Melissa - New-Build Communities and Builders

Melissa's Kelton Brewer (65) leads the team onto the field before a high school football game against Nevada Community at Cardinal Stadium in Melissa on Friday, Aug. 28, 2009.

© Mark M. Hancock and The Dallas Morning News


Below is a list of known communities and active builders within Melissa, Texas. 

This post features a list of western Collin County and southeastern Denton County communities with construction. DFWmark has additional deep, proprietary information about these communities to save your time, money and frustration. My services are almost always at no cost to buyer and tenant Clients. Call or text me at 214-862-7212 or email me about additional information.

Melissa, Texas
Collin County

COMMUNITY                                         BUILDER

Ascend at Milrany Ranch                           K. Hovnanian Homes
Auburndale                                                 HistoryMaker Homes
Auburndale                                                 M/I Homes
Brookside                                                   Bloomfield Homes
Brookside                                                   Bloomfield Homes
Brookside                                                   Chesmar Homes Dallas
Creek Crossing                                           Altura Homes
Creek Crossing                                           Altura Homes
Creek Crossing                                           Pacesetter Homes Texas
Legacy Ranch                                             Bloomfield Home
Liberty                                                        K. Hovnanian Homes
Liberty 60'                                                  Perry Homes
Liberty 70'                                                  Perry Homes
Liberty: Artisan Series - 50'                       Highland Homes
Liberty: Classic Series - 60'                       Highland Homes
Liberty: Classic Series - 70'                       Highland Homes
Magnolia Ridge                                         Kindred Homes
Meadow Run                                             Ashton Woods
Meadow Run                                             Pacesetter Homes Texas
North Creek                                               Beazer Homes
North Creek                                               Gehan Homes
North Creek                                               Pulte Homes
North Creek Estates                                  Impression Homes
The Quarry at Stoneridge                          Meritage Homes

Please read Want To Buy A New-Built House? and New Build Home Basics to see if a new home is ideal for you.

If you’re ready to investigate a new-build purchase, it's vital that you DON'T REGISTER WITH THE BUILDER WITHOUT A REALTOR.

If you register without a REALTOR, you often waive your ability to have a no-cost, professional REALTOR on your side. You have accepted the builder's agent and will be treated like a customer. Instead, let the REALTOR register for you. This ensures you have an agent with you - at no cost to you - through the process. DON'T PAY FOR SERVICES THAT YOU DON'T GET!

I share comparative market analyses with my clients as well as information about builders, community amenities, school districts, homeowners' associations (HOA), utility districts (MUDs, SUDs, PIDs, etc.) and more. 

I can help you if you’re ready to move forward. I can contact the builders on your behalf, negotiate favorable deals and leverage our large brokerage to your advantage because I work for you. 

I’ve Got Your Six!

Mark M. Hancock
REALTOR, GRI, MRP, New Home certified
214-862-7212
DFWmark.com
markhancockrealty@gmail.com

Happy Thanksgiving 2020

Thank you for making this a happy and prosperous year!
I’m always thankful to have such amazing clients. I hope your Thanksgiving is filled with love, joy, health and delicious food.
I’m privileged that you trusted me during this particular year, and I’m deeply honored to receive your referrals.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Mark M. Hancock
REALTOR, GRI, MRP, New Build certified
214-862-7212
DFWmark.com

#DFWmark #REALTOR #Thanksgiving #thankful #holiday #CollinCounty #DentonCounty #DallasCounty #Frisco #DFW

2020 Thanksgiving Tips

This year has given us many challenges, but also reasons to give thanks. I thank you for being my friends, my clients and my family. I’ve collected some tips to help you get safely through Thanksgiving with whomever you call family in person or virtually.

2020 Thanksgiving Tips

After a trying year, it would be good to relax and reconnect with our families over the holidays. We must remain vigilant to ensure the safety of ourselves and those we love. Here are some tips to safely navigate the season from Thanksgiving to a happy New Year.

Thanksgiving Travel Tips

This year is different. The CDC encourages people to stay home and celebrate with only the people who live in the immediate household. For some, that’s not possible. Please also see Virtual Holidays below.

Whether flying or driving, plan extra time and precautions. Bring plenty of protection such as disposable masks, gloves and sanitizing wipes.

If flying, the TSA states, bring a mask, enroll in TSA PreCheck and know what food can be taken onto the aircraft. Travelers will be asked to lower their mask momentarily to prove their identity. Travelers are allowed up to 12 ounces of hand sanitizer per person. It must be removed from carry-on baggage during screenings.

Research state-by-state quarantine rules and travel restrictions for all transit locations when driving. Get this information via CNN’s website.

Safe Food Handling

Bacteria can multiply easily and rapidly on food. The FDA suggests four steps:  clean, separate, cook and chill.

Wash hands, surfaces and utensils for at least 20 seconds with appropriate soap and rinse completely both before and after handling food. Keep raw meat away from raw vegetables and don’t let them contact the same storage platters or cutting boards. Cook to a safe temperature to kill harmful bacteria. Ensure leftovers are chilled within two hours of the meal in a refrigerator at 40° F or lower. Eat or discard refrigerated food after 3 to 4 days.

Safer In-Person Dinner Parties

Small family gatherings are only as safe as the past two weeks of ALL attendees. Ask attendees to keep public contact to a bare minimum prior the gathering.

Don’t invite unfamiliar people. Check the infection rate of attendees’ hometowns before they leave their homes. Ask them to be tested for Covid-19 prior to traveling if the area exposure is too high.

When hosting a dinner party for the family, disinfect all seating and cooking areas before guests arrive. Keep the gathering small, move it outside if possible, encourage social distancing, keep the duration to a minimum time and wear masks when not eating.

Encourage guests to bring food for their own families and avoid potluck-style meals. Wear protective face covers and gloves while preparing food. Wash hands frequently. Limit people around food preparations. Have touch-free trash cans. Have guests use disinfected or single-use disposable personal utensils. Wash dishes immediately after the gathering.

Plan Virtual Dinner Parties

This year’s pandemic and the flu season make it difficult to safely visit family members with underlying conditions or weakened immune systems. Travel is also difficult considering state-by-state quarantine guidelines. Consider attending or hosting a virtual holiday dinner party.

FaceTime is standard on iPhones. A variety of video chat applications that accomplish the same goal can be downloaded. Facebook Messenger and WhatsApp both have video chat options. Zoom, Google Meet, Skype and more have free alternatives to manage larger groups.

Fry Turkey Safely

Set fryer on hard, level surface at least 10 feet away from any buildings with no overhead items like branches or shades. Determine the correct amount of frying oil by measuring the largest bird displacement with water first. It can take 3 to 4 days to thoroughly thaw the turkey in the refrigerator. Never attempt to fry a frozen turkey.

Remove giblets, neck and excess fat. Dry all moisture from the bird to avoid spattering. Make incisions in the skin to allow the oil to drain quickly. Preheat oil, turn off flame, place turkey in basket and slowly lower it into oil to avoid splashes. Ignite the flame again and cook about 3-4 minutes per pound until the internal temperature is 165°F for 15 seconds. Once done, turn off flame, slowly remove basket from pot and set on a rack to drain.

I’ve Got Your Six!

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

Halloween 2020 - Pandemic Edition

(Mark M. Hancock / DFWmark.com)

We had a socially distant Halloween outside our home in Frisco, Texas on Oct. 31, 2020. While the pandemic continues, so does life. Kids have had a hard year and need something that resembles normal.
We prepared individual treat bags days in advance. Set them out on a 6-foot-long table that block visitors from going up to our house. Everything was held outside, and I wore a surgical mask as part of my costume.
On a separate day, we prepared toys-only treat bags for kiddos that have nut allergies or aren’t allowed sugar. Kids who pointed at our teal pumpkin got to pick from the separate bowl that contains the toys-only treat bags.
Our neighbors were equally responsible with an elaborate candy delivery system and scary home decorations.
While it wasn’t the 350 visitors that we had last year, 150 treat bags were handed out, and we hope there were as many or more smiles.

Happy Pandemic Halloween!

#DFWmark #Halloween #pandemic #treats #candy #inflatables #decorations #lights #Frisco #CollinCounty

Testimonial - North Richland Hills and Kentucky

Thanks to my veteran Brother for trusting me with your parents and associates. I'm honored by your uplifting testimonial! I'll Always Have Your Six!

“I have known Mark for many years and trust him fully. I know he will bring his personal integrity and tenacity to every deal and every client. I would consider no other option but for Mark to handle this transaction for my parents as part of their relocation.
Mark and everyone we dealt with at Century 21 Judge Fite Fine Homes has been superb. This has been the single greatest experience with any real estate transaction I've ever been involved with. I have had no hesitations recommending Mark to co-workers and friends looking to make a move in the area.”

#DFWmark #REALTOR #testimonial #review #RealSatisfied #sell #buy #relocation #Kentucky #NorthRichlandHills

Prepare for Fall

October is the perfect month to accomplish your annual home maintenance and be ready for winter. From fire safety to yard work, a little work and money now will save you a lot of both later. If you need a contractor to do the work for you, I have a list of trusted professionals ready to help you on short notice.

If you’ve considered selling your house, you should accomplish this list to get it ready to show to prospective buyers. Then, you’ll need to text, call or email me. I can help you get it sold fast!

I've Got Your Six!

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

Change Batteries
Change the batteries in all detectors (smoke, gas, fire, etc.) and test them to ensure they work properly. Replace if it malfunctions. Fire Prevention Week is the first full week in October, it’s a good reminder to check everything that you’ll need to survive the winter.

Have the Chimney Cleaned
To also prevent fires, hire a professional to clean the chimney. In wood-burning fireplaces, creosote builds up in the chimney and can catch on fire. Even with gas logs, critters can turn any chimney into a summer home. Have the pro inspect the firebox, liners, flue, smoke chamber, and exterior for damage.
Also, have the clothes dryer exhaust checked and cleaned. Lint can build up and is flammable.

Change Filters
It’s best to check heating ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) filters each month and replace as necessary, it’s ideal to restart the cycle in October. Before you fire up the heater or furnace, ensure you have plenty of clean air in the system.
If it hasn’t been serviced by a pro lately, now is the best time to ensure it will work properly before it’s needed through the cold months.

Cover the Water Spigots
Spigots are outdoor water faucets. Disconnect hoses from spigots. Purchase inexpensive covers and attach them to spigots before the first freeze of the year.
Spigots are exposed to the freezing air. The cover traps heat and helps keep the spigot from freezing, expanding and possibly bursting.

Prepare the Gutters
If your house doesn’t have gutters, consider installing them. They help avoid costly foundation problems. Gutters need to be maintained. Maintenance includes either preventing leaves from accumulating in the gutters or cleaning the leaves from the gutters and downspout. Even if you do have preventative covers, it’s still best to run a household auger or power jet of water through the downspout to ensure no critters have built summer homes in there.

Trim Tree Branches
Trees have had all summer to make branches longer and heavier. When ice accumulates on the branches, they may break. If it falls onto a roof or power line, it can cause major damage. Trim back trees to ensure your home is ice-storm safe from falling branches.

Turn off Water Sprinklers
Once the lawn has gone dormant for the winter or before the first freeze, turn off the sprinkler. This keeps pipes and heads from bursting as well as keeps water from freezing on sidewalks, drives and alleys.

Prepare the Lawn
Trim, rake and fertilize the lawn with a winter mix to ensure roots survive winter to grow green in spring. Use a southern 3-in-1 combination fertilizer to feed while it ensures insects and weeds are controlled.

Check for Drafts
A sealed home prevents intrusions from the environment (insects and temperature variations). Caulk and weather stripping go a long way to help with gaps around windows and doors. An inexpensive infrared thermometer (temperature gun) lets you know temperature changes and indicates needed repairs. Check all the electrical outlets and switch plates because they probably need better insulation.

Fix Driveway Cracks
A little caulk now prevents major problems later. Use gray concrete repair caulk with silicone. It fills gaps to prevent water from entering and expanding when frozen, which causes more damage with each freeze.

Circle leaves to indicate if good or needs repair.

Useful Conversions

This month we have Useful Conversions! If you’ve ever wondered how many teaspoons of sugar go into a cup or a quick way to convert pounds to kilograms, I’ve Got Your Six!

You may want to bookmark this post for future use. You can also print the photo to stick onto the fridge or keep it handy in your favorite cookbook. If you plan to laminate this information or want a higher-quality print, drop me an email. I’m happy to email a PDF version of this conversion chart.

Feel free to share this information with your friends and family.

Conversions include weight (mass), dry measurements (weight), dry measurements (volume), liquid measurements (volume), minimum safe internal temps, metric conversions, temperature conversions, kitchen abbreviations, static temperatures, and miscellaneous measurements.

Common U.S. liquids:

1 cup = 8 fl oz = 16 tbsp = 48 tsp
1 gal = 4 qts = 8 pints = 16 cups

Metric conversions:

Convert         Calculation

°F to °C = (°F-32) / 1.8

°C to °F = (°C x 1.8) + 32

cm =         in x 2.54

inch =         cm x .3937

ml =                 fl oz x 29.57

ml =                 cup x 236.6

fl oz =         ml x .0338

gram =         dry oz x 28.35

dry oz =         grams x .035

liter =         gal x 3.7854

gallon =         liter x .264

pound =         kilogram x 2.205

kilogram = pound x .454

yard =         meter x 1.09

meter =         yard x .914

kilometer = mile x 1.61

mile =         kilometer x .62

Ounces

Dry Ounces = Weight
Fluid Ounces = Volume

Static Temperatures

Water boils at 212°F / 100°C

Water freezes at 32°F / 0°C

Frozen water expands about 9%

Keep fridge at 40°F / 5°C or below

Abbreviations

teaspoon         tsp

tablespoon tbsp

pound         lb

ounces         oz

fluid ounces fl oz

pint                 pt

quart         qt

milliliter         ml

liter                 L

gram         g

inches         in

centimeters cm

I’ve Got Your Six!

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

#DFWmark #REALTOR #kitchen #conversion #metric #liquid #mass #volume #weight #temperature

Anna - New-Build Communities and Builders

Below is a list of all known communities and active builders within Anna, Texas. 

A list of western Collin County and southeastern Denton County communities are available on this post. DFWmark has additional deep, proprietary information about these communities to save your time, money and frustration. My services are almost always at no cost to buyer and tenant Clients. Call or text me at 214-862-7212 or email me about additional information.

Anna, Texas

Collin County

COMMUNITY                                         BUILDER                           PID/MUD

Gatherings at Twin Creeks                      Beazer Homes
Anna Town Square                                  Pacesetter Homes Texas
Anna Town Square                                  Pulte Homes
Avery Pointe Watermill                            Lennar
Avery Pointe-Classics                             Lennar
Lakeview Estates                                    Bloomfield Homes                  PID
North Pointe Crossing                             LGI Homes
Pecan Grove                                           Starlight Homes
Sweetwater Crossing                              Starlight Homes
Trails Of Blue Ridge                                Stonehollow Homes
West Crossing                                         Bloomfield Homes
West Crossing                                         Bloomfield Homes
West Crossing                                         Highland Homes

Please read Want To Buy A New-Built House? and New Build Home Basics to see if a new home is ideal for you.

If you’re ready to investigate a new-build purchase, it's vital that you DON'T REGISTER WITH THE BUILDER WITHOUT A REALTOR.

If you register without a REALTOR, you often waive your ability to have a no-cost, professional REALTOR on your side. You have accepted the builder's agent and will be treated like a customer. Instead, let the REALTOR register for you. This ensures you have an agent with you - at no cost to you - through the process. DON'T PAY FOR SERVICES THAT YOU DON'T GET!

I share comparative market analyses with my clients as well as information about builders, community amenities, school districts, homeowners' associations (HOA), utility districts (MUDs, SUDs, PIDs, etc.) and more. 

I can help you if you’re ready to move forward. I can contact the builders on your behalf, negotiate favorable deals and leverage our large brokerage to your advantage because I work for you. 

I’ve Got Your Six!

Mark M. Hancock
REALTOR, GRI, MRP, New Home certified
214-862-7212
DFWmark.com
markhancockrealty@gmail.com

Allen - New-Build Communities and Builders

Former Tuskegee Airman Calvin J. Spann, 84, (left) shakes hands with Carl Isaacks of Allen (right) at Reel Thing Catfish Cafe in Allen on Thursday, July 16, 2009. Spann served with the 332nd Fighter Group from 1943 until 1946 and flew a P-51 Mustang fighter on bomber escort missions from Italy during World War II. The African-American unit received the Congressional Gold Medal in March 2007.

© Mark M. Hancock and The Dallas Morning News


Below is a list of all known communities and active builders within Aubrey, Texas. 

A list of western Collin County and southeastern Denton County communities are available on this post. DFWmark has additional deep, proprietary information about these communities to save your time, money and frustration. My services are almost always at no cost to buyer and tenant Clients. Call or text me at 214-862-7212 or email me about additional information.

Allen, Texas

Collin County

COMMUNITY                                         BUILDER

Gatherings® at Twin Creeks                      Beazer Homes
Landings of Kittyhawk                               Grand Homes
Legends at Twin Creeks                            Normandy Homes
Montgomery Farm Angel Field East 31s   Darling Homes
Montgomery Farm Angel Field East 55s   Darling Homes
Montgomery Farm Estates                        Toll Brothers
Montgomery Farm Estates 55s                  Darling Homes
Montgomery Farm Estates 62s                  Darling Homes
Montgomery Farm Estates 90s                  Darling Homes
Montgomery Ridge                                     Ashton Woods
Pecan Meadow                                           Landon Homes
Ridgeview Crossing                                   MainVue Homes
Ridgeview Crossing - The Executives       Toll Brothers
Ridgeview Crossing - The Villas                Toll Brothers
Rivercrest Park                                           Grand Homes
St. Andrews Park                                        KB Home
Twin Creeks                                                Southgate Homes
Village at Twin Creeks, The                        CB JENI Homes
Village at Twin Creeks, The                        Normandy Homes
Village at Twin Creeks, The                        Shaddock Homes
Walnut Springs at Twin Creeks                   Landon Homes

Please read Want To Buy A New-Built House? and New Build Home Basics to see if a new home is ideal for you.

If you’re ready to investigate a new-build purchase, it's vital that you DON'T REGISTER WITH THE BUILDER WITHOUT A REALTOR.

If you register without a REALTOR, you often waive your ability to have a no-cost, professional REALTOR on your side. You have accepted the builder's agent and will be treated like a customer. Instead, let the REALTOR register for you. This ensures you have an agent with you - at no cost to you - through the process. DON'T PAY FOR SERVICES THAT YOU DON'T GET!

I share comparative market analyses with my clients as well as information about builders, community amenities, school districts, homeowners' associations (HOA), utility districts (MUDs, SUDs, PIDs, etc.) and more. 

I can help you if you’re ready to move forward. I can contact the builders on your behalf, negotiate favorable deals and leverage our large brokerage to your advantage because I work for you. 

I’ve Got Your Six!

Mark M. Hancock
REALTOR, GRI, MRP, New Home certified
214-862-7212
DFWmark.com
markhancockrealty@gmail.com

Hurricane Laura Evacuation Center Locations

 

Mark M. Hancock / © The Beaumont Enterprise
Port Arthur police S.W.A.T. teams prepare to secure
the city after Hurricane Rita hit on Saturday, Sept. 24, 2005.

To my friends in Southeast Texas:

According to the Texas Hurricane Center, there are two evacuation centers in DFW. In theory, they will refer you to a hotel where you will get county-provided shelter in single-family rooms to control the possible spread of COVID-19.
The centers have no listed phone numbers, but are located at:

Mesquite
15515 E. IH-20 in Mesquite (near Belt Line Rd)Ennis

Knights of Columbus Hall, 850 IH-45 in Ennis (near Creechville Rd).

Texas Hurricane Center

30-year Fixed Mortgage Rate Hits Historic Low

30-year fixed mortgage rate reaches lowest level
in survey history according to Freddie Mac. - KCM

Rates have gone down farther since this graphic was made. They have also stabilized.
This isn't the rate a consumer will get, but it's a good indication of trends. You can check Freddie Mac's weekly rates here: www.freddiemac.com/pmms
The Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation, also known as Freddie Mac, is a public government-sponsored enterprise that purchases mortgages on residences from loan originators.

I've Got Your Six! 

DFWmark 

214-862-7212

I've Got The Scoop For You!

Mark M. Hancock / DFWmark.com

When You Need 

the Scoop on the 

Real Estate Market

I've Got Your Six!

DFWmark.com

The greatest compliment given is a 

referral from a friend or client!

I enjoy giving small marketing gifts to my Clients from time to time. When I'm traveling through their neighborhood, I'll drop one off. I want my Clients to know that I value them and think of them often. 

Paint Your Cabinets

By Mark M. Hancock / DFWmark.com

© Mark M. Hancock / DFWmark.com

While busily social distancing, you probably noticed the kitchen cabinets. They’re dull. They’re dated. They aren’t having any fun.

It’s time for a party in the pantry!

Wood cabinets are easily painted and hold modern paint. 

Bright white and light gray are popular this year. Any light color is best for the peripheral cabinets to reflect more light and make a tight space appear roomier. Folks often use a darker color on the island. 

This Do It Yourself (DIY) project costs less than most kitchen projects. A relatively good job costs a little more than $100, or a pro can do it for $3,000 or more. If you choose to DIY, it’s important to follow all three steps: Prepare, Prime and Paint.

Prepare

Remove all doors, drawers and hardware. Separate hardware into boxes or bags for safe keeping.

Clean, degrease and remove dust from surfaces. Grease bleeds through the paint. Dust under the paint looks like sand. Run a vacuum over any areas you sand.

If the cabinets were previously painted, consider stripping the old paint off first. 

Fill any gouges or holes - not hardware holes - with wood putty before painting.

Put sheet plastic over counter surfaces, tape plastic over appliances and tuck some small pieces over cabinet contents. Use high-quality masking tape to avoid stray paint along edges.

(Above) It's recommended - but not required with modern primers - to sand the surface varnish of stained wood surfaces - scratch it up some. If you must correct for a damaged area, sand it a little deeper. Use sandpaper with a 150 to 200 grit. Take the doors outside to sand them. If you choose to sand the cabinet frames, drape plastic sheets around the room openings to contain the dust. Wear a respirator mask and eye protection.

(Right) Remove all doors and drawers from cabinets. Some items can remain to the rear of shelves if you aren't painting the interior. Just cover them with sheet plastic.

(Left) Separate hardware into separate bins or sandwich bags. If hardware is specific to individual places, label the bags with the location on a piece of painters' tape. 

When removing doors and drawer fronts, place a piece of painters' tape near where the door was removed. Write an identifying number on the tape. Place a piece of painters' tape on the door or drawer front with the matching number and location. 

When painting the door, place the tape on the bottom side of an unpainted door. If one side is painted, place the ID tape near the drying door. Until the paint has hardened, tape can pull the paint off. 

Paint the backs of doors first. You can fix those mistakes and few folks will notice the mistakes on the door backs after you paint the fronts. 

(Right) Remove the drawer fronts from the drawers. Sand the surface varnish if desired. You don't want to paint anywhere near the working mechanical portions of the drawers. 

When preparing to prime and paint, you'll want to use inexpensive painters' pyramids like these. They provide the smallest touch to the underside. This approach allows the primer or paint to dry and harden without sticking to plastic or larger risers.

(Left) Mask every area abutting a painted area with high-quality painters' tape (masking tape). Even professional painters ensure they don't overpaint onto other surfaces. Clean lines are vital when the work is done. This is how they happen. 

Use a razor knife and scissors to cut the painters' tape precisely. It's impossible to accurately place a 20-foot long section of tape on the first try. Instead, tape the corner and unroll a little at a time as you work your way across an edge. If it gets off line, there's less to fix. Back up to where it was on line and start again from there. If you must, cut the tape and start again from where you cut the tape. 

Use painters' tape with thin plastic sheeting attached over built-in appliances to protect against drips. 

Use a sponge sander - with or without grooves - to scuff up varnished surfaces as needed. 

(Right) The shelves only need to be masked where the paint might slop over. 

If the interior of the shelves won't be painted, push the contents to the back and cover with plastic sheeting.

If the interior needs paint, remove everything. Then, start from the back and work forward to avoid painted elbows and forearms. 

Cover all fixed appliances with plastic sheeting. Move mobile appliances such as the refrigerator out of the way to avoid paint splashes.

Prime

Modern primers can bond to varnish. It’s still a good idea to lightly sand varnished surfaces to allow primer to get a better grip. However, if you pick between sanding or primer, choose the primer.

Use the best primer available. It covers many mistakes and sets up the paint for success. It should be about as thick as a runny milkshake. 

If you have sawhorses, save your back some pain by painting cabinet doors up high. It makes it easier to see what you're doing and avoids some strain on your knees and back. If you plan to keep the sawhorses clean, drape a plastic sheet over them.

When a brush or roller is not in use, set or wrap it with aluminum foil to keep the paint from setting and hardening on the surface. 

(Right) If you choose not to sand the cabinet frames, high-quality primer bonds to the stained varnish. There was no noticeable difference between the sanded doors and the unsanded frame.

As stated on the new home construction post, the goal is for it to look correct from 6 feet away under normal light. 

(Left) Place painters' tape on every surface that must stay unpainted. Time spent masking the area will be rewarded in the end results. Tape is inside the island box, around the base, under the granite counter, and around the disconnected drawer slide. 

One drawer slide was removed and the other was only disconnected and covered in tape. Since this is a non-visible area, it's best to leave the slide back connected and cover the front with tape to avoid problems remounting the drawer slides.

Have plastic sheeting on the ground as you move around with primer or paint.

Paint

A normal kitchen requires one or two gallons of paint. Buy the best quality enamel paint or acrylic latex-based paint with a satin finish. Acrylic latex-based paint is durable, easy to clean and more forgiving of the painter. You’ll want semi-gloss or satin. 

Push paint to the corners and into shapes with a foam or bristle brush. A 1.5” touch-up pad brush works extremely well. Then roll over the large surfaces in a tight “W” pattern with a foam roller in a small tray. 

This is a great multi-day project while on a budget. Let the paint completely dry and harden to avoid redoing the entire project. Cut masking tape with a razor knife to ensure clean edges.

(Above) Try to select the perfect color the first time. Purchase a sample bottle and paint a poster board or block of wood to test the color. 

Even after you paint it, if it's the wrong color, it's best to catch it quickly while the paint is setting. Then, find the right color before you reattach the doors and drawers. 

(Left) For cabinets, use a foam paintbrush or a 1.5" cover-up brush - like this one - to get paint into the corners and shapes first. Then use a 4" foam roller for the larger surface areas. The brush handles are reusable. Pull off the heads inside a trash bag. An inexpensive and disposable paint tray makes cleanup easy. 

(Right) After painting the cabinet frames, use a razor knife along the edge of the painters' tape to ensure a clean edge. 

Latex paint pulls out of shape and leaves a ragged edge if it isn't cut free. If something goes wrong, strip paint back onto the wood, apply new tape and repaint. Clean lines can be salvaged. 

(Left) Paint is likely to drip inside the cabinet hardware holes. While nobody sees it, paint drippings interfere with the proper function of recessed hinges. This paint must be removed. 

If you have a rotary tool, grab a sanding head out of the kit, attach it to a cordless drill and grind the stray paint out of the hinge hole. 

You can use the same rotary sander on other mistakes, but it's likely to cause more problems than it is worth. Keep this option for problems that need major repairs. 

Expect to miss spots. Once it dries, look carefully at all the surfaces and especially at the corners. If there's some primer or wood showing, use a small foam brush to push paint into those places or cover the outside.

This pass can be done from a sample bottle or from a tiny touch up tray. Always keep a piece of plastic sheeting under any open paint to avoid problems. 

Have a container of treated disposable paint cleaner wipes and roll of paper towels nearby during the project. If a can of paint spills on an uncovered tile floor, fast action can save it. If the paint sets, it becomes a bigger problem. 

The completed project makes your kitchen brighter and appears roomier. Unfortunately, it doesn't help with social distancing from the refrigerator. 

I've Got Your Six!

While you're here...

If you would like to receive similar informational bulletins each month, please email your name to markhancockrealty@gmail.com and say you want to be on my email list! There's no cost, and you can opt in or out at any time. 

You’ll also want to see and compared the weekly Market Watch posts. They allow you to check the pulse of the DFW real estate market. With historically low rates, now is an ideal time for both buyers and sellers.

I tracked down each new home builder and their developments in the communities surrounding Frisco, Texas. Let me know what you want and where you want it, and I’m happy to help locate your ideal new home! My services are almost always at no cost to buyers. They’re factored into the selling price. Talk to me before you visit a new home builder. Don’t pay for services you don’t get! 

Meanwhile, I made a pre-listing video: "Let's Sell Your House!". It explains my proven marketing plan to sell your property as quickly as possible and execute a smooth transaction. If you haven’t seen me or heard my voice in a while, here’s your opportunity. 

 I also have two versions of what house sellers should expect. The bullet-point version is hyperlinked to the detailed version. The long version should answer almost any questions you’ll have.

The Colony Client Testimonial

I have the most amazing Clients! Thank you for such a great testimonial!

"Every aspect of Mark's involvement with this sale was above and beyond my expectations. He should be commended for his ability to deal with a seller that is as unique as myself. During the entire process if I were not concerned about a specific aspect of the sale he would direct me to the reason I should be. If I were over-concerned about anything he would give me the facts on the situation and we would work through the situation.

He had a list of vendors for me to comb through and hire for the fixes the house required. And there were a lot. He put the facts in front of me when I wasn't sure if I should repair, replace or leave alone any part of the house. He saved me thousands of dollars!

In the end, we had 41 live visits and 9 offers.......IN THE FIRST 24 HOURS!

He simply is a trusting person that I will work with in the future as my needs may be directed back to the Dallas Ft. Worth Metroplex area. Kudos Mark!"

- Carl Campbell, The Colony

Plano - New-Build Communities and Builders

Mark M. Hancock / DFWmark.com
Rows of glass office buildings are
commonplace as corporations have
moved their headquarters to Plano, Texas. 

Below is a list of known communities and active builders within Plano, Texas. 

This post features a list of western Collin County and southeastern Denton County communities with construction. DFWmark has additional deep, proprietary information about these communities to save your time, money and frustration. My services are almost always at no cost to buyer and tenant Clients. Call or text me at 214-862-7212 or email me about additional information.

Plano, Texas
Collin and Denton counties

COMMUNITY                                         BUILDER

Commodore at Preston                              K. Hovnanian Homes
Fox Trails                                                   IRT Living
Gatherings at Plano Gateway                    Beazer Homes
Heritage Creekside                                    CB JENI Homes
Heritage Ridge Estates                              Grand Homes
Sabine Park Estates                                   Gehan Homes
Starside Custom Builders                          Starside Custom Builders
Villas at Legacy West                                Britton Homes
Villas at Legacy West Premium                Britton Homes
Wells Park                                                 Village Builders
Windrose At Legacy West                        Fehmi Karahan

Please read Want To Buy A New-Built House? and New Build Home Basics to see if a new home is ideal for you.

If you’re ready to investigate a new-build purchase, it's vital that you DON'T REGISTER WITH THE BUILDER WITHOUT A REALTOR.

If you register without a REALTOR, you often waive your ability to have a no-cost, professional REALTOR on your side. You have accepted the builder's agent and will be treated like a customer. Instead, let the REALTOR register for you. This ensures you have an agent with you - at no cost to you - through the process. DON'T PAY FOR SERVICES THAT YOU DON'T GET!

I share comparative market analyses with my clients as well as information about builders, community amenities, school districts, homeowners' associations (HOA), utility districts (MUDs, SUDs, PIDs, etc.) and more. 

I can help you if you’re ready to move forward. I can contact the builders on your behalf, negotiate favorable deals and leverage our large brokerage to your advantage because I work for you. 

I’ve Got Your Six!

Mark M. Hancock
REALTOR, GRI, MRP, New Home certified
214-862-7212
DFWmark.com
markhancockrealty@gmail.com

McKinney - New-Build Communities and Builders

Mark M. Hancock / DFWmark.com
A new house is under construction at 
Trinity Falls in McKinney on Monday 9
December 2019. 

Below is a list of known communities and active builders within McKinney, Texas. 

This post features a list of western Collin County and southeastern Denton County communities with construction. DFWmark has additional deep, proprietary information about these communities to save your time, money and frustration. My services are almost always at no cost to buyer and tenant Clients. Call or text me at 214-862-7212 or email me about additional information.

McKinney, Texas
Collin County

COMMUNITY                                         BUILDER

Auburn Hills                                              Pulte Homes
Auburn Hills                                              Meritage Homes
Auburn Hills                                              Plantation Homes
Auburn Hills Willowcreek 55s                   Darling Homes
Auburn Hills Willowcreek 60s                   Darling Homes
Barcelona                                                  Drees Custom Homes
Chapel Trails                                             M/I Homes
Del Webb at Trinity Falls                           Del Webb
Emerald Heights                                        BelclaireHomes
Erwin Farms                                              Pulte Homes
Erwin Farms - Crossings 50's                   Beazer Homes
Erwin Farms - Overlook 62's                     Beazer Homes
Estates of Verona                                      Grand Homes
Hunter Lakes                                             Altura Homes
Lake Forest                                               Grand Homes
Lake Forest Townhomes                           Grand Homes
Liberty Hill                                                 Normandy Homes
Meridian at Southgate                               Ashton Woods
Meridian at Southgate                               CB JENI Homes
Preserve at Lake Forest, The                    Drees Custom Homes
Provence Luxury TH                                  Texas North Residential
Residences at Jeans Creek                       Integrity Group, LLC
Retreat at Craig Ranch                              Trendmaker Homes
Ridge View Villas                                      CB JENI Homes
Silverado                                                    CB JENI Homes
Southern Hills                                            Ashton Woods
Stonebridge Ranch - Melton Ridge           Shaddock Homes
The Grove at Craig Ranch - Vistas 50's    Beazer Homes
Timber Creek                                             Drees Custom Homes
Timber Creek: 50ft. Lots                            Highland Homes
Timber Creek: Artisan Series - 50'             Highland Homes
Tour at Craig Ranch,                                  The Grand Homes
Trinity Falls                                                 Chesmar Homes Dallas
Trinity Falls                                                 Drees Custom Homes
Trinity Falls 40'                                           Plantation Homes
Trinity Falls 45'                                           Perry Homes
Trinity Falls 50'                                           Perry Homes
Trinity Falls 50'                                           Plantation Homes
Trinity Falls 60'                                           Perry Homes
Trinity Falls: 40ft. Lots                               Highland Homes
Trinity Falls: 50ft. Lots                               Highland Homes
Trinity Falls: 70ft. Lots                               Highland Homes
Vineyards, The                                          Gehan Homes
Watters Branch at Craig Ranch                 American Legend Homes
Westminster at Craig Ranch                     Grand Homes
Willow Wood                                              Bloomfield Homes
Willow Wood                                              Chesmar Homes Dallas
Willow Wood                                              First Texas Homes
Willowcreek at Auburn Hills                       Taylor Morrison
Wilmeth Ridge                                            Grand Homes

Please read Want To Buy A New-Built House? and New Build Home Basics to see if a new home is ideal for you.

If you’re ready to investigate a new-build purchase, it's vital that you DON'T REGISTER WITH THE BUILDER WITHOUT A REALTOR.

If you register without a REALTOR, you often waive your ability to have a no-cost, professional REALTOR on your side. You have accepted the builder's agent and will be treated like a customer. Instead, let the REALTOR register for you. This ensures you have an agent with you - at no cost to you - through the process. DON'T PAY FOR SERVICES THAT YOU DON'T GET!

I share comparative market analyses with my clients as well as information about builders, community amenities, school districts, homeowners' associations (HOA), utility districts (MUDs, SUDs, PIDs, etc.) and more. 

I can help you if you’re ready to move forward. I can contact the builders on your behalf, negotiate favorable deals and leverage our large brokerage to your advantage because I work for you. 

I’ve Got Your Six!

Mark M. Hancock
REALTOR, GRI, MRP, New Home certified
214-862-7212
DFWmark.com
markhancockrealty@gmail.com

Flower Mound - New-Build Communities and Builders

Mark M. Hancock / DFWmark.com
A Toll Brothers Bellwynn model home
awaits visitors in Flower Mound
on 13 December 2019.

Below is a list of known communities and active builders within Flower Mound, Texas. 

This post features a list of western Collin County and southeastern Denton County communities with construction. DFWmark has additional deep, proprietary information about these communities to save your time, money and frustration. My services are almost always at no cost to buyer and tenant Clients. Call or text me at 214-862-7212 or email me about additional information.

Flower Mound, Texas
Denton County

COMMUNITY                                         BUILDER                                PID/MUD

Bradford Park 50'                                      Village Builders
Bradford Park 75'                                      Village Builders
Creekside at Heritage Park                       Toll Brothers
The Enclave At Chateau Du Lac               Bud Bartley Homes
Highland Court Cottage                             David Weekley Homes
Highland Court Executive                          David Weekley Homes
Montalcino Estates                                    Our Country Homes
Oakbridge at Flower Mound                      Toll Brothers
River Walk at Central Park                        Lennar                                        PID as "Riverwalk"
Saddlewood in Flower Mound                   Bud Bartley Homes
Terracina at Flower Mound                        Toll Brothers
Town Lake at Flower Mound                      Toll Brothers
Villas at Southgate                                     CB JENI Homes
Villas at Southgate                                     Normandy Homes

Please read Want To Buy A New-Built House? and New Build Home Basics to see if a new home is ideal for you.

If you’re ready to investigate a new-build purchase, it's vital that you DON'T REGISTER WITH THE BUILDER WITHOUT A REALTOR.

If you register without a REALTOR, you often waive your ability to have a no-cost, professional REALTOR on your side. You have accepted the builder's agent and will be treated like a customer. Instead, let the REALTOR register for you. This ensures you have an agent with you - at no cost to you - through the process. DON'T PAY FOR SERVICES THAT YOU DON'T GET!

I share comparative market analyses with my clients as well as information about builders, community amenities, school districts, homeowners' associations (HOA), utility districts (MUDs, SUDs, PIDs, etc.) and more. 

I can help you if you’re ready to move forward. I can contact the builders on your behalf, negotiate favorable deals and leverage our large brokerage to your advantage because I work for you. 

I’ve Got Your Six!

Mark M. Hancock
REALTOR, GRI, MRP, New Home certified
214-862-7212
DFWmark.com
markhancockrealty@gmail.com