When you’re preparing to sell, you need more than wishful thinking. You need a plan. So, what are the best improvements to increase home value before selling? You’ve probably heard suggestions tossed around like lawn work, minor fixtures, or just cleaning up. Those have their place, sure, but if you want real results with serious […]
The Perks of Buying a Fixer-Upper
Buying a home is one of the biggest decisions you will ever make, and in today’s market, every buyer is looking for creative ways to stretch their dollars. That is exactly where the perks of buying a fixer-upper come into play. When you hear the phrase, you may picture dust, paint, and weeks of noisy […]
Do I need to make repairs before selling my house?
When you’re asking yourself, do I need to make repairs before selling my house, you’re not alone. It’s one of the most common and important questions a seller can ask when preparing a home for the market. The answer isn’t always simple, and that’s exactly why you need someone like Robbie English, Broker and REALTOR […]
Sellers Fear Non-Value Add Home Improvements: What to Know Before You Spend
When preparing to sell, many homeowners worry about making the wrong updates to their property. Sellers fear non-value add home improvements and often wonder, “Will I get this money back at the closing table?” That concern is absolutely valid. Spending thousands of dollars on cosmetic or mechanical upgrades might feel like the right move, but […]
Eco-Friendly Home Upgrades That Pay Off in 2025
Sustainability isn’t just a trend—it’s a smart investment and making the right eco-friendly home upgrades is key. Homeowners are making eco-friendly upgrades not just for the planet but also for their wallets. In 2025, energy-efficient homes aren’t just more appealing to buyers; they also command higher prices. If you’re considering selling your home, strategic green […]
How Lumber Costs Affect New Home Prices
On March 1, 2025, President Donald Trump signed an executive order aimed at reducing regulations on timber harvesting in the United States. This move is expected to significantly impact lumber costs—a key factor in the price of newly constructed homes. But what does this mean for homebuyers, builders, and even those planning renovations? Those that […]
The Best Rooms to Renovate for Maximum Market Value
When selling a home, not all renovations are created equal. Some updates barely make a dent in the final sale price, while others can dramatically boost your home’s value and attract more buyers. If you’re planning to invest in renovations before listing, focus on the best rooms to renovate that deliver the highest return on […]
Quick Curb Appeal Fixes That Boost Home Value Instantly
First impressions matter. If you’re selling your home, the way your property looks from the street can make or break a buyer’s interest before they even step inside. The good news? You don’t have to spend a fortune to enhance your home’s curb appeal. With a few strategic updates, you can significantly increase your home’s […]
10 Low-Cost Home Improvements That Boost Your Resale Value
Enhancing your home’s resale value without breaking the bank is key to attracting potential buyers and securing a favorable sale. Fortunately, you don’t need to invest in extravagant renovations to make your home stand out. Simple, cost-effective improvements can significantly increase your property’s appeal and perceived value. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore ten low-cost […]
Should You Renovate or Move? How to Decide
When the thought of “Should you renovate or move?” crosses your mind, it’s no small question. It’s a major decision that many homeowners face, often triggered by a growing list of concerns: outdated kitchens, cramped living spaces, or simply a desire for a fresh start. Deciding between renovating your current home or selling it and […]
Your Listing Looks Great, But How Does It Smell?
When you’re getting ready to sell your home, you focus on making it look its best. The photos are stunning, the staging is spot on, and everything is in its place. But there’s one aspect that often gets overlooked and can be a dealbreaker: the way your home smells. Smell is one of those home […]
The Best Home Upgrades for a Higher Resale Value
When it comes to selling your home, making the right upgrades can significantly boost its resale value. While not all renovations offer the same return on investment (ROI), there are specific home improvements that consistently increase a property’s market appeal and value. Whether you’re planning to sell in the near future or just want to […]
Smart Home Technology in Modern Homes
In today’s competitive Austin real estate landscape, smart home technology in modern homes is more than a bonus—it’s a deciding factor for many buyers. It isn’t just about shiny gadgets or trendy upgrades. It’s about control, security, sustainability, and—perhaps most importantly—relevance in a fast-evolving market. As smart tech moves from being a perk to an […]
How to Make Your Home More Energy-Efficient
There’s a difference between a house that simply functions and one that’s smartly dialed-in for energy performance. If you’ve ever wondered how to make your home more energy-efficient, or what the best energy efficient home improvements might be, you’re not alone—and you’re in exactly the right place. Whether you’re in Austin or the surrounding areas, […]
Boost Your Home’s Value with Curb Appeal Tips Every Homeowner Should Know
Let me be frank: first impressions in real estate aren’t just important—they’re everything. And the moment a buyer pulls up to your property, they’re forming opinions before stepping out of the car. If your home’s exterior doesn’t spark immediate curiosity, you may have already lost your best shot at selling. That’s why understanding curb appeal […]
Austin Home Paint Color Trends: Power of Paint When Selling
In the intricate dance of preparing your home for sale, few steps are as impactful and yet as readily accessible as a fresh coat of paint. It’s the transformative touch that can breathe new life into tired walls, enticing prospective buyers with the promise of a blank canvas waiting to be adorned with their dreams. […]
Understanding Appraisal Value of Solar Panels and Ownership Structures
The real estate landscape continues to evolve, and solar panels are leading the charge in reshaping how homes are evaluated. Buyers love the idea of energy efficiency, and sellers want to capitalize on those features. But when it comes to the appraisal value of solar panels and ownership structures, things can get a little murky. […]
10 Things You To Fix Before You Sell Your Home
If you’re getting ready to list your property, you’re probably asking yourself: “What do I need to fix before I sell?” It’s a valid question, and you’re not alone in wondering. The answer lies somewhere between skipping costly overhauls and ensuring the place doesn’t send buyers running. The key is balance. And yes, there are […]
The Power of Scents and Essential Oils in Real Estate
In the realm of real estate, every detail counts. From the curb appeal to the layout of each room, prospective buyers are meticulously assessing every aspect of a property before making a decision. However, one often overlooked yet incredibly influential factor is the scent of a home. Yes, you read that right – the aroma […]
6 Essential Tips for Buying a Home in Travis County
“I’ll bring the buying papers when you’re ready!” Welcome to Travis County, where the “Keep Austin Weird” culture of Austin meets the serene landscapes of the Hill Country. As you embark on your journey to purchase your dream home in this dynamic region, it’s crucial to arm yourself with the knowledge to navigate the process […]
Unlocking Your Home’s Potential: Elevating Curb Appeal
If you’re ready to stand out in a crowded housing market, start here—with your curb appeal. Elevating curb appeal isn’t just about appearances. It’s about capturing attention the moment someone drives by. And let’s be honest—buyers decide how they feel about your home before they even step inside. That’s why curb appeal has become one […]
The Sellers Guide to Home Inspections for a Smooth Sale | Your Roadmap
When you’re ready to put your home on the market, there’s one thing that can dramatically influence your success—the home inspection. This is where deals are made stronger or start to unravel. That’s why having a clear, strategic plan matters. This sellers guide to home inspections for a smooth sale exists to give you a […]
A Buyers Guide to Roof Inspections When Buying A Home
If you’re thinking about buying a home, there’s something many buyers overlook until it becomes a very expensive surprise: the roof. In this Buyers Guide to Roof Inspections, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know before you sign on the dotted line. From the moment you lay eyes on a property, that roof […]
How Odors Can Impact Your Home’s Sale | The Power of Scents
You know the basics: price, condition, location. But have you ever walked into a space, sniffed the air, and thought, nope? The odor impact on home sale is real. If your home doesn’t smell right, buyers won’t stick around to admire the backsplash or the refinished floors. The nose leads the brain in judgment. A […]
Enhancing Your Home’s Curb Appeal Without Breaking the Bank
When it comes to making a lasting impression, your home’s exterior does all the talking before anyone crosses the threshold. Enhancing your home’s curb appeal isn’t just about vanity—it’s about smart positioning. Whether you’re trying to attract serious buyers or simply take pride in your home, that first glance from the street speaks volumes. The […]
Frustrated Your Home Is Not Selling?
You listed your home with optimism, hoping for offers to roll in. But weeks—maybe even months—have passed with little to no traction. You start to ask yourself: “What’s going wrong?” You’re not alone in wondering why your home is not selling. Let’s confront it head-on. You deserve straightforward answers, expert guidance, and real solutions. I’m […]
Get Ready to List: Spring is the Perfect Time to Showcase Your Home
With warmer days stretching longer and nature coming back to life, it’s not just the flowers that are blooming—so is the spring real estate market. This seasonal surge invites serious homebuyers to start their search, and they’re not just browsing. They’re ready to move. That’s exactly why spring is the perfect time to showcase your […]
Does Professional Staging Help Sell Your Home?
You’re probably asking yourself a smart question: Does professional staging help sell your home? If you’re looking to sell in a competitive market like Austin, you can’t afford to guess. You want answers that lead to action, results, and sold signs in the yard. The good news? The answer is clear. Yes, staging helps—and not […]
Fire Safety Month: Protecting What Matters Most
Let’s talk about something we often take for granted—protecting your home from fire and protecting what matters most. Not because it’s Fire Safety Month. Not because it’s something that “should” be done. But because, as a homeowner or soon-to-be one, you’ve invested more than just money into your property. Your home represents effort, goals, peace […]
3 Reasons Homes Don’t Make It To Closing
Buying a home can be a complex process, with multiple factors that can affect whether or not the sale goes through. While some home purchases go smoothly and close on time, others can hit roadblocks and fall through. I am Robbie English, Managing Broker and REALTOR at Uncommon Realty and I would love to dive […]