Sometimes you want to kick back and enjoy a beer or a mixed drink at a place where you don't have to worry about running into your ex from high …
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21 San Antonio bars where you probably won't see anyone you know
Sometimes you want to kick back and enjoy a beer or a mixed drink at a place where you don't have to worry about running into your ex from high …
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The Rio Grande Valley Is a Land of Infinite Zest - Texas Highways
Infinite Zest The Rio Grande Valley is fertile ground for grapefruit, oranges, and other citrus Jesse Lozano (left) owns and operates Triple J …
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The Sky's the Limit at South Llano River State Park - Texas Highways
South Llano River State Park photo by Kevin Stillman. The Texas State Parks system marks its 100th anniversary this year. With 89 parks, natural …
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The Largest Rose Garden in The Nation is in Texas (And You Must Check It Out)
The Tyler Municipal Rose Garden spans 14 acres and is home to over 38,000 rose bushes in nearly 500 different varieties. Every visitor to the garden …
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Austin Chef Iliana de la Vega Makes Some of the State’s Best Mole
Mexican food is as rich and varied as any of the world’s great cuisines, and many of its centuries-old dishes and techniques are still in rotation …
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A Botanical Guide to Texas Wildflowers - Texas Highways
A Texas Botanical Guide Five wildflowers that heal, feed, impress, and inspire By Robyn Ross Illustrations By Lucy Rose Generations of Texans have …
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Texas’ Flowering Trees Take Seasonal Blooms to New Heights - Texas Highways
plants—and plant lovers—spring to life. Our state is famous for the profusion of wildflowers covering landscapes and roadsides from the South Texas …
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How You Can Boost Your Texas Home’s Property Value
Our guest author today: Lenna Schroeder
You can do several things as a homeowner in Texas to make your home more valuable by increasing its desirability to potential purchasers. Little fixes and major upgrades alike can boost your Texas home's property value. And make it more appealing to potential purchasers. What follows is a discussion of several tried-and-true strategies for increasing your home's worth in the Lone Star State.
Keep up with regular maintenance
Keeping up with routine maintenance is the first and most crucial step in boosting the value of your Texas home. Such examples include replacing outdated or broken appliances, repairing leaky faucets, and rebuilding damaged walls. Make these minor repairs to increase home prices and keep your house in pristine shape. It will boost your Texas home's property value and help prevent small issues from developing into costly catastrophes down the road.
Focus on curb appeal
Adding curb appeal to your Texas home is another excellent way to boost your Texas home's property value. Your home's curb appeal is affected by several factors, such as the condition of the driveway and front path, as well as the landscaping and exterior paint job. Adding new flowers or plants in your front yard, power washing your sidewalks and driveway, and painting the exterior of your home are all great methods to increase its visual appeal. It takes a lot of time and work, but the effort will pay off. Especially if you're planning a relocation simultaneously. So if you are planning a long-distance move, for example, from the DFW area to San Antonio, let experts handle your relocation while you focus on improving your house's curb appeal and selling price.
Upgrade your kitchen
For most people, the kitchen is the most important room in the house, and it should be treated as such when trying to sell it. If you're looking to get more money out of your Texas home, one option is to redesign the kitchen. Some examples are updating new appliances or putting in new countertops and cupboards. Small changes can entirely transform kitchens, like repainting the cabinets or adding new hardware.
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| The kitchen is what most people look at first when buying a home. |
Add an extra bathroom
Putting up a second bathroom is just another way to boost your Texas home's property value. This is an absolute must if you have a large family or frequently have guests over. While installing a new bathroom may be a significant renovation, it may be a worthwhile investment in the long run. If you can't build an entirely new restroom, at least give the ones you have a facelift with some new fittings and paint.
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| Having an extra bathroom is a must for some people. |
Consider energy-efficient upgrades
Investing in energy-efficient upgrades could be a great strategy to raise your Texas home's market value and reduce your ongoing energy bills. Expected energy-saving improvements include:
● Upgrading to a programmable thermostat.
● Insulating the attic.
● Replacing drafty windows with newer models.
These upgrades will not only increase the property's value, but they will also save maintenance costs in the future. Since today's housing market is nothing like 15 years ago, these upgrades are almost essential.
Finish your basement
Depending on the market in Texas, completing a basement that hasn't been finished could be an excellent investment. You can replace the flooring, walls, and even a bathroom or kitchenette. Even though finishing your basement can be a big construction project, it can be a smart investment that pays off when you want to sell your house.
Create a dedicated workspace
Because of the rise in telecommuting, having a dedicated office space at home is essential. If you have a spare room or an area at home that could function as an office, you can consider constructing a dedicated office for that purpose. Putting in new lights or a desk and bookcases are two examples. Having a dedicated office space in your home serves two purposes: it increases the value of your home to potential purchasers and improves your quality of life.
Update your flooring
Putting in new flooring is another smart way to add value to your home in the Lone Star State. This could involve anything from installing brand-new hardwood or tile flooring to swapping out worn-out carpets for something more up-to-date. When choosing new flooring for your home, think about what would make it more marketable to potential buyers and what will look best in the space. Although the cost of installing new flooring can be substantial, the return on investment can be significant in the form of a higher home value.
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| You should consider getting new flooring if you want to boost your Texas home’s property value. |
Consider adding smart home features
Incorporating smart home technology into your Texas home may be an excellent method to raise the property's value. These systems are becoming increasingly desirable among buyers. Popular smart home features include temperature and lighting controls, security alarms, and monitoring systems. You may increase the value of your home and make it more practical and cost-effective to live in by installing these features. So if you were thinking of selling your hose, it is critical to hire a pro. A professional is sure to make all the necessary improvements to your home.
Make use of outdoor living spaces
Most homeowners enjoy spending time outside, and many choose to build decks, patios, and even outdoor kitchens. The best way to make the most of your outdoor space is to invest in making it more functional and aesthetically pleasing if it is currently unutilized or underutilized. This could involve installing a brand-new grill or outdoor fireplace, renovating the garden or paving, or installing a swimming pool or hot tub. Not only will using your outdoor space boost your Texas home's property value, but it will also enhance your quality of life.
Conclusion
Investing in home improvements that raise the value of your Texas property may be a good choice. You may increase the value of your home and make it more desirable to potential buyers. Take advantage of various strategies, regardless of whether you plan to sell your home soon or do it purely for personal reasons. The goal is to focus on what will best satisfy the needs and preferences of your ideal purchasers, whether that means performing routine maintenance and integrating smart home features, constructing a basement, or adding an extra bathroom. Making improvements to your home can boost your Texas home's property value and enhance your standard of living.
Author Bio:
In addition to being a freelance writer and editor, Lenna Schroeder also dabbles in all other forms of creative expression. She has a background in improving the curb appeal of houses and property management in general and has worked with Maximus Moving & Delivery. When she's not writing, she likes to go on hikes, read, and try new recipes in the kitchen.
https://www.pexels.com/photo/house-lights-turned-on-106399/
https://www.pexels.com/photo/oval-mirror-near-toilet-bowl-1910472/
https://www.pexels.com/photo/person-using-dewalt-cordless-impact-driver-on-brown-board-1249611/
https://www.pexels.com/photo/kitchen-and-dining-area-1080721/
20 Best Things to Do in San Antonio for Tourists and Locals Alike
Fancy taking a boat trip to an art gallery, getting lost in fossil caverns, and strolling over a moonlit bridge? You’ve come to the right place. Once …
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Bush Family Home State Historic Site | THC.Texas.gov - Texas Historical Commission
Tours Offered: Thursday–Saturday: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Last tour begins at 4 p.m. Sunday: 2 p.m. – 5 p.m. Last tour begins at 4p.m. *Tuesday & Wednesday by …
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La Vernia ISD adopts four-day school week following widespread resignations
More districts are moving to shorter work weeks in hopes of attracting more teachers and keeping them around amid a national teacher shortage.La …
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First Time in Austin? Here’s Where to Eat.
Whether you’re on vacation, in town for business, attending SXSW, or are one of the many thousands who’ve moved to Austin in recent years, we’re …
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5 Important Repairs to Increase Home Price
Our Guest Author Today: Roshelle Anderson
Before you decide to spend big on your next home improvement project, it’s vital to evaluate which renovations are the best return on your investment and which improvements may need to wait.
As home prices fluctuate going into 2023 and housing market forecasts predict that mortgage prices will shift along with the rate of inflation, it's important to carefully consider which repairs are the most cost-effective and will appeal to more buyers in the future.
Let’s go over 5 important repairs that will be sure to increase your home value.
1. Adding On
Square footage and flexible living spaces are among the top concerns for buyers in today’s market and adding onto your home is one of the most effective ways to increase its value when appraising your home.
The number of people working from home is projected to increase, making a home office a high priority for many buyers. If you have an unfinished or underutilized space such as a basement, attic, or garage storage area, consider finishing it out to create a home office or additional flex space.
Based on your neighborhood and needs, it can be more cost-effective to add an addition rather than move, saving you money on closing costs and a new mortgage. Be sure to get the proper permits and licensing for the addition before moving forward with plans.
2. Modernize Your Home Systems
Updating your plumbing, electrical, or HVAC systems can give you and future homeowners peace of mind, increase its appeal, and add to the value of your home.
While repiping can be expensive and frustrating, it can also increase the value of an older home and make your house a lot more appealing to buyers. If pipes are decades old and there’s no clear sewer cleanout, consider having a plumber out for an inspection. Whether you need a San Antonio, Amarillo, or Lewisville plumber, there are plenty of licensed professionals.
Old pipes and degraded sewer lines are a major turnoff for buyers and they won't want to spend as much on your home knowing there will be mandatory repairs in the future.
The same rule applies to electrical systems, if you have old, hazardous electrical systems, it might be worth investing in an update. This will not only make your home safer, but it will also be more appealing to buyers and help you sell in the future.
Modern HVAC systems are more efficient and can save you money and reduce your energy use. If you have an outdated system, upgrading can add value to your home and make your home more attractive to buyers.
Major upgrades like home systems may not always be worth the investment. However, having them updated in the right neighborhood can really influence how much buyers decide to offer.
3. Create Outdoor Living Spaces
During quarantine, outdoor spaces became very appealing. They were a place of refuge and a safe gathering area during uncertain times.
The appeal of outdoor living spaces hasn’t slowed and is one of the top features a buyer looks for. Not only will they increase the value of your home, but you’ll get an outdoor area you can enjoy and relax in.
Consider adding a deck or a patio in order to have a designated place for seating.
4. Upgrade Old Fixtures
Replacing old fixtures and making your home more cohesive and modern can add value and enhance the look of your home.
Updating light fixtures, faucets, and other home hardware can help freshen up your home. Be sure to choose lighting options throughout the home that are energy efficient, work with the style of your home, and tie in with the existing light fixtures.
5. Update a Bathroom or Kitchen
While a full-blown bathroom or kitchen renovation can be pricey and exhausting, they can be a good investment.
If an entire renovation project doesn’t seem feasible, consider a partial renovation, update an appliance, or change out old faucets, tile, or countertops to give the spaces a boost, but don’t break the budget.
Conclusion
While many of us dream of a perfect home without any need for updates, that’s not always what we end up with.
If your home needs repairs and you’re not sure where to begin, take a look around your house and consider whether a buyer would want to live there. Are there things that are no longer functional, outdated, or rundown? If so, those are a great place to start.
Ask yourself whether or not the update adds value and convenience to your everyday life. When in doubt, ask a professional real estate agent for their expertise. That way you’ll be certain you’re making the best choice for you and your home's value.
Roshelle Anderson is a freelance writer and editor from Oklahoma, writing on behalf of CW Service Pros. From a young age, she was notorious for writing down humorous anecdotes about events on family vacations. She enjoys working with others to produce a well-crafted story no matter the subject. Roshelle is experienced in copy editing and proofreading for both fiction and nonfiction. She currently lives with her husband and three dogs, writing, gardening, and fostering puppies for a local rescue.
Photo used: by Zivica Kerkez on Shutterstock
Think Twice Before Waiting for 3% Mortgage Rates
Last year, the Federal Reserve took action to try to bring down inflation. In response to those efforts, mortgage rates jumped up rapidly from the record lows we saw in 2021, peaking at just over 7% last October. Hopeful buyers experienced a hit to their purchasing power as a result, and some decided to press pause on their plans.
What Past Recessions Tell Us About the Housing Market
It doesn’t matter if you’re someone who closely follows the economy or not, chances are you’ve heard whispers of an upcoming recession. Economic conditions are determined by a broad range of factors, so rather than explaining them each in depth, let’s lean on the experts and what history tells us to see what could lie ahead. As Greg McBride, Chief Financial Analyst at Bankrate, says:
Is It Time To Sell Your Second Home?
During the pandemic, second homes became popular because of the rise in work-from-home flexibility. That’s because owning a second home, especially in the luxury market, allowed those homeowners to spend more time in their favorite places or with different home features. Keep in mind, a luxury home isn’t only defined by price. In a recent article, Investopedia shares additional factors that push a home into this category: location, such as a home on the water or in a desirable city, and features, the things that make the home itself feel luxurious.
Today’s Housing Market Is Nothing Like 15 Years Ago
There’s no doubt today’s housing market is very different than the frenzied one from the past couple of years. In the second half of 2022, there was a dramatic shift in real estate, and it caused many people to make comparisons to the 2008 housing crisis. While there may be a few similarities, when looking at key variables now compared to the last housing cycle, there are significant differences.
Wondering How Much You Need To Save for a Down Payment?
If you’re getting ready to buy your first home, you’re likely focused on saving up for everything that purchase involves. One cost that’s likely top of mind is your down payment. But don’t let a common misconception about how much you need to save make the process harder than it could be.
Understand 20% Isn’t Always the Typical Down Payment
Freddie Mac explains:
“. . . nearly a third of prospective homebuyers think they need a down payment of 20% or more to buy a home. This myth remains one of the largest perceived barriers to achieving homeownership.”
Unless specified by your loan type or lender, it’s typically not required to put 20% down. This means you could be closer to your homebuying dream than you realize. According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), the median down payment hasn’t been over 20% since 2005. In fact, the median down payment today is only 14%. And it’s even lower for first-time homebuyers at just 6% (see graph below):
Learn About Options That Can Help You Toward Your Goal
If saving for a down payment still feels like a challenge, know that there’s help available. A real estate professional and trusted lender can show you options that could help you get closer to your down payment goal. According to latest Homeownership Program Index from Down Payment Resource, there are over 2,000 homebuyer assistance programs in the U.S., and the majority are intended to help with down payments.
Plus there are even loan types, like FHA loans, with down payments as low as 3.5%, as well as options like VA loans and USDA loans with no down payment requirements for qualified applicants.
To understand your options, be sure to do your homework. If you’re interested in learning more about down payment assistance programs, information is available through sites like Down Payment Resource. Then, partner with a trusted lender to learn what you qualify for on your homebuying journey.
Bottom Line
Remember, a 20% down payment isn’t always required. If you want to purchase a home this year, let’s connect. You’ll also want to make sure you have a trusted lender so you can explore your down payment options.
Content previously posted on Keeping Current Matters* This article was originally published here
What Are Your Goals in the Housing Market This Year?
If buying or selling a home is part of your dreams for 2023, it’s essential for you to understand today’s housing market, define your goals, and work with industry experts to bring your homeownership vision for the new year into focus.
In the last year, high inflation had a big impact on the economy, the housing market, and likely on your wallet too. That’s why it’s critical to have a clear understanding of not just the market today, but also what you want out of it when you buy or sell a home. Danielle Hale, Chief Economist at realtor.com, explains:
“The key to making a good decision in this challenging housing market is to be laser focused on what you need now and in the years ahead, so that you can stay in your home long enough that buying is a sound financial decision.”
Here are a few questions you can start thinking through as you fine tune your goals for 2023.
1. What’s Motivating You?
You’re dreaming about making a move for a reason – what is it? No matter what’s happening in the market, there are still many compelling reasons to buy a home today. Your needs may have changed in a way your current house can’t address, or you could be ready to step into homeownership for the first time and have a space that’s truly your own. Use what’s motivating you as a guidepost in partnership with an expert advisor to help make sure your move will give you a lasting sense of accomplishment.
2. What Does Your Next Home Look Like?
You know you want to move, but how would you describe your dream home? The available supply of homes for sale has grown, and that could mean more options to choose from when you buy. Just be sure to keep your budget in mind and work with a trusted real estate professional to balance your wants and needs. The better you understand what’s essential and where you can be flexible, the easier it can be to find the home that’s right for you.
3. How Ready Are You To Buy?
Getting clear on your budget and savings is essential before you get too far into the process. Working with a local agent and a lender early is the best way to make sure you’re in a good position to buy. This could include planning how much to save for a down payment, getting pre-approved for a home loan, and assessing your current home equity if your move involves selling your existing house.
A Professional Will Guide You Through Every Step of the Process
Buying or selling a home is a big process that takes expertise to navigate. If that feels a bit overwhelming, you aren’t alone. According to a recent Harris Poll survey, one in five respondents see a lack of information or knowledge about the homebuying process as a barrier from owning a home. Don’t let uncertainty hold you back from your goals this year. A trusted expert can bridge that gap and give you the best advice and information about today’s market.
Bottom Line
Let’s connect to plan how your dreams for 2023 can become a reality.
Content previously posted on Keeping Current Matters* This article was originally published here
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