Area Real Estate News & Market Trends

You’ll find our blog to be a wealth of information, covering everything from local market statistics and home values to community happenings. That’s because we care about the community and want to help you find your place in it. Please reach out if you have any questions at all. We’d love to talk with you!

Oct. 2, 2023

Custom Home on Acreage in Temple Texas

Are you moving to Texas?

Do you want to live in a rural small town?

Desire quiet nights?

Looking for acreage?

Come see this gem!!  Located in Rogers ISD! Introducing this captivating custom home nestled on a stunning 5 acres. Offering 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, a Office, Upstairs Flex Room(Media, Game, or even a 4th Bedroom), 3 car garage, pool, and workshop. This unique offering presents an exceptional opportunity for those seeking both a comfortable, modern living space and the luxury of a sprawling outdoor oasis. Step inside and be enchanted by the inviting atmosphere and open concept layout that seamlessly combines the living room, dining area, and kitchen. The home is filled with an abundance of natural light accentuating the timeless design and adding to the overall warmth and charm. The well-appointed kitchen is equipped with sleek granite countertops, ample storage space, walk-in pantry, and modern appliances, making it a chef's dream come true. The Owner Suite is spacious with a beautifully designed bathroom, double vanities and closets, oversized shower with garden soaking tub. Outside, the property boasts 5 acres of pure serenity. This vast expanse of land offers endless possibilities for outdoor activities, whether it's project in the 33x40 workshop, exploring nature, or simply savoring the peaceful ambiance. Even offering additional acreage for those who desire more space. Located in a sought-after area for those that desire countryside living just outside of Temple, TX, this home provides the perfect balance of tranquility and convenience. Nearby amenities, medical facilities, schools, and major roadways are easily accessible, ensuring effortless everyday living.

Don't let this exceptional opportunity slip away. 

Serene Countryside Living - 3105 Stone Road, Temple 

April 4, 2023

First Time Home Buyers Guide

Texas First Time Home Buyers Guide: Tips and Tricks to Find Your Dream Home with Apex Texas Realty
Buying a home for the first time can be a daunting experience, but it doesn't have to be. With Apex Texas Realty by your side, you can turn your dream of owning a home into a reality.
Here are some tips and tricks that can help ease your first-time home buying process:
1. Determine your budget
Before you start looking for a home, it's crucial to determine how much you can afford. Make sure to include all the expenses associated with owning a home, including mortgage payments, insurance, taxes, and maintenance costs. A mortgage calculator can help you estimate your monthly payments based on the purchase price of the home.
2. Get pre-approved for a mortgage
Getting pre-approved for a mortgage will give you a clear idea of how much you can borrow and what your interest rate will be. This step can speed up the buying process and give you an advantage when negotiating with sellers.
3. Are you not quite ready to buy due to your credit score? 
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Give us a call to see your options.  (254) 933-2222
3. Start your search online
Apex Texas Realty has a comprehensive online database of homes for sale in Texas. You can use its search function to filter through properties based on your preferences, such as location, price range, and number of bedrooms.
4. Make an offer with one of our EXPERIENCED REALTORS® - Meet The Team
When you've found the perfect home, it's time to make an offer. Apex Texas Realty can help you navigate this process and ensure that you get the best deal possible. If your offer is accepted, you'll enter into escrow, where your earnest money deposit will be held until closing.
5. Close the deal
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After your offer is accepted, a home inspection and appraisal will take place before the deal can close. If everything checks out, you can sign the closing documents and officially become a homeowner.
Now that you have some tips on how to navigate the first-time home buying process, the next step is to contact Apex Texas Realty. Its team of experienced agents will work with you to find the perfect home in Texas that fits your budget and lifestyle. Meet The Team
#ApexTexasRealty #TexasFirstTimeHomeBuyers #FirstTimeHomeBuyers #HomeBuyingTips #TexasHomes #HomeOwnership #DreamHome #RealEstate #HomeBuyingMadeEasy #HomeBuyingProcess #HomeInspection #MortgageApproval #FindYourHome #TexasRealEstate #ClosingTheDeal.
April 21, 2022

Is Your Home Energy-Efficient? 8 Red Flags

Going green feels good, which is why we recycle cans and fill up reusable water bottles. Still, much bigger and pricier waste might be sailing right out your doors and windows if the home you’re in (or hope to buy) isn’t energy-efficient.

Truth is, old houses are notoriously expensive to heat and cool, but even newer construction could have design flaws that make them less energy-efficient, too. And since no one wants high electric bills, we’ve polled experts in the field to help you spot the signs that a home isn’t as green as it could be—and what to do to fix it.

Whether you’re shopping on the open market for a house or simply looking for some eco-friendly. 

Check out these effective ways to make sure your home is energy efficient

https://www.realtor.com/advice/buy/is-your-home-energy-efficient-red-flags/

By Jennifer Kelly Geddes, behalf of realto.com

 

Posted in texas home buying
Sept. 11, 2021

How to Avoid These Typical Mistakes When Selling Your Home

There's a lot that goes into making a house, from the construction to the interiors, down to managing things like wiring and pipes. It then becomes a home over time as it's lived in and memories are made in it. This is why selling a home is particularly stressful for many people. Some people weren't planning to sell but had to in order to pay off certain expenses. However, there are also others who do so willingly to better prepare for something bigger and/or better.

Whatever the case, the sale of a home is vital. There is no room for error because every cent that can be made from the sale is crucial. Read on to learn about typical mistakes made during the process of selling a home, and how you can best avoid them!

MISTAKE: Not Being Forthcoming about Repairs 

AVOID IT: Sure, you can stage the house in such a way that it seems the bug problem is well-hidden. However, chances are that won't last very long. Well-informed buyers looking to make the most of their funds will usually get a home inspection done once their offer is accepted. If a problem like a roof leak or the aforementioned bug issue is found, that could cause significant delays for what should have been the closing date. 

MISTAKE: Not Factoring in the Costs of Selling the Home

AVOID IT: What plenty of people tend to overlook is that selling a home is more than just 'sell house, get money.’ There are several costs usually attached when a home is being sold. This can include the likes of closing costs and agent commissions. Before putting a home up for sale, it's best to be prepared for these expenses as well.

MISTAKE: Selling When the House Is at Negative Equity

AVOID IT: Make sure you are always updated on what the exact value of your property is at the time. Take any owed mortgage into account as well: a portion of the sales should be used for the remaining balance to be paid off. However, in some situations, what's owed on a home ends up being more than the present value of the property. 

In those cases, it means there's negative equity; sometimes, it's referred to with terms such as 'underwater' or 'upside-down.’ Whatever term is used, it all means the same thing: selling the home at that stage won't lead to the mortgage being paid off. Some people choose to just break even and sell the house in order to end a cycle or loophole affecting their finances.

It should be noted that all of these mistakes can easily be avoided (or, if already committed, better addressed) when a real estate professional gets called on.

Conclusion

Selling a home can be rather difficult if there are particular emotional attachments, though for some people, it's just the right time. What doesn't get any less tough is the number of typical home-selling mistakes there are in the first place. These include selling when the house is at negative equity, not being honest about needed repairs, and not factoring in home selling costs.

Searching Temple, TX for realtors that can help sell your home? Reach out to Apex Texas Realty today! We’re the leading real estate team that covers Central Texas, including Belton, Harker Heights, Killeen, Salado, Temple, and surrounding areas.

Sept. 11, 2021

3 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Selling off Your Home

People have different reasons for selling off their homes, such as the need for extra finances or the need to relocate. Regardless of the reason, all of it is valid and very understandable. Now, just because there is a clear purpose to sell the house doesn’t mean that one should just wait out for the calls of potential buyers. Other factors may come into play during the sale, and if you’re not careful, you may commit mistakes that can negatively affect your intent to sell the house.

In such a case, it is your responsibility to know about these mistakes to avoid committing them. The following are just some of the most common mistakes you need to avoid at all costs:

1. Not Being Honest about the Damages in Your House

You must not hide anything from the buyers, especially the damages to your home. It doesn’t even matter if it’s a leaky faucet or a broken furnace—they will find out about it once they conduct their independent inspection. Honesty and trust are the keys to making a great sale, and if the buyer doesn’t get that upon the first few lines of your conversation, they may begin to look for other properties on sale. 

Give them all the facts upfront and see if they’re still willing to buy the house from you. Remember, not all buyers are skimping out on cash. Some may even be willing to pay extra just to get the damages fixed. As long as you’re putting everything on the table, your chances of selling the house will not go down the drain.

2. Not Finding an Immediate Home to Move Into

Suppose that you find a buyer who is more than willing to move in immediately. Where would you and your family stay? This is crucial, as you wouldn’t want to end up sleeping in a motel while you’re trying to find a new home. 

So before you can even post up your home for sale, try to find a new one immediately so that you will never have to worry about buyers who are willing to pay and move into your old property.

3. Not Posting Clear Photos of Your House for Sale

Some buyers may not be able to visit your home due to distance. In that case, you must post explicit photos of your home, both indoors and outdoors. Make sure that every section and corner of your house will have a photo on the online sales page and include actual measurements of each area. 

Doing so will give your potential buyers a general idea of the size of your property. This will also save you both time, especially if they’re looking for a big house and you only have something smaller than expected.

Conclusion

By knowing and avoiding these mistakes, you will be able to present your home in a good way and avoid any misunderstandings that could put off potential buyers. 

Being honest about its features and amenities, looking for an immediate home to move into, and posting complete sets of photos showing off its sections may just land you a buyer in no time without running into any hassle. Plan out exit early on and consider our tips to enjoy your move into a new home without having to worry about any complaints from your buyer.

If you need any help selling your house fast, we at Apex Texas Realty are here to serve you. Our experienced real estate team specializes in buying, selling, and renting out homes in Central Texas. Contact us—let us discuss the details of your home for sale today!

Sept. 10, 2021

Everything about Selling an “As-Is” Home

 

everything-about-selling-home

 

Selling your house usually means taking the time to fix it up before you present it to the market. However, not everybody has the time or money to allocate for this stage. If you ask us, it’s possible to sell your house fast—even without shelling out cash or seeking the assistance of a real estate agent. 

 

Although, there are some advantages and disadvantages to using this method. Read on to find out how to sell a house “as-is” and whether it's the best option for you!

 

What Does "As-Is" Imply?

You notify buyers that an “as-is” sale will not include any repairs. By making this clear, whether verbally or in writing, buyers must agree not to sue you for existing damages or any flaws in the house. “As-is” houses are frequently outdated and in need of repair, making it highly uncommon for buyers to buy "as-is" homes.

Are There Legal Implications to Ignoring Disclosure Laws When Selling a Home “As-Is”?

According to state and federal disclosure requirements, sellers must notify prospective buyers of any flaws in the home before selling it “as-is.” In some states, however, homeowners are not required to disclose previous problems, such as flooding. 

To avoid lawsuits due to unreported home problems, sellers must conduct thorough research on their state's disclosure rules before listing or purchasing an “as-is” home.

Why Would a Homeowner Sell the Property "As-is"?

There are numerous advantages to selling your home "as-is." Typically, sellers are cash-strapped and unable to afford expensive repairs, so that they may list their houses “as-is” for speedy sales or cash bids. Moreover, “as-is” homes are frequently sold by people who have inherited properties but are not interested in managing them.

Who Purchases A For-Sale-By-Owner Residence?

There’s no doubt that interested buyers seek move-in-ready homes and rarely purchase “as-is” properties. However, some sellers would rather sell homes “as-is” because maintenance and repair costs may exceed the home's valuation.

When a home’s worth surpasses its present market value, it invites investors to seek a profit on the sale. Budget-conscious buyers and cash investors may be enticed by an “as-is” home that shows promise and lacks significant flaws.

Is It Better to Sell a House in Its Current Condition?

Selling a house “as-is” usually results in a lower profit margin, but there are still a few advantages to it. For one, sellers save upfront money for repairs that they may not get back when the house sells. 

 

Additionally, selling a house “as-is” saves time and money because buyers or investors can complete the transaction in cash–removing the requirement for mortgage approval.

Is It Unacceptable to Sell a House As-Is?

 

While selling “as-is” can be a handy and quick option to sell a house, there are also some drawbacks. If you sell your home “as-is,” many consumers will believe it is considered faulty, even if it is only in need of minor repairs and may result in a low buying price.

 

How Do I Sell My House in Its Current Condition?

 

For whatever reason you prefer to sell your house “as-is,” you must carefully consider your decision and understand when to employ this method. After all, selling “as-is” homes can result in a reduced sale price for your house. This is a more viable choice if, for example, your home has severe defects, such as structural flaws, then the “as-is” price may be more acceptable.

Conclusion

It’s always good to get a little bit of help and guidance, so before listing your “as-is” home, consult the professional advice of an experienced real estate agent. They can aid you in assessing whether selling your house “as-is” is the best alternative. Moreover, some buyers may find that your “as-is” property has no significant flaws and will accept your asking price. This way, you may earn a more substantial profit even if purchasers request a minimal repair discount.

Are you looking for homes for sale in Texas? Apex Texas is Texas’s #1 real estate firm if you’re looking to buy, sell or rent houses in Belton, Temple, Salado, Harker Heights, Killeen, and surrounding areas. Begin your search for the best option for you and your family—reach out to us today!

Aug. 28, 2021

Understanding Exclusive Right to Sell: What You Need to Know

Online listing is one of the most productive ways to sell a house. In a few clicks, buyers can find your home and everything they need to know about it. Besides finding the ideal website where you plan to post your property listing, you also need to determine whether you want to give exclusive rights to sell to your agent or not. 

 

You have probably heard about this option before, but if you want to understand it better, this article will help you get to know your listing options more. 

 

 

What Is Exclusive Right to Sell?

 

Nowadays, one of the popular agreements between the seller and the real estate broker is the exclusive right to sell. This agreement means that you give your seller the exclusivity to sell your property or market your home. 

 

You would not be allowed to find another agent or broker to sell the property on your behalf. As long as the contract runs, only your agreed broker can find a buyer for your house. 

 

Even if your property is exclusive to one broker, they can still maximize all property listing sites and have a presence in all of these platforms through the MLS (multiple listing services) technology. Here is the catch, though: even if you, the property owner, were the one who found a buyer, you still need to pay your real estate broker a commission as agreed. 

 

How Is Exclusive Agency Different?

 

Exclusive agencies and exclusive right to sell are two distinctive concepts. The exclusive agency option also gives the selected agency the sole right to sell or market the property. The only difference is that there is no guaranteed commission when the owner is the first to find a buyer for their property. 

 

An exclusive agency works with various agents. However, there is no assurance that these agents would get something from the property they try to sell. They would only get commissions if they successfully sell the property. This very reason makes agents avoid this type of contract as it puts them at considerable financial risk.

 

What Are Your Other Options?

 

If you are not fond of any of the two, know that there are still other listing agreements that you can explore. Here is a quick rundown of your other alternatives:

  • Open Listing: This option allows the owner to work with several agents and post their listings to several sites. In this option, the owner does not have to pay any agents a commission unless they find a buyer. The only catch is that they cannot utilize the MLS. Instead, the owner compensates by having multiple agents work for them.
  • Net Listing: In this listing type, the agent and the owner agree on a baseline, the property worth, or the sales price they both agree on. The agent can sell the property above the sales price in this option, depending on how much they want their commission to be. It can be a freeing but risky option for both parties. 
    If the agent sells the house double its agreed baseline price, it is a significant loss for the owner. However, there are also occasions when the agent sells the property with little to no commissions. 
  • Multiple Listing: MLS is the tool real estate agents use to do their property search and sell faster. It is the medium used by agents working for exclusive listings. However, the efficiency it brings comes with a price. Sellers need to pay a fee when placing their property on this platform. 

Conclusion

 

Real estate agents may require commissions, but they help make selling properties easier for the home sellers. They could conduct extensive checks and balances to ensure that the potential buyer can pay for the house. They can also make the search for a buyer quicker. Make sure to consider if this option which would be more beneficial for you. 

If you want to sell your house fast in Texas, contact us at Apex Texas Realty. We are the number one real estate team in the state that could help you find the next owner for your home. Our website features the best real estate search for homes, condos, land, and foreclosure properties available, with a database update every 15 minutes. You can also monitor the real estate movement in the neighborhood through our website.

Aug. 13, 2021

Real Estate 101: 5 Ways to Sell Your Land Faster Online

 

Selling a property is not just about posting a simple listing on a website. There is a lot more that goes into it. Finding a possible investor can be tricky, especially since there are hundreds and thousands of different other options to choose from. However, there are a few tips and tricks to streamline the process.

 

If you are struggling to find a buyer, take advantage of your technological resources and consider following these five tips so you can effectively sell your land online faster.

 

 

Tip #1: Provide All Necessary Information

 

If you are selling your land, you wouldn’t want to mislead a buyer with incorrect information. This can only make the transaction more complicated. It is best to show pictures, videos, and detailed text so those exploring online would instantly know if what you are selling is what they are looking for. 

 

You should also demark the boundaries clearly. Remember, you can never be too descriptive when you sell land online, especially since many buyers tend to have their guards up, so they won’t get duped.

 

Tip #2: Set a Competitive Price

 

A lot of landowners have a hard time looking for potential investors because of the pricing. One thing that can set you apart from other sellers is setting a price aligned with your own goals and reasonable enough for its location, amenities, and features. It is also worth noting that you should not shortchange yourself. 

 

Keep in mind that the pandemic has caused millions of Americans to relocate. Those from bigger cities like San Francisco and New York are moving to larger spaces, so you will likely find a buyer from that demographic!

 

Tip #3: Show Aerial Shots

 

Aerial photography captured by drones will allow the buyer to have a much better sense of the property on offer. According to statistics from the Multiple Listing Service (MLS), land properties with aerial photography are 68 percent more likely to sell than those without it. This is because a bird's-eye view allows you to see all of the land's distinctive features. If feasible, employ a drone photography specialist to assist you with this.

 

Tip #4: Highlight the Land Features

 

Gone are the days when people bought land only for the sake of owning it. People nowadays would purchase one to live in it or utilize it for whatever purpose they choose. It won't always be bare soil with some vegetation and a few trees. 

 

Your potential buyers will want to build a home or other structures to speed up the return on their investment. Because of this, make sure they are aware of your land's development potential. Emphasize its benefits, such as nearby commercial areas, the possibility of bringing utilities, and plans for local growth.

 

Tip #5: Use Search Keywords

 

Research keywords that buyers use when shopping for land online. This will help your listing appear higher on search engine result pages. Some popular keywords that many shoppers use in their searches include “close to town,” “safe,” “private,” etc.

 

Conclusion

 

Even with the help of technology, selling land is not without difficulties. However, there are a few extra steps that you can take for investors to be convinced about what you are offering. You already have access to a large audience thanks to the internet. Now, you just have to put everything good about your property under the spotlight so that you can easily set yourself apart from other sellers. In no time, that “Land for Sale” sign will be long gone.

 

If you are looking for land for sale in Central TX, Apex Texas Realty is the number one real estate team in the area! Sell your home, buy a home for sale, or rent a house in Central Texas, including Belton, Temple, Salado, Harker Heights, Killeen, and surrounding areas. Our website features the best real estate search for available homes, condos, land, and foreclosure properties. Talk to our experts today!

Aug. 8, 2021

What Do You Need to Sell Property by Owner in Texas?

 

Listing your house as “for sale by owner” may seem like an excellent way to keep most of the cash from the sale. However, it’s a high-risk move that entails a significant amount of paperwork. You’ll be required to procure a set of documents yourself, and it can be a rather taxing task for many.

 

Before you put up your listing and sell the property yourself, you’ll have to consider the requirements you’ll have to accomplish to legally complete the sale. For Texas residents, here are some of the most important documents that are needed to close the deal:

 

 

1. The Property Deed

The deed is a legal document that attests to the transfer of the property’s ownership. It contains the names and signatures of the seller and the buyer, as well as a description of the property being transferred. This document transfers the title and grants the buyer specific rights to the asset.

 

You will need to present the deed during closing if the buyer purchases the house via cash or financing. The buyer will then file the deed with the local, state, and federal agencies. If you’re providing the funding, however, it’s best to keep the document in escrow until all payments have been made.

 

2. The Contract for Sale

A contract for sale highlights the terms of the sale and is essential if the buyer decides to pay in cash or secured financing. This document includes financial details and the methods of funding needed to complete the sale. You may also have to work with a title company to provide the property with title insurance.

 

3. The Sales and Purchase Agreement

The sales and purchase agreement is one of the most important documents that will need to be prepared for any property transaction, for sale by owner or otherwise. This is a binding legal document that both parties need to sign to indicate that the exchange is serious. It stands as a written obligation that the seller intends to sell the land and the buyer plans to buy it.

 

The agreement must be specific and accurate in describing the property, and the price should be indicated in numbers and words. It must also contain the deposit amount that the buyer must pay and what the seller will do with the deposit. There are many other conditions that the document must include, such as improvements, plans, and penalties.

 

Other Requirements

 

 

Other required documents involved in a sale include property disclosure reports, closing statements, an affidavit of title, HOA forms, and many others. You may need to work with attorneys and other professionals to procure certain records.

 

Sell Your House in Texas

 

Selling your house on your own allows you to save on commissions, but it also means that you’ll have to do most of the legwork. You’ll have to put in the work in preparing documents, negotiating, looking for potential buyers, and making numerous difficult decisions. There’s a lot of paperwork involved, and it’s often a high-risk gamble. 

 

If you’re looking to sell your house in Texas more efficiently, it’s best to consider working with professionals. Apex Texas Realty is the #1 Real Estate Team that makes buying, selling, and renting properties easier. Get the best price for your property—contact us today!

Aug. 8, 2021

5 Common Mistakes That First-Time Home Buyers Should Avoid

 

Buying a home is an overwhelming but worthwhile process for most people. However, first-time buyers are more prone to making mistakes that can cost them thousands of dollars. But through the experience of others, here are the common mistakes people make in buying their first home that you should avoid.

1. Contacting a Mortgage Lender Only Upon Finding a Dream House

Keep in mind that borrowing money from mortgage companies takes time. They first need to get specific information and documents from the applicant before they validate if they are qualified for the loan or not. 

While you’re still shopping around for the perfect house for you, it’s logical to apply for preapproval to ensure you have the money ready once you find the ideal home. Pre-approval of a loan assures the seller that the transaction won’t fall through during the last minute, which may cause you to lose the property and time.

2. Not Shopping Around for a Mortgage Loan

Out of ten people, nine will go to a mortgage lender recommended by people they know. While that’s a great way to see if you can trust a financing company, what was offered to the people you know may not be as good as the offer to you. 

It’s best to do your research, compare the perks from at least two other lenders, then pick the best loan. Try to consider the interest, period of payment, and the leeway they can provide if you miss a payment.

3. Not Understanding the Budget

It’s easy to max out your housing costs based on your pre-approved mortgage amount. Try to consider how much you might earn and how much you need to live in a decent property, then decide on which house to pick. It also helps if you don’t spend all your savings on a home you truly want to have. 

Leave yourself a safety net to fall on in case things don’t go according to your plans. Ask yourself, “If I lose my job today, will I still be able to pay?” Leave a savings fund that can get you across two to three months without a steady income.

4. Not Considering the Resale Value of the House

Statistics suggest that you are not likely to live in your first home forever. It is wise to consider the possibility of selling the house later on. Before buying the property, make sure to consider resale factors, such as location, number of bedrooms and bathrooms, and lot size. Try to use common sense in buying a property among a community of properties. Pick out the one that has a better selling value compared to houses in the area.

5. Rushing to Buy a House

 

Since buying a house is overwhelming, never allow that feeling to drive you into buying the first house you see on the market. There are always many options for you; make sure to check all of them before settling on one property. Some properties sell for a low price with many issues that need to be fixed. 

Consider hiring an inspector to check for problems that need to be addressed and think if it’s worth spending on repairs compared to buying a more expensive house with minimal maintenance. Never rush the process of purchasing a home and seek all the possibilities around you.


Conclusion


Being a first-time homebuyer does not mean you should make the same mistakes others have made. Instead, be more intelligent than them and learn what you can take from their errors. Use that information and knowledge to get better deals for your budget and liking. Buying a property for the first time may be overwhelming, but it is possible to go through it without making mistakes.

 

Buy, sell, or rent your next house in Taylor, TX through Apex Texas. Our database of Texas homes for sale is easy to use and updated every 15 minutes. Join the search on our website today and let us help you along the way.