MS.

Written and Published by Pat Starnes REALTOR

McIntosh and Assoc., LLC

434 Katherine Drive

Flowood, MS 39232

601-278-4513 - cell

601-936-2007 - office

Updated Information for 2010 Home Buyer Tax Credit

Pat Starnes (McIntosh and Associates, LLC) — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 10:14:28 -0600

By now, word has traveled throughout the housing industry about the extension of the 2009 First Time Home Buyer Tax Credit. An added feature to the act is the inclusion of move-up buyers, those who have lived in their existing homes for a minimum of five years. These buyers, most of them anyway, will be eligible to receive a maximum of $6,500 tax credit.

There are income limits for both categories of buyers - $125,000 for singles and $225,000 for married couples. And there is a cap on the price of the home of $800,000.

Homes should be "under contract" by April 30, 2010 and must close by June 30, 2010 to be eligible for the credit.

Visit the website for the Federal Housing Tax Credit.

As a Realtor and someone concerned about our economy, I am happy to see the government extend and modify the existing tax credit. However, my personal opinion is that it is unfortunate so many potential buyers will be left out.

Don't most homeowners trade up every three to five years? Those who tend to move more frequently will not be allowed to participate in the tax credit. On the other hand, will $6,500 induce a family to trade up if they normally live in their home for historically longer periods?

I would have preferred to see the tax credit awarded to any move-up buyer. Or at least those who had lived in their homes for a shorter timeframe. Three years might have been more equitable.

At any rate, this is important, welcome news for the real estate industry and many homebuyers throughout the country.

Pat Starnes, a Realtor since 1988, specializes in Mississippi Residential Real Estate and can assist you with buying or selling in the Jackson MS Metro area.

Search homes for sale in Brandon, Pearl, Flowood, Madison, Ridgeland, Florence, Bryam, or Jackson, MS.

Written and Published by Pat Starnes REALTOR

McIntosh and Assoc., LLC

434 Katherine Drive

Flowood, MS 39232

601-278-4513 - cell

601-936-2007 - office

Brandon MS Waterfront For Sale at 304 Forest Point Drive

Pat Starnes (McIntosh and Associates, LLC) — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 15:25:27 -0500

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

Pat Starnes, a Realtor since 1988, specializes in Mississippi Residential Real Estate and can assist you with buying or selling in the Jackson MS Metro area.

Search homes for sale in Brandon, Pearl, Flowood, Madison, Ridgeland, Florence, Bryam, or Jackson, MS.

Written and Published by Pat Starnes REALTOR

McIntosh and Assoc., LLC

434 Katherine Drive

Flowood, MS 39232

601-278-4513 - cell

601-936-2007 - office

Fall Parade of Homes in Metro Jackson

Pat Starnes (McIntosh and Associates, LLC) — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 15:03:13 -0500

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

Pat Starnes, a Realtor since 1988, specializes in Mississippi Residential Real Estate and can assist you with buying or selling in the Jackson MS Metro area.

Search homes for sale in Brandon, Pearl, Flowood, Madison, Ridgeland, Florence, Bryam, or Jackson, MS.

Written and Published by Pat Starnes REALTOR

McIntosh and Assoc., LLC

434 Katherine Drive

Flowood, MS 39232

601-278-4513 - cell

601-936-2007 - office

Foreclosure Friday Home Sales for Metro Jackson MS

Pat Starnes (McIntosh and Associates, LLC) — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 14:40:28 -0500

Hot off the press! The weekly HUD list has been published and there are some great foreclosures available in central Mississippi.

Many of these listings are new to the market, and won't be around for very long. Whether you are looking as an investor or as someone wanting a primary residence, check out HUD Foreclosures in metro Jackson MS. The list is published each Friday.

From Madison, Pearl, and Ridgeland, to Brandon, Byram, and Jackson, the savvy homebuyer can find investing in the Mississippi real estate market rewarding.

To learn more about the foreclosure process, please refer to previous Foreclosure Friday articles.

Pat Starnes, a Realtor since 1988, specializes in Mississippi Residential Real Estate and can assist you with buying or selling in the Jackson MS Metro area.

Search homes for sale in Brandon, Pearl, Flowood, Madison, Ridgeland, Florence, Bryam, or Jackson, MS.

Written and Published by Pat Starnes REALTOR

McIntosh and Assoc., LLC

434 Katherine Drive

Flowood, MS 39232

601-278-4513 - cell

601-936-2007 - office

Home Inspector Gone Wild

Pat Starnes (McIntosh and Associates, LLC) — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 10:19:49 -0500

I represent a seller who's home recently went under contract. The sales agreement is contingent upon a satisfactory home inspection, a common stipulation.

The report was sent to me via e-mail. Usually the repair list is summarized within the report and I can print a one or two page summary that addresses the primary issues/repairs. Unfortunately, the report was lengthy and I couldn't find the summary. To save myself time and eyestrain, I hit the print button on my computer so I could carry the report with me for later review.

Since the house was 35 years old, the seller and I expected there would be repair issues, along with some minor wear and tear. Imagine my surprise when I discovered the home inspection report was 69 pages long! Really! SIXTY NINE pages!

The report contained 147 photos. While reviewing the report, I did notice a summary, which included duplicates of the aforementioned photographs.

My home inspector friends might object to my critique, but this post is not meant as a personal attack. Home inspectors offer a valuable service. And if I represented the buyer side of this transaction, I might feel differently. But a sixty-nine page report seems excessive, in my humble opinion.

The real problem with the report, despite it's length, was that it was difficult to extract the issues! Many of the photos were taken, I believe, to CYA or to justify the cost of the inspection. There were numerous plumbing and electrical issues addressed (multiple times throughout), duplicate photographs, duplicate commentary, etc.

Fortunately, the buyer and seller are behaving professionally and each want a mutually acceptable resolution to the home inspection, so this house WILL close. However, if the buyer wanted to be a snoot about it, there could be a different outcome.

What do you think? Could a sixty-nine page report kill the deal? Hopefully, it won't kill THIS one!

Pat Starnes, a Realtor since 1988, specializes in Mississippi Residential Real Estate and can assist you with buying or selling in the Jackson MS Metro area.

Search homes for sale in Brandon, Pearl, Flowood, Madison, Ridgeland, Florence, Bryam, or Jackson, MS.

Written and Published by Pat Starnes REALTOR

McIntosh and Assoc., LLC

434 Katherine Drive

Flowood, MS 39232

601-278-4513 - cell

601-936-2007 - office

The Pre-Closing Dance...Tango, Waltz, or Hustle?

Pat Starnes (McIntosh and Associates, LLC) — Fri, 04 Sep 2009 19:19:17 -0500

Last week in preparation for several closings, I coined a phrase "the real estate dance" because of all the last minute hurdles, struggles, and documents that MUST be obtained mere moments before closing.

If a closing goes smoothly, happens as scheduled, without any glitches, (impeccably choreographed) then everyone from the lender, appraiser, attorney, inspectors, Realtor, AND the buyer has performed their duties as expected.

If a closing is delayed, someone failed to do their job. It's frustrating, yet humorous to watch the finger-pointing begin when there is a delay.

As a real estate professional, I've taken my "dance lessons" and know each step by heart. Everyone in the closing process has a role to play. I do my job and expect others to do theirs. But instead of "assuming" the lender, inspector, appraiser, etc. will do their jobs, I follow-up and communicate with everyone to be sure there are no surprises.

But I can't MAKE someone do their job. I cannot force a buyer to deliver his/her documents to the lender on time, nor can I strong-arm a lender to submit the closing documents to the attorneys office 24 hours before closing.

My readers might suggest that if I'm having difficulty with a particular service provider, I shouldn't use their services anymore. Period. That's a valid point. But in some cases, "you have to dance with the one that brought you". Realtors can make recommendations, but our clients, as well as the folks on the other side of the transaction, have free-will to choose. Once that choice is made, it is my job to professionally and skillfully work with the service providers to bring the transaction to a successful close.

I could make a campy joke about my dance card not being full, or that my dancing shoes are ready for the next waltz. Instead, I'll leave you with this thought...

"Work like you don't need the money, love like you've never been hurt, and dance like no-one is watching"...Alfred D. Sousa

Pat Starnes, a Realtor since 1988, specializes in Mississippi Residential Real Estate and can assist you with buying or selling in the Jackson MS Metro area.

Search homes for sale in Brandon, Pearl, Flowood, Madison, Ridgeland, Florence, Bryam, or Jackson, MS.

Written and Published by Pat Starnes REALTOR

McIntosh and Assoc., LLC

434 Katherine Drive

Flowood, MS 39232

601-278-4513 - cell

601-936-2007 - office

Today was a Hat-Trick Kind of Day in Real Estate

Pat Starnes (McIntosh and Associates, LLC) — Thu, 27 Aug 2009 19:46:22 -0500

Several years ago, I learned what a hat-trick meant as it related to the game of hockey. If a player scores three goals in one game, it is considered a "hat-trick" and fans throw their hats onto the ice as a form of congratulations and celebration.

Today was a hat-trick kind of day for me in real estate. Three closings in one day! Although this isn't the first time in my career that I've had three closings in one day, admittedly it has been a while. And boy, did it feel GOOD! And best of all, at the end of the day, I am pleased to know that I did my very best for each client.

Now, as my reward, I plan to take the rest of the day off. I'll be back in the field tomorrow, working toward the next possible hat-trick!

Pat Starnes, a Realtor since 1988, specializes in Mississippi Residential Real Estate and can assist you with buying or selling in the Jackson MS Metro area.

Search homes for sale in Brandon, Pearl, Flowood, Madison, Ridgeland, Florence, Bryam, or Jackson, MS.

Written and Published by Pat Starnes REALTOR

McIntosh and Assoc., LLC

434 Katherine Drive

Flowood, MS 39232

601-278-4513 - cell

601-936-2007 - office

Waterfront Condo for Sale - Amazing Views - Brandon, MS

Pat Starnes (McIntosh and Associates, LLC) — Wed, 26 Aug 2009 17:30:45 -0500

Have you always wanted to live on the water, but thought owning a slice of paradise was out of your financial reach? I thought so, too, until I came across this amazing waterfront unit in 2006. Located on the Ross Barnett Reservoir, this condo has breathtaking, panoramic views from the balcony of the two-bedroom unit. There are fabulous views from inside the family room, kitchen, and dining room as well.

As delightful as this condo has been, the time has come for me to sell. Look through these photos and let me know if you, or someone you know, is interested in a personal tour.

The 2 Bedroom/ 2 Bath condo, located at Woodlake Condominiums in Brandon, MS, is on the Rankin County side of the Ross Barnett Reservoir. This unit is available for $149,000. Monthly association fees of $160 include exterior maintenance, groundskeeping, and use of pool. Clubhouse available for private parties at a small fee.

Property is owned by a licensed real estate agent in the State of Mississippi.

Side View of Condo Overlooking Ross Barnett Reservoir

View of Front Door and Balcony

Front Door Photo Expanded to show panoramic water views

Living room, dining room, and kitchen overlook balcony and have full water views.

Both bedrooms are spacious and offer lots of storage. Each BR has it's own bathroom.

Views...

Views... and more views!

Pat Starnes, a Realtor since 1988, specializes in Mississippi Residential Real Estate and can assist you with buying or selling in the Jackson MS Metro area.

Search homes for sale in Brandon, Pearl, Flowood, Madison, Ridgeland, Florence, Bryam, or Jackson, MS.

Written and Published by Pat Starnes REALTOR

McIntosh and Assoc., LLC

434 Katherine Drive

Flowood, MS 39232

601-278-4513 - cell

601-936-2007 - office

Patrick Farms Golf Course

Pat Starnes (McIntosh and Associates, LLC) — Thu, 22 Jan 2009 16:07:42 -0600

Avid golfers in the Brandon/Pearl area will want to visit Patrick Farms Golf Course, located 2 miles south of I-20 at Exit 54 (Crossgates).

The entrance to the course is off Greenfield Road. Golfers new to the area can map the location here. Patrick Farms Golf Course is an 18 hole, par 72 course with wide fairways and challenging greens, and they have active leagues for men, ladies, and couples.

Patrick Farms is open 364 days a year. They have optional dual membership that includes Whisper Lake Country Club in Madison, MS.

Members enjoy prime tee times, and tournaments are held for all skill levels.

The 5,000 square foot clubhouse consists of a restaurant, pro shop, members lounge, and meeting rooms.

Joining Patrick Farms Golf Club is a great way to make friends, entertain clients, and network. Members enjoy weekly e-mail updates and a monthly newsletter.

For further information, visit the website or call 601-664-0304.

Written and Published by Pat Starnes, McIntosh and Assoc., LLC

Pat Starnes, a Realtor since 1988, specializes in Mississippi Residential Real Estate and can assist you with buying or selling in the Jackson MS Metro area.

Search homes for sale in Brandon, Pearl, Flowood, Madison, Ridgeland, Florence, Bryam, or Jackson, MS.

Written and Published by Pat Starnes REALTOR

McIntosh and Assoc., LLC

434 Katherine Drive

Flowood, MS 39232

601-278-4513 - cell

601-936-2007 - office

Flowood MS Corner Bakery Deli Scheduled to Open

Pat Starnes (McIntosh and Associates, LLC) — Sun, 19 Apr 2009 19:39:59 -0500

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

Pat Starnes, a Realtor since 1988, specializes in Mississippi Residential Real Estate and can assist you with buying or selling in the Jackson MS Metro area.

Search homes for sale in Brandon, Pearl, Flowood, Madison, Ridgeland, Florence, Bryam, or Jackson, MS.

Written and Published by Pat Starnes REALTOR

McIntosh and Assoc., LLC

434 Katherine Drive

Flowood, MS 39232

601-278-4513 - cell

601-936-2007 - office

Pearl MS Open House, 111 Lake Pointe Drive, A Super House Before the Super Bowl

Pat Starnes (McIntosh and Associates, LLC) — Thu, 29 Jan 2009 00:04:39 -0600

Come See a Super House Before Your Super Bowl Party

Sunday, February 1, 2009

2:00 - 4:00 p.m.

111 Lake Pointe Drive, Pearl, MS

Priced to Sell at $229,900

Custom Built
Located on the lake and 9th Fairway
3 BRs/2 Baths, Approx 2300 Square Feet
Side entry Double Garage
Study/Office with built ins
Wall of windows overlook water in family room & breakfast room
Very Open Floor Plan
Granite and Stainless Steel in Kitchen
Lots of Storage and
Much, much more!
Visit my site to see my virtual tour and search Brandon and Pearl Homes
Pearl address but in Brandon School District

Directions:

Take I-20 to the Crossgates Exit by Home Depot, Turn Right on Greenfield Road. Turn right at the main entrance of Patrick Farms. At the clubhouse, turn right onto Clubhouse Drive, then left onto Lake Pointe. Home will be on your left.

Written and Posted by Pat Starnes, McIntosh and Assoc., LLC

Pat Starnes, a Realtor since 1988, specializes in Mississippi Residential Real Estate and can assist you with buying or selling in the Jackson MS Metro area.

Search homes for sale in Brandon, Pearl, Flowood, Madison, Ridgeland, Florence, Bryam, or Jackson, MS.

Written and Published by Pat Starnes REALTOR

McIntosh and Assoc., LLC

434 Katherine Drive

Flowood, MS 39232

601-278-4513 - cell

601-936-2007 - office

A Day in Historic Fondren

Pat Starnes (McIntosh and Associates, LLC) — Sun, 19 Oct 2008 21:38:26 -0500

Yesterday was a beautiful, crisp fall day in the Jackson Metro area, a perfect day for visiting the historic Fondren district.

We loaded up the "little girls" and took them to the downtown area so they could play and the "big girls" could shop.

St. Luke's Fundraiser was for the benefit of both St. Luke's Church and the Methodist Children Home.

There is a lot to see and do in the Fondren area. Good food, including Walker's Drive Inn, Rooster's Restaurant, Basil's, quaint shops, multiple area churches, and a community grocery store to name a few. Take some time and take a leisurely stroll through the area and enjoy some good local cuisine. We did!

Written and Published by Pat Starnes, McIntosh and Assoc., LLC

Pat Starnes, a Realtor since 1988, specializes in Mississippi Residential Real Estate and can assist you with buying or selling in the Jackson MS Metro area.

Search homes for sale in Brandon, Pearl, Flowood, Madison, Ridgeland, Florence, Bryam, or Jackson, MS.

Written and Published by Pat Starnes REALTOR

McIntosh and Assoc., LLC

434 Katherine Drive

Flowood, MS 39232

601-278-4513 - cell

601-936-2007 - office