Located about 10 minutes from Frisco, Texas and 15 minutes from McKinney, Texas is Prosper, Texas.  Prosper is a small rail town with city access and a country feel.  Currently there are around 8,000 people in the Prosper area with a final population estimate of 80,000.

The Prosper real estatemarket currently has 150 homes for sale.  Prices range from the $150,000 range in the Glenbrooke subdivision to the millions in Gentle Creek Estates.  If a subdivision is your idea of a perfect home, then try Lakes of La Cima.  With homes ranging between 250K to 500K, this subdivision offers custom home features at a low price and nice chunk of land.  Looking for a little more flair?  Gentle Creek Estates have homes priced between 300K to 2 million.  Gentle Creek Estate homes are custom built homes with acreage and a beautiful golf coarse cutting the subdivision down the middle.

Prosper schools are excellent and with new highways being expanded, Prosper is close to everything.  With a growing city comes business’s and the commercial side of Prosper is growing. 

There are plenty of Prosper homes for sale and VIP Realty DFW can help you find it.  We know Prosper and with an expanding economy, good school district, and access to the city, you can’t go wrong selecting this up and coming town.

That beautiful snow here in the Dallas area is gone and springtime is around the corner.  For many this is the time they get their house ready to sell.  So why should 2010 be any different?  For starters, those two tax credits ($8000 for new buyers and $6500 for existing) are going to expire in April.   Then we have the low interest rates which many are speculating will begin to rise when the government stops purchasing the Freddie Mac and Fannie May loans at the end of March. 

It seems the perfect storm is a lot closer than on the horizon.  Home buyers wanting to take advantage of the credit and rates are frustrated as there are few homes for sale.  Whether looking for dallas homes, plano homes or, there aren’t very many to choose from in the more popular price ranges and locations.  What this means for prospective sellers is - GET LISTED!!   When there are more buyers than sellers this puts the seller in a better position. 

Think of it this way, the height of the real estate market is typically summer as families scramble to find the new home, sell the old home, get through the closings and move… all before school starts.  They have a deadline.  Now the government has given us a new deadline and it seems that the sellers out there aren’t listening.  If you are worried about what the right price is to actually sell your house, this is the best time for you.  Get a realistic estimate from your realtor and get it on the market in time for those buyers to meet the tax credit deadline. 

Do not sit on the fence this year.  Regardless if you are downsizing, rightsizing or moving across county, this is going to be a year when winter is the new spring.  There are artificial forces at work providing incentives for the buyers.  This is not going to be your typical real estate season.

A hidden gem in Plano is the neighborhood of Glenhollow Estates.  Built in the early 1990’s it is nestled west of the Tollway and north of Parker Road.   The homes range in size from just under 3000 to nearly 4000 sf and are found listed from the low 300K’s to mid 400K’s.

If convenient living with excellent schools is what you are looking for - these Plano homes will fit the bill.   Glenhollow Estates location is minutes from the North Dallas Tollway which is home to all manner of dining establishments from 4-star to down-home.  Less than a mile west of the neighborhood is Arbor Hills Nature Preserve, a 200 acre park offering visitors 2.3 miles of paved pathways and vista points.  After a day at the park, Willow bend mall is also just around the corner which houses some of the more upscale department stores and boutiques.   

Glenhollow families are included in the Plano school district which rates with distinction not only in Texas but in the nation.  For example, twenty-three Plano ISD schools have captured the prestigious National Blue Ribbon Schools of Excellence honor, awarded by the U.S. Department of Education.  Every year since the award has been presented (1992-2009), Plano ISD has been selected for a “What Parents Want Award” by School Match, the nation’s largest school selection and consulting firm. Only 16 percent of the nation’s school systems have been designated for this honor. Also, “Expansion Management Magazine” named Plano ISD among 2,800 school districts across the U.S. to earn a “Gold Medal” rating through its 16th Annual Education Quotient ratings.   Furthermore, there are two excellent private schools nearby -  Prestonwood Christian Academy and Price of Peace Christian School. 

While there are many desirable Plano neighborhoods, Glenhollow Estates is certainly one to consider in the Plano Real Estate market.

What will it take for you to sell your home this season?   That is the million-dollar question on everyone’s mind this spring.  The tax incentive is expiring soon which creates that burning, anxious sensation at the bit of your stomach.  Will your house be picked for the dance or end up as a wallflower?

It is a lot like the spring formal in fact.  You need to pick the right date (realtor), the right attire (staging) and buy that corsage (curb appeal).   Getting the right mix is what will make it a perfect night.  So where to start -

 Realtors

There are lots of us.  Everyone claims to know all about Frisco homes for sale, but how to find the right fit for you.  Assess your situation - do you need to sell immediately, for a price higher than your neighbor, and pay no commission.  Just like the date, decide what characteristics are most important to you and find the match that you believe can deliver.  Otherwise you will forever regret your choice.

Staging

There are lots of Plano homes for sale.  Roll up your sleeves and make sure you go through the staging list.  Paint the walls, consider replacing the carpet, clean out those closets, empty the cabinets, and clean, clean, clean.   If you don’t have sophisticated, understated earth-tones, then get them.  It doesn’t matter if that isn’t who you are, they aren’t buying your house, they are buying their next house and you need to remove the possibility they say - “not my style”.   If you want a better price, don’t make them see past the carpet allowance.

Curb Appeal

First impressions are key. Park your car around front, walk to your front door and take off the rose-colored glasses.   So many times people tell me, “let’s not even bother going in”.    Drive the neighborhoods around you as this is where those comps are drawn from.  Will they remember your house with the manicured lawn and well designed flower beds.  Remember the pre-emergent this year and if you can’t then splurge for the professionals.  Use the edger, replace the cracked windows, wash the sidewalk, sweep the stoop.  If they can’t get past the walk those new carpets will be wasted.

The economy needs a bit of a boost and the stimulus package is there to be taken advantage of.  Hard work and a bit of luck should get you on to your new place.

Visit Frisco Real Estate for other blog posts.

Dallas top relocation spot

For those of us who live here in DFW there is no place like home, but for the folks on the Coasts and in the upper Midwest they are starting to think of relocating.  Unemployment in many places is in double-digits and the recovery is coming slower than many can wait.  BusinessWeek.com collaborated with Moody’s Economy.com to find out where the best cities for employment are for 2010.  They ranked Dallas in the top 10 cities for 2010 employment.  With companies like JCPenney, ExxonMobile and TXU Energy headquartered in the area this comes as no surprise that the recession hasn’t hit as hard.  Likewise, Forbes.com lists DFW as a top 2010 city for recession recovery listing similar reasons of strong employment from companies such as Texas Instruments and TXU and strong housing prices.   According to the much-watched Case-Shiller index of home prices, real estate in Dallas has fallen less from its peak than any of the other 19 cities tracked by the index. 

Dallas relocations often lead to employment in the surrounding cities where many of the businesses sited above are located.  Many result in home purchases in the northern suburbs of Frisco, Plano and McKinney where new subdivisions, golf course communities and strong school districts appeal to the needs of the families.  Singles and others not looking for the white picket fences are also finding an attractive development in these popular cities as well with the recent trend toward master-planned urban centers.   These centers provide an urban lifestyle incorporating condos, lofts, retail, restaurants and bars all within walking distance in master-planned design. 

One key aspect in making the transition a smooth one is that you find a professional realtor who can find the right home while you focus on more important matters in these tough times.  VIP Realty DFW has the resources and relocation specialists to make this a positive change in your life.  Whether you are looking for Plano real estate or McKinney real estate or Dallas real estate, VIP Realty DFW has a relocation specialist for you.

Are you thinking about buying a house, but can’t convince yourself to actually sign the contract with all the economic uncertainty?  Many buyers are spending days looking at houses and nights worrying whether they should wait.  If this is you don’t despair, you are in good company.

While the National news still shows a slow road to recovery, Texas has increased jobs the last two consecutive months.   Texas’ recession started later and was shallower than in the rest of the country.   It is not far-fetched to envision a sooner recovery in this area.  Recent home sales in Dallas, Collin and Denton counties show an increase year over year for the first time in well over a year.  Collin County homes inventory has dipped below 5 months worth for the first time since 2006.   That is good news for Plano real estate and McKinney homes for sale.

What does all this mean for the buyers out there that are on the fence?   There are a number of factors to consider:

1. Assess your financial situation.  What does your cash flow look like today and why would you expect it to change?  Be realistic.   Do you need to reserve some of what you would have used for a down payment?   Do you need to reassess what you can afford?  Unless you think that suddenly your situation is going to change, either better or worse,  then you need to consider today’s new reality as the basis for how much you can want to spend.
2. Consider your variable versus fixed expenses.  Rent is not fixed and if moving back in with Mom is not an option for you, then you need to accept that you have to pay for the roof over your head.  There is some comfort in knowing your monthly payments won’t change. Consider a fixed payment for an extended period.  While these rates may not be as attractive as the variable ARMs, if you are concerned with your income stability then you have to consider how much risk you can accept. 
3. Take advantage of the low interest rates.  Now may not be the time to get into that dream house unless you are sure of your future finances, but with the low interest rates you are still able to get a lot of house.  There are some very good houses out there, if you can recognize the right fit for both your pocketbook and your dreams.

 VIP Realty DFW

As I walk down the Katy Trail I see cranes, trucks, and lots of noise.  I was down there last week for the White Rock marathon last weekend and noticed off in the distance some new buildings West of Stemmons from the AAC.  I did some research and noticed that the Design District has come back and big time. 

If you haven’t driven down Hi-Line drive recently (why would you?) you will be pleasantly surprised.  Three large apartment complexes have recently come in and with over 1,000 new apartments there will be lots of action in this new urban development.  All three are currently accepting lease’s and they’re going fast.  With rent rolls averaging $1000-1400 per month, living near downtown seems affordable again.

So, what else is planned…well the details are sketchy, but according to the Dallas Morning News, as many as 3-4 restaurants are planned and even more retail development is coming.  However, there is stiff competition from Victory Plaza, The Oaklawn area, Downtown, and the West End.  So, what will be the end result to the Dallas Design District?  Nobody really knows, but for some that want the Downtown scene with the streetscape and landscaping upgrades in the area.  The Dallas Design District could be your next address.

Interested in what’s going on in the Dallas Design District or maybe you’re interested in another Dallas Commercial Real Estate project.  If you have a particular question send us an email and let us know how we can help.  Dallas Commercial Real Estate is VIP Realty DFW!

Well, it’s here and I am so happy the government decided to help existing home owners get a little help with their next home purchase.  On November 6th the Senate passed an extension on the Tax Credit bill for first time home buyers.  Within that bill the government also included a Tax Credit for existing home owners.  Here are some of the specific details for the $6500.00 Tax Credit.

1. The law defines a tax credit qualified move-up home buyer (“long-time resident”) as a home owner who has owned and resided in a home for at least five consecutive years of the eight years prior to the purchase date.  The buyer doesn’t have to purchase a more expensive home than his current residence.

2. The credit is good for properties under $800,000 and is equal to 10% home value maxed up to $6500.00.

3. The credit is for individuals making $125,000 and married couples limited at $225,000.  There are other tax rules, so please speak with your tax expert for specific details.

4. What type of home is considered for the tax credit?  Single-family detached homes, attached homes like townhouses and condominiums, manufactured homes (also known as mobile homes) and houseboats.  However you cannot purchase from any relatives including spouse, children, parents, grandparents, etc…

5. What is the time frame that the credit is good for?  The date of first occupancy must be after November 6, 2009 and on or before April 30, 2010 (or by June 30, 2010, provided a binding sales contract was in force by April 30, 2010).

For additional information please go to this website for additional information.  http://www.federalhousingtaxcredit.com/home.html

If you are planning on taking advantage of this Tax Credit please contact us today.  If you are looking to sell your home first, VIP Realty DFW offers a Flat Rate Fee service for qualified sellers.  VIP Realty DFW helps buyers and sellers in the Greater Dallas Real Estate market.  Based in the Frisco Real Estate area, we have assisted both buyers and sellers with their Commercial or Residential Real Estate transactions.

VIP Realty DFW

www.viprealtydfw.com

469.644.3402

OK, I am writing about this subject again, however this time there’s a new wrinkle in the Tax Credit.  On November 5th the Senate passed the Tax Credit extension 98-0, allowing more new first time home buyers the chance to get a little added help.  The Credit is good until April 30th, however the date could go to June 30th provided the contract was written bu April 30th.

Not much about the 8K Tax credit has changed except for sales occurring after November 6, 2009, the Act establishes income limits of $125,000 for single taxpayers and $225,000 for married couples filing joint returns.  This is an increase from $75,000 for single and $150,000 for married couples.

With interest rates (at the time of this writing) in the low 5% range and a good inventory this is the time to call us today.  If you are looking for a home in the Dallas Real Estate area please contact us today.

The Frisco Real Estate market is taking off again, call us today for a list of foreclosures, short sales, and new homes in the Frisco, Plano, or McKinney area’s.

Newman Village, Frisco, Texas

Frisco, Texas has a new subdivision located off the Dallas Tollway and Eldorado, Newman Village.  Frisco, Texas is affluent suburb of Dallas, Texas and one of the fastest growing cities in the country. 

Newman Village is close to one of the premier shopping destinations in Texas.  Stonebriar Centre and its the surrounding area’s have upscale shops and plenty of dining area’s for all tastes.  For the sports fan Frisco offers, minor league hockey, minor league baseball, and professional soccer.  For the golf fan Frisco offers several private and public course’s for any skill set.  In addition to golf the Collin County area offers boating, hiking, and walking trails.

Frisco offers plenty of opportunities for the career oriented with major players in the Dallas area, and closer by Plano/Frisco has giants like… JCPenny, EDS, Frito-Lay, Fujitsu, and Tenet.  For the children Frisco is part of the FISD which boasts excellent elementary, middle, and high schools.  Frisco a facility that is part of the Collin County Community College.

Now what about Newman Village?  Greeted by a guardhouse and lush landscaping…welcome home.  Once inside the gates make your way around the roundabout and past the art show in the plaza.  Down the road is the swim and tennis club.  With walking trails and exercise trails throughout the community, or stroll to one of the many parks.

Newman Village was built with a lifestyle for success and no boundaries for growth.  Close to everything, but miles from everyday.  With homes starting in the 400’s to 1 million plus please contact us for private showings in this special neighborhood.

For other homes in the Frisco Real Estate market or Plano Real Estate market please contact us today!

VIP Realty DFW

www.viprealtydfw.com