Portable mortgages could give homeowners the ability to transfer their existing low-rate loan to a new home — a potential game-changer for anyone feeling stuck in today’s market. Here’s how they work, why they’re gaining attention, and what they could mean for your next move.

Fall is actually the best time to plant in Austin — not spring. With cooler air, warm soil, and fewer pests, your trees and plants get a stress-free environment to establish strong roots before the heat returns. If you’ve been thinking about adding shade or color to your yard, this is the season to do it.

And here’s an Austin gem worth sharing: TreeFolks offers free 5-gallon trees delivered directly to Austin residents. It’s one of the easiest (and coolest) ways to boost your landscape while supporting our city’s urban canopy.

With home prices high and mortgage rates elevated, many first-time buyers are struggling to get a foothold in the housing market. Increasingly, parents are stepping in—using their home equity to provide down-payment help or co-buying opportunities—to turn the dream of homeownership into a reality for the next generation.

As conversations around housing affordability continue, the proposal for a 50-year mortgage has sparked national debate. While the extended term could lower monthly payments for buyers, it also raises questions about long-term costs, equity growth, and market impact. In this post, I break down the potential benefits and drawbacks of the idea — and share why true affordability may depend more on housing supply than on stretching loan terms.

First-time homebuyers are waiting longer to buy, but that’s not a setback—it’s a chance to plan smarter, build equity, and step into a home that truly fits your life. Whether your first home is a stepping stone or a long-term nest, timing it right can set you up for success.

The Fed’s latest quarter-point rate cut brings its benchmark rate to 3.75%–4%, but with economic uncertainty and mixed signals in the labor market, another cut in December isn’t guaranteed. Homebuyers and sellers nationwide may see modest relief, but staying informed is key to navigating the market.

Austin voters are being asked to weigh in on Proposition Q, a proposed property tax increase that would generate roughly $100 million to fund essential city services—from public safety and parks to housing and health programs. The measure highlights Austin’s ongoing challenge of balancing affordability with the growing need to invest in the city’s future.

Looking for your next Austin date night spot? Whether you’re keeping it casual with $6 burgers at Better Half, planning a scenic picnic from Spread & Co at Laguna Gloria, or splurging on Pasta Bar’s omakase-style Italian experience, this city has a date night for every budget. Here are my favorite Austin spots—sweet, savory, and unforgettable—organized by price so you can plan your perfect night out.

Austinites have long since been asking: how can we make our city more affordable? The proposed HOME Ordinance aims to tackle this question head-on, introducing innovative solutions to expand housing options and support sustainable growth. Understanding what this ordinance could mean is key for anyone invested in Austin’s future—whether you’re a homeowner, renter, or simply passionate about our city’s community.

Austin ISD’s new plan to consolidate and close schools in 2026 has parents and community members asking tough questions about what this means for their neighborhoods. While the district says the goal is efficiency, many families worry about losing the sense of connection and identity their schools provide.

Mortgage rates have been moving in anticipation of Fed decisions, dipping before meetings when investors expect larger cuts, then climbing back once the actual announcements hit. With more 25 basis point cuts expected this fall, buyers may see temporary windows of opportunity to lock in lower rates before prices rise in 2025.

Rents may be easing in some cities, but they’re still far above pre-pandemic levels. For many renters, this could be the perfect moment to explore homeownership and take advantage of a market that’s beginning to shift.

Looking to bring more greenery into your Austin home? From boutique succulents to sprawling nurseries, the city is packed with plant shops that cater to every taste and style. Whether you’re hunting for rare tropicals, statement cacti, or chic planters, there’s a spot in every neighborhood to make your home bloom. And if you’re dreaming of a space to showcase your new leafy friends, I can help you find the perfect Austin home—sunny kitchens, spacious backyards, and cozy plant corners included!

Selling your Austin home quickly isn’t just about luck—it’s about strategy. The secret lies in what I call the “Three P’s”: Price, Presentation, and Planning. When you start with smart pricing, create a strong first impression, and show buyers your home has been well cared for, you set yourself up for a faster, more profitable sale. In fact, with the right approach, homes I’ve listed have gone under contract in as little as 2–4 days.

A privacy fence can transform your backyard into a true retreat—perfect for pets, kids, and a little peace from the neighbors. While it may not always boost your home’s official appraisal value, the comfort and curb appeal it adds often make it a smart investment when it comes time to sell.

Many buyers still believe they need a 20% down payment to purchase a home, but that’s one of the biggest myths in real estate. In fact, most first-time buyers put down 6–9%, and at Open House Austin, more than half of our clients buy with as little as 0–3% down through flexible loan programs and creative financing options.

This November, Texas voters will decide on a historic property tax relief package that could save the average homeowner about $500 per year—and even more for seniors and disabled Texans. The plan raises homestead exemptions and expands tax breaks, but it won’t become law unless it passes at the ballot box.

Looking to maximize your home’s sale price? The right paint colors can make a big difference—muted olive green kitchens, navy blue bedrooms, and charcoal gray living rooms have been shown to attract higher offers, while overly bright hues can turn buyers away. A few simple updates could pay off at closing!

Wondering how a Fed rate cut could impact your mortgage rate?
It’s not a direct switch, but there’s a chain reaction: the Fed adjusts its short-term rate → the bond market responds → 10-year Treasury yields shift → mortgage lenders update their pricing. If yields drop, borrowers may see lower mortgage rates — but inflation and market sentiment still play a big role in the outcome.

Got a sweet tooth? From soft serve in East Austin to cupcakes in Hutto and gluten free treats in Dripping Springs, there’s no shortage of dessert gems around the city. No matter where you live in the Austin area, great treats are never far. 🍦🍰🍩