Houston Texas Community News

  • Facebook events through May 27 2012 in Houston Texas
  • Houston Texas Eats The Dead
  • Hello Houston Texas and Surrounding Cities
  • What School Will My Children Attend In Houston Texas?
  • Houston Texas-Water’s Edge Is Living At Its Finest
  • Houston Tx Your Ceviche Is Delicious
  • Houston TX The National Flood Insurance Program Has Been Extended
  • Houston TX Flood Insurance Agencies Are Rezoning
  • Houston TX Realtors and Other Public Servants Experience Las Vegas Everyday
 
 

Houston Texas Eats The Dead

 

Houston’s own Stela Sola Restaurant is definitely for lovers only.  That is food lovers.  Recently, I visited the neoteric establishment decorated with rich colors sprinkled with rich woods throughout.  After being greeted by our host and taking time peruse over the menu I decided to start with a festive green salad.  On the contrary one of my guests decided on a more daring option called bone marrow.  Upon its arrival to the table I was able to score a morceau of this roasted bone marrow.  The bone marrow served along side semolina toast bespeaks a similar consistency to various combinations of pate.  At first glance I was intrigued by the thought of eating bone marrow period because wildly enough it sounds cannibalistic to me.  I mean if you are honest with yourself, “does it not sound like a wolf like instinct being stimulated here”?

 

Bone marrow actually has health benefits that include complete protein.  There are small levels of protein, iron and calcium found in bone marrow.  One will find protein levels ranging from .1g to 2 g per once.  These levels of protein help provide energy and improve the immune system.

Consuming an ounce of caribou bone marrow will afford you the opportunity to consume 7% of the daily recommended amount if iron.  The iron in bone marrow directly correlates with the amount of iron that travels to your limbs and cells.  An iron deficiency can result in lethargy, irregular heartbeat and dizziness.

Who would have thought that bone marrow could actually make a calcium contribution and be a calcium source at the same time? In every serving of marrow one can get 3% of their required daily amount.  Although some studies are still being done, it is said that calcium plays a role in preventing strokes.  Already we know calcium helps build strong bones and decreases the risk of developing brittle bones.

While bone marrow is quite fatty, beef bone marrow in particular, none of that fat is saturated in nature.  Therefore, your chances of developing heart disease or type 2 diabetes are low.

We only live once and we need to do it well.  Having said that don’t be afraid try something new because it might be just perfect for you.

 

Real Regards,

Chalmette Ray

Keller Williams Realty

Real Estate Consultant

www.mymove2houston.com

chalmetteray@yahoo.com

713-591-5922

281-798-3005

Copyright © by Chalmette Ray 2012* ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

*Houston Texas Eats The Dead

 

Hello Houston Texas and Surrounding Cities

I cannot tell you what a slow I have had getting my rear in gear for the 2012 year.  I think I just simply lost sight of creating a better balance last year and boy am I paying for it.  If you have read any of my posts you hopefully you will see that I try to share content that is refreshing and informative.  By the same token I try to stay away from topics by which I do not have a pretty balanced if not well grounded base to speak about.  I am currently composing some posts that I look forward to sharing with my current subscribers and those to be very soon here.  Until we meet again please remember what a wise woman once said,  ”If you look for a booger you will find one.”

 

Real Regards,

Chalmette Ray

 

What School Will My Children Attend In Houston Texas ?

  
People looking for the perfect home while carrying around a mile long checklist might want to re-evaluate the section regarding schools and educational institutions.  This wish list I am speaking of often consists of many factors.  These factors include work commute distances, recreation, entertainment and safety to name a few.  The one factor many hold in high regard is what kind of schools are provided in the area of interest.  One factor overlooked is whether or not the current school zones will change anytime in the near future?  No matter how many plats (a plan or map) you may have been shown by your realtor or by builders reassuring you that changes will not occur do not bet your life on it.  In some cases changes in school zones are made and upsetting circumstances arise. 
 
In master planned community called “Barney and Friends” there is one new section built by builders “Sesame and Ernie.”  It is here where the homes are in the $450,000 range and up and the children are zoned to the brand new school “Green.”  Green is the first certified green school in the whole community.  There is another section called “GI Green Trucks” and the homes here are priced in the $180,000 range and up.  However, the children that live in this section already attend another school.  For the past 3 years this school has received good ratings and the teacher to student ratio is average.  This school was built to the code standard requirements given at that time, but it is not eco friendly.  When buyers came into the “Sesame and Ernie” section they were told their children would be attending the brand new eco- friendly school.  The buyers were also shown a plat showing where which sections would be attending the new school.  However, as the summer came to an end and new homeowners were settling in many received a letter in the mail.  In this letter there was a refreshed version of the school zones provided.  The kids living in “Sesame and Ernie” would be attending the older school and the kids that lived in “GI Green Trucks” would be attending the new eco friendly school.  Some residents were happy while others were furious and some were just plain indifferent.      
 
As many residents did not know, there is a constant collaboration between the assistant superintendent and the school superintendent.  That duo is then merged with the school board to discuss and devise if necessary a refreshed version of the school zones for the area of interest.  Therefore, this is and was totally out of the hands of the builders and salespersons representing any buyers. 
 
In the same breath let me say real estate professionals who are approached regarding this topic must realize this is probably out of your jurisdiction.  Be aware of your limitations and advise as you see fit.  As for home buyers realize the possible pros and cons and make your decision wisely.  The moral of the story is to do extensive research and go with your gut feelings.  The heart never lies.
 

Real Regards,

Chalmette Ray

Real Estate Consultant

Keller Williams Realty

www.mymove2houston.com

chalmetteray@yahoo.com

713-591-5922

 

Copyright © by Chalmette Ray 2011* ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

*What School Will My Children Attend In Houston Texas*

 

 

Houston Texas-Water’s Edge Is Living At Its Finest.  

Houston Texas-Water’s Edge on West Lake Houston Parkway is living at its finest.  Although Houston Texas can be pretty humid, the coolness of this community will relax you immediately.  Who wouldn’t want to enjoy the sun and splash some water around too?  One of the advantages of the Water’s Edge community over others located off of West Lake Houston Parkway is the direct access to Lake Houston.  Summerwood and Lakeshore do not provide that amenity.  You can pull your boat up to the pier.  You can go fishing and not have to throw back the fish.  You can go jet skiing and do all kinds of other stuff.  You can enjoy the view of the water or just hang out by the pier, but most importantly you don’t have to buy a house located right on the water if you don’t want to.  Unlike other communities who limit your access to these types of resources Water’s Edge is different and unique.

Houston Texas-Water’s Edge has exceptional builders.   Houston Texas has more builders than most residents and visitors ever realize.  However, at Water’s Edge the primary builder is Pulte.  Since there is primarily one builder that allows those interested in buying in the community the opportunity to really zone in on what the builder is all about.  However, if you are not familiar with Pulte homes in Houston Texas and do not have the time to research much then I highly suggest you consider their product and get to know them.  The have homes in various price ranges, different sizes and many floor plans.  They have more warranties than some of the other builders around town too.  For example, you get the usual 1 year bumper to bumper warranty and you get a 5 year warranty on your heating and cooling system and your plumbing instead of the usual 2 year warranty.  As a buyer you are encouraged to participate whole heartedly in the whole home buying process.  Their staff is incredible!  They are some of the coolest people in the world!  They make sure several multi point inspections are done on your home from beginning to end to ensure a smooth and enjoyable home buying experience.  If you are unhappy with something then let them know, and they will fix it.

Houston Texas-Water’s Edge has become home to many that are relocating from across the world.  If you are relocating, up grading or buying for the first time and looking for a vacation like experience everyday then Water’s Edge in Houston Texas should be at the top of your list.  When you do visit be sure to look for Nicole Vaughn and tell her I sent you.  She will take real good care of you and dash lots of southern hospitality on you!  If you have any questions, comments or concerns please use the information below to contact me because I would love to help!  Oh…did I mention that the elementary school by the name of Lakeshore which is zoned to this community received exemplary ratings.  That is pretty darn hard to find in a public schools these days.  It is nice to know that your little ones are well taken care of while you are away working, etc.

Real Regards,

Chalmette Ray

Keller Williams Realty

Real Estate Consultant

www.mymove2houston.com

chalmetteray@yahoo.com

713-591-5922

281-798-3005

Copyright © by Chalmette Ray 2011* ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

*Houston Texas-Water’s Edge is living at its finest* 

 
Houston Tx Your Ceviche Is Delicious
Houston Texas if you have been following my blog then you know I like to eat.  Therefore, I found it imperative to discuss this thing called ceviche.  It is said that ceviche originated from the Viceroyalty of Peru which during the 16th and 18th century was a colonial district of Spain.  However, both Chile and Peru were governed by the Viceroyalty so both places take credit for being the home of ceviche’s origin.  Nowadays ceviche has become very popular in South and Central America.
Houston Tx let us begin by defining the term ceviche.  It is defined by many as different things, but consistently you will find it is characterized as raw seafood that is marinated in a citrus based sauce.  In more traditional settings cubed fish is the seafood of choice.  The citrus based sauce is usually lime and lemon juice although other citrus sources can be used too.  After having marinated in the citrus sauce for some time the seafood is pickled and usually taste as though it has been cooked to some degree.  Depending on the fish or seafood being used the marinating time could take several hours or just minutes.  Other ingredients in this dish may include salt, onion, Andean spices and chile(the spice).  Ceviche is one of those dishes that varies greatly from region to region with regard to how it is prepared.  That is mostly due to its grown popularity over the years.
In Houston Texas on the northwest side there is a restaurant called Red Onion Seafood y Mas has ceviche for days.  There are some combinations and choices there guaranteed to make the most distinguished palates conclude.  The waiter Andrew (the only Caucasian male there I think) was one of the sweetest people you will ever meet and he makes sure you are well taken care of while dining.  If you are more downtown Houston TX oriented then The Samba Grill will probably tickle your fancy.  They too have a version of ceviche that is delightful as well.  No list of choices there but they have delicious ceviche.
Houston Texas if you are interested in finding out about more great restaurants then by all means please visit www.meetup.com/4foods.   I make a conscious effort to visit restaurants that are sometimes off the beaten path but consistently deliver the goods every time.
Real Regards,
Chalmette Ray
www.mymove2houston.com
chalmetteray@yahoo.com
713-591-5922
281-798-3005

Copyright © byChalmetteRay 2011* ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

*Houston Tx Your Ceviche Is Delicious*

 

Houston TX The National Flood Insurance Program Has Been Extended

 

Houston Texas you and everyone else should know that the national flood insurance program is set to expire on September 30, 2011.  With the hard work of many individuals from all over the program has been extended until 2016.  Houston Tx, this is the part where any real estate property owners should be jumping up and down right now with happiness.  There are over 20,000 communities nationwide that rely on this program in order to buy or sell real estate.  There are some finishing touches that have to be made with the final seal of approval coming from the president.

I have heard some people ask “why is involving the government in such a matter considered a good thing”?  If that was you then thank you for asking. If you have a Houston home or you are considering a Houston Texas relocation then you are amongst the few who might be interested in this information.  There are two really good reasons that fly off the top of my head as to why this is important.  The reasons are listed below:

  1.  If you are in the process of closing on some real estate property then you don’t want the lender to default on your loan because you do not have any flood insurance.  Most lenders simply will not fund a loan on real property without having the reassurance that their risk is at a minimal.  Houston Texas remember flood insurance is not the only criteria the lender has when considering to fund a loan.
  2. Flood is a national issue not just a localized issue.  The government involvement allows insurance companies including those private sectors as well to make flood insurance more accessible and affordable for everyone.   No one ever really plans for a river of water to flood into their home in Houston and wash it away.  By the same token you do not want to have to be responsible for paying the whole out of pocket cost to replace what was lost by the flood either.  With that being said be sure your real estate property in Houston Texas and the contents in it have the proper amount of coverage.

 

Consulting with your local professional insurance agent would be time well spent.  If you are not sure who to speak with then contact me today, and I can refer you to some of the best in Houston Texas.

 

Real Regards,

Chalmette Ray

Real Estate Consultant

Keller Williams Realty

713-591-5922

www.mymove2houston.com

 

Copyright © byChalmetteRay 2011* ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

Houston TX  The National Flood Insurance Program Has Been Extended

 

Houston TX Flood Insurance Agencies Are Rezoning

 

Houston TX property owners are you in a flood zone?  Every so many years the flood maps are updated.  For Houston Texas Homeownerexample, if you bought a home in Houston Texas in 2006 you may not have been in a flood zone, but now in 2011 you just might be in a flood zone according to the FEMA update.  Most lenders will require this type of coverage on real property.  However, you do have those cases where the whole thought slips through the cracks.  If you do have flood insurance coverage, and you are paying a preferred rate, things may change in the future regarding your real estate in Houston Texas.

Sometimes during the updating process properties are classified as being in a flood zone.  If this happens to you, then you may have to hire a surveyor to survey your Houston Texas property.  You may need to obtain an elevation certificate during the process too.  An elevation certificate is an important tool used for the National Flood Insurance Program.  This certificate provides information regarding the elevation, building type, flood map location and additional information used to determine the correct flood insurance premium rate a homeowner in Houston TX should pay.  While the prior information is vital, property owners currently within a flood zone can also make note that the certificate is an important risk management tool too.  Whenever a survey is initially done for a home not in a flood zone, an elevation certificate is usually not provided .  Elevation certificates are usually provided along with surveys done on properties in flood zones at the time the survey is done.  Therefore, if asked to obtain one do not be alarmed by the request because it is standard procedure in the Houston TX area and those surrounding.

 

Real Regards,

 

Chalmette Ray

Real Estate Consultant

Keller Williams Realty

www.mymove2houston.com

chalmetteray@yahoo.com

713-591-5922

 

Copyright © by Chalmette Ray 2011* ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

*Houston TX Flood Insurance Agencies Are Rezoning*

 

 

 

 

Houston TX Realtors and Other Public Servants Experience Las Vegas Everyday

Realtors are everywhere serving our communities in unprecedented ways.  One might describe it as being a person with a gambling problem.  I don’t have a gambling problem, but I have been told once you stop it is hard to turn away.  However, in this case that might not be a bad thing since finding truly genuine selfless individuals can be difficult.  Every day we realtors go into field to assist buyers and sellers in accomplishing their real estate goals.  Lots of times we give little thought to how the situation is a total gamble.  There are times when buyers and sellers have given lots of thought about how to approach meeting their real estate goals and other times the thought never crossed one’s mind.  On the other hand buyers and sellers need to consult in order to reach a decision.  In my opinion either situation is fine.  Realtors are supposed to meet clients where they are in order to help them get to where they want to be.   Three essential characteristics buyers and sellers should find in their realtor before you sign anything:

  1.  Showing homes to buyers you just met.  Many of us meet buyers through the internet or from referrals given to us by past clients.  How many times have you ran a thorough background check to see about their past?  Most of us will answer… never.  We are taking a gamble every time we let clients ride around with us or we enter a home to show to a prospective buyer.  To put it lightly killers come in all shapes and sizes.
  2. Advertising and marketing in different ways.  Many of us have our faces and personal information plastered on just about anything that comes to mind.  From magazines to coffee mugs realtors have it covered.  We are taking a gamble by making that information available to anyone who is interested in seeing it.  To put it lightly killers know how to read too.
  3. Trusting that a client will take heed to your instruction on how to conduct themselves during a real estate transaction.  For example, how many times have you met with a client at 8am to discuss the correct plan of action to achieve their specific real estate goals, and by 8pm they have done just the opposite?  Afterwards resulting in damaging the deal beyond repair.  How hard it can be sometimes for some to unlearn bad habits.  Sometimes killers are emotional and not physical.

Everything we do in this life has risks involved, but I would not change one thing about the gambles I have taken to get to this point in my life.  The reason being is that real estate is truly a daily experience in Las Vegas.  The only difference is that we don’t get to play the penny machine.

Real Regards,

Chalmette Ray

Real Estate Consultant

Keller Williams Realty

713-591-5922

www.mymove2houston.com

Copyright © by Chalmette Ray 2011* ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

*Houston TX Realtors and Other Public Servants Experience Las Vegas Everyday*

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