After searching and searching, you’ve finally found the one. You have found your dream home. It falls within your price range, meets all of your families’ needs and even includes the kitchen of your dreams. While you may be able to afford the list price of the home, you wonder… “could I get a better deal on this place?” “Would negotiating a better deal run the risk of losing the home of my dreams?” The question of making the right offer isn’t about what, but more about how. How do you gauge the right price for a home? Here are some helpful tips on how to assess the right offer... Use, and Choose, your Real Estate Agent Wisely Just as you search cautiously for a home, it’s important to do the same with your Realtor. Every agent works differently, and while all agents want to make the sa... 03/17/2014

  Window treatments not only add to a home’s aesthetic value, giving it a warmer feeling and helping to protect it from unwanted “peepers,” they are considered to be one of the least expensive energy efficiency upgrades for increasing property values. A 2012 study funded by Energy Upgrade California, revealed that energy upgrades can raise a home’s value by as much as nine percent. By choosing the right window treatments, homeowners can help reduce heat loss during cold winter months and prevent heat gain during the sizzling temperatures of summer. Shades According to the U.S. Department of Energy, when installed correctly, window shades are one of the easiest and most effective treatments for saving energy, ultimately increasing the value of the home. Of course there are all types of ... 03/17/2014

    Welcome to the Creekridge Estates - College Station, Texas Homes for Sale and Real Estate portal: Your single stop for finding a home in Creekridge Estates. Here you can search every available home for sale in Creekridge Estates via the MLS. Looking for Homes for Sale in the Creekridge Estates area? Search all available homes today in Creekridge Estates. Make sure to check back often as the availability of homes in Creekridge Estates for sale changes daily as new homes in Creekridge Estates are listed for sale, go under contract, or are SOLD!   What is My Home Worth? Looking for Creekridge Estates Property Values because you may want to sell your home?  Receive a custom evaluation for your Creekridge Estates home, including comparisons to other homes that have recently sold or are ... 03/12/2014

College Station World Down Syndrome Fundraising Gala 2014 Approximately 1 in every 700 babies born in the United States annually has an extra chromosome 21, resulting in the diagnosis of Down Syndrome.  This is called "trisomy".  That's also what makes March 21st an important day for the College Station World Down Syndrome Fundraising Gala 2014 since it is a "trisomy" of its own (3/21).  Everyone is invited join in on the entertainment and education that will be a part of the fundraising gala at Hilton College Station on Saturday, March 21st. What: College Station World Down Syndrome Fundraising Gala 2014Where: Hilton College Station (801 University Dr E)When: March 21, 2014 6pm to 9:30pmCost: $55 per personContact: Down Syndrome Support Group (979) 778-7010 Money raised at the College ... 03/11/2014

College Station Family Movies in the Park 2014 It is important to spend time together as a family whenever possible.  One popular way to do this is by going to the movies.  But, by the time you buy the tickets, purchase popcorn and a drink and find a seat, a College Station family of four will spend more than $100.  If fighting your way through the local movie rental establishment doesn't sound appealing, try the College Station Family Movies in the Park 2014. What: College Station Family Movies in the Park 2014Where: Wolf Pen Creek Park (1015 Colgate Dr)When: March 7 & April 4, 2014 8pmCost: FREEContact: Wolf Pen Creek Park (979) 764-3486  At College Station Family Movies in the Park 2014, admission is absolutely FREE.  You can even bring your own goodies from home to munch on (coolers... 03/04/2014

What is the purpose of getting an appraisal? Home appraisals are not just for the buyer, but also function to show the lender whether the amount they’re loaning out is adequate for the asking price of the home. Appraisals also help to show sellers if their asking price is too high and gauge how much they should lower the price of their home. Is it the same as a home inspection? Home appraisers are professionals licensed by the state and hired by the bank to estimate the value of your home. Though the process of appraisals and inspections are similar, lenders require that you get an appraisal on your home.The main difference between the two? Appraisers are not required to identify potential defects. They simply assign a value to the home given the current state of the home. Your real es... 02/26/2014

College Station Armadillo Dash 2014 Part of being an Aggie here in College Station is that everyone is so helpful.  We take care of our neighbors.  It's part of what makes living in the Bryan-College Station area so wonderful.  One way we can help our fellow citizens is by participating in the College Station Armadillo Dash 2014 this Sunday, March 2nd. What: College Station Armadillo Dash 2014Where: Veterans Park (3101 Harvey Rd)When: Sunday, March 2, 2014 7am start timeCost: $90Contact: Armadillo Dash email The College Station Armadillo Dash 2014 is considered the best of the Brazos Valley road races.  It is comprised of two phases: a fun 5K and, for the more ambitious and skilled athletes, the half marathon.  The 5K takes place immediately after the half marathon.  All proceeds from t... 02/25/2014

You’ve decided to move to the big, bold and beautiful state of Texas with your family. You know you love the idea of a state with rich history, booming tech and music cities, and some of the best Chili on the planet. You then realize that’s about all you know about Texas… So, where do you get started with your move? Here’s a few things you need to understand about the real estate market before you choose a home. Price Texas Real Estate Properly Historically, Texas real estate is cheaper than in most states, especially overpriced areas like California and even some parts of Arizona, according to Business Insider. However, the value of homes in Texas remains fairly steady. Since the recession and housing crash in 2009, Texas’ home values have actually come back strong regaining all of the... 02/21/2014

Make yourself at home in this 4 bedroom and 4 bath property close to town. Only 6 minutes from Post Oak Mall. This gorgeous home has been freshly updated with new paint, granite counter tops, large windows, cork flooring and cherry wood cabinets in the kitchen. There is beautiful mesquite flooring in the living, den and hallway,2 tank less water heaters, and an air conditioner replaced in last 5 years . Many large trees adorn the property for a secluded ambiance. It also includes a "mother-in-law" room and bath with a private entrance.  Come see this simply fabulous home before it's gone! 02/21/2014

Modern homeowners are figuring out the backyard is worthy of just as much attention as the bathroom or kitchen. You can use this area to extend the living square footage of the home and gain some obvious equity advantages, for example. Landscaping alone increases property values between five and 15 percent. There is more to backyard renovations than just monetary upgrades, though. Style expert Catlin Atkinson describes the backyard as a blank canvas to transform into something warm and inviting. From a bamboo garden to an exterior kitchen, consider the trends that add bang to your backyard.                                                       Photo by Flickr user Texas_Custom_Patios Sustainable and Low-Maintenance Landscaping The most obvious direction to take is landscaping, but with ... 02/19/2014

The first year of marriage has many milestones, and for many couples, it’s the first time they’re making the buy-or-rent decision together. While many couplescohabitate before marriage — 48 percent of women live with a significant other before marriage, according to NBC — making the decision to buy or rent can be a stressful bump in that blissful newlywed year. Here are some things you should evaluate before you decide if you are both ready to buy your first home together. Lifestyle Take a look at your current lifestyle. Do you like to entertain, or do you enjoy your privacy? Are you DIY mavens, or do you prefer professional help? Owning your own home means when something’s broken, you can’t just call the landlord. It’s up to you to keep up with repairs and maintain the yard. Also unlik... 02/12/2014

Upcoming Events: 5K Runs in BCS!Are you ready to get fit and support your local community at the same time?Here are a few upcoming opportunities to do just that!   See Spot Run 2014Date: Saturday, February 15, 2014 Address:Wolf Pen Creek Park 1015 Colgate DriveCollege Station, TX Registration Closing Date:Friday February 14, 2014 Pricing:3K ONLY—Dog required $205K ONLY—No dog required $203K & 5K--$25 This 3K/5K Fun Run is held annually in College Station, Texas. It is hosted by the Texas A&M University College of Veterinary Medicine Student Chapter of the American Veterinary Medical Association. The goal of the event is to gather animal lovers, exercise enthusiasts, students and families from the community and surrounding areas in an exciting event to benefit the physical and emotional... 02/10/2014

Just before you signing the dotted line and acquire your new home, all buyers encounter the dreaded subject of closing costs. While all homeowners have more than likely had experience with this payment, it’s often unknown just where your money is going to when paying closing costs. So just what are closing costs?   The California Title Company explains these costs as being “an accumulation of separate charges paid to different entities for the professional services associated with the buying and selling of real property.” Essentially, closing costs are a one time payment that What is covered by paying closing costs?cover all of the smaller fees that amount when closing on and selling property.   This sum of payment accounts for approximately 2 to 5 percent of the sale price of your home... 02/07/2014

Purchasing a new home is a great milestone in one’s life. Some may feel a sense of accomplishment being able to make such an investment.  So it is important to look into home warranties.  Fortunately, home warranty companies offer different contracts to fit each homeowner. Home warranties are beneficial to both the buyer and the seller.  For buyers, a home warranty is a service contract that covers repairs and replacement of appliances and systems in your home. According to Home-warranty-companies.net, some of the services offered include replacement or repair of refrigerators, garbage disposal, and heating or cooling systems.  Depending on the level of coverage that you purchase, the more likely it is that additional items are covered. Home warranties protect against costly, unexpecte... 02/07/2014

The annual amount of foreclosures in the U.S. has been in decline for 17 consecutive months, according the the 2013 CoreLogic national foreclosure report. However, 4.4 million Americans have had their homes foreclosed on since the 2008 financial crisis. There is light at the end of the tunnel, but many Americans are still struggling. If you have an impending foreclosure, or even if you’re behind two or more payments and you can see it coming, you may be able to head it off by selling your house fast. Sure, it’s easier said than done, but it’s not impossible if you set everything up right… and right now. Start a Binder Put together a binder filled with useful information about the home. Include receipts for any major appliances purchased or repairs you’ve made, information about the loc... 02/07/2014

Spacious and Gracious all on 3.5 acres in So. College. 4 Bedrooms and 3 bath custom brick home. Granite counter tops in all bathrooms and kitchen, new updated light fixtures,bronze faucets, and ceiling fans through out the house. All kitchen appliances have been upgraded, and new back-splash has been installed. Plenty of windows to let in the light and allow a view of the peaceful and private surroundings. A small stall/barn and fenced area, is the perfect place for the horse or other project. There are many more updates, but you have to come see them before it's gone!!  02/07/2014

I’m a new Homeowner – now what? A Guide to Owning a New Home(PART 1) Owning a new home is a dream come true for most. It means no more surprise rent hikes from your snaky landlord or costly pet deposits that you have to pay when moving in your beloved pets. But do not forget, owning a home is more than freedom to do as you wish but it is a big investment with a lot of responsibility. Owning a new home takes a lot more care and preventative maintenance than most people realize.   Why should I care about preventative maintenance you ask?   1.Preventative care is important because it can save you a lot of money in the future.For example: a tube of caulk costs just a few dollars at your local hardware store but replacing an entire wall due to deteriorated or missing caulking around your bat... 02/05/2014

Valentine’s Day is right around the corner. Cupid’s holiday is here to remind you of just how wonderful love truly is. For those of you not spending V-day with a special someone, there are plenty of people that would appreciate some TLC (Time, Love, and Care) including friends, family members, pets, and yourself. Here are a few suggestions in the College Station/Bryan area to make your Valentine’s Day weekend a memorable one. Enjoy an early start to this romantic weekend by watching the A&M Baseball team play Northeastern on Olsen Field. The game starts at 6:35 PM and tickets range from $5 - $15. Our advice, grab that special someone and take him or her out to the ballpark for some hot dogs and cheer on your favorite team. Olsen Field is located on 301 George Bush Dr., College Station, ... 02/03/2014

  Turning your house into a home is crucial to your wellbeing. You want your home to be more than just a place to hang your coat up at night and weasel in 8 hours of sleep. A home should be an inviting, peaceful, safe haven that reflects the essence of who you and/or your family are. This post suggests 9 tips to making your new house feel like a home. Carefully inspect your home: Before decorating your home, you want to make sure everything is working properly. Now that you have full access to all areas of your new house, it is important to inspect it thoroughly for any defects. Make a checklist of everything from locks on the doors to lighting. Express Favorite Colors: Look around your new space and imagine what shade would look best with your ripe red sheets or what color of curtains ... 01/24/2014

Want to win $50,000? Of course you do!Enter to for your chance to win $50,000 by downloading the FREE Keller Williams Realty Real Estate Home Search App!Download the App by visiting http://app.kw.com/KW2JE8HU4Activate the app with my code: KW2JE8HU4Click the button inside the app to enter the $50k Closer to Home Sweepstakes! 01/17/2014