Local Realtors answer questions about trends and offer tips to homebuyers and sellers considering buying or selling a home in or around Katy.

Veronica Mullinex

Veronica Mullinex Real Estate Group

Is there a particular finish to the outside of the home that seems to be popular? What seems to have the most curb appeal?
Stucco can sell well, but it tends to have a higher maintenance need, so it isn’t as popular. All brick or a brick-and-stone combo is most popular. It’s the bomb. Everyone wants that.

What are the bare-bones market trends for most homebuyers you have worked with over the last quarter? What is everyone looking for in a home?
They’re looking for the most amenities they can get for the money. Sellers should provide prospectuses which highlight their properties’ features. This is important for features that aren’t easily seen. Energy efficiency, wiring for entertainment and security systems already in the home are features that attract buyers. Sellers should post the prospectus online because that’s how many buyers are looking for homes.

What is one feature in a home that many people do not look for but should really consider when looking for a home?
Attic access. How do you get to the attic? That’s where your [air conditioner] is. That’s where your water heater is. Most people don’t think about getting up in the attic until something breaks.

Christi Borden

Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Gary Greene

What sort of outdoor spaces or amenities are homebuyers looking for in the Katy area?
It’s very interesting. We pulled the market data for showings in the last week or so, looking at what’s being shown through our broker. Almost all of the top 10 properties that we’re showing right now have spectacular backyards. We’re finding that covered patios in the back are almost a must-have now.

What amenities do pet owners look for in a property and is there anything that is a deal breaker for them?
If the yard is too small or maybe if the previous owner has put in a [swimming] pool—and not left any grass or minimal grass—[such issues] will turn them away. Dog owners are looking for locations near dog parks because owners want to enjoy the outdoors with their pets.

What is one feature in a home that many people do not look for but should really consider when looking for a home?
Community is No. 1. If they’re buying in a master-planned community, [buyers] need to realize that they’re buying that community, not just the house. Home value is about community features and [although] community pools and clubhouses may not be something buyers will use, they will often be selling points when placing the home back on the market.