Date Archives: April 2018

Welcome Spring in Southwest Oklahoma! The residential real estate numbers are definitely seeing an improvement in our area over the past year. There are currently 817 homes on the market, which is down from 858 last year at this time. Of the homes for sale, 67% are in Lawton. The remaining 33% are in Cache, Elgin and other surrounding areas.

There have been 1,539 sold and closed properties in the past 12 months versus 1,417 last year. Sixty-two percent of the sold homes were located in Lawton. The average sold price has increased also. In the past 12 months, the average sold price has been $120,321, compared to $117,196 the previous year. The numbers in our market are improving due to a positive outlook as to Fort Sill's future as well as a market of very well priced and affordable homes. We are looking forward to a continuation of good news for our local housing market!

For more detailed information, and to see homes in the affordable markets of Lawton, Elgin, Cache and southwest Oklahoma, contact Parks Jones Realty. As an independent real estate company in the area for 52 years, we have seen the many changes in our market and are most knowledgeable about how to meet and exceed your real estate needs. Call us today at 580-357-0842.

These timely tips will help you keep your home in tip-top shape this spring. The summer heat in Lawton, Elgin, Cache and surrounding areas can be brutal. Preventive maintenance is usually more cost-effective than repairing major damage from neglect. So get outside and enjoy our springtime temperatures while taking care of your biggest investment…your home.

Inspect Your AC System

Now is the time to make sure your air conditioning unit is in good condition, especially before hot weather hits. Change the air filter and consider having a professional service your system.

Roof

With binoculars, check your roof for cracked or missing shingles that should be replaced.

Exterior Walls

Look for damaged areas to your home's exterior, focusing on areas under eaves and near gutter downspouts. Be sure your gutters are carrying away water runoff properly so that there is no water damage or build up. Contact a professional if you notice damage from termites or carpenter ants.

Windows

Check your windows for leaks that will allow cooled indoor air to escape and let the Oklahoma heat into your home. Be sure weather stripping and caulking are in good condition. Also inspect weather seals. An indicator of problems may be if you noticed condensation on double or triple- glazed windows during the winter months.

Let the Sunshine In

Clean your windows – inside and out. Use your favorite window cleaner or make a homemade solution of one cup rubbing alcohol, one cup water and a tablespoon of white vinegar. Use a squeegee or soft cloth to clean windows. Remove the screens and clean them with a mild detergent. Then lay them on a dry surface to air dry before putting them back in place.

Deep Cleaning

Spring is the perfect time to clean areas that you often ignore, such as window casings, tops of cabinets and ceiling fans. Clean wood and vinyl blinds with a damp cloth, and vacuum upholstered furniture and mattresses.

Spring Yard Care

Check your sprinkler system to make sure it is working order. Remove leaves and debris in the yard and flower beds. Inspect your lawn mower and garden tools. It's a good idea to have your mower serviced so it will operate well throughout the growing season, which can last into October in southwest Oklahoma.

Get Your Grill Ready

If you have not used your gas grill during the winter months, be sure connections and hoses are secure. Also check burner jets for clogs. Charcoal grills should be cleaned of ash and grease residue. These preparations will allow you to fire up the grill at a moment's notice for a backyard gathering.