Thursday, April 15, 2010

Taxes have been going .... DOWN!! (in The Woodlands, Texas)


The Woodlands Township collects an ad valorem property tax to provide important community services to cover public safety, fire protection, environmental services, parks, pathways, pools, covenant administration, etc. The former Community Associations of The Woodlands for many years collected "assessment fees" which were not tax deductable. Now that the Community Associations of The Woodlands and the former Town Center Improvement District have created The Woodlands Township (in hopes of becoming a city in a few years), assessments have been replaced with an ad valorem property tax. And guess what .... take a look at the chart .... taxes have gone steadily D-O-w-n!
Values are steady. Taxes are lower.
We are soooooooo lucky to be living in The Woodlands!!
For an up-close look at this graph, please click onto the link below:
http://www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/index.aspx?nid=331

Wednesday, April 7, 2010

The Woodlands Real Estate Market is THRIVING!

How is the Market? Well, if you live in The Woodlands, Texas, it's GREAT! Comparing this year to two years ago, there is very little difference. Take a look at these recent Market Reports! (To enlarge, go to "Memo" (bottom left), then "View Full Screen")

Sunday, April 4, 2010

Eagles in The Woodlands 2010!

Once again, the eagles in The Woodlands raised two young'uns successfully. (That's ten times in eleven years!) It is SO important that these birds be watched discretely from a distance, or they will move and this lovely wooded area will be developed into business and homes. Here are some photos from the few times we checked on them this year. (Be sure to check on "FULL" at bottom left to enlarge!)

Thursday, April 1, 2010

What are YOU Looking for in a REALTOR??

As REALTORS, we believe that our business is NOT about company awards or even selling a house. It’s about your family, your community and your life, and we will endeavor to provide you with excellent service, innovative marketing, and communication along the way! (To enlarge, click on "full" at the bottom left of the photo.)

Whether buying or selling a home, certain factors will always affect VALUE!

LOCATION - Nothing impacts value more than location. The local school system - the condition of neighboring homes - recent sales in the neighborhood - number of foreclosures and rentals - the reputation of the area - whether the home backs to the forest, a shopping area or a lake - can all affect the value of your home.

FLOOR PLAN - Some designs sell better than others. Currently, more “open” designs, studies, no formal living rooms, and master bedrooms downstairs are popular.

FEATURES - Certain features are preferred. The number and size of bedrooms and closets are important items. Extra space in the garage can make a difference. Sometimes the updating of a kitchen or bathroom can be the deciding factor.

CLEANLINESS and CONDITION - “Move in” condition sells! Most buyers don’t want to clean up or fix up a home after they buy it. Properties that are clean and well maintained ALWAYS sell quicker and for more money than others, including those offering a decorating or carpet “allowance.”