Changes in Texas Homestead Exemptions

Starting today the process to claim a homestead exemption on your primary residence in Texas has grown more complicated.  For those of us who already have the standard exemption in place.......don't worry.  It will automatically renew each year.  Only when there are changes in the exemption status such as Over-65, Disabled, Surviving Spouse, and new homeowners do you have to follow the new rules, according to an article in the Houston Chronicle dated August 30th http://www.chron.com/default/article/New-rules-for-homestead-exemptions-2148371.php. 

Harris County Appraisal District has prepared a simple 2 page flyer to make it more understandable and concise.  If you live in another Texas County just use the information in this flyer and just submit the information to your local Appraisal District.  Use this link if you need to find the contact info http://www.txcountydata.com/. 

And as always, if we can help you or someone you know with any real estate needs call us at 281-395-0680 or visit our website at http://www.rozierteam.com/

contributed by Barbara Rozier-The RozierTeam
Keller Williams Premier Realty Katy; 22762 Westheimer Pkwy, Ste 430; Katy TX  77450.

3.8% tax on the sale of your home

Since we are real estate agents many people forward me the email about the new tax starting in January 2013.  Basically what the email says is that when you sell your home you will have to pay a 3.8% tax on the proceeds of the sale.  This new tax is not a real estate transfer tax.  It is MUCH, MUCH more complicated than that (are we surprised the govt has anything that is complicated).  To help make it a little more understandable the National Association of REALTORS has prepared this article entitled THE 3.8% TAX with 8 real estate scenarios.  Most of us would fall into the first category, and only if there is a GAIN of more than the $250,000 for a single homeowner or $500,000 for a married couple on the sale of the home.  To date we have not worked with any clients who have GAINED that much equity in their home, over and above their investment.  If you think you might be approaching that cap on your home call us and we'll do an analysis on your home. 

It is still a great time to buy and sell real estate, especially for your pricipal residence.  Please pass this along to anyone who is avoiding a real estate transaction for fear they will be paying a "sales" tax. 

contributed by Barbara Rozier-The RozierTeam
Keller Williams Realty Katy
281-395-0680

GERM HOTSPOTS

The kitchen may be a popular place for families to get together to prepare and enjoy their meals, but a recent study by NSF International finds that it may also be the “germiest” room in the home. That’s because coliform bacteria can be found on many household surfaces in the kitchen, including dish sponges and rags, kitchen sinks, countertops and cutting boards. The sources of coliform can be traced to food items, such as unwashed produce, raw meat and poultry. The bacteria also can be brought in through improperly washed hands or through contact with household pets, including pet toys and dishes.

Dish sponges are the top hot spot for germs, according to the study. “Sponges pick up bacteria during the cleaning process and are typically not properly – or regularly – sanitized before their next use,” explains NSF International’s Director of Microbiology., Dr. Rob Donofrio, “Additionally, sponges are often wet and left in damp areas in or near the sink, providing optimal conditions for germ growth. They also have many nooks and crannies which can be great places for germs to multiply.”

To clean, place wet sponges in the microwave for two minutes every day and replace every two weeks or more as needed. Or better yet, use dishcloths, towels or rags, which can be sanitized by washing them in hot water with bleach. Replace dishcloths every one or two days.

Another hot spot for germs -- the kitchen sink – should be washed and disinfected at least once or twice a week with a disinfecting cleanser. Sanitize kitchen drains and disposals monthly by pouring a solution of one teaspoon household bleach in one quart of water down the drain. Wash kitchen sink strainers in the dishwasher weekly.

Knowing where the germ hot spots are in your home and taking steps to clean and sanitize them properly will help protect you and your family from harmful bacteria.

David Rozier-The RozierTeam
281-395-0680
Keller Williams Premier Realty Katy
22762 Westheimer Pkwy, Ste 430
Katy TX  77450

Absolutely Gorgeous Home

Shows like a model.  Welcome to the hidden little community of Parkway Oaks, nestled behind Cinco Ranch JH and HS, across the street from Rylander Elementary.  Move just in time for school.  This 3 BR jewel is in a super convenient location. Affordable home. Open kitchen with wrap around breakfast bar, stainless steel appliances and tile backsplash. Formal dining room in front of home could also function as a home office or smaller gameroom. Covered patio in backyard.  FREE RECORDED INFO CALL 1-888-266-0724 CODE # 2437      Click ROZIERTEAM to see the photos.  Keller Williams Premier Realty Katy; 22762 Westheimer Pkwy, Ste 430; Katy TX  77450.   To visit this home call the RozierTeam directly at 281-395-0680.

AMERICANS POWER DOWN

While more Americans are taking steps to reduce their energy consumption and save money, they may not see any real savings in their energy bills for a long time, according to a recent survey by The Shelton Group, an advertising and research agency. Nine out of 10 people surveyed say they changed their behavior to save more energy in 2010 up from 61 percent in 2009. Those who unplug chargers and other electronics when not in use increased from 33 percent in 2009 to 56 percent in 2010.

The most popular changes include replacing incandescent bulbs with CFLs (more energy efficient compact fluorescent lamp bulbs), adding sealing, caulking or weather-stripping, purchasing Energy Star appliances and adding insulation. Nearly one in four say the most difficult change they made was the purchase of Energy Star appliances.

Despite efforts to cut back on energy consumption and save costs, about 30 percent of those surveyed say their energy bills have risen. The higher bills can be attributed to three factors: rising utility rates, an increase in popularity of various energy-hungry electronic devices, such as iPods, smart phones, flat-screen TVs and computers, and consumers believing they can use more energy because they made improvements that were energy-efficient. However, 44 percent believe they need to make more improvements to begin seeing any savings.

“This isn’t an easy process,” says Suzanne Shelton, president of the Shelton Group. “Doing one or even two things isn’t going to get consumers the savings they expect. Making homes energy efficient is a multi-step process.”

by David Rozier-The RozierTeam
Keller Williams Premier Realty Katy; 22762 Westheimer Pkwy, Ste 430; Katy TX  77450. 

LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION!!! Cinco Ranch, cul de sac, walk to beach club, lake-park-tennis courts at end of street. Absolutely fabulous backyard with deck and shady canopy of trees. Easy access to Grand Parkway. Energy Corridor just miles away. Highly rated Katy ISD schools. 4 BR-home office-gameroom. Huge closets. FREE RECORDED INFO CALL 1-888-266-0724 CODE # 2394 Click ROZIERTEAM to see the photos. Keller Williams Premier Realty Katy; 22762 Westheimer Pkwy, Ste 430; Katy TX 77450. To see this home call the RozierTeam directly at 281-395-0680.

HUGE lot in Cinco Ranch

Front porch with swing. One of the most affordable homes in Cinco Ranch!!! Updated kitchen includes recent stainless steel appliances and granite. Fabulous location on a HUGE (did I say massive) cul de sac lot, near all 3 schools, blocks from La Centerra, County library, water park, with easy access to Grand Parkway. What more could you ask?? Master shower is spa-like, plus whirlpool tub. Hardwoods. Gameroom, 4 BR, walk in closets. This home will sell itself once you see it. Call now. FREE RECORDED INFO CALL 1-888-266-0724 CODE # 2423 Click ROZIERTEAM to see the photos. Keller Williams Premier Realty Katy; 22762 Westheimer Pkwy, Ste 430; Katy TX 77450. To see this home call the RozierTeam directly at 281-395-0680.

Absolutely fabulous floorplan. Master suite: its own fireplace and oversized corner whirlpool tub large enough for 2. Home office has fireplace with gas logs, shelves and storage with double French doors leading onto covered patio in backyard. 3 BR-2.5 BA, gameroom. FREE RECORDED INFO CALL 1-888-266-0724 CODE # 2069 Click ROZIERTEAM to see the photos. Keller Williams Premier Realty Katy; 22762 Westheimer Pkwy, Ste 430; Katy TX 77450. To see this home call the RozierTeam directly at 281-395-0680.

Walk to Fielder Elem in Cinco Ranch

Open kitchen with huge breakfast bar; Luxurious granite with undermount sinks also in bathrooms, 4 BRs plus home office; great 1 story Perry floorplan; central location; near Energy Corridor; La Centerra shopping and great restaurants are soooo close; highly acclaimed Cinco Ranch/Katy ISD schools.   FREE RECORDED INFO CALL 1-888-266-0724 CODE # 208      Click ROZIERTEAM to see the photos.  Keller Williams Premier Realty Katy; 22762 Westheimer Pkwy, Ste 430; Katy TX  77450.   To see this home call the RozierTeam directly at 281-395-0680.

Cornerstone Place

People line up to move into this neighborhood.  Here's your chance to move up. Cinco Ranch schools. Great location, convenient to the energy corridor centered between I-10, Westpark Tollroad and Grand Pkwy. And not only is this very functional one story home the one for you, but wait till you find out about the fabulous, yet small neighborhood with apprx 200 homes!!!  There are BBQs, parades, swim parties, and cook offs. Best of all - the tax rate is only $2.61. FREE RECORDED INFO CALL 1-888-266-0724 CODE # 2121. Click ROZIERTEAM to see the photos.  Keller Williams Premier Realty Katy; 22762 Westheimer Pkwy, Ste 430; Katy TX  77450.   To see this home call the RozierTeam directly at 281-395-0680.