Edmond Real Estate News

Ideal Homes Extreme Home Makeover

noreply@blogger.com (Kay Pratt) — Sat, 06 Feb 2010 01:13:00 +0000

What an exciting and memorable day to be part of this worthy cause! It was obvious that this was a very well-organized operation and by the time I got there, the highly skilled contruction workers were very hard at work. It was cold but there were heated tents to warm up and even a mess hall with hot food for hungry workers! Read about the Skaggs family: http://www.idealextremehome.com/

Build kicks off
February 2-7
Demolition and Extreme Makeover (check back February 1 for a detailed construction schedule)
February 7
Move that Bus! Family comes home, and the home is revealed

If you want to be there for the "big reveal" on Sunday and need information about where to where to go or where to park, call, email or text me and I'll share info!

First Time Homebuyer Tax Credit / Repeat Buyer Tax Credit --- USE BY APRIL 30, 2010

noreply@blogger.com (Kay Pratt) — Wed, 03 Feb 2010 00:24:00 +0000

First time homebuyers buying NEW or RESALE homes are eligible for the First Time Homebuyers Tax Credit as long as the home is under contract by April 30, 2010. You must not have owned a principal residence during the three years prior to the purchase. That Tax Credit is equal to 10% of the purchase price up to a maximum of $8000. There is an income limit for single taxpayers: $125,000. For married taxpayers filing jointly, the income limit is $225,000. To claim the tax credit, you'll complete IRS form #5405 and claim the amount on line 67 of the 1040 form. That's the same form for the Repeat Buyer Tax Credit of $6500. This is a Tax Credit, offsetting any monies owed to the IRS. If you owe nothing, you'll receive the full amount. It's that simple! No other forms, no other requirements.

Be sure to take advantage of this opportunity and contact your realtor today! This program is NOT expected to be extended! Time is running out!

Most Home Values are Holding Steady

noreply@blogger.com (Kay Pratt) — Tue, 02 Feb 2010 23:15:00 +0000

According to the Preston Report, Edmond home values seem to be holding steady, overall. Total Home Sales were down nearly 5% from 2008 but much of that decrease was seen in the over $500,000 price point. At that price point, there was a 40% decrease in total sales in 2009 from 2008. The good news is, some Edmond neighborhoods averaged exactly the same price/square foot in 2008 as in 2009. Holding steady! The $200-300,000 price point is showing sales improvement after a slump in that range through late 2008 and early 2009.

Contact me for your free copy of the Preston Report: Email me at kay@kaypratt.com.

While Stuck Indoors, Start a Project!

noreply@blogger.com (Kay Pratt) — Tue, 02 Feb 2010 00:15:00 +0000

This winter weather can either contribute to the "blahs" or it can be a motivator to make use of the time indoors to start a project. It's proven fact that even minor upgrades to your home such as new tile in the bathroom, replacing faucets & light fixtures, or sprucing up kitchen cabinets can yield great return on investment! This is the time many folks are considering placing a home on the market and now is the time to take advantage of being stuck at home. For only a few hundred dollars (less if you're thrifty!) and a weekend,your home could have an advantage in the marketplace when ready to sell. Not only will you get 100% of that investment but it'll show better and without question, sell faster!

Client Update

noreply@blogger.com (Kay Pratt) — Wed, 27 Jan 2010 21:45:00 +0000

It's always rewarding to hear from my past clients even when there's a problem to resolve. I'm confident we can surely find a satisfying solution. Today was especially nice to hear from Ms. Killian. We discussed how her move-in was going and answered questions about Homestead Exemption. Just before saying good-bye, I reminded her to be safe with the approaching winter storm. Excitedly,she began to share with me how she was absolutely certain she'd made the right decision in her home purchase. During the blizzard of December 2009, having just recently moved into her home in OKC, while unpacking, she caught a glimpse of a boy and what appeared to be his father moving around outside her house. As she went to the door to investigate, she saw that they'd shovelled her entire drive and walkway! Refusing any payment offered, they kindly left as quietly as they'd arrived. That random act of kindness confirmed with Ms. Killian what a right choice she'd made! Finding the right home is important....Good neighbors are priceless!

Metro OKC listings on your iPhone

noreply@blogger.com (James Pratt) — Thu, 14 Jan 2010 17:00:00 +0000

Once again the Kay Pratt Real Estate team is leading the way with cutting edge web technology. We are one of the first, if not THE first, Realtors to have the OKC Metro area listing on your iPhone. You can download the application from the iTunes store, just search for IDX and download IDX Broker. Put in our agent code of 3745 and you can search for listing using our custom application right on your phone. Best of all it is integrated with Google Maps and the built in GPS on the iPhone, so while you are driving through a neighborhood you can see the listings available, see pictures and details, and see the price it is selling for.

3745

Section 184 Native American Loans

noreply@blogger.com (James Pratt) — Sat, 22 Aug 2009 01:29:00 +0000

We started work today on a series of videos to help home buyers understand the steps needed to get a home loan. Our first clip is from Kenneth Wohl at Spirit Bank, a lendor I highly recommend to buyers.

In this short clip Kenneth talks about a special FHA loan for Native American's. The loan is like a typical FHA loan with the exception there is no mortgage interest, meaning the monthly payments are less for the buyer. Click below to play the video, and watch for more videos as we get them produced.

Edmond Real Estate Holding Up Despite Increased Oklahoma Foreclosures

noreply@blogger.com (James Pratt) — Wed, 19 Aug 2009 22:23:00 +0000

Watching television or reading the national newspapers, you would think the local real estate market has been in a total meltdown for the past year. Not so in Edmond. While home prices are down ever so slightly, the Edmond market is holding up well despite an increase in foreclosures in Oklahoma. According my fellow RE/MAX Realtor Brian Preston, who produces the Edmond Market Report each month, the average home sale price in Edmond was $244,275 for July, compared to $225,577 in January. New home prices were down just a bit, from $255K in January to $254K in July. Total sales have doubled since January, which is not unusual for the summer months.

This article also says Oklahoma home foreclosers are holding steady at a time when other regions of the country are increasing.

While it is clear the Edmond marketplace is a buyer's market, it is still a good market for sellers. Prices are holding steady, yet buyers have a lot of homes on the market to choose from. This means sellers must make sure their homes stand out with proper upkeep, maintenance, and decor, yet they don't have to take a huge loss just to sell their home. So whether you are a buyer or seller in Edmond, it is a good time in a troubled market.

RE/MAX in Fortune Small Business

noreply@blogger.com (James Pratt) — Tue, 18 Aug 2009 19:12:00 +0000

As an entreprenuer, I enjoy reading Fortune Small Business, which comes in the mail once per month - free. Today I sat down with my latest copy and viola, a story about how RE/MAX, who Fortune calls "the world's largst real estate brand", got their start.

Click for RE/MAX Story in Fortune Small Business

"When we launched in January 1973, the competition feared we'd steal their best talent." - Gail Main

A humorous look at how your home is viewed

noreply@blogger.com (James Pratt) — Tue, 09 Jun 2009 21:34:00 +0000

Today I posted a humorous look at how various parties view your home. While homeowners rightfully are quite proud of the work they have put in their home, the buyer, lender, appraiser and assessor all look at the home differently.

Oklahoma Weather

noreply@blogger.com (Kay Pratt) — Tue, 07 Apr 2009 11:04:00 +0000

For those of you having lived in Oklahoma for more than a couple of weeks, you know the "Okie" mantra: If you don't like the weather in Oklahoma, just wait a minute. In all my 35 years as a resident of Oklahoma I've never heard of a highschool baseball game cancelled due to wind. Until yesterday! There were no storms on the horizon, nor tornados brewing, it was just good 'ol Oklahoma wind. The kind that'll whip your hair around and smack ya with it! The kind that'll convince you to never again forget to check with Gary England before donning an adorable skirt, lest it be reduced to an accessory around your neck!

Fortunately, there's a silver lining of green in that wind. Energy leaders from Oklahoma are on a mission to bring wind power projects to our state. Oklahoma plans to position itself as a producer of equipment to generate electricity from wind as well as a research hub,and potentially create 18,000 jobs by 2019 according to Secretary of Commerce and Tourism, Natalie Shirley.

The next time you feel the need to wear lead weights in your shoes to combat the wind, try to remember that it's a gift we can use as a resource for energy which translates to a projected $1.48 billion in total personal added income for Oklahomans from the wind industry cluster alone!

FHA vs. CONVENTIONAL LOANS

noreply@blogger.com (Kay Pratt) — Tue, 07 Apr 2009 10:14:00 +0000

In the early 1990's FHA had about 15% of the home purchase market according to the Inman News. Until a couple of years ago, FHA lost business to the growing subprime market. Once the subprime market cratered, FHA is back in business offering appealing financing for home buyers since they accept lower credit scores than conventional loans and are more forgiving of past financial mistakes. Requiring only 3.5% downpayment is also a plus for first time homebuyers. FHA borrowers pay a monthly mortgage insurance premium (PMI) of .5% per year and an upfront premium of 1.75 percent, which is almost always included in the loan amount. In contrast, Conventional loans require larger downpayments than government backed loans. Interest rates are set by each lender and can exceed those of FHA and VA loans. However, lenders may allow some creative financing options for the Conventional buyer. And of course with the larger downpayment, the PMI disappears quicker once the 20% down is reached.

In short, when considering financing, there are many options. The right financing program may not be ONLY about the interest rate but about the entire package. Looking for a lender? I can help!

Homes that sell QUICK

noreply@blogger.com (Kay Pratt) — Tue, 07 Apr 2009 09:25:00 +0000

I get asked nearly every day, "Is anyone buying homes in this economy?" And the answer is, "YES!"

Every buyer wants a deal and every seller wants top dollar. There are very important keys to both sides of that equation. On the "deal" side it's important to have an experienced realtor who is a savvy negotiator. Today's topic however, is about selling. On the "top dollar" side it's critical to have a home that shows well, is spotlessly clean, staged beautifully to maximize space and priced right.

One of my listings sold for full price last week after only a few days on the market. All of the above came into play and the stars were in alignment for one lucky new homeowner! The seller had been 1.) Diligent about maintaining the home, addressing repair items immediately over the course of the seven years they'd owned it and 2.) Pre-pared their home for sale by de-cluttering rooms and closets and packing up unnecessary items so that their home would be welcoming and spacious.

This particular experience was a classic example of "show" condition and perfect pricing! It did not require high-end furnishings for staging or a team of experts from HGTV. It was simply clean, uncluttered and neatly furnished. The buyers got a great home, move-in-ready and the sellers got a quick sale at full asking price!

For more tips on preparing your home for sale, look here: http://www.kaypratt.com/sellhome2.html

Choosing a builder

noreply@blogger.com (James Pratt) — Mon, 16 Mar 2009 22:51:00 +0000

Now that we are looking a remodel square in the eye, since the devastating tornado, this might be a good time to reflect about how one goes about deciding on a builder. Fortunately for me, the selection process was simple! We've known Jim Hemphill and his wife for many years, long before my real estate business. I've had the privilege of watching Jim's business grow and had the opportunity to see for myself his consistent commitment to quality over the course of 20 years. Our first buisness meeting with him confirmed that we were in good hands and felt comfort in knowing that he and his crew have the experience to bring our home up to the standard and beauty I imagine in my head. From his gentle voice of reason to his unique ability to assist us in decision making, Jim quickly became a professional we knew we could trust and work with. Our remodel is well under way!
Not everyone, however is lucky enough to personally know a reputable builder. In that case, rely on referrals and ask friends and family. People are quick to want to share their experiences, good or bad. Once you ask around and gather a list of builders, visit some homes they've built, then go to the NAHB (National Home Builders Association)
website: http://www.nahb.org/generic.aspx?sectionID=123&genericContentID=284
and check to see if they're a member. That website is a great resource for getting all your questions answered about the home building process.

Cleanup Day

noreply@blogger.com (Kay Pratt) — Sun, 15 Feb 2009 03:51:00 +0000

Many thanks go out to a few representatives of the Edmond Board of Realtors and some dear friends for assistance in the cleanup effort at my house and my neighbor's homes. Some brought chain saws, others brought food and all showed up ready to work! It was a chilly Valentine's Day and surely these folks had better things to do but we are grateful for your kindness and sacrifice for us! By mid-day, four large, uprooted trees and an enormous amount of rubble was reduced to relatively neat piles along the curb for the next "big trash" pickup day. We can now begin the task of rebuilding and restoring our homes.

Tornado Damage

noreply@blogger.com (Kay Pratt) — Sun, 15 Feb 2009 02:19:00 +0000

Anyone who has lived in Oklahoma for a minute knows that tornados are a fact of life here. I've always been sort of amused by them and even somewhat exhilirated watching them....from afar. I know what to do when they are too close for comfort and I've seen first hand the devastation they can cause. However, I've never ACTUALLY had my own home hit by a tornado....until this week! It was 3:00 in the afternoon and I'm normally never home during the day but happened to be there then....and conveniently near our storm shelter. Just like the stories you've heard, the slate gray clouds start churning into a funnel and the wind blows like crazy and then you hear the "whirring" sound. At that point we closed the lid tight on the cellar over us and waited it out which was only a few minutes.

Upon opening the cellar door, the damage was evident immediately. Large trees uprooted all over the yard, fences mangled, debris everywhere and the house behind us had no roof! The eerie quiet quickly turned to sirens and flashing colored lights as the patrol cars surrounded the neighborhood to offer assistance. Three cheers to the Edmond Police Department for quick response!!!

Fortunately, although the damage was extensive to our home and many others near us, there were no injuries or lives lost in our area. That was not the case in Lone Grove, OK. Our hearts go out to the families there.

While recounting the event of February 10th, many friends and associates across the country have asked if I was scared. The answer is, "No." I was not at all frightened because the storm shelter gave me a very secure feeling. While in the shelter, I did not even think we would have damage but even if we did, I knew we'd fix it. I also knew we had insurance and my loved ones were all accounted for. The occassional tornado is the price we pay for the benefit of living among the most hospitable and kind people in the world!

To Build or Not to Build/ Part 2

noreply@blogger.com (Kay Pratt) — Mon, 09 Feb 2009 18:34:00 +0000

For Donald and Amy, the choice came down to location, location, location. After endless discussions and careful thought, the home that really fits for them is the existing home on the cul-de-sac that first called their name when they drove by it two weeks ago!

Although a brand new home was very enticing and could be built for nearly the existing home price, they wanted the established neighborhood in the same school district they have their children in now. They've made their decision.

In this business, I wear many hats. This time I donned my "horse and buggy" hat and told them the worst case scenario when the cart is before the horse in a real estate transaction. I'm known for 'making things happen' and though it's nice to make a sale, it's far better to have a happy client. Having gotten to know the Denards, they made it clear to me that owning two homes may not be in the best interest for this family of five. After discussing ALL the possibilities, for now they feel that it's better to wait until at least an offer comes in on the home they own, giving them better options for negotiations on the one they want.

Since the lease they're in is flexible, the only thing left to do is get their current home under contract and we'll start the ball rolling! Anybody need a home in Martinez, Georgia:

To Build or Not to Build

noreply@blogger.com (Kay Pratt) — Thu, 05 Feb 2009 14:43:00 +0000

Just as many home buyers do, Donald and Amy Denard are considering whether they will build a home to suit their needs or purchase a home in their neighborhood that already does. It's a tough decision because they have to consider the time involved in the building process as well as the stress involved and of course, the cost. A newly constructed Heartland Home giving them the square footage they want and the extra half bath they'd like may prove to be a little out of their budget. But of course, Donald and Amy would get just what they want by stretching their budget a bit and would be a home they could grow in with their children.

On the other hand, the existing home they feel fits their need but needs updating is in a neighborhood with a pool, a very desirable attraction during the summer months for the Denard's three young boys.

Today they will take a closer look at floor plans, suitable lots and pricing and then compare it with the amenities of the existing home they are also considering. Will they choose to build brand new and get what they want or buy existing and get a home that needs a bit of work but is in a great location for them?

Stay tuned for the next post and find out!

Preston Report

noreply@blogger.com (Kay Pratt) — Sun, 01 Feb 2009 20:03:00 +0000

According to the Preston Market Report, the 2008 home sales were down 13.3% while the national average was 15.5%. The average home sales price, however, was up over 4% from 2007 while the national average was down 12.4%. Areas like Las Vegas, Houston and Phoenix had drops ranging from 28% - 37%! Although it was our lowest sales in five years and a lower total volume than the past two years, we are still better off than most of the nation!!!

I love my job!

noreply@blogger.com (Kay Pratt) — Sat, 31 Jan 2009 22:43:00 +0000

For many folks, the process of buying a home can be a daunting one. My job mostly consists of guiding, advising, showing, calculating as well as sometimes providing counseling to the stressed-out buyer or seller. From showing properties to the home loan to managing the mountain of paperwork required to get the keys to that dream home, this job can be as frustrating as it is rewarding!

The rewarding part came yesterday as we completed the closing and I tossed Josh the keys to his new home. He seemed a bit nervous at the closing but I chalked it up to first-time-home-buyer jitters. With his girlfriend Amy there for moral support, the closing went well and just as planned. They both went straight to the house to marvel at the new purchase. Even though I knew of his intentions, I was still surprised and moved to tears when he texted me from his brand new home: "She said YES!"

He had planned to propose and awaited the perfect moment. As they looked around Josh's new home, he mentioned a house warming gift for her. He then dropped to one knee and presented the ring! It's gratifying to be part of such a momentous ocassion and watch dreams come true!

Death, Taxes and Credit History

noreply@blogger.com (Kay Pratt) — Tue, 20 Jan 2009 16:08:00 +0000

The old saying goes: Two things in life you cannot avoid are death and taxes. Both are grim subjects and yet simple facts of life. Standing solidly at third is Credit History. Many of us in our 20's while livin' large get caught up in credit card euphoria of the...buy now pay later plan. It's a lesson that most young adults have to learn the hard way. Careless and irresponsbile payment of debts can be corrected but it takes a bit of work. Good credit history is crucial in getting a long term loan. A few of the most important factors when applying for a home loan are:

LATE PAYMENTS
For most people, problems with their credit report are likely related to late payments on a debt. If you were late one month in paying off your credit card, but otherwise have a good payment history, chances are most lenders won't be too concerned. But if you have a history of late payments you'll need to document the reasons why. A slow payment history won't necessarily get you turned down for a loan, but you may have to pay a higher rate of interest or otherwise prove to the lender that you can repay your loan in a timely fashion.

ERRORS ON CREDIT REPORT
Many people are surprised to learn that credit reports can often contains errors or inaccurate information. If this is the case with your credit report, you'll need to contact the reporting agency or creditor to have the problem resolved. This can sometimes be a slow process, so make sure to give yourself time to clear up the mistake.

BANKRUPTCIES AND FORECLOSURES
There's no getting around it, a bankruptcy on your credit report is not a good thing. But that doesn't mean you still can't obtain a loan. Even though a bankruptcy may stay on your credit report for seven to ten years, lenders will often consider the circumstances surrounding a bankruptcy (family illness, injury, etc.). Moreover, if you have reestablished good credit since the bankruptcy, a lender will be more inclined to approve your application.

To be in a position to take advantage of the low interest rates said to be coming very soon, good credit is a MUST! If you have any questions about how to clear up credit issues or need to be directed to a reputable lender, call me today.

Buying "As Is" Properties

noreply@blogger.com (Kay Pratt) — Fri, 16 Jan 2009 14:55:00 +0000

When I work with first time home buyers, they will often ask to see Foreclosure properties or rehab properties because they "don't mind doing a little carpet and paint". Buyers know that they might get more for their money if they buy a home that has been acquired by a bank or simply needs some TLC. Most of these homes are offered "AS IS" and depending on the type of loan the buyer has secured, may not be approved for a home loan on a rehab property. A bank may not see it as a good risk to loan money on a home that needs work. Often these homes are purchased with cash by an individual or investor who has the ability, manpower and cash reserves to fix them up.

My job is to analyze the situation and assist buyers in making good selections then negotiate the best terms and price for my client. If, for example, the couple purchasing are employed full time with six month old triplets, a toddler and a 15 year old, I would not encourage them to buy a "great deal" home that has amazing square footage but would require gutting and remodel. Timing is everything!

Buying an AS IS property can be a good idea if you've done your homework. Make sure you know what the house would be worth in good condition. If possible, find out if any insurance claims have been made on the property. Your insurance agent may be able to help. Have inspections done by a reputable inspector. (Ask me for my referrals, I recommend only the best!) Read your contract and know how much time you have to "review and inspect" the property before accepting the property in it's condition. Remember, the actual price you are paying is the price of the property PLUS any and all repairs needed. Sometimes, that is more than the property is worth.

To Lease or Not To Lease

noreply@blogger.com (Kay Pratt) — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 10:07:00 +0000

You might assume I'd say "buy" of course, since I'm in the business of selling homes. Well, you know what happens when you assume! Break the word down and you see what happens to U and Me. When a client comes to me and says they want to lease, there's usually a good reason. Such was the case just a few weeks ago. Donald and his family are moving here from Georgia. His home in Georgia hasn't sold yet and he's unfamiliar with the Edmond area. A bridge loan would require that he qualify to own two homes at the same time, if he were to buy while his previous home is still on the market. He had only a few days to find a home so that his family could join him here. As a young businessman with a family of five, relocating to a new city, new job and finding new schools for their children, the prospect of locating and purchasing a semi-permanent home proved too stressful for the couple. Not to mention that his wife wanted to assist in the decision-making of the home they'll eventually purchase and she's still in Georgia. Oh, and Christmas is one week away! A lease is a good option for Donald's family at this point.

After striking out with the home we thought was the perfect lease home for them, (it was rented to someone else when we called to sign paperwork) so we went back to the drawing board. Even though the first one got away, the best home awaited them! We found a beautiful rental home that suited them "for now" and negotiated the right LEASE terms for them! Come Fall, the Denards will be in a more comfortable position to purchase their next home. Sometimes, leasing has it's priviledge.

The Perfect Home Buying Storm

noreply@blogger.com (Kay Pratt) — Thu, 18 Dec 2008 19:17:00 +0000

Unless you live under a rock, you are well aware that we are in an extremely unique market right now. In 2004 the sun had shone brightly upon our real estate investments. Interest rates were low and sellers were getting top dollar for their properties. Four a couple of years we were able to bask in the warm glow of a robust economy. If you could fog a mirror, you could qualify for a home loan! Then the butterflies of spring drifted away while the economy slowly crept into a chilling Fall of foreclosures and rising interest rates. The oppressive heavy cloud-cover mixed with the pressure on the economy of the of defunct sub-prime loans and government bailouts is beginning to create what I would call a PERFECT STORM! With PRIME being at an all-time low of 0%, home prices are low and interest rates are approaching a record low since the Great Depression! In other words…if you have good credit, NOW is the time to BUY!!

In Oklahoma we have been blessed with moderate home prices. Unlike the east and west coast, our home prices did not ride the big real estate bubble pricing. Hence, when the bubble burst, our local Oklahoma City area market was not affected like these east and west coast inflated market s. So home pricing has remained fairly stable, although it prices are down slightly. Make no mistake, even in Oklahoma it is a buyers market, but unlike the oil bust of the 1980's home prices are still holding stead.

What this means is that it is not only a good time to buy a home, but it is also a good time to sell a home. The low interest rates makes your home much more affordable for buyers, and when you get ready to find your next home you also get to take advantage of these low interest rates. And th pricing you receive for your home will be fair. You won't feel like you won the lottery, but the pricing in Oklahoma is stable and fair for both buyers and sellers.

According to Kenneth Wohl with Spirit Bank, the rates are fluctuating hourly, ranging right above and below 5%. "I’m now seeing rates hit multi-year lows not seen since 2003!" says Kenneth. "We a great inventory of builder spec. homes as well as existing homes and with the rates under 5% your monthly savings is tremendous. For instance, 6 months ago someone could have bought a 250K home at 6.5% interest. If you were to purchase that same house today at 4.75% you would save $275/mo or had the possibility of buying a $300,000 for the same monthly payment!"

So be READY to take part in this perfect storm and welcome the rain! It's a good time to sell your home AND a good time to BUY!

A Territorial Christmas

noreply@blogger.com (Kay Pratt) — Fri, 12 Dec 2008 14:08:00 +0000

Guthrie, founded during the land run of 1889 was the original Oklahoma State Capital until it was eclipsed by the economic development of Oklahoma City, a junction for several railroads and major industry. A successful campaign was started by OKC business leaders and by 1910 the seal was moved in the middle of the night to Oklahoma City. Guthrie began to dwindle in size and slipped into an economic sleep which lasted seventy years.

The happy result of Guthrie's misfortune is that Guthrie is a perfectly preserved victorian city. It is the largest urban historic district in the United States. The industry which opened up for this town is historical tourism. It's a terrific destination for a day trip to enjoy "Old West" museums, a luxurious Bed and Breakfast or stunning architecture.

At Christmas time, Guthrie is one of my "must do's". I make a point to bundle up and head to main street to stroll downtown and drink in the sights and sounds of Christmas as shop windows are filled with "Living Christmas Displays" and shopkeepers serve light refreshments to visitors while the streets are filled with carolers, carriages and peanut vendors. If you really want to impress your sweetie and you plan ahead, you could get tickets to the Territorial Christmas Play at the historic Pollard Theatre! You'd earn some serious points for this creative date night!!