House fire on Kelly Elliot.... Arlington, TX

Please read more about this house fire by going to "The Arlington Voice"
Arlington Voice

More important what can we do to help this homeowner?

Need neighbors to come forward with ideas and suggestions.

Keep your commute on track…. Arlington, TX

Union Pacific Rail Project to Cause Significant Crossing Closures in January

Arlington drivers will be dealing with unprecedented detours and road closures in January, when a Union Pacific track renewal project moves eastward from Fort Worth to Dallas. It is a major railway improvement which is going to require the simultaneous closure of four to five railroad crossings in Arlington for several days at a time. The project is expected to begin in Fort Worth on January 1 and UP estimates the track renewal project should reach Arlington around January 16 and last roughly eight days.

The project, called TRT 909 is replacing rail and installing concrete ties on a 13 mile stretch of rail which runs parallel to Division. It will move across the city at rate of about two miles per day, in four phases, greatly impacting north and southbound traffic.

Initially, it will require the closure of the following crossings for approximately four to five days: Bowen Road, Davis Street, Cooper Street, Center Street and Mesquite Street. The railroad crossings will remain closed 24 hours a day during all phases of the track renewal.

Arlington public safety officials are working to create detours to lessen the impact on emergency services but say the closures could have a significant impact.

For the latest information on the UP track renewal project and updated maps of the roadways as they are closed, follow the City of Arlington on Twitter @CityOfArlington or visit their web site:
My Arlington

Buy Sell Invest with Hart

Arlington TX Christkindl Market

Second Annual Arlington Christkindl Market Christkindl Market (kris-kin-dill) is an enchanting family market in the tradition of markets held throughout Germany during the Holiday season. This year’s market features authentic German cuisine, beverages, entertainment, arts, crafts and holiday gifts.

Costs: Admission and parking are Free.

When: November 29 through December 15, 2012.

Hours:      Thursday, November 29th 5 pm to 9 pm …. Opening Ceremonies
                Monday through Thursday: 11 am to 7 pm
                Friday: 11 am to 8 pm Saturday: 11 am to 9 pm
                Sunday: 11 am to 7 pm

Where: Main entrance is at Road to Six flags and Ballpark Way. (Next to the Ranges Ballpark in Arlington).

Web site:  Christkindl Market    for more information about the Market.

Housing Trends Newsletter by David Hart - November 2012

Welcome to the most current Housing Trends eNewsletter. This eNewsletter is specially designed for you, with national and local housing information that you may find useful whether you’re in the market for a home, thinking aboutselling your home, or just interested in homeowner issues in general.

Please click on this link to view the Housing Trends Newsletter Newsletter Nov 2012

The Housing Trends eNewsletter contains the latest information from the National Association of REALTORS®, the U.S. Census Bureau, Realtor.org reports and other sources.

Housing Trends eNewsletter is filled with local and national real estate sales and price activity provided by MLSs and the National Association of Realtors, U.S. Census Bureau key market indicators, consumer videos, blogs, real estate glossary, mortgage rates and calculators, consumer articles, and REALTOR.com local community reports.

If you are interested in determining the value of your home, click the “Home Evaluator” link for a free evaluation report: CMA Report

Sound decisions can only be made with accurate and reliable information, and I am happy to be a trusted resource for you. Thank you for the opportunity to provide you with this monthly eNewsletter, and I look forward to answering any questions you may have and to the opportunity to be your REALTOR® in the future.

Sincerely yours, David Hart                     Buy Sell Invest with Hart

SWAPO 2011 special news alert... WFAA Ch 8 reports

Instructions on how to navigate the Railroad Site are complex and in order to help....

WFAA Ch 8 how to navigate the RRC site: 

WFAA Ch 8 RRC tour

Actual RRC web site link:  (select middle box, top row)

Actual RRC web site link…. Select the middle box on the top row, “Statewide Production Data Query System”

Instructions for pulling Chesapeake’s Bruder site at IH-20 and Park Springs, example:

Example: For finding out the Buckeye production numbers:

Initial View:  … Lease

Date Range: … Jan 2007 through current month

Choose One: … Gas Wells

Select ONE geographic region from the options below: … use either…

                District = 09 ….. or

                Field = Newark, East (Barnett Shale)

Operator: Chesapeake Operating, Inc

A report query will come up, then look at the tabs across the top, for “lease” … then look for your lease name, “Buckeye” for example. The final report you are looking for is the lease name Buckeye.

If more questions email me and I will send a PDF file with pictures of the screens.

Halloween in Arlington, only the best....

.. haunted house will do....

The Bone Yard open every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday in October.

Click here for details: Trick or Treat

Arlington City wide prayer meeting...

Arlington ONE... a city wide prayer meeting.
Awakening our city... state... nation ... for the Glory of Christ.

Sunday October 28th 5-7 PM

UTA College Park Center, at the corner of Pecan St & 2nd St

Sponsored by the Arlington Pastors Network

For more info: Arlington ONE

Arlington - Martin Warrior 2nd annual 5k & 1 mile run

Warrior Witch and Warlock 5k and fun run ....

Benefiting the Martin Cross Country and Track & Field Teams

Registration is at 3:00 pm on Saturday October 27th with the 5k to start at 5:00 PM

Location, of course at Martin HS, 4501 W Pleasant Ridge Rd, Arlington, TX..

For more info: Warrior 5k run click here

SWAPO 2011 News...

Brett Shipp, investigational reporter for WFAA for CH 8 News, will be coming out on with an investigative report on mineral owners and royalty reporting by Oil and Gas operators this Thursday and Friday evening on the 10:00 PM news. THIS IS A MUST SEE FOR ALL MINERAL OWNERS in the Barnett Shale, North Texas area, actually anywhere in America It is long expected that many mineral owner's do not know for sure if they are even being paid what they deserve in Royalty revenue. Brett Shipp will be revealing some very interesting revelations.

Mansfield Music & Arts Festival

Don't miss the Historic Music & Arts Festival in Downtown Mansfield this weekend:

October 12, 13, & 14th

For more info: Historic Mansfield Festival

Paws in the park - dog walk, Arlington TX

The Friends of Arlington Animal Services (FAAS) is hosting Paws in the Park. A doggie fun walk with all proceeds benefiting the pets at AAS, including vendors, crafts, activities and more.

Cost $15.00 per person pre-registration, 1st 100 receive a free T-shirt. $20.00 day of walk. Kids 12 & under free to walk with an adult.

$10.00 for Microchipping from respect a Bull.

When: October 20th 9 am to 1 pm rain or shine

Where: River Legacy Park, 701 NW Green Oaks, Arlington TX 76012

For more details: Paws in the Park

Taste of Arlington

Taste of Arlington is Arlington's biggest all-you-can-eat sampling of the best restaurants and beverages in town, and is celebrating its 30th year with the most exciting Taste yet! The evening includes a silent auction, a Big Board auction, live music and more all surrounded by Arlington's distinctive, unique restaurants for all-you-can-eat sampling. By purchasing tickets to Taste of Arlington, you're helping raise money for thousands of kids in our community since the funds raised by Taste of Arlington benefit the youth programs at the YMCA of Arlington and Theatre Arlington.

Tuesday, October 23 from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m.

Arlington Convention Center, 1200 Ballpark Way Arlington, TX 76011

For more details: Taste of Arlington

Arlington - Medieval Arts Festival Oct 13th Saturday

Experience the Middle Ages as history comes to life. Fascinating exhibits of medieval arts and sciences will be on display, and live demonstrations of ancient weaponry will be conducted by costumed members of the Society for Creative Anachronism. This international organization exists to provide education and information about the historical Middle Ages. Festivities will be held on the grounds and inside the library and will include a craft activity for children, so come join us and celebrate autumn in medieval style! This tenth annual event will be entertaining and educational for the whole family. Admission is free.

When: Saturday October 13,2012, 12 pm to 5 pm.

Where: 101 E Abram St, Arlington, TX .... (i.e. The Central Library outside and inside).

For more info: arlington library medieval-arts-festival-2012

Front Street Festival Arlington, TX... Sat Sept 29

9th annual Front Street Festival this Saturday from 10 am to 4 pm at the corner of Front and Center Streets in downtown Arlington, TX. Please click on this link to find out more:

Historical Arlington

Demonstrations on: blacksmithing, wood turning, weaving, caning, quilting and how to make a cornhusk doll.

Live Music too.

SEPTEMBER - 2012 Newsletter by David Hart

Welcome to the most current Housing Trends eNewsletter. This eNewsletter is specially designed for you, with national and local housing information that you may find useful whether you’re in the market for a home, thinking about selling your home, or just interested in homeowner issues in general.

Please click on this link to view: Housing Trends eNewsletter

The Housing Trends eNewsletter contains the latest information from the National Association of REALTORS®, the U.S. Census Bureau, Realtor.org reports and other sources.

Housing Trends eNewsletter is filled with local and national real estate sales and price activity provided by MLSs and the National Association of Realtors, U.S. Census Bureau key market indicators, consumer videos, blogs, real estate glossary, mortgage rates and calculators, consumer articles, and REALTOR.com local community reports.

If you are interested in determining the value of your home, click the “Home Evaluator” link for a free evaluation report:

Home Evaluator

Sound decisions can only be made with accurate and reliable information, and I am happy to be a trusted resource for you. Thank you for the opportunity to provide you with this monthly eNewsletter, and I look forward to answering any questions you may have and to the opportunity to be your REALTOR® in the future. Sincerely yours, David Hart            Buy Sell Invest with Hart

Ecofest Arlington 2012...

The goal of Ecofest Arlington is to build a sense of community, stimulate environmental awareness and promote stewardship.

• Do it yourself demonstrations
• Environmental Classes
• Children's Activities & Games
• Vendors featuring Green Products
• Live music featuring local artist
• Food, Drinks and Beer.

For more details: Ecofest Arlington

UTA Night on the Town Arlington, TX...

... everyone in the neighborhood invited to join us for free music, good food, & great company:
Location: Levitt Pavilion
When: Friday, September 21st 6:30 pm to 9 pm
For more details: College Town UTA

Arlington - Send your kid to college without going broke

Find out what resources the library has to offer to help students achieve their higher education goals plus attend this free event and hear College Planning Authority President, Kevin Campbell. 

Location: Arlington Public Library, Central  Library, 101 E Abram St, Arlington, TX

Date and time: Sept 18th from 6:30 pm to 8 pm

The event is free, but you must register to attend: 

Click here, College Planning Authority, then look on right side

Arlington Public Meeting Tri- Schools Street Improvements

Preliminary design phase meeting to discuss street improvements taking place in your area.
The Tri Schools area = Holt Elementary, TA Howard Middle School, & Cross Timbers Intermediate.
Meeting Location: Cross Timbers Intermediate School Cafeteria at 2934 Russell Road, Arlington, TX
Date and time of meeting: September 17th at 7 pm. ... Event sponsored by the City of Arlington.
For more info please call Keith Brooks at 817-459-6535 or click on the web site below:
Tri-schools Street Improvements web site

Race for Edward Sept 15,2012, Saturday Arlington, TX

1 mile race start 8:00 am...5k race start at 8:30 am...Cravens Park, 400 Cravens Park Drive, Arlington, TX

Please come out and help friends of the Planche family raise money to help Edward's family. Edward dies unexpectedly of an aneurism on July 3, 2012 and leaves behind a loving wife and two sons Zach 9 and Cody 3. All contributions are greatly appreciated.

To register click here for Race for Edward

Kennedale Kar Show tomorrow Saturday 9/8/12...

A great event for all, held at the Kennedale Town Center from 11 am to 4 pm, there will be BBQ, Cars, games for kids, Kars, vendor booths, and K cars and C cars, everyone come. For more details click this link:
Kennedale - The 5th annual Kar Show this Saturday 9/8/12...

5 Texas cites among the best places to live...

TEXAS Dallas Business Journal  – Five Texas cities have made CNN Money’s latest list of America’s best small cities in which to live.

McKinney took the number two spot on the top 100 list, just behind top-rated Carmel, Ind. Rounding out the top five were Eden Prairie, Minn., Newton, Mass. and Redmond, Wash.

The other Texas cities making CNN Money's list include Allen (No. 13), Mansfield (No. 28), Flower Mound (No. 32) and Pflugerville (No. 43).

What qualifies these cities as "best places to live"? According to CNN Money, "these terrific small cities offer what American families care about most: strong job opportunities, great schools, low crime, quality health care, and plenty to do."

Buy Sell Invest with Hart

Estate Sale in Kennedale this weekend...

August 31st Friday from 8:30 to 3:30 and Sept 1st Saturday from 8:30 to 3:30, closed during lunch from 12:30 to 1.
Location: 1102 Kennedale-Sublett Rd, Kenndale, TX 76060
For more info: www.estate2locate.com
Buy Sell Invest with Hart

Arlington Town Hall meeting summary...

The Arlington Town Hall meeting took place last night and briefly, NO INCREASE IN PROPERTY TAXES. Due to the increase in commercial tax volume which has offset the residential decrease in volume, so it washes out to "no increase" in the tax rate of .648. For the budget presentation see
City Web Site then click "FY2013 Proposed Budget" on left side.

The Voice of Arlington has summed up the whole presentation on their site: Arlington Voice the article to click on is "Bike lanes, high speed rail and gate way monuments all part of 2013 budget".
 Buy Sell Invest with Hart

Housing Trends Newsletter by David Hart - August 2012

Welcome to the most current Housing Trends eNewsletter. This eNewsletter is specially designed for you, with national and local housing information that you may find useful whether you’re in the market for a home, thinking about selling your home, or just interested in homeowner issues in general.

Please click on this link to view the Housing Trends AUGUST - Newsletter

The Housing Trends eNewsletter contains the latest information from the National Association of REALTORS®, the U.S. Census Bureau, Realtor.org reports and other sources.

Housing Trends eNewsletter is filled with local and national real estate sales and price activity provided by MLSs and the National Association of Realtors, U.S. Census Bureau key market indicators, consumer videos, blogs, real estate glossary, mortgage rates and calculators, consumer articles, and REALTOR.com local community reports.

If you are interested in determining the value of your home, click the “Home Evaluator” link for a free evaluation report: Home Evaluator

Sound decisions can only be made with accurate and reliable information, and I am happy to be a trusted resource for you. Thank you for the opportunity to provide you with this monthly eNewsletter, and I look forward to answering any questions you may have and to the opportunity to be your REALTOR® in the future.    Buy Sell Invest with Hart

SWAPO News... Chesapeake will hold an open house concerning the Bruder Drill Site again...

Chesapeake Energy wishes to address any questions you may have about their future development plans for the Bruder Site. (IH-20 & Park Springs). We invite the neighbors who live near the Bruder Site to an open house to be held at 6:00 PM on Thursday, August 30th at the Arlington Southwest Library, 3311 SW Green Oaks Blvd, Arlington, TX 76017.

Should you have any questions or for more information please call your Chesapeake Representative, Lynda Gearheart at 817-502-5682 or email Lynda.Gearheart@chk.com

Stay updated on the Bruder Padsite activities by visiting...
 http://www.askchesapeake.com/Barnett-Shale/Neighborhood/Arlington/Pages/Bruder.aspx

Stay updated on other communities:
1) Visit Chesapeake 's customized community page by going to:
AskChesapeake.com/Barnett
2) Then Select the Neighborhood Center in upper left area and locate your city.
3) The select the pad site of interest.

Arlington Town Hall Meetings on the Budget...

City Council welcomes your participation and comments, please attend one of these 2 meetings:

1) Wednesday, August 22, 2012 at City Hall, Council Chamber at 101 W Abram Street, starting at 6:30 pm and hosted by Council Members Charlie Parker, Kathryn Wilemon, and Lana Wolf.

2) Monday, August 27, 2012 at the South Police Service Center located at 1030 S W Green Oaks Blvd, starting at 6:30 pm and hosted by Council Members Sheri Capehart and Robert Rivera.

Questions of information call 817-459-613 or 817-459-6141.

Press Release - Keller Williams Realty Ranked Highest in Customer Satisfaction Among Home Buyer and Seller Segments by J.D. Power and Associates

Press Release - Keller Williams Realty Ranked Highest in Customer Satisfaction Among Home Buyer and Seller Segments by J.D. Power and Associates

Arlington City Council Recycle update...

I have been advised by Arlington City Council that there will not be a second reading regarding the recycling carts, because this is a contract renewal and a second reading is not required. The original vote of 6-3 in favor will stand. So get ready for your 65 gallon carts, they will be here in about 6 months or less.

Arlington, TX Trash Carts To Bin or to Cart?

For the City Info: click here

As many of you know, the new Trash Carts that are being proposed for picking up Recyclables were tentatively approved at the First Reading of the new Contract. However, it appears that there has been a groundswell of opposition by way of lots of emails to the city council members and the Mayor. Before the Trash Carts become a fact, the Second Reading of the new Contract must be voted on by the council on August 21st, so, there is still time to voice your opinion, if you didn’t do so before.

A couple of issues are that the survey that was taken after a test sample of homes where the trash carts were used was adjudged by some to have not been representative of the entirety of Arlington residents. There were also some who wish for the decision to be made by a citizen referendum rather than just the council. There is also a $1 increase per month per citizen for this new method.

Regardless of whether it is true, some citizens suspect that regular trash (non-recyclable) will, at some point, also require the use of another second wheeled cart, one for trash the other for recycle. And, the use of the carts would limit the amount of trash that could be picked up at a residence. The rule is that you cannot over fill a cart and that the lid must be closed when on the street for pick up. Then each residency will have 2 carts to maintain in their garage / property. Although these issues have not been publicly addressed, the anticipation of such a thing has concerned some citizens.

If you have feelings one way or the other, you may wish to send an email expressing your opinion to the Mayor and all council members as the final vote will be coming up August 21st. The email addresses are: 

Mayor Cluck robert.cluck@arlingtontx.gov

Charlie Parker Charlie.parker@arlingtontx.gov

Sherry Capehart sherry.capehart@arlingtontx.gov

Robert Rivera  robert.rivera@arlingtontx.gov

Kathryn Wilemon  Kathryn.wilemon@arlingtontx.gov

Lana Wolff  lana.wolff@arlingtontx.gov

Robert Shepard   robert.shepard@arlingtontx.gov

Jimmy Bennett jimmy.bennett@arlingtontx.gov

Michael Glaspie  michael.glaspie@arlingtontx.gov

Arlington City offers free trees ...

... for those impacted by the tornadoes. To apply http://www.arlingtontx.gov/tornado

Arlington Recycling question, to bin or to cart?

Arlington City Council approved recycling carts 8/7/12, based on city survey and financial issues.
So good bye bins and hello Carts. Residents will pay up to $1.00 more per month, for more info...
http://www.arlingtontx.gov/environment/recycling_AutomatedRecyclingProgram.html
Benefit... Implementation of compressed natural gas (CNG) vehicles!

SWAPO News Chesapeake Open House for Bruder Drill Site Arlington, TX

Chesapeake Energy wishes to address any questions you may have about their future development plans for the Bruder Site. (IH-20 & Park Springs). We invite the neighbors who live near the Bruder Site to an open house to be held at 6:00 PM on Thursday, August 9th at the Arlington Southwest Library, 3311 SW Green Oaks Blvd, Arlington, TX 76017.

Should you have any questions or for more information please call your Chesapeake Representative, Lynda Gearheart at 817-502-5682 or email Lynda.Gearheart@chk.com

Stay updated on the Bruder Padsite activities by visiting...
 http://www.askchesapeake.com/Barnett-Shale/Neighborhood/Arlington/Pages/Bruder.aspx

Stay updated on other communities:
1) Visit Chesapeake 's customized community page by going to:
AskChesapeake.com/Barnett
2) Then Select the Neighborhood Center in upper left area and locate your city.
3) The select the pad site of interest.

Arlington Division Corridor Strategy Project ...

A final public open house meeting about a draft strategy report/recommendations for this corridor
Where: Arlington Council Briefing Room, 3rd floor of Arlington City Hall, 101 W Abram
Date: August 30,2012
Time; 6:30 pm
City Contact: Lyndsay.Mitchell@arlingtontx.gov      or 817-459-6653.
Buy Sell Invest with Hart

Texas Sales Tax Holiday Weekend...

... will be August 17th through the 19th, no sales tax on most clothing,for adults, children, or infants, backpacks, school supplies. Each item must be under$100.00 to be eligible. For a complete list go to the State Comptroller's website at ... www.texastaxholiday.org     
 Buy Sell Invest with Hart

City of Kennedale Roundabout Dedication Aug 4th...

The City of Kennedale is having a Road and Roundabout Dedication August 4th at 9:00 am.

Roundabout Dedication click here for more info 

Meet us at the intersection of Wildcat Way and Sublett Road to find out about the latest solution to slowing drivers down, etc. I'm not sure what to think about these Roundabouts and Traffic Calming lanes. Come see for yourself! Arlington is building some of them too.

Housing Trends Newsletter by David Hart July 2012

Welcome to the most current Housing Trends eNewsletter. This eNewsletter is specially designed for you, with national and local housing information that you may find useful whether you’re in the market for a home, thinking about selling your home, or just interested in homeowner issues in general.

Please click on this link to view the Housing Trends JUL-2012 Newsletter:
Housing trends newsletter

The Housing Trends eNewsletter contains the latest information from the National Association of REALTORS®, the U.S. Census Bureau, Realtor.org reports and other sources.

Housing Trends eNewsletter is filled with local and national real estate sales and price activity provided by MLSs and the National Association of Realtors, U.S. Census Bureau key market indicators, consumer videos, blogs, real estate glossary, mortgage rates and calculators, consumer articles, and REALTOR.com local community reports.

If you are interested in determining the value of your home, click the “Home Evaluator” link for a free evaluation report:
Home Evaluator

Sound decisions can only be made with accurate and reliable information, and I am happy to be a trusted resource for you. Thank you for the opportunity to provide you with this monthly eNewsletter, and I look forward to answering any questions you may have and to the opportunity to be your REALTOR® in the future.                                                     Buy Sell Invest with Hart

SWAPO News XTO Open House for Rose Drill Site Mansfield TX

XTO Energy wishes to address any questions you may have about our zoning and gas drilling applications. We invite you to an open house to be held at 6:00 PM on Monday, July 30th at the Word of Life Family Church, 2200 Highway 287 North,, Mansfield, TX 76063.
Public hearing dates: 8/1/12 with the Planning and Zoning Commission
                                8/21/12 with the City Council
SUP07-14R1

Run-off Elections & Voting Info for Tuesday 7/31/12...

List of candidates running:  http://votetexas.gov/whats-on-the-ballot/

Democratic Sample Ballot: http://tcweb.tarrantcounty.com/evote/lib/evote/2012/Jul31/DEM_Sample.pdf

Republican Sample Ballot:  http://tcweb.tarrantcounty.com/evote/lib/evote/2012/Jul31/REP_Sample.pdf

Note: All precincts are shown on the sample ballots, so you will have to know your precinct number to eliminate all the others. i.e. you only vote for those in your precinct.

SWAPO 2011 Stay Informed Campaign...

We are starting another registration campaign to encourage neighbors living in 76001 and 76017 to join SWAPO 2011 for the purpose of staying connected. Please join by looking on the right hand side of this blog for: "To register for SWAPO" click on the link below and fill out the form.
Stay informed campaign and this blog covers natural gas issues in the neighborhoods of 76001 and 76017 and allows you to receive SWAPO emails about natural gas issues. We do not know when they will come next knocking door to door, it might be 6 months from now or 2 to 3 years. But by registering, this helps our organizers by not having to place signs out on street corners and doing a lot of leg work. Thanks David, Bob, and Lyndsey, SWAPO leaders.

July 4th events in Arlington, TX....

.... Parade starting at 8:00 am tomorrow at Cooper & Mitchell area. Also things start tonight, please check this link  out....  http://myarlingtontx.com/2012/06/29/arlington-independence-day-celebrations/

Buy Sell Invest with Hart

No Paws left behind...help pets...

Due to the record number of nationwide foreclosures, an increasing number of homeowners are leaving their pets behind in the homes they no longer occupy. Unfortunately, home inspectors and real estate professionals are discovering that most of these animals are left without any access to food or water. It is a slow and painful death for once-beloved and nurtured family pets.

In an effort to help these innocent victims who cannot speak for themselves, “No Paws Left Behind” was formed. You may visit the website at: http://www.nopawsleftbehind.org. This is a 501c3 non-profit organization dedicated to raising awareness and finding loving foster care for pets that have been abandoned due to the foreclosure process.

As a supporter of this effort, we would appreciate any level of support from simply spreading the word, to endorsing the campaign, to donating regularly. Just $20 will cover the cost of fostering an animal for one month.

Please visit the website via the link above so you have an opportunity to learn more about this effort and join us giving a voice to these silent victims.

Thank you for your support.     Buy Sell, Invest with Hart

Housing Trends Newsletter June 2012

Welcome to the most current Housing Trends eNewsletter. This eNewsletter is specially designed for you, with national and local housing information that you may find useful whether you’re in the market for a home, thinking about selling your home, or just interested in homeowner issues in general.

Please click on this link to view the Housing Trends JUN-2012 Newsletter 

http://dharthomes.housingtrendsenewsletter.com

The Housing Trends eNewsletter contains the latest information from the National Association of REALTORS®, the U.S. Census Bureau, Realtor.org reports and other sources.

Housing Trends eNewsletter is filled with local and national real estate sales and price activity provided by MLSs and the National Association of Realtors, U.S. Census Bureau key market indicators, consumer videos, blogs, real estate glossary, mortgage rates and calculators, consumer articles, and REALTOR.com local community reports.

If you are interested in determining the value of your home, click the “Home Evaluator” link for a free evaluation report:

http://dharthomes.housingtrendsenewsletter.com/dispContent.cfm?loadid=2&loadtype=0

Sound decisions can only be made with accurate and reliable information, and I am happy to be a trusted resource for you. Thank you for the opportunity to provide you with this monthly eNewsletter, and I look forward to answering any questions you may have and to the opportunity to be your REALTOR® in the future.       Buy Sell Invest with Hart

The Bellamy Brothers at Reds Road House...

Benefit Concert & Grand Opening - Red's Roadhouse Restaurant...For more details: Click, City of Kennedale: Or Click Reds Roadhouse: Date: May 31, 2012 Thursday Time: 8:00 PM Location: Red's Roadhouse 1170 E Kennedale Parkway Kennedale, TX 76060 Cost: $15 cover charge. $3 of every ticket goes to the Kennedale Tornado Emergency Relief Fund. On Thursday May 31st … The Bellamy Brothers at 10 pm. Live music on two story outdoor stage every Fri and Sat Award winning chef and full service bar patio.

Election Voting Information...

The Texas Primary election date is Tuesday May 29, 2012 To see sample ballots go to:... Sample Ballot ...and enter your name and then you will have an option to see sample ballots for the races in which you will vote. At the poll, you will declare your party. The party you choose must remain your party for any primary voting for the voting year. In the general election, you will have choices from both parties. The Star-Telegram and the Dallas Morning News offer recommendations in most of the contested races.

Opening Weekend at the Levitt Pavillion

The Levitt Pavilion for the Performing Arts Founders Plaza 100 W. Abram St. 24-Hour Info Line: 817.543.4301 Opening Weekend at the Levitt Pavillion For all the information, visit: This year, opening weekend begins with a bang with the first Downtown Arlington Center Stage Music Festival, May 25-27. The holiday weekend includes food, vendors, drinks, artists' booths and opening acts for all of our headlining performers for this great music festival.

Housing Trends Newsletter by David Hart May 2012

Welcome to the most current Housing Trends eNewsletter. This eNewsletter is specially designed for you, with national and local housing information that you may find useful whether you’re in the market for a home, thinking about selling your home, or just interested in homeowner issues in general.

Please click on this Newsletter link to view the Housing Trends MAY-2012   Newsletter

The Housing Trends eNewsletter contains the latest information from the National Association of REALTORS®, the U.S. Census Bureau, Realtor.org reports and other sources.

Housing Trends eNewsletter is filled with local and national real estate sales and price activity provided by MLSs and the National Association of Realtors, U.S. Census Bureau key market indicators, consumer videos, blogs, real estate glossary, mortgage rates and calculators, consumer articles, and REALTOR.com local community reports.

If you are interested in determining the value of your home, click the “Home Evaluator” link for a free evaluation report:
http://dharthomes.housingtrendsenewsletter.com/dispContent.cfm?loadid=2&loadtype=0

Sound decisions can only be made with accurate and reliable information, and I am happy to be a trusted resource for you. Thank you for the opportunity to provide you with this monthly eNewsletter, and I look forward to answering any questions you may have and to the opportunity to be your REALTOR® in the future.

Sincerely yours,

David Hart                             Buy Sell Invest with Hart

City of Arlington VOTE and candidate info...

Vote: For the Arlington City Council, Districts 1, 2, 6, 7 and 8. District 6, 7 & 8 are “at large” meaning every registered voter in the city can vote for those Districts. The other 5 districts the voter must reside within the boundary of that district as well as the candidate running for that district. Terms are staggered.

Vote: For Arlington ISD Board of Trustees, Place 1,2, and 3.

Objective views and info on candidates: See the 11th bullet point on right side, under the “list of resource web links”.

VOTE on Election Day, May 12th, and only at your designated precinct polling place.

Vote Early between April 30th and May 8th. Registered voters can vote at any polling place in Tarrant County during this time. If you expect to be out of town during the Mother’s Day weekend, here are the times and dates:

April 30 Monday 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

May 1 – 4 Tuesday – Friday 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.

May 5 Saturday 7:00 a.m-7:00 p.m.

May 6 Sunday 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

May 7-8 Monday – Tuesday 7:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.

 LOCATIONS IN ARLINGTON:

Bob Duncan Center

2800 South Center Street

Arlington, Texas 76014

Elzie Odom Athletic Center

1601 NE Green Oaks Boulevard

Arlington, Texas 76006

Center for Community Service

Junior League of Arlington

4002 W Pioneer Parkway

Arlington, Texas 76013

South Service Center

1100 SW Green Oaks Boulevard

Arlington, Texas 76017

Tarrant County Sub-Courthouse

700 E Abram Street

Arlington, Texas 76010

SWAPO 2011 News...

Arlington City Council (on April 24, 2012) DECIDED in FAVOR of the Overcoming Faith Drill Site which will allow EDGE Resources to produce your minerals, inject much needed revenue in to the City, and fulfill your goal of obtaining royalties. The site which will be located at 4700 Eden Road at Hwy 287, passed with a 5-2 vote. This drilling site has a high percentage of approval from the property owners in this area, as well as full support from the nearby Overcoming Faith Church. (We refer to this location as the service area for residents living in Hot Spot 1, located in zip code 76001).

Meanwhile the price of natural gas is at an all-time low of $2.24, so we are not sure of the time line for drilling at this site, at Eden and Hwy 287.  This site has been reviewed and scrutinized to fit in with the landscape, will have a nearby trail furthest away from the pad, and a tremendous amount of planning went into this site to make it neighborhood friendly and a win-win for all.

The other two proposed pad sites that would have served 76001 and 76017:

The McDonald’s site and the Rush Creek site have been delayed and defeated, respectively and no pad sites will be built to accommodate drilling for these areas. (We refer to the McDonald’s location as the service area for residents living in Hot Spot 2, zip code 76001 and 76017). The Rush Creek site was defeated in Arlington City Council 1/25/12, which would have served those residents from the potential pad site at Bowen and Barden, just South of IH-20, in zip code 76017.

Tax-Free Income

Some residents of Augusta, Georgia have purchased tickets to the Master's for years but have never attended the famous golf tournament. It's because they include the tickets as a bonus to the people who rent their home during the event.
Each year, owners rent their home for a big premium during the Masters and make tax-free income. Homeowners benefit from a little known provision in the tax code that does not require taxpayers to recognize the income derived from renting their home for less than 15 days per year. See Rental of property also used as home on IRS.gov.
Large sporting events like golf and tennis tournaments, championship games and other high attendance events increase the demand for a temporary rental of a private residence. Obviously, there are challenges with personal belongings and damage but getting a premium rental rate with a substantial deposit and not having to recognize the income could be worth it.
You'll certainly want to discuss this with your tax professional prior to making this decision. You'll probably also want to get some help from an experienced real estate professional.  
Buy Sell Invest with Hart

Housing Trends Newsletter by David Hart April 2012

Welcome to the most current Housing Trends eNewsletter. This eNewsletter is specially designed for you, with national and local housing information that you may find useful whether you’re in the  market for a home, thinking about selling your home, or just interested in homeowner issues in  general. Please click on this link to view the Housing Trends APRIL - 2012 Newsletterhttp://dharthomes.housingtrendsenewsletter.com The Housing Trends eNewsletter contains the latest information from the National Association of REALTORS®, the U.S. Census Bureau, Realtor.org reports and other sources. Housing Trends eNewsletter is filled with local and national real estate sales and price activity  provided by MLSs and the National Association of Realtors, U.S. Census Bureau key market indicators, consumer videos, blogs, real estate glossary, mortgage rates and calculators, consumer articles, and REALTOR.com local community reports. If you are interested in determining the value of your home, click the “Home Evaluator” link for a  free evaluation report: http://dharthomes.housingtrendsenewsletter.com/dispContent.cfm?loadid=2&loadtype=0 Sound decisions can only be made with accurate and reliable information, and I am happy to be a trusted resource for you. Thank you for the opportunity to provide you with this monthly  eNewsletter, and I look forward to answering any questions you may have and to the opportunity to be your REALTOR® in the future.      Buy Sell Invest with Hart

Save Money...Be Comfortable

Automatic thermostats can lower your monthly utility costs while conveniently regulating your comfort by adjusting temperatures on your heating and cooling systems. These can be particularly effective in homes with zoned systems where you live in one area during the day but sleep in a different zone.
There are programmable thermostats available at home improvement stores that can make the adjustments for specific times during the day and specific days of the week. They'll allow you to override the setting when needed without tampering with the programming. They'll even remind you to change your filter.
An exciting development is the Wi-Fi enabled thermostat that allows adjustments from any Internet connection such as computer or Smartphone. Imagine how convenient it can be to change your temperature from the car before you get home.
Reasonably priced under $100 for most models, it makes it easy to recapture the cost of the thermostat quickly. Most of the thermostats are designed for do-it-yourselfers; however, you can always have a heating and cooling professional install it for you.
Buy Sell Invest with Hart

Kennedale City Wide Garage Sale April 27 & 28...

The City of Kenndale is having a City wide garage sale this Friday and Saturday... see link below for details:
http://www.cityofkennedale.com/Calendar.aspx?EID=1961&month=4&year=2012&day=27&calType=0

Community - Free Mulch available to Arlington Residents...

... calling all home owners ...the free mulch is a result of native trees that were damaged in the recent tornado. Please click on link for more details...
http://myarlingtontx.com/2012/04/16/free-mulch-available-to-arlington-residents/

Have You Backed Up Your Home?

Personal computers have been around long enough that everyone has experienced or knows someone who has lost their data due to a hard drive crash, accident or burglary. If they had a backup, the loss was inconvenient but not critical.
Do you have a backup for your personal belongings? Not that you need duplicates of all the items but do you have a journal listing of all the items with a description and their approximate values? That record becomes the backup that supports the claim for your insurance.
If a building sustains a total loss, the insurance company will usually pay the face amount of the policy. When it comes to personal property which might be 40% to 50% of the insured value of the dwelling, the insurance company is going to expect an accounting with receipts or at least, a relatively recent inventory.
The better your inventory, the less likely you'll have difficulty with the claim. Almost everyone has a digital camera that can take stills and probably even videos. The combination of the images as well as a written description will help you replace the belongings and serve as proof to the insurance company.
Once you've made the inventory, store it off site for safe keeping. Online storage in the "cloud" might be the best place to insure you'll always know where it is. Contact me for a free Home Inventory form; it's my way of helping you be a better homeowner.        Buy Sell Invest with Hart

Arlington Community - Disaster Recovery Consumer Protection Forum

Arlington and Kennedale: This “how to” interactive forum is for all homeowners, come learn how to deal with contractors and learn what to do before, during and after a project as well as how to find contractors, etc…

Read more at either link:

http://www.cityofkennedale.com/Calendar.aspx?EID=1965

http://www.cityofkennedale.com/

Free and open to the public:

April 16, 2012 Monday

7:00 pm to 8:30 pm

Arlington Fire Department Training Facility

5501 Ron McAndrew Drive

Arlington, TX 76013

Community - Levitt Pavilion announces free concert for tornado victims...

A free benefit concert this Saturday, April 14, at the Levitt Pavilion will help raise funds for those who suffered damages and losses because of the tornados that touched down in Arlington and the surrounding area last week. The concert is free, but cash donations will be collected to be dispersed through the local Salvation Army for those in need.

The concert begins at 7:30 p.m. with the Salvation Army Band. Betty Buckley, Tony Award-winning actress and recording artist will perform, followed by Melissa Lawson, Arlington country music artist who won NBC's Nashville Star. Click link for details:

http://www.levittpavilionarlington.org/

MID Limited per Residence

A recent U.S. Tax Court ruling clarified the IRS position that the $1.1 million limit for mortgage interest deduction applies per residence and not per taxpayer as some high-priced homeowners were hoping.
A married homeowner filing jointly can have fullly deductible interest on a mortgage of up to $1,000,000 of acquisition debt and up to an additional $100,000 of home equity debt. If the married couple files separately, each party is limited to deducting the interest on half of those maximum amounts.
The court case came about when two unmarried individuals who owned a home together as joint tenants felt that they were entitled to deduct the interest on $1.1 million of debt each. IRS did not agree with their understanding and neither did the Tax Court. The Court ruled that the limits apply per residence, not per taxpayer even if a home is co-owned by unmarried taxpayers.
The result for the taxpayers in this case was that their deduction was cut in half resulting in much more income tax due. While this situation only affects a few taxpayers, homeowners in this position should have a discussion with their tax professional.              Buy Sell Invest with Hart

City of Arlington Tornado Recovery Update

The City of Arlington Public Works Department in conjunction with Tarrant County and Republic Services, is in the process of removing tree limbs, brush, and debris on and adjacent to roadways. Read more at:

view this message on the web

SW Arlington and Kennedale Tornado Storm and clean-up… who to go to or where to volunteer:

Pictures on Green Oaks Blvd near Kee Brook Dr. Approximately 150 homes damaged in Arlington and Kennedale, TX.

Arlington City Emergency Management Office is asking people to contact our action center at 817-459-6777 to register their volunteer offers including what types of services or donations they have. Emergency management personnel are coordinating the volunteers and need a central location for the offers. Please help spread the word. Also...

1)    The Church on Rush Creek:

2350 SW Green Oaks Blvd.

Arlington, TX 76017
817-468-7729

Nehemiah Project

The Nehemiah Project is comprised of volunteers from the Men's Ministry at The Church on Rush Creek. As men of God we are called to serve others in need and minister to the poor, the widows and the over-whelmed. If you or someone you know is in need, please “apply for assistance” at the bottom of this page. If you would like to be entered into our database as a volunteer with your skills, please complete the “become a volunteer” questionnaire.

Mission: To share the love of God with the people in this city through acts of Service.

Vision: To rally the Men of Rush Creek to serve the people of our community with the skills God has blessed them with.

Apply for Assistance | Become a Volunteer ….. Or Click on the link below:

http://rushcreek.org/ministries/men/nehemiah-project

2)    Arlington SW Little League:

        P O Box 171932

        Arlington, TX 76003

        817-673-7955

We have plenty of people who have offered to help clean-up -- offered funds for those in need -- offered food for those that need it -- offered shelter for those who have nowhere to go. 

We will help address the needs if we know what and where those needs are... because that's what He asks of us...

info@aswll.com

moms@aswll.com

dads@aswll.com

Before You Call the Repairman

Have you ever had a service company to your home to repair something and find out that it really wasn't "broken"? It probably conjured up ambivalent feelings of joy that it wasn't something serious and frustration that you had to pay a service call for something so simple.
Before you call the repairman next time, keep these things in mind to see if it is something simple:

• Disposer not working - check to see if the reset button has been thrown. It is usually on the bottom of the disposer. If the disposer is making a humming sound, the blades may be stuck. While the disposer is turned off, use a wooden broom handle as a lever to gently rotate the blades. Remove the broom handle and turn on the disposer to see if it works properly.
• Air conditioner not working - check to see if a breaker has thrown on your electric panel. You might need to flip the breaker completely off and flip it back on.
• Electrical outlets not working - Electrical plugs in bathrooms or outside, especially on a porch or patio, are many times connected to a ground fault interrupter. The GFI will be a wall outlet and it may be located in the garage. Locate the outlet and reset the button that may have tripped.
• Clogged drain - a simple way to correct a slow or clogged drain is to use the water pressure from a garden hose. You'll need a helper to turn on the water full-blast once you have safely placed the hose in the drain and are holding a hand-towel around the hose to direct the water to the drain. Be prepared to tell your helper to turn off the water when needed.

Whether it's preparing a home to market or arranging repairs required by the sale, REALTORS® know reputable, reasonable and reliable service contractors. We're here to share our contacts with you to help make home ownership better.     Buy Sell Invest with Hart

Community .... Calling all Texas Rangers Fans....

WANTED: 4,000 Rangers Fans for History-Making Event

Must love glow sticks. Spelling skills required.

The City of Arlington and the Arlington Convention & Visitors Bureau are calling all true blue Texas Rangers fans to participate in this Friday’s “Let’s GLO Rangers Rally”, a celebration of the team’s 40^Th’s anniversary in Arlington.

The first 4,000 fans on site will get blue glow sticks to spell out R-A-N-G-E-R-S in giant illuminated letters. Aerial photographers will capture the event for a Let’s GLO Rangers video set to premiere on the Rangers Ballpark Jumbotron on Opening Day, April 6 when the team faces Chicago.

The fan rally is poised to make history in several ways. In addition to celebrating the Rangers’ 1972 debut at Arlington Stadium, the event will also attempt entry into the Guinness Book of World Records as the largest number of people ever gathered to spell out a team name with glow sticks.

Admission is free and there are no age restrictions for participation. Fans are asked to wear Rangers red or blue.

For more fan participation tips, please visit:

http://myarlingtontx.com/ai1ec_event/lets-glo-rangers-make-history/?instance_id=10732

Details:

Friday, March 30, Rangers Ballpark, Lot B

Check-in begins at 6 p.m., Event is rain or shine

Housing Trends Newsletter by David Hart March 2012

Welcome to the most current Housing Trends eNewsletter. This eNewsletter is specially designed for you, with national and local housing information that you may find useful whether you’re in the market for a home, thinking about selling your home, or just interested in homeowner issues in general. Please click on this link to view the Housing Trends MARCH-2012 Newsletterhttp://dharthomes.housingtrendsenewsletter.com The Housing Trends eNewsletter contains the latest information from the National Association of REALTORS®, the U.S. Census Bureau, Realtor.org reports and other sources. Housing Trends eNewsletter is filled with local and national real estate sales and price activity provided by MLSs and the National Association of Realtors, U.S. Census Bureau key market indicators, consumer videos, blogs, real estate glossary, mortgage rates and calculators, consumer articles, and REALTOR.com local community reports. If you are interested in determining the value of your home, click the “Home Evaluator” link for a free evaluation report: http://dharthomes.housingtrendsenewsletter.com/dispContent.cfm?loadid=2&loadtype=0 Sound decisions can only be made with accurate and reliable information, and I am happy to be a trusted resource for you. Thank you for the opportunity to provide you with this monthly eNewsletter, and I look forward to answering any questions you may have and to the opportunity to be your REALTOR® in the future. Sincerely yours, David Hart                        Buy Sell Invest with Hart

Don't Miss the Recall

Occasionally, you hear about an important recall on a product you have and you take care of it immediately. However, if you were to miss such a notice, it could put you or your family in jeopardy.
You can subscribe to the U.S. government's service to notify the public when recalls are made on vehicles, tires and child restraints through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration on their site called SaferCar.gov.
You'll receive a notification by email when there is a new recall based on the type you selected. You can change your selections or unsubscribe at any time by going back to their website in the "Manage Your Notifications" section.
We're committed to helping you be a better homeowner by providing information on items that can protect your home's value, reduce expenses, improve maintenance and increase the enjoyment of your home. Buy Sell Invest with Hart

Community… Arts Festivals...

Community… Arts Festivals:

Arlington:            March 23,24, 25… read more about it at www.Artonthegreene.com

Kennedale:         March 30, 31 April1… read more about it at www.kennedaleartsfestival.com

SWAPO 2011 News...Natural Gas prices...

Natural Gas prices hit lows of $2.30/mmbtu and there doesn’t look to be anything coming in the next several months that should change the current outlook.

Read more at MineralWeb.com

SWAPO 2011 News...The University of Texas at Austin Energy Institute Study: “No evidence of groundwater contamination from hydraulic fracturing”.

The Energy Institute at The University of Texas at Austin recently conducted a study entitled "Fact-Based Regulation for Environmental Protection in Shale Gas Development." Dr. Charles Groat, the lead author of the study, communicated the following study conclusion as part of the information release: "We found no direct evidence that hydraulic fracturing itself—the practice of fracturing the rocks—had contaminated shallow groundwater."

Click link below to read more:

http://www.bseec.org/content/energy-institute-university-texas-austin-study-reviewing-groundwater-contamination-claims-fi

SOS Save our Schools Rally...

STS Rally This Saturday!
Click Here for More Information!
Today, the Texas Public Policy Foundation announced that it will pressure legislators for more deep cuts to education in 2013. We need you in Austin on March 24 to stop this assault on our children! Last March, over 13,000 parents, students, teachers and community members gathered in Austin to say "NO!" to more testing and less funding. The legislature didn't listen, and today we are seeing larger classes, fewer programs and supports, higher college tuition and MORE TESTING! Let's stand up once more and speak to the candidates running for election and re-election that "We're Watching, We Remember, and We Vote!"  We can fight the forces that want to destroy public education if we stand united. Make plans now to come back to Austin and TAKE BACK TEXAS EDUCATION!

When Mortgage Debt is Cancelled

The Mortgage Forgiveness Relief Act of 2007 was passed by Congress to avoid additional financial hardship that some homeowners might experience due to a foreclosure or short sale. The law affects mortgage relief that occurs from January 1, 2007 to December 31, 2012.
Normally, IRS considers partial or total debt forgiven by a lender to be treated as ordinary income. This not only affects foreclosures but even short sales where only part of the debt is forgiven would trigger additional taxes for the homeowner. There are exceptions that apply such as bankruptcy and insolvency.
The forgiveness is only applicable to taxpayers' principal residence and only acquisition debt used to buy, build or improve the home. The additional cash taken out when refinancing a home will not be eligible for the relief unless it is used for capital improvements.
The lender is required to submit a 1099 form to IRS and provide the homeowner a copy who will file the forgiven amount on Form 982 as part of their 1040 tax return. How this affects your individual situation may differ due to other circumstances and advice from a tax professional is recommended.
Buy Sell Invest with Hart

Community News....City Council and Arlington ISD...

Young Men of Arlington are hosting a Candidate Forum March 21 Wednesday at the Community Room of the Arlington Library located at 101 E Abram St. The Arlington ISD and City Council candidates will discuss in a formal debate the various issues that concern our schools and city. Admission is free and refreshments will be provided. The elections will be May 12^th and May 29^th.

The Next Forum will be Thursday, March 22nd, at the Arlington Republican Club, Rolling Hill Country Club, 401 E Lamar, 7:00pm.

The City Election is Saturday May 12^th and the State / Federal Election is Tuesday May 29^th.

Another Indication

The Housing Affordability Index was developed over thirty years ago to help consumers determine when it is a good time to buy a home. It's considered advantageous to the buyer when the index is over 100 because a median income family can qualify for a median price home.
Recent figures released by the National Association of REALTORS' economic department show that the 2011 index of 184.5 is the highest annual average since it has been calculated. The most recent month released, December 2011, was 194.9. The index is also broken down into four regions of the country.
The two major components that contribute to the index are home prices and mortgage interest rates which are lower than they've been in the last five years which account for the dramatic rise in the index since 2006.
The Housing Affordability Index is another indication that this is a good time to buy a home for people who have good credit, a down payment and want a home. It may be the best time we'll see in our lifetimes.
Buy Sell Invest with Hart

SOS - Save our Schools Rally in Austin....3/24/12...

STS Rally-2 Weeks Away
Click Here for More Information!
We need you in Austin on March 24! Last March, over 13,000 parents, students, teachers and community members gathered in Austin to say "NO!" to more testing and less funding. The legislature didn't listen, and today we are seeing larger classes, fewer programs and supports, higher college tuition and MORE TESTING! Let's stand up once more and speak to the candidates running for election and re-election that "We're Watching, We Remember, and We Vote!"  We can fight the forces that want to destroy public education if we stand united. Make plans now to come back to Austin and TAKE BACK TEXAS EDUCATION!

Great Big Texas Home Show...this weekend...

... at Dallas Cowboy Stadium March 9th, 10th, and 11th. Featuring gardens and outdoor living, and of course new homes! Click link below to purchase tickets, see you there!

http://houstoneflyer.com/Archives3/10188c-MH/                     Buy Sell Invest with Hart

SWAPO 2011 News...City Council OKs fee on gas wells...

The $2,397 annual fee will fund an emergency preparedness and response program for the Arlington Fire Dept.
Read the entire article in the Star-Telegram by clicking the link below:
http://www.star-telegram.com/2012/03/06/3789975/arlington-approves-fee-on-natural.html

FHA Fees Going Up April 1st

FHA has raised the annual Mortgage Insurance Premium to 1.25% beginning April 1st.  MIP is required on all FHA loans and used to fund losses by lenders for borrowers who default on their mortgages.  As of June 1st, FHA loans in excess of the standard maximum of $625,500, in high-cost areas, will have a premium of 1.5% of the loan amount.

In addition to the increase in the annual MIP, FHA also announced it plans to raise the fee on the up-front MIP from 1.00% to 1.75%.  No date was reported for its implementation.

The bottom line will result in a borrower’s payments going up.  However, it might not be restricted to the MIP.  Freddie Mac’sPrimary Mortgage Market Survey showed that both 30 year and 15 year mortgages have gone up too.

One way to avoid the increase is to have a completed sales contract and have your lender order the FHA commitment prior to April 1, 2012.  If you plan on buying a home this spring, there is a reason to do it earlier rather than later.                       Buy Sell Invest with Hart

SOS News...2012 Statewide March & Rally at the Capitol March 24!

Last March, over 13,000 parents, students, teachers and community members gathered in Austin to say "NO!" to more testing and less funding. The legislature didn't listen, and today we are seeing larger classes, fewer programs and supports, higher college tuition and MORE TESTING! Let's stand up once more and speak to the candidates running for election and re-election that "We're Watching, We Remember, and We Vote!"  We can fight the forces that want to destroy public education if we stand united. Make plans now to come back to Austin and TAKE BACK TEXAS EDUCATION!

Click Here for More Information!