Navigating Austin’s evolving housing landscape just got even more interesting. With the buzz surrounding the Austin lot-size reform 2024 impact, many buyers, sellers, and investors are asking: What exactly does this mean for affordability, development, and the future of building in our city? It’s a fair question. And it’s one that deserves an answer rooted […]
Home Buyers Desire Supportive Real Estate Agents
Home buyers desire supportive real estate agents who deliver expert guidance from start to finish. And that’s exactly what you’ll get when you work with me, Robbie English, REALTOR and Broker at Uncommon Realty. Not only do I understand the emotional weight and financial complexity of buying a home, I also help guide my clients […]
Managing Dual Transactions
When it comes to managing dual transactions and buying and selling a home at the same time, it’s no secret that things can quickly become overwhelming. Two major financial moves happening simultaneously bring plenty of deadlines, a fair share of emotional moments, and more than a few logistical hurdles. Managing dual transactions demands strategy, experience, […]
Home Buyer’s Fear of Not Being Able To Sell Home Later
Buying a home is one of life’s most exciting milestones! However, for many buyers, a looming worry shadows the excitement: Home Buyer’s Fear of Not Being Able To Sell Home Later. This is a real, valid concern, and one I hear frequently from thoughtful, smart buyers like you. Along with Home Buyer’s Fear of Not […]
Home Buyers Desiring Transparent Home Buying Process
Today’s real estate market demands more than just access to properties — it demands clarity. Home buyers desiring transparent home buying process and an honest view into every step are raising the bar for how real estate should be done. And honestly, it’s about time! At Uncommon Realty, my team and I have recognized this […]
Real Estate is Not A One Size Fits All Industry
If you’ve spent even a few minutes looking at homes online or scrolling through listings, you’ve likely realized something—real estate is far from predictable. “Real Estate is Not A One Size Fits All Industry,” and that truth becomes evident the moment you step into the process as a buyer or seller. Add in today’s rapidly […]
What is the first thing you do to buy a house?
Most people assume the first step to buying a house is simple: start looking online, right? Scroll through a few listings, maybe drive by a couple of neighborhoods, and fall in love with a kitchen island. But here’s the truth—if you’re serious about buying a home, that’s not where you start. So, what is the […]
How much money should you have before buying a house?
Buying a home isn’t just about finding “the one.” It’s about being ready—financially, strategically, and emotionally. If you’re asking, how much money should you have before buying a house?—you’re already ahead of the game. Most people don’t think about this until it’s too late. But if you’re here, reading this, you’re ready to make informed, […]
Is Austin a Buyers or Sellers Market?
That question—Is Austin a buyers or sellers market?—gets asked more than any other. It’s understandable. Whether you’re looking to make your next move or just planning for the future, understanding where the balance of power sits in the real estate world can help you act with confidence. But here’s the thing: Austin doesn’t always fit […]
Selling and Buying a Home at the Same Time
Selling and buying a home at the same time is a delicate balancing act. Without careful planning, it can lead to unnecessary stress, unexpected financial strain, or even losing out on the perfect home. But when done right, it’s a seamless transition that maximizes both value and convenience. With Robbie English, REALTOR and Broker at […]
What Is a Home Appraisal and Why Is It Important?
When buying or selling a home, one critical step often catches people off guard: the home appraisal. It’s more than just a box to check—it can make or break a deal. Understanding what a home appraisal is and why it’s important helps you navigate real estate transactions with confidence. Whether you’re securing a mortgage, refinancing, […]
What Is Earnest Money in Real Estate in Texas?
Are you asking “What Is Earnest Money in Real Estate in Texas?” as many buyers do? Buying a home is a big deal, and sellers want to know that buyers are serious. That’s where earnest money comes in. It’s a deposit that shows commitment, ensuring that a buyer isn’t just casually making offers. In Texas, […]
Listing Agent vs Selling Agent Differences
A listing agent represents the seller. A selling agent, confusingly, is the industry term for the buyer’s agent in a transaction, the agent who ultimately “sells” the property to their client. I’m Robbie English, REALTOR, Broker with Uncommon Realty, and this naming mix-up trips up more people than you’d expect, so here’s what each actually […]
Why Don’t All Homes for Sale Show Up on Zillow?
You find a house online that looks promising, send the link to somebody you trust, and start picturing where the furniture might go. Then, almost as quickly as you found it, the listing disappears. Maybe it shows as pending. Maybe it says off market. Maybe another website still calls it active while the first one […]
5 Mistakes to Avoid When Buying a Home in Horseshoe Bay
Horseshoe Bay is a stunning lakeside community offering a blend of luxury, outdoor living, and peaceful Hill Country charm. set along the shores of Lake LBJ, this sought-after area provides an array of properties, from elegant waterfront estates to cozy golf course retreats. But before you dive into the real estate market here, it’s important […]
Buying a Home in 2025: Should You Wait or Buy Now?
The decision to buy a home is always a major one and many potential buyers are wondering: Should I buy now, or should I wait? There are strong arguments on both sides, and the right decision depends on your financial situation, the housing market, and your long-term goals. Let’s break down the key factors that […]
What Do I Need to Focus on When Looking at a Home?
Buying a home is one of the most significant investments you’ll make, and it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement. That open-concept kitchen? Gorgeous. The backyard? Perfect for summer BBQs. But before emotions take over, you need to take a step back and ask yourself: What do I need to focus on when […]
Top Home Features Austin Home Buyers Want in 2025
The real estate market is constantly evolving, and as we approach 2025, homebuyers’ expectations are higher than ever. If you’re planning on selling your home or building a new one, it’s important to understand what buyers are prioritizing. Some trends are driven by technology, while others stem from lifestyle shifts and a stronger focus on […]
How AI and Technology Are Changing the Home Buying Process
Technology is transforming the way we buy homes, and artificial intelligence (AI) is leading the charge. The traditional home-buying process—once reliant on in-person visits, stacks of paperwork, and gut instinct—is now infused with smart algorithms, automated tools, and data-driven insights. The result? A faster, more efficient, and more personalized experience for buyers. Let’s explore how […]
Tips for Buying an Older Home
Older homes have character. They have history. They have charm that new builds simply can’t replicate. But they also come with challenges that can turn into costly surprises if you’re not prepared. Whether you’re drawn to the craftsmanship of a 1920s bungalow or the grand presence of a Victorian-era house, buying an older home requires […]
Providing Homebuyer Feedback After a Showing
The expectation that buyers or their agents should provide feedback after a home showing needs to end. It serves no purpose for the buyer, puts their negotiating position at risk, and ultimately does nothing to help the seller. Yet, some listing agents persistently push for it, treating it as a necessity rather than what it […]
Is Now a Good Time to Buy a Home?
Whether now is a good time for you to buy depends more on your own finances and timeline than on trying to predict where rates or prices go next. I’m Robbie English, REALTOR, Broker with Uncommon Realty, and here’s how I’d actually think through the decision, without pretending anyone can call the market. Renting vs. […]
Avoiding Mortgage Denial
How to Avoid Getting Turned Down for a Mortgage You’ve found the perfect home. You’re ready to buy. But then—your mortgage application gets denied. Few things are more frustrating, and in today’s competitive market, a rejection can set you back weeks or even months. The good news? You can take steps to avoid it. Let’s […]
Luxury Properties Have Changed in the Past 20 Years
Luxury real estate isn’t what it used to be. Over the past two decades, high-end homes have evolved in ways that reflect changes in technology, lifestyle preferences, and even global economic shifts. If you haven’t taken a close look at luxury properties in a while, you might be surprised by what today’s buyers expect—and what […]
How to Look Up Crime Stats and Why They Matter When Considering a Home
When buying a home, location is everything. But beyond school districts, commute times, and neighborhood charm, safety is a top concern for most buyers. The tricky part… how to look up crime stats. Real estate agents aren’t legally allowed to steer buyers toward or away from specific areas based on crime rates. That’s because of […]
Unexpected Expenses When Buying A Home
Buying your first home is exciting, but it comes with more costs than most people expect. Many home buyers focus on the down payment and monthly mortgage, assuming that’s the bulk of the expense. It’s not. There are unexpected expenses when buying a home that can catch you off guard, turning your dream home into […]
What Can You Ask the Seller to Fix?
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 […]
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 important. 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 market before making a move. Let’s break it down. Mortgage or […]
