Sam Affanhe, REALTOR®
Bryan and College Station, TX Real Estate
Read my blog below
New Lakeridge Townhomes in College Station, TX Expected to Follow The Success of Builders Predecessors
February 1st, 2010 Categories: College Station Neighborhoods, Community Information, Local Attractions/Spotlights, New Home Builder Spotlight
Lakeridge Town Homes will mark the 3rd Development from Starfish Development Group here in College Station. The first two, Waterwood Townhomes (2003-2007) and River Oaks (2007-2009), have proven to be well received by both parents/investors and residents alike given their continued demand as premier college living along with the success on the cash flow and property appreciation side of things. Waterwood was 170 units, River Oaks was 97 units and Lakeridge will total 210 units.
Out of the current 267 units, from Waterwood and River Oaks townhomes, Starfish Development has only been able to retain 12, which have consistently leased out annually. Since their inception into the real estate market here in College Station, Starfish Development properties have seen an average price appreciation increase of just over 5%
ONLY 41 units will be available for move-in come August of 2010. So we are encouraging all potential buyers to strongly consider making a decision in the near future. We have already had much interest in Lakeridge and expect it to only increase. For investor clients, this property bodes well on the cash flow side, and if a move is made in the near future, I do not see an issue with leasing out that specific unit. As I alluded to above, there has been much interest expressed in Lakeridge up to this point.
The units at Lakeridge Townhomes will be 2, 3, and 4 BDRM units with large floor plans, own private bath, and your own spacious walk-in closet. I imagine that investors would express a particular interest in the 4 BDRM layouts. From an investor’s perspective, the 4 BDRM, frankly, cash flows better and is a more logical investment on paper.
Currently, there are early bird specials to the first 20 buyers. This includes a free 46″ LCD flat screen TV along with a free washer/dryer to the first ten buyers. Also, we have implemented a price incentive for pre-construction sales. The result of this is an $8000 sales price discount.
Please send me an email at sama@century21bcs.com or give me a call at 979-314-1399 to learn more or to take a tour of a model unit. Once again, much interest has been expressed in this development and time is of the essence.
I also have floor-plans and a price sheet available by request, Thank you.
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Five Bryan, TX Schools Recognized by NCEA as High Performing Schools!
January 26th, 2010 Categories: New Home Builder Spotlight
Five Bryan schools have been recognized for achievement by the National Center for Educational Achievement through the Just for the Kids campaign.
Bryan High School, Bowen Elementary, Sam Houston Elementary, Johnson Elementary and Mitchell Elementary have been named “Higher Performing Schools” based on achievement in 2009.
NCEA uses two measures in the analysis for this recognition: growth and college and career readiness (CCR). Schools recognized for growth achieved better improvement rates for their students compared with other schools with similar demographics.
Schools recognized for CCR are the top five percent of schools in the state, based on the percentage of students scoring at or above NCEA’s College and Career Readiness Targets.
For more information, visit: http://www.just4kids.org/en/Texas/school_data/school_search.cfm or the Bryan ISD
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Bryan College Station Real Estate 2009 Market Summary
January 25th, 2010 Categories: New Home Builder Spotlight
2009 SUMMARY
Bryan/College Station Real Estate
Market Statistics
2009 was quite a year! We started off 2009 with January about 24% behind the previous year. We were all concerned that Bryan/College Station might follow the rest of the nation into the recession. Then February came and we were even further behind. We didn’t know what to expect the rest of the year but it sure didn’t look good.
The first quarter was really poor and then April and May turned into months 20% & 27% behind 2008.
Then we started seeing the turn. June was only 2% behind. We were SO happy that we were seeing less of a loss. Compared to the rest of the world a little loss was a good thing. When October and November rolled around we were SOOOOO excited! We actually saw increases over the prior year.
Yes, 2009 ended 12% below 2008, but compared to the rest of the nation, we did just fine. We sold fewer homes, but we did not see a significant decline in sales prices – just fewer people moving. I’m still SO glad we live in Bryan/College Station!
Are you thinking about selling in 2010? It may take a little longer to sell depending on the market segment you are in, but we need to look at it earlier than normal. Call me and we can review a Market Timing Analysis so Read the rest of this entry »
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New Year, New Market, and New LAWS!!!
December 31st, 2009 Categories: B/CS Market Reports, Community Information, Home Buying Tools, Sellers Guide
Here in the College Station, TX real estate market we are fortunate that our market was not as effected by the national downturn of the real estate markets, however YOUR College Station real estate is still subject to the new federal and state regulations that have been enacted recently. One of those most pertinent in the Texas real estate market pertains to appraisals and was addressed by Governor Rick Perry recently.
Governor Perry highlighted several new laws that take effect Jan. 1, 2010, which institute important reforms to the appraisal process which in turn will help property taxpayers, to read the full article click here.
Getting an accurate appraisal on your home can be tricky these days. Prices are fluctuating in many markets, and with fewer sales taking place, appraisers are having a difficult time finding recent comparables to value homes. But getting an accurate appraisal could mean the difference between selling your home and watching it languish on the market.
There are things you can do, however, to help ensure that your home is appraised fairly. Here are some tips:
- Consider getting an appraisal before you list your home. The listing agent can use the information it contains to help set a realistic listing price.
- Make sure you and your agent are present when the appraiser comes. Follow him around the property, and make sure he doesn’t miss anything important that may affect the home’s value.
- Provide information to the appraiser to help him determine the property’s value. A current survey, tax bill, list of personal property being sold with the home, title insurance policy, and proposed improvements can be helpful. Consider preparing a “brag sheet” that lists major home improvements and upgrades, the date of their installation, and cost.
- Take a look at the houses that the appraiser is using as comparables, and don’t be afraid to let the appraiser know if your property is worth more.and why.
- Make sure all areas of the home are accessible.
For a consultation regarding how these new changes may affect you and YOUR College Station real estate give me a call today!
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Santas Wonderland – A College Station, TX Christmas Tradition!
December 23rd, 2009 Categories: New Home Builder Spotlight
Taking a hayride through the amazing Christmas lights and decorations at Santa’s Wonderland in College Station, TX is truly a magical experience. You can board a hayride or horse and carriage through the grand tour featuring millions of spectacular lights laid out on a path that stretches over a mile long. After or before you can enjoy the Christmas spirit Of Santa’s Town and enjoy the holiday foods, unique shops, and live music around a cozy campfire. All this makes Santa’s Wonderland a true College Station, TX tradition.
From Everyone at Century 21, We wish you and your families a Merry Christmas and Prosperous New Year!
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We Have News To Tell…. the Home Buyer Tax Credit Has Been Extended and Expanded…
December 15th, 2009 Categories: B/CS Market Reports, Community Information
From now until April 30, 2010, first-time home buyers and move-up buyers have another great reason to get on the path to purchasing a new home! The benefit to first-time home buyers is a tax credit up to $8,000 and for move-up buyers a tax credit up to $6,500.
At a Glance:
FIRST TIME BUYERS
Credit: Equal to 10 percent of the home’s purchase price, up to $8,000
Who Qualifies?
- Those who haven’t owned property in the last three years
- Those with income up to $225,000 for couples or $125,000 for individuals (credit phases out for people who make more than these amounts)
- Must be at least 18 years of age to claim credit
- Purchase price must be $800,000 or less
Deadlines:
- Have until April 30, 2010, to enter into a contract for a home purchase
- Have until June 30, 2010, to close on the purchase
CURRENT HOMEOWNERS
Credit: Equal to 10 percent of the home’s purchase price, up to $6,500
Who Qualifies?
- Those who have owned and lived in their principal residence for at least five consecutive years during the past eight years
- Those with income up to $225,000 for couples or $125,000 for individuals (credit phases out for people who make more than these amounts)
- Must be at least 18 years of age to claim credit
- Purchase price must be $800,000 or less
Deadlines:
- Have until April 30, 2010, to enter into contract for a home purchase
- Have until June 30, 2010, to close on the purchase
In addition, buyers have another year to take advantage of the higher loan limit for mortgages backed by the Federal Housing Administration, Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac set at 125 percent of local median home sales prices, up to a maximum of $729,750 in high-cost housing markets. The limit in normal markets will remain $271,050 for FHA and $417,000 for Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.
PLEASE NOTE: The tax credit does not have to be repaid provided you live in the new home for a minimum of three years. Military families are exempt from this stipulation. Purchaser must attach documentation of purchase to tax return.
Please remember to consult with a tax professional for individual eligibility and implications of the Homebuyer Tax Credit. More information can be found at the IRS Tax Credit Website.
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College Station Regional Association Of REALTORS December Lunch-In
December 4th, 2009 Categories: Bryan Neighborhoods, Community Information, Local Attractions/Spotlights
B/CS Association of REALTORS December Luncheon
The Bryan-College Station Regional Association of REALTORS hosted the last luncheon of 2009 yesterday! The turnout was huge, the food was great, and the holiday spirit was in the air. The event was carried out at the regular venue Christopher’s World Grille and graciously sponsored by Discount Floors Superstore. The Broker/Owner of Century 21 Beal, Inc. was presented with an award for his service on the MLS as vice-president and was also officially inducted as a new director of the MLS. Congratulations Mike!!! The induction of all the other elected positions in the Bryan College Station Association of REALTORS were carried out as well and can be found on the association website at http://www.bcsrealtor.com/ .
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BCS Calendar of Events
October 6th, 2009 Categories: Bryan Neighborhoods, College Station Neighborhoods, Community Information, Local Attractions/Spotlights
OCTOBER EVENTS
October 1-2 and 8-10 at 7:30 pm
- StageCenter presents One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest. For more information, including ticket purchase. Call 696-2787 or visit www.stagecenter.net
October Texas A&M Ice Hockey – Lots of dates this month!
October 2 from 7pm to 8pm
- The women of First United Methodist Church Bryan will be holding a prayer for peace vigil for the women in our community in their courtyard. The goal is to gather women to pray for peace for our families, homes and community. There will be childcare available. For more information, call Donna Jones at 779-1324
October 2-4, 9-11 and 16-18 at 7pm on Friday and Saturday nights and 2pm on Saturday and Sunday afternoons
- The Theater Company presents Guys and Dolls. Tickets are available online at www.theatrecompany.com, at the Arts Council, 2275 Dartmouth St., College Station, or at the Box Office. For more information, call the Arts Council at 696-2787.
October 2 from 5:30pm to 9:30 pm
- The Frame Gallery hosts Art Step. Follow the footsteps all around downtown Bryan to find original work by artist and artisans, live music from jazz to country to classical, artist demonstrations, and arts organizations. Explore historic downtown, dine, shop and ride in the horse drawn carriage. Call Greta Watkins at 822-0496 or visit www.downtownbryan.com for more information.
October 3 at 8am
- The Brazos Valley Museum of Natural History will present their first annual Buffalo Stampede 5K Race/3K Walk. This USTF certified event will be held rain or shine. Race day registration is $20. All participants will receive a t-shirt. For more information call 776-2195 or visit www.brazosvalleymuseum.org.
October 3 from 10am to 4pm
- Join the Brazos Valley Museum of Natural History for Boonville Days Heritage Fair 2009. Activities will be inside the Museum on the Brazos Center grounds. Visit the characters in period costume, observe demonstrations of frontier skills and trades, see an authentic stagecoach, and more. For more information contact the Museum at 776-2195
October 10-11 from 10am to 6pm
- The town of Chappell Hill will host their 33rd Annual Scarecrow Festival. Enjoy more than 300 booths featuring, jewelry, home accents, food, clothing, and holiday items. Admission is free and live entertainment is provided. For more information call 836-6033 or visit www.chappellhillmuseum.org.
October 12 at 11am
- Register for the Catholic Charities of the Brazos Valley Angels of Hope Golf Tournament at Briarcrest Country Club. The Fight Poverty Luncheon will be held at 12 noon and the 4-person scramble golf tournament begins at 1pm. Contact the Catholic Charities office at 204-7169 to register your team or become a sponsor.
October 13 from 1pm to 4pm
- Brazos Valley Stitchers will host their monthly Saturday Stitch-in at the Larry J. Ringer Library, 1818 Harvey Mitchell Pkwy. S. College Station. Open stitching, guest are welcome. For more information, contact Terri Berka at 218-8951 or visit www.brazosvalleystitchers.org.
October 15-18 and 22-25 at 7:30pm and Sunday at 2pm
- Navasota Theater Alliance presents Leading Ladies. For more information call 936-825-3195 or visit www.navasotatheater.com
October 17 at 3pm
- The International Festival – Institute at Round Top presents Ishay Shaer, concert pianist, a new star from Israel, with works by Debussy, Chopin, Beethoven and Ravel. For more information call 249-3129 or visit www.festivalhill.org.
October 17 at 2pm
- Enjoy a garden tea on the grounds of the historic Gibson Hensarling home at the 9th Annual Victorian Tea & Gala in Calvert. Victorian dress is encouraged but not required. At 7pm, the Victorian Gala at the Foundry on Main St. will begin. Costis $35 for the tea and $65 for the gala ($90 for both) and reservations are due by October 2. Call 364-2386 or e-mail: jody_lpowers@sbcglobal.net for more information.
October 17 at 6:30pm
- The Burton Cotton Gin will host their 6th Annual Barn Dance and Dinner Gala. Join them for silent and live auctions, dinner and dancing; $75/person or $150/couple. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.cottonginmuseum.org.
October 20 at 11:15 am
- The B/CS Christian Women’s Connection will host their annual Fall Fair with Flair fundraising bazaar at Pebble Creek Country Club. Shopping begins at 11:15am and the luncheon starts at 11:45am. Reservations must be made by October 15. For more information and to reserve tickets, contact Licia at 676-2227 or email bcschristianwomensconnection@suddenlink.net.
October 20 from 7pm to 9pm
- The Brazos Valley Stitchers will host their monthly meeting at Holy Cross Lutheran Church, 1200 Foxfire, College Station. The featured project will be Velveteen Smocking with beads/pillow. Check website for the supply list. Short Talk: Machine Embroidery. For more information contact Terri Berka at 218-8951 or visit www.brazosvalleystitchers.org.
October 21 10am to 3pm
- Meeting Planners Showcase and Event Extravaganza 2009 at Brazos County Expo for more information visit www.meetingplannersshowcase.com
October 22 at 7:30pm
- Friends of Chamber Music presents the Cavatina Duo. Music from the Baroque, Classical, Romantic and contemporary periods as well as music also inspired by the folk traditions of their native lands of Spain and the Balkans will be performed. For more information visit www.communitychamberconcerts.org.
October 24 from 6:30pm to 9pm
- Violins for the Valley will be featured at Miramount Country Club. The painted Violins and other works of art will be auctioned for the benefit of the Brazos Valley Symphony Society. Tickets are $50; the student violins will be raffled. Raffle tickets are $10 each or 3 for $25. For additional information call 696-6100.
October 27 at 7pm
- The Brazos County Coalition Against Domestic Violence (BCCADV) will host its 15th Annual Candlelight Vigil at the Brazos Cotton Exchange, 200 South Main St., 3rd Floor, Bryan. The theme of this year’s vigil is Family Secrets: Exploring the Link Between Domestic Violence, Child Abuse and Animal Abuse. For more information, email Lou Bruggman or Ashley McCollum at vigil@bccadv.org or call 774-1241.
October 27 from 7pm to 9pm
- The Brazos Valley Stitchers will host their monthly stitch-in at Holy Cross Lutheran Church, 1200 Foxfire, College Station. Open stitching. For more information, contact Terri Berka at 218-8951. Guests are welcome. www.brazosvalleystitchers.org
October 28 from 9am to 1pm and November 1 from 1:30pm to 3:30pm
- The Bryan/College Station Public Library System will host their annual Fall Book Sale at the Bryan Library on the 2nd floor, 201 E.26th Street, Saturday the cost will be $20 per bag and Sunday will be $10 for two bags. For more information, contact Jeanne Mitchell at 846-2673.
October 28-29 at 7:30pm
- In Rudder Auditorium, MSC OPAS presents Rain: A Tribute to the Beatles. Tickets may be purchased at www.mscopas.org or by calling 845-1661 for more information.
October 30 at 6:30pm
- The Theatre Company will hold their Annual Monster Bash. The Theatre Company’s annual gala fundraiser moves to the Miramont Country Club with live music and dancing, food, silent auction, karaoke, comedy and piano bar and costume contest. Tickets are A$50 each and may be purchased online at www.theatrecomopany.com or at the Arts Council.
PLAN AHEAD
November 7 at 9:30am
- The 12th Annual Brazos Valley Memory Walk and 3K Fun Run will be held in memory of Virginia Thompson at Wolf Pen Amphitheatre, 1013 Colgate St, College Station. Registration begins at 8:30am in addition there will be a performance by Expressions Dance Studio, dog walk, silent auction, free raffle and activities for children. To register yourself or a team visit www.alztex.org/walk. For more information contact Amie Brauer at 764-4090 or brazosmemorywalk@gmail.com.
CONTINUING EVENTS
The entire month of October
- The Bryan Lions Club will be hosting a household and clothing drive to benefit the Hospice of Brazos Valley. To donate please contact Mary Ellis at 775-7949 or e-mail nellis@tamu.edu for pick-up.
Through November 2
- The Brazos Valley Museum of Natural History presents Lone Star Lizards, featuring live specimens of native Texas herpetofauna, emphasizing the regional lizard population and the Texas horned lizard. For more information, call 776-2195 or visit www.brazosvalleymuseum.org.
Through August 2010
- The George Bush Presidential Library and Museum presents The Culture of Wine, which will unravel the mystery, magic and making of wine. For more information, call 691-4000 or visit www.bushlibrary.tamu.edu
Have more ideas or things to do this fall? Let me know and we’ll help promote it too!
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Bryan/College Station Real Estate Market Stats
September 17th, 2009 Categories: B/CS Market Reports
2009
Bryan/College Station Real Estate Market Statistics
January – August
2009 has proven to be a very odd year for real estate! The numbers are not lining up with 2008 and WOW the number of properties that are available are up by 83 (7.3%) yet the number of new listings taken in August is down 116 properties. The number of new listings is down from 411 to 295 in August which is DOWN 28.5% But, we still have an increase in our listing inventory (properties available to purchase)…. what will the 4th quarter bring????
The RECON published by the Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University reported that College Station is the “third most underpriced college town in the country. The median home price in the first quarter of this year was $107,000. According to IHS, houses in the Bryan-College Station area are 21 percent undervalued.” I love this town! We can buy a lot more house for the money here than almost every other college town in the country!
Remember the first-time homebuyer $8,000 federal tax credit closes at the end of November. To qualify for the credit, the transaction must close before midnight on November 30, 2009. If you quality, don’t miss out on the federal government giving you up to $8,000!
So I have to know – did you try the 979-764-2121 InstantInfo24/7 system?
Just in case you didn’t know what the 979-764-2121 Instant Info program is all about….
Have you ever been driving around a neighborhood and wanted to know how much a house is selling for but you didn’t want to “bother” the agent or they weren’t there when you called? WE HAVE THE ANSWER!!! Call 979-979-2121 and enter property code 2033 for me to activate your cell phone. ANY PHONE – ANY TIME!
Be sure to forward this information on to others you know and care about. Share the knowledge that Bryan/College Station is NOT participating in a real estate recession!
And, we need your help – we need your referrals. CALL ME!
Sam Affanhe
979-314-1399
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Presidential Forum on Service to be Held at Bush Library
September 15th, 2009 Categories: Community Information
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