Evaluating a Good Commercial Real Estate Site....

To find a good commercial real estate site there are several areas to think about before purchasing land. The first step is to find the best locations available in the market and compare the different locations. Second, figure out why that location might not have worked for the existing business (if there was one on that site) and discuss how you can reduce your risk in that location. Third, gather all your information together, including; demographics, customer information, business plans, site information and features- accessibility, visibility, etc. Finally, take all your information and evaluate it to determine if the location you are considering is the right one. Some questions to consider might be:

1. Who are my customers?
2. Where do my current and future customers live and work?
3. Why are they buying my product or service?
4. What is the business and retail activity in this area?
5. Is this location easy to access?
6. How much traffic is there in this area?
7. What competition will I face here?
8. Will my business be visible in this location?
9. Are there any barriers I must overcome in this location, business, or with this type of customer, etc?

For more information on site planning, selection, or acquisition, contact Dennis Blind of DREI group at 918-812-2339 or www.dreigroup.com.

For all your commercial real estate needs in the Tulsa, Oklahoma area, contact Darryl Baskin, McGraw Realtors at 918-258-2600 or www.darrylbaskin.com.

Indoor Air Pollution

Indoor air pollution can pose many health risks, including: allergies, asthma, and even cancer. The average person spends about 30% of their day at work and 75% of their day indoors . These simple solutions can improve the air quality in your business and your home:

• Avoiding smoking and the use of chemicals indoors
• Using building materials that don't emit toxins
• Dehumidifying in moist areas
• Ensuring adequate ventilation
• Using filters that help reduce air pollutants

For information on air filters to improve indoor air quality at your business, contact Rick Butefish at Filters4Me.com or 918-292-8600.

A-Best Roofing Expands into OKC!

A-Best Roofing of Tulsa has expanded to serve the Oklahoma City area. They have provided residential and commercial roofing services in the Tulsa area for 21 years and now serve OKC. Their new office is located at 13722 N. Lincoln Blvd. in Edmond. You can also visit their Tulsa location at 1411 E. 3rd St. For more information on roofing products or for an estimate for roofing services, contact Judy Smith of A-Best Roofing at 918-587-1426 or judysmith@abestroofing.com.

For a list of home maintenance professionals visit www.tulsahomemaintenance.com.

Improve or Move?

Right now, during these difficult economic times, many property owners are choosing to improve their commercial property rather than move. By doing so, when the economy changes they will have increased the value of their property and will be able to sell it at that point. There are many ways to improve your property and add value, including: repairing and replacing your roof, repainting the interior and exterior of your property, installing energy efficient products, providing curb appeal through landscaping, upgrading fixtures, and doing basic maintenance and pest control.

• Repairing or Replacing Your Roof- Make sure that you keep your roof in good repair and when needed, replace it. Check with your roofing professional to see if you need a new roof, have venting problems, have loose shingles, or have any other roofing issues that are in need of repair.
  
• Repainting- repainting your property not only helps maintain the property but it is also appealing to buyers when you decide to sell. Keep neutral colors in mind, however, so that it will be appealing to a large number of buyers.
  
• Installing Energy Efficient Products- replace old windows, appliances, hot water heaters, and heating and a/c units with newer energy star rated ones. This will help decrease your energy bills and will be attractive to buyers.
  
• Providing Curb Appeal through Landscaping- make sure that your landscaping is attractive to buyers. An attractive exterior can help ensure that buyers will at least take a peak inside. Also remember to provide landscaping that will look good in every season.
  
• Upgrading Fixtures- this is an easy and often inexpensive way to improve your property. Replace doorknobs, cabinet pulls, light fixtures, and plumbing fixtures for newer ones.
• Doing Basic Maintenance and Pest Control- this is one of the best ways to improve your property and prevent buyers from walking out the door. Many buyers simply don't want a "fixer upper" or problems with pests. They want it move in ready. Simple maintenance and pest control will keep buyers interested and will help prevent more expensive repairs later.

Remember, if you don't have the time or skill, hire a professional to do needed improvements and repairs. A poor repair job won't attract buyers when you decide to sell. Check our the professionals listed below or visit www.tulsahomemaintenance.com for a complete list of professionals.

• For information on how to improve your commercial property by repairing or replacing your roof, contact Judy Smith of Abest Roofing at 918-587-1426 or www.abestroofing.com.

• For information on pest control in the Tulsa, Oklahoma area contact Duane Montgomery, Montgomery Exterminating at 918-438-4885 or www.montgomeryexterminating.com.

• To have a estimate on property repairs contact Jonathon Knapp of Residential Repairs at 918-621-1020 or www.residentialrepairinc.com.

• For heating and air conditioning repair and replacement contact Stephen Taylor at Air Assurance at 918-258-HEAT or www.airassurance.com.

• For information on how to improve your commercial property or on buying or selling commercial real estate contact Darryl Baskin, McGraw Realtors, 918-258-2600 or www.darrylbaskin.com.

Tulsa County Assessor Responds on Broken Arrow School Bond Election

Ken Yazel, Tulsa County Assessor, responds to The Future of Real Estate interview with Joe Cook who speaking for the passage of the Broken Arrow School Bond issue. Mr. Yazel that Tulsa County residents are, by far, the highest taxed real estate owners in the state.  Some proponents for the bond issue are saying that Yazel's weighted average is not representative of the actual tax rate property owners are paying.  Yazel responds "The fact is that Tulsa property owners are the highest taxed in the state and they deserve to know the truth.  I am not here to kill any bond issue or to oppose the vote.  I am here to make the facts available and make sure taxpayers are not mislead by marketing campaigns trying to get their votes."

Darryl Baskin, Tulsa, OK area real estate broker and host of The Future of Real Estate radio program on AM740 and fm102.3 KRMG, adds "This is a healthy debate which will let Broken Arrow, OK residents make an important decision about what they want their community to be in coming years.  This is what determines the livability of a city and what will eventually determine future Broken Arrow real estate values.  It is not just about how much stuff you have but about how much you have to pay for that stuff if you live there."

Explosive Profits in Foreclosures FREE WEBINAR - This Friday - Must Register!

This Friday @ 7:00pm (CST) Explosive Profits in Foreclosures: Part 2 Click here to learn more about this topic November 13 & 20, 2009 This Friday Evening @ 7:00pm (CST) Register today to attend this FREE webinar. Join Jerry Robinson and JRMI Advisory Team Member/Real Estate Specialist, Darryl Baskin, as they discuss the basics of the foreclosure market. In this informative 90 minute webinar, you will learn: The secrets to finding foreclosed properties Creative funding strategies in order to purchase foreclosed properties. How to prevent or avoid a foreclosure of your own property And much more! Join us for this free webinar this Friday evening at 7:00pm (Central Standard Time.) It is free, but you must register today! This Webinar is a two-part presentation and will be held on two consecutive Friday evenings: Nov. 13, 2009 and Nov. 20, 2009 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM CST Register Now at: https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/389283763 Once registered you will receive an email confirming your registration with information you need to join the Webinar. System Requirements PC-based attendees Required: Windows® 2000, XP Home, XP Pro, 2003 Server, Vista Macintosh®-based attendees Required: Mac OS® X 10.4 (Tiger®) or newer

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Petition to Partition

Many times, people will purchase a commercial property with a friend or family member, only to find that years later a strain happens in the relationship and one or both parties want to sell their share in the property. That in itself is not a big problem unless the parties disagree about what should happen with the property. When a disagreement happens that can't be resolved, each party will need to seek an attorney. Usually, it will end up before a judge. Each party will lay out their interest for the property and the judge will determine what will happen with the property, including the interest each party will have with the property. The judge can also appoint appraisers to determine the property value. Getting to this point will usually cost quite a bit of money in legal fees. To avoid this type of situation, contact an attorney to discuss plans before a contract is signed.

If you have questions regarding a Petition to Partition or other legal issues, contact David Keesling with Richardson, Richardson, Boudreaux at 492-7674 or www.rrblawok.com.

For all your Tulsa, OK. area commercial real estate needs contact Darryl Baskin, McGraw Realtors, 918-258-2600 or www.darrylbaskin.com.

Many times, people will purchase a commercial property with a friend or family member, only to find that years later a strain happens in the relationship and one or both parties want to sell their share in the property. That in itself is not a big problem unless the parties disagree about what should happen with the property. When a disagreement happens that can't be resolved, each party will need to seek an attorney. Usually, it will end up before a judge. Each party will lay out their interest for the property and the judge will determine what will happen with the property, including the interest each party will have with the property. The judge can also appoint appraisers to determine the property value. Getting to this point will usually cost quite a bit of money in legal fees. To avoid this type of situation, contact an attorney to discuss plans before a contract is signed.

If you have questions regarding a Petition to Partition or other legal issues, contact David Keesling with Richardson, Richardson, Boudreaux at 492-7674 or www.rrblawok.com.

For all your Tulsa, OK. area commercial real estate needs contact Darryl Baskin, McGraw Realtors, 918-258-2600 or www.darrylbaskin.com.

New Law Affecting Your Move

Mike Ellingson, owner of Relocation LLC, says local movers in Oklahoma will be facing new rules from the Oklahoma Corporation Commission requiring insurance coverage and licensing. Formerly, an inter-city moving company was exempt from licensing and insurance laws but will now face penalties and fines for not holding these policies and coverages. The law takes effect November 1st, 2009. Homeowners are often deceived by companies who present a low bid but offer no coverages for damage or loss. Research carefully before you hire a mover and make sure that you can trust them with all of your belongings. For more information on these new regulations affecting your move or for an estimate contact Mike at 918-459-6683 or www.relocationllc.net.

For all your Tulsa, Oklahoma area real estate needs, contact The Baskin Real Estate Specialists of McGraw Realtors, 918-258-2600 or www.darrylbaskin.com.

Incorporating Green Ideas into Your Commercial Property

When building, remodeling or replacing things in your commercial property, eco-friendly or greeen ideas can be very easy and often inexpensive to implement. Here are some easy ways to incorporate green products into your property:

• When building a new commercial space, face the widest part of the building to the north or the south.
• Place doors and windows where you will receive good cross-ventilation.
• Ensure any attic space is well ventilated by using roof ridge vents, lighter colored roofing materials, lots of insulation, and by placing A/C ducts in the attic to absorb the heat.
• Install an energy-efficient and properly sized heating and A/C system, make sure that duct work is correctly sealed, and use a programmable thermostat.
• Utilize landscaping materials, plants and design that are appropriate for the climate and rainfall levels in your area.
• Use low-flow toilets and shower heads and energy-efficient appliances.
• Recyclable and renewable materials can be used for decking, siding, trim and more.
• Choose green flooring materials such as concrete, bamboo, or recycled wood.
• Replace your air-conditioning filter regularly to enhance the performance of your air conditioning system and to reduce pollutants.

For more ideas or estimates on incorporating green products and ideas into your commercial property, contact the professionals below:

Land Conservation and Reuse Studies: DREI Group, Dennis Blind at 918-812-2339, dennis@dreigroup.com, or www.dreigroup.com.
Roofing: Royal Roofing, Johnathon Knapp at 918-398-6500 or www.royalroofingllc.com.
Landscaping Design: Bluum Outdoor, Nathan at 918-599-8500, Nathan@bluum.net, or www.bluum.net.
Heating and Air Conditioning: Air Assurance, Stephen Taylor at staylor@airassurance.com.
Building and Remodeling: US Building Systems, Rick Oberlender at usbs@att.net.
Air Conditioning Filters: Filter 4 Me, Rick Butefish at 918-292-8600, rick@filters4me.com, or www.filters4me.com.
Flooring Products: ProSource Wholesale Floorcoverings, Jim Ecrette at 918-252-7711 or prosourcejim@tulsacoxmail.com (make sure you ask for Darryl Baskin's preferred pricing).

To find energy-efficient, eco-friendly, or green commercial properties in the Tulsa, Oklahoma area contact Darryl Baskin, McGraw realtors at 918-258-2600 or www.darrylbaskin.com.

Commercial Real Estate Classes offered in Tulsa

GTARCA Update

Upcoming events and other items of interest to commercial members.

 

Learn the Advantages of Brownfield Redevelopment!

Wednesday, November 4

Brownfields 101: Real Estate v. Environmental Contamination

1:00 – 4:00 p.m.

GTAR Training Center

Special Guest Speakers:

Rita Kottke, Ph.D - Oklahoma DEQ Brownfields Program Manager

Barbara Rauch, Esq. - Oklahoma DEQ Supervising Attorney

Dennis Williams - Department of Environmental Quality

Lloyd Landreth, Esq. - Landreth Law Firm

The purpose of this new course is to acquaint real estate professionals with environmental issues
on real property and provide information about resources available to help resolve these issues.

Cost: $15 pre-registered or $20 the day of class

OREC Approved: 3 hours elective CE credit

To Register:

Online: Log on to tulsarealtors.com;

click the red Education bar on the main Member Services page;

then click Register for Classes

or Call: 918-663-7500

Do I repair, refinish, or replace my hardwood flooring?

When a good quality hardwood floor is installed properly and needed repairs are done well it provides a beautiful and durable flooring option for many commercial properties. When hardwood flooring repairs, refinishes, and installations are not done properly or a bad product is purchased it can cause many problems. Here are some common problems with hardwood flooring and their causes:

• Buckling is usually caused when the flooring is not given proper time to acclimate, moisture testing is not done correctly, or it is not given proper room to expand.
• Creaking or squishy floors can be caused by incorrect floor preparation on both a concrete slab and a wood subfloor.
• Fading and color changes can occur simply due to exposure to light over time or from failing to install from different cartons. Since cartons of hardwood flooring can come from different lots it is important for the installer to use several different cartons at a time when installing the flooring in each area.
• Visible and Invisible defects can occur when using a poor quality hardwood floor. Although it can also occur with even the best of hardwood products, it is less likely when good quality hardwood products and good hardwood flooring installers and repair professionals are chosen.

To ensure that your hardwood floor looks beautiful for years to come, select a good quality floor, have it installed properly, and make sure all repairs are done correctly. For new hardwood flooring options for your commercial space, call Jim Ecrette of ProSource Flooring at 918-252-7711 or www.prosourcefloors.com/tulsa and ask for Darryl Baskin's Contractors Rate. For repair and installation of hardwood flooring, call Jonathon Knapp of Residential Repair, Inc. at 918-621-1020 or www.residentialrepairinc.com.

Signals You May Have Roof Damage

Oklahoma weather is constantly changing and that changing weather can wreak havoc on your roof. Here are some simple signals that roofing damage may have occurred and repairs may be needed:

1. Leaking in the attic after wind-driven rain or ice build-up.
2. Blistering or peeling interior or exterior paint.
3. Stains on interior ceilings or walls.
4. Mold or mildew growth.
5. Decaying roof shingles, sheathing, or siding.
6. Missing, cracked or curled shingles.
7. Dark looking areas on your roof.
8. Excessive energy costs.

For more information on roofing danger signals or to have your home inspected and receive an estimate for repairs contact Judy Smith of A-Best Roofing at 918-587-1426, email her at judysmith@abestroofing.com, or visit their website at www.abestroofing.com.

For your real estate needs in the Tulsa, Oklahoma area, contact Darryl Baskin, McGraw Realtors at 918-258-2600 or www.darrylbaskin.com.

Tulsa Historical Society

The Tulsa Historical Society presents:

2nd Annual Music on the Lawn
Sunday, October 25th
3:00PM to 6:00PM

Confessions of a Pioneer Woman
Lecture and Book Signing by Ree Drummond
Tuesday, October 27th
7:00PM

For more information on these FREE events visit their website or their facebook event page.

Autumn Pests

Many insects find their way into our homes during this time of year. They come in through crevices and cracks in roof flashing, siding, trim, vents, and any other way they can. Once they are inside the walls and structural areas of your home or business they can be very hard to exterminate. When the weather warms up they will often come inside through light fixture openings, vents, light switches, and fireplaces. Help eliminate this problem by:

• Looking for and repairing interior and exterior cracks and crevices where pests can enter
• Having professionals exterminate your property now to prevent further problems in the Spring
  

For all your pest control needs, call Duane Montgomery of Montgomery Exterminating at 918-438-4885 or www.montgomeryexterminating.com.

For help with all your real estate needs in the Tulsa, Oklahoma area call Darryl Baskin, McGraw Realtors, 918-258-2600 or www.darrylbaskin.com.

Tips for a Smooth Closing

Buying and Selling property can be a stressful process, but when the closing process doesn't happen smoothly, it can add even more stress. Here are a few tips to de-stress the closing process. First, listen to the professionals. If your real estate agent or mortgage broker gives you suggestions for the closing and moving process, heed their advice. They see problems regularly and can help you avoid some of the most common problems. Second, pack and move out of the property as early in the day, or even the night before, as possible and schedule closing for the afternoon. For buyers, schedule the final walk through earlier in the day as well. This added time should help with any unplanned delays. Third, consider adding a little extra expense to your budget in case there is a delay in closing and storage or hotel costs are needed or you need to hire a professional for an unexpected home repair. Finally, ask for a final settlement statement a day or two in advance of closing so that last minute surprises are kept to a minimum.

For more information on the closing process or if you are in need of closing services, contact JJ Pierce, Closings of Tulsa, 918-493-2241.

For all your mortgage needs, contact Karen Heston, Bank of Oklahoma, 918-488-7353 or kheston@bokf.com.

For all your Tulsa, Oklahoma area commercial real estate needs, contact, Darryl Baskin, McGraw Realtors, 918-258-2600 or www.darrylbaskin.com.

Fire Damage

A home or business fire is not only destructive it can also leave you wondering "what do I do next"? First, contact your insurance company and inform them of the fire and gets things going from their side. Second, get all your important documents together , especially those that have survived the fire. If they didn't survive the fire, attempt to get another copy. Third, take inventory of what was and wasn't damaged. Damaged property can be difficult and stressful to handle, so call the professionals.

The experts at PCC Cleaning and Restoration can help with fire and water restoration and even mold damage. For more information on fire and water restoration, mold damage, or helpful tips after this type of damage to your property call Roger Fisher at 918-641-1111 or visit their website at http://www.pcccr.com.

For all your Tulsa, Oklahoma area real estate needs, contact Darryl Baskin, McGraw Realtors at 918-258-2600 or www.darrylbaskin.com.

Pre-Nuptial Agreements

Quite often, pre-nuptial agreements are thought of as negative. In some cases, however, a pre-nuptial agreement can be very helpful and even create peace of mind. A pre-nuptial agreement (also called a pre-marital agreement or pre-nup) defines to whom property belongs and can prevent legal arguments should a divorce or death occur. The agreement covers three areas: during marriage, upon divorce, and upon death of a spouse. It is very important that all parties involved have independent counsel. It is also important that everyone is honest and provides full disclosure of their assets. If these don't occur, the agreement may be invalid. You might benefit from a pre-nup if you are engaged and either own a business, have children or someone needing special care, or have many assets.

To discuss a pre-nuptial agreement or other legal issues, contact Richardson Law Firm, at 918-492-7674 or www.richardsonlawfirmpc.com.

For all your real estate needs in the Tulsa, Oklahoma area, contact Darryl Baskin, McGraw Realtors, 918-258-2600 or www.darrylbaskin.com.

Downtown Tulsa, OK residential development incentives

The City of Tulsa invites proposals for residential development within downtown Tulsa.  Remaining Vision 2025 sales tax funds for eligible housing projects are now available for allocation.  Proposals will be received by the City of Tulsa, City Hall at One Technology Center, 175 East 2nd Street, City Clerk, Tulsa, OK 74120.  The deadline for submitting proposals is 5:00 p.m., C.D.T., Tuesday, November 3, 2009.   The details of the Request for Proposals are presented within a document, which can be accessed at http://www.cityoftulsa.org/media/34902/downtown%20rfp%20-%20updatedrfp2009v5%20_2_.pdf   Questions regarding this request should be submitted in writing via email to the following: jminer@cityoftulsa.org.

Ray Meldrum Tulsa Development Authority - rmeldrum@tulsarealtors.com

CAR WASH!

Classic Car Wash located near major intersection of 69 and 51. Across from Wal-Mart, Walgreens and central business activity.  The address is 1412 N Highway 51 Street and the price is $850,000.  For more information about this property and other Broken Arrow, OK retail, office, warehouse, or other commercial real estate, please visit www.darrylbaskin.com/broken_arrow   #

 

7.7 acre Investment Property. Owner is selling home and outbuildings 'As-Is'. Value is in the land. Comprises 2 Lots. Highlights: Two Living Areas, 7 year old Roof, 2 Stall Stable with tack room, water & electric. Fenced. Zoned as Residential. The address is 14430 S Yukon Avenue and the price is $375,000. The house is in the Glenpool school district in Tulsa County. More information about retail, office, warehouse, or other commercial real estate properties please visit www.darrylbaskin.com/commercial #

Property is the former Jarrett Farm Resort-116 acre estate, house+ five duplex cottages ideal for guests, company use, family or retain business of Jarrett Farm. House has florida room, library, bar, 3 Fireplaces, pool/hot tub. Total: 14 bedrooms, 14 full bathrooms, 11 fireplaces. The address is 38009 HWY 75 and the price is $2,470,000. For more information about this property and other Broken Arrow, OK retail, office, warehouse, or other commercial real estate, please visit http://darrylbaskin.com/broken_arrow #

13.41 Acres Zoned Commercial, Residential (RS2) and Ag. Value is in land. Commercial Property with Highway 75 Frontage adjoins this land. Close to the Main intersection of Highway 75 & 141st Street in Glenpool Business District. House on property is 2,722 sq ft. The address is 532 W Main Street and the price is $448,900. For more information about this property and other Broken Arrow, OK retail, office, warehouse, or other commercial real estate, please visit http://darrylbaskin.com/broken_arrow #