If you have a question about anything real estate related, have something to contribute, or just need some information... let me know. I'll do my best to get right back to you. If the answer/information is not private, I'll post it here on my blog for all to read and comment on. Chances are, others have similar questions and will appreciate your inquiry or information.

Ryan Cave, The "Caveman"
Truth, Honor & Personal Integrity
214-789-9366
www.CaveRealty.com
 

Interested in buying a home? Thinking you might wait a few more months? I thought I would let you know some of the changes that are coming, and others that are thought to be coming, that I've been warning Buyers about:
- First, the tax credits (free money) are set to expire on April 30th. Until then, there is $8,000 for most buyers who haven't owned a home 3+ years, and $6,500 for most buyers who have owed a home in the last 3 years. Read more here: http://www.federalhousingtaxcredit.com/
- Next, I hear rumors that there are lots of proposed changes to loans that will make it tougher for Americans to buy. These are coming in response to all of the foreclosures and bad lending practices over the past few years. These changes, once finalized, are thought to be coming as soon as the next month or two. However, they won't usually be able to change the terms for Buyers who have already found a home and locked-in their loans (even if you haven't closed on the purchase yet). So, many buyers are moving fast right now to lock-in the current standards. Here's what I've heard about proposed changes... all are just rumors at this point, but most experts agree that at least some of these changes are coming:
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HUD and FHA Officials said that they expect the FHA to announce major changes to ensure FHA's long-term financial soundness. Some examples are as follows:
1)   Increase the down payment required from 3.5% to 5% (Buyers will need more $ up-front)
2)   Raise the initial MI premium from 1.75% to as much as 3% (costing buyers more $ monthly)
3)   Eliminate the ability to roll in to loan that up-front premium (Buyers will need more $ up-front)
4)   Increase monthly MIP from .55% (costing buyers more $ monthly)
5)   Reduce seller concessions from 6% to 3% (Buyers will need more $ up-front)
6)   Raise minimum FICO score (meaning fewer buyers would qualify to buy a home)
7)   Possible LTV maximums by FICO score (meaning lower credit scores = less house)
8)   Increase accountability of FHA Lenders for fraud (this is the only proposal that won't affect honest buyers and lenders)
Timing:  "We expect these changes to be announced soon and could be implemented within a couple months.  None of these changes requires congressional approval and can be made administratively and therefore can be implemented quickly."
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I don't mean to scare you, but I also don't want any of my buyers angry at me asking "Why didn't you tell us it was going to get even harder, and cost thousands more, to buy a home?" So, let me know if I can help with anything or answer any questions... with the current tax incentives and low interest rates (I know it's a cliché but) there really has never been a better time to buy a home!

Ryan Cave, The "Caveman"
Truth, Honor & Personal Integrity
214-789-9366
www.CaveRealty.com
  

And finally, part four in our series (be sure to see part 1,  part 2, and part 3 in this series)...
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What property descriptions REALLY mean when they say...
If the description uses words like "Immaculate" and "Pristine" and lists LOTS of upgrades/updates (i.e. the description just goes on and on about the updates and upgrades and how unbelievable, neat and clean the home is), then the home is likely in good to great condition. However, you must again pay close attention to WHICH items are upgraded/updated... and again watch the pictures. Often times homeowners spend all of their money on things that aren't important to you, or those that don't add much resale value... like landscaping, an upgraded roof (i.e. 40 yr. shingles), raident barrier, etc. I've seen homes with LOTS of upgrades listed, but they were all functional (not cosmetic). So, while these upgrades are good for some people (i.e. those who want lower utility bills, insurance premiums, etc.), the homes often fall into the previous category of looking dated and needing some upgrades/updates if you really want to show them off to friends and family.

I hope this series has helped, as you go about deciphering property descriptions, so that you can better find homes in the condition that you're looking for. Another invaluable tool to help with deciphering property descriptions, photos and more: A great real estate agent! Let me know if I can help in the Dallas area and surrounding suburbs... or if I can help you with a referral to a great agent to help you in another area or even another state.

Ryan Cave, The "Caveman"
Truth, Honor & Personal Integrity
214-789-9366
www.CaveRealty.com
 

 On to part three in our series (see part 1 & part 2 below for the intro, explanation and other valuable info.)
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What property descriptions REALLY mean when they say...
If a few upgrades/updates are mentioned (i.e. like "Updated bath", "New roof", "Fresh carpet and paint"), and there are plenty of pictures that look fairly nice, but none of the "red flag" phrases from earlier in this series are used (like "Needs a little TLC"), then the home is probably in average condition. These homes won't typically blow you away, and you should still expect to see lots of dated fixtures and features in homes described like this. Pay special attention to the pictures and listed upgrades/updates, and don't expect more than they show/describe. If they had more upgrades or updates to brag about, they would show and/or list them. You can probably live in most of these homes just fine without much work... but it won't look like a model home and there will be plenty of home improvement projects for you if you enjoy updating and upgrading.
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Check back in a few days for the final part (4) in this series...

Ryan Cave, The "Caveman"
Truth, Honor & Personal Integrity
214-789-9366
www.CaveRealty.com
 

Clients tell me all the time that they aren't affraid of a home that needs a little work, like carpet and paint and a few minor repairs. So, they find some homes that say they're in need of a little work, a little "TLC", but then they're shocked at how bad the condition of these homes are once they see them in person. So, I thought I'd put together a helpful little list to explain what most property descriptions REALLY mean when they talk condition and upgrades/updates. Keep in mind that these aren't true every time, but I've found them to hold true the vast majority of the time. So, here's part one of "What property descriptions REALLY mean when they say..."

---Part 1---
What property descriptions REALLY mean when they say... "Needs a little TLC" or "A diamond in the rough" or "Mostly cosmetic issues" or "Handyman Special". These phrases (and any like them) generally mean that a home needs a TON of work... more than almost any hanyman could handle (i.e. the new owner better plan to call-in several contractors). In fact, often these houses are so torn-up that they won't qualify for traditional FHA or USDA financing (i.e. you need 10% and sometimes 20% down or, occasionally, an FHA 203k rehab. loan). On these homes I would typically expect to see holes in walls, missing appliances, leaky roofs, bad (or missing) HVAC components, and often foundation problems and more.
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Check back in a few days and I'll move on to part 2 in this series...

Ryan Cave, The "Caveman"
Truth, Honor & Personal Integrity
214-789-9366
www.CaveRealty.com
 

Statistics for the month of November from the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) for North Texas continue to show positive signs for housing industry recovery. Comparing Nov. 2009 to Nov. 2008 (see below) you'll see that the number of home sales in the MLS for North Texas was up dramatically (33%; spured on by the near-expiration of the $8,000 tax credit) and the average price is basically flat (down just 1%). The days on market is down slightly (5%), meaning that homes were selling a little more quickly, while the pending sales are up nearly 10%; and the inventory (New and Active listings) are also both down slightly (3% and 1%, respectively). These are all good signs of continuing recovery for the housing industry. In fact, the only one of these statistics that isn't great news for Sellers is the average price. Prices in North Texas aren't expected to jump anytime soon, though most experts agree that small gains (a percent or two) are possibly by late 2010. However, by then possibly higher interest rates could mean fewer buyers/less house for the money. Personally, I expect a very busy spring as many Owners put their homes on the market to take advantage of the $6,500 tax credit for existing homeowners, and low interest rates, to get into their next home. Homes should continue to sell well as Buyers continue to take advantage of the same tax credit and low interest rates, plus the $8,000 tax credit for first-time* home buyers (*Note: "first-time" includes those who haven't owned a home in the past three years). Don't be fooled... these tax credits are FREE MONEY, not loans, in the form of federal income tax credits. They're not just tax deductions, you get the full value of your credit paid to you by Uncle Sam (taken right off of your total federal income tax bill or refunded back to you by the IRS). Call or email me for more details...

North Texas Real Estate Information System
MLS Current Month Summary for: November 2009

Ryan Cave, The "Caveman"
Truth, Honor & Personal Integrity
214-789-9366
www.CaveRealty.com
 

I just wanted to make sure everybody knew about the FREE MONEY available with the newly extended and expanded home buyer tax credits. Tell anyone you know who might be thinking of buying a home: There is $8,000 available for most home buyers who haven't owned a home in the past three years... AND NOW $6,500 available for most home buyers who HAVE owned a home for five of the past eight years. This is only for a few more months though! Call or email me with any questions and/or read more here: www.federalhousingtaxcredit.com
And remember: If you think of someone that this might could help, send them my way... I reward for referrals!

Also, several homeowners insurance companies have been doubling deductibles (from one to two percent) without much fan-fair. You could easily have overlooked the non-descript notices that went out and this could cost you BIG if you don't realize it until you need to file a claim. If you haven't checked your homeowner's insurance policy in a while, or just want to shop around to save some bucks, now is the time! Let me know if you need a referral to a great agent or two.

Ryan Cave, The "Caveman"
Truth, Honor & Personal Integrity
214-789-9366
www.CaveRealty.com
 

Be there as the City of Allen kicks off the holidays. The Annual Christmas Tree Lighting is in the Allen Civic Plaza on Friday, December 4th at 7pm. There will be entertainment, children's activities, an outdoor movie plus treats and refreshments. This is a FREE event and should be a great time (just be sure to bundle up)!

Stay warm and enjoy!

Ryan Cave, The "Caveman"
Truth, Honor & Personal Integrity
214-789-9366
www.CaveRealty.com
 

A friend sent me these tips for home maintenance and I thought I'd tweak them a bit and post them. They're full of good advice and they will save you time and money... whether as preventative maintenance (for those staying in their homes) or as a way to avoid finding out about issues with these items from an inspector (for those thinking of selling their homes).
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Benjamin Franklin once stated, "An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure".  This quote holds true for many situations.  When it comes to home maintenance this way of thinking can save you thousands of dollars.  The following tips will help make home ownership much more pleasant or help prepare your home for inspection and sale:

• Check your roof- Your roof is the first line of defense against Mother Nature. You should have your roof condition evaluated once a year. Call a local handyman or roofer and ask him to make sure your roof is well sealed and free of damage. Do this and Mother Nature will not come into your house uninvited.
• Take a walk- Every six months walk around the perimeter of your house looking at the windows, doors and soffits. Make sure that all areas are well caulked and well painted.  Keep vegetation trimmed away from the exterior walls and air conditioning units. Vegetation can damage your home and present a path for wood destroying insects to drop by without calling first. Vegetation can damage A/C equipment and cause condensers to age prematurely.
• Electric check- Every six months check your Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCI). Make sure that when you push the test button the circuit trips. If your home comes with Arc Fault Circuit Interrupters (AFCI), push the test button and make sure the circuit trips too.
• Relieve some pressure- Every six month test the Temperature and Pressure Relief Valve on your water heater. This valve releases water (thus relieves pressure), if either the temperature or pressure is too high. These valves are very important. Water heaters can become a bomb if the pressure gets too high and these valves fail to work.
• Sink to new lows- Every few months look under all of your sinks for signs of leaks. Even a slow leak can cause damage to your home. Get it before it gets you.
• Get your annual check-up- Once a year have your H/VAC system serviced. This will not only help your equipment last longer, it will save money on your monthly bills.

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So there you have it. I hope these home maintenance tips help you save money and keep your home in good shape. Don't forget that, if you ever need a referral, I know great vendors from painters and plumbers to electricians and roofers.

Ryan Cave, The "Caveman"
Truth, Honor & Personal Integrity
214-789-9366
www.CaveRealty.com
 

Here are the rest of the details about all of the holiday events at Watters Creek:

Friday Lunch Time with Santa - December 4, 11 and 18, noon to 1:30 p.m.

The first three Friday's of December children of all ages are invited to come and eat lunch with Santa and enjoy tales about life at the North Pole.  Complimentary lunches for children will be provided, while supplies last.  Lunchtime with Santa is from noon to 1:30 p.m. and is located at the Fireplace near The Green.

Cookie Decorating with Mrs. Claus - December 5, 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Celebrate the holidays in sweet style by decorating holiday cookies with Santa's better half. Fun for all ages, this free activity also includes story time and entertainment with Mrs. Claus. Located on the Green.

Santa and His Reindeer - December 12, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Meet Santa, sit in his sleigh and get up-close with his beloved reindeer on The Green. Families will have the opportunity to take their own photos, at no charge. This event is free and open to the public. Located on the Green.

Big Screen on the Green - Holiday Edition - December 17 - 19, movies start at 6:30 p.m.

Families are invited to bring a blanket and watch an entertaining holiday movie on a gigantic two-story inflatable movie screen located in the heart of Watters Creek on The Green while enjoying a magical snowfall shower.  No lawn chairs, coolers or alcohol permitted.  Weather permitting movies begin at 6:30 p.m and are scheduled as follows: December 17 - Elf; December 18 - Home Alone; December 19 - A Christmas Story.*
*[I still have to confirm this as the info. I got showed A Christmas Story on Dec. 18th, but I believe that was a typo].

Wonderland Express - December 4 - 19, Friday's and Saturday's 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.  December 21 and 22 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Carraige rides will begin near Grimaldi's and each ride can hold upto four adults Be sure to bring the family or that someone special and take a holiday horse-drawn carriage ride around Watters Creek while taking in the spectacular holiday lights. The cost is $25.

Flurries on the Green  - November 29, 7:30 p.m. and December 3 - 19, Thursday's through Saturdays, 6 p.m., 7 p.m. and 8 p.m.

There is snow in the forecast this holiday season at Watters Creek.  Experience a delightful 10-minute snowfall every Thursday, Friday and Saturday at 6 p.m., 7 p.m. and 8 p.m. during the month of December on The Green, located in the heart of Watters Creek. *No show Christmas day.
 

Toys for Tots  - November 29 - December 14

The Official U.S. Marines Corp Reserve Toys for Tots Program is collecting new or unwrapped toys from November 29 through December 14 at Watters Creek Concierge and Market Street.  These toys will be distributed as Christmas gifts to needy children in the community.
 

Free Valet on Weekends During the Holiday Season

In celebration of the holiday's Watters Creek is offering FREE VALET to all its customers on the weekends. Valet available near Mi Cocina, The Blue Fish, P.F. Chang's and The Cheesecake Factory.  Keep in mind that Valet is always FREE at Watters Creek every Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 6 p.m. to close throughout the entire year!

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Again I'll say that I think we're lucky to have so many new developments and activities here in Allen, TX. Note that most events are free in hopes that you might stick around and knockout some holiday shopping while you're there. Sounds like a good plan to me. Happy holidays everyone!

Ryan Cave, The "Caveman"
Truth, Honor & Personal Integrity
214-789-9366
www.CaveRealty.com
 

I just heard about the Light The Night holiday event at Watters Creek in Allen, TX (SW corner of Bethany and 75/Central). Come check out everything from live entertainment and a tree lighting, to Santa's arrival and guaranteed snow showers! Details below:
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November 29, 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Light the Night kicks off the holiday season at Watters Creek with the official lighting of over a half-a-million LED lights, including a historic 100-year-old Pecan Tree featuring large glowing ornaments.  The evening also includes live entertainment, snowfall showers and a beautiful lighted horse-drawn carriage parade through Watters Creek featuring Santa's arrival followed by a "meet and greet" with Santa at the Fireplace.

Light the Night Schedule of Events:

6 p.m. - Live entertainment, contests and giveaways with Radio Disney

6:30 p.m. - Pecan Tree lighting ceremony (Located behind Mi Cocina Pecan)

7 p.m. - Lighted horse-drawn carriage parade with Santa's arrival via a horse-drawn sleigh.  Visits with Santa at the Fireplace directly following the parade

7:30 p.m. - Flurries on the Green. Catch the first snowfall of the season.
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Enjoy another great holiday event here in Allen! Details about the rest of the holiday events at Watters Creek in just a few days, so be sure to check back!

Ryan Cave, The "Caveman"
Truth, Honor & Personal Integrity
214-789-9366
www.CaveRealty.com
 

The Viliage at Allen holiday events will continue throughout Novenber and December. Here are the details, enjoy:

• Photos with “The Big Guy,” Nov. 21 – Dec. 24
  Santa will have his own special house at The Village at Allen where children can visit him for photos and wishes beginning Nov. 21 and continuing through Christmas Eve. Pets will have their own night for photos with Santa every Tuesday from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. beginning Nov. 24 and continuing through Dec. 8.  For daily Santa hours and photo package prices, visit www.thevillageshopping.com.
• Letters to Santa, Nov. 21 – Dec. 24
  Children wanting a direct line to Santa Claus can drop their letters into Santa’s mailbox, located in The Grove. Santa’s smiling face is on the front of the mailbox waiting for holiday wish letters.
• Visit Donner and Blitzen, Nov. 21 – Dec. 20
  The Village at Allen will be home to Santa’s favorite reindeer, Donner and Blitzen, during the holiday season beginning Nov. 21. See the live reindeer when they take turns visiting Nov. 21 - Dec. 21 (on site each Saturday and Sunday). Visit www.thevillageshopping.com for reindeer hours.  
• Interactive Tree Show (happening every 20 minutes), Nov. 21 – through Dec. 24
  Festive holiday music and 100,000 bright lights create an interactive holiday experience that will make even the Grinch smile.
• Toy Drive, Nov. 21 – Dec. 19
  Guests are encouraged to bring an unwrapped toy to donate to the Allen Community Outreach holiday toy drive, benefitting needy families in the community.  Look for the toy box in The Grove to drop off donation items.
• Trees For Troops, Dec. 3 – Dec. 5
  The Village at Allen will join FedEx Freight and the Christmas SPIRIT Foundation in honoring members of the U.S. Armed Forces by providing 200 Christmas trees that will be distributed to service members and their families.  Guests can participate by stopping by the Trees for Troops tent to write a note of appreciation that will be attached to a donated tree.
• Holiday Blood Drive, Dec. 19, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
  The blood drive, benefiting Carter BloodCare, will be held in The Grove. Continue the  spirit of giving by donating blood to help Carter BloodCare reach its goal of replenishing  the area’s blood supply. 

I hope you and your family enjoy the events and have a happy holiday season!

Ryan Cave, The "Caveman"
Truth, Honor & Personal Integrity
214-789-9366
www.CaveRealty.com
 

Ok, here are the details for the holiday kick-off event on Saturday, Nov. 21 from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. are as follows. All activities will take place in The Grove (located in the center of The Village at Allen).

·         Goody Bags
The first 350 children to arrive on Nov. 21 will receive a holiday goody bag filled with treats and special offers from The Village at Allen and The Village at Fairview stores. The goody bags will be distributed at 4:30 p.m.

·         Children’s Holiday Crafts (no time given; probably 4:30-6:30)
Children will enjoy holiday crafts, face painting and balloon designs. Mrs. Claus will stop by for a visit with cookies for the kids.

·         Allen Philharmonic Symphony Carolers – 5:30 p.m.

            Carolers from the Allen Philharmonic Symphony will perform seasonal favorites that are sure to keep the “ho-ho-ho” in the holidays.

·         Santa’s Arrival and Tree Lighting - 6 p.m.
Santa Claus, a.k.a. “The Big Guy,” will arrive in style on an Allen Event Center Zamboni.  Immediately following, a ceremony will commence to light The Village at Allen’s 35-foot, interactive tree when Santa “flips the switch” to the tree’s 100,000 lights. Guests can toast the holiday with a complimentary cup of warm cocoa or hot cider and sing along with holiday tunes played by the interactive tree every 20 minutes.  Santa will be available to listen to holiday wishes and take photos with children following the event from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.

·         KLTY Radio
Family-friendly station - KLTY FM 94.9 - will turn up the volume on fun with festive holiday music during the event.  Morning DJ Frank Reed will emcee the event.

·         Live Reindeer
Santa’s reindeer, Donner and Blitzen, will make their first appearance on Nov. 21 during the holiday kick-off celebration.Allen Community Outreach (ACO) Toy Drive
Visitors are encouraged to start the holiday season with a spirit of giving and bring unwrapped toys to the donation box located in The Grove.

·        

The Village at Allen holiday festivities are just getting started on Saturday though... they will continue throughout the holiday season. Check back here for more details on all of the continuing holiday fun in just a few days.
Happy Hollidays!

Ryan Cave, The "Caveman"
Truth, Honor & Personal Integrity
214-789-9366
www.CaveRealty.com
 

Just saw a press release about the upcoming holiday season at The Village at Allen. Below are the basics, more detials to be posted soon.
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Festivities kick off Nov. 21 with arrival of “The Big Guy” and tree lighting for 35-foot, interactive tree

   The Village at Allen, located at the southeast corner of U.S. 75 and Stacy Road in Allen, Texas, will kick off the holiday season on Saturday, Nov. 21 from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. with the arrival of Santa, known as “The Big Guy” by many North Texas residents, and his reindeer.
   During the free event, the shopping center also will host a community tree lighting ceremony featuring its 35-foot, interactive tree. Guests may enjoy a variety of activities including a complimentary goody bag giveaway, holiday crafts for children, carolers from the Allen Philharmonic Symphony and more. Holiday festivities at The Village at Allen will continue through December.
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More details to come in just a few days...

Ryan Cave, The "Caveman"
Truth, Honor & Personal Integrity
214-789-9366
www.CaveRealty.com
 

Great news: In case you haven't heard, the Home Buyer Tax Credit ($8,000 in free money) was extended through April 30, 2010. This is for first time buyers or those who haven't owned in the past three years. HOWEVER, they extended it to give $6,500 to those buyers who have lived in the same home for 5 of the last 8 years. They also relaxed income requirements so more people will qualify! So, it's a GREAT time buy AND a great time to move-up as well!

People were worried that the program was not going to be extended... combine that with interest rates that are still incredibly low, and a great selection of available homes, and you can see why the National Association of REALTORS (NAR) says that North Texas pre-owned home sales surged in October — up 11 percent from a year ago. It was the first double-digit gain in more than a year. NAR also that said that sales prices in the Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) area were up 0.2 percent from a year ago. It's the first time DFW prices have been positive since the fourth quarter 2007. So, don't wait for prices to increase more... get out there and get your free money to buy your first home ($8,000) or move-up to your next ($6,500)! The tax credit can be claimed almost immediately by filing an amended tax return; you do not have to wait until filing the next year's taxes. A great resource for info. can be found here:
http://www.federalhousingtaxcredit.com/

Let me know if you have any more questions or comments...

Ryan Cave, The "Caveman"
Truth, Honor & Personal Integrity
214-789-9366
www.CaveRealty.com
 

For those looking for work, I just saw this announcement about a job fair for the new Courtyard by Marriott at The Village at Allen (Off Stacy Road):

Scheduled to open in January 2010, this property is expected to represent the largest meeting event space in Allen, TX.

228 Beautiful and Spacious Guest Rooms
15,000 Square Feet of Meeting Space
9,300 Square Foot Ballroom
Courtyard's new Bistro

Ready to be part of the team?

We want to meet you!!

Opening Team Job Fair
{The Village at Allen}

November 18, 2009 9am-5pm
November 19, 2009 11am-7pm

Can't make the job fair...
Go to www.jqh.hospitalityonline.com for all posted positions
Email Terri Martinez at terri.martinez@jqh.com

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Good luck job seekers, remember to dress for success!

Ryan Cave, The "Caveman"
Truth, Honor & Personal Integrity
214-789-9366
www.CaveRealty.com
 

I saw this great article in Collin County Commissioner, Joe Jaynes', "The County Line" e-mail newsletter (back on Aug. 4, 2009). Good info. about 75/Central for all Collin County Residents. It may just be my imagination, but I think some part of this highway been under major contruction for the past 25 years or so (at least, as far back as I can remember). Guess that's the price of growth and progress...
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Update on U.S. 75
By Joe Jaynes, Collin County Commissioner

Almost everyone in Collin County lives within 30 miles of U.S. 75, a road that could be considered the spinal cord of Collin County's north-south mobility. Next year's expansion of U.S. 75 to eight main lanes and two three-lane service roads will affect the daily commutes of thousands. Quite frankly, that commute will get worse before it gets better - but better it will get.

The good news is that the funding for the much needed expansion is in place, and after engineering and environmental studies are completed, the project will be ready to go.  Below is a breakdown of segments of U.S. 75 and when they are scheduled to be let, or awarded for construction. Please keep in mind that once a project is let it usually takes another 90 days before dirt begins moving. Also, all the projects below have a two to three-year time period for completion.

- U.S. 75 from Legacy to S.H. 121: This segment is scheduled to let in fall 2012 and be completed by fall 2014.
- U.S. 75 at S.H. 121 Interchange: Already under construction, this new four-level interchange will be open to traffic by spring 2011 and fully completed by the following spring.
- U.S. 75 from S.H. 121 to U.S. 380: This segment goes right through the heart of McKinney, and is scheduled to let in late 2010 with a scheduled completion in spring 2014.
- U.S. 75 at US 380 intersection: One of the most congested intersections in Collin County, this project is already underway and scheduled to be completed by fall 2010.
- U.S. 75 at Wilmeth: This segment will go through some major change as U.S. 75 will be constructed over Wilmeth with an exit added at Bloomdale Road. This segment will let next spring with completion scheduled for fall 2011.
- U.S. 75 from Bloomdale Road to Telephone Road: This segment will let in spring 2011, with construction scheduled to be complete by summer 2013.
- U.S. 75 from Telephone Road to Melissa Road: This project includes a new interchange at U.S. 75 and S.H. 121 in Melissa. The project will be let in spring 2012 and is scheduled to be completed by fall 2014.
- U.S. 75 from Melissa Road to Foster's Crossing (the Outer Loop): The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) would like to schedule this to begin in spring 2013, but we need to see how far we are on both the Outer Loop and how the schematic will look for the interchange at the Outer Loop and U.S. 75.
- U.S. 75 from the Outer Loop to Grayson County: At this point, there is only funding for engineering. Hopefully, two legislative sessions will have passed by the time we need to move dirt on this project and new construction dollars will be allocated.

Even though U.S. 75 is a TxDOT project, the majority of the funding for these project segments came from the S.H. 121 Regional Toll Revenues. The North Texas Tollway Authority paid the region $3.2 billion for the right to toll S.H. 121 for the next 50 years.

Of this $3.2 billion, $1.5 billion came to Collin County. Out of the $1.5 billion, $600 million of this money went to the construction of the S.H. 121 main lanes, which is moving forward aggressively now. Another $600 million is being put into U.S. 75, with the remaining funds upgrading other major thoroughfares throughout the county. 

Overall, Collin County is very fortunate because, while the state is going through a major transportation funding crisis, we are still able to move forward with these important projects. I look forward to keeping you updated on this issue. Please feel free to comment on this issue and others at my blog at www.joejaynes.com.
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Thanks for the great article Commissioner Jaynes! I just hope the construction delays/headaches aren't too terrible.

Ryan Cave, The "Caveman"
Truth, Honor & Personal Integrity
214-789-9366
www.CaveRealty.com
 

Want to donate canned soup to local food pantries AND 10% of your lunch or dinner bill? Just take two cans or soup to The Cheesecake Factory on September 30th and they'll give 10% off your check to local food banks. I just read about it (and it's not just in the Allen, TX Location):
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The Cheesecake Factory has partnered with Feeding America for the "Drive Out Hunger" Tour. Throughout the month of September, we've been touring 30 cities in 30 days collecting cans of soup to benefit local food banks. So far, we've donated 65,383 cans of soup, but we still need your help to reach our goal of 100,000!
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So, help them reach their goal by taking two cans of soup (heck take three or four). It's for a great cause and you need to eat anyway (why not help others do the same)!

Ryan Cave, The "Caveman"
Truth, Honor & Personal Integrity
214-789-9366
www.CaveRealty.com
 

Just got this late-breaking press release:

ALLEN EVENT CENTER WILL HOST A JOB FAIR WITH 200 POSITIONS RANGING FROM USHERS, TICKET TAKING, AND SECURITY, TO COACHING AND MANAGEMENT

WHAT:     The City of Allen’s newest sports and entertainment venue, the Allen Event Center, will host a job fair in preparation for its November 2009 grand opening. The job fair will take place Friday, Sept. 11 and Saturday, Sept. 12 at the Hilton Garden Inn in Allen.

More than 200 positions are available in a variety of departments including:
Box Office Sellers, Stand Supervisors, Concession Workers, Warehouse Runners, Warehouse Manager, Cooks, Dishwashers, Suite Level Supervisor, Club Supervisor, Suite Attendants, Loge Servers, Food Runners, Bartenders, Head Cashier, Cashiers, Merchandise Sellers, Audio/Visual Positions, Event Conversion Crew, Electrician, HVAC, Maintenance, Production, PBX Operator, Premium Seat Coordinator, Housekeeping, Security , Guest Services, Ushers, Ticket Takers, Game Operations, Head Figure Skating Coach, Head Hockey Coach, Figure Skating Coach, Hockey Coach, House League Coach, Off Ice Training Specialist, Customer Service Representative, Ice Technician, Equipment Sales, Skate Sharpen and Repair Staff, DJ and Entertainment Coordinator, Birthday Party Hostess, and more… *Job fair attendees should come dressed professionally and be prepared to do on-site interviews. For a complete list of available positions, visit www.alleneventcenter.com.

WHO:       Doug Waugh, General Manager, Allen Event Center
Kristen Keeler, Human Resource Manager, Global Entertainment

WHEN:     Friday, Sept. 11: 4 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Saturday, Sept 12: 9 a.m. – 5p.m.

WHERE:   Hilton Garden Inn in Allen
705 Central Expressway South
Allen, Texas 75013
*From U.S. 75, take Bethany Drive exit

BACKGROUND:
The $52.6 million Allen Event Center is a joint venture between Global Entertainment Corp., the City of Allen, and The MGHerring Group. Upon its grand opening in November, the event center will feature 6,135 fixed seats (with capacity for 8,100 seats), 24 suites, 5 hospitality suites, and two ice rinks. The Allen Event Center will host approximately 100+ events each year, including concerts, top touring shows, family entertainment and professional sports and is home to the Allen Americans Central Hockey League team. The event center, which broke ground in July 2008, is located within The Village at Allen at U.S. 75 and Stacy Road in Allen, Texas.
JOB FAIR CONTACT:
For questions regarding the job fair, the public may contact Sheila Alexander at    salexander@globalentertainment2000.com or 972-678-4646  
MEDIA CONTACT:
Flo Torres, Events and Marketing, ftorres@globalentertainment2000.com or 972-678-4646
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I hope this helps some Allen residents who are looking for work! 

Ryan Cave, The "Caveman"
Truth, Honor & Personal Integrity
214-789-9366
www.CaveRealty.com

The Allen Event Center just issued a press release with their fall/winter lineup! Check it out:
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The Allen Event Center, a 8,100-seat sports and entertainment venue opening in November 2009, has announced its initial entertainment lineup with six show dates for the fall/winter season. Country superstar Reba McEntire will headline the grand opening concert on Friday, November 6. Saturday, September 19 at 9 a.m. Tickets can be purchased online at www.gettix.net or on the phone by dialing 1-866-I-GET-TIX (1-866-443-8849) or at the Allen Event Center Box Office in The Grove at The Village at Allen at 190 E. Stacy Road.
Box office hours are Monday through Friday - 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Charge by phone hours (CST) are Monday through Friday - 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Saturday - 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Sunday – 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Reba McEntire – Friday, November 6
• AMP Tour – Friday, November 13 to Sunday, November 15
• Styx and REO Speedwagon (with Night Ranger) – Tuesday, November 17
• Tech N9ne – Friday, November 20
• Charlie Daniels Band – Saturday, December 19
• Extreme Ice Racing – Friday, February 12 to Saturday, February 13
• Plus Allen Americans Single Season Game Tickets
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I hope to see you at some shows! 

Ryan Cave, The "Caveman"
Truth, Honor & Personal Integrity
214-789-9366
www.CaveRealty.com