The HBH Group Real Estate News

Sunday

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Austin's Park
Pflugerville
Kids under 40 inches eat free
All others only $5.95

Buster's Bee Cave BBQ
Austin
Free Kids Cup for kids 3 and under

Cannoli Joe's
Austin
Kids under 4 eat free
Kids under 12 eat  1/2 Price

Catfish Parlour
Austin
Select pieces free for kids 3 and under

China Chef
Austin and Bastrop
Free Buffet for kids under 5
11:30 am - 3 pm

Cici's Pizza
Austin, Round Rock,
Georgetown, San Marcos
Kids 3 and under eat free

Double Dave's Pizzaworks
Select locations in Austin (call first)
Kids under 5 eat free all day

Elsi's Restaurant
Austin
Kids 12 and Under Eat FREE from 4 pm - close

Estancia Churrascaria
Sunset Valley
Kids Under 5 eat free all day

Gatti Land
Round Rock
Kid's 2 and under eat free

Moe's Southwest Grill
Austin
Kids eat free all day

Rockin' Tomato Pizza
Austin
Kids 4 and under eat free

Serranos
Austin
Kids eat free

Souper Salad Restaurants
Round Rock, Cedar Park, and Austin
Kids 4 and under eat free

Zen Japanese Food
Austin
Kids 12 and under eat free all day

Monday

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Austin's Park
Pflugerville
Kids under 40 inches eat free
All others only $5.95

Buster's Bee Cave BBQ
Austin
Free Kids Cup for kids 3 and under

Cannoli Joe's
Austin
Kids under 4 eat free
Kids 4-12 eat 1/2 Price

Carlos and Charlie's
Austin
Kids eat free all day

Cartwright BBQ
Bastrop
Kids 10 and eat free 4 pm - 8 pm

Catfish Parlour
Austin
Select pieces free for kids 3 and under

China Chef
Austin and Bastrop
Free Buffet for kids under 5 11:30 am - 3 pm

Double Dave's Pizzaworks
Select locations in Austin (call first)
Kids under 5 eat free all day

Elsi's Restaurant
Austin
Kids 12 and Under Eat FREE from 4 pm - close

El Rincon Mexican
Pflugerville
Kids under 12 Eat FREE from 6 pm - 9 pm
Clowns, Face Painting and video games

Cici's Pizza
Austin, Round Rock,
Georgetown, San Marcos
Kids 3 and under eat free

Estancia Churrascaria
Sunset Valley
Kids Under 5 eat free all day  

Fajita Warehouse
Austin
Kids 10 and under eat FREE all day

Fish Daddy's^TM
Pflugerville
Kids 12 and under eat free all day

Gatti Land
Round Rock
Kid's 2 and under eat free

Hangtown Restaurant
West Lake Hills
Kids under 12 eat FREE after 5 pm

Hill Country Pasta House
Austin
$1.99 Kids menu 4:30 pm - close

Hiway Cafe
Liberty Hill
Kids 8 and under eat free 4pm-9pm

Jim's Restaurant
Austin
Kids 12 and under eat free 5pm-9pm

Johnny Fins
Austin
Kids 12 and under eat for one penny all day

Mama Fu's
Austin
Kids 12 and under eat free all day

Pok-E-Jos
Round Rock
Kids 12 and under eat free after 5pm

Rockin' Tomato Pizza
Austin
Kids 4 and under eat free

Roux Cajun Con-fusion
Kids eat FREE
FREE corkage for wine

Serranos
Austin
Kids eat free

Spaghetti Warehouse
Austin
Kids 10 and under eat for 99 cents all day

Texadelphia
Austin
Kids under 12 eat free 4pm-8pm

Tres Amigos
Austin
Kid's 12 and under eat FREE 5 pm - Close

Tuesday

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Austin's Park
Pflugerville
Kids under 40 inches eat free
All others only $5.95

Bennigans
Austin, Round Rock, and San Marcos
Kids eat free 4pm-10pm

Black Eyed Pea
Austin
Free Kids Meal after 5pm

Berryhill Baja Grill
Austin
Kids eat free anytime

Buster's Bee Cave BBQ
Austin
Free Kids Cup for kids 3 and under

Cannoli Joe's
Austin
Kids under 4 eat free
Kids under 12 eat 1I2 Price

Catfish Parlour
Austin
Select pieces free for kids 3 and under

Central Market
Austin (N. Lamar)
Kids 12 and under eat free 5pm-9pm

Chick-Fil-A
Austin, West Lake hills and Georgetown
Free 4pc kids meal after 5pm
Select locations (call first)

China Chef
Austin and Bastrop
Free Buffet for kids under 5
11 am - 2:30 pm

Cici's Pizza
Austin, Round Rock,
Georgetown, San Marcos
Kids 3 and under eat free

Denny's
Austin
Kids 12 and under eat free 4pm-10pm

Don Pedro's
Georgetown
Kids 12 and under eat free 7:30pm-9pm

Double Dave's Pizzaworks
Select locations in Austin (call first)
Kids under 5 eat free all day

El Rincon Mexican
Round Rock
Kids under 12 eat free 6pm-9pm
Clowns, face painting and video games

Estancia Churrascaria
Sunset Valley
Kids Under 5 eat free all day  

Fresh Choice
Austin
Kids 9 and under eat free

Fajita Warehouse
Austin
Kids 10 and under eat FREE all day

Fazoli's
Austin and San Marcos
Kids eat for 99 cents 5pm-8pm

Gatti Land
Round Rock
Kid's 2 and under eat free

Hiway Cafe
Liberty Hill
Kids 8 and under eat free 4pm-9pm

Jim's Restaurant
Austin
Kids 12 and under eat free 5pm-9pm

Kerby Lane
Austin
Kids 12 and under eat free all day  

La Salsa
Austin and West Lake Hills
Kids 12 and under eat free 4pm-close

Luby's Cafeteria
Austin, Round Rock, San Marcos,
Georgetown and Sunset Valley
Kids 10 and under eat free after 4:30 pm

McAlister's Deli
Austin and Georgetown
Kids 12 and under eat free 5pm-close

Nuevo Leon Restaurant
Austin (6^th St location)
Kids 10 and under eat free all day

Pizza Hut - Heart of Texas Pizza
Buda
Kids under 12 eat FREE all day

Pluckers
Austin
Kids Free Wings 11 am-midnight
Adults 50 cent wings

Red Robin Gourmet Burgers
Austin
Kids under 12 eat FREE 4pm-9pm

Rockin' Tomato Pizza
Austin
Kids 4 and under eat free

Romes Pizza
Austin
Kids 9 and under eat free 4pm-8pm

Roux Cajun Con-fusion
Kids eat FREE
FREE corkage for wine

Serranos
Austin
Kids eat free

Sirloin Stockade
Round Rock
Kids ages 4-10 eat  for $1.99 all day

Texadelphia
Austin
Kids under 12 eat free 4pm-8pm

Wow Cafe
San Marcos
Kids 12 and under eat for 99 cents

Wednesday

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Austin's Park
Pflugerville
Kids under 40 inches eat free
All others only $5.95

Buster's Bee Cave BBQ
Austin
Free Kids Cup for kids 3 and under

Cannoli Joe's
Austin
Kids under 4 eat free
Kids under 12 eat 1I2 Price

Catfish Parlour
Austin
Select pieces free for kids 3 and under

China Chef
Austin and Bastrop
Free Buffet for kids under 5
11 am - 2:30 pm

Cici's Pizza
Austin, Round Rock,
Georgetown, San Marcos
Kids 3 and under eat free

Double Dave's Pizzaworks
Select locations in Austin (call first)
Kids under 5 eat free all day

Estancia Churrascaria
Sunset Valley
Kids Under 5 eat free all day

EZ's
Austin
Kids 12 and under eat free after 5pm

Gatti Land
Round Rock
Kid's 2 and under eat free

Hiway Cafe
Liberty Hill
Kids 8 and under eat free 4pm-9pm

Jim's Restaurant
Austin
Kids 12 and under eat free 5pm-9pm

La Salsa
Austin and West Lake Hills
Kids 12 and under eat free 4pm-close

Luby's Cafeteria
Austin, Round Rock, San Marcos,
Georgetown and Sunset Valley
Kids 10 and under eat free after 4:30 pm

Pizza and Wing Factory
Pflugerville
Kids 2 eat free all day

Roadhouse
Bastrop
Kids 12 and under eat for half off all day

Rockin' Tomato Pizza
Austin
Kids 4 and under eat free

Romes Pizza
Austin
Kids 9 and under eat free 4pm-8pm

Serranos
Austin
Kids eat free

Texadelphia
Austin
Kids under 12 eat free 4pm-8pm

Zen Japanese Food Fast
Austin
Kid's 12 and under eat free 5 pm-close

Thursday

---

Austin's Park
Pflugerville
Kids under 40 inches eat free
All others only $5.95

Buster's Bee Cave BBQ
Austin
Free Kids Cup for kids 3 and under

Cannoli Joe's
Austin
Kids under 4 eat free
Kids under 12 eat 1I2 Price

Catfish Parlour
Austin
Select pieces free for kids 3 and under

China Chef
Austin and Bastrop
Free Buffet for kids under 5
11 am - 2:30 pm

Cici's Pizza
Austin, Round Rock,
Georgetown, San Marcos
Kids 3 and under eat free

Double Dave's Pizzaworks
Select locations in Austin (call first)
Kids under 5 eat free all day  

Estancia Churrascaria
Sunset Valley
Kids Under 5 eat free all day

El Charro
Johnson City
$1 off kids menu for kids 10 and under from 3 pm-close

Gatti Land
Round Rock
Kid's 2 and under eat free

Hiway Cafe
Liberty Hill
Kids 8 and under eat free 4pm-9pm

La Salsa
Austin and West Lake Hills
Kids 12 and under eat free 4pm-close

Rockin' Tomato Pizza
Austin
Kids 4 and under eat free

Serranos
Austin
Kids eat free

Wings and More
Austin
Kid's 12 and under eat for ½ price 4 pm-close

Friday

---

Austin's Park
Pflugerville
Kids under 40 inches eat free
All others only $5.95

Buster's Bee Cave BBQ
Austin
Free Kids Cup for kids 3 and under

Cannoli Joe's
Austin
Kids under 4 eat free
Kids under 12 eat 1I2 Price

Catfish Parlour
Austin
Select pieces free for kids 3 and under

China Chef
Austin and Bastrop
Free Buffet for kids under 5
11 am - 2:30 pm

Cici's Pizza
Austin, Round Rock,
Georgetown, San Marcos
Kids 3 and under eat free

Double Dave's Pizzaworks
Select locations in Austin (call first)
Kids under 5 eat free all day

Estancia Churrascaria
Sunset Valley
Kids Under 5 eat free all day

Gatti Land
Round Rock
Kid's 2 and under eat free

Rockin' Tomato Pizza
Austin
Kids 4 and under eat free

Saturday

---

Austin's Park
Pflugerville
Kids under 40 inches eat free
All others only $5.95

Buster's Bee Cave BBQ
Austin
Free Kids Cup for kids 3 and under

Cannoli Joe's
Austin
Kids under 4 eat free
Kids under 12 eat 1I2 Price

Catfish Parlour
Austin
Select pieces free for kids 3 and under

China Chef
Austin and Bastrop
Free Buffet for kids under 5
11 am - 2:30 pm

Cici's Pizza
Austin, Round Rock,
Georgetown, San Marcos|
Kids 3 and under eat free

Denny's
Austin
Kids 12 and under eat free 4pm-10pm

Double Dave's Pizzaworks
Select locations in Austin (call first)
Kids under 5 eat free all day

Estancia Churrascaria
Sunset Valley
Kids Under 5 eat free all day

Fajita Warehouse
Austin
Kids 10 and under eat FREE all day

Gatti Land
Round Rock
Kid's 2 and under eat free

Iron Cactus
Austin
Kids 12 and under eat free all day

Luby's Cafeteria
Austin, Round Rock, San Marcos,
Georgetown and Sunset Valley
Kids 10 and under eat free all day

Rockin' Tomato Pizza
Austin
Kids 4 and under eat free

Serranos
Austin
Kids eat free

Texas Land & Cattle Company
Austin
Kids eat free 11 am-4pm
Must order from kids menu 

Want more GREAT INFORMATION LIKE THIS? Just CLICK HERE:

CLICK HERE to view our current Virtual Tours of properties on one of the team's web sites.

Other articles on Property Investment:

1. Looking for Property Management in Round Rock?
2. Investment in Texas Can Help You Retire Early!
3. It's Time to Invest in Real Estate, Conservatively!
4. Why Flipping Homes Can Carry Strong Liability
5. Foreclosures are Always a Bargain! Yea, Right!
6. Texas is a GREAT Place to Live and Invest!
7. Round Rock Real Estate makes the News...
8. The Tale of the Foolish Real Estate Investor

Here are some other Buyer's Resources from Our Website: Seven steps to buying your home
Deciding how much house you can afford Making your home wish list Opting for new home construction
How can a real estate agent help me? 10 things you should ask a real estate agent
Location, Location, Location Mortgage Calculator Contact us about buying your home

And some seller's resources as well:Eight steps to selling your home
How can a real estate agent help me sell my home Practicing good seller's etiquette
How to price to sell and still make a profit Understanding the buyer Increasing your home's appeal
Mortgage Calculator Contact us about selling a property

The HBH Group/HBH Property Management
101 E. Old Settlers Blvd., Suite 190
Round Rock, TX 78664

To contact us:
Phone: 512-439-3772
Toll-Free: 877-268-1877
Fax: 512-579-4248
E-mail: info@TheHBHGroup.com
Websites: http://www.TheHBHGroup.com/
http://www.TheHBHGroup.biz/
Blogs: http://wcrestate.blogspot.com/
http://www.activerain.com/blogs/stevehomer

Make every day COUNT on AR! 

Several weeks back I started a process along with my daily reading and commenting of AR posts.  When I comment on a post, I also subscribe to that person's BLOG and create an ASSOCIATE with them.  They usually reciprocate and as a result in the last month my subscriptions and associations have grown quickly.  The by-product that comes from this is that you get many more readers to your blog entries daily and your comment count will skyrocket.  I recommend you start this process as well.  It will build better bonds between us as a community and increase your points COUNT!

By using this technique, you can COUNT on getting more points and subscriptions (OK so that was a bad joke...  LOL).  Hope this helps you and by the way, add me as your associate and subscribe to my BLOG!  I WILL RECIPROCATE! 

Want more GREAT INFORMATION LIKE THIS? Just CLICK HERE:

CLICK HERE to view our current Virtual Tours of properties on one of the team's web sites.

Other articles on Property Investment:

1. Looking for Property Management in Round Rock?
2. Investment in Texas Can Help You Retire Early!
3. It's Time to Invest in Real Estate, Conservatively!
4. Why Flipping Homes Can Carry Strong Liability
5. Foreclosures are Always a Bargain! Yea, Right!
6. Texas is a GREAT Place to Live and Invest!
7. Round Rock Real Estate makes the News...
8. The Tale of the Foolish Real Estate Investor

Here are some other Buyer's Resources from Our Website: Seven steps to buying your home
Deciding how much house you can afford Making your home wish list Opting for new home construction
How can a real estate agent help me? 10 things you should ask a real estate agent
Location, Location, Location Mortgage Calculator Contact us about buying your home

And some seller's resources as well:Eight steps to selling your home
How can a real estate agent help me sell my home Practicing good seller's etiquette
How to price to sell and still make a profit Understanding the buyer Increasing your home's appeal
Mortgage Calculator Contact us about selling a property

The HBH Group/HBH Property Management
101 E. Old Settlers Blvd., Suite 190
Round Rock, TX 78664

To contact us:
Phone: 512-439-3772
Toll-Free: 877-268-1877
Fax: 512-579-4248
E-mail: info@TheHBHGroup.com
Websites: http://www.TheHBHGroup.com/
http://www.TheHBHGroup.biz/
Blogs: http://wcrestate.blogspot.com/
http://www.activerain.com/blogs/stevehomer

Back in my corporate days in the dot com industry, there was always a great amount of due diligence taking place.  We were always looking at acquiring competitors and they were always looking at acquiring us.  And if you were going to spend $50MM of someone else's money purchasing another company, you'd better make very sure that you have done all your homework and you know what you are getting for the venture capital that you are about to spend. 

I was thinking about this very issue today as I pondered how to approach this article.  Real estate investors tend to not do a very thorough job at due diligence in the early stages of property acquisition and my belief is that it causes the high rates of foreclosure that happen to junior investors.  To coin an old phrase, "You have to kiss a lot of frogs before you find a prince' and this is VERY true in real estate investing.

I will make a bold assumption here that if you are reading this, you're an investor or at least a "wanna be" and you already know the importance of having your criteria clearly chosen and defined.  You need to know clearly what you are looking for in an investment BEFORE you start looking for it.  Unfortunately many junior investors jump to buy before they know what they are trying to accomplish with the purchase.

In a sense, due diligence is just a validation of the criteria definition process.  If you are set on a long term hold sort of investment (the best of the choices in my humble opinion), then your criteria should include rent ability of the property.  What are the rent rates in the neighborhood?  What are the rent times required (a must to calculate vacancy rate later)?  Will you need to purchase new appliances for the unit (many tenants do not own a refrigerator)?  There are many questions you need to craft into your due diligence process and most of them depend on your criteria, investing strategy and many other factors.

If you need help setting either criteria or a due diligence process for your real estate investments, we would love to assist you!  Please give our office a call and let us help you be successful in your real estate investing journey!

Investors are flocking to Central Texas and The HBH Group to acquire, lease and manage real estate investments. Like to know more? Call us at the The HBH Group Realty Team with Keller Williams Realty. You may learn more about us at our websites located at: http://www.TheHBHGroup.com/ and http://www.TheHBHGroup.biz/ or contact our offices at (512) 439-3772 or toll-free at (877) 268-1877. We teach a monthly property investment seminar in the Greater Austin area and YOU ARE INVITED to this FREE event. Simply call our offices to reserve you seats! Also ask about the investors club that we are forming in the North Austin markets currently - We would love to have you participate!

Want more GREAT INFORMATION LIKE THIS? Just CLICK HERE:

CLICK HERE to view our current Virtual Tours of properties on one of the team's web sites.

Other articles on Property Investment:

1. Looking for Property Management in Round Rock?
2. Investment in Texas Can Help You Retire Early!
3. It's Time to Invest in Real Estate, Conservatively!
4. Why Flipping Homes Can Carry Strong Liability
5. Foreclosures are Always a Bargain! Yea, Right!
6. Texas is a GREAT Place to Live and Invest!
7. Round Rock Real Estate makes the News...
8. The Tale of the Foolish Real Estate Investor

Here are some other Buyer's Resources from Our Website: Seven steps to buying your home
Deciding how much house you can afford Making your home wish list Opting for new home construction
How can a real estate agent help me? 10 things you should ask a real estate agent
Location, Location, Location Mortgage Calculator Contact us about buying your home

And some seller's resources as well:Eight steps to selling your home
How can a real estate agent help me sell my home Practicing good seller's etiquette
How to price to sell and still make a profit Understanding the buyer Increasing your home's appeal
Mortgage Calculator Contact us about selling a property

The HBH Group/HBH Property Management
101 E. Old Settlers Blvd., Suite 190
Round Rock, TX 78664

To contact us:
Phone: 512-439-3772
Toll-Free: 877-268-1877
Fax: 512-579-4248
E-mail: info@TheHBHGroup.com
Websites: http://www.TheHBHGroup.com/
http://www.TheHBHGroup.biz/
Blogs: http://wcrestate.blogspot.com/
http://www.activerain.com/blogs/stevehomer

Austin has been named again among one of the best cities in the USA, this time by Forbes.com and their analysis of the most recession-proof cities in the country. In their research, Forbes analyzed the 50^th largest metro areas in the United States and looked at many statistical areas such as unemployment data, job growth not related to farming activities, average home prices and they also focused on a 2007 report: "U.S. Metro Economies: The Mortgage Crisis" which was funded by the U.S. Conference of Mayors.

The top three cities in their findings included Oklahoma City, San Antonio and Austin.  The list was rounded out by Houston, Dallas, Charlotte, Raleigh, Salt Lake City, San Jose and Seattle.  Forbes also added that the Texas cities within the list also have benefitted from historically lower home prices, land availability and a more loose approach to zoning.  Further, the Texas cities mostly all boast falling unemployment rates as well.

It is for these reasons and many others that Central Texas is one of the fastest growing areas in the country.  If you have relatives, friends or co-workers coming to our area, please give us a call with their contact information so that we can offer them "World Class Service with a Home Town Feel!"

This information is brought to you as a public service of the The HBH Group Realty Team with Keller Williams Realty. You may learn more about us at our websites located at: http://www.TheHBHGroup.com/ and http://www.TheHBHGroup.biz/ or contact our offices at (512) 439-3772 or toll-free at (877) 268-1877. We teach a monthly real estate investment seminar in the Greater Austin area and YOU ARE INVITED to this FREE event. Simply call our offices to reserve you seats! Also ask about the investors club that we are forming in the North Austin markets currently - We would love to have you participate!

Want more GREAT INFORMATION LIKE THIS? Just CLICK HERE:

CLICK HERE to view our current Virtual Tours of properties on one of the team's web sites.

Here are some other Buyer's Resources from Our Website: Seven steps to buying your home
Deciding how much house you can afford Making your home wish list Opting for new home construction
How can a real estate agent help me? 10 things you should ask a real estate agent
Location, Location, Location Mortgage Calculator Contact us about buying your home

And some seller's resources as well:Eight steps to selling your home
How can a real estate agent help me sell my home Practicing good seller's etiquette
How to price to sell and still make a profit Understanding the buyer Increasing your home's appeal
Mortgage Calculator Contact us about selling a property

The HBH Group/HBH Property Management
Keller Williams Realty
101 E. Old Settlers Blvd., Suite 190
Roundrock, TX 78664

To contact us:
Phone: 512-439-3772
Toll-Free: 877-268-1877
Fax: 512-579-4248
E-mail: info@TheHBHGroup.com
Websites: http://www.TheHBHGroup.com/
http://www.TheHBHGroup.biz/
Blogs: http://www.RoundRockRealEstateBlog.info/
http://www.RoundRockRealEstateBlog.com/

On this Memorial Day, I was reminded of a few years back when I visited the Silver Dollar City Theme Park in Branson, Missouri.  This is a wonderful step back into the 1800's when there are plenty of old time foods and crafts to be enjoyed, but the most moving of all my experiences there is the flag raising ceremony at park opening.  The first guests in the park that morning are called to the main street square and all veterans are asked to form up.  We were asked to march with the sheriff to the flag pole and raise Old Glory while saluting or at least holding our hands over our hearts.

This experience was one of the few times in my adult life where I could not simply could not hold back the tears.  The scene was much as you see in these pictures: many gray haired former soldiers, all lined up and saluting, many in tears as well.

In a time where burning the flag has become a popular display of displeasure with our government, I thought this was a fitting trubute to honor our war dead on this Memorial Day.  Freedom is not free and I for one thank God that I not only had the opportunity to serve my country, but also thank Him for others who gave the supreme sacrifice for my freedom!

This information is brought to you as a public service of the The HBH Group Realty Team with Keller Williams Realty. You may learn more about us at our websites located at: http://www.TheHBHGroup.com/ and http://www.TheHBHGroup.biz/ or contact our offices at (512) 439-3772 or toll-free at (877) 268-1877.

Want more GREAT INFORMATION LIKE THIS? Just CLICK HERE:

CLICK HERE to view our current Virtual Tours of properties on one of the team's web sites.

Here are some other Buyer's Resources from Our Website: Seven steps to buying your home
Deciding how much house you can afford Making your home wish list Opting for new home construction
How can a real estate agent help me? 10 things you should ask a real estate agent
Location, Location, Location Mortgage Calculator Contact us about buying your home

And some seller's resources as well:Eight steps to selling your home
How can a real estate agent help me sell my home Practicing good seller's etiquette
How to price to sell and still make a profit Understanding the buyer Increasing your home's appeal
Mortgage Calculator Contact us about selling a property

The HBH Group/HBH Property Management
101 E. Old Settlers Blvd., Suite 190
Roundrock, TX 78664

To contact us:
Phone: 512-439-3772
Toll-Free: 877-268-1877
Fax: 512-579-4248
E-mail: info@TheHBHGroup.com
Websites: http://www.TheHBHGroup.com/
http://www.TheHBHGroup.biz/
Blogs: http://wcrestate.blogspot.com/
http://www.activerain.com/blogs/stevehomer

As the seller, you can control three factors that will affect the sale of your home:

* The home's condition
* Your asking price
* Marketing strategy

However, it's important to note that there are numerous other factors that influence a buyer, and you need to understand these consumer trends when you enter the sellers' market. The more your home matches these qualifications, the more competitive it will be in the marketplace. The HBH Group can advise you on how to best position and market your home to overcome any perceived downsides.

Location
Unfortunately, the most influential factor in determining your home's appeal to buyers is something you can't control: its location. According to the National Association of REALTORS®, neighborhood quality is the No. 1 reason buyers choose certain homes. The second most influential factor is commute times to work and school.

Size
While some buyers want to simplify their lives and downsize to a smaller home, home sizes in general have continued to increase over the decades, nearly doubling in size since the 1950s. Smaller homes typically appeal to first-time home buyers and "empty nesters," or couples whose children have grown up and moved out. Also investors tend to be interested in purchasing entry level homes in that they are in the right size and price range to offer profit potential to an investor.

Amenities
Preferences in floor plans and amenities go in and out of fashion, and our agents can inform you of the "hot ticket" items that are selling homes in your market. If your home lacks certain features, you can renovate to increase its appeal, but be forewarned: That's not always the right move. Using market conditions and activity in your neighborhood as a gauge, we can help you determine whether the investment is likely to help or hinder your profit margin and time on the market.

This information is brought to you as a public service of the The HBH Group Realty Team with Keller Williams Realty. You may learn more about us at our websites located at: http://www.TheHBHGroup.com/ and http://www.TheHBHGroup.biz/ or contact our offices at (512) 439-3772 or toll-free at (877) 268-1877. We teach a monthly real estate investment seminar in the Greater Austin area and YOU ARE INVITED to this FREE event. Simply call our offices to reserve you seats! Also ask about the investors club that we are forming in the North Austin markets currently - We would love to have you participate!

Want more GREAT INFORMATION LIKE THIS? Just CLICK HERE:

CLICK HERE to view our current Virtual Tours of properties on one of the team's web sites.

Here are some other Buyer's Resources from Our Website: Seven steps to buying your home
Deciding how much house you can afford Making your home wish list Opting for new home construction
How can a real estate agent help me? 10 things you should ask a real estate agent
Location, Location, Location Mortgage Calculator Contact us about buying your home

And some seller's resources as well:Eight steps to selling your home
How can a real estate agent help me sell my home Practicing good seller's etiquette
How to price to sell and still make a profit Understanding the buyer Increasing your home's appeal
Mortgage Calculator Contact us about selling a property

The HBH Group/HBH Property Management
Keller Williams Realty
101 E. Old Settlers Blvd., Suite 190
Roundrock, TX 78664

To contact us:
Phone: 512-439-3772
Toll-Free: 877-268-1877
Fax: 512-579-4248
E-mail: info@TheHBHGroup.com
Websites: http://www.TheHBHGroup.com/
http://www.TheHBHGroup.biz/
Blogs: http://www.RoundRockRealEstateBlog.info/
http://www.RoundRockRealEstateBlog.com/

Having the right real estate professional by your side can greatly improve your home-buying experience. A good rule of thumb is to interview a minimum of three candidates, but make sure you interview at least two.  Here are 10 questions to ask during an interview:

1. Are you a full-time professional REALTOR®? How long have you worked full-time in real estate? What geographic areas do you specialize in?
2. Do you have a Website? What information can I find there?
3. How will you keep me informed during my home search and throughout the transaction?
4. Do you have a staff or a team? If so, what roles will they play in my transaction?
5. Will you show me properties from other companies' listings? (Some real estate companies do offer their buyers' agents a higher commission if they are able to sell "in-house" listings. In those instances, there can be added incentive to limit the range of homes you are shown. This may affect your home search and how much you your agent's fee will be.)
6. Will you represent me exclusively, or will you also represent the seller? May I have that in writing?
7. How will you get paid? How are your fees structured? May I have that in writing?
8. What distinguishes you from other real estate agents? What is your negotiating style?
9. May I contact some of your recent clients as references?
10. Do you have a performance guarantee? If I am not satisfied with your performance, can I terminate our buyer agency agreement?

(In the heavily regulated world of real estate, it can be difficult to offer a performance guarantee. Typically, agents will outline verbally what you can expect from their performance. The HBH Group and Keller Williams Realty understands the importance of win-win business relationships: The agent does not benefit if the client does not benefit.)  At the HBH Group, we would love to answer these and any other questions you would have about selling, buying, leasing or managing property.  We are here to serve you with "World-class service with a home town feel!"

This information is brought to you as a public service of the The HBH Group Realty Team with Keller Williams Realty. You may learn more about us at our websites located at: http://www.TheHBHGroup.com/ and http://www.TheHBHGroup.biz/ or contact our offices at (512) 439-3772 or toll-free at (877) 268-1877. We teach a monthly real estate investment seminar in the Greater Austin area and YOU ARE INVITED to this FREE event. Simply call our offices to reserve you seats! Also ask about the investors club that we are forming in the North Austin markets currently - We would love to have you participate!

Want more GREAT INFORMATION LIKE THIS? Just CLICK HERE:

CLICK HERE to view our current Virtual Tours of properties on one of the team's web sites.

Here are some other Buyer's Resources from Our Website: Seven steps to buying your home
Deciding how much house you can afford Making your home wish list Opting for new home construction
How can a real estate agent help me? 10 things you should ask a real estate agent
Location, Location, Location Mortgage Calculator Contact us about buying your home

And some seller's resources as well:Eight steps to selling your home
How can a real estate agent help me sell my home Practicing good seller's etiquette
How to price to sell and still make a profit Understanding the buyer Increasing your home's appeal
Mortgage Calculator Contact us about selling a property

The HBH Group/HBH Property Management
Keller Williams Realty
101 E. Old Settlers Blvd., Suite 190
Roundrock, TX 78664

To contact us:
Phone: 512-439-3772
Toll-Free: 877-268-1877
Fax: 512-579-4248
E-mail: info@TheHBHGroup.com
Websites: http://www.TheHBHGroup.com/
http://www.TheHBHGroup.biz/
Blogs: http://www.RoundRockRealEstateBlog.info/
http://www.RoundRockRealEstateBlog.com/

Yes it does matter which agent you choose to sell your home.  If you list with an inexperienced agent, they rarely have the knowledge to keep you as the seller clear of added costs that can come your way.  Let me give you and example.  In the past year

Paragraph 6.C of the 1-4 Family Residential Contract (resale) published by the Texas Association of REALTORS(r) states the following:

C. SURVEY: The survey must be made by a registered professional land surveyor  acceptable to the Title Company and the Lender.

(1) Within _______ days after the effective date of this contract, Seller shall furnish to Buyer and Title Company Seller's existing survey of the Property and a Residential Real Property Affidavit promulgated by the Texas Department of Insurance (Affidavit).  If the existing survey or Affidavit is not acceptable to Title Company or Buyer's lender, Buyer shall obtain a new survey at __ Seller's __ Buyer's expense no later than 3 days prior to closing Date.  If Seller fails to furnish the existing survey or Affadavit within the time prescribed, Buyer shall obtain a new survey at Seller's expense no later than 3 days prior to Closing Date.

This paragraph has cost MANY sellers $400+ for surveys that they had to provide because their REALTOR(r) was not knowledgable enough to realize that the seller had to give a copy of the survey AND the affidavit within the prescribed time.  Be careful who you work with in selling real estate. Make sure they are current in their knowledge because our contracts and rules in Texas change regularly!

Here are some tips for choosing a good REALTOR(r):

1. Make sure that realty is not a part time venture for them.  They should be full time in the business.
2. You want to know that they stay current in the business and stay on a track of constant self-education.
3. Look for certifications like Certified Residential Specialist (CRS) or at least Graduate Real Estate Institute (GRI) on their business card.
4. Ask how many transactions they have worked in their career.  If the number is smaller (less than 50, proceed with caution!).
5. If you have the chance to work with a team, you will probably have better results since there are several people on a team each that specialize in a particular area: seller's representation, buyer's representation, etc.
6. As for references - people you can talk to that can vouch for the skills and professionalism of those you are considering.

This information is brought to you as a public service of the The HBH Group Realty Team with Keller Williams Realty. You may learn more about us at our websites located at: http://www.TheHBHGroup.com/ and http://www.TheHBHGroup.biz/ or contact our offices at (512) 439-3772 or toll-free at (877) 268-1877. We teach a monthly real estate investment seminar in the Greater Austin area and YOU ARE INVITED to this FREE event. Simply call our offices to reserve you seats! Also ask about the investors club that we are forming in the North Austin markets currently - We would love to have you participate!

Want more GREAT INFORMATION LIKE THIS? Just CLICK HERE:

CLICK HERE to view our current Virtual Tours of properties on one of the team's web sites.

Here are some other Buyer's Resources from Our Website: Seven steps to buying your home
Deciding how much house you can afford Making your home wish list Opting for new home construction
How can a real estate agent help me? 10 things you should ask a real estate agent
Location, Location, Location Mortgage Calculator Contact us about buying your home

And some seller's resources as well:Eight steps to selling your home
How can a real estate agent help me sell my home Practicing good seller's etiquette
How to price to sell and still make a profit Understanding the buyer Increasing your home's appeal
Mortgage Calculator Contact us about selling a property

The HBH Group/HBH Property Management
101 E. Old Settlers Blvd., Suite 190
Roundrock, TX 78664

To contact us:
Phone: 512-439-3772
Toll-Free: 877-268-1877
Fax: 512-579-4248
E-mail: info@TheHBHGroup.com
Websites: http://www.TheHBHGroup.com/
http://www.TheHBHGroup.biz/
Blogs: http://www.RoundRockRealEstateBlog.info/
http://www.RoundRockRealEstateBlog.com/

 

If you're in the market for a new refrigerator, dishwasher or other appliance, shopping Memorial Day weekend will save you money.

During Memorial Day weekend, Texas shoppers get a break from state and local sales and use taxes on purchases of certain energy efficient products. The 2008 Energy Star sales tax holiday begins at 12:01 a.m. on Saturday, May 24, and ends at 11:59 p.m. on Monday, May 26 -Memorial Day, but there is one stipulation.

You must purchase an appliance that's received the Energy Star rating. Those products not only reduce energy demand and greenhouse gas emissions, they'll also save you money in the long run.

"Americans saved somewhat in the neighborhood of $16 billion in their utility bills and reduced gas emissions by the equivalent of 27 million automobiles," Ronnie Volkening of the Texas Retailers Association said. "That's the results up to now and in the year 2007."

The following items will be tax-free:
-- Air conditioners (less than $6,000)
-- Clothes washers
-- Ceiling fans
-- Dehumidifiers
-- Dishwashers
-- Incandescent or fluorescent light bulbs
-- Programmable thermostats
-- Refrigerators (less than $2,000)

Want more GREAT INFORMATION LIKE THIS? Just CLICK HERE:

 

Other articles on Saving Summer Energy:

Here are some other Buyer's Resources from Our Website: Seven steps to buying your home
Deciding how much house you can afford Making your home wish list Opting for new home construction
How can a real estate agent help me? 10 things you should ask a real estate agent
Location, Location, Location Mortgage Calculator Contact us about buying your home

And some seller's resources as well:Eight steps to selling your home
How can a real estate agent help me sell my home Practicing good seller's etiquette
How to price to sell and still make a profit Understanding the buyer Increasing your home's appeal
Mortgage Calculator Contact us about selling a property

The HBH Group/HBH Property Management
101 E. Old Settlers Blvd., Suite 190
Round Rock, TX 78664

To contact us:
Phone: 512-439-3772
Toll-Free: 877-268-1877
Fax: 512-579-4248
E-mail: info@TheHBHGroup.com
Websites: http://www.TheHBHGroup.com/
http://www.TheHBHGroup.biz/
Blogs: http://wcrestate.blogspot.com/
http://www.activerain.com/blogs/stevehomer

Arts & Crafts
Imagination Saturdays, All Michaels Arts & Crafts locations Kids ages 5-12 are invited to join 30 minute sessions at 10:00 a.m., 10:30 a.m., 11:00 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. - Cost includes supplies: free -$3

Day Trips
Austin Steam Train Association, Call for Schedule, Ride the rails into the Texas Hill Country aboard the Hill Country Flyer Depart Cedar Park, lnfo:(512) 477-8468 x 13
Austin Zoo, The, Daily: l0 a.m. - 6 p.m., $4-$5 adult Petting Zoo, Rides, Field Trips, Special Events, 60 species & 200 animals. 1087 Rawhide Trail, Austin, (512) 288-3246
Barton Springs Pool, Year Round: 5:00am - 10:00pm (except Thurs.), $1 -$3 A spring feed swimming pool (68deg) Zilker Park, 2101 Barton Springs Rd., Austin, (512) 476-9044
Cedar Rock Railroad, Times Mon.- Thur. 4pm-6pm I Sat & Sun 1 Oam-6pm. $2 ea. 1.3 mile park train ride behind an authentic looking steam locomotive in the Williamson County Regional Park, 3005 Sam Bass Rd., Round Rock. (512) 413-1705
Exotic Game Ranch & Drive Through Safari, 9:00am-6:00pm, $6 / Children - $4 Over 50 Species of Exotic Wildlife can be enjoyed from the comfort of your car. Topsey Exotic Ranch, near Copperas Cove, (254) 547-3700
Hill Country Flyer, Call for schedule, Travel the Texas Hill Country the old fashion way, you may even see outlaws. Downtown Cedar Park, lnfo:(512) 447-8468
Hamilton Pool Preserve, Weekdays 9 a.m. - 6 p.m., A picturesque swimming hole beneath a small 50 ft waterfall, surrounded by 232-acre preserve. Hwy. 71W, 16 miles to Hwy. 3238S, l3 miles, Dripping Springs, lnfo: (512) 264-2740
Inter Space Caverns, Time: 9:00am - 6:00pm, Discovered in 1963 during the construction of IH-35, contains remains of prehistoric animals. Exit 259, Georgetown, (512) 931-2283
Kiddie Acres, Daily, Call for time, Amusement park for smaller children Kiddie Acres, 4800 W. Howard Ln. Austin, (512) 255-4131
San Antonio Zoo, Daily, Time: 9:00am - 6:00pm, Ages: 3-11 $5 / 12-up $7 / 62 + $5 Zoological Gardens & Aquarium (Labor Day until Memorial Day, 5:00pm closing) info:(210) 734-7184
Westcave Wilderness Preserve, Sat-Sun, 10 a.m. / 12, 2, & 4pm, 31-acre nature area, Austin, lnfo:(210) 825-3442
Wonder World, March through October, lime: Daily, Barn - 8pm, Earthquake formed cave showing unique exhibition of fault lines. Bishop Street, San Marcos, lnfo: (512) 392-3760
Zilker Park Dinosaur Tracks, Sat. 9:00-11:00 a.m., $1 - $2 30-40 minute tour of over a 100 dinosaur tracks & 100 million-yr-old turtle bone Texas Botanical Gardens, Austin.
Dinosaur Park, Times M-F call, Sat - Sun l0 a.m. - 4 p.m. Tickets: $5 / under 2 free. Walk along ten life-size dinosaur replicas on display throughout nature trails. Also fossil-dig, playground, picnic area, and a wonderful DinoStore. 893 Union Chapel Road, Cedar Creek (512) 321-6262
Natural Bridge Caverns, Daily, 10:00 am - 6:00pm, Caves amusement park Family Fun. New Braunfels, (210) 651-6101

Family Activities
Congress Ave Bridge, Bats Roost, Home of the largest urban Mexican Free-Tailed bat in North America. Viewing area at The Statesman Parking lot, 305 S. Congress, Austin
Family Fun Entertainment, Golf & Games, 11 a.m. - 10 p.m. / Fri-Sat. 10 a.m. - 12 a.m., $5 per game. Classic Pinball Machines and Arcade Video Games on free play in our game room 301 Chisholm Trail Rd, Round Rock (512) 255-3866
Giant Chess, Time: 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m., $ none Knee-High pieces available Saturdays. Wooldridge Square Guadalupe between 9th & 10th, Austin, lnfo:(512) 477-1566
Goin' Bananas Playnasium, South Austin's 12,000 square feet Indoor Inflatable Playground and Party Center! Our facility is designed for kids 10 and under. We have huge inflatables, Kids' Sports Area, Tots' Only Area and more! Free wifi and coffee for adults. 11600 Manchaca, Building #2, Austin, Texas 78748 512-291-8656 Visit www.austinkidsguide.com for discount coupons
Rockhopper's, 18-hole Pebble Beach of miniature golf course. Other activities indoors or out: mini-bowling, arcade, air hockey, water wars, Fluff n' Stuff Factory, pizza, drinks and snacks . We have party facilities, group rates and lock-ins. Rockhopper's Family Fun Center, 1501 Hwy 281 North, Marble Falls, TX 78654. (830) 693-4FUN [4386] Visit www.austinkidsguide.com for discount coupons
RadiJazz, RadiJazz Playnasium is a gigantic, themed indoor playground, where children can slide down foam waterfalls and jump into active foam volcanoes. Everything is padded, everything is sate, and FUNHW! Free Starbucks Coffee and Wireless Internet.6406 North IH 35 Suite 3100-A, Austin TX 78752 Info: 512-302-5299

Museums
Austin Children's Museum, Tue-Sat. 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. / Sun. 12:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m., Admission: $5.50/ 2 yrs-$3.50 / 12 mos. Free - Museum has interactive events and exhibits that change weekly. 201 Colorado St., Austin, lnfo:(512) 472-2499
Texas Capitol Visitor's Center, Monday - Saturday 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Admission: $ FREE The Capitol is in the heart of downtown Austin and makes a perfect complement to any visit. 112 East 11th. Street, Austin, lnfo:(512) 305.8400
Austin Nature & Science Center. Both indoor and outdoor exhibits including live animals that can't be returned to the wild plus special programs and camps. 301 Nature Center Drive off Stratford Drive in Zilker Park; 512-327-8181
Imax Theatre - at Austin's Texas State History Museum, Austin's Imax theatre is located inside the Texas State History Museum and offers life size movies with a screen six stories high, digital surround sound, and 3D!
Family Saturdays at AMOA, Austin Museum of Art - Downtown, 823 Congress Ave. Austin, TX 12-4PM 495-9224, $7 per family or $5 per member family. Features fun interactive art projects for families.

Music & Theater Oriented Activities
Children's Day Art Park, Wednesday mornings - June & July (except July 2nd), Symphony Square, 11th & Red River 9:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. 500 a child, Features local musicians, dancers, storytellers, magicians, mimes and crafts people. Visit the Instrument Petting Zoo (where they can see, touch and try to play the instruments), talk to symphony musicians and hear them play their instruments.
Zachary Scott Theatre Center, ZACH is one of Austin's most vibrant and innovative arts organizations and Central Texas' oldest professional theatre. Visit www.zachscoff.com

Sports
Austin Ice Bats, Call for schedule, Chaparral Ice Arena, 14200 N. IH-35, Austin, (512) 927-PUCK
Blazer Tag Adventure Center, $7.00 per person 1701 W. Ben White Blvd., Austin. lnfo:(512) 462-0202
Capital of Texas Power Wresting, Time: 8:00pm, Weekly live shows on Fridays, All shows help out ABAD - Austin Boxing Against Drugs 2412 E. Ceasar Chavez, Austin, lnfo:(512) 474-9737
Austin Toros Basketball, Family fun entertainment in the Toros Kids Zone, participating in an on-court contest or giving Da Bull a high five. Season starts November 23rd. Get your tickets nowI Call (512)236-8333
Austin Wranglers Football, Starts in March. Get schedule and ticket info: www.austinwranglers.com
Round Rock Express Baseball Round Rock Express, Class AAA affiliate of the Houston Astros at the Dell Diamond. www.roundrockexpress.com
Texas Longhorn Sports, Texas Longhorn Sports.com is the official website of the University of Texas athletics. See sporting event schedules, purchase tickets, and much more.

Skateboard Parks
1600 Gattis School Rd. Round Rock, TX 78664  6 a.m. to 11 p.m. Everyday, 14,000 square foot skate park to the public, located behind the Clay Madsen Recreation Center. info 512-218-5540
Capital Skateboard Park, Round Rock, Texas 2008 Picadilly Drive, Round Rock, TX 78665. Non Members $12. Members $45 per mo
Mabel Davis Public Skateboard Park, Austin, Texas 3427 Parker Ln, Austin, TX 7674. Sunrise to sunset.
Ramp Ranch Skateboard Park. Liberty Hill. Texas 10355 Highway 29, Liberty Hill, TX 78642 Call for Hours:  512-515-7600 Non Members $12. Members $7. 6 Month Membership - $30

Area Amusement Parks
Austin's Park n Pizza, Time: 11:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m. Daily Restaurant and Recreation Center where you can enjoy a Pizza Buffet, Mini Golf, Laser Tag Batting Cages, Bumper Boats, a Rock Climbing Wall, a huge Arcade and more! Check website for hours and daily specials. 16231 N. IH-35 at Grand Avenue Parkway, Pflugerville, lnfo:(512) 670-9600
Aguarena Spring Time: M-F,9a-8:30p/S-S,9a-9p, $Call Open to the public this environmental education center offers a variety of exhibits focusing on the endangered species of the San Marcos Springs.
Aquarena Center, San Marcos, lnfo:(512) 245-7570
Fiesta Texas (seasonal), $25 - $40 N/A Family entertainment, big name concerts, food and fun for the whole family. IH - 10 W @ Loop 1604, (exit 555), San Antonio, lnfo:(210) 697-5050
J & M Aviaries, Time: 10a-6p Wed-Sat/Sun. 12pm - 6pm. $6.50 ea. Home to 60+ species of exotic birds and other animals, animal encounter show every weekend 8647 US 290, Austin lnfo:(512) 288-2199
Schlitterbahn Waterpark (May-September), Daily 10:00- Dusk, $30.00 - $25.00. America's #1 Waterpark, 65-acres of water park on the banks of the Comal River. (830) 620-4247
Sea World of Texas (seasonal), Time: Call, $42.00 -$32.00 Family Fun and Entertainment Sea World of Texas, 10500 SeaWorld Dr, San Antonio, lnfo:(210) 523-3611
Volente Beach Waterpark, Time: Daily, $13.00 -$17.00 A family Waterpark on the shores of Lake Travis 16107 FM 2769, Leander, lnfo:(512) 258-5109 ext 0

Like to know more?  Call us at the The HBH Group Realty Team with Keller Williams Realty. You may learn more about us at our websites located at: http://www.TheHBHGroup.com/ and http://www.TheHBHGroup.biz/ or contact our offices at (512) 439-3772 or toll-free at (877) 268-1877. We teach a monthly property investment seminar in the Greater Austin area and YOU ARE INVITED to this FREE event. Simply call our offices to reserve you seats! Also ask about the investors club that we are forming in the North Austin markets currently - We would love to have you participate!

Want more GREAT INFORMATION LIKE THIS? Just CLICK HERE:

 

Other articles on Property Investment:

1. Looking for Property Management in Round Rock?
2. Why You Should Buy Properties, Not Consumables
3. Why Austin Texas Real Estate Investment Has a Great ROI
4. How to Identify Great Investment Property in Texas
5. Investment in Texas Can Help You Retire Early!
6. It's Time to Invest in Real Estate, Conservatively!
7. Free Real Estate Investing Training and Seminars - from The HBH Group
8. Why Flipping Homes Can Carry Strong Liability
9. Foreclosures are Always a Bargain! Yea, Right!
10. Texas is a GREAT Place to Live and Invest!
11. Round Rock Real Estate makes the News...
12. The HBH Group - Specialists in Texas Real Estate Investing
13. The Tale of the Foolish Real Estate Investor

CLICK HERE to view our current Virtual Tours of properties on one of the team's web sites.

Here are some other Buyer's Resources from Our Website: Seven steps to buying your home
Deciding how much house you can afford Making your home wish list Opting for new home construction
How can a real estate agent help me? 10 things you should ask a real estate agent
Location, Location, Location Mortgage Calculator Contact us about buying your home

And some seller's resources as well:Eight steps to selling your home
How can a real estate agent help me sell my home Practicing good seller's etiquette
How to price to sell and still make a profit Understanding the buyer Increasing your home's appeal
Mortgage Calculator Contact us about selling a property

The HBH Group/HBH Property Management
101 E. Old Settlers Blvd., Suite 190
Round Rock, TX 78664

To contact us:
Phone: 512-439-3772
Toll-Free: 877-268-1877
Fax: 512-579-4248
E-mail: info@TheHBHGroup.com
Websites: http://www.TheHBHGroup.com/
http://www.TheHBHGroup.biz/
Blogs: http://wcrestate.blogspot.com/
http://www.activerain.com/blogs/stevehomer