Real Estate Blog

Looking to buy a home in Central Texas this year? Buying real estate requires knowledge and expertise in the communities you're looking to purchase your home in. Our realtors at RE/MAX Town and Country have the expertise you're looking for in the Central Texas area.

While we've got your real estate needs covered, there are some things you can do and prepare for that will make the process easier. Here are some tips for buying real estate here this year:

Get pre-approved for a mortgage: Looking at homes is fun. But before you start your home tours, you should consider get pre-approved for a mortgage loan. During pre-approval, a lender will review your finances and run your credit report to determine how large of a mortgage loan they are willing to give you.

Once you have your pre-approval letter from a lender, you'll know how much home you can afford. If a lender pre-approves you for a mortgage of $250,000, you won't waste time searching this tight market for residences costing $300,000. Having a pre-approval letter can also help you win a bidding war. A seller is more likely to accept an equal offer from buyers who are pre-approved than they are to take an offer from someone who might not even get approved for mortgage financing.

Act fast: Homes are selling quickly throughout the state, with the Texas Association of Realtors reporting that last year homes sold in an average of 58 days. This means that you have to be willing to make a quick decision if you find a home you like. Some submarkets and price ranges even have houses selling in hours to days...with multiple offers.  If you wait too long to make an offer, another buyer might snatch your dream home.

Make a fair offer: It makes sense to offer sellers a bit less than listing price. But don't offer too little. If you do, you run the risk of offending the seller. Other sellers might decide that you and they are too far apart, and that there's no reason to continue negotiating. Don't be afraid to offer a fair price for a home you really like. If your offer is insultingly low, you might miss out on the home.

Look at the right things when touring homes: Savvy sellers stage their homes, arranging furniture and decor to make their residences look as airy, bright and inviting as possible. Don't let this distract you. When touring homes, don't focus on the furniture, artwork on the walls or paint colors. Instead, focus on the space itself: Does the house you are visiting have enough room for you and your family? Are there enough bedrooms? Is the kitchen modern and functional?

We'd love to help you find your next home. At RE/MAX Town and Country, we don't want to just find you a house... we want to help you find "home." Contact us today to see how we can help you get started!

527 WILLIAMS RD, BURNET - http://www.shanetwhiteteam.com/listing/2100572-527-williams-rd-burnet-tx-78611/ 
Beautiful Custom Home on over 10 acres. This open floor plan offers 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, 2 car attached garage, separate office, and tons of upgrade options like granite countertops, wood floors, vaulted ceilings, separate tub/shower, covered back porch, and stainless appliances to name a few. The extra 2 car detached garage also has a guest house with 1 bedroom and 1 bath. The property offers nice trees, metal workshop, fencing and cross fencing. Just minutes to Burnet and the Highland Lakes!!

1809 HERMITAGE DR, ROUND ROCK - http://www.shanetwhiteteam.com/listing/3043668-1809-hermitage-dr-round-rock-tx-78681/ 
Comfortable home in most CONVENIENT location! Spacious kitchen with skylights, tons of counter space & cabinets. Also features a center island w/second sink & wet bar. Huge utility room next to the kitchen! Beautiful backyard with covered patio and sitting area. Enclosed garage for a second family room or large office area w/separate entrance. Master has double vanity & 2 closets.

8919 N FM 486, THORNDALE - http://www.shanetwhiteteam.com/listing/5245696-8919-n-fm-486-thorndale-tx-76577/ 
Beautiful river front ranch property! Immaculate custom home sitting on high elevation for panoramic views. The home offers 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, game room, exercise room, formal dining, and sunroom. The unrestricted property slopes down towards the San Gabriel River with close to 1000' of river frontage included - perfect for entertaining family or guests! The property has sections of farm production, grazing for cattle, and a producing pecan orchard (all leased out for ease of owner). Move in Ready!!