Author: zachshelley

Selling a home within a Homeowners Association (HOA) can be complicated, mainly when unresolved HOA violations occur. HOA rules and governing documents are established to help maintain the community and preserve property values, but violations can create hurdles in the real estate transaction process.  Unpaid dues can be deducted from the money made when selling … Continued

Selling your home is a huge decision, and it’s more difficult when you have severe financial burdens motivating the sale.  While selling your home may seem like immediate financial relief, it’s not always the best way to leverage your most valuable asset.  Today, we’ll explore when selling your house to clear debt makes sense and … Continued

Selling an old house that requires repairs in Texas can be daunting. Still, it offers unique opportunities to attract a specific market of buyers looking for a potential investment or a personalized home project. This guide will equip you with essential strategies to enhance your property’s appeal, navigate the market effectively, and achieve a successful … Continued

Selling a house at a good price, even if it’s in the best shape and form, can be challenging. Adding smoke damage to the list makes it all the more difficult for the homeowner.  Did you know that smoking can decrease the resale value of a house by 30%? Also, up to 27% of people … Continued

Are you struggling with a house worth less than your mortgage? You’re not alone. When a home’s market value falls below the remaining balance of a mortgage, it is known as negative equity or an ‘underwater property.’ A first-quarter 2024 report indicated that the percentage of ‘underwater’ mortgaged homes has increased in 37 states. Therefore, … Continued

Eviction is a legal process through which a landlord seeks to remove a tenant from a rental property. Navigating this process in Texas requires a comprehensive understanding of the legal landscape of landlord-tenant relationships.  Landlords must be well-versed in the specific grounds for eviction, the proper procedures for serving notices, and the steps involved in … Continued

Facing foreclosure is one of the most stressful experiences a homeowner can endure, especially as the clock ticks closer and closer. However, the journey through foreclosure is filled with critical decision points and opportunities for intervention that can alter the outcome. It’s crucial to understand that in Texas, options remain viable to halt the foreclosure … Continued

Owning a property in bad condition can be stressful. One might think that it will never sell, or if it does, it won’t fetch a fair market value.  Fortunately, there’s always a way to make things work in the Lone Star State, even if your homestead’s a little worn. Implementing some strategies and making a … Continued

When you purchase a home, it is an investment that can reap benefits in the future. It also gives you the responsibility to care for the home. As a renter, you don’t have to worry about the costs and labor of most property repairs because the landlord or property manager will take care of them … Continued

What Are Property Tax Liens? A property tax lien is a legal claim the government files against a property when the owner fails to pay property taxes.  This lien secures the government’s interest in the property until the tax debt is paid. Property tax liens are priority liens, meaning they take precedence over other liens, … Continued

Introduction Navigating the daunting task of cleaning a hoarder’s house involves more than just physical clutter. It delves into emotional and logistical challenges requiring a compassionate and systematic approach.  Hoarding disorder profoundly affects individuals and families, making the process of decluttering not only physically demanding but also emotionally sensitive. Therefore, contemplating the complexities involved is … Continued

Introduction Few elements are as fundamental in real estate transactions as a clear title. A clear title signifies ownership free from legal disputes, unpaid liens, or other encumbrances that could cloud property rights.  However, navigating the landscape of title issues at closing can be challenging for both buyers and sellers. Addressing these problems requires thorough … Continued

Being a landlord is not easy.  Between late-night calls, maintenance emergencies, and the complexities of tenant management, the responsibilities can be overwhelming. This article discusses the signs of landlord fatigue, particularly for those managing properties in Texas. If you find yourself nodding along, it might be time to consider selling your rental property and reclaiming … Continued

Introduction Facing the possibility of losing your home can be emotionally and financially challenging. Whether due to unexpected circumstances or financial hardship, the prospect of foreclosure or a short sale can be difficult. A short sale occurs when a landowner trades their property for less than the actual amount owed on the mortgage. This happens … Continued

The role of an executor is crucial in managing an estate and overseeing the probate process after someone passes away. Executors are responsible for ensuring that the decedent’s wishes, as expressed in their will, are carried out accurately. Probate is the legal process that follows the death of a person (known as the decedent). During … Continued