Must-Have Items for Any Homeowner

When you own your home, things are going to break and, unless you want to spend your money on visits from a neighborhood handyman, you’re going to need to fix them yourself. Luckily, you don’t need an arsenal of tools to handle most home maintenance fixes. These five tools will cover most of your basic projects.

1. Cordless drill. A cordless drill is a must-have for installing cabinets, drawer pulls, hinges, picture frames, shelves and hooks, and more. Whether it’s for do-it-yourself projects or repairs, you’ll use your cordless drill just about every month.

2. Drain cleaners. Shower and bathroom sink drains are susceptible to clogs because of the daily buildup of hair and whisker clippings. You can use chemical clog removers like Drano, but they’re expensive and the lingering chemical scent is unpleasant. Instead, buy some plastic drain cleaners that can reach into the drain to pull out the clog of hair and gunk. You can purchase them on Amazon or at a local hardware store for a low price.

3. Shop-vac. No matter how careful you are, spills and accidents will happen and there are some tasks that just can’t be handled with paper towels or a standard vacuum, like pet messes or broken glass.

4. Loppers. Even the minimum amount of care for your landscaping will require some loppers to remove damaged branches, vines, thick weeds, and any other unruly plants in your yard.

5. Flashlight. You’re going to want something a little more powerful than your iPhone flashlight when you’re in the crawlspace!

Do you have any “must-have” items that have changed your home care life? Let us know so we can include them in our next list!

Coldwell Banker United, REALTORS® – Metropolitan
Katie Day, REALTOR®
2 Greenway Plaza #150 Houston, TX 77046

Phone: 832.317.6006
Email: katie@movemetotx.com
Web: http://www.katiedayteam.com | http://www.movemetotx.com

Coldwell Banker Open House: Saturday 05/26 & Sunday 05/27

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3407 Norma Ln, Pearland, TX 77584 – 4 Bed, 2.5 Bath – $261,9000

Open House: Sun May 27, 12:00PM-2:00PM

More Info: https://www.har.com/3407-norma-lane/sale_52062927

Surely to impress, this home is located in the highly sought-after Pearland, ISD. Boasting lovely and well-maintained landscaping and curb appeal in the small community of Barclay Place – close to schools, parks, shopping and entertainment. This spacious home features a formal dining and living room with hardwood and tiled flooring throughout. Large master suite downstairs with walk in closet and master bath has double vanity, separate shower and garden tub. Upstairs hosts 3 bedrooms, game room, tons of storage room in the extra attic/crawl space off the game room area and a full double vanity bathroom.

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5417 Blue Haven Dr, Willis, TX 77318 – 3 Bed, 2.5 Bath – $279,000

Open House: Sun May 27, 1:00PM-3:00PM

More Info: https://www.har.com/5417-blue-haven-drive/sale_51526365

Welcome to your New Home! This stunning two story family home is loaded with tons of features including a vast front porch, open front entry, and a large backyard great for gatherings. The upper and lower decks allow you to enjoy a breathtaking view of Lake Conroe. An open, formal dining room, spacious living room, and large game-room makes this the perfect home for entertaining family and friends. Large bright Master Bedroom with great windows. Gourmet kitchen with tons of storage including an over-sized pantry. Steps away from Lake Conroe. Isn’t it time to enjoy your life in this lakeside community?

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1623 Rustic Knolls Dr, Katy, TX 77450 – 4 Bed, 2.5 Bath – $289,500

Open House: Sat May 26, 12:00PM-3:00PM

More Info: https://www.har.com/1623-rustic-knolls-drive/sale_94024938

How much are you going to love this home? Welcome to a gorgeous Nottingham floor plan. A huge kitchen with breakfast space that will hold a full sized Dining Table. The Living room has so much natural light and a beautiful feel! Upstairs it’s all about family with a huge Game Room and prefect sized Bedrooms! Your Master Suite is a great place to relax with his and her closets and a separate shower. Call to schedule your own private showing. You are going to love this home!

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22702 Bucktrout Ln, Katy, TX 77449 – 4 Bed, 2.5 Bath – $299,000

Open House: Sat May 26, 2:00PM-4:00PM

More Info: https://www.har.com/22702-bucktrout-lane/sale_4957060

Charming traditional style home in the lovely established Williamsburg Settlement. Located right on the corner within viewing and walking distance to award winning Winborn Elementary in KISD! Perfect family home to build memories to last a lifetime! Gorgeous mature trees in front yard with beautiful new landscaping. New roof in 2015 and New A/C in 2014. Excellent size master bedroom/bathroom with an updated master shower to relax and rejuvenate! Three spacious secondary bedrooms upstairs with a huge game room, perfect for kiddos to entertain and play with their friends! Gorgeous backyard with covered patio and beautiful mature trees that provide ample shade. Visualize all the parties and entertaining with family and friends in this fantastic backyard! Schedule an appointment today to come and see this gorgeous home and make it your own!

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5123 Lymbar Dr, Houston, TX 77096 – 3 Bed, 3 Bath – $335,000

Open House: Sat May 26, 2:00PM-4:00PM

More Info: https://www.har.com/5123-lymbar-drive/sale_18715543

Pristine Southern Traditional, located on a serene culdesac and graced with the canopy of a beautiful majestic live oak trees. Stylish updates throughout the home including fresh interior paint, newly refinished hardwood floors, and crown molding. Cooks kitchen features authentic wood butcher block counters, raised panel cabinetry, built in wine rack, spice racks, stainless steel range with five burner, smooth surface cook-top & double ovens. The inviting den boasts double french doors which open to the newly poured stamped concrete patio and fenced backyard. Master bedroom touts plantation shutters and four closets. Master bath offers a furniture style vanity and walk-in frame-less glass shower. Detached quarters feature a bedroom area, full bath and kitchen. So many features, you will have to see it for yourself.

 

For information on these, or any other homes in the Greater Houston area, reach out today!

Coldwell Banker United, REALTORS® – Metropolitan
Katie Day, REALTOR®
2 Greenway Plaza #150 Houston, TX 77046

Phone: 832.317.6006
Email: katie@movemetotx.com
Web: http://www.katiedayteam.com | http://www.movemetotx.com

 

 

 

Submitting Creative Bids During the Spring Market Frenzy

 

It’s that time of year again. The spring market is in full swing and crowds of buyers are fighting over their dream house—or at least the closest thing to it, considering this year’s nationwide inventory shortage isn’t leaving many options. So, what does that mean? For the most part, higher prices, more competition and a whole lot of bids.

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Listings in good condition tend to get multiple offers this time of year, and buyers are putting forth their strongest submissions—cash offers, over-asking, fast closings, no contingencies, etc. But creativity is the name of the game in this year’s competitive market. Buyers are inspired to win over the seller’s emotional side. Here are the latest home-buying trends for beating out the competition in a swarming spring market:

Love Letters
While they’ve been around for a while, they’re getting a lot more popular, being used by buyers as a last-ditch effort to win via the seller’s emotional attachment to the home. Most letters talk about favorite design choices the seller incorporated, plans to raise the family and proclamations that the home is “the one” after a long and tough home search.

Letters usually tell the seller that the buyer is serious and willing to take care of the home. But some sellers may only focus on the numbers and terms. It’s a toss-up, but it doesn’t hurt to try.

Buyer-Crafted Videos
These are a little newer, emerging after YouTube’s digital push into vlogging, or video blogging. While they can come off as cheesy, they are a little more personal than handwritten letters, because sellers will feel like the potential buyer is talking directly to them.

According to REALTOR® Magazine, a couple recently won a bid on their dream home by making a music video to “Our House,” which just so happened to be the song the sellers sang to each other when they first lit the fireplace in their home. The connection instantly won the sellers over, beating out another offer that was $20,000 over the buyers’ submission.

If you’re considering making a move and purchasing your first home, check out our video on YouTube for more details on how to get started, then give us a call!

Coldwell Banker United, Realtors
MOVEMETOTX – Katie Day Team
2 Greenway Plaza #150 Houston, TX 77046
Phone: 832.317.6006
Email: katie@movemetotx.com
Web: http://www.katiedayteam.com | http://www.movemetotx.com

 

Coldwell Banker Open Houses: Saturday 05/19 & Sunday 05/20

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1207 Detering St, Houston, TX 77007 – 3 Bed, 4 Bath – $359,485

Open House: Sat May 19, 2:00PM-5:00PM & Sun May 20, 1:00PM-3:00PM

More Info: https://www.har.com/1207-detering-st-houston-tx-77007/homevalue_7888278

Nestled between Washington Avenue and I-10, just off TC Jester, this stunning move-in ready home provides a quiet retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. Enjoy entertaining friends and family in an open second floor. Your bright and functional kitchen with stainless steel appliances, built-in oven and microwave, and island-gas range overlook both the dining area and the living area. Enjoy two patios off of the living space for everyone to spread out. Each guest bedroom features an en-suite bathroom plus ample storage space, with both walk-in closets in the bedroom and linen-style walk-in closets in the bathrooms. In your master retreat, enjoy a small Juliet-style patio, lots of natural light, and a spa-like bathroom. The master bathroom is expansive, with double-sinks, whirlpool tub, stand-up shower, separate water closet, and linen closet. Walk to local bars and restaurants, and enjoy the ultimate inner-loop lifestyle at an affordable price.

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7906 High Knoll Ln, Houston, TX 77095 – 4 Bed, 2.5 Bath – $259,000

Open House: Sun May 20, 2:00PM-4:00PM

More Info: https://www.har.com/7906-high-knoll-lane/sale_92620823

Gorgeous semi custom one story home in the heart of Copperfield. Corner lot with detached garage, great curb appeal with lush manicured yard & water feature in backyard. Floor-plan includes game-room & additional half-bathroom. Huge Master witg sitting area & spacious two walk-in closets. Extensive tile floor, and carpet in the bedrooms. Updated Kitchen with island, granite counters, stainless-steel appliances & sink. Close-by (pocket) green space for kids or to walk your pets. Could this be your new home?

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5414 Drumlin Field Way, Richmond, TX 77407 – 4-5 Bed, 3 Bath – $274,900

Open House: Sat May 19, 2:00AM-4:00PM

More Info: https://www.har.com/5414-drumlin-field-way/sale_22988728

Next we have a four bedroom, three bath in Richmond, TX. This home comes with upgraded engineered wood flooring from the entry-way to the living room, a 5 burner stove, energy-saving dishwasher, and a new fixtures for the kitchen sink. Gorgeous Plantation shutters throughout entire house; Security Glass doors at front and back; enlarged patio with great Sunset-awning over patio with automatic remote; sprinkler system, yard nicely landscaped, and much more. Separate 4th-Bedroom with Full-Bath for guest or separated-suite for the in-Law’s. Wouldn’t you like to see this beautiful home?

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2858 Torano, League City, TX 77573 – 4 Bed, 3 Bath – $299,000

Open House: Sat May 19, 12:00PM-2:00PM

More Info: https://www.har.com/2858-torano/sale_61584305

This gorgeous Tremar floor plan built by Chesmar Homes is situated on a huge lot with a pool-sized back yard waiting just for you. You will walk in and fall in love with this well maintained, four bedroom, three bath home in the Heart of Tuscan Lakes, it features wood floors and tall ceilings with a warm, inviting, spacious living room that can fit a grand piano. The kitchen design makes cooking easy, a time-saving breakfast bar for those busy mornings, also features stainless steel appliances. Outside is a dream, you will enjoy the convenience of the underground sprinkler system that keeps your lawn and flowers beautiful the easy way. Watch the Kemah Boardwalk Fireworks from the second floor. Don’t wait, make the call.

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24311 Water Hill Ct, Katy, TX 77494 – 4 Bed, 3.5 Bath – $340,000

Open House: Sat May 19, 11:00AM-2:00PM

More Info: https://www.har.com/24311-water-hill-court/sale_63567694

This prestigious Katy golf course community home sits on a culdesac lot and backs to the community’s private golf course. With lush green landscaping and mature trees enjoy the shade on your covered back patio or get a little sun on your private balcony. This four bedroom three and a half bathroom home has well allocated spaces and fine finishes throughout. Enjoy walking in to this grand entry with rich hardwood floors, architectural elements, formal dining, study, gorgeous updated kitchen with stainless steel appliances, granite counters, a two story living room with custom built-ins and a wall of windows inviting a lush green view of the golf course. Spacious bedrooms, playroom/flex room and game room upstairs. Low tax rate and convenient access with multiple routes to major highways. You deserve this, hurry up and don’t miss your chance!

For information on these, or any other homes in the Greater Houston area, reach out today!

Coldwell Banker United, REALTORS® – Metropolitan
Katie Day, REALTOR®
2 Greenway Plaza #150 Houston, TX 77046

Phone: 832.317.6006
Email: katie@movemetotx.com
Web: http://www.katiedayteam.com | http://www.movemetotx.com

 

Coldwell Banker Open Houses: Saturday 05/12 & Sunday 05/13

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10935 Tattershall Lane, Missouri City, TX 77459 – 4 Bed, 2.5 Bath – $259,000

Open House: Sat May 12, 11:00AM-1:00PM

More Info: https://www.har.com/10935-tattershall-lane/sale_63102020

You won’t find this much space for the price. This fantastic abode features four bedrooms PLUS a study & game room! Sleek granite countertops in the kitchen make way into the open-concept living area that is perfect for entertaining. Tile and laminate throughout the first floor and carpet upstairs. Recent updates include fresh paint throughout and front door refinishing. The spacious backyard includes a covered patio and deck! This one won’t last long!

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15218 Foster Springs Lane, Houston, TX 77059 – 4 Bed, 3.5 Bath – $265,000

Open House: Sat May 12, 1:00PM-3:00PM

More Information: https://www.har.com/15218-foster-springs-lane/sale_5519820

Gorgeous two story home, with four bedrooms and grand entry way. Hardwood floors throughout, granite kitchen counter tops, double side view fireplace between living room and den. Master bedroom with a pool view and backyard with privacy! Deep driveway for your guests to park! This beauty is ready for its new owner.

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18315 Franklin Park Court, Spring, TX 77379 – 3 Bed, 3 Bath – $287,000

Open House: Sat May 12, 2:00PM-4:00PM

More Information: https://www.har.com/18315-franklin-park-court/sale_44190133

Wonderful three bedroom three bath one story patio home. Low maintenance living at its best. High ceilings, open concept, bright & airy. So much natural light in every room! Situated on a quiet cul-de-sac, gated community with great curb appeal & zoned to some of Klein ISD’s top rated schools. Architectural finishes, abundance of living space, bonus study with full light French doors (could be bedroom/guest room and is connected to full bath) and a large utility and attached garage. Island kitchen w gas cooktop, loads of cabinets & counter space, breakfast bar, open to den with gas log fireplace and immersed with natural light. Large master suite with wall of windows also allowing natural light while securing privacy. The master bath has huge closet with built ins, his & her sinks, spa tub and glass block windows that insure privacy but allow light-very well maintained with fresh neutral paint, flooring and surfaces. HOA fee includes yard. Move-in ready.

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23 Alden Glen Drive, The Woodlands, TX 77382 – 4 Bed, 2.5 Bath – $359,000

Open House: Sun May 13, 2:00PM-4:00PM

More Information: https://www.har.com/23-alden-glen-drive/sale_46553184

Stunning brick home located in Alden Bridge in The Woodlands. Beautiful large yard with mature trees located across the street from neighborhood playground. Vaulted ceilings and wood and tile floors greet you upon entering the foyer. Dramatic high ceilings and open floor plan. Recently updated kitchen with stainless appliances, beautiful cabinets and granite counters. Family room with gas fireplace overlooks private large backyard. Private study/home office just steps from family room. Vaulted master suite has screened porch perfect for relaxing. Master bath with double vanities, whirlpool tub and separate shower. Three additional bedrooms and game room on second level. Freshly painted interior. Private backyard with extended patio and mature trees is so inviting. And don’t forget the three car garage! Located next to parks and walking trails. A must see!

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9414 Bob White Drive, Houston, TX 77096 – 5 Bed, 2.5 Bath – $369,000

Open House: Sun May 13, 2:00PM-4:00PM

More Information: https://www.har.com/9414-bob-white-drive/sale_11041553

Spacious & lovingly cared for, classically traditional home with sparkling pool. Offers a great floor-plan & features newly installed cut & weave carpet throughout the first & second floor fresh interior paint! Tile floors kitchen, breakfast room, baths, & laundry. Cooks kitchen offers newly installed double SS ovens, electric stove top, white porcelain sink & instant hot-water dispenser. Great views of the pool & backyard from the breakfast room & the den. The family-friendly den touts a corner brick fireplace & double french doors which open to the brick-paver patio & sparkling pool. Shows Beautifully! Great Value.

For information on these, or any other homes in the Greater Houston area, reach out today!

Coldwell Banker United, REALTORS® – Metropolitan
Katie Day, REALTOR®
2 Greenway Plaza #150 Houston, TX 77046

Phone: 832.317.6006
Email: katie@movemetotx.com
Web: http://www.katiedayteam.com | http://www.movemetotx.com

Coldwell Banker Weekend Open Houses: Saturday 05/05 & Sunday 05/06

 

9410 Beryl Lake Drive

9410 Beryl Lake Drive, Rosharon, TX 77583 – 4 Bed, 3.5 Bath – $289,900

Open House: Sat May 5, 3:00PM-5:00PM

More Info: https://www.har.com/u/641e1B0E1

This 4 bedroom, 3.5 bath located in the sought-after Sterling Lakes is loaded with upgrades and exquisite features. Entry has tile flooring and 18′ ceilings that extend into the Den. Stacked Formals with high ceilings. The kitchen is sure to please you with an abundance of cabinetry & counter space, upgraded granite, recessed lighting, stunning back splash, walk in pantry, stainless steel appliances and a large island. The den has a charming gas log fireplace. Master is light & airy & leads to the luxurious Master Bathroom with a walk-in closet. The media room, located on ground level is enclosed for a peaceful retreat.

4629 Kingfisher Drive

 

4629 Kingfisher Drive, Houston, TX 77035 – 3 Bed, 2 Bath – $375,000

Open House: Sat May 5, 2:00PM-4:00PM

More Info: https://www.har.com/u/Fb29175F5

Welcome to your outdoor paradise within minutes of the city! This 3 bedroom. 2 Bath home shows outstanding pride in ownership. The outdoor kitchen & lounge area provides you with the perfect space for entertaining after a relaxing swim in your private pool. The open concept living and dining area makes an excellent use of space and offers beautiful views of the back yard oasis. The recent updates on this home include crown molding, new exterior paint, recent pool re-plaster, new carpet and new roof in 2014. If you have been waiting for the right home to come along your wait is over!

3809 Avenue M

3809 Avenue M, Galveston, TX 77550 – 5 Bed, 2 Bath – $295,000

Open House: Sat May 5, 12:00PM-3:00PM

More Info: https://www.har.com/u/2D831aC4b5

You have to see it to believe it. This Galveston getaway features original hardwood floors, an updated kitchen with granite counter-tops and extensions to the master bedroom and the den. The front room is purposed as a living/sitting room area, although could easily be a 6th bedroom. Come live the island life in this well maintained beauty!

82 S Trace Creek

82 S Trace Creek Drive, The Woodlands, TX 77381 – 4 Bed, 2.5 Bath – $359,500

Open House: Sun May 6, 2:00PM-4:00PM

More Info: https://www.har.com/u/341b59eeB4

Highly sought home backing to Natural Reserve. High and Dry during Harvey. This is a must see property. Creatively designed to be filled with natural light and endless views of nature. This home comes with an updated kitchen including granite counter tops and glass mosaic back splash not to mention upgraded wood laminate floors throughout most of the home. Stone tile flooring in foyer, kitchen and breakfast room. No Carpet. Updated custom stack stone fireplace surround with glass rocks. Recently updated light fixtures and hardware. Granite bathroom vanities. Amazing storage. Premium outdoor living area with over sized deck & paving stone pathways perfect for entertaining. Centrally located in The Woodlands and boasts walking distance to the entry of the Mitchell Nature Preserve.

2906 Bay Isle Court

2906 Bay Isle Court, Houston, TX 77059 – 4 Bed, 2 Bath – $360,000

Open House: Sun May 6, 11:00AM-3:00PM

More Info: https://www.har.com/u/070EbD6bf

Starting with 100 yr. old reclaimed wood floors from Stewer Furniture this home, needless to say is very special. The gourmet chefs kitchen has been completely remodeled with custom maple cabinets, high end SS appliances, a six burner gas cooktop, granite countertops, and wood accent beams but the updates don’t stop there! The master bath includes a seamless shower and granite counter-tops. Both A/C & heating systems were replaced in 2016. Double French doors from den open to outdoor kitchen and pergola.

2010 beall7StudyAfter

2010 Beall Street, Houston, TX 77008 – 3 Bed, 3.5 Bath – $369,900

Open House: Sun May 6, 2:00PM-4:00PM

More Info: https://www.har.com/u/3941b49C

When you first enter 2010 Beall, you’ll notice an array of custom features and upgrades, designed with convenience and comfort in mind. The second floor provides an open living-dining space is perfect for hosting friends and family for Astros watch parties, dinner parties, and intimate gatherings. If you want to spread out, a private patio provides lots of space for guests to enjoy themselves. The island kitchen provides ample cabinet space/storage and full appliance package, plus a huge walk-in pantry with a built-in electrical plug for charging small appliances! Throughout the home, the seller has outfitted the large windows with custom-fitted Smith & Noble sheer 2-way blinds, perfect to keep your home cool and provide privacy. You should also note that the seller has replaced the recessed lighting with LED bulbs for maximum savings + efficiency!

 

1302 Misty Bend Dr

1302 Misty View, Katy, TX 77494 – 4 Bed, 3 Bath – $399,000

Open House: Sun May 6, 3:30PM-5:30PM

More Info: https://www.har.com/u/263AD91E61

The Victorian in Katy is on the market! 4 bedroom, 3 1/2 bath with a massive game-room and kitchenette area, large pool with spa, renovated master bathroom and secondary bathrooms (2015). Tons of other updates you’ll have to check out in person!

For information on these, or any other homes in the Greater Houston area, reach out today!

Coldwell Banker United, REALTORS® – Metropolitan
Katie Day, REALTOR®
2 Greenway Plaza #150 Houston, TX 77046

Phone: 832.317.6006
Email: katie@movemetotx.com
Web: http://www.katiedayteam.com | http://www.movemetotx.com