Sunday, July 1, 2012


Rising Temps and Falling Rates!


Sweet, sweet Summertime!!  100+ degrees here in Alabama.  That's hot y'all!!  You know,  the kind of hot that makes everybody wear clothes that they really shouldn't been seen out in public in?  (I think that's where they get a lot of the material for those Walmart videos).   Yep, it's that hot!!


My grandsons are playing AllStar baseball.  Is it just me or does it always seem hotter at that ball field than anywhere else?  
The boys have had a game most every night while playing in these tournaments. Of course we wouldn't miss it for the world, no matter how hot it gets.  They won first place in their Sub-District Tournament (undefeated) and had to win both games in a double header in this triple digit heat to win the District Tournament! What an effort these guys put forth!!  They won 19-0 in the first game and 9-6 in the second.  (yes, we're proud, obnoxious grandparents.)  
They have their hearts set on this trip to Enterprise, Alabama for the State Tournament next weekend so I'm certain we will be trading a much needed vacation to relax for a wild trip to the ball park!!  Oh well, that's what grandkids are for right?  We wouldn't have it any other way.  :)


Things are definitely heating up in the real estate world as well.  Another drop in interest rates to a historical low is making things quite interesting.  If you are thinking of buying, selling or simply re-financing, don't think too long!  The election will most certainly make a difference so don't miss your chance to get what's almost like free money.  With 30 year, fixed rate mortgages as low as 3.25%, what on earth could you be waiting for?  Of course these rates may vary depending on your credit scores, down payment, etc., but there are some great options out there.  There's never been a better time for first time buyers all the way up to luxury buyers to invest in real estate.


In the Shoals, we are seeing a significant increase in home sales and that's good news for us all.  
For buyers, loans can be tough but that just means it's important to have all your ducks in a row.  Money is available, know your options and take advantage of the best available loan program for your situation. I can help you with this, just ask.  
For sellers, there are plenty of over-priced, under-cared for properties on the market already.  Sell yours by making it stand out!  Price it properly to begin with. Show pride of ownership and that it has been well maintained.  Keep it spit shined for showing opportunities.  A clean, cool, sweet smelling home invites a buyer to come in, sit down and imagine their family having dinner and watching a movie in the family room.  A stale, untidy home hurries the buyer outside before they have the opportunity to consider their family living there.


Hope your summer is filled with lots of fun activities with those you love. Remember to tell others how important they are to you, life is fragile and none of us are promised tomorrow.  


Here's a quick and cool recipe for taking to church or family get togethers in the summer.  You know, when you want something pretty and that taste good but you don't want to turn on the oven!!




Mandarin Orange Pie


2 graham crusts
1/2 c lemon juice
1 -8 oz container cool whip
20 ounce can crushed pineapple, drained
15 ounce mandarin oranges, drained
14 ounce sweetened condensed milk
Mix together whipped topping, sweetened condensed milk, and lemon juice until smooth and creamy. Stir in drained fruit. Fill crusts and freeze. Remove from freezer approximately ten minutes or so before serving. 




Have a blessed week and stay cool,
Trish