Austin Tx

Nov. 24, 2025

What Documents Do I Need to Prepare for the Sale?

What Documents Do I Need to Prepare for the Sale?

Getting Your Paperwork in Order Before Listing

Selling a home involves significant paperwork, and having documents ready prevents delays and demonstrates professionalism to buyers. As a 23-year veteran real estate agent with HomeSmart Stars, I help sellers organize everything they …

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Nov. 23, 2025

Are There Special Assessments Planned or Pending for Your Austin Condo?

Are There Special Assessments Planned or Pending for Your Austin Condo?

Nothing strikes fear into a condo buyer's heart quite like discovering a $15,000 special assessment after closing. As a realtor at HomeSmart Stars with 23 years of experience, Bob McCranie has seen buyers blindsided by these surprise …

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Nov. 23, 2025

What Is the Owner-Occupancy Ratio vs. Rental Units in Your Austin Condo Building?

What Is the Owner-Occupancy Ratio vs. Rental Units in Your Austin Condo Building?

"Why should I care if my neighbors own or rent?" This question reveals a critical gap in condo buyer education. As a 23 year veteran real estate agent at HomeSmart Stars, Bob McCranie has watched building quality …

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Nov. 23, 2025

What Are the HOA Rules and Restrictions in Austin Condos? (Pets, Rentals, Renovations)

What Are the HOA Rules and Restrictions in Austin Condos? (Pets, Rentals, Renovations)

Imagine closing on your dream Austin condo, moving your beloved dog in, and then discovering the building has a strict no-pets policy. Or planning to rent out your unit during ACL Festival, only to learn short-term rentals …

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Nov. 23, 2025

What Amenities Are Included with Your Austin Condo? (Pool, Gym, Concierge)

What Amenities Are Included with Your Austin Condo? (Pool, Gym, Concierge)

A $500 monthly HOA fee can feel steep—until you realize it includes a resort-style pool, 24/7 fitness center, rooftop lounge, dog park, and concierge service that would cost $200+ monthly to access separately. As a realtor at HomeSmart …

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Nov. 19, 2025

Should I Stage My Home or Sell It As-Is?

Should I Stage My Home or Sell It As-Is?

The ROI of Home Staging in Austin

Home staging is one of the most debated topics among sellers. As a 23-year veteran real estate agent at HomeSmart Stars, I've seen the dramatic difference staging makes—when done right. Let's examine …

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Nov. 19, 2025

How Do Property Taxes Work When Selling in Travis County?

How Do Property Taxes Work When Selling in Travis County?

Understanding Property Tax Implications for Sellers

Property taxes in Texas are significant, and understanding how they're handled at closing is important for calculating your net proceeds. As a 23-year veteran real estate agent with HomeSmart Stars, I help sellers …

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Posted in Austin Tx, Buyers, Sellers
Nov. 19, 2025

Do I Need to Disclose Any Issues or Defects with My Property?

Do I Need to Disclose Any Issues or Defects with My Property?

Texas Disclosure Requirements for Home Sellers

"What do I legally have to tell buyers?" This question comes up in almost every listing appointment I have as a 23-year veteran real estate agent at HomeSmart Stars. Texas has specific …

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Posted in Austin Tx, Buyers, Sellers
Nov. 19, 2025

What Is the Typical Commission Rate for Real Estate Agents in Austin?

What Is the Typical Commission Rate for Real Estate Agents in Austin?

Understanding Real Estate Commissions in 2025

Real estate commissions have been in the news lately, and many sellers have questions about how agents are compensated. As a 23-year veteran real estate agent with HomeSmart Stars, I believe in …

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Posted in Austin Tx, Sellers
Nov. 19, 2025

How Long Will It Take to Sell My Home?

How Long Will It Take to Sell My Home?

Realistic Timelines for Austin Home Sales

"How fast will my home sell?" is one of the first questions I'm asked as a 23-year veteran real estate agent with HomeSmart Stars. The answer depends on several factors, and understanding them helps …

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Posted in Austin Tx, Sellers