Sara Nguyen's Blog Posts

When you tie your home safety habits into seasonal prep, you make it feel routine and things are less likely to be overlooked. If the thought of doing a yearly check-up feels overwhelming, break

Purchasing a home is one of the largest investments most people make. It makes sense to dispel some lingering real estate market myths. When you’re informed about the facts around this,

If you’ve been on the fence about whether to list your home for sale during the autumn (or winter) seasons, the answer is “Yes, do it!” One of the best kept secrets centered around

One way to lower the cost of purchasing a new construction home is through the financial perks offered by builders. These builder incentives may appear to be of identical advertised value such as ,

You never want to leave money on the table when you’re buying a home or when it’s time to pay taxes. Knowing your eligibility for property tax exemptions or ways to slash your home&rsquo

Is your goal to pay down your home mortgage faster? The average home mortgage loans are between 15 and 30 years. This type of loan consists of the principal amount (the exact original amount)

Enjoy riding? Looking for a beautiful place to saddle up and enjoy a relaxing ride or maybe you’d like to participate in some lessons to learn horseback riding or refine your skills? From the

Thinking of listing your home during a competitive summer market but unsure how to prepare your home to standout? To win over summer buyers, showcase your home as a place that is cooler, brighter,

Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) is a supplemental insurance policy required by lenders on conventional home loans when a buyer puts down less than 20% of the home’s purchase price. The

Being near the water is refreshing and relaxing. Weekend getaways to the lake or beach are among top destination choices. What if you could make your home along the water instead of counting down

You’ve read the MLS listing. You’ve taken a tour of the home with your realtor. You really like what you’re seeing—stainless steel appliances, stylish furniture, an outdoor

For most homeowners, owning a backup generator it is an investment in safety, comfort, and peace of mind rather than an absolute necessity. We can’t guarantee that a home will ever be 100%

Do you enjoy adventurous activities? The kind that are prone to getting your heart-pumping? Houston is centrally located to adrenaline-pumping experiences for thrill seekers. From indoor skydiving

Making the decision to purchase a home is one of the largest financial investments someone makes in their lifetime. While mistakes are opportunities to learn and grow. When the mistake takes place

When you’re on the path to purchase a home, you may be thinking about location. You may be thinking about the number of rooms. What about your lifestyle and how this home needs to function?

The facts are, moving can be stressful. There are so many things to remember and to do. While we can’t eliminate all of the stresses around moving, we can follow some proven tips to reduce the

Buying one home before selling the existing home is a delicate dance. REALTOR® Sara Lyn Nguyen is here to help you smoothly navigate the transition between two homes. When you work with an

When someone considers ways to add value to their home, the focus is often on the home’s interior. You may be surprised to learn there are numerous outdoor living space upgrades that offer

Wondering where to take the kids for some Easter joy and an egg hunt? I’ve got you covered with Sara’s quick list of community activities including several opportunities to take photos

Sign your full signature, please. Initial here...and date. Then it all repeats. The rhythm of the closing process is what many recall when asked, “What can I expect on closing day?” The

Have you ever considered the influence weather has on the homes built in Fort Bend County? From the choices of materials used to building the structure, Texas weather has been taken into

Amping up your home’s curb appeal during the colorless winter months doesn’t need to be a challenge when you use some of these tips. Buyers will appreciate seeing the difference these

Comfort. Safety. Acceptance. These three qualities are rooted in the secret sauce that makes a community feel like home. Look for these neighborhood characteristics when you’re searching for

Hi, I’m Sara Nguyen and it’s my honor and pleasure to be a realtor serving the Houston area because I truly love what I do and the people I meet. As we enter February, the month of love,

Did you know there are several things related to your home’s value that you, as the homeowner, have control over? Today we’re focusing on ways to correct the things which could lower

As we enter a new year, it’s natural to have some questions around real estate. Perhaps you’re wondering whether or not the Houston region is experiencing a real estate crisis? As I

Personal expression, natural elements, warmth, and cozy nostalgia are predicted to be driving leaders in which 2026 home decorating trends will be winners. Interior designers are suggesting the new

You and your realtor visited numerous homes around the Houston metroplex. You’ve met for coffee and had chats about everything from what you’re looking for in a home to finances to

It may come as a surprise to learn there are valid reasons to offer more than the asking price when you have your eye on a home you’d like to buy. The strategy behind offering more could be

What would you say if I told you that preparing to sell your home doesn’t have to feel overwhelming? Often clients express being unsure about where to begin when they think about preparing

For most homeowners, a pool is a lifestyle purchase rather than a financial investment. When your family is at their happiest outdoors, having a pool and backyard oasis could be the answer. Family

A frequently asked question listing agents are asked is, “Should I upgrade the appliances?” This question often comes up in conversation as the homeowner and agent walkthrough the rooms

You may be surprised to learn the ways your favorite local realtor can assist you when you’re preparing to move out-of-state. While your local agent can’t conduct the actual closing,

As you begin your search for a home, you’re probably thinking about how many bedrooms you need along with a general style of home you’re attracted to. Each of these essentials are

When Halloween season nears, realtors may get some unique requests—while helping others to find a few hair-raising haunted house tours around the Houston metroplex. Being someone who keeps an

You’ve come to the decision to sell your home. While this is the absolute right thing for this phase in your life, your heart is struggling and your emotions are still firmly connected to this

“He loves me, he loves me not.” Pulling petals from a blossom while playing this children’s game is how some may decide between two things they adore but when it comes to being

Just as homes are unique, the same can be said about realtors and brokerages. The differences found among brokerages include the total number of agents, the training offered to their agents, varying

As you get closer and closer to listing your home and having your agent begin showings, you may be wondering how to protect your home valuables when strangers begin visiting. This is a wise

Life comes with changes and opportunities. You get a promotion at work but this comes with a need to relocate to a new city. Or, the size of your family grows and suddenly your starter home simply

Before getting started on your house hunt there are several items that need to happen first. It’s enticing to get caught up in wanting to visit homes—walking through the rooms and

Texas homeowners pay some of the highest homeowner’s insurance premiums in the country—experiencing double-digit rate increases in 2023 and 2024. Projections for 2025 are signaling to

Something homebuyers should try to remember is: The perfect property may not exist. As we’re talking and I’m learning what you’re looking forward in your future home. I’m

Looking for places to beat the heat? Take the family to the Downtown Tunnels. Yes, I’m talking about Houston’s Downtown Tunnels, the area’s go-to shopping and dining experience

As a listing agent, there are various marketing strategies available to use when selling a home including private viewings, hosting Broker tours, and planning open house events. If you’ve ever

It’s common to associate a real estate agent with some selling a home or someone buying a home but what about representing someone wanting new construction? Push any uncertainty aside because

When it’s time to prepare your home for sale focus on these three key areas: decluttering, cleaning, and home-staging. Cover these three bases will boost your home’s appeal in the eyes

The sounds of gentle rain suddenly intensify. The winds begin to pick up around the same time you notice the graying sky deepens another shade darker. This is when you reach for your phone to search

After you’ve visited more than two or three listed homes, you may be concerned how you will keep track of all the homes you see. Was it the brick house with the trees in front that had three

Part of helping you make a smooth transition from being a renter to becoming a homeowner is understanding how the financial responsibilities differ. Regardless of how far into the future you plan to

Houston’s sunny climate along with Houston being a leader in renewable energy makes investing in solar panels for your home a topic worth considering. Add in that panels are eco-friendly and

As the weather continues to warm-up and the family gets the urge to do something over the weekend, consider visiting one of the many nearby historical sites in/around the Houston area. There are a

The creative arts in/around Houston are thriving and growing. Art and craft workshops are a profound source of joy and fulfilment, offering a therapeutic escape from our busy lives. They nurture

With all the decisions around selling your home, you may find yourself wondering if you should make some upgrades (or not) before your home is listed. It’s a natural and wise consideration.

As the popularity of tiny houses continues to grow, those living throughout Texas are pleased to know Texas has embraced tiny home living. While many towns have zoning laws that prohibit tiny houses

When you actively address small home maintenance issues, you are better prepared to actively alleviate any larger problems from developing. You may be thinking, “But, I’m not really

When you want to go out for a good time listening to live-music but you don’t want to get caught-up in a big crowd, where do you go? Houston has numerous live-music options. Houston is a mecca

Is buying a home one of your 2025 resolutions? This can be your year. It would be my honor to help you achieve this goal. It all begins when you reach out to set an appointment with me. When we,

With the increased news coverage around the recent Los Angeles wildfires, it’s natural to think about fire safety around your home. If fire would start, is your home ready? There are numerous

Countertops in a household are something many people don’t change often unless a major renovation is planned. It’s essential to choose something you love as well as a material which can

For a variety of people, condo living can be a good option when you’re looking for a home. Let’s see if this describes you:Do you find yourself drawn to the energy of being downtown

There was an announcement earlier in 2024 that the Michelin Guide was coming to Texas. It’s happened. They came. They saw. They ate. Our heartiest congratulations are extended to Houston on

Multigenerational households come in all shapes and sizes. This means multigenerational homes can’t be squeezed into a one-size-fits-all home. Each person’s needs and how the home should

If your real estate agent wants to include a foreclosure home in the homes you visit, would you say, “Let’s do it!” or would you want to pass? There are a lot of misperceptions

Your home should stir feelings of peacefulness and happiness, never feelings of sadness and remorse. When someone is in a rush to make an offer or they ignore any red flags, chances are high that

One of the frequently asked questions a realtor is often asked is: When is the best time to sell my home?This is a challenging question to answer because there isn’t an easy answer. While some

Congratulations, you’ve decided to build a home. This is an exciting time. It comes with a wide variety of choices and decisions. Things such as:The architectural style home you like.One level

Getting together with friends and family but unsure where to go? Let’s take things to new heights. That’s right! We’re heading to the rooftops of Houston to see and experience

With a bit of preparation, you can be ready for any dips in the temperature before cold weather settles across the area. While the temps around Houston don’t often drop below freezing for long

Do you find yourself trying to weigh the pros and cons of whether to purchase an older home or a newer home or a new construction home? You may talk with friends and try to get their viewpoints only

Would you be surprised to know that during the Great Depression when Americans were facing challenging times, more Americans were becoming homeowners than in previous decades? It seems,

One of the most effective ways to avoid real estate scams is to learn how to recognize the red flags. Remember, if something seems too good to be true, it usually is. And always trust your.

Home loans aren’t one-size-fits-all. For this reason, you owe it to yourself to look at all of your options when choosing the right lender or home mortgage company for you. As you begin the

Buying one home before selling the existing home is a delicate dance. So many things need to align just right to coordinate the house closing and move-out date for your existing home with the move

As you prepare to buy a home, you may hear or read some words that are less familiar to you but are words of the trade within the real estate industry. At times it may even feel as if your real

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) shoulders the responsibility of designating flood zones throughout the United States. Flood zone sources within the Houston metropolitan area are

When you’re out with your pup and want to grab a bite to eat that’s more than a quick-stop snack, where do you go? Houston’s dog-friendly dining options are favorites for both dog

As time is spent with prospective homebuyers it’s natural for our conversations to revolve around learning about the communities where the listed homes are located and what’s nearby. We

When you enjoy solving puzzles, a bit of mystery, all tossed in with some challenges plus loads of fun, you are someone who will get a kick out of experiencing an escape room. An escape room is a

Fishing enthusiasts around the Houston metro can cast a fishing line in and may come back with bass, redfish, trout, or flounder. If I visited you when you’re fishing, what would I find on

House listings are filled with all sorts of homes and a high majority of the listings do consist of resales. Existing homes are completed, have been lived in, and are often ready to move-in. A new

When you think about finding a rental home, do you consider working with a REALTOR®? You should. Those in the real estate industry frequently hear about properties coming up for sale and also

Whenever a first-time home seller comes to the decision to list their home, this decision often includes a bunch of questions about what needs to be done. When you follow these tips and partner with

As we edge closer to summer, it’s natural for thoughts to shift to planning a trip to one of Houston’s gorgeous beaches. Did you know the Texas coastline spans 367 miles? This presents a

Technology-driven property companies using automated valuation models (AVM) to value a home and then make a purchase offer are known as iBuyers. A few recognizable names include Opendoor and.

When you live near Houston and you want some Instagram-able locations for photos you must consider one of these amazing settings. Come on, let’s explore where photographers are planning their

Living in a fast-paced city because it’s near work but yearning for open spaces, peaceful quiet, and perhaps spend some time boating? A weekend vacation home where you can retreat and relax

Will adding smart technology around your home be your next home improvement project? A smart home is a residence that uses internet-connected devices to enable the remote monitoring and management

Being a pet owner will come with times where you find yourself in search of a pet sitter or a pet boarding facility. As much as we love having our pets with us wherever we go, taking a pet on

When you begin thinking about remodeling your home, do you also consider the home’s resell potential? Some understand the home they are living in now has never been intended to be their

“I did it!” Roxanne beams as she wiggles shiny new keys on her finger and slides into the booth across from her bestie, Kelli. Kelli let out a whoop and the two women start talking about

When you get the good news that the house offer has been accepted, not only is it time to celebrate, but it's also time to plan your move. A big part of planning a move is deciding what to pack,

Springtime across Central Texas is colored blue. Yes! We’re talking about seeing lush blooming bluebonnets. These flowers have a subtle yet recognizable scent. Whether you recognize this

When it comes to searching for properties online, not all websites are the same. An advantage that living near Houston offers is being familiar with conducting property searches on HAR. HAR is

Come, allow me to show you around the master-planned and award-winning community of Sienna. It’s bordered to the north and west by Missouri City and to the northeast by Arcola. It’s only

Tell me if this has ever happened to you, you’ve been tossing around the idea of listing your home. You’re curious how much it’s worth so you open the laptop, head over to Zillow,

It’s the time of year when the topic of property taxes remains fresh in the minds of Houston homeowners. This is because our property taxes are typically paid in a single annual payment due on

With the start of a new year (or a new month), there comes a renewed spirit of hope, feelings of anticipation, the setting of goals, and a heightened interest in connecting with things and causes

When you first bought your home and moved in you were filled with excitement, ideas, and dreams of what this home could be for you and your family. Fast forward to present day and those feelings

With the last-minute push to find the right holiday gifts, you’ll like the variety of retail shopping within a short drive around Houston. Let’s head to the mall to finish your holiday

Getting a home inspection is one purchase that greatly benefits home buyers. It’s a smart decision to know the condition of the home prior to the option period ending. This wards off

It could be argued that a cookie is an ideal dessert. Flavors range from sweet to salty to savory. Cookies come in sizes from petite to mid-size and even extra-large which can fill an adult man;

With the holiday shopping season in full-swing you may be looking for a unique gift idea. This gift idea could be giving someone a memorable experience. Texas is known for outstanding museums across

Houston has many options for experiencing al fresco dining around the metroplex. Al fresco translates to “in the fresh air” in Italian. With our big beautiful skies and the welcomed

Before sharing some of our top picks for viewing holiday lights, let’s take a moment to learn how adding twinkling electrical lights became a cornerstone of today’s modern Christmas

Does living near a gym make you fitter and healthier? Perhaps. The convenience of living close to a gym does make it easier to say “yes!” to meeting friends for an exercise class, taking

As you can guess, there are a variety of myths around buying a home, selling a home, and working with a real estate agent. It’s tempting to follow Grandmother Maude’s advice even though

With the ever-increasing popularity of short-term rentals, it’s natural to consider adding your home into the mix as a vacation rental. If your home is located near a local attraction,,

Howdy, friends! I’m Sara Lyn Nguyen and it’s my greatest joy to be a real estate agent serving the Houston area. You’ll find me in and around the Houston Metroplex. I’m

Historic districts can be created by federal, state, or local governments. The size of these districts can be determined to comprise an entire neighborhood or a smaller area of only a few homes. The

When families want to do something fun around Houston that also includes a learning experience, they take everyone to one of these interesting places. Each location offers a different kind of

When you work with a professional real estate agent you will notice they emphasize the importance of using a professional photographer to take your home’s listing photos. This is for good

For the majority of homeowners purchasing a home means you will be applying for and obtaining a mortgage. A mortgage is simply another name for a loan. This legal agreement is between you and a

Grooming your dog is as important to your dog’s overall health as healthy eating, exercise, and regular vet visits. You may have a favorite groomer but what happens if you’re new to the

Calling all Foodies, you don’t want to miss this! The 20th Annual Houston Restaurant Weeks (HRW) will take place on August 1 through Labor Day, September 4. This community favorite event is a

You may have noticed various architectural styles and exterior home building materials while driving throughout Fort Bend and Harris Counties. Today we’ll discuss several types of exterior

One of the biggest investments of your lifetime is your home. It makes sense to want to take care of your home and its contents. This is one reason why so many homeowners practice preventative

Depending on your financial situation and price difference with the current rates, now could be the right time to refinance your home. It’s smart to do the math from time to time throughout

You may be surprised a real estate agent will share an article about the downsides of home ownership. Purchasing a home is one of the largest investments adults make. As with any investment there

When you want to go out to eat and want something delicious without hassles, crowds, or cliquey vibes, I know just the places. S-h-h-h, I’ll share some of the best kept secrets many of the

Living in Texas where the weather allows pool-time to happen pretty much any time, it makes sense to think about adding an in-ground pool. You may wonder if having a pool has an impact on your

If you ask a listing agent which season is best to sell your home, the reply may be, “This season!” And this answer can be right. The facts are home buyers are searching for homes during

One thing an experienced real estate agent can affirm is no two selling or buying journeys are the same. The greatest reason for this is because each generation of sellers and buyers have different

There are an abundant of house choices around the Houston metroplex. Would you like to live in a single-family home? A townhouse? A condo? Maybe you’re open to any of these and simply need

When you’re craving yummy tacos and it’s not Tuesday, where do you go? You may have a community favorite or you’re feeling adventurous and ready to try a new place. Keep reading

It’s not too early to begin thinking about summer camp for the kids. Numerous parents are thinking about how to entertain the kids through the summer months. Fort Bend County is sure to have a

Bidding wars, particularly during a Seller’s Market when there are more buyers than sellers, are part of the home buying process. While it can feel discouraging to know other home buyers are

It feels good to make the decision to build your home. All the ideas you’ve pinned in Pinterest, the clippings from magazines you’ve saved, and dreams you’ve held for your ideal

One of the most popular places to meet friends is at the coffee shop. It’s a comfortable relaxed atmosphere where you can sit, talk, and enjoy a drink or snack. Coffee shops are often

Every home has a story and telling this story is what real estate professionals do so well. Your agent uses various tools available to get this job done. One tool that spiked in popularity since the

Around this time of year, it’s natural for homeowners who have purchased a home in the previous year to start thinking about property taxes. One question your tax preparer may ask homeowners

The Houston region has a rich sporting culture to carry die-hard sports fans through each season. Fans enthusiastically follow collegiate, minor league and semi-pro plus major league and

Looking to satisfy your craving for treats and sweets? Join me as we visit several of the best bakeries around the Houston region. We’ll discover choices to tempt your sweet tooth and indulge

Have you been dreaming about listing your home? Are you looking for a home closer to family or with a shorter commute to work?  Whether you are planning to sell or buy, it’s wise to stay

When you read the initials MUDs and LIDs and immediately think of wet dirt that children and pets like to jump in or think of hats sold at the shopping center, you may not be from Fort Bend County.

Since the beginning of the Covid virus pandemic, more and more workers shifted to working or attending school remotely. Two lessons the pandemic has taught us are:There’s no reason to wait

If you missed out on snagging some great household deals during Black Friday or Cyber Monday Sales, chances are you can still find numerous sales throughout the month of December. Retailers are

There’s something about the fresh scent of pine around the holidays that signals Christmastime is nearing. Do you have a favorite type of pine? The most common types of pines seen on a Texas

Many homebuyers who come to me seemed surprised to learn that purchasing a home comes with loads of long-term advantages. Their immediate need could simply be finding a home with a shorter commute

Did you know the term “happy hour” originated as American Naval slang following World War I? This described a period of time on naval ships where sailors could engage in relaxing

Messages about security are found everywhere. Google accounts encourage us to turn on two-factor authentication. Banks remind us to guard against sharing your PIN number with others. News media

You’ve made the decision to move yet you’re finding detaching from the home you’re selling to be harder than you imagined it would be. It’s a natural feeling and can cause

When you have a desire to eat healthy but also crave eating out, where do you turn? Once you understand where to look, you’ll quickly learn the Houston metroplex region offers a wide array of

Making a good first impression counts. Potential buyers drive through neighborhoods trying to get a feel for the community. Ensure these homebuyers like what they see and want to tap the brakes to

Never lived in a community with an HOA (homeowner’s association) and you’d like more information? You’re in the right place to get some answers. There are definite pros and cons to

Did you know according to Technomic's 2018 Pizza Consumer Trend Report, 43% of Americans eat pizza at least once a week and 83% enjoy pizza at least once per month? In the United States this

Shake off any doubts you may have about not being able to sell a smaller home. Not every buyer is looking for a lot of square footage. Think about the popularity of tv shows featuring tiny homes and

Have you ever wondered if bike paths or walking trails have an impact on home values? Think the impact is favorable or not? Based on numerous studies conducted nationally, the preference for both

Looking for daycare options convenient to where you live or work? When you’re caught up in the morning rush to get out the door, drop the children off, and not be late to work, you need a

Who wants to keep more money in their pocket? Me, too! Whether you're planning a remodel or just tidying up, incorporating eco-friendly green practices into your home is worth some consideration.

Buyers, it’s important to do your due diligence when purchasing a house. Red flags indicate problems, warnings, or issues ahead. Because homes don’t come with bright red flags to mark

There are 52 weeks in a year. This means you have 52 weekends to have fun, make memories, go on an adventure, and see some sights. Ready to plan your next outing? Give one of these locations a try

There’s a lot of material out there about selling a home. For a variety of reasons your home may not be getting offers. The secret sauce behind selling a home quickly is understanding what

Homes using home staging techniques are proven to sell better and faster compared to homes with empty rooms. A bare room feels cold and impersonal. This creates a challenge for any buyer to imagine

Are you starting to slide into the lazy summer days yet? Your thoughts may be dreaming about getting away to unwind or simply doing something different. I have a few ideas to share for a fun day.

Each homebuyer has a wish list for what they want in a home and which rooms are important to them. For key rooms, the buyer will have a critical eye towards the room’s size, condition, and the

Emotions often run highest when it comes to buying a home because this is one of life’s major decisions. Buyers feel the pressure to get it right. Real estate professionals understand this and

What’s your favorite ice cream flavor? Chocolate mocha? Mint chocolate chip? Something fruity like strawberry, mango, or raspberry? Maybe you like to change it up and choose a flavor based on

If you’re on the fence about purchasing a home with a pool because you’re not sure how to take care of a pool, keep reading. A well-maintained pool will bring your family years of

Packing can be a chore but once you have a plan it’s really more manageable. As you think about moving you may be experiencing feelings of excitement around taking possession of your new home

With the change in seasons, it makes sense to take your pup to the park and give yourself another reason to get some fresh air on a gorgeous day. Consider visiting one of these nearby dog parks if

Here’s a May event you don’t want to miss…the Texas Bluebonnet & Winery Trail happening May 1-31, 2022. The month of May kicks off one of three annual wine trail events

Shortly after moving in while your momentum is high, plan to walk-through your new home and make a list of any simple maintenance or changes you’d like to make. Your list will probably include

With the sunnier days being more plentiful, it’s natural to want to meet friends on the golf course. Living in the Houston metroplex means you are minutes from some beautiful and challenging

A well-maintained home will always be desirable in the eyes of a home buyer. Did you know many of the things it takes to maintain your home are easy to take care of? Things such as changing air

Want a high-value buyer’s edge when you go house hunting? Having a pre-approval letter in-hand gives buyers this advantage. This piece of paper demonstrates to sellers that you are a serious

Ah, February, the month of love. As I sit here sipping my coffee, I started to think about why people love coffee so much and wanted to tip you off on some of my favorite places to enjoy a delicious

We truly are lucky to enjoy so many gorgeous days living in Texas. The weather makes spending time outdoors on the deck something many families do regularly. From being a prime place for families to

Having a home inspection is a key part of the home purchase process. This inspection will reveal any cosmetic issues, major foundation issues, severe water damage, termite issues, or any other

It’s great to see a new family move into the community. When you’re a pet lover, as I am, it’s essential to help pet owners find trusted veterinarians. Just as we seek health care

Before listing your home there is one big thing that must come first—decluttering! Most homeowners have accumulated stuff over the years. Chances are not all of these things will be travelling

Your real estate agent worked to negotiate to the best deal possible on the home you’ve recently purchased. You may think expenses associated with borrowing funds to purchase this home are

At-home chefs and foodies drive all over Sugar Land to indulge in global dining plus shop the international grocery markets. Did you know that Fort Bend County is one of the most ethnically diverse

In most cases, neighbors don’t intent to be bad. They don’t plan to make it challenging to sell your home. But the reality is without a doubt, yes, neighbors can influence how buyers

Considering selling your home? Don’t wait. Sellers, let’s get together soon to come up with a plan to feature the unique details of your home to future buyers. Buyers are looking. You

When someone suggests getting some good BBQ, does your mouth start watering for chicken, beef, pork, or all three? There’s something about BBQ and more specifically Texas BBQ that is so tasty.

Now that you’ve made the decision to sell your home, it’s time to pick up the phone to contact a real estate agent (someone like me, who works with home sellers). Not only will a seller

Today we’re talking about where to start when you’ve made the decision to buy a home. Rookie homebuyers often find the homebuying process tricky but when you know what’s coming and

This month I’m inviting Texas renters and homeowners to think about fire safety in the home. According to fire data, you may have less than three minutes to exit your home should a fire occur.

Just for fun during the month of October when thoughts turn towards superstitions and fall treats, we’ve collected several unusual home-related superstitions. You may even have had one of

It doesn’t take too long while watching HGTV programs before you’ll come across a show focused on taking a distressed property from dowdy to WOW! For instance, Texans Chip and Joanna

One part of making a wedding extra special is the location. If you’re planning a wedding where would you like it to take place? In a church? Outdoors? In a historical building? There are

“Should I sell my home or should I rent it?”There are a variety of reasons why homeowners leave a home—upgrading, down-sizing, relocating, or the home simply doesn’t suit

When you are house hunting you may not be thinking about resale value but it’s worth tucking this consideration into the back of your mind. Many times, homeowners find themselves at a point in

Splish. Splash. Are you craving some water fun? Looking for a place to swim?Need a break from the heat? The Houston region has numerous places for families to enjoy a day playing in the water and

If you find yourself scratching your head trying to figure out why your beautiful home isn’t selling it could be because of one (or more) of these costly mistakes. Costly mistakes can quickly

You probably have quite a few questions about buying a home around the Houston metroplex. You’re in the right place to find answers. Buying a home is one of the major purchases you will make

There’s no comparison between the taste and juiciness of a home-grown tomato and a grocery store produce aisle version. Slicing into a tomato from the farmers market means you’ll get

One of the best lessons in landscaping your yard is learning what not to do. Oftentimes the trees, shrubs, and plants around your yard will need minimal care once you’ve planted them in places

Before conducting a home’s closing it’s ideal to schedule a walk-through inspection of the property to ensure the home is being delivered as stipulated in the contract of sale. This is

When the mood for sampling sweet confections from cakes to candy to ice cream comes over you where do you turn? The choices are plentiful all around the Houston metroplex. Whether you’re

Understanding a home’s closing costs and budgeting for these will remove the mystery of what these numbers represent. These associated costs apply for home purchases or if you’re

Harris County spans 1,777 square miles with 981 unincorporated square miles. Families living here are near leading medical centers, pro-sports complexes, shopping, arts, and historical treasures. It

When you’re preparing your home for sale it’s natural to have some questions. It’s my pleasure to assist you. I’ve compiled a listing of the most commonly asked questions. If

Buying your own home comes with knowing your finances and making preparations for one of the largest investments you will ever make. The whole process around buying your first house can feel

It brings me joy to introduce you Fort Bend County, Texas. It’s an awesome place to live, work, launch a business, relax, and enjoy life. Young families, qualified workers, and lifestyle

Extra noise. Commotion and change.New sights and scents. All things to be expected and adapted to when preparing to move into a new home near the Houston metroplex area. People adapt. For pets,

Deciding where you want to live and will be happiest comes can be tricky. To make your decision easiest I’ve created a listing of things to consider. Soon you will be able to narrow the

As the temps warm up so many are ready to embrace the new season with more outdoor time. There’s nothing better than spending time on one of the many trails or enjoying the day at the park.

It’s natural to think about protecting your valuables during a house showing. You have cause for wanting them to stay safe. Depending on the showing quite a number of strangers may be entering

A short trip from Houston are some amazing historical gems you must plan to visit. Which gems am I thinking of? The Painted Churches of East Texas. These churches are Catholic houses of worship,

It’s a fact. With all of the museums found around Houston, you can find something new, every single day. Does your family enjoy visits to the museums? It’s a popular activity to enjoy

When a buyer asks if they need a home appraisal, my answer is “yes.” Getting a home appraisal is a necessary part of the buying process because this appraisal is the estimation of the

Love is in the air around Sugar Land, Missouri City, and the surrounding Houston metro area. Valentine’s Day is a special time to show those around you how much you care plus it’s a time

Whoa! Before rushing into selling your home take a moment to avoid these common home selling mistakes. It sounds easy enough to want to sell your home yourself without working with a REALTOR®

Uh-oh. You’ve been looking at homes with your REALTOR® and have it narrowed down. This is great! But there’s a problem. You’re stuck deciding between two homes you love. What

There’s a reason why the photos used for your home’s listing make a difference. When someone is looking at blurry or poorly lit photos, they can’t see your home’s true.

You may think it’s hard to create curb appeal during the winter months of the year but when you follow these tips it will be a breeze. Living in the great state of Texas we are blessed to have

Selling a home during the holiday season—from Thanksgiving through New Year’s Day—can be exactly the right time of year for many sellers. This is because traditionally buyers

Picture this…a brightly lit starry night, the moon over your shoulder, and the smell of buttery popcorn in your car. Yes, you’re at one of the area’s pop-up drive-in movies with

As your real agent prepares a listing of properties to visit and asks if you’re willing to consider buying a distress property, please say “yes!” You may uncover a gem you

It’s vital to consider if your current home has the ability to adapt as you age. When you think about your retirement years do you see yourself aging-in-place in your current home or do you

If you’re feeling a bit like the familiar line from the Carpenters song “rainy day and Mondays always get me down,” I have some ideas. How about a list of things to do on rainy

The fall weather is beckoning and being in some level of quarantine for months feels confining. With the pandemic still lingering on and numerous events being cancelled, you’re probably

If you’re planning to list your home this fall or winter do this: have your exterior photos and aerial shots taken now when an abundance of floral color is present. Throughout the year when

During a pandemic is it okay to hire professional movers? Should you ask family and friends to help out? Keep reading for the answers and what you need to know. While the country navigates

When the lazy, hazy days of summer settle in do you feel less motivated to cook, eat healthy, or do much more than read a book or take a swim? It’s as if a “school’s out”

Learning to unplug and relax is proven to heighten happiness. But it is possible to relax while many are observing stay-at-home COVID quarantine orders? It is possible to maintain your sanity, be

Few would disagree that 2020 has shaped up much differently than planned. Whether you’ve experienced personal financial growth or less than desirable cutbacks, how are your money goals shaping

Soaring summer temps often lead to higher utility costs. On hotter days it’s not uncommon for the air conditioning to run nearly 24 hours. It’s these types of things which can double or

During the summertime many think about enjoying time with family and friends in the backyard, having a BBQ, or swimming in the family pool. But should we? Can we get together safely during these

Think back to the ways you improved your home’s energy efficiency last year? Perhaps you haven’t thought about improvements or it’s been something you’ve been meaning to do.

This is a time when we are searching for positive messages as we maneuver through the COVID-19 pandemic, protests, and the stages of business reopenings. Messages of hope and reassurances of being

You may be wondering how the COVID-19 pandemic is affecting the real estate market across the United States and where you live. This is especially top of mind if you’ve been wanting to list

I remember the feelings I felt when I bought my first home. Many of our readers can relate. It was an experience full of excitement and adventure…and maybe a little bit of fear. Buying a home

When you have home owner’s insurance it covers flood damage, right? Not always. In many situations flooding isn’t covered which means homeowners need to seek out separate coverage. This

We, in the Houston metroplex, have been “born” to band together through crisis. To jump in and “fix” things physically is simply what we do. I invite you to join me in tuning

Today’s American Dream TV-Houston episode comes from the master planned community of Riverstone in Missouri City at a meal prep assembly store named Dream Dinners. You’ll meet Lisa

I’m a long-time supporter of shopping small businesses and doing things to help our community. One way we all can help each other is by supporting local restaurants who are doing their best to

At this time of year many are in the process of preparing their taxes. As you submit your documents to the tax preparer your accountant may ask if the assessed value assigned to your home is

My latest segment of The American Dream features fun, fellowship, and community togetherness. We’re off to visit St. Angela Merici Catholic Church in Sienna. This is the setting for the 4th

There are numerous tax benefits to homeownership. As you may have guessed, the tax season brings up a wide array of questions about which types of deductions and taxes apply to homeowners. While

In this episode of American Dream TV-Houston we highlight an amazing property located at 2306 Twilight Peak plus I take you to one of my favorite coffee shops, Bean Here Coffee.A Peek Inside the

In this episode of American Dream TV-Houston we highlight the Child Advocates of Fort Bend (CAFB) during their annual Christmas Home Tour. This is one of my very favorite events every year and this

Meet me at a very unique listing in Missouri City, Texas on the latest episode of The American Dream. It’s located at 69 Big Trail nestled in Missouri City. I'll give you an exclusive

The start of a new year may have some thinking about ways to boost your savings, especially after holiday credit card statements start arriving. Saving money around your home is a good practice to

Lace up your running shoes and set your sights on participating in some challenging (and sometimes muddy) running events happening within a 60-mile radius of Houston. Yes, we’re talking about

Most are familiar with using a REALTOR® as a buying agent to assist in finding a home and as a listing agent to assist in selling a home. But, have you ever considered working with a REALTOR in

It’s such a privilege to work with the people I get to interact with in this job and I’m thankful for each and every one. I’m additionally thankful to be a Power Player on American

As we ease into the holidays and think about charitable giving, let’s remember the animals, too. Numerous animal shelters around the Houston area would appreciate having your family include

The Houston region has much to offer families and those with diverse interests. Holiday festivals and events of all sorts are held throughout, ranging from seasonal themes to music events and craft

Missouri City is situated beside southwest Houston, a major metroplex, but retains a small community feel. The city is known as the “Show Me City.” Missouri City is a destination for

Homeownership is among one of the largest financial decisions an adult makes during their lifetime. The decision to buy a home instead of renting comes with different and varying advantages. One of

With a bit of DIY (do-it-yourself)—defined as building, modifying, or repairing things without the direct aid of hiring a professional—a homeowner can incrementally increase their home

The Houston area has numerous possibilities for photo shoot locations. I see this time and time again as I’m out-and-about in the community showing homes and conducting real estate business.

Did you know for every dollar spent on preventative home maintenance a homeowner saves on average a minimum of $100 in future repairs. Year after year of routine caring for your home adds

Come, explore Sugar Land, TX and make this your home, where you work, and where you play.  One of the many things I enjoy about being a realtor is the chance to visit the numerous and diverse

When you’re working with Sara Lyn Homes what can you expect from your REALTOR®?I am Sara Lyn Nguyen—a REALTOR®, wife, mother, and volunteer. I am committed to placing the goals

It’s official. I can finally share with you some exciting news I’ve been sitting on.I’ve accepted an invitation to be a Power Player on American Dream TV and we have a few episode

While I'm out and about in the community showing houses, I like to shop local spots and support small business entrepreneurs. Let's take a look at some of the hip coffee shops around the city, which

As a relocation specialist, I understand moving to a new area or a new state can come with a certain level of stress over the unknowns and how your children will do while traveling. When you work

One of the most popular outdoor activities around the Houston region is camping. It’s time to start thinking about relaxing outdoors and making plans for a camping outing. Imagine it. Fresh

Sienna has a special fondness in my heart because it’s where I call home. This neighborhood in southwest Texas is a master-planned community located in Missouri City and 27 miles from downtown

It’s festival time! There’s much buzz around the area regarding upcoming events and festivals, good food, good entertainment, and good times to be enjoyed by the whole family. Around the