http://www.trulia.com/voices/profile/Real_Estate_Pro-Houston_TX-2320/The latest answers submitted by Karen Savage to questions asked on Trulia Voicesen-ushttp://www.trulia.com/voices/Foreclosure/removed-60768Answer by Karen Savage: 10/14/8 9:54PM CST TUES...Mynka, Your question was, "I would like to let my home foreclose, it has been on the market for 1 year and it is not worth the monthly note I am paying. I would like to return to renting, buying has too much responsibility with the maintenance, taxes, HOA, insurance and utilities. Any thoughts". Wow! I can certainly feel your stress just by the wording of your question/demeanor. Have no fear! Their are answers to your questions/needs. It's only natural -- you're feeling overwhelmed by the thought of owning a home. It's not for everyone, but you don't have to stress. Just the other day I was chatting with another realtor about this very same topic. You have options. Maybe not a quick fix, but you have options nevertheless. First, look up on the internet names of companies that specialize in 'quick sales' due to death, divorce, damaged homes (foundations/fire), financial hardships, etc. One that comes to mind is HomeVestors, aka "The Ugly House People". I have received a few emails from companies that specialize in this type of thing. I can forward them to you, if you like. (I can not recommend them per se, I don't know their business practices). Their's something called a '1031 Exchange', where you can 'swap' properties for like kind (anywhere in the country to eliminate capital gains taxes...this is a speciality field). You could try 'auctioning' off your house (minimum reserve bid). Not all auctions result in sales (high turn down rate). Someone could assume your mortgage note (no money down, just take over payments...but they have to be approved by your mortgage company/for qualifying purposes have good credit,etc. Have to read the fine print for conditions/pre-payment penalties and such. Contact a lender who specializes in 'hard money loans'...these 'investors' pool their money together and charge high interest rates for short-term financing. One of them (an investor) may want to purchase your house and put you right back in it as a renter. If you were super rich you could donate the house to a 501(C) 3 non-profit and write off the appraisal value on your taxes to lower the amount of taxes you pay the Fed (not a scenario for most folks, but still an interesting concept). Have a friend or relative who wants to buy your house from you, but can't get traditional financing? Consider contacting a specialty financing company like VM (lender) to arrange private financing/processing. For example: your friend's grandma has lots of money laying around and would loan him money (acting as the bank to your friend). VM steps in and does all the papework, taking care of the 'finances' needed. Just like a traditional mortgage, without having to jump through as many hoops to qualify. You draw up the papework (contract) through your realtor. Your friend buys the house; you 'close' and move out. Your friend pays 'grandma' just like he would a bank and receives statements from VM. End result: everyone's a happy camper. Hope we were able to give you a few potential options to provide some guidance. We're here to help! If we can be of service, please contact us at: TEXAS HOME GROUP, REALTORS--NW Houston, 20920 Kuykendahl Rd, Suite E, Spring, TX 77379, Attn: Karen Savage, Realtor, cell: 281-813-9769 or email: thejungle@karensavage-realtor.com. You can visit our website at http://www.KarenSavage-REALTOR.com (pardon our site...it's undergoing renovation but still functioning for the most part). Our office is located in NW Houston (near FM2920 & Kuykendahl Rd...Tomball/NW/Spring area. *Disclaimer: Be a smart consumer -- ask questions and be sure to have your agent inform you about INFORMATION ABOUT BROKER SERVICES (IABS) on ways your agent can work on your behalf. Note: Information above is for consumer educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Please consider consulting an attorney and/or accountant for professional advice to protect your legal interests when selling, buying, leasing, and/or building.Tue, 14 Oct 2008 20:31:55 PDThttp://www.trulia.com/voices/General_Area/Possibly_relocating_to_Houston_in_the_next_several-62310Answer by Karen Savage: TUES, 10/14/8, 9:02PM CST....Missy, Your question was, "Possibly relocating to Houston in the next several months. We would like to be in Northwest/North Houston and wood like an acre or more of land. Is that possible without it being a large commute?". First of all Houston is a big, spread out place, encompassing the size of 5 US cities geographically. You could drive for 1hr in any direction and still be in the Greater Houston Metro Area. Commuting is a part of life here, but worth the trade off for warmer weather, great Mexican food (all foods for that matter),and no state income tax (hurray!!). North Houston has a lot to offer. For acreage, most likely you would need to look in areas such as Hwy 290 (Cypress), Hwy 249 (Tomball), I-45 (Magnolia, Lake Conroe, Montgomery) and other outer suburban areas along I-45 or US-59 (Porter, New Caney, Splendora, etc.). Rural areas generally have acreage more so than cities/suburbs due to population growth/urban planning/land use. Houston doesn't have zoning, but if you want 'space' in the form of acreage...outer rural areas are the answer. Prices depend on locatIon and other factors. Find someone you trust and get familar with the geography of the area -- the pros and cons. You'll want to get as close as possible to your work and check out the schools, neighborhoods, and other amenities you want in a home. Their is no 'perfect' house. It's a matter of prioritizing your wants/needs and trying to match as close to it as you can get while staying within your housing budget. The commuting distance will probably be determined by your budget--averaging a one hr commute in most cases. The average Houstonian drives 40 miles one way per day. We're here to help! If we can be of service, please contact us at: TEXAS HOME GROUP, REALTORS--NW Houston, 20920 Kuykendahl Rd, Suite E, Spring, TX 77379, Attn: Karen Savage, Realtor, cell: 281-813-9769 or email: thejungle@karensavage-realtor.com. You can visit our website at http://www.KarenSavage-REALTOR.com (pardon our site...it's undergoing renovation but still functioning for the most part). Our office is located in NW Houston (near FM2920 & Kuykendahl Rd...Tomball/NW/Spring area. *Disclaimer: Be a smart consumer -- ask questions and be sure to have your agent inform you about INFORMATION ABOUT BROKER SERVICES (IABS) on ways your agent can work on your behalf. Note: Information above is for consumer educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Please consider consulting an attorney and/or accountant for professional advice to protect your legal interests when selling, buying, leasing, and/or building.Tue, 14 Oct 2008 19:37:25 PDThttp://www.trulia.com/voices/Home_Buying/What_is_the_FHA_interest_rate_right_now_Will_it_g-44070Answer by Karen Savage: La....answered Tues., 7/1/8, 12:08 PM CST.....Your question was, "What is the FHA interest rate right now? Will it go up in the next 30 days? What is your prediction?"....Interest rates change from day to day.....currently they are averaging 6.25-6.5%. Yes, rates will go up....based on world news/events/market changes......Predictions are hard to come by, since no one here is a psychic...However, FHA is a great way to finance a home for anyone, not just first-time buyers; it, requires low downpayments (3-5% in most cases) and is less restrictive than conventional loans (20% down or PMI...80/20). The financial markets are in a constant state of change/flux when it comes to interest rates/loans, so you never know if rates will go up and or down. Traditionally, during a election year politicians like to make things appear 'rosie'....so they tend to do everything in their power to keep the markets positive. Bad news in the financial markets/economy often means a loss of votes come election day and the general public gets nervous and stops spending, which messes with the GDP (2/3's is consumer spending keeping our economy afloat).. They want us consumers to keep shopping at the local mall to keep the economy propped up. That's why the stimulus checks. We're coming off a 3-5 year 'boom' in housing appreciation prices (brought on by the Federal Reserve & Washington, D.C.'s plan to increase homeownership in America for anyone who breathes); followed by a 'bust' cycle which is to be expected. However, this one is much more severe in nature.sending repercussions through the markets in all industries.....With the overextension of credit in the U.S. and all over the world in general, all global economies are feeling the effects of government & consumer overspending---outspending their personal income. Passing the bill on to our grandchildren (U.S. debt) is finally catching up with all people around the world. Because of this uncertainty (doom/gloom scenario by the media) money normally 'pooled/loaned' for investments is drying up. If you can't get financing, you can't buy--anything....a car, house, boat, college tuition, etc. The pendulum has swung from 'loan to anybody' to 'loan to just the good candidates' (tightening of loan requirements). This is a normal human reaction to reducing risk. However, now is a great time to buy (lots of inventory)...and prices are very favorable. I would not hesitate to purchase. Quite frankly, this is the BEST TIME TO BUY...when there's a market correction. Think of it as playing Monopoly and the bank just dumped lots of properties on the market FOR SALE. Prices are cheap compared to other cities. SUPPLY AND DEMAND forces are in your favor. I would definitely buy a home NOW...before the financing rules change and you are locked out of the market. Real estate is a tangible object that can appreciate in value, but you must hold it long term to benefit. See the website at the bottom of this post for FHA information....I wish you the best. Have you noticed that many rich folks are buying up distressed companies and properties right now? What does that tell you? Disclaimer: Any information posted here is for consumer educational purposes only; please seek professional advice from a CPA and/or legal counsel to protect your interests.Tue, 1 Jul 2008 10:26:53 PDThttp://www.trulia.com/voices/Curb_Appeal/For_a_k_neighborhood_in_Clear_lake_Houston_TX_-26580Answer by Karen Savage: Nancy...(posted 5/5/8 5:42pm CST MONDAY) Your question was, "For a $350-430k neighborhood in Clear Lake, Houston, TX, what is a better flooring choice? Tile or wood?". For resale value consistency is important....use a similar color throughout (this applies to wall paint as well as floor coverings). However, left me say this....think about how your family or others would use each room. For example, for bedrooms I suggest carpet (neutral...no trendy stuff, no commercial types either). Why? Because, generally, you want to deaden the sound and provide non-slip surfaces (for both old and young alike....safety and comfort any day). Not to mention eliminating getting out of bed and putting your feet down on cold floors or dust bunnies/dog hair floating around...Who would want that! For downstairs, the beauty/diversity of wood tends to attractive more folks long-term wise. Wood flooring (laminate or real wood) would be something to use in LR, DR, KITCHEN, ENTRY FOYERS, CLOSETS, etc. People say that for laminate you can't get out dog / kid scratches, even if you lightly buff the area. For real wood you can strip, sand, restain with better results and wearability. Ceramic or mosaic tile, like those used in bathrooms/wet areas/laundry rooms, may appeal to some for ease and use, but it has a tendency to 'echo sound'. Plus, if you need to replace a few tiles, often even if you buy extras during installation to have on spares on hand, ... a single replaced piece often looks 'off'. (A lady I knew had put down a beautiful Mexican rust-colored ceramic tile in her living room. She had cracked an existing piece and had it replaced...only to find the 'new tile' didn't match the rest of the original floor. Over time, the sunshine had come through her sliding glass door and faded her furnishings and flooring. Her fix: put a carpet over the ceramic tile in the center of the room.) House decorating/remodeling should be done with great care as to not over improve the home for the neighborhood area sales 'COMPS'. Classy is nice, but come resale time your choices should be 'in line' with what is expected for the area. Best choices for updating/remodeling: similar wall paint (within 2 shades of same color), similar flooring, updated light fixtures, kitchen cabinet hardware/door pulls, spacious/clean bathrooms, increase storage capacity (closets/shelving). For cosmetic fixes: front yard landscaping; fresh exterior paint. Lifestyle choices: back yard entertainment areas - outdoor kitchen/grill/light torches; patio dining sets; tranquil flowers/meditation place; spot for the family pet/kids play fort. Check out the website link listed below this message for helpful decorating tips. I wish you the best. I'm here to help you anyway I can -- just call or email me: Karen Savage, REALTOR, Keller Williams Realty/North(west)--Hwy 290/FM1960 area near Willowbrook Mall; 8300 FM 1960 West, Suite 310, Houston, TX 77070, direct: 281-813-9769; office: 281-664-8300,x3004; http://www.KarenSavage-Realtor.com. (You got a friend in Texas! We aim to please! Your Greater Houston, Texas source for everything real estate.) Information provided is for consumer educational purposes only. Please consult a legal professional for advice that applies to your unique circumstances.Mon, 5 May 2008 16:23:46 PDThttp://www.trulia.com/voices/Home_Buying/Brighton_homes_cancelled_my_contract_because_of_co-31504Answer by Karen Savage: Kevin...(posted 5/1/8, 11:03AM CST, THURS) Your question was, "Brighton homes cancelled my contract because of complaints of bad bricklaying-any recourse?" I would start by doing a little research. First stop: The Texas Residential Construction Commission (TRCC in Austin, TX) at http://www.trcc.state.tx.us/default.asp. (Besides looking up the builder's registration with the state (TX), you can also read about builder construction issues and courses of action (for complaints). In all fairness, at the least the homebuilder realized there were 'work quality issues' and stopped the work in progress. That should tell you something about their ethics/standards...right there. Some folks would have kept building, hoping you didn't hire an inspector to check the home out or personally notice (during a walk thru). I don't know much about this particular builder, but I would assume they are smart enough to know their reputation is on the line and they would rather loose a sale, than a customer for life. Smart builders know this. In all honesty, it would be smart to read the website above regarding 1) filing a consumer complaint before the TRCC hearing board; try to resolve your differences without going to court (it's costly and emotionally draining); 2) seek pre-trial arbitration/mediation efforts (note: most new homes sale contracts contain a clause that says if for any reason you have a legal issue with the house, you will automatically be required to seek arbitration or mediation vs. going to court. Your 3rd choice) suck it up as 'a learning experience' (you may or may not get your EM deposit back depending on contract terms), and realize you are lucky to not get 'stuck' with a lemon for a house. In this case the builders are doing you a favor. Yes, you sold your other place and are now probably freaking out trying to figure out where to live. Point is: don't rush into a home sale. If need be, rent a year near good schools. It might be a pain, but then again, it might be a 'blessing in disguise". I've shown Brighton Homes a few times in Pearland, TX for clients to buy. These folks have always appeared to be forthright and honest in business dealings. (They even faxed me a copy of their contract to preview prior to meeting them.) That's just my personal experience. If you do decide to build later on, see the link below this message for Builder's Academy (smart folks)! I wish you the best. I'm here to help you anyway I can -- just call or email me: Karen Savage, REALTOR, Keller Williams Realty/North(west)--Hwy 290/FM1960 area near Willowbrook Mall; 8300 FM 1960 West, Suite 310, Houston, TX 77070, direct: 281-813-9769; office: 281-664-8300,x3004; http://www.KarenSavage-Realtor.com. (You got a friend in Texas! We aim to please! Your Greater Houston, Texas source for everything real estate.) Information provided is for consumer educational purposes only. Please consult a legal professional for advice that applies to your unique circumstances.Thu, 1 May 2008 09:40:54 PDThttp://www.trulia.com/voices/Foreclosure/What_is_the_way_to_find_out_the_remaining_mortgage-33668Answer by Karen Savage: Yijun....(posted 4/30/8 12:54PM CST WED) Your question was partially cut off. If you have signed representation authorizing someone to act as your realtor, you should go through him/her to find out on your behalf. This post is for any readers who want to know the answer to his question...The information asked ("What is the way to find out the remaining mortgage balance on a pre-foreclosure?) is generally something that is considered 'private/confidential' between the seller and mortgage company. In Texas, property sales information is not displayed in any public forum because it is deemed private/non-discloseable by law. A few years ago there was a big deal about social security numbers being displayed on public records and the Texas Attorney General got involved. (Don't worry, this is not the case anymore). For this and other reasons, legislative folks decided to keep some information out of public hands and off the Internet. Texas is a non-disclosure state for home sales prices. Say, for example, if someone listed their home for sale, they usually contact a realtor to get access to information on past 'SOLD' properties (realtors pay access fees for this information). In Houston, it's the Har.com MLS database. As part of a 'listing presentation', realtors provide CMAs or a Comparative Market Analysis. This is data on active, pending, and sold properties for a particular neighborhood. This is how folks help determine a home's sales price 'FOR SALE' -- what's currently available, pending (under contract), and sold in the last 6 months. In today's market with foreclosures...it's more like what's available/pending/sold in the last 3 months. (A person could go to the county courthouse where the property resides, and do a search by owner's name or address in the property records section of the courthouse. Now days, most courthouses have this info in some electronic format (microfiche, online database, etc.). But you have to visit in person; you can't access it online over the Internet. Smaller town courthouses may only have paper records bound in large legal ledgers, where the county clerk originally recorded the docs/instruments within a few days/weeks of the original being signed. If you do locate the 'chain of title' (property's history of past owners), expect to do some digging. You will probably only get the original price they paid for the property and not too many other details. As a part of the sales process after closing takes place, deeds are recorded in the local courthouse property files as a matter of public notice (for legal reasons). A better approach would be to find out area properties history for the neighborhood thru a realtor, appraiser, or other source. Realistically, you would still need to determine your current competition (active properties for sale, pending contracts, and solds) to get an idea for the current market conditions. What someone paid for a home is not important; it's the current market value that matters - that is what a buyer is willing to pay TODAY in the marketplace, not yesterday. I wish you the best. I'm here to help you anyway I can -- just call or email me: Karen Savage, REALTOR, Keller Williams Realty/North(west)--Hwy 290/FM1960 area near Willowbrook Mall; 8300 FM 1960 West, Suite 310, Houston, TX 77070, direct: 281-813-9769; office: 281-664-8300,x3004; http://www.KarenSavage-Realtor.com. (You got a friend in Texas! We aim to please! Your Greater Houston, Texas source for everything real estate.) Information provided is for consumer educational purposes only. Please consult a legal professional for advice that applies to your unique circumstances.Wed, 30 Apr 2008 11:53:59 PDThttp://www.trulia.com/voices/Home_Buying/what_if_the_seller_of_a_home_that_I_paid_cash_for_-33088Answer by Karen Savage: Nettie....(posted 4/27/8 2:48PM CST SUN) It definitely sounds like you have a 'situation' on your hands now, doesn't it? Nettie, I answered an earlier question you had posted about getting in contact with a real estate attorney (see other post). I can't give you legal advice, seek legal counsel, but I will say this...the Texas Real Estate Commission (in Austin, Texas), which regulates real estate agents, requires agents to disclose 'agency relationship' upfront before working with sellers & buyers. This case that you describe above is EXACTLY WHY you should use a real estate professional in a home sale. It sounds like you bought a home thru a FSBO (for-sale-by-owner) with no legal representation. The terms of your sale should have been in writing (disclosed in a sales contract, including PRICE!), not merely verbal. Check with your attorney, but I believe Texas law requires all contracts to be in writing to be enforceable in a court of law. In your case - it sounds like you had no buyer's rep to represent you as a buyer. From what you describe, it sounds as if you made a verbal agreement and after closing the seller had a change of mind (after-the-fact) for more money. In my opinion...a seller who sells you their home (for cash), goes thru the sale (paperwork wise @ closing), delivers a deed (proof of ownership), and then wants to 'cancel' the sale (after-the-fact) when someone else comes along and wants to buy the house for more money ($10K)...is not only greedy, unethical, lacks common sense, but needs a good wake up call to reality. I'm not sure if I read your question right or I'm mistaken. A good attorney can straighten this mess out, but it will cost you. If the prevailing party (the seller) looses this court case (which I think he/she will), go after him/her for attorney fees and for emotional distress. Better yet, try a resolution company, such as: Dispute Resolution Center (Conroe, TX – Montgomery County, see link below). It's cheaper and a judge may order you to arbitration/mediation before an actual court trial. I wish you well and I am sorry you have to endure this 'legal' mess now, all because you didn't seek competent, professional help from the start. DIY/FSBOs can be dangerous--legal wise. Now, just who is saving money not paying a realtor's commission? Sounds like you are going to pay handsomely for trying to save a few bucks. (I personally know of a lady selling land and she encountered a similar legal battle...Did she save money not using an agent?, "No!"; matter of fact she called me back distraught/in tears saying she had learned her lesson. She just wanted 'out of the whole mess'. She thought it would be easy. She even asked the title company for advice and they told her they couldn't assist in her transaction for legal reasons). Lesson learned: for the most expensive purchase of your life, seek someone with experience. It's not like buying something and you can return it at the store later (the house). Real estate involves legal issues...it's worth the peace of mind to pay for professional advice, to get someone who knows what they are doing. Put it this way, I wouldn't dream of playing 'doctor' and performing open heart surgery on myself (DIY)...just to save a few bucks. Know your skill set/limits. Realtors keep you out of the courthouse -- that's preventive not reactive, worth every penny! :) I wish you the best. Karen Savage, REALTOR, Keller Williams Realty/North(west)--Hwy 290/FM1960 area near Willowbrook Mall; 8300 FM 1960 West, Suite 310, Houston, TX 77070, direct: 281-813-9769; office: 281-664-8300,x3004; http://www.KarenSavage-Realtor.com. (You got a friend in Texas! We aim to please! Your Greater Houston, Texas source for everything real estate.)Sun, 27 Apr 2008 13:37:12 PDThttp://www.trulia.com/voices/Home_Buying/I_need_a_real_estate_attorney_close_to_houston-33095Answer by Karen Savage: Nettie…(posted April 27, 2008 at 2:25PM CST SUN) I’m a local realtor in NW Houston with KELLER WILLIAMS REALTY, and I saw your post asking about real estate attorneys. You didn’t exactly specify what you needed one for, but I looked up the information for you as a courtesy. I wanted to help you in your time of need. Your question on Trulia was, “I need a real estate attorney close to 77029 houston.” Answer: “You can start your search online by going to a national trade association for lawyers, then trickle down to local Houston attorneys, who specialize in real estate law.” If you check out the link below this text, you’ll find what you need. *Just be sure you check out the attorney through the Texas Bar Association for any possible ethics violations or sanctions. I’m also including another valuable link for legal information/articles: http://lawyers.nolo.com. I wish you the best with your move. I'm here to help you anyway I can -- just call or email me: Karen Savage, REALTOR, Keller Williams Realty/North(west)--Hwy 290/FM1960 area near Willowbrook Mall; 8300 FM 1960 West, Suite 310, Houston, TX 77070, direct: 281-813-9769; office: 281-664-8300,x3004; http://www.KarenSavage-Realtor.com. (You got a friend in Texas! We aim to please! Your Greater Houston, Texas source for everything real estate.)Sun, 27 Apr 2008 12:35:08 PDThttp://www.trulia.com/voices/Home_Buying/How_is_the_rental_property_investment_in_Houston_-30340Answer by Karen Savage: Bayram…(posted April 25, 2008 at 11:39AM CST FRI) Glad to hear you are considering a move to Houston. It's a great place to call home! I understand you want to BUY/HOLD & LEASE/FLIP properties in the Greater Houston, TX Metro Area. Real estate can be a little overwhelming for some folks, especially being new to the area, such as your case. It's important to 'connect' with someone you can trust. Let me take you on a tour of Houston to show you all the city has to offer, including behind-the-scenes things only the locals know about. Your question on Trulia was, “How is the rental property investment in Houston?”; "What is the Rent to acquisition cost ratio for cash flowing rentals in Houston?" Answer: “Great choices all around!” "The cost ratio depends on which area of town/neighborhood." (Visit the RSS feed/link under this message for marketplace happenings/trends or e-mail me for more info. This website has a wealth of information for investors/house flippers.) Houston is the 4th largest city in the nation; regional studies from the Texas A&M University Mays School of Business, College Station, TX, (which operates the Texas Real Estate Center), report the state of Texas is expected to double it’s population within the next 20+ years. This influx of folks will create a demand for housing (including rentals), jobs, schools, etc., along with a solid foundation for funding infrastructure (community needs) thru property taxes. Add to the fact Texas is one of the few states that doesn’t have a state income tax, families and businesses reduce their expenses, resulting in a better quality of life. Living in Texas is a no-brainer! Yes, it gets hot and humid, there are a variety of things to do, we have many fine restaurants (the most of any city in the nation), and affordable living—all these things make it a true shinning example of what can be done when people combine ‘work and play’ together. I often refer to Houston as the "New York City of the South". There are endless opportunities in the marketplace; lots of folks are moving here -- locally and nationally -- to take advantage of the healthy Texas economy (compared to the rest of the nation with the foreclosures and such). We are truly blessed! I wish you the best with your move. I'm here to help you anyway I can -- just call or email me: Karen Savage, REALTOR, Keller Williams Realty/North(west)--Hwy 290/FM1960 area near Willowbrook Mall; 8300 FM 1960 West, Suite 310, Houston, TX 77070, direct: 281-813-9769; office: 281-664-8300,x3004; http://www.KarenSavage-Realtor.com. (You got a friend in Texas! We aim to please! Your Greater Houston, Texas source for everything real estate.)Fri, 25 Apr 2008 09:46:47 PDThttp://www.trulia.com/voices/Market_Conditions/do_you_have_properties_for_lease_-30040Answer by Karen Savage: Carter...(posted April 9, 2008 at 7:08PM CST WED) Glad to hear you are considering renting property in SE Houston. You had asked about renting a place inside the 610 Inner Loop, in the $900-1200 range, for a single-family home. I searched your immediate zip code (77004) and didn't find anything for lease in that price range. Inside the Loop is rather pricey for most folks, with most homes being owner-occupied, not rentals. However, the closest thing that fits your criteria is just outside Loop 610 East in the nearby Galena Park area (north of I-10). It's a short drive from your zip (77004). If you e-mail me at: thejungle@karensavage-realtor.com, I will send you an attachment of the 4 MLS properties I found in a recent search. I wish you the best with your move. I'm here to help you anyway I can -- just call or email me: Karen Savage, REALTOR, Keller Williams Realty/North(west)--Hwy 290/FM1960 area near Willowbrook Mall; 8300 FM 1960 West, Suite 310, Houston, TX 77070, direct: 281-813-9769; office: 281-664-8300,x3004; http://www.KarenSavage-Realtor.com. (You got a friend in Texas! We aim to please! Your Greater Houston, Texas source for everything real estate.)Wed, 9 Apr 2008 17:39:31 PDThttp://www.trulia.com/voices/Home_Selling/I_ve_relocated_to_NYC_from_Houston_and_leaving_beh-28754Answer by Karen Savage: Apurva...(posted April 6, 2008 at 12:31 AM CST SUNDAY) Hope your move to NYC from Houston was a good one. I understand you are considering selling and/or renting your properties here in Houston. Real estate can be a little overwhelming for some folks, especially trying to deal with things from out-of-state, such as your case. It's important to 'connect' with someone you can trust. You didn't mention which side of town your properties are located, only that you need a responsible person to take care of listing/renting/managing your affairs here in the Houston area. I'm located in NW Houston (Hwy 249/FM1960 area). I primarily service the Greater Houston, TX metro area (North side) I-45 and US-59 corridors and in between. On occassion, I make exceptions for clients and travel throughout Houston to service their needs. However, I do have co-workers in my office and other parts of town whom can assist (should you need additional services). Keller Williams Realty has a huge network of agents nationally that we can tap into for your benefit -- anywhere in the U.S.A.! It's funny that you moved to NYC; I often refer to Houston as the "New York City of the South". There are endless opportunities in the marketplace; lots of folks are moving here -- locally and nationally -- to take advantage of the healhy Texas economy (compared to the rest of the nation with the foreclosures and such). Let me list and/or rent your properties for you. I have another realtor in my office who specializes in property management, who can assist you with that task. Between the two of us, you can rest assured you are in capable, trustworthy hands. I wish you the best with your property needs. I'm here to help you anyway I can -- just call or email me: Karen Savage, REALTOR, Keller Williams Realty/North(west)--Hwy 290/FM1960 area near Willowbrook Mall; 8300 FM 1960 West, Suite 310, Houston, TX 77070, direct: 281-813-9769; office: 281-664-8300,x3004; e-mail: thejungle@karensavage-realtor.com; http://www.KarenSavage-Realtor.com. (You've got a friend in Texas! We aim to please! Your Greater Houston, Texas source for everything real estate.)Sat, 5 Apr 2008 22:57:00 PDThttp://www.trulia.com/voices/General_Area/Can_you_describe_how_this_city_looks_and_feels_for-3163Answer by Karen Savage: JP...(posted April 5, 2008 at 11:51 PM CST SATURDAY) Glad to hear you are considering a move to Houston. It's a great place to call home! You'll find moving can be a little overwhelming for some folks, so it's important to 'connect' with someone you can trust. I'm ex-military and have moved several times over the years. I understand what it's like to pick up everything and move to a new place -- whether local (down the street) or across the globe. Finding the perfect neighborhood is important; as are other things to consider during a move. Houston is the 4th largest city in the country; roughly the size of five metropolitan cities combined. It's huge land wise! It's diverisified. Everything you could possibly want is here! We have lifestyles to fit anyone - urban (city lofts/single night life scene/business & cultural events); suburban (soccer moms/families/shopping for the ladies, sports for the guys); ranch & acreage (cowboy/cowgirl wannabes/nature lovers/outdoorsmen types); yuppie (the arts/history/highly educated folks) -- you name it.The great thing about Houston is you can travel in different directions and get a taste of different cultures, without leaving the city. Love trying new foods ? Plenty here! Houston is the restaurant capital of the nation; we have more restaurants than any other city. Your tastebuds will love it!! :) Plenty of local festivals/family-friendly things to do -- indoor and out! Compared to the rest of the country, we are truly blessed. Our economy is pretty resilent and very entrepreneur minded....pro-business (less restrictive with government interference/regulations than most places....making things cheaper in the longer run). Young, old, multicultural -- we attract them all! The best of Houston can be researched online from the comfort of your own home/PC (e-mail me for more information). I often refer to Houston as the "New York City of the South". There are endless opportunities here for you; we just have to find what meets your personal needs and goals. Let me take you on a tour of Houston to show you all the city has to offer, including behind-the-scenes things only the locals know about. I wish you the best with your move. I'm here to help you anyway I can -- just call or email me: Karen Savage, REALTOR, Keller Williams Realty/North(west)--Hwy 290/FM1960 area near Willowbrook Mall; 8300 FM 1960 West, Suite 310, Houston, TX 77070, direct: 281-813-9769; office: 281-664-8300,x3004; e-mail: thejungle@karensavage-realtor.com; http://www.KarenSavage-Realtor.com. (You've got a friend in Texas! We aim to please! Your Greater Houston, Texas source for everything real estate.)Sat, 5 Apr 2008 21:51:50 PDThttp://www.trulia.com/voices/General_Area/What_are_Houston_s_best_neighborhoods_-8682Answer by Karen Savage: Al...(posted April 5, 2008 at 11:00 PM CST SATURDAY) Glad to hear you are considering a move to Houston. It's a great place to call home! You'll find moving can be a little overwhelming for some folks, so it's important to 'connect' with someone you can trust. I'm ex-military and have moved several times over the years. I understand what it's like to pick up everything and move to a new place -- whether local (down the street) or across the globe. Finding the perfect neighborhood is important; as are other things to consider during a move. Northwest Houston is a great find! (NW has everything a family could want in an area. I personally reside near Hwy 249/FM1960 and love what the community has to offer me and my family.) Houston is the 4th largest city in the country; roughly the size of five metropolitan cities combined. It's huge land wise! The best schools can be researched online from the comfort of your own home/PC (e-mail me for link information). As for living inside/outside the Inner Loop (610) that depends on your job's location. Getting around town takes time. I often refer to Houston as the "New York City of the South". There are endless opportunities here for you; we just have to find what meets your personal needs and goals. Let me take you on a tour of Houston to show you all the city has to offer, including behind-the-scenes things only the locals know about. I wish you the best with your move. I'm here to help you anyway I can -- just call or email me: Karen Savage, REALTOR, Keller Williams Realty/North(west)--Hwy 290/FM1960 area near Willowbrook Mall; 8300 FM 1960 West, Suite 310, Houston, TX 77070, direct: 281-813-9769; office: 281-664-8300,x3004; e-mail: thejungle@karensavage-realtor.com; http://www.KarenSavage-Realtor.com. (You've got a friend in Texas! We aim to please! Your Greater Houston, Texas source for everything real estate.)Sat, 5 Apr 2008 21:11:22 PDThttp://www.trulia.com/voices/General_Area/Olde_Oaks_Lakewood_Forest_Wimbledon_Estates_Mem-11894Answer by Karen Savage: Jaime...(posted April 5, 2008 at 10:40 PM CST SATURDAY) Glad to hear you are considering a move to NW Houston. It's a great place to call home! You'll find moving can be a little overwhelming for some folks, so it's important to 'connect' with someone you can trust. I'm ex-military and have moved several times over the years. I understand what it's like to pick up everything and move to a new place -- whether local (down the street) or across the globe. Finding the perfect neighborhood is important; as are other things to consider during a move. Northwest Houston is a great find! I live in the area myself near Hewlitt Packard Company. (Years ago, both my husband and I worked there as well. It's a major employer in the area.) These older neighbors are a great bargain! I loved the charm of Lakewood Forest S/D and family-friendly atmosphere and bought my home there. You get a lot of house for your money; a well-established area; with great schools for the kids (Cy-Fair ISD) with higher education/college(s) nearby. There are endless opportunities out there for you; we just have to find what meets your personal needs and goals. Let me take you on a tour of Houston to show you all the city has to offer, including behind-the-scenes things only the locals know about. I wish you the best with your move. I'm here to help you anyway I can -- just call or email me: Karen Savage, REALTOR, Keller Williams Realty/North(west)--Hwy 290/FM1960 area near Willowbrook Mall; 8300 FM 1960 West, Suite 310, Houston, TX 77070, direct: 281-813-9769; office: 281-664-8300,x3004; e-mail: thejungle@karensavage-realtor.com; http://www.KarenSavage-Realtor.com. (You've got a friend in Texas! We aim to please! Your Greater Houston, Texas source for everything real estate.)Sat, 5 Apr 2008 20:50:19 PDThttp://www.trulia.com/voices/Tech_Tips/I_would_like_to_see_a_copy_of_the_Deed_Restriction-29127Answer by Karen Savage: April.....(posted April 5, 2008 at 10:23 PM CST SATURDAY) Glad to hear you are considering a move to NW Houston. It's a great place to call home! You'll find moving can be a little overwhelming for some folks, so it's important to 'connect' with someone you can trust. I'm ex-military and have moved several times over the years. I understand what it's like to pick up everything and move to a new place -- whether local (down the street) or across the globe. Finding the perfect neighborhood is important; as are other things to consider during a move. You can request a copy of deed restrictions from a local title company from their title plant. There are endless opportunities out there for you; we just have to find what meets your personal needs and goals. Let me take you on a tour of Houston to show you all the city has to offer, including behind-the-scenes things only the locals know about. I wish you the best with your move. I'm here to help you anyway I can -- just call or email me: Karen Savage, REALTOR, Keller Williams Realty/North(west)--Hwy 290/FM1960 area near Willowbrook Mall; 8300 FM 1960 West, Suite 310, Houston, TX 77070, direct: 281-813-9769; office: 281-664-8300,x3004; e-mail: thejungle@karensavage-realtor.com; http://www.KarenSavage-Realtor.com. (You've got a friend in Texas! We aim to please! Your Greater Houston, Texas source for everything real estate.)Sat, 5 Apr 2008 20:33:30 PDThttp://www.trulia.com/voices/General_Area/New_to_Houston_area_what_is_nice_safe_area_for_a_s-24069Answer by Karen Savage: Bridgette....(posted April 5, 2008 at 9:35 PM CST SATURDAY) Glad to hear you are considering a move to Houston. It's a great place to call home! You'll find moving can be a little overwhelming for some folks, so it's important to 'connect' with someone you can trust. I'm ex-military and have moved several times over the years. I understand what it's like to pick up everything and move to a strange, new place. Safety is an important issue -- for both singles & families alike; as are other things to consider during a move. There are endless opportunities out there for you; we just have to find what meets your personal needs and goals. Let me take you on a tour of Houston to show you all the city has to offer, including behind-the-scenes things only the locals know about. I wish you the best with your move. I'm here to help you anyway I can -- just call or email me: Karen Savage, REALTOR, Keller WIlliams Realty/North(west)--Hwy 290/FM1960 area near Willowbrook Mall; 8300 FM 1960 West, Suite 310, Houston, TX 77070, direct: 281-813-9769; office: 281-664-8300,x3004; http://www.KarenSavage-Realtor.com. (You've got a friend in Texas! We aim to please! Your Greater Houston, Texas source for everything real estate.)Sat, 5 Apr 2008 19:44:30 PDThttp://www.trulia.com/voices/General_Area/Maybe_relocating_from_Detroit_to_Houston_We_are_u-26880Answer by Karen Savage: Heidi.....(posted April 5, 2008 at 9:24AM CST SATURDAY) Glad to hear you folks are considering a move to Houston. It's a great place to call home! You'll find moving can be a little overwhelming for some folks, so it's important to 'connect' with someone you can trust. I'm ex-military and have moved several times over the years. I understand what it's like to pick up everything and move to a strange, new place with kids, pets, and the moving van packed to the rafters. Let me take you on a tour of Houston to show you all the city has to offer, including behind-the-scenes things only the locals know about. I wish you folks the best with your move. I'm here to help you anyway I can -- just call or email me: Karen Savage, REALTOR, Keller WIlliams Realty/North(west)--Hwy 290/FM1960 area near Willowbrook Mall; 8300 FM 1960 West, Suite 310, Houston, TX 77070, direct: 281-813-9769; office: 281-664-8300,x3004; http://www.KarenSavage-Realtor.com. (You got a friend in Texas! We aim to please! Your Greater Houston, Texas source for everything real estate.)Sat, 5 Apr 2008 07:25:59 PDT