Heat Protection Priorities

North Texas summers bring prolonged periods of extreme heat. According to the National Weather Service, extreme heat kills more people annually than any other weather event — more than hurricanes, floods, and tornadoes combined. When temperatures climb into the upper 90s and 100s, it’s critical to prioritize the protection of people, pets, home systems and plants. Here are key steps for each:

Protect People
☀ Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water before you feel thirsty. The American Red Cross recommends about 3/4th of a gallon per day for an average person. Avoid sugary, caffeinated, and alcoholic beverages, which can contribute to dehydration. Replace salt and minerals lost through sweat with snacks or sports drinks.

☀ Dress appropriately: Wear lightweight, loose-fitting, light-colored clothing. Add a wide-brimmed hat and UV-protective sunglasses when outdoors. Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+) and reapply every two hours. Cover skin near lakes because water reflects sunlight.

☀ Limit outdoor activity: Schedule outdoor work or exercise for early morning or late evening. Take frequent breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas. The CDC advises that electric fans alone won’t prevent heat-related illness when temps exceed the high 90s.

☀ Know the warning signs of heat illness:
• Heat Cramps: Heavy sweating, muscle pain/spasms.
◦ Go to a cool place, drink water. Seek help if it lasts more than 1 hour.
• Heat Exhaustion: Heavy sweating, cold/clammy skin, fast weak pulse, nausea, and dizziness.
◦ Move to a cool place, loosen clothing, apply cool wet cloths, sip water. Seek help if vomiting occurs or symptoms worsen.
• Heat Stroke (MEDICAL EMERGENCY — Call 911): Body temperature 104°F+, hot red skin (dry or damp), fast strong pulse, confusion, and loss of consciousness.
◦ Move to a cool place, cool the body with wet cloths or a cool bath. Do NOT give fluids.

☀ Check on vulnerable individuals: Elderly neighbors, young children, pregnant women, people with chronic medical conditions, and those without air conditioning are at highest risk. Check on them regularly during extreme heat events. Ensure they have clean drinking water.

☀ Know where to go: Identify local cooling centers, public libraries, shopping malls, or community centers in advance in case of air conditioner failure or power outage.

Protect Pets
☀ Provide ample fresh water: Pets dehydrate quickly in high heat. Keep multiple water bowls filled with cool, clean water and check them frequently. Add ice cubes on especially hot days.

☀ Never leave pets in a parked vehicle: According to the ASPCA, the temperature inside a parked car can reach 120°F in minutes — even with windows cracked. This can cause fatal heat stroke and is illegal in several states. Texas animal cruelty laws apply if pets are endangered.

☀ Limit outdoor time and avoid hot pavement: Walk pets in the early morning or late evening when pavement is cool. If the pavement is too hot for the back of your hand for 7 seconds, it’s too hot for your pet’s paws. Air at 95°F can heat asphalt to 150°F. Dog paws can burn at 125°F.

☀ Know the signs of overheating: Excessive panting, difficulty breathing, drooling, increased heart rate, weakness, or collapse are warning signs. Flat-faced breeds (Pugs, Persian cats), elderly pets, and overweight animals are especially vulnerable.

☀ Provide shade and cooling options: If pets must be outside, ensure access to full shade and consider a kiddie pool, cooling mat, or damp towels for them to lie on. Bring pets indoors during the hottest hours.

Protect Home Systems
☀ Service your AC before peak season: Have a certified professional inspect, clean and tune up your air conditioning unit. Replace or clean filters monthly during heavy-use periods — a dirty filter restricts airflow and strains the system. Ensure condensation line is clear and drains.

☀ Set your thermostat wisely: The U.S. Department of Energy recommends 78°F when you’re home and awake. Raise it 4 to 7 degrees while away to help the electrical grid and lower your bill.

☀ Block out the sun: Close blinds, curtains, or shades during the day — especially on south- and west-facing windows. Blackout curtains or reflective window film can significantly reduce indoor heat gain.

☀ Use fans strategically: Ceiling fans cool people (not rooms) through the wind-chill effect. Turn fans off when not in a room. Run fans counterclockwise to push cool air downward.

☀ Seal air leaks: Check weatherstripping around doors and windows. Air leaks through cracks and openings can account for up to 30% of a cooling system’s energy consumption. Use an infrared thermometer.

☀ Avoid adding indoor heat: Run ovens, stoves, dryers, and dishwashers in the early morning or late evening. Use a microwave or grill outdoors when possible and when an air conditioner is used.

Protect Plants
☀ Water deeply and in the morning: Water at 5 to 9 a.m. to minimize evaporation and allow plants to hydrate before peak heat. Direct water at the soil to prevent scorching and waste. Drip lines are ideal.

☀ Apply mulch: Spread 2 to 4 inches of mulch around the base of plants to retain soil moisture, regulate root temperature, and reduce evaporation. Keep mulch away from stems to prevent rot.

☀ Provide temporary shade: Use shade cloth, row covers, or patio umbrellas to shield plants during the hot part of the day (2 to 6 p.m.).

☀ Move container plants: Relocate potted plants to shaded areas or bring them indoors during extreme heat events. Containers heat up faster than in-ground soil.

☀ Delay fertilizing and pruning: Fertilizer encourages new growth that is vulnerable to heat stress. Pruning exposes previously shaded leaves to direct sun. Save these tasks for cooler periods.

Take these proactive steps to help minimize the risks created during extreme summer heat and protect your loved ones, pets and property. Stay cool and stay safe!

I’ve Got Your Six!

Mark M. Hancock, GRI, MRP, AHWD
REALTOR, New Build certified
KW North Country
214-862-7212
dfwmark@KW.com
DFWmark.com

#DFWmark #REALTOR #heat #WelcomeToTexas #western #Texas #culture

Bandana Culture

A bandana is a large, square piece of cloth. It is typically 20 to 22 inches on each side, and most commonly made from cotton or a cotton blend. The classic bandana features a distinctive paisley pattern printed on one or both sides, often with a contrasting border and a solid center. While red and blue are the most iconic colors, bandanas come in virtually every color and pattern imaginable today. At its simplest, it’s a versatile, hemmed square of fabric designed to be folded, tied, and worn in countless ways.

History of the Bandana (and the Word Itself)
The story of the bandana stretches back thousands of years and spans continents.
• The Word: “Bandana” comes from the Sanskrit word bandhana, meaning “to tie” or “a bond.” The term traveled through Hindi and Urdu before entering English via Portuguese traders in the 18th century.
• The Pattern: The iconic paisley design originates from ancient Persia, where the teardrop-shaped boteh motif symbolized life, fertility, and eternity. The pattern reached India through the Mughal Empire, where Kashmiri artisans perfected it on fine textiles.
• The Fabric: The bandana as we know it emerged when the British East India Company brought these Indian textiles to Europe. By the late 1700s, the pattern was being mass-produced on cotton squares, and the bandana became a popular accessory across Europe and America.
• American History: In colonial America, bandanas were both practical and political. During the Revolutionary War, patriot leaders like George Washington distributed bandanas featuring revolutionary imagery. Later, in the 19th century, bandanas adorned with campaign slogans became a staple of American political culture. The Western frontier, railroad workers, and cowboys cemented the bandana as an icon of American grit.

Common Uses for Bandanas
Bandanas have always punched above their weight. Here are some of the most common uses.
• Headwear: Sweatband, hair tie, ponytail holder.
• Face & Neck: Face covering, dust mask, sun protection.
• Fashion: Pocket square, wrist accessory, bag accent, belt.
• Practical: Rag, napkin, bandage, potholder, cleaning rag.
• Signaling: Historically used in certain subcultures as a color-coded signal (often referred to as the “hanky code”).
• Outdoor: Sweat wipe, trail marker, arm sling, water pre-filter, potholder for camp cooking, or bindle on a stick.
• Pet Accessory: Dog bandanas are wildly popular today.

How Are Bandanas Commonly Worn?
Bandanas are remarkably adaptable. These are the most common ways they’re worn:
• Around the Head — The Classic Fold: Fold the bandana diagonally into a triangle, place the long folded edge across your forehead, and tie the two ends at the back of your head. It’s the timeless biker, rockabilly, and outdoor look.
• The Headband: Fold the bandana into a long, narrow strip (about 2-3 inches wide), wrap it around your forehead, and tie it at the back or side. Keeps hair and sweat off your face.
• The Do-Rag / Skull Cap: Place the center of the bandana on your forehead (pointing backward), pull the sides around your head, and tie at the back with the tail tucked or hanging loose.
• Around the Neck — The Cowboy / Wild Rag: Fold into a triangle, place the folded edge at the front of your neck, cross the ends behind, and tie loosely in front. Great for sun, dust, and wind protection on the face or back of neck.
• Around the Wrist: Fold into a narrow strip and tie around your wrist — a simple, casual accessory.
• In the Back Pocket: Fold into a square, let one corner hang out of a back pocket. A subtle splash of color and always within reach.
• The Face Covering: Fold diagonally, bring the wide folded edge over your nose and mouth, and tie the ends behind your head — a practice used for centuries by cowboys, miners, and laborers long before modern masks.

Wrap it up!
From ancient Sanskrit roots to the American frontier and today’s fashion runways, the bandana remains one of the most practical, iconic, and enduring accessories in human history.

View or download the whole Information Of Value or my other books for free at this link.

I’ve Got Your Six!

Mark M. Hancock, GRI, MRP, AHWD
REALTOR, New Build certified
KW North Country
214-862-7212
dfwmark@KW.com
DFWmark.com
Download the DFWmark App

#DFWmark #REALTOR #bandana #cowboy #western #Texas #culture

Y’all Street Arrives!

“Y’all Street” is the nickname for Dallas/DFW’s rise as America’s second major financial capital. Fueled by the arrival of NYSE Texas, Nasdaq Texas, and the soon-to-launch Texas Stock Exchange (TXSE). TXSE is the first brand-new U.S. stock exchange in decades. DFW attracts financial giants like Goldman Sachs and JP Morgan, billions in capital, and thousands of high-income professionals. With Texas’s finance sector growing at five times New York’s pace, the ripple effect on real estate in North Texas is already underway and accelerating fast.

What is Y’all Street?
“Y’all Street” is a Texas play on Wall Street. It refers to the large-scale migration of stock exchanges, financial giants, investors, and capital markets activity from New York and the coasts to Texas. The three stock exchanges in Texas are: NYSE Texas, Nasdaq Texas, and the brand-new Texas Stock Exchange (TXSE).

When Will It Start?
It’s already happening in stages:
• NYSE Texas — Already live, with 100+ listed companies (all currently dual listings from the NYSE). It moved from Chicago in March 31, 2025.
• Nasdaq Texas — Officially launched on March 5, 2026 at the Alamo.
• Texas Stock Exchange (TXSE) — Set to begin trading in a phased rollout from July 2 through 17, 2026. It is the most anticipated arrival.

What Makes It Different from Current Stock Markets?
TXSE is specifically designed to compete by offering:
• Lower listing and transaction fees: it leverages a fully electronic, lean operating model. SpaceX plans to dual list on Nasdaq Texas and TXSE.
• Regulatory flexibility: it has fewer mandatory disclosures, more flexible corporate governance structures.
• Reduced compliance costs: Texas has a business-friendly tax and regulatory environment to minimize costs and maximize profit.
• More accessible for smaller/emerging companies: mid-sized and growth companies can struggle to meet NYSE/Nasdaq’s stringent requirements and high costs. TXSE reduces the barriers.
• Focus on shareholder value: TXSE has a more traditional, result-oriented approach to public markets.
• Competition-driven innovation: it breaks the NYSE/Nasdaq duopoly.

Where Will It Be?
The TXSE will be in Dallas, Texas — specifically Uptown Dallas.
• TXSE has signed a lease at the Bank of America Tower at Parkside on Woodall Rodgers Fwy in Uptown, which will be Uptown’s tallest tower.
• Wall Street giants have already established major campuses in DFW, including Goldman Sachs ($709M), JP Morgan ($300M), and others.

What Does It Do?
• It gives businesses a new home to go public (IPOs) or dual-list stock.
• Provides an alt platform for raising capital outside of NYSE & Nasdaq.
• It offers Texas-based companies the ability to go public locally.
• Investors can access companies that may not have listed elsewhere.

Why Does It Matter?
• It is the first major new U.S. stock exchange in decades.
• Texas’ finance industry grew 27% post pandemic vs. New York’s 5%.
• Investment banking and securities employment in Texas has increased 111% over the past 20 years. Dallas is the financial hub of the South.
• Texas already has more NYSE and Nasdaq listings than other states.
• Nasdaq-listed Texas companies have a combined market cap approaching $2 trillion. Tesla and Texas Instruments are included.
• Texas’ economy is the 8th largest in the world — just behind France.
• It provides geographic diversification for issuers and investors.

Who is Affected?
• Companies seeking to go public or reduce listing costs.
• Mid-sized and new businesses previously priced out of NYSE/Nasdaq.
• Investors: both institutional (pension funds, private equity) and retail.
• Texas workers: job creation, wages, and economic opportunity.
• Financial institutions: banks, investment firms already flocking to DFW.
• Corporate leaders nationwide looking to escape costly East Coast regulatory and fee burdens.
• Potentially, any U.S. company seeking a listing alternative.

How Much Will It Generate?
• TXSE already secured over $120 million in funding from investors.
• The broader Y’all Street movement is expected to bring a massive influx of capital, jobs, and corporate relocations to Texas.
• Experts anticipate significant upside surprises in capital, employment, and economic activity in the next 2 to 3 years.
• Texas is the 8th largest economy in the world. It already surpassed New York’s GDP. Y’all Street is projected to accelerate it further.

How Does It Affect Real Estate?
Commercial Real Estate:
• TXSE itself is leasing space in Uptown’s soon-to-be-tallest tower (Bank of America Tower at Parkside). Financial giants built major campuses.
• Office demand in Uptown and the surrounding areas is surging.
• DFW has entered the Top 5 nationally for office sales.
• An NTCAR commercial real estate event on Y’all Street sold out. The CRE community recognizes the transformation and potential.

Residential Real Estate:
• Thousands of high-income professionals are relocating to DFW.
• More corporate headquarters equals more housing demand.
• Higher demand is expected to increase home values and rental rates.
• Companies like Goldman Sachs having more employees in Dallas than in New York means sustained, long-term housing pressure.
• The young, skilled workforce being attracted creates demand across all residential segments.

Bottom Line
Y’all Street is a massive economic tailwind for the DFW real estate market. The financial migration is real. It’s already underway. It’s bringing capital, jobs, and people to DFW. All of which translates directly to real estate opportunity for Buyers, Sellers and Investors.

View or download the whole Information Of Value or my other books for free at this link.

I’ve Got Your Six!

Mark M. Hancock, GRI, MRP, AHWD
REALTOR, New Build certified
KW North Country
214-862-7212
dfwmark@KW.com
DFWmark.com

#DFWmark #REALTOR #YallStreet #TXSE #StockExchange #TexasStockExchange

Know About The World Cup

What do you know about the 2026 FIFA World Cup?
World Cup fever is about to hit North America for the first time since 1994. It will be wildest in 11 U.S. cities starting in June. Let’s learn more about the 2026 FIFA World Cup, why it matters and if it will affect you.

Know About The World Cup

The FIFA World Cup is the planet’s most-watched sporting event and is expected to generate $5 - 10 billion in economic impact in 2026. With 30 - 40 million avid American fans and more than 4 million youth players, the tournament will have a lasting cultural impact. Like the Olympics, the FIFA World Cup happens once every four years. The 2026 FIFA World Cup runs in cities across the U.S., Canada and Mexico from June 11 – July 19, 2026. ⚽ Why It Matters
The World Cup is the most-watched sporting event on Earth. It surpasses the Olympics and Super Bowl in global viewership. The 2026 edition is historic: it’s the first with an expanded 48-team format (from 32), the first co-hosted by three nations, and the first in North America since 1994. For the U.S., it’s an opportunity to showcase the country on the world stage.

⚽ Why Are Three Countries Hosting?
The U.S., Canada, and Mexico submitted a joint bid — dubbed “United 2026” — which FIFA selected in 2018. The expanded 48-team format required more venues than any single country could efficiently host. Sharing infrastructure, costs, and logistics across three nations made the bid stronger and more practical.

⚽ How Many Americans Are Fans?
Approximately 30–40 million Americans are avid soccer fans, with broader casual interest reaching over 60% of the population. Soccer is now the third most-watched sport among 18–34-year-olds in the U.S., reflecting a significant generational shift.

⚽ The Youth Sports Connection
The U.S. has over 4 million registered youth soccer players — one of the largest youth participation rates in the world. Historically, World Cup events produce a measurable “registration bump,” with youth leagues seeing increased sign-ups in the months following the tournament. The 2026 World Cup is expected to accelerate that trend and boost long-term investment in grassroots soccer.

⚽ Why it’s called “Football” and Not “Soccer?”
FIFA is an abbreviation of Federation Internationale de Football Association. Ironically, the word “soccer” originated in England as slang for “Association Football” (short for Assoc.). When the sport arrived in America in the late 1800s, “football” was already claimed by American football. The term “soccer” stuck in the U.S. while gradually fading in England.

⚽ Expected Economic Impact
FIFA projects over $5 billion in direct revenue. The total economic impact on U.S. host cities is estimated at $5–10 billion, including tourism, hospitality, broadcasting rights, and merchandise. It is expected to be the highest-grossing World Cup in history.

⚽ U.S. Host Cities & Traffic
Northeast: New York/New Jersey, Boston, Philadelphia
South/Southeast: Miami, Atlanta, Houston
Midwest: Kansas City, Dallas
West: Los Angeles, San Francisco Bay Area, Seattle

Impact — Expect significant congestion and travel disruption in all 11 U.S. host cities.
Plan ahead — match days will bring surges in air travel, highway traffic, public transit demand and hotel accommodations across all host markets.

⚽ Information about Tickets
World Cup tickets in the U.S. are expected to range from roughly $200 to over $16,500 each depending on the match and seat category. Only purchase tickets directly through the official FIFA ticketing website and never buy from third-party resellers or individuals.

View or download the whole Information Of Value or my other books for free at this link.

I’ve Got Your Six!

Mark M. Hancock, GRI, MRP, AHWD
REALTOR, New Build certified
KW North Country
214-862-7212
dfwmark@KW.com
DFWmark.com
Download the DFWmark App

#DFWmark #REALTOR #InformationOfValue #soccer #football #WorldCup

Your Ideal Instrument

Learning music strengthens the mind, nurtures the soul, and gives you a universal language that connects you to every person and culture across the span of human history. The first known musical instrument was discovered in a cave in southwestern Germany and dates back 40,000 to 43,000 years. The Hohle Fels bone flute was carved from the wing bone of a griffon vulture. Alongside it, archaeologists also found a mammoth ivory flute. Our ancestors didn’t just survive — they played. Music is woven into who we are.

A World Full of Music

Today, the world is home to an estimated 1,500+ recognized musical instruments. Some musicologists catalog more than 5,000 when regional and cultural variations from communities around the globe are included. Italy, Germany, and France have contributed the most refined of documented instruments. Through centuries of classical composition, orchestral innovation, and master craftsmanship, Europe gave the world the modern piano, the violin family, and a range of woodwind and brass instruments that define the modern orchestra.

The Five Easiest Instruments to Learn

If you want to start a musical journey, there are plenty of approachable options. The ukulele tops nearly every beginner list. It only has four strings and a friendly tuning system to make chords accessible in days. The harmonica is small, portable, and surprisingly satisfying to pick up within hours. Bongo drums and hand percussion require no music-reading at all. Players only need a sense of rhythm and feel. The recorder, a plastic member of the flute family, remains one of the most accessible wind instruments ever made. The xylophone or glockenspiel allows even the youngest beginners to produce bright, beautiful tones almost immediately.

The Five Most Popular Instruments to Play

The guitar is the most popular instrument on the planet. It is loved across every genre from classical fingerpicking to rock and roll. Piano and keyboard follow. They are center stage in concert halls and family living rooms. Drums drive the pulse of virtually every genre of modern music. The bass guitar provides the deep, rhythmic foundation beneath every great band. The violin remains one of the most universally cherished instruments. Violins and fiddles are found in orchestras, folk traditions, and contemporary music the world over.

The Five Most Difficult Instruments to Play

Some instruments demand real courage just to produce a pleasing sound. The theremin is legendary. It is played without ever touching it. Instead, it requires extraordinary precision of hand movement through the air. The French horn is notoriously unforgiving, relying entirely on subtle shifts in lip tension to control pitch. The oboe demands near-perfect breath pressure and embouchure every single moment. Bagpipes require the player to simultaneously maintain constant airflow while fingering a complex chanter melody. It is a true physical challenge. The violin forces beginners to endure weeks of scratchy, uncertain sounds before a single clean note emerges.

The Five Hardest Instruments to Master

There’s a meaningful difference between playing and mastering. The piano sits at the top of this list — with 88 keys, two independently functioning hands, and a repertoire spanning 400+ years, true mastery is a lifelong pursuit. The classical guitar requires each hand to perform in entirely different, intricate ways simultaneously. The organ adds an entirely separate set of foot pedals to an already complex system, demanding total body coordination. The cello, with no frets and enormous dynamic range demands, requires years of refined technique. The violin earns its place on both difficult lists. The gap between a beginner’s first violin notes and the sound of a true virtuoso may be the widest of any instrument ever created.

A Final Note of Encouragement

Every great musician started the same way. You can pick up a ukulele this weekend or finally dust off the guitar hiding in the closet. Playing a musical instrument reduces stress, sharpens memory, boosts confidence, and brings genuine joy to everyday life. The instrument doesn’t need to be the hardest or the most impressive. It’s never too late to begin. You only need the right instrument to let out the music you have in your heart and soul.

View or download the whole Information Of Value or my other books for free at this link. 

I’ve Got Your Six!

Mark M. Hancock, GRI, MRP, AHWD
REALTOR, New Build certified
KW North Country
214-862-7212
dfwmark@KW.com
DFWmark.com
Download the DFWmark App

#DFWmark #REALTOR #InformationOfValue #music #BestInstrument #guitar #drum #piano #violin

Sewing to Savings

Rising global supply chain costs and inflation are squeezing household budgets, making “disposable” fashion a luxury fewer can afford. Learning to sew is no longer a hobby; it is a financial survival skill. Repairing a $100 pair of jeans for the cost of a spool of thread offers an immediate return on investment. Let’s learn some sewing basics to salvage your existing wardrobe or expand your collection on a budget.

Manual vs. Machine
Hand Sewing is best for delicate repairs, buttons, and tight corners. It requires less preparation time and working space.
• Thread the needle: Cut roughly 18 inches of thread. Pass one end through the needle’s eye and knot the other. Both sides of thread can be an equal distance from the needle’s eye and knotted together for extra durability. Wrap thread around the needle three times and pull needle through the loops to knot.
• The Running Stitch: Pass the needle in and out of the fabric at regular intervals to create a dashed line of stitches.
• The Backstitch: For strength, double back on each stitch. It mimics a machine’s durability. The needle moves into the previous stitch before moving forward, to create a chain-like line.
Machine Sewing is best for garment construction, long seams, curtains, applying repair patches or uniform name tags.
• Thread the Path: Place a spool of thread on the thread pin and follow the numbered guides on the machine to thread the needle and the bobbin (the lower thread source) clockwise.
• Set the Tension: Use a medium straight stitch setting for most projects. Use equally weighted scrap material to test. If it is too tight, the top thread puckers. If too loose, the bottom loops.
• The Foot Pedal: Place fabric under the “presser foot,” lower it, and gently apply pressure to the foot pedal on the floor.
Lock the first stitches of a seam by sewing 3-5 stitches forward, pressing the reverse button to sew back over those stitches, then continue sewing. This technique prevents an unraveled seam.
• Guide the fabric: Use your hands to guide fabric across the needle plate at a uniform distance. Let the machine move the fabric with its metal teeth; do not push or pull the material.

Budget Tip: Check “thrift” or “creative reuse” stores first. Many people donate sewing machines and entire sewing baskets. You can often find high-quality vintage shears and thread for a fraction of the retail price at a “resale” store.

Beginner’s Sewing Kit
Building a sewing kit doesn’t require a massive investment of time or money. Focus on these high-utility items to handle most household repairs and basic projects on a budget.

The Cutting Tools
• Fabric shears (8-inch): Dedicate these strictly to fabric. Cutting paper with them will dull the blades quickly.
• Small embroidery scissors: Also known as thread snips, these are essential for precision and clipping loose ends.
• Seam ripper: Even professionals make mistakes. This is the most important tool for undoing stitches safely.

The Hardware
• Hand-sewing needles: Purchase a multipack (assorted general-purpose sharps) to ensure you have the right size for various fabric weights. Self-treading needles or thread puller guides thread through the needle eye quickly and accurately.
• Straight pins and a pincushion: Used to hold fabric in place before you sew. A magnetic or classic “tomato” pincushion keeps them organized. Pins with plastic balls are easiest to maneuver.
• Metal or plastic thimble: Protects your fingertip when pushing a needle through heavy fabrics like denim or canvas.

The Measuring & Marking Tools
• Flexible measuring tape: Unlike a stiff ruler, a vinyl tape measure can wrap around curves and bodies for accurate sizing.
• Fabric marking pen or chalk: Used to draft lines or mark button placements. These are designed to wash out or disappear over time. Don’t use ink markers unless specifically for fabric.

The Fasteners & Thread
• All-purpose polyester thread: Start with neutral colors—black, white, and gray—which blend into most garments.
• Assorted replacement buttons: Keep a small collection of various sizes and colors for quick emergency repairs.

Pro Tip: When shopping, check the “remnant” bin at fabric stores for scrap material to practice your stitches before working on your actual clothing.

View or download the whole Information Of Value or my other books for free at this link.

I’ve Got Your Six!

Mark M. Hancock, GRI, MRP, AHWD
REALTOR, New Build certified
KW North Country
214-862-7212
dfwmark@KW.com
DFWmark.com
Download the DFWmark App

#DFWmark #sew #SewingKit #SewingMachine #thrift #SalvageClothes #InformationOfValue

Bundle of Rights vs. Controls

In U.S. real estate, the “bundle of rights” refers to the legal rights that come with real property ownership. These rights can be separated, limited, or transferred (for example, through leases, easements, or mineral rights sales). They are also subject to government controls on the use and even ownership. Homeowner’s association (HOA) covenants, conditions and restrictions (CC&Rs) and deed restrictions, private limits on property use written into the deed, can place additional controls on real property. What is Real Property?
Real Property is land plus man-made improvements plus legal rights to the land (bundle of rights).
Land is everything from the center of the earth upward. It includes the subsurface, surface and the air above the earth. It does not include anything made by man.
Real Estate is land plus man-made improvements, including buildings, fixtures, utilities, sewage systems, etc.

What is a Bundle of Rights?
Bundle of Rights is the description of all the intangible rights held by a property owner of real property. These are Possession, Control (Use), Exclusion, Transfer (Disposition) and Enjoyment (Quiet). Each right can be separated (severed) and/or annexed depending on circumstances.
Possession grants the right to occupy the property and/or use it as one’s own. The owner can live in it, leave it vacant, or rent it to someone else as long as the legal owner complies with laws (like zoning or HOA rules).
Control grants the owner the use of the property in any lawful way. The owner can build a home or structure (subject to permits), farm or ranch the land, or operate a business (if zoning allows). However, control is subject to Government Controls.
Exclusion grants the owner the right to make it private. The right to privacy means an owner can stop others from entering the property without the owner’s permission. Owners can post “No Trespassing” signs, remove unwanted visitors, call law enforcement for trespassers.
The exclusionary right is subject to legal exceptions like: utility easements and government inspections (with proper authority).
Transfer (Disposition) grants the owner the right to sell it, lease it to tenants, vacate it, mortgage it, cultivate it, gift it, leave it to heirs in a will, etc.
In Texas, this right is particularly important because owners can also transfer partial interests, such as mineral or other subsurface rights. Texas is unique in how frequently mineral rights are separated from surface rights.
Enjoyment (Quiet) grants that no one has a superior claim on the property. The owner has the right to use and enjoy the property without interference. Neighbors can’t create a legal nuisance, others can’t unlawfully disturb the owner’s legal use. If someone interferes, owners may have grounds for civil claims.

Important: Texas-Specific Considerations
Texas property rights are strong, but they can be limited by:
Eminent Domain – Government can take property for public use with just compensation.
Homestead Laws – Texas homestead laws protect a primary residence from most creditors, limit property tax increases through appraisal caps, provide valuable tax exemptions, and safeguard homeowners and surviving family members from forced sale in many circumstances.
Community Property Rules – Married couples generally share ownership of property acquired during marriage.

What Rights Does Government Have in Land?
No property owner ever enjoys the full bundle of rights. There are always restrictions placed on these rights by governments that have jurisdiction over the property.
Individual ownership rights are subject to certain powers, or rights, held by federal, state, and local governments intended to promote the general welfare of the community.
In Texas real estate, government controls over private property are commonly remembered with the acronym PETE. These are Police Power, Eminent Domain, Taxation and Escheat. Here’s how each applies in Texas:
P – Police Power is the government’s authority to regulate private property through laws such as zoning, building codes, and land-use regulations to protect public health, safety, morals, and general welfare.
E – Eminent Domain is the government’s power to take private property for public use, provided it pays just compensation.
T – Taxation grants the government the authority to tax real property. In Texas, property taxes are assessed by local appraisal districts to fund schools, counties, cities, and special districts. Failure to pay can result in a tax lien and eventually foreclosure.
E – Escheat is the state’s power to claim ownership of property when someone dies without heirs, intestate (without a will) or without a valid will. This is rare but legally important.

View or download the whole Information Of Value or my other books for free at this link.

I’ve Got Your Six!

Mark M. Hancock, GRI, MRP, AHWD
REALTOR, New Build certified
KW North Country
214-862-7212
dfwmark@KW.com
DFWmark.com
Download the DFWmark App

#DFWmark #REALTOR #InformationOfValue #HomeownerRights #PolicePower #Eminent Domain #Taxation #Escheat #Controls #BundleOfRights

Conserve Heat in Winter

Heat always moves toward and seeks cold. Heat also rises. A major life skill everyone needs in the wintertime is heat and energy management. It is essential to learn how to conserve and protect what you have. A house, apartment or office stays warm not by making the heater work harder, but by leaking less.

A cold winter can affect finances and safety. Winter becomes more costly, dangerous and even life-threatening as the distance increases from the equator (North or South). Everyone needs to know how to keep a home (and yourself) warm, safe, and functional when it’s cold, dark, and expensive.

Core principles for winter house maintenance

In January and February in the Northern Hemisphere, a house thrives because someone understands a few core principles:
• Heat doesn’t create itself — it’s conserved.
A well-run home keeps warmth in (closed doors, sealed drafts, insulation layers) instead of constantly cranking the heater.
* Manage your energy: Don’t waste it fighting the season.

• Small leaks cause big problems.
A tiny draft can make a house cold and costly. Ignoring it leads to frozen pipes (please see Handle Frozen Pipes in IOV book).
* Fix small issues early: Neglected problems escalate fast.

• Prepare before something breaks.
Smart homeowners check the furnace, stock supplies, and know where the shut-off valves and tools are located.
* Anticipate problems: January and February rewards people who plan ahead and are ready, not those who react late.

• Rely on insulation, not constant effort.
Insulation works quietly all the time to save heat and energy.
* Improve the personal environment: Ample insulation holds heat in place to prevent it from escaping.

Stop Heat From Escaping (Highest Impact)
1. Identify the problem: Get an affordable digital infrared thermometer to identify where heat is escaping.
* Heat loss through drafts can be 20% - 30% of wasted heating.

2. Seal drafts: Check around windows, doors, outlets, and attic hatches. Use weatherstripping, door sweeps, or caulk. Even a towel at the base of a door or window helps in a pinch.

3. Close what isn’t used: Shut doors to unused rooms. Close vents in rarely used spaces (don’t fully block in central system).
* Less space means less heat is required.

Windows Are The Biggest Heat Thieves 4. Use window coverings correctly: Open curtains during the day (sun = free heat). Close curtains at night, especially thick or thermal ones. Plastic window insulation kits can reduce heat loss dramatically. The airtight plastic film helps seal older windows.

5. Check window locks: Locked windows seal better than unlocked ones. Fix or replace broken locks.

Heating System Efficiency
6. Change furnace filters: Dirty filters reduce air flow and efficiency. Replace every 1 to 3 months. Write a date on the filter.
* Clean filters save energy and prevent system strain.

7. Keep vents and radiators clear: Move furniture away from heat sources. Only use approved radiator covers.
* Heat should circulate and not get trapped.

8. Use a programmable or smart thermostat: Lower the temp by 5 to 7°F (3 to 4°C) at night or when away. Even small reductions save money without discomfort.

Insulation and Structural Basics
9. Insulate exposed pipes: Especially in basements, crawl spaces, and garages. Use insulated faucet covers outdoors.
* Prevent heat loss and frozen pipes.

10. Check attic insulation: Heat rises and attics are a major loss point. Add insulation and weather stripping to attic access doors.

Everyday Habits Have Value
11. Reverse ceiling fans: Set fans to clockwise at low speed.
* Push warm air down to a living area where cold air collects.

12. Use rugs on cold floors: Especially over tile or wood floors.
* Reduce heat loss and feel warmer instantly.

13. Close the chimney flue: If the fireplace isn’t in use, ensure the chimney damper and any glass doors are shut.
* An open flue is like an open window.

Safety + Heat Conservation
14. Check carbon monoxide and smoke detectors: Especially if using gas or space heaters. Never use combustion heaters inside.
* Warm AND safe is better than warm only.

15. Exchange air as needed: Replace stagnant indoor air with safe, breathable air. An airtight home can also be dangerous.
* Fresh air dilutes pollutants and provides healthy oxygen.

16. Use space heaters wisely: Only use them in occupied rooms. Keep them away from curtains, furniture and flammable items. Watch pets around electric heaters and electrical cords.
* Targeted heat is better than heating empty space.

A Final Thought
A warm house isn’t about blasting heat; it’s about trapping it. Every sealed crack and smart habit adds a layer of insulation to your life and money into your wallet.

View or download the whole Information Of Value or my other books for free at this link.

I’ve Got Your Six!

Mark M. Hancock, GRI, MRP, AHWD
REALTOR, New Build certified
KW North Country
214-862-7212
dfwmark@KW.com
DFWmark.com
Download the DFWmark App

#DFWmark #REALTOR #InformationOfValue #heat #prevention #maintenance #safety #SaveMoney #winter #cold

Local Market Housing Statistics - January 2026

December is traditionally a “reset month” for the housing market. Many houses are withdrawn from the market to allow Sellers to host gatherings at their homes for the holidays and let the days on market (DOM) reset after 31 days off market.

Consequently, we would expect more expensive occupied homes that have been on the market for a while to be the first to be removed for a reset. These actions create a lower median listing price because there are fewer expensive homes on the market. It also should drop the median number of days on market because these homes could have been on the market more days due to their price point.

Meanwhile, the median price per square foot is expected to increase because smaller homes typically cost more per square foot, assuming all other factors remain equal. After all, a two-level 5,000 sq ft home can be on the same amount of land as a 1,500 sq ft home. The price points can be dramatically different, but the price per square foot should be higher for the smaller house. This difference clearly manifests for all homeowners during tax appraisal season in April.

Anything that goes against these general cyclical trends is noteworthy this month. Specifically, the DOM is mostly up, which indicates more Sellers than expected left houses on the market and may need rather than want to sell, which is good for buyers. Meanwhile, total Active listings are down across all three reported counties and mixed across individual cities. Closed sales increased in Collin and Denton counties.

Dallas and Collin counties decreased their Median Percentage of Original Price. Celina had the most significant sale price percentage drop at 87.1% of the original price. It was joined by Prosper and Van Alstyne as locations offering potential bargains. No reported areas are in strong Buyer’s Markets this month since none have more than six months of inventory.

All reported areas have seasonally reduced inventory levels as expected. Aubrey has the highest year-over-year (YOY) inventory increase at 54.8%. Little Elm has the lowest at -9.8%, while Van Alstyne and McKinney are at 0.0%. Dallas County has 3.7 months of inventory, while Collin and Denton counties have 3.4 months.

McKinney has the most Active homes at 851, while Van Alstyne has the fewest at 137. Prosper has the top Median List and Sold prices. The low percentage of the original price may indicate that many homes are overpriced. Prosper tied Frisco for the highest Median Price Per Square Foot (PSF) at $233 PSF. Anna remains the most affordable Median PSF listings in the reported area at $158 PSF (another decrease from last month).

Collin County has the lowest median price PSF this month at $189. Dallas County has the most Active properties at 6,047. Dallas has the highest median closed percentage of the original listed price at 95% of the list price.

Van Alstyne got the lowest median percentage of the original price at 89.3% (a sharp reversal from last month), while Plano and Denton got 95.3%. Frisco has the lowest reported median days on market, at 43 days, while Van Alstyne has 127 days.

I've Got Your Six!

Mark M. Hancock, GRI, MRP, AHWD
REALTOR, New Build certified
214-862-7212 (call or text)
DFWmark@kw.com
DFWmark.com

#DFWmark #REALTOR #MarketWatch #ResidentialMarket #MarketStatistics #Stats #YOY #CollinCounty #DentonCounty #DallasCounty

Get Building Permits

A professional contractor or property owner should get local building permits before they begin significant work. Permits are required for both single-family houses and commercial structures such as apartments. The permit must be publicly visible in a conspicuous place at the construction site for the entire duration of the work. The property owner needs to display building permits until an occupancy or completion certificate is issued.

The property owner may also need to schedule time to allow an inspector to access the work and ensure it meets legal standards for safety, health, and general welfare. This process helps protect the property owner, insurer, mortgage holder, and local municipality from a structure fire, building collapse or other preventable tragedy. 

Failure to get a building permit has significant legal and financial penalties. In a worst-case scenario, non-permitted work could result in mandatory demolition. Let’s learn more below.

Get Building Permits
Building permits are mandatory because they ensure your project adheres to legal standards for safety, health, and general welfare. Before any project starts, call the local building department to confirm 1) if a permit is needed, 2) what codes apply, and 3) what the specific application requirements are.

Building permits are required for any significant construction project in the United States. Most importantly, building permits are administered at the local level (city, county, or municipality) rather than by a national agency. Consequently, specific requirements, codes, costs, and timelines can vary significantly.

Why Permits Are Required?
Permits confirm compliance with:
• Building Codes: Sets of standards (often based on the International Code Council’s International Building Code (IBC) or International Residential Code (IRC)) governing structural integrity, fire safety, accessibility, plumbing, electrical, and mechanical systems.
• Zoning Ordinances: Regulations that dictate how land may be used (e.g., residential vs. commercial) and control building height, setbacks (distance from property lines), and density.

What Work Typically Requires a Permit?
Any work involving structural changes, major utilities, or changes to a building’s footprint or use often requires a permit. Projects that almost always require a permit include:
• New construction: residential and commercial.
• Additions: rooms, second stories, attached garages.
• Major renovations: roof replacement, foundation repairs, remove or add interior walls, layout changes, replacement of windows or doors.
• Trade work: new or substantial plumbing, electrical, or HVAC work.
• Accessory structures: decks over a certain height—often 30 inches, large sheds over a specified size, retaining walls, and pools.

• Typical Work Without Permits: minor projects such as painting, cabinet replacement, or simple flooring typically do not require permits; however, confirmation with the local authority is recommended.

The General Permit Process
Details vary by jurisdiction. The process typically includes:
1. Define the Project: Determine scope (new construction, addition, remodel) and intended use (residential or commercial).
2. Research Local Regulations: Contact the local city or county Building Department or Permitting Office to identify applicable codes and required documentation.
3. Prepare Detailed Plans: Official construction plans are often required, including site plans, floor plans, and system schematics. Complex or commercial projects may require an architect’s or engineer’s stamp.
4. Submit Application and Fees: Applications must be complete; fees are usually based on estimated project value and complexity.
5. Plan Review: Plans are reviewed by municipal departments (planning, engineering, fire, etc.) for code compliance. May take weeks.
6. Permit Issuance: Once approved, legal authorization to begin construction is granted.
7. Inspections: Inspectors conduct site visits at key stages (foundation, framing, final systems) to verify compliance with approved plans and current codes.
8. Final Approval: After passing final inspection, a Certificate of Occupancy (C/O) or Certificate of Completion is issued, certifying the building is safe for use.

What Can Happen If a Building Permit Is Not Obtained?
Skipping the permit process may appear to save time and money, but the long-term consequences are more costly, time-consuming, and risky.

1. Legal and Financial Penalties
Local authorities have the power to stop work, impose fines, and require exposure or removal of unpermitted construction.
• Stop Work Orders: Issued if unpermitted work is discovered, requiring all construction to cease until resolved.
• Fines: Often substantial and may accrue daily. Penalties can equal two or three times the original permit fee, in addition to the permit cost.
• Mandatory Demolition or Exposure: Work that violates zoning or safety requirements may be ordered demolished. Finished surfaces may be required to be removed so inspections can occur.
• Property Liens: Failure to pay fines may result in a lien, preventing sale or refinancing until resolved.

 2. Insurance and Safety Risks
Building codes exist to ensure safety; unpermitted work increases both personal and financial risk.
• Denied Insurance Claims: Insurance providers may deny claims related to damage caused by unpermitted construction.
• Increased Safety Hazards: Lack of inspections raises the risk of electrical fires, structural failures, and gas or carbon monoxide leaks.

 3. Difficulty Selling or Refinancing
Unpermitted work creates a disclosure liability.
• Sales Complications: Buyers may demand price reductions or require legalization of the work prior to closing.
• Appraisal Issues: Unpermitted spaces typically cannot be counted toward official square footage, reducing appraised value.
• Financing Challenges: Lenders may refuse to finance properties with known unpermitted construction.

 4. Retroactive (“Catch-Up”) Permits
If discovered, legalization through a retroactive permit is often required and is more burdensome than permitting initially:
• Standard permit fees plus penalty fines must be paid.
• Detailed plans of completed work may be required, often prepared by licensed professionals.
• Walls, floors, or ceilings may need to be opened to allow inspection of concealed work.

You can also access my Information of Value book for free at this link.

I've Got Your Six!

Mark M. Hancock, GRI, MRP, AHWD
REALTOR, New Build certified
214-862-7212 (text or call)
DFWmark@kw.com
DFWmark.com

#DFWmark #REALTOR #InformationOfValue #BuildingPermit #permit #construction #remodel #requirement #municipal #safety

Fire Prevention Practices

October is Fire Prevention Month in the United States. It commemorates the Great Chicago Fire of 1871, which left about 100,000 people homeless. Everyone can participate by reducing fire risks at home and work and preparing for emergencies. Most fires are preventable through awareness and simple precautions.

Home Fire Hazards
• Unattended cooking is the leading cause of home fires. Stay in the kitchen when using the stove or oven and keep flammable items away from the heat source.
• Space heaters should have safety features and be placed at least three feet from anything flammable.
• Electrical hazards include overloaded and outdated outlets, frayed cords, and outdated wiring. Inspect systems regularly and limit extension cord use.
• Candles and open flames should never be left unattended or near flammable items. Keep them away from curtains, bedding, and children.
• Dryers and chimneys need regular cleaning to prevent lint or soot buildup.

Garage Hazards
• Store flammable liquids (e.g., gasoline, paint thinner, propane) in approved containers away from heat sources.
• Ensure power tools and cords are in good condition.
• Keep the garage tidy and free of clutter to reduce combustible materials and keep exits clear.

Workplace Hazards
• Avoid overloaded power strips, space heaters under desks, and damaged electrical equipment.
• Store flammable materials safely and away from heat-producing devices.
• Keep emergency exits clear and well-marked.

Fire Prevention Best Practices
• Install and test smoke alarms on every level and inside bedrooms. Test monthly and replace batteries as needed.
• Create and practice a fire escape plan with at least two exits per room. Include pets and ensure everyone can exit in less than two minutes.
• Keep fire extinguishers accessible in key areas (kitchen, garage, near fireplaces). Check twice yearly and learn how to use them. Ensure extinguishers match the types of fire.
• Remove fire hazards: clean dryer lint, avoid overloaded outlets, extinguish candles, update electrical systems, and schedule annual chimney cleanings.
• Stay alert when cooking and keep flammable items away from heat sources. Cover cooktop flames with a lid.
• Replace damaged cords and avoid chaining multiple extension cords - especially outside during the holidays.
• Store combustibles safely and keep exits clear.
• Prepare for multi-level escapes with non-flammable emergency ladders with sturdy mounting points.
• Teach children fire safety, including smoke alarm recognition and “stop, drop, and roll.”

Safely Escaping a Fire
• Stay low to avoid smoke and never use elevators.
• Check doors for heat before opening; use alternative exits if blocked.
• Close doors behind you to slow fire spread.
• If trapped, signal for help through a window. If needed, break the window and place a blanket over the window frame as protection from broken glass.

After Escaping
• Go to the designated meeting place outside.
• Call emergency services once safe.
• Stay outside—do not re-enter the building.
• Account for everyone, including pets, and inform firefighters if anyone remains inside.

Fire Safety Education
Make fire safety engaging for children through games, videos, and visits to local fire stations to reinforce prevention habits.

You can also view or download the whole Information Of Value or my other books for free at this link.

I've Got Your Six!

Mark M. Hancock, GRI, MRP, AHWD
REALTOR, New Build certified
214-862-7212 (call or text)
DFWmark@kw.com
DFWmark.com

#DFWmark #REALTOR #IOV #InformationOfValue #fire #prevention #safety #home #garage #workplace

Household Energy Ratings

  Nobody wants to pay for wasted energy. Understanding how to increase energy ratings and to decrease energy use allows homeowners and residents to save money. Several energy ratings and certifications are commonly used in households. These ratings assess how efficiently a home uses energy. This efficiency often influences property value, utility costs, and environmental impact. Below is a list of the most common energy ratings and what they mean.

⚡ HERS Index (Home Energy Rating System) is a numerical rating system developed by the Residential Energy Services Network (RESNET) to measure a home’s energy efficiency. A HERS score of 50 means a home uses 50% less energy than a standard new home. Low scores are more efficient on this scale.
100 = Standard new home built to 2006 IECC code (see below).
0 = Net-zero energy home (produces equal energy as it uses).

🌟 ENERGY STAR Certified homes are a certification program by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for homes to meet strict energy efficiency guidelines. ENERGY STAR homes are typically 10–20% more efficient than standard new homes.
Key Features include: effective insulation, high-performance windows, energy-efficient heating, cooling, and appliances, and third-party verification.

🏚 IECC Compliance (International Energy Conservation Code) is a model code developed by the International Code Council that sets minimum energy efficiency requirements for new buildings.
Local jurisdictions adopt the IECC, often in incremental years with modifications, as part of building codes. It ensures baseline energy performance for heating, cooling, lighting, and insulation.

❄ SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) is a measurement of the cooling efficiency of an air conditioner or heat pump over a typical cooling season. It’s the ratio of the unit’s cooling output (in BTUs) to its total energy input (in watt-hours) over that time.
A higher SEER rating equates to lower energy use and lower utility bills. It is important for HVAC system selection in new construction, and it may qualify for rebates or incentives.

☃ R-Value is the Standard Rating for Insulation. R-value stands for “resistance value” and measures the thermal resistance of insulation material per inch. The higher the R-value, the greater the insulating power. Blown fiberglass is low (about R-2.2) while closed cell spray foam is high (about R-7.0+). It is calculated as:
R = Thickness of material (inches) / Thermal conductivity (k).

 0  Zero Energy Ready Home (ZERH) is a certification by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) for homes that are so energy-efficient that they could offset most or all annual energy consumption with renewable energy. The goal is high performance with low energy bills and a low carbon footprint.
The home must meet specific requirements. These include ENERGY STAR Certified, indoor air quality verified (meets EPA Indoor airPLUS), and ready for solar integration.

🍃 Indoor airPLUS is a certification by the EPA that complements ENERGY STAR by focusing on improved indoor air quality. The certification includes mold and moisture control, radon-resistant construction, and low-Volatile Organic Compounds materials. This certification is often required for ZERH certification.

🏅 LEED for Homes (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) is a green building certification program by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC). Its rating levels are: Certified, Silver, Gold, and Platinum.
The certifications include energy efficiency, indoor air quality, water conservation, and sustainable site development. LEED-H homes must meet ENERGY STAR standards and more.

♨ Passive House is a rigorous energy standard focusing on extremely low energy usage for heating and cooling. It is certified by Passive House Institute US (PHIUS) or Passivhaus in Germany.
Key features are super insulation, airtight construction, and high-performance windows and ventilation systems. These homes have up to 90% reduction in heating/cooling energy needs compared to the energy use of typical homes.

You can also access my Information of Value book for free at this link.

I've Got Your Six!

Mark M. Hancock
#REALTOR, New Construction certified
214-862-7212 (call or text)
DFWmark@kw.com
DFWmark.com

#DFWmark #PriceImproved #house #home #Aubrey #DentonCounty #ArrowBrooke #DentonISD #greenbelt #TripleCar

Who & How to Help

Photos by Mark M. Hancock
© The Beaumont Enterprise

Our hearts are broken as the entire country mourns those sweet souls lost in the floods this month. While we can’t do anything to fix the past, we can help first responders who will arrive to help after the inevitable disasters of the future. 

You can volunteer your time, donate goods, or make a financial contribution. You can help the professionals and volunteers who arrive first to assist you and your neighbors.

Natural disasters are inevitable. Disasters are heartbreaking when they affect humans. During these times, emergency professionals can be the difference between life and death for many victims. We previously learned about Severe Weather Damage Help to care for yourself, your family and your possessions during and after a storm. Let’s discuss who is ready to help others and how you can help them.

As always, beware of scammers attempting to steal money, goods and gifts intended for legitimate charitable organizations. Check websites and online reviews before any donations.

Check a secular charity’s IRS tax-exempt status and search for its Form 990 (an annual information return). Churches and integrated auxiliaries are exempt from filing Form 990. These organizations may be organized as relief ministries supported or operated by several entities.

Donations are always welcomed by legitimate charities.
• Cash donations are ideal because cash allows the organization to leverage volume and charitable discounts. It also requires no transportation costs and can help the locally affected community. For example, cash can buy locally produced ice where there is limited or no power and transport is unfeasible.
• Volunteers’ time is invaluable. Specialized skills from engineering to public relations are always needed. Someone must drive the relief truck, distribute food, organize the logistics and perform basic construction. A volunteer is preferred.
• Goods are also accepted by most large organizations. Non-perishable food, toiletries, clothes and other items are accepted by most charities.

While most of the goods will be sorted and packed onto trucks headed to specific disasters, some items, such as furniture, may be sold at storefronts that provide jobs for the unemployed. The sales liquidate the assets to better serve the organization as cash after disasters. Call ahead to see what a charity accepts.

The Salvation Army is typically the first organization to arrive with food and relief. The Emergency Disaster Services teams stage in nearby towns when weather disasters are anticipated. Next, they arrive in easily identifiable trucks and fill immediate needs. They also help organize local distribution centers and are often the only option in very rural areas.
They accept cash, volunteers, most donated items, and more.

Team Rubicon “is a veteran-led humanitarian organization that serves global communities before, during and after disasters and crises.” Some of their services include: disaster response, hazard mitigation, home repair, volunteer management, emergency medicine, long-term recovery, community engagement, global impact, and veteran transition to civilian life.
They accept cash, volunteers, specific heavy-duty tools, and vehicle donations to liquidate.

American Red Cross is a humanitarian organization founded in 1881, dedicated to preventing and alleviating human suffering during emergencies, primarily through disaster relief, blood donation services, health and safety training, support for military families, and international humanitarian aid.
They have Disaster Action Teams to help with everything from local house fires to large natural disasters. The teams provide emotional support, financial assistance, and information to help families begin the process of recovery.
They accept cash, volunteers, blood donations, and specific bulk products from manufacturers.

Southern Baptist Disaster Relief (SBDR) is a cooperative partnership of churches and ministries within the Southern Baptist Convention. It provides immediate assistance to individuals, families, and communities affected by disasters. SBDR offers a wide range of services, including mass feeding, debris removal (especially known for chainsaw work), home repair, childcare, chaplaincy, and showers/laundry services, all delivered by trained volunteers.
They accept cash, volunteers, and local drives for particular items of need.

You can also view or download the whole Information Of Value or my other books for free here.

I've Got Your Six!

Mark M. Hancock, GRI, MRP, AHWD
REALTOR, New Build certified
214-862-7212 (call or text)
DFWmark@kw.com
DFWmark.com

#DFWmark #REALTOR #IOV #InformationOfValue #charity #donations #flood #tornado #hurricane #NonProfit