May 2021
Beautifully updated home in the Hillcrest Area!
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Rive e r Va stat River Valley Real Estate lley al E e Rea R y e l Es l l a V tate r Rive u Jan
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Sales Executive Sharee Shelton sshelton@localiq.com 541-217-8020
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
Mike Opolka mopolka@localiq.com 479-629-0548
Design Coordination Kelly Hignite of designIQ The opinions and observations expressed in River Valley Real Estate & Home are those of the respective authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Times Record. Volume 14, Number 1 River Valley Real Estate & Home, a magazine of the Times Record published 12 times a year. © Copyright 2021 Times Record
FEATURES Make the most of your garage ..................................................................... 6 How to respond to pesticide poisoning.................................................... 8 Stay safe when working in the yard this spring and summer .........12 Spruce up for spring ........................................................................................14 Safety first with DIY electrical work ........................................................ 20
INDEX OF ADVERTISERS Realtor Magazine ...............................................................................................3 Greater Fort Smith Association of Home Builders ............................... 4 Local iQ ................................................................................................................. 5 Western Arkansas Title Services............................................................... 10 Homes ...................................................................................................................11 Home Show 2021 ............................................................................................ 16 KW Platinum/Ibison Realty ........................................................................ 18
April 2021
April 2021
First Financial Mortgage ............................................................................... 19 Chuck Fawcett/River City Realty ..............................................................22 Ronald Ragon Realty .....................................................................................23 Arvest Bank .......................................................................................................24
Beautifully updated home in the Hillcrest Area!
Lavaca’s Exclusive River Pointe Subdivision
2 | MAY 2021 | RIVER VALLEY REAL ESTATE & HOME
THERE ARE SEVERAL WAYS BROKERS AND AGENTS CAN HELP BUYER CLIENTS NAVIGATE THE CURRENT SELLER’S MARKET. 1. Stay on top of your game. Highlight your experience and expertise in the area and get a clear picture of exactly what they’re are looking for—there is no time to waste showing homes that don’t fit the bill. Keep consistent tabs on new listings and jump on opportunities as quickly as you can to stay competitive for your clients. Responsiveness and communication are key. 2. Set clear expectations. Depending on your buyers’ housing and financial situation, a low-inventory market is not a great time to wait for the perfect home to come along. Help your buyers adjust their expectations and get on the same page about non-negotiable(s). Paint colors can be changed, and additions can even be made in time, but things like location and lot size are permanent. Discuss expectations for buying outside of their search parameters as well, and be prepared to accommodate the seller’s need in many cases. 3. Avoid showing houses at the top of the budget. When inventory is low and competition is high, homes tend to sell for over asking, and bidding wars are common. If you’re already at the top of your clients’ budget and they’re asked to go even higher, it’s probably not going to be worth anyone’s time. Showing houses at the lower or middle tier of the budget will leave you room to bid a little higher than asking if necessary. 4. Consider alternative neighborhoods. With close to half of the population working remotely these days, your buyers may be more open to the idea of living in neighborhoods they may have not previously considered. Can you find them a home that checks everything on their wish list that’s in the suburbs instead of downtown? Can you find them a lower price point per square foot if they are willing to expand their radius? 5. What can you do to sweeten the deal? When sellers are receiving multiple competitive offers in such a short amount of time, anything you can do to help your clients’ offer stand out will put you ahead. Do your research to come up with several strategies that will help your clients win the homes they want. 6. Get creative with your long game. Real estate professionals can gain a leg up through strong business partnerships in their communities. This could mean cultivating an exclusive relationship with a few builders who are working on spec homes so that you have an “in” for new homes coming on the market. Borrowed from REALTOR Magazine, April 2021. FS-0001402292-01
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CORONAVIRUS CONCERNS SPARK NEW HOME DESIGN IDEAS BY STEPHANIE STIPINS, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR THE GREATER FORT SMITH ASSOCIATION OF HOME BUILDERS Home owners have transformed their living spaces into classrooms, home offices and gyms this year. With people spending more time at home, the future of home design is being reimagined. As home owners seek out ways to maximize the functionality their living spaces, here are some of the budding trends in home design and renovation. Modifying Mudrooms and Entryways. A simple area to take off jackets or rainboots when entering your home is no longer an afterthought. Now a focal point, home entryways and mudrooms are a space where mail is dropped off, groceries/delivery boxes are collected, face coverings are removed, or hands are sanitized. Future home design will take these activities in consideration when creating a functional, cohesive and comfortable entryway.
Creating Private Spaces. Getting homework, virtual play dates and work conference calls completed all in the same space at the same time is a challenge. New small, convertible spaces or nooks in homes can help a full house function a bit better with an additional private or semi-private space. Finding Storage Solutions. From more space to store non-perishable food, home office accessories or items in the entryway, a place for everything is generating appeal for home owners. With more time at home, additional storage space will be a valuable feature in future home designs. Transforming Outdoor Spaces. A functional space to comfortably host a socially distanced backyard cookout or dinner will likely be an attractive design feature. Simple improvements from upgrading patio furniture to building out decks will be at the top of any exterior home feature must-have lists.
Incorporating Touchless/Hands-Free Home Features. Materials such as copper have natural antimicrobial elements that have the potential to reduce the spread of microbes. Doorknobs, kitchen cabinet handles and other home hardware with copper or other antimicrobial materials could grow in To find a professional who can help you create popularity. Touchless faucets, hands-free light fixtures your perfect reimagined home, contact or appliances may also gain widespread usage. www.fortsmithhomebuilders.com 4 | MAY 2021 | RIVER VALLEY REAL ESTATE & HOME
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GETTY IMAGES/ISTOCKPHOTO
By Melissa Erickson
MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR
GARAGE
Homeowners turn to their garages when the need arises for extra storage space, but the garage can be so much more than a place to house furniture, sporting goods and baby gear. Danny Lipford, host of the home improvement radio show “Today’s Homeowner with Danny Lipford,” said one trend he’s seeing across the country is to convert a portion of garage space to another use. “It’s more of a common need. Parents want to get the kids out of the house but not too far out. Or, it can be a man cave or a she cave,” Lipford said.
WHERE TO START
Before tackling a home improvement project be honest with yourself, Lipford said. Take a good look at what you need and don’t. Get rid of and donate as much as you can. Group similar items together: gardening tools, children’s items, fishing gear. Floor space is valuable, so get as much stuff off the floor as possible, Lipford said. Use shelves, baskets, hooks and magnetic tool bars to hang things. Fancy storage systems can be expensive, but simple wooden garage shelves are an easy DIY weekend project. “Buy good, sturdy containers, always clear so you can see what’s in them,”
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Lipford said. Put heaviest items at the bottom and the least-used, like seasonal decorations, at the top.
CREATE YOUR SPACE
Now that you’ve got some extra space, upgrade your garage to make it more liveable. Why shouldn’t the garage — or part of it — become a home gym or an art studio? Add a ceiling fan, a ping-pong table, an old TV, a couch on casters, fitness equipment or whatever else your family will use. In less than five minutes you can pull out the car, move the couch and TV from where they’re stored against a wall and open up some folding or camp chairs. “Suddenly, it’s a nice temporary space
GETTY IMAGES/ISTOCKPHOTO GETTY IMAGES/ISTOCKPHOTO
for an impromptu party, gathering for a football game or kids party,” Lipford said. “I’m seeing a strong trend of not giving up valuable car storage space but having the ability to spill out into the area as needed.” Add a ductless mini split system, which efficiently provides heating and cooling, to make it comfortable and insulation in the attic if needed, Lipford said.
MORE IDEAS
Increasingly common, smart garage door controllers offer convenience, security and peace of mind, Lipford said. In addition to never having to wonder whether you left the door open, these smart systems can be used for safe
package delivery. Wi-Fi enabled walk-in doors can also allow access for service calls without the use of hidden keys or trusting strangers with garage codes, Lipford said. Because the lot size of single family homes has been in decline for a decade, the garage has become more prominent in the front of the house, Lipford said. “You don’t need to have a plain, industrial looking, ugly door. Put your personality on it,” Lipford said. Add some character with a faux-wood finish using a gel-based stain. “It’s easy and can improve the look of the house. It’s very viable even on metal or aluminium doors,” Lipford said.
Don’t forget the concrete floor, which was probably never sealed. A clear sealant helps make cleanup easier and repels stains, but for a more aesthetic look choose a decorative faux finish, Lipford said: “It’s a great weekend project.” Carpeting may seem like an unexpected upgrade but works well, especially if no car is parked on top of it. Another option for around the car is adding 2-by-2-foot squares of commercial-grade carpeting starting from where the driver and passenger exit the car and including a walkway into the home. “It really makes a difference, and it’s better than a welcome mat,” Lipford said.
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8 | APRIL, 2021 | RIVER VALLEY REAL ESTATE & HOME
How to respond to
PESTICIDE POISONING Tending to a lawn and garden can be a great way to spend time in the great outdoors. It’s also an enjoyable way to improve a home’s curb appeal. Though many homeowners prefer a wholly organic approach to lawn care and gardening, sometimes pests and other problems force people to apply pesticides around their properties. The application of pesticides can make homeowners, and anyone who spends time on their properties, including children, vulnerable to pesticide poisoning. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, people exposed to pesticides may exhibit a host of symptoms. External irritants that come into contact with the skin can cause redness, itching or pimples, and such substances also may contribute to allergic reactions marked by redness, swelling or blistering. Stinging and swelling in the mucous membranes of the eyes, nose, mouth, and throat also may occur after being exposed to pesticides. Pesticides also can cause internal injuries to a person’s organs, potentially leading to significant issues. The EPA notes that the lungs, stomach and nervous system all can be affected when pesticides are swallowed, inhaled or absorbed through the skin. People experiencing lung injuries after exposure to pesticides may experience shortness of
breath, heavy salivation (drooling) or rapid breathing. Injuries to the stomach may lead to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, or diarrhea. If the nervous system is affected by pesticide exposure, people may experience excessive fatigue, sleepiness, headache, muscle twitching, and numbness. If pesticide poisoning is suspected, it’s imperative that someone, be it the person who was poisoned, the parent of a child who may have been exposed or a medical professional treating the affected person, identify the type of poisoning that has occurred. That’s because the EPA notes that the appropriate treatment will depend on the kind of poisoning that has occurred. • Chemical burn on skin: If treating a chemical burn on the skin, the EPA advises drenching the skin with water for at least 15 minutes. All contaminated clothing should be removed and then skin and hair should be thoroughly cleaned with soap and water. • Inhaled poison: The response to an inhaled poison will depend on where the person is at the time of exposure. If outside, move the person away from any area recently treated with pesticide. If inside, move the person to fresh air immediately (doors and windows should ultimately be opened to reduce the risk of others being exposed). Contact the local fire department if you
think you need a respirator prior to helping the victim. If the victim is wearing tight clothing, loosen that clothing. Give artificial respiration to a victim whose skin is blue or if the victim has stopped breathing. • Substance in the eye: If a poison has entered the eye, wash the eye quickly and gently with cool running water for 15 minutes or more. Use only water and do not use eye drops, chemicals or drugs. It’s imperative that people act quickly if a substance has gotten into the eye, as membranes in the eyes act faster than in any other external part of the body, and eye damage can occur within minutes of exposure. • Substance on the skin: Drench the skin with water for at least 15 minutes and then wash skin and hair thoroughly. Discard contaminated clothing or thoroughly wash it separate from other laundry. • Swallowed pesticide: If a pesticide has been swallowed and the victim is still conscious, he or she should drink a small amount of water to dilute the pesticide. Only induce vomiting on the advice of a poison control center or physician. Pesticide exposure can be very dangerous. It’s imperative that people who plan to apply pesticides in their lawns and gardens learn how to respond if they or someone on their property is exposed to pesticides.
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DID YOU KNOW According to the Environmental Protection Agency, air currents can carry pesticides that were applied to nearby properties. That means even people who do not apply pesticides in their lawns and gardens can still be at risk of exposure to these potentially harmful chemicals. People concerned by the prospect of being exposed to the pesticides being applied by their neighbors can stay indoors with their children and pets while the
substances are being applied. Those who live near fields and parks where pesticides are routinely applied can plant hardy, thick-branched trees to reduce their risk of airborne exposure. The EPA notes that such plants and shrubs can serve as buffers against airborne pesticides, essentially acting as walls around a property that prevent gusty winds from blowing pesticides into yards and gardens.
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STAY SAFE WHEN WORKING IN THE YARD THIS
SPRING & SUMMER A day spent working in the yard is an ideal way to pass the time on spring and summer afternoons. A pristine landscape can add value to a property and instill pride in homeowners who put a lot of thought and effort into their lawns and gardens. A sun-soaked day can make it easy to overlook potential threats when working in a lawn or garden. But safety precautions are of the utmost necessity when working in the yard, where the risk for serious injury is considerable. For example, the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons reports that, in 2016, more than 90,000 patients, including nearly 5,000 children, were treated in hospital emergency rooms for lawn mowerrelated injuries. Lawn- and garden-related injuries can be prevented without going to great lengths. • Know your terrain before mowing. Knowing the terrain in your own yard can reduce the risk for accident or injury. This can be especially important when mowing the lawn with a riding mower. Adhere to manufacturers’ recommendations regarding inclines to reduce tip-over accidents that can pin riders beneath the mower. Study hilly areas of the yard prior to mowing so you know which areas are safe to mow with a riding mower and which areas are best mowed with a walk-behind mower. For greater control when using a walk-behind mower on an incline, mow parallel to the slope. • Apply and reapply sunscreen. Sunburns may not require trips to the emergency room, but they can still be serious. In fact, the Skin Cancer Foundation notes that sunburn is a leading cause in the majority of cases of basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma, which is the deadliest form of skin cancer. The SCF recommends applying sunscreen 30
minutes before going outside to allow the sunscreen to bond to your skin. Reapply sunscreen at least every two hours, and more often if you’re sweating excessively. The SCF recommends broad spectrum sunscreens, which protect the skin from both UVA and UVB rays. Though a product with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15 is acceptable when walking the dog or driving to work, the SCF advises using a product with an SPF of 30 or higher when engaging in extended outdoor activities like gardening or mowing. • Employ the buddy system. Use the buddy system when pruning tall trees or performing any tasks that require a ladder. The Orthopedic Institute of Pennsylvania reports that more than 164,000 people are injured each year falling off a ladder. Ask a significant other or neighbor to hold the ladder in place while you climb up to reduce your risk of falling. If cutting large branches, cut them piecemeal to reduce the risk of being injured by heavy falling branches. • Inspect the property for insect hives. The OIP notes that the most common insect stings in spring come from bees, wasps and hornets. Homeowners who are not careful can inadvertently come across hives when doing spring cleanup, making them vulnerable to bites and stings. That can be very dangerous for anyone, and especially so for people with a history of allergic reactions to insect bites or stings. Inspect areas where you’ll be working to make sure insects haven’t put down roots in your property. If you discover any hives and are hesitant to remove them on your own, contact a local landscaping firm. Lawn and garden accidents and injuries can be serious. Thankfully, accidents and injuries are easily prevented when homeowners take a few simple safety precautions while tending to their lawns and gardens.
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Fresh ideas for home upgrades
S P RU C E U P fo r
Spring means it’s time to start sprucing up your home and garden with a little TLC inside and out. If you’re unsure where to begin, consider these tips: 1. Make function a priority. While aesthetic changes may boost value and please the eye, be sure to consider upgrades that make living easier, like organization units that give you more space or upgrades that create additional living space. 2. Keep budget in mind. Make a list of the projects you’d like to complete and estimate how much each will cost. Use the list to determine what you can afford to complete now. 3. Do your research. If you’ll be making a significant purchase such as a new vacuum or grill, be sure to explore your options, read reviews and shop around for the best prices for greater confidence in what you choose. Set yourself up for a more enjoyable
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spring with more home and garden tips at eLivingtoday.com. HANDS FREE SPRING CLEANING For busy households, an all in one vacuum and mop robot like the Deebot N8+ is a perfect daily companion to help automate spring cleaning. It features high suction power (but low noise), TrueMapping technology to create an efficient cleaning path and the OZMO Mopping System to remove 99.26 percent of bacteria with dual vacuuming and mopping. Controllable with a smartphone app, it includes an Auto Empty Station for months of hands- and maintenance-free cleaning. Learn more at ecovacs.com/us. ENHANCE THE SPACE UNDER YOUR DECK Optimize the space beneath an elevated deck by adding a drainage system such as Trex RainEscape.
Designed to capture and divert water, this system protects a deck’s substructure from moisture damage while creating dry space usable for storage or an additional living area. Homeowners can safely add gas lines and wiring to accommodate grills, appliances, ceiling fans, lights and entertainment components to create an outdoor oasis. For more information, visit TrexRainEscape.com. PERFECT YOUR PANTRY Cleaning out your pantry is an important step during spring cleaning as it allows you to discard expired items and rethink the space. Start by reorganizing and simplifying the area with ClosetMaid ventilated shelving like this Pantry Organizer. Built with the ShelfTrack system for a fully adjustable space along with close mesh to help prevent items from tipping over, it includes four 4-foot-by-16-inch shelves, a hang track
and all necessary hardware. Find more information at closetmaid.com. GET READY TO GRILL A grill’s lifespan depends on many factors, including where and how it is stored and your climate. When it’s time to upgrade, you’ll have some decisions to make. The biggest is which heating style you prefer: gas, electric or charcoal. Other considerations include the overall size, number of burners and grate quality. Also be sure to compare available features, such as side burners and igniters, which are fairly common, and upgrades like lighting and fuel gauges. See tips more below. WHEN TO UPDATE HOME AND GARDEN GOODS Investing in quality products, properly maintaining and storing them all have an impact on how long they’ll stay in
See Spruce Up for Spring, Page 17
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Member Spotlight LORIE ROBERTSON
DIRECTOR OF MARKETING, FORT CHAFFEE REDEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY As Director of Marketing and a professional consultant for Fort Chaffee Redevelopment Authority since 2009, Lorie has worked alongside FCRA staff to develop branding and marketing strategies that have helped establish Chaffee Crossing as the premier mixed-use community in Arkansas and the surrounding multi-state region. Lorie has thirty years of experience in sales, marketing, advertising and public relations for local and regional businesses as well as non-profit fundraising and event organization. Prior to joining FCRA, she was a Client Services Executive for Rightmind Advertising, Director of Business Growth and Development for Sparks Clinic, local and national sales manager for Clear Channel Outdoor, Vice President of Client Services for Advertising Plus, and Marketing Coordinator for Baird, Kurtz & Dobson CPAs.Continued learning and community leadership are very important to Lorie. Currently, she is serving her first term as an alderwoman on the Lavaca City Council and is a board member of the Lavaca Area Chamber of Commerce. She is a 2016 graduate of Leadership Fort Smith and the Community Development Institute (CDI-Central) at UCA in Conway, Arkansas. She actively participated in the CDI Advanced Year “Kick Start” projects for the City of Alma, and served as class director for Kick Start Sheridan and Kick Start Camden. Her civic and community involvement includes serving as a founding board member of Manes & Miracles at Chaffee Crossing, a non-profit provider of equestrian-assisted physical therapy for disabled persons and veterans. She is the founder of “Paint the Park Pink”, a breast cancer event for Komen Ozark, which has raised hundreds of thousands for breast cancer awareness, education and research. Her other areas of learning and service include graduating Fort Smith Citizens and Police Academies, serving as chairman of the Fort Smith Parks and Recreation Commission (four years), serving on the Fort Smith Bicentennial Committee and the Lavaca Centennial Committee, and chairing the Regional Veterans Day Parade at Chaffee Crossing since 2013. She is the founder and primary contact for the Sebastian County, Arkansas Quilt Trail. Lorie and her husband Eric have been married for 33 years. They have two daughters and two grandsons. She balances work and family time with photography, sewing, gardening, riding UTVs in the mountains, and raising two Nigerian Dwarf goats. As a 15-year breast cancer survivor, she strives to weave breast health education and awareness into everything she does. In 2019, one of her highest honors was being named a finalist for the Giving Recognition In Tourism (GRIT) “Polly Crews Hospitality Person of the Year” Award.
DONNIE WISE
LOCAL DIRECTOR, DON WISE CONSTRUCTION 2021 SHOWCASE HOME BUILDER Donnie Wise grew up in the construction business. Donnie left his corporate career in telecommunications 15 years ago and moved back home. Together with his father, Don Wise, they run Don Wise Construction and have over four decades of experiences in building quality homes. In addition to the construction company, Donnie is a licensed real estate agent. Donnie is a member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church where he volunteers his time to the youth and church ministry. He is also an avid cyclist competing in various races throughout the year. To help continue promoting cycling in the River Valley he serves on River Valley Cycling Advisory Board. Additionally, he helped develop and continues to serve on the Brave the Mud Run committee to raise funds for the Leflore County Crisis Services. His involvement with the Greater Fort Smith Homebuilder’s Association comes from the belief that a strong homebuilder’s association makes a community a better place to live due to outreach programs. He also is a strong believer in learning from one another and he feels the best way to do this is by talking with other builders, trades, and industry-related companies. He loves spending time with his wife, two daughters and grandson. If he isn’t cycling, in his free time he loves traveling around the country and exploring national parks. His goal in every new build is to give his clients the best experience possible. He is committed to working hard for his customers. He provides quality service to build relationships with clients and more importantly, maintain those relationships by communicating effectively.
(479) 452-6213 5111 ROGERS AVE SUITE 531, FORT SMITH, AR 72903
FS-0001402299-01
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Spruce up for Spring
Continued from page 15 good working condition. As you tackle spring cleaning this year, take stock of your common home and garden equipment to determine what may need updating. Lawn Mower: If your mower needs a repair that exceeds its value, it’s time for a replacement. However, there may be other signs that an upgrade is warranted. Rough operation, frequent breakdowns or other indications of faulty performance deserve a second look. Before you buy new, remember to check your warranty to determine whether repairs might be covered. Vacuum: Many homeowners discard their used vacuum when it stops picking up dirt and debris as efficiently as it did originally. Before you move on, be sure to check
that performance issues aren’t the result of clogged hoses or a filter than needs cleaning or replacing. A belt may also be worn or need adjusting. Other signs it may be time to replace the vacuum include damaged or frayed cords, motor issues like overheating or making strange noises. Grill: A grill may last anywhere from 5-15 years, depending on the quality of the materials and how it is maintained. However, it’s common to have to replace parts along the way. Signs you may need a new grill include a firebox (the main enclosure) with cracks, rust or holes and burners that distribute heat unevenly. Damaged grates can affect even grilling if they’re warped or if they’re flaky or rusted, they can contaminate food. If you’re not able to replace the grates, or any other essential part, including hoses and connectors for a gas grill, you’ll be better off replacing the unit.
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MONICA IBISON, EXEC. BROKER
@IBISONREALTORS 479.926.6363
kwfortsmith.com
UPDATED
HILLCREST NEIGHBORHOOD
3 ACRES
Professional Photos Coming Soon 3005 S. 99th, Fort Smith
17 Salome St, Fort Smith
2704 Quail Run Place, Greenwood
East side Fort Smith home with vaulted ceiling, fireplace & oversized closets. Kitchen with pantry space, stainless appliances including a gas range, breakfast bar and neutral color scheme. Master suite offers large vanity and walk-in closet. You’ll enjoy making memories on the patio in this tree shaded backyard - mature trees, flagstone patio, paths and koi pond. Plus, there’s 2 storage buildings for garden storage. 2 car garage. Great curb appeal & low maintenance brick exterior. House has never flooded. $150,000
Desirable historic Hillcrest neighborhood and the perfect combination of modern updates and original charm from floor to ceiling in this one level gem! Large master suite with walk in closet, soaking tub, dual shower and plenty of natural light. Shared bathroom easily accessible from guest bedrooms. Immaculately kept with a tree shaded, fenced yard and a screen porch to enjoy year round. Bonus room, home office or 4th bedroom. Neighborhood park around the corner. $274,900
Rare opportunity in the ideal location! Located between Shadow Lake and Hwy 10 Spur in the Greenwood school district. Convenient access to Hwy 71. 2000 +/- sq/ft home situated on a partially wooded 3 acre lot. Custom built to appreciate the view from every room, one owner offering 3 bedrooms & 2 baths w/ open concept main areas plus a sunroom. New roof 2021, granite throughout & immaculately kept. Move in ready! $250,000
INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITY
1807 South S St., Fort Smith
4024 Mac Arthur Drive, Fort Smith
2721 I St. Fort Smith
Charming 2 Bed/1 Bath with all hardwood floors and tile in kitchen and bathroom. Beautiful builtins. Charming front porch and spacious fenced back yard. Centrally located close to Ramsey and Fairview with city parks and trails nearby. $87,000
This delightful 2 Bedroom 1 Bath home has an updated kitchen, bathroom and separate laundry space with extra storage. Hardwood floors and charming details can be found in the vintage home. Spacious fenced back yard including a storm shelter. Tenant occupied Please do not disturb tenant. Confirmed appointments required. $84,000
Spacious home with beautifully restored hardwood flooring and plenty of common space for gathering. 3 bedrooms with large closets and 1 full bathroom. Kitchen offers updated cabinetry and backyard access. Formal dining room with window seat and plenty of sunlight through the large windows. $65,000
PINNACLE POINT ESTATES AND POINT ROYAL ESTATES CHARLESTON, ARKANSAS Choose from 1/2 acre to 1+ acre lots in Pinnacle Point or Point Royal Estates subdivisions in Charleston, Arkansas. Build your next home in this sought after location among well presented homes with plenty of space between neighbors. Lots are ready to build with city utilities at the street and all the conveniences you want are just a few minutes away including quaint downtown Charleston boasting locally owned boutiques and restaurants. Regardless of which lot you choose, you are certain to enjoy the views, the quiet surroundings and the unique hometown atmosphere that this big hearted small town delivers.
Lot prices ranging from $19,950 to $29,950 For More Information Contact Monica Ibison (479) 926-6363
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Specializing in Federal Housing Administration (FHA) Financing Since 1935 Conventional, VA, FHA, and Rural Development Loans available.
Looking For The Perfect Home? We’re Here To Help. Give me a call or visit ffb1.com to learn more about your home loan options. I’ve helped many families finance their home purchase - how can I help you?
ETHAN ADAMSON NMLS #924274 479-459-3719
3401 Rogers Ave., Suite A | Fort Smith, AR 72903 | (479) 782-9300 | www.ffb1.com RIVER VALLEY REAL ESTATE & HOME | MAY 2021 | 19
SAFETY FIRST with DIY electrical work Home improvement projects can help homeowners transform their homes. Such projects are costly, but many homeowners save money by doing some, if not all, of the work themselves. The Electrical Safety Foundation International, a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting electrical safety, recommends that homeowners leave electrical work to the professionals. Licensed electricians are well-trained, whereas homeowners may not be skilled enough to avoid accidents or injuries, which can prove fatal when working with electricity. Homeowners who take the do-ityourself route with electrical work should consider these safety tips, courtesy of the ESFI, before beginning a home electrical project.
• LEARN YOUR HOME ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
four categories: electrical shock, electrocution, falls, and burns. Each of these injuries is significant. For example, electric shock, which occurs when electrical current passes over or through a person’s body, involves burns, abnormal heart rhythm and unconsciousness. Given the potential for serious injury, the ESFI urges homeowners to make an honest assessment of their skills before they begin working on their home’s electrical systems. Little or no experience working with electrical systems should be considered a significant hurdle to any DIY project.
• TURN THE POWER OFF It’s essential that the power to the circuit that will be worked on be turned off prior to starting any work. This can be accomplished by switching off the circuit breaker in the main service panel. Similarly, when working on appliances or lamps, make sure the products are unplugged prior to working on them. •
DO NOT TOUCH PLUMBING OR GAS PIPES WHEN DOING ELECTRICAL WORK
Home electrical systems may include power lines, electric meters, service panels, subpanels, wiring, and more. These systems are complex, and homeowners who intend to do some DIY electrical work should familiarize themselves with their home electrical systems prior to beginning any work. The ESFI notes that knowledge of their home electrical systems can help homeowners more safely navigate them and make maintenance easier.
The experts at the Indiana Electric Cooperative note that the risk for electrocution is significant when water comes in contact with electricity. It’s imperative that homeowners do not touch plumbing and gas pipes when performing a DIY electrical project. Professionals know how to work around such pipes while minimizing their risk for electric shock or worse, and homeowners must familiarize themselves with the techniques professionals rely on to stay safe if they intend to begin DIY electrical projects.
An honest assessment of skills is absolutely necessary prior to working on an electrical system. According to the National Safety Council, injuries relating to electrical incidents typically fall into one of
Homeowners are best served by leaving electrical work to the professionals. However, those who insist on doing such work themselves should do their homework and get to know their systems and safety protocols prior to beginning a project.
• HONESTLY ASSESS YOUR SKILLS
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RIVER VALLEY REAL ESTATE & HOME | MAY 2021 | 21
4720 Rogers Ave., Fort Smith 1505 East Main Street, Van Buren 9026 Mayswood Pl., Fort Smith 741 West Center, Greenwood www.chuckf awcettrealty.com
Aimee Montgomery Ashlee Milton Evan Stringfellow Heather Chapman Bill Coleman Brenda Love Crissy Wilkinson Debi Rakes 918-680-0389 479-310-0305 479-420-7867 479-461-6448 479-831-8980 405-269-3944 479-739-7262 479-207-3108
Justin Green 479-650-5114
Katina King Leticia Ahuyon 479-806-3821 479-459-2507
Laura Deason 479-650-0899
Ray Hubbs 775-764-1288
Rodney Oden 479-459-1899
Sara Latta 479-883-6960
Ron Williams 479-637-6901
Chuck Fawcett Aimee Edens 479-285-3052 479-462-2609
Jeannie Wester 479-459-2394
Joseph King 479-650-3329
Joshua Jetton 479-883-6492
Justice Beshears 479-637-6235
Lindsey Martin-McGowan Marcia Hubbs Linda Black Melina Wilson Melissa Hallmark 479-459-5004 479-651-0827 702-201-0748 479-883-1745 479-285-0871
Mike Taber 479-208-0364
Nigel Bearden 479-739-5668
Ralph Bogner Jr 479-883-9784
Stephanie Burton 479-222-3520
Steve Layne 479-461-7426
Tammy Best 479-739-2625
Theresa Mock 479-420-6421
Travis Williams 479-353-9539
Victor Squicimari Betty Lyles Bob England 479-461-5377 479-459-5368 479-414-0804
Denton Branson 479-883-5983
Derald Porter 479-650-4711
Jerel Driscoll 479-883-6277
Martha Rudell 479-650-0596
Mary Jo Weidman 479-459-1002
Patricia Branson 479-353-2881
Tyler Jones 479-221-7640
Becky Ivey 479-651-2092
Kim Kelly 479-208-2028
Becky Hoopengarner 479-650-5551
Charlie Caster 479-651-7665
Debbie Dolan 479-461-6130
Patsy Jones 479-650-3141
Kelly Dyer 479-806-8253
Joe Stanfill 479-652-0278
Kathleen Halliburton 479-597-0990
Kristi Smith 479-650-3932
Larry Stanfill 479-461-2660
Linda Yother 479-597-8042
Marie Norman 479-719-2058
Monta Scharbor 479-675-6153
Randall Sanderson 479-883-2206
Robert Steel 479-650-7163
Sharon Brigance 479-223-1614
Fort Smith • 479-782-9500 4720 Rogers Ave., Fort Smith www.fsrivercityrealty.com
22 | MAY 2021 | RIVER VALLEY REAL ESTATE & HOME
Glenda Edwards 479-883-9564
Cindy McClendon 479-414-2747
Shelly Blaylock 479-461-6626
Joseph Ioimo 334220-1575
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