Dallas Real Estate News

I can't watch the commercials that show the animals in shelters... those sad eyes staring through the screen.  If I had the resources to help them all, I would.  Last weekend I discovered this place, and it had almost the same effect on me-- except that rather than not being able to look, I was practically mesmerized by it.  Time is not the villian here.  This property is the victim of deliberate neglect and downright abuse. It's heartbreaking. The holes between the walls and the roof are large enough access for any kind of critter that can stand the Texas heat.  Tree limbs and vines are literally growing into the house.  The front porch and steps are completely unusable and most likely dangerous...

Neighboring houses are a testament to what restoration would do to transform this back into the stunning little gem it once was. Who do I know that would be willing to take a beast like this and return to it the dignity and charm that it deserves?  Imagine a swing on the front porch, gleaming hardwood flooring and custom built-in bookcases, tall ceilings and a claw foot tub inside... 

I can't help but wonder what stories this house could tell us about the children who undoubtedly played barefoot in the front yard while their mama's fried okra and then dried her hands on her apron as she called them in to dinner, with absolutely no air conditioning, no computer or television, and a phone that was a party line.  What happened to the men who lived there and probably worked right there in town somewhere, since it was long before people began the insane commutes that clog our highways? Did they become soldiers during the First World War, the Second?  Where did the families go when they left?  

It's hard to imagine that one day my home would ever be in this shape, although it's a never-ending challenge keeping it in good repair.  Eventually the wood rots, gutters rust, window seals break, foundations shift, roofs fail, plumbing leaks, trees need trimming, lawns needs water, appliances need updating, fixtures need replacing on every home-- no matter the size or cost.  Continual upkeep and routine maintenance are a critical part of responsible homeownership.  My house is 60 years old as of this year.  Fortunately, it was built on a solid foundation and has been well cared for its entire life.  It is, afterall, an investment. But the maintenance is, well, just that:  maintenance.   

So while you're suffering the 100 degree plus summer heat, ask yourself when you last changed your AC filter(s), had your AC serviced, cleaned the gutters, trimmed the tree that brushes against the shingles everytime there is a strong wind, etc., etc., etc.  It might be too hot to do much about any of it now, but you can sit down in the AC with a glass of tea or a cold beer and at least make a list. 

Better yet, spring for a home inspection (eventhough you might have had an inspection three years ago when you bought the house, things do change/break/shift).  Hire a contractor or set aside a couple of weekends this fall to tackle the jobs.  Your house will thank you and your bank account will thank you when you sell the house!  Being a proactive and vigilant homeowner will benefit you immensely in the long run- even if you never sell your house.  Deferred maintenance can get really expensive.  Don't wait until one little problem has turned into a multitude of big expensive problems! 

Go ahead.  Get busy!