Book A Call
LETS CHAT!
Looking to buy, sell, or get a free home evaluation? Let’s chat! Book a call with me today for personalized guidance and insights tailored to your real estate needs. Together, we’ll navigate the process and make your real estate goals a reality. Don’t wait any longer – schedule your call now!
New Listings
Sellers Guide
Selling your home can be a stressful process. That’s why I created this comprehensive guide for helping you take the first steps towards selling your home.
click here to download the file manually.
Buyers Guide
Buying a home can be a stressful process. That’s why I created this comprehensive guide for helping you take the first steps towards finding your home.
click here to download the file manually.
News, Tips & Insights
Things to Do in Killeen
Things to Do in Killeen Sit on a tank, drive a golf ball down a lush fairway, swim in a lake, and explore the stars. You’ll find all of these things to do in Killeen, a thriving Central Texas town known for its massive military base, Fort Hood. There’s much to see, do, and experience in Killeen, and its ideal location just 70 miles from Austin and 60 miles from Waco makes it easy to reach. To help you get the most out of your trip here, we’ve put together a list of some of the top attractions in Killeen. Explore Fort Hood’s Military History Killeen sits just south of the more than 217,000-acre Fort Hood, one of the largest military bases in the world. The fort was established in 1942 as a training and testing center for mobile anti-tank guns designed to counter German tanks. Since then, it has housed artillery and cavalry divisions that have played a role in the Vietnam War, Operation Iraqi Freedom, and other conflicts. If you’re a fan of military history, delve into Fort Hood’s more than 70 years of service at the 1st Cavalry Division Museum and the 3rd Armored Cavalry Museum. Visit either museum and the first thing you’ll see is vintage tanks, helicopters, and other military equipment that you can walk right up to. Inside, you’ll browse a wide range of exhibits retelling the history of either division, including displays of photographs, uniforms, and equipment. In addition to all the displays, the 1st Cavalry Division Museum occasionally hosts living history presentations that have interpreters wearing period attire recounting the daily lives of soldiers within the unit. To visit either museum, you will need to get a visitor’s pass from Fort Hood’s Marvin Leath Visitors Center. Play a Round of Golf The gently sloping hills of Central Texas offer the ideal setting for some great golf. Any golfer who visits Killeen will have their pick of three golf courses near Killeen that offer a combined total of more than 60 holes to play. Start at Killeen’s Stonetree Golf Course, an 18-hole public course that includes a double-ended driving range, practice facility, and short game area where you can brush up on your skills. Meanwhile, the Courses of Clear Creek in Fort Hood has three nine-hole courses, a four-hole course designed for children, and a challenging set of sand bunkers and water traps throughout. Your third option is the 18-hole Hills of Cove Golf Course, located just west of Killeen in Copperas Cove. Here you’ll find a set of challenging holes spread among rolling hills, with two large ponds and a creek providing a nice addition to the scenery, along with a playing hazard. With so many golf courses, you could spend your entire time in Killeen hitting the links. Hang Out at the Lake It’s the middle of the summer and all you want to do is escape the sweltering heat. If you’re in Killeen, you’re in luck. Killeen is just a few minutes away from Belton Lake and Stillhouse Hollow Lake, two massive reservoirs that are proverbial hotbeds of aquatic recreation. Kick back and relax on a sandy beach, go for a dip in the cool and clear water, hop into a kayak and paddle anywhere you like, or bait your hook and cast a line to catch a bass or a sunfish. These are just some of the things you can do at either lake. To reach Belton Lake, head to the Belton Lake Outdoor Recreation Area (BLORA) in Fort Hood, or Temples Lake Park on the lake’s eastern shore. There are a few convenient access points for Stillhouse Hollow Lake, as well. The closest park to Killeen, Dana Peak Park, offers plenty of scenic views, a four-lane boat ramp, mountain biking trails, and numerous campgrounds. Stillhouse Park in Belton affords access to the lake, along with basketball courts, a swim area, and kayak and canoe rentals nearby. Looking for some fun in the sun? Belton Lake and Stillhouse Hollow Lake have everything you need to have a great time. Tour the Stars at the Mayborn Science Theater Explore the deepest reaches of space, and more, at the Mayborn Science Theater, a state-of-the-art planetarium situated on the campus of Central Texas College. Stunning 30 to 45-minute films are shown in the Mayborn planetarium’s 60-foot dome, providing a truly immersive 360-degree viewing experience. An expansive catalog of films is show, in the Killeen planetarium that focus on more than the stars. Some films cover the Earth’s geology, the mechanics of earthquakes, and tropical reefs, all of which are presented in such a way that viewers of any age will enjoy. The venue, one of only 16 planetariums in Texas, also offers star tours conducted by its own staff astronomer on the last Saturday of every month. A unique viewing experience in a truly modern theater makes the Mayborn Science Theater a must-visit during your visit to Killeen. This article was first published on https://www.tourtexas.com/
Read more10 steps to closing on your home
10 steps to closing on your home Purchasing a home is an exciting journey, but it can also be a complex process, especially for first-time buyers. In Texas, where the real estate market is dynamic and competitive, understanding the steps to closing on your home is crucial. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate through this significant milestone. 1. Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage Before you start house hunting, it’s essential to get pre-approved for a mortgage. This step involves providing your financial information to a lender who will assess your creditworthiness and determine how much you can borrow. A pre-approval not only gives you a clear budget but also strengthens your position as a serious buyer when making offers on homes in Texas. 2. Find a Real Estate Agent Once you have your financing in place, the next step is to find a reputable real estate agent who knows the Texas market well. An experienced agent can provide valuable insights into neighborhoods, pricing trends, and help you find homes that meet your criteria. They will also guide you through the entire buying process and negotiate on your behalf. 3. Start House Hunting With your agent by your side, it’s time to start searching for your dream home. Make a list of must-haves and nice-to-haves to narrow down your options. In Texas, consider factors such as proximity to work, schools, amenities, and lifestyle preferences. Be prepared to visit multiple properties and keep an open mind as you explore different neighborhoods. 4. Make an Offer Once you find a home that meets your needs, it’s time to make an offer. Your real estate agent will help you draft an offer letter that includes the price you're willing to pay and any contingencies (such as financing or inspection). In Texas's competitive market, it's important to be strategic with your offer—consider including an escalation clause if there are multiple bids on the property. 5. Negotiate Terms After submitting your offer, the seller may accept it outright or come back with a counteroffer. This stage often involves negotiation on both sides regarding price, closing costs, repairs needed before closing, and other terms of the sale. Your real estate agent will play a crucial role in facilitating these discussions and ensuring that your interests are represented. 6. Schedule Home Inspections Once your offer is accepted, it’s time to conduct inspections on the property. In Texas, common inspections include general home inspections, pest inspections, and specialized inspections (like roof or foundation assessments). These inspections can uncover potential issues that may need addressing before finalizing the sale. 7. Secure Financing With inspection results in hand and any necessary negotiations completed (such as repair requests), you'll need to finalize your mortgage application with your lender. This step involves submitting additional documentation and working closely with your lender to ensure all requirements are met for approval. 8. Get an Appraisal Your lender will require an appraisal of the property before approving the loan amount. An appraiser will assess the home's value based on various factors such as its condition, location, and recent sales of comparable properties in Texas. If the appraisal comes in lower than expected, it may affect negotiations or require adjustments in financing. 9. Review Closing Disclosure A few days before closing day, you'll receive a Closing Disclosure document from your lender outlining all final loan details and closing costs associated with the transaction. Take time to review this document carefully—ensure all figures are accurate and match what you've previously discussed with both your lender and real estate agent. 10. Attend Closing Day Finally, it's time for closing day! This is when you'll sign all necessary paperwork to officially transfer ownership of the property from the seller to you. Be prepared to bring identification and any required funds (often via certified check or wire transfer). After signing everything and completing any last-minute details (like final walkthroughs), you'll receive the keys to your new Texas home! In conclusion, while buying a home can feel overwhelming at times, breaking it down into these ten steps makes it manageable. With proper preparation and guidance from experienced professionals like real estate agents and lenders familiar with Texas laws and regulations, you can successfully close on your new home with confidence! Happy house hunting!
Read moreNAR Settlement: What Buyers & Sellers Need to Know
NAR Settlement: What Buyers & Sellers Need to Know In recent months, the real estate landscape has been significantly impacted by the National Association of Realtors (NAR) settlement, a development that has left many buyers and sellers in Texas pondering its implications. Understanding this settlement is crucial for anyone looking to navigate the current real estate market effectively. Here’s what you need to know. The NAR Settlement: An Overview The NAR settlement stems from allegations regarding unfair practices related to commission structures in real estate transactions. The settlement aims to promote transparency in how commissions are disclosed and negotiated between buyers and sellers. For Texas residents, where the housing market has been booming, this change could have far-reaching effects. Impact on Buyers For homebuyers in Texas, the NAR settlement brings both opportunities and challenges. Traditionally, buyers have relied on their agents to negotiate commissions with sellers, often without a clear understanding of how those commissions are structured. Under the new guidelines resulting from the settlement, buyers may find themselves more involved in discussions about commission fees. 1. Increased Transparency One of the primary goals of the NAR settlement is to enhance transparency in real estate transactions. Buyers can expect clearer disclosures regarding commission fees upfront. This means that when you’re shopping for a home, you’ll have a better idea of what you’re paying for and how much your agent will earn from the transaction. 2. Negotiation Power With clearer information about commission structures, buyers may feel empowered to negotiate terms directly with their agents or even with sellers. This newfound knowledge can lead to better deals and potentially lower costs when purchasing a home. 3. Agent Selection As transparency increases, buyers should take extra time to research potential agents thoroughly. Look for agents who are upfront about their commission structures and willing to discuss them openly. This will help ensure that you have an advocate who prioritizes your interests. Impact on Sellers Sellers in Texas are also likely to experience changes due to the NAR settlement. The way commissions are handled can influence your selling strategy and ultimately affect your bottom line. 1. Understanding Commission Structures Sellers should be prepared for potential changes in how they structure commissions for buyer’s agents. With increased scrutiny on commission practices, it’s essential to understand how these fees work and what is considered standard within your local market. 2. Adjusting Pricing Strategies Since buyers may have more insight into commission negotiations, sellers might need to adjust their pricing strategies accordingly. If buyers are more aware of what they’re paying in commissions, they might expect homes to be priced lower if they believe they will be responsible for covering part of those fees themselves. 3. Marketing Your Home Transparency around commissions could also impact marketing strategies for homes on the market. Sellers may want to highlight favorable commission terms as a selling point or consider offering incentives that make their property more attractive compared to others. Navigating the Changes As both buyers and sellers adapt to these changes brought about by the NAR settlement, it’s crucial to stay informed and proactive: Educate Yourself Whether you’re buying or selling a home, take time to educate yourself about current market conditions and commission practices. Understanding your rights and responsibilities will empower you throughout the process. Consult Professionals Work closely with knowledgeable real estate professionals who understand the implications of the NAR settlement. They can provide valuable insights tailored specifically for Texas’ unique market dynamics. Stay Updated Real estate laws and regulations can evolve quickly; staying updated on any further developments related to this settlement will help ensure you make informed decisions throughout your transaction. Conclusion The NAR settlement represents a significant shift in how real estate transactions are conducted across Texas and beyond. For buyers, increased transparency means greater control over negotiations; for sellers, it signals a need for strategic adjustments in pricing and marketing approaches. By understanding these changes and adapting accordingly, both parties can navigate this evolving landscape successfully. As you embark on your real estate journey—whether buying or selling—remember that knowledge is power. Equip yourself with information about commission structures, seek professional guidance when necessary, and don’t hesitate to ask questions along the way. With these tools at your disposal, you’ll be well-prepared to make informed decisions in today’s dynamic real estate market.
Read more
- Killeen, TX Homes For Sale
- Austin, TX Homes For Sale
- Manor, TX Homes For Sale
- Jarrell, TX Homes For Sale
- Buda, TX Homes For Sale
- Elgin, TX Homes For Sale
- Round Rock, TX Homes For Sale
- Liberty Hall, TX Homes For Sale
- Temple, TX Homes For Sale
- Florence, TX Homes For Sale
- Belton, TX Homes For Sale
- Hutto, TX Homes For Sale
- Salado, TX Homes For Sale
- Georgetown, TX Homes For Sale
- Lakeway, TX Homes For Sale
- Pflugerville, TX Homes For Sale
- Copperas, TX Homes For Sale
- Del Valle, TX Homes For Sale
- Cedar Park, TX Homes For Sale
- Harker Heights, TX Homes For Sale
- Leander, TX Homes For Sale