What Are DFW’s Top 10 Architectural Styles?

Texas is rich in history, and many architectural styles reflect this. When searching for a new home in Texas, you will see many different cultural influences in the architecture. Many early settlers’ traditions are still present in modern-day Texas architecture. And, while the Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) metro area has grown to be one of the largest urban cities in the United States, many of the homes in the suburbs reflect the history and culture of Texas. Here are the top ten architectural styles you will discover when searching for a new home in DFW.

DFW Architectural Styles

Mediterranean Revival

Texans love Mediterranean-style homes, particularly in the luxury home market. Reminiscent of seaside houses and palazzos in Italy, France, and Spain, you will feel like you are always on a coastal European vacation if you purchase one of these beautifully designed homes. The balmy summer temperatures and mild winters in DFW are also similar to the Mediterranean climate!

The Mediterranean Revival style of architecture became popular in the United States and Texas during the 20th century. These homes are usually designed with white stucco exteriors and red clay tile roofs. They may feature tall arched windows and wrought-iron balconies. You may also find beautiful Romanesque columns and pergolas and a central courtyard. The look unites the indoors and the outdoors.

You will find this style of home throughout DFW, particularly in the Highland Park, Cedar Hill, and Southlake neighborhoods.

French Provencal

The French Provencal style of architecture is also referred to as French Country. The look is inspired by the cottage-like homes in Provence, France, or the southernmost region in France. This look originates in rural parts of France and combines a charming chateaux design with a rustic farmhouse look. It pairs well with a heavy use of Texas stone and the larger lot sizes you will find in luxury home neighborhoods.

Today, the French Country look is recognized by a high-pitched roofline, French pale blue wooden shutters and exterior accents. Light-washed colors, distressed wood, and antique accents complete the look. Inside, you will see stone fireplaces and exposed wooden beams.

American Colonial

The American Colonial style of architecture dates back to the 1600s. The first thirteen American colonies on the east coast inspire this look throughout the nation. This style has been popular throughout the centuries, both in residential and commercial real estate properties. The look we now know as Colonial was popular in the 1800s.

Today’s Colonial homes typically include flat facades and central doorways surrounded by symmetrical windows and gabled roofs. These homes are almost always two or three stories rather than a single story. You may find brick exterior or horizontal siding. In DFW, the Colonial-style homes have an added roofed porch on the front to shield the front of the house from the Texas sun.

Tudor Revival

The traditional Tudor design home dates back to the 1400s, but this style became popular in new homes built in the 1970s and 1980s. The exposed half-timbered wood exterior is the most noticeable feature of a Tudor Revival home. They also feature steeply pitched roofs and overlapping gables. White herringbone brick or creamy stucco facades accentuate the architecture with the exposed wooden frames, creating a cozy charm.

In DFW, you will often see Tudor Revival-style homes in Greenland Hills and Hollywood Heights.

Contemporary

The clean, crisp lines of Contemporary architecture appeal to those who like a modern and sophisticated look. It’s often minimalist in design. With open floor plans, glass, and steel materials, you will have a lot of natural light within the home.

You will find Contemporary homes throughout Dallas, particularly in Oak Lawn, Turtle Creek, and Northwest Dallas. It is becoming more common to transform older traditional homes in Dallas into a remodeled contemporary design.

Ranch Style and Texas Vernacular

Ranch-style homes are not just for the country. Urban areas and luxury home developers love them, too. These single-level homes are perfect for those who don’t want stairs. The floor plans are usually open and easy to navigate. You will see ranch-style architecture with combined materials such as stucco, brick, stone, and wood. They often have overhanging eaves and large windows that bring in natural light. With plenty of access to the backyard, you can create a beautiful landscape to enhance the look of a ranch-style home. These are commonly found in North Dallas. More recently, Texas Vernacular style homes have been very popular in DFW. An Austin influence from early immigration days, Texas Vernacular homes feature a palatial, rectangular design with projected porches, stone facades, exposed wooden beams and brackets, then finished with a metal roof.

American Craftsman

This style was created by the British Arts and Craft Movement in the 1920s, often compared to the “California Bungalow.” This style of architecture is laid back, classy and comfortable. These homes have a low-pitched roof, a wide front porch with exposed wooden beams, and horizontal siding exteriors. The design emphasizes craftsmanship, so many of these homes will feature decorative eaves, handcrafted stonework, and exposed woodwork. The floor plans are often centered around a fireplace, creating a welcoming atmosphere for gatherings. American craftsman homes exist in a variety of shapes and sizes.

Victorian

The Victorian era in England introduced this architectural style in the late nineteenth century. Queen Anne Victorian homes are known for their decorative trim, often resembling gingerbread houses. Victorian architecture is also present in hillside mansions in DFW. You will recognize this style by its asymmetrical shape, large wrap-around porches, and steep towers. Many times the exterior is painted in bright colors in two or three colors to accentuate the features of the home.

Mid-Century Modern

During the peak of the 20th century, architecture shifted toward a streamlined and modern look. This style increased in popularity between the 1930s and 1960s. Frank Lloyd Wright was a popular architect during that time. The John Gillin Residence is the only Dallas home designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, but his legacy remains in DFW.

The mid-century modern style consists of abstract lines, minimalist interiors, exteriors, and open floor plans. North Dallas and Northeast Dallas areas feature many mid-century modern homes.

Dallas Eclectic

Finally, we have the Dallas Eclectic architecture style. It’s a spin on the French Eclectic style, only bigger and better. These homes are often built with grand proportions. They are known for their deep-pitched roof, creating an elongated silhouette. The Dallas Eclectic style borrows from the Beaux-Arts movement with highly detailed sculptural elements. It differs from the French Provencal architectural style, which resembles more of a country cottage. The Dallas Eclectic designs are perfect for Dallas’ large lot sizes and luxury home buyers looking for monumental mansions with French design.

What is your favorite architectural design? Contact us today so we can help you search for the perfect home.

How to Know Whether an HOA is Best for Your Next Home

Person Reading HOA Rules And Regulations Document

Shopping for a new home is a fun and exciting time! It can also be overwhelming. There are many things you need to learn and know about before purchasing a home, so research is a must. One of the things that people don’t always remember to ask about or research is Homeowners’ Associations (HOAs) and their rules and regulations. The Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) area has an abundance of communities that an HOA runs. It’s important to understand how HOAs work, their bylaws, and covenants. If you are considering buying a home with an HOA, it would be best to research the requirements so you are not caught off guard on what you can and cannot do with your property.

What Is An HOA?

An HOA is a membership offered (and in most cases required) for homeowners of many gated communities, developments, apartments, and condos. The purpose of HOAs is for the upkeep of the property and rules of uniformity. The HOA’s goal is to maintain the property value of the homes in the community. They may also manage the community’s common areas and improve the residents’ quality of life.

In most cases, when you buy a home with a community that has an HOA, you automatically become a member. Each resident under an HOA must pay yearly dues or fees. Those fees cover the maintenance and upkeep of the private property (homes and yards) and the common property areas (clubhouses and pools). The services may include services such as landscaping, lawn mowing, snow and ice removal, garbage collection, and street-cleaning. Some HOAs may even provide security, law enforcement, and home and property insurance. If your community has a common swimming pool and clubhouse, dues also cover maintaining those costs.

What Is An HOA Covenant?

An HOA covenant can sound a little scary if you’ve never heard the term. You may also hear them called a Declaration of Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions (CC&R). They are also sometimes called “restrictive covenants” because of the restrictions associated with them. The covenants are essentially the rules of the community. They outline the HOA’s obligations and rights to its members and the member’s obligations and rights to the HOA. They are legally binding and often enforced by fines, CC&R’s.

Are There Any Benefits Of A Home Owner’s Association Covenant?

Restrictive covenants can have both benefits and drawbacks for homeowners, so it’s important to understand the reasoning behind them. HOAs ensure uniformity and protect and improve your property’s value. There is often a focus on curb appeal because when curb appeal drops, so do property values. These restrictive covenants may stop your neighbor from allowing their house to deteriorate and decay, lowering your home’s property value. Keeping the neighborhood in top shape may help you to sell your home later.

Things To Consider Before Buying A Home With An HOA Covenant

When you buy a home with an HOA covenant, you agree to their rules, whether you like them or not. Keep these things in mind when considering purchasing a home with an HOA covenant:

You have limited control over your own property. You may not like people telling you what you can and cannot do on your own property. However, if you move into a community with an HOA and don’t abide by their rules, you will face penalties.
A CC&R is a binding legal document. If you think you will take the risk and do what you want, understand that it would make you violate a legally binding document. The HOA may have multiple avenues to correct violations. You may be surprised at how easy it is for an HOA to see when you have violated a rule.
You pay for the rule enforcement. HOAs are funded by their monthly fees from everyone in the community. The HOA fees can run anywhere from $100 to several thousand dollars per month, depending on where you live.

Examples Of Common Restrictive Covenants

The types of covenants can vary, but these are just a few of the most common ones you may see when shopping for a new home that is under an HOA:

Rent and lease restrictions

You will have to check your CC&R if you ever want to rent your home out. If you were considering investing in this property to use as a rental property, you might not be allowed to do so. This includes using the property as an Airbnb rental.

Restrictions on business usage

Your CC&R may prohibit you from operating a business out of your home. If you are self-employed, this may be a problem for you. Most HOAs won’t mind if you turn a spare bedroom into a home office. A business that increases traffic in the neighborhood or even having a large work vehicle parked in your driveway may be a red flag to the HOA.

Limits on pets

Some HOAs limit the types of pets you can have on the property. They may restrict the size, the pet, or even the breed of dog you are allowed to own. HOAs may frown upon certain breeds of dogs that have a reputation for being more aggressive. You may also have restrictions on breeding your pet and selling them from your home. And you can most likely forget owning livestock or even small farm animals.

Limits on exterior maintenance and construction

Remember that HOAs like uniformity? They can be downright picky on the paint color, and you may have to stick with neutral shades from their list of approved choices. There may also be rules about how often you mow the lawn, when you can put trash out, and even your holiday lights and decorations. You may not be permitted to modify the home’s exterior, build a shed, build a fence, or build a detached garage without first getting the design approved by the HOA.

The bottom line is that you should seriously read and ensure you understand the HOAs CC&R during the timeframe in your purchase contract. Carefully decide if any rules may be a factor during the years you will live on the property.

Pre-Summer Tips For Staying Cool And Conserving Water In The Texas Heat

Hot summers in Texas can be brutal! It can feel pretty miserable, but it can also wreak havoc on the environment, our landscaping, and our homes. Whether you were born and raised in Texas or are new to the state, it’s important to learn how to deal with our unique climate. The months from June through September can be sweltering in the Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) area, and it’s often described as a humid subtropical climate. However, as the long summer drags on, particularly in August, the temperatures can climb to 100 degrees Fahrenheit or higher! Add dry winds that are common in DFW, and that can be problematic. That’s why conserving water is a must. Let’s look at some pre-summer tips to stay cool and conserve water this summer.

Staying Cool While Outdoors

We naturally want to be outdoors when the sun is out, and the weather is warm. However, sometimes it’s simply too hot to be outdoors for long periods of time. Limit outdoor activity to thirty to sixty minutes at a time, then take a break indoors where you are out of the sun and in air conditioning. On those extremely hot days where heatstroke is a risk, children and pets should stay indoors as much as possible. Also, avoid being outside during the hottest time of day, usually noon to 7:00 p.m.

Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated on hot days. If you are going out, take cold bottled water with you at all times. Avoid alcohol and caffeine, as they can be dehydrating. It’s also important to wear breathable, lightweight clothing in lighter colors (dark colors can hold the heat!). Something you can do to stay cool is bring personal cooling towels or other items that will keep you cool while outdoors. Wear a hat and sunglasses to protect your face and eyes. And don’t forget your sunscreen!

Staying Cool While Indoors

Before summer hits, have your air conditioner serviced by your HVAC provider to ensure it’s working in proper condition. Nothing is worse than coming home to a sweltering hot house because your air conditioner broke down. You should keep your thermostat temperature constant. People often change the temperature when they are not home to save energy and cost. However, that can cause the unit to work harder and cause your bill to be higher, too. While you might like your house to feel cooler, the average temperature you should keep your thermostat at is 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Change your HVAC filter regularly to help keep your unit working at its best performance.

Ellis Air Conditioner And Heating, located in Dallas, has some great tips on their website for caring for your HVAC, as well as other great tips to stay cool and conserve energy in your home. In addition to your air conditioner, using your ceiling fans can help circulate the cooler air throughout your home.

Conserving Water

Texans are asked to conserve water during the hot summer months to help preserve our resources in case of droughts. Conserving water helps save us money, as well. The largest use of water in the summer months in Texas are usually for irrigation purposes. Follow these water conservation tips from the Texas Water Development Board to help fellow Texans across the state.

Water your lawn before sunrise to prevent the water from evaporating, and do not water your lawn when it’s windy. Raising your lawn mower cutting height to three inches helps shade the roots and reduce lawn evaporation as well. Make sure your sprinklers do not leak and that they are only aimed to water the lawn, not streets or sidewalks. Lawns typically require daily watering from June through August. Smart irrigation systems can help conserve water and energy by detecting if a certain amount of rain is predicted, certain temperatures, or if wind is predicted. They can control the amount of irrigation to use based on those factors where the lawn should not be watered.

If you own a swimming pool, you can help conserve water by using a pool cover to help prevent evaporation. Fountains, waterfalls, and other features in the pool should be turned off when not in use, as well.

For more informative articles about the Dallas-Fort Worth market, visit our blog. Stay cool and enjoy your summer!

Texas Homestead Exemption

You may have heard about the Texas Homestead Exemption and changes to the rules effective January 1, 2022.

Why File:

Living in Texas has so many advantages. Texans enjoy an affordable cost of living, a very stable economy, and no state income taxes. In Texas, we view home ownership as practically sacred. Utilizing this homestead deduction is quick, easy and offers a huge benefit throughout your ownership of this property. Depending on your taxing jurisdiction, the reduction in taxable value can range from $25,000 to a percentage (up to 20%) of the home’s value. One of the best things about filing your homestead exemption is that it also caps the percent your taxes can rise annually.

In 2021, homebuyers were required to wait until January 1, 2022 to file their homestead exemption. If you bought a home with me in 2021, you received an email in January with the links to file your homestead exemption. This filing is only necessary once, not annually. The homestead exemption can only be filed on one property at a time in Texas.

New filing rules for 2022:

The new rules effective January 1, 2022 allow homebuyers to file for the exemption immediately after closing as long as the following conditions are met:

The home itself qualifies as a complete and habitable residence in January of the year purchased. So, new construction likely needs to wait until the following January to qualify.
Only individual homeowners (not corporations or other entities) may receive the exemption. Family trusts often qualify – check with the county appraisal district for requirements.
A homestead can be a house, condominium or manufactured home. It can also include up to 20 acres, if the land is also owned by the homeowner and used as a yard, or for another purpose related to the residential use of the home.

Homeowners can easily apply on the county website. Simply search for the Application for Residential Homestead Exemption or click on the link below. You’ll need to upload a copy of your driver’s license or identification card from the Texas Dept. of Public Safety. The address on your identification Must match the homestead address. There is no fee to file and the process is so easy. There is absolutely no need to pay anyone to do it for you.

Where to file:

If your home is in Tarrant County, click here to file your homestead exemption and to read their guidelines.

For homes in Denton County, click here to file your homestead exemption.

For homes in Collin County, click here to file your homestead exemption.

If your home is in Dallas County, their site functions a little differently. Rather than a direct link to the form, click here to review their guidelines and navigate their site to find your particular address and file there.

Have questions?

Need some help determining the value of your home? Reach out to Lynn Wilson at NorthTexasArea.com and I’ll be happy to assist you with all your home ownership needs.

Reflecting On The DFW Housing Market In 2021 And Looking Ahead To 2022

Homebuilders in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex continued to see a rise in demand for new houses through 2021. The DFW housing market is thriving! It doesn’t seem like this upward trend will end anytime soon. Despite the housing supply shortage that DFW experienced earlier in 2021, the housing market still managed to see great results. Building supplies are becoming available, which has also sped up the building process for new construction.

Current DFW Housing Market Conditions

Buyers are still taking advantage of lower mortgage rates. However, the current DFW housing market conditions tend to favor sellers. With so many people flocking to Texas, particularly the DFW metroplex, it can be pretty competitive with bidding wars. Sellers don’t have to worry about how long it will take for their home to sell once it’s listed.

Why Are So Many People Moving To DFW?

It may seem like more people relocated to DFW in 2021 due to the DFW housing market, but the truth is, people have been flocking here for quite a few years. The number one reason why is strictly business. The International Economic Development Council often surveys corporate executives. Executives continue to cite the overall business climate, favorable tax situation, the overall pro-business regulatory environment, and talent as the key drivers. In particular, there is a mass exodus coming from silicon valley.

The DFW housing market benefited during the first half of 2021 as California lost 53 of its corporate headquarters to other locations across the country. Almost half of those corporate headquarters relocated to Texas. In the last six years, the last five Fortune 500 companies to relocate their headquarters to DFW have all come from California.

Dallas, in particular, is leading the nation in terms of relocation. The top reasons why people are moving to Dallas are:

Job Market

Finding employment is much easier in Dallas. Many of these jobs pay above the national average. Dallas is home to the top Fortune 500 companies.

Low Cost of Living

Unlike most large cosmopolitan cities, Dallas still has a relatively lower cost of living. Rent is lower compared to New York City and San Francisco.

Affordable Housing and Land

The land supply is still abundant, and Texas has fewer regulations. It’s easy to get a building permit for the construction of your home. Existing homes are also more affordable than other large cities throughout the United States.

Low Taxes

Texas is one of the few states in the US where there is no personal state income tax. There are plenty of business tax incentives, as well. With the lower cost of living, higher salaries, and less income tax, you can stretch out more of your paycheck!

This list is primarily for financial reasons, but there are plenty more reasons why many people are relocating to DFW. The area is rich in diversity and culture, boasts beautiful weather all year long, and has great schools and universities. DFW is a great place to raise a family.

DFW has become the home to several corporate headquarters and large operations centers in recent years. Companies such as Charles Schwab, Deloitte, JP Morgan Chase, Liberty Mutual, State Farm, McKesson, and Toyota recently relocated or significantly expanded their operations there. These companies enjoy the lowest corporate tax rate in the US, leading to increased corporate profits of 5-7%.

DFW Housing Market and What’s Trending For 2022?

The nationwide housing forecast for 2022 will see homebuyers having a better chance of finding a home. However, there will still be stiff competition. Suburbs will still be the preferred location for housing. Millennials are ready to buy now, especially as many are relocating to DFW!

The COVID-19 pandemic created more flexibility in the workplace, with many offices allowing remote work or hybrid schedules. This caused a shift in more people relocating to the suburbs rather than the city, as they no longer need to be close to the office. The home-buying demand will remain strong despite the ongoing pandemic and economic downturn.

While existing home inventory will remain low due to population increase, builders are ready for new construction. The DFW economy will remain stable and thriving due to low unemployment rates and so many job opportunities as more corporations relocate there.

Get in touch with a realtor who knows the DFW housing market and will assist you whether you are buying or selling this year.

Selling Your Home During The Holidays – Why It’s A Good Thing

It’s time to sell your home, but the holiday season is coming up. You might think it’s a terrible time to list your home. People are busy with holiday prepping and planning to buy a house. But there are quite a few reasons why selling during the holidays is actually a GOOD thing!

Winter Months Have Lower Housing Inventory

Most people wait until the spring to list their homes for sale, which increases housing inventory as the weather warms up. So, there is not much competition if you list your home during the winter months, particularly around the holidays. Serious home buyers won’t have as many homes to choose from. This can work to your advantage! You may even be able to score a higher asking price!

Also, if you have someone interested in touring your home between Thanksgiving and New Year’s, chances are they are truly a serious buyer on a time crunch. If your home attracts a serious buyer, you may be able to sell your home quickly!

End-Of-Year Tax Breaks And Job Transfers

Many people don’t think about the end-of-year job transfers when they delay listing their homes during the winter months. People on a deadline to move for a new job transfer may be serious buyers ready to purchase during the holiday winter months.

Did you know that buyers can deduct their mortgage interest, property taxes, and the interest costs of their loans if the sale closes on or before December 31st? A smart buyer may be house hunting during the holidays to reduce their property tax bill!

Moving Day

Another advantage of selling your home during the holidays is that you may have more time for packing and moving. With kids on a long winter break, time off for the holidays, you and your buyer may have that advantage of the perfect timing for moving day.

Tips For Selling Your Home During The Holiday

If you’ve decided to list your home for sale during the holiday season, HGTV has some great tips for you.

Festive neighborhoods and cheerfully decorated homes can be inviting for potential buyers. While you don’t want to overdo it on the holiday decor, you can play this to your advantage. Show those potential buyers what a beautiful home they can have for entertaining. Have a fire going, and leave beverages and cookies for your open house. Simmer some apple cider with mulling spices on the stove before showings to make your home smell deliciously inviting. Display wintery centerpieces made from pine codes and evergreens with candles. Consider hiring a professional home staging service to make your home look its best with a flair of holiday cheer!

Hiring a listing agent can help you price the home to sell and target those buyers who are on a deadline and motivated to purchase quickly. You can also create a video tour of your home and take professional real estate photos to post online. During the winter months, buyers may not want to take physical tours but opt for virtual tours when house-hunting. If you live in an area where snow is on the ground and your curb appeal is lacking, be sure to post some photos of your home during the spring and summer months when your flowers are in bloom.

Ready, Get Set, SELL

If you are ready to sell now, why not give it a shot? You will face less competition, find motivated buyers, and maybe even have a faster sale at a higher asking price! If your house doesn’t sell during the holiday, just remember that the new year is right around the corner!

If you are a seller in the DFW area and have questions about the process, contact us for more tips!

The Home Inspection Process And Why Buyers Should Have One

Buying a home is most likely the biggest investment you will make in your life. When you are about to drop a lot of money, you want to ensure you are getting your money’s worth, right? Often when we are about to make a high-cost purchase, we do some research before buying. We might even look at reviews, depending on what the product is. When buying a home, a necessary step is the home inspection process.

The Home Inspection Process

When closing a home sale, the buyer typically hires a home inspector to come to the house to perform a visible inspection. The purpose of this is to make sure the home complies with the state’s standards of health and safety or to identify mechanical issues. One of the benefits of working with a real estate agent is assisting the buyer with the home inspection process.

A buyer’s inspection occurs after the buyer has made an offer on the home and before the closing of the sale. Depending on the home inspection results, the buyer may be able to renegotiate their offer or request repairs if they find certain issues. Some sellers choose to get their homes inspected as they begin to prepare their houses for sale. Doing so allows them to fix any potential issues beforehand and save time in the closing process.

As a buyer, you may have a lot of questions about the home inspection process. You may have your heart set on a home and wonder what will happen if the home inspection process reveals too many problems with the house. You may be concerned about the inspection cost when you are already about to spend a lot of money on your new home. Is it okay to skip the home inspection process if the house is in newer condition or looks great when you and your realtor tour the home? These are all valid questions and concerns. However, skipping the home inspection may not be the wisest decision and could potentially cost you a lot more money in the long run.

Risks Of Skipping The Home Inspection Process

You might think you have a better chance of winning the bid on your dream home if you skip the home inspection. Experts agree this could be playing with fire. There are many risks of skipping the home inspection, such as unknown safety hazards you may not see when you tour the home. Common things home inspectors look for are:

Water damage
Structural issues
An old or damaged roof
Damaged electrical system
Plumbing problems
Insect and pest infestations
Issues with the HVAC system

Safety Issues To Consider

The home you are about to buy could have unknown safety issues such as fire hazards and carbon monoxide hazards, too. A common finding during the home inspection is animal nests blocking the chimney on the roof, which can cause carbon monoxide to leak into the home slowly. Most people don’t get up on the roof and inspect the chimney during the home tour.

Home Inspection Process As A Negotiating Tool

Some other reasons you shouldn’t skip the home inspection are that it can be a negotiation tool. It’s a way of protecting your assets. You may not be aware of future costs, so it’s best to find out before you sign the contract. Be prepared that the home inspection could reveal some deal-breakers, especially if the seller is unwilling to repair the issues or drop the price.

The Benefits Of A Home Inspection

There are many reasons why you should get a home inspection. The number one benefit of having a home inspection before you close on a home is the overall cost savings. If the inspector finds issues that need repairing, it can save you money down the road by asking the seller to do the repairs to complete the home purchase. Most sellers will fix issues to ensure the home is safe, and they want to sell it quickly, and for the best price they can get. If they are unwilling or unable to handle the repairs themselves, it may save you money if you can renegotiate a lower price on the home to offset the costs of the necessary repairs.

As a buyer, you want to feel confident about the home purchase. The home inspection will help you plan ahead and know what maintenance is needed eventually. In most cases, the inspector will be able to look at the condition of the roof and HVAC system and let you know that they may need replacing sooner than later. Or they may provide the peace of mind that the house is in excellent condition, and other than regular home maintenance, you may have some time to save up for the big jobs later down the road.

If you are a buyer or seller in the DFW area and have questions about the home inspection process, contact us for tips!

Top 5 Reasons To Work With A Real Estate Agent When Purchasing A New Home

You’ve been saving up for a downpayment and getting your finances in order, and now you’re ready to purchase your new home! Do you have a real estate agent? You may have a lot of questions and know there is a lot that goes into the process of buying a new home. When you work with an experienced realtor the process will go much smoother for you. Your agent can answer all of your questions and walk you through each step of the home buying process. They’ll help protect your assets and ensure you get the very best value. After all, buying a home is the biggest financial investment you will make!

A Real Estate Agent Will Help You Shop For The Perfect Home

Once you have your mortgage loan pre-approval in place, you can start house-hunting. It’s necessary to have your loan pre-approval in place because some sellers won’t wait for you to get through the pre-qualification process after you make an offer on a home.

Your real estate agent will take the time to learn about what type of home you’re seeking and what preferences you have. They will ask questions about what your ideal home looks like to you, if you need to consider local schools, and what your work commute would be like. Your real estate agent can help you locate homes within your price range and meet your needs. In some cases, local real estate agents will have an inside scoop on homes that aren’t listed yet because of their resources in the industry.

Real estate agents also use the MLS listing service to find homes after they hit the market for sale. They check it often and immediately notify you when they find a new listing that may suit you. So you are always getting the first notice of new home listings. They can also see which homes are coming soon to the market.

Your Agent Will Be Your Home Tour Guide

As you look over the listings that your agent sends to you, let them know the ones that interest you the most. Your agent will coordinate with the listing agent of those properties and schedule a time for you to tour the property. They will do their homework to learn about the property and tour it with you.

An agent will have your best interest in mind and be on the lookout for anything about the home that may be a big expense to you later down the road. With that knowledge, they can many times negotiate a better deal for you if you choose to put in an offer. This is also an opportunity for your agent to know your tastes even more as you tour homes together and vocalize what you like and dislike about the properties. An experienced real estate agent is like a personal shopper for your new home!

Your Source For All Of Your Questions

When touring the homes together, your agent will answer any questions you may have about the property and provide their thoughts about the property based on their experience. Your agent will also correspond with the seller’s agent or the seller directly (if for sale by owner) to ask questions you might not know to ask or if they see anything during the home tour that needs further explanation. They may be able to find out more about the seller’s circumstances, find out questions about the taxes and utilities, and other items that you might wonder about.

The Pricing Consultation Is Handled For You

Once you have found a home you want to put an offer on, your agent will ask the listing agent if there are any disclosures on the property. This includes any potential issues the seller has to disclose to potential buyers that they may not advertise immediately.

These issues could impact the pricing or change your desire to buy the home. Then, your agent will run a comparative market analysis (CMA) to determine an appropriate offering price. This CMA is based on similar properties that have recently been sold in the area. Next, your agent will recommend you make the particular offer based on the analysis and considerations for the property.

Your Real Estate Agent Negotiates For You

After making an offer on your behalf, your agent will negotiate the price and terms. They will inform you if there is a counteroffer from the seller. If there is a counteroffer, they’ll make a recommendation to accept or amend the offer further. Your agent will also inform you of any possible ways you can make your offer more competitive to the seller, such as eliminating contingencies or adjusting the closing date. Once your offer is accepted, your agent will draft the contracts and help you seal the deal!

The Closing

Your real estate agent isn’t finished working with you yet! The closing of the property is a whole other step in the home buying process. Closing day can be a little scary for the first-time homebuyer. There are many financial and legal documents to sign. Your agent will be there with you for this process as well. Prior to closing day, you may work with other professionals such as home inspectors or real estate attorneys in order to expedite the closing process.

As you can see, your real estate agent will be there to assist you from start to finish in your journey to purchasing your new home. You can rely on their expertise and professionalism to help you every step of the way.

Talk to a realtor today to start searching for your dream home!

The 2021 Housing Supply Shortage – What Does It Mean For Sellers?

prototype of a house and blueprints — 3D rendering of a classical house with an unfinished part on top of blueprints

Whether you are a buyer or seller, the housing supply shortage impacts both ends of the real estate market. There is always the choice to buy new construction or an existing home for buyers, and both options have their own pros and cons. And with a housing shortage in effect, there are many more potential buyers out there than there are sellers. So what does this mean for sellers?

As a seller, you may have heard that the housing supply shortage is a good thing for you. It could mean that your home will get more offers. Whereas buyers who bid on an existing home may generally have more room to negotiate on price, the seller may have the upper hand now. However, this trend may not stick around. The real estate market may have its ebbs and flows, but it’s not going anywhere. There is always a need for new homes as the population increases and more children become adults who will need a home to buy.

Why Is There A Housing Supply Shortage?

While the pandemic is partly the cause, the truth is that the shortage has been building for years. The pandemic did cause some sellers to hold off on putting their homes on the market due to the uncertainty of the economy. However, the real cause may be due to the long-term decline of the construction of single-family homes.

Trending Upward

While it could take years for the housing construction industry to catch up, we are already starting to see an increase in new construction as home builders ramp up construction based on demand. The mortgage rates are still low, so buyers still want to take advantage of that while they can. However, new construction homes can’t bridge the gap all on their own. New construction can only do so much to ease the short-term supply shortage. More existing single-family homes must come on the market to help with this demand.

What It Means For Sellers

So what does this mean for sellers now? It means your existing home is needed and highly valued in the real estate market. Buyers still want to take advantage of those low mortgage rates while they still can. And with a housing supply shortage of available homes for sale, your home may get a lot of offers and even be subject to a bidding war! You may have the advantage of turning down negotiations in price or upgrades if you choose.

So what does this mean for sellers now? It means your existing home is needed and highly valued in the real estate market. Buyers still want to take advantage of those low mortgage rates while they still can. And with a shortage of available homes for sale, your home may get a lot of offers and even be subject to a bidding war! You may have the advantage of turning down negotiations in price or upgrades if you choose.

Another bonus is homeowners can take advantage of the expected sustained growth of home prices to build on their equity. You can use your growing equity to make upgrades to your home to prepare for it to go on the market. Then, with the continued gap in the home supply shortage and buyer demand, you could sell your current home for a great price, then move into a better home!

A Look At The Dallas-Fort Worth Market

The DFW metroplex has been in great demand due to so many California transplants. Not only that, but many people are moving from New York and other states to join the great state of Texas. The DFW area is always in high demand as it’s the hub of many large corporations. Young professionals may be transferred to the area for promotions or general office reorganizations from their companies. With so many people moving to the area, the DFW metroplex will continue to be a sought-after location for buyers. If you’ve got an existing home to sell in the DFW area, you’ve got a great advantage!

Talk to a realtor today and make a plan for the best time to sell your home to take advantage of these seller advantages.

A Different Kind Of Summer – A Public Water Park Or Backyard Oasis?

While it’s been well over one year since the COVID-19 worldwide pandemic hit the DFW area, there was still a little uncertainty regarding summer travel and vacation plans. Although there has been great improvement and a somewhat return to life as we knew it, you may also feel a little apprehensive about using a public water park. As businesses have reopened, many people are eager to go out and enjoy being around people again. However, Texas is still looking out for our safety, so some health and safety regulations are still in place for local businesses.

Safety Measures of a Public Water Park

DFW has many indoor and outdoor public water parks to choose from, which reopened this year. There are still some safety measures in place, such as limited capacity. It’s recommended to buy tickets in advance online for this purpose. Additional safety measures may apply at the water parks, such as hand sanitizer stations and the sanitation of equipment. The CDC is not aware of any specific cases where the virus spread to people through public pools and water playgrounds. Check the website or call the facility prior to your trip to learn more about their specific regulations.

A Public Water Park Resort Experience

If you are traveling to Texas or around the state, you can stay at some of the state’s many hotels that feature a lazy river. These resorts are perfect for family reunions or a romantic getaway. For the ultimate resort experience, choose from hotels with luxurious pools and spas to relax your stress away.

Your Own Backyard Oasis

For those who prefer to have all of the fun of a resort in your own backyard, you have that option, too! The pandemic has changed the demand for the pool industry. The desire for creative backyard resort-style luxury pools with a lazy river is increasing. There is a lot of planning that goes into it, but these lazy river luxury pools truly are a trend, and can really increase the value of your home! Designers and installers can figure out how to best utilize the space to allow the pool of your dreams to fit perfectly in your backyard. For example, the lazy river can wind around the space like a moat. You can fill the island in between with a spa or lanai.

If You Dream It, They Can Build It

Close your eyes and imagine your favorite water park and resort-style pools you have visited. What features would you want in your own backyard pool? Can you picture your own luxury pool? How about a pool with a “beach entry” instead of steps for the ultimate tropical feel? You can add on a splash pad and water slide for the little ones, a swim-up bar for the adults. Be ready to entertain! Your backyard oasis may attract plenty of friends and family to bask in the sun with you.

Imagine floating peacefully in your own backyard lazy river. You can float right under the bridge that takes you to the island lanai, where your friends are taking in the views. A gentle waterfall and grotto can offer an escape from the sun. When you need a break, you simply swim up to your swim-up bar for a drink. You can literally spend the entire day with your family and friends in the pool. The kids will love your pool’s slide, grotto and waterfall, too. The adults can enjoy the swim-up bar and have food from your custom outdoor kitchen. Just be sure to stock up on extra sunscreen! With all of this fun, you may never want to leave your house again!

The Dallas Fort-Worth area has some pool designers and builders who are up on this trend. Claffey Pools has a portfolio of beautiful lazy river pools and outdoor living landscapes. Colleyville pool designer Mike Farley has an amazing gallery of some of his residential lazy river projects. He has been featured on HGTV’s “Cool Pools” and has won multiple awards. If you dream it, they can probably build it!

What does your dream luxury pool look like? Would you like a list of pool builders in DFW?