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Explore fresh insights and updates from Selden Tual Real Estate. From market trends to expert tips, our blog keeps you ahead in Texas’ ever-changing real estate market.
Selling a home in Texas comes with many preconceived ideas that can mislead sellers and impact their decisions. Separating fact from fiction is crucial to a successful sale. Here are some common myths about selling in the Texas real estate market—and the truths every seller should know. Myth 1: Spring Is the Only Good Time to Sell Truth: While spring often sees increased buyer activity, homes sell year-round in Texas. Market conditions, local demand, and pricing strategy matter more than the season. Myth 2: You Should Always Price Your Home High to Leave Room for Negotiation Truth: Overpricing can deter buyers and cause your home to linger on the market. A competitive price attracts more interest and can lead to multiple offers. Myth 3: You Don’t Need a REALTOR® to Sell Your Home Truth: While selling on your own is possible, working with a Texas REALTOR® provides market expertise, negotiation skills, and access to marketing tools that often result in higher sale prices and smoother transactions. Myth 4: All Cash Offers Are Automatically Better Truth: Cash offers can close faster, but other factors like contingencies, financing reliability, and buyer flexibility should be considered to determine the best offer. Myth 5: You Must Make All Repairs Before Listing Truth: Some repairs increase value, but minor issues can be negotiated during inspection. Over-investing in repairs may not yield a proportional return. Myth 6: Texas Has No Seller Disclosure Requirements Truth: Texas law requires sellers to disclose known material defects and hazards. Full transparency protects you legally and builds buyer trust. Myth 7: The Market Will Always Favor Sellers Truth: Texas markets vary by region and time. Sellers must stay informed about local trends and adjust their strategy accordingly. Final Advice for Texas Sellers Understanding these myths helps you make informed decisions and avoid costly mistakes. Let me guide you through the nuances of the Texas market and maximize your home’s selling potential. Selden Tual Rogers Healy and Associates Real Estate
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First impressions count in real estate. With more buyers beginning their search online and driving by listings, an inviting exterior can make your home sell faster and at a higher price. Why Curb Appeal Matters Instantly increases your home’s perceived value. Sets your property apart in neighborhoods with similar homes. Attracts more foot traffic and online interest. Affordable Upgrades to Boost Curb Appeal 1. Refresh Landscaping Mow, edge, and fertilize the lawn regularly—buyers expect a tidy, green yard. Trim shrubs, trees, and overgrown plants—especially near windows and walkways. Add pops of color with native flowers or drought-resistant plants like Texas sage, lantana, or black-eyed Susan. Mulch flower beds for a clean, finished look. 2. Update the Front Entry Paint or stain the front door in a bold, welcoming color (deep red or navy are popular in Texas). Replace old house numbers, mailbox, and door hardware with modern fixtures. Add a new doormat and a decorative plant or two by the entrance. 3. Exterior Maintenance and Repairs Power-wash siding, brick, and pathways to remove dirt and mold. Touch up peeling paint on trim, windows, and shutters. Repair cracked driveways or broken path stones; patch potholes. Clean gutters and downspouts. 4. Enhance Outdoor Living Spaces Stage a small seating area with weatherproof chairs and cushions on a porch or patio. Hang string lights or lanterns to create a warm atmosphere for evening showings. Add shade elements (umbrellas or pergolas) to appeal to buyers seeking outdoor comfort under the Texas sun. 5. Lighting for Nights Install solar-powered path lights along walkways and driveways. Replace or clean porch lights for a brighter, more inviting entrance. Highlight unique landscape elements with uplighting. Curb Appeal Ideas Specific to Texas Buyers Feature Affordable Upgrade Idea Why It Appeals to Buyers Drought-resistant landscaping Native plants & xeriscaping Saves water and money; easier maintenance Outdoor living spaces DIY patio or deck improvements Entertaining is big in Texas Shaded areas Add inexpensive sun sails or umbrellas Offers relief from intense heat Fencing Repair, paint, or add decorative accents Privacy and security are valued Mailbox and address numbers Modernize and clean up Sharp details signal overall care Quick Curb Appeal Checklist Mow, weed, and trim lawn and plants Paint or clean the front door and entryway Wash all windows and exterior lights Patch cracks in sidewalks and driveway Update outdoor furniture and décor Install or refresh landscaping mulch Ensure the house number is highly visible A few affordable, thoughtful updates can show buyers you care for your home and give them confidence about what they’ll find inside. Even minor curb appeal improvements can make your listing shine in a competitive market. Selden Tual Rogers Healy and Associates Real Estate
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Introduction The Texas real estate market in 2025 is dynamic and evolving, presenting both opportunities and challenges for home sellers. With rising new construction, shifting demand, and regional variations, understanding the current landscape is essential to successfully selling your home. This guide provides key insights and practical tips to help Texas sellers navigate the market confidently this year. Understand the Market Trends in Texas for 2025 Slight Price Increases Expected: After a relatively flat 2024, experts forecast a modest rise in home prices across Texas in 2025, driven by ongoing demand and limited supply in many areas. Increased New Construction: New home construction is up about 20% in major metros like Dallas, Austin, and Houston, which may ease some supply pressures but also increase competition among sellers. More Homes for Sale: Listings have grown approximately 15-20% year-over-year, giving buyers more options and slightly longer average market times (around 50 days). Regional Variations: Urban tech hubs like Austin and Dallas see strong demand and price growth, while some markets experience mild price softening, creating a more balanced market overall. Pricing Your Home Strategically Use comparative market analysis (CMA) tools to set a competitive price based on recent sales in your neighborhood. Avoid overpricing; the market favors well-priced homes that attract multiple offers. Consider local demand and inventory—if your area has many new listings, pricing slightly below market can generate faster interest. Prepare Your Home to Stand Out Invest in curb appeal and minor upgrades to make a strong first impression. Professional photography and virtual tours are increasingly important as buyers start their search online. Highlight energy-efficient features and recent renovations, which appeal to today’s Texas buyers. Marketing and Selling Tips Leverage online platforms popular in Texas, such as HAR.com and Zillow, to maximize exposure. Be flexible with showings and open houses to accommodate buyer schedules. Consider working with a local agent or real estate attorney to navigate contracts and negotiations, especially if you’re unfamiliar with Texas-specific regulations. Timing and Negotiation Spring and early summer remain peak selling seasons in Texas, but with more inventory, buyers have greater choice year - round. Be prepared to negotiate on price, closing costs, or contingencies, as buyers have more leverage in a balanced market. Understand the importance of clear disclosures and legal compliance to avoid delays or disputes. Conclusion Navigating the Texas real estate market in 2025 requires a blend of up-to-date market knowledge, strategic pricing, and effective marketing. By understanding current trends—such as increased supply, modest price growth, and regional differences—and preparing your home accordingly, you can position yourself for a successful sale. Whether you choose to sell on your own or with professional help, staying informed and adaptable is key. Selden Tual Rogers Healy and Associates Real Estate
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How to Price Your Home for a Quick and Profitable Sale Selling your home can be a rewarding experience, but one of the most critical decisions you’ll make is how to price your property. Price it too high, and your home may linger on the market, causing buyers to lose interest. Price it too low, and you might leave money on the table. Striking the right balance is key to a fast sale and maximizing your profit. Understanding the 2025 Texas Real Estate Market The Texas housing market in 2025 is more balanced compared to the seller’s market frenzy of 2021–2022. Home prices have stabilized, with the statewide median hovering around $335,000 to $350,000 in many areas, including Austin, Dallas, Houston, and San Antonio. Inventory levels have increased, giving buyers more choices and more negotiating power. This means sellers need to be strategic with pricing to attract serious buyers quickly. Why Pricing Matters More Than Ever Homes priced correctly tend to sell faster and for more money. According to real estate experts, the longer a home sits on the market, the more buyers perceive it as overpriced and expect discounts of 5–10% or more. In today’s market, where buyers have more leverage, pricing your home right from the start is crucial. Proven Strategies to Price Your Home Use Recent Comparable Sales (Comps)Look at homes similar to yours that have sold recently in your neighborhood. Since market conditions have shifted, it’s important to use comps from the last 3–6 months rather than older sales. Pay attention to differences in upgrades, condition, and location to adjust your price accordingly. Be Realistic About Your Home’s ConditionIs your home move-in ready, or does it need repairs? Homes in pristine condition can command higher prices. Consider getting a pre-inspection report to identify issues buyers might find and either fix them or adjust your price to reflect needed repairs. Understand Your Local Market NuancesTexas is large and diverse. Pricing trends in Austin or Dallas suburbs may differ from smaller towns. Work with a local expert who understands your area’s market dynamics, school districts, and buyer preferences. Factor in Market Timing and DemandSeasonality and demand affect pricing. Spring and summer often bring more buyers, but with rising inventory, competition among sellers can be stiff. Monitor how long similar homes are staying on the market and adjust your price to stay competitive. Avoid Overpricing to Prevent Price ReductionsStarting with an inflated price can backfire. Many homes that don’t sell quickly undergo multiple price reductions, which can stigmatize the property and deter buyers. A well-priced home attracts more showings and may even spark bidding wars. The Bottom Line for Sellers Pricing your home correctly requires a balance of data, market insight, and realistic assessment of your property’s condition. In 2025’s evolving market, a competitive price will help you sell faster and maximize your return. If you’re ready to sell, consider consulting a local real estate professional who can prepare a detailed Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) tailored to your home and neighborhood. This approach ensures your price hits the sweet spot — attractive to buyers yet profitable for you. Selden Tual Rogers Healy and Associates Real Estate
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Eco-friendly home improvements are increasingly popular among Texas homeowners and buyers. These upgrades not only reduce your environmental footprint but also increase property value and market appeal. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the most effective green upgrades for Texas homes, plus the latest incentives and trends. Top Eco-Friendly Upgrades for Texas Homes Solar Panel Installation Texas’ abundant sunshine makes solar panels a smart investment. Solar systems can significantly lower electricity bills and appeal to buyers seeking sustainable energy solutions. Federal tax credits and local incentives help offset installation costs. Energy-Efficient Windows and Doors Upgrading to ENERGY STAR®-certified windows and doors reduces heat gain in summer and heat loss in winter. Improved insulation leads to lower energy bills and greater comfort. Windows and doors with UV protection also help preserve interior finishes. Smart Thermostats and Home Technology Programmable thermostats optimize heating and cooling, reducing energy waste. Smart home systems allow remote control of lighting, HVAC, and appliances for maximum efficiency. Enhanced Insulation and Air Sealing Properly insulated attics, walls, and floors keep Texas homes cooler in summer and warmer in winter. Air sealing (weatherstripping, caulking) prevents drafts and reduces HVAC workload. Federal tax credits are available for insulation improvements. Water-Efficient Fixtures and Xeriscaping Low-flow toilets, showerheads, and faucets cut water usage. Xeriscaping with native Texas plants minimizes irrigation needs and maintenance. Rainwater harvesting systems offer additional water savings. Energy-Efficient Appliances Replacing old appliances with ENERGY STAR® models reduces electricity and water consumption. Look for rebates and incentives on qualifying appliances. Sustainable Building Materials Use recycled, reclaimed, or rapidly renewable materials such as bamboo, cork, or reclaimed wood for flooring and finishes. Eco-friendly materials add character and appeal to modern buyers. Financial Incentives for Green Upgrades Incentive Type Details & Eligibility Inflation Reduction Act Up to 30% of costs for solar, insulation, windows, doors, and heat pumps (max $3,200/year). Inflation Reduction Act New rebates for energy-efficient upgrades and appliances, with Texas programs launching Summer 2025. Local Utility Rebates Many Texas utilities (e.g., CPS Energy, Bandera Electric) offer rebates for energy audits and upgrades. ENERGY STAR® Rebate Finder Search for local rebates on qualifying products and services. Why Eco-Friendly Upgrades Increase Home Value Lower Utility Bills: Reduced energy and water costs are a major selling point for buyers. Market Appeal: Green features like solar panels, smart tech, and efficient systems attract environmentally conscious buyers. Resilience: Upgrades such as improved insulation and renewable energy systems make homes more comfortable and self- reliant during Texas’ extreme weather. Future-Proofing: As sustainability becomes standard, homes with eco-friendly features are likely to sell faster and at a premium. Quick Tips for Texas Sellers Highlight green upgrades in your listing and marketing materials. Keep documentation of improvements and incentives received. Investing in eco-friendly upgrades is a win-win for Texas homeowners—enhancing comfort, saving money, and boosting your home’s value in a competitive market Selden Tual Rogers Healy and Associates Real Estate
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Choosing the right realtor is crucial for a seamless and successful real estate experience in Dallas Fort Worth. I'm a nationally ranked REALTOR® with over a decade of experience, offers unparalleled benefits for buyers and sellers in the competitive 2025 Dallas market. Deep Local Market Expertise I bring over 10 years of full-time Dallas real estate experience and extensive knowledge of neighborhoods including Highland Park, Oak Lawn, Uptown, Preston Hollow, and more. His insights into market trends and pricing ensure you make informed decisions. High-Touch, Personalized Service Operating as a solo agent, I provide concierge-level attention throughout every step—from initial consultation to closing. Clients praise his patience, responsiveness, and commitment to guiding them clearly through complex processes. Proven Track Record and Trusted Reputation With over $100 million in career sales and recognition among the top 1.5% of U.S. agents by Wall Street Journal RealTrends, Selden consistently ranks as a top producer in Dallas. Dozens of five-star reviews highlight his negotiation skills, integrity, and client-first approach. Expertise Across Property Types Whether you’re buying or selling luxury homes, condos, townhomes, or new constructions, my diverse expertise ensures tailored strategies that meet your unique needs and goals. Client-Centered Communication and Problem Solving Known for direct, clear communication, I build trust by providing honest advice, setting realistic expectations, and creatively addressing challenges. My dedication helps clients feel confident and informed throughout their real estate journey. Selden Tual Rogers Healy and Associates Real Estate
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Especially if your food pyramid is 40% Tex-Mex, 30% barbecue, and 30% brunch. A Culinary Landscape as Big as Texas Itself Dallas offers an extraordinary dining scene that perfectly satisfies cravings for Tex-Mex, barbecue, and brunch, making it a true foodie paradise in 2025. Tex-Mex: The Heart of Dallas Flavor Muchacho Tex Mex at The Plaza at Preston Center serves up classic Tex-Mex with a modern twist—think hot-from-the- fryer tortilla chips, mojo-marinated octopus fajitas, and mezcal margaritas that have locals coming back for more. Tacos El Metro and Torchy’s Tacos are among the favorites for authentic, flavorful tacos that bring the best of Southwestern cuisine to your plate. Barbecue: A Texas Tradition Perfected Cattleack Barbecue is a standout spot known for its smoked meats and authentic Texas barbecue experience. Smoke’N Ash BBQ in Arlington combines Texas barbecue with Ethiopian spices, earning both James Beard recognition and Michelin Guide mentions for its innovative flavors5. Terry Black’s is another local favorite, praised for its perfectly smoked brisket and ribs. Brunch: The Social Meal of Choice Uptown and Bishop Arts District offer some of the best brunch spots, with rooftop patios and valet service adding to the experience. Sanjh Restaurant & Bar offers a lavish Sunday brunch buffet featuring dishes like butter chicken and goat curry, perfect for those who want a brunch that’s both exotic and indulgent4. Lucia, a small but beloved Italian spot in Bishop Arts, is famous for its fresh pasta and intimate vibe, making it a brunch destination for food lovers5. Top Dallas Restaurants to Try in 2025 The Woolworth: Known for its upscale take on classic dishes, including steak and seafood1. Ellie’s Restaurant & Lounge: A chic spot with a diverse menu and great cocktails1. Georgie: A modern steakhouse with inventive dishes like charred cabbage with brown butter5. M?bo: Dallas’s first proper omakase experience, offering a theatrical sushi tasting menu5. The Mansion Restaurant at Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek: A high-end dining experience with contemporary American cuisine6. Why Dallas Food Scene Stands Out Diversity: From traditional Tex-Mex and barbecue to high-end international cuisine and innovative fusion, Dallas has it all. Quality & Innovation: Award-winning chefs and new restaurants continue to raise the bar, blending classic flavors with modern techniques. Vibrant Atmosphere: Whether it’s a casual taco truck or a fine-dining restaurant with city views, Dallas offers a vibrant and welcoming food culture. Final Bite If your ideal food pyramid is 40% Tex-Mex, 30% barbecue, and 30% brunch, Dallas is the city to savor in 2025. With a mix of beloved classics and exciting new spots, the Dallas dining scene delivers big flavors and unforgettable experiences. Selden Tual Rogers Healy and Associates Real Estate 512.944.3121
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How Do I Prepare for a Home Inspection? A home inspection is a crucial step in the home buying process that helps identify potential issues before closing. Preparing well can ensure a thorough, efficient inspection and give you confidence in your investment. Here’s how to get ready for a home inspection in Dallas, TX in 2025. Make Key Areas Accessible Clear clutter and boxes from areas the inspector will need to access, such as the attic, crawl spaces, electrical panels, HVAC units, water heaters, and under sinks. Make sure all doors, closets, and access panels open smoothly. Ensure Utilities Are Turned On For a complete inspection, utilities like electricity, water, and gas should be turned on. This allows the inspector to test appliances, plumbing, heating, and cooling systems fully. Tidy Both Interior and Exterior A clean home makes the inspection process smoother. Inside, clear countertops, remove dishes from sinks, and tidy storage areas. Outside, trim trees near the roof, clean gutters, and ensure yards and fences are easily accessible. Prepare Documentation and Access Have records of past repairs, warranties, or termite treatments ready. Leave keys or remotes for gates, garage doors, and any secured areas the inspector will need to check. Plan to Attend the Inspection Being present gives you the chance to ask questions and see issues firsthand. The process typically takes 2-4 hours depending on the home size and condition. Proper preparation helps your home inspection run efficiently, uncover any hidden issues, and arms you with knowledge to negotiate repairs or adjust your offer accordingly. Selden Tual Rogers Healy and Associates Real Estate 512.944.3121
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Dallas: The Next Silicon Valley? Every tech relocation feels like confirmation that we’re the future of innovation—ignore the 110° heat index. Dallas is rapidly transforming into a national tech powerhouse, drawing comparisons to Silicon Valley thanks to explosive growth in AI, corporate relocations, and a thriving startup scene. Key Highlights Major Corporate Moves: Companies like Nasdaq, Oracle, Hewlett Packard Enterprise, and AI leader Cognigy have relocated major offices or headquarters to Dallas, citing pro-business policies, robust infrastructure, and a deep talent pool. AI & Data Center Expansion: Dallas now hosts over 141 data centers, making it the U.S.’s second-largest hub for AI infrastructure. Nvidia’s new 1M sq. ft. supercomputer plant anchors the city in the global AI race. Job Market: Over 20,000 new tech jobs were added in 2025, with median salaries around $95,000—higher than the national average. Startup Investment: More than $1.1 billion was invested in Dallas startups last year, fueling innovation and growth Fortune 1000 Presence: Dallas-Fort Worth is now home to 47 Fortune 1000 headquarters, ranking third in the U.S. Why Dallas Attracts Tech Business-Friendly Environment: No state income tax, lower cost of living, and aggressive expansion incentives. Talent Pipeline: Proximity to top universities and a collaborative tech community with frequent meetups and hackathons. Diverse Opportunities: Roles span AI, cloud computing, cybersecurity, fintech, and more. The Dallas Lifestyle: Luxury and Innovation Luxury Real Estate: Dallas-Fort Worth led Texas in luxury home sales, with nearly 5,000 homes sold above $1 million between November 2023 and October 2024, totaling $8.5 billion in volume—a 14% year-over-year increase. Prime Neighborhoods: Highland Park, Victory Park, Preston Hollow, Uptown, Turtle Creek, Southlake, and Westlake are top choices for affluent buyers, offering estates, penthouses, and custom homes with premium amenities. Competitive Advantage: High-end homes in Dallas suburbs offer better value per square foot than coastal luxury markets, with a median home size of 4,212 sq. ft. and an average price per square foot of $3944. Challenges and Considerations Heat Index: Dallas’s climate can be extreme, with summer heat indexes reaching 110°—a trade-off for its economic advantages. Sustainability: The city is grappling with the demands of rapid AI and data center growth, including energy and water usage, prompting new policies and sustainability debates. Conclusion Dallas is cementing its status as a leading center for innovation, tech investment, and luxury living. With a booming job market, major corporate relocations, and a thriving real estate scene, Dallas is well on its way to becoming the “next Silicon Valley”— even if you have to brave the Texas heat. Selden Tual Rogers Healy and Associates Real Estate 512.944.3121
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How New Home Construction in Dallas-Fort Worth is Changing the Market The Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) housing market is undergoing a significant transformation in 2025, largely driven by a surge in new home construction. This wave of new housing starts is reshaping the landscape for both buyers and sellers, offering fresh opportunities and new challenges in one of the nation’s hottest real estate markets. Surge in New Construction Home Sales New home sales in the DFW area have reached their highest levels since 2021. In December 2024, new construction home sales rose to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 698,000 nationwide, marking a 6.7% year-over-year increase and a 3.6% rise from the previous month. This national trend is strongly reflected in DFW, where the combination of a robust job market and relative affordability continues to attract buyers and investors alike19. Builders are responding to strong demand by ramping up production, especially in northern suburbs like Frisco and Prosper, which remain hotspots for new developments. These areas benefit from ongoing population growth and economic expansion, making them prime locations for new home buyers67. What This Means for Buyers More Inventory and Choices: The increase in new construction means buyers have more options, reducing competition and bidding wars on resale homes. This expanded inventory gives buyers the flexibility to select homes with modern designs, energy-efficient features, and the latest amenities. Builder Incentives: To attract buyers in a competitive market, many builders are offering incentives such as interest rate buy-downs, closing cost assistance, and upgrade packages. These perks can make purchasing a new home more affordable despite current mortgage rates1. Mortgage Rate Considerations: While mortgage rates remain elevated—hovering in the mid to high 6% range—builders often partner with preferred lenders to provide special financing options. Buyers should still get pre-approved early to lock in favorable terms9. What This Means for Sellers Increased Competition: Sellers of existing homes face more competition as new construction homes flood the market. Buyers may be drawn to brand-new properties with modern features, which can lengthen the time resale homes stay on the market. Pricing Pressure: With more supply available, sellers may need to price homes more competitively and be prepared for negotiations. Homes that are well-maintained, updated, and priced right will stand out. Market Shift Toward Balance: The rise in new construction is contributing to a more balanced market, moving away from the intense seller’s market conditions seen in previous years. This shift benefits buyers but requires sellers to adjust expectations accordingly13. Challenges and Market Dynamics Despite the surge, new construction activity is facing headwinds. Rising construction costs, labor shortages, and financing hurdles have slowed the pace of housing starts compared to previous years. For example, while there was an 11.2% increase in housing starts in February 2025 compared to January, the total starts are still down 2.9% year-over-year, signaling some caution among builders5. Builder confidence has dipped to a seven-month low, largely due to affordability concerns and reduced buyer traffic. Rising interest rates have made homeownership more expensive, potentially limiting demand and slowing the pace of new home sales in certain segments5. Looking Ahead: What to Expect in 2025 Steady but Moderating Growth: New home construction will continue to play a key role in DFW’s housing market, but growth is expected to moderate as builders navigate economic challenges. Focus on Northern Suburbs: Areas like Frisco, Prosper, and Allen-McKinney will remain focal points for new development, driven by strong population growth and job opportunities. Balanced Market Conditions: Increased supply from new construction will help stabilize prices and provide more options, benefiting buyers while encouraging sellers to be strategic. Opportunities for Buyers: Buyers looking for modern homes with the latest features will find attractive options in new developments, often with builder incentives that ease the buying process. Conclusion The surge in new home construction in Dallas-Fort Worth is reshaping the real estate market in 2025. Buyers enjoy more choices and incentives, while sellers face increased competition and pricing pressures. Although challenges like rising costs and interest rates temper growth, new construction remains a vital force supporting the region’s housing needs. Staying informed and working with knowledgeable real estate professionals is essential for anyone looking to buy or sell in this dynamic market. Selden Tual Rogers Healy and Associates Real Estate 512.944.3121
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