About Humble's Atascocita South

Did you see this article from AARP?

25% of retirees have no savings

One in four Americans age 50 or older said they had exhausted all
of their savings during the recession, while 67% at least reduced
their retirement savings account balances during the previous
three years, according to a report by the AARP Public Policy
Institute released Tuesday. More than half, 53%, said they were
not confident that they will have enough money to live
comfortably in retirement. More than 80% said the economy had
impacted their retirement plans. During the recession, nearly one
third said their home declined substantially in value and one
quarter experienced a job loss. As a result of their struggles
in recent years, 44% of those above age 50 said that they would
likely work part-time in retirement, while 33% said they expect
to delay retirement. Nearly 13% had returned to the labor force
and were either working or looking for work. The AARP's Public
Policy Institute polled more than 5,000 Americans -- age 50 and
over -- who were employed, had been employed, or were seeking
employment during the recession.

Maybe this group will choose to work with us as realtor or maybe we should consider seeking them out to help them build their retirement income? What do you think? How can we help?

Here is too an awesome 2011

Friday, February 25

Read Sirach 6:5-7

A kind mouth multiples friends and appeases enemies, and gracious lips prompt friendly greetings. Let your acquaintances be many, but one in a thousand your confidant.

Lord, I want to experience the depth of your intention for my life! Help me not to stop short of giving my all to you and receiving everything you have to offer.

Charles Gardner, Realtor/Investor

Region Realty-Greater Houston Homes-Humble, TX

Who buys Starter Homes?

Only a few short years ago starter homes were scorned by all but the most impoverished home buyer. Why purchase a property in need of improvements when it was possible to buy a sparkling new McMansion with no money down instead? Today all that has changed as investors and first-time buyers, retirees and former homeowners in search of more financial security all compete for affordable dwellings without the high carrying cost.

In fact, starter homes are among the most highly sought after types of real estate on the market today. A recent nationwide survey indicates some major changes in the mindset of buyers including a near complete reversal regarding who is purchasing so called "starter homes."

Trend #1 - Investors not first-time buyers seeking the deals.

Among first time buyers, 87% cite the need for a "move-in" ready home. Increased down payment requirements combined with little access to second mortgages has made it difficult for new buyers to foot the bill for improvements or modifications.

Take away - Short sale investors and wholesalers are positioned to reap the rewards by providing property that is move in ready especially for homes selling in the $100,000 or below price range.

Trend #2 - Location still matters most but urban is making a big come-back.

First time buyers are rejecting rural and suburban areas with long commutes in exchange for homes located near major shopping, public transportation, employment and schools.

Take away - Make the most of urban renewal programs or other incentives bypurchasing in historic districts, revitalization zones or other areas withappealing access. Like the old adage "everything old is new again", expect thistrend to continue into the near future.

Trend #3 - Better by the dozen.

The same study found new home buyers are now looking at nearly a dozen different homes (in person) before making a final decision. This is after taking advantage of online photographs and virtual tours, Google maps and other tools.

Take away - It is essential to provide as many photographs, links and othertools as possible to attract attention to your properties. Buyers understand theadvantages to shopping online so make it easy for them to find relevantinformation that will lead them to view the home in person. Be sure to mentionschool districts, parks, shopping and other meaningful amenities up front thenfollow-up with ample photographs and virtual tour when possible.

Here's to an awesome 2011 Region Realty-Greater Houston Homes-Humble, TX