Life Made Simple.

Best Tips on Lighting a Fire this Winter

2011-10-29T14:36:00.000-07:00

If you have never used a wood burning fireplace, or it has been years since you have, please follow along for some helpful tips!

Before making a fire, pull aside the screen curtains, and place the kindling, newspaper and logs inside. Next, open the damper/flue and your sliding door. The slider door needs to be open only a few inches. You can check to make sure the smoke will go up the chimney properly by lighting a match, quickly blowing it out and watching the smoke to see whether it's going up and out. The air coming in from the door will go up the chimney preventing your room from filling up with smoke. Do not open both your slider door and another window or your front door – this will not give the desired effect to keep your family room free of smoke.

Keep a nonflammable rug (available at fireplace supply stores) in front of the fireplace so that sparks won't melt or otherwise damage your carpeting. Use fireplace tools to handle burning logs. Never use your hands. Clean the firebox (the area where the logs burn) at least once a week during the months you use it, when ash builds up. Leave about an inch of ash because it acts as insulation, allowing the coals to heat faster and retain the heat easier. Keep the firebox completely clean during the months when the fireplace is not in use.

Never leave a fire unattended when children are in the house. Adults, even if near, should not allow children to play near or with fire tools and equipment.

Halloween Time

2011-10-28T06:51:00.000-07:00

Hello Residents!

We have received some great feedback from our wonderful residents on Facebook about what they would rather do for Trick or Treaters (become a fan for the most up to date info, just search Pointe Royal Townhomes). By popular demand we have decided to go with door knockers that will indicate that you are Trick or Treat Friendly! They are located in our Leasing Office if you would like to come by and pick one up! If you can’t make it in, we will be more than happy to deliver to your front door! Please make sure that you are inviting all of the kids that you know because we have lots of residents that have candy to give out! It will be a fun night to stay close to home!

Call the Office if you have any questions at 913.345.2888!

Your Pointe Royal Staff

Time For A Wedding!

2011-08-31T11:37:00.000-07:00

Mark and I are two weeks away from the wedding and it seems so surreal. We have been engaged for two years and it seems like it has flown by. As we get down to the final preparations, I realize more and more each day why I am making this lifelong commitment. He is seriously my best friend. He has been my rock for almost five years now. I have never known someone who gets me as much as Mark does. I am incredibly happy that we will be taking the next big step in our relationship in two weeks. For me, it cannot get here fast enough. Plus I can’t wait to show off my wedding dress and shoes, see all of our family from out of town and party with our college friends as we did three years ago. It is amazing how time flies.

-Still searching for something blue,

Ashlee (The newest Pointe Royal Team Member)

Atlas Reborn……

2011-08-31T08:00:00.000-07:00

My family and I have always been strong believers in rescue animals as opposed to breeders that just donate to the over population of pets. We have always had great luck rescuing dogs and this is another one of those stories. I have a 70 pound Czechoslovakian wolfdog named Skye. She is the ruler of our household but was getting lonely in the winter of 2009. We decided that she needed a friend. But Skye does not have a loving or accepting attitude toward other dogs. We knew this was going to be difficult but we were up to the challenge.

My husband and I had decided that we would rescue another dog but had some guidelines we discussed to follow in picking out a new animal. We knew that Skye would have to come with us and help with the decision because she is so judgmental toward her own breed. We also wanted a dog that was no bigger than Skye, that was not a “drooly dog” nor was it a smelly dog. Sometimes dogs just have an odor and Skye has never been like that. So we set out for adoption day at Petsmart. There were several adorable 50 pound fluffy dogs looking for homes. We took several out to meet our Skye and with each dog we brought to meet her, it seemed she hated each one more than the one before. About the 4^th time we walked back into Petsmart with the latest “faulty” dog, we would passed a large, mangy, muddy, drooly dog that was for sale near the front door. Skye wept pulling us toward him and each time we would say “oh No”.

Finally we walked up to the mess of the animal and asked about him. Before I even touch him I could smell him. The ladies at KCK Animal Control said he was 55 pounds, was full grown, fixed, and was very relaxed animal. His fur was thin and he was thin as well. The director also told me the worst news….. He was also scheduled to be euthanized in 6 days. Stay tuned for more of his stories in my next blog.

Michele

My Recent Trip & What I love about Park City, UT

2011-08-30T14:52:00.000-07:00

My husband and I honeymooned in Park City, UT six years ago. The location was actually chosen by what resorts were available to exchange through Marriott. Mountains in the summertime quickly became my favorite place to be. The residents and vacationers are active and health-conscious. The outside invites you to spend time walking, biking and sight-seeing.

Park City offers a long Main Street with shops and restaurants in abundance. Fine dining and local bar and grills provide plenty of options to fit all appetites and wallets. The residents are friendly and willing to share tips of the best mountains and the best bars with drink specials.

Park City is only a short 40 minute drive up the mountains from Salt Lake City so there is easy access to go down to the valley. Salt Lake City offers a clean and safe city for visitors to shop and dine. There is a large outdoor mall similar to The Legends in Kansas City. The streets and addresses are the only thing that can be tough for visitors to adjust. Salt Lake is laid out on a simple grid system. Virtually every address in the city has a set of two coordinates telling how far east or west and how far north or south it is from Temple Square.

I have returned once to Park City for my fifth anniversary and look forward to many more!

Talk to you soon,
Kelly

My Favorite Place to Shop

2011-08-24T11:55:00.000-07:00

When you think of shopping, most people think of the Plaza,
Town Center, or the mall but my favorite place to shop is Westport. They have the best locally owned boutiques in
town, where you can find one of a kind items.
From jewelry to mp3 docks, they have it all in a very unique way.

At NGB (Nikki Grant’s Boutique) you can find extravagant feathered earrings and
Lady Gaga inspired sunglasses. You can
also find couture dresses that will be sure to be an eye-catcher that night!

At Bunker you can find the hottest headphones that make your jeweled iPod look
non-existent! You can also find unique
sneakers for all sexes and ages.

At Jubilee, you won’t fall short of any accessory you made need. From star-studded sunglasses to sterling
silver rings, they really do have it all to pull your outfit together. Whether you live in Kansas or Missouri, the
venture is well worth it to shop in Westport!

-Christina

Football is Back!

2011-08-18T10:20:00.000-07:00

After months of not knowing whether the 2011-2012 NFL season would start, relief came for fans last month that Football is Back! As a wife of a devout KC Chiefs fan, I am looking forward to Sundays with my home filled with friends, family and homemade chili. The sounds of cheers and boos alike truly ring in the fall season for my home.
Fantasy Football is also a strong tradition with my husband’s family. The boys gather from multiple states here in Kansas City to spend an evening drafting a hopeful strong team to bring home the big bucks in January with a “Fantasy Football Super Bowl” win. Magazines, laptops and food are spread throughout the room. Jokes and smack talk are shared to trip up the opponents’ team selections.
This year I will be hosting the gathering of the girls! We get together while the boys do their thing giving us an opportunity to visit and catch up. We drink wine, eat good food and play games. Living at Pointe Royal allows us all to meet in the same place. The boys will be in our townhome and we girls will be hanging out in the Guest Suite. The Guest Suite is a great place for our overflow guests to sleep and an excellent space for 6 ladies to spend the evening together.
The new season brings hopes for the KC Chiefs to do well and my husband’s team to earn us extra money at the start of 2012! Let’s see some Touchdowns!!

Go Chiefs,

Kelly

Write A Blog...Win An iPod

2011-07-16T14:00:00.000-07:00

Make it a summer to remember with a new 32G iPod Touch, 2nd Gen!

Winning is simple. Just write a blog and e-mail it to one of our staff members. We will be posting all of the entries right here on our community blog.

Between now and Septembner 30th any resident that writes an article for our blob will be entered to win the iPod Touch.

Never written a blog? Here are a few ideas of what you could write about...

Do you have a hobby you want to share a little about?
Have you recently taken a trip? Tell us about of few of the highlights.
You could write about pretty much anything. :)

One winner will be chosen from all blog entries submitted at each of our KC communities.

Call the office for more details or to submit your blog

You can send your Blogs to sales@pointeroyalapts.com

Stay up to date on our entries, subscribe to our blog!

Is the Super Bowl really named after a 1960s children's toy?

2011-02-06T13:38:00.000-08:00

By Chris Chase

It seems too much like an urban legend to be true that the Super Bowl was named after a children's novelty toy that was popular in the mid-1960s.

But strange as it sounds, it is. The name of America's biggest sport event got its name from a Wham-O toy called "Super Ball." The story was recounted in Michael MacCambridge's book, "America's Game."

Once the NFL-AFL merger was announced, discussions began about the inaugural championship game between the winners of the two leagues. A group of seven men were tasked with the specifics. During the course of the meetings, it became confusing when the men referred to "the championship game" because the others didn't know whether he was referring to the league championship games or the finale, which still didn't have a name. To end the mix-ups, Kansas City Chiefs founder Lamar Hunt jokingly referred to the final championship game as the "Super Bowl." He had come up with the name while watching his children play with the toy pictured above.

"Super Bowl" is how the game was referred to for months, even though Hunt himself said it was "far too corny" to ever be used on the big stage. In the middle of 1966, he wrote commissioner Pete Rozelle and said the group needed to come up with an official name for the game. "If possible," he wrote, "I believe we should 'coin a phrase' for the Championship Game. [...] I have kiddingly called it the 'Super Bowl,' which obviously can be improved upon."

Rozelle agreed. The league's publicity director recalled that the commissioner despised the word "super," because it didn't have any sophistication. Rozelle was evidently a "stickler on words and grammar." The game would be known as the "AFL-NFL World Championship Game."

That bulky title didn't last. People caught wind of Hunt's name and soon everyone, from media members to players, were calling the title game "the Super Bowl." The NFL was slow to adapt, though. It wasn't until the third game that the words "Super Bowl" appeared on the official game program and the fourth game when the phrase appeared on tickets.

As mentioned above, Michael MacCambridge's excellent "America's Game: The Epic Story of How Pro Football Captured a Nation" was the main reference for this blog post.

10 mistakes people make with heat

2010-11-30T13:20:00.000-08:00

Steve Graham, Networx Steve Graham, Networx – Mon Nov 15, 3:25 pm ET

(Photo: Getty Images)

Even with a constant flow of information about energy efficiency, homeowners make major heating mistakes that end in higher electric bills and larger environmental footprints.

Here are 10 of those errors, with the cause and effect of each decision.

1. Maintaining a constant temperature

Cause: A persistent myth suggests that you can save energy by leaving the house at a comfortable 68 degrees (a widely recommended winter setting), even when you are sleeping or away at work.

The idea is that it takes more energy for the furnace to reach a comfortable temperature than to maintain that temperature.

Effect: You could miss out on significant potential energy savings by not using a programmable thermostat and adjusting the temperature overnight and during the workday.

Though the impacts of adjusting the thermostat vary based on your climate and other factors, studies show that knocking the temperature down by 10 degrees for eight hours per day can cut heating bills by 5 to 15 percent.

Sure, the furnace will cycle on for a longer period to return to the more comfortable temperature, but it will be far outweighed by hours of savings when it didn't have to work as hard.

2. Cranking up the temperature to warm up the house

Cause: You come home in the middle of the day to a cold house. You want to warm back up to 68 ASAP, so you crank the dial up to 78 to get the furnace working harder and faster.

Effect: No time is saved in reheating the house. Most furnaces pump out heat at the same rate no matter the temperature. They just cycle on for a longer period to reach a higher temperature.

The furnace will take the same amount of time to return to 68 degrees regardless of the thermostat setting. By cranking up the thermostat, you are likely to overheat the house past 68 degrees and waste energy. Just reset the thermostat to 68, make some hot chocolate, and wait.

[ Learn how to get the most out of a programmable thermostat. ]

3. Closing off vents in unused rooms

Cause: You don't want to waste energy heating rooms you aren't using.

Effect: Again, this just wastes energy and makes your furnace run inefficiently because it changes the air pressure in the whole system.

Experts recommend never shutting off more than 10 percent of vents. Sealing your ducts is a more efficient way to save energy.

4. Using the fireplace

Cause: You found some free firewood on Craigslist and think you can burn up some free heating energy while enjoying a romantic fire.

Effect: While we can't make any promises about increased romance, we can predict increased energy bills. An open fireplace flue may suck more cold air into the house than the fire can radiate into the living space.

5. Using electric room heaters

Cause: You spend most of your time in a couple of rooms, so you figure you will just heat them with space heaters.

Effect: This could lead to higher energy bills and greater fire risks. Generally, a central gas heating system is cheaper and more efficient than a set of electric room heaters. Electric heaters also can be a fire hazard.

There are exceptions. A single energy-efficient space heater in a small, well-insulated room can save energy if the central heater is switched off.

[ Learn how to use space heaters efficiently. ]

6. Switching to electric heating

Cause: Electric heaters are more efficient than fuel-based systems, so they must be cheaper and better for the environment, according to this popular idea.

Effect: In most areas, simply switching to electric heat leads to higher energy bills and a bigger carbon footprint. Your heater may be more efficient, but most U.S. homes are still linked to coal-fired power plants. These coal plants and their transmission systems are extremely inefficient.

Of course, it's a different story if you have a large photovoltaic solar array or your utility company uses renewable energy.

7. Replacing the windows

Cause: Those big pieces of glass get so darn cold. They must be the reason your house is so drafty.

Effect: You could spend a lot of money to only take care of part of the problem. Windows must be installed properly to avoid drafts, gaps, and leaks.

Moreover, more heat is typically lost through poorly insulated walls and ceilings than through windows.

8. Replacing the furnace first

Cause: You blame high energy bills on an old, inefficient furnace.

Effect: Your energy bills will still be higher than necessary if you don't start with cheaper, smaller upgrades to improve the energy efficiency of your home, such as caulking around windows and doors and adding insulation.

9. Upgrading to the most efficient furnace on the market

Cause: You want the sleekest, most energy-efficient furnace available because it will be the most cost effective as well.

Effect: You may end up replacing an over-sized furnace with another (albeit more efficient) over-sized furnace. The U.S. Department of Energy reports that most U.S. homes have over-sized HVAC systems.

Again, insulate and weatherize to maximize efficiency, then get the smallest system that will comfortably meet your heating needs, which will be substantially reduced. Also make sure it is professionally installed.

10. Using incandescent light bulbs for heating

Cause: Incandescent bulbs give off more heat than light, so they must be warming up the house.

Effect: It is hard to see this logic as anything but a weak excuse for holding on to the Edison bulbs rather than switching to CFL and LED lighting.

In fact, one German entrepreneur is marketing incandescent bulbs as "heat balls" to skirt EU laws against the old-style bulbs. However, I doubt he is keeping cozy this winter simply by sleeping with the lights on.

Keep Your Apartment Warm - Keep Warm In Your Apartment: Apartment Guide

2010-11-16T08:20:00.000-08:00

Keep Your Apartment Warm - Keep Warm In Your Apartment: Apartment Guide

Keep Warm in Your Apartment

When the weather outside is frightful, the temperatures inside your apartment can be less than delightful. Here are some tips on keeping your apartment warm when colder temperatures raise their frosty heads.

Let there be light. Open shades and curtains on south-facing windows during the day to let in the sun. While you may not be home during the day to appreciate the mid-day warmth, your apartment should stay warm enough to reduce your heating costs during the day (you are turning your thermostat down before you leave for the day, aren’t you?)
Cover the floors. If you have bare floors (tile or hardwood, for example), use rugs to help them feel warmer in the morning and evening.
Be a draft dodger. If you have a draft, block it. This is best done with weather stripping around leaky doors and windows, but check with your landlord or property manager before attempting anything like that. If that’s not an option, placing a blanket in front of the door could help reduce drafts.
Heat spaces, not your whole place. If you spend the majority of your time in one or two rooms, consider the use of a space heater to warm that space instead of using the furnace to heat your whole apartment.
Dress in layers. As mom used to always say, “Put on a sweater.” Wearing an extra layer of clothing can go a long way in keeping your body temperature up and your heating bill down. And don’t forget that thick socks or slippers can help a lot with keeping you warm.
Be more like Linus from Peanuts – use a blanket. Why heat the whole place when you’re sleeping? Plug in the electric blanket and you can have a most cozy bed, while your house remains at an affordable temperature during the night hours. A blanket with dual temperature controls is best if you share your bed.
Change is good. Have your furnace filter changed regularly. A dirty filter makes the furnace have to work harder, decreasing its efficiency and increasing your heating costs.
Close the door. If you have a multi-room apartment, close the doors of any unused rooms, and close those rooms’ vents. (If you don’t use the room, there’s no need to heat it.)

Renting--not buying--the dream

2010-09-21T12:53:00.001-07:00

Stina Fish regularly dines at upscale restaurants, dabbles in the stock market and has vacationed internationally twice in the past year--and she plans to tour China later this month.
With an MBA under her belt, the 33-year-old Loop resident clearly knows how to handle money, yet there is one traditional investment she refuses to make: Fish can't bring herself to buy a home.
"Since college, I've thought that Americans are generally obsessed with the idea of homeownership being some kind of superior lifestyle, but I think we get more for our money renting," said Fish, a manager of development in the public transportation industry.
Although the conventional wisdom for money management and responsible adulthood dictates buying a home, recent research shows fewer Americans are making the leap to ownership.
Economic troubles have played a major role in the nation's real estate slump, but there also is a sizable portion of renters who say they have no intention of purchasing a house, citing rental advantages such as mobility and monthly savings.
The number of households that are renting grew by 3.4 million from 2004-2009, a 10 percent increase, according to a 2010 report by the Joint Center for Housing Studies at Harvard University.
Some of those renters are there to stay. More than a quarter of renters never plan to buy a home, according to a national survey conducted this summer for trulia.com, a real estate search engine. Of the renters who said they do plan to purchase someday, 68 percent said it would be more than two years before they do so.
Fish says she has the financial means to purchase a home, but she prefers the convenience of renting the loft apartment she shares with her husband.
The space includes many of the perks often associated with homeownership--in-unit laundry, a covered parking space, pet-friendly building rules and a view of the Chicago River. (Fish did not want to reveal what she pays for rent, but she said it is less than a mortgage for a comparable space.)
"We don't worry about special assessments. We don't worry about having to replace the dishwasher or the furnace," Fish said. "Even though I've been in the same apartment since 2003, there's still the idea that I'm free to pick up and move anywhere, at any time."
Recent economic reports suggest even more people may be moving toward renting.
Sales of existing homes in Chicago fell 25.1 percent year-over-year in July, according to data released by the Illinois Association of Realtors. And that beats the national drop of 27.1 percent to reach the lowest level since the National Association of Realtors started tracking sales of single-family homes and condos in 1999, the Tribune reported.
The dip was expected after the expiration of a government tax rebate program, said Bob Ghislandi, an associate broker with real estate company @properties.
"We're seeing a void, which makes sense," he said. "We all expected this. But anyone who buys right now is getting an incredible deal."
Among the Chicago first-time home buyers who never looked back is Travis Linz, a senior sales representative who bought a two-bedroom penthouse condo in March in Ukrainian Village. After sitting on the sidelines for a couple of years, Linz said he was glad to finally negotiate a great price for a great place.
"Interest rates were low and it seemed like we might be coming out of the recession, so I didn't want to miss the window," said Linz, 30. "I wanted something unique and I found it."
Renting had its pluses, Linz conceded, but he prefers the ownership lifestyle.
"When I rented, it was great to know I could pack everything I own in an SUV and skip town should I decide to," he said. "But I also have had a few awful landlords over the years, and I don't miss dealing with them."
Thiyag Chinnappan, a 35-year-old marketing analyst, said he considered buying a home about two years ago, but the uncertain job market strongly influenced his decision to rent. So far, he has no regrets.
"Owning a place adds the burden of immobility," said Chinnappan, who says renting the four-bedroom Roscoe Village house he shares with three others has given him the opportunity to beef up his savings and travel around the world. "[I can] save more liquid cash and make other investments instead of tying it down to a house."
Owning a home wouldn't make Chinnappan feel any more mature or grown up, he said.
"It's a very personal decision," he said "This just fits my lifestyle better."
--ERIN M. SARRIS IS A REDEYE SPECIAL CONTRIBUTOR. --

Before you purchase

How do you know when it's time to evict the landlord from your life? Neil Moscicki, a vice president and financial adviser with Harris Investor Services in suburban Roselle, shared five things a renter should have (left) before considering homeownership. E.S.

Breaking down the trade-offs

If there's one truth about taking the plunge into homeownership, it's that there always are two sides to consider. Is owning better than renting? That's up to the individual, but here are some issues to consider. E.S.

Maintenance

Owners: Your water pipe burst at 2 a.m.? That's gonna cost some money, but you've got your pick of plumbers.
Renters: This is the landlord's problem, but scheduling the repair might not be his first priority of the day--or week.

Decor

Owners: Pimp your space any way you'd like.
Renters: Who wants to spend weekends at Home Depot?

Payments

Owners: Added costs--taxes, insurance and special assessments--are part of the American dream, but so is the tax write-off.
Renters: No surprises--a single monthly check with a consistent payment.

Longevity

Owners: As long as your mortgage payments are on time, no one can kick you out of your space.
Renters: Rent increases loom large every year, but many landlords will give price breaks for signing a longer lease.

By Erin M. Sarris

http://www.chicagonow.com/blogs/redeye/2010/09/renting--not-buying--the-dream.html
FOR REDEYE

Upcoming Events Around the KC Metro!

2010-03-24T10:53:00.001-07:00

1.AC/DC @ Sprint Center

http://www.sprintcenter.com/default.asp?id=87&objId=590

AC/DC’s Black Ice World Tour, has been rescheduled to hit Sprint Center in Kansas City, MO on Sunday, April 11. Tickets are on sale now.

The Black Ice World Tour kicked off in October of 2008 and has crisscrossed North America and Europe twice. By early 2010 the tour will hit Australia, New Zealand and Japan. They will be returning to North America in April.

2.Earth Wind and Fire at Starlight
http://kcstarlight.com/concerts/earth_wind_and_fire.aspx

Earth, Wind & Fire is one of the most musically accomplished, critically acclaimed and commercially popular funk bands to emerge since the 1970s. Conceived by drummer, band leader, songwriter, kalimba player and occasional vocalist Maurice White, the band's all-encompassing musical vision used funk as its foundation, but also incorporated jazz, smooth soul, gospel, pop, rock & roll, psychedelia, blues, folk, African music and, later, disco. Lead singer Philip Bailey gave Earth, Wind & Fire an extra dimension with his talent for crooning sentimental ballads in addition to funk workouts. Behind Bailey, the band exhibits the ability to harmonize like a smooth Motown group, work a simmering groove or improvise like a jazz fusion outfit.
Don't miss Earth, Wind & Fire at Starlight Theatre on May 29, 2010 at 7:30 p.m.

Ticket prices: $86.00*, $66.00*, $56.00*, and $50.50*
*All tickets subject to applicable service and handling fees.

3.REO Speedwagon w/ Pat Benatar July 11 @ Startlight 7:00pm

http://www.kcstarlight.com/concerts/reo_speedwagon_/_pat_benatar.aspx

One of the undisputed arena-rock kings of the early 1980s, REO Speedwagon has built a devoted following of fans of all ages. The band penned numerous power-ballads that went on to become hits, including "Keep On Loving You," "Take It on the Run" and "Can't Fight This Feeling." With a career spanning four decades, REO Speedwagon is one of the true legends of rock.
Pat Benatar's polished mainstream pop/rock made her one of the most popular female vocalists of the early '80s. Her power chords, tough sexuality and powerful vocals led to several hit singles including "Heartbreaker," "I Need a Lover" and "Hit Me With Your Best Shot"
Don't miss REO Speedwagon with Pat Benatar at Starlight Theatre on July 11, 2010 at 7:00 p.m.
Ticket prices: $75*, $49.50*, $35*
A limited number of Producer's Circle seats are available for $130*.
*Tickets subject to applicable service and handling fees

4. Brad Paisley @ Sprint Center
http://www.sprintcenter.com/default.asp?id=87&objid=672

Brad Paisley, current Academy of Country Music nominee for Entertainer of the Year, Top Male Vocalist, Album of the Year and Video of the Year is happy to announce his H2O 2010 World Tour coming to Sprint Center on Friday, May 28.

In following up the highly successful American Saturday Night Tour, the three time GRAMMY winner will be accompanied by special guests Darius Rucker and Justin Moore. The show will also feature Easton Corbin, Steel Magnolia and Josh Thompson on the Water World Plaza Stage.

Tickets for the May 28 concert at Sprint Center go on sale Saturday, March 20 at 10am through Ticketmaster.com, all Ticketmaster outlets or by Charge-By-Phone at 800.745.3000. In the event tickets remain, they will be available at 10am on Monday, March 22 at Sprint Center Box Office.

5. Have Dinner on "The Mystery Train" at Union Station

Murder on The Wrong Side of The Tracks- Playing April 16- June 5

1930 finds Kansas City a wide-open town, with all the ingredients for a good time--speakeasies, jazz clubs, gambling dens, and easy money. A man with a little ambition can go far. After all, prohibition is good for business, but taking care of business may mean murder!

Visit http://www.kcmysterytrain.com/season_of_shows

for more information.

6. "Cactus Flower" @ The New Theatre Restaurant

Now thru April 10th

Loretta Swit (from M*A*S*H) returns to New Theatre in this fast-paced comedy, a philandering bachelor dentist keeps his girlfriend at bay by telling her he's married. When the ruse threatens to catch up with him, he drafts his prickly nurse to pose as his "wife". This Academy-Award winning comedy has heart and soul with a sense of humor to match.

9229 Foster St, Overland Park, Kan

Check out http://www.newtheatre.com/

7. Dreamgirls Tthe Musical @ Starlight Theater

July 20-25 The show starts at 8:00pm

Full of onstage joy and backstage drama, DREAMGIRLS tells the! story of an up-and-coming 1960s singing girl group and the triumphs and tribulations that come with fame and fortune. DREAMGIRLS features the unforgettable hits “And I Am Telling You I’m Not Going,” “One Night Only” and “Listen.” The show’s creative team has re-envisioned this Tony® and Academy Award®-winning musical so it sparkles like never before.

http://www.kcstarlight.com/broadway_shows/dreamgirls.aspx

2010-01-20T09:57:00.000-08:00

At Fogelman Management Group, We Care.
We Care about our customers. We Care about our associates. We Care about the local communities where we live and work. We endeavor to leave things a little better than they were when we found them. We Care about the people of Haiti who are right now suffering through a terrible tragedy following a devastating earthquake.

Fogelman CARES will be accepting your donations to help the people of Haiti in our community’s business office for the next few days. All collections will be sent to the Red Cross.
The people of Haiti need our help.
Please consider making a donation of any size in our business office.

Checks should be made out to The Red Cross.

Thank you for your support!

Click here to make a donation directly to Red Cross online.

Festive Things To Do This Holiday Season!

2009-11-19T09:48:00.000-08:00

Go Ice Skating at Crown Center-

Kansas City’s only public outdoor ice skating rink is open for its 37th season of great skating fun!
Regular admission is only $6, or free for adults over age 60 and children age 4 and under. Skate rental is $3, or skaters may bring their own. You cant miss out on the fun! Get directions and more info at http://www.crowncenter.com/Event/Event.asp?EventRef=Ice

You can’t miss the 80th Annual KCP&L Plaza Lighting Ceremony -

Kansas City native and "Saturday Night Live" cast member Jason Sudeikis flips the switch Thanksgiving night. With the flip of a switch, over 80 miles of multi-colored bulbs illuminate the Country Club Plaza district as nearly 300,000 spectators applaud the start of the holiday season.

Get Tickets to “The Nutcracker”

Holiday magic sparkles as the curtain goes up for Kansas City Ballet’s enchanting presentation of The Nutcracker with live orchestral accompaniment of Tchaikovsky's famous music. Featuring elaborate scenery, stunning choreography and vibrant costumes, Clara’s magical adventure captures the imaginations of all ages. Kansas City Ballet’s The Nutcracker is the largest production in an eight state region. Over 200 area children who are students in the Kansas City Ballet School perform alongside 25 Kansas City Ballet company dancers. Visit http://www.kcballet.org/performancestickets/nutcracker.html for tickets and more info!

Take a trip through “Christmas in The Park” at Longview Lake in Lee's Summit

Christmas in the Park is one of Jackson County Parks and Recreation's most celebrated events of the year. Three hundred thousand lights and 175 animated figures and splashes of Christmas color transform Longview Lake Park into an enchanting winter wonderland. The entire family will delight in the warmth of this fun-filled, holiday display gift from your Jackson County Parks.

Stroll down the Candle lit “Holiday Luminary Walk” in Overland Park

“The warm holiday ambience makes this highly acclaimed event very special, and in order to accommodate the crowds, we’re offering four nights this year,” said Teri Shields, member of the Friends of the Arboretum. "This is a rare opportunity for those who appreciate nature to experience the thrill of the nighttime woods.” For more information, call 913-685-3604.

Check out A Christmas Story- The Musical

Now in its 45th season, Kansas City Repertory Theatre is one of the Midwest region's premier professional theatres. The professional theatre-in-residence at UMKC, the Rep has two performance spaces: Spencer Theatre, which is located just four blocks east of the Country Club Plaza, and Copaken Stage, located in the heart of the Power & Light District. For more information: http://www.kcrep.org/

Reserve your tickets at the Sprint Center to see Trans-Siberian Orcherstra

With the long awaited new album Night Castle on the verge of being released, Trans-Siberian Orchestra (TSO), one of rock music’s biggest arena attractions, announces it will once again launch another monumental North American tour playing more than 80 cities in a nine-week period including a Wednesday, December 23 show date in Kansas City with two spectacular performances at Sprint Center at 3:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m Visit www.sprintcenter.com for Tickets and more information

See David Archuleta Perform Live at Midland Theater

Singing on stage at the Nokia Theatre in Los Angeles was a moment David Archuleta will never forget, but there were a number of pivotal moments that happened in his (even) younger days, and he'll never forget any of them either, including singing for the first season "American Idol" contestants in Hollywood in 2002, when he was just 11 years old. For Tickets go to http://www.midlandkc.com/eventdetail.php?id=25066

Mayor’s Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony at Crown Center

Join KC native Eric Stonestreet, star of ABC's "Modern Family," as we light the 100-foot-tall Mayor’s Christmas Tree. The tree, one of the nation’s tallest, is the centerpiece for an illuminating holiday celebration. It's a symbol of the Mayor’s Christmas Tree Fund, which is dedicated to assisting the city’s less fortunate. Friday, Nov. 27 at 5:30 pm Visit Http://www.crowncenter.com/Event/Event.asp?Key=424&~=

Dine Out On Thanksgiving & Watch The Lighting Ceremony

2009-11-16T12:00:00.000-08:00

The tables are set for Thanksgiving on the Plaza where the atmosphere is inviting and dinner is definitely delicious! Reservations are now being taken at these Plaza restaurants for spirited celebrations before the lighting ceremony... or after.

Capital Grille will offer a traditional turkey dinner along with regular menu items. Hours will be 11am-8pm. Capital Grille, 4740 Jefferson, 816.931.6548

Chaz on the Plaza Thanksgiving Dinner, November 26; a prime spot for enjoying a Thanksgiving tradition on the Plaza. Chaz features a special three course menu with a selection of starters, entrees (including roasted turkey with traditional accompaniments) and desserts. $38 per adult, $19 per child age 3 – 12. Chaz on the Plaza, 325 Ward Parkway, (816)802-2152

Figlio’s Italian Restaurant Thanksgiving Brunch with the traditional Thanksgiving dishes including carving station with prime rib and ham. 10 am – 6 pm. Adults: $26.95. Kids under 5: Free. Kids 5-10: $9.95. Figlio’s Italian Restaurant, 209 W 46th Terrace, (816)561-0505

McCormick & Schmick’s will open 11am-8pm offering a traditional Thanksgiving plate along with regular menu items. McCormick & Schmick’s, 448 W 47th Street, 816.531.6800

M&S Grill will open 11 am-8 pm offering a traditional Thanksgiving plate along with regular menu items. Turkey dinner $17.95 and ham dinner $15.95 served all day. After 2 pm enjoy a Prime rib dinner $19.92, and pumpkin pie $2.95. M&S Grill, 4646 J.C. Nichols Parkway, 816.531.7799

Plaza III will be open 11am-9pm in addition to their regular menu, Plaza III will offer a traditional Thanksgiving meal, $23.95 per person, adults $11.95 children ages 5-10, under 5- FREE. The Club at Plaza III will also open that evening with live music 12pm -4 pm. Plaza III, 4749 Pennsylvania, 816.753.0000

Starker’s Restaurant, Thanksgiving at Starker’s Restaurant; make reservations for our 3 for 33 menu (3 courses for $33.00) from 11:30am-3:00pm of traditional and non-traditional items for Thanksgiving lunch on November 26. Become a friend of Chef/Owner John McClure and Starker’s Restaurant on FACEBOOK for updates and details of special events at the restaurant. Starker’s Restaurant Thanksgiving reservations; 816-753-3565.

ALSO OPEN…

Fogo de Chao, 816.931.7700: Lunch 11am-2pm, Dinner 5pm-10pm
Granfalloon, 816.753.7850: 5pm- 3am
810 Zone, 816.268.9663: open at 4pm
Baja 600, 816.931.6600: 3pm-midnight
California Pizza Kitchen, 816.561.2420: 4pm-9pm, limited menu

Sneak Peek At Some Ridiculous Deals On Black Friday!

2009-11-10T10:51:00.000-08:00

The Kohl’s Black Friday 2009 ad is 64 pages long and features over 300 early bird deals valid from 4am-1pm on Black Friday. Highlights: 50% off toys (including Barbie, Playskool and Fischer-Price brand), extra 20% off fine jewelry pieces that are already up to 60% off, apparel deals from $2, kitchen electrics from $20, the Dyson DC14 vacuum is $319.99 (normally $420), up to 30% off Wii games & get a $10 gift card for every $50 spent!

After 1pm, Kohl’s continues the great deals with 20%-40% off toys and 40%-55% off outerwear, sleepwear, shoes and sweaters.

Old Navy is going all out for Black Friday 2009 (this opens a PDF of the Old Navy ad), or as the store is calling it, Gobblepalooza. In fact, deals start on Thanksgiving Day with $15 sweaters for the whole family and 50% off outerwear.

Stores open Friday at 3am to start the Gobblepalooza rockin’ deals such as $5 Graphic Tees, $5 Performance Fleece tops, $10 jeans for kids, $15 jeans for adults and $15 frost-free jackets for kids. !

Also, look for your $10 off coupon! View the Old Navy Black Friday 2009 ad.

Where ever you end up shopping, here are some tips to help you out!

Research: start your Black Friday 2009 research on Thanksgiving day or earlier.

Make a plan: identify what you want to buy, what stores you need to go to and what time they open.

Timing is everything: arrange stores by opening time from early to late.

A fool and his money: be wary of Black Friday deals with quantity limits. If a store only has 10 items at that price, go elsewhere.

Visualize: know where your items are in the store.

Stay Safe: Black Friday 2008 was deadly; please don't trample anyone! Be patient.

Power of numbers: go with a team and attack separate stores or separate sections of the same store. Designate a meeting place.

Bring a snack: only amateurs stop at the food court on Black Friday! (Or the bathroom - so go before you leave.)

The quiet ones: don't ignore stores that don't advertise. They will have deals too!

Have fun: enjoy your family, friends and deals!

What's Going On This Weekend In The City? ( Weekend of November 5th)

2009-11-05T07:57:00.001-08:00

Paula Poundstone at JCCC Yardley Hall

Besides being a frequent guest of Letterman and Leno, she is the first woman to win an ACE (the Cable Emmy) for Best Standup Comedy performance and the first woman to be invited to perform at the distinguished White House Correspondents Dinner. Razor-sharp wit and spontaneity are what make Paula Poundstone’s audiences erupt in riotous laughter. Armed with nothing but a stool, a microphone and a can of Diet Pepsi®, Paula’s ability to create humor on the spot has become the stuff of legend. Little wonder people leave Paula’s shows debating whether the random people she talked to were “plants” – which, of course they never are – and complaining that their cheeks hurt from laughter. Tickets will sell out! Get them Click here and get your tickets online!

Go Ice Skating at Crown Center

Bundle up and grab your skates! November 6 is opening day at Kansas City’s only public outdoor ice skating rink. Celebrate our 37th season of great skating fun with free skating from 6 a.m. to 9 a.m. on opening day! Admission is just $6 for adults. Hours are 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., Sunday through Thursday; 10 a.m. to 11 p.m., Friday & Saturday through January.

First Fridays in the Crossroads Art District- Downtown

Join the thousands that explore the galleries and shops in the Crossroads Arts District for one of the nation's largest art walks. If you have never been this is a so much fu! It is a great opportunity to support local artist in KC and find that piece of are you have been looking for to hand over your couch. This weekend they have a exhibit “Looking East.” Featuring Young Artists From China which was recently featured in the Kansas City Star. http://www.kccrossroads.org/

See Curious George- Sprint Center

CURIOUS GEORGE LIVE! is the new can’t miss live stage musical that will delight your whole family! Curious George is the inquisitive and loveable little monkey who takes everyone along on intriguing problem-solving adventures. Live on stage in his World Premiere musical tour, Curious George swings and flips his way through a fun-filled story that takes the audience from home to Rome. You and your children will laugh out loud, tap your toes, sing and dance along as you follow Curious George on his quest to win the Golden Meatball Contest. It’s a story about friends helping friends because of one very special "secret ingredient"! Bring your family on this loving, happy adventure with the one and only Curious George, coming soon to your hometown!

Chocolate the Exhibition- at Union Station Downtown

A gift for the gods. A symbol of wealth and luxury. An economic livelihood. Bonbons. Hot fudge. Candy bars. For thousands of years humans have been fascinated with the delicious phenomenon that we call “chocolate.” Now, only at Union Station, journey through history and unwrap the complete story behind the tasty treat we all crave. Engage your senses and discover facts about this sumptuous sweet you’ve never thought about before. Explore the plant, the products, and the culture of chocolate through the lenses of science, history, and popular culture. Chocolate is a sweet experience for all ages! Visit http://www.chocolate.unionstation.org/ for more info!

Beetles Tribute Band-American English at Midland Theater

American English in concert perform the entire career of The Beatles from 1963-1970. With precise attention to every musical detail, along with costume changes, vintage instruments and special effects, American English magically create The Complete Beatles Tribute! Tickets start at just $14.95 visit http://www.midlandkc.com/eventdetail.php?id=24483 for information or to purchase tickets.

Overland Park-One Of the Top 10 Places To Grow Up!

2009-11-02T18:54:00.000-08:00

America's 10 Best Places to Grow Up

Low crime, strong schools, green spaces, and fun activities are key ingredients for a happy childhood

Posted: August 19, 2009

Overland Park, Kansas: Just 12 miles outside of Kansas City, Mo., is the lovely community of Overland Park, Kan. This family-friendly suburb in America's heartland has a four-season climate and is opening a 12-field, artificially turfed, fully lit soccer complex in the late summer. "Soccer is a big sport in this community," says Mayor Carl Gerlach. Meanwhile, at the Deanna Rose Children's Farmstead, kids can visit nearly 200 farm animals, toss a bobber into a fishing pond, or take a ride in a horse-drawn wagon. The 17-mile-long Indian Creek Trail makes for a great bike ride. At the same time, sports fans are only a short car ride away from a Kansas City Chiefs football game or a Kansas City Royals baseball game. In addition, "we have three different school districts in Overland Park," Gerlach says. "All three have been nationally ranked and won awards."

To read the full article click here;

US News & Workd Report
By Luke Mullins

10 Fun Places to Visit in the Kansas City Area

2009-10-24T13:28:00.000-07:00

1. Hallmark Visitors Center- 2450 Grand Blvd., Kansas City, Missouri 64108. 816-274-3613

There's so much to see at the Hallmark Visitors Center! Our permanent exhibits give you a glimpse into Hallmark's creative world. Be transported to a magical place where every day is a holiday, and there is always a reason to celebrate. When you visit the Hallmark Visitors Center, you enter the world of creativity and celebration of life. Don't be surprised if you laugh out loud, exclaim in amazement, or even shed a tear! At Hallmark, emotions are our business.

2. Liberty Memorial/ National WWI Museum- 100 W. 26th Street, Kansas City, MO 64108 816.784.1918

The National World War I Museum at Liberty Memorial provides an extraordinary experience. The state-of-the-art Museum gives you the chance to explore and discover the nation’s most extensive assembly of artifacts, photography, art and narratives of the Great War ever presented in a single collection. The Museum introduces the war in unprecedented ways – through visual and audio sensory stimulation to mold an unforgettable experience in the minds of all visitors – young and old.

3. Boulevard Brewery- 2501 Southwest Blvd Kansas City, MO 64108 (816) 474-7095

Founded in 1989, Boulevard Brewing Company has grown to become the largest specialty brewer in the Midwest. Our mission is simple: to produce fresh, flavorful beers using the finest traditional ingredients and the best of both old and new brewing techniques.

4. KC Zoo- 6800 Zoo Drive, Kansas City, Missouri 64132 (816) 513-5700

The Kansas City Zoo helps keep the fun going into the fall with a full line-up of fun, interactive events and activities. Visit the Zoo today and enjoy our daily Animal Encounters, which continue through October.

5. Nelson-Atkins Art Museum- 4525 Oak Street Kansas City, MO 64111 816.751.1ART

At The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art there is always something new to discover. Our growing collection has fascinated, illuminated and exhilarated people since 1933. Come spend time with your favorites, see what’s new on view or check out a featured exhibition.
Always invigorating, Museum programs, classes and tours bring you closer to the collection and offer inventive ways to explore on your own, with friends or family.

6. Power and Light- Located at 14th & Main St Downtown Kansas City, MO

Offering over a half million square feet, The Kansas City Power & Light District is the mid-west’s premier entertainment epicenter. With more than 45 unique and captivating retail outlets, restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues, the District offers something for everyone. Located in the heart of downtown, this vibrant, new eight-block neighborhood links the Convention Center to the Sprint Arena and is bringing the beat back to Kansas City.

7. Union Station- 30 W Pershing Rd Kansas City, MO 64108 (816) 460-2020

The Station is once again a popular destination for the surrounding community just stopping by for lunch or to mail a letter from the post office in the west end of the Grand Hall. The station also draws tourists from all over the world who marvel at the Grand Hall's 95-foot ceiling, three 3,500-pound chandeliers and the six-foot wide clock hanging in the Station's central arch.
Today's Union Station is filled with fine restaurants and unique shops. And just like in 1914, you can catch the train at Union Station's Amtrak stop.

8. Country Club Plaza- Located at 47th & Broadway, Kansas City, MO 64112 (816)753-0100
The Plaza's popularity and reputation has been recognized around the country. The entire 15-block district, with more than 150 shops and dozens of fine restaurants, makes The Country Club Plaza Kansas City's premier shopping, dining and entertainment destination.

9. Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens 8909 W 179th St Bucyrus, KS 66013 (913) 685-3604
The Overland Park Arboretum and Botanical Gardens was founded to keep the city at the forefront of environmental and ecological issues. A leader of environmentally sound community development, the Arboretum is an educational, recreational and cultural resource for the Kansas City region.

10. Deanna Rose Children's Farmstead 13800 Switzer Rd Overland Park, KS 66221 (913) 897-2360
With the Kansas Family Farm slowly disappearing, the Children's Farmstead was established in 1976, and was re-named in 1985 in honor of the first Overland Park Police Officer killed in the line of duty as the Deanna Rose Children's Farmstead. Deanna Rose’s Legacy is to preserve the Farm Legacy so children in the city can learn facts of life from the charm of the farm. Children treasure such memories as gathering eggs, the sweet smell of hay, and learning first hand where milk comes from.

Overland Park- One Of The Best Places To Live

2009-10-24T12:01:00.000-07:00

Overland Park is the second most populous city in the U.S. state of Kansas. Located in Johnson County, it has traditionally been considered a satellite city of Kansas City, Missouri, and is located adjacent to Olathe, Lenexa, Prairie Village and Leawood.

The population was 149,080 at the 2000 census and was estimated at 171,231 in the 2008 census data. Overland Park has consistently ranked in the top 10 of CNN/Money and Money magazine's 100 Best Cities to Live in the United States. In the 2008 rankings, Overland Park placed 9th. Additionally, the city was ranked as one of "The Best Places to Raise Your Kids in 2009"and was ranked 3rd for "America's 10 Best Places to Grow Up". It is also the setting for the Showtime series The United States of Tara.

Whats Going on in KC This Weekend? 10/24/09

2009-10-23T14:58:00.000-07:00

Looking For Something To Do This Weekend In Kansas City?

Here are 7 GREAT ideas we wanted to share... (weekend of 10/24/09)

1. Grab Dinner and a movie at AMC-Olathe. They have a great Fork & Screen. http://www.moviewatcher.com/ Now...what move will you see? Amelia? Couples Retreat?

2. Meet some friend at Worlds of Fun. Halloween Haunt is in full swing! Get your tickets in advance at http://haunt.worldsoffun.com/ All your fear is here!

3. Take the family to The Louisburg Cider Mill. They have an amazing corn maze! The mill was named one of the top 10 cider mills in the US. For more info go to http://www.louisburgcidermill.com/

4. Catch a double feature at Union Station. Night of the Living Dead and The Last Man on Earth. Get in the ghoulish Halloween spirit as you enjoy these timeless cult classics! www.Unionstation.org for info FRIDAY AND SATURDAY ONLY.

5. Pick a pumpkin at Powell Pumpkin Patch. Just like when you were a kid! Then take it home and carve it. http://www.powellpumpkinfarm.com/ We can't wait to see it on display on your patio.

6. Get Scared in the West Bottoms downtown! Just take IU-35 North to the 12th St exit. Take a group to The Beast or The Edge of Hell. Doors open at 7:00pm

7. Get tickets to the Rodeo with Sara Evans in concert at Kemper Arena. Tickets start at just $15! http://www.kemperarenakc.com/ for online tickets and info. It is sure to be a great ride…if you can stay in the saddle.

Hope this gave you some ideas! Be sure to tell us if you do any of these things and also what great ideas you have!

FMG Cares- Information

2009-10-23T12:20:00.000-07:00

At Fogelman Management Group, We Care. We Care about our customers… We Care about our associates…We Care about the local communities where we live and work. We endeavor to leave things a little better than they were when we found them.

Fogelman CARES was established to facilitate and organize FMG’s involvement in supporting charitable organizations and in “hands on” volunteerism, with the ultimate goal being to improve the local communities where FMG properties are located. CARES is an acronym for Compassionate Associates Responding & Embracing Service.

In addition to coordinating “hands on” service projects for our FMG associates throughout the year, annually Fogelman CARES selects one primary charitable organization to support. In 2008, Fogelman CARES selected the Make a Wish® Foundation as its primary charitable endeavor. Make a Wish® grants wishes to children who suffer from life threatening illnesses. We are pleased to announce that through the efforts of our 500-plus FMG associates, FMG CARES raised over $10,000 for Make a Wish during 2008, which resulted in the granting of two separate “wishes” through the Make a Wish program.

For 2009, Fogelman CARES has selected The Ronald McDonald House Charities as our primary charitable organization. Ronald McDonald Houses are located throughout the United States and abroad, and provide a home away from home for children receiving life-saving medical treatments at a distant medical center. Each FMG managed community has focused their support on their local Ronald McDonald House.

In addition to supporting our primary charitable organizations, throughout each year every FMG on-site team takes part in hands-on service projects in their local community. Through Fogelman CARES, FMG is doing its part to give back to our local communities.

FMGreen- Information

2009-10-23T11:30:00.000-07:00

Program Overview:

FMGreen is Fogelman Management Group’s environmental awareness/energy conservation initiative. This program was established in response to the growing concerns about climate change and its impact on the long term stability of our environment. It is our belief that through greater awareness, education, and programs, our FMG-managed communities can do their part to help protect and enhance the environment.

The primary objectives of FMGreen are (1) to reduce energy consumption, (2) to eliminate waste, and (3) to educate our associates, residents, clients and visitors on ways to protect our environment.Some of the steps FMG have undertaken are more complex while others are simple in nature. These steps can range from installing devices that disable our irrigation systems during periods of rain to the more mundane, like recycling paper in our offices. All are designed to reduce FMG’s consumption of energy and non-renewable resources and all are done in conjunction with our client’s wishes. To learn more, ask an associate.

To see tips on how you can "go green" Visit our website http://www.pointeroyalapts.com/fmgreen_tips.asp

Rent Forever, Don’t Buy A Home- By Jim Wang

2009-10-22T09:29:00.000-07:00

*This is a Devil's Advocate post.

With the new year comes the inaugural post for my new series, the Devil’s Advocate posts, where I try to argue the other side of common sense personal finance advice (read the Devil’s Advocate series introduction post). This post will tackle one of the cornerstones of well-accepted advice: rent as little as possible and buy a home as soon as you can, renting is just like throwing your money away. I think that, like all one-size fits all advice, is completely wrong and here’s why.

Renting Keeps You Flexible. When you rent, you can pick up and move almost whenever you want, with very little penalty (perhaps an early termination fee of some kind); when you own, selling a home can take a very very long time. You lose a lot of flexibility when you “put down your roots” and this is one the biggest reasons why you shouldn’t buy. When you want to look for a new job, you’re restricted to looking in the geographic area around your home. If you ever get a job offer in another area, you have to go through the headache of selling your home before you can take advantage of it. If you rented, you could just end your lease, rent a moving truck (avoid U-Hauls!), and just go.

Someone Else Does The Repairs. When you own your own home, every time something breaks, you have to fix it. Every time something breaks and can’t be repaired, you have to fork over the cash to buy a new one. A new refridgerator costs thousands, a new washer and dryer is on the hot side of a thousand bucks, a new dishwasher can set you back a couple hundred bucks, and that’s just the cheap stuff. When you rent, hopefully your landlord will take care of all of your problems, fixing things that need fixing, replacing things that need replacing, and if you pick your landlord correctly, it’ll be a corporation with deep pockets.

Owning A Home Is More Expensive Than It Looks. With renting, you do throw your money on rent because you never gain ownership of the place you’re renting. However, when you own a home, you also throw your money away on other fees and taxes that never go towards your home ownership. For example, you’ll pay property taxes, homeowners association dues, condominium fees, and any number of other fees associated to the area your home is in – none of which go towards the equity in your home. For example, on my home, I pay about $3,000 in property taxes each year plus $30/month for HOA fees, and $500/yr for a parks and recreation fee.

Renters Insurance Is Much Cheaper. When it comes to home related insurances, renter’s insurance is ridiculously cheaper than homeowners insurance – oftentimes ten times cheaper. I was able to get renter’s insurance when I was renting for as little as $7 each month but now I’m paying for homeowners insurance at $55 each month – a difference of $576 each year.
Home Prices Can Go Down Short-TermOne of the cornerstones of the argument to buy a home is that home prices always go up. I’m not one of those haters who sees the current housing market and is ready to throw falling prices into the faces of all those people who bought a home (I bought one last May, arguable near the peak of the housing prices nationally), but if you treat the housing market like any other market, you’ll recognize that in the long run every market will go up (yay inflation). The problem with that theory is the fact that while you can invest in the long term, reality forces you to live in the short term and in the short term the market can go down. Is this a strong enough argument to rent? Likely not, hence being placed last in the set, but it is a consideration.

Summary-Owning a home is something seriously significant, it’s a life changing decision, unlike investing in a 401K, which would likely not change much in your life right now; and so it’s not one that should be entered into lightly. My honest opinion is that the general rule of “buy a house, stop renting” is probably the most strongly believed but most weakly defensible of the common sense personal finance advice concepts out there.

http://www.bargaineering.com/articles/rent-forever-dont-buy-a-home.html

Our Clubhouse Renovations!

2009-10-21T09:12:00.000-07:00

Well our clubhouse renovations are in full swing now. Hopefully everyone is as excited to see the new place as we are! Pictures are being posted on Facebook and we now have a slideshow on the right side of our blog page, so make sure you check out our progress!

www.facebook.com/pointeroyal

More to come...

Top 10 Cheap Getaways for Family Travelers

2009-10-02T18:49:00.000-07:00

Top+10+Cheap+Getaways+for+Family+Travelers+2008+-+Family+Travel+Forum