Buy Owner Blog

Less than three weeks are left until Election Day, and the topic on many Americans’ minds is the same: Who will be our next president, and what will he do for the economy, the housing crisis and the country in general? Recent news has made the nation aware of the very real problems at work, [...]

From presidential debates to news articles to conversations among neighbors, the same topic keeps emerging. It’s on everyone’s mind these days, and it’s only going to grow in importance: reduced energy costs and green living are the future. And that goes for real estate, too. If you own your own home, now is the time [...]

Arizona has more to offer than just the Grand Canyon! Its fall calendar is filled with endless activities! Whether you want to find the perfect pumpkin to place in your cacti garden, or you want definite Halloween plans to show off your killer costume, Arizona has it all! Between fests, sports, concerts and more, you [...]

A wise woman once said, “Don’t get me a diamond . . . get me a really big closet.” According to census data, Americans buy about 75% more clothes now than they did 10 years ago—a fact that has influenced designers, homebuilders and organizational gurus alike. These days, a closet is more than just storage [...]

If you’re selling your home, this list of 101 tips is definitely a must-read. In today’s slower market, it’s not enough to stick a sign in the front yard and continue life as usual. Buyers have more than enough homes to choose from, so sellers need to be proactive about getting their properties noticed.

Essentially, selling in a slow market is all about outshining the competition. Here are some specific tips, tricks and ideas to send you on your way:

1. Price accurately.
2. Be aware of market conditions.
3. Look at other for-sale homes within a half mile or less.
4. Look at other similar, recently sold (within the last three months) homes in the area.
5. Get a presale home inspection or appraisal.
6. Set an asking price that reflects an understanding of the current market. [...more...]

According to a recent CNBC.com article, today’s market conditions have prompted at least one real estate brokerage to act decisively. Coldwell Banker Real Estate has asked its sellers to lower their asking prices by 10% as an incentive to buyers. Based on this and the multitude of economic changes happening day by day, one thing is clear: [...]

  It’s one of the ultimate luxuries: a comfortable space in your own home that mimics the experience of your local movie theatre. All the customizations are up to you, as well as the movie selections, and the best part: you won’t have to worry about other people making noises or hushing you and your [...]

Keep the gentle breezes coming and let the sun shine bright in Houston this fall! Warm days and cooler nights allow you to spend some time outdoors with plenty of ease. There are also lots of indoor activities to enjoy, as well! Explore Houston (and the rest of the Lone Star state) and check out [...]