When you’re moving into a new home in Port Aransas, you want it to look its best—but where do you begin?
These 5 interior décor secrets from the pros will get you started.

5 Interior Décor Secrets From the Pros

You don’t have to spend a fortune decorating your new home in Port Aransas. Instead, you can make the whole house look amazing without breaking the bank.

Interior Décor Secret #1: Choose the Ideal Color Scheme

Come up with the perfect color palette before you get started, says Gary McBournie, Boston interior designer.
“I come up with a basic color scheme for the whole house, and then I take that from room to room,” says McBournie.

Interior Décor Secret #2: Enjoy Your Favorite Pieces

Whether you’re an antiques collector or you have something new you just love (but you don’t know where to put it), it’s a great idea to make your favorites the focal points in any room.

Interior Décor Secret #3: Use Color in Window Trim

Designer Jeffrey Bilhuber says that you can really make a statement with window trim.
“I often end up painting them [window trim pieces] green, to blend in with the landscape. Or sometimes, I paint them pitch black, so the muntins practically disappear in the evening,” says Bilhuber.

Interior Décor Secret #4: Use Mirrors to Your Advantage

Be careful when you put up mirrors. It’s great to use a large sheet of mirror, but you’ll end up making your home look like a commercial enterprise if you’re not careful. Opt for a sectioned pattern if you’re putting up large mirrors, or frame a large sheet of mirror with crown molding that matches your existing style.

Interior Décor Secret #5: Use Texture

You can accent all the neutral colors in your new home by adding texture.
“I used a range—from fine-gauge and open-weave linen, to raw silk and taffeta, to cotton velvet and distressed velvet,” says Ohara Davies-Gaetano, a California interior designer, of a beautiful bedroom in a luxury home.

Are You Looking for a New Home in Port Aransas?

Whether you’re looking for a home for sale in Port Aransas or North Padre Island, we’d love to help you find the perfect place to live.
Call us at 361-563-7788 or get in touch with us online to tell us what you want from your next home. We’ll start searching right away.
In the meantime, check out our:

• All-in-one mortgage calculator
• Free homebuyer handbook
• Free eBooks about buying a home (and more!)

Filed under: Around The Home, Blog, Decor by Julie Woodward
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La Mirage Port Aransas: The Perfect Place to Live

La Mirage in Port Aransas is an amazing place to live. It’s right on the Gulf of Mexico, which makes it the perfect place for a year-round or vacation home—and the best part is that the condos are affordable, charming, and exceptionally well-designed.

Amenities at La Mirage Port Aransas

La Mirage is one of the most well-appointed condominium complexes in Port Aransas. Amenities include:

• Beachfront condos
• Elevators
• A gorgeously landscaped courtyard
• Gulf views
• Beach views
• Heated pool
• Hot tubs
• Splash pad for kids
• A fish-cleaning facility

The Condos at La Mirage in Port Aransas

There are three floor plans ranging in size from 700 to 1,250 square feet at La Mirage. Each has a beautiful kitchen, a laundry room, and separate living and dining areas, and there are one-, two-, and three-bedroom condos.

Search for Condos in La Mirage by Price

You can find La Mirage condos in your price range by using the links below.

• La Mirage Condos 100k – 200k
• La Mirage Condos 200k – 300k
• La Mirage Condos 300k – 400k
• La Mirage Condos 400k – 500k
• La Mirage Condos over 500k

Are You Looking for a New Home in Port Aransas?

Whether you’re looking for a home for sale in Port Aransas or North Padre Island, we’d love to help you find the perfect place to live.
Call us at 361-563-7788 or get in touch with us online to tell us what you want from your next home. We’ll start searching right away.
In the meantime, check out our:

• All-in-one mortgage calculator
• Free homebuyer handbook
• Free eBooks about buying a home (and more!)

$849,000 Active Under Contract

7477 Hwy 361 501 Corpus Christi, Texas

3 Beds 2 Baths 1,709 SqFt 0.170 Acres

$775,000 Active

141 Mustang Royale Port Aransas, Texas

3 Beds 3 Baths 1,306 SqFt 0.140 Acres

$315,000 Active

Port Aransas, Texas

5,362 SqFt 0.120 Acres

$240,000 Active

407 Beach Avenue 114 Port Aransas, Texas

1 Baths 476 SqFt 0.020 Acres

Filed under: Blog, Condos in Port Aransas by Julie Woodward
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When winter is here, you can still enjoy fresh air indoors—you just need the right indoor plants for the job.

3 Great Houseplants for Freshening Indoor Air

Whether you’re worried about chemicals in the air you breathe that come from cleaning supplies, dust, or even your furniture (there’s often formaldehyde in a number of household building products, furnishings, and glues) or you’d just like to have some clean, fresh air inside during the winter, there are some plants that are essentially powerhouses when it comes to pulling toxins from the air.

Air-Freshening House Plant #1: The Boston Fern

Boston Ferns are great at pulling formaldehyde from the air, but they don’t stop with that one. They can scrub benzene and zylene (which come from gasoline exhaust), too. They’re not the easiest plants to care for—they need to be fed weekly during growing season, and monthly during the winter. You may need to water or mist them each day if they’re not getting enough moisture from the air.

Air-Freshening House Plant #2: English Ivy

Easier to care for than a Boston Fern, English Ivy may be the right air-cleaner for you. It also removes formaldehyde and other toxins from the air, but it’s not as finicky as a fern; you’ll need to water and mist it when you remember (no rigid schedule necessary).

Air-Freshening House Plant #3: The Peace Lily

A peace lily can bloom indoors, which makes it a great choice for aesthetics—but it’s a hard-core toxin-remover, too. It removes formaldehyde, benzene, and other volatile chemicals from the air, and it doesn’t need tons of direct sunlight. The only caveat: peace lily leaves are toxic to pets and kids, so you may need to keep it up high.

Are You Buying a Home in Port Aransas?

Whether you’re looking for a home for sale in Port Aransas or North Padre Island, we’d love to help you find the perfect place to live.
Call us at 361-563-7788 or get in touch with us online to tell us what you want from your next home. We’ll start searching right away.
In the meantime, check out our:

• All-in-one mortgage calculator
• Free homebuyer handbook
• Free eBooks about buying a home (and more!)

Filed under: Blog, Buying, Comfort, Garden by Julie Woodward
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If you’re buying a new home in Port Aransas or North Padre Island, it’s exciting… but don’t become so excited that you overlook these five important must-check items.

5 Things You Must Check Before Buying a House in Port Aransas

You’ll save yourself time, money, and stress if you check on everything possible before you sign that dotted line.

#1: How Are the Windows?

New windows can be extremely expensive (sometimes costing more than $10,000), so it’s a good idea to pay special attention to whether they close properly, drafts come in, or they’re cracked. Check double-paned windows for signs of condensation, too, which indicates that there’s a crack in them.

#2: Are There Pests?

Open the cupboards, look behind the refrigerator, and peek under the sink. If you see any signs of pests, you’ll probably need to budget for a pest-control plan—but remember that some pests, such as termites, can damage a home’s entire structure.

#3: Where Does the Water Flow?

We get our fair share of rain in Port Aransas and North Padre Island, so you’ll want to make sure that water flows away from the house. Even if the home is at the top of a hill, you’ll need to ensure that water flows in a way that won’t cause erosion on the property.

#4: What Are the Neighbors Like?

How do you know if a neighborhood is right for you? You check on it at various times of day, get to know some of the people who live there, and look at the environment. The last thing you want is to buy a home in a subdivision or community where you don’t feel at-home.

#5: Will You Need to Upgrade the House?

Upgrades take more money—and more time—than most people think. If a house is too dated, you might be in for a wild (and expensive) ride. Know what you’re signing up for before you fall in love with any house!

Are You Buying a Home in Port Aransas?

Whether you’re looking for a home for sale in Port Aransas or North Padre Island, we’d love to help you find the perfect place to live.
Call us at 361-563-7788 or get in touch with us online to tell us what you want from your next home. We’ll start searching right away.
In the meantime, check out our:

• All-in-one mortgage calculator
• Free homebuyer handbook
• Free eBooks about buying a home (and more)

Filed under: Blog, Buying by Julie Woodward
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If you’re like most people thinking about moving to Port Aransas or North Padre Island, you know that you want to buy in a community where you feel right at home.
That means getting to know your neighbors—and that’s something you can do long before you make the decision to purchase a home. If you’re not much of an extrovert, you can at least do a little homework on the neighborhood before you sign a purchase agreement.

How Do You Know if a Neighborhood is Right for You?

Ideally, you’ll be able to get to know a few people in a neighborhood you’re considering making “home.” If you can’t, though, these three signs can help you decide whether a community is right for you.

Good Neighbor Sign #1: Property Upkeep

Drive through potential neighborhoods to look for signs of neglect or disrepair. You should especially look at homes that border the one you’re thinking about buying, but the entire neighborhood’s look and feel can tell you whether it’s the right place for you. What you’re really looking for is pride in ownership—and you can see that whether homes are new or old, modest or large.

Good Neighbor Sign #2: The Residents

Few things can help you get a feel for a neighborhood than driving through it at various times of day can. Swing by in the early morning, during the afternoon and once it’s dark to get an idea about what kinds of activity levels you’ll see if you move in. You can search for crime statistics online if you’re interested in a particular neighborhood, too.

Good Neighbor Sign #3: Empty Houses

If there are a lot of homes for sale, or if there are plenty of vacant homes, you may want to consider the “big picture.” A home surrounded by empty houses, whether they’ve been foreclosed or just haven’t sold yet, may not be the right choice for you.

Are You Buying a Home in Port Aransas?

Whether you’re looking for a home for sale in Port Aransas or North Padre Island, we’d love to help you find the perfect place to live.
Call us at 361-563-7788 or get in touch with us online to tell us what you want from your next home. We’ll start searching right away.
In the meantime, check out our:

• All-in-one mortgage calculator
• Free homebuyer handbook
• Free eBooks about buying a home (and more)

Filed under: Blog, Neighborhoods, Subdivisions by Julie Woodward
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If you’re like many people, you’ve seen ads for modular homes–and some of them look exceptionally nice.
But what is a modular home, and is it right for your needs?

What is a Modular Home?

A modular home is one that’s built in a factory but looks as if it was constructed on-site. The home is shipped to its location in separate parts (usually on the back of a truck) and put together once it’s in place on the property.
Sometimes modular homes are referred to as “pre-fab” homes because they’re already built (pre-fabricated) before they’re brought to a permanent location.
Part of the allure is that you can get a brand-new, never-lived-in home without working through a custom builder (or paying the price a custom builder would charge).

How Do You Finance a Modular Home?

In some cases, you can get a conventional mortgage to pay for a modular home. In other cases, you’ll obtain financing directly from the manufacturer.

Where Can You Put a Modular Home?

You’ll have to buy the land on which you’d like to put your modular home, but not all subdivisions, neighborhoods, or developments allow modular homes. You’ll have to talk to your Realtor(R) to find out what the restrictions are when you find a piece of property you’re interested in buying.

How to Choose the Right Contractor

When you’re choosing a contractor or modular home company, it’s important to do your homework. Make sure you’re checking references from past customers, and remember that you’ll be paying for it for several years; you need a company with a proven track record of success.

Are You Buying a Home in Port Aransas?

Whether you’re looking for a home for sale in Port Aransas or North Padre Island, we’d love to help you find the perfect place to live.
Call us at 361-563-7788 or get in touch with us online to tell us what you want from your next home. We’ll start searching right away.
In the meantime, check out our:

• All-in-one mortgage calculator
• Free homebuyer handbook
• Free eBooks about buying a home (and more)

Filed under: Blog, Buying, Modular Homes, New Construction, Pre-Fab Construction by Julie Woodward
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Moving is stressful—anyone who’s ever done it (and that’s nearly everyone) can tell you that.
But how do our pets feel about it?
It turns out that pets are just as prone to moving-day (and pre-moving-day) stress as we are.

Moving With Pets: What to Know Before You Go

ASPCA President Larry Hawk, D.V.M. says, “Moving is very stressful for a family. That stress is also experienced by the pets. They want to know that they’re part of the family and that they’ll be going, too.”
Before you move, know that dogs and cats react differently. (If you’re moving with fish, here’s how you can make the move easier.)
Because dogs tend to be more socialized, they seem to adapt better to change. Cats, on the other hand, are more focused on their immediate surroundings; they thrive on consistency, whereas dogs can bounce back and readjust… as long as you’re with them.

Tips for Moving With Cats

Now is the time to get your cat familiar with his or her carrier. Leave it open where your cat can examine it each day. Ideally, your cat will be able to hide in it when he or she feels stressed.
Make sure that when you do move, your cat is confined to a hard-sided carrier. (The same is true with other small animals, such as birds, rabbits, ferrets and hamsters.) If possible, cover the carrier with a light sheet for the first few hours of the trip.
“Cats get a little freaked out when they see the world moving by,” says Arnold Plotnick, D.V.M.

Tips for Moving With Dogs

Make sure your dog is restrained when you move—for your safety and for his. If your dog is disoriented, he may bolt when you stop for gas or to stretch your legs; further, he or she will be safer in case something happens.

On Moving Day

Make sure your pets are confined to one room on moving day. All the activity can be overwhelming—and you want to keep them as calm as possible before and during the trip.
Bring along a separate bag for your pet that includes water, treats, and food. You’ll also need a pet first aid kit, some extra towels (in case of accidents), and extra ID tags attached to your pet’s collar.
 

Are You Buying a Home in Port Aransas or North Padre Island?

Whether you’re looking for a home for sale in Port Aransas orNorth Padre Island, we’d love to help you find the perfect place to live.
Call us at 361-563-7788 or get in touch with us online to tell us what you want from your next home. We’ll start searching right away.
In the meantime, check out our:

• All-in-one mortgage calculator
• Free homebuyer handbook
• Free eBooks about buying a home (and more)

Filed under: Blog, How-To, Moving by Julie Woodward
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If you’re buying a “for sale by owner” home, you can’t go into the process with your eyes closed.
In fact, here’s what you need to know if you’re buying a FSBO.

What is a FSBO?

A home that’s listed as a FSBO, or “for sale by owner,” is one in which the owners chose not to hire a Realtor® to list, market and show their home.
If you’re buying a FSBO—or if you’re interested in one—you and your Realtor will deal directly with the homeowners. (Remember, you still need to work with a Realtor, even if the homeowners don’t; your Realtor will look out for your best interest, and it doesn’t cost you a dime.) If you find a FSBO you’re interested in seeing, ask your agent to make contact with the owners to set up your appointment.

Why Prices Can Be WAY Off With FSBOs

When a homeowner gives up the chance to let a professional Realtor expertly price his or her home, they’re kind-of shooting in the dark. Even if they’ve done their research and consulted with Realtors on pricing, many FSBO sellers don’t want to hear that their homes are worth less than they think they are.
That means if you find a for-sale-by-owner home that you like, but the price is far too high, you may want to keep looking.

Real Estate Laws and FSBOs

Texas laws apply to both FSBOs and agent-represented properties. Sellers must disclose problems, and they must allow you to have the home inspected. However, many FSBO sellers aren’t familiar with the process—and that’s why it’s best to listen to your Realtor and follow his or her guidance when it comes to an out-of-the-ordinary home.

Are You Buying a Home in Port Aransas?

Whether you’re looking for a home for sale in Port Aransas or North Padre Island, we’d love to help you find the perfect place to live.
Call us at 361-563-7788 or get in touch with us online to tell us what you want from your next home. We’ll start searching right away.
In the meantime, check out our:

• All-in-one mortgage calculator
• Free homebuyer handbook
• Free eBooks about buying a home (and more)

Filed under: Blog by Julie Woodward
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People who sell a single-family home are required to provide buyers with a written set of disclosures—and those disclosures must include what the seller knows about the property’s:

• Features
• Defects
• History
• Environment

If a seller fails to disclose a material defect (a problem with the home), he or she could be subject to legal action.

How to Read a Seller’s Disclosure in Texas

The first thing you should check on a seller’s disclosure is whether it’s been signed and dated by all sellers. This is something your Realtor® will check, too.
Make sure the seller has answered every question on the form. If there are blank spots, you should be concerned—and you should ask your Realtor request that the sellers properly complete it.
In Sections 3 and 4 of the seller’s disclosure, the seller should only answer “Yes” or “No.” There’s no option for “Unknown,” (that’s an option in Sections 1 and 2) and it’s not acceptable for this term to appear in either Section 3 or 4.
The disclosure is like a snapshot that gives you a look at the home’s condition at one point in time. It opens the door for you to ask relevant questions, too.
For example, you can ask the seller for follow-up information on appliances, such as whether they were installed professionally, or whether the appliances have time left on their warranties. You can also ask:

• Whether the swimming pool is in compliance with the most recent building codes
• Where cable wiring runs through the home
• How old the roof is, or how long it’s been since it was last replaced

Your Realtor can help you find the right questions to ask, as well.

Are You Buying a Home in Port Aransas?

Whether you’re looking for a home for sale in Port Aransas or North Padre Island, we’d love to help you find the perfect place to live.
Call us at 361-563-7788 or get in touch with us online to tell us what you want from your next home. We’ll start searching right away.
In the meantime, check out our:

• All-in-one mortgage calculator
• Free homebuyer handbook
• Free eBooks about buying a home(and more)

Filed under: Blog, Buying, Disclosures, Home-Buying Process by Julie Woodward
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When your home is on the market, lenders typically want to see a current appraisal—but for many homeowners, that’s a nail-biting, edge-of-your-seat experience.
While we all know our own homes, what will an appraiser see when he or she walks in? How will the appraiser judge its appearance, state of repair, and value?
The good news: if you’re prepared for the appraiser, you don’t need to lose any sleep.
But how do you ensure your home is ready for an appraisal?

How to Ensure Your Home is Ready for an Appraisal

Double-check all the maintenance around your home. Is there chipped paint? A stain on the carpet that you’ve covered with a rug? A loose tile in the bathroom?
The appraiser is going to look at how well your home is maintained, and everything that could use some work is going to chisel away at the value.
Other things to check:

• Make sure appliances are in good, working order
• Trim bushes and clean up flower beds
• Find and repair cracks in sidewalks and driveways
• Tidy up your yard
• Repair damaged or loose fence slats
• Check the roof for loose shingles
• Check your gutters for blockage, bowing or other damage

Does Cost = Value?

Cost doesn’t equal value.
What that means is that if you spent thousands of dollars on a master bath makeover, you may not recoup it all when you put your house on the market.
(It’s always a good idea to think about resale value when you’re making home improvements, and if you’re not sure—or if you’re thinking about making improvements just to sell—talk to your Realtor® to be certain you’re making the right choice.)

Are You Selling Your Home in Port Aransas or North Padre Island?

If you’re selling your home, we’d love to help you do so quickly and at the right price. We’ll be happy to give you a free comparative market analysis so you know exactly how much your home is worth. While you’re here, you can also download our free home-selling eBook and read our useful tips for selling your home faster.
When you’re ready, call us at 361-563-7788 or contact us online to find out how we can help you sell your home in Port Aransas or North Padre Island.
 
 

Filed under: Appraisal, Blog, How-To, Selling by Julie Woodward
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