State TAXES in Texas

A Guide to Taxes in Texas

Explore the tax landscape in Texas with our informative blog. Discover how Texas stands out by not having an individual income tax or corporate income tax. Learn about the state sales tax rate of 6.25% and the potential for additional local sales taxes. Stay informed about the average combined state and local sales tax rate of 8.20%. 

What Taxes Do You Pay in Texas?

When it comes to taxes in Texas, there are several important factors to consider for homeowners. Texas is renowned for its favorable tax environment, offering unique advantages compared to other states.

The Texas Franchise Tax

While Texas doesn't have a personal income tax, it does impose a franchise tax on certain businesses.…

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Decadent Chocolate Pecan Pie

Indulge your taste buds with this irresistible Chocolate Pecan Pie recipe. The combination of rich chocolate, toasted pecans, and a touch of bourbon creates a dessert that is both luxurious and comforting. Whether you're hosting a special gathering or treating yourself to a sweet delight, this pie is sure to impress. So, let's dive into the heavenly world of flavors!

The Crust:

For the perfect foundation of this delectable pie, you'll need:

  • 1 1/4 cups (175g) flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 teaspoons sugar
  • 4 ounces (115g) unsalted butter, chilled and cut into 1-inch (3cm) cubes
  • 4 tablespoons (60ml) ice water, plus more if necessary
  1. Mix the flour, salt, and sugar in a bowl or in a stand mixer…

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Loan Options for Buying a Home in Texas

Fixed-Rate Loans

A fixed-rate loan provides borrowers with stability and predictability. Throughout the loan term, the interest rate remains constant, ensuring that your monthly payments remain the same. This makes it easier to budget and plan for your financial obligations. Many homebuyers prefer fixed-rate loans because they offer peace of mind and protection against potential interest rate fluctuations in the future.

Adjustable-Rate Loans

An adjustable-rate loan, commonly referred to as an ARM, starts with a fixed interest rate for an initial period, typically ranging from 3 to 10 years. After the initial period, the interest rate adjusts periodically based on market conditions. This type…

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"Key Considerations for Buying or Selling Property"

Buying or selling property demands careful attention to specific factors. In this concise guide, we will highlight vital aspects you must be aware of before entering the local real estate market.

  1. Market Trends and Pricing: Consider pricing dynamics, recent sales data, and property value projections. This knowledge will enable you to negotiate effectively in an evolving market. 

  2. Neighborhood Analysis: Consider rental rates and percentage of owner occupancy in addition to factors such as safety, schools, transportation, amenities, and future development plans. This analysis will help you identify the best location that aligns with your preferences and long-term goals.

  3. …

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Understanding Municipal Utility Districts (MUDs) in Real Estate

If you're in the process of buying or selling a property, you might come across the term "MUD" in your research. A MUD, or Municipal Utility District, is a special-purpose district created by the state of Texas to provide water, sewage, and drainage services to its residents.

MUDs are commonly found in areas outside of city limits, where city services are not available. They are typically governed by a board of directors elected by the residents, and they have the authority to levy taxes and issue bonds to fund infrastructure projects.

Here's what you need to know as a buyer or seller when it comes to MUDs:

  1. Research the MUD before you buy. Before you make an offer on a…

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 Guide to New Home Builders in West Houston

West Houston is a thriving region with a diverse range of communities, including luxury neighborhoods, family-friendly suburbs, and urban developments. If you're in the market for a new home in this area, here's what you need to know about the top new home builders in West Houston. Here is our top 5: list:

  1. David Weekley Homes: A well-established builder in the Houston area, David Weekley Homes offers a variety of home designs and floor plans to suit your lifestyle and budget. The builder has several communities in West Houston, including Bridgeland, Towne Lake, and Cypress Creek Lakes.

  2. Meritage Homes: With a focus on energy efficiency and sustainability, Meritage Homes offers a range of…

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"Walking in Houston: Fun Places to Explore in Downtown, The Heights, The Galleria, and Memorial Area"

Houston, Texas is a vibrant city with a diverse range of neighborhoods, each with its own unique personality and attractions. Whether you're a Houston resident or just visiting, taking a leisurely walk around the city can be a great way to explore and discover new places. In this blog, we'll highlight some fun places to walk to in three of Houston's most popular areas: Downtown Houston, The Heights Houston, and The Galleria Houston.

Downtown Houston

Downtown Houston is the city's central business district, and is home to some of Houston's most iconic landmarks and attractions. Here are some fun places to walk to in Downtown Houston:

  1. …

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When you own luxury properties, whether they are downtown apartments in Houston or luxury condos, maintenance can be a difficult issue to keep up with. With many different issues requiring all kinds of specialists and repair people, costs can quickly get out of hand. Houston Luxury Realty has years of experience in luxury property management that includes maintaining luxury properties.

 So, what are the best ways to keep your luxury property maintained? 

Start With Choosing Great Houston Tenants

The first step in keeping maintenance costs low is choosing the right tenants for your property. At Houston Luxury Realty, we make sure that the tenants we choose are qualified and have a long-term interest in their home. Effective marketing…

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"Houston Area School District Grades: What Homebuyers Need to Know"

As a realtor, I understand the importance of finding a home in a great school district. Not only does it ensure your children receive the best education possible, but it can also increase the value of your property. The Texas Education Agency (TEA - https://tea.texas.gov/) released their grades for Houston area school districts, and here is the inside scoop. 

First up, we have Alief ISD, which received a B rating from TEA. Alief ISD is known for its diversity and its commitment to providing its students with a well-rounded education. With over 45,000 students enrolled, Alief ISD has over 45 schools to choose from. https://www.aliefisd.net/

Next, we have Cypress-Fairbanks ISD,…

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"Steps to Buying Your First Home: A Guide for First-Time Home Buyers"

Buying your first home is a life-changing event and can be an exciting experience, but it can also be a complicated process. However, with the right preparation and guidance, it can be a smooth and successful experience. Here are the steps to buying your first home:

  1. Determine your budget: Before you start house hunting, it's important to determine how much you can afford to spend on a home. Consider your income, expenses, and other financial obligations to get a realistic sense of your budget.

  2. Get pre-approved for a mortgage: Getting pre-approved for a mortgage will give you an idea of how much you can borrow and what your monthly payments will be. This will also…

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