Katy Dream Homes.Com

The rules of the game for leasing residential property in Houston/Katy area

Sanford & Seretha Sellers — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 18:25:00 GMT

We are assisting an increasing number of people in locating residential lease property. Here are some guidelines to keep in mind. All owners/landlords look at different things so there is no surefire method for submitting a "the place is mind' application. 1 .Before you get to me (Realtor) pull your free credit report and determine if there are any issues that need to be addressed. Such as; these are not my charges, I never lived there, I paid that off, I was never evicted.... Come to the...(read more)

Recycling event January 28th

Sanford & Seretha Sellers — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 16:51:00 GMT

Saturday, January 28th, there is an e-cycling event in Harvvest Plaza in downtown Katy. The full address is 5701 3rd street. They will accept: computers, notebooks, monitors/LCDS, servers, printers, copiers, projectors, consumer electronics, hard drives, hubs/routers/switches, cables/cords, memory, chips/ram,circuit boards, peripherals, rechargeable, batteries, storage devices, fax machines, cell, phones/PDAS, phone equipment, small kitchen, appliances, tvs (under 27") Not accepted vacuum cleaners,...(read more)

Today, purchasing a home is a generational decision

Sanford & Seretha Sellers — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 15:56:00 GMT

I just saw an ad on CNBC for Century 21 and a short interview with their marketing director. The title of this entry is my paraphrase of something she said. It struck a cord with me as I seriously think we are in a transitional period. Some will make wise decisions and increase or begin a wealth cycle for their heirs. Others will sit back and wait to pick up the crumbs. Which one will you be? If you are seeking professional advise and assistance, we are here to Consult, Negotiate, and Organize the...(read more)

Seasonality and home sales

Sanford & Seretha Sellers — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 15:26:00 GMT

Over the last few years, changes in the market changed who buy homes, sells homes, and financing of the home. Typically home sales have been at their highest from June to August. Primarily due to families with school age children moving to get settled in before the school year begins, Sellers who put their homes on the market in the colder months are serious about selling but so are the buyers about buying. Prices will vary depending on the availablilty of homes in the warmer or colder months. Usually...(read more)

Apartments in the Houston and surrounding areas

Sanford & Seretha Sellers — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 20:59:00 GMT

www.KatyDreamHomes.com Lighbulb moment! Not everyone is interested in leasing, buying, or selling a home. We now have something for you as well. Go to; www.KatyDreamHomes.com cllick on the apartment tab at the top left hand of the screen Information, pictures, requirements for finding an apartment that meets your needs. Tell a friend....(read more)

Real Estate Agent Works for who?

Sanford & Seretha Sellers — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 21:36:00 GMT

When you ask an agent to show a home, who do they represent? Before working with a real estate agent, you should know that our duties depend on whom we represent. If you hire an agent to list your property as a seller or landlord, the agent works for the seller or landlord. An agent showing the property without a written agreement between them and perspective buyer or tenant is considered a subagent and represents the seller or perspective landlord in cooperation with the listing agent. If a buyer...(read more)

West Houston neighborhood review - Cardiff Ranch

Sanford & Seretha Sellers — Tue, 08 Nov 2011 16:14:00 GMT

It was a perfect day and I was out previewing for a perspective client in the cinco ranch area. Not wanting to be inside, I remembered seeing a sign for a new neighborhood and decided to continue my previewing tour. Cardiff Ranch is nestled between Firethorpe and Westheimer Lakes North on the west side of Katy. It is a small community with about 380 homes to be constructed. It is located between the the Westpark Tollway and I-10. The entryway is pleasant and welcoming with construction still in progress....(read more)

Part II, This year you are buying a house

Sanford & Seretha Sellers — Fri, 10 Jun 2011 01:11:00 GMT

As your head stop spinning and the sick feeling starts to fade, we will add one more thing to the loan process. Take the time to read and ask questions. In 2009 we had the Truth in Lending Act introduced regarding initial and final disclosures to borrowers. the timinig of when fees can be charged and when closings may occur. I'm sure there have been changes since then but thiis is another reason to have your Lender explain the loan and the procedures through closing. Before you call me, the Realtor,...(read more)

We are buying a home this year!

Sanford & Seretha Sellers — Mon, 30 May 2011 21:38:00 GMT

I know you are all excted now that the decision has been made to buy a home but before you start driving the streets (gas is high) and attending open houses ( homes you can't afford) let's find out where you stand financially. 1. Credit -What do you look like on paper? You are entitled to free copies of your credit reports annually from the major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian and TransUnion). Order your reports and go over them. You should be reviewing them for accuracy and if you find...(read more)

Planning a wedding and a move

Sanford & Seretha Sellers — Wed, 17 Nov 2010 23:04:00 GMT

Ok I confess, I like to watch HGTV & Say Yes to the Dress. I have heard and watched people, buying a home, moving to a lease property or an apartment while planning the wedding. You must have some wild stories are at least good advise for those wanting to do the same thing. So dish! Is it possible to get it all done? Also when you looking to move or relocate (to Katy-West Houston area) you can get professional real estate help from Sanford & Seretha Sellers . There are homes for sale, lease...(read more)

Why Are People Not Buying Real Estate?

Sanford & Seretha Sellers — Wed, 17 Nov 2010 22:32:00 GMT

If you watch the news, things are looking up one day and down the next. If you talk to neighbors or friends, you may hear stories of bad experiences with getting a loan. All of this is water cooler talk and will vary according to what part of the country you are in, etc...... I want to know what you think. Why are you not looking to upgrade, cash in on deals from Builders or tracking down a foreclosure? Sometime all you need is access to a resource to consult with to provide additional information....(read more)

Don't sell me, let me decide...

Sanford & Seretha Sellers — Sat, 23 Oct 2010 11:27:00 GMT

Recently I took my car in for maintenance. As I read my book in the waiting room, someone pushed a booklet in my face and proceeded to try to convince me of my need for their product. Trying to be polite, I mumbled something about my familiarity with the product. This person continued to go on about my knowing someone else that might need it and wanting to put me on their mailing list. They didn't introduce themself nor seem interested in my needs. I was so turned off, until even if I used the product, I would certainly not buy from them and no way will I introduce them to friends or acquaintances.

Since I sell, this was a reminder of why I take a different approach to telling others about my services. No one likes to be sold and neither do I.

What are your thoughts on how you want to be approached to buy anything?

www.katydreamhomes.com

seretha@katydreamhomes.com

Sanford & Seretha Sellers would like to hear what you think...

Save on electricity

Sanford & Seretha Sellers — Fri, 22 Oct 2010 15:17:00 GMT

When you find something that works, you want to share it. Join us in saving on your electric bill. We have been satisfied with the service and pleased with the cost.

www.A2181450.joinambit.com

www.KatyDreamHomes.com

Cinco Ranch lives on

Sanford & Seretha Sellers — Tue, 19 Oct 2010 18:34:00 GMT

Cinco Ranch will continue to expand now that a deal for additional land has been completed. There are so many different neighborhoods nestled in this master plan community until you are bound to find just the right fit for you.

Today we visited with Trendmaker Homes for the unveiling of an improved model of one of their popular existing plans in the new Cinco subdivision of Rollingwood. The home was a two story, 4 bedroom, two and a half bath with a stone elevation, wrought iron railis on the staircase, cast stone fireplance in the family room, and of course granite in the kitchen..

The prices are subject to change, but here is a hint, ........ghostly deals are afoot. You get the quality the builder is known for, in a master plan community annd great schools and shopping in the area.

So if you are ready to make that move, call us. Let's talk about your options.

Foreclosures in Katy Texas

Sanford & Seretha Sellers — Fri, 01 Oct 2010 11:48:00 GMT

Foreclosures just won't go away! Due to continued inquiries for foreclosure property in Katy, we are preparing a site to group them all in one place. Until the site is up and running, email us for a listing and continue to watch

www.KatyDreamHomes.com

for the announcement.

Good hunting

Travertine

Sanford & Seretha Sellers — Tue, 21 Sep 2010 21:29:00 GMT

I was asked for information on Travertine and since I knew nothing about it, the following is the results of my research.

Travertine is a natural stone, with varying colors, pitted and the area of use determines whether it will be a good fit. It is porous and definitely needs to be sealed. (helps with the cleaning) Since it is a softer stone, it does not do well when mixed with an acid. It will also scratch easily and the colors vary from an ivory to a darker brown. In a stone, the patterns and colors will vary. Travertine is used as a building material, paver in patios, on garden paths, countertops, and showers. Yes, you can buy Travertine in Katy.

Now you know as much as I do. Check with your local supplier or flooring professional before deciding if it is right for your space.

www.KatyDreamHomes.com

What's next

Sanford & Seretha Sellers — Tue, 21 Sep 2010 10:50:00 GMT

The deisre for stainless steel appliances and granite counter tops now top the list of wants for homebuyers. Who started the craze and what will be next?

Whether you are a first time home buyer or move up buyer, remember somethings can be added later and not be a part of your 30 year mortgage. Start your search by writing down your wish list for your home and number them to designate the priority. Believe me, after the 4th or 5th house you will find it hard to remember what house contained what features, so carry a paid and keep notes.

Relocating to Katy

Sanford & Seretha Sellers — Wed, 15 Sep 2010 21:26:00 GMT

If you are relocating to the Katy area, you need information. What can I afford? Neighborhoods? Taxes? Driver's license transfer? Utilities? Who do I contact car repairs, air conditioning service, is there a park and ride, and the list goes on. If you don't have family or friends in the area, read the blogs (city-data, etc) check with the chamber of commerce, and ask your Realtor for help.

FHA loan change

Sanford & Seretha Sellers — Fri, 10 Sep 2010 17:21:00 GMT

With an FHA loan, a Buyer has the option to pay the upfront mortgage insurance in full or finance it into their loan. For those applying for FHA loans, you have until October 4th to lock in a low monthly insurance premium. Remember to discuss your financing options with your Lender and if you have been slow in getting on with the process of buying, this is your incentive to get moving.

Don't forget to visit our website www.katydreamhomes.com for updates on katy real estate availability.

Scholarships for home schooled

Sanford & Seretha Sellers — Tue, 31 Aug 2010 19:56:00 GMT

As the cost of college tuition rises, it can be a challenge for parents to send their kids to school, but there is good news. An anonymous donor has pledged $5 million dollars to La Tourneau University to be used to fund scholarships for children home schooled. The announcement can be found on the school's website. (www.letu.edu)

Thank you for giving.

Relocating to the Katy or Houston area

Sanford & Seretha Sellers — Mon, 23 Aug 2010 20:47:00 GMT

When contemplating a move from one city or state to another, there are lots of things to consider. If you have a relative or friend living in the area, it makes it a little easier to get a feel for what it is really like. What if you have no one?

You would start your search on the internet to find out as much as you can about the area, schools, amenities, neighborhoods, employment but after all of that you need someone there. Someone who can speak from actual knowledge of the area. A friend, a relative, a former co-worker, a Realtor.

Finding a Realtor you can feel comfortable with, have confidence in their ability and who will go beyond sending you just pictures of homes, takes time. After all this is a major uprooting for you whether you are single and need an apartment, a loft, a townhome, or a single family home. I have been there, thinking I could do it all myself and was I wrong.

So while you are considering the move, consider us as a candidate for your Realtor. Visit our website, email us for additional information about ourselves, go to our local board and look us up on www.HAR.com. We go beyond just sending you pretty pictures but some think it is what we are suppose to do, some discount it all together, some take it for granted and some appreciate the extra help. Regardless of the reason, we continue to go beyond what is required and we will do the same for you.

www.KatyDreamHomes.com

Update to HVCC (Housing Valuation Code of Conduct)

Sanford & Seretha Sellers — Mon, 23 Aug 2010 20:33:00 GMT

The Code of Conduct was created to increase integrity in home appraisals-but sometimes a good idea does not turn out the way we visualize.

On November 1, 2010 the Code will expire and be replaced by the Consumer Financial Protection Agency Act (HR 4173 title IV) . We'll just have to wait to see what changes will occur. FHA and VA are not affected by the Code .

Truth in Lending and other real estate updates

Sanford & Seretha Sellers — Mon, 11 Jan 2010 19:34:00 GMT

I feel as if I have been on a long vacation. Hopefully, you have been checking our website and viewing the videos. (www.KatyDreamHomes.com)

There have been so many changes in real estate until I am not sure where to begin. Of course you have heard of the extended tax credit. You have until April 30, 2010 to sign a contract to purchase. If you sign a contract by that date, you will have until June 30, 2010 to compete the transactions. With the changes in getting a loan and the search for your home, you must move now. Time is definitely of the essence as everything takes longer .

The new tax credit for move up or existing homeowners is $6500. Certain restricitons apply but the deadline is the same as for first time home buyers.

On the lending side, there is a new truth in lending requirement. The truth in lending disclosure involves initial and final disclosures to borrowers on fees and will affect closing dates.

1. Closing may not occurr until 7 business days after the intial disclosures are sent to borrowers. ( business days=Monday through Saturday and exclude Sundays and holidays)

2. Upfront fees cannot be collected from the borrower until initial disclosures are delivered. This may affect the ordering of appraisal.

3. An increase in the APR (Annual Percentage Rate) by more than 0.125% requires the Truth in Lending Disclosure to be revised and delivered to the borrower 3 business days before closing.

I have read that Katy is ranked among the single digits as a good place to be and has lots of diversity but I have been telling you that.

The HVCC (Housing valuation Code) received a lot of interest in my earlier blog. It is in the midst of changes after a lot of input from various sources. Watch bill HR3126 which will possbly replace the HVCC initiative but is still under consideration. WWW.govtrack.us is a good source but I am sure there are others to keep abreast of the new Consumer Financial Protection Agency Act of 2009 or HR3126.

We expect to see increases in new homes and possibly re-sales as the inventory continue to decrease. For those who have the resources and the vision, this market is for you. How low can it go? When that question has been answered, opportunity will have left the building. Do your homework.

The period after Christmas leads into the tradition high season for real estate. The tax credit will give it a push but stops at the beginning of the season. How will this affect Sellers? My crystal ball is unclear on that one as many factors will contribute to the answer. Sellers will need to pay particular attention to pricing, preparation and marketing of their property. This is where we come in. Future blogs will give incites on all three areas. So stay tuned.

All success to you

Commercial space to fit your need

Sanford & Seretha Sellers — Fri, 11 Dec 2009 14:03:00 GMT

For those with a one man operation and want to move it out of the home, to the larger business needing more than one floor in a professional atmosphere and accessible location, have we some information for you.

Yesterday, we toured a professional building, with a responsive and impressive staff and an involved owner all seeking to earn your business. The following is a short list of what the property offers:

1. Short term as well as long term leases

2. Free space planning

3. Suites or floors in a wide variety of sizes

4. Space available for immediate occupancy

5 Access controlled covered parking,

6. Full service building

7. On site daycare, deli and sundry shop

8. 24 hour on-site courtesy personnel

9. State-of-the-Art Energy Management System

10. Very competitive rates

11. Quality building

So if you are moving to the Houston area and the items I have listed are the same ones on your list, you owe it to your company to contact us. We will arrange a meeting and tour of the facility to answer all your questions and you become the hero.

All success to you

Tis the season to pay attention

Sanford & Seretha Sellers — Fri, 11 Dec 2009 13:27:00 GMT

This season brings out the best and the worst in people. We have received reminders of the worst that hopefully remind us all to be aware.

1. IRS - someone email or call you requesting information due to refund or inconsistency with your tax return. Don't give information out if you can not verify the source.

2. Shopping and not checking your receipt. Cash back has been showing up on some receipts without the request or knowledge of the debit or credit card holder. Cash was never given to the shopper.

3. The out of country request involving the transfer of money. Too good to be true is usually correct.

4. Going in and out of stores and not aware of those around you and taking care in approaching your car. Remember this is Christmas for thiefs as well.

Be safe. Be Aware and Merry Christmas.