Categories Baytown, Tips

How’s it Going in Sports? A Glimpse Into Your Local Teams

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Living in the shadow of Houston, Texas, there are plenty of sports entertainment available for residents of nearby Baytown. To start, the Houston Astros gave baseball fans quite a year, earning their third consecutive AL West division title after their victory over the Los Angeles Angels. They finished the season with a record of 107-55, not only the best in franchise history, but the best record in all of baseball! Entering the playoffs as the top seeded team in both leagues, they quickly advanced to the ALCS for the third time in a row. In a showdown with the New York Yankees, Astros second baseman, Jose Altuve, hit a walk-off home run sending the team to its third World Series. However, they lost the 2019 World Series to the Washington Nationals in game seven and lost all four home games. After the Astro’s heartbreaking World Series defeat, you may be wondering what else is going on in the world of sports in and around Baytown, so, here is a glimpse of what is going on with your local teams.

Houston Texans

Texas is known for its fanatical football heritage and this year the Texans are sure to display an exciting season. It will mark the first full season without the ownership of Bob McNair, who died during the 2018 season. The Texans also fired their General Manager, Brian Gaine, after only one season earlier this year. Both events have created a lot of uncertainty for the upcoming season, however the Texans have started off strong leading the AFC South 6-3 and are ranked 3rd in the league. 2019 is the Houston Texans’ 18th season in the National Football League and the sixth under head coach Bill O’Brien.

Houston Rockets

Unfortunately, the Rockets have not had a great start this year. Currently they rank 9th in the western division at 3-3, their defense is a disaster (rated second to last), and the offense is not as strong as it once was. Many fans are starting to panic! Luckily, it is still early in the season and the team has once again called in the help of former assistant coach, Jeff Bzdelik, to mastermind a new defensive scheme. It should make for an exhilarating season as fans are left on the edge of their seats hoping the team can turn things around.

College Football

To get your football fix, the University of Houston Cougars are sure to deliver the full college ball experience this year. Head coach Dana Holgorsen has vowed to fight on despite losing two of his star athletes to injuries for the remainder of 2019! Senior quarterback, D’Eriq King, who set the American Athletic Conference record last season with 50 touchdowns and senior receiver, Keith Corbin, who is a third-year starter, both said they would be returning in the 2020 season. Meanwhile, coach Holgorsen has said “we’ve got kids that we’ve recruited to come into the program that we have confidence in that can play at a high level. … We’ve got a lot of confidence in our coaching staff and everybody else that’s on the team and in the program.” The heightened drama should make for an exciting year!

College Basketball

So far this year, University of Houston Cougars Basketball has been on fire! Ranked number one in the American Athletic Conference, the team has secured former Kansas guard Quentin Grimes. ESPN ranked him the best transfer player still available for the season and he chose the Cougars over Texas A&M. Coach Kelvin Sampson hopes that the addition of Grimes will make the Cougars a top-25-caliber team, ushering in another strong season for the team. Under his direction the Cougars have made two NCAA tournament appearances in the last five seasons, winning the American Athletic Conference last year 33-4, and advancing to the Sweet 16 before losing to Kentucky.

Baytown and Houston are great places to be in the fall when it comes to sports, and if you want to make a winning play when it comes to selling your home, we can help. We are Gulf State Homebuyers and we buy homes in the areas of Baytown and Houston. We are all cash home buyers who can get you a surprisingly competitive offer for your home as-is. If your home has been damaged by fire, flood, or storm, or if your home has just become a bit outdated, an all cash buyer is perfect for you. Skip the time and money required to get your home ready to sell and sell to us!

Categories Baytown, Cash Offer, Landlord

Why You Should Sell Your Investment Property in Baytown!

 

Do you own an investment property in Baytown or in any of the surrounding cities? If you do then you may want to consider selling. Although many investors have the understanding that holding their investment property is always the best strategy, there are current market indicators that are supporting those investors who are open to change. Overall, investors who are holding onto their investment assets may be leaving money on the table. Here’s why:

Use Your Equity to Increase Your Cash Flow

Leveraging your current investment property to increase your cash flow can improve your financial position. By selling your current home and reinvesting in either a larger, single family home, or a multi-unit building such as a duplex or triplex, you can increase your cash flow. You can use the cash received from the sale of your current investment property as a down payment and take advantage of the low interest rates to acquire a loan on the new property.

Another option that many consider is refinancing their current investment property to purchase a second property. However, there is a major pitfall in this plan that many overlook, and that is the hassle of managing two properties in separate locations. By consolidating your properties onto one lot you can reduce the time it takes to manage the properties.

Do a 1031 Exchange

By participating in a 1031 exchange, you can leverage the equity in your current investment property and trade into a larger one without paying capital gains taxes. A 1031 Exchange, which is defined under section 1031 of the IRS Code allows investors to defer paying capital gains taxes on an investment property when is it sold and another “like-kind property” is purchased.

Take Advantage: We are in a Seller’s Market

Don’t miss out on the current opportunity – we are still in a seller’s market. This means that due to increased demand and limited supply you can receive a premium on your home. Wait any longer and the market could shift, reducing your return on the sale. You may be wondering how you will be able to buy the next property if it is a seller’s market. This is simple: Thanks to the cash you will have at hand from your current home, you will have maximum leverage to negotiate on your next purchase. Furthermore, if you are considering investing in an alternative asset, such as a commercial real estate property (apartment complex), the market has different demands. With the right buyer’s agent you will most likely be able to improve your position.

Move to a Stronger Market

Economists are predicting that in the next nine to eighteen months the market will start to take a hit, and this includes the real estate market. This means that any property owners need to start preparing for the long term; if they are considering selling in the next ten years, they should execute now. If they wait, they could risk entering a recession, which could then take years to recover from.

In this instance, moving to a stronger market can be the solution for any investor. For example, purchasing in Houston could prove to be an intelligent decision. More people are moving into the cities for job opportunities, which increases rent and demand for rental units. Moving to an urban market provides more security in economic uncertainty.

Get Out

Maybe it is just time for you to get out of your investment property. Are you currently experiencing more stress than reward by managing your property or properties? Do you have tenants that are no longer worth the worry? Are you facing foreclosure on the property? Is the property vacant? Are you entering retirement and looking for less work? If you answered “Yes” to any of these questions, then getting out of the investment may be your best option.

Sell, But Don’t List

Many investors avoid exchanging or selling their investment assets because they don’t want to hassle with selling their property on the market. We have a solution that will help you forego this process…Sell to us, Gulf State Homebuyers. We are investors located in Baytown who are interested in buying your property. We buy homes in all conditions and as-is. This means that as the owner you will not need to hire any contractors, real estate agents, or appraisers. Instead, we do all the work. Our process is simple. Once you contact us, we will set up a time to walk the property. We will then have one of our qualified staff meet you and they will give you an offer that same day. No obligations. No hassles. No fees. If this is something that interests you, call us today to get started.

Categories Baytown

Baytown Market Update – And, Is It A Good Time To Sell Your Home?

 

It is officially Q2 of 2019 – with the changing economy over the last twelve months, let’s review how the real estate market is doing today.

The last two quarters of 2018 showed a decline in the housing market. Indicators included a slowdown in market growth, a decrease in home buyers, and an increase in interest rates. In fact, for the first time in seven years home prices in the San Francisco Bay Area, one of the strongest real estate markets in the country, declined. The last time this market witnessed a decline was at the bottom of the pervious housing crash.

However, the overall United States economy has actually seen positive growth. Recently, the Commerce Department reported that the US economy experienced unexpected and robust growth in Q1 2019. The Bureau of Economic Analysis reported that GDP (gross domestic product) grew at an annual rate of 3.2%, significantly above the projected 2.1%.

What about in Baytown?

Contrary to some predictions last year, Baytown has remained relatively strong in their housing prices. Home values have increased 8.5% in the last year, with an averaging selling price equaling $200,000. However, price per square foot has increased slightly more – it is up 12% (at $102) since April 2018.

In the last year, homes have been selling on average at 2% below their listing price. Their average time on market is generally around 49 days (this does not include time in escrow).

Should You Sell Your Home?

Although predictions were not 100% accurate, the market is still not showing signs for continued strength. Again, analysis are predicting that sellers will slowly be losing their leverage. Here are some points to consider, all which indicate why now may be a good time to sell.

  • As of now, there are still home buyers entering the market. Interest rates have not increased since January 20, 2019, which was the first increase of the year. 2018 witnessed four separate hikes in the Federal Reserve – another similar year could deter thousands of potential buyers in markets all around the US.
  • Additionally, homes have appeared to maintain value. This is always key for anyone who is looking to move – the higher the equity in their home, the better position they will be in at close.
  • There is uncertainty in the market noted by the difference between the growth in the US economy and the decline in the real estate market.
  • With continued anticipation of the potential of a real estate crash, selling in 2019 may prove to be beneficial, specifically in comparison to waiting until 2020. The constant uncertainty of the real estate market, combined with an uncertain economy and government administrative leadership, the future of housing prices and the overall economy is not a confident guarantee.

Do You Want To Learn More?

As a homeowner, it is imperative that you understand the current market trends and the anticipated market trends for Q2, Q3, and Q4 of 2019. Lack of knowledge can have a major impact on your financial position, which often includes your preparation for retirement as well. Therefore, we want to help you learn more about your position as a homeowner, and educate you on why now may be a beneficial time to move.

Who Are We:

A final note – make sure you are getting your information from a reliable source – just as lack of education can cause damage, obtaining information from a bad source can be just as detrimental, which is why we want to ensure to you that we have the expertise and experience to help you. We are Gulf State Homebuyers – we have been working in the Houston real estate market for over twelve years. We specialize in buying homes in all conditions, providing our clients competitive all-cash offers.

We purchase homes that are:

  • Vacant…no tenant, no problem. We understand the challenges and expenses that go along with getting that next tenant in, so we take that problem away from our clients.
  • Facing foreclosure…we stop clients from getting their home foreclosed on, which helps them save their credit.
  • Investment properties…whether it is good or bad tenants, we can take over the lease and help you transition out of your investment property.
  • Flooded and damaged homes…as said above, we buy homes as-is. This means that any type of damage to the home, from fires, floods, or personal destruction, don’t need to be fixed before we buy.
  • Condos…HOA fees are welcome.
  • And more!

To learn more about us, please visit our website at www.gulfstatehomebuyers.com.

Categories Baytown

7 Family Fun Outings Happening in Baytown This December

 

The holiday season is here and it is the perfect time to get out of the house and spend some quality time with your friends and family. Whether you are looking for culture, food, or theater, there is bound to be something everyone can enjoy. Let’s take a look at some of the most recommended events happening in and around the Baytown area this season.

1 – Visit the Annual Christmas Gift Gallery

Hosted by The Art League of Baytown, this unique market will provide you with the opportune time to buy your loved ones a handmade gift this season. Not only will you get the chance to experience local art and culture, but you will also be supporting your local artists.

Step into the artisan’s workshops anytime Monday through Saturday between 10 and 4.  Even if you are not looking to purchase any gifts, an afternoon at this gallery can bring the family together.

2 – Go to the Theater

Don’t miss your chance to see A Little Christmas Spirit presented by the BaytownLittle Theater. The last shows are happening December 14 – 16.

The show is great for those of all ages. The holiday tale tells the story of J.D. Morse, who “has been looking high and low for a Christmas gift for his grandson.  Finally, as a last resort, he wanders into Nick’s Emporium, an old-fashioned store chock full of all sorts of gifts and knickknacks…Just when Morse is about to buy something, he runs to the street to chase kids away from his car. When he returns, he finds the store suddenly dark and quiet…This full-length Yuletide fantasy is full of holiday spirit and humor and makes us all wish we could find ‘Nick’s Emporium,’ where life stands still and we can all truly enjoy a little Christmas Spirit.”

3 – Get Out on the Rink

Head to the Town Square off Texas Avenue and enjoy the magic of ice skating. Surrounded by Christmas decorations and a forty-foot Christmas Tree decorated in bright colorful lights, this outdoor skating rink will bring a smile to the whole family.  The rink is open daily until 10 PM up until January 13th, so you have plenty of time to get out and enjoy the cool winter weather.

4 – See “The Nutcracker Ballet”

An old-fashioned tradition, the ballet is being hosted by the Bay Area Houston Ballet at the Theater at Lee College Performing Arts.

“The Nutcracker Ballet” is based on the story “The Nutcracker and the King of Mice,”written by E.T.A. Hoffman, and outlines the story of a young German girl who dreams of a Nutcracker Prince and his fierce battle against a Mouse King with seven heads. This show is one not to be missed. Last performances will run on December 16th.

How About in Houston?

If you are open to a little road trip with the family, there are also a collection of fun events happening in Houston as well.

5 – Breakfast with Santa

Happening every Saturday and Sunday until December 23rd, the kids can get a chance to sit down and share a meal with the man himself.

6 – Magical Winter Lights

Catch a site that will amaze the eye. After driving around your local community to see which neighbor has outdone Chevy Chase, visit Gulf Greyhound Park for their fourth annual Magical Winter Lights. Also included in admissions is a Christmas Market with a festival food court and shopping area, as well as an opportunity to visit with Santa Clause.

7 – Campfire Christmas

Get away from the traditional theater and Christmas markets and visit George Ranch Historical Park for the last occurrence of Campfire Christmas this Saturday.  This unique event takes you back to Christmases past, and provides attendees the chance to enjoy ancient traditional meals and dance the night away. This event is recommended for those ages eight and over.

Let’s Support Our Local Communities

We here at Gulf State Homebuyers are strong advocates for supporting the local economy, which is why we wanted to share with you these family fun events happening nearby. We also know that the holiday season can be financially challenging to some; so, if you are looking for a way to get cash before the years end, and you are considering selling your home, contact us today. If the home is right,we may be able to help you close by the end of next week. This may be the perfect chance for you to start the new year off fresh!

Categories Baytown

Heat in Baytown! 6 Ways to Cool Down and Save Money in Your Home…

 

Halloween is approaching, but here in Baytown we are still sitting in the sweltering heat – daily temperatures average in the 80’s! Most of us are wishing that the fall breezes would start blowing so we could warm up with a pumpkin spice latte from Starbucks. . . but we hate to be the ones to report: the heat in Baytown is expected to continue. Going to the beach and spending time in the water is not necessarily an option for all of us, especially since school is in session and the holidays are approaching. Therefore, we have come up with a list of 6 ways to help you cool down and save money:

  1. Switch to using fans. We understand that during such a hot summer, air conditioning has been essential. But the weather has become more tolerable, and it may be time to switch from AC units to fans. Although you will not have the luxury of sitting in 70-degree air, you may save hundreds of dollars each month.
  2. Do you have blackout curtains? Plenty of people operate under the belief that blackout curtains are for lazy people who want to sleep in. This misconception can be expensive! Blackout curtains actually help the cool air stay inside, reducing your need to turn on a cooling system.
  3. Only use fans and/or AC when you are home. One of the biggest summer expenses for individuals living in the area is paying for energy they use even when they are not home. If you are leaving the AC unit on all day, this could be costing you hundreds. Be sure to turn off all electricity when you leave the home – leaving more money to use the AC for when you are home.
  4. Check your air filter. If you insist on using your air conditioning, be sure that you are switching the air filters regularly. By switching the filter every one or two months, you could reduce your home energy use by up to 15%.
  5. Invest in energy-efficient HVAC equipment. If your HVAC system is over 10 years old, it is time to make a change. Unfortunately, even many of the most newer models are not the most energy efficient. Consider transitioning to an energy-efficient AC unit. Although this is quite the investment now, it can save you thousands in the end. Not only are you going to reduce your energy bills each month, but you are also reducing your carbon footprint. More good news – as summer ends, many of these units may be on sale, making it an optimal time for the switch.
  6. Consider moving. No, we are not suggesting you leave Baytown! However, if you are noticing that your energy bills were higher than expected this summer season, it may be time to consider upgrading.

The above-mentioned are just a few tricks for staying cool, but there are many other variables that affect your bills. For example, you might want to examine how well your windows and doors are maintained. Are they sealed, or is air flowing in and out? Poor maintenance on a home can increase your energy bills year-round.

If you are living in an old home, it may be time to transition and move into an energy efficient home. It’s nice to save money on the cooling system, but a more efficient home will mean better use of the resources needed in heating, cooking, water, electricity, etc.

Upgrading piece by piece is also an option, but only if you have the time and money to invest. Many residents of the area are not interested in completing the upgrades on their own and find it financially beneficial to consider a move.

Keep Staying Cool…

As you can see, the summers are getting longer, and the winters are getting shorter. Extreme weather is affecting us more than before, causing energy bills to increase. To prepare for this fall and for the future, how about taking a look at your option of moving into a new and upgraded home?

Getting started is simple – just contact us. We can discuss your options for improving the efficiency of your home, provide an in-depth analysis of your home to help you decide if this is the best option for you, and even buy your home if you decide to sell.

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