2014 - The Year of the House

While 2013 was an outstanding year in Dallas residential real estate, 2014 might be even better. This is the year to own a house in Dallas. If you already have one, then great. You're sitting on a hot commodity. If you don't own one, you should buy one - if you can find it.

Dallas housing will continue to be in short supply this year. And prices are expected to keep on creeping up. If you are thinking of buying or selling this year, remember these tips:

• Location matters. Multiple factors can affect the desirability of a location, including commute times to work and proximity to schools, restaurants, shopping and neighborhood attractions.
• What do you want in a home if you're buying? If you're selling, what do today's buyers want? You'll save a lot of time if you focus early on the most important features. Every buyer's goal should be to find the right home without falling in love with one that may not suit your needs.
• Get a pre-approval letter from a mortgage lender rather than guessing how much you or your buyer are qualified to borrow.
• Forget about horses this year. Get a house.

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