GROUPS, each of which is responsible for evaluating the needs of the their region, monitoring supplies, planning strategies to conserve water and finding new sources of water.  A statewide water plan is compiled from the regional reports.  The bill to set-up the regional water planning groups (RWPFs) was set up in 1997 and in 2012 revised to address strategies for increasing conservation, building pipelines, buying water, building reservoirs and desalinization, to name a few.  Sources of funds still need to be sought.  The work of these groups and the state need to be encouraged to MEET TEXAS’ POPULATION GROWTH AND WATER NEEDS.

Few would argue that significant strides have been made in the quality of construction, wind resistance and aesthetic appeal of modern manufactured home.  Energy efficiency is also a major priority on these homes with insulation in the attic, before the roof is attached and in the walls.  Buyers who are looking for affordability often overlook the ENERGY EFFICIENT UPGRADES.  Tested Energy Star certified manufactured homes add about $8 per month to the typical mortgage while saving an average of $30 per month on heating and cooling bills.  All of this from Harold D. Hunt at the TX A&M Real Estate Center.

(4)  ENTERTAINING OPPORTUNITIES.  Your outdoor space can create an oasis for entertaining.  Whether hosting a holiday gathering, Friday night s’mores around a bonfire or an outdoor picnic-style potluck, you have the great space to do it in.  (5)  BENEFITS OF NATURE.  There are mounds of research demonstrating the many benefits of spending more time outdoors.  Such as reducing stress, improving mental clarity and mood, improving concentration and more.  Many folks find spending times outdoors the CHEAPEST FORM OF THERAPY for any age group!!

(1)  RESALE VALUE.  HGTV claims that homeowners recoup 65-90% by adding a deck.  Experts agree that investing in your outdoor living space will add value to your home.  Buyers like these outdoor spaces.  (2)  PERSONAL ENJOYMENT.  Just a great place to unwind and de-stress for you and your whole family together.  (3)  SAVE MONEY.  How many times have you left your home to entertain?  It could be done in your back yard.  A pool is helpful, but not necessary or going to the park.  Save the gas and fees to do those activities in your back yard.  More tomorrow.

from 1950 to 2012.  Texas’ new jobs, faster economic recover during the mid-2000s ( as did not dip as low as some states) and the relatively lower cost of living were the MAJOR attractions.  The economic recession of 2007 and house market collapse in some states, caused many people to migrate to Texas.  More than 1 million folks moved into Texas from other states between 2000 and 2012.  Between 2010 and 2050, Texas’ population will grow by 120%.  Roughly 50% of the increase will be from people moving here from other states or countries.  The state’s labor pool, those from 18 to 64, will more than double.  The fastest-growing age group, those 65 and older, is expected to increase by 259%.  All of this projected by Dr. Jim Gaines, a research economist with the Texas A&M Real Estate Center.

FANNIE AND FREDDIE.  Important for first-time home buyers who are competing with investors with deep pockets.  The first-time home buyer has 20 days to look and make an offer on one of the 2 lenders’  FORECLOSURES as it goes on the market.  Just have to MOVE QUICKLY  and remember both Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac want a pre-approval letter from the buyers’ lender BEFORE the offer can be submitted and needs to be fairly recent.

The Internet has made house hunting convenient for potential buyers, but a recent study indicates that hasn’t harmed the business for real estate agents.  After searching on line, the buyers contact a real estate agent.  92% searched using the Internet, then 90% purchased a home through a licensed agent.  When buyers asked where they first learned about the home they purchased, 43% said the Internet, 33% from agent, 9% yard sign or open house, 6% friend, 5% home builders, 2% from seller and 1% from print from newspaper ad.  This survey done by NAR (National Association of Realtors).

We at the Fed should begin tapering back our bond purchases at the earliest opportunity ….. to consider this strategy desirable on it own merit:  feel more comfortable were we need to remove ourselves as soon as possible from interfering with the normal price-setting functions of financial markets.  If you are thinking about purchasing a home, buying before the tapering will probably mean a LOWER MORTGAGE INTEREST RATE THAN IF YOU WAITED.  Both opinions from Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas, Richard Fisher and Jeffrey Lacker of Richmond.

The top of their wish list are a swimming pool, outdoor kitchen, home gym, home theater, wine cellar and 4+ garages.  More younger buyers value green or LEED-certified residential properties.  Wealthy consumers of all ages want a home with an open floor plan that is fully automated and wired for technology.  Staff quarters, tennis court and separate catering kitchens are less important.  Most are going to stay put for the next 12 months.

Many homeowners who previously allowed a home to fall into foreclosure are ready to re-enter the housing market.  Nearly 80% of consumers who lost their homes during the financial crisis want to buy again.  41% will buy higher and most have higher incomes now.  Also their debt obligations are less and 30% have “significantly lower” debt.  The study from LoanSafe.org says boomerang buyers are willing to invest more into a purchase, with 50% making a down payment of 10% or more.  NOW COMMITTED TO AVOID FIRST MISTAKE!