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Key Takeaways:

  • New construction homes in Austin take 8-10 months to build (sometimes longer) and cost 10-20% more than existing homes
  • Builder delays are the norm, not the exception - have a backup housing plan
  • Most buyers spend $30,000-60,000 on upgrades beyond the base price
  • Builder contracts are written by builder attorneys to protect builders, not you
  • Austin's building boom means more inventory and buyer leverage than we've seen in years

There's something undeniably appealing about new construction. You walk into that model home, see those pristine countertops and perfect paint, and think "this is exactly what I want." No previous owners, no mystery stains, no wondering what's behind the walls.

The reality? It's more…

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Key Takeaways

  • Yes, you can contest your home appraisal - Texas law gives you the right to challenge both property tax assessments and mortgage appraisals in Travis County

  • Act fast on the May 15th deadline - You have until May 15th or 30 days after receiving your notice (whichever is later) to file a property tax protest
  • Significant savings are possible - Successful protests typically save Austin homeowners $1,200-$3,500 annually, with some saving over $5,000 per year
  • The process has three main steps - File your protest form, attend an informal meeting with TCAD, and if needed, present your case to the Appraisal Review Board
  • Strong evidence wins cases - Comparable sales data, photos of property issues, and repair estimates are your…

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Key Takeaways

  • It's usually a smart investment - Homes in top Austin school districts sell for 78% more and 8 days faster than homes in lower-rated areas

  • Location within the district matters - Being IN a good school zone is valuable, but being right next to the school campus can create daily headaches
  • Expect to pay a premium upfront - Austin's top districts like Eanes ISD and Lake Travis ISD command significantly higher prices, but they hold value better during market downturns
  • Traffic and noise are real concerns - Morning drop-offs and afternoon pickups create predictable congestion, especially near elementary schools
  • Even non-parents benefit - Strong school districts attract a broader pool of buyers when you're ready to sell,…

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Key Takeaways

  • Austin land averages $7,200 per acre, with smaller parcels under 50 acres costing $10,000+ per acre (up 6% year-over-year)
  • Budget beyond the purchase price for site preparation ($5,000-$50,000+), utilities ($10,000-$75,000+), and permits ($5,000-$30,000+)
  • Verify zoning compliance, utility access, soil conditions, and flood zone status before making an offer
  • Land loans typically require 20-25% down payments with higher interest rates than traditional home mortgages
  • Choose a real estate agent experienced in land transactions, as the process differs significantly from home purchases

The dream of buying land in Austin isn't just about owning a piece of Texas, it's about building something from the ground up that's…

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Key Takeaways:

  • Austin HOA fees range from $50-$400+ monthly depending on amenities and community type
  • HOAs provide amenities and property value protection but come with binding rules and restrictions
  • Texas law requires sellers to provide HOA documents including financial health and governing rules
  • You can dispute HOA decisions through board meetings, committees, or formal dispute resolution
  • Research is essential - review financials, rules, and talk to current residents before buying

Austin HOA communities offer amenities and property value protection, but come with monthly fees ranging from $50-$400+ and specific rules all homeowners must follow.

You've found a home in Austin that checks all your boxes. Perfect location, great…

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Key Takeaways

  • Property line disputes happen when neighbors can't agree on where one property ends and another begins
  • Get a professional survey first; it's your strongest foundation for resolving any boundary dispute
  • Most disputes get resolved through direct communication rather than expensive court battles
  • In Austin, fence disputes are the most common issue (40%), followed by tree encroachments (25%) and driveway conflicts (20%)
  • Legal action should be your last resort after trying mediation and boundary agreements
  • Clear property boundaries protect your investment and maintain good neighbor relationships

Honestly, property line disputes create significant stress for Austin homeowners. When neighbors disagree about boundary…

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