Get your House Ready to Sell - Make Ready -Part 2

Hello all,

I hope you enjoyed my first blog in this two part series about how to get in the right mind-set to sell your house. So now that you have packed up your belongings and have your non-essential items packed and moved into storage, you are now ready to get the house ready. If you are not planning on moving within the next 4 to 6 weeks then you may want to think about some remodeling but IF you do want to move within a short time period then think about minor repairs that will help the house look more appealing.

Quick and relatively inexpensive ways to improve the your property:

1. Curb appeal - landscaping and paint
• Make sure the outside of the house looks good. The wood should be in good shape and a fresh coat of paint is on the house
• Keep the yard clean and mowed
• Put some bushes or flowers in the yard to brighten up the area
• No broken down cars in the driveway
• It is the small things that make a big difference and will draw people into the house
2. Clean the house
• You want the house to smell good and look fresh
• Carpets need to be cleaned but if they are in need of replacements then please replace them with neutral colors. If you can't afford replacing the carpet then clean it and you may have to offer a carpet allowance.
• Paint the walls - again a neutral
• Keep toys put up
• Bathrooms need to be clean with no mold
3. Upgrades --
• Appliance may not be super cheap but it could improve the look of the kitchen if the kitchen needs some work.
• You can also paint cabinets and upgrading counter tops can make a large improvement

These are a few things  I would recommend that can make your house look better and attractive to new buyers.

If you have additional questions then give me a call and we can discuss at 713-489-0507.

Just keep in mind that the goal is to sell your house and move on to your next chapter in life.

Have a great day!

~Tara Woolbright, Realtor, MRP 713-489-0507 or tara.woolbright@gmail.com or
www.tarawoolbright.com or @Tara.Woolbright.Realtor or pinterest.com/tarawoolbright

#TaraWoolbright #DixieRealtyGroup #YourNeighborhoodRealtor  #thatRealEstateChick
#ILoveReferrals

Top Activities to do when getting ready to Sell Your Home in the Houston Area

Hello All,

It is that time of year! The kids are out of school, the days are getting hot and the housing market is ready to move people into their new house. So what to do if you are thinking of putting your house on the market? First, hire me and let me help guide you through the trenches!

Next, get the mindset that this is now NOT your house. It is going to be the house of the new owner. It is like your friends house and no longer have that emotional connection. This is one of the most important items you can do to get your house ready to sell. It does not matter if you like that tile or paint color or any other feature in your house because it is now the new owners house.

In addition, clean and de-clutter. START PACKING! Get a storage container like Pods and start moving in non-essential furniture into it. Remove religious and personal pictures from the wall and around the house. I know you are thinking "I'll just move the items into the garage" but then the new owner will not be able to how spacious the garage is and picture their vehicle inside their new garage. A good rule is if you have not used it in some time either donate it or trash it. All those clothes that you have not worn in a decade, it is time to donate them and make room for your new clothes that you will now have room for in Your new house. Old toys, pots and pans, tools that are broken that you thought you would fix, it is the time to donate or trash it.


After purging your house you will be ready to go to the "Make Ready" stage for your old house. That will be in next weeks blog so keep your eyes open.

Just keep in mind that the goal is to sell your house and move on to your next chapter in life.

Have a great day!

~Tara Woolbright, Realtor, MRP 713-489-0507 or tara.woolbright@gmail.com or
www.tarawoolbright.com or @Tara.Woolbright.Realtor or pinterest.com/tarawoolbright

#TaraWoolbright #DixieRealtyGroup #YourNeighborhoodRealtor  #thatRealEstateChick
#ILoveReferrals

Armed Forces Day - May 20th

Hello,

I would like to recognize Armed Forces Day this May 20th. First observed on May 20th, 1950, the Armed Forces Day has been celebrated the third Saturday in May ever since. This day was created to recognize the Americans serving in the branches of the Military. It is important to also note that many other countries have this special day to honor their military personal.

So please today and every day, when you see one of America's special people that took the time to serve our country, stop and Thank them for their service.

If you are in the military or a retired military person and looking to buy or sell Real Estate, give me a call so I can help you. My father is a Veteran and I take the time to continue to learn about how I can help those that served buy property and achieve the American Dream of owning a home.

A big Thank You for all that you have done and are doing to our Military!

Have a great day!
~Tara Woolbright, Realtor, MRP 713-489-0507 or tara.woolbright@gmail.com or
www.tarawoolbright.com or @Tara.Woolbright.Realtor or pinterest.com/tarawoolbright

#TaraWoolbright #DixieRealtyGroup #YourNeighborhoodRealtor  #thatRealEstateChick
#ILoveReferrals

Being active in your community

Hello all!

Today's blog is about being active in your community. That can be through your church or your child's school. It could be other organizations that you want to participate in and help like animal shelters or Habit for Humanity. At the end of the day it is about giving back and being part of something bigger than yourself. It feels good to give back and help others.

This weekend I am volunteering for the Rock the Ranch in New Caney music festival and my time will earn the New Caney ISD Education Foundation a donation. The weather will be beautiful and I get to enjoy some great music. The best part is that I know my time will help other students in the New Caney ISD with scholarships etc.

I think this is important when selecting your next Realtor. Are they active in their community? Are they giving back to others? This shows they care and really part of their community. They probably Love where they Live and will be able to provide more insight than someone that is not as involved.

My two passions are to help children and animals and this is where I try to spend my time and money when volunteering or donating. So when you are ready to find your next home five me a call at 713-489-0507 and we can explore the area together.

Have a great day!
~Tara Woolbright, Realtor 713-489-0507 or tara.woolbright@gmail.com or
www.tarawoolbright.com or @Tara.Woolbright.Realtor or pinterest.com/tarawoolbright

#TaraWoolbright #DixieRealtyGroup #YourNeighborhoodRealtor  #thatRealEstateChick
#ILoveReferrals

First Time Home Buyers - Don't be intimated

Hello all!

Today am doing an Open House and it would be a great starter home for the first time buyer that is ready from going from renting to owning. Interest rates are great and it is the time to buy. However, if you have never taken such a big step it might be intimating. Let's talk about the high-level process and take some of the worry out of the wonderful experience of owning your first home.

One of the very first thing that any home buyer needs to do is get pre-approved from a bank or mortgage company. You will need to provide your financial statements and tax returns. They will then pre-approve you for a loan and you will know the range of houses you should be looking in. Next, find your Real Estate Agent to guide you through the process. I love to represent you as you go through this journey.

So now we will focus on the fun part: finding your new home! Think about what area you would like to live in. Is it close to work? Does it have the activities close that you value like a gym to workout in or a church? What about shopping for groceries or home items? You probably won't like the area if you have to drive 20 minutes to get a few groceries. Once you have narrowed down the area, your Real Estate Agent will start searching for houses that meet your criteria in that area and present it back to you. Do you want a 3 bedroom house or 4, how many bathrooms, attached garage or not, open concept or each room is its own room, are school ratings important? Now what are the nice to have items that you don't have to have but it would be nice like 1 story or 2, big back yard or small patio yard, a formal living or dining room?

You must be flexible in your ideas for finding your new home but it is not as scary as you may think. After you find the home the next step in the process starts. I'll discuss that in more detail with a future post or you can call me and I can discuss it with you.

Contact me today and let's start looking for your new property at 713-489-0507.

Have a great day!
~Tara Woolbright, Realtor 713-489-0507 or tara.woolbright@gmail.com or
www.tarawoolbright.com or @Tara.Woolbright.Realtor or pinterest.com/tarawoolbright

#TaraWoolbright #DixieRealtyGroup #YourNeighborhoodRealtor  #thatRealEstateChick
#ILoveReferrals

Safety tips for your car and home

Hello All,

Last week I attended the Concern Citizens of East Montgomery County meeting and learned several things about car and home security. We all know we should lock our car doors and set the alarm but several people don't when they are at home. Unless your car is in the garage and the door is down then lock your doors for 2 reasons: it will most likely deter a person from trying to steel anything from your car and a security measure to make sure that no one is in your car with out you knowing.

Another key security measure is to lock all your doors and windows in your house (even when you are there). This again prevents unwanted visitors. However, the one door I don't lock (until now) is my garage door from my garage to my house. My garage door is down and I figure that prevents anyone from entering my home but this is not true. It took a person less than 6 seconds to open the garage door and with very little noise. Imagine if you are asleep and they opened your garage door they could come right in if you didn't lock the door from the garage to the house. So I make sure now ALL doors, including the garage to the house is locked when I am at home.

The person giving the talk also discussed layers of security. An alarm system that is turned on, motion detector lights outside the house, cameras, and even dogs are all layers of security. The more layers then most burglars become uninterested in your house. Notify the Sherriff and Constable offices when you are planning to go on vacation for an extra set of eyes on your house.

Keep these safety tips in mind going forward and be safe out there!

Contact me today and let's start looking for your next home with these safety features in mind at 713-489-0507.

Have a great day!
~Tara Woolbright, Realtor 713-489-0507 or tara.woolbright@gmail.com or
www.tarawoolbright.com or @Tara.Woolbright.Realtor or pinterest.com/tarawoolbright

#TaraWoolbright #DixieRealtyGroup #YourNeighborhoodRealtor  #thatRealEstateChick
#ILoveReferrals

Why hiring a Real Estate Agent is better than doing it yourself (FSBO)

Hello all,

I love Do It Yourself projects. I enjoy learning and trying new things BUT selling your own home, without a professional, is not the time to experiment and see if you can do it. This is probably your biggest investment and you don't need to risk it not selling or getting less money than you deserve. Here are some of my thoughts on why you should choose me as your Real Estate Agent and get your house sold:

1. Real Estate Agents have a variety of resources available to them that the average consumer does not have access too. Selling your property is not just about getting it on MLS. There is much more that goes into getting the property SOLD (and this is what you want, right?) MLS is a big step in the process but you want to promote it with the help of others. As one example of the resources available is most agents belong to a firm that has lots of agents, we use them to help us promote our properties.

2. You have to have a Marketing Plan for your property. Did you think just putting it out there and people are going to come? No, this is not going to happen for most houses. You need to have a plan and a GREAT Real Estate Agent, like myself, has a plan that they can explain to you and tell you that we will use some of our own money to get your property sold. I'm sure you are saying "WHAT?" Yes, a good agent has your best interest at heart. It is our time and experience that you are asking for us to help you get the best price that you can for your property.

3. As a For Sale By Owner (FSBO) you need to know about the laws and regulations that go into selling property. Are you aware of all the paperwork? What is legally required? What is something that is highly recommended? What are all the steps? How do you get past the hurdles? How many other people need to be involved in the transaction? Yes, there are a lot of other people that have to be involved to sell your home.

4. The statics show that having a Real Estate Agent the home owner nets more money than without one. For most properties they are sold faster and for a higher price. I believe this is due to the numerous resources available to a Real Estate Agent, the good agents have a plan on how to sell your house and we are responsible for taking care of the red tape. There is also a psychology of the individual that is involved in buying a property.

So contact me today and let me take the headache out of selling your property at 713-489-0507.

Have a great day!
~Tara Woolbright, Realtor 713-489-0507 or tara.woolbright@gmail.com or
www.tarawoolbright.com or @Tara.Woolbright.Realtor or pinterest.com/tarawoolbright

#TaraWoolbright #DixieRealtyGroup #YourNeighborhoodRealtor  #thatRealEstateChick
#ILoveReferrals

Why selecting a "YourNeighborhoodRealtor" is a good idea in Houston

Hello All!

It is Spring! The time has moved forward, the weather is warm, and the pollen is causing all of us to have allergies. The Houston area market is heating up as well. It is time to start thinking about that Spring cleaning and getting your house on the market.

You might be looking to grow your family or maybe it is time to downsize and move into a smaller house. There are so many options that we can discuss and consider for each of your needs. You are looking to move closer to town or ready for that peaceful country living? I'm the realtor for you! I will work with you and listen to your needs. Together we will find the right house and in the right area. That is what a Realtor brings to the table to help you. Our knowledge of the market and being able to match that to your needs. If you are a first time buyer I will help guide you through the process of buying a new home.

So don't wait any longer. Give me a call so we can find that match for you!

It will be an honor to help those that served our country sell or find their next home.
~Tara Woolbright, Realtor MRP 713-489-0507 or tara.woolbright@gmail.com or
www.tarawoolbright.com or @Tara.Woolbright.Realtor or pinterest.com/tarawoolbright

#TaraWoolbright #DixieRealtyGroup #YourNeighborhoodRealtor #thatRealEstateChick
#ILoveReferrals

Car seats and Shred it News for EMC

Hello!
I have some great news to share about East Montgomery County Texas and their community offerings.

Car seat give away
April 8 from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm
The event will be at the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Clint People’s Training Academy at 112 Academy Drive in Conroe. Appointments are required for this event and can be made by calling 832.919.7233.
You can read more about it at https://www.newcaney.com/message_board/view_message.php?parent_message_id=1036587&src=newsfeed

Learn about what is going on with Valley Ranch at The Loop

Name: The Loop

Date: March 29, 2017

Time: 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM CDT

Registration: Register Now

Event Description:

Danny Signorelli, the CEO of The Signorelli Company will be updating us on the developments of Valley Ranch.

John Flournoy, Director of Sales and Leasing for Generation Park (a development of McCord Development, Inc.) will be updating us on the developments of Generation Park.

Location:

Texan Drive Stadium
 21360 Valley Ranch Pkwy
New Caney, TX 77365

Shred it! April 1st
Time: 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM CDT

Event Description:

Please take advantage of protecting yourself and your family and shred your sensitive documents. This is a great FREE event.

The Concerned Citizen Meeting is open to the public and Free.

Name: Concerned Citizens Meeting

Date: April 3, 2017

Time: 7:30 PM - 9:00 PM CDT

Website: http://concerned-citizens.blogspot.com/          

Location:

RB Tullis Library

21569 US HWY 59
New Caney, TX 77357

These are a great opportunity to learn, get involved and get a free car seat if you need one!

Call contact me if you are looking to buy or sell Real Estate! I love referrals.
~Tara Woolbright, Realtor 713-489-0507 or tara.woolbright@gmail.com or
www.tarawoolbright.com or @Tara.Woolbright.Realtor or pinterest.com/tarawoolbright

#TaraWoolbright #YourNeighborhoodRealtor  #thatRealEstateChick
#DixieRealtyGroup #ILoveReferrals

Why select a Real Estate Agent that has a MRP certification over one that does not?

The Military Relocation Professional, MRP, certification from the National Association of Realtors means that you have completed training to understand the needs of our military; both active and veterans. Although most Real Estate Agents can provide services to this honored group of individuals, only a select few have taken the time to learn about the demands.

I understand the needs of our military families and hope that I can provide the excellent customer service that each one deserves. I understand that the spouse may not be able to be present for the showings and the communication may need to be over email or the phone to meet the deadline. I also am learning more about what benefits our offered to our military families with relocation fees or loans.

A Real Estate agent that has taken the time to obtain the MRP shows that they care about the families of the military and want to serve them.

It will be an honor to help those that served our country sell or find their next home.
~Tara Woolbright, Realtor 713-489-0507 or tara.woolbright@gmail.com or
www.tarawoolbright.com or @Tara.Woolbright.Realtor or pinterest.com/tarawoolbright

#TaraWoolbright #DixieRealtyGroup #YourNeighborhoodRealtor #thatRealEstateChick
#ILoveReferrals

Pinterest March - Bed/Bath

Hello to all!
A couple of cute and neat ideas  to share. I like the frames around the hooks to add a style look to regular bathrobe hooks. If you like the rustic look or country like feel then here are some great ideas from recycle dressers to towel hangers. I even saw a small frame around the light switch which would be a perfect addition.

I also love Houzz. Super awesome ideas! Here is a headboard that you can make from recycled wood.
I've been thinking of doing this in my guest room with either recycled wood or the easy peel and stick look-like-wood tiles with the wall in wood. I've also seen great light fixtures that people are hanging above the bed from an iron to crystal chandelier.

Have a great weekend!
Call contact me if you are looking to buy or sell Real Estate! I love referrals.
~Tara Woolbright, Realtor 713-489-0507 or tara.woolbright@gmail.com or
www.tarawoolbright.com or @Tara.Woolbright.Realtor or pinterest.com/tarawoolbright

#TaraWoolbright #DixieRealtyGroup #YourNeighborhoodRealtorr
#ILoveReferrals #thatRealEstateChick

Are you an Active Military member or Veteran looking to Buy or Sell Real Estate in Houston?

Did you know that if you are an active Military member or a Veteran that served our country that you may qualify for a VA loan to buy a house which could mean no money down? There are some criteria that you will need to meet but if you do that is a great opportunity for you and your family to buy a home.

Even if you have bought a home with VA Loan before you can still qualify for another one or refinance.

Call me now so we can discuss and get you pre-approved for a VA loan!

~Tara Woolbright, Realtor 713-489-0507 or tara.woolbright@gmail.com or
www.tarawoolbright.com or @Tara.Woolbright.Realtor or pinterest.com/tarawoolbright

#TaraWoolbright #DixieRealtyGroup #YourNeighborhoodRealtor #thatRealEstateChick
#ILoveReferrals

Steps for Military Relocation Professional - MRP certification for Real Estate

Obtaining your MRP certification is not a difficult process but does take time and attention to the details of the program. One of the best things that I learned was how much help a VA loan can be to those in active duty of the military or a Veteran.

Acquiring the MRP requires a Real Estate Professional to complete the following steps:
1. Select the course NAR (National Association of Realtors) and pay for it
2. Read the Pre-read material before taking the course
3. Take the course (there are 6 modules) and pass the questions after each module.
4. Take the 30 question test and pass
5. Complete 2 webinars
6. Apply and pay the fee for the Application of MRP

Steps 1 - 5 are at your own pace and can be done as fast or slow as you would like but must be completed in the year time frame. Once you have passed the test then you can apply for the MRP. However, it does take up to 5 days for the status to be posted that you have passed the test and are eligible for submitting an application.

It will be an honor to help those that served our country sell or find their next home.
~Tara Woolbright, Realtor 713-489-0507 or tara.woolbright@gmail.com or
www.tarawoolbright.com or @Tara.Woolbright.Realtor or pinterest.com/tarawoolbright

#TaraWoolbright #DixieRealtyGroup #YourNeighborhoodRealtor #thatRealEstateChick
#ILoveReferrals

Military Relocation Professional - MRP certification for Real Estate

Good Day!
In pursuing my purpose of helping others, I am working on completing my Military Relocation Professional certification or MRP in Real Estate. I'm very excited about this new opportunity.

My father is a Vietnam Veteran and his father was in WWII. Both of these men were proud to server their country and proud of their service. When I think of people I would like to help; it was the inspiration of my father that encouraged me to seek the certification.

The MRP certification is designed to educate the Realtor on the unique demands of the military personnel and families. In addition, the short time frames and financing opportunities that our military personnel are offered the VA program. This certification provides the prospective clients comfort that the professional Realtor they are working with has completed a course, passed a test and the application was approved to be a representative of MRP.

I look forward to assisting my future clients buy and sell their homes that are serving our country.
Call contact me if you are looking to buy or sell Real Estate! I love referrals.
~Tara Woolbright, Realtor 713-489-0507 or tara.woolbright@gmail.com or
www.tarawoolbright.com or @Tara.Woolbright.Realtor or pinterest.com/tarawoolbright

#TaraWoolbright #DixieRealtyGroup #YourNeighborhoodRealtor #thatRealEstateChick
#ILoveReferrals

EMC - East Montgomery County, Texas news

Some good news for people looking to buy houses in Montgomery county: according to The Courier, the commissioner approved a 10% homestead exemption. The team is working on getting a 20% exemption this year passed.

Emily Akin, from Fox 26 Houston, mentioned that 81% of Home Owners consider their pets/animals when selecting a home. As an animal lover, this is something I know and can help you with when selecting your next home. Call me and we can discuss the options.

Finally on a fun note: Speedsportz Racing Park is now open in New Caney. In addition to an incredible race track, they offer classes for Go Kart Racing. They have a special running for $20 a person but there are age and height requirements (so check out their website). It's going to be a great weekend to try out this course and have some fun. Let me know what you think!

Call contact me if you are looking to buy or sell Real Estate! I love referrals.
~Tara Woolbright, Realtor 713-489-0507 or tara.woolbright@gmail.com or
www.tarawoolbright.com or @Tara.Woolbright.Realtor or pinterest.com/tarawoolbright

#TaraWoolbright #YourNeighborhoodRealtor  #thatRealEstateChick
#DixieRealtyGroup #ILoveReferrals

Pinterest February - Bathroom Ideas

Hello to all!
My second of 4 Pinterest post of February is all about the bathroom. Lots of great ideas and repurposing items. I think the Wine Rack that turned into a towel holder is a fabulous idea.

I like all the different ways you can take jars of different shapes and sizes and turn them into Candle holders, plant containers or containers to organize bathroom items like toothbrushes. You could use old vases to do similar things in your house.

My favorite is the "Rustic Signs" that are created from oval boards, paint, and plant hangers. You can make it elegant or modern depending on the word font used. Instead, I'll go to the scrapbook section and get the letters that I can stick onto the boards. What a wonderful way to let people know where and which room is in your house!

I'll give my picks a try and let you know.
Have a great weekend!
Call contact me if you are looking to buy or sell Real Estate! I love referrals.
~Tara Woolbright, Realtor 713-489-0507 or tara.woolbright@gmail.com or
www.tarawoolbright.com or @Tara.Woolbright.Realtor or pinterest.com/tarawoolbright

#TaraWoolbright #DixieRealtyGroup #YourRealtor #YourTexasRealtor #YourNeighborhoodRealtor #YourPorterRealtor #YourNewCaneyRealtor #YourKingwoodRealtor #YourHoustonRealtor #YourSplendorRealtor #YourRiverwalkRealtor #YourJLARealtor #ILoveReferrals #YourCumberlandRealtor

Featured neighborhood Cumberland amenities

Both Cumberland and Cumberland Crossing (CC) offer a great environment to have and raise a family. Cumberland's streets are lined with trees and offers a peaceful place for a nature stroll through the woods. CC has sidewalks for the kids to ride their bikes on. CC has a small park with picnic tables but on the other side of 1314 Cumberland has ponds that the family can fish in. In addition, Cumberland has a large park with swings, basketball court and other play area. The pool is on the Cumberland side and is a large pool that is wonderful for summer pool parties. 

Check out my Pinterest - Cumberland for pictures of these two great neighborhoods.

Next week I'll discuss the on-site Elementary school. Until then contact me about homes in the Cumberland or CC area! ~Tara Woolbright, Realtor @ 713-489-0507 or tara.woolbright@gmail.com
#TaraWoolbright #TaraWoolbrightRealtor #DixieRealtyGroup

Pinterest February - Kitchen ideas

Hello to all!
My first of 4 Pinterest post of February is all about the kitchen. There are several good ideas but I'm thinking I need to try the chalk board in the kitchen for notes and under the sink kitchen organizer. Super simple for both and very low cost.

Recycle a mirror. Buy some black chalk board paint (Hobby Lobby). Spray mirror with black paint. Hang mirror/chalk board. Buy chalk and start adding your text.!

Buy a tension rod at Walmart (don't forget to measure how wide it is under your sink!!!!) and then install. After you have the bar in place and tension applied, you can hang your spray containers. Saves space, organizes the area, looks clean and neat and so easy to do!

However, any drawer organization and the chip hooks in the pantry are the best ideas! I do have my drawers organized but don't have any chips for hooks in my pantry.

I'll give my picks a try and let you know.
Have a great weekend!
Call contact me if you are looking to buy or sell Real Estate!
~Tara Woolbright, Realtor @ 713-489-0507 or tara.woolbright@gmail.com or www.tarawoolbright.com.