Machelle Ralls, ATX Realtor

Congratulations Kolton & Stormi Matthews!🎉🥳 ( and girls) What an adventure! But you did it! 🤩 Our journey of selling and buying started in 2023 with an unexpected early completion date on the New Build! Crazy!
So happy for you all the new memories you will have in your new home🏡🏠.

Thank you Cole Ramey at WFG, Austin Title, and everyone else that helped make this happen.🤗❤️🏡 Blessings!

💦🏠 : Don't forget to check the drainage of the home you're considering buying!

While it's easy to get swept away by a home's aesthetic charm, it's critical to ensure the functional aspects are in top-notch shape as well. A well-drained property can save you from a multitude of headaches down the line.

Here's why:

1️⃣ A poorly drained property can lead to water pooling around your home, causing damage to the foundation and creating a breeding ground for mold and mildew.

2️⃣ Heavy rainfall can result in basement flooding if the drainage system is not properly designed and maintained.

3️⃣ Over time, water issues can lead to serious structural damage, requiring costly repairs.

So, when you're out house hunting, remember to look for signs of good drainage - gutters and downspouts that direct water away from the home, properly graded yards, and no signs of standing water.

And, of course, always get a thorough home inspection to catch any potential drainage or other issues before finalizing your purchase.🏡💦👍





Austinrealestate

Our latest Market Report has been released! To read the full report for Austin and the luxury market click the link below.

2023 Central Texas housing market performance underscores need for improved housing affordability In 2023, the median price for a home in the Austin-Round Rock MSA decreased 10.2% to $450,000, according to the Austin Board of REALTORS® December 2023 and Year-End Central Texas Housing Market Report. When compared to the steep 24.2% decline in pending sales in 2022, 2023 saw a slight 3.0% decline...

The number of homes for sale in the state has more than doubled from its low during the COVID-19 pandemic and now finds itself at more than 88,000 listings. That's the highest level since 2019 and far higher than the long-term average.

Texas homes flood housing market Housing inventory is surging in Texas despite the nation facing a widespread housing shortage.

Ever come across the term "Private Mortgage Insurance" or PMI and wondered what it's all about? Let's break it down! 💡🔎

Private Mortgage Insurance is a type of insurance that you may be required to pay if you're buying a home with less than 20% down payment. This insurance protects the lender (not you, the borrower) in case you default on the mortgage. 🏦💰

PMI is usually a monthly fee added to your mortgage payment. The cost varies, but it's typically between 0.5% and 1% of the entire loan amount per year. So, if your loan is $200,000 and your PMI rate is 1%, you'd pay about $2000 in PMI per year, or roughly $167 per month. 📅💲

The good news is, PMI isn't forever! Once you've built up 20% equity in your home (either by paying down your mortgage or through home value increase), you can typically request to cancel your PMI. 🎉💪

Always ask questions and understand your mortgage terms. Reach out if you need more info on PMI or anything home-related! 📚💡





Austinrealestate

Dopamine increases your happiness, alertness, concentration, and motivation. The best part? With the right stimulus, your brain manufactures it for you. That’s why dopamine decor has become such a popular and powerful aesthetic when furnishing the home.

Why Buyers Are Turning to Homes with Dopamine-Inducing Decor - Sotheby´s International Realty | Blog Jason Friedman and Ruby Friedman – Daniel Gale Sotheby’s International Realty Dopamine increases your happiness, alertness, concentration, and motivation. The best part? With the right stimulus, your brain manufactures it for you. That’s why dopamine decor has become such a popular and powerfu...

🏠🛠️ Essential Home Maintenance: Stay Covered and Proactive! 🚧💡

As homeowners, staying proactive with home maintenance is essential. Here are key areas to pay attention to:

1️⃣ HVAC Systems: Maintain optimal performance and energy efficiency by changing air filters, scheduling professional inspections, and cleaning vents. This extends the system's lifespan and improves indoor air quality. Add it to your yearly maintenance checklist!

2️⃣ Steam Heating: Regular maintenance prevents issues with steam heating systems. Check water levels, valves, and vents, and ensure proper insulation to prevent leaks, inefficient heating, and safety hazards. Schedule inspections and address concerns promptly.

3️⃣ Plumbing: Prevent water leaks, clogs, and damage by regularly inspecting pipes, faucets, and toilets. Promptly address any issues and consider periodic drain cleaning to maintain proper water flow.

4️⃣ Sump Pump: A functioning sump pump prevents costly water damage during heavy rain or floods. Test and clean the pump regularly. Consult professionals for maintenance and assessment if needed.

5️⃣ Chimney: Maintain your chimney for safety and efficiency if you have a fireplace or wood-burning stove. Schedule inspections, cleanings, and repairs to prevent fires and ensure proper ventilation.

6️⃣ Smoke Alarms: Install working smoke alarms on every level, test them regularly, and replace batteries annually. It's a small effort that protects your family and property from fire hazards.

Regular maintenance preserves your home's value, comfort, and safety. Address these items and create a maintenance schedule. Your home will thank you! 🏡🔧✨





Austinrealestate

🏠 Downsizing to a smaller home can bring many benefits.

💰One major benefit is cost savings. $$ A smaller home often means lower mortgage payments, property taxes, and utility bills. It can also mean less money spent on home maintenance and repairs.

❤️. Additionally, a smaller home can be easier to clean and maintain, freeing up time for other activities. A smaller home can often provide a sense of community, as neighbors tend to be closer and more connected in smaller living spaces.

😀 Downsizing can lead to a simpler, more minimalist lifestyle, which can reduce stress and increase happiness. If you are considering downsizing, feel free to contact me for a free consultation! ❤️😀





Austinrealestate

First Impressions matter! Here are some simple tips to stage your home before you sell. 🏡

1. Declutter - Reduce items such as furniture, boxes, decor and items not needed for everyday use. Keep it simple! 🛋️

2. De-personalize - Remove individual and family photos. 🖼️ This helps the buyer to vision their own lifestyle of their new home.

3. Fresh look - keep the paint to a neutral color and no dark or bright colors. 🖌️. Touch up paint from any stains or marks

4. Deep clean - Clean or hire professionals to clean floors, fans, baseboards and restrooms. 🧹

5. Spruce up - Make your entrance both outside and inside inviting. Add fresh mulch & flowers to your flower beds and make it smell good walking into your home. 🪷🌷

Make them remember that first impression! ❤️



Austinrealestate