OpeningDoors

do you trust your realtor??

Do you TRUST your Realtor?

I was doing a little research this evening online and came across a message board talking about whether or not people trust their realtor. The comments were very interesting to say the least. So I decided to throw it out there and see what you have to say...Do you trust your Realtor? why or why not?

Income Tax Deadline Almost Here

We all have to file our income taxes, and it's coming up right around the corner. If you haven't already filed this post may help you.

I was on the phone with a client tonight and this subject came up. After I hung up, I thought...you know, alot of people might not be aware of te real estate items that can be deducted. Of course, I'm not a CPA and would never even dare suggest that I know all the answers (their job is not for me) but I would like to point you in the right direction.

Don't forget to find out about the Telephone Excise Tax Refund, if you don't claim it this year...you won't get it. It might not be much, but we all need to get it if it's due to us. Believe it or not the IRS website is a good resource and it's fairly simple to use. Check out the IRS website for answers to your questions. A couple of real estate related items you need to be sure and give to your tax advisor:

Receipts for moving expenses
Property Taxes paid
Mortgage Insurance premiums paid
Mortgage Interest paid
your settlement statement (if you bought or sold property in '06)

the IRS website can assist you in common questions. Remember when in doubt keep the receipt and ask the tax pro.

And to all my past clients, if you need a copy of your settlement statement from closing, just Email me and I'll get a copy to you.

GOOD LUCK

Selling your house begins with curb appeal

If you're thinking of selling, spend a little time and money on the yard !

A well groomed and manicured yard says alot to potential buyers. If you're thinking of selling, you need to make this a top priority on your list of things to do.  If your house looks good as potential buyers drive by or pull it up online, then they are more likely to want to see it.  Once they arrive, It not only shows well to them, it also gives the impression that you have pride in your home and have taken care of it.  It's spring time, go out and enjoy it. Here's a quick list of some things you can do to spruce up your curb appeal

• Edge along sidewalks, driveways and curbs.
• Clean the leaves/debris from the roof and clean out gutters
• sweep driveways and sidewalks, if necessary power wash them
• trim trees away from the roof or side of house, trim hedges and shrubs
• plant some color in your flowerbeds (now is a great time to plant for color all summer)
• use a black mulch to contrast with plants
• clean or replace your mail box
• make sure your driveway is free of stains
• sweep the cobwebs away from the front porch and railings
• clean the windows

and Don't forget, your front door says alot about you and your house. If it needs to be re-stained or replaced do it before you list your house! When potential buyers and their agents come to your house, you want the front door and area around it to be in spotless condition.

Opening Doors article in Sunday's paper

It's that time again, my monthly Q & A article will be published in this Sunday's local paper, look for it in the Showcase of homes section. Appropriately titled  "Opening Doors".  Let me know what you think, and as always feel free to send me any questions you might want the answers to (don't worry, I never publish the name of the sender). You can email me directly or post them here in the comments section.

I've enjoyed the article and opportunity to get to know several people when responding to their inquiries. In fact, I wish I'd started it sooner. With that being said, I'd like your feedback, do you find it helpful? something you'd like to see added?

Looking forward to hearing from you,

Holly

Opening Doors Real Estate Seminar(s)

Opening Doors Real Estate Seminar, co-hosted by myself and good friend & confidant, Patty Murdock with All Texas Mortgage.

There will be 2 this month:

Wed. March 14, 6-8pm: The Mansions in the Forest

Wed. March 21, 6-8pm: Montgomery County Central library, Conroe Tx

• Get your personal real estate questions answered
• Market Trends
• "hot spots" in our local area
• Investor Strategies
• Qualifying for a loan
• Knowing and understanding your Credit
• Selling for Top Dollar in today's changing market
• Tips to help you get it $old!

We're looking forward to it...See you there!

If you can't attend but would like general information sent to you...visit my website homepage at www.soldonlakeconroe.com click on the add'l information tab for the seminar and complete the simple form.

A neighborhood near you

I past several new developments in the area this weekend. Most of you know Graystone Hills is coming into Conroe. Models are open and the neighborhood is looking very nice. I also found a new neighbhorhood by Lennar Homes off of Fm 1314 east of town. Wow!  that's amazing the development going on over there.  The south loop 336 area is going to be amazingly different very soon. Barton woods is coming, and a developer out of Dallas has purchased add'l land to create a neighborhood similar to the woodlands areas right next to Barton woods.  Conroe is finally seeing new home builders, and that in my opinion will rejuvenate the area. For many years people have moved out of Conroe to surrounding areas like The Woodlands, FM 1488, Montgomery, even Willis because of lack of product within the city of Conroe. This, I hope, will also help to bring money back from Conroe ISD back to Conroe's schools.

Do you Agree??

Texas ATM Real Estate Center issued a report saying that the housing market in Texas is counter the national trend. Houston is even better than the state average in home sales and new home starts. Actually we're up from this time last year. I believe this, but I'm curious what you think?