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By Jerry Newman, Texas REALTOR, San Antonio Military Relocation
(Brown Realty, 210-789-4216,)
San Antonio’s 2026 MLK Day events span January 17–19, with the nation’s largest MLK March taking place on Monday, January 19, starting at 10 a.m. at Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Academy. Below is the full schedule so you can plan your weekend. Saturday, January 17, 2026 Freedom Bike Riders Fundraiser – 8:00 AM MLK Park (near Martin Luther King Park) MLK Youth Empowerment Summit – 11:00 AM–3:00 PM Boys & Girls Clubs Eastside Clubhouse Sunday, January 18, 2026 MLK Wreath-Laying Ceremony – 2:00 PM MLK Plaza 38th Annual Interfaith Worship Service – 4:30 PM Friendship Baptist Church Monday, January 19, 2026 — MLK Day MLK March (Largest in the Nation) Lineup: 7:30–10:00 AM Kickoff: 10:00 AM Starting Point: Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Academy, 3501 MLK Dr. Route: 2.75 miles along MLK Drive End Po...
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By Dorie Dillard Austin TX, NW Austin ~ Canyon Creek and Spicewood/Balcones
(Coldwell Banker Realty ~ 512.750.6899)
Welcome to 10304 Ember Glen Drive, a stately two-story brick home built by Scott Felder Homes and beautifully situated in the heart of Canyon Creek. With its striking curb appeal, swing-in two-car garage, and backdrop of a peaceful green buffer owned by the Canyon Creek HOA, this home blends classic architecture with tranquil surroundings. Just 4 houses away from prestigious Canyon Creek Elementary, it offers both convenience and connection to community.Step inside to discover 2,737 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space. Wood flooring and plantation shutters create a warm, elegant tone, while multiple living areas offer flexibility for both relaxation and entertainment. A see-thru fireplace connects the family room and private office/library, providing cozy ambiance for quie...
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By Associate Broker Falmouth MA Cape Cod Heath Coker, Heath Coker Berkshire Hathaway HS Robert Paul Prop
(https://teamcoker.robertpaul.com)
Tracking Interest in Your Real Estate ListingUse simple tools, track views, showings, and feedback when selling your own real estate. Numbers can calm nerves. Many sites and property portals show view counts, saves, and inquiry numbers. Some even send weekly reports. If you use your own website or landing page, " ... simple analytics can tell you how many people visit and from where," according to THE FSBO Manual. Watching these trends helps you separate feelings from facts.Create a small log for showings and feedback. Note the date, who came, and what they liked or did not like. If several buyers mention the same issue, like price or a needed repair, consider adjusting. If you get many online views but few showings, your photos or price may need work. Data turns vague worry into clear ...
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By Dorie Dillard Austin TX, NW Austin ~ Canyon Creek and Spicewood/Balcones
(Coldwell Banker Realty ~ 512.750.6899)
El Arroyo stands as an iconic Austin gem, renowned for crafting the finest hand-squeezed margaritas and serving up delectable Black Angus beef tacos, among a plethora of other Tex-Mex delights, since 1975!Situated at the corner of West 5th and Campbell, this local favorite boasts a quirky marquee that captures attention. Daily, the billboard transforms with a fresh pun, spanning the spectrum of wit and humor, making it a delightful fixture at the heart of Austin's culinary scene. The laughter doesn't stop there, they share these puns on Instagram, drawing in admirers like our very own Kathy Streib, and Debe Maxwell, CRS, is also in on the fun. In a world where a daily chuckle is a necessity, following El Arroyo's Instagram for the latest pun is a shared joy.Wishing you endless smiles! H...
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By Patricia Feager, Licensed to April 2027
(Referral Specialist - DFW FINE PROPERTIES)
Journal Entry for January 15, 2026 Just when you think it couldn't happen, it happened. I am thankful no one got hurt or in an accident. This afternoon a very large 18-wheeler semi-trailer truck decided to make an illegal U-Turn on an eight-lane Long Prairie Road. This is a major road in Flower Mound with four lanes coming and going. Each side had six lanes and two turning lanes. There was no traffic light. The truck driver used all eight lanes to make the U-turn. That means the driver had two steering wheels at the front, and four axles on the rear, along with double wheels on either side of the tandem axles.  I was several cars back in my little car and could not get the license number. The speed limit is 70 mph. I prayed drivers behind me would see the semi-truck making a U-turn with...
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By Brenda J. Andrew, Broker/REALTOR in N Houston & Corpus Christi
(Aqua Terra Real Estate, LLC.)
Top Five "Hidden Gems" about the Lake Conroe Area or Little known Places to Go!Everyone wants to go to Lake Conroe because of the Lake, Right?  I Agree 100%, The Lake IS the Main Selling Point of the Area, but let me tell you about a few more places you might want enjoy while you are here, if you have a chance!These are my Top Five Favorites, although this list can change at any time!1.  Conroe Rec Center - The Conroe Rec Center is absolutely the best kept secret in the area.  You don’t have to be a resident of Conroe to join this facility, but you do get better pricing if you are a resident. Other connecting areas just have to pay a little bit more, but the value for the money is undeniable.  They have work out facilities, swimming pools, water parks, pickle ball, basketball, team spor...
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By Patricia Feager, Licensed to April 2027
(Referral Specialist - DFW FINE PROPERTIES)
Journal Entry - January 15, 2026 When you can't have flowers in the garden, you can always have Claude Monet paintings. A few years ago, I had the pleasure of seeing an Impressionist exhibit featuring Claude Monet. The exhibit is something I will never forget. It was on a cold and chilly day. Winter that year seemed so cold and far away. By getting out of my comfortable chair I began to think of spring. It's on the strength of observationand reflection that one findsa way. So, we must dig and delveunceasingly. ---Claude MonetWhether you're thinking about redecorating, painting, or moving in 2026, this is a good time to make observations and decide on what is affordable and makes you happiest. Potential buyers can find a lot more online today that ten, twenty, thirty or more years ago. T...
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By Rosie Crow, Exceeding Expectations. Delivering Results
(Serving Sugar Land, Richmond, Rosenberg, Missouri City)
Looking for tips, local insights, or guidance on buying or selling a home? You’re in the right place. This hub brings together all my neighborhood spotlights, seller resources, and buyer resources in one convenient location.Each section is designed to help you explore communities, understand the selling process, and navigate your homebuying journey with confidence—so you can make informed decisions and feel empowered every step of the way.Neighborhood Profiles Exploring neighborhoods is one of the best ways to find the perfect place to call home. I’ve created a series of blogs highlighting different communities throughout Fort Bend County, with a focus on schools, amenities, lifestyle and housing options. These guides are designed to help buyers get a true feel for each area. Below are ...
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By Faye Y. Taylor, Country Living with City Convenience -Wilson Co TX
(StepStone Realty, LLC )
Discover Your  Texas Ranch.  Welcome to your very own spacious 2040 Sq Ft  home on over 21.14  ag exempt acres of treed landscape and 2 tanks with plenty of cross fencing!  Enter through a secure remote-controlled gate and enjoy a smooth, concrete and asphalt drive that leads you right to your beautiful new home.  Enjoy that gourmet kitchen which boasts generous granite island countertops and ample cabinet space and cabinets, perfect for cooking and entertaining.  Unwind in the luxurious jetted tub or refresh in the spa type shower. Enjoy evenings soaking in the inviting hot tub, surrounded by nature.  With plenty of rooms for everyone, the bonus room is ideal for a home office or hobby area. The spacious laundry room makes chores a breeze. Enjoy breathtaking views from your decks or me...
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By Associate Broker Falmouth MA Cape Cod Heath Coker, Heath Coker Berkshire Hathaway HS Robert Paul Prop
(https://teamcoker.robertpaul.com)
Using Lot Surveys and Plans to Sell Your HouseDo you have surveys, floor plans, or permits? These simple documents make your  listing stand out and give buyers confidence about your home, according to the FSBO Manual . Paperwork may not be exciting, but it can be powerful. If you have a property survey, floor plans, permits, warranties, or HOA documents, gather them in one place. Buyers searching “selling my home” are often worried about hidden problems or unclear lines. Clean documents help answer those worries before they grow.Floor plans help online buyers understand layout, especially when photos alone feel confusing. A survey can answer questions about fences, driveways, and lot lines. Permits and warranties show that work was done right and may still be covered. All of this suppor...
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By Patricia Feager, Licensed to April 2027
(Referral Specialist - DFW FINE PROPERTIES)
Journal Entry for January 13, 2025 A warm home begins with a warm heart. A warm heart enjoys the good company of warm and trusting friends. Surprising FactsFuzzy socks were introduced in the 1970's and became very popular in the 1980's thanks to new knitting techniques. Flashdance was filmed in late 1982 before being released in 1983.The oldest known slippers, were found in a cave, are around 10,000 years old, made from woven fabric with a toe pocket and thong. Ancient records from China show slippers were used as far back as 4700 BC. Early slippers featured symbols of dragons and were made with cotton and leather.Ancient Egyptians wore sandals, precursors to modern slippers made from papyrus and palm leaves found in some early tombs.Other ancient/early cultures wore woven fabric (rope ...
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By Dorie Dillard Austin TX, NW Austin ~ Canyon Creek and Spicewood/Balcones
(Coldwell Banker Realty ~ 512.750.6899)
“You have to love the person you're taking care of. If it's a stranger, then it's a job, but if it's your partner, that's my whole life.”— Jay LenoWhen I read this quote from Jay Leno, speaking about caring for his wife Mavis as she lives with advanced dementia, it stopped me in my tracks. His words capture something profound: the difference between duty and devotion, between obligation and love.Caregiving, at its heart, is an act of love. It’s showing up when it’s hard, staying present when the road is uncertain, and offering comfort simply because your heart is tied to another’s. It isn’t about recognition or reward, it’s about connection.As I continue my own cancer journey, this quote caused me to reflect deeply on the many dear family members and friends who have surrounded me with ...
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By Patricia Feager, Licensed to April 2027
(Referral Specialist - DFW FINE PROPERTIES)
Journal Entry for Monday 1/12/2026I woke up very early this morning. The first thought that came to my mind was that 2026 means I am not the only one who will be one year older. My house will also be one year older! So, I jumped out of bed and got to work asking Gemini ai to create an image for me to remind homeowners to take action to prevent house fires.Never Assume It Can't Happen to YouI survived several house fires, including a hotel fire. Each fire was tragic and traumatizing. May you never have to experience a building fire. Never put off doing something today, until tomorrow - for tomorrow may be too late. Action Items You Can Take the Sooner the BetterThe Action items in the image are a good start to take action. Heating and Air Conditioning systems should always be checked on ...
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By Dorie Dillard Austin TX, NW Austin ~ Canyon Creek and Spicewood/Balcones
(Coldwell Banker Realty ~ 512.750.6899)
As we wrap up 2025, the Canyon Creek real estate market tells a story of recalibration and resilience. While overall sales activity declined over the past two years, 2025 outperformed 2024 in total homes sold. At the same time, prices eased modestly, an expected adjustment following the historic highs of 2021 and 2022.What stood out most this year was buyer behavior. Today’s buyers are informed, deliberate, and decisive. When a home checked the right boxes, they acted quickly. This reinforces a key takeaway for sellers: success hinges on smart pricing, thoughtful preparation, and a strong understanding of how buyers are evaluating homes in today’s market.  Market Trends in Review: 2023–2025Canyon Creek’s market has continued to evolve, shaped by both local dynamics and broader economic ...
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By Patricia Feager, Licensed to April 2027
(Referral Specialist - DFW FINE PROPERTIES)
Journal for Sunday, 1/11/206To be clear, I'm no authoritarian on religious matters. Nor am I the sharpest or brightest color in a crayon box, but there are quotes we all find interesting. If it's something that resonates with you, it doesn't matter where the source came from, if it makes good sense, then maybe that's where we find our superpower. Could it be, our superpower is as old as ancient wisdom always has been?"Be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow tobecome angry." ---James 1:19 Throughout our life we learn to listen but often what we hear, is misunderstood. If not listening correctly occurs frequently, then listening to what other people say poorly, can result in bad outcomes due to: Misunderstood instructions. Misdirected steps in the process. Erroneous actions that make ...
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By Associate Broker Falmouth MA Cape Cod Heath Coker, Heath Coker Berkshire Hathaway HS Robert Paul Prop
(https://teamcoker.robertpaul.com)
Using Home Upgrades to Sell My FSBO FasterSelling your home by owner? Highlight recent upgrades and renovations so buyers instantly see value and feel good about your asking price. Recent upgrades or renovations will help you sell your home FSBO - if they were chosen correctly!Upgrades help buyers see why your price makes sense. Make a list of anything you have improved in the last few years: roof, windows, systems, kitchen, baths, flooring, and paint. Include the year and, if you still know it, the cost. Buyers searching “selling my home” often want move‑in ready spaces and lower future repairs. Your upgrades speak directly to those concerns.In your FSBO listing, weave upgrades into simple, clear sentences. For example, “New roof in 2022” or “Updated kitchen with stainless appliances.”...
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By Dorie Dillard Austin TX, NW Austin ~ Canyon Creek and Spicewood/Balcones
(Coldwell Banker Realty ~ 512.750.6899)
El Arroyo stands as an iconic Austin gem, renowned for crafting the finest hand-squeezed margaritas and serving up delectable Black Angus beef tacos, among a plethora of other Tex-Mex delights, since 1975!Situated at the corner of West 5th and Campbell, this local favorite boasts a quirky marquee that captures attention. Daily, the billboard transforms with a fresh pun, spanning the spectrum of wit and humor, making it a delightful fixture at the heart of Austin's culinary scene. The laughter doesn't stop there, they share these puns on Instagram, drawing in admirers like our very own Kathy Streib, and Debe Maxwell, CRS, is also in on the fun. In a world where a daily chuckle is a necessity, following El Arroyo's Instagram for the latest pun is a shared joy.Wishing you endless smiles! H...
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By Patricia Feager, Licensed to April 2027
(Referral Specialist - DFW FINE PROPERTIES)
Journaling for Friday, January 9 January is Mental Wellness Awareness Month, National Blood Donor Month, and Cervical Cancer Awareness Month. What can you do to make you or your loved ones safer, loved, and healthier in January?  Mental Wellness Awareness Month Do you make other people feel valued, respected through genuine attention, asking them questions without comparing your life experiences to theirs? Do you make it a habit to leave others a lasting, positive impression about who you are without making conversations all about you? Can you remember what Maya Angelo famously stated, "People will never forget how you made them feel." In 2023 in the USA, approximately 49, 316 people died by suicide. Approximately 48,800 people died in 2024 by suicide. Data for 2025 is not yet available...
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By Associate Broker Falmouth MA Cape Cod Heath Coker, Heath Coker Berkshire Hathaway HS Robert Paul Prop
(https://teamcoker.robertpaul.com)
Choosing How Buyers Contact You About Your FSBO is important.What is your preferred way to communicate with buyers and helpers?Communication can make or break your FSBO experience. Decide how you want buyers, inspectors, and attorneys to reach you. Some owners like text for speed. Others prefer email so there is a written record. Phone calls can feel more personal but may interrupt your day. There is no wrong answer, only the answer that fits your life.  BUT, make all your communications in one type - all text, or all email, or all calls, etc. This will allow you to keep all communication in one place.Once you choose, tell people clearly. Put your preferred contact method and time window in your listing. For example, “Text is best between 9 a.m. and 7 p.m.” This sets gentle boundaries a...
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By Patricia Feager, Licensed to April 2027
(Referral Specialist - DFW FINE PROPERTIES)
Journaling January 7, 2026Earliest Personal RecollectionsCurb appeal is a term that has become synonymous with the visual attractiveness of a property’s exterior, particularly as seen from the street. While today it is most often used in the context of real estate, the concept has a rich history that predates its popularization in the United States. This blog post explores how and when curb appeal originated, tracing its evolution from ancient traditions to its current role in property valuation and sales.Growing up in Chicago, the idea of curb appeal did not exist. Within the neighborhood were people who immigrated from Europe with multiple families who shared the building with separate flats for each family. There were many different styles of homes, but there were also similarities. ...
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Texas Real Estate Agents and Real Estate Professionals