Owning Your Home Helps You Build Wealth

By |2023-07-20T18:44:37-05:00July 20, 2023|Real Estate|

You may have heard some people say it’s better to rent than buy a home right now. But, even today, there are lots of good reasons to become a homeowner. One of them is that owning a home is typically viewed as a good long-term investment that helps your net worth grow over time. Homeownership Builds Wealth Regardless of Income Level You may be surprised to learn homeowners across various income levels have a much higher net worth than renters who make the same amount. Data from First American helps illustrate this point (see graph below): What makes wealth so much higher for homeowners? A recent article from Realtor.com says: “Homeownership has [...]

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6 Brilliant Garage Storage Ideas

By |2023-07-17T11:32:48-05:00July 17, 2023|Real Estate|

Be honest: Does your garage look like a junkyard? Don’t be embarrassed if it does, you’re definitely not alone. While garages are something most people want as part of their house, a lot of the time, they end up becoming storage units for knickknacks, tools, gardening gear, and equipment that you don’t want inside your home over the years. And more often than not, over time they become more of a cluttered mess than a clean space to park your car. However, they don’t have to be. The trick is to invest in a few organizational products and DIYs. Use [...]

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National Real Estate Market Update for 2023

By |2023-06-12T18:00:36-05:00June 12, 2023|Real Estate|

There’s an old adage in real estate: location, location, location. But ever since the Federal Reserve began its series of inflation-fighting interest rate hikes last year, a new mantra has emerged: mortgage rates, mortgage rates, mortgage rates. Higher rates had the immediate impact of dampening homebuyer affordability and demand. But this year, we’re seeing further repercussions. While analysts expected listing inventory to swell as sales declined, instead, homeowners have been pushing off plans to sell because they feel beholden to their existing, lower mortgage rates. So what impact is this reduced demand and low supply environment having on home values? [...]

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The Art of Financial Well-Being in Real Estate: Your Key to a Stress-Free Journey

By |2023-06-10T23:15:12-05:00May 19, 2023|Real Estate|

Buying or selling a home is a significant milestone in life, but it can also be a source of financial stress if not approached with careful planning and preparation. The journey can be overwhelming, but with the right strategies and mindset, you can avoid unnecessary worries and ensure a smoother transition. In this blog, we will explore unique ways to avoid financial stress when preparing to buy or sell a home in Austin, empowering you to make informed decisions and enjoy this exciting process to the fullest. Set Clear Financial Goals: Before diving into the home buying or selling process, [...]

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How to Become a Homeowner on a First-Time Buyer’s Budget

By |2023-05-04T14:38:39-05:00May 4, 2023|Real Estate|

It's not easy being a first-time homebuyer right now. At the end of last year, housing affordability hit an all-time low.1 Additionally, mortgage rates have risen significantly since 2021, while inventory remains tight for many property categories, but especially for starter homes. Even lower-priced condos are harder to snag these days, as investors and downsizers muscle out first-timers by offering stronger, often cash-heavy bids.2 In fact, according to the National Association of Realtors, only 26% of last year's homebuyers were first-timers—the lowest share on record and down from 34% a year prior. This underscores just how steep a hill new [...]

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Navigating County Property Tax Appraisals: A Beginner’s Guide to Protesting

By |2023-06-26T07:31:07-05:00April 29, 2023|Real Estate|

County property tax appraisals have recently been issued and many of us, including me, have experienced a substantial increase this year. If you feel like your assessment is too high, I'd be happy to assist and provide more detailed information as I am able. Please email me at ashleybillins@gmail.com or call/text at 254-415-0086 before May 7th and I'll be happy to help. Important Resources Tips for Protest (The protest deadline is May 15th, or 30 days from the Notice Date, whichever is later. Check your notice to see your deadline. However, notices are not generated on all properties, so if your [...]

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Summer-Proof Your Home: Energy-Efficient Tips for a Cool and Comfortable Season

By |2023-04-27T19:18:35-05:00April 25, 2023|Real Estate|

As temperatures start to soar, the summer heat can become unbearable. Summer temperatures in Texas can be brutal, with daily highs regularly reaching into the 90s and sometimes surpassing 100°F! While cranking up the air conditioning may provide temporary relief, it can also result in sky-high energy bills and increased carbon emissions. Did you know that the United States has some of the highest energy consumption rates per capita in the world? In fact, buildings account for 39% of total energy use and 38% of carbon emissions in the country (U.S. Department of Energy). By reducing your energy usage, not [...]

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Maximizing Your Home’s Potential: Top Repairs to Make Before Selling

By |2023-04-21T19:11:33-05:00April 21, 2023|Real Estate|

Before you put that "For Sale" sign in the yard, it's important to consider how you can make your home more appealing to potential buyers. Even if you've lived with a slow leaky faucet or minor stained carpet for years, it's time to roll up your sleeves and get your home market-ready. After all, a little effort now can result in a big payoff later. In this blog post, I will share four simple repairs that can potentially help increase your home's value, enhance the visual appeal of your property, and ultimately attract more buyers. As your trusted real estate [...]

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The Ultimate Guide to Effortless Cleaning: Tips for Busy Households

By |2023-04-21T19:15:20-05:00April 14, 2023|Real Estate|

Keeping a clean and orderly home is a challenge for many of us. Between busy work schedules, social obligations, and family commitments, it’s tough to keep up with daily chores—let alone larger seasonal tasks. The effort is worthwhile, however. A sanitary environment can keep you and your family healthier by minimizing your exposure to germs and allergens.1 Plus, researchers have found that organized, uncluttered homes have quantifiable mental health benefits, too, including reduced stress, improved emotional regulation, and increased productivity.2 The reality is, we enjoy our homes more when they are in good order. It’s much easier to relax without [...]

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History, Heart & Home: The Pros and Cons of Owning a Historic Home

By |2023-04-21T19:16:14-05:00April 7, 2023|Real Estate|

Have you ever dreamed of owning a home with a story to tell? A home that's witnessed centuries of history and stood the test of time? Maybe you’ve really been considering buying a historic home in your area to finally achieve your dream of living in a unique and character-filled property, to connect with the rich history of your community, or to take on a renovation project that will allow you to put your personal touch on a piece of history. Whatever your reason may be, owning a historic home can be an incredibly rewarding experience, but it's not without [...]

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