If you’re a homeowner, chances are you’ve built up a lot of wealth – just by living in your house and watching its value grow over time. And that equity? It’s something that could help change your child’s life. Since affordability is still a challenge, a lot of first-time buyers are struggling to buy a home in today’s market. Even if they have a stable job and a solid plan, buying can still feel out of reach. But that’s where your equity could make all the difference. To give you an idea, the average homeowner with a mortgage has $311,000 worth of equity, according to Cotality (formerly CoreLogic). That’s significant. And some parents are using a portion of their equity to help their children become homeowners, too. According to Bank of America, 49% of buyers between 18 and 26 got money from their parents to use toward their down payment (see chart below):

If you’re a first-time homebuyer, you might feel like the odds are stacked against you in today’s market. But there are resources and programs out there that can help – if you know where to look. And one thing that can make homeownership easier to achieve? An FHA home loan. They’re designed to help you overcome some of the biggest financial hurdles in the homebuying process – and that’s why so many first-timers are using them to make their purchase. Whether you’re dreaming of ditching rent , planting roots, or just wanting a place that’s truly yours, an FHA home loan could be the path that gets you there sooner than you think. Buying Your First Home Probably Doesn’t Feel Easy Right Now While the motivation to buy a home is still there for many people, affordability is a real challenge today. According to a survey from 1000WATT, potential first-time buyers say their top two concerns are saving enough for their down payment and making the monthly mortgage payments work at today’s home prices and mortgage rates (see graph below):

Father’s Day is just around the corner — Sunday, June 15 — and Dallas is full of great ways to spoil Dad. Whether he’s into barbecue, beer, cars, or just quality family time, here are 15 ideas to make his day unforgettable: 🍻 Local Craft Beer Pick up some award-winning brews from local favorites like Peticolas or Four Corners. Whether you grab a growler to share or let him enjoy it on his own time, it’s a classic dad-approved gift. 🥩 BBQ & Premium Meats Fire up the grill with top-quality cuts from American Butchers or snag some legendary BBQ sauces from Lockhart Smokehouse. No Texas celebration is complete without some smoky flavor. 💈 Fresh Cuts & Cool Style Book a grooming session at Brass Tacks Barbershop or gift Dad some sporty Dallas-inspired gear — like polos or tees from Rhoback. 🎶 Vinyl Records & Vintage Finds If he loves music, stop by Good Records to dig through vinyl treasures. Or check out vintage goods and collectibles at a local favorite like DFW M’antiques. 🍳 Cooking Classes & Coffee Treat him to a hands-on cooking experience at Eataly Dallas. And if he’s a coffee lover, grab a bag of freshly roasted beans from Full City Rooster for a morning pick-me-up. ⚾ Sports Gear & Family Time Hit up Warstic in Deep Ellum for sleek baseball gear or organize a casual afternoon of grilling and games in the backyard with the whole family. 🚬 Cigar Lounge & Dinner Head to Cigar Art in Oak Cliff for premium cigars, then follow it up with a steak dinner and cocktails at a classic Dallas spot like Javier’s. 🍫 Sweet Treats & Thoughtful Gifts Go for handcrafted chocolates from Dude, Sweet Chocolate or surprise him with a locally made timepiece from a Dallas watch brand like Breda or Jack Mason. 🥂 Weekend Brunch Take Dad to Community Beer Co. for a relaxing weekend brunch featuring a full menu, signature cocktails, and their famous Colossal Bloody Marys — plus a free hat for Dad while supplies last. 👨‍👧‍👦 Family-Friendly Events Join a Father’s Day Cornhole Tournament, enjoy live music, or check out a bourbon tasting at one of the many weekend events hosted across Dallas-Fort Worth. 🍹 Bold Bites & Cars Derby Dallas & The Shop Club is hosting a Father’s Day brunch and dinner event with a buffet, DIY Bloody Mary bar, car club tours, and even discounted memberships — a perfect combo of food and horsepower. 🌮 Dining Deals Many restaurants around town are offering Father’s Day specials — from $10 carne asada plates at your favorite cantina to $5 pints at local diners. Final Tip No matter which experience you choose, the best gift you can give Dad is time — doing something meaningful, local, and full of flavor. Whether that’s a quiet brunch, a bold bourbon cocktail, or an afternoon spent exploring Dallas together, he’s sure to feel appreciated.

Spend Father’s Day on a Train from Grapevine to Fort Worth

Let’s talk appreciation If you bought a home in the last few years, chances are it’s gained value—maybe a lot. This post breaks down average appreciation trends. Want to know your home’s current value.

Over 82% of U.S. homeowners are sitting on mortgages with rates under 6%—many even under 4%. That’s a big reason why inventory has been tight… and why sellers are holding off. But here’s the thing—home equity has also grown substantially over the past few years. If you’re wondering whether it’s worth listing or refinancing, the best place to start is with a quick equity review.

Connecticut-based Greenwich Play, playroom designer to stars like NBA player Josh Hart, is expanding with a new location in North Texas.

A master planned development that will add thousands of new homes, apartments and commercial space is making its way through the city of McKinney. On Tuesday, McKinney’s City Council will vote on plans to rezone a 786-acre property on the city’s northwest side, immediately east of Prosper.

Heard Summer Camps feature opportunities for children from north Texas and beyond to delve into the wonders of nature on our 289-acre sanctuary, encounter animal ambassadors, investigate nature-themed topics, and more. We’ll spend time both indoors and outside. Studies have shown that spending time outdoors is not only fun for our children, but also plays an important role in many facets of child development. In “Ology Odyssey,” campers will dive into the world of science. This unique camp offers an exciting exploration of various scientific fields, ranging from biology, ecology and more! Campers will become young scientists, engaging in hands-on experiences, interactive demonstrations to uncover the mysteries of the natural world. Information submitted to DallasNews.com Related Links Website

Now that buyers have more options for their move, you need to be a bit more intentional about making sure your house looks its best when you sell. And proper staging can be a great way to do just that.  What Is Home Staging? It’s not about making your house look super trendy or like it belongs in a magazine. It’s about helping it feel welcoming and move-in ready, so it's easy for buyers to picture themselves living there. It’s important to understand there’s a range when it comes to staging. It can include everything from simple tweaks to more extensive setups, depending on your needs and budget. But a little bit of time, effort, and money invested in this process can really make a difference when you sell – especially in today’s market. A study from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) shows staged homes sell faster and for more money than homes that aren't staged at all (see below):

Lately, it feels like every headline about the housing market comes with a side of doubt. Are prices going up or down? Are we headed for a crash? Will rates ever come down? And all the media noise may leave you wondering: does it really make sense to buy a home right now? But here’s one thing that doesn’t get enough airtime. Real estate has always been about the long game. And when you look at the big picture, not just the latest clickbait headlines, it’s easy to see why so many people say it’s still the best investment you can make – even now. According to the just-released annual report from Gallup, real estate has been voted the best long-term investment for the 12th year in a row. That’s over a decade of beating out stocks, gold, and bonds as America’s top pick.

North Texas Real Estate Update: Luxury Homes, Major Developments, and Strategic Investments The Dallas-Fort Worth (D-FW) real estate landscape is bustling with activity, from the rise of multimillion-dollar homes in Frisco to significant commercial and residential projects across the region. Here's an overview of the latest developments: The Preserve at Fields: Frisco's New Luxury Enclave Construction is progressing at The Preserve, a gated community within the expansive 2,500-acre Fields development in North Frisco. Spearheaded by developer Fehmi Karahan, the first phase will feature 233 custom homes on lots ranging from 6,800 square feet to over an acre. Amenities include PGA golf courses, over 25 miles of trails, and the exclusive Brookside Club. Home prices start at $3.5 million, with the first residents expected by spring 2026. Dallas Invests in Transit-Oriented Development The Dallas City Council has approved $14.5 million in incentives for the Palladium Buckner Station project, a mixed-income, transit-oriented development in southeast Dallas. Located at 8008 Elam Road, the project will transform an underutilized parking lot into 304 apartments, with approximately 80% designated for households earning at or below 60% of the area's median income. AT&T Expands in Richardson AT&T is relocating and expanding one of its call centers to Richardson, investing $15.8 million in building improvements. The city is collaborating with Provident Realty Advisors on modernization grants and permit fee waivers to facilitate the move. Build-to-Rent Communities on the Rise ONM Living is set to begin construction on two build-to-rent communities: Cottages at Century Farms near Anna and Cottages at Providence Commons in Providence Village. These developments will offer a combined 478 homes, with rentals expected to commence in late 2026. The total investment for these projects is $100 million, with plans to develop an additional 1,000 rental units over the next three years. Frisco Station's Medical Office Building Breaks Ground Cambridge Holdings Inc. has initiated construction on an 85,800-square-foot medical office building within Frisco Station's Health and Wellness District. Anchor tenants include Compass Surgical Partners, Orthopedic Institute of North Texas, and Lam Vascular & Associates, offering a range of specialized medical services. Luxury Apartments Coming to Denton HighPark Capital, in partnership with Phoenix Capital Management, has commenced construction on a 242-unit luxury apartment complex in Denton's Rayzor Ranch development. Amenities will feature a resort-style pool, pickleball courts, fitness center, yoga studio, and outdoor kitchen. The project is slated for completion in early 2027. Sherman Commons Acquired by Dallas Firms Kobalt Investment Company and The Retail Connection have acquired Sherman Commons, a 275,477-square-foot shopping center in Sherman. The center is 98% occupied, with major tenants like Academy Sports + Outdoors, Kohl’s, and PetSmart. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed. Olivia Clarke Homes Joins Scott Felder Homes Austin-based Scott Felder Homes has acquired Olivia Clarke Homes, a D-FW homebuilder known for properties in Celina, Providence Village, and Lakewood Village. The acquisition, completed on May 13, aims to expand Scott Felder Homes' presence in North Texas. ACIS Relocates Headquarters to Allen ACIS, an HVAC company, is moving its headquarters to Allen's 121 Tech Park, signing a 12-year lease for a 33,000-square-foot space. The new facility will accommodate over 150 employees, with the move expected in the third quarter of 2025. Hugs Inc. and KDC Break Ground in McKinney Real estate developer KDC and Hugs Inc. have begun construction on a $10 million headquarters and training academy in McKinney. The 13,500-square-foot facility will house Hugs Café, training kitchens, administrative offices, and learning areas, supporting adults with disabilities. The project is scheduled to open in summer 2026. ProSource Industries Expands to Grand Prairie ProSource Industries has leased a 104,000-square-foot facility at 602 Fountain Parkway in Grand Prairie. The company specializes in manufacturing wire harnesses, cable assemblies, and electrical control panels for original equipment manufacturers. Brewer, Attorneys & Counselors Seek New Headquarters Dallas-based litigation firm Brewer, Attorneys & Counselors, is exploring options for a new headquarters to accommodate expansion. Potential locations include areas east of downtown Dallas, Knox-Henderson, and South Dallas, with a move anticipated in 2026. West Plano Medical Village Changes Hands Los Angeles-based Stockdale Capital Partners has purchased West Plano Medical Village, a 49,228-square-foot outpatient facility developed in 2022. The fully leased property houses tenants such as Catalyst Physicians Group and Baylor Scott & White. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed. These developments underscore the dynamic growth and investment opportunities within the D-FW real estate market. Stay tuned for more updates as the region continues to evolve.

How to Update Your Home on a Budget: Designer-Approved Dupes That Deliver Style Giving your home a fresh look doesn’t have to mean emptying your savings. Interior designers Kim Armstrong and Liz Dauwe, both based in Dallas, believe you can achieve a high-end feel with smart, budget-conscious choices. Here are some of their favorite decor "dupes" — affordable pieces that look like luxury. Upholstered Beds: High-End Look, Lower Price Splurge: A custom, French-style upholstered bed that can cost around $8,000 Save: A similarly styled upholstered bed for around $3,000 Kim Armstrong loves the elegance of custom pieces but often chooses a well-crafted alternative and customizes it with new fabric and paint. The result? The same designer impact for much less. Burl Wood Nightstands: Timeless Texture, Affordable Option Splurge: Designer burl wood nightstands available only to the trade Save: Classic burl wood nightstands that retail around $400 Burl wood brings warmth and sophistication to any space. Liz Dauwe recommends styling a budget-friendly version with a chic lamp, books, and a decorative box for a layered, polished look. Bold Fabrics: Statement Prints Without the Price Tag Splurge: A vibrant designer fabric at over $270 per yard Save: Comparable fabric patterns for around $15 per yard Armstrong loves eye-catching textiles and finds Spoonflower a great source for designer-inspired prints. She suggests ordering them in Belgian linen or cotton-linen canvas for a similar texture and finish. Wallpaper: Botanical Prints on a Budget Splurge: High-end wallpaper with detailed botanical patterns Save: Affordable digitally printed wallpaper with similar aesthetics In one of her projects, Armstrong swapped an expensive wallpaper for a more budget-friendly botanical print that delivered the same fresh, colorful vibe — perfect for a powder room or accent wall. Statement Mirrors: Designer Reflection for Less Splurge: Large designer round mirror priced near $2,000 Save: Oversized round mirrors under $1,000 Dauwe loves using large mirrors as focal points, especially in entryways or living rooms. A well-selected dupe offers scale and elegance at a fraction of the cost. Sculptural Decor: Modern Accents That Won’t Break the Bank Splurge: Designer link sculptures in premium materials Save: Stone or ceramic link sculptures for under $100 Decorative links add a sculptural touch to any coffee table or shelf. Dauwe recommends using them with stacked books or trays to add depth and interest to your styling. Pendant Lights: Sleek Fixtures, Smaller Price Splurge: Designer pendant lighting with sleek finishes Save: Stylish pendants with similar shapes available at hardware stores For modern pendant lighting, Dauwe loves affordable finds that mimic the look of high-end brands. Use globe or tubular bulbs to give them that designer edge. Updating your home doesn’t mean sacrificing style. With the right choices and a designer’s eye for detail, you can create a space that looks elevated—without the luxury price tag. Looking for more interior design tips and renovation ideas? Stay tuned for inspiration, insights, and budget-friendly updates for every room in your home.

A few years ago, homes were flying off the shelves and getting multiple offers well over their asking price. It felt like you could name your price and still have buyers lined up at the door. But today’s housing market is different. Buyers are getting more selective now that inventory has grown. Homes are sitting a little longer. And more sellers are having to cut their prices. So, how do you still come out on top? It all starts with one thing, pricing your house right from the start. Today, that matters more than ever – and it can make or break your sale. There’s a Real Price Disconnect Between Buyers and Sellers A recent survey from Realtor.com shows 81% of home sellers believe they’ll get their asking price or more. But the actual sales data shows there’s a growing gap between what sellers expect and what buyers are actually willing to pay. In fact, an annual report from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) shows 44% of recently sold homes went for less than the asking price. And 1 in 3 sellers had to cut their price at least once before the home sold. It’s a sign that expectations may be a little out of step with today’s reality.  Check out the graph below. It uses data from Redfin to show that asking prices (blue line) are higher than actual sales prices (green line) by a wider and wider margin:

For 80 years, Veterans Affairs (VA) home loans have helped countless Veterans buy a home. But even though a lot of Veterans have access to this powerful program, the majority don't know about one of its core benefits. According to a report from Veterans United only 3 in 10 Veterans are aware they may be able to buy a home with no down payment with a VA loan (see visual below):

May 31 – Jun 7 KIDS CRAFT SERIES

If you bought a home in the last few years, chances are it’s gained value—maybe a lot. This post breaks down average appreciation trends. Want to know your home’s current value. DM me and I’ll run a personalized equity report. #HomeEquity #HomeAppreciation #EquityGrowth #RealEstateTips #PalmAgent #HomeValue #MarketUpdate #HomeOwnershipWins #EquityReview

Maybe you’ve heard the number of homes for sale has reached a recent high. And it might make you question if this is the start of another housing market crash. But the reality is, the data proves that’s just not the case. In most areas, more inventory isn’t bad news. It’s actually a sign of the market returning to a more stable, healthy place.  What’s Going on With Inventory? Based on the latest data from Realtor.com, inventory just hit its highest point since 2020, shown with the white line in the graph below. But what you need to realize is, at the same time, inventory levels still haven’t returned to pre-pandemic norms (shown in gray):

If you have a 3% mortgage rate, you’re probably pretty hesitant to let that go. And even if you’ve toyed with the idea of moving, this nagging thought may be holding you back: “why would I give that up?” But when you ask that question, you may be putting your needs on the back burner without realizing it. Most people don’t move because of their mortgage rate. They move because they want or need to. So, let’s flip the script and ask this instead: What are the chances you’ll still be in your current house 5 years from now? Think about your life for a moment. Picture what the next few years will hold. Are you planning on growing your family? Do you have adult children about to move out? Is retirement on the horizon? Are you already bursting at the seams? If nothing’s going to change, and you love where you are, staying put might make perfect sense. But if there’s even a slight chance a move is coming, even if it’s not immediate, it’s worth thinking about your timeline. Because even a year or two can make a big difference in what your next home might cost you  . What the Experts Say About Home Prices over the Next 5 Years Each quarter, Fannie Mae asks more than 100 housing market experts to weigh in on where they project home prices are headed. And the consensus is clear. Home prices are expected to rise through at least 2029 (see graph below):

Saint Michael's Farmers Market

Princeton was the fastest-growing overall while Fort Worth topped 1 million residents.

Over 82% of U.S. homeowners are sitting on mortgages with rates under 6%—many even under 4%. That’s a big reason why inventory has been tight… and why sellers are holding off. But here’s the thing—home equity has also grown substantially over the past few years. If you’re wondering whether it’s worth listing or refinancing, the best place to start is with a quick equity review.

Some people argue that scratches and dents in wood furniture and floors add character — and if that’s your philosophy, we say embrace it. But if you’re bummed out because of an obvious scratch, water mark or scuff, there are a few approaches you can try before you hire a professional to refinish or restore it. As with any DIY fix, make sure to test the method on a small, inconspicuous spot before applying somewhere obvious — just in case the repair doesn’t work out or, in a worst-case scenario, causes further damage. Though most of these methods are simple and straightforward, there’s always a little bit of risk in how a floor or piece of furniture will respond. Keep in mind the basic principle of wood care , too: Less is more. Moisture is bad for wood, so be restrained when using water or other liquids to clean the material. Use clean, gentle cloths to wipe down wood pieces and be careful not to scratch them or apply too much pressure. Address surface-level scratches Surface-level scratches are common and, thankfully, can be easy to fix. Most of these scratches are damage to the finish of the wood floor or wood furniture piece, not the wood itself — so a DIY solution could be just what you need. The Tibet Almond Stick went viral recently because the colorless, odorless and reusable product can minimize the look of scratches in floors and furniture. Priced just shy of $15, it’s sold through many major retailers, including Walmart, Home Depot, Amazon and Ace Hardware. The stick is made of tightly-rolled cotton that’s soaked in a “secret family formula.” (Important to note: Despite the name, nuts are not used in the manufacturing of the Tibet Almond Stick.) Simply rub the stick on scratched surfaces until the scratch disappears.

The project has been years in the making. The Dallas developer has taken the first steps

Whether you’re planning to move soon or not, it’s smart to be strategic about which home projects you take on. Your time, energy, and money matter – and not all upgrades offer the payoff you might expect. As U.S. News Real Estate explains: ". . . not every home renovation project will increase the resale value of a home. Before you invest in a swimming pool or new addition, you should consider whether the project will pay itself off by getting prospective buyers in the door when it’s time to sell. " That’s why, before you pick up a power tool or call a contractor, your first step should be talking to a local agent. Planning Ahead Pays Off If you plan to move relatively soon, you’ll want to get a jump start on your to-do list. And even if moving isn’t on your radar yet, life can change quickly – and a new job, a growing family, or shifting priorities can fast-track your plans. You don’t want to be scrambling to fix up your home if your timeline changes. Smart updates now = fewer headaches later.  By planning ahead, you can spread out the work over time, which is easier on your wallet and your stress levels. Plus, you’ll get to enjoy the upgrades while you’re still living there and have the peace of mind your house is ready to impress when it's time to list. What Buyers Want (and What’s Actually Worth Doing) If you’re not sure which projects are worth your time and money – here's some information that can help. A study from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) shows which upgrades typically offer the best return on your investment (ROI) (see graph below):

Especially in areas where inventory is rising, both homebuilders and sellers are sweetening the deal for buyers with things like paid closing costs, mortgage rate buy-downs, and more. In the industry, it’s called a concession or an incentive.  What Are Concessions and Incentives? When a seller or builder gives you something extra to help with your purchase, that’s called either a concession or an incentive. A concession is something a seller gives up or agrees to in order to reach a compromise and close a deal. An incentive , on the other hand, is a benefit a builder or seller advertises and offers up front to attract and encourage buyers. Today, some of the most common ones are: Help with closing costs Mortgage rate buy-downs (to temporarily lower your rate) Discounts or price reductions Upgrades or appliances Home warranties Minor repairs For buyers, getting any of these things thrown in can be a big deal – especially if you’re working with a tight budget. As the National Association of Realtors (NAR) says: “. . . they can help reduce the upfront costs associated with purchasing a home.” Builders Are Making It Easier To Buy It’s not just one builder willing to toss in a few extras. A lot of builders are using this tactic lately. As Zonda says : “Incentives continued to be popular in March, offered by builders on 56% of to-be-built homes and 74% of quick move-in (QMI) homes, which can likely be occupied within 90 days.” That’s because they don’t want to sit on inventory for too long. They want it to sell. And according to the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), one of the strategies many builders are using to keep that inventory moving (and not just sitting) is a price adjustment (see graph below):

May 17, 2025 Price: Free Time: 10:00 AM Cotton Bowl® Stadium 3750 The Midway Dallas, TX 75215

Every second counts in the housing market when there's so much demand for a relatively low supply of homes. DM me to learn more about how getting pre-approved before starting your home search will make you agile enough to snatch up your dream home before anyone else can.  #homebuying #getpreapproved #expertanswers #stayinformed #staycurrent #powerfuldecision #confidentdecisions #realestate #realestatetips #realestatelife #realestateagent #realestateexpert #realestatetipsoftheday #realestatetipsandadvice #palmagent

Ordering plants online offers access to a broader variety than local nurseries might provide. Sharon Chan, a seasoned gardener from Colleyville, notes that online shopping allows her to find unique plants not available locally. However, she emphasizes the importance of ensuring plants arrive promptly and in good health.

Looking to make Mother's Day unforgettable this year? Whether you're planning a luxurious brunch, a spa retreat, or a unique day out, Dallas has an abundance of experiences to help you honor the amazing women in your life. Here’s a thoughtfully curated guide to help you plan a perfect celebration. 🌸 Elegant Brunch Spots 1. The Adolphus – Grand Ballroom Brunch Enjoy a lavish brunch buffet with seasonal selections, handcrafted desserts, a decadent raw bar, and all your brunch favorites in an elegant ballroom setting. The event is available from 10 AM to 2 PM on May 11. 2. Asador – Farm-to-Fire Buffet Treat mom to a creative buffet experience with chilled seafood, prime rib, a made-to-order omelet station, and a curated Bloody Mary bar. Complimentary valet service makes it even more convenient. 3. III Forks – Exclusive Brunch Opening This upscale Texas steakhouse opens especially for Mother's Day, serving a refined brunch menu in a classic, sophisticated atmosphere from 11 AM to 3 PM. 4. The French Room – Afternoon Tea Experience Celebrate with a three-course tea service offering delicate savories, sweet pastries, premium loose-leaf teas, and a celebratory Champagne toast. Available all week from May 5–11. 🌿 Unique Experiences 1. Mother’s Day Bagel Run Start the day with energy by joining the Bagel Run—a family-friendly race through a scenic neighborhood with options for 10k, 5k, and Kids K. A virtual race is also available for those who prefer to participate remotely. 2. DIY Terrarium Workshop Design a one-of-a-kind terrarium together at a local plant boutique, then head to Deep Ellum for rooftop brunch with tacos, mimosas, and skyline views. 3. Picnic in the Park Grab gourmet bites from a local market and set up a scenic picnic at popular spots like Turtle Creek Park, Reverchon Park, or Central Square Park. 4. Shopping at the Farmers Market Let Mom explore artisan shops, unique restaurants, and handcrafted gifts in one of the city’s most vibrant markets. 💆‍♀️ Spa & Relaxation 1. Urban Spa Escape at The Joule Pamper her with a spa day that includes revitalizing skincare treatments and body rituals. The signature heat experience offers soothing temperature therapy. 2. Wellness Day at WorldSprings Relax with therapeutic soaks and saunas. Enjoy additional pampering with featured skincare treatments and wellness pop-ups from local vendors. 🎁 Thoughtful Gifts 1. Seasonal Flower Subscription Surprise her with a recurring delivery of fresh, beautifully arranged seasonal blooms. 2. Personalized Jewelry Explore elegant collections featuring birthstone bracelets, charm necklaces, and other pieces that reflect her personality and style. 3. Artisan Chocolates Delight her with handcrafted truffles and chocolate-covered strawberries made with a fusion of European and Mexican influences. 4. Luxury Manicure Experience Gift her a nail appointment using clean, cruelty-free products in a modern, relaxing space. 🛍️ More Gift Ideas Mother’s Day Tranquility Arrangement : Soft tones of white, green, and blue in a calming floral arrangement. The Mediator Mom : Roses dipped in gold, a beautiful symbol of her gentle strength. The Achiever Mom : A grand floral piece for the mom who does it all. Smart Mug : Keeps her favorite beverage at the perfect sipping temperature all day long. Taste of Texas Gift Box : A curated culinary package delivered straight to her door. Fruit Bouquet : A fun and fresh alternative with colorful fruit arrangements perfect for spring.  This Mother’s Day, make it more than just another Sunday—give her a day to remember with experiences and gifts that reflect your love and appreciation. Dallas is full of opportunities to celebrate her in style.

Saturday, May 10 10:00AM - 1:00PM Griggs Park We’re excited to announce HERO FEST 2025, happening on Saturday, May 10th, from 10 AM – 1 PM at Griggs Park! This FREE, family-friendly festival will celebrate local heroes from Dallas Police, SWAT, bomb dogs, and unsung city champions like the Water Department, Sanitation, and 311 services. The event will feature carnival games, festival food, face painting, a balloon artist, a pup cup bar, and more—all designed to bring the Dallas community together.

Every second counts in the housing market when there's so much demand for a relatively low supply of homes. DM me to learn more about how getting pre-approved before starting your home search will make you agile enough to snatch up your dream home before anyone else can. #homebuying #getpreapproved #expertanswers #stayinformed #staycurrent #powerfuldecision #confidentdecisions #realestate #realestatetips #realestatelife #realestateagent #realestateexpert #realestatetipsoftheday #realestatetipsandadvice #palmagent

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As you think ahead to your own move, you may have noticed some houses sell within days, while others linger. But why is that? As Redfin says: “. . . today’s housing market has been topsy-turvy since the pandemic. Low inventory (though rising) and high prices have created a strange mix: Some homes are flying off the market, while others sit for weeks .” That may leave you wondering what you should expect when you sell. Let’s break it down and give you some actionable tips on how to make sure your house is one that sells quickly. Homes Are Still Selling Faster Than Pre-Pandemic The first thing you should know is that, in most markets, things have slowed down a little bit. While you may remember how quickly homes sold a few years ago, that’s not what you should expect today. Now that inventory has grown, according to Realtor.com, homes are taking a bit longer to sell in today’s market (see graph below):

Looking to treat Mom to something special this Mother’s Day? Whether she’s into gourmet brunches, scenic train rides, or hands-on cooking classes, Dallas has an experience she'll never forget. Here are nine of the best Mother’s Day events happening around the city in 2025:

Planning a one-of-a-kind escape in Texas? Whether you’re craving modern architecture, serene natural views, or a whimsical experience, these six Airbnb rentals featured by Dallas Morning News offer unforgettable stays across the Lone Star State. 1. Ramp House – Austin Designed by architect MJ Neal, this South Austin home replaces stairs with elegant indoor ramps and features floor-to-ceiling windows, polished concrete and steel finishes, and a tranquil bamboo courtyard. 👉 Fun fact: It’s also for sale at $1.45 million. 

Lower rates attract more buyers, so when there’s a limited supply of homes, buyers have to fight in bidding wars which drives home prices up!  So waiting for a lower rate might not actually be in your best interest. Take a look at this scenario comparing buying now when there’s less demand vs later when there’s more demand. #buynoworlater #homebuying #expertanswers #stayinformed #staycurrent #powerfuldecision #confidentdecisions #realestate #realestatetips #realestatelife #realestateagent #realestateexpert #realestatetipsoftheday #realestatetipsandadvice #palmagent

Let’s talk about something you might not check nearly as often as your bank account – and that’s how much your home is worth. But when it comes to your financial situation, it’s an important thing to remember. When’s the last time you had a professional show you the value of your home? Think about it. For most people, your house is probably the biggest asset you have. And if you’ve owned your home for a few years (or longer), chances are it’s been quietly building wealth for you in the background. And honestly? You might be surprised by just how much. What Is Home Equity? This wealth you may not even realize you have comes in the form of home equity. Home equity is the difference between what your house is worth and what you still owe on your mortgage. It grows over time as home values rise and as you pay down your mortgage each month. Here’s an example to help you really understand how this works. Let’s say your house is now worth $500,000, and you have $200,000 left to pay off on your loan. That means you have $300,000 in equity. And most homeowners are sitting on some pretty significant equity right now. According to Cotality (formerly CoreLogic), the average homeowner with a mortgage has about $311,000 in equity. Why You Probably Have More Than You Think  Here are the two main reasons homeowners like you have record amounts of equity right now: 1. Significant Home Price Growth. According to the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA), home prices have jumped by more than 57% nationwide over the last five years (see map below):

Looking for a vibrant, fun-filled event for the entire family? Mayfest 2025 is just what you need! Taking place from May 1–4 at Trinity Park in Fort Worth, Texas, this annual festival is a celebration of community, creativity, and culture—with activities spread across more than 33 acres.

It’s not really a surprise that 70% of buyers paused their home search last year . Maybe you were one of them. And if so, no judgment. Conditions just weren’t great. Inventory was too low, prices were too high, and mortgage rates were bouncing all over. That made it really hard to find a home you loved – and could afford. And why sell if you’re not sure where you’re going to go? But here’s the thing: the market’s shifting. And it might be time to hit play again. The Inventory Sweet Spot More homeowners are jumping back into their search to make a move this year. Builders are finishing more homes. And together, that’s creating more options for you when you move – maybe even the home you’ve been waiting for. More homes = more possibilities. But there’s more to it than that. When you sell, you don’t want to feel like it’s impossible to find your next home. At the same time, you also don’t want inventory to be so high, it takes ages for your house to sell. Right now, you’ll get the best of both worlds.  This data will help paint the picture for you. According to Realtor.com , inventory has jumped 28.5% since this time last year , but it’s still below pre-pandemic levels in most markets – and here’s why this is such a sweet spot (see graph below):

Celebrate Cinco de Mayo Around Dallas-Fort Worth

New home sales across North Texas were up 8% in February from a year ago.

With home prices projected to rise by 3.6% in 2025, waiting could mean higher prices and higher monthly payments! A temporary buydownhelps buyers secure a lower payment today while giving them the option to refinance later. Don’t wait!  Buy today with a 2:1 buydown can save you 1000s this year.Wait a year? The same home will increase in value and will cost more next year.Refi later? Your payment could be lower than if you had waited! Bottom line: The right strategy can save your clients thousands. Are you helping them make informed decisions?

Spring in Texas means one thing—bluebonnets in full bloom 💙🌼 Captured this magical moment at one of Dallas’s hidden gems. Nature showing off again!

Have you seen where mortgage rates have been lately? One day they go down a little. The next day, they go back up again. It can feel confusing and even frustrating if you’re trying to decide whether now’s a good time to buy a home. Take a look at the graph below. It uses data from Mortgage News Daily to show that after a relatively stable month of March, mortgage rates have been on a bit of a roller coaster ride in April:

Celebrate Easter at Reunion Tower

The design ensures you never have to leave the 5.5-acre property — not even for a haircut.

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KIDS CRAFT SERIES - Apr 19 – Jun 7