The 9's

Here's something fun I like to do every so often.

I go on a scavenger hunt through the multiple listing service for homes listed at a certain "number." For example, since September is the 9th month, I looked for homes priced in the 9's. Here are the results of Dallas homes (bathrooms, specifically) priced from $9,000 to $9 million. These are not my listings, by the way. Enjoy!

Here's one priced at $9,000. Brings new meaning to the term "garden tub."

At $90,000 simple, yet functional.

$900,000. Very nice.

And a "whoa mama" master bath suite for $9 million.

Why Some Houses Sit While Other Houses Sell

2010 School Ratings

From my friends at Republic Title, here is a link to school ratings in the Dallas area.

Schools Do Affect Home Values

As we prepare for traditional back to school activities, some families are searching for affordable housing based on local schools or desirable school districts. In some cases, proximity to quality schools is so important buyers may choose to rent close to a preferred school until the right home becomes available, especially if they're running out of time before the first day of school.

Because proximity to a quality school is such a high priority for some of these families as they search for their next home, they specifically chose neighborhoods with top ranked schools, which can sometimes as much as 10 to 28 percent higher in price than a comparable home in an area with lower ranked schools.

In my experience, North Dallas neighborhoods within the Richardson Independent School District are a popular choice for buyers relocating from other states or moving from other areas within the city. Other school districts, such as Plano, Allen, and Carrollton/Farmer's Branch are gaining in popularity.

So whether you have school age children or not, keeping an eye on your school's ranking does make a difference when it's time to sell your home. Many homeowners also support their local PTA and offer volunteer hours to stay involved with neighborhood schools.

No Federal Sales Tax on Home Sales

It's a myth ... there is no federal sales tax on home sales. An Internet rumor continues to spread false information about a supposed tax on home sales. The erroneous e-mail claims that a provision of the healthcare reform bill passed earlier this year will place a tax on "all real estate transactions" in 2013. Not true.

Source: Texas Association of REALTORS

What in the World is Xeriscaping?

Xeriscaping (or xerogardening) is the practice of landscaping and gardening in ways that reduce or eliminate the need for excess water. Taken from the Greek word, "xeros" (meaning dry), xeriscaping was initially designed to provide landscaping options for areas which are particularly sensitive to draught.

In addition to reducing the costs of watering and chemical maintenance, well executed xeriscaping can actually improve the curb appeal and value of a home.

Interested in saving water and eliminating lawn maintenance? Consider this green alternative. Below are a few links on the topic of xeriscaping:

An Overview of Xeriscaping:

http://eartheasy.com/grow_xeriscape.htm

Images of Xeriscaping:http://tinyurl.com/23keqet

Florida homeowners who have embraced xeriscaping: http://www.beacononlinenews.com/news/daily/2751

Photo: Texas hummingbird mint (A. cana) courtesy www.finegardening.com