fbpx

Preferred Properties of Texas

The Preferred way to buy & sell real estate for you

Hunting for Haunts: A Guide to America’s Top Haunted Houses

by Leave a Comment

Have you ever wondered which haunted houses are the best in America or your state? Look no further! We’ve researched haunted houses from coast to coast. This guide will help you choose the perfect haunted experience, whether you’re a Halloween fanatic or a thrill seeker looking for the ultimate rush.

What makes an haunted house so great?

There are a few things that make haunted homes great. First, a well-crafted storyline that is immersive and engaging. A great haunted home should transport you to a different world where you can feel fear and anticipation growing with each step. Attention to detail is also important. Every aspect of the production, from the props to costumes to the set design should be carefully considered to create an atmosphere that is full of suspense and horror.

Eastern U.S.

The Eastern U.S. has some of the most frightening haunted houses. From the historic streets in Salem, Massachusetts, to the haunted plantations of the deep South, this region is home to some the most terrifying haunted house experiences. As we travel through this region, prepare to be terrified by the spine-chilling attractions.

The Headless Horseman Hayrides & Haunted Houses in New York offers a truly immersive, hair-raising experience. This attraction will leave you in a state of fear with its haunted hayride and multiple haunted house.

Eastern State Penitentiary in Pennsylvania is not for the faint-hearted. This haunted prison is known for its intense scares, and creepy atmosphere. Prepare to walk through the dark corridors, and meet the ghosts of the past.

Let’s not forget the haunted houses of New Orleans. The Eastern U.S. has some of the most haunted places in the country, thanks to its rich history and supernatural legends. Step into these haunted houses to experience macabre stories and paranormal activity.

If you are looking for a thrill, or just want to be scared, the Eastern U.S. offers a wide range of haunted attractions. Gather your courage, prepare yourself for the unknown and embark on a journey through the haunted houses of the Eastern U.S.

Southern U.S.

The Southern U.S. has a plethora of haunted houses, from the swamps of Louisiana and Georgia to the abandoned plantations. They will send chills down your spine. The Myrtles Plantation in Louisiana is a must for paranormal enthusiasts. It is known as one of America’s haunted homes, and has a history of ghostly experiences and unexplained phenomenon. Netherworld Haunted House is a great place to experience a truly immersive atmosphere. This haunted house will make you wonder what is real. It has elaborate sets and cutting-edge special effects. In Tennessee, the Bell Witch Cave gives a chilling look at the legend of the Bell Witch – a malevolent ghost that haunted Bell family members in the 19th century. Prepare yourself for an eerie journey through the haunted homes of the Southern U.S.

Midwest U.S.

The Midwest U.S. has some of the most terrifying haunted houses that you will ever see. Haunted Hoochie is a haunted house in Ohio that pushes boundaries of fear. This is not for the faint-hearted. It’s full of intense scares and extreme haunts. Statesville Haunted Prison in Illinois will transport you to a world filled with horror.

This haunted house will keep you on the edge with its interactive storyline, terrifying characters and spooky atmosphere. In Missouri, the Lemp Mansion is a unique mix of history and hauntings. This haunted home is said to be one of America’s most haunted locations, with its eerie ambience and ghostly encounters. Prepare yourself for an eerie journey through the haunted homes of the Midwest U.S., which will leave you with newfound appreciation for terror.

Western U.S.

The Western U.S. is home to a variety of haunted houses, from the ghost towns of Arizona and the haunted hotel in California. The Stanley Hotel in Colorado is famous for its paranormal activities, which inspired Stephen King’s “The Shining.” Explore this haunted landmark to experience ghostly encounters and eerie visions.

In Oregon, the Shanghai Tunnels offer a chilling journey into the dark past of the city, where kidnapped people were sold to forced labor. This haunted house, with its dimly-lit tunnels and whispers about lost souls is not for those who are weak of heart. Let’s not forget the haunted Nevada mines, where the spirits of dead miners still roam. As you descend into the haunted houses in the Western U.S., you will experience the eerie quiet and ominous presence.

Original Blog: https://www.landhub.com/land-news/hunting-for-haunts-a-guide-to-americas-top-haunted-houses?inf_contact_key=e8f5dfe98edb535eb9cff40ad968f1ff680f8914173f9191b1c0223e68310bb1

6 Things That Happen When You Become a Homeowner

by Leave a Comment

Being a homeowner means more than just having a set keys and your name written on the deed. You may feel a rush when you finally take possession of your home and realize that you have a place in the world, literally. That’s only the beginning. Here are some more things to expect.

You learn what pride of ownership is

Nothing compares to being a proud homeowner. You may be proud of your car, your clothes and other small possessions. Buying your first place is an accomplishment, and you get to come home to that accomplishment every day.

You’ll enjoy greater peace of mind

After you have moved in, unpacked and taken a deep breath, you will have that moment. That moment when you realize “This is mine.” Fortunately, this moment occurs often. You’ll know when you see your countertops and realize that you can change them in any way you like. You can also get a pet without asking permission. You can paint your walls any color you like.

You’ll be obsessed with paint colors

Spend hours at Home Depot collecting paint chips. Even if all you want to do is paint the walls white, it’s not easy. “There are hundreds and hundreds of white paints available, and most of them are considered white,” said The Spruce. “This makes choosing a plain white paint color nearly impossible.”

You’ll learn skills that you never imagined

You may soon be able refinish your floor, tile a backsplash and snake a toilet. You can hire people to do these tasks and any other you may need in your home, but doing it yourself can be more satisfying and cost-effective.

If you have a limited budget after purchasing your first home, it’s likely you’ll also need to learn how to maintain your lawn. Get your edging skills down.

Prioritize your tasks differently

Oooh! That skirt is so cute. But if you buy it, you’ll want the shirt and the jacket and the boots, and the jewelry, and, before you know it, you’ve spent half the money it would take to update your fireplace.

Invest in yourself

When you invest in your home with money and sweat equity, you impact its value. This is an investment not only in your home but also in you and your family’s future.

Original Blog: https://realtytimes.com/archives/item/1035879-6-things-that-happen-when-you-become-a-homeowner?rtmpage=

Rules for Holiday Decor When Selling Your House

by Leave a Comment

We start the month of October by pulling out all of the ghosts, goblins, bats, skeletons and other Halloween decorations from storage. Then we stock up on gourds and pumpkins. Are you with us?

The arrival of autumn and the candy-hoarding holidays is always a welcomed gift after a hot, long summer.

If you are preparing to sell, your decor may distract buyers and not be an asset. These tips can help you take a measured approach.

Don’t overdo it

It’s Halloween time! We get it. You’re not the only one. Last year, Americans spent $9 billion on Halloween, of which $2.7 billion was spent on decorations. “You don’t want the decorations to detract from features of the house,” Kevin Lawton, a Realtor with Coldwell Banker Schiavone & Associates in Bordentown, New Jersey, told Homelight.

Color story and decor styles are important to consider

Be careful with the colors that you choose if you plan to bring your Halloween decorations into your interior. Yes, you could load up on orange pumpkins, or you can purchase faux pumpkins in navy blue and emerald green velvet to match what you already have going on.

Safety is important

You want to ensure that there are no hazards in the path of people walking to and from your house. Safety comes first. Always. Make an effort to keep the walkway in front and leading to your house clean. To avoid any accidents, make sure that the walk is properly lit.

Limit inflatables

Your giant Halloween Snoopy inflatable looks adorable. It might be better to store it in your garage for this Halloween. Unless you live in a neighborhood where most or all of the houses go all out for Halloween and your place will stand out for all the wrong reasons if you DON’T cover the lawn with blow-up stuff, it’s probably best to go a little tamer this year. (And if you do happen to live in that exuberant neighborhood that warrants a parade of inflatables, be sure to keep them inflated all day. You don’t want people driving by or coming for showings with a limp Snoopy spread out on the lawn.) You also want to make sure that your “For Sale” sign is still easily visible no matter what kind of decorations you use.

Do a day-after check

That perfect curb appeal may take a hit on Halloween, so be sure to take a few minutes to look around the perimeter of your home before you leave for work on November 1.

Revival Property Group said, “The day after the decorations go down, check your property for trash, trampled flowers and stray candy”. “Freshen your landscape again by trimming bushes, raking leaves, washing the driveway and adding a beautiful autumn wreath on your front door.”

Watch out for those pumpkins

Like we said, there are so many ways to decorate with faux pumpkins these days. But if you insist on the real deal, make sure you check them every couple of days to make sure they aren’t going bad and haven’t turned into critter food.’

Original Blog: https://realtytimes.com/consumeradvice/homeownersadvice/item/1032705-rules-for-halloween-decor-when-selling-your-house?rtmpage=

Can You Use Gifted Money As a Down Payment?

by Leave a Comment

The down payment is one of the most important things to consider when you plan to purchase a home, or hope to do so.

The down payment you pay is a portion of the property’s purchase price. In most cases, your down payment for a primary home can be anywhere from 3% to 20%. The down payment amount required will depend on your mortgage type and property type.

You may be able buy a property that is more expensive or receive a lower rate of interest if you pay a higher down payment.

First-time homebuyers often receive gifts to help with their down payment from family, but there are some restrictions.

Gift money: Limitations

When you receive a gift of money for your down payment, a mortgage lender will take into consideration a few factors.

They will first look at the value of the gift. Lenders will also look at the source of the gift and your relationship with the person who gave it to you. If you don’t have a close relationship with the person who gave you the money, a lender may not allow you to use it as a down payment.

A lender will require a gift letter if you are using money that was given to you. You should state in the gift letter that you do not have to pay back any loans. You may be asked to show proof that the money was transferred into your account by a lender.

The lender might also ask the person who gifted you to send you a copy their bank statement or check.

Gifts and conventional loans

Conventional loans do not have any guarantee or insurance from the government. Gift money can be used for down payments and closing costs as long as the source is acceptable.

Gifts from family members are acceptable. Families under these definitions include parents, siblings, and grandparents. Included are also in-laws, domestic partners and grandparents.

FHA Loans

FHA loans are available to borrowers with low-to moderate-incomes. The gift money you receive from a donor who is eligible must be used to apply for the loan. Even though conventional loans have stricter guidelines, there are usually more family restrictions.

While the FHA’s family relationship requirements are stricter, you can still accept gifts from your employer or charitable organizations. You can also use funds that come from a public entity or government agency that assists first-time or low-to-moderate-income home buyers.

VA Loans

If you are a veteran or service member, you can get a VA loan with no down payment. Gifts for VA loans are restricted if they come from an “interested party”.

A party interested in the transaction is a seller or an agent.

Gifts are less important, since you do not have to pay a down payment on these loans.

Learn More About Gifts

In most cases, there are no restrictions on the amount that someone can contribute to your down payment. You may be required to make a down payment using your own funds in some cases. If you are buying a property as an investment, this is often the case.

Your lender can give you a standard letter of gift that the recipient fills out.

Original Blog: https://realtytimes.com/archives/item/1044162-can-you-use-gifted-money-as-a-down-payment?rtmpage=

Rake in the Fun with These Fall Family Favorites!

by Leave a Comment

It’s time to get outside and enjoy the crisp autumn air! Fall is the perfect season for outdoor family activities. From raking leaves to apple-picking, there are plenty of fun fall activities for the whole family to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for something to do on a weekend afternoon or a way to break up your day, these outdoor family fall activities will make it easy to get the whole gang together for some fresh-air fun. So gather up your loved ones, and let’s rake in the fun with these autumn family favorites!

 

Scenic Leaf Peeping Spots

Experience the beauty of nature’s colorful transformation with a visit to some scenic leaf peeping spots this fall. Whether you take a leisurely stroll through a local park or embark on a scenic drive through the countryside, you’ll be surrounded by breathtaking vistas of vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows. Grab your camera and immerse yourself in the natural splendor of the season. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to witness Mother Nature’s magnificent artwork firsthand.

Apple Picking Adventures

Fall wouldn’t be complete without a trip to the apple orchard! Apple picking adventures are a fun-filled family activity that everyone can enjoy. Head out to the orchard and spend the day picking juicy, crisp apples straight from the trees. Not only will you bring home a delicious bounty of apples, but you’ll also create lasting memories with your loved ones. So grab a basket and get ready to taste the sweetness of fall!

Cozy Bonfire Nights

As the nights get cooler, there’s nothing better than cozying up around a crackling bonfire with your loved ones. Picture marshmallows roasting, stories being shared, and the warmth of the fire keeping you toasty. Bonfire nights are the perfect way to create cherished memories and embrace the spirit of fall. So grab a blanket, gather around the fire, and let the flickering flames and the cool autumn breeze transport you to a place of pure relaxation and joy.

Hayrides and Pumpkin Patches

Hop on a hayride and embark on a magical journey through the pumpkin patch! Hayrides and pumpkin patches are the epitome of fall fun. Take a bumpy ride on a hay wagon while breathing in the crisp autumn air and admiring the colorful scenery. Once you arrive at the pumpkin patch, let the excitement begin! Pick out the perfect pumpkin for carving or decorating and create memories that will last a lifetime. Hayrides and pumpkin patches are the perfect way to embrace the joy of fall with your family.

Nature Walks and Hiking Trails

Explore the great outdoors with a peaceful nature walk or invigorating hike this fall! Step away from the hustle and bustle of daily life and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature. Whether you choose a local trail or venture to a nearby national park, you’ll be surrounded by stunning autumn colors and crisp, fresh air. So put on your hiking boots, grab a water bottle, and embark on an adventure that will rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul.

Scarecrow Making Contests

Get creative with your family and participate in a scarecrow making contest this fall! Gather some old clothes, straw, and accessories to create your very own scarecrow masterpiece. Whether you make a friendly scarecrow or a spooky one, the process is sure to bring laughter and fun. Get everyone involved and see who can come up with the most creative scarecrow. It’s a unique and exciting activity that will bring out your family’s creativity and competitive spirit.

Football Tailgating Parties

Get ready to cheer on your favorite team with a lively football tailgating party! Fire up the grill, bring out the snacks, and gather your friends and family for a pre-game celebration like no other. From tossing the pigskin to enjoying delicious food and drinks, tailgating parties are the perfect way to bond with loved ones and soak up the excitement of the game day atmosphere. So put on your team colors, get ready to cheer, and let the tailgating fun begin.

Outdoor Movie Nights under the Stars

Grab your blankets and popcorn, because it’s time for outdoor movie nights under the stars! There’s something magical about watching your favorite films in the crisp autumn air. Set up a cozy outdoor movie theater in your backyard, complete with comfy seating and a big screen. As the stars twinkle above, you and your family can enjoy a night of laughter, suspense, or heartwarming moments. It’s the perfect way to spend quality time together and create memories that will last a lifetime. So dim the lights, press play, and let the movie magic unfold!

Original Blog: https://www.landhub.com/land-news/rake-in-the-fun-with-these-fall-family-favorites?inf_contact_key=c84ec45f260a335b401f313522b72a1a680f8914173f9191b1c0223e68310bb1

5 Home Projects That Will Prevent Your Home From Flooding (For All Budgets)

by Leave a Comment

Floods can take many forms, and are in some cases considered to be one of the worst natural catastrophes. Floods can occur in areas near rivers or bodies of water, following a heavy rainfall that causes water levels to rise and in your own home if you have a burst pipe.

Floods are responsible for more than $40 billion of damage each year, regardless of their cause. Floods are the number one cause of natural disaster deaths, with up to 30 people dying each year in their homes.

You can prevent some floods, but you should take precautions to keep your home dry. You have a variety of options depending on the location of your home and your risk factors. The five projects listed below are ranked from the least expensive to the most expensive, so you can decide which one is best for you.

Pipe Insulation

Floods can start inside your home. Sometimes, they start from within. Indoor flooding can be caused by a variety of factors, from a malfunctioning washer to an overflowing bathtub. The most common and dramatic cause of flooding in the home is burst pipes.

When the temperature in the home drops to a level where the water in the pipe freezes, the pipes burst. As the water expands, it freezes. If the temperature drops rapidly and the water freezes quickly enough, it can expand at such a rapid rate that it can cause the metal or plastic pipes to split. When the ice melts, water will then leak out of the cracks or holes.

Insulating your pipes is one way to avoid this. Pipe insulation keeps them at a constant temperature, so they don’t freeze.

Project Cost: $100 to $1,000, depending on the number of pipes at risk.

Installation Difficulty: Precut pipe insulation is easy to install. It slips over the pipes.

Sump Pump

French drains are a passive way to direct water away from your house. Sump pumps are the active solution if you prefer. Sump pumps use a trench as well, but instead of passively funneling water away, they collect it in a pit and then use a powerful pump to force the water out. They are more efficient when paired up with French drains. This is especially true in areas that receive heavy rainfall or homes that have previously experienced flooding. You may need more than one if you have a large home.

Project Cost: $550 to $1,100

Installation Difficulty: Installation is easy if there is already a pit, but can be difficult if you have to dig a trench and a pit.

French Drain

A French drain can help if you live in a region where flooding is a problem due to heavy rain or high water levels. A French drain directs water away from the house. It can be installed either inside or outside of the home to help prevent flooding.

Installed via a trench, it collects water and directs it away from the property. Interior drains may be more expensive but they are more effective at removing water in the most critical areas. They can be installed either in a new home or an existing one. They can also be paired with sump pumps to further reduce your flood risk.

Project Cost: $5,000

Installation Difficulty: It can take a few hours or even days to cut into the ground, or the concrete of your basement.

Foundation Sealing and Waterproofing

Floods do not always occur suddenly. Floods can occur when water slowly accumulates through a crack on your foundation. Over time, the crack can widen and allow more water to enter your home. This can be prevented by waterproofing and sealing the foundation.

Waterproofing is a great way to repair small cracks in your foundation and prevent water from entering. Waterproofing is often paired with sump pumps and French drainages, especially if you live in a place where moisture can easily slope down to the foundation. If your house is located on a hill, or the ground slopes away to the foundation, waterproofing may be the best solution.

Project Cost: $5,000

Installation Difficulty: Sealing and waterproofing may take several hours or even days depending on the condition the foundation.

House Raising

Not every property is a candidate for house raising. If you live near a body water that has been flooded before, house raising may be the best solution for you. House raising is an expensive project that involves lifting your home several feet and then building a new crawl space or foundation below it. The Base Flood Elevation is used to calculate the amount of raising your house. This number takes into consideration the ground elevation, flood zone and how far above the zone your home is already located. If your BFE is ten feet and your home is five feet above the flood zone with a crawlspace below, you will need to raise it another five feet to get out of the zone.

The cost of raising your house can be high, but it can save you thousands in flood damage. This will also protect your home from possible flooding for many years.

Project Cost: $35,500

Installation Difficulty: This is a difficult and invasive procedure that must be done with care to avoid damaging the integrity of your home’s structure.

Protect Your Home From Floods

Floods can be dangerous and costly. They can cause a lot damage in a short period of time and do not discriminate between houses. These five techniques will help you protect your home against flood damage and keep it dry no matter what happens outside.

Original Blog: https://realtytimes.com/consumeradvice/homeownersadvice/item/1033390-5-home-projects-that-will-prevent-your-home-from-flooding-for-all-budgets?rtmpage=

Preferred Properties of Texas

(254) 965-7775|Contact Preferred Properties of Texas