College Station Real Estate

Springtime Lawn Care: Let Your Grass Grow

James Murr, www.cortiersrealestate.com (Cortiers Real Estate) — Wed, 15 May 2013 14:22:09 -0700

Springtime Lawn Care: Let Your Grass Grow

Lawn-care techniques can vary, depending on the time of the year. While some of the following tips do apply year round, they are specifically designed to help you get the most out of your lawn during the spring months. Spring is the best time for your lawn to thrive, so let it!

You May Want to Skip the Poisons

A lot of us take advantage of the pleasant spring weather to get out there and deal with the weeds, but the chemical herbicides that many of us use may not be doing as much good as we think. Many of them only damage the grass and may even affect the health of animals and children without effectively eliminating any of the weeds. Some weeds can be pulled, or simply left alone if they are not a threat to your grass and plants.

Know How to Mow

Do a little research and find out which mowers can get you the trim you want. This can depend on your type of grass, yard obstacles, climate or yard size. If you have a larger lawn, a zero-turn lawn mower can optimize your mowing precision and time. According to Husqvarna.com, these machines have “high-capacity cutting decks” and the “ability to turn around its own axis,” making them perfect for tackling those huge yard projects. Electric trimmers are perfect for smaller yards, especially if you are on a budget and want to stay earth friendly.

Cut Less Frequently

A lot of people trim their grass to an inch or two in the hopes that this will make it take longer between mowings but, in truth, it renews so fast that you don’t really need to worry about that. It’s a better idea not to over trim the grass, but to let it get a little “shaggy” between cuttings. At three inches or more, your grass is going to be better at absorbing water and sunlight. You could potentially save a lot of extra money during the spring months when it comes to lawn watering expenses.

Taking care of your lawn in the spring is largely a matter of just allowing nature to do its thing. The most important things you lawn needs include sunlight, good soil and water. In most regions, the spring season is generous enough to provide these natural resources abundantly. During the summer and autumn months, it can be a challenge to keep your greenery thriving. So, this season, enjoy your beautiful lawn without fretting too much about its upkeep. Let it grow a little freer than you may be used to and minimize your use of chemicals and other unnatural products. By the time June rolls around, your yard will be healthy and ready for the hot summer months.

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ContactCortiers Real Estate today or visit Cortiers website for more information!
Office 979-985-5610 or emaiinfo@cortiers.com

May is National Bike Month

James Murr, www.cortiersrealestate.com (Cortiers Real Estate) — Wed, 15 May 2013 07:59:07 -0700

Did you know that College Station holds the No.1 ranking spot in Texas for the highest percentage of people who bike to work?
According to the US Census Bureau

May is National Bike Month which was proclaimed by the City of College Station. A great reason and opportunity to get outdoors and enjoy the weather before summer heat sets in.

“Still, the city was one of three Texas cities designated as a “Bicycle Friendly Community” by the League of American Bicyclists in 2011, although it failed to make the 2012 list. College Station boasts 33 miles of bike lanes, 59 miles of bike routes and 8 miles of multi-use paths.”
Reported by The Eagle Newspaper

Information from the Census reported that 777,000 people used bikes as their primary means of transportation to work.

There are many health benefits to bicycling:
Good for your heart, muscles, waistline, lifespan, coordination, mental health, immune system and so much more.
Check out Adult Bicylcing’s website about these health benefits!

Here is a list of bike trails/paths in College Station:

Lick Creek Park and Trails
Wolf Pen Creek Corridor

Arboretum (1 Mile Natural)
Bee Creek Park (1/4 Mile)
Brison Park (1/3 Mile)
Brothers Pond Park (1/2 Mile)
Cove of Nantucket (1/4 Mile)
Crescent Pointe (1/3 Mile)
Cy Miller Park (1/3 Mile)
Edelweiss Garten (8/10 Mile)
Emerald Forest Park (1/3 Mile)
Gabbard Park (1/3 Mile)
Jack and Dorothy Miller Park (1/3 Mile)
John Crompton Park
Lemontree Park (3/4 Mile)
Lick Creek Park (4.95 Miles)
Lincoln Center (1/3 mile)
Merry Oaks Park (1/3 Mile)
Oaks Park (1/4 Mile)
Pebble Creek (1/4 Mile)
Sandstone Park (1/3 Mile)
Steeplechase Park (1/2 Mile)
Steven C. Beachy Central Park (1 Mile)
Thomas Park (1/3 Mile)
University Park (1/3) Mile)
Veterans Park & the Athletic Complex(American Mile)
Wolf Pen Creek Park (1.9 miles)
Woodcreek Park (1/3 Mile)
Woodland Hills (1/4 Mile)Provided by the City of College Station Parks & Rec.

Check out The Eagle’s full story about Bicyclists: College Station becoming more bike-friendly.

Featured listing: 3819 Meadow View Drive – College Station

James Murr, www.cortiersrealestate.com (Cortiers Real Estate) — Thu, 09 May 2013 10:02:26 -0700

3819 Meadow View Drive

College Station, Texas 77845

(Westfield)

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Price $170,000 | 4 bedroom | 2.5 bath| Approx 1,897 sq. ft.

Spacious 4 Bedroom home located in a great location in College station. Recent updates include complete tile flooring downstairs, new paint, new wood fence in backyard, garbage disposal, and bathroom sink faucets. The Home features a large utility/storage room, Internet wiring in all bedrooms, security alarm and lawn irrigation system.
Seller will give a $2,000 carpet allowance.

For more information about 3819 Meadow View Drive click here.

DIY Fire Pit

James Murr, www.cortiersrealestate.com (Cortiers Real Estate) — Wed, 24 Apr 2013 13:07:51 -0700

Thinking of ways to enhance the ambiance of your patio or backyard? What better way to enhance a families time together than with an outdoor fire pit! Relaxing outside by a fire pit is also a great way to spend a lazy evening. Check out this do it yourself fire pit and invite your friends and family over this weekend for s’mores!

Photo Credit: Cherie Bakow

For instructions on how to build this fire pit visit Bakow Babble.

Things to Know When Hiring a Contractor…

James Murr, www.cortiersrealestate.com (Cortiers Real Estate) — Mon, 22 Apr 2013 11:18:38 -0700

Before even beginning to select the contractor for your project, it is recommended that you carefully plan out exactly what your needs are and what you want the completed job to look like. When searching for contractors, ask friends, relatives, and business associates for recommendations. Seek out multiple options and compare costs. Keep in mind that the lowest price is not always the best deal. Consider the quality of work that will be performed and in addition, ask for local references. Make sure the contractor is insured and verify the coverage once you obtain the name of the carrier. Before work can begin on your project, you will need to get a contract and negotiate the price.

Get a Contract

It is important that you have all agreements and oral promises put in writing. This will cover you in case something changes and you are not happy with your new home addition. Make sure the following is in the contract:

A complete description of the work to be done
The total cost of the project
Any warranties and/or guarantees of workmanship
A timeline of job completion the contractor promised you as part of their bid
What your rights are if the job goes over budget or past the agreed timeline
A right to cancel clause (Three business days is the legal law in the state of Texas)
The contractor’s full name, address and telephone number

Be wary of vaguely worded provisions and do not be pressured into signing a contract. Never sign a partial or blank contract. Once a contract is signed, generally it cannot be changed or broken unless both parties agree. Keep a copy of the signed contract.

Payments

Make every attempt to pay a minimal or no down payment for supplies or services
If a down payment is required it should not exceed 10% of the total cost of the project
Be suspicious if you are asked to pay for the entire job in advance
Payments should be made progressively as work is completed (This should be stated clearly in your contract)
Avoid paying cash whenever possible (You will want a record or paper trail, should anything go wrong and you end up in court or arbitration to resolve the matter)
Hold at least 10% of the total until you are satisfied that everything has been completed
If a payment plan has been worked out, make sure the arrangements are clearly stated in your contract

A Seller’s Disclosure

James Murr, www.cortiersrealestate.com (Cortiers Real Estate) — Mon, 22 Apr 2013 11:14:03 -0700

Being the savvy businessperson you are you have no doubt weaved your way through owning a car or two. That purchase was probably not quick. You needed the facts about the vehicle before you could mount a hula dancer on the dash. It was important to know what the condition of the vehicle was in before you would sign on the dotted line. Similarly when you look at buying a home you want to know all the ins and outs of the property you are purchasing. The key to becoming the expert on your home is in the seller’s disclosure document.

Although you can switch on the oven, flip some switches, and hear the thermostat click on there can be unseen defects within a home. The seller’s disclosure looks to protect you from having any future surprises. This document, compiled by the sellers, details any current quirks about the house that are apparent. In this document you will find details about appliances and the history of the home. Existing irregularities of a prospective home will be listed on the seller’s disclosure.

To ensure your satisfaction with a home you need to know exactly what problems or positives you will inherit after the sold sign is posted. By examining the seller’s disclosure you can choose if your petunias would grow better in or outside a flight zone. It is critical to utilize the seller’s disclosure in order to properly inform your purchase. This tool seeks to protect buyers from misrepresentation so they can make an informed decision.

It is important to remember that the helpful document only protects against the imperfections the seller realizes. It is up to a potential buyer to have a home inspection. A home inspection will verify the items on the disclosure and ascertain that your future home is completely ready to receive you and your family.

Auto Maintenance for Spring

James Murr, www.cortiersrealestate.com (Cortiers Real Estate) — Fri, 19 Apr 2013 07:22:04 -0700

Car safety begins and ends with you. Make sure you are up-to-date with car repairs for your safety and everyone else out on the road. Use the following checklist to make sure you are caught up on your auto maintenance.

Radiator Flush

The coolant in your radiator doesn’t last forever. Over time it can break down and start to corrode the inside of your radiator. This can lead to cooling problems and radiator repair. A radiator flush once a year is cheap insurance against radiator repairs.

Replace Your Air Filter

You should replace your air filter twice a year, so now’s a good time to get that 5-minute job out of the way.

Tire Checks

Summer traveling could mean driving in the rain. The tread on your tires must be adequate for rainy weather or you could end up in an accident. Checking the tread depth on your tires only takes a minute. While you’re at it, you should check your tire pressure, too.

Replace Your Windshield Wipers

Winter weather can be brutal to your windshield wipers, making them almost useless if you get caught in a summer rain shower. Replace them at the beginning of the summer and you won’t have to worry.

Inspect Your Brakes

It’s a good idea to inspect your brakes twice a year just to be sure everything is in working order. Car safety should always be a top priority. Check your brake fluid while you’re at it.

Check Your Battery

Corrosion is very likely to build up during the winter months. Check your battery posts and cables to ensure you’ll have no starting problems.

Check Your Headlights

Sometimes you don’t notice that you have a bulb out. Now is a good time to take a look to see if you need to replace a headlight bulb. Not only is it unsafe to drive with one headlight, you can get a ticket!

Remember that car safety begins with you. It also ends with you. Make sure you are up-to-date with car maintenance for your safety and everyone else out on the road.

Ways to Protect Your Family from Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

James Murr, www.cortiersrealestate.com (Cortiers Real Estate) — Fri, 19 Apr 2013 07:06:37 -0700

According to the Home Safety Council, even though nearly 70 percent of people burn fuel to heat their homes, more than two-thirds don’t have carbon monoxide detectors. Are you in this number? If so, keep reading to find out how to protect your family.

1. Do You Need a Carbon Monoxide Detector?

If you use electricity to heat your home and cook all your meals, you may not need one. But there are other situations that can present a danger. Unfortunately, carbon monoxide sources, such as furnaces, generators, and gas heaters, are common in homes and can put your family at risk for carbon monoxide poisoning. You should definitely have a carbon monoxide detector in your home if you have any appliances that are not electric and that burn natural or liquefied petroleum gas, oil, wood, coal, or other fuels, or if you have a home with an attached garage.

2. Purchasing a Carbon Monoxide Detector

The detector should be listed by an independent testing laboratory, such as UL, ETL, CSA or another lab. Once you have your detector install it near sleeping areas, but do not place it near fuel burning appliances as it could give an inaccurate reading and trigger false alarms.

3. Use Gas Appliances Properly

If you have a gas range or oven, don’t try to use it to heat your home, for instance. According to the California Environmental Protection Agency, these appliances pose more than just a carbon monoxide poisoning risk. They also produce dangerous levels of nitrogen dioxide, which can cause respiratory disease. The danger here is especially high for young children. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for use.

4. Never Use a Charcoal Grill Indoors

The amount of carbon monoxide put out by grills is very high. Even using one of these too close to an open window can be a danger.

5. Have Your Heating System Serviced

Each year before you fire up the furnace for the first time, have a qualified service technician perform an inspection. If anything needs to be repaired, have it done immediately so that you’re not left cold, or worse — left using a system that could pose a poisoning hazard. Potential issues include cracks in vents, buildup on burners and improper installation.

6. Have Chimneys Cleaned

Improperly maintained chimneys can crack and have buildup that causes issues with venting. The carbon monoxide that is supposed to be going out can then come right into your home. Even if carbon monoxide isn’t a problem, not taking care of your fireplace can be a hazard in other ways.

7. Make Sure Your Wood Stove Meets Fire Codes

Building and fire codes vary greatly from city to city and country to country. The best way to find this information is to go directly to the source. Call your local fire marshall or other official in charge of fire protection and ask whether your unit needs to be inspected in person and what the code is for your area.

8. Open Chimney Dampers Before Using Fireplaces

You need oxygen to breathe, and so does your fire. By opening the damper, you create a draft that goes up the chimney. This will give your fire air to burn efficiently and also provide ventilation of smoke and carbon monoxide.

9. Make Sure New Heating Appliances Are Tested by Independent Labs

You’ve seen it before — that little UL sticker or stamp on products ranging from TVs to electric blankets. Make sure there’s one on any new space heater or other appliances you buy as well. It doesn’t have to be UL, there are other labs. But they all have rigorous evaluation standards and these organizations are not affiliated with the manufacturer so the results won’t be biased.

10. Use Kerosene Heaters Properly and Keep Them Inspected and Maintained

Use these heaters with the proper fuel (follow manufacturer’s guidelines) and make sure that you are using the proper ventilation. In addition, wait until the unit has cooled down completely before you re-fuel it. Never re-fuel indoors.

9352 Wannabe Road

James Murr, www.cortiersrealestate.com (Cortiers Real Estate) — Wed, 10 Apr 2013 09:40:32 -0700

9352 Wannabe Road

Bryan, TX 77808 (Sandy Branch Acres)

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Price $159,900 | Bedrooms 3 | Bathrooms 2 | Approximately 1,368 sq. ft.

Horse Property!!! Secluded, 10 acres, minutes from campus. Nice Palm Harbor 2006 Model 3/2, 1368 sq ft. Aerobic septic in place. very quiet. Storage building will convey. Good mix of open pasture and wooded areas. Property leased and under production as a pooled property, owner will convey surface control subject to existing lease.

For more information about 9352 Wannabe Road clickhere.

View this video for a virtual tour of this listing.

6 Things You Need to Do Once You Move Into a New Home

James Murr, www.cortiersrealestate.com (Cortiers Real Estate) — Wed, 10 Apr 2013 09:35:47 -0700

1. Fill in a Change of Address Form with the Post Office

This can be done online athttp://www.usps.com.You may want to contact your creditors as well as any magazines that you subscribe to directly so that they’re aware of the move and you don’t miss an issue or a bill.

2. Contact the Utility Companies

If you’re moving into a preowned home, get the contact information from the previous homeowner for all of the utility companies they used for the house – this is often a great place to start with that because all of the hook-ups should be in place. In most places, you will need to have the basic services in your name before you move in. The ones you need to contact include electricity, gas, cable, telephone, internet, garbage, sewer, and water.

3. Get Your Locks Changed

For the safety of you and your family, change all the locks in the house. You can do this either before moving or on the moving day. This is important, as one never knows who else has keys to your new home.

4. Update Your Driver’s License, Car Registration, and Voter Registration

You can do most of this very quickly, but don’t let it slide or you’ll get a nasty surprise in the near future – this should be done within a month of the move.

5. Get to Know Your Neighbors/Neighborhood

Introduce yourself to your new neighbors. If you are interested in the news that’s happening around your neighborhood, buy a subscription to the local newspapers. Get in touch with the local Visitor’s Bureau or Chamber of Commerce for materials you will need to get acquainted with the new town. This should include a map of your new area.

6. Have a House Warming Party for Friends and Family

Asking friends and family to celebrate with you is a great way to show off your new home.

How to Have the Fastest Closing

James Murr, www.cortiersrealestate.com (Cortiers Real Estate) — Wed, 10 Apr 2013 09:33:12 -0700

1. Select a Multipurpose Real Estate Agent

A capable agent will manage the complex escrow process actively and properly. Start with someone whose ability to follow through has been proven. A dedicated real-estate agent can slice days or weeks off a closing.

2. View Closing Documents 24 Hours Before Closing

By coordinating the closing schedule, you set expectations early and build in a bit of private time to spend alone with the loan papers. Sign the upfront bank paperwork immediately and send in requested documents as quickly as possible. One document to view in advance is the HUD-1 Settlement Statement, which allows everyone involved in the deal to review all required costs and fees. Scan that statement with your real estate or closing agent to ensure that nothing pops up last minute. Getting answers to final questions can prevent unnecessary chatter and long-winded explanations during the closing itself.

3. Bring a Certified Check

You should not come to the closing carrying a check from a personal checkbook. Be sure to ask the escrow company if it prefers that the payment come via wire transfer or a cashier’s check. This could save up to two weeks or the number of days the escrow company takes to cash and then certify your funds.

4. Keep the Appraisal Process Running Smoothly

Appraisals are a crucial step in buying a home. The appraiser’s determination of the value of the property dictates how much the bank will lend to you. To ensure the appraisal process is fast and efficient, work with the seller so that the appraiser can access the house in a timely fashion. If an appraisal comes in lower than the sale price, you can always negotiate with the seller on repairs or updates that will add value. If you stall the appraiser, it could add several days or weeks to the closing process. To keep the task at two weeks or less, ask your real estate agent to compile a list of comparable properties that the appraiser may find useful.

5. Specify Repair Provisions in the Contract

Inspections and negotiations over items to be fixed can add days or weeks to the closing process if they pop up late. Time should be allotted for inspections that let buyers determine if they want to purchase the home “as is”. Buyers should specify the time frame for completing repairs after an inspection.

6. Hire a Reputable Escrow Company

Escrow is essentially a trusted, third-party account through which money for the home purchase is received, held and disbursed. Selection of an escrow company is the key, as is maintaining an open line of communication with your escrow contact. Check in at least twice a week in writing, to create a paper trail. Calling can help move the process along. When calling ask: “How long is it currently taking to get things done?” Sometimes, they’ll make an exception depending on your needs. When in doubt call two or three companies for estimates. If you find a solid escrow company that can handle your business it will save about five days.

7. Line Up Your Insurance Early

On the same day that your escrow is opened, buy a homeowners insurance policy, plus any other necessary coverage, such as a flood policy. Make sure the escrow officers get your insurance broker’s phone number immediately. The policy will not take effect until closing, so you are not paying for coverage just because the policy was obtained in advance. You might have to revise the policy if the coverage is deemed to be insufficient or if the documentation is not worded properly. A closing cannot be scheduled until coverage is confirmed. Don’t wait to purchase the policy; it could save you five to seven days.

8. Build a Pre-closing Paperwork Folder

Ask your mortgage broker to give you a list of all financial documents that you will need to collect for the closing. Begin pulling together that paperwork right away. The stack typically includes all pages of your bank statements and copies of all your pay stubs. Turn over every scrap of financial paperwork that reveals something about your monetary health. It will turn up eventually anyway as the lender combs through the mortgage application. Don’t try to save paper, if a bank statement is numbered 1 to 24 pages, [the bank] will need all 24 pages, even the one that says ‘intentionally left blank.’ If any item is missing, the entire file will have to go back into the loan’s underwriter. If you can avoid having your loan file returned to the underwriter you will save yourself approximately five business days.

9. Respond Promptly to Requests for More Information

This is often the point in the process—after you’ve seemingly answered every extraneous question and turned over every shred of your financial information—where you may become the most frustrated. Don’t worry, the end should be near. Even if a missing item seems insignificant, it will require the file to go back into the queue for an underwriter to review. If a request is vague, speak to your loan officer to make sure you understand exactly what is being requested. The time this will save is really up to you. Some clients wait weeks to turn over the last-needed documents—delaying the closing for that same amount of time. Lenders don’t typically assume that you’re going to take weeks to get something back to them. They assume you’re going to do it in a day or two.

10. Verify Your Past 2 Years’ Employment History

Two years’ worth of work history is sufficient to get your loan approved in a timely way. Never embellish your work history or your wages. The lies will come out and simply lengthen the process—or worse, cause the loan to be denied. If life events such as divorce or major illness have put a recent crimp in your savings, you should be ready to explain those. You will save about a week, which is the time you’ll lose if the underwriter sees that hole in your documentation and flags your file for later review.

The “As Is” Pricing Strategy

James Murr, www.cortiersrealestate.com (Cortiers Real Estate) — Fri, 05 Apr 2013 08:04:55 -0700

When selling a home in “as is” condition, the property is sold without benefit of any repair work paid for by the seller that is either required or recommended in any inspection reports. This strategy is most often used when the seller either in a short sale situation or has little or no equity.

The best way to sell a home in “as is” condition is for the seller to make it absolutely clear to prospective buyers that what they see is what they get. The best way to do that is to provide buyers with a written disclosure statement that accurately describes the condition of the house. Once everything is out in the open it is usually easier for buyers and sellers to reach an agreement.

Sellers should obtain estimates for necessary repairs and provide them to prospective buyers, rather than letting buyers decide how much the repairs might cost. If a buyer knows up front how much a repair is going to cost and understands that the house has been priced accordingly –the buyer might be willing to pay a higher purchase price if the seller agrees to make the repair before the sale. This way, the seller essentially breaks even while the buyer effectively spreads out the repair cost over the life of the mortgage.

1704 Kingsgate Drive

James Murr, www.cortiersrealestate.com (Cortiers Real Estate) — Fri, 05 Apr 2013 07:59:43 -0700

1704 Kingsgate Drive

Bryan, TX 77807 (Oak Meadow)

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Price $156,900 | Bedrooms 3 | Bathrooms 2 | Approximately 1,668 sq. ft.

WOW, What a find! This 1668 sq. ft. 3 bedroom 2 bath home has been newly renovated. New carpets just installed in the bedrooms, fresh paint throughout the interior and exterior, with upgraded lighting and hardware! Wood laminate in the family room, foyer, kitchen, breakfast room and dining. Very open concept with split bedroom arrangement. Large master suite with dual vanities, garden tub and separate shower. Great storage/closets in all bedrooms. Hot tub in backyard. Move-in condition!

For more information about 1704 Kingsgate Drive click here.

View the following video for a virtual tour of this listing.

What is a Short Sale?

James Murr, www.cortiersrealestate.com (Cortiers Real Estate) — Wed, 27 Mar 2013 14:07:08 -0700

First and foremost you must know: It is impossible to sell a home and repay the full amount of fees back to the lender if the borrower owes more than their home is worth. Although this is a very stressful position, it must not be ignored and requires you to be proactive and most importantly, avoid foreclosure. The best alternative for this sticky situation is a short sale. A short sale is an agreement where the lender accepts less than what it owed on a borrower’s mortgage. In short, the lender and borrower agree to sell the property at a lower value over having the borrower default on the loan. This real estate transaction escapes foreclosure and overall benefits both the lender and borrower enormously for the following reasons:

A Short Sale can prevent a lender from:

Losing a lot less money in comparison to a foreclosure
Paying Maintenance dues and remodeling costs in order to resell the home
Losing the entire balance of the loan
Paying property taxes while they still legally own the home
Paying dues to real estate professional when home is resold to new owner
Avoid foreclosure on creditworthiness. Must prevent this form of debt from showing up on credit records.

Benefits for borrowers:

Time and less stress
Last but certainly not least, avoiding the foreclosure on credit report.
Avoiding foreclosure on Creditworthiness. This black mark stays on your credit record for 7 years.

In either situation, the lender will lose to a greater extent, but with a short sale a lender will save more money and more of its original value over a typical foreclosure. The borrower and lender both can boost their credit records and productivity by taking the short sale action and ultimately avoiding the black mark of foreclosure.

Remember the Final Walk-Through

James Murr, www.cortiersrealestate.com (Cortiers Real Estate) — Wed, 27 Mar 2013 14:04:47 -0700

Protect yourself and your clients with a visual inspection before closing.

When you’re representing buyers in a deal, don’t forget to make sure a “final walk-through” is included prior to closing. This is especially true in a market where desperate and less-than-reputable sellers may try and walk out with the fixtures. While that may sound a little extreme, the final walk-through can head-off conflict after closing (and even warm up buyers and sellers prior to closing).

Scheduling a final walk-through 4 – 7 days prior to closing will allow your clients to address issues such as:

If the current owner is on schedule to move out
That the property is in the same condition it was when shown
That any repairs required have been completed

In a best-case scenario, a final walk-through is also a good time to have the sellers explain details about the house that the buyer may need to know– especially tricky pool heaters, access to attics, funny light switches, and sprinkler timers. It’s also a great time to put together a list of companies who have serviced the house in the past.

Show you’re on the ball with a great walk-through strategy!

10 DIY Ways to Add Curb Appeal

James Murr, www.cortiersrealestate.com (Cortiers Real Estate) — Wed, 27 Feb 2013 09:45:03 -0800

If your home's curb appeal catches everyone’s attention, especially potential homebuyers, it creates a great first impression. Below are some easy, low-cost improvements that you can do in no time!

1. Give the Front Door A Makeover

Your home's front entrance is the main focus of its curb appeal. Change it by giving it a new bold statement with color or by installing an original wood door. To give it a sparkle, shine and polish dirty spots around the knob and door fixtures as well. Your doorway should be a sign of the home's interior, so choose a color or outdoor decorations that mirror your own personal style.

2. Restore Old Hardware

A few outdoor easy fixer-uppers include house numbers, the entry door lockset, a wall-mounted mailbox, or an overhead light. These are elements that will give your home exterior some eye catching attention in a flash. If they are rusting or not meant for this generation, you may not be portraying the ambiance your home deserves. Similar up-to-date pieces give out the most appeal to potential homebuyers. Don’t wait, replace!

3. Create Just Right Symmetry

Symmetry is one of the simplest arrangements for a front entrance and creates an area that is welcoming. Symmetrical compositions of light fixtures and front-door accents create a place of warmth and hospitality.

4. Set Up Outdoor Lighting

A safe and secure way to protect your family and create a phenomenal impact on your home’s curb appeal is by using low voltage landscape lighting. Fixtures can add accent lighting to bushes or light up the path to your doorway. Homebuyers would be thrilled to have their new home be the eye catcher of the block!

5. Build an Instant Garden

Container gardens’ being quick and affordable instantly gives your house that perfect POP of color! Garden centers have ready-made containers you can purchase or construct your own with your favorite plants. For most landscapes, a spread out, unbalanced display works greatest to create a vibrant background.

6.Transform your mailbox

Mailboxes should be an easy and fun way to show the neighborhood your own personal style. If choosing a hanging drop box, select a box that reflects your home's embellishments. Make your mailbox reflect who you are by maybe painting your alumni colors, painting the wooden post the same as your home’s trimmings, or planting a beautiful garden around it.

7. Add In Window Boxes

The best and easiest way to real in some color on your home exterior are window boxes. To bring in a more traditional feel to your home, choose boxes made from copper or iron, or go for a painted wood look for a cottage appeal.

8. Revamp Planter Beds

An important tip to make your house go from dull to wow is renewing the garden beds. Pruning growth, pulling out weeds, planting your favorite flowers, and laying out new mulch to restore your garden’s color creates a new charm to your home. If stone or brick borders your bed, think about replacing the old bricks for new up to date pieces. If some are uneven and out of place, clean and reset any pieces that are out of place. Adding or upgrading your stone will make your house look refreshed and decorative.

9. Include Arbors or Fence Panels

To enhance your garden and the value of your home add some arbors, garden gates, and short sections of decorative fence panels. You can find prefab sections you simply connect together or easy-to-build kits. For the most eye-catching results, paint or stain these items with colors already on your house.

10. Add Outdoor Art

Give your yard a little glitz and glam by adding weather-resistant artwork. Choose pieces that complement your home's personality and pizzazz. Birdbaths, metal cutouts, sculptures, and wind chimes are absolutely fabulous choices for outdoor art. Water sculptures not only function as yard art, but they make hot summer days seem crisp and refreshing. Make sure to avoid spots in leaf-dropping range.

Benefits of a Free Market Evaluation

James Murr, www.cortiersrealestate.com (Cortiers Real Estate) — Fri, 22 Feb 2013 12:52:56 -0800

Thinking of Buying or Selling a Home? Consider a market evaluation first!

A market evaluation is an analysis that determines the market value of your home or property. The market evaluation will give a figure that best describes what a willing buyer will pay for the home under current market conditions.

There are several benefits to getting a market evaluation of a home. These include:

A market value enables the seller to study the sales cycle of homes and know when you can get the most money for your property. Market value can rise or drop depending on demand.

Market value can be adjusted by making improvements to the home. The market value of the home can be increased by remodeling a room or adding a pool. An agent can do a comparative analysis of similar homes in the area with the same remodeling features to determine how much the market value will be increased. Then compare it to the cost of performing the remodel.

The comparative market evaluation can be used to adjust the selling price of a home. This can encourage buyers to purchase a home over comparable listings in the area.

A market evaluation provides benefits of local knowledge. The information can be used to inform the buyer about a property’s potential including nearby (and future) developments.

Cortiers Real Estate provides a free comparative market evaluation of your home or property. This home value & comparative market analysis is a free, personal, no obligation service provided to anyone interested in selling their property.

Why haven’t you started your Free Market Evaluation? Contact Cortiers Real Estate at 979-985-5610 or visit our website today!

2722 Rivers End Drive

James Murr, www.cortiersrealestate.com (Cortiers Real Estate) — Fri, 22 Feb 2013 12:52:24 -0800

This home is must see!

2722 Rivers End Drive
Bryan, Texas
$167,900 | 3 Bedrooms |2 Bathrooms |Approx. 1364 sq. ft.

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The back yard of this beautifully crafted home in Sonoma with its banana and palm trees brings to mind an island paradise. The stained concrete slab with an outdoor fireplace & canopy is perfect for entertaining.

While this home has the tropical appeal, it’s close to schools and William D Fitch/Barron Road. The popular Tower Point shopping center is just minutes away.

In the home:
Laminate flooring is installed in the entry, living room, kitchen and breakfast area.
Beautiful granite makes the kitchen and both baths luxurious.
The master bath has a separate shower/garden tub behind double doors.
Well elevated, the house sits high above the road and has a commanding presence in the neighborhood.

For more information on this great listing–click here.

View the virtual tour to see the full house–click here.

Neighbors and Friends at Your Open House

James Murr, www.cortiersrealestate.com (Cortiers Real Estate) — Fri, 22 Feb 2013 12:31:18 -0800

Thinking about hosting an open house? Don’t forget to invite your family, friends, and neighbors.

Many sellers don’t realize the power of inviting family, friends, and neighbors to their open house. A couple of things to consider include:

Neighbors may have friends or relatives who like the neighborhood, local schools, or have interest in moving closer to them. Whatever the reason may be, there’s a good chance that they know someone who could have interest in purchasing your house!

A packed open house will surely catch the attention of potential buyers. It might even give the buyers a sense of urgency and help speed the process of selling your home.

Many neighbors don’t realize the advantages of attending open houses in their neighborhoods. These advantages include:

Attend an open house to get remodeling and redecorating ideas. In a neighborhood with houses of similar design, these will be ideas that you can easily recreate.

The open house is also an opportunity to scope out home improvement projects you might need to consider before you ever put your own home on the market.

Anybody can move in next door, whether you like them or not. Be proactive and invite people you know who may be interested in purchasing a home. You can also invite people you know who have not considered the purchase of a new home. Sometimes seeing a great opportunity can prompt unexpected buyers.

2134 Rockcliffe

James Murr, www.cortiersrealestate.com (Cortiers Real Estate) — Mon, 18 Feb 2013 13:58:52 -0800

2134 Rockcliffe

College Station, TX 77845 (Castlegate 2)

$339,900–4 bedrooms–3.5 bathrooms–Approx. 2,558 sq. ft.

Westerheim home with Custom inground pool 36X18. 4BR/3.5 Baths. Double Islands in Kitchen . Open concept. Wood/tile flooring. Faux walls. Beautiful home.

For more information on this great listing–click here.

View the virtual tour to see the full house–click here.

3002 Cochise Court College Station, TX

James Murr, www.cortiersrealestate.com (Cortiers Real Estate) — Mon, 18 Feb 2013 13:56:00 -0800

3002 Cochise Court

College Station, 77845 (Southwood Valley)

$ 324,900–4 bedrooms–3.5 bathrooms– Approx. 3,133 sq. ft

Get in line before this home is SOLD!! Where else in College Station can you find such a wonderful home WITH a sparkling saltwater swimming pool for this price?? That’s right, no where! So schedule your appointment today and come see this beautiful 4 bedroom, 3.5 bathroom home with game room, study, and so much more before it’s gone. Don’t miss the serene master spa with handcrafted copper-topped vanities, chef’s delight kitchen with granite counters and stainless appliances, spacious living room with wet bar, and game room just off the breakfast area. Nestled on a quiet cul-de-sac street in Southwood Valley, this home is one you can’t afford to miss.

For more information on this incredible listing – click here.

View the virtual tour to see the full house – click here.

Should I Use A Realtor When Purchasing A Newly Constructed Home?

James Murr, www.cortiersrealestate.com (Cortiers Real Estate) — Fri, 15 Feb 2013 08:35:03 -0800

Purchasing a newly constructed home has the potential to be very complicated. There are many factors to take into consideration; regardless of what stage in construction, a homebuyer will need an experienced realtor to give their expert advice and relieve some of the stress that can accompany their big purchase.

A realtor can likely save the buyer thousands of dollars by catching little things the buyer may overlook. This could include having a first home inspection after the home is framed, but before the walls and flooring are finished. In doing this, the home inspector can get a good look at the structure, framing, plumbing, and electrical. A realtor can assist the buyer when negotiating special concessions or a lower asking price. Some home buyers might be uncomfortable reading legalese, but working with a realtor is a sure way to relieve the stress and avoid signing any bad contracts.

Many sellers pay the realtor’s commission, so there is nothing to gain by not using a realtor. Why turn down a chance to have a professional guide at every step in the process? A realtor will be able to explain and help manage every aspect of the transaction, will have the buyer interests at heart, and will be able to keep things on track.

Foreclosure

James Murr, www.cortiersrealestate.com (Cortiers Real Estate) — Fri, 15 Feb 2013 08:06:48 -0800

What is a Foreclosure?

A Foreclosure occurs when a homeowner has defaulted on their mortgage. The bank, mortgage company, or other lien holder then seeks to take an owner’s property to satisfy the debt. The bank or lender may actually take ownership of the property or have the property sold to pay off the debt. As a result of the foreclosure, the owner loses whatever rights he or she had in the property.

Benefits of Buying a Foreclosure

The bank or lender will have interest in recouping their losses, but don’t want foreclosed homes to sit on the market nor in their accounting ledgers. Therefore, interested buyers can sometimes purchase foreclosure homes for less than fair market value. Doing so gives the homebuyer instant equity and helps realize a greater profit if he/she choose to sell the home in the future.

Before Making an Offer on a Foreclosure

Please keep the following in mind:

The lender most likely will not agree to make any repairs to the home.
When faced with foreclosure, displeased homeowners may decide to take everything with them. This could include everything from the flooring to doors and fixtures. These homes are also at risk of break-in and theft when they’re left sitting empty for long periods. If you’re interested in purchasing a foreclosed home, hire a qualified home inspector to thoroughly inspect the property and inform you of any hidden problems.
The lender may require you to finance with them.
While most REO (Real Estate Owned) properties are already vacant, there is a possibility the lender is still in the process of having the former owners evicted. This could result in a delay in closing, and may also increase the price.
If you are not using the REO bank as your lender it is possible that certain repairs will be required to be made to the property before your lender will agree to close. This could mean you would be required to spend money on repairs on a home that’s not yet officially in your name.

The Foreclosure Report

At Cortiers Real Estate, we are the only company in town that goes to the courthouse and compiles a comprehensive list of every home posted for foreclosure each month. It takes hours of work and some specialized knowledge, but we give it to you for free. Just Contact us today and ask for it.

9004 Stonebrook Drive

James Murr, www.cortiersrealestate.com (Cortiers Real Estate) — Wed, 06 Feb 2013 11:13:40 -0800

9004 Stonebrook Drive

College Station, 77845 (Woodcreek)

$ 229,900—4 bedrooms—2 bathrooms—Approx. 2,170 sq. ft.

Come visit this exceptionally well maintained property. You'll feel right at home the moment you walk into this Woodcreek beauty. Lovely living area with gracious warming fireplace, formal dining room, and spacious eat-in kitchen are all in near new condition so you can move right in. Don't miss the oversized bedrooms with walk-in closets, tray or raised ceilings in every room, and extensive landscaping. The workbenches in the rear-entry garage provide the perfect space for those who like to tinker with tools. Step outside and take a short walk across the alley to enjoy a dip in the subdivision swimming pool. Make an offer today and start the new year in this fantastic home!

For more information on this great listing--click here.

View the virtual tour to see the full house--click here.

Scouting out the Neighborhood

James Murr, www.cortiersrealestate.com (Cortiers Real Estate) — Mon, 04 Feb 2013 10:26:45 -0800

When looking for a home to buy, it is very important that you find one in a good neighborhood. It will heavily dictate your whole way of life—this could include enjoying a short commute, walking to a nearby park with your kids, feeling safe when your children play outdoors, knowing your kids are attending good schools, being close to restaurants and shopping, and knowing your home will appreciate at a healthy rate. But for many home buyers, checking out potential neighbors is at the bottom of a lengthy to-do list. Evaluating the aspects of your neighborhood is as important as inspecting the structural integrity of your home.

It is important that you scout the neighborhood in person.
Drive or walk through the entire area at different times of the day, during the week and on weekends.
Approach several neighbors, tell them you are thinking about moving into the neighborhood and ask questions such as: If you could change one thing in this neighborhood, what would it be? What is your biggest concern? Have you personally experienced any crime?
Travel to and from places that you would typically frequent to be sure you are comfortable. Look at traffic patterns around the area during different times of the day and drive from the area to work.
Look for access to major highways and shopping. Check with local civic, police, fire, and school officials to find more information about the area.

There are many factors to consider when selecting a neighborhood that is right for you. Neighborhoods have characteristic personalities designed to best suit single people, growing families, two-career couples, or retirees. Don’t forget to investigate to determine if the neighborhood matches your lifestyle and personality.