Real Estate Information Archive

Here at McNaughton Real Estate, we are asked everyday on how to buy a HUD home.  Rightfully so, HUD homes are the hot topic in terms of getting the most value out of your investment.  Believe it or not, it is surprisingly easy to buy your own.

1. Get a Pre-Approved letter.
2. View the Property with a McNaughton Realtor®.
3. Submit your Bid.
4. Submit your Contract Package to Asset Manager.

Not only is it that easy, we’ll do steps 3 and 4 for you!  Don’t let the buying process keep you from a great investment.  Check out all the HUD homes in Northwest Arkansas at www.allNWAhomes.com and give us a call!

Old Main

University of Arkansas campus

This two-towered hall was the first permanent building to be erected on the campus of Arkansas Industrial University, later renamed the University of Arkansas. It was designed by architect John M. Van Osdel in the second empire style. Today, it is home to the J. William Fulbright College of Arts and Sciences.

Buchanan Hall

University of Arkansas campus

The first men's residence hall at the University of Arkansas, then still known as Arkansas Industrial University, was Buchanan Hall, named for the university's sixth president, John L. Buchanan. "Buck Hall," as the students referred to it, opened in 1888 and served the university until 1937.

Dress Presentation

Front Lawn of Old Main, University of Arkansas

Because they were attending a land grant university, all male students at the University of Arkansas were compelled to participate in study of military science, which included drills on the front lawn of Old Main. Although no longer compulsory, students can study military science as well as aeronautics through the Reserve Officers' Training Corps.

Carnall Hall

University of Arkansas campus

Carnall Hall on the University of Arkansas campus was the first female residence hall on the campus, and it was named for one of the university’s first female faculty members, Ella Howison Carnall. It was designed by Charles L. Thompson in a colonial revival style and opened to students in 1906. Today it is an on-campus hotel and restaurant, used in part to train students in hospitality management.

Agriculture Campus

Agricultural Grounds, University of Arkansas

This lane, though paved and widened, is still used by students walking from Maple Street to Mullins Library. The buildings include the Agricultural Library at left, the Experiment Station beyond it and the Agriculture Building at right.

Agriculture Building

University of Arkansas campus

Designed by Charles L. Thompson, the first Agriculture Building was finished in time for fall classes in 1906. Later, it served the campus as the university's infirmary but was put back into use for agricultural purposes after a new health center was built in 1965. Today, it is known as the Agricultural Annex.

Chemistry Building

University of Arkansas campus

The first Chemistry Building was finished in 1906 and served in that function until 1935, when the current Chemistry Building was erected. It was then used for the School of Law until Waterman Hall was built in 1953. Subsequently, the psychology and geography departments used the building and most recently, Student Support Services and the School of Social Work have been based in it.

Engineering Hall

University of Arkansas campus

The first Engineering Hall was built in 1904 by contractor Albert Byrnes for $22,500. It was southwest of Old Main on the University of Arkansas campus. After the new Engineering Hall was built in 1927, this building was renamed Commerce Hall and used for business classes. It was torn down in 1988.

Engineering Day

Front Lawn of Old Main, University of Arkansas

Engineering students began observing an Engineering Day each year starting in 1909 on St. Patrick's Day. The event developed a rivalry with the already established Agriculture Day and both eventually became week-long affairs.

Gray Hall

University of Arkansas campus

One of the first dormitories for men on the University of Arkansas campus, Gray Hall was finished in 1906 and stood about where Mullins Library is today. It was named for Oliver C. Gray, a professor and commander of the military department at the university for many years. It was razed in 1966.

Arkansas vs. Oklahoma

University of Arkansas campus

In 1909, the Arkansas football team went undefeated, fending off such powerhouse teams as the University of Oklahoma (pictured) and Lousiana State University. So tough was Arkansas that year that the University of Mississippi forfeited its game rather than make the trip to Arkansas. It was also the year that the term "Razorback" became popularized as the mascot of the University of Arkansas. The football field was about where the plaza between the Arkansas Union and Mullins Library is today.

Experiment Station

University of Arkansas campus

Built in 1888, the original Agricultural Experiment Station was erected at the high point of campus next to present-day Maple Street. The cost of construction was $4,000 with a similar amount being spent on equipment. After agricultural operations were moved to other buildings, the experiment station became home to the music department and later still to the university's news bureau and alumni office. It was razed in 1972.

Greenhouse

University of Arkansas campus

A horticultural greenhouse called the Conservatory was built in 1898 at a site about where Memorial Hall now stands. It was destroyed by fire in the fall of 1920.

University Shops

University of Arkansas campus

Pictured is the third mechanical shop erected at the University of Arkansas. Two earlier shop buildings were both destroyed by fire, the first one in 1895 and the second in 1902. This one also was destroyed by fire after an apparent explosion of metal in the foundry room.

Infirmary

University of Arkansas campus

The first infirmary at the University of Arkansas was built in 1906 about where the east end of the Leflar Law Center is today. It later served as home for the home economics department and still later for the social welfare department. It was razed in 1972 for the eastward expansion of the law school.

Hill Hall

University of Arkansas campus

Construction started on Hill Hall in 1901 but it didn't open for residents until 1902. It was named for Gen. Daniel Harvey Hill, the third president of the university. It served as a residence hall until 1946, briefly was a women's residence hall and then became the home of the journalism department, the university's news bureau, student media and university printing press. It was razed in 1993 to allow expansion of Mullins Library.

Senior Walk

University of Arkansas campus

The longest tradition at the University of Arkansas in terms of distance, Senior Walk was established in 1905 and includes the names of graduates of the university, dating back to the first graduates in 1875.

Content found on www.fayettevillehistory.com.

About the Fair…

From the outset, the War Eagle Fair was a project of, by and for little people: A group of little old ladies exhibiting their weaving. When that attracted a greater than expected response, other unsung artists and craftsmen were invited to participate. There has never been a government subsidy or sponsorship, no professional nor commercial assistance, just unpaid volunteers led by an Arkansas farmer and his wife. It has all happened in a magical place.

The pioneer Sylvanus Blackburn built his home here in 1832 and it still stands, and the War Eagle River still flows where it powered the turbine of Sylvanus' mill. Nearly everyone who comes here feels something special, and no doubt that is one reason so many have come to this once obscure spot over the past quarter of a century. Untold numbers in the millions (yes, millions) and the great and the mighty have joined the poor and the humble here

Some Info…

Fall Fair dates: October 13 - 16, 2011

Parking fee $2 per vehicle

Seminars…

The War Eagle Seminar was an educational program of the Ozark Arts & Crafts Fair Association, sponsors of the nationally-known War Eagle Fair™. Writing of the early years of the Seminar, former Executive Director Blanche Elliott said,

“An unmatched opportunity was offered for the amateur or the professional to enlarge his artistic talents and improve his techniques at a very reasonable cost. To some, the seminar was a profitable vacation in a secluded countryside, knee-deep in June. To others, it was two weeks of uninterrupted painting, whittling, weaving, or potting that was difficult to come by at home. Out of it all came a fellowship of kindred spirits born of the joy of creating beauty with hands and heart…”

Exhibitors…

The War Eagle Fair began in 1954 to showcase arts and crafts of the Ozark region. The Board of Directors of the nonprofit association paid scrupulous attention to quality, went out of their way to revive traditional arts and crafts in danger of extinction, and offered visitors free admission and free parking. (Due to rising costs, 2011 will mark the first year the Organization will charge for parking.) Exhibitors undergo strict screening for entry, and must abide by carefully enforced rules and standards. They sell products of their own skill and creativity.

• Who may exhibit?

Anyone who lives in the United States as long as they have handmade products.

• How can I become an exhibitor?

This is the most common question asked at the Fair office. Those interested in becoming exhibitors can print an application in Adobe PDF file format or write and request a screening form, enclose a long stamped, pre-addressed envelope and mail to: The War Eagle Fair, PO Box 796, Rogers, AR 72757.   No applications are accepted via fax or email.

• What are my chances of getting into the Fair as an exhibitor?

Each year, there are far more people who request applications than can be accommodated. Still there are new exhibitors each year. Providing you meet the other requirements, your chances are greater if you are among the best in your field and if the Fair does not already have a large proportion of offerings similar to yours.

Planning a Trip…

As always, there is no admission charge to the War Eagle Fair. Beginning in 2011, a $2 per car parking fee will be implemented. A well trained parking crew directs you in and out, and you won't have to hunt for good food. No dogs are allowed on the grounds, in the tents, or buildings except trained Medical Assist dogs. A first aid station is in the center of everything.  There are permanent restrooms and plenty of porta-potties and even a free package checking service. Don't get so caught up in the tents that you miss the exhibit building! Gates open at 8 a.m. each day and close at 5 p.m. on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday and at 4 p.m. on Sunday.

• What is the best route to the Fair?

Because of traffic congestion on the one-lane iron bridge across the War Eagle River, we recommend that visitors approach from the south via U.S. 412 and AR Hwy 303.

• What's the weather like?

Generally, the nights are cool and days are warm, but bring a variety of clothing as it can be quite cool or quite warm.

• Where can we camp?

There are many campgrounds in nearby areas, particularly along Beaver Lake, including both government and commercial sites ranging from rustic to those with complete facilities. Self-contained camping units are permitted in specified areas on War Eagle Mills Farm, along with tents.

• What about the Spring Fair?

Started in 1962, the Spring Fair began as an Antique show. After 45 annual events, the last Spring Fair was held in 2006.

• Is the Fall Fair always at the same time?

No. In the past it has been as early as October 13 and as late as October 29. However, beginning in 1990 it has always started on the Thursday before the 3rd Saturday in October.

***All Information collected from www.wareaglefair.com.***

As recently as a few months ago, if you would have told a real estate agent who specialized in short sales that they’d be raving about a lender’s stellar service and rapid approval times—not to mention significant cash incentives for financially strapped homeowners for pursuing a short sale—you’d have gotten some strange looks.

That’s all changed.  And it’s changed faster and to a greater extent than most real estate professionals ever could have imagined.

With a glut of bank-owned properties dragging down the recovery of the real estate market, as well as the national economy, major lenders are more eager than ever before to avoid foreclosure. So they’ve sharpened their focus on short sales. Big time.

The biggest lenders in the country have staffed up to ensure rapid processing of short sale applications. They’ve ponied up with cash incentives at closing for homeowners who pursue a short sale. And they’re proactively reaching out to CDPE agents and putting them in touch with delinquent borrowers.

This is big news and the media has not really caught onto it yet. What’s important for you to know is that whatever you’ve read or heard in the past about long lag times and frustrations with short sales is probably no longer the case.

As a member of the CDPEAdvanced community, we’ve tapped into major lenders and on top of major developments affecting short sales and bank-owned properties.  We invite you to visit our website http://www.allnwahomes.com/ to learn more and feel free to contact us any time at 479-442-9099 if you or anyone you know is struggling with an unmanageable mortgage.

There’s not a better way to end a weekend of Bikes, Blues, and BBQ than to go house hunting—especially if it’s for affordable HUD homes!  This Sunday we are having open houses for not one, not two, but THREE HUD homes.  So finish off the weekend right, and come check out these sweet deals:

2618 Fruit Tree Ave, Springdale, AR (10:30am – 11:30am) *Just Hit the Market*

• 3 Bedrooms
• 2 Bathrooms
• 1566 Sq. Ft.
• Built in 1999
• $90,000

1611 14^th, Rogers, AR (12:00pm—1:00pm)

• 3 Bedrooms
• 2 Bathrooms
• 1768 Sq. Ft.
• Built in 1983
• $102,000

700 Little Ave, Gentry, AR (1:30 pm– 2:30pm) *Just Hit the Market*

• 3 Bedrooms
• 2 Bathrooms
• 1476 Sq. Ft.
• Build in 2004
• $100,000

See ya there!

If you’ve been in Fayetteville this past week, then you’ve witnessed the heavy metal thunder.  If you don’t know what I’m talking about, then you weren’t born to be wild.  Bikes, Blues, and BBQ has once again made its mark on the Ozarks.  With the weekend just now coming up, it’s really about to take full throttle.  Here’s what all is going on this weekend.  To find more info, check out this website.

Friday, September 30

2:30pm

Dante and the Hawks

3:00pm

Gary and John

3:30pm

Circus Una Highwire Act

4:00pm

BBB Arena Cross Race Practice

4:30pm

The Shotgun Billys

5:00pm

Lawn Mower Races

5:00pm

Ransom

5:15pm

Circus Una Motorcycle Highwire Act

5:30pm

Music For Plants

6:00pm

People's Choice BBQ Competition

6:30pm

The Uncrowned Kings

6:30pm

Arena Cross Meet the Riders

7:00pm

The Boston Mountain Playboys

7:30pm

Circus Una Motorcycle Highwire Act

8:00pm

Arena Cross Pro racing

8:00pm

Ruckus

8:30pm

Louisiana Crossroads

9:00pm

Cowboy Kenny Bartram Show

9:00pm

Circus Una Thrill Show

10:30pm

Joe Giles and the Homewrecker

Saturday, October 1

8:00am

Stokes Air Bike Show

11:00am

Amateur and Kids Motocross Racing

2:00pm

Cathead Biscuit

3:00pm

Oreo Blue

3:30pm

Russ and Mike

3:30pm

RSC Rentals Parade of Power

3:30pm

Circus Una Thrill Show

4:30pm

Leah and the MoJo Doctors

5:00pm

Zack Bramhall

5:15pm

Circus Una Thrill Show

6:30pm

The Rich Fabec Band

7:00pm

Trick Bag

7:30pm

Circus Una Thrill Show

8:30pm

The FOS Project

9:00pm

Cowboy Kenny Bartram Show 

10:30pm

David Kimbrough, Jr.

Sunday, October 2

12:00pm

David Kimbrough, Jr.

If you’re a big Jamey Johnson fan, he’ll be play Friday, September 30, 2011 at 7:30PM at the NWA Mall AMP.  His biggest, heart wrenching song was “In Color.”  Click here for tickets.

Maybe the roar of a road hog isn’t your thing.  We have some peaceful houses outside of town to protect your delicate ears.  Give us a call!

Voting has begun for Best of NWA!   McNaughton Real Estate has been nominated and needs your votes!

Please cast your vote for "McNaughton Real Estate"  at the link below

Best Real Estate Company of NWA

We appreciate all your support.

Clabber Creek Trail

Where is the Trail?

The trail is located at 2625 N. Rupple Road

Trail Length

Clabber Creek Trail is 0.7 miles long.

Trail Description

The first section of Clabber Creek Trail, completed in May of 2007, stretches through 40 acres of natural park from Rupple Road to the west of Hosta Drive for a total distance of 0.7 miles.  Along the south side of the trail, people enjoy listening to the trickling current of Clabber Creek and viewing the natural surroundings.  Once complete, Clabber Creek Trial will be 6.5 miles in length and will connect east to Scull Creek Trail.

Hamestring Creek Trail

Where is this Trail?

This trail is located at 3075 W. Marigold Dr.

Length of Trail

This trail is 0.62 miles in length.

Trail Description

This first section of Hamestring Creek Trail, completed in December of 2007, extends 0.62 miles through Wildwood Park.  The 12 foot wide trail is constructed of asphalt and offers nice views of Hamestring Creek along the west side of the creek. Future phases of Hamestring Creek Trail will extend west toward Rupple Road to eventually connect with Clabber Creek Trail. The east end of Hamestring Creek Trail currently ends at I-540 where it will connect with Shiloh Trail in the future. 

Joe Clark Trail at Lake Wilson

Where is the Trail?

Joe Clark Trail is located at the end of Lake Wilson Road.  From Fayetteville, take Morningside Road south of 15th street for approximately 2 miles.  When Morningside Road becomes City Lake Road, take a left turn on Wilson Hollow Road.  Follow the gravel road over the White River, then turn left on Lake Wilson Road.

Description

Lake Wilson was the Fayetteville’s first drinking water supply.  Now, this 320 acre park features two looping trails with rock outcrops and excellent natural beauty.  The inside loop trail around the lake is 1.33 miles around and the outer loop trail is 1.76 miles long. 

The Trail was built by members of the Ozarks Society and dedicated to Joe and Maxine Clark in 1995. 

Lake Sequoyah Trails

Where is this Trail?

This trail is located at 6608 E. Sequoyah Drive.

Length of Trail

Two nature trails combine for a total of 3 miles of natural surface trail (one way).

Trail Description

Beginning at the boat docks, there are two nature trails at Lake Sequoyah.  The north trail, named King Fisher Trail, extends from the boat dock parking lot 1.6 miles north along the east bank of the lake with stunning views to the west (3.2 miles down and back).  To the south of the boat dock parking lot, a newly constructed trail leads you past an informational kiosk, then east and south 1.4 miles along the bank of the lake (2.8 miles down and back).  The eastern end of this trial is currently under construction by volunteer effort by the boy scouts and eagle scouts under the direction of Parks Board member Wade Colwell.  All of the trails at Lake Sequoyah have been built with volunteer efforts.

Bayarri Park Trail

Where is this Trail?

This trail is located at 725 S Regency Dr.

Length of Trail

This trail is .3 miles in length.

Trail Description

Bayarri Park Trail runs around the exterior of the park. With a total of .3 miles in distance, it passes the playground, picnic tables, and runs along the banks of the White River. This trail is perfect for an afternoon jog or walk.

Finger Park Trail

Where is this Trail?

This trail is located at 1525 SE Farmers Rd.

Length of Trail

This trail is .6 miles in length.

Trail Description

Finger Park Nature Trail is a .6 mile natural surface trail weaving through a wooded and somewhat rugged area. At the trail head, you will find parking, picnic, and play area as well as restrooms. This trail is great for a quick hike or very short mountain bike ride.

Frisco Trail

Where is this Trail?

This trail is located at 575 W Center.

Length of Trail

This trail has a length of 1.3 miles.

Trail Description

Frisco Trail is a multi-use section of the trail system that will eventually serve all areas of Fayetteville with an alternate transportation option. The trail extends from MLK Jr. Blvd., north to Scull Creek Trail at Prospect Street.  The trail takes you through natural areas and offers benches and lighting.

Gordon Long Park Trail

Where is this Trail?

This trail is located at 2800 N Gregg Ave.

Length of Trail

This trail has a length of .6 miles.

Trail Description

Gordon Long Trail is a paved trail covering .6 mile as it weaves through Gordon Long Park situated on North Gregg Avenue. There is a shaded picnic and playground area providing a perfect location for de-stressing after work, as well as starting the day with an early morning jog.

Gregory Park Trail

Where is this Trail?

This trail is located at 69 E Sycamore St.

Length of Trail

This trail has a length of .9 miles.

Trail Description

Gregory Park Trail is a natural surface trail through a heavily wooded area in the middle of a busy commercial/residential area just off North College on Sycamore Street. The trail is a .9 mile loop with benches and a gazebo in the park area and provides a great afternoon getaway in a very convenient location.

Lake Fayetteville Trail

Where is this Trail?

This trail is located at 1350 E Zion Rd and 1208 E Lake Fayetteville Rd.

Length of Trail

The new paved multi-use trail is 4.3 miles long.

The Soft surface natural trail is 5.5 miles long.

Trail Description

Lake Fayetteville Trail is the one of the most popular of Parks and Recreation's Trails.  The trail loops the lake with a combination of paved and natural surface shared by walkers, runners, and bikers.  Take your camera because there is a variety of flora and fauna in their natural settings as well as beautiful views of the lake.  The trail offers benches, playgrounds and picnic areas, restrooms, informational kiosks, and lighting.  Be sure to stop at the rest areas on the beautiful, award winning, bridge spanning the lake spillway.

Mt. Sequoyah Woods Trail

Where is this Trail?

This trail is located at 100 N Summit.

Length of Trail

This trail has a length of 1.6 miles.

Trail Description

Mt. Sequoyah Trail is a natural trail which meanders for 1.6 miles through a heavily wooded and occasionally rugged forest on the east side of Mt. Sequoyah. Trail-heads are accessible at 100 North Summit on top of the mountain, Paddock Road and Happy Hollow Road. A picnic area and information kiosks are available.

Mud Creek Trail

Where is this Trail?

This trail is located at 3770 Front St.

Length of Trail

This trail has a length of 1.9 miles.

Trail Description

Mud Creek Trail stretches along Mud Creek from Old Missouri Road to Steel Boulevard for a total distance of 1.9 miles. The multi-use, paved trail passes through natural areas along Mud Creek where benches are provided to allow for an opportunity to experience nature in the midst of a busy commercial district. Parking is available at the Missouri Road Trail Head.

Raven Trail

Where is this Trail?

This trail is located at 2100 E Farr Ln.

Length of Trail

This trail has a length of .3 miles.

Trail Description

Raven Trail is a short paved connection from Katherine Avenue to Butterfield Elementary School. The trail allows easy access for children between the neighborhood to the east and to the school.

Red Oak Park Trail

Where is this Trail?

This trail is located at 4600 W New Bridge.

Length of Trail

This trail has a length of .2 miles.

Trail Description

Red Oak Trail is a .2 mile paved loop in the south end of Red Oak Park, which is accessible at the end of Carlsbad Trace north of Wedington Drive. Benches are located at intervals along the trail.

Scull Creek Trail

Where is this Trail?

This trail is located at 2800 N. Gregg

Length of Trail

This trail is 3.93 miles in length.

Trail Description

Scull Creek Trail, opened in October of 2008, extends from Maple Street north to Mud Creek Trail, providing a continuous 7.6 mile trail network.  Scull Creek Trail is the "backbone" of the trails system due to its central location and connectivity to numerous parks, residences, businesses, and the University of Arkansas. The 12 foot wide trail is constructed of concrete in low areas and asphalt in higher areas.  Lighting is included on most of the trail for safety and extended use in the evenings.  Additional improvements will include colored concrete crosswalks at North St., Maple St., and Sycamore St. complete with motion activated flashing traffic lights. 

Scull Creek Trail offers a number of amenities.  With a 12-foot wide paved surface, the trail accommodates the high number of users—ranging from alternative-transportation commuters to a variety of recreational users. While closely aligning with Scull Creek, the trail crosses the creek at six locations with arching, weathering-steel, pedestrian bridges.  Most of the creek corridor is lined with mature trees—providing shade and an enhanced experience along the trail.  The trail also includes the longest pedestrian tunnel in the State - a 650 foot long tunnel with lighting under the Fulbright Expressway.

The City of Fayetteville celebrated the grand opening of Scull Creek Trail on Saturday October 18^th, 2008 at Gordon Long Park.  Over 500 people attended the event and enjoyed the new trail as well as live music by Bent Grass Green.  Scull Creek Trail has become a very popular destination for recreation as well as a viable alternative way to get around town from north to south.  Counts in October of 2008 show over 2,000 people per day enjoying the trail.

St. Paul Trail

Where is this Trail?

This trail is located at 2389 S Armstrong Ave.

Length of Trail

This trail has a length of .8 miles.

Trail Description

St. Paul Trail is .8 mile and stretches from Armstrong and City Lake Road. The trail is paved and follows the old St. Paul Railroad bed providing a remote, tree lined experience for the biker, walker, or runner.

Town Branch Trail

Where is this Trail?

This trail is located at 1753 S. Beechwood Ave.

Length of Trail

This trail is .4 miles in length.

Trail Description

This first section of Town Branch Trail extends west of Razorback Road along Town Branch Creek across Beechwood Avenue to the west edge of Crowne Apartments.  This section of trail was completed in April of 2007 and includes a 50 foot long bridge.  In the future, Town Branch Creek Trial will extend west to I-540 and east to the White River for a total of 4 miles.

Walker Park Trail

Where is this Trail?

This trail is located at 10 W 15th St.

Length of Trail

This trail has a length of 1.2 miles.

Trail Description

Walker Park Trail is a 1.2 mile loop trail providing access to all park amenities such as benches, picnic areas, playgrounds, restrooms, bike racks, and drinking fountains. The Walker Park Trail includes a .5 mile section around the Senior Citizen Center.

Wilson Park Trail

Where is this Trail?

This trail is located at 675 N Park Ave.

Length of Trail

This trail has a length of .9 miles.

Trail Description

Wilson Park Trail is a paved .9 mile loop around the perimeter of Wilson Park, one of the most popular parks in Fayetteville's Park System. The trail offers benches, playgrounds, picnic tables, bike racks, restrooms, and drinking fountains. The famous Wilson Park Castle is located along the trail where you will find a peaceful place to relax on artistic benches. Along the trail, you will experience many varieties of plants expertly planted and cared for by Parks and Recreation's Horticulturist with the assistance of many master gardeners.

(All information was collect from www.accessfayetteville.org.)

I know I've probably missed quite a few trails, so if you would like for me to add to this list, let me know!

-David Tyler Mills

One of the proudest moments in anyone’s life occurs when they receive the keys to their new home, especially if you’re a first-time buyer.  One of the most nerve-racking moments in anyone’s life comes from dealing with a broken appliance, especially if it’s an expensive one.  In the August 2011 Consumer Reports “Repair or replace it?” article, a list of common appliances used by their 27,404 subscribers filled out a survey pertaining to maintenance issues.  Listed below are the big appliances that cause the most concern when deciding rather or not to repair or to replace it.

The first three bullet points of each appliance below explain what action you should take (repair, consider repair, or replace) when an appliance breaks between Year 1 and Year 8.  “Replacement Range” explains what the Consumer Reports’s subscribers paid to replace their appliance.  “Median Replacement” displays the middle amount in the set of data that consumers paid to replace it.  “Repair Costs” shows the approximate amount most subscribers paid to repair their appliance.  “Satisfaction with Repair” displays the subscribers’ satisfaction on a scale from 1 to 5, with 5 meaning the most satisfaction.  Information written in parenthesizes includes the general consensus of how the subscribers specifically felt about the outcome of the repair.   

Clothes Dryer (Electric) 

• Repair:  Years 1-4
• Consider Repair: Years 5-7
• Replace: Year 8
• Replacement Range: $400-$1,100
• Median Replacement: $650
• Repair Cost: $136
• Satisfaction with Repair: 4

Percentage of three- to four-year-old products that broke: 12%

Reliable Brands: LG, Bosch, Amana

Repair Prone Brands: Fisher & Paykel

 Clothes Dryer (Gas)

• Repair: Years 1-5
• Consider Repair: Years 6-8
• Replacement Range:  $450-$1,150
• Median Replacement:  $750
• Repair Cost: $136
• Satisfaction with Repair: 4

Percentage of three- to four-year-old products that broke: 12%

Reliable Brands: LG, Whirlpool, GE

Repair Prone Brands: None stood out

Cooktop (Electric)

• Repair:  Years 1-3
• Consider Repair: Years 4-6
• Replace: Years 7-8
• Replacement Range: $400-$1,500
• Median Replacement: $650
• Repair Cost: $169
• Satisfaction with Repair: 4 (Hard to get parts)

Cooktop (Gas)

• Repair: Years 1-3
• Consider Repair: Years 4-5
• Replace: Years 6-8
• Replacement Range: $400-$1500
• Median Replacement: $650
• Repair Cost: $171
• Satisfaction with Repair: 2 (Expensive)

Dishwasher

• Repair: Years 1-3
• Consider Repair: Years 4-6
• Replace: Years 7-8
• Replacement Range: $300-$800
• Median Replacement: $550
• Repair Cost: $137
• Satisfaction with Repair: 3

Percentage of three- to four-year-old products that broke: 20%

Reliable Brands: Whirlpool, Kenmore, Hotpoint, Bosch

Repair Prone Brands: Fisher & Paykel, LG

Microwave Oven (Over-the-Range)

• Repair: Years 1-2
• Consider Repair: Year 3
• Replace: Years 4-8
• Replacement Range: $250-$600
• Median Replacement: $350
• Repair Cost: $139
• Satisfaction with Repair: 3

Range (Electric)

• Repair: Years 1-3
• Consider Repair: Years 4-5
• Replace: Years 6-8
• Replacement Range: $400-$1,000
• Median Replacement: $600
• Repair Cost: $170
• Satisfaction with Repair: 3 (Hard to get parts)

Percentage of three- to four-year-old products that broke: 13%

Reliable Brands: Hotpoint, GE, Whirlpool

Repair Prone Brands: Jenn-Air, KitchenAid

Range (Gas)

• Repair: Years 1-4
• Consider Repair: Years 5-7
• Replace: Year 8
• Replacement Range: $500-$1,300
• Median Replacement: $700
• Repair Cost: $156
• Satisfaction with Repair: 3 (Expensive & Hard to get parts)

Percentage of three- to four-year-old products that broke: 16%

Reliable Brands: Hotpoint, GE, Kenwood, Frigidaire

Repair Prone Brands: KitchenAid

 Refrigerator (Built-In)

• Repair: Years 1-8
• Replacement Range: $5,000-$8,000
• Median Replacement: $6,500
• Repair Cost: $309
• Satisfaction with Repair: 2 (Expensive & Hard to get parts)

Refrigerator (Side-by-Side)

• Repair: Years 1-5
• Consider Repair: Years 6-8
• Replacement Range: $800-$1,700
• Median Replacement: $1,200
• Repair Cost: $190
• Satisfaction with Repair: 3

Percentage of three- to four-year-old products that broke: 36% with icemaker

Reliable Brands: Whirlpool, Kenmore

Repair Prone Brands: LG

Refrigerator (Bottom-Freezer)

• Repair: Years 1-7
• Consider Repair: Year 8 
• Replacement Range: $800-$2,200
• Median Replacement: $1,500
• Repair Cost: $188
• Satisfaction with Repair: 3

Percentage of three- to four-year-old products that broke: 28% with icemaker; 15% without icemaker

Reliable Brands: With icemaker: Jenn-Air, Kenmore, KitchenAid; without icemaker: Kenmore, LG, Amana

Repair Prone Brands: GE

Refrigerator (Top-Freezer)

• Repair: Years 1-3
• Consider Repair: Years 4-6
• Replace: Years 7-8
• Replacement Range: $500-$900
• Median Replacement: $700
• Repair Cost: $168
• Satisfaction with Repair: 3 (Expensive)

Percentage of three- to four-year-old products that broke: 28% with icemaker; 15% without icemaker

Reliable Brands: With icemaker: Whirlpool, Kenmore, Frigidaire; without icemaker: Whirlpool, Frigidaire

Repair Prone Brands: Maytag

Vacuum Cleaner (Full-Sized Canister)

• Repair: Years 1-5
• Consider Repair: Years 6-8
• Replacement Range: $200-$600
• Median Replacement: $400
• Repair Cost: $70
• Satisfaction with Repair: 3

Percentage of three- to four-year-old products that broke: 18%

Reliable Brands: Rainbow, Dyson

Repair Prone Brands: Electrolux

Vacuum Cleaner (Full-Size Upright)

• Repair: Years 1-3
• Consider Repair: Years 4-6
• Replace: Years 7-8
• Replacement Range: $70-$400
• Median Replacement: $235
• Repair Cost: $60
• Satisfaction with Repair: 3 (Bad job)

Percentage of three- to four-year-old products that broke: 14%

Reliable Brands: Kirby, Kenmore, Dyson, Dirt Devil

Repair Prone Brands: Simplicity

Wall Oven (Electric)

• Repair: Years 1-3
• Consider Repair: Years 4-6
• Replace: Years 7-8
• Replacement Range: $800-$2,000
• Median Replacement: $1,000
• Repair Cost: $239
• Satisfaction with Repair: 3 (Expensive, Hard to get parts, & Took too long)

Percentage of three- to four-year-old products that broke: 16%

Reliable Brands: Frigidaire, GE, Kenmore

Repair Prone Brands: Thermador, Jenn-Air

Washing Machine (Front-Loader)

• Repair: Years 1-3
• Consider Repair: Years 4-6
• Replace: Years 7-8
• Replacement Range: $650-$1,200
• Median Replacement: $750
• Repair Cost: $176
• Satisfaction with Repair: 3

Percentage of three- to four-year-old products that broke: 25%

Reliable Brands: LG

Repair Prone Brands: None

Washing Machine (Top-Loader)

• Repair: Years 1-3
• Consider Repair: Years 4-5
• Replace: Years 6-8
• Replacement Range: $400-$900
• Median Replacement: $500
• Repair Cost: $143
• Satisfaction with Repair: 3

Percentage of three- to four-year-old products that broke: 20%

Reliable Brands: Roper, Amana

Repair Prone Brands: Fisher & Paykel

Have you ever had any problems with your appliances?  Do you have any preferable brands?  Share with us on our Facebook wall at “McNaughton Real Estate.”  You can help others decide which brands to buy and which ones to avoid.

-David Tyler Mills

Being from Southeast Arkansas, I remember my friends and I were always encouraged to go outside and play.  Our parents were concerned that we were spending entirely too much time playing Nintendo and not enough time enjoying nature.  It wasn’t until our parents bought us bikes that we really had an interest in the great outdoors.  Afterwards, my friends and I would be caught throughout the neighborhood building clubhouses out of anything you could imagine—haystacks, fallen trees and brush, rotted 2-by-4’s—nothing was safe from being used as supplies for our little colonies. 

Our parents were thrilled we were finally playing outside, but believe it or not, our clubhouses were not the most pleasant structures to the eyes.  Honestly, they were eye sores.  My parents loathed the idea of stifling our creative by deconstructing our ugly creations; however, they didn’t want their home to look like a tornado hit it either.

Wouldn’t it be nice to have something to inspire creative for your children, add value to your home, and be aesthetically pleasing?  Scot Meyer of SwitchYard Media came up with a list of 10 kid-spoiling home additions that could rock your kid’s world and potential increase the value of your home.  Some of these additions may require having deep pockets, but I’m sure you can use your own imagination to create your own inexpensive variations of these additions.

Secret Entrances

Even though this first addition won’t encourage your child to play outside, secret entrances throughout my house would successfully fulfill my inner James Bond.  Creative Home Engineering specializes in building secret corridors that are concealed behind bookcases and staircases.  Kids nowadays are really interested in the Harry Potter series and would really appreciate projects such as these.  Most of these projects are for children 8 and order and cost from $8,000 to $10,000 when done professionally.

In-Ground Trampolines

A company suitably called In-Ground Trampolines specializes in, you guessed it, in-ground trampolines.  This idea offers aesthetic and practical advantages such as reducing the risk of injury.  Since these trampolines are flushed with your lawn, you won’t have a jarring ornament protruding in your yard.  These trampolines are suitable for children 6 and older and cost $1,550 for the trampoline and $800 to $1,800 for a professional landscaper. 

Outdoor Theaters

Have any thespians or rock stars at your home?  Then, give them a stage to showcase their talents to the world or at least their neighborhood.  Theaters, such as a stained redwood theater like the one built by Barbara Butler Artist-Builder Inc., can add value to your home.  Their 12-by-9-foot rectangular stages have front and side walls with a curtain rod.  Outdoor theaters are suitable for all ages, and this company charged $29,920 for this magnificent platform. 

Backyard Skate Park

One sport that doesn’t pass too many parent’s minds as being one of the fastest growing sports is skateboarding.  If you don’t prefer the one at Wilson Park, then companies like Rampage LLC sell grind rails for $150 and half-pipes starting at $2,510.  An effective way to increase the value of your home is to have a company such as Pillar Design Studios LLC to create a custom skateable bowl that doubles as a pool.  A 1,500-square-foot bowl runs for about $45,000 and are suited for ages 6 and older under adult supervision. 

Rock-Climbing Walls

After watching 127 hours, this next addition may not be ideal for many moms, but rock-climbing walls are excellent for exercise.  For do-it-yourselfers, AtomikClimbingHolds.com shows a variety of ways to build a safe climbing wall.  Utah-based Spectrum Sports Int’l has experience in creating climbing boulders that have 31 linear feet of climbing surface, a 4-foot arch, and a 14-foot tube slide through the center of the boulder.  This addition is suitable for children 5 and older, and this structure costs $9,799.

Treehouses

It’s hard to beat an old fashion treehouse.  Of course, treehouses today are so elaborate that you could probably rent them out.  As a matter of fact, Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes reportedly bought a $100,000 treehouse, complete with running water, electricity, nannies, and security cameras.  Companies such as Barbara Butler Artist-builder Inc. can construct a 30-square-foot treehouse 7 feet off the ground, which include windows, a deck, a ladder, and a fire pole.  It is recommended for ages 10 and older and costs $38,870. 

Wall Aquariums

Thanks to movies such as “Finding Nemo” and upcoming movie “A Dolphin’s Tale,” children have become fascinated with aquatic life.  Aquariums don’t only provide beautiful vocal points for a room but also spark interest for children interested in marine biology as well as teaching them responsibility.  For a couple hundred dollars, you can buy a regular, table-top tank.  Infinity’s designs create gorgeous wall aquariums starting around $10,000 and range to six figures, suitable for all children.

Swimming Pools

No surprise here.  All the cool kid’s parents have a pool.  Pools are great for entertaining guests and kids and perfect for escaping the heat.  Depending on the quality of the pool, prices vary from a $249 above-ground pool from Wal-Mart to an in-ground pool that costs between $20,000 and $45,000.  According to the National Association of Realtors, an in-ground pool can add as much as 8% to the value of a home.

Playhouses

Maybe a treehouse is too dangerous and an outdoor theater is lacking more involvement, but a playhouse has everything to spoil your kids.  It’s capable to encompass most of the previous additions depending on how elaborate you want it.  Barbara Butler Artist-Builder Inc. customized a towering play fort for $119,940.  I know we all have that lying around.  If you don’t, then HomePlace Structures will build an 8-by-9-foot play cottage with flower boxes, two dormers, and two windows with shutters and screens.  Their playhouse costs $3,199 and is suitable for all ages.

Garden Railroads

Bring a little bit of magic into your garden by constructing an outdoor train set.  Kids love trains; ask Thomas the Tank Engine.  Actually the other day I had a hard time visiting with some friends at Chili’s from watching a train loop around the restaurant.  Basic train sets costs a few hundred dollars.  Train set expert Nancy Norris offers to customize bigger projects starting at $2,000 for do-it-yourselfers, but some projects can reach up to $100,000.  I would just buy my own train engine and call it a playhouse for that much.  

Hopefully, this blog can help stimulate some ideas for creating your own unique additions.  Let us know what you think.  Share on our Facebook page “McNaughton Real Estate” if you have some great ideas for an addition to your home that your kids would love.  You can also preview pictures of the most elobrate additions from this list on our Facebook page.  Don't forget to "Like" us!

-David Tyler Mills