http://www.texasrealestate.com Texas Real Estate is the only Web site dedicated to home buyers, sellers and investors in the state of Texas. en-us Copyright 2011, Texas Association of REALTORS Fri, 14 Jun 2013 16:00:00 CST Mistakes you make during homebuying negotiations can cost you big money. Here are four blunders to avoid. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/061413.cfm Fri, 14 Jun 2013 16:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/061413.cfm#When:4:00:00PM This column may be uncomfortable for some of you to read, but here goes: You may be hindering the sale of your home. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/060713.cfm Fri, 7 Jun 2013 16:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/060713.cfm#When:4:00:00PM What do I do when the property I'm buying encroaches on a neighbor? http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George060413.cfm Tue, 4 Jun 2013 15:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George060413.cfm#When:3:00:00PM First-time sellers beware: there are lots of myths out there about the right way to sell your home. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/060313.cfm Mon, 3 Jun 2013 16:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/060313.cfm#When:4:00:00PM About this time last year, my husband and I were only days away from closing on our first house. But if someone had told me the year before that we could be homeowners, there would have been eye-rolling and laughter on my part. That's before I knew about all of the programs available to homebuyers, especially first-timers. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/053113.cfm Fri, 31 May 2013 14:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/053113.cfm#When:2:00:00PM Great news if you're thinking of selling your home: Almost every area in Texas is a seller's market right now. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/051713.cfm Fri, 17 May 2013 13:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/051713.cfm#When:1:00:00PM How do I get my earnest money back? http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George051413.cfm Tue, 14 May 2013 15:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George051413.cfm#When:3:00:00PM I added myself to a spammer's list yesterday. So annoying. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/051013.cfm Fri, 10 May 2013 16:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/051013.cfm#When:4:00:00PM A friend of mine is in the process of selling her first home and buying a new one. Lucky for her, she got an offer right away on her home that looks promising. But in reviewing some of the paperwork, she became concerned about what one of those documents said. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/050313.cfm Fri, 3 May 2013 15:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/050313.cfm#When:3:00:00PM Do we have to pay the option fee in two days? http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George050213.cfm Thu, 2 May 2013 09:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George050213.cfm#When:9:00:00AM You found the house of your dreams and everything feels just right. You want to ask your Texas REALTOR "Where do I sign?" But before you submit an offer to buy the property, you have to decide how much to offer. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/042913.cfm Mon, 29 Apr 2013 15:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/042913.cfm#When:3:00:00PM Picking the wrong asking price for your home can cost you a lot of money. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/041813.cfm Thu, 18 Apr 2013 16:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/041813.cfm#When:4:00:00PM Does the buyer get his earnest money when he backs out of the contract? http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George041713.cfm Wed, 17 Apr 2013 11:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George041713.cfm#When:11:00:00AM Yesterday, I found a video online that showed how to build a metal suit like the one worn by crime-fighter Iron Man. Was the video interesting? Sure. Useful? Not at all. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/041113.cfm Fri, 12 Apr 2013 08:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/041113.cfm#When:8:00:00AM Do I have to live in my home to claim a homestead exemption? http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George040913.cfm Tue, 9 Apr 2013 10:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George040913.cfm#When:10:00:00AM You do things to be safe every day, like fastening your seat belt, looking both ways before you cross the street, or locking your doors before you go to sleep at night. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/040813.cfm Mon, 8 Apr 2013 09:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/040813.cfm#When:9:00:00AM It's been less than a year since my husband and I bought our first house, but we already talk about putting it on the market one day. In fact, we actually discussed selling it before we even bought it because resale value was a factor we considered during our search. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/040513.cfm Fri, 5 Apr 2013 11:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/040513.cfm#When:11:00:00AM Should the school build me a wall? http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George040113.cfm Mon, 1 Apr 2013 15:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George040113.cfm#When:3:00:00PM You may have to act fast if you don't want to miss out on the best houses these days. Houston, Dallas, and Austin recently were ranked near the top of a list of cities where homes are being sold in less than a day. Most other Texas locales also have strong seller's markets ... http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/032613.cfm Tue, 26 Mar 2013 14:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/032613.cfm#When:2:00:00PM Instead of just asking me to help with his kitchen remodel, my friend made me an offer I couldn't refuse: Want to come over and knock down a wall? http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/031513.cfm Fri, 15 Mar 2013 15:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/031513.cfm#When:3:00:00PM Can my neighbor stop me from accessing my land? http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George031213.cfm Tue, 12 Mar 2013 10:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George031213.cfm#When:10:00:00AM Who's responsible for that tree limb? http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George030713.cfm Thu, 7 Mar 2013 11:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George030713.cfm#When:11:00:00AM I have never purchased property. But I almost did. In fact, before my husband and I moved to Texas, we seriously considered buying a house where we used to live. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/030413.cfm Mon, 4 Feb 2013 10:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/030413.cfm#When:10:00:00AM I must have looked through hundreds of listing photos during our search for a home last year. But the experience taught me that while a picture may be worth a thousand words, some of those words may not say enough ... and the best way to check out a home's features is in person. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/022713.cfm Wed, 27 Feb 2013 15:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/022713.cfm#When:3:00:00PM My wife and I had just finished signing the papers to buy our first home. We were walking out of the office of the attorney who had handled the closing when he caught up to us with one more document to sign. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/022213.cfm Fri, 22 Feb 2013 16:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/022213.cfm#When:4:00:00PM Can I invest without my husban's involvement? http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George022113.cfm Thu, 21 Feb 2013 11:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George022113.cfm#When:11:00:00AM If you received two offers on your house that were $5,000 apart, you should take the higher one, right? Not so fast. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/021513.cfm Mon, 18 Feb 2013 09:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/021513.cfm#When:9:00:00AM Can I terminate a contract if the seller didn't report water damage? http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George021213.cfm Tue, 12 Feb 2013 15:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George021213.cfm#When:3:00:00PM As a current renter, it would be easy for me to make my monthly rental payments and wait to research homebuying until I'm ready to buy. But I can be proactive about buying before I even start looking. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/021113.cfm Mon, 11 Feb 2013 11:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/021113.cfm#When:11:00:00AM After my fiance and I bought our first house last year, there was a lot to be excited about – updating the landscaping, picking out paint colors – but there was one thing I was dreading. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/020813.cfm Fri, 8 Feb 2013 11:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/020813.cfm#When:11:00:00AM Do I need a license to owner-finance the sale of properties? http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George020713.cfm Thu, 7 Feb 2013 12:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George020713.cfm#When:12:00:00PM Selling a house on your own is like explaining the solar system to a child ... you think you can handle it, but as soon as a difficult question comes your way, you realize how much you don't know. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/013113.cfm Thu, 31 Jan 2013 13:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/013113.cfm#When:1:00:00PM Solicitors canvass my neighborhood once or twice a year, asking me to buy magazine subscriptions or donate to a charity. I'm sure most solicitors, even if they're lying, are harmless. But I don't like letting strangers into my house. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/012213.cfm Tue, 22 Jan 2013 10:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/012213.cfm#When:10:00:00AM What happens when a seller signs contracts with two parties for one property? http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George011613.cfm Wed, 16 Jan 2013 10:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George011613.cfm#When:10:00:00AM As 2012 ended, my husband and I had to decide if we would renew our lease for our current rental, find a new property to rent, or start our long-anticipated search to buy our own home. It wasn't an easy decision, but after crunching the numbers we decided that we'd stay put in 2013. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/010913.cfm Wed, 9 Jan 2013 14:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/010913.cfm#When:2:00:00PM How can my father break the contract to sell his ranch? http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George010813.cfm Tue, 8 Jan 2013 10:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George010813.cfm#When:10:00:00AM After we moved into our new house last year, my fiance had to put our lawn mower in the shop for a few weeks ... and it sure showed. A welcomed summer rain storm had the lawn tall enough to lose the cat in. I figured it was no big deal, but until then, I'd never lived in a neighborhood with a mandatory homeowners association. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/010713.cfm Mon, 7 Jan 2013 15:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/010713.cfm#When:3:00:00PM Can my wife buy a house without my knowledge? http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George010313.cfm Thu, 3 Jan 2013 15:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George010313.cfm#When:3:00:00PM While your loan terms greatly affect how much you can spend on a house, the mortgage isn't the only cost you need to take into account when buying property. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/122812.cfm Fri, 28 Dec 2012 11:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/122812.cfm#When:11:00:00AM The Federal Housing Administration wrote a letter recently that should provide some needed guidance to lenders and borrowers who may have had foreclosure trouble in the past. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/122612.cfm Wed, 26 Dec 2012 11:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/122612.cfm#When:11:00:00AM It's human nature to look past things you encounter on a regular basis. It might be a wooden monkey, a cracked window, a dead tree, an unusual odor, or a slot-car racetrack you have to step over on your way through the living room. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/122012.cfm Thu, 20 Dec 2012 12:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/122012.cfm#When:12:00:00PM Does that person really have the right to sell this house? http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George121812.cfm Tue, 18 Dec 2012 15:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George121812.cfm#When:3:00:00PM Selling your home is a different experience than when you purchased your property. The first important step to put your house up for sale is finding a real estate agent who will be the best fit for your needs. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/121212.cfm Wed, 12 Dec 2012 10:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/121212.cfm#When:10:00:00AM Do I have to disclose floor discoloration? http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George121112.cfm Tue, 11 Dec 2012 10:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George121112.cfm#When:10:00:00AM I now realize that I was guilty of making a classic first-time homebuyer mistake when searching for a house earlier this year: I let relatively small flaws or easily fixable things influence my decisions. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/121012.cfm Mon, 10 Dec 2012 11:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/121012.cfm#When:11:00:00AM What should I do if the square footage is wrong? http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George120412.cfm Tue, 3 Dec 2012 15:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George120412.cfm#When:11:00:00AM Have you ever taken on a project that looked easy until you actually did the work? It seems selling your home without a real estate agent fits that description. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/120312.cfm Mon, 3 Dec 2012 13:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/120312.cfm#When:1:00:00PM Should I sue over undisclosed property defects? http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George112712.cfm Tue, 27 Nov 2012 11:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George112712.cfm#When:11:00:00AM I found a great-looking used car online last week. When I saw it in person, though, I noticed some problems. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/112112.cfm Wed, 21 Nov 2012 11:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/112112.cfm#When:11:00:00AM Where's my security deposit? http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George112012.cfm Tue, 20 Nov 2012 11:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George112012.cfm#When:11:00:00AM Choosing a real estate agent to help you buy a home can be just as important as choosing the home itself. Before starting your home search, you'll need to make sure an agent will be good fit for your needs. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/111512.cfm Thu, 15 Nov 2012 16:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/111512.cfm#When:4:00:00PM Is the seller entitled to $1,000 because my loan was approved late? http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George111312.cfm Tue, 13 Nov 2012 12:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George111312.cfm#When:12:00:00PM Have you heard about the case of the missing refrigerator? It's a scenario that pops up more frequently than you would think. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/111212.cfm Mon, 12 Nov 2012 14:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/111212.cfm#When:2:00:00PM My fiance and I bought our first house earlier this year, and while we were very happy with the process, I'm not sure the seller would say the same thing. She was selling the home as a for-sale-by-owner, and let's just say there were a few challenges. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/110912.cfm Fri, 9 Nov 2012 14:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/110912.cfm#When:2:00:00PM Experts often talk about the conditions that make it the right time to buy real estate ... http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/110512.cfm Mon, 5 Nov 2012 11:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/110512.cfm#When:11:00:00AM Do you know what your home is worth? If you're like most homeowners, you have an idea, but you need accurate market data to arrive at a listing price. Otherwise you risk giving away your house or watching it sit on the market for months. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/103112.cfm Wed, 31 Oct 2012 13:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/103112.cfm#When:1:00:00PM What to do when an HOA's president spends funds irresponsibly http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George103012.cfm Tue, 30 Oct 2012 11:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George103012.cfm#When:11:00:00AM Recently, I was talking with my older sister about being a first-time homebuyer. She and her husband bought their home 10 years ago, about the same time they were planning their wedding. As young newlyweds, they wanted a place of their own to start their married life together. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/101812.cfm Thu, 18 Oct 2012 11:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/101812.cfm#When:11:00:00AM If the seller doesn't cash my check for the option fee, do I have an option to terminate? http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George101612.cfm Tue, 16 Oct 2012 12:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George101612.cfm#When:12:00:00PM I learned a lot about home inspections when we became first-time homebuyers this past summer. Here are a few Inspection 101 questions that my Texas REALTOR answered for me when it came time to kick the metaphorical tires on our first house. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/101512.cfm Mon, 15 Oct 2012 10:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/101512.cfm#When:10:00:00AM Can the builder put my mortgage underwater? Do I owe a commission if I end up in foreclosure? http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George100912.cfm Tue, 9 Oct 2012 10:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George100912.cfm#When:10:00:00AM Is my listing agreement still valid? How can we get our security deposit back? http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George100312.cfm Wed, 3 Oct 2012 13:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George100312.cfm#When:1:00:00PM There are two homes in my neighborhood that aren't officially on the market, but the owners are willing to sell. All you have to do is pay them way more than their real estate is worth. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/100112.cfm Mon, 1 Oct 2012 09:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/100112.cfm#When:9:00:00AM Few things fill me with dread as much as warm, moist air pouring from my house's air vents in August. And that's exactly what faced me about six months after I bought my home. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/092812.cfm Fri, 28 Sep 2012 14:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/092812.cfm#When:2:00:00PM How can I prove I own my house? http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George092512.cfm Tue, 25 Sep 2012 12:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George092512.cfm#When:12:00:00PM Last December, my husband and I were visiting Texas and had no idea if we'd be living here in the new year. Outside of meeting with potential employers, we had only one other important meeting to attend before we left town: An afternoon out with a Texas REALTOR. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/092012.cfm Thu, 20 Sep 2012 10:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/092012.cfm#When:10:00:00AM When can a seller cancel a contract? http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George091812.cfm Tue, 18 Sep 2012 10:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George091812.cfm#When:10:00:00AM After buying my first house earlier this year, it still amazes me how many people were involved in the process. However, I learned that even with a team of real estate professionals working on your behalf, there are some things you can do yourself to help make the buying process go as smooth as possible. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/091412.cfm Fri, 14 Sep 2012 14:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/091412.cfm#When:2:00:00PM What instructions can agents follow? http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George091112.cfm Tue, 11 Sep 2012 10:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George091112.cfm#When:10:00:00AM You're legally obligated to disclose certain things about the house you're selling ... like if it ever flooded or contains lead-based paint or if termites damaged it. Why not also reveal the things you really like about your home, too? http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/090612.cfm Thu, 6 Sep 2012 11:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/090612.cfm#When:11:00:00AM Can I break my lease because of a murder? How long does it take an estate to clear probate? http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George082812.cfm Tue, 28 Aug 2012 14:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George082812.cfm#When:2:00:00PM I've moved frequently. In fact, Texas is the 10th state that I have lived in, but it's already one of my favorites. Here are my tips to help you transition to a new place. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/082312.cfm Thu, 23 Aug 2012 13:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/082312.cfm#When:13:00:00PM Who's in charge of HOAs? http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George082112.cfm Tue, 21 Aug 2012 10:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George082112.cfm#When:10:00:00AM In many aspects of my life, the Internet is the first place I go for information. So it may come as no surprise that I started my search for our first home earlier this year online, too. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/081712.cfm Mon, 20 Aug 2012 10:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/081712.cfm#When:10:00:00AM Can sellers conceal their sales price from appraisers? http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George081412.cfm Tue, 14 Aug 2012 15:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George081412.cfm#When:3:00:00PM How can the price of a house go up but actually cost less? http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/080912.cfm Thu, 9 Aug 2012 14:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/080912.cfm#When:2:00:00PM Where can I find a service to show my home? What does appurtenance mean? http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George080612.cfm Mon, 6 Aug 2012 11:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George080612.cfm#When:11:00:00AM You may think all the homebuyer-assistance programs vanished when lending standards tightened — and you'd be wrong. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/080312.cfm Fri, 3 Aug 2012 13:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/080312.cfm#When:1:00:00PM I am the proud aunt of 21 beautiful nieces and nephews, ages 15 to due-in-December, all of whom live in Katy, outside of Houston. Since we're the only members of our family who don't live within 15 minutes of each other, it's a pretty big deal for the nieces and nephews to visit us in Austin, and we try to host as many of them as we can each summer. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/26/more/080312.cfm Fri, 3 Aug 2012 09:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/26/more/080312.cfm#When:9:00:00AM The latest Texas Quarterly Housing Report, compiled by the Real Estate Center at Texas A&M and issued by the Texas Association of REALTORS, paints a strikingly different picture from the same time a year ago. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/27/more/080112.cfm Wed, 1 Aug 2012 10:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/27/more/080112.cfm#When:1:00:00PM Can my ex-wife sell a house with my name on the deed? How long does my landlord have to fix the plumbing? http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George073012.cfm Mon, 30 Jul 2012 12:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George073012.cfm#When:12:00:00PM Being new to Texas, my husband and I wanted to rent a home first and learn about our new community before choosing a home to buy. With some advice from our Texas REALTOR, we were able to find a home in a neighborhood that has given us a great introduction to the city. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/072612.cfm Thu, 26 Jul 2012 13:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/072612.cfm#When:1:00:00PM As regular readers will know, my home is on a cul-de-sac just outside of Austin, which means there are only six houses within a stone's throw of ours. One of those houses changed owners this month, which is a first since we've been residents, so we have a new neighbor in our little community! http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/26/more/072512.cfm Wed, 25 Jul 2012 14:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/26/more/072512.cfm#When:2:00:00PM Am I paying more than the standard fee? What are my options with a tenant who has let family members move in? http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George072412.cfm Tue, 24 Jul 2012 12:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George072412.cfm#When:12:00:00PM My fiance and I bought our first house exactly one month ago. And after moving in during the first days of a Texas summer, we're settling in just fine. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/072312.cfm Mon, 23 Jul 2012 10:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/072312.cfm#When:10:00:00AM You know you should keep your house clean if you're trying to sell it. Surely you know. Everyone knows that, right? http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/071012.cfm Tue, 10 Jul 2012 14:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/071012.cfm#When:2:00:00PM Since the age of three, when my family moved to the outskirts of Houston from Iowa, my two sisters and I piled into the family station wagon with my brave parents every summer for the 20-hour drive to visit family in Des Moines. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/26/more/070612.cfm Fri, 6 Jul 2012 10:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/26/more/070612.cfm#When:10:00:00AM I've Googled the names of people who applied to babysit my kids or responded to ads I posted to sell items on Craigslist. You can learn a lot about a person with 30 seconds of Internet research. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/070512.cfm Thu, 5 Jul 2012 10:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/070512.cfm#When:10:00:00AM Do I have to disclose problems with a wall that's not on my property? http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George070312.cfm Tue, 3 Jul 2012 11:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George070312.cfm#When:11:00:00AM My parents have bought and sold their fair share of properties. And even though we moved a lot when I was younger, my parents have lived in their current home for 12 years (a record). They just sold that house and have purchased their sixth in another state, set to move in just a few weeks. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/062812.cfm Thu, 28 Jun 2012 13:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/062812.cfm#When:1:00:00PM Now that summer is officially underway, the Armijo family is hitting the road to a family reunion out of state. As we pack up the minivan, it seems like a good time to revisit tips for keeping your home safe while traveling for anyone else who may be kicking off their summer adventures. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/26/more/062712.cfm Wed, 27 Jun 2012 10:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/26/more/062712.cfm#When:10:00:00AM Can my HOA make me plant flowers? Why am I not getting my rent back? http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George062612.cfm Tue, 26 Jun 2012 11:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George062612.cfm#When:2:00:00PM I'm set to close on my first house this week after a six-month search. While the process proceeded relatively quickly once I found the right house, it hasn't been without a learning curve. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/062112.cfm Thu, 21 Jun 2012 10:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/062112.cfm#When:10:00:00AM Do I have to replace my roof? Which listing agent gets the commission? http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George061912.cfm Tue, 19 Jun 2012 14:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George061912.cfm#When:2:00:00PM The real estate market is tilting toward sellers in many parts of Texas. In my neighborhood, most homes are under contract within a week of being listed for sale ... many on the first day. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/061312.cfm Wed, 13 Jun 2012 15:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/061312.cfm#When:3:00:00PM Your house isn't that special. I'm sure it's a great place to live and you have fond memories and all that. But to buyers, it's just another house on their list. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/060812.cfm Fri, 8 Jun 2012 14:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/060812.cfm#When:10:00:00AM Not only is the number of vacation home sales on the uptick, but the percentage of those purchasers who intend to rent out that vacation home to friends, family, and travelers also is climbing like never before. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/24/241/more/060612.cfm Wed, 6 Jun 2012 10:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/24/241/more/060612.cfm#When:10:00:00AM Doesn't my rent count as downpayment? Why do banks get to choose the title company? http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George060512.cfm Tue, 5 Jun 2012 10:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George060512.cfm#When:10:00:00AM One of my co-workers is buying her first home. It's an exciting time and conversation around the office regularly drifts to mortgages, home inspections, and the many other topics that come up in the home-buying process. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/26/more/060412.cfm Tue, 5 Jun 2012 10:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/26/more/060412.cfm#When:10:00:00AM We've all seen news stories about the large number of foreclosed homes for sale. More and more buyers today ask their REALTOR to limit their new-home shopping to only foreclosed homes. But is that the best strategy for finding your next home? http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/22/more/060112.cfm Fri, 1 Jun 2012 14:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/22/more/060112.cfm#When:2:00:00PM Texas makes a big first impression. As soon as I drove over the state line, I was greeted with an extra-large lone star and a reminder to drive friendly - the Texas way. Still many hours away from my new home, I already felt like a Texan. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/053012.cfm Wed, 30 May 2012 12:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/053012.cfm#When:1:00:00PM The economic recovery in the U.S. has been tentative and showed weakness in the first quarter, with GDP down from 3% to 2.2% annualized. The slow rate of growth will probably continue, as credit is not fully flowing. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/22/more/052912.cfm Tue, 29 May 2012 14:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/22/more/052912.cfm#When:2:00:00PM Can the HOA evict my tenants? http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George052912.cfm Tue, 29 May 2012 14:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George052912.cfm#When:2:00:00PM If you watch TV shows about house hunting before buying your first home, you may think the process is exciting, goes smoothly, and wraps up in 30 minutes. I sure did. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/052512.cfm Fri, 25 May 2012 12:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/052512.cfm#When:12:00:00PM My home is not brand new, which means the appliances in it are not the most energy efficient. I've often thought of replacing them, but the prospect of hassle and expense has kept me from taking action. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/26/more/052412.cfm Thu, 24 May 2012 10:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/26/more/052412.cfm#When:10:00:00AM Do I owe rent even though I don't know when my lease ended? http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George052312.cfm Wed, 23 May 2012 13:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George052312.cfm#When:10:00:00AM Property owners along the Texas Gulf may see a hike in their insurance bills soon. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/27/more/052112.cfm Tue, 22 May 2012 13:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/27/more/052112.cfm#When:1:00:00PM Ever protested your property-tax appraisal? I have. Twice. The first time was easy. We had bought our home six months earlier, ... http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/22/more/051612.cfm Tue, 22 May 2012 13:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/22/more/051612.cfm#When:1:00:00PM How did my house lose 622 square feet? Can I close on a refi without my husband? http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George051612.cfm Tue, 22 May 2012 13:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George051612.cfm#When:10:00:00AM Recently, the Texas attorney general issued a legal opinion that could cost some homeowners extra time and expense when applying for a homestead exemption. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/27/more/051112.cfm Fri, 11 May 2012 13:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/27/more/051112.cfm#When:1:00:00PM There's a simple thing you can do to put yourself in a powerful negotiating position: If you want something, don't care about getting it. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/051012.cfm Thu, 10 May 2012 11:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/051012.cfm#When:11:00:00AM Can I void my contract without penalty? How about my lease? http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George050812.cfm Tue, 08 May 2012 10:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George050812.cfm#When:10:00:00AM After my husband and I decided that we should hire professionals for our move, we searched for the best deal for our budget. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/050112.cfm Tue, 01 May 2012 14:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/050112.cfm#When:2:00:00PM What are my options if I can't pay for my timeshare? http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George050112.cfm Tue, 01 May 2012 12:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George050112.cfm#When:12:00:00PM When people hear that my fiance; and I are looking to buy our first house, they frequently offer lessons learned from their own experiences ... though they can sometimes contradict. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/042712.cfm Fri, 27 Apr 2012 15:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/042712.cfm#When:3:00:00PM Was the seller required to disclose previous water damage? http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George042512.cfm Wed, 25 Apr 2012 16:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George042512.cfm#When:4:00:00PM The other day, I opened my mailbox and there it was: my property tax appraisal. Just a standard size envelope like so many others, yet this one causes me a little trepidation. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/26/more/042512.cfm Wed, 25 Apr 2012 14:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/26/more/042512.cfm#When:2:00:00PM I'm usually a deliberate decision-maker. So why did my wife and I make an offer on a home just a few minutes after first seeing it? http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/042012.cfm Fri, 20 Apr 2012 13:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/042012.cfm#When:1:00:00PM I'm happy to report that the Easter Bunny brought something extra special to my family last weekend: a new niece! Not only was I thrilled to cuddle a newborn, it gave me an opportunity to test my home organization skills. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/26/more/041812.cfm Wed, 18 Apr 2012 13:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/26/more/041812.cfm#When:1:00:00PM Does death terminate a contract? Can I sue the builder? http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George041712.cfm Tue, 17 Apr 2012 15:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George041712.cfm#When:3:00:00PM Homebuyers everywhere rejoiced this week as word spread that rumors of a 3.8% federal tax on all home sales were still false. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/041612.cfm Mon, 16 Apr 2012 14:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/041612.cfm#When:2:00:00PM Occasionally, my husband and I like to take a free weekend to go on home tours. Though we're not looking to buy a new house tomorrow, we expect to do so eventually and enjoy getting ideas. We did this recently on a lovely spring weekend and I was intrigued by what we found. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/26/more/041112.cfm Wed, 11 Apr 2012 11:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/26/more/041112.cfm#When:11:00:00AM Before you pack those boxes, invest some time into making a plan and enjoy a smoother move. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/040512.cfm Thu, 5 Apr 2012 10:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/040512.cfm#When:10:00:00AM Like many of you, we're knee-deep in tax preparation at our house. For me, tax time is a little like playing Wheel of Fortune ... I might "win" big money through a refund, but I'm just as likely to find myself tapping the savings account to pay Uncle Sam. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/26/more/040412.cfm Wed, 4 Apr 2012 09:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/26/more/040412.cfm#When:9:00:00AM How long will it take to get my rental deposit back? http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George040312.cfm Tue, 3 Apr 2012 14:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George040312.cfm#When:2:00:00PM My fiance and I decided to make the transition from renters to homeowners at the start of the new year. And, of course, the step between the two roles requires us to temporarily become house hunters. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/040212.cfm Mon, 2 Apr 2012 13:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/040212.cfm#When:1:00:00PM If you've driven on a Texas highway recently, you've likely seen one of the best features of spring in our state: the bluebonnets. I imagine I have the same reaction to my first bluebonnet sighting that our northern friends have to the season's first snow ... http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/26/more/032812.cfm Wed, 28 Mar 2012 10:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/26/more/032812.cfm#When:10:00:00AM Who's entitled to see the appraisal report? How can I get out of my buyer's rep agreement? http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George032712.cfm Tue, 27 Mar 2012 10:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George032712.cfm#When:10:00:00AM Who can change the wording on a form? http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George032012.cfm Tue, 20 Mar 2012 13:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George032012.cfm#When:1:00:00PM If you're in the market for an existing home, you'll find all kinds of great properties that could use some updates. But what if you're looking beyond paint and curtains to more "green" improvements? http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/031912.cfm Mon, 19 Mar 2012 14:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/031912.cfm#When:2:00:00PM One of my neighbors has a dent in his garage door. A huge one. The kind of dent you get when you drive into your garage without first opening the garage door. It's been there five years now. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/031512.cfm Thu, 15 Mar 2012 10:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/031512.cfm#When:10:00:00AM Can I avoid paying a listing broker? Can my neighbor make me move my 25-year-old fence? http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George031412.cfm Wed, 14 Mar 2012 14:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George031412.cfm#When:2:00:00PM The U.S. economy, very weak during the first three quarters of 2011, picked up to an annualized growth rate of 2.8% in the fourth quarter. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/22/more/030712.cfm Wed, 7 Mar 2012 15:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/22/more/030712.cfm#When:3:00:00PM What does it take to void my buyer-representation agreement? http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George030612.cfm Tue, 6 Mar 2012 14:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George030612.cfm#When:2:00:00PM Seniors are particularly careful about guarding their assets. With little monthly income, older people still living in their longtime primary residences need to make the most of an eventual home sale. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/24/241/more/030512.cfm Mon, 5 Mar 2012 14:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/24/241/more/030512.cfm#When:2:00:00PM So far in 2012, newspaper columnists and television pundits seem to be preoccupied with presidential polls and contentious primary elections across the country. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/22/more/030212.cfm Fri, 2 Mar 2012 15:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/22/more/030212.cfm#When:3:00:00PM Can the HOA sue me if it doesn't exist? http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George030112.cfm Thu, 1 Mar 2012 15:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George030112.cfm#When:3:00:00PM What happens when my landlord can't pay his mortgage? http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George022112.cfm Tue, 21 Feb 2012 12:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George022112.cfm#When:12:00:00PM Whose duty is it to disclose a bug problem? http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George020712.cfm Tue, 7 Feb 2012 12:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George020712.cfm#When:12:00:00PM I did some math this morning when I saw 30-year mortgage rates still under 4%. That's unbelievably low. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/020212.cfm Thu, 2 Feb 2012 15:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/020212.cfm#When:3:00:00PM Should I buy a home with my boyfriend? Can I take over my neighbor's mortgage? http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George020112.cfm Wed, 1 Feb 2012 17:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George020112.cfm#When:5:00:00PM How can I get out of my listing agreement? Why has my bank cancelled my home's foreclosure? http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George012412.cfm Tue, 24 Jan 2012 12:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George012412.cfm#When:12:00:00PM The start of 2012 has many investors looking for bargain properties, sometimes in bunches. The ways of funding the purchases also have become more creative as buyers rethink the role of real estate not only for their portfolios but also for their residences. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/24/241/more/012312.cfm Mon, 23 Jan 2012 11:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/24/241/more/012312.cfm#When:11:00:00AM Spring is the busiest time of the year for selling a home. The trees are budding, the grass is green, the songbirds return, and homebuyers feel the urge to begin their home-buying search. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/22/more/012012.cfm Fri, 20 Jan 2012 11:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/22/more/012012.cfm#When:11:00:00AM Why do I need to fill out a form to see property? Can a seller accept another offer during our negotiations? http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George011812.cfm Wed, 18 Jan 2012 13:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George011812.cfm#When:1:00:00PM Negotiations were tense when I bought a used backyard play house for my two-year-old. The seller wanted $60. I countered with $50. We consulted our attorneys, faxed amended offers back and forth - include the plastic fireplace logs or no deal - but finally settled on $52.75. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/011312.cfm Fri, 13 Jan 2012 15:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/011312.cfm#When:3:00:00PM If you're selling your house, why would you tell potential buyers about the stuff that's wrong with it? Caveat emptor, right? Not so fast. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/011212.cfm Thu, 12 Jan 2012 11:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/011212.cfm#When:11:00:00AM Can I evict my tenants? http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George011112.cfm Wed, 11 Jan 2012 14:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George011112.cfm#When:2:00:00PM How many homestead exemptions can we claim? http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George010412.cfm Wed, 4 Jan 2012 14:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George010412.cfm#When:2:00:00PM Two years ago, the National Association of REALTORS (NAR), one of the largest professional membership associations in the world with more than a million members, floated its idea of a housing solution to attendees at its annual convention. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/24/241/more/122911.cfm Thu, 29 Dec 2011 12:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/24/241/more/122911.cfm#When:12:00:00PM Doesn't water damage have to be disclosed? Why won't my lender call me back? http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George122811.cfm Wed, 28 Dec 2011 10:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George122811.cfm#When:10:00:00AM On New Year's Eve, many bid farewell to the old year by singing "Auld Lang Syne" lyrics that include, "Should old acquaintance be forgot and never brought to mind." http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/22/more/122711.cfm Tue, 27 Dec 2011 11:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/22/more/122711.cfm#When:11:00:00AM As of Dec. 1, 2011, consumers can file complaints against mortgage companies with the federal Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) through the agency's home page. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/27/more/121611.cfm Fri, 16 Dec 2011 13:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/27/more/121611.cfm#When:1:00:00PM How do I gain access to my neighbor's townhouse? Can I run a business from my apartment? http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George121311.cfm Tue, 13 Dec 2011 11:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George121311.cfm#When:11:00:00AM I think I lost some money. How? My wife and I probably would have qualified for assistance when we bought our first home. I'm not positive about that since we didn't even explore the idea. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/120911.cfm Fri, 09 Dec 2011 11:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/120911.cfm#When:11:00:00AM Does my significant other have to be on the deed? http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George120611.cfm Tue, 06 Dec 2011 11:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George120611.cfm#When:11:00:00AM Who certifies inspectors? How do I get a property's mineral rights? http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George112911.cfm Tue, 29 Nov 2011 11:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George112911.cfm#When:11:00:00AM Can the county make me pay taxes from before I owned a property? What constitutes normal wear and tear? http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George112211.cfm Tue, 22 Nov 2011 11:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George112211.cfm#When:11:00:00AM Home valuation Web sites are great ... except when they're wrong ... which is most of the time. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/111811.cfm Fri, 18 Nov 2011 10:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/111811.cfm#When:10:00:00AM An old friend of mine who owns and operates a small development company showed up in town for a weekend event. We blocked out some time to revisit the old days and what's in store next. Like me, his four children had grown and gone. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/24/241/more/111711.cfm Thu, 17 Nov 2011 11:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/24/241/more/111711.cfm#When:11:00:00AM The national media still reports on the collapse of the housing market and the downturn in the economy. While I agree unemployment is still too high and housing is not appreciating the way it did from 2000 to 2006, I believe opportunity's knocking. Now is the time to buy a home. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/22/more/111611.cfm Wed, 16 Nov 2011 10:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/22/more/111611.cfm#When:10:00:00AM If I die first, does my second husband get the house? http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George111511.cfm Tue, 15 Nov 2011 10:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George111511.cfm#When:10:00:00AM If I told you a house had been on the market for the average amount of time for its neighborhood, would that affect your decision to make an offer? How about if I told you that it had been on the market for 13 months? http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/111411.cfm Mon, 14 Nov 2011 11:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/111411.cfm#When:11:00:00AM How long do I have to keep tenant records? http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George110711.cfm Mon, 07 Nov 2011 14:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George110711.cfm#When:2:00:00PM Unfortunately, the drought in Texas continues and, according to most reports I read, it's not likely to let up for another year. For me, that means it's time to scale back on our lawn watering. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/26/more/110211.cfm Wed, 02 Nov 2011 09:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/26/more/110211.cfm#When:9:00:00AM Shouldn't my neighbor share the cost of a new fence? What constitutes "adverse possession"? http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George110111.cfm Tue, 01 Nov 2011 11:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George110111.cfm#When:11:00:00AM Texas homes continued to hold their value as sales jumped up sharply in the third quarter of 2011, according to the new Texas Quarterly Housing Report released by the Texas Association of REALTORS. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/3/31/News/1101112.cfm Tue, 01 Nov 2011 11:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/3/31/News/1101112.cfm#When:11:00:00AM If there's a lesson from this terrible drought, it's that nothing is more important to Texas than a clean, reliable water supply. And on Nov. 8, you'll have the chance to protect it. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/3/36/WatsonEditorial.cfm Wed, 26 Oct 2011 13:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/3/36/WatsonEditorial.cfm#When:1:00:00PM A recent bill introduced in the Senate would offer visas to foreigners who make a cash investment of at least $500,000 in residential real estate. Foreign investors could spend at least $500,000 on one residence or spend at least $250,000 on a residence and invest the remaining $250,000 in other residential property, such as rental property. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/27/more/102611.cfm Wed, 26 Oct 2011 13:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/27/more/102611.cfm#When:1:00:00PM In our first year as homeowners, I was excited about Halloween. Trick-or-treaters don't frequent many second-floor apartments, so for the first time, I would get to open my own door to a front porch full of giggling witches, ghosts, and princesses. Sadly, I was in for a lesson. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/26/more/102511.cfm Wed, 26 Oct 2011 08:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/26/more/102511.cfm#When:8:00:00AM Should I tell buyers that the county has my house's square footage wrong? Why did that foreclosed house sell for less than my bid? http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George102511.cfm Tue, 25 Oct 2011 10:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George102511.cfm#When:10:00:00AM Like cowboys, oil derricks and football, droughts are native to Texas. Now an extraordinary drought has gripped our state, capturing national headlines as it decimates crops, kills trees and cracks home foundations. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/3/36/CallegariEditorial.cfm Mon, 24 Oct 2011 14:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/3/36/CallegariEditorial.cfm#When:2:00:00PM I support Proposition 2 because I think the availability of a clean, reliable water source is one of the biggest long-term priorities facing this state ... on par with education and healthcare. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/22/more/102411.cfm Mon, 24 Oct 2011 11:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/22/more/102411.cfm#When:11:00:00AM How many family photos are in your living room? Go ahead, count them. You need to know how big a box you'll need to pack them up. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/102111.cfm Fri, 21 Oct 2011 15:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/102111.cfm#When:3:00:00PM Proposition 2 may be the most important item on ballot this November 8. It's all about giving local communities a cost-effective way to improve their water- and wastewater-delivery systems. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/3/36/Prop2.cfm Wed, 19 Oct 2011 11:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/3/36/Prop2.cfm#When:11:00:00AM The Texas wildfires have really been on my mind lately. For some living in neighborhoods at risk, residents had as few as five minutes to evacuate their homes. That got me thinking ... am I prepared to evacuate my home in five minutes? http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/26/more/101911.cfm Wed, 19 Oct 2011 11:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/26/more/101911.cfm#When:11:00:00AM What does no smoking mean? Should the house be in both our names? http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George101811.cfm Tue, 18 Oct 2011 13:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George101811.cfm#When:1:00:00PM Our family has big plans this weekend: we're carving our first jack-o-lantern together. Though this isn't our son's first Halloween, it is the first one in which he'll do more than coo, cry, and fill diapers ... and it all begins with carving the perfect jack-o-lantern for our doorstep. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/26/more/101111.cfm Tue, 11 Oct 2011 10:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/26/more/101111.cfm#When:10:00:00AM Should I let a builder use my property? Are bonuses to selling agents legal? http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George101111.cfm Tue, 11 Oct 2011 10:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George101111.cfm#When:10:00:00AM About six months ago, I heard a knocking noise coming from a bedroom in my house. I discovered that it wasn't coming from the room, but outside it - a woodpecker was having quite a time on a trim board near the roof. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/100311.cfm Mon, 03 Oct 2011 10:30:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/100311.cfm#When:10:30:00AM Lenders have always viewed real estate investors with a wary eye. It seems all investors are grouped into flip-and-run speculators with little skin in the game, no plan for maintenance and repair, yet huge expectations for short-term profits. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/24/241/more/093011.cfm Fri, 30 Sep 2011 16:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/24/241/more/093011.cfm#When:4:00:00PM Typically, when people decide to buy a home, they don't start their search with a certain-priced house in mind. They start with a list of features they want and need. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/22/more/092911.cfm Thu, 29 Sep 2011 10:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/22/more/092911.cfm#When:10:00:00AM If you live anywhere near Texas, you already know that devastating wildfires have been ravaging our state. In fact, an official of the American Red Cross recently told me that we've had a wildfire burning every day somewhere in Texas since December 2010. Ouch. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/26/more/092811.cfm Wed, 28 Sep 2011 09:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/26/more/092811.cfm#When:9:00:00AM How can we terminate our listing agreement? Is my verbal lease enforceable? http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George092611.cfm Mon, 26 Sep 2011 11:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George092611.cfm#When:11:00:00AM Can I get my neighbors away from my bedroom window? Is it unethical for a real estate agent to serve on an HOA's board where she sells homes? http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George092111.cfm Wed, 21 Sep 2011 13:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George092111.cfm#When:1:00:00PM For those of us who haven't been through it, it's hard to imagine what it's like to leave your house as a wildfire approaches. Many Texans have faced that situation this year. Thousands have returned to find their property and belongings damaged or destroyed. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/22/more/091911.cfm Tue, 20 Sep 2011 10:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/22/more/091911.cfm#When:10:00:00AM What has four pages and can knock $15,000 off the taxable value of the home you purchase? The application for a residence homestead exemption. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/091311.cfm Tue, 13 Sep 2011 10:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/091311.cfm#When:10:00:00AM Can we change the contract at closing? Is my listing invalid? Can I cut tree roots? http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George091211.cfm Tue, 13 Sep 2011 09:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George091211.cfm#When:9:00:00AM Before you even find a house you'd like to buy, you may want to sit down with your Texas REALTOR and talk about the contract. That way, when you do come across your dream home, you'll be able to craft an offer that will leave other buyers shaking their heads at "the one that got away." http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/082611.cfm Wed, 31 Aug 2011 09:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/082611.cfm#When:9:00:00AM What happens when three people own land and two of them want to sell it? Can my neighbor block my easement? http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George082311.cfm Tue, 23 Aug 2011 09:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George082311.cfm#When:9:00:00AM Who can make my neighbor move his fence off my property? http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George081511.cfm Mon, 15 Aug 2011 16:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George081511.cfm#When:4:00:00PM How can I prevent my neighbor from planting on his side of my fence? Can potential buyers control how I use my air conditioner? http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George080811.cfm Mon, 8 Aug 2011 14:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George080811.cfm#When:2:00:00PM Something will go wrong when you try to buy a home. There are too many pieces ... too many people ... to expect a real estate deal to glide to a successful result without a single hitch. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/080511.cfm Fri, 5 Aug 2011 14:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/080511.cfm#When:2:00:00PM Where do I get my deed now that I've paid off my mortgage? http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George080111.cfm Mon, 1 Aug 2011 15:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George080111.cfm#When:3:00:00PM Who has to pay for a wheelchair ramp? http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George071811.cfm Tue, 19 Jul 2011 13:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George071811.cfm#When:1:00:00PM Verbal offers, terminating listing agreements http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George070611.cfm Thu, 7 Jul 2011 09:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George070611.cfm#When:9:00:00AM One of the most discussed issues at our house is ... our house. Not the house we just bought, mind you, but the one my wife owned before we got married. We made the decision to hang on to it and give property management a shot. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/070111.cfm Fri, 1 Jul 2011 10:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/070111.cfm#When:10:00:00AM Many second-home owners, especially those in the full-time vacation rental business, are looking to purchase another property but are facing stringent financing guidelines. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/24/241/more/063011.cfm Thu, 30 Jun 2011 12:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/24/241/more/063011.cfm#When:12:00:00PM We could have sold our home without an agent. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/062411.cfm Fri, 24 Jun 2011 09:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/062411.cfm#When:9:00:00AM I have come to the realization that everything edible tastes better fried. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/3/34/more/062111.cfm Tue, 21 Jun 2011 12:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/3/34/more/062111.cfm#When:12:00:00PM Perhaps the most important DVD that my mom owns was created by her plumber. No, he's not an aspiring director of feature films. It's a video of the inside of her home's wastewater pipe. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/061711.cfm Tue, 21 Jun 2011 12:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/061711.cfm#When:12:00:00PM Verbal offers, security deposits in foreclosure, and terminating listing agreements http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George062111.cfm Tue, 21 Jun 2011 12:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George062111.cfm#When:12:00:00PM Any day now, something very exciting is going to happen in our house: our 13-month-old son will take his first steps. My husband and I have been eagerly anticipating the event, holding our breath each time we set him on his wobbly feet. We're ready for the big moment and know we need to get our house ready, too. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/26/more/061711.cfm Mon, 20 Jun 2011 09:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/26/more/061711.cfm#When:9:00:00AM Does my wife have to sign the listing agreement? http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George061311.cfm Mon, 13 Jun 2011 09:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George061311.cfm#When:9:00:00AM As I was watching TV the other day, I saw a commercial that said, "It's a great time to buy a house." http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/060911.cfm Mon, 13 Jun 2011 09:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/060911.cfm#When:9:00:00AM There's a house in my neighborhood that's been on the market since last year. It now has a "New price!" http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/060311.cfm Fri, 3 Jun 2011 14:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/060311.cfm#When:2:00:00PM Last week, a visit with my insurance agent prompted me to write a post on having the right insurance policy for your home. While I was updating my family's current policy, another question occurred to me - what about what's in my home? Am I certain I would receive proper compensation for my valuables if they were destroyed or stolen? http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/26/more/060211.cfm Thu, 2 Jun 2011 09:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/26/more/060211.cfm#When:9:00:00AM What happens when contract negotiations outlast the term of our listing agreement? http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George053111.cfm Tue, 31 May 2011 14:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George053111.cfm#When:2:00:00PM Have you made The List? You know ... that collection of must-haves, nice-to-haves, and better-not-haves for your new home. If you haven't made yours, you should. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/052711.cfm Tue, 31 May 2011 14:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/052711.cfm#When:2:00:00PM What happens when contract negotiations outlast the term of our listing agreement? http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George052311.cfm Tue, 24 May 2011 15:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George052311.cfm#When:3:00:00PM Like most Americans, my husband and I have been following the string of natural disasters that have affected the U.S. in the last several months ... wildfires in the West, tornadoes in the Mideast and, most recently, massive flooding throughout the South. In each case, thousands of families have lost their homes and our hearts go out to them. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/26/more/052311.cfm Tue, 24 May 2011 15:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/26/more/052311.cfm#When:3:00:00PM As hard as it is for me to believe, my wife and I have been in our new house for six months already. Like many recent homebuyers, we were given a home warranty on our purchase. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/051811.cfm Tue, 24 May 2011 15:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/051811.cfm#When:3:00:00PM Can an agent force me to use her services? http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George051611.cfm Tue, 17 May 2011 12:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George051611.cfm#When:12:00:00PM For a household with two working parents, a one-year-old, and three pets, "busy" is hardly an adequate description of our lifestyle. While it has been a work in progress, I am proud that most days things don't completely fall apart, and every now and then I'm even able to do things like organize closets or do a little yard work. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/26/more/051611.cfm Tue, 17 May 2011 12:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/26/more/051611.cfm#When:12:00:00PM You're not likely to find a perfect house. You might find the perfect house for you, but it almost certainly will have some flaws. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/051111.cfm Thu, 12 May 2011 10:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/051111.cfm#When:10:00:00AM During the recent spring break, we visited with family and friends who were considering real estate purchases and sales. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/24/241/more/051011.cfm Wed, 11 May 2011 09:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/24/241/more/051011.cfm#When:9:00:00AM Usually, people only think of REALTORS when they are about to make a decision on buying or selling a home. But did you know that Texas REALTORS work for you all year long? Members of the Texas Association of REALTORS work with our local, county, and state lawmakers to ensure Texas remains a "homeowner friendly" state. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/22/more/051011.cfm Wed, 11 May 2011 09:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/22/more/051011.cfm#When:9:00:00AM Can the seller just change his mind after we make an offer? http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George050911.cfm Mon, 9 May 2011 14:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George050911.cfm#When:2:00:00PM Alright, I'm not really proposing that you put an addition on your house before you sell it. But I do recommend making the rooms in your home look bigger, because you'll never hear a buyer say, "I was really hoping for something more cramped." http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/050611.cfm Fri, 6 May 2011 08:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/050611.cfm#When:8:00:00AM Yep, we're those parents. The ones who jump up and down like fools when our son learns how to clap and who throw big parties for his first birthday. On our journey to becoming those parents, we discovered something handy: our neighborhood has a clubhouse. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/26/more/042711.cfm Wed, 4 May 2011 09:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/26/more/042711.cfm#When:9:00:00AM Can the neighbors make me move a fence that's been in place for 50 years? http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George050211.cfm Tue, 3 May 2011 08:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George050211.cfm#When:8:00:00AM I bought my first house in 2004 and, looking back, I realize how hard I made it on myself - and others in the transaction - because I wasn't working from a clearly defined plan. And that's really the first step. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/042711.cfm Wed, 27 Apr 2011 14:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/042711.cfm#When:2:00:00PM Why did my neighbor's house cost a lot less than mine? http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George042511.cfm Tue, 26 Apr 2011 10:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George042511.cfm#When:10:00:00AM Why haven't real estate agents gone the way of travel agents? I've heard that question many times. To me, the answer is simple: Buying a house ... or commercial or investment property ... is nothing like booking a trip. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/042111.cfm Tue, 26 Apr 2011 10:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/042111.cfm#When:10:00:00AM I can't believe they left me a pile of trash, I thought. My wife and I had just closed on our first home and walked into our new kitchen to find papers, booklets, cans of paint, and other items stacked on the counter. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/041511.cfm Tue, 19 Apr 2011 09:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/041511.cfm#When:9:00:00AM Can the buyer sue me even though he knew the house had termites? http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George041811.cfm Mon, 18 Apr 2011 10:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George041811.cfm#When:10:00:00AM Is my former listing agent entitled to a fee? http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George041111.cfm Mon, 11 Apr 2011 09:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George041111.cfm#When:9:00:00AM My wife and I sold our house in December of 2010 after about four months on the market - but the process started a long time before that. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/040811.cfm Fri, 08 Apr 2011 11:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/040811.cfm#When:11:00:00AM Can we rent out of state and maintain a homestead exemption in Texas? http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George040411.cfm Mon, 04 Apr 2011 15:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George040411.cfm#When:3:00:00PM Have you heard the term mental accounting? It's the notion that people make financial decisions based on perceptions and emotions rather than more-objective criteria. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/040111.cfm Fri, 01 Apr 2011 14:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/040111.cfm#When:2:00:00PM I'm so excited, I can hardly stand it: my husband and I are going on vacation!!! A real vacation! No sleeping on family members' fold-outs and no work. Just beaches, water views and food enough for an army for seven glorious days. I can smell the sea water already... http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/26/more/033011.cfm Wed, 30 Mar 2011 09:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/26/more/033011.cfm#When:9:00:00AM Does someone have to pay the rest of my dead brother's lease? http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George032911.cfm Tue, 29 Mar 2011 14:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George032911.cfm#When:2:00:00PM My husband and I are fortunate to have a large, tight-knit family. Between us, we have 19 wonderful nieces and nephews who live just three hours away and this weekend, six of them came to visit. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/26/more/032311.cfm Thu, 24 Mar 2011 13:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/26/more/032311.cfm#When:1:00:00PM Let's say I want to buy your house. You're selling it for $200,000, but I offer $160,000. You're not selling it for that amount, so you counter with $190,000. I then propose that we split the difference, at $175,000. Do you think that's a fair price? http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/032311.cfm Wed, 23 Mar 2011 09:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/032311.cfm#When:9:00:00AM Lawmakers are considering legislation to prohibit private transfer fees on real estate transactions. These fees require a buyer to pay a percentage of the sales price of the home to a private entity each time the property is sold for a designated period of time, frequently 99 years. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/27/more/032211.cfm Tue, 22 Mar 2011 13:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/27/more/032211.cfm#When:1:00:00PM If I buy a house today, will it be cheaper tomorrow? In other words, if I buy now, what is the likelihood my property's value will decline, and I won't be able to sell it for what I paid for it? Put yet another way, have we hit bottom on home prices? http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/22/more/032211.cfm Tue, 22 Mar 2011 09:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/22/more/032211.cfm#When:9:00:00AM Does the listing broker owe us money for the home inspection? http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George032111.cfm Mon, 21 Mar 2011 09:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George032111.cfm#When:9:00:00AM Like my colleague, I watch a lot of HGTV. Not only are they relevant to my profession, but having just remodeled one house and bought another one, I find the shows interesting. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/031511.cfm Tue, 15 Mar 2011 09:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/031511.cfm#When:9:00:00AM Can separated spouses claim more than one homestead exemption? http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George031411.cfm Mon, 14 Mar 2011 09:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George031411.cfm#When:9:00:00AM If you're thinking of buying a home, you probably want to know what's going to happen with mortgage rates. I can help you with that. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/031111.cfm Fri, 11 Mar 2011 09:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/031111.cfm#When:9:00:00AM When buying a house, a good Texas REALTOR will assist you with the "Ps and Qs" of the contract, inspection, and closing process. They will help ensure the "Ts" are crossed and the "I's" are dotted. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/22/more/030911.cfm Wed, 09 Mar 2011 09:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/22/more/030911.cfm#When:9:00:00AM There used to be a big push by lenders to secure "customers for life." Not only did banks promote attractive mortgage programs, but they also targeted the same customers for checking and savings accounts, individual retirement accounts, credit cards, auto loans, wealth management advice, and insurance services. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/24/241/more/030811.cfm Tue, 08 Mar 2011 09:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/24/241/more/030811.cfm#When:9:00:00AM Can a homeowners association sue me for a violation that occurred in 1976? http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George030711.cfm Mon, 07 Mar 2011 09:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George030711.cfm#When:9:00:00AM I watch more Home and Garden TV than I care to admit, especially the show "House Hunters." On it, people looking to buy a home are paired with a local Realtor and shown three properties. At the end of the show, the homebuyers make an offer on one of the three places. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/030211.cfm Wed, 02 Mar 2011 09:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/030211.cfm#When:9:00:00AM I'm a huge fan of cooking shows. Ina Garten, Rachael Ray, Giada de Laurentiis ... you'd think they were all long-lost friends based on the space they command on my DVR. That being the case, a reasonable person would assume I'm also a fan of cooking ... not exactly. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/26/more/022811.cfm Mon, 28 Feb 2011 09:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/26/more/022811.cfm#When:9:00:00AM My wife and I bought a house in December and since then, I've had two scams come through my mailbox. And I want to warn you about them. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/022411.cfm Mon, 28 Feb 2011 09:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/022411.cfm#When:9:00:00AM A Manhattan court diminishes a 334-year-old legal precedent meant to ensure that all legal binding contracts for the sale of real estate be in writing and signed by the parties. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/27/more/022411.cfm Mon, 28 Feb 2011 09:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/27/more/022411.cfm#When:9:00:00AM After $140 billion in taxpayer losses, the Obama Administration is seeking ways to wind down mortgage reinsurers Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/27/more/022311.cfm Mon, 28 Feb 2011 09:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/27/more/022311.cfm#When:9:00:00AM What's the seller's duty to disclose a roof leak? http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George022111.cfm Mon, 28 Feb 2011 09:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George022111.cfm#When:9:00:00AM If you've read my biography, you know that part of my day job is serving as Public Relations Counsel for the Texas Association of REALTORS. Normally, you won't find this blog crossing over with that role ... except when it does. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/26/more/021611.cfm Thu, 17 Feb 2011 09:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/26/more/021611.cfm#When:9:00:00AM Whoever invented the undo function in computer software is one of my heroes. Think about it: If something doesn't turn out the way you intended, hit Control + Z and - poof - it never happened. There aren't many places in life where you get to undo your actions like that, but the option period in a real estate contract is one of them. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/021011.cfm Thu, 10 Feb 2011 09:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/2/21/more/021011.cfm#When:9:00:00AM "Winter" and "Texas" usually only go together when you're talking about Winter Texans - those smart folks who escape to our state to avoid frigid temperatures in hometowns of Chicago or Fargo. Last weekend, however, "winter" and "Texas" collided in a big way. Was your house ready? http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/26/more/020911.cfm Wed, 09 Feb 2011 09:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/26/more/020911.cfm#When:9:00:00AM My wife and I are not the FSBO type. She's too practical and I'm too worried about messing up some seemingly insignificant business detail, only to have it come back and bite me on the backside. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/013111.cfm Tue, 08 Feb 2011 09:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/013111.cfm#When:9:00:00AM I'm about to buy a house. The seller states in the Special Provisions section of the contract that he's selling the house "as is." I have an inspection scheduled during my option period. If the inspector finds a major problem, can I still opt out of this contract before the end of my option period just losing the option money? http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George013111.cfm Tue, 01 Feb 2011 09:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George013111.cfm#When:9:00:00AM If a potential homebuyer made you a low offer ... and I mean really low ... would you be offended? http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/012811.cfm Mon, 31 Jan 2011 09:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/012811.cfm#When:9:00:00AM My husband came home with this adorable puppy. A mix of Labrador and hound, she was about five pounds with floppy ears and a sweet little face. Despite all that cuteness, I still had hesitations. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/26/more/012511.cfm Tue, 25 Jan 2011 09:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/26/more/012511.cfm#When:9:00:00AM My father owns a condo that's been on the market for a year. He installed new carpet, repainted all the rooms, and updated all the light fixtures. The problem is the outside. We've gotten a lot of feedback from showings that the condo's exterior is scaring away potential buyers. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George012411.cfm Mon, 24 Jan 2011 09:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George012411.cfm#When:9:00:00AM I have never been a fan of using a bogeyman to make a point. It takes away from intelligent and thoughtful discourse and often leaves a wake of irrational fear. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/3/34/more/011111.cfm Fri, 14 Jan 2011 09:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/3/34/more/011111.cfm#When:9:00:00AM Just remember ... when you purchase a home, a neighborhood comes with it. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/010711.cfm Mon, 10 Jan 2011 10:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/010711.cfm#When:10:00:00AM Many people start the new year with resolutions about losing weight, starting a new physical fitness routine, or getting their financial house in order. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/22/more/010511.cfm Fri, 07 Jan 2011 14:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/22/more/010511.cfm#When:2:00:00PM The possibility of eliminating the mortgage interest deduction on primary residences continues to draw interest in the nation's capital. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/24/241/more/0111.cfm Fri, 07 Jan 2011 09:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/24/241/more/0111.cfm#When:9:00:00AM Dear George: Two property owners in our homeowners association say that they want to opt out of the HOA. How can they do this? http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George010311.cfm Tue, 04 Jan 2011 09:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George010311.cfm#When:9:00:00AM As a seller, you have no control over some things that homebuyers factor into their purchase decisions. Location comes to mind. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/120710.cfm Tue, 04 Jan 2011 09:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/120710.cfm#When:9:00:00AM Dear George: My husband and I submitted a signed offer, earnest money, and option fee to a listing broker's "broker associate" for a piece of property. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George122010.cfm Tue, 04 Jan 2011 09:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George122010.cfm#When:9:00:00AM Dear George: I need to lease a home where a man murdered his wife before committing suicide. I've know it's a good idea to disclose such an event to a potential buyer, but what about a potential tenant? http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George120610.cfm Mon, 06 Dec 2010 09:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George120610.cfm#When:9:00:00AM I read an article today about people who live in super-small homes ... some not even 100 square feet. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/112910.cfm Wed, 01 Dec 2010 09:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/112910.cfm#When:9:00:00AM A new jumbo reverse mortgage option has finally surfaced for seniors with higher-valued homes. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/24/241/more/1110.cfm Wed, 01 Dec 2010 09:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/24/241/more/1110.cfm#When:9:00:00AM Dear George: My ex-husband and I have a contract to sell our former home. However, the closing agent says that a creditor placed a judgment against our home due to credit problems my ex-husband had after we separated. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George112910.cfm Wed, 01 Dec 2010 09:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George112910.cfm#When:9:00:00AM Employment in the Texas private sector is keeping the state's job growth headed in the right direction. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/22/more/112310.cfm Wed, 01 Dec 2010 09:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/22/more/112310.cfm#When:9:00:00AM Dear George: We gave three months' notice of our intent not to renew the lease of the single-family home we've been renting for two years. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George112210.cfm Mon, 22 Nov 2010 09:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George112210.cfm#When:9:00:00AM The Texas Real Estate Commission has adopted a slew of changes to the contract used by the vast majority of homebuyers and sellers. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/111810.cfm Thu, 18 Nov 2010 09:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/111810.cfm#When:9:00:00AM Dear George: My wife and I bought an incomplete home from a builder. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George111610.cfm Tue, 16 Nov 2010 09:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George111610.cfm#When:9:00:00AM When I bought my current home, nobody was talking about real-estate-market woes or foreclosure troubles or a struggling national economy. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/111210.cfm Fri, 12 Nov 2010 09:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/111210.cfm#When:9:00:00AM Dear George: We recently paid an option fee and earnest money to enter into a binding contract for a distressed home that has sat vacant for five years. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George110110.cfm Mon, 08 Nov 2010 09:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George110110.cfm#When:9:00:00AM You know you should make yourself scarce when prospective buyers look at your house, right? http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/110210.cfm Mon, 08 Nov 2010 09:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/110210.cfm#When:9:00:00AM According to the Texas Quarterly Housing Report released today, the volume of real estate sales in Texas decreased in the third quarter of 2010, but was essentially flat year-to-date. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/25/archive/2010Q3.cfm Mon, 01 Nov 2010 09:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/25/archive/2010Q3.cfm#When:9:00:00AM Home sales statistics are likely to paint a picture of a weakening market through the end of 2010 and the first half of 2011. That doesn't tell the whole story. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/22/more/102810.cfm Mon, 01 Nov 2010 09:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/22/more/102810.cfm#When:9:00:00AM National surveys attempting to determine the best places to live continue to include several college towns. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/24/241/more/1010.cfm Mon, 01 Nov 2010 09:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/24/241/more/1010.cfm#When:9:00:00AM The foreclosure mess has certainly gotten messier. What does it all mean for buyers? http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/102810.cfm Mon, 01 Nov 2010 09:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/102810.cfm#When:9:00:00AM Dear George: We live in an apartment complex where I fear for my family's safety. There are large dogs with muzzles. My car has been broken into. Are these valid reasons to break my lease? http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George102610.cfm Thu, 28 Oct 2010 09:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George102610.cfm#When:9:00:00AM Dear George: My husband died. How do I put our house's title in my name? http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George101810.cfm Thu, 14 Oct 2010 09:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George101810.cfm#When:9:00:00AM Dear George: If I sell my home in a few years, do I have to disclose long-repaired pest damage? http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George092710.cfm Mon, 27 Sep 2010 09:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George092710.cfm#When:9:00:00AM Maybe you've been taking steps toward buying a home and now you're frozen. http://texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/081110.cfm Wed, 11 Aug 2010 09:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/081110.cfm#When:9:00:00AM Analysis of the Texas Quarterly Housing Report; a new site for Texas homebuyers http://texasrealestate.com/podcasts/ITRE_Episode16.mp3 Wed, 04 Aug 2010 09:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/podcasts/ITRE_Episode16.mp3#When:9:00:00AM Thousands of Texas homebuyers in jeopardy of losing their federal homebuyer tax credit have received a reprieve. http://texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/070710.cfm Wed, 07 Jul 2010 09:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/070710.cfm#When:9:00:00AM Dear George: What are some pitfalls to avoid with my short sale? http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George070610.cfm Tue, 06 Jul 2010 09:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George070610.cfm#When:9:00:00AM I wish there had been a Web site like TxHomePrograms.org when I was buying my first house. http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/062110.cfm Fri, 25 Jun 2010 09:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/062110.cfm#When:9:00:00AM Dear George: Should I disclose that I'm selling a haunted house? http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George062110.cfm Mon, 21 Jun 2010 09:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George062110.cfm#When:9:00:00AM If you bought an investment home now and rented out, is there any way of knowing if it will appreciate? http://texasrealestate.com/web/2/24/241/more/0610.cfm Thu, 10 Jun 2010 09:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/2/24/241/more/0610.cfm#When:9:00:00AM Things are often more complicated than they seem. http://texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/060110.cfm Tue, 01 Jun 2010 09:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/060110.cfm#When:9:00:00AM Dear George: I just found out that the seller "forgot" to disclose a water claim. What can I do? http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George060110.cfm Tue, 01 Jun 2010 09:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George060110.cfm#When:9:00:00AM Its worth considering that the benefits of light rail may go beyond how many vehicles it removes from the road. http://texasrealestate.com/web/3/34/more/0510.cfm Thu, 27 May 2010 09:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/3/34/more/0510.cfm#When:9:00:00AM Dear George: How can I lend someone money and use his property as collateral? http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George052410.cfm Mon, 24 May 2010 09:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George052410.cfm#When:9:00:00AM If you're wondering whether you should you hold an open house..... http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/051710.cfm Tue, 18 May 2010 09:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/051710.cfm#When:9:00:00AM Dear George: The contract to sell my house expires this week. How much longer am I obligated to my agent?..... http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George051710.cfm Mon, 17 May 2010 09:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George051710.cfm#When:9:00:00AM The federal homebuyer tax credit has received a lot of coverage over the past several months, but one thing not widely publicized is that the April 30 deadline doesn't apply to everyone..... http://texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/050410.cfm Tue, 04 May 2010 09:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/050410.cfm#When:9:00:00AM Texas' lower-than-national-average housing cost is one reason for the state's higher-than-national-average growth rate..... http://texasrealestate.com/web/2/22/more/0410.cfm Tue, 27 Apr 2010 09:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/2/22/more/0410.cfm#When:9:00:00AM How much do you know about private transfer fees in Texas? Gabe Lopez discusses a disturbing new trend..... http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/3/34/more/0410.cfm Wed, 21 Apr 2010 09:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/3/34/more/0410.cfm#When:9:00:00AM It's coming down to the wire. You have only until the end of April to get a house under contract if you want to take advantage of the federal homebuyer tax credit..... http://texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/041910.cfm Tue, 20 Apr 2010 09:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/041910.cfm#When:9:00:00AM Dear George: Does a seller have to provide a disclosure notice for a short sale?..... http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George041910.cfm Mon, 19 Apr 2010 09:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George041910.cfm#When:9:00:00AM If you're buying or selling real estate, I have a must-read for you ..... http://texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/0410.cfm Tue, 06 Apr 2010 09:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/0410.cfm#When:9:00:00AM Dear George: A seller accepted my offer via e-mail. Is that legally binding?..... http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George040510.cfm Mon, 05 Apr 2010 09:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George040510.cfm#When:9:00:00AM The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development has revised some home-loan rules that attempt to give us what we want...... http://texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/032510.cfm Thu, 25 Mar 2010 09:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/032510.cfm#When:9:00:00AM Like second-home sales in the U.S., the sales of Mexican homes have been limping along..... http://texasrealestate.com/web/2/24/241/more/0310.cfm Tue, 23 Mar 2010 09:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/2/24/241/more/0310.cfm#When:9:00:00AM Here is one assertion I bet all Texans will agree with - property taxes in our state have a peculiar way of increasing..... http://texasrealestate.com/web/3/34/more/0310.cfm Fri, 19 Mar 2010 09:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/3/34/more/0310.cfm#When:9:00:00AM Closing is a process that begins weeks before the actual closing date, and follows an outline dictated largely by the buyer's original offer..... http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/121/archive/good_closing.cfm Wed, 03 Mar 2010 09:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/121/archive/good_closing.cfm#When:9:00:00AM So, you're selling your home and everyone you interviewed to list your home has mentioned "pulling comps"...... http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/122/archive/comps.cfm Wed, 17 Feb 2010 09:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/122/archive/comps.cfm#When:9:00:00AM Hanging on through difficult economic times means different things to different people...... http://texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/021210.cfm Fri, 12 Feb 2010 09:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/021210.cfm#When:9:00:00AM Hanging on through difficult economic times means different things to different people...... http://texasrealestate.com/web/2/24/241/more/0110.cfm Thu, 28 Jan 2010 09:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/2/24/241/more/0110.cfm#When:9:00:00AM Is it a seller's market or a buyer's market? Be careful where you get your information...... http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/121/archive/local.cfm Thu, 21 Jan 2010 09:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/121/archive/local.cfm#When:9:00:00AM It's one of the worst-kept secrets out there: Texas is a great place to live...... http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/011810.cfm Wed, 20 Jan 2010 09:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/011810.cfm#When:9:00:00AM It's important to keep the paperwork..... http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/122/archive/copies.cfm Tue, 12 Jan 2010 09:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/122/archive/copies.cfm#When:9:00:00AM You must apply for the exemption, but there is no fee associated with applying for a homestead exemption..... http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/121/archive/exemptions.cfm Tue, 15 Dec 2009 09:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/121/archive/exemptions.cfm#When:9:00:00AM Remember when lenders were content to sell foreclosed homes to any qualified buyer?..... http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/24/241/more/1209.cfm Mon, 14 Dec 2009 09:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/24/241/more/1209.cfm#When:9:00:00AM If governmental entities had full discretion on what was a public good, all private real property would be at risk of being appropriated for the public good..... http://texasrealestate.com/web/3/34/more/1209.cfm Thu, 10 Dec 2009 09:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/3/34/more/1209.cfm#When:9:00:00AM A look at Forbes list of cities where homes are most overpriced...... http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/120809.cfm Tue, 08 Dec 2009 09:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/120809.cfm#When:9:00:00AM If you were thinking of buying your first home but just couldn't get it together in time to take advantage of the $8,000 federal tax credit, you have an extension. Congress gave you about five more months...... http://texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/120109.cfm Tue, 01 Dec 2009 09:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/120109.cfm#When:9:00:00AM Dear George: Where can I find someone who will insure my home?..... http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George113009.cfm Mon, 30 Nov 2009 09:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/11/more/George113009.cfm#When:9:00:00AM One certification, available only to Texas REALTORS, is called Texas Affordable Housing Specialist..... http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/121/archive/aff_specialist.cfm Tue, 10 Nov 2009 09:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/121/archive/aff_specialist.cfm#When:9:00:00AM It looks like Congress is going to extend the homebuyer tax credit...... http://texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/110509.cfm Thu, 05 Nov 2009 09:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/110509.cfm#When:9:00:00AM If you could hook up a lie detector to an e-mail, the needle would be jumping on this one..... http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/101509.cfm Thu, 15 Oct 2009 09:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/101509.cfm#When:8:00:00AM A pair of researchers at CERGE-EI, a Czech university, examined evidence about the origins of the housing bubble and whether it ever existed at all..... http://texasrealestate.com/web/2/22/more/1009.cfm Thu, 08 Oct 2009 09:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/2/22/more/1009.cfm#When:8:00:00AM Texas ranks 14th in the amount residents pay in property taxes. Our state is also first in how much we pay in property taxes. How can that be?..... http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/1009.cfm Mon, 05 Oct 2009 09:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/1009.cfm#When:8:00:00AM Approximately 15% of vacation rental owners have rented their primary residence to travelers, and the practice is becoming more common..... http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/24/241/more/0909.cfm Thu, 01 Oct 2009 09:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/24/241/more/0909.cfm#When:9:00:00AM On Nov. 3, 2009, the voters of Texas will once again have an opportunity to take a stand against the burdensome and uneven taxation of residential property..... http://texasrealestate.com/web/3/34/more/0909.cfm Mon, 28 Sep 2009 09:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/3/34/more/0909.cfm#When:8:00:00AM The cost of home maintenance and repairs is usually one of the biggest surprises for new homeowners..... http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/121/archive/unexpected.cfm Tue, 22 Sep 2009 09:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/121/archive/unexpected.cfm#When:9:00:00AM I hope homebuyers understand the deadline for the $8,000 federal tax credit. Getting it wrong could cost someone a lot..... http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/0909.cfm Thu, 17 Sep 2009 09:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/0909.cfm#When:8:00:00AM Don't confuse the appraisal with market value. The appraised value is a certified appraiser's opinion of the worth of a home at a given point in time...... http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/122/archive/appraised-value.cfm Fri, 04 Sep 2009 09:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/122/archive/appraised-value.cfm#When:9:00:00AM While both may put you in a potentially stronger buying position, getting pre-approved by the lender carries a bit more weight..... http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/121/archive/preapproval.cfm Fri, 04 Sep 2009 09:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/121/archive/preapproval.cfm#When:9:00:00AM There are a variety of factors that contribute to a home languishing on the market, including price, condition, and location..... http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/122/archive/wont_sell.cfm Wed, 19 Aug 2009 09:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/122/archive/wont_sell.cfm#When:8:00:00AM If you are considering purchasing a home, you might want to begin by taking a look at your credit..... http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/121/archive/credit_shape.cfm Wed, 19 Aug 2009 09:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/121/archive/credit_shape.cfm#When:8:00:00AM No, it's no joke. As a first-time homebuyer with a moderate income, you may be able to save $68,000 on a home. That's $8,000 on the purchase and $60,000 over the life of a 30-year loan..... http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/0709.cfm Mon, 08 Jun 2009 08:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/more/0709.cfm#When:8:00:00AM Picking a neighborhood that fits your lifestyle and desires is an important part of the homebuying process...... http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/121/archive/right_neighborhood.cfm Mon, 20 Jul 2009 16:22:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/121/archive/right_neighborhood.cfm#When:8:00:00AM If you're selling your house, there are some safety tips you should be aware of to keep yourself and others safe during the process..... http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/122/archive/safety.cfm Thu, 16 Jul 2009 08:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/122/archive/safety.cfm#When:8:00:00AM Is it a seller's market or a buyer's market? Be careful where you get your information to answer that question ..... http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/121/archive/local.cfm Tue, 14 Jul 2009 08:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/121/archive/local.cfm#When:8:00:00AM Five of the nation's top 10 metropolitan areas are in Texas..... http://texasrealestate.com/web/TexasBytes/1.cfm Tue, 23 Jun 2009 08:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/TexasBytes/1.cfm#When:8:00:00AM Forbes named Austin, San Antonio, Dallas, and McAllen in its Best 10 Cities for Economic Recovery...... http://texasrealestate.com/web/TexasBytes/2.cfm Tue, 23 Jun 2009 08:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/TexasBytes/2.cfm#When:9:00:00AM When the gavel fell June 1 on the 81st Texas Legislature, Texas homeowners were better off..... http://texasrealestate.com/web/TexasBytes/3.cfm Tue, 23 Jun 2009 08:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/TexasBytes/3.cfm#When:8:00:00AM Are you considering buying an investment home as a rental property? This may be a good time to start ..... http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/121/archive/landlord.cfm Mon, 22 Jun 2009 08:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/121/archive/landlord.cfm#When:8:00:00AM Most REALTORS will tell you that marketing is one of the keys to a successful home sale. ..... http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/122/archive/market_home.cfm Wed, 27 May 2009 08:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/122/archive/market_home.cfm#When:8:00:00AM Many buyers make a common mistake when purchasing a home by trying to buy too much house..... http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/121/archive/truly_affordable.cfm Wed, 27 May 2009 08:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/121/archive/truly_affordable.cfm#When:8:00:00AM If you've been paying attention to the recent "stimulus" activities in Washington, you already get the reference to 8,000 reasons in the headline above. It's really only one reason, but it could be worth $8,000 to you..... http://texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/index.cfm Fri, 20 Feb 2009 08:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/2/21/index.cfm#When:8:00:00AM There are few things more frustrating to a seller than a home that sits on the market. It's stressful to keep a house in showing condition, and not selling can cost you lots of money..... http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/122/archive/twelvetips.cfm Fri, 19 Dec 2008 08:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/122/archive/twelvetips.cfm#When:8:00:00AM Everyone knows that in most cases you'll need at least a small down payment to purchase a home..... http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/121/archive/closingcosts.cfm Fri, 14 Nov 2008 08:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/121/archive/closingcosts.cfm#When:8:00:00AM After you buy an existing home, let's face it - the last thing you want to worry about is a broken big-ticket item like the air conditioner or oven..... http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/121/archive/warranties.cfm Mon, 13 Oct 2008 08:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/121/archive/warranties.cfm#When:8:00:00AM Aside from the necessary intrusions, the most inconvenient aspect of having your house on the market may well be keeping the house in showing condition..... http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/122/archive/clean.cfm Tue, 16 Sep 2008 08:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/122/archive/clean.cfm#When:8:00:00AM If you find what you're looking for in a home, you should be prepared to make an offer quickly..... http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/121/archive/be_ready.cfm Wed, 03 Sep 2008 08:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/121/archive/be_ready.cfm#When:8:00:00AM You've heard it 1000 times; don't ever buy a home without getting a home inspection..... http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/121/archive/fixed.cfm Tue, 26 Aug 2008 08:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/121/archive/fixed.cfm#When:8:00:00AM This month on our "Inside Texas Real Estate" podcast you can learn how the Housing and Economic Recovery Act helps first-time homebuyers and homeowners struggling to afford their mortgages..... http://texasrealestate.com/web/3/31/inside.cfm Mon, 18 Aug 2008 08:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/3/31/inside.cfm#When:8:00:00AM There's a common statistic in the real estate world called Days on Market, or DOM. Some people believe a property that has been on the market for a while must have serious problems, but this is not necessarily the case..... http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/121/archive/by_the_numbers.cfm Wed, 06 Aug 2008 08:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/121/archive/by_the_numbers.cfm#When:8:00:00AM If you're selling your home and you require advanced notice, ask your agent to put the restriction and reason in the private remarks section of MLS..... http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/122/archive/restricted_access.cfm Mon, 04 Aug 2008 08:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/122/archive/restricted_access.cfm#When:8:00:00AM When your house is on the market, it's important to be flexible with your showing times. Part of that flexibility is having the capacity to ..... http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/122/archive/disappear.cfm Wed, 16 Jul 2008 08:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/122/archive/disappear.cfm#When:8:00:00AM Points is a common word you'll hear when you're in the process of buying a home or acquiring financing. But what does it mean? ..... http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/121/archive/understanding_points.cfm Thu, 10 Jul 2008 08:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/121/archive/understanding_points.cfm#When:8:00:00AM Are you one of the people who is trying to "time the market" and wait for home prices to go down before you make a purchase? Doing so may not be as wise as you think...... http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/121/archive/outsmart.cfm Wed, 25 Jun 2008 08:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/121/archive/outsmart.cfm#When:8:00:00AM "Now's not the best time ... can we set something up for later?" These are words that a buyer and his agent do not want to hear when they're out looking for a property..... http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/122/archive/any_time.cfm Tue, 24 Jun 2008 08:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/122/archive/any_time.cfm#When:8:00:00AM You'll be given all kinds of advice and pointers about what you should do and how you should do it, but there are things you shouldn't do that are equally important...... http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/121/archive/what_not_to_do.cfm Thu, 12 Jun 2008 08:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/121/archive/what_not_to_do.cfm#When:8:00:00AM So you've accepted your new job and have moved on to your new life in a different city..... http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/122/archive/vacant_house.cfm Wed, 04 Jun 2008 08:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/122/archive/vacant_house.cfm#When:8:00:00AM After you've made the decision to buy a home, it pays to prioritize your needs and wants..... http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/121/archive/not_just_house.cfm Thu, 29 May 2008 08:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/121/archive/not_just_house.cfm#When:8:00:00AM When your home is on the market, a prospective buyer may come at you with a lowball offer..... http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/122/archive/lowball.cfm Wed, 21 May 2008 08:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/122/archive/lowball.cfm#When:8:00:00AM Exposure is the key to selling fast and getting top dollar. The more people who see your home, the sooner you will find a willing buyer..... http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/122/archive/maximizing.cfm Fri, 16 May 2008 08:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/122/archive/maximizing.cfm#When:8:00:00AM From the way consumers acquire information about properties and neighborhoods to the way agents market themselves and their listings, real estate, like so many other industries, has been fundamentally altered by the Internet...... http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/121/archive/web_sites.cfm Tue, 13 May 2008 08:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/121/archive/web_sites.cfm#When:8:00:00AM Una respuesta inmediata seria reestructurar su préstamo de un plazo de 30 años a uno de 15..... http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/5/55/index.cfm Thu, 08 May 2008 08:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/5/55/index.cfm#When:8:00:00AM There are many factors that can affect the sale of your home. Many of these, like interest rates, number of buyers, and amount of competing inventory, are simply out of your control. There are, however, things that you..... http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/122/archive/fresh_paint.cfm Tue, 22 Apr 2008 08:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/122/archive/fresh_paint.cfm#When:8:00:00AM You're serious about buying this house; in fact, you've already put down earnest money, the option fee, and even gotten an inspection..... http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/121/archive/after_inspection.cfm Tue, 29 Apr 2008 08:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/121/archive/after_inspection.cfm#When:8:00:00AM Is this a starter house or one that you plan to stay in..... http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/121/archive/think_future.cfm Thu, 24 Apr 2008 08:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/121/archive/think_future.cfm#When:8:00:00AM There's so much information on the Internet. Literally thousands of real estate sites are out there..... http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/122/archive/internet_presence.cfm Tue, 22 Apr 2008 08:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/122/archive/internet_presence.cfm#When:8:00:00AM If you are looking to sell your home, it is not in your best interest to pick a price slightly higher than your house is worth..... http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/122/archive/informed_buyers.cfm Wed, 09 Apr 2008 08:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/122/archive/informed_buyers.cfm#When:8:00:00AM Closing is just days away! You're about to make a huge investment and you've been running around town taking care of business...... http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/121/archive/final_walkthru.cfm Tue, 15 Apr 2008 08:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/121/archive/final_walkthru.cfm#When:8:00:00AM Muchas personas cuando deciden comprar una vivienda, la primera imagen que les viene a la mente es una casa, con un bello jardín, tal vez bordeado de una linda cerca de madera y con un bonito patio..... http://texasrealestate.com/web/5/52/comprar_espanol/Casa_o_Apartamento.cfm Thu, 10 Apr 2008 08:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/5/52/comprar_espanol/Casa_o_Apartamento.cfm#When:8:00:00AM A partir del primero de enero del 2008, toda persona interesada en solicitar una licencia de agente de bienes raíces en Texas, como vendedor o como corredor, ahora debe proveer sus huellas digitales para un chequeo del FBI sobre antecedentes criminales..... http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/5/53/vendedor_espanol/Protejase_al_vender_su_casa.cfm Thu, 10 Apr 2008 08:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/5/53/vendedor_espanol/Protejase_al_vender_su_casa.cfm#When:8:00:00AM Many consumers believe that they can't qualify for a home loan because of a variety of reasons, including spotty credit and no money for a downpayment..... http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/121/archive/myths.cfm Wed, 09 Apr 2008 08:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/121/archive/myths.cfm#When:8:00:00AM If you're putting your home on the market, or if it has been on the market for a while without solid offers, you may consider including some appliances, furniture, or other extras in the asking price..... http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/122/archive/enticebuyers.cfm Wed, 09 Apr 2008 08:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/122/archive/enticebuyers.cfm#When:8:00:00AM Anualmente Texas se une a al resto de la nación para celebrar el mes de la igualdad en la vivienda..... http://texasrealestate.com/web/5/56/index.cfm Tue, 08 Apr 2008 08:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/5/56/index.cfm#When:8:00:00AM It's common to consider the kitchen, bathroom, living space, and other indoor amenities, but don't forget the outside, especially the trees..... http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/121/archive/trees.cfm Tue, 01 Apr 2008 08:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/121/archive/trees.cfm#When:8:00:00AM You might consider consulting with a tax adviser regarding the sale's impact on your federal tax return..... http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/122/archive/taxfactor.cfm Tue, 01 Apr 2008 08:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/122/archive/taxfactor.cfm#When:8:00:00AM Many decisions go into that final mortgage contract, and one involves purchasing discount points..... http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/121/archive/discountpts.cfm Mon, 24 Mar 2008 08:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/121/archive/discountpts.cfm#When:8:00:00AM When you're selling your house, you obviously want it to stand out..... http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/122/archive/landscaping.cfm Mon, 24 Mar 2008 08:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/122/archive/landscaping.cfm#When:8:00:00AM Many times, when an offer is made on a residential property in Texas, the prospective buyer will cut two checks: one for the option fee, another for the earnest money..... http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/121/archive/lingo.cfm Wed, 19 Mar 2008 08:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/121/archive/lingo.cfm#When:8:00:00AM The more you do to prepare your home for market, the more money you can expect to pocket at the closing table..... http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/122/archive/comingsenses.cfm Wed, 19 Mar 2008 08:00:00 CST http://www.texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/122/archive/comingsenses.cfm#When:8:00:00AM If you are thinking about buying a home, it is a good idea to find out what your credit report says before applying for the loan..... http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/121/archive/TAR.cfm Wed, 12 Mar 2008 08:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/121/archive/TAR.cfm#When:8:00:00AM The kitchen could be the most important room in a house...... http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/122/archive/kitchens.cfm Wed, 12 Mar 2008 08:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/122/archive/kitchens.cfm#When:8:00:00AM There are many kinds of loans; the one that makes the most sense for you depends on your current situation and your plans for the future..... http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/121/archive/learn_loans.cfm Mon, 03 Mar 2008 08:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/121/archive/learn_loans.cfm#When:8:00:00AM If you are selling your home, create a moving checklist to ensure a smooth transition from one property to the next...... http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/122/archive/moving.cfm Mon, 03 Mar 2008 08:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/122/archive/moving.cfm#When:8:00:00AM Changing jobs in the midst of the process may not have a significant affect on your ability to qualify for a mortgage loan..... http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/121/archive/stay_put.cfm Tue, 19 Feb 2008 08:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/121/archive/stay_put.cfm#When:8:00:00AM Although your property could sell in a couple of days, the real dilemma you may face is finding your next home...... http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/122/archive/seller-buyer.cfm Tue, 19 Feb 2008 08:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/122/archive/seller-buyer.cfm#When:8:00:00AM During the process of buying your home, you'll hear the word escrow thrown around. It's easy to get confused because the term can refer to different things that occur at different times..... http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/121/archive/escrow.cfm Fri, 15 Feb 2008 08:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/121/archive/escrow.cfm#When:8:00:00AM While it's certainly not common, there are reports of sellers' possessions disappearing during a showing..... http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/122/archive/protect_yourself.cfm Fri, 15 Feb 2008 08:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/122/archive/protect_yourself.cfm#When:8:00:00AM When you begin narrowing your selection or you find that you've fallen head-over-heels in love with a certain house..... http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/121/archive/impromptu.cfm Tue, 05 Feb 2008 08:00:00 CST http://texasrealestate.com/web/1/12/121/archive/impromptu.cfm#When:8:00:00AM