Things To Do In Houston... Astros Game!

David J. Moore ABR, GRI, SRS, MSP... WHAT does this alphabet soup mean to ME???

David J. Moore ABR, GRI, SRS, MSP... WHAT does this alphabet soup mean to ME???

 

ABR, GRI, SRS, MSP - what does all this alphabet soup mean to you? When you see initials like these behind a REALTOR�'s name, it means that this person is a committed professional, not content just to take the courses needed to get and maintain a real estate license, but determined to improve his or her professional skills. They have devoted time to attending advanced educational courses and taking examinations to earn these designations.

ABR
Accredited Buyer Representative - denotes a Sales Associate who is qualified to provide buyer representation and is familiar with buyer brokerage and buyer agency issues. Requires a 12 hour course, active membership in REBAC, and at least five documented transactions during the previous 18th month period where the Sales Associate acted as a buyer's representative. Awarded by the Real Estate Buyer's Agent Council (REBAC).

GRI
Graduate, REALTOR� Institute-  is a nationally professional real estate designation. This designation may only be earned after successfully completing a rigorous educational program that includes 92 hours of live course instruction from a statewide faculty selected because of extensive experience in their own areas of expertise. This designation is available only to members of the local, state and National Association of REALTORS�.

   SRS

Seller Representative Specialist - This designation is the premier credential in seller representation. It is designed to elevate professional standards and enhance personal performance. The designation is awarded to real estate practitioners by the Council of Real Estate Brokerage Managers (CRB) who meet specific educational and practical experience criteria.

       MRP

Military Relocation Professional  -NAR's (National Association Of Realtors)  Military Relocation Professional certification focuses on educating real estate professionals about working with current and former military service members to find housing solutions that best suit their needs and take full advantage of military benefits and support.

 

Houston Relocation...See how easy it is! Watch here!

Why You Need an Agent when Buying from a Builder

If you are purchasing a Houston home from a home builder, you might think that you don’t need a Houston real estate agent. However, a home buyer can be at a big disadvantage if they don’t use a real estate agent and just go directly through the builder.

The real estate agent’s job in this type of transaction is to represent the buyer and assist them throughout the transaction. The agent’s responsibility is to get the buyer the most value possible and to also make the home buyer aware of things the salesperson may certainly not bring to your attention.

You may currently be working with the builder representative at the model home, but that representative is not a real estate agent working for you. They are a salesperson for the builder working toward the best interest of the builder.

When you work directly with a builder, you will be responsible for negotiating. As a Houston home buyer, you may be unaware of what incentives are typical, alternative financing, who pays for what, what upgrades should cost, etc. Real estate agents negotiate on a daily basis. They know what questions they should ask on behalf of the buyer that the buyer may not even think about.

Real estate agents are licensed and governed by strict laws and a code of ethics. Good agents have the motivation to work in your best interest as a home buyer because they also rely on your referrals and repeat business, which is a powerful incentive for providing the highest level of service.

Have someone in your corner when working with a home builder, and hire a reputable real estate agent when building a home. Keep in mind that there may also be some value added incentives a Realtor can offer to you such as rebates or paying for your title policy.

 If you have further questions please contact us. 

Houston Neighborhoods... Memorial Park / Washington Corridor

              

Like many major cities, Houston is defined by its neighborhoods.  There are many Houston neighborhoods with which to get familiar. One popular area where you will find a fresh-faced crowd of people is the Washington Corridor. Here you will find an eclectic mix of luxurious lounges, wine bars and some of the most-loved restaurants in the city. This well-trafficked corridor is an ideal place to meet up with friends for a game or to start a fun night on the town. The strip which stretches east from Memorial Park to Downtown, recently experienced a resurgence, as dilapidated properties were torn down and replaced with townhouses, mixed-use developments and high-energy hot spots. After the sun goes down, catch a seat on The Wave—Houston’s first ‘jitney’ shuttle in more than 15 years. The taxi-bus concept enables riders to enjoy a fixed-route, fixed-rate shuttle within the Washington Avenue District, Midtown and the Heights. 

Memorial Park is a 1502- acre city park that has something for everyone! Located on Memorial Drive and near I-10 & the 610 Loop. Memorial park received its name because much of the park is located on the grounds of a World War I military facility and it commemorates World War I soldiers. It's a great place to bring your family (or just yourself) to get away from the Houston hustle and bustle. Joggers, skaters, hikers & bikers enjoy the wooded trails filled with beauty and wildlife. If you're not into running, bring a picnic basket and enjoy a nice afternoon on the playgrounds where people watching is always fun and never ending. The park has facilities for baseball, sand volleyball, one of the city's premiere golf courses, fitness center and an outdoor swimming pool that on a hot summer day is a must to take advantage of! It is also home to the Houston Arboretum, which has daily tours and a great museum at the entrance of the facility. It's a great park filled with anything you'd ever want!  

Whether you live here or not, the Washington Corridor & Memorial Park area is definitely a must see!

Walking With Grandma

Not all posts need to be real estate related. Who are those in your life that you treasure the most? The ones who make your eyes light up and smile? I suppose we can all take life and people for granted at times, but life is short and tomorrow is never promised. I love this poem, it's simple yet says so much.

So smile, laugh, play, act silly, stay up late, tickle, make a big mess and don't worry about it, keep the hand prints on the glass doors... that's what I still have on mine, the hand prints of my beloved McKenna who passed away last year. Give lots of hugs and kisses today for they will be your memories tomorrow.

Marisol Quijano-Moore  

5 Simple Tips For First Time Home Buyers

You’ve decided that your first Houston home should have three bedrooms and a big yard, but what else have you thought about? 

Make a checklist and use it. Determine what features are essential to you and refer to your list when viewing properties. Your list may change, but it can be a good starting point.

Consider all expenses. When you're calculating what you can afford, be sure to factor in other expenses like taxes, insurance, commuting costs, and utilities.

Ask for the paperwork. If you’re looking at property in a homeowners association, request a copy of the HOA rules before submitting an offer to see if you’re willing to abide by them.

Research funding sources. You may qualify for home buyer-assistance programs based on your profession, income, or the property’s location.

Think about resale value. You may appreciate a home’s unique features, but will potential buyers love them when you’re ready to sell?

At Innovative Realty Group/ DavidTheLocator we can assist you whether you're looking to buy or sell a home. We also specialize in Houston relocation! Please take a moment to visit our website or give us a call, we'd love the opportunity to assist you!

Houston Newcomers - Welcome!

6 Best Houseplants That Can Thrive In Your Bathroom

                                   6 Best Houseplants That Can Thrive In Your Bathroom 

ZZ Plant

Bamboo

Orchid

Jade

Philodendron

Spider

---

Before You Begin...
Different plants will be more at home in certain bathrooms than others. Lighting, humidity and temperature play big roles in the thriving of your botanicals, so take a moment to evaluate your bathroom decor, and then determine which plants will work best for you.

Lighting: A bright, sun-drenched bathroom with at least one large window is ideal for almost any plant, but there are plenty of varieties that will live comfortably in low-light environments as well.

Tip: As a rule, south- and east-facing windows bring in the most light, while west- and north-pointing windows let in the least.

Humidity: While not always a concern, high humidity is important to some plants.

Temperature: Most houseplants and many low-maintenance flowers can thrive in a variety of temperatures, ranging from 55 F to 85 F, with 65 F to 75 F being an ideal climate.

Pick a Plant: Although some factors in your bathroom may vary, you want to select a low-maintenance plant that can handle the environment in your bathroom (humidity, moisture, temperature, etc.) The following are good starter plants:

1. ZZ Plant
2. Bamboo
3. Orchids
4. Spider plant
5. Jade plant
6. Philodendron

Discover the Perfect Display: Spot a windowsill, a shelf, even atop the toilet or medicine cabinet — your bathroom is filled with lots of small nooks, perfect for perching a potted plant or flower. Whether your bathroom is big or small, get clues on how to spot the perfect space for all of your new plants.

For a Small Bathroom: When space is limited, utilize every inch. Place plants on the back of the toilet tank or along a windowsill. Don’t forget to look up, too: you may have a ledge on top of a cabinet or vanity that could easily house a small plant.

For a Spacious Bathroom: In a large bathroom, bring in an elegant metal plant stand, small side table or bookshelf to display your plants. If you have a large counter, create a small plant display in a corner.

Looking for a home? Let our team at Innovative Realty Group help you! Whether you're looking to purchase a Houston home or lease a Houston apartment, we can help you with both. Selling your Houston home? Please let us know... we care about where you live!!! Call us now at 281-326-HOME or visit our website at www.davidthelocator.com.

What are some of your bathroom favorites??? Please share below:)

DavidTheLocator: Protecting Your Home From Burglary

DavidTheLocator: Protecting Your Home From Burglary:   How to Protect Your Home. American homes are victims of burglary about every 15 seconds, according to the U.S. Department ...

Protecting Your Home From Burglary

           How to Protect Your Home

American homes are victims of burglary about every 15 seconds, according to the U.S. Department of Justice. The typical homeowner suffers a loss of nearly $2,000 in stolen goods or property. If you have a high deductible on your homeowners insurance policy, you'll likely have to pay out of pocket to replace your stuff. But for a small investment, you can make your home less appealing to burglars in the first place. Here are some simple tips to keep you and your home safe!

Check Locks and Latches -  Sixty percent of all burglaries take place at ground floors and windows. Check locks and latches on windows and doors to your regular maintenance routine. All it takes for a thief to gain entry is a single broken latch. 

Draw The Blinds- Use shades, drapes and other window treatment to keep potentially tempting household items out of view. Burglary is a crime of opportunity and "window shopping" is one way criminals choose potential targets.

Cut Back Trees and Hedges - Maintain sight lines to the street by removing trees and hedges that obscure key entry points into the house. The lack of a suitable place to hide is sometimes enough to deter would-be criminals.

Alarm System - Consider an adding alarm system. Modern systems offer features like remote access, security cameras and 24-hour monitoring. 

Security Lights - Install security lights anywhere a potential thief might look to gain entry to your home, including back doors, attached or detached garages, covered porches and any other outbuildings. Adequate nighttime illumination is critical, because a dark or poorly lit property makes it easier for a burglar to go about unseen.

Beware of Bragging - Avoid broadcasting big-ticket purchases via social media - this could be an invitation for trouble. It's also a good idea to shred any receipts or credit card statements that may alert thieves to your recent purchase (this also helps prevent identity theft). Be sure not to draw undue attention to your home by discarding empty boxes at the curb with your trash- this is a big problem especially during the holidays.

Keep Control of Keys - Get in the habit of gathering keys from contractors or household helpers after they are done. Be careful about using a smart key system that allows you to re-key locks yourself - some are easily picked.

Keep a List of All Valuables- Keep a list of all your valuables and take pictures of them as well.

Use Common Sense-  But the best form of protection is simply to lock all your doors and windows whenever you leave your home. It's amazing how many people don't do this, and yet it is the simplest and best thing anyone can do!

If you have other suggestions please share them below! At Innovative Realty Group we not only care about helping you find a home but care about your safety as well!

Texas REALTORS have breaking news from Capitol Hill

Texas REALTORS have breaking news from Capitol Hill

This is great news for all of us homeowners here in Texas. This is why it so important to get involved in our industry and collectively come together to lobby for real benefits to us as consumers. I am proud to say that I am active Realtor in my community and that as a group, we are able to bring items of real interest to the forefront and have an impact that helps us all !~ I am proud to be a Texas Realtor !

DavidTheLocator: 39 Tips For Every Homeowner: Week 5

DavidTheLocator: 39 Tips For Every Homeowner: Week 5: 39 Tips For Every Homeowner: Week 5 It’s hard to account for everything that comes with buying a new Houston home . We hope ...

39 Tips For Every Homeowner: Week 5

39 Tips For Every Homeowner: Week 5

It’s hard to account for everything that comes with buying a new Houston home. We hope this week of tips will help prepare you for the responsibilities that come with homeownership.

34. Take a video of each room. You can present that or photographs to the insurance company as evidence of the contents of the room in case of a fire or other damage.

35. Expect expenses to be more expensive than you thought. You never truly understand how much money you will spend on your home until you own one. Factor in necessary purchases like window coverings, landscaping equipment and a well-stocked toolbox, plus periodic maintenance items like air filters.

36. Prepare for the worst.  You always need to know what potential hazards can occur in your market. Are you on an earthquake fault, are you in an area susceptible to brush fires, hurricanes, or do tornadoes happen often?

37. Think security. Protecting your family is critical. 

38. Know your renewals. If the home has a termite or stucco bond in place or an alarm system contract, “don’t depend on the company to notify you prior to the renewal date. Know your renewals.

39. Enjoy your home!

Purchasing a Houston home? Selling? Give us a call at 281-326-HOME and visit our website at www.davidthelocator.com 

At Innovative Realty Group we can help you with all of your needs. Looking for a Houston apartment? We also specialize in Apartment Locating and our service is FREE!

Content provided courtesy of USAA.

Stupid Spoon Game!

Had to laugh... This was 4 years ago...just acting silly & having fun! What things have you done to create a good laugh???

39 Tips For Every Homeowner: Week 3

39 tips for every homeowner: Week 3

From paint color to property tax, Houston homeownership is all in the details. When you’re deliberating over those details, make sure you’re familiar with state and local regulations.

Know your Houston neighborhood rules.

16. Will a change in exterior color, siding or roof style require special approval from your city or homeowners association?

17. Does the neighborhood have restrictions on the type or height of a fence?

18. Are there any rules on the number or type of vehicles, such as campers and boats that can be parked at a property?

19. Are there restrictions on the types of business you can run out of your home?

20. Are particular types of animals, sizes or breeds prohibited in the neighborhood?

21. Can sheds or outbuildings be built on your property?

Learn your state’s tax rules. It might save you some cash, like in these examples:

22. South Carolina: Soon after closing, new homeowners should head to the county assessor’s office to apply for the discounted 4 percent property tax for permanent occupants. If not, their tax bill comes out at 6 percent, which can be a large difference.

23. Maryland: First-time homeowners are exempt from state transfer taxes, which are usually split 50-50 between the seller and the buyer.

24. Texas: Seek a homestead tax exemption. Homeowners could end up saving as much as 20 percent on their property tax each year if they file for it.

Purchasing a Houston home? Selling? Give us a call at 281-326-HOME and visit our website at www.davidthelocator.com 

At Innovative Realty Group we can help you with all of your needs. Looking for a Houston apartment? We also specialize in Apartment Locating and our service is FREE!

Content provided courtesy of USAA

  

39 Tips For Every Homeowner: Week 4

39 Tips For Every Homeowner: Week 4

Just like anything in life, Houston homeownership has its do’s and don’ts. We cover those, and more, in today’s installment.

25. DON’T touch your retirement savings. Never put yourself in a situation where you have to dip into your retirement assets to buy, maintain or improve your house. That’s a good indication you've stretched yourself too thin. Try to have an emergency fund that covers three to six months of expenses to avoid this.

26. DO re-evaluate personal documents. Major life changes such as a Houston home purchase are great reasons to review and possibly update your life insurance and important estate planning documents.

27. DO consider a home warranty.  If you didn't negotiate one at closing, buy one. Many policies cover problems with appliances, heating or cooling systems, and interior plumbing. You pay a small cost annually, which is so much less than if you had to pay $3,000 to replace a furnace.

28. DON’T expect a major tax refund.  Most people believe they will have a significant tax refund the year they buy a house. That’s not always true, especially if you purchase your house in the second half of the year and only have a partial year’s worth of deductions.  

29. Ask the listing agent for past utility costs. This way, you won’t be surprised by how much it may cost each month for electricity, gas and water.

Maintain the exterior

30. Appearances matter. Curb appeal helps maintain property values. Take pride in your new investment.

31. Watch the heat. It can cause foundation problems. Consider placing a soaker hose 12 to 18 inches from the home’s outer edge during spells of extremely high temperatures.

32. Water rules. In many southern cities, homeowners can be fined for watering their lawn on the wrong days of the week.

33. Meet the landscaper. The lawn care vendor knows the yard. Ask sellers for contact information and fees.

Purchasing a Houston home? Selling? Give us a call at 281-326-HOME and visit our website at www.davidthelocator.com 

At Innovative Realty Group we can help you with all of your needs. Looking for a Houston apartment? We also specialize in Apartment Locating and our service is FREE!

Content provided courtesy of USAA.

39 Tips For Every Homeowner: Week 2

39 tips for every homeowner: Week 2

‎

Buying a Houston home is a big step, and there is so much to cover. Here are some simple things that could slip through the cracks if you’re not careful.

9. Always have your locks re-keyed immediately.

10. Stay updated on Houston schools.  Call the school district and find out if there will be any boundary changes regarding schools, especially in new neighborhoods.,

11. Understand your homeowners insurance coverage.  A lot of times when people buy a house, they don’t understand all of the liability limits. Really look at your policy again and see if there are any changes that need to be made. I’ve talked to a lot of people who have a 1 percent deductible but didn’t really think about what that means. One percent of a $400,000 home is a lot of money for most people. 

Quiz your home inspector about maintaining your new investment.

12. What do I need to prepare and protect the home against freezing weather?

13. How do I properly maintain drainage and moisture around the home to prevent foundation issues?

14. How often do I need to have the HVAC system serviced to keep it in proper working order?

15. Which items would you repair or replace if you were buying the home?

Purchasing a Houston home? Selling? Give us a call at 281-326-HOME and visit our website at www.davidthelocator.com 

At Innovative Realty Group we can help you with all of your needs. Looking for a Houston apartment? We also specialize in Apartment Locating and our service is FREE!

Content provided courtesy of USAA.

39 Tips for Every Homeowner: Week 1

39 Tips for Every Homeowner: Week 1

Preparation and care can make the difference between costly headaches and home sweet home. Here are 39 tips to help you enjoy your big investment. Today, tips 1-8.

Get to know your home’s systems...

A lot of things make a Houston house a home. Understand the systems in your home and how they operate.

1. Change air filters for improved cooling and heating efficiency.
2. Find the water shut-off valves to help protect against damage from leaks.
3. Ask how your sprinkler system operates to reduce water waste.
4. Know the location of your heating, ventilation and air conditioning system.
5. Understand how your kitchen appliances work.
6. Locate all the smoke detectors and change the batteries regularly.
7. Familiarize yourself with the alarm system keypad and contact the monitoring company.
8. Learn where your gas meter is and who provides your service.

Purchasing a Houston home? Selling? Give us a call at 281-326-HOME and visit our website at www.davidthelocator.com 
At Innovative Realty Group we can help you with all of your needs. Looking for a Houston apartment? We also specialize in Apartment Locating and our service is FREE!

Content provided courtesy of USAA.

DavidTheLocator: Halloween Safety Tips for Trick or Treating

DavidTheLocator: Halloween Safety Tips for Trick or Treating:                                           Halloween Safety Tips for Trick or Treating Kids look forward to Halloween  for many reason...