Posted by Erion Shehaj on Thursday, February 13, 2020 at 9:16 AMBy Erion Shehaj / February 13, 2020Comment
The Houston Real Estate market defied cyclical trends to post strong numbers in January. Sales were up 14.5% and prices were up 4.5% year over year. Inventory remain low at 3.5 months and active listings saw an increase giving buyers more properties to pick from. Rentals were also up 14.5% year over year.
Price segments that saw the highest activity:
$500k-$750k
$250k-$500k.
The price segment that saw decreases were homes under $150k due to the fact that as prices have risen over the years, the segment is becoming smaller and smaller.
The surge was in large part driven by two main factors:
Low interest rates: Average interest rate dropped to a new low of 3.45%
Low unemployment: Houston area unemployment dropped to 3.6% as the Greater Houston Partnership reported that 88k jobs were added in 2019 despite a challenging oil and gas environment.
Leading indicators point to continued strength in February with pending sales up 21% year over year. Interest rates are expected to stay low and that should stimulate buyer demand further.
Posted by Erion Shehaj on Wednesday, November 13, 2019 at 1:50 PMBy Erion Shehaj / November 13, 2019Comment
100% Leased Duplex with Tenants and Management in place conveniently located in a gated community in Northeast San Antonio market located minutes from Randolph Air Force Base & Ft. Sam Houston. Perfect for a 1031 Exchange or an investor looking for positive cashflow on Day 1. The current leases in place run through April 2020 and April 2021 respectively.
Each unit in this investment property duplex offers 3 bedroom 2.5 bath with a 1 car garage on each side. Tray ceilings with crown molding in the living room. Granite countertops and all black appliances in kitchen. Nice privacy fenced backyard. Ceramic tile on the first floor with carpet upstairs. The duplex was built in late 2016 and it has been a great investment for the current owner. The reason for the sale is that the owner is looking to consolidate his assets locally in Houston where they reside.
Posted by Erion Shehaj on Monday, May 6, 2019 at 3:33 PMBy Erion Shehaj / May 6, 2019Comment
Klein ISD has a solid reputation as one of the highest-rated school districts in the Greater Houston area. While the quality of the overall district is important, you want more detailed information about the highest rated schools within Klein ISD where your child can thrive and grow academically.
That's why we compiled a list of the Top 5 Elementary Schools in Klein ISD.
1. Frank Elementary School
Frank Elementary School is the highest-rated elementary school in Klein ISD based on test scores as well as parent reviews on GreatSchools (10/10). Frank Elementary School is located at 9225 Crescent Clover Drive, Spring, TX 77379 and has approximately 700 students. Students at Frank Elementary far outperform the State proficiency average in all subjects including Math, Science, Reading, Writing and Social Studies.
Hassler Elementary School is the second highest-rated elementary school in Klein ISD based on test scores as well as parent reviews on GreatSchools (9/10). Hassler Elementary School is located at 9325 Lochlea Ridge Dr, Klein TX, 77379 and has approximately 800 students. Students at Hassler Elementary far outperform the State proficiency average in all subjects...
Posted by Erion Shehaj on Friday, May 3, 2019 at 3:36 PMBy Erion Shehaj / May 3, 2019Comment
Klein ISD has a great reputation as one of the highest-rated school districts in the Greater Houston area. While the quality of the overall district is important, you want more detailed information about the highest rated schools within Klein ISD where your child can thrive and grow academically.
That's why we compiled a list of the Top 5 Middle Schools in Klein ISD.
1. Doerre Middle School
Doerre Middle School is the highest-rated intermediary school in Klein ISD based on test scores as well as parent reviews on GreatSchools. Doerry Middle School is located at 18218 Theiss Mail Route Road, Spring, TX, 77379 off Champions Forest Drive and has approximately 1100 students. Students at Doerre Intermediate outperform the State proficiency average in all subjects including Math, Science, Reading, Writing and Social Studies.
Krimmel Middle School is the second highest-rated intermediary school in Klein ISD based on test scores as well as parent reviews on GreatSchools. Krimmel Middle School is located at 7070 Farm to Market 2920, Spring, TX, 77379 and has approximately 1200 students. Students at Krimmel Intermediate outperform the State proficiency average in all subjects including Math, Science, Reading, Writing and Social Studies.
Posted by Erion Shehaj on Thursday, May 2, 2019 at 1:20 PMBy Erion Shehaj / May 2, 2019Comment
This week's featured listing is this gorgeous 5 bedroom 3.5 bath home in the established Baywood Gardens! From the moment you drive up through the breathtaking tree-lined street and up the extended driveway, past the pretty landscaping, you will feel right at home.
The home opens to an open living area with custom fireplace, a wall of built-ins, crown moulding, and rich handscraped laminate flooring.
Overlooking the living area is the large dining room with plenty of space for an oversized table, buffet, and china cabinet that is just through a doorway to the kitchen. The island kitchen has upgraded granite countertops, custom backsplash, stainless appliances, and diagonal tile flooring. The granite continues to the breakfast area window.
The sprawling Master bedroom and bath complete the 1st floor. The laminate floors are continued in to this large master with tranquil spa-like retreat. You can't help but relax with this large jetted tub, separate shower with custom details, his and her sinks with Granite countertops, and extended vanity with framed mirrors.
Make your way up the staircase that opens up to a HUGE Gameroom! We have 4 more large bedrooms upstairs and 2 baths. The handscraped laminate flooring continues throughout the whole 2nd floor, along with the upgraded granite in the baths.
Posted by Erion Shehaj on Tuesday, February 19, 2019 at 11:58 AMBy Erion Shehaj / February 19, 2019Comment
Katy Foreclosure Deal priced $35,000 below market value. Two story home on a corner lot in Bear Creek Plantation, ideal location to I-10, 290 and Hwy 6 zoned to Top ranked Cyfair schools. Home features: Four large bed rooms, a game room, granite kitchen, walk in closets, formal dining, den, open living room/great room with a back yard view. Upgraded lighting, fixtures and walk in closets through out. Tons of storage. Plenty of space where needed most.
This Katy foreclosure is sold through Auction so hurry before the house is gone. Once an offer is received that's acceptable, the home will be sold. Only HUD approved brokers can make offers on these properties. We are HUD foreclosure specialists and I will be happy to assist you with touring the property and making an offer.
If you are interested in this great opportunity, call our HUD Foreclosure specialist today to setup an appointment:
Posted by Danny Rocha on Wednesday, February 6, 2019 at 2:18 PMBy Danny Rocha / February 6, 2019Comment
Government Foreclosure deal in Spring Texas - deeply discounted 20% below market value. When you purchase this great home you can lock in over $66,000 in equity. Home needs some minor cosmetic repairs (paint, carpet and fixtures) and it's a great value.
This is a Daily Auction so hurry before the house is gone. Once an offer is received that's acceptable, the home will be sold. Only HUD approved brokers can make offers on these properties. We are HUD foreclosure specialists and I will be happy to assist you with touring the property and making an offer.
If you are interested in this great opportunity, call me today to setup an appointment:
Posted by Ellen Benner on Friday, February 1, 2019 at 11:46 AMBy Ellen Benner / February 1, 2019Comment
If you are wondering when is a good time to sell your home, it's NOW! Warmer temperatures are just around the corner for Texas which means more active buyers. If you want to get the best price and fast, you will need a solid strategy.
THE APPROACH
Sellers typically will try one of two approaches to selling their home. Price it high with the thought that you can lower the price if needed. Price it lower than the competition in hopes to sell fast or even start a bidding war. It’s a tough choice to make when pricing your home to sell.
Price your home too high and your home may sit on the market for months. Pricing it too low could mean you miss out on well-deserved $$$’s. That’s why it's important to hire a real estate agent to help you figure out how to price your home.
THE CMA
No two homes are alike. Your agent will compare homes in your neighborhood and prepare a Comparative Market Analysis, or CMA, to estimate the value of your home. A CMA is a side-by-side comparison of homes that have recently sold in your area and price range. The information is sorted by data fields such as the type of home, the number of bedrooms and bathrooms, square footage, and other factors. The purpose of the CMA is to show fair market value based on recent sales. These statistics will give you a clear understanding of what is hot on the market now in order to price your home competitively.
Posted by Ellen Benner on Thursday, January 24, 2019 at 11:59 PMBy Ellen Benner / January 24, 2019Comment
Location, Location, Location! You can change many things about a house, but you can't change the neighborhood. You may be thinking, ‘I want the best location but I also want it to be affordable.’ So you’ve picked out some locations you’re interested in. You have thought about the style of home that is the best fit for your family. But you have a budget you need to stick to. Where do you begin? Take a look at these gorgeous Houston area homes that are currently on the market to get an idea of what you can purchase for just $300,000.
Inner Loop, Houston, Texas
This stunning 3 story townhome is just minutes from the Museum District, Montrose and the Medical Center. This home is perfect for living in the heart of downtown with convenient access to a variety of entertainment shopping and dining!
Northside Houston
Located just north of the Grand Parkway, this upgraded 4 bedroom home will not disappoint! Can you see yourself preparing meals in this kitchen? Absolutely stunning!
Posted by Ellen Benner on Wednesday, January 23, 2019 at 1:31 PMBy Ellen Benner / January 23, 2019Comment
Top 5 Katy Neighborhoods
Situated just west of Houston, the city of Katy, Texas is popular for its strong heritage with its small town vibe. See what the buzz is all about that makes Katy, Texas the best place to live.
Cinco Ranch
Situated within the 8,100 acre master planned community, Cinco Ranch in Katy, TX blends up-town style with old-world charm and is ranked the #2 in Best Places to Live in Houston Area by niche.com. Cinco Ranch offers residents luxury with a down-to-earth twist. Enjoy all that the community offers from nature trails and gardens to tennis courts, golf club, water park and pools. You will love to come home to Cinco Ranch located south of I-10 off the Grand Parkway.
Just west of Katy, TX, Cross Creek Ranch is picturesque community for children to grow up. Cross Creek Ranch is nationally recognized as #25 of the top master-planned communities in 2018 by RCLCO. Enjoy 32+ miles of hiking and biking trails, splash pads for the kiddos, golf course, ponds, fishing docks and water access points, tennis courts and much, much more.
Posted by Danny Rocha on Thursday, January 10, 2019 at 11:44 AMBy Danny Rocha / January 10, 2019Comment
Top 5 Best Neighborhoods in Magnolia, TX
Escape the high pace of the city and enjoy coming home to your beautiful retreat in one of these top Magnolia communities!
Northgrove
The Northgrove community welcomes you home with over 200 acres of preserved green space, an extensive trail system with three small lakes and luxury outdoor gathering spaces. Take advantage of the community’s 7.5-acre recreation center that includes a contemporary, lodge-style clubhouse. Enjoy the amenities in the exclusive clubhouse that features a resort-style swimming pool, indoor/outdoor entertaining areas, a 24-hour fitness center, a gathering room with a catering kitchen, and a children's play area. This gem is located minutes away from all the dining, shopping and night life of The Woodlands. Home range from $250’s to $700’s.
Posted by Ellen Benner on Friday, January 4, 2019 at 1:29 PMBy Ellen Benner / January 4, 2019Comment
Our clients often ask us where should they buy in Tomball, Texas. So we have put together a list of the top 5 newer neighborhoods in the Tomball, Texas area.
Albury Trails Estates
Surrounded by hardwoods and pines, Albury Trails Estates in Tomball, TX is conveniently located minutes from the Grand Parkway, Highway 249 and FM 2920. Walking trails, exclusive recreation center, pools, excellent schools, and great shopping are among some of the many charms you will find when you live in Albury Trails Estates.
Looking to get away from all the frenzy of city life but still have easy accessibility? Then look no further than the Creekside Park community in Tomball, TX. You will appreciate the picturesque setting with walking trails winding around six peaceful lakes. Community splash pads, pools, tennis courts, and picnic areas await you!
Posted by Erion Shehaj on Wednesday, January 2, 2019 at 1:10 PMBy Erion Shehaj / January 2, 2019Comment
What is a Homestead Exemption?
Homestead exemptions remove part of your home's value from taxation, so they lower your taxes. For example, your home is appraised at $100,000, and you qualify for a $25,000 exemption (this is the amount mandated for school districts), you will pay school taxes on the home as if it was worth only $75,000.
Filing for your Homestead Exemption is a simple process and can save you tons of money.
Most Houston area counties have the same requirements. To file your Homestead Exemption in Montgomery County, Fort Bend County, and Brazoria County, you complete the Residence Homestead Exemption Application, and mail it in to your County Appraisal District at the addresses below:
Montgomery County Appraisal District PO Box 2233 Conroe, Texas 77305
Fort Bend Central Appraisal District 2801 B.F. Terry Blvd. Rosenberg, Texas 77471
Brazoria County Appraisal District 500 N Chenango St. Angleton, Texas 77515
Posted by Erion Shehaj on Wednesday, November 7, 2018 at 1:02 PMBy Erion Shehaj / November 7, 2018Comment
The Houston Texans have a bye week this week! Why not spend this weekend searching for your dream home! Just in time for The Holidays!
Our Featured Listing this week is 6634 Gentle Bend in the highly sought after Champions Park North Subdivision!
Grand 4 bedroom home in Champions, on a wooded lot for under $200k! Handsome Den boasts brick gaslog fireplace, custom built ins, and a wet bar perfect for all of your gatherings! Formal dining with chandelier, and upgraded laminate. Country kitchen with tons of cabinet and counter space, breakfast bar, HUGE eating area, and built in desk! Master down with fantastic private bath, featuring double sinks, extended bathtub, and built in armoire! Large Gameroom with beautiful woodwork and trim, along with 3 LARGE bedrooms up!
You will not find a better home for this price! Priced under $200k, this one will not last long! Follow the link below for more details:
Posted by Erion Shehaj on Tuesday, November 6, 2018 at 1:05 PMBy Erion Shehaj / November 6, 2018Comment
What to do in Houston this Weekend
Let’s pretend for a minute that Houstonians have seasons, and Fall is one of them. Fall is made for Festivals and This Holiday weekend does not disappoint with tons of great events for people of all ages! So, bundle up, and check out some of these great events!
Vehicles for Vets-Spring Texas Music Fest-Saturday, November 10th at Noon
This Saturday is the 4th Annual Spring Texas Music Fest. This is a super organization that each year, gives a decked out truck to a deserving Veteran! They will also be celebrating The Marine Corps Birthday with a special ceremony commemorating their 243rd Birthday! Tickets are $25 in advance and $40 at the door! Get your discounted tickets here.
17th Annual Rockets Run at Toyota Center-Saturday, November 10th 7:30am
Register for the Kids’ 1K, 5K run, or a 2 mile walk that finishes across center court inside Toyota Center benefiting Children’s Memorial Hermann Hospital All registrants will receive a ticket voucher for an upcoming Rockets game. Get your discounted ticketshere. Ticket prices go up the day of the event.
Children’s Festival in The Woodlands Saturday & Sunday, November 10th and 11th
Posted by Ellen Benner on Tuesday, March 20, 2018 at 2:01 PMBy Ellen Benner / March 20, 2018Comment
Selling your home is a huge undertaking and you want to get the best possible price for your home as quickly as possible. You may think that paying commission to a Realtor seems like a loss of profit, there are benefits for hiring a professional to help you sell your home instead of For Sale by Owner (FSBO).
Price
Doing the work on your own to sell your home is not a good substitute for an experienced Realtor who knows the business, local market and the process. You gain their experience in determining the best price you should list your home at. Your Realtor will provide current information on what is happening with your competition in the marketplace.
Marketing
Listing your home with a Realtor gains exposure for your home through a Multiple Listing Service (MLS). An MLS is an invaluable source to which all things real estate go. A FSBO will not be listed on an MLS. If you sell on your own you may attract a buyer from a Craigslist ad or someone driving by. But if you list with an agent you take advantage of being exposed to a pool of thousands of buyers. Which way do you think would have a better chance of selling?
Negotiations
You may think that selling on your own will save you six percent of the sales price by not paying commission. But consider this...most buyers will work with a real estate agent to look for a house. If you are not going to pay the buyer’s agent a commission, you are losing all those potential buyers. If you do pay the buyer’s commision, the buyer is represented by and agent and you are NOT. Who is going to have the upper hand in negotiations?
Posted by Erion Shehaj on Thursday, March 1, 2018 at 10:18 PMBy Erion Shehaj / March 1, 2018Comment
Change is good! Possibly you have found your dream job in your dream town finally getting what you have worked so hard for. Or perhaps you are sick and tired of [insert extreme weather here] and want an alternate climate. Maybe you just want to be closer to someone, or something that you care about
How do you get the kids on board with the move? Here are a few ways to make the transition easier and maybe even a little fun for the kids.
Accentuate the Positive
If you are moving from an area that has harsh Winters and shorter Summers to a more tropical climate, you can point out to the kids that now they can play their favorite sport, go swimming, or generally be outside nearly year-round. Going in the other direction? SNOW. Play up the snowmen, snowball fights, and ice castles that can and will be made.
Do your Research
Is one of your children really in to a particular activity? Make sure that you have information on all of the local versions of that. Do they play an instrument? Check out the the local age-appropriate music scene. Maybe your child follows a certain sport religiously. Get some tickets and root, root, root for the home team!
Compromise
Never underestimate the power of giving in a little to get a lot. Younger kids are a little more resilient and adaptable. It is a little tougher for the older ones. Teenage years are tough enough, so presenting this as an opportunity to re-invent themselves may do the trick. Is there a particular style of dress or hairstyle that you have been resisting? Give in within reason. Let...
Posted by Erion Shehaj on Thursday, February 22, 2018 at 5:09 PMBy Erion Shehaj / February 22, 2018Comment
Often, we get the question “What can I do to increase my home’s value?”. A few simple things can make the world of difference.
First Impressions Matter
Curb appeal is important. It is the first impression that buyers will get of your home. Making sure that the yard is clean, manicured, and the screens and shutters are free from disrepair goes a long way. Power washing the facade and the driveway, and adding a little color with some seasonal flowers and mulch goes a little further.
Make sure your home is clean. Really clean. Messy homes bring forth images of potential maintenance problems. If you never change your AC filters, the units won’t have as much life left on them as they should. Dirty dishes in the sink, and overflowing garbage left out for extended periods of time indicate a potential pest problem. Essentially, if you don’t take care of what can be seen, one can only imagine how neglected the items that can’t be seen are. Hire a professional service to make your home shine and have everyone pitch in to keep it that way.
De-clutter your home
Less is more. People need to be able to see themselves in your home as their home. Photos of your family are what makes your house yours, but detract from the Buyer’s ability to see themselves there. The same is true for overly personalized items. Collections, trophies, and personal keepsakes should be packed away until you find the perfect spot in your new home.
Paint
This is an area where a little can go a long way. Tastes differ, so neutralizing bold and dramatic colors will serve you well. Buyers appreciate...
Posted by Ellen Benner on Thursday, February 22, 2018 at 2:43 PMBy Ellen Benner / February 22, 2018Comment
This adorable two bedroom, one bath home is a perfect starter home for a small family. The home has been completely updated with premium laminate throughout the living areas and bedrooms. Tile adorns the bathroom. The cozy kitchen has been upgrades with new stainless steel appliances and granite countertops. The dining nook is the perfect spot to sip your morning coffee as you look out the bay windows out onto the landscaped front lawn. The bathroom has been completely remodeled with new cabinets, tub, granite countertops and designer tile. Backyard has plenty of room with a deck and covered patio. Commuting will be a breeze with quick and easy access to Beltway 8 and Cypress Creek Parkway. Located in Harvest Bend Village, minutes to Willowbrook Mall and tons of dining options, this home is a must see!
Clickhere for more information and photos of this adorable home!
Posted by Ellen Benner on Friday, February 9, 2018 at 9:17 PMBy Ellen Benner / February 9, 2018Comment
This week's featured listing is a three-bedroom, two bath home in highly desired Mason Lakes subdivision in Katy, TX.
Zoned to Katy ISD, this home is located just north of Interstate 10 off the Grand Parkway at Clay Road.
This split floor plan home has been beautifully upgraded with hand scraped laminate flooring in all the living areas and bedrooms. The island kitchen is tiled and boasts granite countertops, tile backsplash and black appliances. The spacious living area has an open feel with vaulted ceiling that are repeated in the Master Bedroom. Master features en suite bath with separate shower and soaking tub. Plenty of space is provided with the elongated sink, vanity and walk-in closet. Privacy is a bonus with the gorgeous french doors leading into the office/study. Large backyard is perfect for entertaining.
Follow the link below for more photos and details.
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