Trick or Treat Trail in Pearland, TX - 10/30/11 10:19 PM
There are lots of great things to do on Halloween in Pearland, TX including the City of Pearland's Trick or Treat Trail! Its a great event and this year is sure to be the best yet!
 
Trick or Treat Trail
Date/Time: Monday, October 31, 5:30 - 8 PM
Location:Pearland HS Visitor Parking Lot (3775 S. Main)
Cost: FREE ADMISSION
Ages: All ages welcome    
Calling all ghosts and goblins! Come on out and Trick or Treat on Halloween! We'll have kids activities, inflatables, a costume contest for children 12 years old and younger, food on-site and much more! Join us … (4 comments)

Why Buying What You Can Comfortably Afford Isn’t “Settling” - 10/26/11 11:28 PM
Why Buying What You Can Comfortably Afford Isn’t “Settling”
Are you ready to purchase your first home? Before you take the "Big Step" into buying a home, sit down, relax and go over your monthly expenses.  By taking the time to do this, you will be able see what you can comfortably afford for your home monthly payment. 
The next step is to get your loan in order with a  mortgage company. Often times you might be approved for a loan amount that is higher then what is comfortable for your monthly budget.  This is why it is imperative for you to start with your … (10 comments)

Home buying.. Deal or NO Deal - 10/26/11 11:03 PM
In the Pearland/Houston area, the market is making big strides.  Home sales are up 17% percent from last year and for the last four months, the Houston Association of Realtors (HAR) cites record home sales.  As of today, there are 175 pending homes waiting to go to closing in Pearland, Texas.  Although it is still a buyer’s market, that does not necessarily mean you will get a mansion for little or next to nothing. 
 
Here are four important things to consider when purchasing a home.
1.    Will you be comfortable with the monthly payment?
2.    Do you like the house enough … (3 comments)

Community Wide Garage Sale in Pearland Nov. 5th - 10/25/11 10:06 PM
Community Wide Garage Sale - November 5, 2011


DATE: Saturday, November 5LOCATION: Bailey Campus, 4717 Bailey RoadTIME: 8 a.m.-1 p.m.COST: FREE admission and on-site parking   
SHOPPERSCome shop and get great deals on all sorts of treasures! Clothes, baby items, furniture, art and more can be found. Don't miss out on all of the bargains and great finds at this one-stop shopping event!
SELLERSBooths are on sale now for only $25 each. Register today by downloading an application and making your booth payment. It's that simple!
… (3 comments)

The Cost of Buying vs Renting a Home In Pearland - 10/25/11 06:42 AM

It makes good sense to consider purchasing a home in today’s Pearland, Texas Real Estate market. The Houston Association of Realtors just reported that homes sales climb up closed to 17% from last year.  They also reported record home sales for four straight months.  Clearly stated, the Real Estate market is moving along strong.
In Pearland, TX, our Real Estate Market has continued to stay steady is now going strong due to many factors. I think the three most important are Location, Schools and last - but not least - the incredibly low interest rates!  People are now able to … (14 comments)

Houston-area Home Sales Rise for a Fourth Straight Month! - 10/24/11 09:32 PM
WOW! Houston-area home sales rise for a fourth straight month!   
According to the Houston Association of Realtors (HAR), sales of single-family homes climbed nearly 17 percent when compared to one year earlier and accounted for the fourth consecutive month of increased sales volume. The prices of those homes achieved all-time highs for a September in Houston. In addition, months inventory fell to the lowest level since May 2010 while pending sales rose and active listings declined. All are considered signs of a healthy and balanced housing market as the fall season gets underway. 
HAR also stated that the month of September … (0 comments)

NEW PRICE: 4011 Ivywood Dr., Pearland, TX - 10/24/11 08:39 PM

4011 Ivywood Dr.

Pearland, TX 77584
$154,900.00

This beautiful home located in a cul-de-sac offers 4 bedrooms & 2.5 baths & is ready for you! The kitchen is spacious with black appliances, tile floors, breakfast bar & it over looks the breakfast area and the living room. All bedrooms upstairs and are spacious! Did I mention that there is a POOL and patio in the backyard for summer fun! Call about it TODAY!

 


… (3 comments)

6 Myths that are NOT True about FHA Loans. - 10/24/11 07:50 PM
Great blog post on FHA Loans from Mortgage Banker, David Krichmar. There are a lot of misconceptions on FHA Loans but the fact of the matter is that they hold a large market share of available mortgage loans.
Via www.DaveYourMortgageGuy.com, FHA, VA, USDA, HomePath, Jumbo:
Even thou FHA loans have become hugely popular in the last 2yrs, I still hear myths about them that are just not true.  Here are the 6 most popular myths I hear and the truth:
 
1.      “FHA loans are for folks with bad credit”- This is not true.  I do many FHA loans where the client … (4 comments)

NOW is the Time to Buy a Home in Pearland! - 10/24/11 07:25 AM
Low Interest Rates make it a Great Time to Buy Your First Home.
Now is a great time to take that step into owning a home.  As of today (October 24, 2011) the rate for a FHA loan are at 4%.  The rate is amazing and exciting and now puts more people in the position to purchase a new home or move up into a larger home. 

What does this low interest rate mean to you as a potential home owner?
Let’s go back five (5) years ago to 2006.  At that time the rates were running in the 6%ish … (3 comments)

Google Cloud Printing on the GO - 10/20/11 02:13 PM
I have decided to take another interesting Challenge/Contest. I say “Challenge” because I have to admit before I read the blog I had never heard of Google Cloud Printing. I decided to learn more about Google Cloud Printing to see if it was something that would make me and my team more productive. Once I had done my homework and learned as much as I could about the product, I knew this was something very useful.  Not only useful but, totally cool! Honestly, when I started looking into this new technology I figured it would be hard to learn and too … (4 comments)

Silverlake Market Report Update October 2011 - 10/20/11 12:08 PM
 
Silverlake Real Estate Market in Pearland, TX remains strong and steady.  At this time there are 67 homes active on the MLS.  Last month I reported on September 15th in my Silverlake Market Report Update that there were 83 homes active on the mls.  The price range of the homes active on the market is $99,000 to $599,000.  There are many opportunities for homes buyers given the large range of prices. 
 
Pending Sales are up this month from 15 in September to 24 in October.  This shows a positive Real Estate Market for Silverlake.  The average price for the … (1 comments)

The Lakes at Highland Glen Market Report October 2011 - 10/20/11 12:04 PM
The Lakes at Highland Glen Market remains strong and steady.  At this time there are 24 homes active on the mls.  Last month I reported on September 15th in my The Lakes at Highland Glen Market Report Update that there were 32 homes active on the mls.  The price range of the homes active on the market is $174,900 to $529,000. The average list price is $287,432. The average time on the market for the homes is 125 days.
Pending Sales are up this month from 2 in September to 7.  This shows a positive Real Estate Market for The Lakes … (0 comments)

Golf Tournament in Pearland, Texas - 10/19/11 02:08 PM
 
There are a few spots available for this year’s Adult Reading Center’s Golf Tournament.  
 
This is the 2nd Annual Golf Tournament for the Adult Reading Center in Pearland.  Last year was not only a success but, lots of fun.  I am looking forward to the tournament again this year.  I hope to see you there!
Friday, October 28, 2011
Registration: 10:30 am
Shotgun Start: 12:00 pm
The Club at Country Place
3123 Flower Field Lane, Pearland, TX
 
 

 Format of Play:
The tournament will be played in scramble format. Par
is your friend. Men will hit from the … (1 comments)

Wordless Wednesday: You Can't Buy You Happiness But... - 10/19/11 06:42 AM
Wordless Wednesday: You Can't Buy You Happiness But...

Go ahead and laugh out loud! I know I did when I first saw this! I'm from the South where we take our food  serious so this hits home. I hope you have a great Wednesday! We are just a few days till Friday and the weekend! Have a great day!
… (11 comments)

Help Wanted: Volunteers Needed at the Pearland Animal Adoption Center - 10/18/11 07:55 PM
Help Wanted: Volunteers Needed at the Pearland Animal Adoption Center

The Pearland Animal Adoption Center needs people to help manage weekend adoption events at local pet stores. A homeless dog or cat has a much better chance of being adopted if people see outside the shelter. Not everyone has the time or interest to visit the city’s adoption center. But, pet stores and local events give potential pet owners a chance to meet the perfect pet they didn’t know was out there. Volunteers are needed to help oversee the event, answer questions and assist with on-site pet adoptions. 
For more … (2 comments)

Am I Ready to Buy My First Home - 10/18/11 11:46 AM
Rebekah Radice  has put this informative home buyer checklist together.  It not only is a good outline for getting prepared to purchase a home it has a few links that will help in the preparation of getting started on your home loan.  The links are Free Credit Report, Common Mortgage Terms, Documents required for mortgage pre-approval.
 
Via Rebekah Radice Colorado Springs FHA Loan 203k, VA Mortgage, Loan Pre-Approval (Benchmark Mortgage, Colorado Springs FHA, VA, Pre-Approval):

Buying your first home is an exciting but often overwhelming undertaking. Whether you have been renting or living with friends and family, taking the … (3 comments)

Fall Festival in Pearland, Texas - 10/18/11 11:22 AM

Vic Coppinger YMCA in Pearland, Texas is having their 16th Annual Fall Festival this Friday, October 21, 2011. My husband and I took Jayden the last couple of years and he had a blast.   We are looking forward to taking him again this year.   The cost is $10.00 which includes the admission to all the activities except the Road Gamers and concession stand.
The Fall Festival is 6pm-9pm and the entire Pearland Community is invited
Face Painting                    Concessions       
  Haunted House                 Games
Live Music                         Inflatables
Road Gamers                    Petting Zoo
 
For more information for the Fall Festival contact Vic Coppinger YMCA … (4 comments)

Pearland Homes For Sale: 4011 Ivywood - 10/17/11 08:15 PM
4011 Ivywood
Pearland, TX 77584
$159,900
 
You will just fall in love with this spacious home in Pearland's Westwood Village subdivision! This home for sale in Pearland is located within close proximatey to Magnolia Elementary and is on a beautiful home located in a cul-de-sac. With 4 bedrooms & 2.5 baths, it is ready for you!. The kitchen is spacious with black appliances, tile floors, breakfast bar & it over looks the breakfast area & the living room. All bedrooms upstairs. Master suite is HUGE & has a great bathroom w/ his/her sinks, garden tub & separate glass shower. Other 3 … (2 comments)

Froberg’s Farm Pumpkin Patch in Alvin Texas - 10/17/11 06:23 PM
Froberg’s Farm
Pumpkin Patch in Alvin, Texas
 
This past weekend my family went to Froberg’s Farm in Alvin, Texas.  We had so much fun we ended up staying out there for a couple of hours.  They have a “Pumpkin Room” set up with loads of pumpkins and places to take pictures. 
Every weekend there is a hay ride – scavenger hunt that last about 30 minutes.  The wait is pretty long so I would recommend buying your tickets right when you get to Froberg’s.  The Hay Rides run from 9:15AM-5:30PM Tickets can be purchased and out at the Snack … (2 comments)

Rental Homes in Pearland Texas - 10/15/11 11:28 PM
Are you looking for Rental Homes in Pearland Texas?
 
3238 Autumn Forest Dr located in Westwood Village in Pearland, Texas $1400.00 Per Month. 
Great 3 bedroom 2 bath home! Kitchen is spacious and opens up to the living area as well as the breakfast room. Formal dining and den as good size as well. Master bedroom is HUGE! Master bathroom has his/her sinks, tile floor, and glass shower plus separate garden tub. Backyard has a little patio. Appliances to stay are washer/dryer and refrigerator. Make your appointment today!
 
                  6037 Manry Avenue located in Brookside Village in … (2 comments)

FUNNY FRIDAY: This is What I look Like.... - 10/14/11 07:33 AM
FUNNY FRIDAY: This is What I look Like....

Happy Friday Folks! One of my friends sent this to me and I couldn't stop laughing! This is so me! But just remember - no matter how slow your run - you are still going faster than anyone still sitting on the couch!
 I hope you have a GREAT day and a wonderful weekend!
… (10 comments)

Neighborhood Spotlight on Dixie Woods Subdivision in Pearland - 10/13/11 07:16 AM
The Dixie Woods subdivision in Pearland is one of those communities that consistantly stands out in Pearland. Its always so well kept and manicured. The beautiful landscaping in Dixie Wood subdivision greets you as you enter in. In fact, the ascetic aspect of Dixie Woods is what draws most buyers at first. The Dixie Woods subdivision takes such pride in its appearance that the homeowners association gives a "Yard of the Month" award each month.
Another aspect that appeals to homebuyers interested in the Dixie Woods subdivision is the community activities. Block parties are often coordinated which allows neighbors to get … (3 comments)

Silvercreek Subdivision Market Report - 10/13/11 06:37 AM
Silvercreek Subdivision in Pearland is a Great place to live and play!

 
Because of its close proximinty to the to Highway 288, shopping, local schools and restaurants, the market seems to be holding strong in Pearland's Silvercreek subdivision. 

 
At this time there are twenty one (21) homes active on the MLS.  The price ranges of the homes are $199,000 to $439,000 with the average price being $271,233.00.  The good news is there are five (5) pending sales and twenty two (22) properties that have SOLD since June 1, 2011.  The average price for the properties sold was $268,918.  … (0 comments)

Pumpkin Patch in Pearland Texas - 10/11/11 11:29 AM
As long as I can remember every year in October St Andrew’s Episcopal Church in Pearland has had a Pumpkin Patch. This is a fundraiser for St. Andrew's but, also is a gift to our Pearland community.  The proceeds from the sale of the pumpkins goes to the Ministry and Mission of the church.
There are many areas set up for the perfect pumpkin fall pictures. Also you will find lots of wagons around for the kids to tote their special pumpkin.
St Andrew's Pumpkin Patch is located at 2535 East Broadway in Pearland. The Pumpkin Patch Hours are 10:00am to 8:00pm Daily
… (6 comments)

Family Time - 10/11/11 10:25 AM
This past weekend our son Blake was able to come home for a visit.  Blake is in the Army and is stationed in Georgia.  To have him home and the family together was a true gift. Our family had such a grand time being together. 

We ended the weekend at Pearland’s Bowling Center. Everyone had a BLAST. Nothing beats FAMILY TIME. I am truly a VERY BLESSED Mom & Wife.
Sometimes life can get hard but, all I have to do is sit back and see my family and it makes everything perfect.
Have a wonderful blessed day.
… (2 comments)

What is and is not included in Mortgage APR? - 10/10/11 07:05 PM
Check out this great and informative blog by Aaron Ginn on the items that are included in your APR as well as some items that are not. 
Via Aaron Ginn (Summit Financial Services):
If you have already been presented with your loan documents, your APR can be found on the Truth in Lending page. While the actual calculation of the APR can be quite difficult, what is and is not included in the calculation is relatively easy.
The basic rule of thumb as to what is not included in the APR is whether or not that specific item provides a value outside of … (1 comments)

National CHARACTER COUNTS! Week October 16-22 - 10/10/11 06:54 PM
 

Helping to answer the call for renewed values and education reform, Pearland Parks and Recreation will celebrate National CHARACTER COUNTS! Week October 16-22.  CHARACTER COUNTS! is a framework centered on basic values called the Six Pillars of Character: trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring and citizenship. Last year, 8 million  children in 54 countries participated in the program. Pearland Parks and Recreation will commemorate the week with a host of activities  taking place  at the Community Center (3523 Liberty Drive), Westside Event Center (2150 Countryplace) and the Recreation Center & Natatorium (4141 Bailey Road).
“Throughout National CHARACTER COUNTS! Week, our customers will see examples of the … (5 comments)

Top Home Buying Mistakes Consumers Make - 10/09/11 11:33 AM

 
 
As we all know, buying a home is a huge undertaking. But its more than finding the "right" one with enough space. It also means that you have to be extremely careful in the months leading up to making that big purchase! Here are a few tips to remember BEFORE you consider buying a home:
No Major Purchases Before Closing. This includes furniture, jewelry, appliances, electronic equipment, and cars anything that will create a debt or cut into your cash reserves. Increasing your debts or decreasing your cash reserves could affect your loan qualification. If you need to … (10 comments)

NEW PRICE! 6037 Manry Ave. Pearland, TX - 10/09/11 11:18 AM
6037 Manry Ave.
Pearland, Texas 77581
$224,900
 
This home is a MUST SEE! Beautiful kitchen with granite counter tops, travertine backsplash, stainless appliances & a HUGE island. The dining room has built-ins and bench seat. Did I mention that this Pearland home for sale has 2 Master suites - both have WHIRLPOOL tubs. The large living area with pergo wood floors. Thie home also includes an outdoor kitchen with a big covered patio & built-in grill & oven! Extra large 24 x 16 workshop in back of property.Huge Garage/Gameroom is a must to see. This Pearland home for sale is … (4 comments)

Pearland Home For Sale: 2012 Sandy Banks Lane - 10/08/11 12:22 PM
2012 Sandy Banks Ln Pearland, TX 77581 Located in: Creekside Subdivision   MLS #76626937   Take a look at this fantastic Pearland Home for Sale in the Creekside Subdivision! Large ceramic tiles complement the beautiful kitchen complete with granite countertops! This home is located in a fabulous neighborhood - perfect for your family! Call today to make your appointment - 281-412-2022!  

… (1 comments)

Pre-Approval Vs. Pre-Qualify - 10/07/11 07:20 AM
 


Pre-Approval vs. Pre-Qualify

I often have clients ask me the difference between to pre-approval and pre-qualify. They almost sound the same, right? But in truth, they are very different. 

Pre-approval and pre-qualification are two different things. During the prequalification process, a loan officer asks you a few questions, then hands you a "pre-qualification" letter. The pre-approval process is much more thorough. During the pre-approval process, the mortgage company or mortgage broker does virtually all the work associated with obtaining full-approval. Once you find the property to purchase the only a few things left to get full-approval … (3 comments)

Texas Homestead Exemption - New Law - Must Prove Primary Residence - 10/05/11 01:49 PM
Donna Harris with RE/MAX recently shared this updated information on the NEW LAW that applies to Homestead Exemption.  Each county is different but, some will allow you to go back five (5) years if you have forgotten to file for your homestead exemption.  Here are the links to Brazoria County, Harris County, Galveston County & Fort Bend County.  
It is important to note that in order to file for the exemption you would need to own the home by January 1st of the year. 
Two BIG benefits to Homestead exemption are the money savings and the protection that applies … (3 comments)

Wordless Wednesday: Our Children Will Never Know... - 10/05/11 06:46 AM
Wordless Wednesday: Our Children Will Never Know...

Our children will never know the link between a cassette tape and a pencil! Isn't that the truth!! When I saw this, I literally laughed out loud! Do you remember the panic of the tape coming out? What would we have don't without pencils? They personally saved my New Kids on the Block tape more than once! 
Have a great Wednesday!
… (12 comments)

The Importance of Home Inspections - 10/05/11 06:38 AM

 
What is a Home Inspection?
There are numerous types of property inspections. An inspection is meant to evaluate, at minimum, the structural and mechanical condition of a property. It is not the same as an appraisal which evaluates the market value of a property. Talk with your agent about the types of inspections available.
 
When purchasing a home, it is highly recommended that you get a Structural and Pest Control inspections. Even if you are purchasing the home “AS IS,” it is still recommended to have an inspection.

If there is a swimming pool and/or well and septic you will want … (17 comments)

Believe That You Can - 10/04/11 10:13 PM
Lou Ludwig, Sales and Management Consultant, Success Coach, Speaker, Trainer and Author wrote this very Motivational Power Quote that I just had to share.  We all need to take a moment to Believe That We Can.
Via Lou Ludwig CRB, CRS, CIPS, GRI, SRES, TRC, e-PRO, (Ludwig & Associates):
   
Motivational Power Quote
 
Believe That You Can and You Will
“Somehow I can’t believe that there
are any heights that can’t be scaled by a man
who knows the secrets of making dreams come true.
This special secret, it seems to me,
they can be summarized in four Cs.
They are curiosity, … (1 comments)

Sagemont Homes For Sale - 10/04/11 09:44 PM
10927 Sagewillow Lane $104,900
3 bedroom 2 bath home with 2 car garage
This home in Sagemont for SALE is JUST THE PERFECT SIZE! This cozy 3 bedroom 2 baths home is waiting for you. At just the right price you will love the oak cabinets in the kitchen with black appliances. Wonderful Sunny breakfast room for the family to dine at any day of the week. Nice open living room with high ceilings. Master is spacious with a big walk in closet. Back yard is fenced and has a covered patio for those summer BBQ's.
More listing Details For … (4 comments)

Manvel Homes For Sale:3519 Apple Grove Dr. - 10/04/11 07:19 AM
Manvel Homes For Sale: 3519 Apple Grove Dr.
MLS 47865316
$259,900

WOW! Take a look at this beautiful home for sale in Manvel's Silvercreek subdivision! With 4 bedrooms and 3.5 baths, this home offers space galore! The kitchen has gorgeous cherry cabinets, granite counter tops and stainless steel coountertops! And don't forget the pool - its sure to please in those hot Texas days! Call and make your appointment today! 281-412-2022
 


… (5 comments)

Pearland Real Estate Market Report - 10/02/11 08:20 PM
October - 2011 Pearland Real Estate Market Report Welcome to the most current Pearland Real Estate Market Report. This Report is specially designed for you, with local housing information that you may find useful whether you’re in the market for a home, thinking about selling your home, or just interested in the Pearland Real Estate Market.
This Market Report contains the latest information from the homes listed on HAR.com Pearland continues to show that this Town is a great place to live and own Real Estate. An outstanding 166 homes are pending and waiting to go to closing. Last Month there … (2 comments)

Home for Sale in Sagemont - 10/01/11 08:07 PM
Come see this cute home located in Sagemont. This 3 bedroom 2 bath is on a corner lot has been updated with beautiful hard wood floors and new carpet, even the garage has been updated with new paint. Nice size backyard with a covered patio.
 
                                    Priced At $104,900
 Home for Sale in Sagemont listing Details
Sagemont is located just minutes from Beltway 8 and I45.  Easy and quick access to work, schools and restaurants makes this a preferred location.
 
… (6 comments)

Curb Appeal is like a JOB INTERVIEW - 10/01/11 04:52 PM
 
DON'T Forget about curb appeal of your home it is the first impression, just like a job interview. In a job interview they say you only have seconds to make a good impression.
How is your curb appeal? Will your home pass the initial first impression test? These are questions to ask yourself each morning and evening your home is active on the market for sale or lease. Having a quick checklist will help to insure your home is ready.  The fact is a lot of buyers like to take a drive by the home before they make an appointment.  … (28 comments)