Home Owner/Seller • February 20, 2023

Spring Gardening Tips for DFW/North Texas

by Aaron Clough

Spring gardening season is just around the corner, and it’s the perfect time to start planning! If you’re located in the Dallas/Ft Worth area, there are some best practices you can follow to ensure a successful and thriving garden. In this post, we’ll cover what to plant, the equipment you’ll need, and some essential maintenance tips.

What To Plant

First things first, let’s talk about what to plant. Dallas/Ft Worth has a warm, humid climate that’s ideal for a variety of plants. Some popular choices include tomatoes, peppers, herbs like basil and thyme, and flowers like petunias and marigolds. When selecting plants, make sure they’re well-suited to your specific zone and soil type.

What You’ll Need

Next up, equipment. A few essential tools you’ll need include a shovel, hoe, rake, and a pair of gardening gloves. If you have a larger garden, a wheelbarrow can also come in handy for transporting soil and other materials. Additionally, you’ll want to invest in some good quality soil and fertilizer to give your plants the nutrients they need to grow strong and healthy.

Maintenance/Upkeep

Now, let’s talk about maintenance. One of the most important things you can do to ensure a successful garden is to water your plants regularly. In the spring, when temperatures are mild and rainfall is frequent, you may only need to water once or twice a week. As summer approaches, you may need to water more frequently to prevent your plants from wilting.

Another key aspect of maintenance is weeding. Weeds can quickly overtake your garden, stealing nutrients and water from your plants. To keep them at bay, make sure to weed regularly and use a layer of mulch to prevent new weeds from sprouting.

Pest/Things to Watch Out For

Finally, make sure to keep an eye out for pests and diseases. Insects like aphids and caterpillars can wreak havoc on your plants, so it’s important to take action at the first sign of an infestation. Additionally, keep an eye out for any signs of disease, such as yellowing leaves or wilting stems, and take appropriate measures to treat the problem.

In conclusion, spring gardening in Dallas/Ft Worth can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience. By following these best practices, you’ll be well on your way to a beautiful and thriving garden. Happy planting! #closedbyclough

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Market Update • February 13, 2023

Rowlett Housing Update January 2023

by Aaron Clough

It’s time for a housing market update in Rowlett, TX, where January 2023 has seen some interesting developments. For starters, the average sales price in the area is $432,000, a 2% increase from the previous month. This signals that the market is still competitive, with home buyers willing to pay top dollar for properties in the area.

However, the number of properties sold in January 2023 dropped by 40%, due to a combination of seasonality and rates. With fewer homes being sold, it may seem like a buyer’s market, but the sales price to list price ratio was 98.4%, showing that sellers are still able to command close to their asking price.

Another factor to consider is the average number of days on market, which has increased by 19% to 54 days. This could be due to sellers listing their homes based on outdated comparables, leading to longer periods of time on the market. Despite this, the Rowlett housing market still falls under a “seller’s market” classification, with a months supply of inventory at 3.3 months, a 33% increase from the previous month.

So, what does this mean for potential buyers and sellers in Rowlett, TX? For buyers, it could be a good opportunity to negotiate with sellers, who may be more willing to come down on their asking price in light of the longer days on market. On the other hand, sellers should be mindful of current market conditions and list their homes appropriately, taking into consideration the most up-to-date comparables.

In conclusion, January 2023 has seen a mix of developments in the Rowlett housing market. While the average sales price has increased, the number of properties sold has decreased, leading to longer days on market and a higher monthly supply of inventory. As with any real estate market, it’s important to keep an eye on current trends and adjust your strategy accordingly. #closedbyclough

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Market Update • February 10, 2023

Rockwall Housing: January 2023 Report

by Aaron Clough

January 2023 in Rockwall County showed a mix of good and bad news for the housing market. The average sales price remained unchanged at $477,000, but the number of properties sold decreased by 39% to 100. This could be due to the season and higher interest rates.

The good news is that the sales price to list price ratio remained constant at 97%. This shows that sellers are getting close to their desired price, and buyers are still willing to pay top dollar. As demand increases, we expect multiple offers.

However, the average days on market rose by 28% to 74 days. This is because sellers are listing homes based on old comparable and the market is slower due to seasonality. But, this gives buyers more time to consider their options and make informed decisions.

The months supply of inventory reached 6.05 months, which makes Rockwall County a buyer’s market. Buyers have more negotiating power and a wider range of options. That being said, a good amount of this inventory is new construction. Builders are reporting increased traffic due to price decreases and massive incentives! With sales numbers like this, we expect these incentives to go away, timeline is yet to be determined.

For buyers, this is a great time to negotiate and find the right property at a fair price. For sellers, it’s important to price homes accurately and make updates to stand out in a crowded market.

Overall, Rockwall County remains a good option for both buyers and sellers. With the right strategy, anyone can achieve their housing goals in this dynamic and evolving market. As we head into what is looking like a busy summer, make sure you work with someone who knows the ins and outs of Rockwall Housing. #closedbyclough

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Home Owner/Seller • February 7, 2023

Maximize Your Home Value: Top ROI Projects

by Aaron Clough

Home improvement projects are a great way to increase your home’s value and make it a more enjoyable place to live. If you’re looking to make a change but want to ensure you’re getting the best return on investment, consider these high-ROI projects.

First, start with a fresh coat of paint.

A new color scheme can transform any room and costs relatively little compared to other projects. Opt for neutral colors that appeal to a wide range of people to appeal to potential buyers.

Next, upgrade your kitchen.

This is often referred to as the heart of the home, and it’s where people tend to gather. Investing in new countertops, cabinets, and appliances can give your kitchen an updated look. This project can be more costly, but the increase in value to your home will be well worth it.

Another area to focus on is the bathroom.

Adding a luxurious spa-like feel with new fixtures, tiles, and lighting can make a big impact. This project can be less expensive if you stick to cosmetic upgrades, but if you have the budget, consider upgrading to a larger shower or bathtub for even more appeal.

Finally, focus on outdoor living spaces.

Whether it’s a new deck or patio, adding outdoor living space can make your home feel larger and more inviting. It’s also a great way to enjoy the beautiful weather and increase the value of your home.

In conclusion, a fresh coat of paint, upgraded kitchen, luxurious bathroom, and outdoor living spaces are the best home improvement projects that offer the highest return on investment. Not only will these projects make your home more enjoyable to live in, but they’ll also increase its value, making them a wise investment for the future. A great source of inspiration are websites like Pinterest. Users can share photos of completed work, sample tile/paint and instructions. You can save your favorites for later and even shop items shown!

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Bathroom renovations have some of the best ROI

New Home Buyer • February 3, 2023

Mortgage Affordability: A Comparison of Interest Rates from 5% to 6%

by Aaron Clough

Understand How Residential Real Estate fairs during recessions

Are you in the market for a new home and wondering how much the monthly mortgage affordability will differ based on the interest rate? Look no further! In this blog post, we’ll dive into the difference in monthly payments between a $500,000 home with an interest rate of 5%, 5.5%, and 6%.

Interest Rates at 5%

Let’s start with the lowest interest rate of 5%. With a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage, your monthly payment would come out to roughly $2,631. This includes both the principal and interest payments. You also need to factor in homeowners insurance, property taxes, and any PMI. This is assuming you escrow these other charges.

Interest Rates at 5.5%

Moving on to a 5.5% interest rate, your monthly payment would increase to approximately $2,796.

Interest Rates at 6%

Finally, let’s examine the impact of a 6% interest rate. Your monthly payment would jump up to $2,964, but over the life of the loan, As you can see, the interest rate plays a crucial role in determining your monthly affordability and overall cost of the loan. Just a 1% increase in the interest rate, from 5% to 6%, results in a monthly payment increase of $333 and a cost increase of $126,920 over the life of the loan.

Paying Over Ask vs Higher Rate

Another thing to be aware of is with lower rates, comes more buyer pressure. And while we haven’t seen bidding wars in months, we may see them as rates start to drop. Between 5.5% and 6%, the difference in P & I is $168/month. But bidding $5,000 more to secure a lower interest rate on your home is equivalent to covering nearly 30 monthly payments with the savings from the $168 difference in monthly affordability

In conclusion, it’s crucial to take your time when considering the interest rate for your mortgage affordability. While a lower interest rate means lower monthly payments and overall cost, a higher interest rate leads to higher monthly payments and an overall more expensive loan. Shop around and compare rates from various lenders to find the best option for your budget. Don’t wait, take control of your financial future today!

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Home Owner/Seller • February 2, 2023

Overpricing Your Home:The Mistake You Don’t Want to Make

by Aaron Clough

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When selling your home, it can be tempting to ask for more than the market value in hopes of securing a higher profit. The thought is, if it’s priced high there will be room to negotiate down to the number we ultimately want. However, this strategy often backfires and costs homeowners both time and money. Don’t fall into the trap of overpricing your home – here’s why it’s a mistake you don’t want to make.

First, overpricing your home limits your pool of potential buyers. In a competitive market, buyers compare prices of similar homes and choose the ones that offer the best value for their money. If you price your home significantly higher, it may not even make the list of options for buyers.

Second, overpricing your home extends the selling process. Homes that are priced too high often sit on the market for longer, forcing you to cover additional holding costs such as mortgage payments, insurance, and maintenance expenses.

Third, overpricing your home makes it challenging to secure a fair offer. Buyers may suspect that you’re not serious about selling or not open to negotiation, leading to lowball offers or no offers at all.

To avoid these pitfalls, price your home competitively and seek the advice of a reputable real estate agent. Smart pricing and a strong marketing plan will allow you to avoid headaches and heartache. Don’t make the mistake of overpricing your home – it’s a decision you’ll regret.

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Home Owner/Seller • February 1, 2023

Spring into Action: The Ultimate Lawn Maintenance Guide

by Aaron Clough

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Homebuyers’ first impressions of your home, start in your front yard. A well-kept lawn can either attract or repel buyers that are shopping in your area. Spring is the perfect time to give your lawn the care it needs to thrive throughout the year. Here are some tips to help you maintain a lush and healthy lawn this spring.

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Your lawn gives buyers a preview of what to expect inside

Rake the lawn:

Remove any leaves, twigs, and other debris that may have accumulated over the winter. This helps prevent mold and encourages new growth.

Aerate the soil:

Aerating the soil allows air, water, and nutrients to penetrate the roots of your grass, promoting healthy growth. Use a lawn aerator or rent one from a garden center.

Fertilize:

Fertilize your lawn to provide it with the necessary nutrients to grow strong and healthy. Use a fertilizer that is specifically designed for your type of grass. Want To Nerd Out About Fertilizer in N. Texas?!

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What Type and When You Fertilize Matters

Mow correctly:

Mowing your lawn correctly is important for promoting healthy growth. Set your mower to the highest setting and mow when the grass is dry. Leave the clippings on the lawn to provide extra nutrients.

Water deeply:

Water your lawn deeply and infrequently, rather than shallowly and often. This will encourage the roots to grow deeper, making your lawn more drought-resistant.

Control weeds:

Pull any weeds by hand, or use an herbicide to control their growth. That being said, be careful to choose a product that is safe for your lawn and the environment.

Add mulch:

Adding a layer of mulch to your flower beds will help to retain moisture and suppress weed growth.

With these simple tips, your lawn will be looking its best in no time. Take advantage of the spring weather and get outside to give your lawn the care it deserves. Your efforts will be rewarded with a beautiful and healthy lawn that will be the envy of the neighborhood!

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Uncategorized • January 31, 2023

Spring Cleaning Like a Pro, Start The Year Off Right!

by Aaron Clough

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Spring has sprung and with it comes the urge to declutter and freshen up your home. Here are some fun and effective tips for homeowners to get the most out of their spring cleaning.

Make a plan:

Before you start, make a list of tasks you want to tackle and prioritize them based on importance. This will help you stay organized and avoid feeling overwhelmed.

Get the whole family involved:

Make cleaning a fun family activity. Assign tasks to each member, play music, and offer incentives for completing the task.

Declutter, Declutter, DECLUTTER:

Start by getting rid of items you no longer need. Donate, sell, or recycle items in good condition, and properly dispose of items that cannot be reused.

Tackle one room at a time:

Focusing on one room at a time will help you stay organized and motivated. Plus, it will make it easier to keep track of your progress.

Use natural cleaners:

Instead of harsh chemicals, opt for natural cleaners like vinegar, lemon, and baking soda. They are better for the environment and won’t harm you or your pets.

Get creative with storage:

Get creative with your storage solutions to maximize space and keep your home clutter-free. Try using under-bed storage containers, hanging organizers, and shelving units.

Don’t forget about the outdoors:

Spring cleaning isn’t just about the inside of your home. Take some time to clean up your yard, power wash your deck, and tidy up your garden.

With these tips, your spring cleaning will be both effective and enjoyable. So, grab your cleaning supplies, turn up the music, and get ready to transform your home into a fresh and organized space! Below, you’ll find a list of cleaning and storage essentials!

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Natural Cleaning Products

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Home Owner/Seller • January 27, 2023

Homeowners: 5 Common Mistakes When Selling a House

by Aaron Clough

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When it comes to listing your home for sale, it can be easy to make mistakes that can cost you time and money. Whether you’re a first-time seller or a seasoned pro, there are some common pitfalls that homeowners fall into. Here are a few of the most common mistakes and how you can avoid them:

Pricing your home too high: One of the biggest mistakes that homeowners make is pricing their homes too high. You may think that your home is worth more than the comparable homes in your area, but buyers will typically only be willing to pay what the market dictates. If you price your home too high, it will sit on the market for a long time, which can give buyers doubts.
Skimping on home staging: Another common mistake that homeowners make is not investing enough in home staging. A well-staged home will show off your home’s best features and can help buyers envision themselves living there. If your home is cluttered or poorly decorated, buyers may be turned off and may not want to make an offer. Here is some more pro staging tips Staging Tips
Not making necessary repairs: Before listing your home, it’s important to make any necessary repairs. This can include fixing leaks, patching holes in walls, and replacing broken windows. If buyers see that your home needs work, they may be less likely to make an offer, or they may ask for a lower price.
Not providing enough information: When buyers are looking for a home, they want to know as much as possible about the property. This includes the home’s age, square footage, and any upgrades or remodels that have been done. If you don’t provide enough information, buyers are less likely to make an offer.
Not working with a real estate agent: One of the biggest mistakes that homeowners make is not working with a real estate agent. A good real estate agent will be able to help you price your home correctly, stage it effectively, and market it to the right buyers. They will also be able to help you navigate the aspects of selling your home.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can increase your chances of selling your home quickly and for the best price. Remember, the key to a successful home sale is to be well-informed, and prepared, and to work with a real estate agent who can help guide you through the process. Want to stay up to date with the market around you? Sign up for our Neighborhood News Updater Neighborhood News Market Stats

Home Owner/Seller • January 25, 2023

7 Home Staging Tips to Help You Sell Your Home Quickly

by Aaron Clough

Home staging is all about making your home irresistible to buyers. This doesn’t necessarily mean spending a TON of money on a home that you’re leaving or having to take it down to the studs. Here are some quick tips to make it happen:

Declutter like crazy. Get rid of all the knick-knacks, family photos, and excess furniture. A clean and spacious home is a home that sells.
Fix it up. Make all necessary repairs, updates, and paint. Small changes can make a big impact on how buyers perceive your home.
Make a statement. Every room needs a focal point that catches the eye of buyers. A fireplace, large window, or piece of art will do the trick. This may be as simple as rearranging a room, no need to spend a ton!
Keep it neutral. Neutral colors make it easy for buyers to envision themselves living in the space and make your home feel cohesive.
Light it up. Make sure every room has plenty of natural light, and add additional lighting where needed. A warm and inviting atmosphere is key.
Bring in the green. Plants and flowers add color, life, and freshness to a home.
Stage the outdoors too. A clean and well-maintained front porch and backyard will make buyers want to spend time outside. Add outdoor furniture or a fire pit if you can. Also, make sure the grass and flower beds are maintained and well-kept.

Staging your home doesn’t have to be a stressful process and is all about showcasing it in the best possible light. Our team is here to help you make it sparkle, and it’ll sell in a flash!

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