Paula Raymond's (texasrealtorpaula) Blog

Killeen Texas area DREAM HOMES! Fort Hood homes for sale.

Paula Raymond, REALTOR (Texas Heritage Real Estate ) — Sun, 19 Jan 2014 01:51:08 -0800

Ever wonder what your money will buy in certain areas? Well Killeen Texas homes offer an outstanding value -when compared to other areas of the US. A home you might pay north of $1M for in California - would likely cost you less than 1/2 of that in the Central Texas and Bell County area. Homes for sale in Harker Heights for instance are priced typically below $100 per square foot - and that is for a macked-out high end WOW house! Killeen homes for sale are most appealing to the first time buyer - since that is what Fort Hood (Army base) brings us for the most part. But for retirees, mililtary officers, and relocating families wanting a great place to live for a fraction of the price - Killeen has it! The amazing affordable pricing reaches into central Texas areas like Harker Heights, Temple, Belton, Lampasas, Copperas Cove and Gatesville Texas as well! Take a look at what $350K to $800K will afford you in a Killeen area home. CLICK HERE TO VIEW HOMES FROM $350K to $800K Not what you're looking for? Search the entire Killeen - Temple MLS HERE. killeen homes , harker heights homes, temple homes, belton homes, copperas cove homes, killeen real estate, belton homes for sale, temple real estate, killeen realtor, texas heritage, paula raymond, homes in killeen tx, homes in temple tx, USAA movers advantage, fort hood homes, fort hood housing, homes near fort hood texas, bell county homes, killeen foreclosure, killeen short sale, homes for sale in copperas cove, real estate in killeen tx, texas, killeen, harker heights foreclosures, dream homes in killeen, va loan, mortgage, fha, killeen real estate agent, harker heights real estate agent,

Killeen Texas Homes for Sale - Centex Homes with BIG DISCOUNTS!

Paula Raymond, REALTOR (Texas Heritage Real Estate ) — Mon, 06 Jan 2014 02:56:01 -0800

Did you know that I used to be a sales agent for Centex Homes in Killeen - Harker Heights Texas? Thats right! I have all of the behind-the-scenes info you need to walk away with the best Centex Homes deal ever! I know how they negotiate from the other side - I know what they will and won't say YES to when bargaining for extras, costs, upgrades and incentives. I know how they think when they get offers on inventory homes that have been sitting for a while. Centex builds a great home - they are truly a quality builder with a major focus on customer service and what their buyer's want in a home. Their warranty and after-closing service is impeccible so you have nothing to worry about there. The only thing you should be concerned with is getting a FANTASTIC deal! Let me help you - I can negotiate for the best possible deal as your buyer's agent. My commission is paid by Centex - along with YOUR closing costs! Centex Homes has many completed homes on the market in Killeen and Harker Heights right now. Even some of their model homes are for sale with the furniture and decor at discounted prices! If you don't see what you like - they will build a home to your specifications - and you'll be moving in before the flowers bloom! Contact me for a list of available Centex Homes - or visit www.PaulaSOLDit.com for ALL homes for sale in Killeen and surrounding cities. killeen homes, harker heights homes, temple homes, belton homes, fort hood homes, killeen real estate, killeen mls, down payment assistance, va loan, fha loan, realtor, paula raymond, texas heritage, copperas cove homes, search homes in killeen, mortgage, financing,

Killeen Homes for Sale - Search the MLS

Paula Raymond, REALTOR (Texas Heritage Real Estate ) — Fri, 03 Jan 2014 02:11:59 -0800

www.PAULASOLDIT.com Did you know that you can search the entire Fort Hood area and Temple/Belton area MLS? YOU CAN! Right on PaulaSOLDit.com You can search the same homes that Realtors do when they are putting a list of homes together for their clients. If you're just poking around to see what's out there, this is the perfect way to do it. For those who would like to register and save their favorite homes, theres a place to do that too. When you are ready to take the next step, I am here to help. In just a short phone call, you can have a prequalification ready from a local lender - Sellers LOVE it when buyers submit offers with this letter - and some Sellers won't accept an offer without one. (Smart) The lender that you first talk with doesn't have to be the one you end up with. A prequalifiation is not a commitment to use any particular lender. You can still shop around at your leisure for the best service, programs and rates available. CLICK HERE TO SEARCH FOR HOMES in the KILLEEN - TEMPLE areas Did you know that builders have brand new homes priced for first time buyers? THEY DO! For as little as $120K - you can have a brand new home in a family oriented neighborhood with schools within walking distance! I wouldn't lie to you - it's really true. If you would like a list of these homes - just let me know! I can email it to you right away! Email me at paula@texas-heritage.com or Call me at (254) 291-6826 SEND ME YOUR DREAM HOME INFORMATION killeen homes, harker heights homes, temple homes, belton homes, real estate, homes for sale, realtor, paula raymond, texas heritage, mortgage, usaa, va loan, fha loan, down payment, financing assistance, first time buyer, copperas cove homes,

Killeen Homes for sale near Fort Hood Texas

Paula Raymond, REALTOR (Texas Heritage Real Estate ) — Thu, 02 Jan 2014 03:01:51 -0800

Hello! Happy New Year!! 2014 is going to be a great year I can already feel it! Interest rates are still low low low and homes in the Killeen Texas area are priced to move! Builders are selling 3 & 4 bedroom BRAND NEW HOMES in the low 100K range - near schools and shopping and in amazing family oriented neighborhoods. Maybe you or someone you know is relocating to the Fort Hood Texas area? If so, I can definitately help to find a fabulous home for your family! Need assistance finding a home loan? Wanting to use your VA eligibility to obtain a $0 down payment - low interest mortgage? I can help with that as well! CLICK HERE TO CONTACT LINDA DAVIS WITH US BANK HOME MORTGAGE The cities you may be interested in that would be close driving distance to Fort Hood Army Base - would be, Killeen, Harker Heights, Copperas Cove, Nolanville, Kempner, Lampasas & Gatesville. CLICK HERE TO SEARCH FOR HOMES IN THOSE AREAS If you are interested in being near the VA or Scott & White hospitals or any of the other great industies in Temple Texas such as Wilson Art, Wal-Mart Distribution & HEB Distribution - these cities might work for you; Temple, Belton, Morgans Point, Academy, Rogers, Moody & Salado. CLICK HERE TO SEARCH FOR HOMES IN THOSE AREAS You can browse around my website for fantastic information about homes for sale in Killeen and Harker Heights, local businesses, city information, mortgage info and more! Visit me anytime at PaulaSOLDit.com (killeen homes for sale, killeen real estate, harker heights homes, temple homes, belton homes, real estate, mortgage, fort hood, relocation, army, first time buyers, down payment assistance, 0 down home loan, buyers, copperas cove homes for sale)

Killeen Texas Real Estate - Move in by Christmas!

Paula Raymond, REALTOR (Texas Heritage Real Estate ) — Wed, 03 Nov 2010 10:25:28 -0700

The weather is chilly today in Killeen Texas - we can definitely feel fall in the air now! The holidays are just around the corner - are you thinking of a big Thanksgiving dinner yet? It always amazes me that just when I think the market would slow down for the holiday season - people get busy looking at homes! I love it! It's always a race to get buyer's closed in time to bake the turkey for Thanksgiving or put up the tree for Christmas - but we do what we can to make it happen! How exciting it must be to celebrate in a new home with your family and friends during this time of year. How can I help you with your home buying dreams in the Fort Hood area this season? Killeen Texas Homes for Sale are abundant right now - and buyers are getting great deals and incentives when they negotiate with the help of an experienced Killeen Area Realtor !! Send me your Dream Home Finder and let's see how many Fort Hood Homes for Sale match your needs! It's not too late to move in this month!

Paula Has Another New Listing in Killeen, TX!

Paula Raymond, REALTOR (Texas Heritage Real Estate ) — Tue, 28 Sep 2010 05:48:09 -0700

Just Listed in Killeen, TX

Paula Raymond, REALTOR (Texas Heritage Real Estate ) — Thu, 23 Sep 2010 07:13:04 -0700

Completely Updated & Refreshed! 4404 Misty Lane, Killeen, TX 76542 View Map Completely updated and refreshed 4 bedroom, 2 bathroom, 2 car garage home in the great family neighborhood Morning Glen! New carpet, tile & appliances! But wait there's more! New paint (inside & out) and NEW ROOF! Inspection has already been done and the repairs are underway! Wood privacy fence will be completed as well. Seller is offering to assist buyer with closing costs AND pay for a home warranty...this house will be virtually worry free for its new owners. Neutral color scheme will fit anyone's décor in this FOUR bedroom 2 bathroom brick home. Priced to sell at $125,000! Details Asking Price: 125,000 MLS: 161515 Sq. Feet: 1556 Lot Size: .2 Acres Bedrooms: 4 Bathrooms: 2 # of Floors: 1 Garage Size: 2 Subdivision: Morning Glen Year Built: 1994 Contact InfoPaula Raymond Realtor® Dir 254-554-3342 Email | Website All information is deemed reliable but is not guaranteed.

CMA's out my ears!! Killeen Texas Real Estate

Paula Raymond, REALTOR (Texas Heritage Real Estate ) — Tue, 17 Aug 2010 11:08:01 -0700

It seems in the past 2 months- I have done more CMA's than ever in my real estate career in this Killeen Texas market! I think it might be because I've been in the business for exactly 7 years this month- and my past buyers are ready to sell! I live and work in the military community of Fort Hood Texas. We are the largest Army base in the free world- so always lots of people coming an going. All of those people need a place to live- so it makes for a great real estate career! The company that my husband and I own, Texas Heritage Real Estate offer assistance with selling, buying and property management. So its a rare event that we can't help someone with their housing needs. This week alone- I have done 6 CMA's ...and most of them weren't yet in a position to sell because they haven't owned long enough. But I was able to refer them into our management department and eventually I will be able to list and help them make some money on their real estate investment! A couple were ready to go- so I have 2 new upcoming listings to prepare for! I am so happy to be in this thriving real estate market - and thankful for the Killeen Texas residents and the troops at Fort Hood. I am sure that 7 years will turn into 25 before I know it! I can see myself in this job for a really long time. Happy Selling this week!! If I can do anything for you or your clients in or moving to the Killeen Texas, Harker Heights Texas, Fort Hood Texas area - please contact me through my website at www.PaulaSOLDit.com or my mobile (254) 291-6826. Referrals are always welcome and very appreciated!

Are you a busy Realtor AND Mom? Killeen Texas Real Estate

Paula Raymond, REALTOR (Texas Heritage Real Estate ) — Fri, 30 Jul 2010 06:28:44 -0700

I am sure that Im not the only Realtor/Mom in this business- in fact I know it! I have many friends in Killeen Texas Real Estate just like me - always running around trying to take care of business and balance a healthy family too. I do a lot of shopping online for my family and myself - its just so much easier than trying to find time to run to a bunch of different stores for 100 different things! I love it when my packages show up - its like a little present every time! I found this GREAT website for kids clothing and accessories - and I get their updates via Facebook. They post pictures of the stuff on sale- and I have to say - its surely not what you will find in Wal-Mart - although its very affordable. I tend to want to purchase unusual and unique items for my kids - and me too!. I found a lot of that here! Check it out and happy shopping!! http://www.zulily.com/referafriend/?342516

How Serious Are You?

Paula Raymond, REALTOR (Texas Heritage Real Estate ) — Thu, 29 Jul 2010 09:33:17 -0700

You just found THE perfect house. It has exactly what you have been looking for and is in the neighborhood you have always wanted to live in. You call the agent and she asks you to make an offer and wants to know how much money you can put down on the property. You have already told her you have $10,000 set aside to cover the down payment and closing costs. Now is the time to decide just how serious you are about buying this home. You tell the agent you want to offer X number of dollars for the home and that you want to put down $500. She tells you that you should put more money down on the home if you are serious. Here’s why more money down is better: You are showing the seller that you are ready right now to buy the home. More money down with a lower offer is many times more acceptable to agents and sellers because it lets them know you mean business. It shows you in a more favorable financial light. What this means is that if you have more money down people will assume you have a better chance of your loan going to closing than the other person’s loan. If the seller gets the same offer with less money down they will probably accept your offer first. It’s completely refundable if your offer isn’t the accepted offer, so you lose nothing. So what kind of deposit should you put down? Everyone you know told you $500 was acceptable. In today’s real estate market it’s really not. You should consider putting $5000 down on the home you want. If you need any more reason, just consider how you’ll feel if someone else gets THE home.

Killeen Texas Real Estate - Landscape & Yard Project

Paula Raymond, REALTOR (Texas Heritage Real Estate ) — Wed, 28 Jul 2010 10:51:04 -0700

I thought I would share the wonderful experience I had recently with a group of contractors that took my poor front yard from WORST to FIRST on my street! Thanks a MILLION to the Killeen Texas landscaping companies that helped out - I would HIGHLY recommend all of you to any of my friends, family and clients...and I intend to! SUPER THANKS to David Milner of Texas Custom Borders for the amazing concrete borders around my flower beds! This is the perfect finishing touch to any yard- and will boost your "neighbor" status to the TOP for sure!! Call David for a FREE estimate at (254) 598-4177 or visit his website for information and photos at www.TexasCustomBorders.com Another BIG THANKS to Stephen Mahlstedt with Lawn Prosin Killeen Texas! Stephen beautifully landscaped 3 beds for me- with amazing shrubs and greenery -in the end it looked like a masterpiece!! Stephen is professional and hard-working even in the blazing sun of Central Texas! Check out his information and photos of his work at http://www.facebook.com/pages/Nolanville-TX/Lawn-Pros/112586348765477 And ANOTHER HUGE THANK YOU to Holman's Irrigation for the sprinkler system that will keep it all alive in this hot Texas heat!! This company was fast, friendly and professional - the job was done in ONE DAY! Call for a quote at (254) 245-0040 The finished project is just spectacular and I couldn't be happier! Thanks again to all that were involved!! BEFORE......and AFTER!!!

When Realtors Make A Move: Understanding the Triggers

Paula Raymond, REALTOR (Texas Heritage Real Estate ) — Tue, 20 Jul 2010 07:54:49 -0700

I found this blog entry pretty accurate! When I made my move- I actually started my own company...its been great. But as I have always said- if you are unproductive at one company- you will be unproductive anywhere- same goes for success. The change should come because of how much of your money you are able to retain- by negotiating a fair split with your Broker. You have to be willing to find your own business if you are to be successful in Real Estate...you can not just sit back and wait on company leads... thats my opinion and its how I have made it in this business. I am responsible for my business- not my Broker :)Most experienced agents have gotten the call. You know. The one from a broker from another firm calling or emailing you to come over and check out how green their grass is – much greener than where you are now. Sometimes the grass is greener. Just as often, it probably isn’t. To stay in business and thrive, a brokerage has to be able to attract new agents, and it’s usually more profitable to try to hire good agents from a competitor than to grow your own. It may be flattering to know that you are wanted, but it’s not a reason to make a move. There are some triggers that make agents stop and ask themselves if their current office is and will continue to be the best place for them to work: Their productivity takes a plunge They have a row with their broker or a colleague in the office Rich guys in New Jersey buy the company The owner of the company fires their manager The brokerage is family owned and the owners become embroiled in a family feud The firm fails financially The owner gets sent to jail Some sweet-talking competing broker does a full court press drive to lure you to his office Before you start packing up your desk, keep in mind that you need to be making a business decision here. And unless your broker goes to jail or the company goes bankrupt, the other triggers are not necessarily a good reason to move. Well, maybe the family feud qualifies as a reason to split. Happened to me once. If your productivity has tanked you need to look in a mirror before you search out a new company. Sometimes a move can give you a boost, but you need to be sure the slowdown isn't because you have a slothful work ethic. And patching up a misunderstanding is a lot easier than disrupting your business - unless maybe it's about your slothful work ethic combined with your disagreeable personality. Now, the rich guys from New Jersey just might give your brokerage a shot in the arm. Or it could be a really awful corporate marriage. Still, I'd suggest that you give the new owners a chance before you run across town, or even across the street. Switching brokerages is a serious step. Even if you are diligent about contacting your center of influence, you are likely to lose some business. Moving is distracting and disruptive. And, yes. Sometimes it's really necessary and the best thing for your business. Next: Interviewing Brokers

Killeen Texas Real Estate; Just when they had lost hope...

Paula Raymond, REALTOR (Texas Heritage Real Estate ) — Tue, 29 Jun 2010 05:27:35 -0700

So happy to report that I was able to help a first time home buyer couple- with their first purchase! They had lost hope- after having a tough time getting prequalified- and finding the right house in their price range. We were able to find them a lender who works with a local Killeen Texas bond program for down payment assistance- and then a seller who was willing to pay all their closing costs, upfront inspection AND appraisal! Because of the affordable market in the Killeen - Fort Hood area - they are buying a 3 bedroom 2 bath house WITH a pool for $76,000!! I am so happy for them!! It was meant to be! They are so happy- and these are the deals that make me feel like a good Realtor. Even though I make the least money on them- at the end of the day- these are my favorite ones. Congratulations to the Moore Family!! You will be HOME SWEET HOME very soon!! Thinking of moving to or investing in the Killeen Texas real estate market? Great homes for sale here in this Fort Hood area - let me know how I can help you! www.PaulaSOLDit.com Texas Heritage Real Estate

Buyers... why can't they be honest?

Paula Raymond, REALTOR (Texas Heritage Real Estate ) — Tue, 22 Jun 2010 11:34:41 -0700

"We can't get the POA signed- since my husband is in Iraq... so we will need to get out of our contract." Okay folks- I sell houses to military buyers in the middle of war ALL the time- and under the strangest of circumstances. I KNOW that a POA can be received, signed and returned when a soldier is in Iraq....SOOOO what is the real reason?? And YES I PUT IT JUST LIKE THAT! I mean at this point- what do I have to lose? Turns out- they didn't like the location of the house- and/or got cold feet. So there, was that so hard? Now I have to smooth this over with the builder- whom we ALSO represent. We brought him a prequalified buyer who now- just doesn't want to buy his house. Totally their right- but still a breech of contract. Why do people enter into these purchase contracts for hundreds of thousands of dollars -so lightly?? It doesn't happen often- but what a pain when it does! Frustrated.

Selling Homes in Killeen Texas! Real Estate is GREAT!

Paula Raymond, REALTOR (Texas Heritage Real Estate ) — Tue, 08 Jun 2010 02:48:15 -0700

Working with a great Killeen Texas buyer today- who actually thought she couldn't buy a home! I love these stories- and even though typically I make the least money on these deals- they are still my favorite. We will be shopping all afternoon in Killeen, Harker Heights & Fort Hood and hopefully will be writing an offer this evening! Tomorrow a soldier home from Iraq will be meeting with me to house shop too! By the time I am finished with these 2 buyers- I will have been ALL over Killeen Texas! Working with 2 more that are on their way in the next 3 weeks- thats typical for our market in Fort Hood Texas. Someone always in or out! Another soldier who is leaving Fort Hood- is listing his home for sale with me this week! I love this real estate market! Hope everyone is having an equally great summer! ENJOY!

Homes for Sale in Killeen Real Estate - Today's Agenda

Paula Raymond, REALTOR (Texas Heritage Real Estate ) — Fri, 04 Jun 2010 02:27:34 -0700

First things first! Massage at 11:30 - ooohhhh I can't wait! Since I have started getting regular massages (about 2 years ago)- I am truly a better person, mother, wife, Realtor. My body feels better -which makes me more relaxed and happy. I recommend it for everyone! Heather at Blonde Salon & Spa will be making me a better person today! (located at 1900 E Elms Rd in Killeen Texas) www.modblonde.com After that, meeting with my newest agent in the office to go over her FIRST under contract file! I gave her several leads about 2 weeks ago- and WOW she already has one sold! Congratulations Jodie- I knew you were going to be great! Our real estate market here in Killeen Texas is so amazing that new agents tend to do very well if they have the drive and ambition to make it. Jodie reminds me of ME a few years ago when I was just getting my feet wet in this career. I felt like I was swimming around in a pool of 800+ Realtors and that I would never find my way to the top... I guess everyone feels like that at first. HELLO SUNSHINE! Jodie will be the same- she's a survivor! We will be opening the model home soon for Old 440 Village! BRAND new brick homes starting at $119K -and sporting around 1600+ SF! Can't beat that anywhere! Yellow Lilly Builders is doing a great job in Old 440 Village in Killeen Texas- and new home buyers are going to be thrilled with what they can find in size and amenities in that neighborhood. Please contact me for more details and floorplans www.PaulaSOLDit.com Specializing in First Time Buyers and Military Relocations to the Fort Hood Texas area! Homes for sale in Killeen Texas are abundant and priced to move! Need to use your VA LOAN? I can help put you in contact with a mortgage lender that will assist you with obtaining your eligibility certificate and prequalify you right over the phone! Want to see homes for sale in the Fort Hood and Killeen Texas area? Let me know and I will send you daily updates of homes that match your specific criteria. www.PaulaSOLDit.com Everyone have a wonderful weekend! Lets go house shopping!

Killeen Texas Real Estate - New Homes in Old 440 Village

Paula Raymond, REALTOR (Texas Heritage Real Estate ) — Wed, 02 Jun 2010 03:45:39 -0700

Introducing Yellow Lilly Builders in Old 440 Village - Killeen Texas! Brick homes starting at $119K for about 1600 SF - WOW! Killeen Texas Real Estate is known for its affordable housing market - and that has not changed. Homes sales average around $120K and buyers can even purchase new construction in and around that range of price. Its incredible I know, but its also true. Homes in Killeen and around Fort Hood Texas are what bring investors into our area as well! Our driving force here is the largest military base in the word, Fort Hood Texas. Troops are constantly in and out on a regular bases- making a real estate agent very busy with constant new buyers and new listings. Property management has been a great place to grow our business as well. It often happens that an owner will be moved to another duty station before they have enough equity to sell- so we help them take care of their home in management until the times comes that they are in a position to list. Works great for everyone! If anyone is working with an investor that is interested in seeing what our market has to offer- let me know and I will send a list of properties to look at. Or if any Realtors are looking to make a change to a great market- I would be happy to talk with you about how we can help make that happen!! www.PaulaSOLDit.com

Hi Active Rain! I've missed you!

Paula Raymond, REALTOR (Texas Heritage Real Estate ) — Tue, 01 Jun 2010 11:55:46 -0700

Been gone for several days handling FAMILY DRAMA out of state....ugghhh. But back to business now! Followed up on web leads from the weekend and stumbled across TWO prequalifiied buyers!! Woooo Hooo! I really love this job- its works even when I can't. Thank goodness for the internet and good websites too! Have a great June everyone! I will find some good topics to blog about this week I promise!!

Congratulations to Robert & Cathy!!! Killeen Texas Home for Sale

Paula Raymond, REALTOR (Texas Heritage Real Estate ) — Wed, 19 May 2010 04:23:35 -0700

After weeks and weeks of searching and a basket full of patience- I think we found the perfect house for my friends and clients- Robert & Cathy! We knew the perfect house would come along- and it sure did! Now we are embarking on the task of staging their current house for sale in Killeen Texas. I can't wait to get it all set up and post pictures. If every seller I had was this diligent about doing the things that need to be done- I would list homes all day long! Robert & Cathy have done every SINGLE thing on the list I suggested to them- and it will pay off big time!! Today I am thankful for good friends, smart sellers, and a great agent on the other side!!

How to ensure your house NEVER sells....

Paula Raymond, REALTOR (Texas Heritage Real Estate ) — Wed, 12 May 2010 04:50:25 -0700

Great advice from Jeanna! Its what we all (as Realtors) want to say so many times...How to ensure your house NEVER sells.... So, you are selling your house. You have hired a fantastic REALTOR® who has blasted the internet with great pictures and information about your house. The house is price just perfect for the market and the neighborhood, as well as the condition of the house. You have de-cluttered and have started packing and you are ready to get your house sold. photo courtesy of: http://www.flickr.com/photos/joeltelling/292642699/ The showing appointments start coming in everything is moving right along, BUT that is not by any means the end of it. There are still plenty of things that can prevent you from getting that offer you so desire. Here is a true list of things I have witnessed while showing houses to my clients and each one completely turned off the buyer (some names and details have been changed to protect the innocent). Notice...not a single one of these things has anything what-so-ever to do with the ACTUAL house. 1. Stick around during the showings - oh, and make sure you follow the potential buyers and their REALTOR® around giving them an interactive and informative tour of your house. 2. Since you are at the appointment already, make sure you tell the buyers and their REALTOR® how desperate you are to sell your house because you have been relocated and must move in 3 weeks. 3. Be VERY picky about scheduling appointments (i.e. 24 hour notice required, showings only on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday from 12:00 - 2:00, etc.). On the same note, make sure you decline at least every third showing because "it's not a good time". 4. Don't clean up after your indoor pets - that includes liter boxes, cat and dog hair, chew toys, bird droppings and other stuff pets like to leave lying around. 5. Keep your dirty laundry (at least a week's worth) on your kitchen counter. 6. Keep your dirty dishes and last nights un-eaten food in your (or your kid's) bedroom. 7. Accept the appointment then make sure your adult son is asleep in his boxers upstairs during the showing. 8. Leave your dirty underwear on the bathroom floor. 9. Don't flush or clean your toilets (while you are at it - don't dust or sweep, EVER). Finally.... 10. Make sure your neighbors hold the buyers hostage for at least 30 minutes with stories of how he/she is the HOA president and he/she makes sure every house conforms to the by-laws right down to measuring the length of grass on each lawn to the centimeter. photo courtesy of: http://www.flickr.com/photos/photowu/46022034/ Now, if you, on the other hand DO want your house to sell in a timely manner then this would be a list of things NOT to do. Happy selling and I hope everyone has a great week!Jeanna Martinez license #538288 jeannamartinez@gmail.com 210-833-2268 www.sahomesales.net Texas Law requires all real estate licensees to give the following information about brokerage services: http://www.trec.state.tx.us/pdf/contracts/OP-K.pd f

Foreclosure Homes for Sale Killeen Texas

Paula Raymond, REALTOR (Texas Heritage Real Estate ) — Tue, 11 May 2010 11:01:02 -0700

In searching for buyers lately- for homes for sale in Killeen Texas ...wow I have ran across some GEMS! There are several very nice foreclosures on our market right now- and some are virtually "move in ready!" I have seen many single family homes in our first time buyer range of around $80K to $120K - and that put them right in the middle of the competition of homes for sale in Killeen. Typically the sellers of these foreclosures will pay for surveys, title policies and sometimes even the home warranty. It all depends on the asset manager handling the seller's side of the deal. We have even been able to negotiate for buyer closing costs and concession in some cases. Homes are generally priced according to their condition- so if in good shape - you might not find them as deeply discounted as ones needing a substantial amount of repair. For instance, an investment buyer picked up a home in a typical $110K - $120K neighborhood the other day for $75K! It needed about $12K in repair work- but if you can do math- its not hard to see he got a great deal! This particular home would not have worked for someone trying to use VA or FHA financing- but those deals are out there too. Here is today's link ofForeclosure Homes for sale in Killeen Texas; https://www.fhaarmls.org/fht/maildoc/sd_AAAa001hz20100511182317.html Please let me know if you or someone you know would like to see more information on these or any other homes for sale in Killeen Texasor the surrounding areas of Harker Heights, Copperas Cove, Nolanville, Fort Hood. I can set you (as an agent or buyer) up on an automatic update of foreclosure homes or multi-family homes for our ENTIRE MLS! Contact me on the web at www.PaulaSOLDit.com or my cell (254) 291-6826

Killeen Texas Real Estate - Buyer Advice

Paula Raymond, REALTOR (Texas Heritage Real Estate ) — Sat, 08 May 2010 14:43:13 -0700

Thinking about buying a home in the Fort Hood - Killeen Texas real estate market? Ever heard the term "there's no time like the present" ? I specialize in homes for sale in Killeen, Harker Heights, Nolanville and the Fort Hood Texas areas. There are a lot of first time buyers in this market - and they are always wondering when to jump into the real estate game- I say NOW! Check out this article from the Texas Association of Realtors about playing the "waiting game." It might be working against you. I would be happy to show you a list of homes that matches your criteria regarding price, size and location. I can even help you get prequalified for your home loan! Please contact me online at www.PaulaSOLDit.com or call (254) 291-6826 to schedule a time to discuss your real estate purchase options in the Killeen - Fort Hood area. Don't outsmart yourself Are you one of the people who is trying to "time the market" and wait for home prices to go down before you make a purchase? Doing so may not be as wise as you think. Investment experts in different fields acknowledge that attempting to guess when the best conditions are present is an inexact science at best, even for industry specialists. The real estate market is no exception. In your attempt to find the most favorable balance between interest rates and sales price, you may just outsmart yourself and cost yourself a tidy sum of money. Market upswings and downturns are rarely evident until after the fact. Consider the following: If you're ready to buy today but decide to wait one more year and the price of the home goes down a few thousand dollars but interest rates are half a point higher, what have you saved? Nothing-in fact, had you purchased, you'd have a year's worth of mortgage-interest tax deductions and a 12-month head start on building equity. You don't have a crystal ball-no one does. Any real estate expert can tell you that trying to time the market is risky and short-sighted. Over medium- to long-term periods, real estate appreciates steadily and is a solid investment. Any savings you see from price reductions may very well be offset by rising interest rates. The point? If you're ready to be a homeowner, it's almost always a good time to buy a home. If you have doubts about buying a home, talk to a Texas REALTOR®. Your REALTOR® can help quell your uncertainties and explain why acting now to buy a home makes sense and will pay off in the long-term. Texas Association of Realtors®

Happy Mother's Day from Killeen Texas Real Estate

Paula Raymond, REALTOR (Texas Heritage Real Estate ) — Sat, 08 May 2010 10:39:39 -0700

Wishing all mother's and those who play the role of mother for others...(I know a few of those!) a very Happy Mother's Day. As for me- I am enjoying my first mother's day as the mother of a DAUGHTER! My boys are 16 and 20...and last September we welcomed little Sadie Alice to our crew. Having a little girl has brought a whole new meaning to being a Mom. I just returned from delivering a gift to a lady who has been more of a mother to me in the past 7 years - than I could have ever wished for! Thanks Barbara- I love you so much! Not only was she the person who gave me my start in real estate - but she became my mentor, then my friend and now I consider her family. Then there is Sadie's Nanny- Brittany. She isn't technically a "mother" yet- but she is the "next best thing" to one for my daughter. All mom's should have an "Assistant Mom" - and this girl should be heading up the class for sure! Thank you Brittany for sharing your love and time with our family and for taking such amazing care of my baby girl. Hope everyone enjoys their kids and family this weekend- and ALL weekends! Happy Mother's Day to all!

Disappointed home buyer in Killeen Texas (Real Estate)

Paula Raymond, REALTOR (Texas Heritage Real Estate ) — Fri, 07 May 2010 11:24:31 -0700

Not very often- but every once in a while- a deal falls through... its sad for everyone. My buyer was prequalified, the listing was mine- not even on the market yet. We went under contract smooth as silk and everyone was happy. As it turns out- the buyer had some glitches in their employment history that didn't come out until verification from their HR dept - just a couple days prior to closing. Everything was done, repairs, survey, termite inspection, appraisal, home inspection... everything. The loan was declined after all options were exhausted. The seller was not under obligation to release the earnest money- but decided to, only requiring that the termite inspection be paid out of it. The appraisal had been paid directly to the bank by the buyer. The survey can be used in the future. But the buyer was unhappy about the $86 being deducted out of the earnest money... So, it was my job to play mediator...which I did...and hopefully did a successful job at it. The seller is out far more than $86 at this point, the bank had many man hours in on the deal, our company footed the bill for the repairs until a sale can close- and the buyer is unhappy about $86?? Sometimes you really have to bite your tongue... this was one of those times. If she had been truthful about her job situation in the beginning- she would have never been prequalified- no one would have incurred unnecessary expenses- and my listing would be under contract (or closed) by now with a buyer who could make the deal happen. THAT is what I really wanted to tell her... but I didn't. Now I am sitting here with a sore tongue... hoping that with the work of my amazing assistant April (www.virtualassistantchick.com) - we will have this house sold soon and I will have at least ONE happy client in the end!

INVESTMENT PROPERTIES - Killeen and Fort Hood Texas

Paula Raymond, REALTOR (Texas Heritage Real Estate ) — Fri, 07 May 2010 04:42:07 -0700

Attention INVESTORS! Below is a link for today's active & available residential investment properties in the Killeen / Fort Hood area in Central Texas. We currently are assisting several investment buyers from in and out of state with purchases - but there are still plenty to go around! Fort Hood Army Base keeps our rentals FULL and makes this area a great place to invest in real estate. Rents are great- and there is always an abundance of potential tenants. Texas Heritage Real Estate offers professional property management as well - check out our website to see how we market vacant properties. www.thprentals.com Take a look and let me know if you or a buyer you are working with would be interested in seeing more information about a property for sale! You can also reach Richard Raymond (Broker and Property Manager) with questions about management, possible rents, ROI and suggested properties at Richard@texas-heritage.com or Paula (me) at Paula@texas-heritage.com Click this link to view properties for sale; https://www.fhaarmls.org/fht/maildoc/sd_AAAa0043D20100507113152.html