Yes, it is possible to hold rental properties within a retirement account, and many people do so to diversify their investment portfolio. This is typically done through a self-directed IRA (Individual Retirement Account). While this strategy offers some significant advantages, it also comes with specific rules and potential complexities that every investor should understand. Setting…

When considering a new home, many buyers are drawn to the appeal of a brand-new house. Builders often create beautiful, shiny new communities in more affordable, outlying areas. While the low entry price and pristine condition are attractive, there are significant risks to be aware of, especially if your time horizon for ownership is short.…

A major legal shift in mid-2024 has changed how real estate commissions are handled in residential sales across Texas. Following a lawsuit that challenged traditional commission practices as anti-competitive, the National Association of Realtors (NAR) and its members implemented new procedures for disclosing and paying buyer’s agent commissions. These updates are reflected in the latest…

Real estate buyers in Texas often ask a critical question: What happens if I want to back out of a deal after the option period ends? The answer depends on whether there are any other valid termination rights remaining and whether you’re prepared to navigate potential legal consequences. The Option Period: Your Primary Out In…

In the past two years, many homebuyers took advantage of rate buydowns a strategy that lowered their mortgage interest rate temporarily in exchange for an upfront cost. These buydowns were promoted widely with the expectation that mortgage rates would decline in the near future, allowing homeowners to refinance into a lower fixed rate. But that’s…