Most people assume the first step to buying a house is simple: start looking online, right? Scroll through a few listings, maybe drive by a couple of neighborhoods, and fall in love with a kitchen island. But here’s the truth—if you’re serious about buying a home, that’s not where you start. So, what is the […]
How much money should you have before buying a house?
Buying a home isn’t just about finding “the one.” It’s about being ready—financially, strategically, and emotionally. If you’re asking, how much money should you have before buying a house?—you’re already ahead of the game. Most people don’t think about this until it’s too late. But if you’re here, reading this, you’re ready to make informed, […]
Is Austin a Buyers or Sellers Market?
That question—Is Austin a buyers or sellers market?—gets asked more than any other. It’s understandable. Whether you’re looking to make your next move or just planning for the future, understanding where the balance of power sits in the real estate world can help you act with confidence. But here’s the thing: Austin doesn’t always fit […]
What Is a Home Appraisal and Why Is It Important?
When buying or selling a home, one critical step often catches people off guard: the home appraisal. It’s more than just a box to check—it can make or break a deal. Understanding what a home appraisal is and why it’s important helps you navigate real estate transactions with confidence. Whether you’re securing a mortgage, refinancing, […]
What Is Earnest Money in Real Estate in Texas?
Are you asking “What Is Earnest Money in Real Estate in Texas?” as many buyers do? Buying a home is a big deal, and sellers want to know that buyers are serious. That’s where earnest money comes in. It’s a deposit that shows commitment, ensuring that a buyer isn’t just casually making offers. In Texas, […]
Listing Agent vs Selling Agent Differences
Navigating the real estate process involves more than just picking an agent. It’s about choosing the right representation. If you’re selling, you need someone who understands market dynamics and pricing strategies. If you’re buying, you need an advocate who will uncover opportunities and protect your interests. The terms “listing agent” and “selling agent” might seem […]
Not All Home Listings Are Available Publicly on Zillow or REALTOR.com
If you’re searching for a home online, you may believe you’re seeing all the available properties. Unfortunately, that assumption could cost you the perfect home. Not all home listings are available publicly on Zillow or REALTOR.com or even on your agent’s website of MLS-driven properties. In fact, many homes for sale never appear on these […]
Buying a Home in 2025: Should You Wait or Buy Now?
The decision to buy a home is always a major one and many potential buyers are wondering: Should I buy now, or should I wait? There are strong arguments on both sides, and the right decision depends on your financial situation, the housing market, and your long-term goals. Let’s break down the key factors that […]
What to Expect from Your First Home Closing in 2025
If you’re buying a home in Central Texas in 2025, you’re likely feeling a mix of excitement and stress. The home closing process is the final step in making your dream home a reality, but it can also be one of the most complex. Understanding what to expect from your first home closing in 2025 […]
What Do I Need to Focus on When Looking at a Home?
Buying a home is one of the most significant investments you’ll make, and it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement. That open-concept kitchen? Gorgeous. The backyard? Perfect for summer BBQs. But before emotions take over, you need to take a step back and ask yourself: What do I need to focus on when […]
Is Round Rock, TX Expensive?
When considering a move to Central Texas, one of the most common questions is: Is Round Rock, TX expensive? It’s a fair question, especially as Austin’s real estate market has seen skyrocketing prices in recent years. But Round Rock is not Austin—it’s its own unique market with a balance of affordability, amenities, and opportunity. So, […]
First-Time Homebuyer Tips for 2025: What’s Changed?
Buying your first home is a big deal. It’s exciting, nerve-wracking, and full of decisions that can shape your financial future. If you’re planning to buy a home in 2025, you need to know what’s changed in the real estate market. From mortgage rates to new lending rules, being informed can help you make the […]
Top Home Features Austin Home Buyers Want in 2025
The real estate landscape is constantly evolving, and as we approach 2025, homebuyers’ expectations are higher than ever. If you’re planning on selling your home or building a new one, it’s crucial to understand what buyers are prioritizing. Some trends are driven by technology, while others stem from lifestyle shifts and a stronger focus on […]
How AI and Technology Are Changing the Home Buying Process
Technology is transforming the way we buy homes, and artificial intelligence (AI) is leading the charge. The traditional home-buying process—once reliant on in-person visits, stacks of paperwork, and gut instinct—is now infused with smart algorithms, automated tools, and data-driven insights. The result? A faster, more efficient, and more personalized experience for buyers. Let’s explore how […]
Tips for Buying an Older Home
Older homes have character. They have history. They have charm that new builds simply can’t replicate. But they also come with challenges that can turn into costly surprises if you’re not prepared. Whether you’re drawn to the craftsmanship of a 1920s bungalow or the grand presence of a Victorian-era house, buying an older home requires […]
Providing Homebuyer Feedback After a Showing
The expectation that buyers or their agents should provide feedback after a home showing needs to end. It serves no purpose for the buyer, puts their negotiating position at risk, and ultimately does nothing to help the seller. Yet, some listing agents persistently push for it, treating it as a necessity rather than what it […]
Understanding Buyer Agent Compensation in Texas: What Sellers Need to Know
When a seller lists their home in Texas, they have choices regarding agent compensation that can impact how smoothly their transaction unfolds. It is imperative for the seller to understanding buyer agent compensation in Texas. I am Robbie English, managing broker for Uncommon Realty and I would love to explain further. The Texas REALTORS Listing Agreement […]
Why Now Is the Time to Buy a Home
If you’ve been sitting on the sidelines, wondering if it’s the right time to buy a home, you’re not alone. Market conditions shift, interest rates fluctuate, and financial priorities change. But here’s the thing—waiting indefinitely could cost you more than you think. Let’s break down why now is the time to buy a home, so […]
Avoiding Mortgage Denial
How to Avoid Getting Turned Down for a Mortgage You’ve found the perfect home. You’re ready to buy. But then—your mortgage application gets denied. Few things are more frustrating, and in today’s competitive market, a rejection can set you back weeks or even months. The good news? You can take steps to avoid it. Let’s […]
How to Look Up Crime Stats and Why They Matter When Considering a Home
When buying a home, location is everything. But beyond school districts, commute times, and neighborhood charm, safety is a top concern for most buyers. The tricky part? Real estate agents aren’t legally allowed to steer buyers toward or away from specific areas based on crime rates. That’s because of fair housing laws, which prohibit discrimination […]
Unexpected Expenses When Buying A Home
Buying your first home is exciting, but it comes with more costs than most people expect. Many home buyers focus on the down payment and monthly mortgage, assuming that’s the bulk of the expense. It’s not. There are unexpected expenses when buying a home that can catch you off guard, turning your dream home into […]
What Can You Ask the Seller to Fix?
When buying a home, there’s a fine line between reasonable repair requests and nitpicking. Ask for too much, and you risk souring the deal. Ask for too little, and you might inherit costly problems. So, what’s fair game when it comes to negotiating repairs with a seller? And, what can you ask the seller to […]
Pros and Cons of a Homeowners Association
If you’re considering buying a home in a community with a homeowners association (HOA), you’re not alone. HOAs oversee nearly 30% of residential properties in the U.S. They promise order, amenities, and higher property values—but they also come with restrictions, fees, and potential frustrations. Before signing on the dotted line, let’s break down the pros […]
Things First-Time Homebuyers and Sellers Wish They’d Been Told
Buying or selling a home for the first time is exciting. It’s also full of surprises—some of them expensive, some frustrating, and some that make you wish you’d asked a few more questions beforehand. I’ve worked with countless buyers and sellers who, after closing, told me, “I wish someone had warned me about this.” So, […]
Home Buying and Real Estate Professionals in 2024
Buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions most people make in their lifetime. With the real estate market evolving, the role of real estate professionals remains crucial. In 2024, the overwhelming majority of buyers—88%—purchased their homes through a real estate agent or broker. That statistic alone highlights the ongoing need for skilled […]
Financing the Home Purchase in 2024: What Buyers Need to Know
Buying a home is one of the most significant financial moves you can make. And in 2024, financing the home purchase looks different than in years past. With shifting mortgage trends, rising downpayments, and a surge in all-cash buyers, it’s essential to understand the landscape before making a move. Let’s break it down. Mortgage or […]
Why the Suburban Migration Trend Isn’t Slowing Down
For years, people have debated whether the shift to the suburbs was a temporary response to the pandemic or a long-term trend. The data is clear: the suburban migration trend isn’t slowing down. In fact, it’s accelerating. More homebuyers are leaving dense urban centers in search of more space, better schools, and a higher quality […]
The Impact of Remote Work on Home Prices in 2025
Remote work changed everything and in fact the imact of remote work on home prices in 2025 is a factor. Remote work has reshaped the way we live, the homes we buy, and where we choose to live. But in 2025, things are shifting once again. Many employers, including Austin-based tech giant Dell, are requiring […]
Continuing Education is Just as Important As Current Sales: Why It Matters for Your Real Estate Success
When hiring a real estate agent, many buyers and sellers focus solely on an agent’s past sales and current listings. But there’s something just as critical that often gets overlooked: continuing education. Continuing education is just as important as current sales when you are looking to hire a real estate agent or broker. It’s not […]
How to Spot a Home That Will Appreciate Quickly
Buying a home is one of the biggest financial moves most people will make. Naturally, homebuyers want to ensure their investment is a smart one, with the potential for strong appreciation over time. But how can you identify a home that will appreciate quickly? While no one can predict the future, there are key indicators […]
