Your Tulsa OK home is going to be one of the largest, if not the largest investment to be made in your lifetime. How can you ensure that you get the best deductions when it comes to taxes? This is a source of confusion for many home owners.

The Tulsa OK home that you own will allow a variety of ways to benefit from savings when it comes to filing your taxes. The interest rate you pay on a mortgage and the taxes for real estate are two places you can save. Even if you do not plan on getting a refund, the amount you will owe can be reduced.

The best way to find out what taxes and credits you are eligible for is by checking on a few tips. Here are a few that you may qualify for that could result in a substantial savings.

1) Do you itemize deductions? If so, there are now two forms available for itemizing the deductions for your Tulsa OK home. The newest Schedule L is an addition to the schedules for 2009. Although many people use Schedule A, this one can be used instead.

Since only about 1/3 of tax payers itemize, the use of this schedule replaces the old Schedule A and allows homeowners who do not itemize a higher standard deduction. Single taxpayers can add $500 to their deduction and married taxpayers may add $1000. This was designed to cover state taxes that you may have paid over the previous year.

2) In addition, if your Tulsa OK home is located in an area that was declared a federal disaster area, Schedule L can be used to report this loss. After using Form 4684 to figure the amount of your loss, it is added to Schedule L.

3) Interest on the mortgage for your Tulsa OK home is also tax deductible. The definition of home is quite flexible. As long as it contains the amenities of a normal home, it is considered a qualified home. This includes toilet, eating and sleeping accommodations.

When you claim the interest on a mortgage you must itemize your deductions. The amount of the mortgage payment must be secured to get this deduction, but if you use the loan for something other than buying a home, improving an existing home or building one, only the first $100,000 is allowable for deducting interest. 

4) Let’s not forget - Uncle Sam has offered some credit to those who choose to make their Tulsa OK home more energy efficient. The improvements you made that are for the purpose of decreasing the cost of heating and air conditioning. The credits that can be deducted are 30% of the cost you spent to upgrade to energy efficient products.

The credit for certain improvements are not subject to the 30% deduction. Insulation and windows are a $1500 credit instead of 30%. The best form to get for these deductions is Form 5695.

If you are like most people today, you need to take the tax deductions and credits for your Tulsa OK home. The economy is such that saving money whenever you can is necessary. Although these are only a few of the tips you need to save on your home, there are more available if you take the time to look them up. IRS publication 17 may be very helpful.

As your Tulsa OK realtor I am proud to announce the Tulsa Air and Rocket Racing show which will take place April 24, 2010. Preceding the show on April 23 will be the Aviator Ball. It will be at the Tulsa Air and Space Museum from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.

The Aviator Ball is part of the fund raising activities for the Tulsa Air and Space Museum. The ball will consist of dinner, an air show and a live band as well as an auction. Bids will be received for flights in military jets and WWII aircraft from the military.

The Air and Rocket show is guaranteed to be a great time for everyone with the numerous events that are scheduled. As your Tulsa OK realtor, I would invite everyone to come out and have a good time. The gates will open at 9:30 a.m. on the 24th and the first air act will be at noon.

Air acts will include several from the local area as well as military planes. Local Randy Harris will be flying a Skybolt 300 and will show his skills as an aerobatic flyer at the Tulsa Air and Space Museum. Another local, Paul Jennings will demonstrate his prowess in the air without the use of an engine. Paul is a National Champion aerobatic glider pilot.

A real treat from nearby Collinsville, OK will be Greg Shelton and Ashley Battles. They will be performing daredevil feats with Greg piloting the plane and Ashley performing outside the plane. Tulsa OK realtors encourage everyone to come out and support the local talent.

Military representing the Marines, Air Force, Army and Navy will be in the air showing the power of the military aircraft. This will include electronic warfare, cargo and military fighter planes. The Tulsa Warbirds will be providing aerial entertainment with high speed flybys. This will include fighter planes such as the T-28, B-25, P-51 and T-6 to name a few.

Rocket racing will begin at 3 p.m. on the 24th with the Rocket Racing League. The league consists of highly proficient airplane pilots that will give spectators a glimpse into the future of racing. The league will perform their latest in sky adventures which includes aerobatic maneuvers while at the same time managing a rocket powered flight which includes gliding and boosting.

If you are ready for a great day, this Tulsa OK realtor recommends taking the family and heading for the Tulsa Air and Space Museum. The morning can be spent checking out the Rocket Racing League tent, walking the displays and vendors will be on site at this time. The events will begin at noon and run approximately until 5 p.m. This is going to be an extraordinary event for young and old.

Tickets will be available the day of the show; however they may be purchased at a discount rate online or at participating Arvest Bank branches in advance. All money earned with benefit the Tulsa Air and Space Museum’s educational and stimulating programs that are open year round Tuesday through Sunday.

Bixby OK is a community that believes education is one of the most valuable tools available. They have been supporting the schools in Bixby for years and understand that expansion and investment are necessary for the continuation of excellent education.

As proponents of the benefits education can provide, they are living proof. 76% of all Bixby residents are homeowners. This shows the ability to generate an income that can support the purchase and continuing ownership of homes that are in affluent neighborhoods.

Community should be involved in the schools and is encouraged. The continued belief that parents should be involved in and support the schools is what makes this Bixby OK school system function as well as it has and continues to do.

This is another reason the Board of Education believes the retention of well qualified staff members is essential to providing educational excellence. Not only do the teachers have to be highly competent, but they must be caring as well.

Another essential element of the Bixby schools is the Bixby Education Endowment Foundation. They are the backbone behind the community, the teachers and the students. With grants made possible through donations, teachers can further their education. In addition providing funding for music, art, math, science and reading, the funds have supplied sports equipment, microscopes, portable computer labs and much more for the students.

This is just another example of the way this community stands behind the opportunities that are available to provide an investment in the future of the children. By involving area businesses in this effort, the opportunity for matching funds for every dollar that is donated helps to provide the support that is helping the Bixby schools to excel.

The Bixby OK real estate area is one of the places in the nation that people can feel safe raising their children. The public schools have made education a priority while ensuring that the children are in a safe learning environment. This is no small task considering they are responsible for 4600 students in a district of 100 square miles.

The key to remaining in the top spots for state as well as national honors in education is the curriculum they believe is exactly right. Bixby OK schools emphasis is on the basic skills of Science, Mathematics, Social Studies, Reading and English as well as the preparedness for the technological advances we are experiencing today.

In addition, accessible by many grades are the arts, technology, business, agriculture, foreign language, music and education in technical and vocational fields. A well-rounded choice in education benefits many more students is one of the beliefs that has proven a success when it comes to the Bixby, OK schools.

Community involvement is another strong belief in this area of Oklahoma. Only recently a $33 million bond issue was approved by residents of Bixby to continue on the positive education path they have chosen. The bond made possible the addition of a modern classroom for science at the high school, a highly advanced computer room, the 6th grade classrooms were completed and phase II at the 5th/ 6th grade center at Bixby North.

Downtown Tulsa OK events includes the area's largest outdoor holiday celebration with Arvest Winterfest, which began Nvember 27th and runs through January 4th, 2010.  Open daily (excluding Christmas) there have been some major enhancements added this year with the new location on Third Street in front of the BOK Center between Denver and Frisco Avenues, a larger (60' x 150') ice skating rink, an even bigger tree, and a warming and hospitality tent too.

Oklahoma's tallest Christmas Tree is also on display - an enormous 44' tree with 35,700 sparkling lights, almost 110,000 indivdual tips and a base diameter of nearly 30'!  A great spot for holiday picture taking!

There are weekly promotions happening to entice families from around the area to take advantage of the great community gathering place during the holidays - regular prices are $8 with skate rental and $5 with your own skates (children 3 and under are $5) to skate, but Monday's are half price with a donation of a non-perishable can of food for the Community Food Bank of Eastern Oklahoma.  Tuesday's you may also skate for half price with the donation of a new unwrapped toy for the Salvation Army's holiday toy drive. 

Stay all day with the available treats and rides Winterfest has to offer too, such as gingerbread lattes, Polish sausages, eggnog, warm apple cider, smore's and gingerbread men, along with an old-fashioned horse and carriage ride through downtown.

Also, each Thursday evening and Sunday afternoon during the Arvest Wintervest, the Tulsa Figure Skating Club will be performing at the Arvest Ice Rink, free of charge.

Tomorrow, December 12th, the annual PSO Holiday Parade of Lights will take to the streets, with a brand new route starting in Downtown Tulsa and making its way down Denver Avenue to just in front of Arvest Winterfest.  Bring your chairs and blankets and enjoy the wonderfully decorated floats, marching bands, dance teams and giant helium balloons.  Afterwards, you can make your way over to arena to watch the Tulsa Oilers against the Texas Brahmas hockey game that starts at 7:35 p.m.

Whatever you do this weekend in Tulsa, I hope you enjoy with friends and family - let me know what new holiday traditions you introduced to your family this year!

Sights, sounds and activities - it's all here in Tulsa, OK this Christmas 2009 season.  Get out there and enjoy the many splendors that this fantastic city has to offer!

Christmas Lights and Parades:

December 1-31, 2009 from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. Lights in the Park at Tulsa River Parks. For more information visit http://riverparks.org.

December 12, 2009 at 9:30 a.m. Owasso Christmas Parade. Location:  Main Street. For more information visit http://www.owassochamber.com.

Activities:

December 7, 2009 from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. YMCA Holiday Gala & Auction. Location:  Marriott Southern Hills. Come join us for a holiday get together and auction to benefit the YMCA. For more information call 587-2100 or visit http://www. ywcatulsa.org.

December 12, 2009 at 8 a.m.  Jingle Bell Run. Come and join us for a run or a walk to benefit the Arthritis Foundation. For more information visit http://www.arthritis.org/chapters/eastern-oklahoma/jbr.php.

December 13, 2009. Lebanese Christmas Luncheon and Baked Food Sale. Location:  Therese Maronite Catholic Church. Delicious meal and joyful people coming to celebrate. Santa will be here! Prices are $10-$15. For more information call 918-260-2962.

December 13, 2009 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. A Day in Bethlehem. Location:  Kirk of the Hills. Come and join us for some family activities! For more information visit http://www.thekirk.com.

This month will leave you anything but bored. There is so much to do this month that you are sure to find plenty. Your only dilemma will be which one to do first!

Plays and Shows:

December 3-12, 2009. The Santaland Diaries. Location:  The Tulsa Performing Arts Center. ShowTime's and prices vary. For more information call (918) 596-7122 or visit http://www.tulsapac.com.

December 4, 2009-January 2, 2010. Frost on Winter:  A Juried Art Exhibit. Location:  Tulsa Artists Coalition in Tulsa. Exhibit hours vary depending on the day. For more information call 592-0041 or visit http://www.tacgallery.org.

December 7, 2009-December 23, 2009. "I am Tulsa too" exhibit. Location:  Loose Leaf Paper Company in Tulsa. Hours vary.

December 10-12, 2009 at 8 p.m. and December 13, 2009 at 2 p.m. Rodgers & Hammerstein's Cinderella:  The classical story of the overworked Cinderella who spends her days daydreaming only to finally get her wish in the end. Location:  Broken Arrow Community Playhouse. For more information call 258-0077 or visit http://www.bacptheatre.com.

December 10-12, 2009. Tulsa Farm Show. Location:  Expo Square-Quik Trip Center. Hours vary depending on the day. Free parking. Free admission. For more information call (507) 437-7969 or visit http://www.farmshowsusa.com.

December 10-23, 2009. A Christmas Carol:  The classic story of Scrooge. Location:  Tulsa PAC. Showtimes and prices vary depending on the day. For more information visit http://www.tulsapac.com.

December 11, 2009. Trans-Siberian Orchestra in Concert. Location:  BOK Center. Prices vary. For more information visit http://bokcenter.com.

December 12-20, 2009. The Nutcracker presented by the Tulsa Ballet. Location:  Tulsa Performing Arts Center. Prices and times vary. For more information visit http://tulsaballet.org.

December 31, 2009 at 7 p.m. Gallagher with B.B. King and John Fannell. Location:  Osage Event Center. Prices vary. For more information visit http://www.mabeecenter.com.

When trying to find a great area to live in, many people want to know about the available school system, the projected home appreciation values and most of all, the security of raising a family. Within Tulsa, OK real estate and other areas across North America, it is not often that entertainment is factored in because many people are used to driving downtown to attend a concert or major event. Movie theaters are slowly being replaced by home delivery and kiosks. Shopping is still reserved for the mall and grocery stores are coupled with retail outlets. Entertainment is usually the last on a list of necessities.

The SpiritBank Event Center in Tulsa, OK is unique in its design and where it's located. No more driving downtown and fighting one way streets, traveling to South Tulsa will give you all the amenities that you want and need. Shopping, dinning and most of all, a place to attend concerts, events, and if you are looking for space the banquet rooms are perfect.

The SpiritBank Event Center was built on a design that would allow residents of South Tulsa to experience first class retailers without traveling downtown. The nostalgia has worn off and downtown just cannot offer what South Tulsa can. Not only does it service Bixby and other surrounding areas it serves as a hot spot for future conventions and proposed business ventures.

When trying to allure potential buyers to an area there has to be a draw, a solid base of education was the major factor but buyers are looking for more, a lot more. When it comes to family events you want a place that is close and offers everything you want. Nobody wants to drive an hour to have fun, the need for an establishment that gives South Tulsa a better choice can be found at the SpiritBank Event Center.

The shopping that surrounds the area is every growing and retailers all want to be on the list where the most traffic is being seen. Just like a potential home owner who wants certain luxuries a retailer wants their business to be on the list of home owners who live in that area.

The Regal Plaza shopping area is perfectly laid out so that shoppers who want to shop can without convention traffic as a hurdle. The SpiritBank Event center sets off Memorial and has a spacious parking garage to hold vehicles when a major concert or event is taking place. There is no parking shortage because of the smart planning. The marquee that allows for drivers to see upcoming events is well lit and when you're stopped at the stoplight you can read about who is coming in concert.

Located on 105^th and Memorial the SpiritBank Event Center is far enough from the highway but close enough for you make that short drive so you can enjoy the entertainment that South Tulsa has to offer. If you want to make it a weekend to remember the Hampton Inn and Suites are located close by for your convenience.

The Auberge community in Bixby, OK is a private gated community, with Old World design that offers a relaxing and secure lifestyle for active singles, couples and those that just don't care much for yard work. With professional landscaping, energy efficiency, security and advanced technologies, The Auberge homes are low maintenance cottage villas that offer 1,500 to 2,600 square feet, in a variety of floor-plans.

The Bixby OK real estate area lifestyle includes professional landscaped front yards and streetscape, offering residents a no maintenance front yard that involves no resident upkeep. The homeowner association takes care of the yard work, so you can enjoy a great front yard without the effort. Energy efficiency means low utility bills and the homes feature extra insulation, high efficiency heating and cooling systems, in addition to tightly sealed air ducts and energy efficient windows. Since you save on utilities, you have more money for your fun and relaxing lifestyle.

Security and home automation or SmartHome technology means your Auberge home is equipped with a security alarm system and it is pre-wired for the optional home automation systems that allow you to set the preferences for your lighting and security system coordination settings. The entire community is a security gated and private access community for additional safety.

The community clubhouse is one of the fun features of the neighborhood that includes a gourmet kitchen, luxurious swimming pool with waterfall, a patio with grill and fireplace, meeting room, plasma television and indoor fireplace, making it a great year round place for community fun with friends and family.

Speaking of fun, the Auberge Golf Association membership allows you exclusive member rights at the nearby White Hawk Golf course and the amenities the 18-hole, par 72 golf course has to offer. The landscape features include waterfalls, Bermuda fairways and bent grass greens.

The Old World style cottages come in the Clery, which is a 2 bedroom, 2 bath, 2 car garage, with 1,865 square foot model that sells for $234,500 currently and includes upgrades like fireplace, granite countertops, full masonry exteriors and Energy Star certified systems and appliances. Presently, for $257,500, you can get an optional 3^rd bedroom to use as a game-room or an additional bedroom and a 3^rd bath for 2,210 square feet.

The Giverny models currently start at $247,900 for 1,631 square feet and feature 2 bedrooms, 2 baths, 2 car garage and formal dining room or for approximately $271,500 you can upgrade to the 3^rd bedroom or flex-room and 3^rd bathroom model at 2,508 square feet.

The Provence model has 1,631 square feet at approximately $209,900 and features 2 bedrooms and a flex room, 2 baths, 2 car garage and still features the granite countertops and a covered patio and porch with no maintenance, full masonry exterior. With beautiful French Country architecture and copper accents, all of the homes offer everything that carefree, active adults would need to live in luxury, yet low maintenance exteriors and landscaping to eliminate worry.  They offer plenty of room for an active lifestyle.

One of the great things about Bixby OK real estate and the quality of life that comes with it is that it has a quiet town feel to it. The quality of life allows residents to feel safe while going about their daily lives. The amenities are comfortable enough that you get a feel for everything you need in one area. It's like having it all and not having to share it with anybody.

Bixby, Oklahoma sets just far enough off the beaten path that you can enjoy a quieter type of life. The school system is second to none and when it comes to a public education parents want the best for their kids. Since Bixby, OK is in Wagoner County of Tulsa the taxes for home owners isn't felt as much as other Tulsa areas. Its one suburb that attracts people who want a different way of life than what the city has to offer.

Shopping is close with major retailers and minor stores that allow residents to get what they need without all the hassle. Many local people patronize their local merchants to help keep their core of Bixby, OK thriving. It has been voted as one of the best places to live because of the friendliness of the people who live there and when you visit you'll understand why.

With only 24 square miles of land Bixby, OK has plenty of room for everybody. The recreation in Bixby, OK allows you plenty of choices. Whether you want to fish, watch some great football or just have a picnic at one of the four parks, you can attend each with the family and create some lasting memories.

If entertainment is your pastime then Bixby, OK has that covered as well. The Starworld 20 has first run movies with state of the art sound, when a new movie hits the screen you can guarantee Bixby, OK has it at Dickenson Theaters. This facility is located at 103^rd S and South Memorial Drive.

Because community is what makes us neighbors there are several year round events that bring Bixby, OK real estate residents together. Starting in March is the Arbor Day Celebration; April hosts the Miss Scholarship Pageant while May and June give way to the BBQ and Green Corn Festival.

When it gets cooler the Arts and Crafts Fair and Pumpkin Festival helps to round out the fall season When you want to get out and enjoy some exercise you have a lot of choices, besides the parks where you can spend with family and friends you can also narrow down your choice of sport. Whether it's swimming at the pool at Bixby High School or playing tennis at Quail Creek Park the option is there. If you like golf Bixby, OK has two challenging courses, one is located at The Links apartment complex or you can play Whitehawk.

Bixby's library is serviced by the Tulsa City-County Library system so you can have materials sent to your local branch, no need to spend time anywhere else. Restaurants are plentiful in Bixby, OK. If you've got a craving for it they most likely have it. The staples of Tulsa can be found in Bixby, OK.

Bixby, Oklahoma is one of the fastest growing communities in the State. Just 15 miles from South Tulsa, the bedroom community offers small town hospitality and safety, yet offers convenience. Part of the reason that families are moving to the Bixby, OK real estate area is because of the Parks & Recreation in Bixby, OK, which offers options for family recreation. This is a great community to raise a family or a great opportunity to live in a community that values recreation for every age group.

Lake Bixhoma offers two boat ramps, picnic areas with charcoal grills and fire pits and has scenic walking trails for a fun day in nature. If you like to fish, you can catch and keep 5 catfish over 10 inches per day, 5 bass under 13 and over 23 inches and 5 crappie over ten inches per day. Located just 5 miles southeast of Bixby, you can purchase daily fishing or boating permits for $2 or an annual permit for $10, which makes it an affordable way to have fun and enjoy the nature of Leonard Mountain and Bixby. For a fun family outing that is just a few minutes from home, Lake Bixhoma is a great option.

Bentley Park is a 147 acre park and sports complex that features two quads each of baseball and softball, an international soccer field with 12 youth soccer fields, sand volleyball, Arkansas river walking trails and a super playground with splash pad and horseshoe pits for the adults. Starting out as 47 acres, the 100 acres of the Keas Sports Complex has enlarged the park to be one of the best youth parks in Oklahoma.

The annual BBQ and Music festival is held at the 32.5 acre Washington Irving Park that features a quiet picnic areas, a butterfly garden, amphitheater and wooded walking trails in the peaceful serenity of nature that includes memorials to children of the Murrah Building and the World Trade Center victims.

Charley Young Park is a small neighborhood park that features a gazebo for musicians or weddings and it is the site of the annual Green Corn festival. The playground is a popular place for neighborhood children. Quail Creek Park features 2 lighted tennis courts, picnic areas, playground and is a small park that also features a barbeque grill for family barbeques.

When it comes to youth sporting organizations, Bixby, Oklahoma has a number of choices for your youth:

• Bixby Youth Football, Home of the Future Spartans at 918-366-3500
• Bixby Youth Soccer, 918-366-6456
• Bixby Youth Baseball, 918-366-9600
• Bixby Youth Wrestling Club, 918-366-8120
• Whitney Ford Basketball, 918-365-9322
• Bixby Youth Cheerleading, 918-365-1187
• Bixby Girls Softball, 918-366-2603
• Fun Time Dance and Gymnastics, 918-369-3623
• Bixby Community Center, 918-366-4841 offer boxing, youth cheerleading, dance, gymnastics and martial arts
• Daily Family YMCA, 918-369-9622 offers youth cheerleading, flag football, baseball, gymnastics and tumbling, martial arts, and swimming

When you are looking for a great community to raise your family, or just enjoy family values and recreation, the Bixby, Oklahoma real estate area offers some of the best parks and recreational opportunities for small town living and a safe, secure and happy lifestyle.

People who are in the know about wildlife attractions are well aware of the national attention that has been given to the Tulsa Zoo.  This Midwestern landmark is considered to be one of the best zoos in the world. The setting for this city owned Zoo is an 84 acre paradise located inside Mohawk Park. Today Oklahoma is recognized for being home to one of the nation's Top State Zoos. The current rankings place Oklahoma at number 12 among states with top animal attractions.

When you consider that Oklahoma has a state population well under 4 million residents this makes their national ranking all the more impressive.

At the Tulsa Zoo there are almost 3,000 animals in residence. There are more than 500 different animal species at this zoo and this includes many that are on the endangered lists. Annual attendance is in excess of 500,000 and almost 40% of all visitors are from states other than Oklahoma.

Take a look at some of the exhibits that you will find here at this great Tulsa OK real estate area attraction:

• Tulsa Zoo Presents the Robert J. LaFortune North American Living Museum

This zoo complex is housed in a total of 4 buildings and it was honored as the best of all new zoo exhibits when the Museum made its debut in 1978.

There is a specific North American region represented in each of these 4 buildings.

• Arctic Tundra
• Southwest Desert
• Eastern Forest,
• Southern Lowlands (also known as the Southern wetlands)

Guests can come to the zoo and wander through the many exhibits that are displayed. These exhibits include live plants and animals. ancient North American artifacts once used by Native American tribes, rocks, minerals and fossils. There is even a realistic cave to explore, a stunning shark aquarium and an exhibit that lets you experience the sounds and motion of a simulated earthquake.

• Explore a Real Tropical American Rain Forest Environment

When you come to this building you are treated to realistic interpretation of the rain forest environments that exist in Central and South America. This one exhibit is reason enough for the Tulsa Zoo to be awarded a top rating.

There are translucent overhead panels that simulate the same type of lighting that is found in a living rain forest. Visitors follow a path that meanders through this mysterious and enchanting setting.

You can see sloths, jaguars, monkeys and enormous anacondas living in habitats that closely mimic their natural environments. The birds of the rainforest are allowed to fly about and are not kept in any type of cages.

• Interactive Exhibits Abound at the Helmerich Discovery Center

This is one of the most popular sites at the Tulsa Zoo complex. There is a Living Reef exhibit that captivates all viewers. Guests are also treated to a number of interactive opportunities in "Nature's Attic" that opens their eyes to the wonderful world of nature. You can visit the Oklahoma Room where the exhibits contain only representatives of the state's native fish and wildlife population.

• Exciting Elephant Demonstrations

The elephants at the Tulsa Zoo have a 2½-acre expanse of land on which they can roam. There are some indoor and outdoor spaces that allow guests to get some unobtrusive, close up views of these majestic animals safely.

• Tulsa Zoo is Famous for their Chimpanzee Connection Exhibit

If you have never had the fun of seeing chimpanzees at play this is the section of the Zoo where you will want to come and hang out. These mammals have an indoor playground as well as an outdoor enclosure and you will have a front row view so you can follow the action of these playful and intelligent creatures.

• Additional Zoo Features

There are many other exciting exhibits to discover including the Penguin habitat, the California Sea Lion Shows, the Dave Zucconi Conservation Center, and a Children's Zoo. Visitors also have the opportunity to check out the African Safari site and the Asian Animal exhibit when they make Tulsa Zoo one of their vacation destinations.

What Makes Tulsa Zoo Unique

When the Tulsa Zoo was being planned there was a push to integrate specific ideals into the project such as humane treatment of all animals; innovative exhibits and the creation of the finest environment for each of the zoo's residents. It was also important for the staff to learn how to educate the public about natural sciences, environmental concerns, and animal conservation policies.

These goals and ideals continue to be part of the mission statement of Tulsa Zoo. There is little wonder why many people often refer to this Oklahoma attraction as a role model for other zoos to study and emulate.

If you are looking for the top things to do in Tulsa, then look no further than the Philbrook Museum of Art. 

Are you currently planning an upcoming trip to look for Tulsa OK homes for sale?  If so, I would highly recommend that while taking a break from the home viewing, you visit the Philbrook Museum of Art while you are there.  The Philbrook Museum of Art is a top Tulsa Attraction, and it is very popular with out of town tourists as well as with the locals.  As a matter of fact, on a weekly basis this particular museum sees hundreds of visitors!  One of the reasons that the Philbrook Museum of Art is so popular is that there is an abundance of exhibits and activities here that are designed to appeal to people of all ages, so this is truly a place that the entire family can enjoy together.

If you happen to visit the Philbrook Museum of Art during either the spring of summer months, you will want to be sure to take a stroll through the Philbrook Gardens.  The plants, flowers and sculptures here are truly a sight to behold as they are all absolutely gorgeous!  Another advantage of visiting the Philbrook Gardens is that you can elect to participate in a free audio tour in which you can learn all about the life of the Phillips family (for whom the museum was originally named after).  

Also, while visiting the Philbrook Museum of Art, I would highly recommend that you check out their gift shop as well as their elegant la Villa Restaurant.  The food at this restaurant is simply superb, and the service by the wait staff here is truly exceptional.  The museum gift shop has an excellent selection of books, art objects and miscellaneous other items to choose from, making this a fantastic place to purchase gifts either for yourself or for others (Christmas is less than two months away!). 

The Philbrook Museum of Art has a general admission charge of $7.50 per person.  However, students, groups of ten people or more and seniors can purchase discounted tickets at a rate of just $5.50 per person.  This museum's hours of operation are generally Tuesday through Sunday from 10:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M.  However, they are closed on Mondays, and they offer extended hours on Thursday until 8:00 P.M.  The Philbrook Museum of Art is closed for certain holidays as well including Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year's Day and Independence Day.  

Each 2nd Saturday of November and December 2009 is Free Family Day at the Philbrook Museum of Art!  Open 10:30 a.m. - 4 p.m., who can say no to Free?!

Thank you for taking the time to read this blog, and I hope that you and your family have a wonderful time while visiting the Philbrook Museum of Art!

To learn more about the Tulsa Community please visit my blog for more information.

If you are looking for some interesting and enjoying dining opportunities while you are in Tulsa (whether visiting, searching for tulsa real estate or just looking for a new hot spot to hit), you might want to try out these top 5 places to eat in Tulsa. We've done a little research and discovered some dynamite spots. We're here to tell you a little bit about what you'll find and why we think you'll like it. So take your pick from our top 5!

• Knotty Pine Barbeque

If you love barbeque, you're going to love Knotty Pine! Located on 3301 W 5th Street in Tulsa, this is casual dining at its best. Open 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. every day, you'll find an average meal will run you about $10. You'll want to try the Barbeque meal deal, one of Knotty Pine's most popular dishes, includes beef ribs with two sides, baked beans and potato salad.

We tried out a half order of "assorted" that included a rib, pork, hot links, beef brisket and bologna that came with yummy potato salad and cherry cobbler for dessert. The barbeque sauce was sweet and tangy all at the same time and absolutely the best I've ever had. We left totally stuffed and completely satisfied.

• Nordaggio's Coffee

Nordiaggio's is the place to go if you love coffee. Located on 8156 S. Lewis Avenue in Tulsa, Nordiaggio's offers specialty coffee drinks and quiet conversation. Relax to instrumental music and catch up with friends while sipping on your favorite latte. The average price is $4.

Nordiaggio's Coffee is open Sunday through Thursday from 7 a.m. to midnight and Friday and Saturday 7 a.m. to 1 a.m. We tried their trademark drink, called the "Big Train", and it was excellent! Staff was friendly and the atmosphere was great. Can't wait to go back!

• Weber's Superior Root Beer Stand

If you're looking for a hamburger to die for, you have got to go to Weber's. Located on 3817 South Peoria Avenue in Tulsa, Weber's has been around since 1933. That tells you just how good it is! It's the oldest drive-in restaurant in the city and is famous for its home made natural root beer.

Open Monday through Saturday, 11.am. to 8 p.m. we found our visit to Weber's delightfully delicious. The root beer was incredible. We tried their famous hamburger and old-fashioned hand-cut French fries and they were exceptional. Eating at a drive-in is always fun. The average meal is $5.00.

• The Hideaway

The Hideaway is one of the area's best pizzeria. Locally owned it is located on 1503 E. 15^th St. in Tulsa. Eat inside or out, the menu offers a selection of pastas and fresh salads in addition to its outstanding pizza.

We found their pizza to be everything everyone said it is. Perfectly spiced and a perfect crust, it was pizza just the way I like it. The atmosphere was great too. Open Sunday through Thursday from 11:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 11:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., if you don't feel like dining in, they deliver too. Expect to pay about $9.00 a meal.

• The French Hen

If you have a yen for fine dining, you will definitely want to try The French Hen. Offering French-American cuisine it has tons of ambiences. Dine in or out, you'll be swept away but their unique menu. Choose from Australian lamb and New Zealand elk and a very extensive wine list. My favorite dish is the duck. It comes with a choice of peppercorn or sweet fruit sauce. I tried the sweet fruit sauce and it was outstanding.

Located on 7143 S. Yale Avenue in Tulsa, it is open Monday through Thursday for lunch from 11: 00 a.m. to 2 p.m. and for dinner from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m.  On Saturday the dining hours are 4 p.m. to 11 p.m. and Sunday Brunch from 10:00 am. to 2 p.m. and Sunday Dinner from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.  Expect to pay on average $24 per meal.

If you have a favorite place to eat in Tulsa that you think should have been included here, please let me know! 

To learn more about Tulsa real estate please visit my previous blogs.

Tulsa Oktoberfest 2009 is rapidly approaching. This festival is the place to be for food, dancing, music, arts and crafts and German beer. Beginning on October 22 and running through the 25th, the River West Festival Park is the location you want to be. Come learn how to polka or learn how to do the chicken dance and enjoy Oktoberfest as they celebrate their 31st year in 2009. Featuring genuine German polka bands, you will enjoy dancing as well as the general atmosphere of the festival.

A wide array of carnival rides, a children's tent for all types of fun activities and several arts and crafts tents to browse are just part of the festival. You will find Oktoberfest souvenirs at many of the tents, including t-shirts, chicken hats, pretzel steins and much more. Don't miss the Bier Barrel Race on the 24th of October at the Sports Café tent, where you can also watch your favorite teams on big screen television.

The food is one of the biggest draws to this area. The celebration has been known for their delicious food for some time now and was awarded a prestigious "Best German Food" honor by none other than Bon Appétit Magazine. This was in 2005 and the food just keeps getting better. If you have a yen for Bavarian pretzels you will want to attend this event. How about bratwurst or schnitzel?

The choice of German food that will be available extends to many items you probably have not had occasion to sample. The Steckerlfisch, for instance is a grilled fish on a stick. Reiberdatschi is a potato pancake. Käsespätzle is cheese noodles.

Doesn't it all sound delicious? Put your diet on hold and visit Oktoberfest for a few days of celebration and delicious food. Of course for those who may want regular basic food, there are also baked potatoes, corn dogs, Frito pie and Ruebens.

This is one of the best family events in Tulsa and the surrounding area and there are numerous children's activities that are a part of the celebration. In fact, Tulsa Oktoberfest is known as one of the top ten across the globe. This year representatives of the Oklahoma lottery will be giving away free scratch off tickets on the 25th. In addition, a coupon for free admission to opening night of Oktoberfest is available online courtesy of Geek Rescue.

Opening on the first night of the festival is at 5 p.m. with all remaining days opening at 11 a.m. The last day of the festival is on Sunday, October 25th when the hours will be from noon to 6 p.m. Admission is only $5 and children under 12 are free. There will be shuttles operating from three locations for your convenience and is available for $3 roundtrip.

When entering the festival, you may purchase 'festival money' which will be used at almost all of the locations within the festival. The arts and crafts tents will feature a vast array of items from candles to jewelry to BBQ sauces. Something for everyone will be found when you tour the gift shops. If you are ready for one of the best celebrations in the area, be at the 31st annual Oktoberfest starting Thursday, October 22nd at 5 p.m.

Including the Tulsa and Rogers county area of Oklahoma, the Owasso school district is north of Tulsa. The seventh largest in Oklahoma, this school district is separated by Highway 169. With an enrollment for this school year of 9,000, the student population is growing by leaps and bounds. Fourteen schools in this district from pre-kindergarten to high school are as follows:

• Owasso High School
• RAM Academy
• Owasso Mid-high school
• Owasso Eighth Grade Center
• Owasso Seventh Grade Center
• Owasso Sixth Grade Center
• Ator Heights 
• Bailey Elementary
• Barnes Elementary
• Pamela Hodson Elementary
• Mills Elementary
• Northeast Elementary
• Hayward Smith Elementary
• Stone Canyon Elementary
• Owasso 4 Year Old Program

Owasso High School is the learning facility for those in the 11th and 12th grades. Home of the Rams, the school colors are red and white. The selection of programs includes those that are needed for transition to adult professions of varying degrees. Students at Owasso High School typically score higher than the state average as well as the national average on standardized tests.  

The state of Oklahoma requires 23 units from a variety of subjects in order to be eligible to graduate. There are some courses, which require the student to  take 3 or 4 years worth, such as mathematics and science and history. Eighteen of the units will be from mandated course and the rest are chosen by the student.  
Owasso Mid-School is for 9th and 10th graders. This is a school that believes in preparing students for the advancement to high school. The school has been open since 1995 and has had additions constructed twice.
Oklahoma has a scholarship program through the state that makes it possible for students who want to go to college, but cannot afford it to do so. If their parent's income is under $50,000 per year, they can earn college tuition for free. Every school, including the high school has a counselor, who is highly qualified and a media specialist.

One of the programs designed to help communications between the teachers and parents is the Parent Portal. This is a way of keeping parents informed of their student's grades via the Internet. Grades 2 through 12 are eligible for this service. By providing this communication the possibility of problems can be addressed earlier.

Ratings are given based on test results for the Owasso school districts achievements in academics. A ten is the best rating that can be given. Among the Owasso schools receiving high rankings are:

A ten rating: Owasso Eighth Grade Center

A nine rating: Ator Elementary, Owasso Seventh Grade Center, Northeast Elementary, Larkin Bailey Elementary and Pamela Hodson Elementary

The Owasso school district begins their school year in mid-August and schools are out at the end of May. The proximity of Owasso to the Tulsa community has a good deal to do with people settling in this area. The small town atmosphere is what a lot people find when they and that is rare these days. This is where people want to raise their children and have them grow up - due to one very important aspect - the crime rate is not as high as in other large cities.

Tulsa's inaugural River Rush will include a Runs & River Activity Expo, Gala, and a concert headlined by Grammy® Award Winning Artist Joss Stone.  The River Rush begins on October 10, 2009 and kicks off with a 5km run and a 1km fun run/walk.  Meanwhile, the River Activity Expo will highlight the many features of River Parks' outdoor recreation, including sports activities and festivals.

This year, the River Parks is celebrating its 35 year anniversary, and also the most extensive renovations in its history.  These renovations include miles of new dual trails, new lighting, new furnishings, and a brand new plaza, among other improvements to be made in the future.  Becoming a part of River Parks' first ever comprehensive signage program makes you a part of this much-needed project.

The night's Gala will begin at 6:00 pm on the grounds of Tulsa's historic Blair Estate, and it's promised to be Tulsa's newest and most exciting event.  The Gala will feature fine cuisine and a live auction for five different packages.  Each attendant of the Gala will also receive a complimentary ticket to the River Rush concert featuring Joss Stone.

The prices for attending the River Rush Gala range from $300 to $25,000.  For $300 the guest will secure one reservation to the River Rush Gala.  For the $25,000 Platinum Oak package, 20 seats will be reserved, each guest will receive a concert ticket, and the company's name and logo will receive recognition in all media coverage.  Beyond that, this level guarantees the level of Corporate Friend with River Parks, and name and logo recognition will also be guaranteed on the River Parks website and newsletter.  To top it off, this package includes an autograph and photograph session with the concert's headliner, in this case Joss Stone.  There are a slew of options to choose from between these two extremes, and they can be viewed at www.riverrush.net.

The River Rush Run will begin at 31^st and Riverside, and will allow young and old alike to enjoy an autumn morning in Oklahoma during a 5 km run and a 1 km fun run/walk.  Not only will the participants be running and walking, but they'll also be able to view demonstrations of rowing, disc golf, and kayaking.  Additionally, they'll be able to browse a selection of cycling equipment provided by local businesses and even sign up for an Oklahoma fishing license.  During the day, guests will have an opportunity to learn about more of Tulsa's outdoor events, such as Oklahoma Scottish Festival and Oktoberfest, and even learn how to become a member of River Parks Friends.

Joss Stone's performance will begin at 9:00 pm that night.  For all those that attended the Gala earlier in the evening, the event will be included.  However, this is not an exclusive concert, and tickets to River Rock featuring Joss Stone can be purchased at the BOK Center box office at www.bokcenter.com   In case of rain, the Gala and the Concert will be moved to the BOK Center.

You have spent the last few months looking at Tulsa homes for sale and trying to make up your mind on the home you want. You have found it and are ready to make an offer. This does not have to be overly complicated; Your real estate agent should be very experienced at this and will take care of all the finite details for you, which will ultimately save you money on your Tulsa home purchase.

The price of your new home can most always be negotiated. This simply means that you can make a lower offer than the asking price (or agree to the seller's price). The offer can include any other terms such as asking the seller to pay part or all of the closing costs. The offer will be written up and delivered to the seller's agent. They have a certain number of days to either accept, reject or negotiate the offer.

This can save money if they accept the offer you make or negotiate to a lower than listed price. If it is less than the asking price and if you can get them to pay part or all of the closing costs, this will mean you will pay less money. Ok, so how do you know how much to offer for the Tulsa home you want to purchase?

Compare prices on the Tulsa homes in the area that are similar to the one you are interested in purchasing. This will allow you to know if the seller is asking more than comparable homes or about the same. If he is asking more, this can be a great bargaining tool, which will save money.   Your real estate agent will be able to provide you with comparative homes and statistics of previous homes sold to give you an accurate price which the home is currently worth.

Once all the details are taken care of with regard to the offer, if it has been accepted you will be getting ready to close. This is when all monies are paid, such as the down payment, the closing costs and any fees. While everything is in escrow (which means that everything is being taken care of to close on the home purchase), you will have already taken care of the purchase contract. This will be all the terms that apply to the sale.

If there are any questions, before you fill this out and send it to the seller, you should make sure this is absolutely what you want to do. Once this contract is accepted, if you should change your mind, you could be sued for damages. The contract was breached and if you do this, not only might you lose your down payment, but much more.

One of the ways of protecting yourself is to make sure there is an inspection. This usually happens after the sales contract has been signed and the sale is in escrow. Part of the agreement should include the ability to stop the sale and release you from the contract if there are substantial problems that will affect living in the home. This is essential to keep from spending money for repairs that you were not prepared for immediately after purchasing the home.

All that is left is to move into your new Tulsa home. As mentioned before, your realtor may have some ideas on how you can save money when moving. This may be the time to gather all your friends together as a sort of moving/house warming. You will have the advantage of help with moving and with enough people the move can be done in short time and actually be fun!

Do you know thousands of dollars could be lost if you do not market your Tulsa home correctly? The following ten mistakes are often the cause of a home either being on the market too long or being the reason for losing money on your home sale.

1. The Real Estate Agent - Make sure the agent you are working with is an experienced real estate agent. They should be experienced in marketing your Tulsa home to get the maximum interest. The agent is responsible for getting your home advertised in the best way possible to get it noticed and sold. If this is not happening, you may want to consider another realtor.
2. Pre-approved Buyers - When you list your Tulsa home for sale, you have the option of only taking offers from buyers who are already pre-approved for a loan. This will keep you from wasting time showing the home to those who will not qualify for a loan. Tying the home up with someone who does not have the means to purchase it could cost you a sale with a serious buyer.
3. The Market - When the real estate market is down, this is not the ultimate time to sell. This is when you will not get the maximum you might get by waiting. Know what is going on in the real estate market before listing your Tulsa home for sale.
4. Keep your Emotions in Check - Yes, this is the home you have lived in for several years (if not longer), but if you have made the decision to sell, the business side is the only one you can consider. Being overly sentimental about the home is going to interfere with getting offers and selling.
5. Real Estate Agents are Motivated - The best way to sell your Tulsa home is to let a seasoned real estate agent take care of doing this for you. The days of sticking a sign up or advertising in the local newspaper may have worked in the past, but not today. The real estate agent has many strategies they can put to use to get the best price for your Tulsa home.
6. Scheduling Showings - If the time for a showing is scheduled when you are present, keep the conversation to a minimum. Your real estate agent should do most (if not all) of the talking and answering questions for potential buyers. To be honest, it really is preferable that you are not present at all when showings take place.
7. Repair Before Showing - The worst thing a potential buyer can see when they come into your home is all the things that need to be fixed. This can kill a sell in no time at all. Unless you are under pricing your home to cover this aspect, the repairs should be done before putting your home on the market.
8. Clean and Tidy - You want your house to be seen in the best light possible. Make sure it is spic and span and everything unnecessary is removed. A potential buyer will want to picture it with his belongings in the home.
9. Accessibility is a Must - Have the real estate agent put in a lock box so they may show your Tulsa home even when you are gone. Who knows? This may be the person who buys your home.
10. Pricing - If you list your Tulsa home for more than homes in the surrounding neighborhoods, the odds are it will sit instead of selling. Look at some of the other homes for sale – your real estate agent should provide you with a comparative market analysis (known as a CMA) that will aide in pricing your home correctly.

Twin Creeks

I can't fathom why I havent written a blog about this excellent community until now, but i guess the best things really are left for last, right?

Twin Creeks, comprising of three phases built between 2000 and 2006, is my top pick when it comes to Bixby, OK real estate developments for many reasons, but mostly because of the quality construction and top-notch features each of these homes has to offer.

Styles of homes within Twin Creeks range from Traditional to Country French, Ranch to English, all with full brick and stone work exterior construction.  The sizes and spaciousness of these properties are perfect for today's growing families, with living spaces ranging from 2,000 to over 4,200 square feet.

Three to five bedrooms plus office and/or dens, two and a half to three and a half bathrooms and either two or three car garages (some even extra large) are offered to choose from.  Some of the features these Twin Creeks homes include are oversized eat-in kitchens with pantry's, formal dining rooms, one or two fireplaces, 9' vaulted ceilings, gamerooms, whirlpool tubs, walk-in closets and inground swimming pools. 

This Bixby, OK real estate development has a low annual homeowners association fee which includes community pool privileges, walking, jogging or biking trails, community park and clubroom use.  Twin Creeks is also located close to all the conveniences you require and need, such as shopping, schools, major highways and restaurants.

Here's some interesting facts surrounding the past, present, and current sales for Twin Creeks over the past 6 months:

• There are currently 17 homes for sale (per the listings shown on the local Multiple Listing Service) ranging from $247,500 to $349,900 in price.
• There is one home under contract within Twin Creeks as of today.
• There have been 15 sales ranging in price from $193,900 to $334,900.

Check out Twin Creeks and learn why I named it the top Bixby, OK real estate development!