DFW Real Estate BlogRecently posted or modified blog postshttps://www.pointswestagency.com/blog/Copyright PointsWestAgency.com2021-11-10T08:32:36-07:00tag:pointswestagency.com,2012-09-20:107483 Tips for Moving with KidsMoving can be an overwhelming and stressful process. In fact, moving is listed as one of the <a href="https://www.getbellhops.com/blog/moving-stress/">top stressors</a> that someone can experience in a lifetime. Now, factor in moving with little ones, and the challenge becomes that much greater. Don’t worry, a few helpful tips can go a long way to making your next family move as stress-free as possible.
Talk it out. Communication is key, especially when it comes to discussing an upcoming move with your children. Depending on your kids’ ages, plan a family meeting and let them know that you’ll be moving. It’s never too early to let them know of the upcoming change, and time will help them process the transition and get excited for a new family home. If their old enough, you can let them know the exact date of the move and circle it on the family calendar, so everyone can have fun counting down the days. Also, add as many fun details as possible. For example, describe your new neighborhood, tell them if they’ll be attending a new school, share information about special house features like a pool, game room or big backyard for playtime.
Start planning early. It’s never too early to begin planning for an upcoming move. With all the packing, financial disturbances and scheduling pressures, it’s best to plan far in advance when moving with kids. Consider creating a moving schedule with a week-by-week plan. You can include what weeks you’ll pack the kids’ rooms, what week you’ll clean out the kitchen cabinets and when you plan to tackle the garage. You can even add meal prep plans for each weekday since cooking for little ones might feel daunting after a long day of packing boxes. Additionally, plan to utilize kid-free time. Organize your day to where you can pack the children’s toy room while they’re at school or ask a grandparent or friend to babysit for a few hours on a Saturday so you can conquer wrapping fragile item.
3. Organization is key. Staying organized when moving adults is important, but organization is crucial when moving with little ones. Instead of labeling moving boxes with permanent marker, use color-coded duct tape to clearly show which box goes in what room. For instance, use green tape for the kitchen and yellow tape for your daughter’s room. This comes in handy when unloading the moving truck. Another way to stay organized is to strategically unpack at the new house. Aim to <a href="https://www.parents.com/parenting/money/buy-a-house/make-moving-easier-on-you-and-your-kids/">unpack the kids’ rooms first</a> to allow them time to settle into their new space and better adjust to the transition.
Although moving with kids can feel overwhelming, there is a way to communicate, plan and organize to create a pleasant moving experience. The real estate agents at <a href="https://www.pointswestagency.com/">Points West Agency</a> are ready to help your family find the perfect home and guide you in the process. Give us a call at (817) 717-6036.2021-11-10T08:32:00-07:002021-11-10T08:32:36-07:00Bolt PRtag:pointswestagency.com,2012-09-20:10564Fall Family Friendly EventsThe season of crisp air, crunchy leaves and all things pumpkin spice is upon us. Whether this is your first autumn in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, or you’ve been enjoying the seasons here for years, there’s nothing better than jumping into the local seasonal activities with the whole family! And if you’re not a DFW local, you just might find yourself house hunting the market after learning of all the fun fall family-friendly activities in town. Let’s take a look at three ideas to celebrate the new season.
1. Autumn at the Arboretum
Pumpkins and gourds and squash, oh my! The 16th annual <a href="https://www.dallasarboretum.org/events-activities/autumn-at-the-arboretum/">Autumn at the Arboretum</a> is in full swing, and 90,000 pumpkins, gourds and squash will be on display for all to admire. This year, the show will include a brand-new pumpkin village exhibit. Also new this year, a signature display called, “Bugtopia” that will come alive in the Lakeside Exhibit Area with large insect topiaries and “bugged-out” pumpkin houses that will have your kids wide-eyed in amazement. Not to miss out on any of the traditional fall festivities, the event will also include a maze for little ones to explore.
2. Dallas YMCA Turkey Trot
Start making holiday family traditions in your community with the 54th Annual Dallas <a href="https://www.ymcadallas.org/turkeytrot">YMCA Turkey Trot</a>. What better way to begin a day of feasting than to get out and get moving with family and friends? This is one of the largest multi-event races in the country, and proceeds support the YMCA of Metropolitan Dallas Community Health programs for children, adults and families.
3. Yesterland Farms
This fall festivity may take an hour or so commute, but the pumpkin picking, corn maze, rides, fireworks and more make it worth the trip. If your kids are big enough for some Halloween frights and fun, consider visiting <a href="https://www.yesterlandfarm.com/">Yesterland Farms</a> on a Friday or Saturday night in October for the “Spooktacular Nights” activities. Make this your new Texas tradition, and catch the fun through November 7th.
There’s so much autumn family fun to be had in the Dallas-Fort Worth area! Each new season brings new activities and events, so you and your family will never run out of ways to explore your community and get to know neighbors. If you’re planning to make a move to the area, the real estate professionals at <a href="https://www.pointswestagency.com/">Points West Agency</a> are ready to help you find your dream home and share more about what makes our city so spectacular, during all seasons.2021-10-28T05:00:00-07:002021-10-25T05:46:09-07:00Bolt PRtag:pointswestagency.com,2012-09-20:10428The Best ROI Home Improvements<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/938/image/Untitled_design.png" width="1280" height="640" alt="Paint Samples" />
Are you starting to feel that itch to knock out a few walls or spruce up your home’s curb appeal? The home improvement market is flourishing. In 2020, the worldwide home improvement market was valued at <a href="https://www.statista.com/statistics/1237157/home-improvement-market-value-worldwide/">763 billion</a> U.S. dollars, and the pandemic might have had something to do with it. In fact, <a href="https://blog.marketresearch.com/diy-home-improvement-industry-booms-during-covid-19#:~:text=According%20to%20a%20national%20survey,simply%20repainted%20their%20living%20spaces.">39%</a> of consumers reported undertaking home improvement projects because of pandemic-driven changes.
While some added home office spaces due to a sudden shift to remote work, others installed gyms, decks, pools, gardens and more areas to enjoy while staying home and staying safe.
While splashing a new paint color on the wall is a great way to update your home décor, certain home improvements have a greater return on investment than others.
1. Open up the Floor Plan
The term “open concept” is popular for a reason. Many home buyers appreciate an open space. According to the home preferences <a href="https://www.homelight.com/blog/top-agent-insights-for-q2-2020/">study</a> by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), people who bought, or planned to buy, a home within the past three years wanted more square footage. That desire has stayed steady, and in 2020, <a href="https://www.homelight.com/blog/what-upgrades-increase-home-value/">44%</a> of real estate agents recorded “need more space” as a top moving motivator.
Consider home improvements that add more square footage to increase your home’s value. Knock out a wall to create that spacious feel and let in more natural light. Finish your basement to add extra livable space. This is a costly project, but the average basement finishing project can have up to <a href="https://www.homeadvisor.com/cost/basements/#faq">70%</a> return on investment.
<br />2. Update the Curb Appeal
First impressions are crucial, so if you’re looking to lure in home buyers, it’s time to update your home’s curb appeal. There are several ways to make improvements to your home’s exterior, and they don’t all have to cost a fortune. Attractive landscaping is a head-turner, and <a href="https://www.nar.realtor/sites/default/files/documents/2018-05-remodeling-impact-outdoor-features-05-23-2018.pdf">17%</a> of Realtors said that a landscaping project resulted in a recent sale. Getting your hands dirty by mowing, pruning, mulching and planting can have a 100% ROI.
Replacing your front door with a steel one is shown to recover <a href="https://www.remodeling.hw.net/cost-vs-value/entry-door-replacement-steel?y=2018">69% to 91%</a> at resale. You can also choose to replace your garage door, touch up exterior paint or replace siding. All these home improvements will boost your curb appeal, and in turn, boost your home’s value.
3. Make Your Home More Efficient
Home efficiency is key. The ways to improve the efficiency of your home are endless. Start with adding an extra layer of insulation. A quality ventilation system will help keep the cool or warm air inside and reduce electricity costs. Another energy-efficient home improvement is to upgrade your appliances. Washers, dryers and refrigerators consume the most energy and can be replaced with a brand that has the <a href="https://www.budgetdumpster.com/blog/energy-efficient-home-upgrades/">Energy Star</a> seal of approval. You can also consider making the switch to LED light bulbs, which can go a long way, especially when you have little ones who might forget to turn off the light every now and then.
The list of possible home improvement projects is endless, and you can start small or go big. It’s important to do your research on what will have the best return on your investment and what updates match your personal preferences.
The talented team at <a href="https://www.pointswestagency.com/">Points West Agency</a> is here to guide you as you prepare to sell your home or purchase your dream home. Contact us for your real estate needs today at (817) 717-6036.
2021-10-14T05:00:00-07:002021-10-14T05:47:35-07:00Bolt PRtag:pointswestagency.com,2012-09-20:102983 Reasons to Buy a Home This FallThe leaves are turning colors and the weather is getting crisp, but is the housing market changing with the new season? The pandemic made home buying a challenge for many with intense competition, low supply and skyrocketing home prices. Many found themselves making offers only to be rejected by a pile of higher-than-asking-price bids.
Finally, some relief for house hunters is on the way as the housing market recovers from the impact of the pandemic. According to data collected since 2018 by Realtor.com, the national best time to buy a home this year will be October 3-9. In fact, the DFW-Arlington area aligns with the national metrics and is predicted to have a 12% increase in active listings during this week.
1. Less Competition
Summertime has the highest number of people looking to buy houses, with July as the typical peak month for home buying. This, of course, makes home buying competition stiff. Since the summer rush comes to an end in the fall, the Realtor.com report predicts that during the “best time to buy” in October, the demand is 18% lower than the July peak and 6% lower than the average home buying week.
Less competition creates a more manageable marketplace. During the pandemic, homes in certain zip codes would be listed for sale and go under contract within a matter of days. This meant that some home buyers had to purchase houses sight-unseen or make a quicker decision than usual to beat out the competition. Purchasing a home during the fall can offer some relief to those who need more time to make a buying decision.
2. More Listings
Historically, home inventory peaks in the fall. A <a href="https://www.calculatedriskblog.com/2021/09/housing-inventory-sept-20th-update.html">recent report</a> from the end of September shows that housing inventory is already up 1.2% week-over-week and up by 42% from the low in April. Based on typical seasonal trends, the week of October 3-9 is expected to have 17.6% more active listings than the beginning of the year.
The pandemic brought in a low number of new listings, but as sellers slowly reentered the market during the summer, new listings have continued to increase, bringing good news for house hunters this season.
3. Home for the Holidays
Timing is everything, and this holds true for settling into a new home in time to make new holiday memories. The holiday season is busy with the hustle and bustle of gift buying, family vacations and work functions, so it makes sense to get settled before the chaos ensues.
You also may want to take advantage of year-end homebuyer tax breaks by purchasing a home during the fall. If you close on a home within the final months of the year, you may be able to deduct items like property taxes and mortgage interest rates. Of course, this all depends on your personal financial situation.
With the many reasons to hit the housing market during the new season, purchasing your dream home may be the best change you make this fall. The experienced real estate agents at <a href="https://www.pointswestagency.com/">Points West Agency</a> are here to help buyers and sellers through the real estate process during any season of the year.
Sources:
<a href="https://homeguides.sfgate.com/fall-good-time-buy-new-home-72274.html">https://homeguides.sfgate.com/fall-good-time-buy-new-home-72274.html</a>
<a href="https://www.realtor.com/research/best-time-to-buy-2021/">https://www.realtor.com/research/best-time-to-buy-2021/</a>
<a href="https://time.com/nextadvisor/mortgages/best-time-to-buy-a-home/">https://time.com/nextadvisor/mortgages/best-time-to-buy-a-home/</a>
<a href="https://www.calculatedriskblog.com/2021/09/housing-inventory-sept-20th-update.html">https://www.calculatedriskblog.com/2021/09/housing-inventory-sept-20th-update.html</a>2021-09-30T05:00:00-07:002021-09-28T10:10:10-07:00Bolt PRtag:pointswestagency.com,2012-09-20:10211Tips to Prepare for A Home Inspection<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/938/image/home inspection.jpg" width="1000" height="250" />
You’ve found the perfect home, now what? Before you make your final decision, you’ll need to hire a home inspector to ensure everything on the property is in good condition. A home inspector can find parts of your potential home that you may not have even thought to look at. They’ll identify everything on the property that needs repairs or doesn’t follow the latest safety codes. If you’re feeling overwhelmed at this step, don’t worry! We’ve put together a few tips below to help you through the process.
Before you’re ready for a home inspection, you’ll need to hire an inspector. Here are a few tips to help:
1. Ask Your Real Estate Agent
Sitting at the top of our list, this tip will help lift any sort of weight off of your shoulders. Our real estate agents work with a multitude of vendors and would be happy to share a list of local home inspectors that have a great reputation.
2. Ask Question Before You Hire
Just like anyone looking to hire someone, take the extra step to call and interview your potential home inspectors. By doing so, you’ll be able to get a good feel of the kind of quality work they’ll do and if you’ll be able to work well with them.
3. Read the Reviews
Turning to resources like Yelp, Google My Business and Angie’s List are a great way to get honest and real feedback. Just remember to take the good with the bad. Many users are more likely to post bad reviews than they are good. So be sure to read each piece of feedback carefully to determine whether you should hire or move on.
4. Request Their Price
This may seem like a simple step, but it can be an important one for many first-time home buyers and those with a strict budget. And remember, a high price doesn’t always mean the best quality of work. So be sure to ask them the reasoning behind their price, the size of homes they typically do, if they have any specialties, etc. And then do your research in the third step above to help you determine if they’re worth the money.
Now that you have hired your inspector, let’s take a look at a few tips to help you prepare for inspection day:
1. Make a List
Sit down and take some time to list out all the areas of the home you’d like to give another look and ask your inspector to examine. This could include areas like the foundation, the roof, rain gutters, appliances, and more. This list will help give you something to focus on while your home inspector looks around. Then, you can sit down together to discuss your areas of concern and their evaluation at the same time.
2. Bring Items for Notes
Many home inspectors these days will provide you with a recap of their inspection, but it’s still good to come prepared with a way to take notes on what they’re seeing. Whether it be a pen and paper or the notes app on your phone, write down everything the inspector says that’s worth noting and any questions you may have for them or your real estate agent.
3. Dress for Success
Depending on the home, you could potentially be walking through the yard, crawling in tight spaces, or standing for a few hours. To set yourself up for success, wear comfortable shoes and clothes that you don’t mind getting dirty and can move easily in.
4. Be Ready to Take Pictures
Whether your home inspector has some areas of concern or you do, take pictures of everything. These images will be helpful to reference at a later date, especially if there are any negotiations before closing. These will also be good to save for before and after examples of the work you do to your home in the future.
Now that we’ve covered a few tips to consider before your home inspection, let’s make sure you start your home buying experience on the right foot. Our real estate agents are ready to help you find the home of your dreams every step of the way, so visit our <a href="https://www.pointswestagency.com/contact/">Contact Page</a> or give us a call at (817) 717-6036 to get started today!
Sources:
<a href="https://realestate.usnews.com/real-estate/articles/tips-to-find-the-best-home-inspector">https://realestate.usnews.com/real-estate/articles/tips-to-find-the-best-home-inspector</a>
<a href="https://www.opendoor.com/w/guides/home-inspection-checklist-for-buyers">https://www.opendoor.com/w/guides/home-inspection-checklist-for-buyers</a>
<a href="https://housemaster.com/article/buyers-the-home-inspection-checklist-you-need-to-read">https://housemaster.com/article/buyers-the-home-inspection-checklist-you-need-to-read</a>
2021-09-16T07:15:00-07:002021-09-16T08:34:57-07:00Bolt PRtag:pointswestagency.com,2012-09-20:10083How is My Mortgage CalculatedDid you know that almost half of homeowners have a mortgage on their property? In fact, <a href="https://www.experian.com/blogs/ask-experian/how-much-americans-owe-on-their-mortgages-in-every-state/">44%</a> of consumers make a monthly payment to their mortgage lender. If you’re searching for your dream home, you may be focused on the interior design, a safe neighborhood and top-of-the-line smart features, but it’s also important to consider your mortgage and how it’s calculated.
First, let’s review a few key terms.
1. Mortgage: This is a loan used specifically to purchase a home, land or other types of real estate where the buyer agrees to pay the lender over time with interest. A mortgage is an agreement between the consumer and the lender, using the property as collateral to secure the loan.
2. Lender: A mortgage lender is a financial institution that loans a certain amount of money with the condition that it needs to be repaid within a certain amount of time. There are various types of companies that can offer<a href="https://fhmtg.com/2021/07/15/how-to-choose-a-mortgage-lender/"> </a><a href="https://fhmtg.com/2021/07/15/how-to-choose-a-mortgage-lender/">lending options</a>, including conventional banks, credit unions, non-bank mortgage lenders and mortgage brokers.
3. Mortgage Escrow: The funds or property being held by a neutral third party in real estate transactions. An<a href="https://www.bankrate.com/mortgages/what-is-mortgage-escrow/"> </a><a href="https://www.bankrate.com/mortgages/what-is-mortgage-escrow/">escrow account</a> holds the funds and is managed by a middleman until the contract is fulfilled.
Now that we have a better understanding of a few mortgage industry terms, let’s explore how your mortgage is calculated. Although you’re making a payment each month, your mortgage will include more than just the cost of the property broken up between each month. Here’s how it breaks down:
1. Mortgage Principal: This is the initial loan amount of your home. For example, if you had $100,000 in cash to make a 20% down payment on a $500,000 home, you would need to borrow $400,000 from the bank to purchase said home. Your mortgage principal in this scenario would be $400,000.
2. Monthly Interest Rate: This is where the bank charges a fee for you to borrow their money. Your monthly interest rate is shown as an annual interest rate percentage. A higher credit score, down payment, and low <a href="https://www.pointswestagency.com/blog/real-estate-terms-every-home-buyer-should-know/">debt-to-income ratio</a> will typically result in a lower annual interest rate. To calculate what this adds to your monthly payment, divide the annual interest rate by 12 months.
3. Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI): If you put down less than 20% of the home’s purchase price, a<a href="https://fhmtg.com/2021/03/25/how-you-can-avoid-private-mortgage-insurance/"> </a><a href="https://fhmtg.com/2021/03/25/how-you-can-avoid-private-mortgage-insurance/">PMI is required</a>. It’s common for this monthly fee to be added to your monthly mortgage payment. This usually costs between 0.2% and 2% of your mortgage principal, and some loans allow you to<a href="https://fhmtg.com/2021/03/25/how-you-can-avoid-private-mortgage-insurance/"> </a><a href="https://fhmtg.com/2021/03/25/how-you-can-avoid-private-mortgage-insurance/">cancel your PMI</a> after reaching a 20% equity stake.
4. Property Taxes: Your monthly mortgage payment may also include<a href="https://fhmtg.com/2020/11/24/how-property-tax-works/"> </a><a href="https://fhmtg.com/2020/11/24/how-property-tax-works/">property taxes</a>, which are typically based on your home’s location and value. These taxes are collected by your lender, held in a specific account, and paid to the government at the end of the year.
5. Homeowners Insurance: Another cost that’s bundled into your monthly mortgage payment is homeowners insurance, which protects your property by providing coverage to repair or rebuild after damaging events. Coverage on your home will vary depending on your insurance agreement.
Now that we’ve covered the basics of what a home mortgage is and the many factors that compromise your monthly mortgage payment, you can focus on finding your dream home! Visit our <a href="https://www.pointswestagency.com/contact/">Contact Page</a> or call us today at (817) 717-6036 to get the process started2021-09-02T15:59:00-07:002021-09-02T16:01:00-07:00Bolt PRtag:pointswestagency.com,2012-09-20:9932Real Estate Terms Every Home Buyer Should Know<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/938/image/shutterstock_1921199678_1.jpg" width="1000" height="320" />
While our talented real estate agents are with you every step of the way in your home buying journey, it could be helpful to become familiar with some real estate jargon to fully understand the process. Some of these terms and acronyms may seem familiar to you but bookmark this page just in case you come across a term you don’t know!
Approved for short sale: This term is used to indicate that a homeowner’s bank has approved a reduced listing price, and the home is ready for resale.
As-is: When a property is sold in “as is” condition, this indicates that the seller is unwilling to perform the majority, if not all necessary repairs. Or, this means that the home is priced “as is”, which is usually lower than market pricing in the area.
Backup offer: If a buyer is interested in purchasing a home that is already under contract with someone else, that buyer has the chance to submit a “backup offer”, in case the first contract falls apart.
Buyer’s market: The real estate market contains more homes for sale, outnumbering the number of buyers. This causes homes to sit on the market longer resulting in price drops.
Comparative market analysis (CMA): An in-depth analysis prepared by a real estate agent. This determines the estimated value of a home, based on recently sold homes in a similar condition, size, and age. This analysis is only conducted on homes located in the same area.
Comps: Also known as comparable sales. Homes in a certain area that have been sold in the past six months. Your real estate agent will use these sales to determine a home’s value.
Days on market (DOM): The number of days a property listing is active.
Listing price: The price of a home set by the seller.
Multiple listing service: The database where real estate agents list properties for sale.
Seller’s market: When the market has more buyers than homes for sale. This commonly generates bidding wars.
Short sale: The sale of a property by an owner who owes more than the property is worth. The owner’s bank has to approve a lower listing price before the property can be sold.
This list only scratches the surface of the kind of terms and acronyms you’ll encounter as you navigate through the home buying process. As your real estate agents, we know that this journey can be a confusing and scary one, but that’s what we’re here for! If you’re looking for the perfect partner for the purchase of your next home, head to our <a href="https://www.pointswestagency.com/contact/">Contact Us</a> page to get started.
Sources:
<a href="https://www.zillow.com/resources/stay-informed/2021/02/19/real-estate-terms-home/?110526190951dsa-527438413802459709631200133932514387">https://www.zillow.com/resources/stay-informed/2021/02/19/real-estate-terms-home/?110526190951dsa-527438413802459709631200133932514387</a>
<a href="https://www.opendoor.com/w/blog/real-estate-terms-you-should-know">https://www.opendoor.com/w/blog/real-estate-terms-you-should-know</a>
2021-08-19T17:18:00-07:002021-08-19T17:21:45-07:00Bolt PRtag:pointswestagency.com,2012-09-20:9645Home Refinancing: Is it the right choice for you?Less than half of homeowners in the U.S. are free and clear of a mortgage, which means most are still tied to a monthly payment. If you’re in that majority, your mailbox is probably inundated with letters offering you the “best deal” on refinancing your home. Especially with the current booming market, and interest rates at an all-time low, you might be starting to wonder if refinancing is the right choice for you.
What is home refinancing?
Simply put, mortgage refinancing is when a homeowner replaces their current loan with a new mortgage loan.
Why would someone refinance?
To lower the interest rate
To cash out home equity
To reduce monthly mortgage payment
To pay off your loan sooner
To switch mortgage types
To save on total interest
Rate-and-term refinance
The most common reason homeowners refinance is to lower their interest rate. Personal finances change, and if you’ve paid off debt, improved your credit score or landed a career promotion, it might make sense to take advantage of a better mortgage option. This option is called a rate-and-term refinance, which allows homeowners to change their loan’s mortgage rate, loan term or both.
For example, changing your loan term might mean you go from a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage into a 15-year fixed-rate mortgage. Changing both loan terms and mortgage rate might mean going from a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage with a 5% interest rate to a 15-year fixed-loan at 3%.
When you switch from a long-term loan to a short-term loan, you may have higher monthly payments, but you’ll be able to pay the loan off more quickly. This can save you thousands of dollars in interest. It all depends on your personal preference and financial situation.
Cash-out refinance
Another type of refinancing option is to take a surplus in cash after replacing your old mortgage with a new one that has different terms. This might be a good option if you’ve built equity (the portion of the home that you own) in your home. Basically, you’re tapping into your home equity to generate liquid cash by replacing your current mortgage with a new loan for more than you owe on the house. This type of refinancing requires a stricter approval process.
Cash-in refinance
As you may have expected, this type of refinance is the opposite of the cash-out option. With this type of refinancing, you would bring cash to closing to pay down the loan balance and lower the amount owed to the bank. Two common reasons for selecting this option are to take advantage of a lower interest rate, which is only available at lower loan-to-value ratios, and to cancel mortgage insurance premium payments.
What to Consider before refinancing?
Cost of refinancing: Although the benefits of refinancing your home can be tempting, it’s important to note that the process is not free. You’ll be expected to pay closing costs similar to when you originally purchased your home. Think about whether you plan to stay in the home long enough to recoup these costs.
Current interest rates: Compare rates and terms and find the right lender with options that fit your needs. Even the smallest changes in interest rates can have a great impact.
Mortgage term: How many years do you have remaining on your mortgage? A new mortgage with new terms can extend the term of your loan, causing you to dish out more in interest over time.
Making the decision to refinance your home shouldn’t be taken lightly, and it’s important to consult a trusted professional in the industry. Our experienced agents at Points West Agency are here to guide you as you make the lifechanging decisions of purchasing a home, selling your home, or refinancing your home. Visit <a href="http://www.pointswestagency.com">pointswestagency.com</a> to speak to a trusted real estate professional today.
Sources:
<a href="https://themortgagereports.com/16096/refinance-mortgage-rates">https://themortgagereports.com/16096/refinance-mortgage-rates</a>
<a href="https://myhome.freddiemac.com/blog/homeownership/20210302_4_reasons_to_refinance.page">https://myhome.freddiemac.com/blog/homeownership/20210302_4_reasons_to_refinance.page</a>
<a href="https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/mortgages/how-to-refinance-your-mortgage">https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/mortgages/how-to-refinance-your-mortgage</a>
2021-08-05T05:00:00-07:002021-08-03T07:39:48-07:00Bolt PRtag:pointswestagency.com,2012-09-20:9523Tips for Becoming a Real Estate AgentSo, you’re thinking of becoming a real estate agent? We couldn’t be more excited for you! Maybe this is a career path you’ve dreamt of for years, or perhaps you’ve noticed the booming market and want to take part in the action. Whatever your reason behind the drive to join the industry, there are a few helpful tips to first consider.
The current housing market has sparked many to pursue a career in real estate. Since pandemic restrictions have been lifted, housing has been in short supply causing prices to soar. In fact, many homes are selling for more than 30% over the listing price. Experts expect the demand to intensify throughout the year, so we recommend doing a little homework before jumping right into this fast-paced market.
Here are five tips to keep in mind as you take the first step toward your new goal of becoming a real estate agent.
1. Learn from the Best
One of the best ways to learn the ins and outs of working in real estate is to gain first-hand experience from a seasoned professional. Seek out a top-rated real estate agent in your area as a possible mentor. Offer to treat them to lunch in exchange for a few minutes of their time to hear their insights and advice. Doing this opens the door to insightful conversations that can be useful in determining whether this is the right path to reach your personal and professional goals.
2. Research Your State’s Requirements
Becoming a real estate agent isn’t one-size-fits-all, which means the requirements are dependent upon your state. Start by visiting your state’s real estate regulatory office website which can easily be found with a quick online search or by visiting the <a href="https://www.arello.org/index.cfm/resources/regulatory-agencies/#region.1">Association of Real Estate License Law Officials directory.</a> You’ll find that each state may have specific requirements for age, application fees, background checks, continuing education and more.
3. Obtain your Real Estate License

Now that you’ve experienced first-hand what a day in the life of a real estate agent is like, it’s time to make it official. Depending on where you live, the process can take between four and six months to complete and there’s a cost involved with the exam and activating your license.
The process generally includes the following steps:
Take a real estate pre-licensing course
Take the licensing exam
Activate your license
Join a brokerage
4. Consider Becoming a Realtor

Did you know that the term realtor and real estate agent are not synonymous? Both might work with home buyers and sellers, but Realtors are members of the National Association of Realtors and must follow its code of ethics. The National Association of Realtors represents over 1 million members who are brokers, property managers, appraisers and other professions within the real estate industry. Becoming a Realtor is an optional step, but it can lead to benefits in furthering your business.
5. Join a Real Estate Brokerage<br />
Once you’re a licensed real estate agent or Realtor, you’ll need to find a supervising broker to work under. A real estate broker is licensed by the state and oversees transactions to ensure agents are following all standards. These arrangements may differ, but usually the brokerage pays agents a percentage of the commission from their sales.
Joining the real estate industry does require time, focus and money, but you’ll be on your way to a career of possibilities with the excitement of interacting with new people and the opportunity to enjoy a rewarding profession. If you’re interested in learning more about a trusted and experienced real estate agency right here in North Texas, visit <a href="https://www.pointswestagency.com/">pointswestagency.com</a>. Our agents at Points West Agency are knowledgeable in guiding home buyers and sellers in the real estate process.
Sources:
<a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/realtors-working-nonstop-amid-surging-buyer-demand-2021-5">https://www.businessinsider.com/realtors-working-nonstop-amid-surging-buyer-demand-2021-5</a>
<a href="https://www.thenewsenterprise.com/news/business/spike-in-real-estate-careers-across-the-u-s/article_b4263ff2-06c6-5cdc-b744-691763cd906c.html">https://www.thenewsenterprise.com/news/business/spike-in-real-estate-careers-across-the-u-s/article_b4263ff2-06c6-5cdc-b744-691763cd906c.html</a>
<a href="https://www.investopedia.com/investing/steps-becoming-real-estate-agent/">https://www.investopedia.com/investing/steps-becoming-real-estate-agent/</a>
2021-07-22T05:00:00-07:002021-07-20T09:45:24-07:00Bolt PRtag:pointswestagency.com,2012-09-20:9347Home Buying Checklist: Need vs. WantWith so much to consider when buying a home, it can become overwhelming. Creating a checklist before beginning the search can serve as a helpful guide. If you find that your list is getting longer each day, maybe it’s time to divide that wish list into two separate columns: Needs vs. Wants.
You might be surprised at how many features or details that you thought you needed are just extras you’d enjoy having in your new space. Creating these two lists is especially beneficial when shopping within a specific budget.
When hunting for your dream home, here are a few tips as you organize your list of what you need in your home and what you want.
Needs vs. Wants
It might be easy to sneak all the items from your wants list into the need column, but not so fast. Perhaps that fireplace you want really won’t get used that much, making it less of a necessity.
Let’s talk about what’s considered a need.
Anything you jot down in your need column would be a dealbreaker. This is something that you simply won’t bend on. If you need a fourth bedroom, you will not settle for a three-bedroom home. These are essentials that it would be impossible, or very difficult, to live without.
The professionals at <a href="https://www.moneyunder30.com/">Money Under 30</a> recommend starting the process backwards by listing out everything you want in your dream house. Think big and write down all the details. Next, think about your budget. When you bring your budget into the mix, you will quickly realize what you’re willing to pay for and what you’re willing to sacrifice.
A few common home needs:
Adequate square footage for comfortable living
Sufficient bedrooms for your family
Sufficient bathrooms
Comfortable eat-in kitchen
Backyard for children's or pet's play area
Easy access to schools of your choice
A few common home wants:
Specific carpeting, paint, exterior color
Swimming pool or jacuzzi
Hardwood floors, tile or carpet
Bay windows
Skylights
As you prepare your list, ask yourself the right questions.
What do you like or dislike about where you live now?
How long will you live in your new home?
Are your expectations realistic?
If a home doesn’t meet a need as is, can you remodel?
Focus on value items.
In which column should value items fall on your list? That depends on whether you’re focusing on resale value. Value items are features that add value to the property for future buyers. In the current booming market, buyers don’t care as much about the wants anymore. Now, buyers are focusing on intangible features and value items to assure an easy sell in the future.
Items that add value include dual-pane windows, granite countertops, acreage, a beautiful view and a location in a top-rated school district. First-time homebuyers will most likely prioritize amenities such as an updated kitchen, updated baths, open floor plans, garage storage space, a patio, laundry rooms and a walk-in pantry among many other things. If you’re concerned with your resale value, maybe a few of these items belong on your need list.
Use a home-buying checklist and get started.
<a href="https://www.moneyunder30.com/downloads/House-Hunting-Checklist.pdf">Money Under 30</a> and <a href="https://www.frameworkhomeownership.org/images/uploads/framework_home_shopping_checklist_interactive.pdf">Framework</a> both offer great needs vs. wants home shopping checklists. Try them out, and when you’re ready to make your list and find your dream home, call us at (817) 717-6036 to get started!
Sources:
<a href="https://www.frameworkhomeownership.org/blog/the-needs-vs-wants-checklist">https://www.frameworkhomeownership.org/blog/the-needs-vs-wants-checklist</a>
<a href="https://www.homesbykimblanton.com/wants-vs-needs.php">https://www.homesbykimblanton.com/wants-vs-needs.php</a>
<a href="https://www.moneyunder30.com/home-buying-checklist-wants-vs-needs">https://www.moneyunder30.com/home-buying-checklist-wants-vs-needs</a>
<a href="https://www.thanmerrill.com/the-5-most-important-features-first-time-homebuyers-want-this-spring/">https://www.thanmerrill.com/the-5-most-important-features-first-time-homebuyers-want-this-spring/</a>
2021-07-08T05:00:00-07:002021-07-01T13:37:52-07:00Bolt PRtag:pointswestagency.com,2012-09-20:9247Tips for Purchasing a Fixer-UpperWith the current real estate market trends, now might just be the perfect time to consider purchasing a fixer-upper property. Unlike other homes, fixer-upper prices don’t rely as heavily on the current market standings, so if you’ve been avoiding house hunting due to the booming market, this might be a better route. Of course, this is not to say that purchasing a fixer-upper is easy. There are several factors that come into play when shopping for a home that requires a little extra TLC.
What exactly qualifies as a fixer-upper?
It might sound self-explanatory, but a fixer-upper is a home that everyone drives by now without giving it a second glance, but once restored to beauty, everyone will want it. It’s the house with dated fixtures, old carpet and peeling paint and is a space that requires a vision to see beyond the blemishes. What it’s not? A fixer-upper is not turnkey or move-in ready.
What to consider in your next fixer-upper?
Location: Location is a top factor with any home purchase, whether it’s new construction or a home that’s decades old. Seek out desirable neighborhoods that are up-and-coming and have homes that are generally in good condition. A good real estate agent can help you navigate and better understand specific neighborhoods. You can start your search online or house hunt the old-fashioned way by driving around neighborhoods in search of that perfect home to renovate.
Condition: There are levels of fixer-uppers, from those that simply require new carpeting and paint to others that need new plumbing, sewer lines and electrical wiring. It helps to create a list, separating the cosmetic issues from the fundamental ones. Fundamental fixes tend to be more expensive and include things like replacing HVAC systems, reroofing and building additions to the home.
Cost: Purchasing a true fixer-upper usually doesn’t mean just adding on the price of a few gallons of new paint. It’s important to budget for repairs. Will you do all the renovations yourself, or do you plan to hire a professional? Add up what it will cost to renovate the property, considering all the materials and labor. If you’re looking to profit from the home renovations, you should monitor your budget carefully to ensure the project doesn’t go over budget due to mistakes or delays.
Inspections: It’s vital to get a fixer-upper inspected by a credentialed home inspector before committing to the sale to discover any problems that may blow your budget. An inspection will reveal any expensive issues that can tank your budget. Knowing exactly what you’re walking into is crucial, and a proper inspection will bring all the problems to light, so you can either begin renovations or walk away.
As you decide whether purchasing a fixer-upper sounds like a fun project, carefully consider your finances, remodeling expertise and how much work and time you want to put into the home. It’s important to partner with a realtor who is knowledgeable of the neighborhoods in your area and understands your fixer-upper goals and budget. Our agents at Points West Agency are here to guide you in the process. Give us a call at (817) 717-6036.
Sources:
<a href="https://www.thespruce.com/fixer-upper-homes-1798315">https://www.thespruce.com/fixer-upper-homes-1798315</a>
<a href="https://www.quickenloans.com/learn/buying-a-fixer-upper">https://www.quickenloans.com/learn/buying-a-fixer-upper</a>
2021-06-24T05:01:00-07:002021-06-22T06:40:29-07:00Bolt PRtag:pointswestagency.com,2012-09-20:9128Summer Family Friendly Events in DFWSchool is out, and summer is in session. The routines of packing backpacks and lunchboxes or setting up the home classroom space has come to end, and you may be looking at your kids wondering, “now what?” If you live in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, there are plenty of family friendly events and activities gearing up just in time for the hottest days of the year. Avoid the summer slump with a few of these fun ideas.
Enjoy the fresh air: Outdoor activities
Dallas Zoo: Get wild with a family trip to the Dallas Zoo! It’s open 364 days of the year, so you can always have this idea in your back pocket for a slow summer day. They even offer weeklong summer camps called Zoolympics for children in grades K through 5. Your children will explore how the animals live in the wild and take part in fun games and tours. Plus, you can take advantage of a week of adult time. This might just be a win, win for your family.
Learn more about the Dallas Zoo, summer camp dates and admission prices <a href="https://www.dallaszoo.com/">here.</a>
Hawaiian Falls: Who knew there was a tropical paradise right here in Texas? Splash into summer family fun at this water park with DFW locations in Garland, Mansfield, Roanoke and the Colony! With slides that twist and turn and some that go straight down, there is an adventurous ride for everyone in the family. Relax in a cabana or float down the lazy river.
You can even skip the sun and visit Hawaiian Falls during select Friday nights all summer during their “Friday Night Slides” events. Check out more <a href="https://hfalls.com/garland/index.php">here.</a>
Keep minds active: Educational activities
Perot Museum of Nature and Science: With extended summer hours, you can now bring your kids to this adventurous museum for a learning experience that is so much fun! They offer programs from early childhood to teens and adults. If you’re looking for another camp option, their Discovery Camp is now in session. Kids get hands-on with science and explore paleontology, engineering, marine biology and more. This museum is a great option for some educational summer fun.
Learn more about the exhibits and camps at Perot Museum <a href="https://www.perotmuseum.org/">here.</a>
Heard Natural Science Museum and Wildlife Sanctuary: Immerse your family in the beauty of nature and learn more about the environment with a trip to this wildlife sanctuary in McKinney, Texas. Your children can learn about animals and their roles in nature and have fun in the process. With bird walks, night hikes and ziplining, the options are endless. They even offer Summer Nature Camps for a true nature learning experience.
Take a look at all your family can explore <a href="https://www.heardmuseum.org/">here.</a>
The local library: Remember the days when summers were full of library visits and new books? Check out one of the many libraries in the Dallas-Fort Worth area and let everyone in the family pick out a book or two for summer reading.
<a href="https://dallas.kidsoutandabout.com/content/libraries-dallas-region">Here’s</a> a list of libraries in the Dallas area.
Avoid the heatwave: Indoor ideas
Epic Waters Indoor Water Park: If your family is getting too much sun by the end of summer, maybe the largest indoor waterpark in North Texas is the best option to keep the fun rolling! There are slides, games, cabanas and dining options all in this one park. During summer, they’re hosting Family Fun Fridays and Twilight Swim for an evening activity option.
Learn more about all the fun <a href="https://epicwatersgp.com/">here.</a>
Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park: Here’s one way to let out all your kids’ energy while still staying cool in the AC. This indoor adventure playground is offering an “all day play” special for one price. Kids can jump, climb, spin, race and play until all their energy is spent. This is a great option for one of those rainy summer days where everyone is just itching to get out of the house.
Check out all the attractions <a href="https://www.urbanairtrampolinepark.com/">here.</a>
Whether you’re searching for kid’s summer camps or events the entire family can enjoy together, Dallas-Fort Worth has options to last all summer. And if you’re searching for a new home for your family in DFW, it’s important to partner with a realtor who understands the area and what will work best for your entire family. Our agents at Points West Agency are here to guide you in the process. Give us a call at (817) 717-6036.
2021-06-10T05:00:00-07:002021-06-04T10:16:20-07:00Bolt PRtag:pointswestagency.com,2012-09-20:8964What to Expect: Second Quarter Housing TrendsWe are in the midst of the spring homebuying season, and the housing market continues to remain extremely competitive. If you’re house hunting and hoping to close within the next few months, it’s important to keep an eye on the trends.
What is making the home demand so high?
A decade of underbuilding:
With not enough homes to meet the demand, it may take years for the supply to catch up to buyers’ needs. In fact, according to the National Association of Realtors, the U.S. housing market is short of approximately 3 million available homes. This problem won’t be solved overnight, which means the low supply will continue trending throughout the second quarter.
Low supply and high demand will keep the market competitive, and realtors are reporting multiple offers on listings.
Mortgage Rates:
Sub-3% mortgage rates existed for months during 2020, which sparked the influx in home refinancing. Since early 2021, rates have been climbing, but whether they continue in that trajectory depends on the economic recovery. The coronavirus vaccine does bring some hope for the economy, which could cause more Americans, particularly baby boomers, to feel at ease listing their homes for sale.
As the rates continue upward, refinancing should slow down by the end of this quarter; however, rates might increase enough to discourage refinancing while remaining appealing to potential home buyers.
Lumber Prices:
Lumber prices have increased by 300% over the past 15 months. Due to this increase in materials, home buyers should not expect to see home prices drop any time soon. Not only are material prices on the rise, but land and labor costs have increased as well. If the cost of the beams, rafters and flooring have risen, then you can expect the overall cost of the home to increase along with it. It’s reported that lumber prices have caused a $35,872 increase in the price of the average new single-family home.
“To illustrate how lumber prices are crippling the average home builder, the price of framing lumber at the beginning of May was nearly $1,500 per thousand board feet. That’s up more than 250% since April 2020, when lumber prices were roughly $350 per thousand board feet.” – Tim Glaze, HousingWire.
Tips for Home Buying and Selling in Q2:
If you’re considering listing your home, you are at an advantage in this competitive market.
If you’re looking to purchase a home, it is especially important to work with a trusted realtor who can guide you through the process and help prepare you for the competition.
It’s vital to be prepared when house hunting. Homes are not on the market long, which means you need to have your ducks in order before your dream home even comes on the market.
Our agents at Points West Agency are ready to help you find the home of your dreams, so visit our Contact Us page or give us a call at (817) 717-6036 to get the process started.
Sources:
<a href="https://www.bankrate.com/real-estate/housing-trends/">https://www.bankrate.com/real-estate/housing-trends/</a>
<a href="https://www.housingwire.com/articles/fannie-mae-alters-its-2021-forecasts/">https://www.housingwire.com/articles/fannie-mae-alters-its-2021-forecasts/</a>
<a href="https://www.bankrate.com/mortgages/mortgage-rate-forecast/">https://www.bankrate.com/mortgages/mortgage-rate-forecast/</a>
2021-05-27T05:00:00-07:002021-05-21T07:25:19-07:00Bolt PRtag:pointswestagency.com,2012-09-20:8862Luxury Real Estate: To Make the Investment or NotInvesting in real estate offers several benefits and is a common and generally safe way to expand and diversify a portfolio. Whether owning, renting or flipping, investors tend to rely on steady returns, tax advantages and predictable cash flow. Does it get any better than this? Well, if you have the money, expanding into luxury real estate might be a beneficial option.
First, let’s talk about what luxury real estate really is. Commonly, we think of the biggest, best and newest, but there’s more to it. Not all markets are created equal, so the definition of luxury real estate might mean one thing in one area and another across the country.
What makes a property “luxury?”
Location: What’s a luxury home without luxury activities? High-end buyers desire locations in proximity to fine dining, the arts, shopping, and of course, being near other luxury homes. A spectacular view doesn’t hurt either. Whether it’s a waterfront property or beautiful mountain views, the scenery is factored into defining a luxury home.
Amenities: Luxury homes boast unique features that add the “wow” factor. Grand swimming pools, massive walk-in closets, custom garages, and features that aren’t typically found in your everyday home, like gyms, bars, wine cellars, theaters and bowling alleys.
Cost: The price tag depends on the market, but typically a buyer would need $1 million to buy a luxury property, but this number increases in areas where the cost of living is higher. To date, the most expensive home ever sold in the US is a $238 million New York penthouse sold in early 2019. And who can forget Amazon CEO’s $165 million mansion purchase in early 2020? It might seem that the sky’s the limit in luxury real estate!
Now that we’ve covered the many facets of what makes real estate “luxury,” let’s look at some of the benefits of investing in it. It’s important to remember that with the unexpected hit of the coronavirus pandemic, home prices have since reached record highs, and the demand for homes with amenities to meet buyers’ specific needs for remote office space and expansive outdoor areas has increased.
Three Benefits of Investing in Luxury Real Estate:
Less Competition: Finding the right mansion to flip for a profit might seem like finding a needle in a haystack, but once you spot the right luxury property to remodel, there are less buyers in the luxury-home market competing for it. The pool of people with the knowledge and skills to flip a home of this caliber is small, which provides an upper hand for those investors with the experience in luxury homes.
Properties that Hold Value: Maybe you’re considering buying a luxury condo to live in or rent out. Finding a condo with luxury amenities and distinguishing features can hold value and lead to a higher selling rate when you’re ready to make a profit on your investment.
Seasonal Income: A vacation rental property in a strong market is a great way to invest in luxury real estate and increase cash flow. Select a property that is suitable for family vacations in the right tourist destinations. In the end, you could have your very own high-end vacation property or future retirement home.
Regardless of the type of real estate you’re seeking to invest in, it’s vital to work with a realtor you can trust. Contact us today at (817) 717- 6036 to get started on your next property investment.
Sources:
<a href="https://www.investopedia.com/articles/personal-finance/092414/investing-luxury-real-estate.asp">https://www.investopedia.com/articles/personal-finance/092414/investing-luxury-real-estate.asp</a>
<a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/most-expensive-homes-sold-in-us-over-past-decade-2019-11#2-according-to-the-wall-street-journal-a-13000-square-foot-beverly-hills-mansion-sold-for-a-record-breaking-165-million-in-february-2020-16">https://www.businessinsider.com/most-expensive-homes-sold-in-us-over-past-decade-2019-11#2-according-to-the-wall-street-journal-a-13000-square-foot-beverly-hills-mansion-sold-for-a-record-breaking-165-million-in-february-2020-16</a>
<a href="https://www.fortunebuilders.com/investing-in-vacation-rental-properties/">https://www.fortunebuilders.com/investing-in-vacation-rental-properties/</a>
2021-05-13T05:17:00-07:002021-05-06T05:23:27-07:00Bolt PRtag:pointswestagency.com,2012-09-20:8797Buying a Home in a Seller’s MarketLet the bidding wars begin. You may have seen it for yourself, a “for sale” sign up one day and an “under contract” sign the next. America’s housing market is booming. If you’re in the process of house hunting, you’ve quickly realized that this is a seller’s market. Whether you’re listing your home or considering buying, it’s important to understand the current market standings.
What exactly is a “seller’s market” anyway?
A seller’s market is characterized by a shortage of goods that are available for sale. Because of the shortage of goods, or in this case, homes, the seller now has the upper hand to dictate the price. Basically, low supply has met high demand. On the other hand, a “buyer’s market” is when there is a higher inventory of homes on the market compared to interested buyers. In this market type, buyers have more negotiating power since the sellers are competing.
3 Signs of a Seller’s Market:
Inventory: Fewer homes on the market may be a sign that you’re in a seller’s market. Not sure if the real estate inventory in your area has decreased? Try calculating to see if the number of currently listed homes is less than half of the number of homes sold the previous month. If so, you’re likely in a seller’s market.
Higher Prices: Sellers often drop prices to compete in a buyer’s market, but in a seller’s market when buyers are competing, sellers may be able to sell for higher than the asking price.
Time on Market: It’s no secret that homes sell faster in a seller’s market and they tend to stay on the market longer in a buyer’s market.
What causes a seller’s market?
Record-low mortgage rates. In January 2021, rates on the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage hit a record low at 2.65%.
Low Supply. Home building has not quite kept up with the growing population and demand, and as Millennials reach the home-buying age, the supply shortage deepens.
Technology expediting sales. With the pandemic sparking digital mortgage approvals and virtual closings, the speed at which homes are sold has increased.
Don’t let this stop you from buying the home of your dreams.
As you begin your home buying process, don’t let the current market standings discourage you! Keep in mind that you might need to be patient if you lose a house you wanted, and don’t let it get you down. It’s also important to act fast and go in prepared. Get your pre-approval letter from your mortgage company to show sellers you’re a serious buyer. If you find a home that meets your requirements, act as quickly as possible.
Work with trustworthy agents.
As the housing market is ever-changing, it’s crucial to partner with trustworthy sellers and agents, like our agents here at Points West Agency. Our agents are ready to help you find the home of your dreams, so visit our <a href="https://www.pointswestagency.com/contact/">Contact Us</a> page or give us a call at (817) 717-6036 to get the process started.
Sources:
<a href="https://www.investopedia.com/terms/s/sellersmarket.asp">https://www.investopedia.com/terms/s/sellersmarket.asp<br /><br /></a><a href="https://www.quickenloans.com/learn/sellers-market">https://www.quickenloans.com/learn/sellers-market</a>
<a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/petertaylor/2021/04/18/yes-americas-housing-market-is-officially-over-heating-everywhere-how-long-can-it-last/?sh=149205e64437">https://www.forbes.com/sites/petertaylor/2021/04/18/yes-americas-housing-market-is-officially-over-heating-everywhere-how-long-can-it-last/?sh=149205e64437</a>
2021-04-29T06:00:00-07:002021-04-26T08:49:59-07:00Bolt PRtag:pointswestagency.com,2012-09-20:8683The Importance of Curb AppealSimply put, curb appeal is about possibilities for your home’s exterior. The way the outside of your home looks can bring intrigue for passersby, or those scrolling through listings online. While sometimes curb appeal can be overlooked, it's an important detail and can help you know when a house is right for you and do the same for potential buyers of your home. Once you know what you want to do to improve it, the sky's the limit!
Let’s Talk: What is Curb Appeal?
Curb appeal can be loosely defined as, “the level of attractiveness one may feel from viewing a home from across the street.” Because of curb appeal, your home could either be the beautiful centerpiece of a neighborhood or that sore thumb that sticks out. Today, we’re here to help you figure out how to give your house the right curb appeal and not break the bank in the process.
Three Tips for Curb Appeal
1. Give Your House A Fresh Coat of Paint
The outside of your home experiences a lot of weather throughout the years and a fresh coat of paint can help fix that right up! While painting the outside of your home neon yellow may make you happy at that current time, not everyone will love it as much as you do while they pull up in the driveway, or pass by. Try going for something more neutral and let the style of the house itself, whether it be A-frame, Victorian, or modern, speak for itself. One of the biggest trends we’re seeing for homes lately is all white with elements of black. Find what inspires you and go for that! To help you with this task and if it’s part of your budget, ask your friends- or our Points West Agency team - for painter recommendations, so the job is done right and professionally.
2. Get Your Green Thumb Out
While yard work may not be a passion of yours, you would not believe the difference it can make for your home’s curb appeal. Plus, having a freshly groomed yard shows prospective buyers your home's potential and gives them an idea of how well taken care of the home is on the inside. You could even try discovering your green thumb by planting something that blooms during peak real estate seasons. Trust us, it will take the house to the next level. Or, if you can afford it and prefer to leave it to the professionals, ask your neighbors (or your real estate friends at Points West Agency) for lawn care provider contacts.
3. Upgrade Your Porch
A front porch is a beautiful thing. It’s a sanctuary from being indoors without actually leaving home and the perfect place to relax with a drink or a book on a nice day. On top of bringing benefit to your everyday life, updating your porch furniture has the added benefit of increasing your home’s curb appeal. Afterall, installing a wooden porch swing with a cushioned seat could seal the deal for the next owner. Visit a furniture store or browse at local garage sales to find those perfect pieces for your home’s front porch.
Now that your home’s curb appeal is updated and ready, contact us today at (817) 717- 6036 to get the selling process started.
Sources
<a href="https://www.fortunebuilders.com/importance-curb-appeal/#:~:text=What%20is%20curb%20appeal%2C%20and,side%20of%20the%20front%20door">https://www.fortunebuilders.com/importance-curb-appeal/#:~:text=What%20is%20curb%20appeal%2C%20and,side%20of%20the%20front%20door</a>.
<a href="https://www.homelight.com/blog/why-is-curb-appeal-important/">https://www.homelight.com/blog/why-is-curb-appeal-important/</a>
<a href="https://www.bairdwarner.com/2019/07/16/curb-appeal-statistics-trends/">https://www.bairdwarner.com/2019/07/16/curb-appeal-statistics-trends/</a>
2021-04-14T13:48:00-07:002021-04-14T13:55:40-07:00Bolt PRtag:pointswestagency.com,2012-09-20:8603Tips to Make Moving with Kids Easier<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/938/image/april.1.blog.jpg" width="2863" height="1661" />
Oh, the excitement and adventure of moving! While it can be a challenge at any stage in life, there are different types of challenges you may face when you have your own family. Before you let the complexity of the moving process get the better of you, keep in mind there are ways to make the transition to a new home easier for the whole family.
Read on for five tips to making the moving transition easier with kids.
1. Let The Kids Know Sooner Than Later
While you may be worried about settling into a new home, your kids’ whole world is going to change as they worry about leaving their friends. By allowing your kids enough time to get used to the idea of moving, you can help prepare them for the big change. Do this by providing them with details about the new house and also how they can keep in touch with friends from their old neighborhood or school. It can be a good idea to introduce your family to other kids in the neighborhood so that they can get a head start on making new friends.
2. Stick to Your Routine as Much as Possible
Routines can form good habits in kids and also provide them with a sense of security. While you’re packing up the house and preparing to move, remember to still make time for the things you would normally do. Don’t abandon your Friday night movie tradition for the sake of getting a few more things packed. Be sure to keep your bedtimes and mealtimes the same as you move from one house to another. The stability of still doing normal tasks will help make the transition smoother for you and your family.
3. Involve Your Kids in the Moving Process
Moving chores aren’t just for adults. Organizing your kids’ belongings before you pack everything away in boxes will make the move itself easier for everyone. If they don’t want to help sort their toys, you can offer an incentive by letting them keep some of the money made from selling their old toys, or getting a new item they can keep in their room at the new house. Sort everything into keep, sell, and give-away piles and make sure your kids have a say in what does and doesn’t come to the new house.
4. Allow The Kids Time to Adjust
Chances are your kids like the house you currently live in and could be feeling nervous or sad about the transition to a new space. To help make this transition easier, consider bringing photographs of the old house into the new one. Sit down with them and make a list of things they can get excited about in the new home and things they will miss about the old one. Depending on the age of your children, you can use books or music to help them understand their emotions and find a positive outcome.
5. Keep a Positive Attitude
For better or worse, your kids pick up on your energy, so try to stay positive during the moving process. This is very important while settling into your new home, as your kids are likely to already be experiencing anxiety. No matter what, know that you’ve made a positive decision for your family and the kids will make new friends in their new neighborhood and at their new school.
Sources
<a href="https://www.neighbor.com/storage-blog/moving-kids-15-tips-smooth-move/">https://www.neighbor.com/storage-blog/moving-kids-15-tips-smooth-move/</a>
<a href="https://updater.com/moving-tips/top-7-tips-for-moving-with-kids/">https://updater.com/moving-tips/top-7-tips-for-moving-with-kids/</a>
<a href="https://childmind.org/article/advice-for-moving-with-children/">https://childmind.org/article/advice-for-moving-with-children/</a>2021-04-01T07:05:00-07:002021-04-01T07:07:07-07:00Bolt PRtag:pointswestagency.com,2012-09-20:85245 Fun Things to do in Parker County
When you first move to a new area, it can often be a struggle to find fun activities that the whole family can enjoy. However, if you’re purchasing a property in Parker County, you’re in luck! Whether you want to engage with nature or learn more about history, there is so much to do in this area. In honor of one of the wonderful counties we serve, keep reading for 5 fun things to do in Parker County.
1. Hike at the Lake Mineral Wells State Park and Trailway
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/938/image/LMWSP_5471.jpg" width="584" height="264" />
If you’re a nature lover moving to Parker County, you'll definitely want to visit the Lake Mineral Wells State Park and Trailway! Admission is only $7 for adults and free for kids under 12. You can hike, take a family camping trip, go swimming or fishing in the lake. Be advised, due to COVID-19 restrictions, parks are open for day use, and limited camping only with six-foot social distancing required.
2. Relax in Nature at the Clark Botanical Gardens
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/938/image/Clark-Gardens-spring_oxbow_lake.jpg" width="555" height="371" />
Spring is right around the corner and who doesn’t love to admire gorgeous flowers? You can do just that at the Clark Botanical Gardens. Take a tour of the Historic Tree Trail, home to 86 historic trees, including a Weeping Willow that once stood over Napoleon’s gravesite! Turn the trip into a fun game with your kids and see how many different types of butterflies you can spot. And, if your kids are a little more indoorsy, be sure to visit September 4th and 5th, 2021 to attend the annual Model Train Show!
3. Soak up some history at the National Vietnam War Museum
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/938/image/nv.jpg" width="570" height="289" />
This is a great educational experience for you and your older kids. Founded in 1998, this museum was developed as a national venue that would promote learning about the Vietnam War era. Today, these museum exhibits tell the story of more than 5 million American servicemen and women, the Vietnamese people and their culture, and the civilians who both supported and protested the war. With all exhibits being outdoors, you're able to see actual fighter helicopters flown during the war, as well as Army trucks and Jeeps from that era. While you're there, be sure to stop and take a moment to remember those who were lost at the museum War Memorial. It truly is amazing that this piece of national history could be right in your backyard!
4. Support Protecting Wildlife at the Wild Animal Sanctuary of Texas
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/938/image/3.18.jpg" width="556" height="312" />
Even more fun than the zoo is a visit to this wildlife sanctuary! An accredited sanctuary for lions, tigers, bears, and wolves, these animals have been rescued from illegal or abusive situations. Because this is not a federally-subsidized zoo, the staff encourages visitors to make donations where they can in order to help give these majestic creatures the home that they deserve.
5. Let your imagination run wild at the Grand Adventure Park
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/938/image/3.18blog5.jpg" width="536" height="301" />
Last but not least for the little ones in your life, why not spend a socially distanced day at Grand Adventure Park? Established in 2018, this theme park has everything you need to enjoy a whole day of family fun, including mini-golfing and go-kart racing! Due to COVID-19 restrictions, the park is open Friday through Sunday only from 11 AM to 11 PM.
Sources
<a href="https://tpwd.texas.gov/about/coronavirus/temporary-closures-and-operations-adjustments/">https://tpwd.texas.gov/about/coronavirus/temporary-closures-and-operations-adjustments/</a> Also check out for specific park info: <a href="https://tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/lake-mineral-wells">https://tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/lake-mineral-wells</a>
<a href="https://www.clarkgardens.org/">https://www.clarkgardens.org/</a>
<a href="https://www.nationalvnwarmuseum.org/">https://www.nationalvnwarmuseum.org/</a>
<a href="https://www.wildanimalsanctuarytexas.org/">https://www.wildanimalsanctuarytexas.org/</a>
<a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/grand-adventure-park-weatherford?osq=Things+To+Do">https://www.yelp.com/biz/grand-adventure-park-weatherford?osq=Things+To+Do</a>2021-03-18T14:46:00-07:002021-03-18T15:03:30-07:00Bolt PRtag:pointswestagency.com,2012-09-20:8387Top 5 Tips for Decluttering Before a MoveAs you begin the journey toward buying a new home, you may be looking at all the ‘stuff’ collecting in your current dwelling and start to feel a bit overwhelmed. When it comes to letting go of your possessions in order to conserve space in your new home, it can be easier said than done. Before you panic about the process, stop and think about your priorities when it comes to the things you need to bring with you. Read on for five tips to help you during this process.
1. Organize your belongings into ‘Yes’ and ‘No’ piles
As with moving in general, having good organization is key. Go room by room in your current home and separate the items into three piles - one ‘yes’ pile and two ‘no’ piles. Items in your ‘yes’ pile are all of the items you’d like to keep and have a place for in your new home. Your two ‘no’ piles are for things you need to throw away, like old worn-out clothing or trash, and items that you can donate to your local Goodwill or give away to friends and family.
2. Keep items you love that also serve a purpose
Before you give anything away for good, recognize how it could possibly function in the space you are moving to. Do you really need that shoe organizer in your next home, or would you be better off giving it to a friend? Take a hard look at what you own and determine if you want to keep it, then assign a spot for it in the new house ahead of time to save yourself time and unnecessary stress.
3. Try to stop acquiring new things
This tends to be a hard tip for homeowners, but it really works. Minimize your shopping for new clothes, books, and other items in the 90 days before you move and while you’re organizing the things taking up space in your current home. Moving in somewhere new can be a tedious process, so you’ll be grateful for having less stuff to move within the long run.
4. Measure your new space and evaluate your storage options
When you move, chances are you’ll be bringing a lot of furniture with you. Once you decide on your new home, bring a tape measure and figure out what pieces of furniture will fit where. If necessary, you might have to look into purchasing a storage unit to store some less frequently used furniture and items that you can’t bear to part with.
5. Remember to stay positive
Letting go of excess belongings is often difficult, but remember you’ll still hold the memories associated with them. You’re ultimately the one in control of what stays and what goes in your home, so know that you’ll make the best decisions for yourself.
Are you looking to downsize before you move? Contact Points West Agency at (817) 717-6036 or visit our <a href="https://www.pointswestagency.com/contact/">Contact</a> page to get connected with the right real estate agent for you today!
Sources:
<a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/downsizing-tips-things-to-know-2019-3#start-now-11">https://www.businessinsider.com/downsizing-tips-things-to-know-2019-3#start-now-11</a> <a href="https://www.homelight.com/blog/downsizing-tips/">https://www.homelight.com/blog/downsizing-tips/</a>
2021-02-25T17:08:00-07:002021-02-25T17:13:31-07:00Bolt PRtag:pointswestagency.com,2012-09-20:83245 Tips for Home Sellers Navigating a Pandemic
While 2020 may be over with, the pandemic is still very much here and a part of our daily lives. If you are looking to sell your house in 2021, your chances of facing some unique challenges due to the pandemic are still high. You know you need to showcase your home in the best possible light, and never has this been truer than now. With restrictions still in place in many states and many continuing to take precautions, it’s likely that buyers may be feeling some hesitation.
So, how do you keep yourself and potential buyers safe during such a complex time? Trust and safety are important to the process. Read on for our top five tips to keep in mind as you navigate selling your home during COVID-19:
1. Don’t Be Scared... Be Prepared.
When selling a home in 2021, there’s a whole new meaning to the seasonal concept of “spring cleaning.” As you prepare for open houses and tours don’t get overwhelmed by the task of tidying up. Involve the whole family while you dust and vacuum all areas of your house, put away or hide personal items, sanitize, etc. Not only is deep-cleaning a great way to start off the new year, it’s also a crucial step to ensure your home makes a great impression with potential buyers.
2. Set Your Expectations
Before you let potential buyers in the door, be sure they are following proper pandemic procedures. Work with your realtor to politely ask visitors to avoid touching items such as your personal belongings. Sanitize frequently touched areas such as furniture, doorknobs, and light switches after each showing to ensure you and your family continue to stay safe. Be sure to limit the number of people in your home at one time to only a few. And don’t forget to still treat potential buyers as your guests! Provide hand sanitizer at entrances, along with light packaged snacks and sealed bottled water.
3. Create a Showing Kit for your Home
Who says potential buyers have to be inside your home to enjoy it? Upon arrival, consider providing your visitors with a plastic bag filled with pictures of the staged and sanitized space and additional information. This adds a personal touch to the experience and helps keep everyone safe.
4. Negotiate from a Distance
Secure video-meeting platforms such as Zoom are useful tools for meeting with potential buyers, agents, and realtors. As with so many things during the pandemic, technology can help you as you make important decisions about the closing process on your home. Additionally, to ensure potential buyers feel extra safe in your home, rely on your realtor to show the space. Take the day to run some errands or go to lunch to ensure that everyone can adhere to social distancing guidelines.
5. Keep an Open Mind<br />
As the song once said- you can't hurry love. The same is true when it comes to selling your house! The best thing you can do is stick to the pandemic safety program that works for you and the right buyer will come along. The pandemic is complicated and so is the process of moving on from your home. Despite the obstacles, you can still do things your way. Talk with your realtor to establish the best plan for your family and the right buyer will come along!
Are you struggling to list, stage, and sell your home during the pandemic? Whether you’re a first-time home seller, having the right agent can make moving on from and selling your home a smoother process. Our agents are prepared to help you get your listing sold, so visit our <a href="https://www.pointswestagency.com/contact/">Contact Us</a> page or give us a call at (817) 717-6036 to take your listing to the next level.
Sources:
<a href="https://www.brunswickcrossing.com/blog/tips-to-sell-your-home-safely-during-a-pandemic">https://www.brunswickcrossing.com/blog/tips-to-sell-your-home-safely-during-a-pandemic</a>
<a href="https://www.homesforsalegreenbay.com/top-safety-tips-home-buyers-covid-19-times/">https://www.homesforsalegreenbay.com/top-safety-tips-home-buyers-covid-19-times/</a>
<a href="https://www.giannipropertygroup.com/2019/11/19/5-home-seller-strategies-for-staging-your-home-perfectly/">https://www.giannipropertygroup.com/2019/11/19/5-home-seller-strategies-for-staging-your-home-perfectly/</a>
2021-02-11T10:00:00-07:002021-02-11T10:05:00-07:00Bolt PRtag:pointswestagency.com,2012-09-20:8203Top Producing Agent of 2020: Nicole Shipman
Please join us in congratulating Points West real estate agent, Nicole Shipman, for being our top producing agent of 2020! Nicole’s “can do” attitude has helped her achieve the most sales in our agency for the year and we could not be more proud! Keep reading to learn more about Nicole and her success during this past year.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/938/image/49065394_10216028585120088_6715916519668187136_n.jpg" width="300" height="476" class="img_box_right" />
It’s safe to say that Nicole was on fire in 2020 with a total of 32 properties sold throughout Dallas-Fort Worth this past year! While we looked back on her amazing accomplishments, we asked Nicole what her most memorable property was and here’s what she had to say:
“Every property and every person I get to help is memorable. The one that sticks out the most would be one that after closing, my seller told me that the sale of that property was allowing her to be able to buy her son new hearing aids that he has been needing.”
That’s the beauty of real estate; what we do helps people in more ways than we can sometimes imagine.
Our Points West Broker, Ryan Pafford, added, “Nicole isn’t afraid to try something new or take a different approach when it comes to marketing a property. From a colonial home, a commercial property, to just raw land – Nicole finds unique ways to market properties that consistently produce results for her clients.
It’s this passion and initiative that helped Nicole produce over ten offers in less than 48 hours on multiple listings throughout 2020!
The best part? Nicole has zero plans of slowing down. She’s ready to continue helping as many people and families buy or sell their homes in the new year as possible. In fact, Nicole has properties on the market already in 2021, so head over to our <a href="https://www.pointswestagency.com/property-search/results/?searchid=126052">featured listings</a> or give us a call at (817) 717-6036 to learn more.
2021-01-20T13:35:00-07:002021-01-20T13:37:07-07:00Bolt PRtag:pointswestagency.com,2012-09-20:81252021 Interior Design TrendsAs 2020 has wrapped up and the new year is on the horizon, we’re taking a look at the top interior design trends that we can expect to see in homes in 2021. With the COVID-19 pandemic forcing many to spend most of the last year at home, our living spaces were brought to the forefront. Going into 2021, we will see these four new and revived trends generated from the increased investment on homes and properties.
1. Natural Earthy Tones
Focusing on increasing comfort, we can expect to see more consumers shifting to implement <a href="https://www.architecturaldigest.com/story/what-covid-19-will-mean-for-design-trends-in-2021">more natural and earthy tones</a> into their homes. Deep greens and blues, as well as warm neutrals, offer a calming ambiance that will literally set the tone for a more soothing environment. Woven throughout your entire home, this trend will help create a place of ease and comfort for all.
2. Relaxed & Cozy
Say goodbye to unused or uncomfortable rooms and say hello to <a href="https://www.elledecor.com/design-decorate/trends/g34991011/design-trends-2021/">relaxed and cozy vibes</a>. As part of this trend, comfort and style will work hand-in-hand to produce rooms that are both beautiful and usable. We will see an increase in <a href="https://www.wsj.com/articles/the-top-interior-design-trends-for-2021-11609358367">softer fabrics and textures</a>, larger sitting areas and more comfortable furniture.
3. Entertainment Spaces
The COVID-19 pandemic made everyone temporarily say goodbye to public events, bringing all entertainment into the home. Due to this change, we can expect to see <a href="https://www.elledecor.com/design-decorate/trends/g34991011/design-trends-2021/">more dedicated entertainment spaces</a> in homes. Whether for gaming, cinema or just family nights, these spaces will become the epicenter of many properties and the go-to spot for all entertainment.
4. Throwbacks to Better Days
The impact of the past year and the devastation of COVID-19 caused many consumers to long for better days and happier tomorrows. Similar to how people love to look back at pictures from the time before the pandemic, we will see many homeowners implement these <a href="https://www.homesandgardens.com/news/interior-design-trends-2021">fonder memories</a> throughout their home. Family heirlooms, vintage pieces, older décor and so much more will be woven into homes to be viewed fondly and bring an air of happiness and nostalgia into the home.
Looking for more from your home in 2021? Our agents want to help you find exactly what you’re looking for. Give us a call at (817) 717-6036 or visit our <a href="https://www.pointswestagency.com/contact/">Contact</a> page to get started today!2021-01-06T08:52:00-07:002021-01-06T10:37:12-07:00Bolt PRtag:pointswestagency.com,2012-09-20:8082Five New Year’s Resolutions for You and Your Home
With 2020 almost over, many of us may be itching to start 2021 on a higher note than any year before. The start of a new year means it’s time for those new year’s resolutions! Since most of us have spent far more time in our homes this year than in years past, your resolution might be to put a little extra TLC into the place you’ve been calling home, the office, school, and many other things these past few months. Keep reading below to see our top five new year’s resolutions for you and your home!
1. Put Your Holiday Decorations Away Early
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/938/image/pexels-koolshooters-6087533.png" width="485" height="324" />
Yes, you read that right. We want you to take down those twinkling lights and put the wreath away because it’s the start of the new year - and what better way to start fresh than with updated decor?! Leaving your holiday decorations out can be fun in early January, but there comes a point where life gets busy and you might not have the time to spare weeks down the road. Make it your goal to take those decorations down early, so you don’t have to walk over old, dried up needles left behind from your tree.
2. Tackle Those Small Projects
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/938/image/shutterstock_213280627.jpg" width="488" height="325" />
Fall is well over with, but it could still be stuck in your gutters. You’ve also may have seen a little extra wear and tear to your walls this past year from kiddos playing at home. Make a plan to tackle these small projects in the new year to help give your home the refresh you’ve been waiting for. Small projects like these don’t have to take too much time or money, but they sure do make a difference once they’re done!
3. Declutter Your Home
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/938/image/declutter.jpg" width="476" height="318" />
Out with the old! It is always a good idea at the start of a new year to go through what you’ve collected in the past 365 days and donate or throw away the items you no longer need. Some of us may have collected a little extra clutter in 2020 with all of the online shopping we’ve done, so it’s a good idea to go through your things and throw away what you don't need - like that random shake weight that you bought just because you were feeling nostalgic.
4. Start Those Renovations
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/938/image/pexels-skitterphoto-1388944.jpg" width="475" height="285" />
We’ve all been spending way more time in our homes this past year, so you’ve probably noticed parts of your house that could use an upgrade beyond a simple coat of paint. If you have the means, starting renovation plans early is a great resolution for you and your home. Even if you just start to think about what tile you would like or even go as far as calling a contractor, one of the hardest parts about these projects is getting started. Make a remodeling plan and timeline and stick to it for your 2021 resolution!
5. Prepare Your Home and List it For Sale with Points West Agency
Has all this time in your home made you realize you need more space or that your home isn’t exactly what you want or need? Make prepping your home for sale your 2021 resolution and then give us a call! Sometimes all you need to start the year off right is the home of your dreams, and our agents want to help you achieve that. Give us a call at (817) 717-6036 or visit our <a href="https://www.pointswestagency.com/contact/">Contact</a> page to get started today!
2020-12-23T13:40:00-07:002020-12-23T14:16:06-07:00Bolt PRtag:pointswestagency.com,2012-09-20:7993Points West Agency Featured December Properties
The year may be coming to a close, but that doesn’t mean your search for that perfect dream home or commercial property has to! We still have plenty of amazing properties available this month, so keep reading below to learn more.
<a href="https://www.pointswestagency.com/property-search/detail/57/14429892/18911-s-hwy-377-cresson-tx-76035/">18911 S HWY 377</a>
<a href="https://www.pointswestagency.com/property-search/detail/57/14429892/18911-s-hwy-377-cresson-tx-76035/">Cresson, TX 76035</a>
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/938/image/12.9-blog.jpg" width="476" height="317" />
The opportunities are endless on this 6.7-acre lot with a modern office building. The property comes complete with covered and uncovered parking, a full kitchen, six offices, three bathrooms, a common room, a lobby and a conference room! See below for full details.
$1,700,000
6.75 Acres
Built in 2016
<a href="https://www.pointswestagency.com/property-search/detail/57/14429537/10343-n-us-highway-377-stephenville-tx-76401/">10343 N US Highway 377</a>
<a href="https://www.pointswestagency.com/property-search/detail/57/14429537/10343-n-us-highway-377-stephenville-tx-76401/">Stephenville, TX 76401</a>
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/938/image/12.9-blog 2.jpg" width="463" height="348" />
Sitting on just under 20 acres, this property includes mature oak trees, a large horse barn with seven stalls and three runs, a storage barn and so much more! See below for additional details.
$750,000
19.97 Acres
3,094 Sq. Ft.
<a href="https://www.pointswestagency.com/property-search/detail/57/14309674/1803-j-s-murry-ranch-road-del-rio-tx-78840/">1803 J S Murry Ranch Road</a>
<a href="https://www.pointswestagency.com/property-search/detail/57/14309674/1803-j-s-murry-ranch-road-del-rio-tx-78840/">Del Rio, TX 78840</a>
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/938/image/12.9-blog 3.jpg" width="484" height="322" />
Set up and ready to be your very own hunting ranch for family and friends, this Del Rio property features a recently updated cabin, new tower stands, a stock tank for fishing and so much more. All of this and more located just minutes from the thriving town of Del Rio, Texas. See below for more information!
$799,000
227.09 Acres
<a href="https://www.pointswestagency.com/property-search/detail/57/14459434/1516-arbor-lane-arlington-tx-76010/">1516 Arbor Lane</a>
<a href="https://www.pointswestagency.com/property-search/detail/57/14459434/1516-arbor-lane-arlington-tx-76010/">Arlington, TX 76010</a>
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/938/image/12.9-blog 4.jpg" width="430" height="286" />
This charming three-bedroom home in Arlington is move-in ready! Some of the updates include floors, windows doors, paint inside and out, and a new roof. See below for further details!
$189,900
0.14 Acres
1,166 Sq. Ft
Find a listing that has caught your eye or looking for something a bit different? Our agents at Points West Agency are at the ready to help you find the best property for you! Visit our <a href="https://www.pointswestagency.com/contact/">Contact Us</a> page or give us a call at (817) 717-6036 to get the process started.
2020-12-09T08:49:00-07:002020-12-09T09:16:19-07:00Bolt PRtag:pointswestagency.com,2012-09-20:7935Everything You Need to Know Before Buying a Foreclosed Home<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/938/image/shutterstock_246334387.jpg" width="5528" height="2279" />
Coronavirus has been negatively impacting the American economy for nearly a year now. As a result, foreclosures are on the rise, with some experts estimating an increase in foreclosures by <a href="https://www.bankrate.com/mortgages/foreclosures-crisis-wont-look-like-great-recession/">nearly 70%</a> over the next two years. This could drastically increase buying options for many, so it is crucial to know the facts about these homes before making such a significant decision. Keep reading below for several tips to consider when looking to purchase a foreclosed home.
Where to Find <a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/taramastroeni/2019/07/10/heres-what-you-need-to-know-before-buying-a-foreclosure/?sh=27c158d57784">Foreclosed Homes</a>.
There are two ways to purchase a foreclosed home, either at auction or through a real estate company. A house goes up for auction when the bank first forecloses on the house. This can be convenient but risky since properties sold at auction cannot be inspected or toured before purchase. If a house is unable to be sold at auction, it then becomes real estate owned. Purchasing an REO home is similar to acquiring a traditional property in the sense that the potential buyer is allowed to see the home and perform inspections before purchasing. Obtaining an REO home can be a long process, but can be beneficial as foreclosed homes are typically sold “as-is” and it’s essential to see what you’ll be getting into. If buying a foreclosed property is something you’re interested in, you can either find them often listed at county and city courthouse buildings for auction while REO properties can be found on various online home sale platforms.
Understand the State of Foreclosure.
Homes can be in various states of the foreclosure process and it is important to know which stage your potential home is in, as it can impact the process. Listed below are the <a href="https://www.investopedia.com/investing/buying-foreclosed-home/">five stages of foreclosure</a> and how they can affect your buying experience.
● Pre-foreclosure: This phase occurs when the lender has notified the homeowner of the pending foreclosure, but the property has not yet been offered at auction. If the homeowner can sell the house before it goes to auction, they are sometimes able to avoid the negative effects that come with the foreclosure process.
● Short sales: When the lender accepts less money from the borrower than what the mortgage states, a short sale occurs and often happens because the property is worth less than what is owed on the mortgage. Short-sale purchases are similar to regular ones, but can often take longer to process and contract language will differ.
● Sheriff’s Sale Auctions: This phase occurs after the borrower has been given time to make up the mortgage payments but is unsuccessful. If purchasing a home at a public auction, the property will go to the highest bidder so the lender can be repaid quickly.
● Bank-Owned Properties: When houses are not sold at auction, they become bank, or real estate, owned properties. Purchases of these properties then become similar to traditional home sales.
● Government-Owned Properties: This occurs when the home is purchased with a loan from the government. When foreclosed on, the government can regain the home, and those looking to purchase it must go through a federal broker.
Know the Risks.
When working with a real estate company, it’s important to do a home inspection and take note of any needed repairs, as repair costs always become the responsibility of the buyer. If repair costs are higher than you would like to pay, be sure to discuss the costs in your offer, so you can walk away from the sale in the event the seller is not willing to help with repairs. Additionally, be sure to perform a title search before buying a foreclosed home. Occasionally, foreclosed homes can be sold with liens attached and the new owner will be responsible for all debt associated with the property. No one wants to purchase a new home with debt already attached to it. Lastly, it is significant to note that competition can be high for foreclosed homes as smart buyers will bid on multiple homes at once to increase their chances of a successful purchase.
Work with Trustworthy Agents.
No matter what stage of the home-buying phase you are in, be sure to partner with trustworthy sellers and agents, like our agents here at Points West Agency. Additionally, scammers often take advantage of those going through the foreclosure process, so it is essential to be aware and trust the help you are receiving.
With the financial stress caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, it has never been easier to find a foreclosed home for sale. While this can be an exciting transition for many buyers, be sure to consider these tips before purchasing. Our agents are ready to help you find the foreclosed home of your dreams, so visit our <a href="https://www.pointswestagency.com/contact/">Contact Us</a> page or give us a call at (817) 717-6036 to get the process started.
Sources: <a href="https://www.bankrate.com/mortgages/foreclosures-crisis-wont-look-like-great-recession/">https://www.bankrate.com/mortgages/foreclosures-crisis-wont-look-like-great-recession/</a>
<a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/taramastroeni/2019/07/10/heres-what-you-need-to-know-before-buying-a-foreclosure/?sh=3df0b2ac7784">https://www.forbes.com/sites/taramastroeni/2019/07/10/heres-what-you-need-to-know-before-buying-a-foreclosure/?sh=3df0b2ac7784</a>
<a href="https://www.investopedia.com/investing/buying-foreclosed-home/">https://www.investopedia.com/investing/buying-foreclosed-home/</a>2020-11-25T08:10:00-07:002020-11-25T08:46:03-07:00Bolt PRtag:pointswestagency.com,2012-09-20:7865Making the Most of a Virtual Open House<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/938/image/shutterstock_1795238062.png" width="2000" height="960" />
With social distancing guidelines still in full effect, more and more open houses and showings are going virtual. While these virtual home tours ensure safety for the buyer and the agent, they can also present challenges. When attending a virtual home event, it is important to make sure you get an accurate feel of the house and all the information necessary to inform you of important decisions. Here are a few tips and questions to ask during a virtual home tour, so that you can fully understand your potential home.
Research the property in advance.
Since you won’t be able to physically walk through the house, you should try to learn as much as you can before the virtual meeting. Consider asking your agent for a few extra materials ahead of time, such as a copy of the floor plan and room dimensions to make following along easier. It could also be beneficial to ask for the home’s disclosure statement. These statements provide you with the information to ask the selling agent about any material defects, recent updates or servicing done in the house. Finally, be sure to take note of the house’s location. Research the neighborhood, local schools, traffic patterns and shopping centers to better understand the community surrounding the home.
Understand the format.
Do you have an individual appointment or will other homebuyers be present on the call? This is essential to know beforehand so that you can be respectful of the experience for all parties involved. If others are on the call, be sure to mute yourself when not asking questions, so that your background noise doesn’t cause distraction. Also, make sure you know when to ask questions. If the agent asks that you save questions until the end, keep a written list of questions to help you remember what to ask when it is time.
Communicate with your agent.
Communication is crucial when making housing decisions, especially when the process is conducted virtually. The idea of online open houses is relatively new to all of us and all details must be communicated effectively. Make sure you know what time to be on the call, who else will be in attendance and other details such as when the sellers want to close. While these may seem obvious, they are easily lost in the many never-ending email threads. Check-in with your agent frequently to make sure you have the details down.
Ask questions.
Asking questions, in general, is vital, but even more so on a virtual call. Here are a few examples of good questions to ask to ensure you are accurately understanding the property.
● Is it noisy? – Since you won’t be able to observe this yourself, ask the agent if the house is near a busy road or in an area with high air traffic.
● Where is the property line? – Viewing the land from a camera can result in size and/or distance deception. Be sure to ask for exact dimensions and property lines, so that you can understand the exact size of the property.
● What is the sun exposure like throughout the day? – Photos and cameras don’t always accurately capture light, be sure to ask about windows and how the light filters into the house throughout the day.
Just because your tour is virtual does not mean you can’t understand the property just as well. Be sure to ask great questions and take advantage of these tips to make the most out of your virtual open house and make the decision that’s right for you. If you’re ready to find your dream home, our agents are at the ready! Visit our <a href="https://www.pointswestagency.com/contact/">Contact Us</a> page or give us a call at (817) 717-6036 to get the process started.
Sources:
<a href="https://www.homelight.com/blog/buyer-attending-a-virtual-open-house/">https://www.homelight.com/blog/buyer-attending-a-virtual-open-house/</a>
<a href="http://www.warnerrobinshomesearch.com/blog/10-essential-questions-to-ask-during-a-virtual-open-house/">http://www.warnerrobinshomesearch.com/blog/10-essential-questions-to-ask-during-a-virtual-open-house/</a>
2020-11-10T15:20:00-07:002020-11-10T15:29:19-07:00Bolt PRtag:pointswestagency.com,2012-09-20:7766What to Look for in Your Future Home’s Neighborhood<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/938/image/shutterstock_1209673780.jpg" width="3800" height="1237" />
Searching for a home that checks all your boxes is the main focus for most house hunters, however, checking boxes in the neighborhood of your dream home is just as important. It’s easy to forget about the surroundings of a home when you’re so excited about the inside and all the features. Check out some of those important boxes you should check when looking at the neighborhood of your could-be dream home below!
Safety & Crime
Making sure the community is safe for you and your family should be number one on your list of priorities for a neighborhood. Take note of the neighbors’ safety efforts - have they implemented safety precautions to protect their neighborhood such as a neighborhood watch team or safety signage? Consider what their safety precautions are when thinking about your own. Another good way to check on a neighborhood’s safety is to use websites like <a href="https://www.safewise.com/">SafeWise.com</a> or <a href="https://www.neighborhoodscout.com/">NeighborhoodScout.com</a>. These sites can help paint a picture of the crime level of an area.
Walkability
Take a look around for close-by shopping centers and parks. It’s always nice to have these places close by where you could even enjoy a nice stroll through the neighborhood to get to them. The walkability of a location shows how lively the neighborhood could be and can be motivational to get you out and about, especially during today’s life inside. Using <a href="https://www.walkscore.com/">WalkScore.com</a>, you can view the ratings in which the walkability is scored based on proximity to restaurants, coffee shops, grocery stores, schools and parks of a given neighborhood.
Nearby Schools
Our youth are the future, and we must look out for them in the present. Searching for homes in a community with a great school system can allow for our children to thrive. Even if you don’t have kids, ensuring your new home is located near a great school system can significantly influence its resale value in the future. Websites like <a href="https://www.greatschools.org/">GreatSchools.org</a> compare test results from the schools and states to help you make a well-informed decision when comparing nearby schools and the neighborhoods they’re near.
Shopping & Entertainment
An active neighborhood can draw in positive energy and you can feel happier just by being around. Being in a community where there is shopping and entertainment nearby can make for an easy date night or time with the family. When house hunting, drive around the neighborhood a variety of times throughout the day to get a better idea at what the neighborhood is really like. Whatever your preferences may be, a couple of drives around the neighborhood can give you a better idea of these options.
Ready to find your dream home in the perfect neighborhood? Visit our <a href="https://www.pointswestagency.com/contact/">Contact Us</a> page or give us a call at (817) 717-6036 to get the process started.
Source:
<a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/learnvest/2017/08/02/10-things-you-should-look-for-when-choosing-a-new-neighborhood/#40b0b4f45fbc">https://www.forbes.com/sites/learnvest/2017/08/02/10-things-you-should-look-for-when-choosing-a-new-neighborhood/#40b0b4f45fbc</a>
https://www.bankrate.com/real-estate/how-to-find-a-good-neighborhood/
2020-10-28T11:30:00-07:002020-10-28T11:42:07-07:00Bolt PRtag:pointswestagency.com,2012-09-20:7684Points West Agency Featured Commercial PropertiesWith many businesses slowly starting to go back to the office, you may be looking for a fresh start for yours. Lucky for you, along with starter homes and luxury real estate, our agents are skilled in commercial properties! Keep reading to view a list of our featured commercial properties that we think you’ll love!
<a href="https://www.pointswestagency.com/property-search/detail/57/14213191/203-n-main-street-joshua-tx-76058/">203 N Main Street, Joshua, TX 76058</a>
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/938/image/57_14213191_02.jpg" width="403" height="268" />
The opportunities are endless with this Joshua office space! The owner of this space is willing to lease as shell space for tenants to finish at the advertised price. Great exposure to the road provides an opportunity for a restaurant, retail space, office or other business option with an outdoor patio. See below for pricing details.
$66,000
0.2 Acres
Year: 2016
<a href="https://www.pointswestagency.com/property-search/detail/57/14429892/18911-s-hwy-377-cresson-tx-76035/">18911 S HWY 377, Cresson, TX 76035</a><br />
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/938/image/commercial listings.jpg" width="472" height="314" />
Check out this gorgeous commercial property in Cresson! This commercial property is set on a 6.7-acre lot complete with a modern office building, covered and uncovered parking, and a 5,000 sq ft metal shop with a tool room and storage bays located at the back of the property. Inside, this office space features a full kitchen, six offices, three bathrooms, a common room, a lobby and a conference room! See below for pricing details.
$1,700,000
6.75 Acres
Year: 2016
<a href="https://www.pointswestagency.com/property-search/detail/57/14250522/18505-s-highway-377-cresson-tx-76035/">18505 S Highway 377, Cresson, TX 76035</a>
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/938/image/57_14250522_03.jpg" width="427" height="284" />
Two office buildings on an acre of property directly off of Highway 377 - what more could you need?! These buildings are constructed out of beautiful Austin Stone and feature professional landscaping, which is maintained year-round. Both buildings are move-in ready and include a double-sided billboard. This billboard could be used to advertise your own business or another avenue to bring in a monthly income. See below for pricing details.
$815,000
1 Acre
Year: 2011
If you can see your business running in any of these spaces, our agents are ready to help you make your dream office space a reality! Looking for something different? We can help with that too! Visit our <a href="https://www.pointswestagency.com/contact/">Contact</a> page or give us a call at (817) 717-6036 to get the process started today.
2020-10-14T09:43:00-07:002020-10-14T11:32:05-07:00Bolt PRtag:pointswestagency.com,2012-09-20:7570Steps to Take Before Renting Out Your Home<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/938/image/for rent.png" width="1200" height="423" />
With life as it is right now, we could all use a little extra cash on hand. Perhaps, you have a second home that you’re considering renting out, or you’re just interested in entering the rental property game. It may seem like an easy thing to get into, but there are a few essential steps to take to ensure you do this the right way. Keep reading to learn a few of those steps you should know before jumping into the rental property world.
Understand the Responsibility Involved
First and foremost, you have to determine whether being a landlord is an obligation you can handle. Renting out your property brings many benefits, such as the ability to deter vandalisms on an empty home, the ease of tax breaks and the ability to generate an additional income to help cover the bills and turn your property profitable.
All that said, being a landlord requires much more room in your life for the time and responsibility that it takes. You’ll need to stay on top of repairs and maintenance, collect rent, keep an eye on your tenant to avoid wear and tear on your property, and much more.
Prepare Your Property
Similar to potential home buyers, potential tenants are looking for a home that they can enjoy living in. This means that you should focus on fixing up or updating your property before listing it for rent. By doing so, potential tenants will be impressed with the new features your home has to offer and be more likely to rent from you.
Once you have a new tenant, you should prepare your property by thoroughly cleaning it from top to bottom – this step is especially vital during today's life amidst COVID-19. Additionally, you should check that all appliances are working and in good condition to avoid a late-night call from your tenant claiming the dishwasher is broken.
Screen Your Tenants
As a prospective landlord, you should gather certain information about a tenant before offering to rent out your house to a stranger. Your best tool for this is a comprehensive rental application form. Gather past and present employers, along with a list of any former landlords. Request contact information for each of these individuals and let your prospective tenant(s) know that you’ll be reaching out to them. Lastly, pin down the tenants’ income(s) in addition to their credit scores to make sure they have the proper funds to pay for rent and other costs.
Look into a Property Management Company
If life as a landlord sounds a little too daunting, you might want to consider partnering with a professional management company. Management companies can typically charge anywhere from 8-12% of the monthly rent with an average of about 10% for single-family residences. This may seem like a lot to give up but considering that these businesses will do all the work for you, that small percentage could be worth it to avoid the headaches a landlord would endure.
“Most management companies will also conduct periodic property inspections and handle repair issues. They'll deal with companion pets and the law. In fact, they'll be familiar with all the laws that must be followed in your area, as well as with any city fees that must be paid.” – The Balance
Invest in Marketing
Once your home is fixed up and ready to be listed, you’ll need to start marketing it. Have pictures taken and put together a list describing what makes your property so appealing – take note of those commonly desirable features like a washer and dryer, a garage, pool, etc. Once you’re ready to start marketing your property, consider hiring a Points West real estate agent! Our agents are ready to work with you and help find the perfect tenant to rent out your home! Visit our Contact page or give us a call at (817) 717-6036 to learn more.
Sources:
<a href="https://www.thebalance.com/how-to-rent-out-a-house-1798736">https://www.thebalance.com/how-to-rent-out-a-house-1798736</a>
<a href="https://www.investopedia.com/articles/mortgages-real-estate/10/renting-out-home.asp">https://www.investopedia.com/articles/mortgages-real-estate/10/renting-out-home.asp</a>2020-09-30T12:41:00-07:002020-10-01T06:24:37-07:00Bolt PRtag:pointswestagency.com,2012-09-20:7519Online House Hunting Tips<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/938/image/shutterstock_1138974839.png" width="1200" height="460" />
While searching for your dream home online isn’t a new form of house hunting, knowing how to effectively search is especially crucial during this new age of Coronavirus. It may seem as simple as searching in your area and price range, but we have a few tips to help you narrow in on finding your dream home more efficiently. Keep reading to get our tips and start searching!
1. Identify your needs vs. wants
There’s no doubt that you have specific preferences for this large purchase, but you should take the time to assess and identify what is a need and what is more of a want. A listing may not have everything that you want, but it could have almost all of what you need. Be realistic about what you can afford and filter your search results by those must-have features that would be deal-breakers.
2. Stay up to date
When starting your search, make sure you’re looking at a website that pulls the most up-to-date listings. Many online resources don’t update as often as they should or fail to remove listings that aren’t on the market anymore. For example, Zillow could have a home still listed as active and available, but we could be showing that the exact same listing is under contract. Instead, turn to a website like <a href="https://www.pointswestagency.com/">Points West Agency</a>, where we invest in pulling the most up-to-date listings directly from the multiple listings service (MLS), where agents are actively posting their most recent listings and updates.
3. Pictures can be deceiving
A real estate photographer will capture a home at its best. This is done with a few different strategies, from props and lighting to even using a wide-angle or fisheye lens to make a space look larger. What they don’t do, is show the most unappealing parts of the property, like the unfinished half-bath or the smallest closet. Keep in mind that these pictures are meant to make you fall in love and that there may be something being hidden from you online. Our next tip tells you how to make sure you see the property in full.
4. See it to believe it
Seeing a home online vs. seeing it in-person are two very different experiences. You could find the home of your dreams online and think that it is gorgeous from the pictures, but you’ll never really know if it’s the right one until you’re physically inside. Call your real estate agent to schedule a showing and take that opportunity to really look at every little detail of the home. What wasn’t pictured? Is a room smaller than the pictures made it feel? Look at everything that was and wasn't pictured to help you make a more informed decision.
5. Hire a Points West real estate agent
We’ve said it before, and we’ll say it again, hiring a real estate agent is the best decision you can make in your home buying process. Our agents are equipped with the best resources and knowledge to help you with your house-hunting journey, both online and in person. We’ll be there with you every step of the way, searching, negotiating and supporting your every need.
Ready to get started today? Visit our <a href="https://www.pointswestagency.com/contact/" target="_blank">Contact Us</a> page or give us a call at (817) 717-6036 to get the process started.
Sources:
<a href="https://homesforsale.century21.com/CENTURY-21-N&N,-Realtors-8359c/Paul-Duke-7402997a/blog/buyer-advice-1/top-tips-house-hunting-online-5-17964">https://homesforsale.century21.com/CENTURY-21-N&N,-Realtors-8359c/Paul-Duke-7402997a/blog/buyer-advice-1/top-tips-house-hunting-online-5-17964</a>
<a href="https://www.breakthroughbroker.com/top_tips_for_house_hunting_online#.X1p4QpNKjlw">https://www.breakthroughbroker.com/top_tips_for_house_hunting_online#.X1p4QpNKjlw</a>
<a href="https://monticellocountryrealtors.com/4-tips-to-successful-online-house-hunting/">https://monticellocountryrealtors.com/4-tips-to-successful-online-house-hunting/</a>
2020-09-16T09:16:00-07:002020-09-16T09:40:01-07:00Bolt PRtag:pointswestagency.com,2012-09-20:7478Points West Agency Featured Land Listings - Sept. 2, 2020
As the saying goes, everything is bigger in Texas and that includes land! If you’re looking to start fresh on a gorgeous piece of Texas land to build your dream home, we have some properties you don’t want to miss. Check out our feature land listings below and contact our agents today to learn more!
<a href="https://www.pointswestagency.com/property-search/detail/57/14383049/1035-hope-court-boyd-tx-76023/">1035 Hope Court, Boyd, TX 76023</a>
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/938/image/57_14383049_01.jpg" width="1024" height="767" />
Love to fish and spend time outdoors? Now's your chance to build your next home on a private, four-plus acre lot on a deep water lake in Boyd! This is the largest lot available and it owns approximately half of a private tank or lake. The possibilities are endless for outdoor and water activities on this property.
$99,900
4.74 Acres
Listing provided by: Ryan Pafford, Points West Agency
<a href="https://www.pointswestagency.com/property-search/detail/57/14386343/11145-w-hwy-67-cleburne-tx-76033/">11145 W Hwy 67, Cleburne, TX 76033</a>
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/938/image/57_14386343_01.jpg" width="1024" height="682" />
Perfectly situated just minutes from Glen Rose and Cleburne, this property is comprised of 160 impressive acres just off of Highway 67 with a ton of road frontage. Less than an hour from Fort Worth and Dallas, you have the opportunity to create your dream escape on an endless amount of land.
$1,424,000
160 Acres
Listing provided by: Thaddius Watson, Points West Agency
<a href="https://www.pointswestagency.com/property-search/detail/57/14310349/303-county-road-226-sweetwater-tx-79556/">303 County Road 226, Sweetwater, TX 79556</a>
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/938/image/57_14310349_01.jpg" width="1024" height="682" />
Sold as a turnkey property, this listing gives you the best of both worlds! With a 5-star gentleman's ranch set up and ready to operate, you'll be able to host the whole gang for hunting season or convert it into your own slice of Texas heaven. Features throughout this ranch include a 3,698 square foot lodge, a 2,650 square foot barn equipped with a state-of-the-art deer facility and much more! This listing is definitely a hunter's dream land.
$2,950,000
1108.2 Acres
Listing provided by: Brandon Yeager, Points West Agency
<a href="https://www.pointswestagency.com/property-search/detail/57/14309674/1803-j-s-murry-ranch-road-del-rio-tx-78840/">1803 J S Murry Ranch Road, Del Rio, TX 78840</a>
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/938/image/57_14309674_01.jpg" width="1024" height="682" />
Set up and ready to entertain clients or be your very own hunting ranch for family, this property is the perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life. On-site, you'll find a recently updated cabin, new tower stands for comfortable hunting, a stock tank for fishing, a tracker, and so much more. All of this and more located just minutes from the thriving town of Del Rio, Texas.
$799,000
227.09 Acres
Listing provided by: Brandon Yeager, Points West Agency
See something you want to escape to? As your partner, we are ready to help you find your dream property – no matter the circumstances. If you’d like to know more about any of the properties above or are looking for something a little different, visit our <a href="https://www.pointswestagency.com/contact/">contact us</a> page or call at (817) 717-6036 to get the conversation started.2020-09-02T12:16:00-07:002020-09-02T12:56:36-07:00Bolt PRtag:pointswestagency.com,2012-09-20:7398Top Likely Reasons Your Home Isn’t Selling<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/938/image/shutterstock_1119041159.jpg" width="4598" height="1194" />
So, you're excited to start a new adventure in the home of your dreams, but your current home is struggling to sell. If this is the case, then it's time to take a look at your efforts and make some changes, especially if your home has been on the market for more than a month or two. Many factors can cause your listing to become stagnant on the market, so let's take a look at a few common reasons below.
Your Price is too High
Despite what most home sellers wish, the market dictates how much you'll get for your home regardless of what you think it's worth. The majority of buyers will be looking at comparable properties in your area and weighing your home and price against the rest. So, if your asking price is way higher than listings similar to yours, it will only hurt you. Remember, your home is only worth what buyers are actually willing to pay for it, not what you believe it’s worth.
Time to Rethink Your Staging
No matter how much you love your family photos and long, red curtains, staging your home to appeal to the general buyer can be very important. In fact, a survey conducted by HomeLight revealed that 67% of agents agree staged homes will sell for at least 1%-5% more than non-staged homes and 83% of agents reported that staged homes get snatched up by buyers quicker than those left alone. The more you can help a potential buyer picture themselves living in your home with their stuff, the better.
At the end, it all comes down to finding a balance. You don't want to have a vacant home as it can make envisioning the home's potential a lot harder for buyers, but you also don't want to keep your home crammed full of your own belongings. Find the balance between not enough and too much, and in turn your home will show better to potential buyers.
Bad Photos
Most of the time, the first thing buyers see when coming across your home is the pictures on your listing. When looking at a listing, buyers want to get a good idea of what a home has to offer before scheduling an in-person tour, especially during today's circumstances with COVID-19. If you don’t have any photos, few photos or they're low quality, it's a huge red flag for most buyers, increasing the chance of them passing up on your listing. Take the time to gather enough quality images and your home may receive more viewings.
The Timing Isn't Right
According to Business Insider, most people are house-hunting in the spring, summer and early fall rather than in late fall and winter. The main reason for this is simply a matter of convenience. Traveling from house to house in the snow and freezing temperatures seems like the worst and even if a buyer finds a house they like, no one wants to move in at that time, hauling boxes across snow and ice.
Although the winter is not the most ideal time, it's not completely impossible to sell your home as long as you consider the season. You can improve your chances of a sale by offering incentives, like a credit towards moving services, or targeting buyers who are in a similar situation timeline as you.
Not the Right Agent
A simple answer to why your home isn't selling could be that your agent isn't the right fit and could even be turning people away. Your agent is your number one representative and needs to have the right knowledge and skills to get the job done. If this is the case for you, our agents are ready and waiting to help you get your listing sold! Visit our <a href="https://www.pointswestagency.com/contact/" target="_blank">Contact Us</a> page or give us a call at (817) 717-6036 to get the process started.
Sources:
<a href="https://www.trulia.com/blog/how-to-sell-a-house-8-reasons/">https://www.trulia.com/blog/how-to-sell-a-house-8-reasons/</a>
<a href="https://www.homelight.com/blog/why-isnt-my-home-selling/">https://www.homelight.com/blog/why-isnt-my-home-selling/</a>
<a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/10-reasons-your-home-isnt-selling-2014-11">https://www.businessinsider.com/10-reasons-your-home-isnt-selling-2014-11</a>
2020-08-19T11:25:00-07:002020-08-19T11:48:06-07:00Bolt PRtag:pointswestagency.com,2012-09-20:7359Top Five Things Millennials Are Looking for When House HuntingYear to year, the real estate market goes through many changes. One of these changes is the type of buyer we are seeing. Millennials are those born from the year 1980-1994, meaning today they are between the ages of 26-40. It’s important to understand that millennials are a major group that we’re seeing emerge into the real estate market – read below to find out just what they’re looking for while house hunting:
#1: Smart Homes
The millennial generation grew up in the age and rise of technology. That being said, millennial buyers are attracted to smart homes and appreciate technology in their house. So much so, that millennial buyers are more likely to purchase and spend more money on a home that has technology. Some smart home features that millennial buyers are looking for are voice controlled systems that can control lights, appliances and music.
#2: Updated Features
Millennial buyers want a move in ready house more than any other generation. Millennial buyers want to see updated bathrooms, kitchen appliances, and features. Many of these buyers are going to have full time jobs, families and other obligations that make renovating a home difficult.
#3: Location, Location, Location
This is one of the most important things millennials are looking for when buying a home. Many millennials are working in metropolitan cities and being close to work is a must. Location is so important to millennials due to the social aspect of it – they want to be close to restaurants, shops and stores.
#4: Open Floor Plans
Open floor plans are a big trend when it comes to millennial buyers. The millennial buyer is more creative than past generations, which means they enjoy having an open floor plan to be creative with. Millennials are more likely to be working from home, so having a floor plan where you can makeshift an office or workspace is important. Entertaining is a huge factor when it comes to the importance of open floor plans as well. Having a large, open kitchen or entertainment area to host family and friends is essential.
#5: Energy Efficient
More and more homebuyers are looking for energy efficient homes, millennials in particular. Many millennials have a growing interest in the environment, and they want the home they’re living in to help the planet as much as possible. In addition, energy efficient homes can save lots of money on electricity bills. LED lights, smart thermostats and solar panels are all bonuses when it comes to millennials buying a home.
With the ever changing real estate market, it is important to keep up with trends that buyers want. These five things are important to keep in mind when showing homes to prospective millennial buyers. Knowing what millennials want and don’t want will help both the buyer and seller save time, resources and energy when house hunting.
Sources:
<a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/megangorman/2019/08/31/how-millennials-are-revolutionizing-the-home-buying-process/#6994a3b22a02">https://www.forbes.com/sites/megangorman/2019/08/31/how-millennials-are-revolutionizing-the-home-buying-process/#6994a3b22a02</a>
<a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/personal-finance/millennials-buying-homes-how-can-afford-real-estate">https://www.businessinsider.com/personal-finance/millennials-buying-homes-how-can-afford-real-estate</a>
<a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/brendarichardson/2019/05/01/new-wave-of-millennial-home-buyers-sets-the-stage-for-tighter-starter-home-market/#47a5817d16b4">https://www.forbes.com/sites/brendarichardson/2019/05/01/new-wave-of-millennial-home-buyers-sets-the-stage-for-tighter-starter-home-market/#47a5817d16b4</a>2020-08-05T10:02:00-07:002020-08-06T06:51:38-07:00Bolt PRtag:pointswestagency.com,2012-09-20:7315Pros and Cons to Keep in Mind When Buying a HouseCongratulations – you’re ready to start the hunt for your dream home! Before starting out on this new, exciting adventure, it’s important to understand the pros and cons to look for when beginning your home search. Follow our tips below to start out on the right home-buying foot – happy hunting!
Pro #1: Location
Location can be one of the most influential parts in buying a house. Do your research about the area, whether you’re looking for a property where you can easily go out to eat, shop or just walk around.
Pro #2: New Appliances/Features in The House
A house with renovated or new appliances and features is a big plus when house hunting! It's important to take notice of these things so you’re not left feeling unsatisfied and having to upgrade a year after you move in.
Pro #3: Storage
I think many homeowners agree that they can never have enough storage. When buying a house, consider the amount of storage you need. Finding a house with bonus storage rooms can be a huge plus when buying a house! Take the time to think about the items you have and if the home you have your eye on will have the storage to fit it all.
Pro #4: Outdoor Space/Pool
If you have dogs, kids or like entertaining outdoors, make it a priority to find outdoor space that you love. Consider the outdoor space just as important as the indoor. Many people get so caught up in the inside, that they forget about the outdoor space!
Con #1: Foundation Issues
Most houses have hairline cracks, which are completely normal. However, be aware of large cracks, and sticking doors and windows. These all can be signs of a bigger foundation problem. Foundation repairs can be one of the most costly repairs in a home, so it is important to make sure everything checks out before purchasing a home. The best way to make sure the home doesn't have any structural issues is to have a structural engineer conduct an inspection before you decide to buy.
Con #2: The Neighborhood
It is important to understand that when purchasing a home, you are, in a way, also purchasing the neighborhood. Many buyers get wrapped up in the home that they forget to consider the neighborhood itself. It’s important to make sure that you are purchasing a home in a neighborhood that you feel comfortable in.
Con #3: Mold
Mold problems are not easily discovered and should be a red flag all homeowners have in mind when purchasing a home. Mold can lead to various health problems for people of all ages. It is important that when conducting an inspection, the inspector is able to point out any mold the house may have. Mold remediation can be very costly and timely, so it is important to make sure that the house is mold free.
Con #5: Fresh Paint In Any Spot:
Be sure to pay close attention to all the walls, ceilings, floors, and doors in the house, to make sure that there aren't any random spots of fresh paint. If there is fresh paint in random areas, this usually means that someone is trying to cover something up. If you see this, assume that there is something wrong and be sure to ask questions to find out why the paint is there.
Ready to find your dream home? Our agents are ready to help guide you through the process! Visit our <a href="https://www.pointswestagency.com/contact/">Contact Us</a> page or give us a call at (817) 717-6036 to get the process started.
2020-07-22T07:01:00-07:002020-07-22T08:15:05-07:00Bolt PRtag:pointswestagency.com,2012-09-20:7274Top 10 Tips for Moving During COVID-19<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/938/image/PWA-July-8-blog.jpg" width="5149" height="1585" />
Moving can be a stressful, long, and tiring ordeal, even under the best of circumstances. Adding COVID-19 to the mix might bring about new questions, concerns, and worries that may not have crossed your mind before. You may see postponing your move as an easy solution, but many are finding themselves in situations where waiting to move is simply not an option.
So, can you move during COVID? The answer to this question is yes. While there is no law prohibiting moving, and both real estate and moving companies are considered essential businesses, it’s still vital to practice safety. Make sure you’re following CDC guidelines, your local guidelines, and practice safe social distancing as much as possible.
Keep reading for our top ten tips to consider when moving during COVID:
Tip #1: Keep Open Communication with Your Movers
Whether you are using professional movers, family, or friends to help move, it’s essential to have clear communication regarding your expectations with your helpers. Talk to them about maintaining a safe social distance, abiding by guidelines, and make sure your movers haven’t been exposed to anyone who’s tested positive for COVID.
Tip #2: Be Organized and Plan Accordingly
Being organized and planning accordingly will allow you to have an easy and virtually stress free move. Before the actual process of moving begins, decide what items need to be thrown away, moved, or donated. This will help condense the number of items being moved and save you time when moving to result in less of a chance to be exposed to COVID.
Tip #3: Take Time to Disinfect and Sanitize
If using a moving company, ask about their sanitation guidelines or what they’re doing differently for COVID. Make sure said company is vigilant about sanitation and disinfection, and, while you’re at it, you should be just as vigilant about cleanliness. Purchasing new boxes and having them delivered as opposed to reusing old boxes or going out to buy boxes will help lower the possibility of spreading the disease.
Tip #4: Get a Virtual Moving Quote and Sign Papers Electronically
Many moving companies are offering virtual quotes and providing customers the ability to sign papers electronically now. This will help keep the spreading of germs down by not sharing pens and paper and keeps you from having to leave the house and risk exposure.
Tip #5: Don’t Involve More People Than Necessary
Moving day can be an exciting and stressful day and you might want family and friends there to help. However, it is recommended that only the essential people needed for the move are there. Minimizing the number of people during the move will help you be able to maintain a safe social distance. Having too many people around during the move could also cause distractions causing the job to go longer than anticipated. By limiting the number of people involved in your move, the process will be more efficient and less dangerous.
Tip #6: Wear a Mask and Gloves
Anyone involved with the move should be required to wear masks and gloves. Both a mask and gloves have been shown to slow the spread of transmission when in contact with others. Make sure to wear these items yourself, along with anyone else who is helping you move, including family and friends.
Tip #7: Pack Everything Efficiently and Tight
Minimizing the number of boxes, tape, and moving items you use will allow for a safer and more efficient move. You can do this by minimizing the amount of empty space in each box and by labeling each one, so you know exactly what is going in each box. Taking these two easy steps will help with both the packing and unpacking process.
Tip #8: Look for a No-Contact Moving Services
Moving containers can provide a contactless move and put you in control of the process. If you’d still like movers to help but are worried to be in contact with them, consider looking for a contactless moving service. Many moving companies are actually providing this service due to COVID. Or, if you’d prefer to not have movers involved at all, moving containers allow you to manage everything yourself, giving you more peace of mind.
Tip #9: Talk with Your Realtor About the Closing Process
You can’t forget about going through the closing process during your move as well. Talk with your realtor about options for the closing process. Many agencies are offering curbside signing or even virtual closings. Just like talking with your movers about signing everything electronically, you can ask your realtor if you can sign your closing paperwork virtually. Having clear and open communication with your realtor is significant during the move.
Tip #10: Unpack Carefully
The same caution you took with packing everything up should be applied when unpacking as well. Wait 24 hours before unpacking any cardboard boxes. Additionally, sanitize everything when removing items from containers and don’t forget to wear gloves as an extra precaution. Apply these same ideas to your new home as well. Go through and thoroughly disinfect every service before bringing anything inside.
If you’re ready to move to a new home but don’t know where to start, our agents are ready and waiting to make this the smoothest home buying or selling process for you! Visit our <a href="https://www.pointswestagency.com/contact/">Contact</a> page or give us a call at (817) 717-6036 to get started today.2020-07-08T07:20:00-07:002020-07-08T13:38:29-07:00Bolt PRtag:pointswestagency.com,2012-09-20:7253Debunking Some of the Most Common Real Estate Myths<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/938/image/shutterstock_1610221555.jpg" width="5894" height="1846" />
For most, the home buying and selling experience can feel exciting, confusing, and stressful all wrapped into one. Because of this, many will turn to the internet, social media, or even family and friends where information is readily available to answer their questions. However, it's important to remember that not everything you read and hear is accurate or reliable and could even be a myth that will lead you astray. In this week's blog, we’ll be clearing the air by debunking some of the most common real estate myths to help ease your mind during the real estate process.
Myth #1: When selling a home, price it to leave room for negotiations.
Correctly pricing your home is a vital decision that could either help or hurt your standing in the real estate market. Since this is such a crucial decision, there can be many myths created as a result. One of the most common pricing myths is that pricing your home much higher than market value is the best route to go to create more wiggle room for the negotiation process. The reality is, this could result in buyers becoming discouraged as they realize your home is overpriced and will move on without wasting their time. While we understand that you want to get the best price for your home, inflating that number can do more harm than good in the long run.
Myth #2: First-Time buyers need 20% for a deposit.
Most first-time homebuyers have heard over and over again that they need a 20% deposit to purchase their first home. This is not true. Many first-time buyer programs only require about a 5% deposit, which is significantly lower than the 20% that's commonly thought to be required. Additionally, many housing programs offer first-time buyers the opportunity to save up to $5,000 and will then match one to two times the deposit.
Myth #3: A home doesn't need to be prepared for a sale.
Preparing your home for a sale is an important step to take to help it to sell quicker. The myth that your home doesn't need to be prepared for a sale could cost you thousands of dollars and cause your listing to become stagnant right out of the gate. Starting the prep process to put your home on the market can include simple steps such as cleaning up clutter, quick touch-ups, and staging. Buyers today are more drawn to move-in ready houses, so prepping your home to reflect that same feeling could lead to a quicker sale.
Myth #4: When making an offer on a home, you need to start very low.
Coming in with an extremely low offer on a house can alienate or offend the seller and could even cause them to end negotiations on the spot. Just like how many sellers make the mistake of overpricing their home, many buyers make a similar mistake by starting with an offer that's way too low. Now, this doesn't mean you can't put in an offer that's lower than the listing price. Just remember, coming in with a reasonable price to show that you're eager to start negotiations will show the seller that you're ready to make a great deal.
Myth #5: All I need is the down payment to buy a house.
One notably common myth for buyers is that all they need upfront is a down payment to buy their next home. This can get buyers in trouble because they fail to realize the other costs that come with buying a home. The list could go on forever, but these are just a few: closing costs, attorney fees, title fees, income tax fees, etc. When considering the purchase of your next home, it's crucial to factor in all of these costs associated with the purchase instead of focusing solely on saving for the down payment. Doing so could save you from a massive financial headache down the road.
Myth #6: With all the information out there, I don’t need a real estate agent.
Almost anything you need or want to know can indeed be found on the internet. Due to this, many home sellers and buyers believe they have the knowledge and resources to go through the real estate process on their own. However, many may not realize that real estate agents have the tools and expertise to ensure the entire real estate process goes smoothly from beginning to end. Partnering with a real estate agent gives you access to their seasoned expertise, negotiation skills, and connections in the real estate market. Granted, it's not impossible to sell or buy a house on your own but certainly isn't an easy process. To save yourself from making mistakes or getting too stressed out, partner with a great real estate agent who knows exactly what they're doing.
While the list of real estate myths seems to go on forever, our agents are here to help you see the light at the end of the misinformation tunnel. If you're looking to sell your home or find the home of your dreams, visit our Contact page or give us a call at (817) 717-6036 to get the process started today.
Sources:
<a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesrealestatecouncil/2017/09/27/identifying-trouble-eight-real-estate-myths-you-should-know/#4d3907e761a4">https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesrealestatecouncil/2017/09/27/identifying-trouble-eight-real-estate-myths-you-should-know/#4d3907e761a4</a>
<a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/5-real-estate-recovery-myths-2013-6">https://www.businessinsider.com/5-real-estate-recovery-myths-2013-6</a>
<a href="https://money.usnews.com/money/personal-finance/articles/2015/08/04/9-common-real-estate-myths-that-plague-buyers-and-sellers">https://money.usnews.com/money/personal-finance/articles/2015/08/04/9-common-real-estate-myths-that-plague-buyers-and-sellers</a>
<a href="https://www.inman.com/2017/09/12/15-crazy-real-estate-myths-your-clients-probably-believe/">https://www.inman.com/2017/09/12/15-crazy-real-estate-myths-your-clients-probably-believe/</a>2020-06-24T13:05:00-07:002020-06-24T13:17:11-07:00Bolt PRtag:pointswestagency.com,2012-09-20:72205 Easy DIY Home Improvement Projects While Social DistancingAs we head into our third month of social distancing, the place you love and call home may be starting to feel a little stale. Whether you’re noticing parts of your home that need improvement or you’re just looking for a little refresh, we’ve put together a list of easy DIY projects that anyone can do while we’re all at home
1. A Fresh Coat of Paint
Take your home office up a notch with, perhaps, one of the easiest DIY projects: painting. No matter what your design aesthetic is, pick a color that’s energizing and makes you feel motivated to get to work. This small improvement will make your space feel brand new and could get you out of the slump you feel yourself slipping into.
2. Switch Out Your Faucets
Leaky faucet or wanting an upgrade? If you can wield a wrench, you can easily install that new faucet you’ve been wanting. Swap it out for some unique, modern black hardware or get that magic, touchless faucet you’ve had your eye on for the kitchen. You won’t believe the difference it will make if you just swap out that one leaky faucet that’s been driving you nuts. Just remember! Turn off your water before you start this project, unless you want to turn your kitchen floor into a splash pad for the kids.
3. Upate Light Fixtures
You’d be shocked at how well an updated light fixture can transform the entire look and feel of a room. Swap out old, outdated lighting above your counters for more modern pendants or industrial-style lighting. Depending on what you choose, this is a super simple and cheap project with satisfying results.
4. Swap Out Pulls and Knobs
If you love your kitchen or bathroom, but still want to give it a little refresh, installing new drawer pulls or cabinet knobs is an inexpensive way to do just that. Even if you don’t like your actual cabinets or drawers, new handles allow you to easily upgrade the space until you’re ready to completely renovate.
5. Upgrade to Smart Tech
If you’re ready to enter into the future, there are countless smart home products for you to choose from. Some are as simple as plugging in a smart hub like an Amazon Alexa, while others require a little more than that. Two smart upgrades to consider include:
Smart doorbell: Video doorbells are gaining traction lately as they double as a doorbell and a security camera for your front door. Installing one is pretty similar to changing out a light switch with the process involving removing your old doorbell and connecting the new device to your Wi-Fi.
Smart home hub: With a wide variety of smart home hubs out there from companies like Amazon, Google, Nest, etc., you’re bound to the find the right one that fits your budget. These devices allow you to connect to smart outlets, lightbulbs, TVs and more. These devices are a great way to make your home feel innovative and run more efficient.
Now that you’ve upgraded your home a bit, are you feeling like it’s time for a complete refresh? Our agents are ready to help you sell your home or find the home of your dreams, so visit our <a href="https://www.pointswestagency.com/contact/">Contact</a> page or give us a call at (817) 717-6036 to get the process started today.
2020-06-10T14:24:00-07:002020-06-10T15:07:30-07:00Bolt PRtag:pointswestagency.com,2012-09-20:7167New Agent Spotlight: Amy RaineyPoints West Agency has expanded again! Please join us in welcoming our newest agent, Amy Rainey, to the family. Keep reading to learn more about this Texas native and her beautiful family.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/938/image/Screen_Shot_2020-05-27_at_8.41.42_AM.png" width="189" height="328" alt="Image of Amy Rainey" title="New Agent: Amy Rainey" style="float: right; margin-left: 10px; margin-right: 10px;" />
Born and raised in North Texas, Amy’s knowledge of the area sets her apart from all others. For the last seven years, Amy has brought comfort and relaxation as a massage therapist, and now she’s ready to do the same as a real estate agent. With two wonderful children of her own, an eleven-year-old son and a nine-year-old daughter, Amy is most excited to help other families find that perfect home to make their own.
Although she's new to the real estate agent life, Amy is very familiar with the real estate process and working with Points West Agency's co-founder, Ryan Pafford. In fact, over the last four years, Amy and her family have purchased three homes, all through Ryan. These experiences, combined with her knowledge of the North Texas area, make Amy an excellent agent for your next home sale or purchase.
Ready to let Amy help you and your family find the home of your dreams in the North Texas area? Visit our <a href="https://www.pointswestagency.com/contact/">Contact Us</a> page or give us a call at (817) 717-6036 to get started today.
2020-05-27T06:58:00-07:002020-05-27T07:05:54-07:00Bolt PRtag:pointswestagency.com,2012-09-20:7122Current State of the North Texas Housing Market<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/938/image/market_trends.jpg" width="5149" height="1522" />
Like most, you’re probably wondering how the current real estate market may be impacted by COVID-19. According to MyMetroTex’s <a href="https://www.mymetrotex.com/market-reports/" target="_blank">March report</a> for North Texas, the housing market doesn’t seem to be impacted by COVID-19 as much as one would think. This could be the case because most homes take 30-45 days to close, suggesting the ones we saw close in March were in the works before current quarantine guidelines were put in place. Keep reading below for some high-level statistics you should know surrounding the current state of the North Texas housing market!
Statistics for spring 2020 vs. spring 2019 are as follows:
Median Price: The median price was roughly $248,750 this year, which is a 5.9% increase compared to last year.
Listing Life: Homes were active on the market for about 64 days and take 33 days to close, totaling a listings average life of 97 days. This total is just one day less than March of 2019.
Active Listings: The number of active listings this year was down by about 8.9% compared to last year, leaving the current market to be a strong seller’s market.
Closed Sales: There were 29,916 homes closed this year, which is an increase of 1.4% compared to last year.
To make matters a little sweeter, North Texas counties are among the top counties across the U.S. that are the least at-risk for being negatively impacted by COVID-19.
“Eighteen of the 50 least at-risk counties have a population of at least 500,000, led by Harris County (Houston), TX; Dallas County, TX; King County (Seattle), WA; Tarrant County (Fort Worth), TX; and Santa Clara County, CA, in the San Jose metro area.” [ATTOM Data]
If you’re still looking for your dream home or trying to sell, our agents are ready to help and guide you through the process! Visit our <a href="https://www.pointswestagency.com/contact/" target="_blank">Contact Us</a> page or give us a call at (817) 717-6036 to get the process started.
Sources:
<a href="https://www.attomdata.com/news/market-trends/attom-data-solutions-special-report/">https://www.attomdata.com/news/market-trends/attom-data-solutions-special-report/</a>
<a href="https://www.mymetrotex.com/market-reports/">https://www.mymetrotex.com/market-reports/</a>
<a href="http://www.ntreis.net/documents/NTREISSTATS_1642020204128.pdf">http://www.ntreis.net/documents/NTREISSTATS_1642020204128.pdf</a>2020-05-13T07:34:00-07:002020-05-13T07:52:05-07:00Bolt PRtag:pointswestagency.com,2012-09-20:7071Points West Agency Featured Listings – April 29, 2020Life may be slower right now, but that doesn’t mean your search for the perfect home has to be the same. Our agents are still ready and available to assist you on your home search journey, so keep reading to check out some of our featured listings.
<a href="https://www.pointswestagency.com/property-search/detail/57/14293257/1121-friendship-road-weatherford-tx-76085/">1121 Friendship Road</a>
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/938/image/57_14293257_01.jpg" width="477" height="317" />
<br />Newly complete, this custom Premier Home is built on a beautiful two-and-a-half acre lot with a gorgeous sprawling oak tree centering the home outside. Entertaining is easy with the floorplan including a large game room, home office, three full bathrooms and four bedrooms. If you're interested, check out the <a href="https://www.pointswestagency.com/property-search/detail/57/14293257/1121-friendship-road-weatherford-tx-76085/">full listing</a> and give us a call!
$449,899
2,854 sq. ft.
4 bed/3 bath
Listing provided by: Ryan Pafford, Points West Agency
<a href="https://www.pointswestagency.com/property-search/detail/57/14322554/1000-hope-court-boyd-tx-76023/">1000 Hope Court</a>
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/938/image/57_14322554_01.jpg" width="511" height="383" />
<br />With 18 sites available, you could be the first of many homes to build in the beautiful New Hope Heights of Boyd, TX! This new neighborhood features underground utilities - including co-op power from TriCounty Electric and water from Walnut Creek Water. Check out the <a href="https://www.pointswestagency.com/property-search/detail/57/14322554/1000-hope-court-boyd-tx-76023/">full listing</a> to learn more.
$47,900
0.92 acres
Listing provided by: Ryan Pafford, Points West Agency
<a href="https://www.pointswestagency.com/property-search/detail/57/14296450/146-hicks-lane-weatherford-tx-76088/">146 Hicks Lane</a>
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/938/image/57_14296450_01.jpg" width="538" height="358" />
Built in 2016, this Weatherford home has room for the whole family! Beautifully crafted to meet your family’s needs, this home is complete with four bedrooms, two-and-a-half bathrooms, a large utility area and a mudroom. Check out the <a href="https://www.pointswestagency.com/property-search/detail/57/14296450/146-hicks-lane-weatherford-tx-76088/">full listing</a> of this gorgeous home to see everything it has to offer.
$349,000
2,325 sq. ft.
4 bed/2.5 bath
Listing provided by: Ryan Pafford, Points West Agency
<a href="https://www.pointswestagency.com/property-search/detail/57/14326810/8137-joella-lane-grandview-tx-76050/">8137 Joella Lane</a>
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/938/image/57_14326810_01.jpg" width="537" height="366" />
If you’re looking to build the home of your dreams on the land of your dreams, then check out this listing! This property is located in a new upscale subdivision with electricity already on the lot. Surrounded by mature trees, you’ll enjoy plenty of privacy all while being less than five minutes from town. Check out the <a href="https://www.pointswestagency.com/property-search/detail/57/14326810/8137-joella-lane-grandview-tx-76050/">full listing</a> to start making your home a reality.
$80,000
2.04 acres
Listing provided by: Thaddius Watson, Points West Agency
As your partner, we are ready to help you find your dream home – no matter the circumstances. If you’d like to know more about any of the properties above or are looking for something a little different, visit our <a href="https://www.pointswestagency.com/contact/">contact us</a> page or call at (817) 717-6036 to get the conversation started.
2020-04-29T06:20:00-07:002020-04-29T06:37:04-07:00Bolt PRtag:pointswestagency.com,2012-09-20:7011Top 5 Reasons to Hire a Real Estate Agent<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/938/image/shutterstock_135590954.png" width="2500" height="1106" />
Ready to buy or sell a home but aren’t sure if you should go it alone or partner with a real estate agent? Many benefits come with a realtor partnership that on your own you may not have. If you’re on the fence, keep reading to learn some of the top reasons why hiring a real estate agent is the best route to go.
1. Better Access/More Convenient
A real estate agent’s full-time job is to work in the industry to buy or sell homes, making them the perfect partner for this process. Your agent will have full access to all properties on the market, even ones listed by other agencies, ensuring you have the right knowledge to make a decision. For example, if you’re looking to buy a home, all you need to do is give your agent a list of criteria and they’ll take it from there.
2. Numbers Game
If you’re considering the FSBO – for sale by owner – route because you don’t want to give up that commission to your agent, you may want to reconsider. According to a <a href="https://www.homelight.com/blog/why-hire-a-real-estate-agent/" target="_blank">study</a> conducted in 2017, FSBOs return about 30% less for their owners compared to agent-listed properties.
3. Pro Negotiating Skills
Real estate agents are trained to be great negotiators. Your agent knows what will work and what won’t. Most have techniques of their own, picked up from working in the industry, and will be able to guide you on if your demands are plausible. Additionally, and most importantly, your agent will have no emotional stake in the deal. Meaning they'll be able to keep a clear mind without clouding any judgment, unlike some FSBOs.
4. Confusing Paperwork
The last step to tackle in the home selling or buying process is the mountain of paperwork at the end. A 15-plus-page contract - plus all the addendums and disclosures - is enough to send anyone spiraling and into the hands of a real estate agent.
The most intimidating part is that all of this paperwork could leave you vulnerable to costly mistakes - not just money-wise, but with the law as well. With a realtor, these mistakes are cut down to a minimum and if anything were to slip through, that’s on your agent and not on you.
5. Negative Reputation for FSBO Showings
It’s believed that sellers should never attend open houses or showings at their property, which isn’t very possible if you go the FSBO route. The buyer should be able to explore and speak freely without worrying about the seller, which is why it’s always best to have a third-party, an agent, there instead. If potential buyers are uncomfortable, that can be a huge detractor from getting any interest or an offer.
We could keep going on how it’s better to have an agent by your side during this process, but let us show you instead. Our agents are ready to help you sell your home or find the home of your dreams, so visit our Contact Us page or give us a call at (817) 717-6036 to get the process started today.
Sources:
<a href="https://www.forbes.com/2010/05/25/why-you-need-real-estate-agent-personal-finance-commission.html#63fb9c894496">https://www.forbes.com/2010/05/25/why-you-need-real-estate-agent-personal-finance-commission.html - 63fb9c894496</a>
<a href="https://www.thebalance.com/top-reasons-to-hire-a-real-estate-agent-1798906">https://www.thebalance.com/top-reasons-to-hire-a-real-estate-agent-1798906</a>
<a href="https://www.homelight.com/blog/why-use-a-real-estate-agent/">https://www.homelight.com/blog/why-use-a-real-estate-agent/</a>
<a href="https://www.homelight.com/blog/why-hire-a-real-estate-agent/">https://www.homelight.com/blog/why-hire-a-real-estate-agent/</a>
2020-04-15T08:21:00-07:002020-04-15T09:19:38-07:00Bolt PRtag:pointswestagency.com,2012-09-20:6940Points West Agency Featured Listings - April 1, 2020 In light of recent events, Points West Agency is now accommodating our clients with virtual tours in order to keep their home search going. If you’re still looking for a beautiful home in the North Texas area, take a look at some of our featured properties below and contact us to schedule a tour.
<a href="https://www.pointswestagency.com/property-search/detail/57/14300497/508-prairie-run-aledo-tx-76008/">508 Prairie Run, Aledo, TX 76008</a>
<a href="https://www.pointswestagency.com/property-search/detail/57/14300497/508-prairie-run-aledo-tx-76008/"><img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/938/image/blog_1.jpg" width="598" height="398" /></a>
This custom-built Bannister property, backed up to a heavily wooded area, will have you feeling at home the second you step inside. Designed with an open concept, this home features an over-sized master bedroom complete with a sitting area and private porch perfect for unwinding after a long day. For more information, visit the <a href="https://www.pointswestagency.com/property-search/detail/57/14300497/508-prairie-run-aledo-tx-76008/">full listing</a>.
$550,000
3,164 sq. ft.
4 bed/3.5 bath
<a href="https://www.pointswestagency.com/property-search/detail/57/14295235/4345-county-road-423-grandview-tx-76050/">4345 County Road 423, Grandview, TX 7605</a>
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/938/image/blog2.jpg" width="594" height="395" />
This remodeled farmhouse sits on almost seven acres and is less than 10 minutes from Grandview. Complete with four bedrooms and three bathrooms, this home features the perfect open floorplan for entertaining friends and family. Towards the end of the night, take the party outside to the large covered porch to watch the sunset and enjoy a glass of wine. This is the forever home you’ve been looking for, so check out the <a href="https://www.pointswestagency.com/property-search/detail/57/14295235/4345-county-road-423-grandview-tx-76050/">full listing</a> to learn more.
$399,000
1,950 sq. ft.
4 bed/3 bath
<a href="https://www.pointswestagency.com/property-search/detail/57/14270092/228-palomino-court-cresson-tx-76035/">228 Palomino Court, Cresson, TX 76035</a>
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/938/image/blog3.jpg" width="579" height="385" />
With easy access to Fort Worth or Granbury, this is the perfect home for your growing family. Features throughout the home include granite countertops, custom lighting, laundry room built-ins and smart home technology. Check out the <a href="https://www.pointswestagency.com/property-search/detail/57/14270092/228-palomino-court-cresson-tx-76035/">full listing</a> to learn more.
$422,500
2,531 sq. ft.
3 bed/2.5 bath
As your partner, we are ready to help you find your dream home – no matter the circumstances. If you’re interested in any of the properties above or looking for something a little different, visit our <a href="https://www.pointswestagency.com/contact/">contact us</a> page or call us at (817) 717-6036 to get the conversation started.
2020-04-01T13:13:00-07:002020-04-01T13:43:54-07:00Bolt PRtag:pointswestagency.com,2012-09-20:6879The Ultimate Guide to Selling Your HomeWhether you’re a first-time home seller or not, it’s good to be prepared when you decide to sell your home. We know how intimidating this process can be, so we've put together the ultimate guide to selling your home below.
First things first, remove the clutter.
One of the easiest and most time-consuming steps to take before you list your home is removing all of the excess clutter. You'll want to make sure you're maximizing the perceived space in your home to make your property more appealing to potential buyers. If you're struggling to part with your clutter or simply don't want to deal with selling everything, consider renting a storage unit to keep your things in until you have the time to go through it all.
Make some updates.
Once you've decluttered your home, it's time to make some small updates. As you make your to-do list, keep in mind that you don't have to do any major renovations if you don't have the budget or time. Something as simple as a fresh coat of neutral-colored paint on your walls can change up an entire space.
Additionally, if there is anything around your home that needs fixing, you should put those things at the top of your list. Anything from leaky pipes to an outdated water heater should be looked at and fixed before potential buyers have a chance to see it.
Curb appeal is everything.
First impressions can make or break a sale. So, now that you have the inside of your home in order, you need to focus on your curb appeal. Make sure your landscaping is well-manicured and your lawn is mowed regularly for unexpected passes from potential buyers scoping out your home.
Do your research.
Take a look at the market and decide if now is the right time to list your home. Once you decide to finally list, take some time to look at pricing. Look around your neighborhood and the cities nearby to see what similar homes to yours may be selling for and don't forget to consult your realtor! The initial listing price can be crucial for setting the tone of your home selling process.
Hire the right real estate agent.
Working with a professional real estate agent can bring many benefits to your home selling process. They will be able to guide you along the process, answer questions you may have and provide great contacts to specific vendors such as a plumber or photographer. Not only can the right agent be the perfect guide, but they will also take most of the heavy lifting of selling your home off your shoulders.
At Points West Agency, our agents are the ones you want! We have the knowledge and expertise to help you sell your DFW area home in no time for a price you can be happy with! Ready to get started? Visit our <a href="https://www.pointswestagency.com/contact/" target="_blank">Contact page</a> or call today at (817) 717-6036.
2020-03-18T16:55:00-07:002020-03-18T17:05:24-07:00Bolt PRtag:pointswestagency.com,2012-09-20:6839Prepping Your Home for Allergy SeasonCan you feel it? Spring is in the air and that means the constant sneezing, sniffling and everything else that comes with allergies is in the air as well. Outside of medications and other clinical treatments, there isn’t an official “cure” for springtime allergies, but there are ways to prepare your home to help curb and even prevent your allergies from flaring up. Keep reading to learn some helpful tips that could save your sinuses this spring.
Limit Outdoor Activity on High Pollen Days
Contrary to popular belief, high pollen count days don’t just occur on warm, sunny days. Rainy days and thunderstorms can dredge up pollen and then spread it through thunder and lightning making you more prone to a reaction on those days. Be sure to check the count each day and stay inside as much as possible to reduce your risk of exposure.
Wash Your Bedding Weekly
If there’s one room that you can keep completely allergen-free this time of year, you’re going to want to make it your bedroom. To help do so, wash all your bedding on high heat weekly at a minimum and get slips for your mattress, box spring, and pillows. Be sure you’re washing those slips as well.
Make Your Vacuum Your Best Friend
Anything with upholstery or fabric, including carpets and couches, can be a breeding ground for allergens, particularly dust mites. You’ll want to be sure to vacuum these areas of your home frequently and don’t forget about the tapestries, drapes, curtains and even decorative pillows.
Bathe Pets Weekly
Look what the cat dragged in – your adorable furry friend is at risk of dragging in a bunch of allergens that can cause a reaction. And since bathing weekly is easier said than done, cleansing wipes for your fur baby can do the trick between bath times.
Change Your Air Filter
Keeping your house well-ventilated can be a great line of defense against allergens. While it’s highly recommended to change your air filter seasonally, it’s an even better idea to change it every month during allergy season. By doing so, you'll help prevent allergens from collecting and circulating throughout your home.
Now that you’ve prepped your home, you should be ready to take allergy season head-on! We hope these tips help you breathe easy and enjoy the beautiful spring weather. Our agents are also ready to help you breathe easy during the home buying and selling process, so visit our <a href="https://www.pointswestagency.com/contact/" target="_blank">Contact Us</a> page or call us at (817) 717-6036 to get the process started today!
Sources:
<a href="https://housemethod.com/wellness/how-to-prep-home-for-allergy-season/">https://housemethod.com/wellness/how-to-prep-home-for-allergy-season/</a>
<a href="https://www.falcon.io/insights-hub/topics/social-media-strategy/what-are-dark-posts-on-social-media-2018/">https://www.falcon.io/insights-hub/topics/social-media-strategy/what-are-dark-posts-on-social-media-2018/</a>
<a href="https://www.everydayhealth.com/hs/allergy-pictures/prepare-for-spring-allergies/">https://www.everydayhealth.com/hs/allergy-pictures/prepare-for-spring-allergies/</a>
2020-03-04T10:21:00-07:002020-03-04T10:57:49-07:00Bolt PRtag:pointswestagency.com,2012-09-20:6771Declutter Your Home: Tips for Spring Cleaning<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/938/image/shutterstock_722926426.jpg" width="5727" height="2160" />
Spring is right around the corner, and that means that it’s time to start decluttering your home! For some, this can be an overwhelming and tedious task. Luckily, we’ve put together some great tips to help you tackle your mess one step at a time!
The Bedroom(s)
1. Go through that closet. For most, it’s common to pack up those warmer weather clothing items, put them in a clear container and store them away until that colder weather comes back around, but what if we took that a step further? In the spirit of spring cleaning, after you’ve gathered up all of your winter clothes, go through them and ask yourself if you actually wore that item throughout the winter. If the answer is no, you may want to consider creating a donation pile. It’s very freeing to be able to thin out your wardrobe to just the clothing that you wear, and you can feel good about helping those in need with the items that you've donated.
2. Refresh your bed. Things are warming up, which means it’s time to get rid of that heavy comforter and those flannel sheets for a lighter and airier linen bed set. Now would also be a good idea to put away a blanket or two. Be sure to always wash everything first and then pack it away. If anything seems tattered up, you should consider getting rid of it altogether, especially if there’s a chance you won’t want to use it again.
The Living Room & Dining Room
1. Dust. It may seem pretty straight forward, but clearing off all of your tabletops and dusting them is a crucial step in spring cleaning. Pull your vacuum out and vacuum up any dust on your lampshades and other surfaces as well.
2. Switch up your décor. You may be feeling that itch to completely change your interior design as the weather gets warmer, but you can completely transform a space by swapping out just a few simple elements. Start by changing out photos in frames, upgrade from fall to bright spring throw pillows, change out your fall accent pieces, like pumpkins or lanterns, with some spring-themed ones or simply get some spring flowers to help liven up your space.
The Kitchen
1. Clean out food. Go through cupboards, the fridge and the freezer to clean out rotten or expired foods. Look for anything that is past its “best by” date or containers that look like they may be growing something fuzzy. While you’re in there, wipe down all the shelves in both the fridge and cupboards. Things should start feeling better already!
2. Sweep, mop, wipe. Nothing makes a kitchen shine like a freshly mopped floor, clean counters and sparkling cupboards. Start by sweeping your floors with a broom to pick up all the big stuff and then go in with your mop. Most of us probably already wipe down our cupboards on the regular, but now is a good time to do it again.
Now that we’ve helped you get a head start, you should be a cleaning machine! Keep working towards decluttering your spaces and making things shine and you’ll be ready for spring in no time. Feeling like you want a total refresh as the spring season rolls around? Contact our agents on our Contact Us page or call at (817) 717-6036 today to learn how we can turn your dream home into a reality!
Sources: <a href="https://www.lifehack.org/articles/lifestyle/steps-to-tackling-spring-cleaning.html">https://www.lifehack.org/articles/lifestyle/steps-to-tackling-spring-cleaning.html</a>
<a href="https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/home/cleaning/g3345/spring-cleaning-tips/?slide=7">https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/home/cleaning/g3345/spring-cleaning-tips/?slide=7</a>
<a href="https://www.housebeautiful.com/lifestyle/cleaning-tips/g601/spring-cleaning-tips/?slide=5">https://www.housebeautiful.com/lifestyle/cleaning-tips/g601/spring-cleaning-tips/?slide=5</a>
2020-02-13T08:38:00-07:002020-02-13T08:59:39-07:00Bolt PRtag:pointswestagency.com,2012-09-20:6722Tips for Your Final Walk-ThroughYour Final Walk-Through Checklist
Purchasing a home can be a lengthy process, but it’s important to stay focused throughout the entire journey – from the mortgage applications and home searching to making an offer and getting the home inspected. One step that should never be skipped before closing is the final walk-through. Before you sign on those dotted lines, check out a handful of our walk-through tips below!
What Should You Take to the Final Walk-Through?
Home purchase agreement: It’s a good idea to keep your contract on hand during the final walk-through in case you need to reference it. Everything from the appliances included in the purchase to repairs that should be done before the final walk-through will be included in that contract.
Home inspection report: Your home inspection report contains all the results from the home inspection you previously had conducted. This is another good document to have on hand during the final walk-through so you can review the issues the inspector flagged and check that the seller made the requested and agreed-upon repairs.
Pen, paper and sticky notes: Take good notes on anything that stands out and use sticky notes to mark any areas in the house that might need further attention – like drywall or mold.
A camera: Take photos of anything that concerns you in and around the house.
Something to test outlets: Electrical issues can be a huge concern, especially in older homes, so bring something along like a night light or phone charger to test out each outlet – especially if the seller agreed to fix any specific ones.
What to Check During a Final Walk-Through?
The final walk-through date has arrived, and you have all your supplies at the ready! Now, what exactly should you be looking for?
Turn on and off every light
Run hot and cold water through all faucets and check for leaks
Test all appliances
Check garage door openers
Open and close all doors
Flush every toilet
Inspect ceilings, walls and floors
Run the garbage disposal and exhaust fans
Test the heater and air conditioner
Open and close all windows
Make sure all debris is removed from the home
Now that you’re ready with your checklist in hand and all the items you’ll need, all that’s left is the final walk-through! Remember to keep your eyes peeled for any warning signs that something is off, document the problem and let your realtor know! If you’re still at the beginning of your home search process, then don’t go at it alone. Contact our agents and we’ll walk through the home sale together! Visit our <a href="https://www.pointswestagency.com/contact/" target="_blank">contact page</a> or give us a call at (817) 717-6036 to get things started.
Sources:
<a href="https://www.bankrate.com/real-estate/final-walk-through-tips/" target="_blank">https://www.bankrate.com/real-estate/final-walk-through-tips/</a>
<a href="https://www.thebalance.com/doing-the-final-home-inspection-walk-through-1798685" target="_blank">https://www.thebalance.com/doing-the-final-home-inspection-walk-through-1798685</a>
2020-01-29T08:35:00-07:002020-01-29T08:37:22-07:00Bolt PRtag:pointswestagency.com,2012-09-20:6651New Year, New Credit Score: Tips to Increase Your Score<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/938/image/shutterstock_611915582.jpg" width="4592" height="2062" />
While we may not be a financial institution, we’ve done our research and pulled together a list of some of the best ways to increase your credit score to start the New Year off right! For some, this may seem like a terrifyingly daunting task, but in just a few steps, you could have your credit score seeing 2020 vision in no time! After all, a good credit score is crucial for buying a home and getting lower interest rates. So, stick around for some beneficial tips on how to improve your score!
1. Make Frequent Payments
It may not seem that obvious, but making smaller payments, also known as micro-payments, throughout the month can help you pay off your debt quicker and in turn improve your credit score. It’s even a good idea to treat your credit card like a debit card where you immediately pay it off after every purchase.
“Making multiple payments throughout the month works on a credit factor called credit utilization, which has a powerful effect on scores.” [NerdWallet.com] If you’re able to keep your utilization low and not let it build toward your payment due date, it should only benefit your score.
2. Get A Higher Credit Limit
When your credit limit increases and your balance stays the same, it instantly lowers your overall credit utilization, improving your chances of increasing that credit score. Do this by calling your card issuer and asking if you can get a higher limit without a “hard” credit inquiry, which can temporarily drop your score a few points.
3. Keep Credit Cards Open
Contrary to popular belief, it’s a good idea to keep credit cards and accounts open, even if you aren’t using them. If you’re looking to improve your credit score fast, closing an account could make that job harder. Closing a credit card means you lose that card’s credit limit when your overall credit utilization is calculated, leading to a lower score. Keep those accounts open and use them occasionally, so the issuer doesn’t close them.
4. Diversify Your Accounts
Mix up your credit a bit. If you have only loans or only credit cards in your name, consider getting whichever one you don’t have. Having both installment accounts and revolving credit can boost your perceived creditworthiness.
Once you have your credit in tip-top shape, our agents are ready and waiting to help you make your dream home a reality. Contact us today at (817) 717-6036 to get the process started or visit our website to see the latest North Texas listings!
Sources:
<a href="https://www.nerdwallet.com/blog/finance/raise-credit-score-fast/">https://www.nerdwallet.com/blog/finance/raise-credit-score-fast/</a>
<a href="https://www.debt.org/credit/improving-your-score/">https://www.debt.org/credit/improving-your-score/</a>
2020-01-15T08:29:00-07:002020-01-15T08:40:11-07:00Bolt PRtag:pointswestagency.com,2012-09-20:6486Top 3 Home Staging Tips for the Holidays<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/938/image/holidaystaging.png" width="1058" height="468" />
As if the holiday season isn’t busy enough as is, buying or selling a home during this time of the year only adds to the list of things to do. However, with the right real estate agent, the buying and selling process should be easier and less stressful because you have a trusted professional to guide you every step of the way.
One of the big questions our clients ask us this time of year is what to do about holiday décor. While you don’t want to sacrifice showing off your holiday spirit and getting the little ones excited about Santa, you also want to get your home sold in the least amount of time at the right listing price.
To help navigate how to celebrate the holidays while still having your home ready to show at any moment, here are our top three tips we have to offer.
Less is more. We know some homeowners are very proud of their holiday train collection or love to display garland at every turn, but it’s important for potential buyers to see the beauty of the home behind all the décor. Limit garland to the staircase or just for lining that perfectly set mantle. Avoid numerous small pieces of décor and figurines throughout the house and, instead, go for a few statement pieces, such as a string of garland, a holiday tree, candles and a wreath.
Clear walkways and windows. When placing that tree or statement piece, make sure it doesn’t block a walkway in the home or obstruct what may otherwise be an incredible view or bright natural light. By keeping walkways and windows clear, your home will naturally feel bigger and more open to potential buyers.
Make moves. If your holiday décor is adding extra clutter or weight to a certain room, don’t be shy about moving things around. If you have a life-size advent calendar to hang on the wall, consider moving existing artwork versus adding more to the wall. If you have mantle décor but want to place that garland and hang stockings, move your other mantle décor to limit the clutter.
Anytime you’re staging a home, whether it’s the holiday season or not, an important step is to simply walk through your home with a critical eye of where there might be too much ‘stuff’ in one place or on one wall. Place small figurines and personal photos in a cabinet or closet, keep surfaces clear of too many items, clear walkways and windows, and move furniture and artwork to make room for that extra holiday cheer.
If you’re buying or selling a home in the North Texas area, our team would love to connect with you. <a href="https://www.pointswestagency.com/contact/">Contact us</a> today to get the process started and happy holidays!2019-12-11T13:20:00-07:002019-12-11T13:27:13-07:00Bolt PRtag:pointswestagency.com,2012-09-20:6439Safety Tips to Remember This ThanksgivingWhether you’re hosting Thanksgiving dinner at your place this year or gathering at a friend or family members, safety should remain top of mind. What are you at risk for? Fun, but mostly fire. Keep reading to learn how you can avoid a handful of safety hazards that could result in Thanksgiving cut short and dry turkey.
1. Remain in the Kitchen when Cooking
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/938/image/Remain_in_the_Kitchen_.gif" width="400" height="275" />
Always stay in the area where you’re frying, grilling or broiling your feast. Even if you have to leave for a short time, it’s smart to turn your appliances off. Additionally, check on food that’s simmering, baking or roasting regularly and use a timer to keep yourself on track with those check-ins.
2. Properly Store Fire-Prone Items
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/938/image/Properly_Store_Items.gif" width="400" height="224" />
Place anything that could catch fire such as oven mitts, wooden utensils, food packaging and towels away from your cooking area. If forgotten about and too close to the hot stove or oven, these items could easily catch fire and send everyone home early.
3. Check Smoke Detectors
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/938/image/Check_Smoke_Detectors.gif" width="390" height="397" />
Be sure to make sure your smoke detectors are working before the party arrives and the kitchen gets rowdy. If something does happen to burn or catch fire, you’ll definitely want those detectors to be working! In addition to smoke detectors, double-check that you have at least one fire extinguisher for those freak accidents.
4. Put the Turkey Fryer Away!
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/938/image/Turkey_Fryer.gif" width="636" height="395" />
As fun as they may seem, using a turkey fryer can potentially lead to devastating burns, other injuries and the destruction of property from the use of a large amount of oil and high temperatures. If you really prefer fried turkey, try looking for grocery stores or restaurants that sell deep-fried turkeys.
5. Don’t Get Stuck
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/938/image/Dont_Get_Stuck.gif" width="383" height="319" />
Last, but certainly not least, please avoid becoming this year’s turkey man. As tempting as it may be, put the turkey down and step away.
From all of us at Points West Agency, Happy Thanksgiving and stay safe out there! If you’re looking to sell or buy a home when the holiday season calms down, visit our <a href="https://www.pointswestagency.com/contact/" target="_blank">Contact Us</a> page or call our agents at (817) 717-6036 to get the party started!
Sources:
<a href="https://reolink.com/thanksgiving-safety-tips/">https://reolink.com/thanksgiving-safety-tips/</a>
<a href="https://www.nfpa.org/Public-Education/Fire-causes-and-risks/Seasonal-fire-causes/Thanksgiving">https://www.nfpa.org/Public-Education/Fire-causes-and-risks/Seasonal-fire-causes/Thanksgiving</a>
<a href="https://www.c21affiliated.com/Blog/6_Safety_Tips_to_Remember_This_Thanksgiving">https://www.c21affiliated.com/Blog/6_Safety_Tips_to_Remember_This_Thanksgiving</a>
2019-11-27T09:35:00-07:002019-11-27T09:40:47-07:00Bolt PRtag:pointswestagency.com,2012-09-20:64115 Gifts for a New Homeowner That They’ll Actually LoveWith the holiday season right around the corner, it’s time to build those wish lists! Whether you're shopping for yourself or someone you love, check out some of our favorite gifts for the new homeowner in your life below.
1. <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/702216603/home-sweet-home-our-first-home-sign?ga_order=most_relevant&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_search_query=our+first+home+engraved+sign&ref=sr_gallery-1-4&organic_search_click=1&pro=1&frs=1">Engraved Sign</a>
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/938/image/il_1588xN.1863692866_gci7.jpg" width="353" height="265" />
For sale on Etsy.com by MoonlightMill
For most, moving into a new home can feel kind of alien, especially when the entire space is filled with packed boxes from a fresh move. Gifting a new homeowner a gorgeous sign to put on their fireplace or hang on the wall helps bring the house together while making them feel that much more at home.
2. <a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B074VX9P6Z/?linkCode=xm2&tag=goodhousekeeping_auto-append-20&ascsubtag=%5bartid|10055.g.1025%5bsrc|%5bch|%5blt|">Custom New Home Ornament</a>
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/938/image/81Xn2lw3fML._SL1500_.jpg" width="320" height="320" />
For sale on Amazon.com
A custom ornament is a great memento for your loved one to put on display every year during the holidays. Every time they take this ornament out to hang on their tree, they’ll think of you and that first holiday season spent in their new home.
3. <a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07P8N77TQ/?linkCode=xm2&tag=goodhousekeeping_auto-append-20&ascsubtag=%5bartid|10055.g.1025%5bsrc|%5bch|%5blt|sale">Mixology Bartender Kit</a>
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/938/image/91ixkG6P30L._SL1500_.jpg" width="376" height="365" />
For sale on Amazon.com
Whether they’re into mixology or not, a beautiful bartender kit is a classic conversational piece to round out any bar cart. This gift is gorgeous on its own as a display piece, but is also perfect for a housewarming or holiday party. Either way, this gift is excellent for all homeowners, new and current!
4. <a href="https://www.anthropologie.com/shop/composite-agate-cheese-board?cm_mmc=LS-_-affiliates-_-TnL5HPStwNw-_-1&color=000&quantity=1&ranEAID=TnL5HPStwNw&ranMID=39789&ranSiteID=TnL5HPStwNw-KwDeRAblkPb9ieR.SI.28w&siteID=TnL5HPStwNw-KwDeRAblkPb9ieR.SI.28w&size=Cutting%20Board&type=STANDARD&utm_campaign=TnL5HPStwNw&utm_content=1&utm_medium=affiliates&utm_source=LS&utm_term=594026" title="Statement Cheese Board">Statement Cheese Board</a>
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/938/image/cheeseboard.png" width="379" height="379" />
For sale on Anthropologie.com
Cheeseboards are a great appetizer for any occasion, making it fun to have a statement plate or board to make such a yummy snack stand out. Depending on the homeowner’s style, gift them something unique that they wouldn’t buy for themselves. You never know, you could see this beauty make its debut during your next get together!
5. <a href="https://www.hellofresh.com/" title="Food Subscription">Monthly Food/Beverage Subscription</a>
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/938/image/HelloFresh-Review.png" width="344" height="344" />
For sale on HelloFresh.com
A monthly subscription can be a fit for both a first-time homeowner and a recent home buyer. With the hustle and bustle that moving brings, many homeowners tend to eat out more than usual since pots and pans tend to be packed away. Enter, your gift of a monthly food subscription! The gift of a monthly food subscription is the best of both worlds because it gives the homeowners something yummy for dinner each night and a chance to relax during the busy time of unpacking.
Sources: <a href="https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/home-products/g1025/starter-housewarming-gifts/?slide=32">https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/home-products/g1025/starter-housewarming-gifts/?slide=32</a>
<a href="https://www.bhg.com/christmas/gifts/gifts-for-new-homeowners/">https://www.bhg.com/christmas/gifts/gifts-for-new-homeowners/</a>
2019-11-13T08:55:00-07:002019-11-13T09:00:03-07:00Bolt PR