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    Direct: 615-423-3654 www.JustinHolder.com "A real estate business about so much more than real estate."

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    I'm a family man whose mission is to inspire excellence.

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August 2007

August 31, 2007

Thanks United Way...

Dsc02034Rachel had her United Way staff over to our home last night for a little thank you dinner. We had a great time and appreciate everything everyone does to make our local United Way so amazing!  United Way staff pictured:  Sharon Ross, Holly Lane Adreon, Aurelia Holden, Rachel, Lena Warnock, Misty Patton, Ruth Ventrice. 

Thanks to everyone's help, they're right on target toward the $2.6 million!  Click photos for larger ones.   Dsc02048 Dsc02044 Dsc02032_2 Dsc02039

August 29, 2007

Give blood...give life

Bob_give_bloodOur office had a big time yesterday as we had the first ever Bob Parks Realty Blood Drive here at our Northfield Boulevard office. 

Though some dropped like flies....or got nervous and chickened out...we had a great time. 

A big thanks to all of the Red Cross workers that spent the day with us. 

Pictured is 'The Bob" --Bob Parks.  Enjoy the week!

August 20, 2007

Your Connection to the Emerald Coast

Dsc01943As I've been mentioning, I spent most of the last week all over the Destin area checking out the market there. 

While there, I met with Keith Flippo that is heading up our new Rosemary Beach office.  Even though Rachel and I are usually in the area several times a year, there were several trends in the area that I was  not aware of:

  • To keep development/commercialized feel of the Rosemary, Alys, Seacrest beach areas, development is now limited to 50 feet in height or 3 stories.
  • Keith is seeing a large number of folks head over from Destin, as they like the seclusion of the Rosemary Beach area. 
  • Panama City Beach is undergoing a tremendous facelift. It's expected to be the next hot spot, as they are updating the image of the area and giving it a more upscale feel. 
  • This is the prime time to consider beach investment property.  Keith showed me some amazing deals that are at all time lows. Ever considered a second home or investment property? 

If you're curious about the Emerald Coast area, just let me know.  I brought back some information for you and would be happy to send it on.  Let me be "Your Connection to the Emerald Coast."  Have a great week!  Dsc01945

August 19, 2007

Enjoying the Emerald Coast

Dsc01950_3 Rachel and I had a big time last week in Destin, Florida.  We went partly for work, part for fun.  Ok...mostly for fun.  Rachel's father, Clarence, also came and joined us in his new FJ Cruiser.  As you may remember, I blogged about when he got it.  Well...it only has 1,000 miles on it now.  He's not big on wearing it out. 

I'll have more info this week on the changes happening on the Emerald Coast and some ideas for some new vacation spots!  Have a great week!  Dsc01955 Dsc01949 Dsc01961

August 16, 2007

Feeling hot, hot, hot

Dsc01922 Whew!  What a hot day!  I'm in Destin Florida today and it's been one of the all time hottest days!  We drove our convertible down, as we always enjoy it at the beach.  This time, however, the top hasn't moved...we don't enjoy baking.

Rachel and I are here to see our new Premier Properties office here in Florida.  Thought about investing in beach property?  Let me know.

In the meantime, enjoy the "coolness" of Murfreesboro

August 14, 2007

Great service...great birthday gifts!

Firsts_041Now how could you not laugh when you see this picture?? 

This is little Karys Demos and the frog I got her for her birthday.  It was funny...Rachel and I attended a 3-year old's birthday on Sunday, to which Peter joked to Rachel "Y'all didn't have anything better to do?"  I guess, given the fact that we don't have children, it was funny that we did show up.  But, we always love a chance to hang out with Karys.

She's pretty obsessed with frogs, so she loved this new frog that makes genuine frog sounds...as you can tell. 

See...it's not always about selling your home the quickest....it's about who brings the best gifts to your party AND sells your home the quickest!

Happy Birthday!

August 11, 2007

Building a Green home

Wind Living "Green" with eco-friendly products is becoming more important and easier for the informed consumer. Manufacturers are responding to requests for improved indoor air quality, energy efficiency, and environmental responsibility. Following are a few ideas and products that can help the you live the "Green" experience.

1.  Use native plants in landscaping to enhance your curb appeal.  Such  plants are better adapted to your local climate, will resist local pests, and use appropriate amounts of water.

2. Use low or no VOC ( Volatile Organic Compounds) products for cleaning supplies,furniture, and paint. VOC's are emitted as gases and are harmful to health--some have been identified as carcinogenic.

3. Low-E products( windows, doors, skylights) help block UV rays thus cooling the interior and protecting fabrics, artworks, furniture and floors from fading. Window films with UV protection are an economical alternative when one does not want to replace windows.

4. LED (Light emitting diodes)  lighting contains no hazardous chemicals. They are more expensive than traditional light bulbs, but use approximately 80 % less energy and may last up to 20 years. It is hoped that prices will decrease with increased usage--the law of supply and demand .

5. Nontoxic Paints which do not contain VOCs are gaining in popularity. These paints help keep the indoor air clean and come in a variety of colors and finishes.  Check with your favorite paint or home improvement store for their selections.

6.Geothermal heating and cooling uses the earth as a heat exchanger.  It costs approximately twice  as much as a traditional system and the payback time is about 5 years; however, with the increased cost of natural gas, it is estimated that the payback time will be less.  It is possible to retrofit an existing home, but it is more economical on new construction, if an option.

7.TechShield roofing panels, produced in Nashville, TN by LP Building Products, can block up to 97% of radiant heat, reduce attic temperatures by 30 degrees, and reduce energy consumption and carbon gases. The panels are used with insulation and are recommended for houses in the Sunbelt.

8. Smart irrigation systems use satellite data about local weather to automatically adjust watering schedules. A moisture sensor shuts off the system if it starts to rain while the system is on.

9.  Water conserving toilets can help you save money and water.  There are several options available.  Please check with your plumber and home improvement store for information.

10. Energy Star appliances can greatly reduce operating costs and are a good solution when replacing older appliances. Please check with your appliance or home improvement store for selections that will meet your needs.

11. Do the things your mother told you. My mother taught us to conserve resources before it was PC; your mother probably did, too.  Do these comments sound familiar--Close the door when you leave the house, turn off lights, TV when you leave, do not stand in front of the refrigerator with the door open, take care of your things and keep them in good repair, recycle, buy locally when possible, live simply, find the beauty in each day, laugh, and enjoy life.  It is a beautiful world; treat it with respect. We are stewards of this amazing planet--the Good Earth.

August 07, 2007

Who needs a rental?

Dsc01921If you or someone you know is needing a Murfreesboro rental, this home will be available on September 4th.  Its a great 3 bed, 2 bath home in the Evergreen Farms community.  Over 1200 square feet, this is the first time this home has been rented. 

It features a big FENCED back yard with a patio and small deck, washer & dryer, Fridge, real hardwood floors, 2 car garage and neutral colors. 

If you're interested, contact me direct at 615.423.3654 or justin@justinholder.com.  Click on the photos for larger ones. Also, Click HERE for a brochure! Dsc01906 Dsc01912 Dsc01914

August 01, 2007

A real blessing...

Jordyn_2Yesterday was a pretty amazing day.  Some great friends of ours, who have been going through the adoption process, got an exciting phone call last week.

The phone call, as I suppose you can guess, was to let them know they had a very special surprise waiting on them. 

I was at their home yesterday sneaking some flowers over, sure they wouldn't be home til later, when the door opened and they were home.  So, I was able to be there when she came home for the first time. 

Rachel and I could not be more excited for them.  They're an amazing couple who will give this little girl an incredible life. 

I was reading about adoption earlier and came across the poem below.  Read more by clicking here.




You gave a gift,
          A brand-new life,
          Tiny and sweet,
          A blessing indeed.

       

A baby girl,
          Precious and small,
          An answer to prayer,
          No joy can compare.

       

No more empty arms,
          I'm thrilled like no other.
          You chose life and
          Made me a mother.

       

Thank you so much
          For this precious gift,
          For being God's answer
          to my prayers and tears.

Congratulations!