Top Tips For The Best Home Deals in the DFW Metroplex

TIP #1 - CONSIDER THE RESALE VALUE

While very few people actually jump into such a big decision, like buying a house, knowing that they are going to suddenly have to sell their home. The fact is, though, we see it happen all the time. Life has a way of throwing us a few curves every now and then. A job change, an unexpected death in the family, and many other circumstances often force people to sell their home much sooner than they ever dreaned they would.

So, while you are "oooing" and "ahhhing" over the beautiful homes that Dallas has to offer, take a moment to step outside of your emotions and aski yourself, "How re-sellable is this home?" You just may realize that cute little bungelow may not be your best investment.

TIP #2 - LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION

We know it's cliche but it's just truth. Look for the positives first:

• Is your dream home located in a good neighborhood? That is one of the biggest concerns for every home buyer. Keep in mind, good neighborhoods almost ALWAYS have a high demand, which is great for resale.


• How far away are the schools? Who likes to drive for miles to pick up the kids? No one.


• How close are the major work centers? If you have to spend two hours a day in commuter traffic, you may want to look around some more.


• What about lifestyle amenities like shopping and entertainment?

Of course, you must consider a few negarives as well:

• Drive around the neighborhood and what do you see? Are the lawns well kept? Are the cars along the street in good condition? These are tell tale signs of the quality of the neighborhood.


• Does the home back to a busy street or an undeveloped area? While you may get a good price, it is usually not without consequence. Homes that back up to a busy street or an undeveloped area take much longer to sell.


• Beware of major powerlines. While it is a myth that people can get brain cancer from living too close to power lines, it is still a perception that many people hold. Big powerlines can be a resale killer.

TIP #3 - HOME PRICES ARE DRIVEN BY MANY VARIABLES

There is no black and white formula for home prices. Right now, the media has so over-hyped the condition of today's real estate market that many home buyers are very confused. Here are a few details that will help:

• Dallas-Ft. Worth real estate is different than many other parts of the country. We typically do not have major price swings; either up or down. So, a "down" market may not have the same affect on home prices here as it does in other markets.


• Real estate is very, VERY local. While one area of town may be hit hard with a market slow down, an area a few miles down the road could be experiencing a boom. While it's tempting, don't fall into the trap of thinking in terms of only one real estate market per city. In reality, there are several little micro-markets that are mainly driven by supply and demand.


• While everyone wants to get a bargain, sometimes it makes more sense paying a little more. For example, a less expensive home could end up costing you a bundle in repairs.

HOT TIP: As of this writing, new homebuilders may be very good place to find deals for home buyers. You just have to know where to look!

TIP #4 - IS THE HOME UNIQUE OR SPECIAL IN ANY WAY?

As you are looking at homes with your Realtor, ask yourself, if the homes you are seeing are just more "cookie cutters" or do they have any character? The good news is that any cookie cutter can be made special with a little work (and money!)

Did you know that only 5% of all the homes built in our area back up to a greenbelt (not power lines), a creek, a wooded area, or a golf course? Now that's special!

Swimming pools, special landscaped homes, and special designed homes can also make a home unique.

Other special features like granite countertops, a third car garage, or a media room in lower priced homes can make your home special and stand out from the rest.