YOU WANT TO LIVE IN DALLAS/FORT WORTH

Help, I am behind on my Mortgage....a call for help from sellers

2012-01-25T10:15:00.000-08:00

Here are the facts to help you, a homeowner in danger of foreclosure, do something to help yourself before it is too late.

A lender sends a letter to a homeowner with a notice of possible foreclosure when a payment is missed or is substantially late.

Did you know that if an owner misses 2 payments, there is a 90% chance of going into foreclosure within the next 6 to 8 months. Of the owners who miss 2 payments or more, 70% of them DO NOTHING!
They worry, they wail.....but they DO NOTHING!

They do not even explore their options! This is so unfortunate. If they will just step back and call a REALTOR, they can find out that they have a few options. The most important option is to choose the one that is realistic for the situation that the owner finds himself in.

No owner wants to lose him home to FORECLOSURE!

As much as they may hate to admit it...............they are just not going to be able to make up the payments and get themselves current. The worst option is to DO NOTHING!

I meet with many sellers each month who are having this problem....when I explain the downside of foreclosure, they can usually see that deciding to move forward with the Short Sale process makes a lot of sense....and it will SAVE THEIR CREDIT down the road.
It is not without stresses to enter into the process of a Short Sale....but with expert guidance, this can be the choice that will transform the sellers life, keep another home from the auction steps, and ultimately cause the real estate market to become stable once more.
Contact me today for more information about short sales: 817 925-6540

More Information About Short Sales.........

2012-01-23T09:20:00.000-08:00

After talking with several of my blog followers the last few days, I realized that I needed to explain a little more about the Short Sale basics. Many need to know the answers that I have tried to answer for you below. Basically, if you think that you may be headed for a Foreclosure, please call me and let's talk. I do not need to come see your property at that time. We just need to conference for 15-20 minutes here in my office.....
Call me DiAnne Arnette 817 925-6540.

Even Beautiful Fort Worth has People in Need of Short Sale Help.

What is a Short Sale?

Simply put, a Short Sale is used to describe the sale of a home in which the homeowner owes the bank more than the home is worth. The bank agrees to allow the home to be sold for less than what is owed (AKA “Short Sale”).

Would I qualify for a Short Sale?

Yes. Contrary to popular belief, it is not difficult to qualify for a Short Sale. A good Short Sale candidate has no equity in their home. They are not able to sell their home and pay off all of the outstanding loans/debt that are secured against their property.

If you owe more against your home than it is currently worth and want or need to sell it but can’t or won’t bring cash to closing to make up the difference between what you owe and what your home is worth, then you are a prime candidate.

Get Started Now.....Just Call, I am easy to talk with and I truly want to help you.

Short Sale Basics....FYI

2012-01-21T18:30:00.000-08:00

The subject of Short Sale is on a lot of minds....Buyers think they can get a great deal...and they can.
Sellers think..."if I can get want I paid, I will just sell with a short sale."....WRONG!

The process of Short Sale is very specific. The homeowner must be able to show financial need.
These things are necessary:

The owner must have tried for a period of time to sell the home at the price that the market shows would be a price that will appraise. That is not necessarily a price that will make money or even break even for the seller.

The owner must show financial need. That means, show they have not had income for ___amount of time and that they are not capable of making the payments on the home. A Short Sale documentation of this fact must be sent to the lender with a letter asking them to approve a Short Sale. The bank will send an appraiser to make an appraisal on the home based on the neighborhood sales.Once that has happened (and an experienced REALTOR who knows the process can be of great help for this), then the home can be advertised as a short sale and offers accepted. At that time, the bank may allow the listing agent to reduce the listing price of the home to the number that the bank will actually take.

Banks all vary a bit in their methods, but all in all, they do have a process and the agent knows how to get the bank's criteria so that the home can be sold in most cases prior to a foreclosure. In some cases, a home just will not sell and foreclosure is necessary.

If you want more information about Short Sales, please contact me.
DiAnne Arnette, REALTOR 817 925-6540

Help for First Time Homebuyers in Texas....just in today

2012-01-17T15:17:00.000-08:00

The first thing that I do as an agent is find out if a buyer can really buy a home...i.e. can they be approved for a loan. Sometimes they area just fine. Other times, they have bad credit and the best that I can do is tell them where to go to get help to clean up their credit. Other times, they have good credit but do not have enough cash on hand or saved to have the required downpayment. Today I got information that may be of help for some of the homebuyers in Texas....read below:

TEXAS PROGRAM HELPS FIRST-TIME HOMEBUYERS

AUSTIN (Texas State Affordable Housing Corporation) – The Texas State Affordable Housing Corporation's (TSAHC) first-time homebuyer programs now include grants to help buyers cover down payment and closing costs.

Homebuyers who qualify for TSAHC's Professional Educators, Homes for Texas Heroes or Home Sweet Texas Home (click here for a list of who qualifies under each program) can receive a grant of 5 percent of the loan amount. The grant can be applied toward down payment and closing costs.

In addition to qualifying for one of these programs, the person must be a first-time homebuyer, or not had an ownership interest in any residence during the last three years; meet the income and home purchase price limits; complete a HUD-approved homebuyer education course before closing on the loan; and reside in Texas.

Eligible homebuyers can apply directly through an approved participating mortgage lender in their area. For a list of participating lenders, visit TSAHC's website http://www.tsahc.org/home/default.php or call TSAHC at 888-638-3555.

Now...take a look at the new listing that I got yesterday........It is in Sendera Ranch and really is a beauty!
Boasting the all new schools in the Northwest ISD...this is sure to please many families.

Located on Storyteller Lane. This 4 bedroom home is almost new. It was built in 2009 and has a GOOOOrgeous kitchen.

The seller is offering to leave the great wall mounted flat screen tvs with an accepted offer.

A great backyard with brickfence...this is one to see!

check out: http://www.diannearnette.com/

contact me to see this or any other home in the area.

Great Buy on a Fort Worth Condo in The Tower...........

2012-01-14T11:49:00.000-08:00

500 Throckmorton...a great place to live!

If you lived in Fort Worth 12 years ago.....you probably remember the big tornado that struck in downtown Fort Worth.

The damage was immense and many of the taller buildings suffered a lot of glass breakage. 500 Throckmorton was a bank building, had a great restaurant on the top (Reata), and had been one of the first skyscraper buildings in downtown. Since it was one of the older buildings, it had asbestos insulation and with the sustained damage, the owners truly had a problem. The building sat vacant for several years while developers thought about how to best solve the problem. At some point, a condomenium group purchased the building and remediated the asbestos issue..........and turned it into one of the most covered condo addresses in the area.

The entry area in the round....pathway to the elevators.

With 30 floors, the views from 500 Throck...are wonderful. In any direction you can see 30 to 35 miles on a clear day, and the evenings are filled with the lights and activities of downtown Fort Worth.

The rooftop has a nice pool and spa...picnic and grilling areas, and also even has a little grassy knoll for small pets to be given some outdoor time. Each condo has it's own flavor depending on the individual preference of the owners. The one bedroom units have a large bedroom, large living area and nicely arranged kitchens. All of the appliances and amenities are top of the line.

I have a one bedroom unit with a study (could be small bedroom or....) Beautiful NW view and it has 2 deeded covered parking spaces. This unit has just under 1000 sq. ft. Is on the "quiet" side of the buiding and has a customized California Closet in the master bedroom.

The kitchen has lovely wood cabinets and
granite counters.

With lovely views from the insulated windows, you are never too warm or too cold no matter what the outside temporature may be.

The complex has a fitness center, a business center, and a entertainment "party room" that may be reserved. You are in walking distance of anything downtown.............eateries, shopping, your office, the convention center, movies, Bass Hall..........and endless other choices.

This unit is a barely lived in example of a great buy for a great location

Please consider taking a look ....just contact me to see this well priced condo in downtown.

DiAnne@diannearnette.com

Currently offered at $225000

FOR SALE BY OWNER...second of the series

2012-01-10T14:08:00.000-08:00

As a veteran agent in the Tarrant County area, I have sold many FSBOs.You probably want to know, how I sold them? The answer is clear and straight forward...just like I cannot do the best job of working on my own car, or my own plumbing, most sellers cannot do the best job of marketing their own home. I always admire their attempts, and I am also very sympathetic if they have had a frustrating experience. It is a fact, that an owner, who is holding down a job, either as a fulltime Mom, or a husband working in his profession, has little time to spend talking to callers for long enough to qualify them financially, check their motiation and urgency to buy, and then book and appointment (fitting it in between car pools, sports, etc.) and actually showing the home.

Owners who are thinking about the amount of money they are saving are also not realizing until they are into the process, how much it is really costing them to do all of these things that must be done to market, sell, negotiate, facilitate, disclose, and on and on. Once into the process, unless a seller gets very lucky, they must deal with the feelings of frustration and disappointment that they are not getting showings............and then....what if it doesn't appraise when and if they actually get an offer.

I am not trying to make this sound like you should never try to sell on your own, but rather what I do want to point out is that, REALTORS are professionals at selling homes. We and only we have access to the reliable ways of marketing a home. We go to school each year to learn about the changes in the laws, and about the required forms. We know how contracts must be written to protect our clients....whether buyer or seller. We know how to photograph interiors and exteriors so that they are level, and are appealing. Sometimes, the whole situation is really not about what it costs to have an agent, but it is most likely what it costs the seller, if he does not hire and agent.

We as REALTORS (members of the National Association of REALTORS) uphold ethical principles and only our membership can call themselves REALTORS. We have high standards, and we maintain our education above and beyond what our states require to be licensed.

97% of all FSBOs list with an agent within 60 days of trying to sell on their own. Only 7% of all homes sold Nationally are actually sold without an agent.

check out homes for sale in your area....
search for free at www.diannearnette.com or at www.justlistedhousesinfortworth.com

Fort Worth....a Busy Place In January...This Place is Lengendary!

2012-01-09T08:31:00.000-08:00

For those of you who may be wondering about things to drive you to Fort Worth in January; when if we are going to have rain, it will come at during the last 2 weeks of this month, well..........It's Rodeo and Stock Show time in Fort Worth!

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia:

The Southwestern Exposition and Livestock Show, known commonly as the Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo is the oldest continual running livestock show and rodeo. It has been held annually in Fort Worth, Texas since 1896. In 1918, the Stock Show held the world's first indoor rodeo, and in subsequent years has been responsible for several milestones in the sport of rodeo. A non-profit organization, the Stock Show has provided millions of dollars in grants and scholarships from in its tenure and continues to provide hundreds of thousands of dollars annually to assist livestock and agricultural programs across the state.

For you who are not local.........The Rodeo here in Fort Worth goes on daily 2 times for over 3 weeks. There is a matinee and an evening performance and this has been a tradition since the early 1900s give or take 10 years. The rodeo begins this Friday............and it is sure to be a great destination for tourist, families with kids competing in the livestock shows, and of course, the cowboys who put on a great show everyday.

This is just one more reason why Fort Worth is a great place to call home...........

I sell homes.........if you have a home to sell or want to buy. Please contact me anytime for information about your market area and what I can do to be of service to you.

http://www.diannearnette.com/
dianne@diannearnette.com

Please follow my blog...............I try to keep you "in the know" about Fort Worth

Land....A Serious Commodity....It is going away....too fast!

2012-01-03T11:31:00.000-08:00

Did you ever think that you would like a little place in the country? Not too expensive, or too large? Well.....over the past 5 to 10 years, more and more people who never were country residents have wanted to have a "place in the country"....or a "country place".
Most never thought they would pay very much for those "little spots", but times have changed.
The place above which is less than 150 acres and is located just South of Fort Worth is on the market for a mere $3700000 and change.

This lovely adobe style home on 64 acres is on the market currently for about $1,500000....and is near Weatherford.

Here in Texas we are seeing more Wineries and Vinyards become part of our landscape. Here in the Metroplex there are many vinyards that have achieved notarity for the award winning wines they have produced....but just loving to be outdoors without the sounds of the city is enough reason for many to be interested in Texas land ownership.

80 acres near Millsap is available for about $1,500000.....

My point is this: Land is hard to find. Land near a city is particularly hard to find and much of it's enjoyment is to be able to get there and spend time without needing to take off 2 weeks to allow for travel time. Most land no longer has mineral rights available, but there is little that compares to the quiet serenity of only hearing the birds, the deer, and a distant mooing cow in the early morning in Texas.

If you or someone you know is interested in buying or selling land here in the Metroplex area...I have willing sellers and buyers who have interest.

CAREFUL OF THE WORDS YOU USE.....Listen to yourself!

2012-01-02T09:51:00.000-08:00

In my previous career, I was a counselor....i.e. relationship, family, business productivity, career, and so on. What I found across the board, was that as I listened to the words that individuals used while telling me about their lives, I could identify many traits that were helping or hindering the person.

You have heard the phrase: "Be careful of what you ask because you may get it." This has never been more true than the language that people sometimes use when they discuss themselves, or their ideas and attitudes.

1. I can't do this because.........
2. She never will listen.........
3. I don't think I can do......because.......this always happens.
4. I could never to that because they would think..........
5. ............always happens when.........so I don't want to try it again

When language is loaded with the negative words.....it may produce a negative "cloud" which subconsciously hovers .......It is programming you and the people around you to have a non-energy feeling which may turn into an action.

Have you ever noticed that when you laugh, others mostly laugh with you? Conversely have you noticed that if you are sad and have tears, others may also cry with you? These are just a few of the ways that we may be sabotaging ourselves in our business and personal lives.

When a child is approaching something new.....they have no idea if they can do it or not........It is much later after they experience a challenge that they learn what is easy or may be fearful....

It is a fact, that when we believe that we can do something....we usually can. It is a fact that when we think that we cannot do something....we usually cannot.

Be careful when you think negative thoughts and speak negative words...
Think the best of YOURSELF....Think the best of others and you may find them much more receptive to your message.

Make sure that you are offering the best of yourself to your clients, friends, and family.....STOP, REPHRASE, AND FIND A WAY TO KEEP HOPE AND POSITIVE WORDS BE YOUR STRATEGY FOR THIS NEW YEAR.

RINGING IN 2012.........RINGING DOORBELLS FOR BUYERS AND SELLERS!

2012-01-01T08:05:00.000-08:00

Looking at 2011......through the rearview mirror....
Wow....with the negative news, it would have been easy to get in a rut and just go with negative news and believe it, but being a career REALTOR, my ideas are when the economy is up, people need homes, and when the economy is down, people need homes.

With that frame of mind, the only thing to do is to get busy, get the right information and share that information with the people who need the knowledge......the ones who want to buy or sell real estate. And, when asked about the market, my answer is always the same...

"You know, people will always be needing a home, and they want one as good as they can afford because their family is important."

2011 was no exception........people needed homes! I love people and like to help them.....so, when asked, I go to work for my client...who usually then becomes my friend too.

So.....what do I think about 2012? PEOPLE ARE NEEDING or WANTING TO SELL OR BUY HOMES......the price doesn't matter........the market sets the price..........if we have demand in one area, and not many homes available....the prices to get those homes will be higher than in other areas where there are lots of homes to choose from....

When you call me to ask about your choices and describe your wants and needs and financial situation.......we will look together at all of the options that are available to you. Whether your budget is low or high, there is a home for you.

One thing is pretty obvious..........2012 will still be a great year for buyers to take advantage of low interest rates and be able to negotiate to buy wonderful homes....The facts will be that if you have your financial house in order, you will be able to get a
low interest loan, and purchase a great home.

From me to you.......HAPPY NEW YEAR!

FORT WORTH IS A GREAT PLACE TO CALL HOME.

www.diannearnette.com
www.justlistedhousesinfortworth.com

Sellers and Buyers Found Reluctant to Deal with Each Other in 2011 1st in a Series

2011-12-30T08:32:00.000-08:00

Only 9% of all home sales in 2011 were FSBO

As an agent who frequently lists FSBOs, or For Sale By Owners i.e. homes that owners have tried to sell themselves...........I am always intrigued by the fact that most are unsuccessful in their attempt to save the negotiated commissions and take on the risk themselves.

As the National Association of REALTORS has researched, in 2011, home sellers were nervous about trying to manage the process on their own given the slow housing market. The down economy has made sellers "especially reluctant to go at it on their own." (Consumer surveys by the National Association of REALTORS® suggest FSBOs accounted for 9 percent of sales in 2010, down from 16 percent in 2000).

In addtion to sellers being nervous about the process, and rightly so since law suits can easily occurr when improper disclosures or lack thereof, are involved, the actuality of advertising a home on many public sites has served to either only attract people looking for a distressed seller or sometimes even to alert the lurking would be burglars. REALTORS have always considered one huge benefit that they offer is the safety factor.

One negative issue that I have found in listing some FSBO properties is that sometimes that seller believes that the agent just puts the sign in the yard.....and does nothing else! Nothing can be further from the truth!
Having the systems in place to be offering constant marketing is not cheap, nor easy. It takes the deligence that only a real estate professional can offer to actually do the 24/7 marketing that an agent can provide.

REALTORS HAVE THE ONLY EDGE ON MARKETING TO REAL BUYERS WHO WANT TO BUY!
NO OTHER TECHNOLOGY is reliable, or as accurate and up to the minute as the MLS of agents...and we pay a lot for that professional tool.

When a home is listed with all the documents signed.........the agent's work is defined...........prior to that time, the agent has also spent many hours researching the homes in the prospective owner's area to find out the realistic and actual market value that a lender will be able to justify approval of a mortgage. I really do sympathize with sellers who believe that because they turned their home in the "best" in the area, that it is going to sell for the amount that they want. In today's market, a home that is not updated will NOT sell well. If it has the top of the line items....it will sell fast, but may not appraise as high as an owner thinks it should.............This is why when I tell a client a marketable price, I can show them on paper why that will be correct.

Why are buyers reluctant to deal with a seller themselves? Have you ever gone into a store and tried to look at items only to have a salesperson stand too near or offer too much help? This is the perception of buyers if they are trying to look at a home when the seller is offering too much information, or simply just standing back and watching them. The buyer is then feeling like they cannot look at their own speed, or look inside of cabinets, closets, etc. without feeling as those they are "snooping".. Truth is, every buyer has to "snoop"...they have to see spaces and conditions.........TO BUY, THEY MUST ACTUALLY SEE IT ALL.
All too often, a buyer leaves a home and thinks...........I might have liked it, but I really couldn't see it.

Next blog will cover Seller's Disclosure Laws in the State of Texas

Fort Worth and Tarrant County Sales Were Brisk in December as I Close the Door on 2011!

2011-12-29T12:57:00.000-08:00

From the couple who just sold this home and bought another newer and larger home...To the young newly-weds who purchased this new home below....

To the middle of life couple who closed on this lovely home in Keller to move to a different location so they can be near their kids....2011 has ended with my pleasure to have worked with these and many other families who bought or sold homes this past year.........

Families consider their homes to be the "rock" of their

existance, and moving rates at the top of the list as a stressful time of life. Even when moving is what they want to do, it is still stressful. As I look back, I have also noticed that what is one kind of stress to one family, another family, looks at it as a positive. One great client said to me, as they waited 2 days to get to move to their new home, that they considered the inconvenience slight....because after all, we are moving into a new nice home, while others cannot afford a home at all.

Where we look, we will find blessings........we can turn negatives into positives..........it is all about growning and learning in this lifetime.

To you that I helped, to you who were upset with your circumstances, to you who had to sell as a short sale so you could move on in your life................I have been blessed to know you. I have been blessed to help you. I will be toasting to each of you and grateful for the opportunity that you gave me.

Wishing you and yours a Wonderful New Year........

Here's to 2012!

Fort Worth Homes Still Selling in October!

2011-10-17T02:22:00.001-07:00

The week of October 10-16 proved to show active real estate movement throughout Tarrant County. In my Keller Williams office, showings were up and contracts were coming in at a steady pace.

I personally scheduled 3 appointments for listing homes in the area. This indicates that people are making the decision to stop being on hold and they are taking advantage of the real estate values that are the best of our lives!

Never has there been a better time to BUY a home. Look at this equation:

Low Interest + Motivated Seller = Great Home Value

This is the big statement of real estate in Texas right now. Using an experienced Realtor• is your best insurance that you find your best home value! Call today!

CAN YOU REALLY GET A HOME IN A NICE Fort Worth, Texas NEIGHBORHOOD UNDER $120K?

2011-09-29T07:12:00.000-07:00

As a Fort Worth, Texas experienced real estate agent for more than 14 years....I know my markets of the DFW metroplex area........so today I am blogging about Short Sales and other good buys in homes.

Today I got a call from a lady who wants to see only short sales....under $120K....
Well...here is what I asked her:
* Do you need to be in a home right away?
* Do you need anykind of "seller contribution?" i.e. Warranty, contribution to closing costs, repairs, etc.
* Are you only interested in Short Sales because you think they will be the best deal?

Her answers did not surprise me. She needed to be in a home by no later than Nov. 15. She hoped the home would be in pristine condition, and she needs at least 3% contribution from the seller for her closing costs...........

Right away, I explained that she was not a good candidate for a short sale....because
*Banks sell to a net price...........
*They will only do a contribution if that is going to give them a net after the contibution of what they must have.
*Banks will usually not agree to any repairs
*Banks normally sell Short Sales "as is"....everything is considered as "net".

So....if the lady needs the 3% closing costs, then she must offer a price 3% above what the Bank must net..........so what is the reason for only looking at short sales?

In my market here in Fort Worth Texas....where home sales are brisk and prices are some of the best in the country...........I can show you at least 10 homes for sale by actually seller occupants who will work with buyers on repairs, contributions, home warranties....and be able to respond within days, if not hours on counter offers.

Take a look at this one:

11032 Long Rifle, 76108 in Fort Worth is a 3 bedroom 2.1 bath and has a 2 car garage. It has neutral colors and a really nice above ground pool in the backyard. The seller has updated the home with neutral colors and it is really an attractive home....New park at the end of the street...
new driveway just this week...and so...even better than in this photo. Price a low $111,000. The buyer can move in when his loan is ready.........it is a great buy and great area.

This is just an example of many homes that are ready right now!

Here is another home on the market at a great price....owner/seller in great condition

This home is located in Ridglea and is a soft ranch contemporary....it has a great looking kitchen and is priced at under $130K....look at this kitchen and see why you may want to not have the idea that you must buy a foreclosure or a Short sale for a great Fort Worth Texas home.

Contact me at anytime for real estate information.

Are Homes Selling in Fort Worth....Take a Look at These STATS Today!

2011-09-26T08:13:00.001-07:00

Like most people considering selling a home, you have probably wondered about the Home Sales in 4 of Fort Worth's most popular neighborhoods: The neighborhoods that I am reporting today are the area off Camp Bowie (River Crest and Moticello, Arlington Heights), The area called Tanglewood/Overton Park/TCU and the Eagle Mountain Lake area.   Since September 1, 2011 there have been 40 homes sold that were in the over $200,000 price range. See below for the stats:

Lowest 88 days on the market   66.86 dollars per sq. foot     208,000 Sales Price was the lowest

Max      108 days on the market 399.72 dollars per sq. foot 2,250,000 Sales Price was the highest
Average 96  days on the marekt    120.60 dollars per sq. foot     386,088 Sales Price was the average

Thank Goodness it IS FORT WORTH...so many things to celebrate

2011-04-20T14:21:00.001-07:00

I had the pleasure of going to the Botanic Gardens for lunch. I had my virtual tour camera in my purse so I decided to show you what the gardens look like right now. Now bear in mind that today is a bit cloudy....so the photos may be a bit darker than they will be when I visit there again in a few days.

Today this is how the Botanic Gardens looked...Enjoy the Tour

But.........if you are contemplating a move to the best small city in America...in my opinion...here is one reason. We have true quality here. Our city is pristine and we still have affordable housing in all areas.

Come visit.........and stay.

Please contact me anytime to ask a Fort Worth question. You can search the entire North TExas MLS at: http://www.justlistedhousesinfortworth.com/

Hope to see you soon.

YOU WANT TO LIVE IN DALLAS/FORT WORTH: Preview "Thank Goodness it IS FORT WORTH...so many things to celebrate"

2011-04-20T14:21:00.000-07:00

YOU WANT TO LIVE IN DALLAS/FORT WORTH: Preview "Thank Goodness it IS FORT WORTH...so many things to celebrate"

5205 BUGLE LANE---Houses for Sale in Colleyville........AFFORDABLE?....OH YEAH!!!!!

2011-04-19T10:32:00.000-07:00

WANT AFFORDABLE IN COLLEYVILLE? You have come to the right place! This is just about the most perfect home I have ever listed ....all the positives...
*Colleyville
*All Heritage Schools
*All remodeled and beautiful
*Granite Kitchen
*Pool
*Beautiful colors
*UNDER 300k...yes you read RIGHT!

I have always prided myself that I can get a home ready, market it, and find a buyer right away, but this home is truly special. My sellers, former clients, knew exactly what they wanted to do with this home when I sold it to them and they actually did much more than most would have done. The home was nice as it was, but now it is outstanding. To see the virtual tour........
http://tour.previsite.com/25A585FF-7141-27BC-E9DA-6E9B47DF8B4D just click here.

You can see from the dining room, at the right, that this home is just lovely.

Under 300K in Colleyville is hard to beat.

If you or someone you know would like to view this home,
contact me at http://www.justlistedhousesinfortworth.com/

Yes, Virginia, There Really is a Santa Claus!

2010-12-15T19:59:00.000-08:00

Breakfast with Santa in Fort Worth

Yes, we are rushed! Yes, we are getting the Holliday Buzz and bustle going on! And, Yes, we as agents and buyers and sellers are still enthusiatically showing and looking at homes....even just a few days before Christmas.

In Tarrant County, we still have 100's of people moving here each and every month...homes are still selling and sellers are realistic about their price.

You do not have to purchase a "foreclosure" to get a good buy........motivated sellers and buyers are making "win-win" contracts each day!....

So.......with Spring listings already planned, I am constantly speaking with owners who want to sell and buyers who want to buy.

Gary Keller, CEO of Keller-Williams International, said last week that BUYERS should be doing one thing.........that is "buying"....because the lowest interest rates of all time will not last......................WOW...was he right! They have already gone up to 5% and are rising.

Now, hear this!!!! Buyers, if you want to get the best home deal of your lifetime, do not tarry! Rates will most likely continue to rise each week..........and I for one remember that my husband and I had an 18% interest rate at one time........You have missed the low 4% rates if you did not purchase or lock in before this week.

You do not have to believe me.......just check the rates online....I do have a source that has the lowest rates I know about.....but they will not last!

So........Virginia.....there is a Santa Claus.........Here in Fort Worth, Texas, Santa is loading his sleigh and also shouting out the Good News....Life is great here in Fort Worth.......Buyers who do not sit on the fence will still be getting a great buy....and the sellers are motivated to sell.......Don't wait,,,,,,,,,Christmas only comes once a year!

Thanksgiving and Much to be Thankful for...here in Texas

2010-11-28T08:57:00.000-08:00

Overlooking White Rock Lake...see Dallas skyline in back

How lucky we are to live in the Fort Worth/Dallas Metroplex area where there are still wonderful neighborhoods, Affordable homes, and Wonderful family values....

My family includes extended family members...yes even x's and we all come back to our family values that are being passed along to our children and grandchildren.

As I watched families walking by in front of my son's house, in near freezing temps, I was reminded that although people always think they are different....We all are much the same. We love our kids, grandkids, family and friends and Thanksgiving is a time to cherish just being together. The stories exchanged override any stress or anxiety felt with the rush against time to get the Turkey and other food dishes on the table while still hot.

Grandparents Day at Saint John's Academy, Dallas

The time to reflect and the time to give thanks leaves us with a wonderfully warm feeling...that only the truly important values bring to us.

I live and work (selling homes) in Fort Worth and some of my kids live in Dallas, a mere 35 minute drive on a normal day. What a pleasure it is to see that "our little part of the world" is really great! Our area is one of the safest areas of the country and our Christian values are reflected in many obvious ways as you explore the area.

If you are considering relocating to a wonderful part of our Great Country.......
you may want to consider Fort Worth and the Metroplex area...........of course....I am partial to Fort Worth!

(Tarrant county has many affordable neighborhoods....Fort Worth, and also the outlying cities of Hurst, Bedford, Euless, Colleyville, Southlake, Grapevine and Arlington are great. The school systems are fantastic in the suberbs and the drives to Fort Worth or Dallas are less than 1 hour. Contact me for more information about any of these areas.)

FORT WORTH/DALLAS............A WHOLE LOTA SHAK'N GO'N ON

2010-10-26T15:35:00.000-07:00

FORT WORTH/DALLAS/TEXAS PROUD

Everyone out there who has access to the news knows that a Historical first has hit Texas! The Texas Rangers are playing in the World Series...........and all of Texas is going crazy......happy crazy! Anyone who is lucky enough to be able to buy tickets...if they can get them, is really thrilled. In fact, a ticket to the W.S. in Arlington at the Ball Park is now the new status symbol!

They cost between $600 and $6000 .............can you believe it? And people who can, Will get them.

I just have to believe that once people from all over the country come here to our area; they will want to see more of it and want to move here...........Move over, all of you Californians who got here a few years back. Now we are looking at Wyoming, Utah, Ohio, ........well just about all of the areas with people who would like to move here and enjoy our climate and our state of the arts, sports, and LOW HOUSING PRICES!

Did I say low housing prices.............yes! And how about No STATE INCOME TAX! We are blessed...
People like to say...."I wasn't born in Texas, but I got here as fast as I could!".......and that is about the truth.

In downtown Fort Worth, there are lots of fun things and they go on 24/7...yes...I look these photos while walking at 7:30 AM last Saturday....the day after the night the Rangers won so big!!!!! I was just strolling and waiting to go work out for the day....and snapping away with my Iphone camera....in appreciation of Fort Worth and what we have..........so have a look:

DJ at work

DJ at the Ranch Radio Station...just working away with his ....TEXAS TEE on...gave me a big smile as I snapped him through the window.

Ahhh Fort Worth....we are proud...........You will be proud when you live here too.

Will Rogers Colliseum on a beautiful Fort Worth Fall Day!

To do your own search for a home, visit my website, http://www.diannearnette.com/ and follow the link to search for homes or to find your home's value.

FORT WORTH, IT IS COOL TO LIVE HERE! What is keeping you away?

2010-10-19T06:18:00.000-07:00

Omni Theater 3rd Grade Field Trip

I live and sell homes in Fort Worth and Tarrant County so I brag a lot about the area........Today's post will be brief because I have a lot of real estate to talk about with my clients today!

But......................Fort Worth has the best Museum of Science and History, and it includes the Omni Theater which amazes me each time I am there. I had the pleasure of accompanying a 3rd Grade Field trip there a few weeks ago.....The kids were enthralled.........and so were the adults. No matter how many times you go.....it is still AMAZING

Another COOL thing about Fort Worth is TCU........and the fact that a few years ago, we did not have a football team worth watching......unless your kid was playing........

LOOK AT US NOW! Gary Patterson has done a great job with building a great college football team........The stadium is filled at the BYU/ TCU game last Saturday..........and that is not even one of the bigger games......The Tail Gaters were out in force........the Band was great......and this year the Stadium is getting a fabulous makeover! TCU rocks! ..........(I have my Master's from there.)

Last............and the current leader of the week...........the TEXAS RANGERS...........wowwowwowwow
we JUST CANNOT STOP WATCHING TO SEE WHAT HAPPENS NEXT..........I predict a big win!

action at first base...........

This is just a great time to be a Texan.....from Fort Worth, Arlington, and the North Texas area..........

For fans ready to move here to take advantage of all that we offer.

I am ready to help you anytime...........
http://www.diannearnette.com/ (home search)

FORT WORTH IS THE BEST....TEXAS CHRISTIAN UNIV. IN THE COLLEGE WORLD SERIES

2010-06-25T09:32:00.000-07:00

TCU IS HOLDING THEIR OWN

After an exciting game save........TCU is still in the finals of the College World Series in Omaha. All of cowtown is excited and most are wearing purple. This is just one more reason why Fort Worth is a large town with the heart of a small town. WE love our city, it's institutions, and get behind them 100%.

Our neighborhoods are much the same. When you move into an area, it is likely you will be going to a welcome party on your street soon. In some of the newer subdivisions, where most people have moved here from another city, they are even organized for women's clubs, sport activities for the families, and Summer camps for the kids.

See.........these are only a few of ther reasons why, when I sell a home to a relocating buyer, they tell me later that Fort Worth should hire me for their PR! And they should! I am a cheerleader with a purpose.....promoting the city where I have lived most of my adult life.

If you are thinking of relocating to this area.....give me a call and ask me questions....you will get the best answers and I will do my best to help you.

TARRANT COUNTY TRENDS AND PREDICTIONS

2010-06-24T06:58:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to post a quick one today and I will write more about this topic later......

A lot of home sellers feel like "fish swimming in a tank" and they are just waiting for the "hook". My recent experiences in our market are that ...and I cannot say this enough...IT IS AREA SPECIFIC.

That means that your neighborhood may not have had any foreclosures or very many sales...and may be holding it's price BUT, the neighborhood a mile

from you may have had many foreclosures, may have too many new homes for sale by builders, or lots of sellers who lost jobs etc. and want to sell.............THAT CHANGES the supply and demand for that neighborhood.

What you will see...........homes for rent.............more "for sale" signs.......(by owner and agents)...

The owners will try it on their own.........then list with a professional who will have a plan for selling the home.

Today's quick trend that I am spotting...........There are more homes that are larger that are for lease.
...............More about this topic later.

If you need to buy or sell a home.........call me today so that you do not waste valuable market time!

(My fish photo, taken by me, is from one of the ponds in the Japanese Garden at our Fort Worth Botanic Gardens...............enjoy!)

Short Sales ...a Quick Course for Tarrant County Sellers in Trouble

2010-05-17T07:19:00.000-07:00

(Note: the photos in my blog are not necessarily short sales and should not be considered such. However, there are many wonderful properties are that available as short sales. A REALTOR can show those to you. I will be happy to help you either as a buyer or a seller seeking a short sale.)

Today I am talking about Short Sale Basics. There is specific information that each homeowner or homebuyer needs to know about the Short Sale and it's process.

First in 5 areas of Tarrant County that I work in regualarly, today our MLS shows 2874 short sale properties on the market priced between 100K and 200K. That is a lot.............and all of those homeowners are in financial trouble.

From condos on the Westside of Fort Worth to residential properties

in nice family neighbohoods

we see homes on the market that are approved for a Short Sale. What exactly is a short sale?

A short sale is when a lender will agree to approve a sale of a home to a buyer for less than the amount that is owed on the property by the current home owner. The home owner is behind on his payments and may be foreclosed on if the lender chooses not to approve the Short Sale. This costs the lender a lot of money and if he can sell it for less it will probably save him money and get the home off of the lender's financial books. The advantage to the home seller is that although he will take a "hit" on his credit, it is not as severe as he would have if he has a foreclosure on his record.

The positive point of a SHORT SALE is that is will almost always insure that the buyer is purchasing as the lowest possible price. The positive point for a Seller is that it will save him years of overcoming bad credit.

The negative points to consider are: The seller is not allowed to make any money on the sale of his home.

A seller may have to report some of the money he did not have to pay back as income to the IRS. (consult a tax expert about this). The negative to a buyer is that it is difficult to purchase a short sale because the banks are slow to respond and are not worried about your time line.....they are totally on their own timeline in responding. My experience has shown that less than 50% of short sale purchasers actually wind up purchasing a short sale becuase of the difficult process.

If you or someone you know is worried about foreclosure, I will be happy to speak with them and help them to explore their options of Short Sale or other means to avoid foreclosure.

If you are a buyer thinking that you want to get a "good buy" on a home......call me today and let's discuss your needs and terms.

Serving Tarrant County home owners and buyers for more than 14 years.

DiAnne Arnette, Keller Williams REALTY.....817 925-6540 OR dianne@diannearnette.com

Do you Want your Home to SELL or SIT?

2010-05-10T14:44:00.000-07:00

Fort Worth and Tarrant County....

Are you Pricing to Sell or Sit? Sellers are still somewhat on the fence about pricing in some of our market areas of Tarrant County. When they are on the fence, still thinking my home is beautiful and I need to get $____for it, it is so easy to take the easy way as an agent and agree or make a promise that you may not be able to follow through with.

Two situations for me recently really brought this point home to me. I have one listing that due to a court situation, the sellers insisted they had to get $160K for the home. I showed the seller the comparables and that the home in it's current condition would probably sell for no more than $140K They insisted that the home had some nice features and that their price was not too much. This home, less than perfect, has had more than 10 showings in 8 weeks and no offers! The sellers are unhappy and still do not want to lower the price. I have asked each week for a price reduction but have not gotten any agreement that allows for a price change.

Next situation: Small and older home in a similar neighborhood and the seller is eager to sell. After I present the comparables for the area and explain that the number of homes pended in their price range is a good indicator of how many similar homes of the same description are likely to be under contract for the next month. I also explan that I suggest they price it so that it almost looks too good to be true and then have the home as perfect as they can make it for showings. They agree on the strategy. 3 showings and we have a full price offer.

Even though the housing sales reports sound promising in general, the market is still tentative in many areas. The markets within the local market are all different, and there are people who are so discouraged about selling their homes, and their home values, that they are considering walking away even though they can make payments.

AS REALTORS, (only members of the National Association of REALTORS are REALTORS) it is our professional responsibility to tell the truth and show the figures to prove the accuracy of our pricing strategies. Sellers should know the whole truth before they sign the listing agreement. Every situation is different, however, the more realistic the seller is, the happier he will be when the home actually performs.

It may be a good strategy to have a price disclaimer in your file that you ask sellers to sign when they insist that they want a price that above the recommended price for that area. Agents cannot do enough marketing to sell and overpriced home.........and if they did, it might not appraise!

Real Estate Blog - Texas My Texas, all Hail the Mighty State.....Ok....don't judge until

2010-04-22T11:19:00.000-07:00

Real Estate Blog - Texas My Texas, all Hail the Mighty State.....Ok....don't judge until

Ahhh Texas at Bluebonnet Time

2010-04-19T14:33:00.000-07:00

What fun it is to drive down the highway in Texas when it is Bluebonnet Blooming time!
The hills and vallies are covered with beautiful tanzanite blue and sometimes there is an Indian Paintbrush peeping through.

It seems that each time you top a hill the picture is evern more beautiful............and then more beautiful

The wonder of what God gave us...makes me say once again "Thank God, I live in Texas!"

Now a word or warning! Remember that Texas has an abundance of creatures and critters who may be enjoying the cool darkness of the undergrowth of these beautiful flowers....take a look

There are articles in the newspapers every year about people who got a snakebite while photographing in the Bluebonnets....so take a cautious look before you sit down or sit a child down in the lush of the blooms.

There have been painters who became famous from their Bluebonnet Paintings....This is one of my favorites

by Rita McWorter

Credit given to Mollie Lyons for sharing her photographs and acknowlegement of the artist's painting above.

Come to Texas.....and buy a house! I will be ready to help you anytime.

Why Fort Worth?

2010-03-16T15:53:00.000-07:00

Spring is springing in Tarrant County and Fort Worth is the place to be! No question, our city has more events in one weekend than some have in a whole month.

Just this past weekend of March 13-14, Fort Worth hosted, The Dolly ? Antique Show which was huge.
Also, a Gun Show....always a big draw. The Funky Finds Spring Fling, an artisan show which was fabulous,
and a Horse Show. In addition to those, the Bass Hall had major events Friday through Sunday and I know of at least 2 new restaurants that opened during the weekend.

The Kimbell Museum has opening a new Andy Warhol show, which is widely acclaimed, and the Modern Museum, and Amon Carter also have relatively new shows.

Trees are blossoming, and flowers beginning to bloom............so much is going on and on a daily basis, I am amazed at the building, moving, and shaking going on here in Fort Worth, Cowtown to some.

Fort Worth is still a city that is proud of our kids, proud of our town, and proud of the work our our founders.

We have an amazing Botanic Garden that is near the museum area.

The Fort Worth Botanic Garden, the oldest botanic garden in Texas, is a lush 109-acre tapestry of dappled shade and vibrant splashes of color. A peaceful haven nestled in the heart of Fort Worth's Cultural District, the Garden is home to over 2,500 species of native and exotic plants that flourish in its 21 specialty gardens.

We also have the Northside which is known for it's cowboy heritage. It is common to see a herd of Longhorn Cattle being driven down Main Street several times a day. Kids just love this!

I love Fort Worth, it's neighborhoods and it's culture. That must by one reason why I enjoy working with buyers who are relocating to Tarrant County.
I have sold in most areas, and continue to enjoy each and every area. As I tell my clients, I have never sold a home to someone moving to Fort Worth who called and said they did not like the city! That's a great recommendation!

Mr. Seller, Your Home is Not in the MLS system...Do you still want to sell?

2010-03-01T13:54:00.000-08:00

Tarrant County Homes come and go on and off the market on a daily basis in most areas around Fort Worth. Sellers get tired of the hassel of showings and make demands on agents which sometimes make the job of selling much harder than it need be. On the other hand often agents really do not have a plan of how they are going to get the number of showings that it will take to get offers that may be negotiated. Bottom line...no showings, NO SALE!

Imagine this....this home in Colleyville, Tx Expired in the MLS a few days ago. We have a seller who probably wants to sell but because of their situation, they have decided to take the home out of the MLS system.

As a listing agent of many years, I know that 80 % of agents may not have a marketing plan of how to get people in the home. 20% of all sellers believe their home is too special to allow the home to show with ease. Believe me, in today's market it must be EASY to show a home....there are so many to choose from that it is easy for a Buyer to just pass on a home that is difficult to get inside. Why would it be difficult?..you ask. Here are some reasons that leave buyers believing it may not be worth the trouble.
A. 24 to 48 hour notice before all showings.
B. Listing agent must be present for all showings.
C. Seller cancels a showing appointment.
D. Seller insists on being at home for all showings.
E. Listing agent reschedules after appointment has been set.
F. Home is not showable until ________date after the home is placed in the MLS system.
and.........there are more, but these are common.

The bottom line is that if a seller or a listing agent makes it difficult.........a buyer has many others to see.

The next issue with expired listings is that the Seller has become frustrated and angry and wants to blame the home not selling on their agent.......or maybe on all agents. The truth is that not all sellers and agents can or should work together. Agents who are professional, do not fall for letting a seller design their marketing strategy. The professional agent will do that. A marketing plan must lay out the steps that will be taken in the first month, the second month, and so on. A good marketing plan will also change.......because the market is always changing. If it is taking an average of 180 days for a home to sell in an area, it is foolish for an agent to agree to list a home for just 180 days. That is a set up for failure. It is necessary to discuss all strategies with the seller at the time of the listing interview. That way, all parties to the listing contract can understand what is normal, and how the plan is going to be carried out.

When I market homes in and around Fort Worth, Tx and Tarrant County, I make sure that we are all studying the data together. The home may be beautiful in everyway, but if the homes in the same area are selling at a price that is less than last year, we will need to be realistic with our listing price. If Keller or Southlake homes are selling for less than this time last year, we must look at all of the information and decide on a plan. Does the home need some updates? Does the home need to be professionally staged? When does the seller want to be someplace else? All of these questions must be answered.

For more about listing homes in Fort Worth and Tarrant County, please visit my website: http://www.diannearnette.com/

KELLER WILLIAMS FAMILY REUNION IN NEW ORLEANS

2010-02-21T12:32:00.000-08:00

News Flash: Gary Keller delivered the 2010 keynote speech of the Family Reunion National convention of Keller Williams....
Gary Keller just wrapped up his 2010 Vision Speech, which most simply put, was an incredible reminder that NO MATTER the market, your success is defined by your actions. As Gary put it, if only 200 transactions closed in your area last year, and all 200 of them were yours…would the state of the market bother you? Here are a few of our big takeaways about why now is a great time to be in real estate for agents who are committed to making the most of the opportunity:

US Mortgage rates averaged 5.04% in 2009, an all-time low since Freddie Mac started tracking in 1971.
2009 affodability = most favorable in US on record
Sales activity level in 2009 was 4th highest in US on record.
In Canada, available sides per agent increased to 9.5 transactions.
In Canada, home sales increased by 7.7%
69% of first-time homebuyers cited “Desire to own a home” as the primary reason for purchasing in 2009. Only 6% cited the first-time home buyer tax credit.
90% of buyers used the Internet as information source during home search process (As Gary put it – “There are no longer Internet buyers. ALL buyers are Internet buyers.”)
66% of home buyers interviewed only ONE agent.
66% of buyers would use their agent again.

Even though I can not be there this year, I am excited that KW offers live reports for all of the meetings so that I can pass along this information to my clients and anyone who may want to be a future KW agent.

Friday Feb. 10, 2010 New Texas Association of REALTORS committees

2010-02-19T05:48:00.000-08:00

I think it is worthy of noting that TAR appointed a committe of 14 well respected appraisers in different cities of Texas to review apparisals that have complaints. I think this is a real step forward to cause Mortgage companies to be accurate and fair to the public and the loan process. I "tip my hat to the Texas Association of REALTORS for this proactive step.

http://www.diannearnette.com/

Texas REALTORS(agents who are members of NAR and uphold their ethics standard) are sharp and have known for a long time that this change needed to happen. This will keep buyers, sellers, agents, appraisers, and lenders more accountable. Good Change!

HOW ABOUT GLOBAL COOLING?...AT LEAST IN FORT WORTH

2010-02-11T06:33:00.000-08:00

Waking up in Fort Worth today on February 11, 2010 to a White Winter Wonderland, and the reality that today DiAnne Arnette...that's me, will only be showing homes from my computer. There is always a lot to catch up on on days when actually being on the streets and in homes to list or sell is not possible. Today will be a day of contacting my contacts who may be needing information about a home that is one the market, or to talk with an owner who wants or needs to sell.

While I work, I will look out on this beautiful scene across the street from my home. The snow is still falling and I hope to update my blog again later this morning. This promises to be a big and wet snow, so maybe I will have a snowman to show you later.

Meanwhile.........Sellers in Fort Worth who are getting their homes ready to sell can contact me for printed materials about what they can do to be ready for a buyer. I have the latest stats on the current market and also about the performance in the area. Speaking of performance.......Take a look at how this Snow is performing!

Please contact me at dianne@diannearnette.com to begin your research of the Fort Worth area market. Every city is neighborhood specific...don't look at the area wide comparables without the specific information about your area of interest.

This is a good day for my clients and past clients to call me with questions, or to request some market information for a friend, relative, or neighbor who may need help.

FEBRUARY...aah, A Time for House Loving and Looking!

2010-02-08T10:31:00.000-08:00

Brrrr. It is still too cold for most Texan to love the outdoors right now, however a motivated homebuyer is ready to get out there and look. They are lov'n the still low interest rates, lower listing prices, willingness of most sellers to negotiate, and want a Jump Start on Spring!

Just yesterday, I sent a buyer a big long list of homes that matched up with his criteria for his Spring purchase. He is more of an investor type, so there is a wide range of properties that might match to what he needs. He is smart and has also utilitized my up to the minute local home search on my webpage, http://www.diannearnette.com/ and he can search on his own, save properties, and then I can see what is looking good for him so that I can add more information as he needs it.

Also.......I have young families that are ready to move. They have been renting too long and do not want to continue the "money down the toliet" situation. Not to mention that very nice apartments cost most to rent than house payments on very nice homes. I have noticed that even the deposits to get into rentals are sometimes 1/2 what a downpayment would be. That's not so great!

So what are buyers looking at in Fort Worth? This beauty in a Historical area was one home that I showed yesterday. It is just so warm and nice. Not a perfect home, but the space is there and it has the most fabulous kitchen! Another home we saw was this one in Overton Park, a neighborhood near TCU...

High on a hill and light and bright, my client really liked the outdoorsy feeling of this home. The combination of a lovely yard and location make this home desireable and I am sure it will be off the market soon. When working with my clients, I like to begin showing a variety of homes so they can get a feeling for what may be offered in the area. It is usually important to families with children to know what the local schools may be like, and to know where the community amenties such as grocery stores, restraurants, and entertainment areas are located. When working with buyers, it is good to set expectations of how often you will communicate, when they will be available to look at properties and very important, set an appointment with a lender right away.

The lender can be a life saver for the buyer and the agent, so that right in the beginning we will know the amounts and the very important timelines for securing the financing. Without this first step...we are not actually getting to our Home Buying Destination very effeciently.

So...until next time. Call me or email me with your questions.

DiAnne Arnette, http://www.diannearnette.com/

Some People May Want to Know More about DiAnne

2010-02-04T06:36:00.000-08:00

I wrote a real estate blog on http://www.activerain.com/ this week and go so many comments and questions about "who I am"....so here is my real estate profile, in case you wonder.

DIANNE ARNETTE, REALTOR "THE EYES OF TEXAS ARE UPON YOU"

I am a graduate of the University of Oklahoma, with a Master's Degree from Texas Christian University. I enjoy the best of ALL WORLDS. A Sooner, with the Eyes of Texas! I love Texas!!! and so will you or your client when they work with me.

My experience includes the past 14 years of working with buyers and sellers in most of Tarrant County. My specialty has been the Colleyville/Southlake/Keller area of NE Tarrant County because of it's nearness to DFW International airport, and the great school districts. Howver, since 2008, I have officed in the middle of Fort Worth, and now work the central Fort Worth area also. I love to talk to anyone about real estate and what they need.

I live and office in the cultural area of Fort Worth and I love to give guided tours to newbies in the area. By the time I finish with a tour, never again, will Fort Worth be confused with Dallas. When you live in Fort Worth or Tarrant County, it is a "no no" to say that you live in Dallas. EVen though that beautiful city is only 30 miles away, there is a vast difference between the two.

Personally, I have 3 grown sons and some darling grandchildren who love to have "adventures" with Mumsy!

ABOUT REAL ESTATE: I take pride in my preparation, organization, and follow up with clients of all descriptions. My clients are very important to me. i am a good communicator and want to know the details that the client needs to know while making the purchase or the sale of real estate. I may not know everthing, but I know where to get the information. I am a knowledgeable agent and always put the effort into the job that I am doing for my client.

Please visit my website anytime to see more about me. http://www.diannearnette.com/ (which is being worked on now for improvement.)

I hope to hear from you soon.

If you are curious about my Active Rain Blog that was so popular this week....take a look...I am still getting comments. http://activerain.com/blogsview/1469861/sometimes-it-is-best-to-fire-a-seller-yikes-

BRRRR...It is freezing in Fort Worth Today!

2010-01-07T10:21:00.000-08:00

Even in freezing temps, people are thinking about either buying or selling homes. From Foreclosures to Fortresses, to Farms, Ranches, and Luxury Mansions...Here is what looks good to me!
How about you? These are all preowned homes in Tarrant County.

This is just a sample....there are so many beauties....

This one has been reduced to $440K and is

in Colleyville Built in 2006 a beauty!

This home is in West Fort Worth and is

new on the market. Under 300K and offers neighborhood and location that is great!

Under $150K near Eagle Mt. Lake, this

is a great starter

or young family home.

The subdivision has a view of the Lake. Great Schools too.

Whether you are looking to buy or sell..........there are opportunities waiting for the buyer who is ready to take advantage of 1. tax advantage, 2. low interest rates, 3. willing sellers, ..........Now what are you waiting for!

Fort Worth Has it All...........Now come and get it!

2010-01-01T09:25:00.000-08:00

Dec. 24 brought a big surprise...........Residents of Fort Worth have rarely seen a white Christmas Eve...but here it was.......right here, really!

The photos in and around the Botanic Garden that I took just before the roads got too dangerous are here for you to enjoy................Now call me and come to Fort Worth.........a new home for your family is ready!

The Duck Pond in Trinity Park

A Bench in the Botanic Garden looked both serene and lonely!

The Frozen Fountain in the Botanic Garden would soon have

a blanket of snow all over the ground....and

looked like a premature spray of fireworks sparkling in the sky.

Happy New Year

DiAnne Arnette, REALTOR

and....photographer

New MLS System at Greater Fort Worth Board of REALTORS...AND MORE

2009-12-01T09:49:00.000-08:00

7241 Teal Drive is a

lovely home in the Park Glen area......It really wants a new owner..............Priced at $143,900 it is a great value......new HC/AC, new roof, neutral colors..........It really wants people!

Hello....this is the week after Thanksgiving and I came back refreshed and motivated to do more than I already do to work with and for buyers and sellers. The fact is that showings are down right now....that is normal for this time of year. Even though it is normal for slow showings after Sept. it is still the most frustrating of situations.....because I REALLY WANT TO DO WELL FOR MY SELLERS!

I attended a meeting at the Board of Realtors this morning specifically to learn about the new INOVA system that we have now........as it turned out, it was an opportunity for me to tell about 35 agents about my listings with the hope that they may have a client who will want to see homes in that area. This was an unexpected treat..........and it fit with my plan of trying to do....yet more!

I understand what sellers are going through.......they only know if their home is showing....and they are focused only on that. Sometimes it may help that they know what the market over all in doing....but still it just seems like an excuse. If a seller could set in on some of our meetings they would know that we are telling the truth.

I laughingly told an agent that I had done everything but strip and stand in the front yard to try to get showings....she replied: WEll, maybe that would work! The bottom line is that in some areas, there are not enought buyers and there are too many homes available.........so once again to preach.....Price MAY BE THE ONLY MOTIVATOR!

Now.......about our new MLS search tool. I will be attending a class to learn about it's tricks....and just maybe there will be something new that will help me prospect for my sellers. I hope so...I will let you know!

Meanwhile, if you know a seller in trouble........call me
If you know a buyer who wants to get a great deal on a home............I am the one. www.diannearnette.com

If you know someone who may want to sell in the Spring..........I am ready!

Meanwhile....stay positive, check out the politicians before voting, and say your prayers for friends, relatives, and our public officials!

Contact me anytime at dianne@diannearnette.com

Thinking of Foreclosure? Think About Short Sale instead!

2009-11-12T14:39:00.000-08:00

If you are reading this latest blog, you may be considering what to do about your house payment this month or thinking about the letter that you got from your lender last month stateing that you may be foreclosed on and to contact them right away to make arrangements to catch up on your house payments.....If this or something similar is your situation, please read this and think about this option.

In most states a home can be foreclosed on if a homeowner has not made a payment in 30 days...In Texas the time frame is about the same, but it takes several weeks and sometimes months to actually have to move out of the home. Right now, Banks are so behind that they cannot physically handle everything, so letters may be late reaching the homeowner and buy a little more time.

In Texas a homeowner must have missed several payments AND have tried to sell the home before a bank will put the property in a SHORT SALE program. Listen up....the homeowner actually has to have sent the bank the property information and ask for this program before it will be granted.

The biggest problem is that most owners do not know the first thing about what to do next....and frankly many agents, in fact most agents do not have experience with this either........Not that the agent doesn't know real estate practice, but this is a new area for many newer agents who have not experienced the "downs" that real estate can have.

85% of Agents do not know what to do..........and 50 per cent of those don't want to handle a Short Sale because of the intense work to get them closed! The agent must have a system in place and know what to do next at each step of the way.

"DiAnne told us that we might qualify for a Short Sale. We did not know what she was talking about."

Cynthia, Fort Worth, Texas

When I visit with a seller and they tell me they need to sell right away I immediately ask what the rush to sell is. If they say the house is more than they can handle financially, I know that I must ask some uncomfortable questions and show them that I have empathy and good experience to help them get through this rough time.

Can Any Agent Do a Short Sale?

Well Yes....however, is a beginning driver as safe as an EXPERIENCED DRIVER?

This homeowner moved out of state and I have continued the Short Sale process without her worrying about the home. She arranged to keep the yard up so the home would attract a buyer.

Currently, the term Short Sale should be changed to "Long Sale" because there is nothing short about it.

The banks call the shots, but experienced Short Sale agents know how to move things along. If the agent is unaware of a few secrets of the situation, the bank will not act....and the deal can be lost.

To find out more about banks and short sales, please contact me via email or give me a call.

Visit me at http://www.diannearnette.com/ email me at daahomes@gmail.com

Fort Worth isHeading Into Fall Home Sales....What Should a Seller Do in Tarrant County

2009-11-02T14:41:00.000-08:00

Fall is here.........We fell back with the time last Saturday after our Trick or Treating fun! Now, back to the business of getting your home here in Fort Worth and Tarrant County sold. Often sellers don't want to hear the truth. They want to like the agent, their agent, and when that agent has to show them the situation of the area, they balk! It is human nature to think that "this can't be accurate", when it is opposite of what their emotions were telling them about their home.

Fact are Facts, and numbers really do tell the accurate story. Some things to remember when you are trying to decide on a "asking price":

Remember that reported sales prices lag behing by one or two months. So just figure that any home that pended in less than 60 days was priced well for it's market. Unless the home was perfect in everyway, today's buyer is going pay less than you will see on the pended sheet. With that being the case, it is important to realize that as there are fewer buyers at or around the holidays, in order for your home to be the stand-out value, you will need to be priced well and have the home perfect as well.

Sellers who want to sell must get emotions in check and just simply deal with the reality of the market of the moment. Remember that this market doesn't stand still.........it is a living, breathing entity. Like you, you change with each activity, and so does real estate.

When a seller says to me, "but you told me this last month", I must stop and remind them that each time a home is listed or a home is sold, the market changes.

If you want to know about the market of the moment in your neighborhood, please call or email me and I will do my best to give you great information.

REAL ESTATE BUYING AND SELLING IN OCTOBER...

2009-10-20T12:39:00.000-07:00

THE CHALLENGES OF A SELLER IN OCTOBER IN TARRANT COUNTY......IT BECOMES A "HUNTING EXCURSION" ...for the best home for the best price!

I have written many times about the fact that real estate is area within area specific. I cannot stress this enough in today's market....which is almost the market of the "hollidays" when things drop off in any year no matter the location.

For example, in Fort Worth proper.....you have West of downtown, inside the loop, West of downtown, outside the loop, and so it goes for East, North and South. Even in those areas, you then have older and newer construction....near or far from schools, great drive by appeal or not.

Now........to give you some stats of the areas

In MLS area 130 which is the Park Glen area, According to Centralized Showing Service, there were fewer than 26 showings between Sept. 1 and Oct. 20 with zero showings of homes that were priced $140,000 to $149,000. Today there are 39 listings on the market in this MLS area priced between 140K and 150K.

What this means is that EVERY SELLER must take into consideration that their home will be compared in this 10K price range and the scarce buyer will cherry pick until he finds the one that he thinks is best for the money. If there is anything negative for that buyer........they will move on, because they can easily look at all the 39 homes in 4 or 5 days and then make a decision. Each buyer will do a drive by first, and then will tell their agent which they want to see.

So.......seller you are now informed! Go outside your house and stand across the street...look at your house and look at all of your neighbors homes........is yours the best looking from yard to door? If not, why not? What do you need to do to make it look the best? Don't think about it, just do it! Remember, no matter how nice your interior is, if the exterior doesn't drive them to want to look inside, then they won't ever see inside when they have 39 other homes to pick from.

Your agent may or may not have mentioned this at the first visit........sometimes a location will drive the buyers, but if you home has been on the market a month and it is not showing.......then begin to assess the drive up appeal and then the price.

If you have a real estate question about Fort Worth, please email me at:

dianne@diannearnette.com

Keller Williams Realty

Fort Worth Real Estate.....Beautiful!

2009-09-28T07:53:00.000-07:00

I love real estate..........Certainly as a REALTOR, I like properties, but I also just like real estate for it's beauty. I snapped this photo as I walked in the Fort Worth Botanic Gardens on Sunday. I was there early and it was just me and the turtles around the pond. When I see this kind of real estate, it reminds me to count the blessings that we have in Texas.

We still have a little space where you can escape and have quiet time. We have a caring community that values beauty and culture. Although, we don't often stop and appreciate it........it is really HERE.

I hope that you will stop and appreciate this week. Look with joy as you drive home or drive on an errand.
You are fortunate to live here in Tarrant County.........I just love it!

..................if you want to know more about Tarrant County and what we offer, please give me a call.
I work with all price ranges, and I know the area and it's homes well. You may email me at dianne@diannearnette.com

Is the Color of Money Greed?

2008-09-28T16:46:00.001-07:00

The Color of Money....Greed

The system has gone off the track....and no wonder! As a REALTOR for more than 10 years, I have watched new

building speed up like a run-away train. Builders have offered incentives that were hard to resist....lower rates if you use their mortgage, title company etc. Low downpayments and...well you know the rest. No lectures here!

If you observe my photo at the right, you will notice that it is wall street and view of the New York skyline. Guess what the buildings are made of? Leggos....seems there is some truth in the photo!

Fort Worth Photography Enthusiasm

2008-05-15T06:14:00.000-07:00

I am a novice photographer and just love the art/sport/whatever you want to call it!

I recently joined the Fort Worth Camera Club and have found it to be so great! There are terrific photographers ranging from professional to like me...and they all want to help each become better. I believe that my photo experience helps me show my listed properties better through the photos. I also love just taking Texas photos. If you would like more information about the camera club. Just let me know.

Traffic and Drive Time Tarrant

2008-05-14T05:25:00.000-07:00

My real estate clients are very concerned with drive time to and from work and with rising fuel costs, who isn't?

Drive time from downtown Fort Worth to downtown Dallas is about 35 minutes without traffice stops. The slowdowns occur through Arlington with some road construction in heavy commute times. There is a lot of construction in different areas, so that must be considered as temporary.

Drive time from N. Tarrant to DFW airport area is about 25 to 30 minutes, with several routes to choose from.

From Southlake area, drive to DFW airport is about 15 minutes. From Colleyville to DFW is about 12-15 minutes.

From Grapevine to DFW about 10 minutes. For your specific questions be sure to ask here or email dianne@diannearnette.com BE SAFE!