November 3rd voters in Texas have a chance to vote for appraisal reform. If you are like me and own a home, you probable don’t like the taxes. Texas residents pay a lot of property tax. More than many other states. It is time that we as residents vote for appraisal reform. On the ballot are 4 propositions; 2,3,5, and 11. I suggest voting yes on all four. I...

Condominiums and townhouses offer an affordable option to single-family homes in many markets, and they’re ideal for those who appreciate a maintenance-free lifestyle. But before you buy, make sure you do your legwork. These are some of the important elements to consider: • Storage. Some condos have storage lockers, but usually there are no attics or...

1. Decide what you can afford. Generally, you can afford a home equal in value to between two and three times your gross income. 2. Develop your home wish list. Then, prioritize the features on your list. 3. Select where you want to live. Compile a list of three or four neighborhoods you’d like to live in, taking into account items such as schools,...

Most consumers are overwhelmed when they write that big check for a down payment on a home purchase. It’s typically a lot of money, and one of the biggest barriers to home ownership for many people. But as intimidating as the down-payment might be, some homeowners are surprised by other costs associated with owning a home. There are many items that go...

The most important investment you will ever make is probably the purchase of a home. Finding the right home for you can be a long and arduous process, but there is no getting around that. Know Your Wants And Needs Before embarking on your journey of house hunting, you must know what you really want to find. Sit down with pen and paper and list all the features...

The appraised value of a property is a professional estimate of a property’s market value. It’s based on the recent sales of similar properties, square footage, location, construction quality, and more. An appraisal varies in cost depending on the price and size of the home. Most lenders require appraisals as part of the loan application process. But...