Looking at the True Cost of Installing a Pool

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With Memorial Day weekend just around the corner, it's swimming season. And while The Woodlands boasts some excellent community pools, the warmer weather may have you dreaming of hosting pool parties at your own home next summer. But what are the true costs of installing an in-ground pool and what type of return on your investment can you expect to … [Read more...]

What to Look for in an Income Property

Houses

With the real estate market so hot right now, for both home sales and rentals, it may be a great time to think about investing in an income property. But what exactly is important when looking for a rental property? Of course you will need to consider your budget, but what other factors should you pay special attention to? Here are a few things to … [Read more...]

What is a Home Appraisal?

home appraisal

A home appraisal is a full evaluation and subsequent written report regarding the value of a home. Many lenders may require such an appraisal before approving buyers for a mortgage. Regardless of whether or not you have been approved for a mortgage of a certain amount, the lender will want to ensure the home is actually worth the price agreed upon … [Read more...]

What is a Pocket Listing?

Keys

A pocket listing is one that does not appear officially on the Multiple Listing Service (MLS). These listings, sometimes known as "quiet listings," are not public and are usually only discovered by word of mouth, private open house events, or other non-traditional marketing techniques. Occasionally, sellers will sign an exclusive contract with an … [Read more...]

Staging Basics: The Dining Room

Dining Room (1)

Not all homes have a formal dining room, and some families do not use their space for sit down dinners on a regular basis. However, if you have a formal dining room, it is important to stage it as such, even if you use it as a home office or play room in your daily life. Buyers love the added entertainment potential of a formal dining room and it … [Read more...]

Staging Basics: Bedrooms

bedroom

While compared to other rooms in a home, bedrooms may seem less important when trying to sell a home, but it's still essential to create a warm and inviting space for potential buyers. And, yes, it can be tempting to leave these rooms set up for your regular day-to-day lifestyle, but some thought should be put into staging, beyond just making sure … [Read more...]

Staging Basics: Bathrooms

Bathroom

While you may think bathrooms are all about the fixtures, it's still important to keep staging in mind when your house is on the market. Potential buyers do pay attention to these details, whether consciously or subconsciously. And since it's often said that kitchens and bathrooms sell houses, it's important to put your best foot forward. After … [Read more...]

Staging Basics: The Living Room

Living Room

If you are trying to sell your home, it's important to note, a house almost always makes a stronger impression on buyers when it is furnished. With that being said, leaving your house furnished as-is is not always enough, even if you are sure to tidy up before showings. Staging is an important topic to think about as a seller. When done properly, … [Read more...]

Staging Basics: The Kitchen

Kitchen

  Even if you’ve poured your money into custom cabinetry or granite countertops, making a strong impression on buyers goes beyond just the upgrades. Properly staging your home, room by room, will help buyers see the unique features of your home and the full potential of each space, without being distracted by clutter or your personal … [Read more...]

Budget-Friendly Curb Appeal Tips

Suburban Home

First impressions are everything when it comes to selling a home. And while you might think the abundance of interior square footage, open layout, or prime location of your home are enough to bring in an offer, never underestimate the importance of curb appeal. The feeling buyers get when they first pull up to your home will influence how they view … [Read more...]