About Montgomery County, TX

There is not a day that goes by that someone does not stop and ask me, "Is real estate still a good investment?" I love that question because it allows me to share the really good news about real estate. For those of you who study the economic history of our country, there are common ups and downs in the economy. The market changes and everyone must make a shift.

Historically however, owning land, homes and businesses in the United States has been an overall better investment than many have fared in the stock market. With real estate, especially in our area, this tangible asset has held its own. Of course we have seen prices take a dip but that is a simple market correction. What goes up will go down and also what goes down will come back up.

Real estate ownership has and always will be the American dream. We can never forget the importance of this fact. Now more than ever, I personally am very glad that my assets are in real estate. I am always drawn back to the scene in Gone With the Wind where Scarlett O'Hara is gripping the soil in her hands while her father tells her that owning land is everything.

Because home prices are lower right now, it is the perfect time to purchase. Consider buying a home to lease out. You can get some great deals out there, turn around and lease it and have instant mail box money. In fact, the statistics are very strong towards a leasing market! When the market is up again, you can considering selling the leased property at that time. The options are endless.

I believe that Texas is still the best kept secret! More and more people however, are figuring this out and our school enrollment that keeps increasing every year in Montgomery County is a huge indication of this. Owning property now I believe will be a great bet as the demand for housing continues to increase in Montgomery County.

I recently heard J.R. Moore, our county Tax Assessor speak. I was highly encouraged with the report that he had on Montgomery County. Folks, take a look at this report. You can find the report on the website for Montgomery County. I believe that you too will be as encouraged as I am.

So yes, Scarlett - now is a good time to consider investing in real estate! Don't wait around and think about it tomorrow - take action today!

Article by: Paula Hamilton

Lake Conroe Real Estate

Everyone is talking about the market being a "Buyer's Market". So, what does that really mean?

A true Buyer's Market indicates that there are more Seller's than Buyer's which results in Buyer's having an advantage when choosing to buy a new home. With more inventory out there, Buyer's typically have a better choice of homes to choose from.

Even though it is a Buyer's Market, it is still good to be an informed buyer. You need to know the market to truly know if a home is a good buy or not. Also, you need to be a strong buyer. A strong buyer is one with good credit scores, pre-approved by a lender, being able to offer a good closing date and have the ability to present solid earnest money.

Working with a licensed Real Estate Buyer's Agent is always advised. Buyer's Agents work on behalf of THE Buyer, not the seller. As a buyer, you want someone who is looking after your best interests. Licensed Texas Realtors use a form called the Buyer Representation Agreement. This agreement is very important to you the Buyer. The agreement can be made for only one day or for a specific time frame.

A Buyer's Representation Agreement allows an agent to represent you in all areas of your transaction. The Buyer's agent will be able to provide you with comparative market analysis on the areas that you are interested in. Being provided with the latest information will allow you the buyer to make the most informed and competitive offer.

Working with a buyer's agent also gives you the advantage of knowing your contract has been presented properly, inspection reports items to be negotiated and all other areas of the transaction represented on your behalf.

When you are ready to buy a home, make sure and find a qualified buyer's agent who has experience in your local market. Your home buying experience will be much easier when you have an agent on your side that you know you can trust and depend to fully represent you.

Now that the market favors you the Buyer, what are you waiting for? The good deals are out there right now and the best deals will go first. With the great interest rates, now is a key time to get busy and find that new home you have been waiting for!

Article by: Paula Hamilton

Lake Conroe Real Estate

This is definitely something that Scrooge would question. Inject himself in a place of holiday Cheer yet it's free. What will Scrooge do? Turn down something Free or expose himself to Christmas cheer. Well while he is figuring out the problem have the family go down to the Winter Wonderland Confectionary Display located at the Woodlands Resort and Conference Center now through Christmas. You never know what you will find on this Winter Wonderland Excursion. For more information click here.

Don't forget to bring that camera. You may just be able to photograph one of Santa's Elves!

Merry Christmas.

Now through January 5th 2009 from Dusk until 11pm enjoy a walk through a free Fantasy land of magical, lighted toy solders, elves, doves and musical angels and snowmen.

Located at 9819 Six Pines Drive, The Woodlands, Texas 77380 next to the Ice Rink. For more information click here.

Most of all it's free. And that is a price that even Scrooge would like... however he would undoubtedly have talk with management about raising the price. Free parking and free to enjoy the two-acres of Winter Wonderland. And if you see Scrooge there wish him a Merry Christmas :-)

Merry Christmas