Selling a home can be a complex and emotional journey. Even seasoned sellers can stumble into pitfalls that could jeopardize their sale or leave money on the table. Understanding common mistakes and how to avoid them can ensure a smoother process and a more profitable outcome. Let’s dive into the top 10 mistakes home sellers […]
Greater Austin Real Estate Blog: Expert Advice and Local Insights
Looking for straightforward, practical real estate advice for Austin and the surrounding area? Welcome to my Greater Austin Real Estate Blog.
I’m Robbie English, Broker, REALTOR. With more than 40 years of experience, I created this blog to help buyers, sellers, investors, and homeowners separate reliable guidance from outdated advice and real estate myths.
Here you’ll find practical buying and selling tips, neighborhood guides, Austin housing market insights, and plain-English explanations of contracts, inspections, appraisals, negotiations, and investing. You’ll also learn what makes communities throughout Greater Austin unique—so you can make informed decisions with confidence.
No clickbait, gimmicks, or sensational predictions—just honest answers to real questions. I hope you’ll bookmark the blog, explore the articles, and return whenever you need trusted Greater Austin real estate guidance.
The Impact of Rising Insurance Costs and Dues on Condominium Market
The Austin real estate market has been booming for years, attracting a range of buyers from first-time homeowners to seasoned investors. However, the condominium segment of the market is starting to show signs of stress. Increasing insurance costs and association dues are putting a financial strain on potential buyers, leading to longer times on the […]
How Do I Sell My Home During the Holidays?
Selling your home during the holiday season might seem daunting, but with the right strategy, it can be a highly successful endeavor. While many people believe that the holidays are a slow time for real estate, the truth is that motivated buyers are still out there, and your home could be just what they’re looking […]
The Science Behind Value-Based Pricing in Austin Real Estate
Pricing a home purely off comparable sales misses something real buyers actually pay for: how a property feels, not just its square footage and bed/bath count. I’m Robbie English, REALTOR, Broker with Uncommon Realty, and here’s how value-based pricing actually plays out in Austin. Comps Set the Range, Perceived Value Sets the Number A comparative […]
The Seller’s Guide to Home Inspections: What to Expect
When selling your home, a key moment in the process is the home inspection. This can be both an opportunity and a challenge, depending on how prepared you are. Understanding what to expect during a home inspection can help you navigate this phase smoothly, ensuring a successful sale. Below is a comprehensive guide to help […]
Considering the For Sale By Owner (FSBO) Route? Here’s What You Need to Know
Opting for the For Sale By Owner (FSBO) approach is like venturing onto the less-traveled path in real estate. While only about 10% of home sales in 2022 were FSBO, it’s a route some sellers consider when they feel equipped to handle the process on their own. But how do you know if you’re truly […]
How to Choose the Right Real Estate Agent for You
Buying or selling a home involves many decisions, and one of the most important 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 agent who truly […]
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 that work against your best interests. Let’s dive into the […]
Understanding the Impact of Value-Based Pricing on Your Property
When selling a home in Austin’s competitive real estate market, pricing it correctly is one of the most critical decisions you’ll make. However, traditional methods of pricing often fail to capture the unique characteristics and desirability of individual properties. This is where value-based pricing comes into play. By understanding and implementing value-based pricing, you can […]
Why Financially Motivated Sellers Shouldn’t Delay Listing Their Homes
The decision to sell a home is often driven by a range of factors, but for those who are financially motivated, timing is everything. The real estate market is dynamic, with fluctuating conditions that can significantly impact the value and attractiveness of a property. For sellers who are motivated by financial considerations—whether it’s the need […]
Build to Rent: A Threat to the American Dream of Homeownership?
The American Dream has long been synonymous with homeownership—a symbol of success, stability, and a secure future. For generations, buying a home has been seen as a significant milestone, a step toward wealth accumulation, and a way to ensure a stable environment for raising a family. However, in recent years, a new trend has emerged […]
Refinancing Your Home: When and Why It Makes Sense
Refinancing your home is a significant financial decision that can impact your long-term financial health. As a homeowner, you may wonder when it makes sense to refinance and whether the benefits outweigh the costs. I am Robbie English, REALTOR and Managing Broker at Uncommon Realty and I would love to dive in deeper to this […]
Working with a Local Lender to Buy a Home in Austin
Who you choose as your lender when buying a home in Austin can make a significant difference in your home-buying experience and the options available to you. While big banks and national lenders might seem like the go-to choice, partnering with a local lender can offer distinct advantages, including potentially lower interest rates, increased buying […]
Overpriced Homes Are So Last Year: How to Spot a Fair Deal
Overpriced homes are so last year. Let’s talk about how to spot a fair deal in n the ever-evolving world of real estate where trends come and go, and pricing strategies are no exception. While some sellers cling to outdated pricing practices, savvy buyers know that avoiding overpriced homes is crucial for getting the best […]
Preparing Your Property for the Winter Market
As the winter months approach, the real estate market in Austin presents unique opportunities for homeowners looking to sell. While the idea of listing your property in the colder months might seem daunting, the winter market can actually be a strategic time to show off your home to serious buyers. However, preparation is key to […]
Dangers Agents Face When Meeting Unknown Clients in 2026
The dangers agents face when meeting unknown clients are serious enough that many experienced agents now treat safety protocols as non-negotiable before any showing. Physical assault, theft, fraud, identity exploitation, legal exposure, and stalking are not hypothetical risks. They are documented patterns in the industry that have shaped how agents operate, and they explain behaviors […]
What Are the Pitfalls of Being an Unrepresented Buyer?
Buying a home is one of the most significant financial decisions most people will make in their lives. While the prospect of purchasing a new home can be exhilarating, navigating the complexities of the real estate market without professional guidance can lead to costly mistakes. Being an unrepresented buyer—meaning you do not have a real […]
The Seller is in charge of what compensation or seller concessions they offer
When you’re diving into the world of real estate, especially in today’s market, one of the most pressing questions buyers and sellers ask is about compensation—specifically, who pays the buyer’s agent. It can be a confusing part of the process. But let’s get one thing straight from the start: seller is in charge of the […]
The Impact of Austin’s Seasonal Trends on Rental Availability and Pricing
When considering renting a home in Austin, understanding the city’s seasonal trends can significantly impact your experience. From fluctuating rental prices to varying availability, these trends can influence when and where you should search for a rental property. Here, we’ll explore the key factors that shape Austin’s seasonal trends on rental availability and pricing and […]
Are Home Prices Going to Drop in Austin, TX?
Austin, TX, a city known for its vibrant culture, tech industry boom, and desirable living conditions, has seen significant real estate market fluctuations over the past few years. As potential homebuyers and investors keep a close eye on market trends, one question continues to loom large: Are home prices going to drop in Austin, TX? […]
Can the Listing Agent Just Represent the Buyer Too?
I just want to buy the house. Can’t the listing agent just represent the buyer too and let us get this transaction done? In the intricate and somewhat confusing world of real estate, clear representation is essential to ensure that all parties’ interests are safeguarded and that transactions proceed smoothly. In Texas, the concept of […]
Your Home isn’t a Banana. It Shouldn’t Be Sold Like One
In today’s changing real estate market, selling your home is not as simple as putting it up for sale and waiting for buyers to come knocking. Unlike a banana that you can pick up at any grocery store, your home is a unique and valuable asset that requires a strategic approach. It’s not about just […]
Zillow’s “Request a Tour” Button: What Really Happens When You Click It?
Updated for Texas Buyers in 2026: When you click “Request a Tour” on Zillow, you are not necessarily contacting the listing agent. Zillow may connect you with a local buyer’s agent or Zillow partner agent who can attempt to schedule the showing and may want to represent you during the home-buying process. The button is […]
The Power of a Buyer’s Agent: Why You Need One on Your Side
Here’s the thing… Buying real estate is usually the largest single investment a person makes in their lifetime. It’s about finding the right home, securing the best deal, and making sure every step is handled with care and expertise. With that in mind, this is what buyers stand to benefit from the power of a buyer’s […]
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 […]
Austin Open Houses Guide: What Austin Homebuyers Need to Know
As of August 17, 2024, a significant shift in the real estate industry requires many professionals nationwide to ask buyers to enter into a written agreement before touring homes. However, this change has left many prospective buyers wondering what it means for them, especially when attending open houses. Here’s what you need to know about […]
National Changes Come Home To Roost
It’s official… the national changes have come home to roost. Our MLS has changed for listings. Home buyers in our area must sign some form of buyers agency agreement to work with a buyer agent to represent the when buying a home. More than ever you need to interview your agent and clearly understand their […]
When Is the Right Time to Buy Your First Home?
For many, the dream of homeownership is a significant milestone, often seen as a symbol of stability and success. Many people ask when is the right time to buy your first home. Recent data shows that the average American buys their first home at 36. But if you’re on either side of that age, don’t […]
The $750 Investment That Saved a Buyer $15,000
In 2021, homebuyers faced a frantic market where waiving home inspections became almost a norm in the race to secure a property. The strategy was to stand out among the multitude of offers flooding in, hoping that luck would be on their side. Fast forward to today, and while we’ve thankfully moved past that chaotic […]
What Really Impacts Home Value?
When selling your home, you might wonder what factors truly affect its value. While there are many aspects to consider, one key element that can significantly impact your home’s appeal is the buyer’s ability to move in and start living from day one. Imagine a buyer walking through your home, envisioning their life unfolding within […]
