Buying a home is exciting, there’s no doubt about that! However, before you place an offer, you should take a deeper look at the neighborhood. What signs tell you a neighborhood isn’t the best? Watch out for these neighborhood red flags – you’ll be glad you did when it comes time to sell:
7 Neighborhood Red Flags
First, let’s focus on the actual neighborhood.
Too many homes are on the market
Take a drive around the neighborhood. Do you see a lot of “for sale” signs? If so, forget this neighborhood and move on. Neighborhoods with tons of “for sale” signs may point to illiquidity in the market and pricing pressure, which can be a risk for buyers. However, that isn’t always the case. Some families may be looking to cash in on rising home values. Others may be downsizing. Talk to your REALTOR® to try and get the real story!
There’s no available parking
Whether you are looking downtown or in a suburb, parking is a definite concern. While you may have a garage, there may not be space for guests. With that in mind, take a look around to see if there is street parking. There is nothing more frustrating than not having a spot for your friends and family to park.
Homes look too similar
Ever hear of a cookie-cutter neighborhood? These homes all look very similar. The homes looking similar isn’t the issue. The issue is whether or not you see some differentiating factors: decorative wreaths, garden art, etc. If every home looks exactly the same, the homeowner’s association may be too restrictive. This lack of creative freedom may not drive you crazy in the beginning, but the control could be too much to handle down the road.
Next door homes aren’t well-maintained
The condition of surrounding homes can be detrimental to the value of a home. Drive around and look at the properties to get a feel for how the neighbors take care of their property. If the neighborhood looks run down, it may not be a great place to buy.
Now, let’s take a look at some aspects surrounding the neighborhood.
It’s in an industrial area
Industrial areas are not very appealing. Take a drive around the surrounding areas of the neighborhood and look for strip malls, restaurants, boutiques and more. These nearby amenities are great for you when you own the home, and even better when it comes time to sell.
There are lots of empty storefronts nearby
Don’t simply look for storefronts, look to see if they are busy. Busy is a sign of a great area while vacant storefronts signal an area in decline.
Fewer students enrolling in the school district
Even if you don’t have kids, the school district matters. The sign of a great school district and area is an increasing or steady enrollment of students. Shrinking class sizes are a red flag and signal the school may not be a great option for your children.
Bottom line? Take a drive around the neighborhood and think about the home’s resale value before you buy. The above neighborhood red flags could be detrimental to your investment.
Do you have any questions about buying in the Central Texas area? Consider us your local resource!
As the weather heats up in the Central Texas area, keep in mind there are ways to reduce the cost of that hefty summer energy bill headed your way. These energy-efficient tips should help save you money this summer:
- Washing your clothes in cold water could save you up to $63 a year.
- Install a Nest Thermostat to save nearly 10 percent on heating and cooling costs.
- Turn off all lights, appliances and electronics you are not using. A power strip is an easy way to help you turn off multiple items at once. Not only will this save money on electricity, but it will likely also decrease the amount of heat released in your home.
- Replace your current light bulbs with an energy-efficient option. These not only last longer, but they also reduce your energy by about 30 to 80 percent. Energy-efficient options include halogen incandescent, CFLs and LEDs.
- The ENERGY STAR label, placed on a wide range of consumer products by the government, can save you up to 30 percent on your electricity bills. Look for this sticker when shopping for light bulbs, appliances, etc.
- Save money on your water bill by installing low-flow faucets and showerheads.
- Change your air filter to ensure easy flow and less strain on your air conditioner. The dirtier the filter, the harder the A/C has to work.
- Set your water heater to 130 degrees Fahrenheit and wrap the storage tank in a specially-designed blanket to retain the heat.
- Buy window shades and blinds. Close them during the summer months to keep the hot sun rays out – keeping the home cooler – and open them up in the winter to bring in the warm rays.
- Sealing air leaks and ensuring proper insulation can save you up to 20 percent on your heating and cooling bills.
How do you know where you can save money? Contact a local professional in your area to come out and perform an energy audit. This evaluation will show you the inefficiencies and wasted energy in your home. These professionals typically charge by square footage or by the hour. With this information in hand, you are now well on your way to decreasing your energy bill and footprint this summer.
Have questions about these energy-efficient tips? Looking for a professional to come out and evaluate your home? Give us a call. We would be more than happy to connect you with an experienced and reliable professional in the Central Texas area.
With homes flying off the market for top-dollar value and little-to-no inventory, one thing is certain about the real estate market: we are in a seller’s market. In addition to the rising home values, rent prices are also increasing – causing more people to decide to buy a home. While this may sound like a good thing, the increase in traffic and low inventory of homes available is not boding well for buyers. Why? To put it simply, they don’t have enough time to find and make an offer on a home they like. How do you compete in Central Texas’ hot market? Here are five tips to help you buy a home in our competitive market:
Get Loan Pre-Approval
Unless you are paying in cash, you are going to need to take out a loan to buy a home. To receive loan approval, a lender needs to look at your credit, debt, assets and more. Now, if you want to be competitive in a tight market, pay attention! Before you even begin searching for homes, you should visit a lender and receive pre-approval. What does this mean? Basically, it means that a lender has examined your financial situation and determined how much mortgage you can afford. DO NOT start viewing homes until you have this letter in hand. Why? To a seller, this pre-approval letter shows that you are a serious buyer and you can financially close the home. If you walk into a situation without this letter, a seller may pass you up for another buyer.
Avoid Contingencies
While contingencies can protect you as a buyer, they will more than likely place your offer at the bottom of the pile. This is a problem if you are buying in a competitive market. If you want your offer at the top of the stack, ensure your offer is appealing to the seller – i.e., no contingencies.
Make a Strong Offer
In a normal market, submitting an offer below list price is realistic. Even then, you have to be practical with your offer as offering 10 percent below the asking price will quickly turn off the seller. However, this changes even more in a competitive market. Trusting an experienced real estate agent is in your best interests in this situation.
Gather Your Best Down Payment
While the average down payment is around 7.6 percent of the median sale price, according to ATTOM Data Solutions, it is advisable to submit a larger down payment. How come? Sellers are more likely to accept an offer with a more substantial down payment. To a seller, this signals the buyer is more likely to qualify for a mortgage.
Look for a Hidden Gem
Turn-key homes are generally in higher demand than homes that require renovations. With this in mind, a home that doesn’t include everything on your wish list may come with less competition and a lower selling price. This home, while requiring renovations, could be customized into your dream home. Just one thing here: don’t pick a home that needs too many improvements. Why? It may end up costing you more than you saved – housing code regulations, foundation problems, etc.
In general, it is important to search for ways to show you are a serious buyer – especially in a competitive market. A buyer with a pre-approval letter, a substantial down payment and more, are more appealing to a home seller and make you more competitive.
Do you have any questions about buying a home in the Central Texas area? Contact us today!
While there are always countless events to enjoy within the greater Austin area, there are also some great options just a short drive away. Head out for a day trip, or spend the whole weekend, at one of these six Hill Country holiday events:
Hill Country Holiday Events
Marble Falls’ Walkway of Lights
November 17 to January 1
Located just a short drive from Georgetown is Marble Falls’ Walkway of Lights. Gaze upon more than two million dazzling lights at Lakeside Park on the Colorado River. At the conclusion of the 30-minute, on average, trail, visitors can snap pictures with Santa. However, be aware Santa is only available on weekends and holidays.
Johnson City’s Lights Spectacular
November 24 to January 1
Head out to the home of president LBJ and enjoy a dazzling light display of more than one million LED lights adorning the local landmarks. But, that’s not it. Each weekend also offers other holiday fun – chuck wagon food court, living nativity performances and carriage rides.
Wimberley’s Holiday Trail of Lights
November 25 to December 28
Spanning eight acres, Wimberley’s Trail of Lights is truly a light display to behold. Enjoy more than 100 light displays, holiday concessions and quality time with the family at this free event (donations appreciated).
Boerne’s Christmas Light Fest
Thanksgiving to New Year’s Eve
View the lights of the season from the comfort of your car at Boerne’s drive-thru Christmas Light Fest. Cost of admission is $27 per vehicle. Holiday festivities continue at Santa’s Village, with holiday refreshments, and $15 hayrides, cruising through two miles of more than two million lights.
Burnet’s Main Street Bethlehem
December 1-3 & 8-10
Travel back in time to the ancient city of Bethlehem at Burnet’s Annual Main Street Bethlehem event. At this old-time holiday affair, you’ll wander along the narrow streets of Bethlehem and experience a busy marketplace, Roman soldiers, beggars, livestock and the cave where Mary and Joseph have taken shelter.
New Braunfels’ Wassailfest
December 7
Toast to the holiday season with a glass of wassail, hot mulled cider, at New Braunfels’ Wassailfest. On Thursday, December 7 from 6 to 9 p.m. you and your loved ones can enjoy free samples of the event’s namesake, wassail, plus food, music, shopping and holiday lights. Sip on one of the signature drinks of the season while shopping for this year’s holiday gifts.
Grab your family or significant other and enjoy all the season has to offer at these Hill Country holiday events!
Do you have any questions about the Central Texas area? Give us a call. We love our community and would be honored to answer any questions you may have.
As the Central Texas region transitions to fall, the change of season brings cooling temperatures, changing leaves, pumpkin patches, autumn-themed events and festivals, football and more. Are you ready for the upcoming season? For those of you looking for something to add to your calendar this fall, here’s a look at some Central Texas fall events and festivals happening this season:
September
1-3
Central Texas State Fair
Belton, TX
23 – 24
Old Pecan Street Festival
Sixth Street Austin
30
AustOberfest
Austin Saengerrunde
30
Texas Craft Brewers Festival
Fiesta Gardens
30
Georgetown Wine and Music Festival
Georgetown Town Square
October
6-15
Austin City Limits Music Festival
Zilker Park
13-14 & 27-28
Ghosts of the Georgetown Square Tours
Georgetown Town Square
14
Oktoberfest
German Free School
26
Halloween Festival
Georgetown Community Center
28
Cedar Park Arts and Crafts Festival
Recreation Center
28
Round Rock Dia de los Muertos Procession and Festival
Centennial Plaza
28
Cedar Park’s Fable Fest
Elizabeth Milburn Park
29
Boo Bash
Georgetown Town Square
TBD
The Great Pumpkin Festival
St. Richards Episcopal Church, Round Rock
31
Trunk-or-Treat
Parking Lot between Lowe’s and Kohl’s in Leander
31
Halloween in the Hall
Cedar Park City Hall
TBD
Fall Fun Festival
Old Settlers Park
November
3-12
Wurstfest
Landa Park, New Braunfels
4-5
Austin Celtic Festival
Fiesta Gardens
5
Texas Monthly BBQ Festival
City Terrace at The Long Center
6 – 8
Fun Fun Fun Fest
Auditorium Shores
10 – 12
Sound on Sound Festival
Sherwood Forest
11
Veterans Memorial Parade and Ceremony
Veterans Memorial Park
23
Turkey Trot
The Long Center
24
Lighting the Square
Georgetown Town Square
Click here for a printable PDF.
Have a festive and fun fall season at these Central Texas fall events and festivals.
Do you have any questions about the greater Austin area or beyond? We specialize in the Williamson County communities and would be honored to help you in any way we can.
How do you plan to celebrate America this Independence Day? If you don’t already have plans, here are some of the best red, white and blue events happening around Central Texas this Fourth of July:
Round Rock’s Frontier Days Celebration
- Location: Main Street and Old Settlers Park
- FREE to the public. Frontier Days, Round Rock’s Fourth of July Celebration, features a parade, fireworks, jalapeno pepper eating contest, carnival rides and more!
- Event Schedule:
- Parade at 10 a.m. on Main Street
- Frontier Days at noon at Old Settlers Park
Sertoma’s Annual 4th of July Family Celebration
- Location: San Gabriel Park
- FREE To the public.
- Event schedule:
- 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. – 60 arts and crafts booths, 20 food vendors, kiddie rides, bounce houses, games and a petting zoo. The “Hometown Parade” starts at the low water crossing on Morrow Street and ends at the Gazebo.
- 12 to 9:30 p.m. – Gazebo entertainment featuring some of the best local and Central Texas talents.
- 9:30 p.m. – “Fabulous Fireworks Finale” by GWPyro.
H-E-B Symphony: 4th of July Concert & Fireworks
- Location: Vic Mathias Shores (Auditorium Shores)
- The event is free and open to the public.
- Fantastic event complete with a firework display over the city skyline backed by symphonic patriotic classics.
- The Austin Symphony Orchestra performs at 8:30 p.m., followed by fireworks around 9:30 p.m.
- Location: Circuit of the Americas
- Fantastic lineup of live music returns to COTA for the third year – doors open at 11 a.m. and tickets are $39.50 -$550.
Leander’s Liberty Fest Ft. Josh Abbott Band
- Location: US 183A South between San Gabriel Pkwy & Hero Way
- The family-friendly event features live music, food and craft vendors, children’s activities and a spectacular firework display. Here is the event schedule:
- 4:30 p.m. – Gates open
- 5-10 p.m. – Activities and vendors
- 6-10 p.m. – Live music
- 9-10 p.m. – Fireworks by Pyrotecnico
Austin is no stranger to great events. Click here for more red, white and blue events around the Austin area this 4th of July.
Contact us for any questions you have about the Central Texas area; we would be happy to help!
We wish everyone a patriotic 4th of July!
For those of you who don’t already know, summer in Texas is long and HOT! Are you looking for a way to cool off? If so, the area’s pools and lakes may be your best option. Living in the area for several years, we have pinpointed some of our favorite swimming destinations. Below is our list of the Top 5 Central Texas swimming holes to beat the heat this summer, plus some of Northwest Austin’s top public pools:
Central Texas Swimming Holes
Located along the South Fork of the San Gabriel River in Georgetown, Blue Hole Park’s swimming area offers a great respite from the unrelenting heat of Texas. As the swimming zone is part of the San Gabriel River, the water here runs a bit warmer than other swimming holes in the area. It’s broad swimming area, numerous picnic tables, clean bathroom facilities, minimal crowds and proximity to Georgetown’s town square (six blocks to be exact) all make this swimming hole one of the top destinations in the area to beat the scorching heat of summer.
Location: 100 Blue Hole Park, Georgetown, TX 78626
The Deep Eddy Pool is the oldest and most historic swimming pool in Texas featuring a bathhouse built during the Depression era by the Works Progress Administration. The site, located on the Colorado River, was originally used as a swimming hole, because of the cold springs that rose from the river banks, became a resort, featuring a bathhouse, in the 1920s, and is now a popular swimming pool owned by the City of Austin. The shallow end, cool water, and massive cottonwood trees make this spot a family favorite! A small fee is required for admittance to the pool. Click here for more information.
Location: 401 Deep Eddy Ave., Austin, TX 78703
Three acres in size, Barton Springs Pool is fed from underground water and is a refreshing 68 degrees year-round (on average). With the beautiful trees, cold and clear water, and diving board, this is certainly a favorite among Austinites! Bring a mask and snorkel to explore all the fish life. Moss makes the bottom a bit slippery for young children and non-swimmers. Note nominal charge for admittance.
Location: Located in Zilker Park, 2201 Barton Springs, Austin, TX 78704
Formed by thousands of years of water erosion, Hamilton Pool is one of the most unique swimming and hiking destinations in the Austin area. Hamilton Pool is located 23 miles west of Austin and features a 50-foot waterfall, picnic tables, hiking trails, and restrooms. Reservations are now required to enter Hamilton Pool from May 1, 2017, to September 30, 2017 – click here to reserve your entrance to the pool.
Location: 24300 Hamilton Pool Rd., Dripping Springs, TX 78620
Running directly through downtown Austin, Lady Bird Lake is an outdoor haven for all walks of Austin residents. Austinites love to use the 10-mile trail around the lake to get their daily exercise. In the summer months, rent kayaks, canoes, or paddle boards to enjoy life on the lake with unbeatable views of the Austin skyline.
Northwest Austin Public Pools
River Ridge Pool
- 414 S Ridge Circle, Georgetown, TX 78628
Williams Drive Pool
- 3201 Williams Drive, Georgetown, TX 78628
Block House Swimming Pool Apac
- 3100 N Blockhouse Dr., Leander, TX 78641
Elizabeth Milburn Park and Pool
- 1901 Sun Chase Blvd., Cedar Park, TX 78613
Sendero Springs Pool
- 4203 Pasada Ln., Round Rock, TX 78681
Creekside Park & Pool
- 4300 Brushy Creek Rd., Round Rock, TX 78681
Lake Creek Pool
- 800 Deerfoot Drive, Round Rock, TX 78664
Cat Hollow Pool
- 8600 O’Connor Drive, Round Rock, TX 78681
Veteran’s Memorial Pool
- 2525 W New Hope Drive, Cedar Park, TX 78613
Dive into any one of these destinations for a crisp and refreshing Central Texas summer!
Do you have any questions about Northwest Austin and beyond? Give us a call; we would be happy to answer any questions you may have about these great communities!