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Fort Bend County, TX Real Estate News

By Rosie Crow, Exceeding Expectations. Delivering Results
(Serving Sugar Land, Richmond, Rosenberg, Missouri City)
Today, I want to discuss something that’s probably on the minds of a lot of folks looking to buy a home: those pesky high mortgage interest rates that just won’t quit.I mean, seriously, they’ve shot up to around 7 percent! Ouch, right? It can feel pretty daunting for many homebuyers out there. But here’s the deal: while it might seem like a tough nut to crack, it’s important to remember that this challenge isn’t insurmountable.There are several things you can do to navigate around the high interest rates so you can achieve home ownership and increase your chances of securing a favorable interest rate.First step: Improve your FICO score!  Your credit score plays a pivotal role in determining the interest rate lenders offer you. A higher credit score generally translates to a lower intere...
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By Rosie Crow, Exceeding Expectations. Delivering Results
(Serving Sugar Land, Richmond, Rosenberg, Missouri City)
StoneCreek Estates is a stunning 500-acre master-planned community in Rosenberg. The neighborhood was developed in 2016 and the community is still growing. If you are looking for new construction homes zoned to excellent schools in the Lamar Consolidated School District, come check out StoneCreek.This newer community which is in the ETJ of Rosenberg offers easy access to U.S. 59 and the Grand Parkway and is within minutes from Brazos Town Center. StoneCreek residents are also minutes away from shopping, dining and entertainment at Sugar Land Town Square, about a 10-minute drive away. Price Range:Homes prices range from $300,000 to $700,000. On average, these homes offer 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms and a median living space of 3,100 square feet. Additionally, they include two-car garages and...
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By Rosie Crow, Exceeding Expectations. Delivering Results
(Serving Sugar Land, Richmond, Rosenberg, Missouri City)
When buying a new home, two words come to mind: energy efficiency.One of the best ways to learn about energy-efficient homes is to explore the builder's model homes. These impressive examples of innovative construction techniques and green technologies provide a valuable crash course in energy efficiency. There you can find visual displays (like this one) in their model homes. Each visit to a model home is a chance to stay updated on the latest trends in new home construction.Recently, I visited several model homes in the community of Stonecreek Estates in Rosenberg. (BTW, the neighborhood has three builders offering a wide array of floor plans and upgrade options to choose from!)When I was there, the sales representative asked me, "When you compare these two displays, what stands out t...
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By Rosie Crow, Exceeding Expectations. Delivering Results
(Serving Sugar Land, Richmond, Rosenberg, Missouri City)
Sienna is a sprawling 10,000-acre master-planned community in Missouri City just 6 miles south of U.S. 59 and Highway 6. Sienna, created by Johnson Development in 1998, offers waterfront and golf course homes, new construction homes, and homes in gated and non-gated communities.Whether you’re looking for a charming starter home or a luxurious estate, Sienna has something for everyone. Nestled in a community overflowing with recreational amenities, Sienna has it all. Top Reasons to Move to Sienna in Missouri CityAffordability and Diverse Price Ranges: Sienna offers a wide range of housing options and prices to suit your budget and preferences. Prices range from the mid $200Ks to over $1 million, ensuring every homebuyer finds their dream home within their desired price range. Sienna has ...
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By Rosie Crow, Exceeding Expectations. Delivering Results
(Serving Sugar Land, Richmond, Rosenberg, Missouri City)
Avalon, Sugar Land is a beautiful waterfront community comprised of five subdivisions located off of Commonwealth Boulevard just minutes away from Highway 6 and U.S. 59.With more than 70 acres of lakes, water is the theme and inspiration for this 427-acre master-planned community developed by Monarch Development of Texas.Each subdivision in Avalon has its own price range, property taxes, and HOA annual dues. Enclave at Waters of Avalon (72 homes) Gardens of Avalon (191 homes) Meadows of Avalon (118 homes) Villages of Avalon (295 homes) Waters of Avalon (120 homes) Price Range:Homes in Avalon start in the mid $400,000s and extend beyond $1 million. Single-family homes and townhomes in Avalon Sugar land were built between 1995 and 2005.  Homes range in size from 2,300 square feet to well ...
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By Shayne Stone, "Your Rock Solid Choice Realtor"
(HomeSmart)
Are Home Prices Going Up or Down? That DependsMedia coverage about what's happening with home prices can be confusing. A large part of that is due to the type of data being used and what they're choosing to draw attention to. For home prices, there are two different methods used to compare home prices over different time periods: year-over-year (Y-O-Y) and month-over-month (M-O-M). Here's an explanation of each. Year-over-Year (Y-O-Y): This comparison measures the change in home prices from the same month or quarter in the previous year. For example, if you're comparing Y-O-Y home prices for April 2023, you would compare them to the home prices for April 2022. Y-O-Y comparisons focus on changes over a one-year period, providing a more comprehensive view of long-term trends. They are usu...
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By Rosie Crow, Exceeding Expectations. Delivering Results
(Serving Sugar Land, Richmond, Rosenberg, Missouri City)
If you've ever bought or sold a home, I am pretty sure you've heard the terms seller’s market, buyer's market and months of inventory, but understanding their significance can greatly impact your home buying and selling experience.In this blog, I'll explain what these terms mean and how they can influence the speed at which your home sells. By gaining a deeper understanding of the current market conditions and key indicators, you’ll be better equipped to make informed decisions and navigate the home buying and selling process with confidence.Months of Inventory: Understanding current market conditionsThere are two questions I am often asked when working with seller clients: What should I list my property for? How long will it take to sell? While there are a number of factors that can pl...
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By Rosie Crow, Exceeding Expectations. Delivering Results
(Serving Sugar Land, Richmond, Rosenberg, Missouri City)
First Colony Sugar Land is a 9,700-acre master planned community located at the intersection of U.S. 59 and Highway 6. Although the majority of First Colony is nestled within Sugar Land, there are specific areas of the community, primarily south of Dulles Avenue, that stretch into portions of neighboring Missouri City.The development of First Colony Sugar Land began in 1977. It is considered one of the oldest and more established neighborhoods in Sugar Land. Many of the homes were built in the 1980s and 1990s. First Colony is comprised of numerous subdivisions, each having its own price range, property tax rates, school zones and annual HOA fees. First Colony is zoned to excellent schools in Fort Bend ISD.One of the biggest advantages about living in First Colony Sugar Land is that it p...
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By Shayne Stone, "Your Rock Solid Choice Realtor"
(HomeSmart)
How to Choose the Best Kitchen FlooringThere are many options for kitchen flooring. If you plan to install kitchen flooring but are still decidingwhat material to choose, consider your lifestyle, personal preferences, and budget. For a large familywith pets, you may prefer durable, stain-resistant flooring and easy to clean. However, other choices maysuit you better if you are thinking of a particular design, comfort, or elegance and are not so limited by budget. Fortunately, you can have flooring that is both durable and design friendly. Among the many types of flooring available, popular materials are hardwood, vinyl, cork, tile, stone, concrete, and laminate. The following are descriptions of flooring types with their pros and cons to help you decide what best suits your family’s nee...
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By Rosie Crow, Exceeding Expectations. Delivering Results
(Serving Sugar Land, Richmond, Rosenberg, Missouri City)
Inflation is one of the significant factors that impact mortgage rates. Inflation usually leads to higher mortgage rates since it decreases the value of the U.S. dollar. When inflation goes up, mortgage rates also tend to increase. This means getting a mortgage loan to purchase a home can become more expensive as higher interest rates translate into higher monthly mortgage payments. But now, let's shift gears to brighter prospects! Shall we?If you are planning to buy a home later this year, you're probably wondering about the interest rate dance. Historic trends and market analysis suggest mortgage interest rates are poised to take a favorable turn in the upcoming months. This could mean more affordability and flexibility for those looking to buy a home. Here are three expert projection...
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By Shayne Stone, "Your Rock Solid Choice Realtor"
(HomeSmart)
Your Needs Matter More Than Todays Mortgage RatesIf you're thinking about selling your house right now, chances are its because something in your life has changed. And, while things like mortgage rates are a key part of your decision on what you'll buy next, its important to not lose sight of the reason you want to make a change in the first place.Its true mortgage rates have climbed from the record lows we saw in recent years, and that has an impact on affordability. With rates where they are right now, some homeowners are deciding they'll wait to sell because they dont want to move and have a higher mortgage rate on their next home. As Danielle Hale, Chief Economist at Realtor.com, explains:. . . homeowners who locked in a 30-year fixed rate in the 2-3% range don't necessarily want to...
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By Rosie Crow, Exceeding Expectations. Delivering Results
(Serving Sugar Land, Richmond, Rosenberg, Missouri City)
Tired of the hustle and bustle of big city life? Are you longing for a calmer and more tranquil place to call home? Well, look no further than Pecan Grove in Richmond. I lived in Pecan Grove for 12 years, and absolutely enjoyed it here.Pecan Grove is aptly named after its beautiful pecan groves that add a touch of natural serenity to the neighborhood. Surrounded by large pecan trees, Pecan Grove Plantation is a 1,400-acre master planned community located off of Plantation Drive and FM 359 and built around a 27-hole private golf course. The price range of homes in Pecan Grove Plantation varies from $200,000’s to $650,000, depending on where you live in the neighborhood. The Grove is an older subdivision where homes are priced between the $200,000 to mid $400,000. Most homes you'll find i...
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By Rosie Crow, Exceeding Expectations. Delivering Results
(Serving Sugar Land, Richmond, Rosenberg, Missouri City)
Greatwood is a charming golf-course community nestled on Sugar Land's southwest side, located just off U.S. 59 and the Grand Parkway.Spanning an impressive 2,050 acres, Greatwood comprises 29 distinct subdivisions, graced with serene lakes, inviting swimming pools, well-designed playgrounds, a meticulously maintained golf course, scenic walking trails and beautiful parks. This diverse array of amenities ensures there is truly something to suit everyone's preferences.Whether you're in the market for waterfront properties or golf course homes, there's a place to match your taste and budget in Greatwood. The landscapes are breathtaking, and on top of that, you are zoned to excellent performing schools.Curious about the price range in this neighborhood?Greatwood Sugar Land offers affordable...
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By Shayne Stone, "Your Rock Solid Choice Realtor"
(HomeSmart)
Can You Paint Vinyl Siding?Has your vinyl siding become worn, or do you no longer like the color? Are you wondering if you can paint over it instead of replacing it? The good news is you can paint vinyl siding; however, you will need to follow a specific set of instructions to preserve the quality of your siding. It’s important not to cut corners. You should hire a professional if you want to avoid undertaking the process. If you choose to paint the siding yourself, here are the following expert tips.Check for damage—If there is cracking, warping, loose, or broken pieces, painting will cause further damage. For instance, damage caused by wind, hail, or rocks leaves holes that painting siding cannot correct. Moisture, pests, mold, and nesting can still infest and cause problems. Painting...
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By Rosie Crow, Exceeding Expectations. Delivering Results
(Serving Sugar Land, Richmond, Rosenberg, Missouri City)
Elevate your home selling experience by harnessing the power of staging, which showcases the unique features of your property both indoors and outdoors. This strategic approach not only captivates a larger pool of potential buyers but also accelerates the selling process, ensuring optimal returns. Beyond setting the right market price, staging is a pivotal factor in securing a successful sale.Here's a perfect analogy.......Remember when you fell in love with the "one"? You felt an emotional connection with that person. And before you knew it, you were ready to take the next step: marriage.The same goes for buyers. Buyers need to feel emotionally connected to your home before they are ready to take the next step: the home purchase.  Buyers buy based on emotion (how they FEEL about the ho...
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By Rosie Crow, Exceeding Expectations. Delivering Results
(Serving Sugar Land, Richmond, Rosenberg, Missouri City)
In a world where energy efficiency ratings are attached to almost everything we buy from appliances with the ENERGY STAR symbol such as washers and dryers, to fuel economy ratings for cars, you might be wondering: Is there a way to measure the energy efficiency of an entire house? The answer is yes.It's called the HERS® Index and it looks like this. The HERS® Index stands for Home Energy Rating System. The rating system was created by the Residential Energy Services Network (RESNET) and serves as the national industry standard for evaluating a home's energy efficiency. The lower the number on the scale, the more energy efficient the home is. The higher the number on the scale, the less energy efficient the home is. Homes built in the 1970s have a HERS® Score of 130. Whereas a standard n...
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By Rosie Crow, Exceeding Expectations. Delivering Results
(Serving Sugar Land, Richmond, Rosenberg, Missouri City)
Nestled in the heart of Sugar Land, Telfair is a beautiful 2,018-acre master-planned community built in 2006 at the corner of University and Telfair boulevards. The neighborhood comprises 2,884 single-family homes built around 70 acres of lakes and numerous trails and walkways. With its numerous recreational amenities, beautiful parks and access to high-performing schools in Fort Bend ISD, Telfair truly has everything you need.What is the price range of homes in Telfair?The price range in Telfair vary, but generally, you can find homes there starting in the mid $400,000s to over $1 million, depending on where you reside in Telfair. The average size of homes is about 3,500 square feet, with an average of four bedrooms and three bathrooms. The average lot size is 9,423 sq ft.Most of the h...
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By Shayne Stone, "Your Rock Solid Choice Realtor"
(HomeSmart)
Should You Build a Deck or Patio?Adding space outside to enjoy warmer days can create fun and long-lasting memories. However, choosing between installing a deck or a patio can become overwhelming. There are many factors to consider before deciding. First, it is important to understand the key differences between the two. A deck is an elevated structure connected to your home’s first or second floor. It has a railing along the edge for safety and is typically made from wood, composite, or vinyl. Unlike a deck, a patio is built on the ground floor, either attached to the home or as a separate structure. They are comprised of concrete or bricks, as opposed to wood, making them durable and long-lasting.In addition to understanding the difference, you must decide which option best serves you...
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By Shayne Stone, "Your Rock Solid Choice Realtor"
(HomeSmart)
A Drop in Equity Doesn't Mean Low Equity You may see media coverage talking about a drop in homeowner equity. What's important to understand is that equity is tied closely to home values. So, when home prices appreciate, you can expect equity to grow. And when home prices decline, equity does too. Here's how this has played out recently. Home prices rose rapidly during the unicorn years. That gave homeowners a considerable equity boost. But those unicorn years couldn't last forever. The market had to moderate at some point, and that's what we saw last fall and winter. As home prices dropped slightly in the back half of 2022, equity was impacted. Based on the most recent report from CoreLogic, there was a 0.7% dip in homeowner equity over the last year. However, the headlines reporting o...
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By Rosie Crow, Exceeding Expectations. Delivering Results
(Serving Sugar Land, Richmond, Rosenberg, Missouri City)
Often times, buyers think "pre-approval" and "pre-qualification" are the same thing. I've seen this term being tossed around interchangeably. But the truth is, these terms are very different.Pre-qualification is based only on the information a borrower provides to the lender. The lender does not verify information about the borrower's assets, income and debts. The lender assumes that what he or she is being told is true. The pre-qualified loan amount is what you'd likely get approved for based only on the information you provide to the lender. An offer with a pre-qualification letter will not sit well with a seller because there’s no guarantee that the borrower will be able to obtain financing to purchase a home.Pre-approval is a much more involved process. The borrower completes a mort...
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By Rosie Crow, Exceeding Expectations. Delivering Results
(Serving Sugar Land, Richmond, Rosenberg, Missouri City)
Now that you've executed a sales contract with the sellers, it's time to get approved for a mortgage loan.This is the most time-consuming part of the transaction process. But, if you have all the paperwork together, the process should go smoothly. As a rule of thumb, it usually takes an average of 30 to 45 days to close a real estate sales transaction when financing is involved. There's a lot of back-and-forth communication between the underwriter and borrower during this entire process.Three Players in the Loan Approval Process Loan originator (or representative): This person collects the borrower’s loan application and other supporting documents to send to the loan processor.  The loan originator is your “go to” person during the mortgage approval process. The loan originator needs to...
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