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What You Haven’t Considered About Owning a Vacation Home

tropical-vacationWouldn’t it be great to own a place at the beach, in the mountains, or by the lake? If you are seriously considering buying a vacation home, you have probably weighed many of the pros and cons already.

But you should carefully consider everything before you buy. Have you taken these additional costs and benefits into account?

The Overlooked Costs of Homeownership

As any experienced home buyer knows, there are additional annual costs that come with owning a home, such as property taxes, home insurance, and any association fees.

Make sure you consider maintenance costs, as well. If you decide to rent out your property, you might want to invest in housekeeping or property management services. MarketWatch outlines a few additional costs you may face.

Additional Fun: Resort-Style Amenities

golf course at sunriseIn popular vacation destinations, you can purchase a second home in a resort community. This gives you access to a range of amenities that can include a golf course, spa services, swimming pool, and dozens of events.

Just remember, you may have to pay additional fees for these amenities.

It’s a Good Investment, But Not a Guaranteed Money Maker

Many vacation homeowners rent their property out to other vacation-goers as a way to earn extra money.

But, as US News & World Report points out, you may not always make money with your vacation home.

Location is Crucial

picking a locationWhen buying any property, whether it’s a primary or second home, location is one of the most important factors in your decision. When choosing a vacation home, consider how much time it will take to get to your home, whether you will need to drive or fly, and if you will be able to visit as often as you want.

You should choose a home that is close to your favorite vacation features (such as a ski resort or private beach) and close to the grocery store, major roads or an airport, and fun things to do.

We Can Help You Weigh Your Options

Investing in a vacation home can be a great decision, but it should not be taken lightly. We can answer any questions you have about finding, buying, or renting out a vacation home. Call us and let’s talk.

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Increasing Homeownership Opportunities for Diverse Buyers and Sellers

Minority groups currently represent a third of America’s population, but by 2050, they will no longer be a minority. And as populations of minorities increase, the importance of real estate professionals who can understand and identify with minority populations will also increase. It was with this understanding and willingness to expand homeownership opportunities for culturally diverse buyers and sellers that I embarked on a quest to increase my own understanding and awareness.

How I Am Working to Increase My Understanding of Diverse Cultures

ARJONA - DiversityIn February of 2016, I completed a diversity course and received the At Home with Diversity® certification from the National Association of REALTORS®. This course was designed to help real estate agents adapt to increasing diversity in America by expanding our knowledge and understanding of different minority groups. We discussed topics of diversity, business planning development, and fair housing—which establishes equal rights to all home buyers, regardless of race, ethnicity, religion, gender, disability, familial status, or national origin.

My Continued Support for All Diverse Homebuyers

As a bilingual agent, I have always been open to the needs of diverse homebuyers, specifically native Spanish speakers. As someone who has worked extensively with foreign buyers and sellers, I have a deep understanding for the unique needs and challenges of those not only relocating to a new community, but also a new country—one in which they might not even speak the native language. But regardless of where you’re from, what language you speak, or what races and ethnicities might encompass your heritage, I am ready to help you find your perfect Sugar Land home!

Ready to Find Home in Sugar Land, TX?

If you’re looking for a growing community of affordable yet luxurious living, beautiful homes, and a wealth of opportunities for entertainment, employment, and stellar education, then it’s time to learn more about Sugar Land, TX and the home buying services I offer. Contact me today and let’s start searching for your dream home.

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3 Surprising Ways Public Schools Affect Your House Hunt

sharpened colored pencils in a circleIt’s back-to-school season. School supplies are front and center in the stores, back-to-school sales are everywhere, and school buses are becoming part of the morning commute.

Even if the public school district is not an important factor in your home search, the location of public schools can still have a significant impact on your home buying decision.

If you are looking for a home near a school, you may want to take these factors into consideration.

1. School Speed Zones

Pay attention to the speed limit around schools and times that the school zone speed is enforced. You may want to consider a home that has convenient alternate routes around the school zone.

the stop sign on the side of a bus2. School Bus Stops

Whether there is a bus route through your neighborhood or on a major thoroughfare, it can affect traffic around your home. Call the school district and ask if there is a bus that stops near your home to pick up students.

3. Morning and Afternoon Traffic

Traffic congestion near public schools may be an issue during the weekdays. Crowded carpool lanes and frequent bus stops can turn a short trip to the grocery store into a frustrating ordeal.

When you are searching for your home, visit the area during peak morning and afternoon hours. Again, you may want to consider a home that is farther from the school or has convenient alternate routes.

We Are Your Guide to the Area

Realtor showing a buyer a homeA school’s location can affect your decision to buy a home, especially if you are new to the area. But a real estate agent is your local expert, giving you everything you need to know about how the nearby schools will affect your morning commute or afternoon trip to the store.

We can help you find the best home in the best location. Call us and let’s talk about your home search.