Now that the housing market has finally begun to stabilize and interest rates remain at historically low levels, more and more homebuyers and sellers are dipping their toes back in the water.

If you're planning to sell your home, you need to understand the tax implications of selling a home as well as be aware of structural and cosmetic flaws in your home and neighborhood that could undermine your asking price or keep the property languishing on the market for months.

At the request of merchants in Franklin, the Town Board of Aldermen hosted an informal meeting to open dialogue between the town and its merchants. During the November meeting of the Town Board, several downtown merchants addressed the board to express their frustration and discontent with the lack of communication between town officials and downtown merchants.

Mayor Joe Collins called a meeting to hear from both sides in order to reach an agreement and find common ground for the betterment of Franklin.

Alderman Sissy Patillo, who serves with Alderman Joyce Handley as a liaison to Franklin's Main Street Program, opened the conversation by asking the merchants in attendance what they wanted. “After you spoke at the last meeting, we know you have concerns, but I am not sure what you want,” said Patillo. “I am not sure what you are asking us for.”

Small businesses are the heart and soul of the community

Macon County is a great place to shop any day of the year, but with the holidays right around the corner, shopping locally is easier and more important than ever. Maconians should think locally first when planning their holiday shopping trips to get great local deals, unique, one-ofa- kind items, and quality goods that will last long after the new year.

With Thanksgiving just a few days away, local businesses are counting on residents to patronize their stores and put them in the black this holiday season. Think beyond the usual Black Friday deals, and extend your holiday shopping all weekend long to participate in the national movement, Small Business Saturday. You’ll not only boost the economy of your hometown, you’ll also get fabulous merchandise, festive gift wrapping, and concierge service to help you find that perfect gift for everyone on your list. Between Black Friday and Cyber Monday is a day dedicated to supporting small businesses. This day, Small Business Saturday, will be held this year on Nov. 24.

The Franklin Chamber of Commerce recently held a ribbon cutting at Paula’s Pet Paradise to celebrate the completion of their state of the art grooming and boarding facility after a year of preparation and renovation. At the end of 2011, Dan Andrews and Ken Alter got together with the idea of turning a huge empty building that Andrews owned into a premier Pet Resort.

“We wanted more than just cinder block and chain link “cells” to keep pets in. It had to be a place that had custom built guest rooms, fun play areas and everything the pet owner could want for their pet’s comfort while they went away on vacation. With the help of Ken’s wife, Paula, we chose tropical colors and decorations throughout the facility that make it more cheerful and give it the feel of a true paradise and a home away from home for our four-legged friends,” said Andrews.