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June 2024 DFW Real Estate Stats

by Real Estate ArticlesResourcesStatsVideo

In June 2024, the real estate landscape across various counties in the Dallas-Fort Worth area continued to show varied patterns.

In Collin County, there was a notable 9% increase in new listings, alongside a substantial 41.5% rise in active listings compared to the previous year. The average days on the market saw an 11% increase, while the average sales price slightly decreased to $593,841, and the average price per square foot dropped by 0.5%. Closed sales experienced an 8% decline from the prior year.

Dallas County observed a 5.6% growth in new listings, accompanied by a significant 38.7% increase in active listings year-over-year. The average days on market surged by 23.3%, while the average sales price decreased by 4.1% to $518,889. The average price per square foot, however, saw a slight uptick of 0.8%. Closed sales declined notably by 21.2% compared to the previous year.

In Denton County, new listings decreased by 6.2%, but active listings rose by nearly 25% from June 2023. The average days on market increased by 5.7%, while the average sales price showed a 4% uptick. The average price per square foot also increased by 4%, despite closed sales declining by 15% compared to the same period last year.

Overall, the real estate market in North Texas appears to be navigating through a phase of adjustment and recalibration in mid-2024. Monitoring these trends will be crucial to understanding how the market evolves in response to economic conditions and buyer sentiment in the coming months.

Our stats infographics include a year over year comparison and area highlights for single family homes broken down by county. We encourage you to share these infographics and video with your sphere.

For more stats information, pdfs and graphics of our stats including detailed information by county, visit the Resources section on our website at DFW Area Real Estate Statistics | Republic Title of Texas.

For the full report from the Texas A&M Real Estate Research Center, click here. For NTREIS County reports click here.

HousingInsightMay2024

Texas Housing Insight May 2024

by Real Estate ArticlesResourcesStats

All measurements are calculated using seasonally adjusted data, and percentage changes are calculated month-over-month, unless stated otherwise. Data are current as of June 22, 2024.

Housing activity for both new and existing homes decreased in May. Despite a rise in active listings, home prices remained the same at $340,000 for the second month in a row.

Slow Home Sales for May

Texas witnessed a 4.2 percent decrease in total seasonally adjusted home sales month over month (MOM), resulting in 27,845 homes sold (Table 1). Austin and Dallas experienced decreases of 4.5 percent (2,731) and 2.4 percent (7,920), respectively. However, San Antonio and Houston experienced slight increases of 1.7 percent (3,049) and 1 percent (7,623). Overall, there has been a significant downward trend for sales compared with the past few years.

New listings have been steadily increasing, although there is a slight drop of 2.9 percent (45,878) in May. Among the Big Four, San Antonio experienced the only increase at 6.4 percent. Austin saw the largest decline at 13.3 percent while Dallas dropped 6.6 percent. Houston’s new listings were relatively unchanged. 

The state’s average days on the market (DOM) remained unchanged at 57. Austin and San Antonio each fell by two days while Dallas has remained at 50 days for two months. San Antonio continues to have the highest days on market among the Big Four with 71 days followed by Austin at 65 and Houston and Dallas have continued to average 50. 

The number of active listings went up from 111,053 to 116,404 (4.8 percent). The level of active listings increased across three of the Big four with Dallas (7.3 percent) and Austin (6.3 percent) leading the way with 26,758 and 11,604 listings, respectively.

Pending listings during May have been on a decline of 7.5 percent. All the Big Four except Houston experienced a substantial decline during this month. San Antonio pending listings fell the most dropping 10.6 percent followed by DFW and Austin dropping 8.4 and 7.8 percent, respectively. Houston was the only major city that experienced an increase in pending listings of less than 1 percent. The slowdown in sales and pending listings have contributed to the higher-than-normal active listing count.

Interest Rates Dip Slightly

Treasury and mortgage rates remain below their peak 2023 levels but have been increasing since the start of the year. The average ten-year U.S. Treasury Bondyield fell six basis points to 4.48 percent. The Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation’s 30-year fixed-rate fell by two basis points to 7.52 percent.

Housing Highlight

Outside of Hurricane Harvey (and a data anomaly in June 2019), Houston’s single-family housing starts were relatively stable month to month during the 2010s, exhibiting a slight downturn during the 2015 oil bust followed by a steady upward trend in the latter half of the decade. Figure 1 illustrates the trend breaks and increased volatility that characterized the COVID-19 pandemic and post-pandemic eras. Historically, low interest rates and a shift in preferences toward more living space (for both health concerns and work-from-home accommodations) fueled demand for single-family housing. Homebuilders, who also leveraged lower costs of financing, responded with a surge in single-family housing starts to levels not seen since the onset of the Great Recession.

The Federal Reserve’s interest-rate hike in March 2022 marks a transition in the post-pandemic period, when housing starts descended and bottomed out at decade-level lows. In the second half of 2023, however, Houston housing starts trended near pre-pandemic levels, and activity surged to a record-high in March 2024. Despite correcting downward from the spring-time surge, the volume of starts remained above pre-pandemic levels. Figure 2 plots the intra-year progression of single-family start totals, highlighting the current trajectory in context of pre-pandemic, COVID-19 pandemic, and post-pandemic economic conditions. Houston is on a record-setting pace for single-family housing starts in 2024, but economic disruptions from Hurricane Beryl and projections of a hyper-active hurricane season present headwinds and short-run uncertainty.

Single-Family Starts and Permit Declining

Texas’ number of single-family construction permits decreased by 2 percent MOM, reaching 13,539 issuances. San Antonio had the biggest monthly increase adding 1,048 permits or 9.7 percent. Houston had a slower month for permits with a decline of 15 (4,098) percent, following a big increase in April. Dallas decreased by a negligible 0.4 percent (4,207). Austin experienced a modest increase of 1.7 percent (1,409). 

Construction starts declined according to data from Dodge Construction Network. Seasonally adjusted single-family starts decreased by 3.09 percent MOM to 13,290 units. After a massive drop in April of 27 percent, there was a slight upward swing in single-family starts for Houston of 2.8 percent (4,452). Dallas dropped by 17.8 percent (3,451) while San Antonio and Austin reported modest increases of 3.2 percent (892) and 1.6 percent (1,420), respectively.

The state’s total value of single-family starts climbed from $11.8 billion in May 2023 to $16.65 billion in May 2024. Houston accounted for 36.4 percent of the state’s total starts value followed by Dallas with 26.4 percent. 

Home Prices Unchanged

Texas’ median home price has remained stable at approximately $340,000 for four months (Table 2). The prices have remained stable this month with San Antonio and Houston increasing by 0.4 percent and 0.2 percent, respectively. Austin and Dallas both have declined by 0.4 percent. Despite there being an increase in new listings and active listings, housing prices have remained resilient.  The Texas Repeat Sales Home Price Index (Jan 2005=100) grew 0.4 percent MOM and 2.2 percent year over year (YOY). Austin’s annual appreciation remains below the state’s average, falling by 1.5 percent YOY.

Source: Texas Housing Insight | Texas Real Estate Research Center (tamu.edu)

BY JOSHUA ROBERSON, RHUTU KALLUR, and WESLEY MILLER (July 17, 2024)
 
Avoid-Common-Closing-Delays

How To Avoid Common Closing Delays

by Real Estate ArticlesResources

Purchasing a home is a monumental event, but the journey from signing the contract to receiving the keys can be fraught with potential delays. Understanding these common issues and taking proactive steps to deal with them can help ensure a smooth and timely closing. Republic Title understands the intricacies of the home-buying process, having served the North Texas real estate community for over 30 years. As the market leader in title insurance with 11 conveniently located residential offices across North Texas, Republic can be your trusted authority to guide you through these potential closing delays.

Loan Requirements

One of the most critical aspects of purchasing a home is securing a mortgage. The loan approval process involves several steps, and delays often occur when buyers fail to promptly respond to lender requests. Lenders require various documents, including income verification, tax returns, bank statements, and proof of employment. To keep your closing date on track, it’s essential to:

  1. Respond Promptly: Return all requested documents as quickly as possible. Delays in providing these documents can slow down the underwriting process, leading to a potential postponement of your closing date.
  2. Complete Required Tasks: Follow through on any additional tasks your lender asks you to complete. This might include clarifying information or providing additional documentation.
Matt Visinsky

By staying organized and responsive, you can help your lender process your loan efficiently, reducing the likelihood of delays.

As Matt Visinsky, Senior Residential Counsel at Republic Title, advises, “Timely communication with your lender is crucial. Delays in submitting documents or answering questions from your lender can cascade into significant setbacks in the closing timeline.”

Tax Information

During the title process, the title company will search the property tax records for any delinquent taxes or unearned tax exemptions. If unpaid taxes or unearned exemptions are discovered, the seller may need to work with the County Appraisal District and/or Tax Office to resolve these issues before closing. Failure to promptly address these issues can result in the closing being delayed until the unearned exemptions can be removed and any resulting supplemental tax bills issued. Ensuring all your taxes and exemptions are current can prevent this common delay.

Power of Attorneys

Common Closing Delays

Using a Power of Attorney (POA) at closing may be necessary if you or the other party cannot be present. It also adds additional steps and requirements that must be meticulously followed:

  1. Approval: The title company and lender (if there is one) must approve the POA before closing.
  2. Delivery: The original POA document must be delivered to the title company at or before closing, as it needs to be recorded with the County Clerk before other closing documents.
  3. Verification: On the day of closing, the title company must be able to contact you in order to verify that you are alive, well, and have not revoked the POA. To avoid closing delays please make sure that you have provided the title company with your contact information so they can reach you on the day of closing.

By ensuring these steps are followed, you can avoid delays related to POA issues.

Common Names

If you have a common surname it may be necessary for you to provide the title company with information or documentation to prove that certain liens do not apply to you and are in fact filed against someone else with the same name. Please be sure to respond to any questions or requests for documentation timely in order to avoid delays.

Marital Status

Common Closing Delays

In Texas, a community property state that also has constitutional homestead rights, marital status can impact the closing process:

  1. Single to Married: If you purchased the property when single but are now married, your spouse will need to join in signing the deed at closing due to Texas Homestead Laws, so plan accordingly.
  2. Divorced: If you acquired the property while you were married and are now divorced you may need to provide the title company with a copy of the divorce. Depending on the language contained in the divorce it may be necessary to have your ex-spouse sign a deed.

Addressing these marital status issues in advance helps ensure a smoother closing process. “Marital status changes can affect property rights and closing requirements, explains Visinsky. “Being proactive about these changes can prevent delays.”

Out of Town Mail-Outs

If a Remote Online Closing is not possible and closing documents must be sent to a party to be signed outside of the office of the title company, follow these tips to avoid closing delays:

  1. Exact Signatures: Sign all documents exactly as requested. Failure to do so may result in the lender requiring the parties to re-sign all closing documents.
  2. Proper Notarization: Ensure all documents are properly notarized. If documents are sent out of the country it may be necessary to make an appointment at a US embassy or consulate to have your documents notarized. In some cases it may be possible to have a local notary acknowledge the documents. If you will be out of the country please communicate that to the title company early so they can help to guide you through the process.

By following these guidelines, you can avoid delays related to out-of-town mail-outs.

Review Important Documents

Several important documents must be reviewed before closing, including the Survey, Title Commitment, HOA documents (if applicable), and the Closing Disclosure. It’s crucial to:

  1. Timely Review: Review these documents promptly upon receipt and ask any questions at that time.
  2. Alert for Errors: Inform your Realtor and the title company of any errors or discrepancies immediately.

Timely review and communication can help rectify any issues before they become roadblocks, ensuring a smoother closing process. Visinsky emphasizes, “Careful review of all documents is essential. Early identification of errors can prevent last-minute complications.”

By understanding and proactively addressing these common issues that can lead to closing delays, you can help ensure a more seamless home-buying experience. Choosing Republic Title as your title company means partnering with North Texas’ market leader in title insurance, with over 30 years of expertise in the real estate community. Stay organized, responsive, and communicative with your lender, title company, and Realtor to navigate the closing process efficiently. With Republic Title, you can avoid many of the common pitfalls that lead to delays, bringing you one step closer to owning your new home.

Source: Republic Title Tip: How to Avoid Common Closing Delays – CandysDirt.com

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May 2024 DFW Real Estate Stats

by Real Estate ArticlesResourcesStats

In May 2024, real estate trends across several counties in the Dallas-Fort Worth area showed varied patterns.

In Collin County new listings increased by 22%, while active listings rose by 47% compared to the previous year. The average days on the market decreased by nearly 10% and the average sales price remained unchanged, but average price per square foot saw a 3.7% increase. Closed sales saw a slight uptick of 1.5% from the prior year.

In Dallas County new listings grew by 13.4%, and active listings saw a significant rise of 42.2% year-over-year. The average days on market increased by 9.4% while the average sales price surged by 16.4% to exceed $600,000. The average price per square foot increased by 7.6%, while closed sales decreased by 8.3% compared to the previous year.

In Denton County new listings increased by 8.7%, with active listings up by almost 34% from May 2023 and the average days on market decreased by 12.2%. The average sales price rose by 5.7%. and the average price per square foot showed a nearly 4% increase. Closed sales were slightly lower compared to the same period last year.

These statistics indicate a robust market with increased listings in most counties, fluctuating prices, and varying trends in days on market and closed sales. For more detailed statistics on Rockwall and Tarrant counties and condominium markets for all counties, take a look at our complete report and make it a great summer from your friends at Republic Title!

Our stats infographics include a year over year comparison and area highlights for single family homes broken down by county. We encourage you to share these infographics and video with your sphere.

For more stats information, pdfs and graphics of our stats including detailed information by county, visit the Resources section on our website at DFW Area Real Estate Statistics | Republic Title of Texas.

For the full report from the Texas A&M Real Estate Research Center, click here. For NTREIS County reports click here.

HousingInsightApril2024

Texas Housing Insight April 2024 Summary

by Real Estate ArticlesResourcesStats

Seasonally adjusted housing sales bounced back in April following March’s decline. New listings
grew for the fourth month in a row resulting in the total active listings count growing to its highest level since July 2012. Home prices remained the same at $340,000 for the second month in a row.

New Home Listings on the Rise

Texas witnessed a 5.9 percent increase in total seasonally adjusted home sales month over month (MOM), resulting in 29,212 homes sold (Table 1). All the major cities saw a slight increase in home sales. Previously, San Antonio had the highest decline at 9.2 percent, but looks to be recovering at an increasing rate of 8 percent—the highest among the Big Four, followed by Dallas at 4 percent.

New listings have been steadily increasing from December to April (2.8 percent) with only a slight decline of 0.5 percent in March. The April 2024 number stands at 47,000. Among the Big Four, Dallas has been declining for two months and is currently at 11,523 new listings. Austin, however, has increased by 25 percent between January and April.

The state’s average days on the market remained unchanged at 57. Austin fell by almost four days while Dallas rose by less than one. San Antonio is the only Big Four metro to experience an increase of a little over three days. As of April, San Antonio had the highest days on market of the Big Four, at 72 days. Austin followed at 66 days. Houston had the lowest at 46 days.

The number of active listings went up from 106,428 to 111,707 (4.9 percent) following the increase in new listings. Pending listings during April went up by only 0.6 percent. This growth was driven largely by Houston (10 percent) but offset by Dallas (5.6 percent) and San Antonio (3.3 percent). The Big Four experienced an upward trend in active listings with an addition of 1,555 for Austin (16.5 percent). Houston experienced a similar increased trend in active listings (10.7 percent) with an addition of 2,788 listings, almost five times that of the previous month. Dallas and San Antonio experienced relatively modest increases of 8.2 percent and 2 percent, respectively.

Interest Rates on the Rise

Treasury and mortgage rates remain below their peak 2023 levels but have been increasing since the start of the year. The average ten-year U.S. Treasury Bond yield jumped almost 33 basis points to 4.54 percent. The Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation’s 30-year fixed-rate rose by 17 basis points to 6.99 percent.

Housing Highlight

The housing market may be adjusting to a new normal that is characterized by an average 30-year fixed mortgage rate above 6 percent. Despite the persistence of higher mortgage interest rates, Texas’ residential mortgage activity is steadily improving as more pre-approved customers are searching for homes. Texas’ robust labor market and general economic strength are supporting housing demand despite scattered signals of financial distress across the nation. Financial vulnerability (e.g., rising credit card delinquencies) are currently concentrated on the lower end of the income distribution, where households are less likely to be prospective homebuyers. While that credit-health distinction somewhat shields the home-purchase market, it has broader implications for housing affordability and may carry consequences for the future economy.

Single-Family Starts Declining

Texas’ number of single-family construction permits increased by 0.9 percent MOM, reaching 13,805 issuances. After a massive dip in March, Houston has increased by almost 30 percent while all other major cities experienced moderate changes. Austin was the only city that had a fall of 5.9 percent (1,411) while San Antonio and Dallas experienced slight increases of 3.5 percent (953) and 1.6 percent (4,063), respectively.

Construction starts reduced according to data from Dodge Construction Network. Seasonally adjusted single-family starts decreased by 15.1 percent MOM to 13,731 units. Part of the pullback could be because February was such a strong month for starts, signaling an earlier-than-normal start to the construction home season. Houston had been experiencing an almost vertical increase from 56.8 percent in February, which began to slow down and has declined by 25.2 percent, while Dallas increased slightly by 10.7 percent (4,052). In contrast, Austin and San Antonio saw declines of 17.5 percent and 4.6 percent, respectively.

The state’s total value of single-family starts climbed from $9.15 billion in April 2023 to $13.19 billion in April 2024. Houston accounted for 36.2 percent of the state’s total starts value. Starts value activity is up from last year as Austin and San Antonio also posted moderate increases.

Home Prices Stabilizing

Texas’ median home price has remained stable at approximately $340,000 for two months (Table 2). However, across most major metropolitan areas, home prices saw a decline. Notably, Austin experienced an increase of 5.1 percent, moving the price from $421,572 to $443,247. Austin had the highest increase among the four major cities with a price change of $21,675. Prices increased by 2.1 percent in Houston and by a mere 0.7 percent in Dallas. San Antonio is the only city among the Big Four to experience a decline (0.9 percent).

The Texas Repeat Sales Home Price Index (Jan 2005=100) grew 0.9 percent MOM and 2.6 percent year over year (YOY). Austin’s annual appreciation remains below the state’s average, falling by 2 percent YOY.

9-Benefits-of-a-REALTOR-blog

9 Benefits of using a REALTOR When Buying or Selling a Home

by Real Estate ArticlesResources

With all the recent buzz on Buyer’s Agent representation and compensation, now more than ever is it important for you as a REALTOR® to clearly and effectively express your value to your clients and potential clients. If our decades of industry experience here at Republic Title have taught us anything, it’s the critical role REALTORS® play in ensuring smooth and successful transactions. With our list of 9 Benefits of Using a REALTOR® When Buying or Selling a Home, you can help relay the essential role you play to your clients in helping them navigate the real estate market and their transaction.

 Click here for a downloadable printer-friendly version of our list of 9 Benefits of Using a REALTOR® When Buying or Selling a Home.

1. Real Estate is a Full-Time Job

Real estate transactions require a significant investment of time and effort, which can be challenging for individuals to manage independently. REALTORS® dedicate their full time to the real estate profession, handling various tasks that might overwhelm an average person. For sellers, this includes staging the home, taking professional photographs, creating listings, hosting open houses, and negotiating with buyers. For buyers, a REALTOR® spends time searching for properties that meet the client’s criteria, scheduling and attending viewings, providing detailed property analyses, and guiding them through the offer and closing process. By managing these tasks, REALTORS® ensure that no aspect of the transaction is overlooked, providing a seamless and efficient experience for their clients.

2. Expert Knowledge And Experience

REALTORS® possess extensive knowledge of the real estate market, including current trends, property values, and neighborhood statistics. Their expertise helps clients make informed decisions, whether setting the right price for a property or making a competitive offer. Additionally, once licensed, REALTORS® must complete 18 hours of continuing education courses every two years for license renewal. This ongoing education ensures REALTORS® stay updated on industry changes and maintain their expertise, allowing them to navigate the complexities of the market and guide clients effectively. 

3. Access to Comprehensive Market Data

One of the significant advantages of using a REALTOR® is access to comprehensive market data and listings. Realtors have access to Multiple Listing Services (MLS), a database of available properties that provides detailed information, including property history, price changes, and comparable sales. This data is crucial for buyers to find the right property and for sellers to price their home competitively. Additionally, REALTORS® can provide insights into market conditions that are not readily available to the public.

4. Professional Networking And Connections

REALTORS® have an extensive network of professionals in the real estate industry, including mortgage brokers, home inspectors, appraisers, and attorneys. These connections can be beneficial for clients throughout the buying or selling process. For example, a REALTOR® can recommend a reputable home inspector to ensure the property is in good condition or connect buyers with a mortgage broker who can offer competitive financing options. This network of professionals helps streamline the transaction process and provides clients with trusted resources. 

5. Negotiation Skills

Effective negotiation is a critical aspect of real estate transactions. REALTORS® are skilled negotiators who can advocate on behalf of their clients to achieve the best possible terms and conditions. Whether negotiating the purchase price, contingencies, or repairs, REALTORS® have the experience to handle negotiations professionally and effectively. Their goal is to protect their client’s interests and ensure a fair and favorable outcome.

6. Assistance With Paperwork And Legal Requirements

Real estate transactions involve a significant amount of paperwork and legal documentation. A REALTOR® can help clients navigate these documents, ensuring that all necessary forms are completed accurately and submitted on time. This includes purchase agreements, disclosures, inspection reports, and other legal documents. REALTORS® also stay updated on local, state, and federal regulations, ensuring compliance and minimizing the risk of legal issues.

7. Objective Guidance And Support

Emotional attachment and stress can cloud judgment during real estate transactions. REALTORS® provide objective guidance and support, helping clients make rational decisions. They offer a balanced perspective, weighing the pros and cons of each option, and providing honest feedback. This objectivity is particularly valuable in negotiations and when evaluating property conditions, ensuring clients make decisions that align with their goals and financial interests.

8. Local Market Insight

REALTORS® have in-depth knowledge of local markets, including neighborhood dynamics, school districts, amenities, and future development plans. This insight helps buyers choose the right location that meets their lifestyle and investment goals. For sellers, understanding the local market ensures accurate pricing and effective marketing strategies, attracting the right buyers and maximizing the property’s value.

9. Post-Sale Support

The relationship with a REALTOR® doesn’t end at closing. Many REALTORS® offer post-sale support, assisting with any issues that arise after the transaction is complete. This can include recommending contractors for home improvements, providing market updates, or helping with future real estate needs. This ongoing support ensures clients feel secure and supported long after the deal is closed.

Check out more REALTOR® resources like this one in the Resources section on our website here.

Texas-Housing-Insight-March-2024

Texas Housing Insight March 2024 Summary

by Real Estate ArticlesStats

Seasonally adjusted housing sales fell in March following February’s growth. Despite the drop, three months into the year cumulative sales are at the same level as last year. Home prices on the other hand remained the same at $340,000 for the second month in a row.

Texas Housing Insight is a summary of important economic indicators that help discern trends in the Texas housing markets. All measurements are calculated using seasonally adjusted data, and percentage changes are calculated month-over-month, unless stated otherwise.Data current as of March 22, 2024.

Seasonally adjusted housing sales fell in March following February’s growth. Despite the drop, three months into the year cumulative sales are at the same level as last year. Home prices, on the other hand, remained the same at $340,000 for the second month in a row.

Home Sales Retreat from February’s Gains

Texas witnessed a 7.1 percent decrease in total seasonally adjusted home sales month over month (MOM), resulting in 27,595 homes sold (Table 1). Although most major cities experienced an upward trend in February, there was a slight downturn across the board in March. Notably, San Antonio saw the most significant decline at 9.2 percent, representing a decrease of over 296 sales compared to February. Conversely, Dallas-Fort Worth had the smallest decline, with only 259 fewer sales (a 3.2 percent decrease).

After a consistent increase in new listings from December to February, Texas experienced a slight dip, declining from 45,696 to 45,448 listings (0.5 percent). Among the major cities, only San Antonio defied the trend, maintaining stable new listings. However, both Dallas and Houston saw significant drops. Dallas witnessed a reduction of 2,399 listings (17.2 percent), while Houston experienced a decrease of 1,394 listings (9.8 percent).

The state’s average days on the market (DOM) decreased by one day from 57 to 56. Austin fell by almost ten days while Dallas fell by a mere two days. There weren’t any notable changes in Houston and San Antonio. Statewide inventory increased from 3.9 to 4.1 months.

The number of active listings went up from 101,933 to 106,269 (4.2 percent) despite the slight decline in new listings. One explanation for the increase could be the sudden decrease in pending listings, which fell 6.2 percent. The Big Four experienced an upward trend in active listings with an addition of 334 for Austin (3.6 percent). Both Dallas and Houston experienced a similar increased trend in active listings by 2.2 percent with an addition of 524 and 570, respectively. San Antonio experienced a modest increase of 226 (1.8 percent).

Interest Rates on the Rise

Treasury and mortgage rates remain below their peak 2023 levels but have been increasing since the start of the year. The average ten-year U.S. Treasury Bondyield stayed at 4.21 for the second consecutive month. The Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation’s 30-year fixed-rate rose by 4 basis points to 6.82 percent.

Single-Family Starts Stabilizing in March

Texas’ number of single-family construction permits increased by 2.6 percent MOM, reaching 14,013 issuances. In Houston, there was a significant decline of 24.1 percent compared to the previous month. In contrast, Austin and San Antonio saw more modest increases, with 2.1 percent and 5.5 percent, respectively. Dallas permits decreased by 5.2 percent.

Construction starts rose alongside permits, according to data from Dodge Construction Network. Single-family starts rose by 2.6 percent MOM to 16,104 units. Houston had been experiencing an almost vertical increase from 56.8 in February, which is slowly reducing. It currently stands at 9.6 percent in March. San Antonio had a modest increase of 2.9 percent, and Austin rose by 15.8 percent. Dallas had surprisingly no change after the previous month’s 42 percent increase.

The state’s total value of single-family starts climbed from $6.55 billion in March 2023 to $9.51 billion in March 2024. Houston accounted for 36.6 percent of the state’s total starts value. Starts value activity is up from last year as Austin and San Antonio also posted moderate increases.

Home Prices Decline

Texas’ median home price remained stable at approximately $340,000 compared to the previous month (Table 2). However, across most major metropolitan areas, home prices saw a decline. Notably, San Antonio experienced an increase of 4.2 percent, while Austin had the highest decline among the four major cities at 5.2 percent. Dallas saw a minor decrease of 0.3 percent, while Houston declined by 1.7 percent.

The Texas Repeat Sales Home Price Index (Jan 2005=100) grew 0.6 percent MOM and 2.8 percent year over year (YOY). Austin’s annual appreciation remains below the state’s average, falling by 0.7 percent YOY.

Source: Texas Housing Insight | Texas Real Estate Research Center (tamu.edu)

Sold house sign in Midwest suburban setting. Focus on sign.

Republic Title Explores The Top Reasons People Are Moving in 2024

by Real Estate Articles

Moving is a big deal, right? But in this age, it’s not just about throwing stuff in boxes and hitting the road. There are all sorts of reasons people are moving in 2024. According to data from the U.S. Census Bureau, the net migration for the 13-county Dallas-Fort Worth metropolitan area from July 2022 to July 2023 (the latest data available at this time) was 101,419 people, which equates to 278 more people in D-FW per day via migration, and that doesn’t even include those people who already live in the area and are looking to relocate.

If you, or someone you know, is planning a move this year, ask your real estate agent about partnering with Republic Title, the North Texas title insurance market leader, and how we can help get your deal done smoothly so you can begin enjoying your new home!  

Alright, let’s dive into the reasons people are moving in 2024:

1. Family Ties

You can’t beat family, can you? Sometimes, being close to the people you love most means moving to be nearer to them. Whether it’s for Sunday dinners or helping out with the grandkids, family is a big reason why people pack up and head to new places.

According to the National Association of Realtors, which surveys homebuyers and sellers as part of their annual Generational Trends Report, the desire to be closer to family/friends/relatives was at the top of the list of primary reasons for purchasing a home, especially for those in the Baby Boomer generation and Silent Generation. 

2. Need For a Bigger Space

Ever feel like your walls are closing in? Growing families, work-from-home setups, or just wanting more elbow room can all make you crave a bigger space. Sometimes, you’ve just got to spread out a bit!

3. Desire For a Vacation Home

Picture this: your own little slice of paradise where you can kick back, relax, and soak up the sun whenever you please. Sounds dreamy, right? That’s why some folks are scooping up vacation homes – for getaways and maybe a little rental income on the side.

4. Lots of Equity; Lots of Choice

If your home’s value has shot up, you might find yourself sitting on a pile of equity. That means you’ve got options – whether it’s upgrading to your dream home or exploring new neighborhoods, the world (or at least the housing market) is your oyster!

5. Upgrade The Neighborhood

Sometimes, you just want a change of scenery. Maybe you’re eyeing a neighborhood with better schools, a better dining scene, or just a friendlier vibe. Whatever your reasons, upgrading your neighborhood can be a game-changer.

6. Time to Downsize

Who needs all that extra space, anyway? Downsizing can be liberating – less stuff to take care of, lower bills, and maybe even a little extra cash in your pocket. Sometimes, less really is more.

7. Out-of-Area Relocation

New job? New school? New adventure? Sometimes, life takes you places you never expected. According to U-Haul’s Top Growth States Report, Texas ranked the No. 1 state for newcomers in 2023.  Whether it’s across the country or just a few towns over, moving to a whole new area can open up a world of possibilities.

8. Change of Work/Change of Life

Thanks to remote work, you’re not tied down to one place anymore. According to a Pew Research Center survey, about a third (35 percent) of workers with jobs that can be done remotely are working from home all of the time, which opens up options and is a big one of the reasons people are moving in 2024. 

So there you have it – the top reasons people are making moves in 2024. Whether you’re relocating for family, space, or a fresh start, Republic Title is the smart choice to partner with in the closing of your home.

Make sure to check out Republic Title’s website where we have curated a list of over 40 local community Fast Facts to help familiarize you with all that North Texas has to offer!

Source: Republic Title Explores The Top Reasons People Are Moving in 2024 – CandysDirt.com

 
Property-Tax-Protest

How to Protest Your Property Taxes (and Win)

by Real Estate ArticlesResourcesVideo

The property tax protest deadlines are fast-approaching, so if you find yourself in need of help or don’t know where to start in protesting, look no further! Last week Republic Title sponsored a webinar with Candysdirt.com and PropertyTax.io on How to Protest Your Property Taxes (and Win) to help provide valuable information on protesting property tax appraisals. During this hourlong event, over 350 participants learned the basics of property tax appeals and had the opportunity to ask a property tax protest expert questions. If you missed the webinar, you can view the full recording below and read answers to the most-asked questions and biggest takeaways from the event.

Hosted by property tax expert Glenn Goodrich of PropertyTax.io and CandysDirt.com founder and publisher Candy Evans, the wide-ranging discussion focused mostly on how recent property tax reform will impact the property tax protest process.

Top Tips and Q&A from the Webinar:

Q: How do you request the 14-day evidence report?
A: You must provide the appraisal district written notice at least 14 days prior to your scheduled Appraisal Review Board hearing date. I recommend sending in a certified letter right after you file a protest. In the letter simply identify your property and state that you are requesting the evidence the appraisal district will use in the hearing.

Q: Does the circuit-breaker cap apply with investment properties?
A: Yes, the circuit-breaker applies to all non-homestead real estate valued at $5 million or less. This includes investment properties, second homes (i.e. lake houses), and all types of commercial properties such as retail strip centers, office buildings, and industrial facilities.  

Q: How does the appraisal district determine the value of recently purchased properties?
A: Texas is a non-disclosure state, which means an owner is not obligated to share their purchase price with the government. Many appraisals district do have access to sales information for internal purposes though through an arrangement with the MLS providers. Sometimes appraisal districts rely on their party data sources that provide them sales information. 

Q: What is the best way to get comps?
A: If you have not hired a property tax firm and want to handle the protest yourself, it’s probably best to contact a Realtor to provide you with a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA). A CMA is just a starting place though, be sure and pick the properties you think are the most similar and account for differences such as pools, living size, interior finish out, lot (interior vs. creek or backing to traffic), garage spaces, etc.

Q: What evidence works best in a protest?
A: As an agent, most of my cases are won using the “Sales Comparison Approach” where we discuss the best recent sales and how they compare to my client’s property. There is more wiggle room in this argument than most people realize. Besides using sales, photos, and estimates of legitimate issues that have a serious impact on your value (over $10,000) works well. Avoid showing normal wear and tear issues … that backfires and hurts your case for a reduction. 

Q: Can land value be protested?
A: In a protest, you can only protest the “Total Market Value” which includes both the land value and improvement value. In a vast majority of cases, you cannot parse out land value. You must prove the total value is too high. It is possible to be high on the land, low on the improvement, but overall correct on the total value. Stick to recent sales, photos, and estimates (see my answer above).  

Q: How do you confirm that your homestead exemption is valid?
A: You can verify your homestead is still on record by checking the appraisal district’s website. There is a section that discusses exemptions, and your homestead exemption should be displayed there. Your homestead exemption should be valid as long as your current driver’s license address still matches your site’s address and you are not claiming a homestead exemption on another property. 

Source: Top Tips From Our Property Tax Protest Webinar Featuring Glenn Goodrich of PropertyTax.io – CandysDirt.com

Couple standing in front of their new home. They are both wearing casual clothes and embracing. Rear view from behind them. The house is contemporary with a brick facade, driveway, balcony and a green lawn. The front door is also visible. Copy space

Republic Title Answers Your Questions on Recent Changes to Homestead Exemptions 

by Ask the ExpertReal Estate Articles
Homestead exemptions are a form of property tax relief provided to homeowners who use their property as their primary residence.

In the ever-evolving landscape of property taxes, understanding the intricacies of exemptions can significantly impact homeowners.  Recent changes to the Texas Constitution and the Tax Code have impacted homestead exemptions and how Central Appraisal Districts (CADs) handle those exemptions.  

In this post, we will be discussing what homeowners need to know about Proposition 4, which increased the amount of the homestead exemption resulting in significant savings for Texas homeowners, and recent modifications to the Texas Tax Code requiring all CADs to verify a property owner’s eligibility to continue to receive their homestead exemption.

What is a Homestead Exemption?

Before diving into the changes, let’s clarify what homestead exemptions entail. Homestead exemptions are a form of property tax relief provided to homeowners who use their property as their primary residence, also known as their homestead. These exemptions reduce the taxable value of a property, resulting in lower property taxes for eligible homeowners.

Recent Changes in Texas Tax Code

In Texas, where property taxes are a significant revenue source for local governments, any amendments to the tax code draw attention. The recent changes to Section 11.43 of the Texas Tax Code require the CADs to put procedures in place to confirm, once every five years (at a minimum), that homeowners still qualify for their homestead exemption.  It is important to note that this change may require homeowners to reapply for the homestead exemption or to provide documentation to continue to receive the benefits.  

If a homeowner receives a letter from the CAD regarding the need to reapply for a homestead exemption, or to provide additional documentation, it is vital that the homeowner provided that information before the deadline stated in the letter.  Failure to do so may trigger the loss of the exemption and any other related property tax exemptions resulting in a higher tax bill.

Proposition 4

Proposition 4 was a constitutional amendment overwhelmingly approved by Texas voters in November 2023 that increased the amount of the homestead exemption from $40,000 to $100,000.  This means eligible homeowners can now enjoy greater reductions in their property tax burdens, providing welcome relief amidst rising property values and tax rates.

How to Apply For The Homestead Exemption

Understanding how to apply for a homestead exemption is crucial for Texas homeowners looking to benefit from property tax relief. While the process may vary slightly depending on the county, here are the general steps to follow:

  1. Determine Eligibility: Ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria for homestead exemptions in Texas. Generally speaking, you must own and occupy the property as your primary residence on January 1st of the tax year in which you apply for the exemption.  In some instances, it may be possible for a homeowner to apply for the homestead exemption immediately upon acquisition of the property.  If you have questions about when you may submit your application for a homestead exemption, please contact your local CAD.
  2. Gather Required Documentation: Collect the necessary documents required for the application process. This typically includes proof of ownership (deed or contract), proof of residency (driver’s license or voter registration listing the property address as your home address), and any additional documents requested by your local CAD.
  3. Complete the Application Form: Obtain the homestead exemption application form from your county’s appraisal district or download it from their website. Fill out the form accurately and completely, providing all requested information. For a list of North Texas CADs, visit Republic Title’s blog. 
  4. Submit the Application: Once you’ve completed the application form and gathered all necessary documentation, submit them to your county’s appraisal district by the CAD’s specified deadline. Most counties allow you to submit the application by mail, in person, or online, but those options may differ by county.
  5. Follow Up: After submitting your application, follow up with the CAD to ensure that they have received it and that there are no additional requirements or steps needed to process your application.
  6. Monitor Your Property Tax Bill: Once your homestead exemption application is approved, you should see the reduced exemption amount reflected on your next property tax bill. Monitor your tax bill to confirm that the exemption has been applied correctly.

The standard homestead exemption is just one of many exemptions in Texas. Other exemptions include the Disabled Veteran Exemption, Over 65 Exemption, Agricultural Exemption, and Disabled Individual Exemption. For more information on these exemptions, visit Republic Title’s website.  

By staying informed about the homestead exemption application process in your county, you can take advantage of the property tax relief available to Texas homeowners and maximize your savings. If you have any questions or need assistance with the application process, don’t hesitate to reach out to your county’s appraisal district or consult with a tax professional for guidance tailored to your specific circumstances.

Additionally, when navigating real estate transactions in North Texas, partnering with a trusted title company such as Republic Title can streamline the process and provide assurance. With our extensive experience and expertise in handling real estate transactions, Republic Title is the preferred title partner for North Texas real estate transactions. Our dedicated team is committed to delivering exceptional service and ensuring smooth and successful closings for our clients.

Source: Republic Title Answers Your Questions on Recent Changes to Homestead Exemptions  – CandysDirt.com