When buying a home, there’s a fine line between reasonable repair requests and nitpicking. Ask for too much, and you risk souring the deal. Ask for too little, and you might inherit costly problems. So, what’s fair game when it comes to negotiating repairs with a seller? And, what can you ask the seller to […]
Pros and Cons of a Homeowners Association
If you’re considering buying a home in a community with a homeowners association (HOA), you’re not alone. HOAs oversee nearly 30% of residential properties in the U.S. They promise order, amenities, and higher property values—but they also come with restrictions, fees, and potential frustrations. Before signing on the dotted line, let’s break down the pros […]
Things First-Time Homebuyers and Sellers Wish They’d Been Told
Buying or selling a home for the first time is exciting. It’s also full of surprises—some of them expensive, some frustrating, and some that make you wish you’d asked a few more questions beforehand. I’ve worked with countless buyers and sellers who, after closing, told me, “I wish someone had warned me about this.” So, […]
Home Buying and Real Estate Professionals in 2024
Buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions most people make in their lifetime. With the real estate market evolving, the role of real estate professionals remains crucial. In 2024, the overwhelming majority of buyers—88%—purchased their homes through a real estate agent or broker. That statistic alone highlights the ongoing need for skilled […]
Financing the Home Purchase in 2024: What Buyers Need to Know
Buying a home is one of the most significant financial moves you can make. And in 2024, financing the home purchase looks different than in years past. With shifting mortgage trends, rising downpayments, and a surge in all-cash buyers, it’s essential to understand the landscape before making a move. Let’s break it down. Mortgage or […]
Why the Suburban Migration Trend Isn’t Slowing Down
For years, people have debated whether the shift to the suburbs was a temporary response to the pandemic or a long-term trend. The data is clear: the suburban migration trend isn’t slowing down. In fact, it’s accelerating. More homebuyers are leaving dense urban centers in search of more space, better schools, and a higher quality […]
The Impact of Remote Work on Home Prices in 2025
Remote work changed everything and in fact the imact of remote work on home prices in 2025 is a factor. Remote work has reshaped the way we live, the homes we buy, and where we choose to live. But in 2025, things are shifting once again. Many employers, including Austin-based tech giant Dell, are requiring […]
Continuing Education is Just as Important As Current Sales: Why It Matters for Your Real Estate Success
When hiring a real estate agent, many buyers and sellers focus solely on an agent’s past sales and current listings. But there’s something just as critical that often gets overlooked: continuing education. Continuing education is just as important as current sales when you are looking to hire a real estate agent or broker. It’s not […]
How to Spot a Home That Will Appreciate Quickly
Buying a home is one of the biggest financial moves most people will make. Naturally, homebuyers want to ensure their investment is a smart one, with the potential for strong appreciation over time. But how can you identify a home that will appreciate quickly? While no one can predict the future, there are key indicators […]
How to Spot Hidden Issues in a Home Before You Buy
“The devil is in the details,” they say, and nowhere is that truer than in real estate. Buying a home is one of the most significant investments you’ll ever make, so spotting hidden issues before you sign on the dotted line is crucial. On the flip side, sellers can avoid unpleasant surprises by addressing potential […]
The Top Benefits of Working with a Buyer’s Agent
Imagine having an advocate, advisor, and expert negotiator in your corner when making one of the largest investments of your life. That’s exactly what a buyer’s agent offers—especially when working with an experienced professional like Robbie English. With decades of industry expertise, a deep understanding of the Austin real estate market, and cutting-edge tools, Robbie […]
The Most Overlooked Costs of Buying a Home
Buying a home is one of the most exciting and financially significant decisions you’ll ever make. But let’s be honest—most buyers focus on the purchase price and the down payment, assuming that’s the bulk of what they need to budget for. Unfortunately, that’s just the beginning. Many first-time and even seasoned homebuyers are caught off […]
Texas Home Buying Strategies: Tips for First-Time Home Buyers
Are you ready to embark on the exciting journey of purchasing your first home in the Lone Star State? Buying your first home can be both thrilling and overwhelming, especially in a diverse and dynamic market like Texas. To help you navigate through this process smoothly, we’ve compiled a list of strategic tips tailored specifically […]
Unlocking the Dream Home: What Buyers Crave from Their Real Estate Agent
In the journey of homeownership, the role of a real estate agent transcends mere transactions; it becomes a trusted partnership, a guiding light through the labyrinth of property purchases. Recent surveys illuminate the desires of homebuyers, shedding light on what they truly seek in their agent allies. Knowledgeable home buyers have realized that having a […]
Pet-Friendly Homes: What Buyers with Pets Really Want
Finding the perfect home is a journey. For many, it’s about space, location, and amenities. But for pet owners, it’s about something a little extra: finding a pet-friendly home. If you’re in the market for a new house and have a furry companion, you’re probably wondering what exactly makes a home truly “pet-friendly.” In this […]
The Truth About Buying a Home in a Shifting Market: What You Need to Know
If you’ve been considering buying a home recently, you’re likely aware that the market has been shifting. Whether you’ve been waiting for the right time or just starting your search, the truth about buying a home in a shifting market can feel a bit overwhelming. But don’t worry! With the right strategies, this could be […]
10 Questions to Ask Your Real Estate Agent Before Buying a Home
Buying a home is one of the most significant investments you’ll make in your lifetime, especially in fast-moving markets like Austin, Cedar Park, Round Rock, Leander, and Lakeway. To ensure you’re making an informed decision, it’s essential to choose the right real estate agent. Let’s dive into the 10 questions to ask your real estate agent before buying a home. I […]
5 Crucial Steps to Take Before Buying Your First Home
Buying your first home is one of the most exciting and monumental milestones in life, but it can also feel overwhelming, especially if you’re navigating the Austin-area market, including Cedar Park, Round Rock, Leander, and Lakeway. With the fast-paced nature of real estate in Central Texas, preparation is key. Whether you’re dreaming of a modern home in Austin’s urban […]
The Importance of Neighborhood Research in Home Buying
Buying a home is one of the most significant investments you’ll ever make, and while the property itself often takes center stage, the neighborhood surrounding it is equally important. In Austin or any place for that matter, conducting thorough neighborhood research can mean the difference between a wise investment and a costly mistake. Here’s why […]
Understanding Mortgage Pre-approval and Why It Matters
In today’s competitive real estate market, particularly in areas like Cedar Park, Round Rock, Leander, Lakeway, and Austin, Texas, navigating the home-buying process can be daunting. One crucial step in this journey is obtaining mortgage pre-approval. I am Robbie English, Managing Broker and REALTOR at Uncommon Realty and I would love to dive in deeper into this subject with you. […]
What to Look for During Open Houses: A Buyer’s Checklist
Navigating the world of real estate can be both exciting and daunting, especially when it comes to attending open houses. These events are prime opportunities for potential buyers to explore properties and envision their future homes. However, to make the most out of these visits, it’s essential to approach them with a discerning eye. Let’s […]
Why Trusting a Real Estate Agent is Key to a Smooth Austin Home Sale
When it comes to selling a home in Austin, navigating the market, managing the details, and ensuring a seamless transaction can feel overwhelming. Trusting a skilled real estate agent is essential for a smooth sale, from setting the right price to closing the deal. I am Robbie English, Broker and REALTOR for Uncommon Realty and […]
How to Save for a Down Payment on a Home
Buying a home is a major milestone and one of the most significant financial decisions most people make in their lifetime. One of the biggest challenges prospective homebuyers face is saving for the down payment. For many, the thought of saving tens of thousands of dollars can feel overwhelming, but with the right plan, it’s […]
The Most Common Home Inspection Issues and How to Fix Them
When buying a home, a thorough inspection is essential to uncover any potential issues that could impact the property’s value or livability. For both buyers and sellers, understanding the most common home inspection issues and how to address them can make the difference between a smooth transaction and unexpected roadblocks. Here’s a guide to the […]
How to Choose the Right Home Insurance Policy for You
Buying a home is a major decision, and protecting it with the right homeowners insurance is just as important. If you’re in Austin or the surrounding areas, how to choose the right home insurance policy for you becomes more than a to-do item—it’s a critical decision that deserves strategy, timing, and expert guidance. And yes, […]
How to Choose the Right Home Warranty for You: A Comprehensive Guide
When purchasing a home, whether it’s a new build or a resale, one of the essential considerations is the protection of your investment. A home warranty can offer valuable peace of mind by covering the repair or replacement of major home systems and appliances. However, not all home warranties are created equal. Choosing the right […]
Why Robbie English is the Realtor You Can Trust in Austin
When navigating the complex real estate market in Austin, choosing the right realtor can make all the difference. Whether you’re buying your first home, selling a cherished property, or investing in Austin’s thriving rental market, trust and expertise are paramount. Here’s why Robbie English stands out as the realtor you can trust in Austin: […]
How Old Doesn’t Mean Bad When It Comes to Home Inspections
When it comes to home inspections, one of the most common misconceptions is that older automatically means bad. While it’s true that some homes may have features or systems that have been in place for many years, this doesn’t necessarily mean they need immediate replacement. In fact, many older systems and structures can still perform […]
How to Choose the Right Real Estate Agent for You
When it comes to buying or selling a home, one of the most crucial decisions you’ll make is choosing the right real estate agent. Your agent will guide you through the process, negotiate on your behalf, and help you make informed decisions. In Austin, where the real estate market is dynamic and competitive, finding an […]
The Crucial Role of Effective Communication in Your Real Estate Journey
Effective communication is the backbone of any successful real estate transaction. When you work with a real estate agent, your willingness to communicate openly and clearly can significantly impact the outcome of your property goals. On the flip side, poor communication can create unnecessary obstacles, ultimately working against your best interests. Let’s dive into the […]
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