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Top 5 Reasons Property Tax Protests Fail (And How to Win Yours!)

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Every year, thousands of homeowners try to fight their property tax assessments , hoping to lower their tax bill. And every year, many of them fail. Why? Because they walk into the appeal process unprepared, uninformed, or relying on bad information . If you’re planning to protest your property taxes in Montgomery County, TX , you need to do it the right way . Here are the top five reasons why protests fail—and how you can avoid making the same mistakes. 1. No Evidence to Support Your Claim You can’t just walk into your hearing and say, “I think my taxes are too high!” (Well, you can, but it won’t get you very far.) The appraisal district wants proof —cold, hard data that justifies why your home is overvalued. How to Win: ✔️ Bring recent comparable home sales (comps) that support your argument. ✔️ Get a professional appraisal to show your home’s true market value. ✔️ Provide photos of any damage or issues that could affect value. 2. Using the Wrong Comparables Not all c...
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Briarley: Montgomery’s Newest Master-Planned Community Near Lake Conroe

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There’s a new neighborhood coming to Montgomery, and if you haven’t heard of Briarley , you’re not alone. This 385-acre master-planned community is just getting started, but it’s already turning heads. With nearly 700 homes planned, a lineup of top-tier builders, and a location that keeps you close to the best of Montgomery and Lake Conroe, Briarley is shaping up to be a big deal. A Modern Community with a Natural Touch Briarley is being developed by Johnson Development , a company known for creating some of the most successful master-planned communities in Texas. This one? It’s all about blending modern home design with the natural beauty of the area. The neighborhood will have preserved lakes, scenic walking trails, pocket parks, and a central recreation center. In other words, it’s designed for people who want both comfort and a connection to the outdoors. What Kind of Homes Are Coming? Briarley will offer homes on 60-foot, 70-foot, and 80-foot lots , giving buyers a good range ...
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Location: Montgomery, TX, USA
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Think Your Home is 2,500 Sq. Ft.? A Quick Measurement Could Prove You Wrong!

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  Ever had that moment where you tell someone your home is “about 2,500 square feet,” only to find out later it’s actually 2,300? That missing 200 square feet isn’t just a rounding error—it could cost you thousands of dollars when it comes time to sell. Whether you're a real estate agent listing a property or a homeowner getting ready to sell , getting the square footage right is one of the smartest moves you can make. And no, your tax records, an old MLS listing, or that "eyeball measurement" from your uncle Bob don’t count. If you want to avoid pricing mistakes, low appraisals, and deal-breaking surprises at closing, you need a professional home measurement . Let’s talk about why Gross Living Area (GLA) matters, what counts as square footage (and what doesn’t), and how a certified measurement for $150-$250 could save you thousands in the long run. GLA: The Magic Number That Affects Your Home’s Value So, what is Gross Living Area (GLA)? In simple terms, it’s th...
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Location: Conroe, TX, USA
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What to Expect During a Home Appraisal in Montgomery County, TX

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If you’ve got a home appraisal coming up, you might be wondering—what exactly happens during the inspection? Do you need to clean? Should you light a candle and make the place smell like fresh-baked cookies? (Spoiler: The appraiser isn’t there to judge your interior decorating skills.) Whether you're refinancing, selling, or protesting your property taxes , knowing what to expect can help the process go smoothly. Let’s break it down so you’re fully prepared when the appraiser shows up at your door. How Long Does a Home Appraisal Take? The on-site appraisal typically takes 45 minutes to an hour , depending on the size and complexity of the home. If you live in a 1,200-square-foot home in Conroe, it’ll likely be on the quicker side. If you’re sitting on a 5,000-square-foot waterfront property in The Woodlands or Lake Conroe , expect it to take a little longer. What Does the Appraiser Do During the Visit? The appraiser’s job is to determine your home’s fair market value . Here’s what ...
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Location: Conroe, TX, USA
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Why Hiring a Seasoned Real Estate Agent Matters More Than Keeping It in the Family (Because Your Biggest Investment Deserves More Than Just a Friendly Favor)

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We’ve all been there—your cousin just got their real estate license, your best friend from college is “getting into the business,” or a coworker recommends their sibling who’s looking for their first deal. It’s tempting to throw them a bone, but when it comes to buying or selling a home, the stakes are simply too high. Real estate is likely one of the largest financial decisions you’ll ever make , and this isn’t the time for learning curves. You need an agent with real experience, not just someone who passed their exam last month. Let’s dive into why hiring a seasoned professional is so important and the costly mistakes rookies often make. The Right Agent Can Make or Break Your Deal A real estate agent isn’t just there to unlock doors or snap a few photos for a listing. A skilled agent will: Price your home correctly so it sells for top dollar without sitting on the market. Negotiate effectively to save you money or maximize your profit. Handle unexpected issues like appraisal prob...
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Location: Lake Conroe, Texas, USA
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Refinancing Your Home? Here’s How the Appraisal Process Works (And How to Get the Best Valuation Possible!)

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Thinking about refinancing your home in Montgomery County, TX ? Whether you’re aiming for a lower interest rate, cashing out equity, or trying to eliminate PMI (private mortgage insurance) , one big step can make or break your refinance: the home appraisal . A lot of homeowners get caught off guard by this process, so let’s break it down— step by step —so you know exactly what to expect, how to prepare, and how to maximize your home’s value. Step 1: Why Your Lender Requires an Appraisal Your lender doesn’t just take your word for how much your home is worth. They need a professional appraisal to determine: Your Loan-to-Value (LTV) Ratio – If your LTV is too high, you may not qualify for the refinance terms you want. PMI Removal – If your home’s value has increased and you now have 20% equity, this appraisal could save you hundreds by getting rid of PMI. Cash-Out Refinance Eligibility – If you’re looking to tap into your home’s equity, the appraisal determines how much you can borro...
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Location: Conroe, TX, USA
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Why Some Homes Sit on the Market Longer – And How to Sell Faster

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Selling a home in Montgomery County, TX ? Some homes fly off the market, while others sit for weeks—or even months—with little to no interest. So what’s the difference? If you’re struggling to sell your home, there are a few key factors that could be holding back your sale. Let’s break down the top reasons homes linger on the market and what you can do to sell your home quickly and for top dollar . 1. Overpricing the Home One of the biggest reasons homes don’t sell? They’re priced too high. Buyers in Montgomery County are savvy—they’re comparing your home to others on the market, and if yours is priced above similar properties, it could be turning them away. How to Fix It: Get a professional home appraisal before listing to understand your home’s true market value. Click here to learn more about our appraisal services. Check out comparable sales in your area and work with a real estate agent to price competitively. Be willing to adjust the price if you’re not getting interest with...
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Location: Conroe, TX, USA
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