AHW 2013

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Proclamation

Roswell Association of Realtors

2013 Board of Directors

fair and equal housing is a right guranteed to all Americans and the principal of fair and equal housing is not only federal, state and local policy, but a fundamental human entitlement and;

all citizens have the right to live where they choose within their financial means and people must not be denied housing because of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, handicap or family status;

the City of Roswell acknowledges the importance of assuring fair and equal treatment to all citizens; and

the Roswell Association of Realtors along with the home builders, title insurance companies, appraisers, mortgage bankers and other industry allies celebrate American Home Week to promote home ownership; and

the New Mexico Mortgage Finance Authority and the Community Development Council has assisted the citizens and businesses in the City of Roswell with grant funding for Housing, Rehabilitation and Community Development.

do hereby proclaim the month of April 2013 as

and urge all citizens to participate in the activities that are designed to commemorate this week and recognize the Roswell Association of Realtors for their on-going contributions the Roswell Comunity.

DEL JURNEY, Mayor

Attest:

SHARON COLL, City Clerk

Front Row: L-R: Starla Nunez, Cheryle Pattison, Charlotte Burge, Michele White Back Row: L-R: Dan Coleman, Marcia Tidwell, Bill Davis, Corby Cummins, and Rocky Langley Not pictured - Connie DeNio and Esther Purke

Roswell Daily Record Product of the

Publisher Charles Fischer

Advertising Sales Kandie Johansen Emily Austin Manny Gonzalez Circulation Director Jim Dishman

Editor Andrew Poertner

Advertising Director Vonnie Fischer

Cover Design & Layout Aric Loomis

Layout Corinna Martinez

Advertising Design Sandra Martinez Steve Stone

Contributing Writers Ilissa Gilmore Jill McLaughlin

2013 American Home Week Table of Contents

2013 Proclamation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2 2013 Board of Directors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2 Bill Davis, Pres. Roswell Assoc. of Realtors . . . . . . .3 Meridian Insurance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4 Glenn’s Furniture. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4 White Mattress . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4 Prudential-Kim Perry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4 Rookie of the Year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 Prudential, Davis Team . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 JP Stone Bank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 Glenn's Furniture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 2013 Realtor of th e Year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 Pioneer Bank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 Roswell Seed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 Mayes Lumber . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 Citizen of the Year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9 Patton Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9 Re/Max of Roswell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 Sh ear Elegance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 Land mark Title . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10

Allstate Insurance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11 2012 Top Producers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 2012 Top Producers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13 Wise Choice Team . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 Farm Bureau Financial Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 Fidelity National Insurance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15 RPM Plumbing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15 Business Cards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16 Business Cards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17 Albuquerque Stair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18 CR S . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1 9 Custom Construction & Roofing L LC . . . . . . . . . . .21 First American Bank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21 Central Valley Electric . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21 Smith Paint . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22 Sun Country Realty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22 Van tage Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22 ABC Glass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23 Van Winkle Roofing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24

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Local real estate market active, predicted to get even better ILISSA GILMORE RECORD STAFF WRITER

Plenty of inventory and the lowest interest rates in years have created a perfect storm for buyers in Roswell’s housing market, said Roswell Association of Realtors President Bill Davis.

The city doesn’t follow national trends, he said, and wasn’t too impacted by the market crash five years ago. While buyers may have slowed down, home values didn’t fall drastically.

“Although it’s not a robust market yet, we are seeing a lot more activity,” Davis said. “We have buyers that are moving up to bigger homes, buyers who are downsizing, buyers who are moving in from out of state — all have different interests.”

Davis is the owner and qualifying broker of Prudential Enchanted Lands Realtors. He decided to go into real estate in 2005, after more than 30 years in the dairy

industry. Davis also is involved in the Realtors Association of New Mexico.

“I like helping people buy homes and helping first-time home buyers,” he said. “As Realtors, we believe that it can be very scary to buy a home without the professional services of a real estate agent.”

There are many pitfalls that can develop when buying a home, he said, such as issues involving a home’s foundation, septic system or roof. Among other things, real estate agents encourage home inspections and guide buyers through the process.

“It always behooves the public to use a real estate agent — just as they would use a doctor to take care of their health,” he said. “While a house is under contract, the real estate agent is covering all those bases, hoping for a smooth closing.”

Davis said Prudential Enchant-

ed Lands Realtors, located at 501 N. Main St., has more than 25 agents and close to 400 properties under rental management.

His son Brad also is involved with the business, serving as company manager and co-owner.

The company also represents fine home builders, Bill said, such as the French Brothers, who sold 35 homes in less than a year. With rental properties in tight supply, Davis said it may actually cost less to buy a home.

However, he said the turmoil of the mortgage industry over the last three years has made it more difficult to qualify for home loans, which contributed to the market slow down.

“It is my belief that that will turn around and over the next couple of years, the mortgage industry will solve its problems, which will help fuel a full recovery of the housing industry,” he said. igilmore@rdrnews.com

11 VICTORIA COURT

VERY LOVELY HOME on large lot. 4BD/2.5BA. Nicely appointed kitchen is open to family room with fireplace. Home has formal living and dining as well. $249,000 MLS#96549

Kim Perry

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501 N. MAIN

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LOVELY EAST GRAND PLAINS ESTATE. Main house is 4200+ sq.ft. This house boasts 4 bedrooms, 4.5 baths and 2 living rooms. MLS#98544 $450,000

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Three large bedrooms, two updated baths large galley kitchen with hardwood, granite and new appliances.

Must call for an appointment.

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1507 S MICHIGAN

PRICED TO SELL!!!, however, has original hardwood floors, nice brick fireplace, heat Three bedrooms, one and three quarter bath and a very large kitchen. MLS#99264 $82,000

Courtesy Photo Pictured is Bill Davis, Roswell Association of Realtors president.

KEN-MAR

FURNITURE “Where quality always exceeds price” Since 1975

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302 West Main Artesia NM 88210 Phone 575.746.9402 575.746.9758

2304 W MESCALERO

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This 3281 square foot home is in the prestigious Pecan Orchards, and is the best deal going.

MLSS#99116 $339,000

1200 S SUNSET

LOVELY CONDOMINIUM IN NICE SETTING. Very clean and well taken cared of property.

Really comfortable home for the cost.

MLS#99188 $97,500

Shirley’s Bridal

302 West Main Artesia NM 88210 575.746.9758 575.746-9402

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AMERICAN HOME WEEK SPECIALS $200-$400 Off Adjustable Power Bed

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Are you a savvy with your IRA? Tastemaker makes

BOSTON (AP) — When it comes to retirement planning, most of the focus is placed on 401(k)s. The reality is that individual retirement accounts represent the largest share of America’s savings.

At the end of last year, IRAs had $5.4 trillion in assets compared with $5.1 trillion in 401(k)s and other defined contribution plans. Some 40 percent of U.S. households own at least one type of IRA, which offer tax incentives to save for retirement.

Many of these IRA holders are left to their own devices to manage their accounts. Of course, some investors are take-charge types with the ability to maximize savings without taking on too much risk. But in many other instances, portfolio management is hit-or-miss, with little attention to selecting an appropriate mix of mutual funds or other investments.

“Many individuals are still missing out on the long-term savings benefits of IRAs, simply because they don’t understand what they are and how they work,” says Dan Keady, director of financial planning for TIAACREF, a financial services company. In a recent telephone survey of 1,008 adults, his company found that nearly half of the respondents lacked a basic knowledge.

IRAs provide individuals not covered by workplace retirement plans with an opportunity to save on a tax-advantaged basis on their own. The money put into a traditional IRA can be deducted from the accountholder’s taxable income for that year, and the money isn’t taxed until it’s withdrawn at retirement. Also, workers who are leaving jobs can use IRAs to preserve the tax benefits that employer-sponsored plans offer.

HAPHAZARD MANAGEMENT With so many IRA holders managing accounts on their own, approaches vary widely, often to the detriment of long-term savings.

For example, surveys by the fund industry’s trade organiza-

tion, the Investment Company Institute, found that low-yielding money-market mutual funds make up a far larger proportion of IRA portfolios than is typically considered appropriate. For example, the ICI found that IRA holders in their 60s had invested nearly 25 percent of their portfolios in low-yielding money funds.

That’s four times larger than the average allocation to money funds in 401(k) accounts owned by people in their 60s.

Perhaps even more surprising, IRAs held by people in their 20s had an average 22 percent in money funds.

Among the reasons cited for the unusually high weighting: Money funds are often a default investment for small rollovers into IRAs from other investment accounts, and IRA holders may be more likely than other investors to keep invested savings readily available for conversion to cash.

Most investors use money funds as parking places for cash that’s temporarily kept out of higher-yielding investments. But it’s no way to build retirement savings because money funds have offered returns barely above zero for the past four years.

David Schehr, who follows investment industry trends for research firm Gartner Inc., says it appears that people “are a little better at investing for the longterm with their 401(k)s than they are with their IRAs.” He believes there’s a growing need for products to help IRA owners manage accounts on their own. Among the startup firms that have launched in recent years to address this need are online-based services such as Wealthfront, ShareBuilder, Betterment and Motif Investing.

NEW OPTION The latest entrant into this niche is Rebalance IRA, which launched in January. Its advisory board includes Burton Malkiel, a Princeton University economist and author of the investing classic, “A Random Walk Down Wall Street”; and Charles Ellis, founder of the

investment consultancy Greenwich Associates and author of another renowned investing book, “Winning the Loser’s Game.” Both are advocates of low-cost index mutual funds and exchange-traded funds, which seek to match market performance rather than beat it.

Customers can set up portfolios invested exclusively in ETFs, after a free phone consultation with Rebalance IRA’s professional financial advisers to assess their goals and existing investment accounts. Initial calls usually last around an hour.

For a $250 initial fee, a customized account is established and the adviser maintains periodic contact with the customer.

A fee of 0.5 percent of the total assets invested is charged annually for portfolio management, with a minimum fee of $500. An accountholder also pays management expenses of the ETFs. Those expense ratios vary depending on which ETFs are selected, and average less than 0.20 percent.

Because Rebalance IRA’s $500 minimum annual management charge per account is steep for someone with a small IRA, it’s not recommended for an account with less than $75,000.

SYSTEMATIC APPROACH The service includes automatic portfolio rebalancing to help IRA holders become more disciplined investors.

“People tend to buy when everybody is optimistic and the stock market is up, and sell when everybody is pessimistic and the market is down,” Malkiel says. “Rebalancing makes you do the opposite of what your emotions tell you to do.”

Schehr, the Gartner analyst, sees significant potential for start-ups like Rebalance IRA if they can market themselves effectively. “A lot of boomers really haven’t dealt with how they’re managing their IRAs,” he says.

“And with retirement around the corner, they’re finding out they’re late in the game to start taking charge of their accounts.”

home design easy SAN FRANCISCO —Tastemaker, the online interior design service that makes it simpler to create a dream home, has launched.

Tastemaker helps consumers find the right interior decorator, get a custom design and purchase everything they need for their new room — all via the Tastemaker web site.

Homeowners face many challenges when decorating their home: deciding on a cohesive scheme, choosing the right pieces, and putting it all together. With Tastemaker, they can get the help of an interior decorator at approximately 80 percent less than the cost of a traditional design service. Custom mood boards cost only $25 and complete design packages start at $400 per room.

The Tastemaker model makes it easy for consumers and decorators to work together. Customers can easily create a Room Brief using Tastemaker’s engaging online quiz. They can select a decorator based on design write-ups and mood boards created just for them rather than having to meet multiple designers at their home. They receive their completely custom design in just two weeks. And they can buy all their furnishings in a single transaction. Customers are assigned a project manager to guide them through the whole process and ensure that the end result is every bit as beautiful as they hoped.

For decorators, Tastemaker is a source of new clients and a way for them to focus on the most creative part of the role — the design itself — rather than administration or purchasing.

Tastemaker’s 30 decorators are all experienced, in-demand professionals and represent a wide range of styles.

Tastemaker guides homeowners through three steps to complete their dream home: 1. Meet your decorator. When you submit your Room Brief, Tastemaker will hand pick three professional decorators that match your style and budget. Each decorator will respond with his or her vision for your space and a flat-rate quote. The customer picks the decorator they like best and the project begins.

All decorators are carefully recruited and vetted by Tastemaker.

2. Get your Tastemaker Design Box. During the project your decorator will work with you to create a completely custom design for your home. That final design will be delivered right to your doorstep in a Design Box that comes complete with floor plans, paint colors, detailed product info, and any additional instructions you will need to finish the room.

3. Buy the complete room. Make your new design a reality by purchasing any or all of the suggested furnishings from Tastemaker — at the guaranteed lowest available price. A few clicks and Tastemaker takes care of everything. ”The internet has transformed the way we shop for home decor products, giving us access to more choices than ever before. But it doesn’t make putting together a room any easier,” said Joe Fraiman, CEO and co-founder of Tastemaker. ”Decorating can still be incredibly time-consuming and stressful.

Tastemaker is like having your own design team with you every step of the way, making it possible for anyone to create their dream home at a fraction of the usual cost.”

5

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Dodson brings life experiences to real estate business ILISSA GILMORE RECORD STAFF WRITER

For James Dodson, an associate broker at Re/Max of Roswell, it was truly an honor to have been named the Roswell Association of Realtors 2012 Rookie of the Year. Yet, he said being able to help others reach their goal of homeownership can be just as rewarding.

“Buying a home is one of the most important things you can do in your life,” he said. “When you get to that point to actually get to own your own home you get a real sense of accomplishment and I get to be a part of that.”

Born and raised in Roswell, Dodson said most of his work experiences over 35 years have been related, in one way or another, to real estate. For 14 years, he worked in his family’s business Dodson Wholesale Lumber, which he said has “helped

me recognize a well-built home.”

Formerly a licensed contractor, Dodson performed new construction and remodelling for homes.

He also owned and operated Colony House, a design furniture store, an experience he said, “gave me great perspective as to what makes a home marketable.”

“Because my entire career has been tied to this industry, it was an easy transition for me to become a real estate broker,” he said.

He believes all of these experiences helped him achieve the Rookie of the Year award. Dodson said he is proud to be part of the Re/Max of Roswell Team, located at 110 E. Country Club Road, and associated with “outstanding agents that have outstanding results.”As a full service broker, Dodson lists and sells residential, land, lots and commercial real estate.

“Even though the past few

years have seen our country challenged in the real estate industry, I believe that right now is one of the best opportunities for finding that special home at record low interest rates,” he said.

But selling real estate requires more than awareness of the market, he said. “You have to be sensitive to people’s needs and their situation,” Dodson said. “Every situation is different; the first thing you do is just sit down and find out what their situation is.”

Since real estate has gotten more complicated, it’s important to make customers feel comfortable in the process, he said. “It’s a matter of walking them through every step to where it’s not a stressful experience,” he said.

“All in all, when you’re done and your customer has their new home and they’re excited about it, there’s nothing better than that.” igilmore@rdrnews.com

Courtesy Photo Pictured is Roswell Association of Realtors’ Rookie of the Year James Dodson.

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Starla Nunez named Realtor of the Year for 2013 JILL MCLAUGHLIN RECORD STAFF WRITER

Starla Nunez had always been fascinated with the business of real estate. That fascination and her ambition has paid off.

Six years after trading in a 20year career in accounting, Nunez has been named Realtor of the Year by the Roswell Association of Realtors.

Nunez, who joined Century 21 Home Planning six years ago, said she was “really surprised� when the award was announced recently. “I’m talkative. I’m a people person and I couldn’t even talk that night,� Nunez said.

The mother of three and Roswell native said after years of always having “her nose in the newspaper� and frequently visiting open houses, her husband, Henry, convinced her to get into the real estate business. “I finally did it and it’s the best thing I ever did,� Nunez said. “I absolutely love what I do.�

Nunez still owns the bookkeeping

and accounting business she and her mother ran for many years, but her plan to take up selling homes part time grew quickly into a fulltime gig. “It didn’t take any time at all for me to say this is what I’m going to do,� she said.

Nunez, a 1981 Roswell High School graduate, said she is most gratified when she is helping someone purchase a dream home or an investment property. “It’s almost like a rush, when you finally get to the closing table and everything is coming together.

You’re finally signing papers,�

Nunez said. “It’s such a happy day.�

Nunez’s manager P.J. MarshallRiese said she gets many compliments about Nunez’s work. “She participates in everything,�

Marshall-Riese said. “She just gives everybody a good impression of the office.�

Nunez specializes in selling single-family homes in the Roswell area. As a “hometown girl,� she said she remembers selling her first

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home. “It was for a friend of mine, a small house for $55,000,� she said. “It sold within two weeks. It was pretty fascinating and encouraging.�

Shortly after, though, the market took a downswing. “It’s so much tougher now than it was. So it was pretty exciting to start out there, but it was tough to watch how things kind of declined from there,� Nunez said.

The market is slowly returning, and sales are starting to come up, she said.

Nunez said she works hard to stay out in the public and is ready when people are ready to look at properties. She is constantly watching the market and keeps her phone with her at all times, day and night. “I have my phone with me 24hours a day,� she said. “Even on vacation. I don’t get very far that I’m not available.�

The attention to her clients pays off. Many of her clients become her friends, she said.

Your

Jill McLaughlin Photo Starla Nunez with Century 21 Home Planning was selected as 2013 Realtor of the Year by the Roswell Association of Realtors.

“I try to walk them through from day one to the day they close,� she said.

In return, Nunez said she gets many compliments and a lot of flowers. She still keeps her book-

keeping business going, which her mother runs, but Nunez plans to stay in real estate for a long time. “This is where I want to be,�

Nunez said. “Good bad or otherwise, I will be here.�

KEY

to Home Ownership!

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PIONEER BANK 624-5200

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Gardening tools provided by Mother Nature

BY DEAN FOSDICK ASSOCIATED PRESS Looking for some help in the garden? Many of nature’s most useful critters lie literally at our feet, underappreciated and ignored despite their ability to eliminate insects, condition soils and pollinate plants.

Turtles, moths, moles, dragonflies, snakes, toads and spiders are among the many wild things that can help maintain a landscape. The payback is minimal — food, water, shelter, and easing off on harsh lawn and garden chemicals.

“I believe in teamwork, using all the creatures that live in your garden,” said Sharon Lovejoy, author of “Trowel and Error” (Workman Publishing, 2003). “Start from the ground up with night crawlers as part of your workforce.”

Add to the earthworms already in your plant beds with commercially available red worms.

“Build a worm bin or a place where they can’t get out,” Lovejoy said. “Use all of your leftovers — your kitchen compost. Worms can process up to 6 pounds of garbage in a week.”

“Grow an assortment of native plants, which will draw a great many bird species,” Lovejoy said. “Add plant hosts as food for butterfly and moth larvae.”

That list would include milkweed (monarch butterflies), borage (green lacewings), sunflowers (ladybugs) and yarrow (hoverflies). Many insects in the larval stage are voracious predators. Green lacewings as juveniles are aptly named “aphid lions” because of their appetite for the sap-sucking pests.

“I would certainly place spiders near the top of underappreciated life in the garden,” said Whitney Cranshaw, an extension entomologist with Colorado State University.

“Although sometimes I think it is less that they are not appreciated but rather people don’t want to think of them.”

Spiders are credited for as much as 80 percent of all predator control in the garden.

Jumping spiders, wolf spiders, lynx spiders and crab spiders are the standouts, Cranshaw said.

Also great garden helpers are: — Toads. “Harmful insects make up 62 percent of a toad’s daily food supply,” said Lovejoy, who stacks rocks and wood in secluded spots to shelter toads, frogs, turtles, salamanders and lizards.

— Dragonflies that can capture over 400 mosquitoes a day.

— Moles. “They eat their body weight in insects, slugs

and grubs while aerating the soil,” Lovejoy said.

— Sphinx wasps that can pollinate 200 flowers in less than seven minutes, Lovejoy said.

— Snakes. “Most snakes — about 99 percent of those found in gardens — are harmless helpers, and eat rodents and insect pests,” Lovejoy said. Garter and gopher snakes top her “beneficial” list.

— Box turtles that feast on slugs, snails, insects, larvae and grubs. “They’re slow but sure,” Lovejoy said.

— Bats. These nocturnal aerialists pollinate flowers, spread seeds and devour upwards of 600 mosquitoes an hour.

Most predatory insects aren’t selective, though, feeding on anything that comes within reach. “Praying mantises are generalists,” said James Dill, a pest management specialist with University of Maine Extension. “So are many spiders. They’re very efficient but don’t discriminate in what they eat. They’d just as soon grab a honeybee if it happens by.”

Maintain a healthy garden with ample spacing if you hope to attract beneficial insects, Dill said.

“Spacing allows you to observe things better if you’re

AP Photo

This March 7, 2009, photo shows a toad in a residential garden in New Market, Va. Toads, turtles, moths, moles, dragonflies, snakes and spiders are among the many wild things that can help maintain a landscape yet most go unappreciated or ignored despite their ability to kill insects, condition soil and pollinate plants. Harmful insects make up more than 60 percent of a toad's daily diet.

walking around, looking for trouble,” he said. “It also reduces the odds for (plant) disease.”

Online: For more about goodnatured gardeners, see this

University of Maryland Extension fact sheet: hgic.umd.edu/content/attra ctwildlife.cfm You can contact Dean Fosdick at deanfosdick@netscape. net.

Mayes Lumber

115 S Virginia Ave, Roswell, NM 88203 (575) 622-1360 It's all here somewhere. Serving Roswell and beyond since 1934

Mayes Lumber not only has all the regular lumber and hardware items, but has many specialty products such as pool products by Bioguard – chemicals for salt generated, chlorine, and non chlorine soft swim – and above ground products like filters for both spas and pools. They also carry in stock or available on order pool equipment and parts. They also have posts, poles, and a large selection of cedar and redwood in stock. Synthetic decking is another product Mayes knows well. We also still stock paneling, doors, and windows. We cut glass and make or rescreen screens and after all the springcleaning and pool preparation, we have “2 Old Goats” a remarkable pain relieving cream.

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Rick Kraft is Realtor association’s Citizen of the Year JILL MCLAUGHLIN RECORD STAFF WRITER Roswell attorney Rick Kraft is a citizen who finds success by helping others achieve their goals in life.

After 30 years of giving his time to his church, to the Roswell Chamber of Commerce, helping to build a new school, writing inspirational articles and providing leadership training, Kraft said he hopes he has made a difference.

The Roswell Association of Realtors, designating him as 2013 Citizen of the Year, agrees that he has.

“I was very excited, very humbled and honored to achieve that,” Kraft said. “I really appreciate the association. I see them doing great things in the community regularly. I’m very honored they’ve chosen me.”

Kraft has been the executive director of the Leadership Roswell program for the past 22 years. The program, which teaches exceptional individuals from all walks of life the skills of leadership, has

some 720 graduates.

“Everything rises and falls on leadership and I want Roswell to have the best leadership available,” he said. “A very good group of people help me with the program.”

Kraft moved to Roswell in 1982 after graduating from Baylor Law School at Baylor University in Waco, Texas. He soon opened his practice in general civil law with an emphasis on family law.

His practice reaches across the state of New Mexico, but his office has remained in Roswell.

“I’m a big fan of Roswell. Roswell is the best place in the world to live,” Kraft said. “It’s a great community, because of the people who live here. It’s really neat to be a member of this community.”

Kraft is also a gifted writer and columnist, who has written a weekly column for the Roswell Daily Record for the past 13 years titled “Just a Thought.” The popular musings have been compiled into four books through the years and the column has been syndicated.

“That’s something I enjoy doing,” he

said. “It’s just a hobby. It’s just about making a difference. It’s about the community. Anything that I can do that can help people achieve their goals, I’m glad to do.”

Kraft is also exceptionally active with his church, taking on leadership roles at the First Baptist Church. He has also served as a leader with the Valley Christian School and Valley Christian Academy, which he helped get off the ground in 2003.

“I have a whole list,” Kraft said, humbly, of his past volunteering accomplishments. “It’s not about me, it’s about adding value to others. And that’s success to me — if I can add value to the lives of others.”

Kraft is married to Tanya. They will celebrate 29 years of marriage this summer. They have two children, a son Devin who is an accomplished artist, and a daughter, Kelsey who is in her second year of dental school in Houston.

Jill McLaughlin Photo Attorney Rick Kraft was selected as Citizen of the Year 2013 by the Roswell Association of Realtors.

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Homeowners: five steps to avoid contractor fraud Each year, thousands of trusting homeowners hire contractors for home repairs or renovation projects. But for many, dreams of a remodeled kitchen, new roof or updated patio are dashed by contractor fraud.

Over half of homeowners who hire contractors state that fraud is their biggest fear, according to a recent online survey conducted for HomeAdvisor.

But savvy homeowners can avoid fraud by recognizing the warning signs and following simple hiring practices. Amy Matthews, home improvement expert and TV host, is sharing five simple steps homeowners can follow to safeguard themselves: • Look for an established company with a permanent business location and a listed phone number: Fraudulent contractors are often “travelers” — businesses from out of the area, or contractors with no permanent business location. Making sure a contractor has a permanent business location and

a listed phone number will alert homeowners to these “travelers” or other illegitimate contractors.

• Ask for a written, signed contract: Legitimate contractors will have no qualms about signing a contract and providing their business information. This simple step will typically weed out most fraudulent businesses afraid of having their scams discovered.

• Never pay with cash up front: Without cash in hand, unscrupulous contractors have few ways to pull off a scam. Never pay in full with cash before a job is started, and never pay a deposit with cash. Consider a request for a cash payment before work begins as a red flag that the contractor may be attempting to defraud.

• Ask for referrals or check reviews online: Referrals are a simple way to learn about a contractor’s track record from a friend, associate or other trusted source.

Use websites like HomeAdvisor.com that

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offer ratings, reviews or screening services as a way to assure that a contractor has a history of honest business dealings and high-quality work.

• Use licensed contractors: A licensed contractor’s reputation is at stake when completing work.

Before hiring contractors, check with the state contractor licensing board to see if a license is required. Make sure their license is valid and there are no legal claims against the contractor.

More information about home improvement, maintenance and repair projects, including project cost guides, emergency support and pre-screened professionals, can be found at HomeAdvisor.com.

Don’t deal with unscrupulous contractors. By taking precautions, you can ensure your home renovation projects are completed professionally and on time.

—StatePoint

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Buying a home in today’s market If you’re considering buying a home, some experts think you should get a move on it. Interest rates are at 65-year record lows and national home prices have finally hit bottom and are on the rise. Despite what you may be hearing, loans are available for those with good credit histories, stable income and sufficient savings.

But don’t jump right in unprepared.

Whether you’re a seasoned buyer or a newbie, there are strategies that can help you throughout the home-buying process:

Stick to your budget

Determining how much “home you can afford” depends on several factors, including your annual gross income, credit history, current mortgage rates and the amount of your down payment.

In today’s market, you can expect a down payment to generally be between 5 to 20 percent of the purchase price for a conventional mortgage. Lenders recommend that your mortgage payment (principal, interest, taxes and mortgage insurance) be less than 28 percent of your monthly gross income.

Before looking for a home, consider calling a Department of Housing and Urban Development-approved housing counselor for free and confidential financial assistance.

Avoid borrowing pitfalls

Unscrupulous lenders can damage your credit and cause you financial hardship.

Here are some ways to avoid becoming a victim: • Say ‘no’ to easy money. Beware if someone claims that your “credit problems won’t affect the interest rate.” If a solicitation is really appealing, get it in writing and seek a second opinion.

• Talk to several lenders to find the best loan.

• Know if the loan offered to you charges a fee if you pay it off early. If it’s a requirement of the loan, ask about other products that don’t contain this type of penalty.

• Ensure documents are correct and complete. Beware of anyone offering to falsify your income information to qualify you for a loan. Never sign documents that have incorrect dates or blank fields.

• Ask for written estimates that include all points and fees. When you get to the closing table, if any fees or charges differ

from what was previously disclosed, delay closing until all terms are understood.

• If you’re taking equity out of your property, only take the minimum. Equity typically builds slowly over time, so it’s important to try to preserve it.

• If you’re not sure, don’t sign! Get advice first from a reputable consumer credit counseling agency or housing counselor.

Know the mortgage process

Mortgages are serious long-term financial commitments. Selecting the right mortgage may make a big difference in your monthly payments and overall cost of your loan.

To determine the best term for your personal situation and one that aligns with your financial goals, talk with your lender or financial professional for guidance.

More home-buying tips can be found at FreddieMac.com.

The prospect of making such a big investment can be intimidating, especially if you’re a first time homebuyer. Do your research, reach out to the professionals, stick to your budget and be sure you’re ready to take on the financial responsibilities of being a homeowner.

—StatePoint

Sunday, April 21, 2013

11

Koolhaas unites design, fashion MILAN (AP) — Rem Koolhaas says he has shed his ‘’puritanical” attitude against architects designing objects, and has shifted scale to create 11 pieces of furniture for U.S. industrial design house Knoll.

The Dutch architect’s creations include a dynamic counter — a stack of three horizontal beams that can be transformed from a screenlike unit to cantilevered shelves and benches that invite people to sit, climb and lean in — a sort of social/intellectual romper room.

The Koolhaas collection, celebrating Knoll’s 75th anniversary, previewed at the Prada showroom — linking architecture, design and fashion.

In designing for Knoll, Koolhaas joins the ranks such architectural legends as Mies van der Rohe, who made Knoll’s signature Barcelona chair, and Frank Gehry, who designed the ribbon-like Hat Trick chair.

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Congratulations to Roswell’s 2012

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Sunday, April 21, 2013

Congratulations to Roswell’s 2012

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Hayrapetian: good news from home loan industry GLENDALE, Calif. — According to Vahe Hayrapetian, sales manager of Skyline Home Loans, home loan delinquencies are on the decline — and that’s ultimately good news for everyone. He illustrates his point by noting a recent report from the American Bankers Association, which says that, in the final quarter of 2012, delinquencies related to home loans fell — something that could indicate continued progress toward a fullblown recovery of the housing market.

Hayrapetian has issued a new statement to the press, commenting on this exciting news and pointing toward the future of the housing market recovery.

According to the ABA report, home loan delinquencies dropped in three different categories — in property improvement loans, in home equity

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loans, and in home equity lines of credit. This marked the first quarter since 2011 when delinquency rates declined in all three of these categories. The ABA does not track delinquencies rates for traditional mortgage payments; the organization defines delinquencies as any loan payment that is more than 30 days past due. ”It is important to understand this news within its rightful context,” contends Hayrapetian. ”It is true that delinquency rates remains relatively high; they are still elevated compared to the rates we saw before the housing crash. With that said, this is one scenario in which even a little bit of progress is significant — and indeed, the decline we’re seeing here could very well suggest major progress toward full market recovery.”

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The American Banking Association agrees. The organization’s chief economist, James Chessen, says that the falling delinquency rates are indicative of the housing market’s nascent recovery. There are other signs of economic recovery, as well, including the lowest level of foreclosed homes in more than five years.

There remain some challenges, the report notes — including the impact of the federal government ”sequestration.” As federal spending cuts take hold and various business costs rise — especially healthcare costs — there remain uncertainties for the U.S. economy, which could influence the housing market’s tentative recovery. ”Certainly, there remain many question marks — but it is hard to argue with the fact that the housing market is making progress, which is a

boon to those of us who work in this industry as well as to consumers, to borrowers, and to homeowners across the country,” concludes Hayrapetian. ”We can only hope that these numbers continue to drop, in all three categories, and that progress is not impeded by other economic factors.”

About: Vahe Hayrapetian is a sales professional with an impressive career history, focused primarily on financial services and home loan companies.

Presently, Hayrapetian is the sales manager of Skyline Home Loans, based in Glendale, Calif.; previous positions include management roles at Bank of America, GMAC Mortgage, and more.

Outside the office, Hayrapetian is an enthusiastic supporter of FCN, a nonprofit organization that seeks to enrich the lives of poor Armenian children.

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Soundproofing tips to turn your home into a quiet sanctuary All around us, life is getting louder.

But home should be a place to relax and unwind. Between televisions, cell phones, computers and video games, it’s sometimes hard to find peace and quiet within the walls of your home.

Luckily, with a few do-it-yourself soundproofing projects, you can reclaim your home as a place of respite no matter what’s going on in the rooms around you.

• Fabrics: For a quick fix, think fabric. In addition to complementing the look of a room, soft rugs, carpeting, curtains and tapestries make great sound absorbers. And just a few rugs can spell a lot of disturbance-free foot traffic.

• Furniture: Give rooms a unique touch and a powerful sound barrier by placing thickly-upholstered chairs in each corner. Large bookcases against common walls can also help

block noise.

• Surface texture: Rough surfaces on walls and ceilings, such as sprayed-on texture, a textured paint job or even wallpaper can help reduce sound waves in a noisy room.

• Insulation: The simplest, most effective way to soundproof is to reduce airflow between rooms with a high-density stone wool insulation that’s specifically designed for noise reduction.

For example, Roxul Safe ‘n’ Sound, for use between interior walls, in ceilings, and between floors, traps sound waves and vibrations in the thousands of interconnected spaces created by its fiber structure. Because it can be cut precisely with a serrated blade, it can be trimmed for the best possible fit, meaning maximum sound absorption.

Installation is easy and will go a

long way to reduce sound transmission with the added benefit of improving your home’s fire resistance. And because stone wool insulation is mold resistant and doesn’t slump or settle inside walls over time, it is maintenance free. More information can be found at Roxul.com.

• Cracks: Sound can burrow through crevices and cracks. Seal cracks around baseboards and in drywall, and block slits around window seals and interior doors.

While homes are getting louder, there’s good news — many soundproofing techniques have additional benefits, from aesthetic appeal to improved energy efficiency. Take steps today to make your home a more peaceful, comfortable place to live.

—StatePoint

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Seven tips to make home painting projects easier Painting your home yourself?

Don’t be intimidated.

“Whether you’re a rookie or an experienced do-it-yourselfer, anyone can produce professionallooking results efficiently with the right techniques and tricks,” says home improvement expert Lou Manfredini, a regular contributor to NBC’s Today Show.

Manfredini, who is passionate about home improvement, is offering seven tips to help make your home painting projects easier: • Even a steady hand is liable to make mistakes and drip. Protect your furniture and flooring with drop cloths.

• Good masking is necessary for sharp, clean paint lines. Be sure to use tape designed to remove cleanly from the particular surface with which you’re working. For example, ScotchBlue Painter’s Tapes are specifically designed with appropriate adhesion levels to come off cleanly, creating super

sharp paint lines without leaving behind residue or harming the surface.

• For a smoother finish, clean and dust the surfaces you’re painting and sand them down before getting started.

• Don’t forget to wear a respirator to protect your lungs from fumes and sanding particles as well as safety eyewear, especially if you are painting overhead.

“Most of the work involved comes before you even pick up your paintbrush or roller,” says Manfredini. “New products that can help you cut steps and get the same results will save you time and energy for the actual painting.”

• For wall repairs, skip traditional patching products as they’re susceptible to water absorption and liable to shrink, crack and flash, or show through the finished painted wall.

3M makes a spackling and

primer in one that eliminates the need for priming called 3M Patch Plus Primer.

• Paint separates over time, so always mix your paint when you open a can, and do so periodically as you go for better color and texture consistency. Always use higher quality paints for professional results. You get what you pay for.

• Load rollers and brushes with the proper amount of paint. Too little paint will make you inefficient and too much paint will have you dripping. You’ll get a feel for the right amount of paint for your tools through a bit of trial and error.

More practical tips and creative inspiration can be found at 3MDIY.com.

Without cutting corners, you can learn to paint your home yourself quickly and precisely.

—StatePoint

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Tips for making a dishwasher, drain work better

BY AMY LORENTZEN ASSOCIATED PRESS Your dishwasher, sink drain and garbage disposal do the major dirty work in your kitchen, and you can keep them smelling fresh and running efficiently with a few easy steps.

If there are spots or stuck-on grime on the dishes when they come out of the washer, or if the sink has an unpleasant odor even after you clean it and run the disposal, it means these hard-working appliances may need extra attention.

“Dishwashers and drains battle kitchen waste and activity daily, which can take a toll on the appearance and performance if not cleaned correctly,” said Chris Salatino with Kenmore Major Appliances.

DISHWASHERS Electric dishwashers have a filtration system that requires regular cleaning, especially if you don’t scrape or pre-rinse dishes.

“The maintenance on a dishwasher depends on how you treat it,” says John DeSilvia, host of DIY Network’s “Rescue My Renovation.”

If you’re not a pre-rinser, he recommends cleaning the filter once a month. Just look at the bottom of your dishwasher, find and remove your filter, then scrub away debris with a soft brush. Rinse and reinstall.

“Don’t be scared, it’s really easy,” says DeSilvia.

If in doubt, check your owner’s manual on how to find and remove the filter. Can’t find the instructions? Log on to your manufacturer’s website. Or online tutorials at sites such as DIYNetwork.com and YouTube.com can help you through the process.

The interior of your dishwasher may also appear filmy at times. To get rid of that buildup, Salatino advises waiting until the washer has finished a cycle and cooled. Then make a paste with powdered

detergent or use liquid detergent on a damp sponge to wipe away mineral deposits. Follow up by running a normal cycle.

If you’re in a hard water area and wiping with detergent doesn’t remove all the film, run a normal cycle with 2 cups of white vinegar in an upright glass on the lower rack. Salatino advises turning off the “heated dry” option during the cycle.

There also are commercial cleaners marketed especially for mineral buildup in dishwashers.

Consumer Reports recommends replacing worn or rusted dish racks, and using care when loading dishes and silverware so you don’t damage spray arms. Inspect the arms to make sure they aren’t clogged with debris, which could affect water pressure. Use pipe cleaners to dislodge blockages.

For cleaning the outside of your dishwasher, Salatino says all you need is a soft, damp cloth or sponge and mild detergent. If you’ve got a stainless steel cover, you’ll need a special cleanser.

SUPER SUDS Phosphates, which help control water hardness, were eliminated from dishwater detergents a few years ago over pollution concerns. Since then, some consumers have complained that dishes don’t seem as clean.

Lucinda Ottusch, with Whirlpool’s Institute of Kitchen Science, says one mistake people make is buying cheap detergent. She says the all-in-one packets by name-brand companies really do help your dishwasher perform best.

She also recommends a rinse aid, which promotes drying by allowing the water to sheet off dishes.

Loading your dishwasher properly also can aid cleaning.

Find tips at instituteofkitchenscience.com/kitchen-101/dish-

washers.

And, you don’t have to wait until the dishwasher is full to run a cycle. Ottusch says many newer models sense the size of a load and how dirty the dishes are, and work accordingly.

“Running the dishwasher takes very little water and energy, and waiting until it is packed full of dishes can compromise cleaning performance,” she says.

DIRTY DRAINING If you’ve got a smelly drain, there’s probably bacteria growing in it.

To eliminate the problem, start by mixing a cup of baking soda and a cup of vinegar. Pour the mixture down the drain, let it sit for 15 minutes or more, then run the disposal and rinse with hot water.

To clean disposal blades, freeze white vinegar in ice cube trays and let the disposal grind away at them. The ice will help dislodge stuck-on debris, and the vinegar freshens the unit.

If there’s still an odor, try pouring in half a cup of bleach, but not if you have a septic system. You may need to go buy a live enzyme product that eats away bacteria, or a corrosive cleaner meant to unclog drains.

If your sink’s drain plug has moldy buildup, soak it in a vinegar or bleach solution, then wipe away any remaining grime.

If mold builds up again quickly, replace the plug. Home improvement stores should offer styles that fit your sink, and some even stock scented versions.

If unpleasant odors continue, consider whether you might have a backed-up disposal or clogged plumbing.

THE GRIND The crunching and gnashing of your disposal may make you leery of touching it, but there are ways you can keep it running well without calling a professional.

DeSilvia says to always run

AP Photo

This March 25 publicity product photo provided by Whirlpool Corporation shows a Whirlpool Gold® Series Dishwasher with PowerScour™ Option (model WDT910SAYH).

cold water before, during and after using the disposal.

“Never use hot water with your garbage disposal,” he says.

“It breaks down food, causing it to liquify and accumulate around your pipes.”

It’s best to scrape large pieces of food into the trash can, then let the disposal take care of smaller scraps. Don’t put potato peels, shellfish, coffee grounds or other fibrous foods into the disposal. They’re clogmakers.

DeSilvia reminds homeowners never to put their hand in the disposal. If it won’t grind, use

the reset button, usually a black or red button on the bottom of the unit. Make sure the outlet the disposal is plugged into is working.

If the disposal seems jammed, use the Allan wrench or similar hand-crank tool that comes with the unit to give it a push start. If you can’t find yours, many hardware stores carry them.

“Most service calls can be avoided by simply resetting your disposal,” DeSilvia says.

“Press the button and you are good to go. Just saved yourself $300 bucks for a service call.”

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Sunday, April 21, 2013

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Top 5 home improvements that increase a home’s value Selling a home in today’s aggressive marketplace can be challenging. The good news is there are a few tweaks that can give homeowners a serious leg up on the competition.

With the warmer months being the most active time of year to buy and sell real estate, it’s important to ensure your home is seen in the best light possible.

“Despite the influx of homes for sale this season, the process of buying and selling a home can be simple, efficient and enjoyable,” says Wendy Froehlich of Homes.com, one of the nation’s top online real estate listing and lifestyle resources.

According to Homes.com, the top five projects that improve home equity are:

Bathrooms

If adding an additional bathroom isn’t an option, upgrade existing ones.

Adding a dual vanity to a master or secondary bath improves functionality, allowing multiple people to use the space.

Change out fixtures like faucets and shower doors to increase aesthetic appeal. If you’re on a budget, replace light fixtures or switch plates to help refresh the space.

When working with a small space, highlight storage options with shelving and update or remove wall decor, paint or wallpaper.

Kitchen

Kitchen renovations can cost anywhere from $20,000 to $40,000 and more. If that’s not in your budget, upgrading cabinetry and paint does wonders to liven up even the most outdated spaces.

Add crown or decorative molding to “shape out” the kitchen cabinets and modernize the space. Repaint cabinets, or add new hardware to add visual interest and brighten dark spaces.

Outdoor spaces

Curb appeal adds immediate interest to any home’s exterior. According to Remodeling Magazine, improving outdoor spaces can increase a home’s resale value dollar-fordollar.

Frame the front walkway with items that add visual interest, like flowers, potted plants, large rocks of various sizes and solarpowered lights. If yard space is scarce, hanging plants are another great, low-cost option.

Extend outdoor projects to the backyard -power-wash decks or patios and clean

screened-in areas.

Basement

Basement improvements can optimize livable space and protect the home from extreme weather, mold, moisture damage and mites.

Whether transitioning the basement to a home gym, office or family room, the basics remain the same: insulate well and waterproof.

Maximize space by including shelving and storage units. If the opportunity exists, make the space feel open and inviting by creating an open stairwell, a trick that visually connects the upper part of the house with the lower, and filters natural light into the space.

Mudroom

Mudrooms ensure families stay clutter-free and have a dedicated space to drop stuff as they come through the door. They can also make potential homeowners feel welcome upon entry.

While knocking out a wall to create a mudroom is expensive and labor-intensive, you can make a “drop zone` by simply anchoring a bench to an empty wall and hanging labeled storage units.

Making homes stand out in a sea of real estate listings isn’t always easy. More tips on increasing home values can be found at Homes.com.

—StatePoint

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