Preparing Your Kids for a Big Move: Mama-Tested Tips from the Real Estate Rodeo Let’s be real—moving ain’t easy. Between packing boxes, keeping the house clean for showings, and trying to remember where you stashed the Sharpies (again), it’s a full-blown rodeo. And if you're moving with kids? Well,

Buying & Selling at the Same Time: How to Ride Two Horses Without Falling Off By Melissa Elliott, The Real Estate Wrangler of North & East Texas Buying a new home while selling your current one can feel a whole lot like trying to ride two wild horses at once—blindfolded, with a cup of coffee in one

By Melissa Elliott, Your Real Estate Wrangler of North & East Texas Let’s get real for a minute: if you own a home, chances are it’s the biggest investment you’ve ever made. And just like you wouldn’t ride a bull without a helmet (unless you’re asking for trouble), you shouldn’t own a home without

By Melissa Elliott, Your Real Estate Wrangler of North & East Texas Let’s talk money—but don’t worry, I’m not about to throw confusing lender lingo at you. I’m talkin’ real-deal, step-by-step guidance to help you figure out what kind of home you can actually afford—without gettin’ in over your boot

Because the house might have great bones, but the wrong area? That’s a deal-breaker, partner. You can remodel a kitchen, tear out carpet, or even add on a porch—but the one thing you can’t change about a home is where it sits. That’s why choosing the right neighborhood is just as important as picki

Before you giddy-up into the home buying process, let’s make sure your saddle’s cinched tight. Applying for a home loan isn’t just about filling out a few forms and hoping for the best. It’s about being ready—and I mean Texas-ready. If you’re thinking about buying a home in the near future, getting

Pull up a chair, and let’s talk about the system that keeps this real estate rodeo running smoothly. If you’ve been dipping your toe in the home buying or selling waters, you’ve probably heard the term MLS tossed around like a lasso at a calf scramble. But what exactly is it? And why does every Rea

From Clicking to Closing—How to Wrangle the Right Home Without Leaving Your Couch Back in the day, homebuyers would hop in the car, grab a flyer from a yard sign, and hope the agent called back before sunset. But now? The hunt starts online—probably with a cup of coffee in one hand and a dog-eared

What Gives a Homebuyer Negotiating Power?By Melissa Elliott, your Real Estate Rodeo Wrangler When it comes to buying a home, it’s not always about who has the biggest wallet — it’s about who’s riding in with the strongest strategy. So, what exactly gives a homebuyer negotiating power? Let’s lasso t

Understanding the Factors That Impact Your Local Real Estate MarketBy Melissa Elliott, your real estate wrangler with the facts and the flair When folks talk about the real estate market, they often treat it like the weather—unpredictable, mysterious, and constantly changing. But here’s the truth:

5 Fun Facts About Real Estate That Might Surprise YouBy Melissa Elliott, The Real Estate Wrangler of North & East Texas Saddle up, y’all—real estate isn’t just contracts, showings, and open houses. This wild industry is packed full of quirky truths and surprising tidbits that most folks don’t hear

Debunking Common Real Estate Myths: Separating Fact from FictionBy Melissa Elliott, Your Real Estate Wrangler of North & East Texas Let’s be honest—real estate is full of myths, half-truths, and flat-out tall tales that can cost buyers and sellers time, money, and a whole lot of stress. Whether it'

Appraisals vs. Inspections: What’s the Difference in Real Estate?If you’re diving into the world of real estate—whether buying your first home or selling a beloved property—you’ll likely hear the terms “appraisal” and “inspection” tossed around. While they sound similar, they serve very different pu

Understanding How Property Taxes Work: What Every Homeowner Should KnowProperty taxes can feel like a mystery wrapped in an envelope from your local government. But understanding how they work is key to becoming a confident homeowner. Whether you’re new to the housing market or have owned your home

The Role of Credit Score in Buying a HomeBuying a home is one of life’s most exciting milestones. But before you start browsing listings or picturing yourself in a new kitchen, there’s an invisible number quietly shaping your journey: your credit score. Think of it as your financial report card, and

Why Home Appraisals Matter When Selling Your HomeThinking about putting your house on the market? Whether you’re a seasoned seller or a first time home buyer looking to understand the process, there’s one crucial step you can’t afford to overlook: the home appraisal. It’s more than just a number—it’

Why Owning a Home Is More Than Just Having a Roof Over Your HeadWhen most people think about buying a home, the first thing that comes to mind is shelter—a safe place to sleep, eat, and unwind. But the truth is, homeownership is about so much more than just having four walls and a roof. It’s about b

Why You Should Never Skip A Home InspectionPicture this: you’ve found your dream home. The kitchen sparkles, the backyard is perfect for summer barbecues, and every room feels just right. It’s tempting to rush through the buying process and skip the home inspection—especially in a competitive market

Buying your first home is exciting, but navigating the world of mortgage loans can feel a bit overwhelming. With so many options out there, how do you know which loan is right for you? Don’t worry—you’re not alone! Let’s break down some quick tips to help you find the perfect fit for your new home j

Buying a home isn’t just about falling in love with a pretty kitchen or picturing your family in the backyard. It’s a huge investment—and smart buyers know the real work starts long before the offer is made. If you want to avoid surprises and make sure you’re getting the right place for your needs,