4 Costs You’ll Need to Be Prepared For When You Sell Your Home

It’s always better to be prepared for the costs ahead of you so you can budget properly. Selling your home is no exception. Though the point is to be able to make money before moving on to your next home, selling is itself quite an investment, and there may be costs that you weren’t aware of beforehand. Here are a few that you’ll want to keep in mind.

Repairs and Updates

Are your appliances outdated and, well, quirky? Do you need to make repairs to your home’s roof, electrical wiring, or flooring before you put it on the market? These repairs and updates will help increase your home’s value on the housing market, but the costs can rack up, so you’ll need to be prepared for them.

Landscaping

It’s not just the inside of your home that matters. Curb appeal is crucial when it comes to making a good first impression on prospective buyers. If you’ve neglected your lawn in the past few months, now is the time to invest in landscaping. Even if you typically do a good job of keeping the lawn mowed and raking up any leaves, landscaping can help to take your curb appeal to the next level.

Closing Costs

Closing on the home sale itself has costs, usually about 2-5% of the sale price of the home itself. Escrow fees are split between the buyer and seller, property taxes, and HOA fees may all come into play. In some cases, sellers might cover closing costs for the buyer if they desperately want to close on the sale. However, most sellers will refuse to do so and in most cases, your realtor will advise against it.

Realtor Commission and Attorney’s Fees

Once the sale is finalized, you’ll owe your realtor a percentage of the sale as commission. This percentage is typically agreed upon beforehand, so this isn’t a cost that’s likely to sneak up on you. It’s for this reason that some sellers consider skipping realtors altogether, but the realtor’s housing market and local expertise can be invaluable when it comes to selling your home. You may also hire a real estate attorney to help mediate the closing, and in this case, you’ll have to cover their attorney’s fees, as well.

Need help managing the costs and knowing what’s the best investment when it comes to selling your home? Talk to a College Station realtor today for more information on getting the most out of your home sale.

Summer Activities in College Station

Summer is a great time of year for College Station. With sunny weather, friendly surroundings, and plenty of activities to choose from, you’d almost have to try to find yourself bored here. But if you’re new to town, you might be wondering where to get started enjoying the summer this year. Talk to your College Station realtor about summer activities happening near your new home, or check out our list of favorite things to do in College Station this summer:

Visit Lake Bryan

Lake Bryan Park showcases, of course, the beautiful Lake Bryan, but is also described on their website as “an outdoor recreation oasis in the heart of Aggieland.” If it’s a peaceful summer getaway you want, this is the place to go. Open seven days a week, you can come here to sit by the pier or relax on the shore as the sun goes down, or you can venture into the water yourself, whether swimming or fishing. There’s also the Lakeside Icehouse serving food and refreshments so you can stay at the lake for as long as you like without going hungry. They even have live music performances, particularly during the summer.

Go Skating

Everyone loves the summer heat, but when it gets to be too much, you might look for a way to cool off. That’s why Spirit Ice Arena is here for you, even in the middle of summer. It’s a good place to take the kids while they’re out of school, or take yourself and friends when you’re nostalgic for winter. You can also take a special someone — or someone who might become a special someone — to Date Night, where they offer two-for-one admission every Thursday. It might not be a conventional summer activity, but it could be a breath of fresh air to make your summer more fun.

Check Out Some Live Music

What summer is complete without a few free concerts in the park? In College Station, that event is Starlight Music Series, an annual summer concert series so named because guests can spread out on a picnic blanket under the stars while they listen to the music acts that perform there. Still to come this year on June 8 is Grammy nominated Dwayne Dopsie and the Zydeco Hellraisers, as well as guest Mi’chel Rose and Zydeco Players. This event usually takes place in May and early June, but it’s worth checking out every year if you have the chance.

Start the Aggieland Football Season

This event, fittingly, will signal the end of summer, but the first game will start before fall sets in. Aggieland football is a big draw to Bryan-College Station, and there are some die-hard fans in the city. So in September, head to Kyle Field where you can catch the first football game of the year and get excited for the rest of the season. This year, the first game versus Clemson will be on their turf, but the second game, against Lamar, will be on Kyle Field, the perfect place to cheer on the team.

Still looking for your perfect home in College Station as summer comes on? Don’t put it all on yourself. Contact a College Station realtor today to help you find the home of your dreams so you can start to enjoy all that College Station summers have to offer.

Taking on House Painting DIY

You’ve closed on your dream house, and it’s now yours to do with as you will. But even the perfect house for your family might need a fresh coat of paint. You can hire professional painters to do the job, but many homeowners opt to take on house painting themselves in order to save money on the cost of labor. Fortunately, house painting is a DIY project you can take on fairly easily. There are, of course, missteps that can be made, as well as tips that can make things a little easier.

Paint Before or After Moving In?

Some homeowners prefer to paint before they move in. This gives the paint time to dry and clears the overpowering smell from the house before your family actually starts to live there. However, some interior design professionals warn against this, as you want to be sure that your paint color goes with the colors of your furniture and home decor. If you know how you’re going to fill a room, you may be able to take pictures of your furniture and decor with you when picking out your paint color. This is a choice that has advantages and disadvantages on both sides, so it’s really up to you.

Paint On Dry Weather Days

Yes, this still applies when talking about interior house painting. On humid days, that humidity can get into your home and cause paint to drip or dry more slowly than you’d like. If you can’t get around painting on a humid day, you may want to use a dehumidifier to make sure that it affects your interior walls as little as possible. On the bright side, slow drying paint due to humidity will give you an opportunity to fix any mistakes you may have made or spots you may have missed. But ideally, a dry day is best for painting.

Take Your Time With Prep

Most people know that you can’t simply paint a new coat of paint over the old paint and consider the job done. First, you have to apply primer for a more neutral coat that won’t interfere with the new color you’ve chosen. But before you apply primer, you also have to prep the walls. Are there any spots with cracks or peeling paint? Sand the walls first to smooth out these areas, and rinse to clean it before applying primer. If you don’t take care of the issues with the current paint job first, those same peeling and cracking spots will appear on your new paint job. This is also a good time to start taping the boundaries of your wall so you know where not to paint.

Pour Paint Cans Into One Large Bucket

Even when you buy several cans of the same color, the vibrancy of that color might be a little different from can to can. Many homeowners start with one can of paint only to find when they open the next can and begin to paint that the color on their wall doesn’t quite match. You can get around this problem by pouring all the cans of paint you bought into a bucket — 5 gallons is usually a safe size — and mixing the content. From there, you can paint with a consistent color.

One of the best things about home ownership is that you have the ability to make the house your own, truly turning it into your dream home. But to find the right house in the first place, contact a College Station realtor today.

4 Things to Consider When Estimating Moving Costs

No one planning to move thinks that the cost will be easy. It’s one of the most dreaded aspects of moving, and the reason that moving can take months or years to plan. But when you’re planning to move, it’s best to have as clear an idea as possible of what the move will cost so you can budget accordingly. In fact, if your estimate has to skew one way or the other, it’s better to assume moving will cost more than it actually will. That said, the cost of your move varies based on a few different factors. Here are a few things to consider that will have an effect on your particular moving costs:

Distance and Location

One of the factors that will most impact the cost of actually moving is the distance. If you’re moving to a new neighborhood within your city, the mileage for the moving company will be reasonably low. If you’re moving across the country, on the other hand, your moving costs will be significant purely on the basis of traveling from point A to point B. Consider, also, the actual neighborhood into which you move. If you’re moving into the heart of the city, you’re more likely to have an expensive move, whereas affordable neighborhoods on the outskirts will allow you to save a little more.

Home Value

If you own a home already, chances are you’ll sell it before you move. The price you receive for selling that home will impact what you can spend on your new home, so your home value can be an important factor when it comes to your moving costs. This is why many homeowners planning to sell their home will take steps to update their home, boost their curb appeal, or stage it in an appealing way before moving, in hopes of receiving a greater ROI.

Size of the New Home

Are you moving into a studio apartment or a 3-story family home? This will make a difference not just in the cost of buying the home, but the cost to furnish and, to an extension, the cost of the movers. If you’re moving into a family home, for example, you’ll probably have more furniture and belongings that will need to be loaded into the moving truck, whereas a studio apartment is a smaller space and calls for more minimal living.

Moving Method

Many homeowners prefer to hire a moving company, and there are good reasons for this. It can take much of the stress off of the homeowner in terms of packing and moving. However, if you’re moving on a budget, know that hiring a moving company isn’t the only answer. You may be able to avoid the costs of a moving company if you have a friend who has a truck, but the further away you plan to move, the trickier it might be to arrange a ride for free. You can also consider renting a truck yourself, which will cost but not as much as hiring a moving company.

When trying to estimate your moving costs and develop a realistic budget, it helps to talk to someone who’s an expert in the area of buying and selling homes and can ensure that you get the best deal for your budget. Talk to an experienced, College Station realtor about what to expect from your moving costs today.

Where To Have a First Date in Bryan-College Station

Getting to know someone you’re interested in can be an exciting time, but it can also be a nerve wracking time. This is doubly true if you’re still new to the area of Bryan-College Station. Of course, you can probably find a restaurant or go check out a movie wherever you are, but you want to make a good impression, which often means coming up with a more creative date. For that, you need to know the area a little better. Here’s your guide to great date ideas that are specific to Bryan-College Station.

First Friday

With friendly charm and a wide variety of shops and restaurants, downtown Bryan can make for an excellent date venue in general. However, if you want to really wow your date, check out First Friday. On the first Friday of each month around 5:30, downtown Bryan transforms. Street musicians start to play, artists show off their work, and local shops keep their doors open later. Around 8pm, the Palace Theatre has a live music show, so if your date is interested in art or music, this could be the perfect event for a date. You can do it all here, grabbing a bite to eat at a restaurant or from one of the street vendors, and then wandering around seeing the town. It can help you get to know both your date and the city of Bryan.

Picnic In the Park

A picnic in the park is a classic, and College Station has a number of parks to choose from. Central Park has both beautiful greenery and a tranquil pond that’s perfect for either fishing or simply enjoying the view. Around the holidays, Christmas lights go up, and it can be a nice stop after dinner to bring along a bottle of wine and dessert. Do you both have pets? Consider bringing your dogs with you to the University Dog Park. Lick Creek Park offers splendid views of nature, and you can get in some hiking while you’re there.

Take a Class

If you’re looking for a truly interesting first date that offers you a chance to get to know each other and to improve your own skills, think about taking a class together. You can learn to paint pottery at U-Paint-It or learn to cook together at Cook N Grow. Dance classes are always great for a budding romance, and you can find a number of different types of dance classes, from ballroom dancing to swing dance or even hip-hop. If you’re both health and fitness nuts, you could also consider taking a yoga class together.

College Station is a great place to find a fresh start, whether in your home, your community, or your love life. It starts, of course, with finding the right home.  For that, you need the help of an expert realtor who’s well-acquainted with the area and can help you find a home you can truly fall in love with.

4 Ways to Cut Costs When Moving

It’s a hard fact to avoid: moving is expensive. Even if your realtor helps you get your new home for something below the asking price, even after you sell your old home, you still have movers to consider, as well as possibly remodeling, redecorating, or new furnishings. You have to think about finances carefully when moving, which is why so many homeowners look for ways to cut costs during their move.

Some have help, like a friend who owns a truck or a free couch from an aunt or uncle. Friends and family can be great resources, but what if you don’t have that? Here are a few other ways you can cut costs when moving.

Move in the Fall

...Or winter or early spring, for that matter. Peak moving season for most moving companies is May through August. Demand is high so scheduling can be tricky and costs tend to be high. Alternatively, moving in a time when demand is much lower will allow you more freedom of scheduling and the benefit of potential savings and sales. If you want to optimize your moving savings, you should try moving in the middle of the week, as well, and particularly in the middle of the month. It’s the least likely time to move, so you’re most likely to save.

Get Multiple Quotes

Some homeowners choose to simply go with the first mover that they get a quote from, but if you’re interested in saving money, don’t rush into a decision. It’s best to get multiple quotes from movers. Find out how much they’ll charge, and what else they offer. Take notes so you can compare the best value for the best cost. It can be easy to fall into the trap of hiring the cheapest mover, but the cheapest mover is not always the best, so make sure you’re looking at reviews and overall value.

Pack By Yourself And Hire a Driver

Most moving companies outsource drivers to transport your belongings from your old place to your new home. But you can save some of the costs by hiring a U-haul driver directly. Of course, you may lose out on some of the benefits that come with moving companies, particularly packing. Some moving companies provide packing boxes and even help you pack, but you pay for that. Instead, consider grabbing spare boxes from a local liquor store or from friends and coworkers. You can pack on your own for free and hire a driver to take you the rest of the way.

Save Your Receipts

Did you know you might be able to deduct moving expenses from your taxes? If you move because of a new job or a new location for your job, or any other work related expense, you can claim the cost of moving on your federal taxes. So it’s important to make sure you save your paperwork and present it to your accountant at the end of the year. You can learn more about moving deductions from TurboTax or by talking to your accountant.

Moving doesn’t have to be as stressful and expensive as it seams if you know the right resources. When buying or selling your home, an experienced College Station realtor can be an invaluable resource.

House For Sale in College Station

Sarah Miller, your RE/MAX realtor bryan-college station can help you discover a lot of great tips for making a profitable sale of your home. Call Sarah Miller at 979-255-1904 for your real estate needs in Bryan-College Station and the entire Brazos Valley! Sarah Miller, Associate RE/MAX BRYAN COLLEGE STATION 3030 University Dr East Ste 100, College Station, TX 77845 License #: 500065

How to Close on a Home Quickly

Closing on your dream home can be one of the most stressful parts of the process. After all, if you’re looking for a new home, chances are you need to move — sooner, rather than later. In some cases, there’s even a timeline. So it can be nerve wracking to have to volley offers back and forth, unable to be completely certain that the house you want is the house you’ll end up with.

An experienced realtor can help make the process smoother and more efficient, so you can stress less. Here are a few other steps to help the closing process along:

Get a Pre-Approval Letter

Many homebuyers get pre-qualified and later qualified for a loan from a mortgage lender, but assume they’ll need to worry about approval after the closing. As we’ve discussed before, that’s not always the case. Sometimes the loans you qualify for and the loan for which you’re approved are very different, so it’s better to get the pre-approval letter early in order to have a better sense of your budget. It also helps the seller to feel more confident in your offer, seeing that the bank has always approved it. And the better the seller feels about your offer, the faster you’ll be able to close.

Check With the Lender

So the seller approved your offer. That’s a big relief, but it isn’t the same as closing. Next, you’ll need to go to the mortgage lender and turn that pre-approval into an approval. Go to the lender and tell them that the offer was accepted. Ask if they need any additional financial documents from you before approving the loan. It helps to have all of your financial documents organized and ready in case they do need it. If not, it’s a matter of the mortgage closing on the loan so you can close on your home.

Do What You Can

There are some parts of home closing that are simply out of your control. The time it takes the homeowner to accept your offer, the time it takes the bank to approve your loan, all of these elements are in someone else’s court and sitting around waiting for them will only make you more anxious. Instead, focus on what you can do to help the process along. Home inspections should be scheduled the first week the offer is accepted by the seller. Home appraisals take about 1-2 weeks, so order the appraisal as soon as possible. While you’re waiting on those things, you can take care of selling your own home or preparing for the big move.

Let Your Realtor Do What They Do Best

Closing on a home can be stressful, but that’s why you have a real estate agent. They’re ready and qualified to help, whether it’s negotiating with the seller to make sure you get the best deal, offer guidance about appraisal and mortgages, and finding ways to help speed up the closing so you can move into your new home as soon as possible. So don’t sweat. If you have any questions, just ask your expert College Station realtor.

Sarah Miller, your RE/MAX realtor bryan-college station can help you discover a lot of great tips for making a profitable sale of your home. Call Sarah Miller at 979-255-1904 for your real estate needs in Bryan-College Station and the entire Brazos Valley! Sarah Miller, Associate RE/MAX BRYAN COLLEGE STATION 3030 University Dr East Ste 100, College Station, TX 77845 License #: 500065

4th of July in Brazos Valley

Summer is here, and before you know it, 4rth of July will be here as well. That means it’s time for barbecue, hanging out on the lawn with friends and family, and of course, fireworks. Although residential fireworks aren’t legal within Bryan-College Station city limits, you can stop by the George Bush Presidential Library and Museum for the big firework show. And fireworks aren’t the only thing to enjoy on 4th of July in Brazos Valley. Here are a few of the events you can enjoy for the big day next month.

“I Love America” Celebration

Every July 4th at the George Bush Presidential Library and Museum, you can gather in the lawn for the 4th of July “I Love America.” Celebration Concert and firework show. Starting that morning, the museum opens with free admission. In the evening, concession stands gather and bounce houses and games show up for the kids’ amusement. At 8:35, the Brazos Valley Symphony Orchestra begins the concert, followed by a firework show at 9:30. Of all the firework events in College Station, this is the big one to see.

Old-Fashioned 4th of July Celebration

For over 30 years, the Brazos Heritage Society has put on a 4th of July celebration that evokes the past. There’s a flag raising, patriotic readings, a children’s parade, live music, and plenty of refreshments. It’s located right in the middle of the Eastside Historical District of Bryan, at 30th and Hutchins. This is a festival for early bird celebrators, and those who like to remember the history of their 4th of July celebrations.

Fireworks On the Brazos

Another fireworks festival occurs at Washington on the Brazos and runs from 10am to 10pm. There’s fireworks at 9:30pm, but it’s so much more than that. Throughout the day, you can enjoy free ice cream from Blue Bell, live music from country music artists, and enjoy plenty of food and craft vendors. There’s even a shuttle running starting in the afternoon to take people to and from the park.

Patriotic Picnic

Maybe for you, 4th of July is less about the fireworks and more about the fireworks and more about the food. If that’s the case, the patriotic picnic at First Baptist in Bryan might be for you. The picnic starts at 5:30pm and includes a concert for the community’s entertainment. Like the other events, this is free and open to the public.

If you’re new to Brazos Valley, attending one of the many 4th of July festivals throughout the area can be a great way to get to know the area. Even if you’re just visiting and looking for a place to possibly live later, celebrating the 4th of July with us will help you to see what this area truly has to offer. Here, you’ll find a friendly, enthusiastic community, great food and music, and a day of fun for the family. If you’re here looking for a new home, or just moving in, around 4th of July, ask your realtor what 4th of July celebrations are going on near you.

House for Sale in College Station

Sarah Miller, your RE/MAX realtor bryan-college station can help you discover a lot of great tips for making a profitable sale of your home. Call Sarah Miller at 979-255-1904 for your real estate needs in Bryan-College Station and the entire Brazos Valley! Sarah Miller, Associate RE/MAX BRYAN COLLEGE STATION 3030 University Dr East Ste 100, College Station, TX 77845 License #: 500065

How to Save Energy And Add Value to Your Home

Boosting your home value is essential if you plan to sell your home at some point in the foreseeable future. Housing markets fluctuate and there’s a possibility that by the time you move, your house will be worth less than it was when you moved in. Even if that’s not the case, you want to make a return on investment, and that means adding value to your home.

You can do this by making improvements on the existing home, improvements that homebuyers will likely be willing to pay for when it comes time to list your home. This could be remodeling or updating the appliances. One sure way to add value to your home is by making energy efficient changes. Energy efficient changes not only add value to your home overall but reduce your energy bills in the meantime, and the eco-friendly appeal is not lost on many modern homebuyers. Here are a few ways to save energy and add value to your home:

Updating Appliances? Look for Energy Star

If you plan to remodel, make sure all your new appliances, windows, doors, etc. are Energy Star approved. Energy Star is a program started by the EPA that rates the energy performance of various home appliances. They have energy efficiency standards that have to be met in order to certify a product, and are generally held as the standard when it comes to energy efficiency. You can even use their website’s product finder in order to find the right products for whatever updating you plan to do. Want a new HVAC system? Energy Star can help with that. Redoing the kitchen? Find your new refrigerator from a list of Energy Star products. Even roof products and pool pumps are covered here.

Tighter Insulation

If your home’s insulation isn’t strong enough, excess cool air could be leaking into your home, or could be escaping out depending on the time of year. This quickly becomes a drain on your HVAC costs and your home’s energy performance. So if your HVAC bills have been particularly high, or you’re looking for a way to lower them before you move, new insulation might be the answer. Fiberglass insulation can have an R-value up to 25, making it a big hit with energy conscious homeowners...and homebuyers.

Have an Audit

If you’re unsure where to start with your energy efficient updates, have a home energy audit. A home energy audit, or home energy assessment, is a check-up by energy efficiency experts who measure how much energy your home is currently using and where and how you can save energy. If your windows need to be replaced, your insulation needs to be stronger, or your light fixtures need more efficient bulbs, a home energy audit can tell you all that and more, giving you the perfect roadmap for adding value to your home.

If you’ve recently made energy efficient updates to your home, make sure you let your realtor know. She can market your home as energy efficient, thus giving you an edge in the market and catching the eye of savvy homebuyers.

Home For Sale In College Station

Sarah Miller, your RE/MAX realtor bryan-college station can help you discover a lot of great tips for making a profitable sale of your home. Call Sarah Miller at 979-255-1904 for your real estate needs in Bryan-College Station and the entire Brazos Valley! Sarah Miller, Associate RE/MAX BRYAN COLLEGE STATION 3030 University Dr East Ste 100, College Station, TX 77845 License #: 500065

Is Remodeling Worth the Cost?

Photo by Carlos Porto

If you want to increase your home value before you sell, make sure the projects you choose are worth the money you spend on them. You’re looking for the highest return on investment. It may be better not to do any remodeling at all, depending on your situation.

You probably won’t get all of your money back

Investopedia says that you’re unlikely to get back the amount you spend on a remodel dollar for dollar. However, in a slow market, a remodel could bring in buyers that would have otherwise passed on your home.

You need a realtor

This is where an experienced realtor can help you. She can give you an idea of what the market is like and what remodels pay off in your area. When it comes to real estate, it’s all about the local housing market. In Brazos Valley, call realtor Sarah Miller for help selling your home.

Think about where you are

If your house is already one of the more expensive ones in the neighborhood, further improvements may scare away buyers. One of the things buyers consider is neighborhood.  Part of the reason they may be drawn to your neighborhood is the price. Make sure you don’t improve your home well beyond what can be found in the same neighborhood or you could be looking at more of a loss. People looking for more expensive houses are likely looking in another neighborhood.

However, if you have one of the lower end houses in the neighborhood, fixing it up might bring in more money.  It can be worth it to do a little bit of work to bring your house up to the average of the neighborhood.

Also, think of geography. Do swimming pools increase home values in Bryan-College Station, Texas?  Since this is a warmer climate it could be worth it, but your realtor will let you know about the current market.

Location is everything in real estate.  Before you invest in a remodel, ask your realtor if it’s worth it for your location.

Look at Data Online

A site that may help you make your decision is Remodeling.net. They give the average increase in value to your home based on your region and type of remodel. The amount you get back from your investment varies. Most of the time, you get less than you spent.

Smaller upgrades to your home will likely have a better return on investment than a large remodel. A fresh coat of paint and a good cleaning will help improve the value of your home with less expense. The real reason to do a remodel is for you to enjoy the home. If you’re selling the home, it may not be worth it.

Ask your realtor if there are upgrades that you can make to make your home more appealing to buyers in your area. Your realtor will have the latest numbers about the market and will have experience with what local homebuyers are looking for. Call a local realtor in Brazos Valley, Texas to help you sell your home.

Brand New Texans

If you’re moving to Central Texas from another state, then let me say welcome new Texan! Our state has a lot to offer.  Whether you’re moving to the Bryan-College Station metro area anywhere in Brazos Valley, we’re happy to have you as our neighbor. Let me take you through some things that will make it a little easier to settle into your new home in the Brazos Valley and the State of Texas.

How do I find the right home?

Call a realtor in Brazos Valley. It’s hard to know what the right area is or what the commute times will be if you aren’t familiar with the community. Realtors have that information. If you have a realtor working on your side, you’ll find what you need.

How do I file for homestead exemption?

Texas has no state property tax. However, there are local property taxes. The state comptroller’s office explains this in detail and provides links to how to file for any property tax exemptions that may be applicable to your situation.

Where do I go about my license plates and driver license?

First, you need the license plates.  TxDMV explains how to do that.  The requirements for new Texans to get new plates are found here. TxDPS has the information you need about your driver license. It has a section specifically for people moving to Texas and includes information for teens with learner licenses.

Where do I register to vote?

There are a few ways to do it, but to find out the easiest way go to VoteTexas.gov.  You’ll find a form you can download and mail in or locations where you can show up to fill out the form in person. It’s the go-to site for questions about voting including how to find your nearest polling place.

What is there to do around here?

It depends on what you want to do today.  If you want to go shopping, Downtown Bryan might be the place to go.  On the other hand, if taking in some culture sounds better, there are museums. What about sports? You’re in luck, we’ve got the Aggies.  There are even wineries to visit.  The Visitors Bureau can get you up to speed on everything happening around town and the best places to go.

Moving to Texas was a big decision. There are a lot of state and local agencies with websites that can help you make your transition to being a Texan. Your realtor will be a big help in the process. Brazos Valley is a beautiful place to live and a great choice for anyone to invest in their future.

Buying real estate in Brazos County is a lot easier with a realtor by your side. If you need any help finding the right property, call a realtor that knows the Brazos Valley.  You can find a lot of help online, but nothing beats having a local there to help you find the right place at the right price. Call Sarah the Realtor when you’re ready to buy or sell property in Brazos Valley.

How to Know When You've Found the Perfect Home

Photo by Feelart

People move into new homes for many different reasons. They may be looking for a change of scenery, or they may be moving to be closer to family and friends. No matter why someone wants to move into a new home, there is one thing that they all have in common.

They want to find a home that is right for their needs, their lifestyle and their future. A home is more than just a place to live. A new house represents a big change and a new start. You can think of your new home as the centre of your life in a new area or a new neighbourhood.

How do you know when you've found the perfect home? Consider this list of points to help you reach this decision with the help of your realtor in College Station, TX.

A Home That You Can Afford

Money may not be everything, but it is certainly a very important factor when you're looking for the perfect home. When you are house shopping, your budget will help you determine the best place for you to live. Don't think of your budget as a limit. Instead, look at it to find out all the options that are available to you.

Before you start shopping for a home, come up with a detailed budget. This will be the plan that helps you narrow down your options. A home that you can afford is not just a property that you have enough money to purchase. To be affordable, a home needs to be close to your place of work. It also needs to be energy efficient enough to have reasonable utility bills. Large homes in well-developed neighbourhoods are very appealing, but you need to make sure that you aren't overspending yourself into a financial bind.

A Home That Meets Your Needs

Once you have determined your budget, you can start making a list of all the things that you need in your new home. Make a list of “must haves,” a series of qualities that you absolutely need in your new home. For example, if you have children or are planning to have children, you will need extra space for your growing family. If you're passionate about gardening, you'll want to find a home that has room for planting and exercising your green thumb.

If you love to dine out or see live entertainment, you'll want to find a property that is reasonably close to venues and restaurants that provide these options. These may sound like luxuries, but if you can pursue your favourite activities, that new home may not be so perfect after all.

A Home That Has Room for Your Future

Are you planning to stay in your new home for many years or are you looking for a starter home? Will you be moving to an area for a new job or looking for a career change several years down the line?

Try to anticipate any big changes that you might have in store for the next several years. If you have some major changes coming up soon, you don't want to tie yourself down to an area or living situation. Of course, it's impossible to predict everything that will happen shortly but taking the time to plan out your future carefully is always a good strategy.

Once you have considered these factors, talk to your College Station realtor to come up with a list of items that are essential for your new home. Once you find a house that matches up with your needs and your goals, you'll know that you have finally found the perfect home.

Will A Large Home Really Suit Your Needs?

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Many families in Bryan College Station are moving into a new home because they need more space. Their first home may have been a starter home, and now with more kids, everyone needs to be more comfortable and keep their sanity. But how much larger of a home do you really need? Just because you can afford it, does not mean you will be that much more comfortable. Here are a few factors to consider before purchasing the largest home in the block.

What Is the Commute Like?

One thing you will soon discover is that the larger the home, the longer your commute time may be. Large homes are distanced from the city because homeowners want to relax. They don’t want to be close to the hustle and bustle. So figure out how long your commute to work, family, and shopping plazas will be when deciding on your new home. The long drive and increased gas expense may not be worth it.

What Is The Community Like?

If you have children, living in a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable Bryan College Station, TX community may be a high priority on your list. Even with a large yard for them to play in, how close are they to neighboring children? Is there a park in the area they can walk to safely or that you feel like driving them to? Are there malls and candy stores they can get to without your assistance?

A larger home may be nicer, but sometimes the additional responsibilities are not worth it. A larger home also means more cleaning and maintenance responsibilities. You and your family may decide that a home only a step up is best for you.  

Featured Homes for Sale in College Station, TX

Sarah Miller, your RE/MAX realtor bryan-college station can help you discover a lot of great tips for making a profitable and fast sell on your house. She is one of the RE/MAX Bryan-College Station realtors that has a long list of the finest homes for sale in Bryan/College Station, Call her today at 979-255-1904.

Tips on Organizing Your New Closet before the Big Move

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It happens to the best of us; we move into a new home completely unorganized. We walk around for weeks trying to determine what box the kids jackets are in, where are the ties, and how did you mix up your shoes like that? You can make it easy to organize your closet before your big move though.

Clear Out Your Closet

First, take everything out. While packing, sort your items: short sleeves, sweaters, slacks, ties, blouses, and so on. So when you are unpacking, everything is right where it should be and you can place it up with ease.

Get Rid Of Old Items You Won’t Wear/Use

• Donations – Donate the items you no longer want to a charity in Brian College Station, TX. They will appreciate the clothing and even eyeglass donation and you can put the receipt with your tax information for the following year.
• Friends – Has a friend been eyeing your blouse or sweater? Give it away if you know you are not going to wear it often enough to keep.
• Recycle Centers – We use our closets to store old items, pushing them far in the back in a bag or box. Pull those items out such as old razors, metal hangers, and old jewelry and send them off to the appropriate recycling center.
• Sell items – The retro look is back in. However, if it doesn’t suit your tastes and you have out of style clothing, have a yard sale, use Craigslist to sell online, or find a consignment store in Central Texas.

So, following the above tips will not only make it easy to organize your new closets, but you will have much less to pack, making for a lighter move. Selling and donating can also help put cash in your pocket as well – a win-win for all.

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Your RE/MAX realtor bryan-college station, Sarah Miller, can help you discover a lot of great tips for making a profitable and fast sell on your house. She is one of the RE/MAX Bryan-College Station realtors that has a long list of the finest homes for sale in BryanCollege Station, Call her today at 979-255-1904.

Protecting Your Family in Your New Home

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Even the safest neighborhoods in Bryan College Station have some form of crime. Don’t make it easy to be a target to an unwanted home visitor. Here are a few steps to keep your family safe in your new home.

Install a Security System

A security system for your home is a great idea, whether you are at home most of the time or not. Put careful consideration into the type of system you will need and not just the best on the market. You may even consider having multiple types of systems. For example, you can deter a break-in by installing motion detectors throughout your yard or a loud alarm system. There are all kinds of do-it-yourself systems you can purchase or have a reputable security technician in Brian College Station, TX come to your home and install it for you.

Lock Your Windows and Doors When You Are Not Alert

Keeping your windows open while performing a quick run to the store or letting fresh air throughout your home at night is not a good idea. You are inviting potential burglars into your home. By the time you arrive back home, they will be long gone and you have no clue they were even there. So lock up when you are not on the alert.

Take Precautions When You Are Away on Vacations

When you leave for vacation, let a close and trusted neighbor know. They can get your mail or newspapers while you are away. Having mail or newspapers pile up just screams, “unattended home right here” to a burglar who could be casing the neighborhood. If no one is able to do that, put a temporary hold on all mail.

Just these few tips will help keep your family and your new some safe and secure year round. Brian College Station is a great place to raise your family, but you should always be prepared for that one bad apple.

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Sarah Miller, your RE/MAX realtor bryan-college station can help you discover a lot of great tips for making a profitable and fast sell on your house. She is one of the RE/MAX Bryan-College Station realtors that has a long list of the finest homes for sale in Bryan/College Station, Call her today at 979-255-1904.

Easy Tips on Dog Proofing your New Backyard

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Moving to a new home in Bryan College Station, TX is exciting for everyone, even your family pet. One excellent part about this area of Central Texas is the spacious yards and beautiful weather for Fido to enjoy. Therefore, when you are moving into a new home, he’ll have the space he needs to exercise, have fun, and relax. If the prior owners did not have a pet, you may need to make a few changes so everyone is happy and living stress free.

Fence In Your Yard

Not all homes will have a fenced in area for pets. It’s important to have one, so they don’t run off and get lost, especially in a new neighborhood. Some fencing is inexpensive and beautiful. The larger your dog, the more sturdy you would want your fence to be.

Have a Pet Friendly Garden

This would be another area to consider placing a small picket fence of some sort around. Dogs are quite curious and can get into your plants and flowers. Also, be careful of the types of plants you have in your new backyard. Some are toxic to animals, and even if fenced off, you may want to have them removed.

Have a Designated Bathroom Area

Since you are in a new home, you have a bit of retraining to do for your pet. You can’t always get them out for a walk, so put extra consideration and time into training them on where to go to relieve themselves in your yard. You don’t want to come out for a family gathering to a not so nice surprise.

Make the Yard Comfortable For Your Dog

Finally, make sure there is a shady area for your dog to relax and cool off. Keep an area outdoors where they can access clean water as well. During the long hot summer months, this will be imperative so your furry friend does not get overheated.

These four simple tips will keep “Fido” happy and healthy while he enjoys the Central Texas weather. Plus, you will bees comfortable letting them enjoy their outside time knowing your pet will remain securely in his new yard.

Featured Homes for Sale in College Station, TX

For more details about this property click here.

Sarah Miller, your RE/MAX realtor bryan-college station can help you discover a lot of great tips for making a profitable and fast sell on your house. She is one of the RE/MAX Bryan-College Station realtors that has a long list of the finest homes for sale in Bryan/College Station, Call her today at 979-255-1904.

Tips for Keeping Bathroom Towels Fresh

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There is nothing better than smelling fresh scented towels. Occasionally, you may run across a stale smelling towel. That smell is actually bacteria brewing. As a homeowner, no one wants their guests to dry his or her face with a towel that smells like wet dog. In College Station, the weather is usually warm, which can boost odor causing bacteria growth. Here are a few tips on keeping fresh bathroom towels.

1. Ring your bathroom towels out well and always hang up to dry. Never place them into a hamper damp.
2. Use a fresh towel every three or four days to prevent dead skin cells from building up on them.
3. Wash your towels after you have bleached your whites. This ensures your machine is sterilized and it helps to freshen your towels.
4. When washing, wash in small loads using the hot water setting. Give your towels room to get the suds through and rinse well. Add a good booster to your wash such as Oxi-Clean. You can also add a cup of vinegar to help neutralize odors.
5. If you have a favorite scented laundry detergent such as Mountain Breeze, Fresh Linen, or Lavender, use the same scented liquid fabric softener and fabric sheets to really infuse the smell through your towels.
6. Thoroughly dry your towels. If your towels have just a hint of moisture, the bacteria can start to grow and that is where the stale smell starts to develop.
7. Swap your towels out. Place your freshly washed towels behind your older ones. This prevents you from using the same towels repeatedly and extends the life of them since they aren’t washed as much.
8. Add fabric sheets in your towel area and in between towels you won’t be using – such as a guest towel set.

You want your new home to feel perfect for you and your guests. Following these simple tips is just one-step closer to perfection. Having fresh towels will be doubly true if you moved to College Station to have your own pool, as the towels will be used constantly, because many pools are used year round.

Featured Homes for Sale in College Station, TX

For more details about this property click here.

Sarah Miller, your RE/MAX realtor bryan-college station can help you discover a lot of great tips for making a profitable and fast sell on your house. She is one of the RE/MAX Bryan-College Station realtors that has a long list of the finest homes for sale in Bryan/College Station, Call her today at 979-255-1904.