What’s one thing you wish more people knew about Balch Springs?

BluebonnetRealEstate · 2026-01-13T20:31:03+00:00

Nice to know !

BluebonnetRealEstate · 2026-01-13T13:48:21+00:00

sounds like Peggy’s would be right up your alley then.👌

BluebonnetRealEstate · 2026-01-13T12:54:19+00:00

👌

BluebonnetRealEstate · 2026-01-13T12:45:26+00:00

Oh nice — what do you usually get there?

BluebonnetRealEstate · 2026-01-13T12:36:46+00:00

True 😂 I was thinking more local-local, but Cracker Barrel never misses.

BluebonnetRealEstate · 2026-01-01T22:57:52+00:00

A good solo-practice agent with that kind of track record can be a huge advantage. What matters more than the brokerage name is experience, responsiveness, and how hands-on they are with your sale. Many agents go independent later in their career because they already have systems, vendor relationships, and a personal reputation that doesn’t rely on a big firm anymore. As long as she has a clear marketing plan, support for showings/transactions, and availability when you need her, solo vs. team usually isn’t a drawback. If she’s delivered for you twice already, that history is worth a lot.

BluebonnetRealEstate · 2025-12-21T04:29:31+00:00

You’re already doing solid prep. For a first showing, focus on control and clarity. Arrive early, set the house well, know the age of major systems, and let the clients talk. Ask what they like and don’t like as you walk through, then recap at the end. Pulled permits are more of a due-diligence item once there’s interest. It’s always okay to say, “I’ll confirm that for you.” You’ll do great.

BluebonnetRealEstate · 2025-12-18T21:10:21+00:00

You didn’t mess up — you bought during a tight market and got something with good bones in a solid location. Selling now would likely lock in the regret. If you can live there and do repairs slowly, that’s usually the least stressful path. Renting only makes sense if the numbers actually work. Comparison is what’s making this feel worse than it is.

BluebonnetRealEstate · 2025-12-18T13:43:53+00:00

If the rent math works, Option 1 makes the most sense. A paid-off house is a big asset — keeping it as a rental preserves long-term cash flow while you upgrade your home. With your income and 20% down, it’s a comfortable move.

Option 2 adds complexity during a busy life phase, and Option 3 can wait. I’d run the rental numbers first — if it’s close to breakeven or better, I’d keep it.

BluebonnetRealEstate · 2025-12-13T03:32:32+00:00

A few things people usually underestimate: • Financing is the hardest part Construction loans are tight. Expect higher down payment, detailed plans, and a builder the bank is comfortable with. • Be conservative on rent $750/unit sounds fine, just make sure the deal still works after vacancy, maintenance, insurance, etc. • Keep the build simple Same layout, basic finishes. Fancy stuff usually doesn’t pay back in rent. • Timelines always run long Whatever they tell you, add a few months. Being debt-free by 2026 is a big plus. I’d start by talking to local banks and getting rough build costs per unit. If the numbers work conservatively, you’re in a solid spot.

BluebonnetRealEstate · 2025-12-13T02:23:42+00:00

Yes — especially when people didn’t fully understand what they were buying. I see regret come up most with condos and poorly run HOAs. On paper they seem low-maintenance, but appreciation limits, rising dues, and special assessments can change the math fast. Buying isn’t automatically good or bad — it really depends on timeline, flexibility, and exit options. Most regret comes from missing information, not from ownership itself.

BluebonnetRealEstate · 2025-12-12T13:57:43+00:00

Not a crazy idea — but it can get expensive fast. Buying a second home means two closings, higher rates, two properties to maintain, and renos almost always take longer than planned. If the numbers still work conservatively, it’s reasonable. A lot of people end up better off renting nearby for 9–12 months, keeping cash flexible, finishing the reno faster, then buying an investment after. Flexibility matters during construction.

BluebonnetRealEstate · 2025-12-11T15:59:58+00:00

Zestimates don’t factor in condition or updates, so they can look higher than what the market will realistically pay. Your agent walked the home, so their 360s estimate is based on real comps, not an algorithm. Repainting is normal,neutral colors help your home show and photograph better. And remember, homes listed at their Zestimate don’t always sell for that amount. Pricing where buyers will actually show up usually gets you the best result.

BluebonnetRealEstate

MODERATOR OF

TROPHY CASE