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Apr
20

Firethorne Real Estate: Wolman Elementary School

April 20, 2012 By Leave a Comment

April 20, 2012 By Leave a Comment

The new 2012-2013 school year will welcome a new Elementary School which will be a welcome sight for the residents of Firethorne Real Estate.  Ray & Jamie Wolman Elementary School will be located within Firethorne on the Northeast corner of North Firethorne Road at South Firethorne Road.  The school’s physical address will be 28727 North Firethorne Road, Katy, TX  77494.

The school is named for two individuals whose tireless devotion to KISD is second to none.  Arlan “Ray” Wolman retired after 40 years of service with Katy ISD. He began his career as the only science teacher at the only high school in Katy. In 1980, Ray became the head of the Welch Outdoor Learning Center (OLC) where he has had an impact on thousands of student lives each year.  Ray was also involved for 30 years in the coordination of the Katy ISD Folk Life Festival.  Ray’s wife Jamie began her career in Katy ISD as a teacher to special needs students. She also served as a counselor at the junior high and high school levels before retiring. Jamie continues to be a part of education and has served on the Katy Higher Education Task Force and currently chairs the Katy Area Chamber of Commerce Education Committee.

The mascot for Wolman Elementary has been officially chosen as Explorers.  The school colors selected are red, black and silver.  The Principal of Wolman Elementary is Kelly Ricks.

View my Firethorne Real Estate page for more information on this up and growing community!
View my  Katy Real Estate page to view all MLS listings available in and around the surrounding areas!!

If you have any questions or would like to see any of the real estate in the Firethorne/Katy Area, please feel free to contact me at 713-253-5678 or at Angela@AngelaKhomes.com

Apr
09

Katy Real Estate: Property Tax Appraisal Time is Here!

April 9, 2012 By 1 Comment

April 9, 2012 By 1 Comment

Each year around this time, people’s minds begin to shift to taxes.  Not just income taxes, but property taxes as well.

The Harris County Appraisal District has begun to post 2012 appraisals for properties within its jurisdiction.  If you live within Harris County, then you may go to www.hcad.org to search for the 2012 appraisal for your own property.  Please note:  not all appraisals have been posted yet, so do not be alarmed if your property has not been updated.  You can rest assured it is in the works.

If a property owner wishes to challenge their appraisal, they must postmark their Notice of Protest by May 31, 2012, unless otherwise announced by HCAD.  All appraisals are supposed to be completed and notices mailed to property owners by April 30, 2012.  Property owners have until January 31 of the following year to pay the taxes owed.

**At time of post, Fort Bend had not started posting appraisals but is expected to within the next few weeks**

View my Katy Real Estate Search to view all MLS listings available in and around the surrounding areas!!

If you have any questions or would like to see any of the real estate in the Katy/Houston Area, please feel free to contact me, Angela Kraushaar, at 713-253-5678 or at Angela@AngelaKhomes.com.

 

 

Feb
24

Cinco Ranch Real Estate: New Happenings!

February 24, 2012 By Leave a Comment

February 24, 2012 By Leave a Comment

Cinco Ranch has a new retail development coming and it is to be called Southpark at Cinco Ranch.  This new retail development will be anchored by Kroger and Academy.

  • This development is located in the “heart” of Cinco Ranch, and 8.074  acre Newland Communities Master-Planned Community
  • Cinco Ranch was named the Number 1 new home sales Master-Planned community in the U.S. in 2011
  • This is a regional site located at the intersection of 2 major roadways.  FM 1093 (Westpark Tollway) and FM 723/Spring Green, and is in close proximity to the Grand Parkway
  • The site is the “front door” on the south side of Cinco Ranch community. Fm 1093 (Westpark Tollway) is a major thoroughfare providing access from the east. FM 723 is a major north/south connector that runs south to Richmond/Rosenberg, bringing additional shoppers from that area. Spring Green runs north of FM 1093 and connects to Fry Road and Cinco Ranch Boulevard, major arteries within Cinco Ranch master-planned community.
Visit my Cinco Ranch Real Estate page to view all of the areas homes and property for sale in this great subdivision!
View my Katy Real Estate page to view all MLS listings available in and around the surrounding areas!!

If you have any questions or would like to see any of the real estate in the Cinco Ranch/Katy Area, please feel free to contact me, Angela  Kraushaar, at 713-253-5678 or at Angela@AngelaKhomes.com.

 

 

Jan
16

Katy Real Estate: Important Information Regarding Area Roadways!

January 16, 2012 By Leave a Comment

January 16, 2012 By Leave a Comment

Welcome to Katy Real Estate and the explosion of homes and traffic we are now all experiencing.  Now that Houston is moving West, Katy is expanding at record pace.  With growth comes inconvenience.  Below is an update on what highway construction is currently being done and some information on what we can look forward to in the future!  Remember, patience is a virtue!

 

 

View my Katy Real Estate page for more information on the homes in the area that interest you!

SH 99 & I-10

  • The two direct connectors at SH 99 and I-10 are now open, significantly reducing traffic congestion at that intersection.
  • The Texas Department of Transportation has begun construction of Segment “E” of the Grand Parkway from I-10 to SH 290.
  • Fort Bend County has begun construction of the first two of 10 Grand Parkway overpasses in the portion of Segment “D” from FM 1093 to US 59.
  • Construction of all 10 overpasses and of Segment “E” should be completed by the end of 2013.

FM 1093

  • Fort Bend County has begun engineering design on the extension of the FM 1093/Westpark Toll Road. The project is in two phases.
  • Phase I consists of four lanes of FM 1093 frontage road from SH 99 to FM 1463, four lanes of main toll lanes from SH 99 to Spring Green Road, and a direct connector east FM 1093 to north SH 99. Construction of Phase I is slated to begin the fall of 2012 and will take 18-24 months.
  • Phase II of the project consists of four lanes of FM 1093 frontage road from FM 1463 to James Lane in Fulshear and will be about two months behind Phase I.
  • The project is funded mainly by TxDOT and the Fort Bend County Toll Road Authority.

Park & Ride

  • The county will construct and operate a “Park and Ride” facility on property it owns on the north side of FM 1093/Westpark Toll Road between Mason Road and Grand Mission Drive.
  • The “Park and Ride” is funded by a federal grant. It is scheduled to be completed by late summer 2013.
  • Destinations from the “Park and Ride” will be to the Galleria Area, Greenway Plaza and the Medical Center.

FM 1463

  • A continuous right turn lane from north FM 1463 to east I-10 was completed in 2011 to reduce traffic congestion at that intersection.
  • Further improvements to FM 1463, a state road, requires the federal government to approve and fund additional feeder lanes from FM 1463 east along I-10 and an overpass at the FM 1463/I-10 intersection. Such approval and funding is not anticipated for several years.

Cane Island Parkway

  • To provide additional access to I-10, the county has been working with TxDOT, Waller County, City of Katy and various property owners and developers to build the Cane Island Parkway from US 90 on the north to connect to FM 1463 on the south.
  • Cane Island will include an overpass over I-10 about a mile west of the I-10/ FM 1463 intersection.
  • This project has been stalled by the Federal Highway Administration’s (FHWA) insistence that the state and local governments provide full funding for the ultimate I-10 overpass, which is estimated to cost $30 million.
  • Another proposal has been made to FHWA for approval of a two-lane overpass over I-10. We currently await a response from FHWA.

If you have any questions or would like to see any of the real estate in or around the Katy/Houston Area, please feel free to contact me at 713-253-5678 or at Angela@AngelaKhomes.com

 

Jan
10

US Census Map: Interesting Demographics!

January 10, 2012 By Leave a Comment

January 10, 2012 By Leave a Comment

The 2010 US Census Map has been released in an interactive form.  See who is moving in around you and the rest of the country.  What areas do you see the most growth?  Zoom in on a state and glide your cursor over the map and it will display every counties demographic layout….browse population growth and decline, changes in racial and ethnic concentrations and patterns of housing development.

See where your Katy Real Estate falls…..  2010 U.S. CENSUS MAP

View my Katy Real Estate page for more information on the homes in the counties that interest you!

If you have any questions or would like to see any of the real estate in or around the Katy/Houston Area, please feel free to contact me at 713-253-5678 or at Angela@AngelaKhomes.com

 

Jan
09

Katy Real Estate: A Homestead Exemption Refresher!

January 9, 2012 By 1 Comment

January 9, 2012 By 1 Comment

Effective September 1, 2011, in order to qualify for a residential homestead exemption you must provide the appraisal district with a copy of either your Texas driver’s license or Texas ID card.

The address on your drivers license or state ID, MUST match the physical address of the residence for which your are applying.  This address must also be the same as the address on your vehicle registration. Attach a copy of your vehicle registration receipt to your homestead application.  The ADDRESS MUST BE THE SAME on all of your documents, your license or state ID, your vehicle registration and the homestead application.  Also note that the application form asks for the authorized signature(s) of qualified owner(s) so the husband and wife both purchased the home it is a good idea both sign the application in the event that there is a divorce or death, the remaining spouse can still maintain the exemption.

Listed below is important information to help you get an updated vehicle registration and/or and updated or new driver’s license or Texas-issued personal ID Card.   Other useful links and information to get the proper homestead forms and information for filing are also listed.

HARRIS COUNTY

http://www.hcad.org/pdf/forms/11-13.pdf

http://www.tax.co.harris.tx.us/

FT. BEND COUNTY

https://actweb.acttax.com/act_webdev/fbc/images/homestead.pdf

http://www.co.fort-bend.tx.us/getsitepage.asp?sitepage=5767

To Obtain a Vehicle Registration Receipt

In order to change the address on your vehicle registration and obtain a Duplicate Vehicle Registration Receipt to attach to your homestead exemption application, please contact the County Office in which you live by phone or mail. You will need to complete and submit Form MV-440, Request for Texas Motor Vehicle Information, which may be obtained at any county office location, by mail or the cad websites. There is typically a small fee for the Vehicle Registration Receipt.

If You Don’t Own a Vehicle

Please complete the Non-Ownership of Motor Vehicle Affidavit on your homestead exemption application. This must be sworn statement signed before a Notary Public. You also need to attach a copy of your homestead exemption application of utility bill for the homestead property showing the bill is in your name and the utility address matches the physical address of the homestead property.

Texas Driver’s License

If you have a current Texas Driver’s License and you move to a new location in Texas you have 30 days to change the address on your driver’s license. The simplest way to do this is online. Go to www.txdps.state.tx.us and follow the instructions changing your address. You will need to have a valid credit card for paying the $10.00 fee, and you will need access to a printer so that you can print out your temporary receipt. Otherwise, call or go in person to one of the Texas DPS locations.

For a new Texas driver’s license (first time license or moving to Texas from out of state) go in person to a DPS location. You will need to complete an application, provide proof of identity (proof of Social Security, birth certificate, or an out of state driver’s license), provide proof of vehicle registration, consent to be photographed, fingerprinted, and provide a signature. You will need to pass a vision examination. First time applicants need to schedule a time for taking the driving test and pass both the driving and written test. Out of state applicants should apply within 90 days after entry into the state and need to be prepared to surrender their valid out of state driver’s license upon application.

View my Katy Real Estate page for more information on the homes in the communities in which these tax offices serve!

If you have any questions or would like to see any of the real estate in the Katy Area, please feel free to contact me at 713-253-5678 or at Angela@AngelaKhomes.com

Jan
04

Katy Real Estate: Whole Foods Coming to Katy!

January 4, 2012 By Leave a Comment

January 4, 2012 By Leave a Comment

Katy Real Estate will soon be adding a new 122,439 square foot retail center that is being developed at the southeast corner of Grand Parkway and Fry Road.  Grand Lakes Marketplace will be anchored by Whole Foods, Stein Mart and a proposed Cost Plus!  The development will also feature approximately 38,000 square-feet of small shop space with prospects including Carrabba’s, Menchie’s and Massage Heights.  View my Grand Lakes Real Estate page to view listings that are in the area of this new development.

“It’s basically an extension of our development on the southwest corner of Meadows Marketplace, which is basically 25,000 square feet of retail including HEB, Palais Royal,  Hobby Lobby, along with some other retails,” said John Clinkscales, a marketing representative with Fidelis Realty Partners.  “That property is fully occupied, and we’re working with Seven Lakes to begin construction (of Grand Lakes Marketplace) during the early part of next year.” he said.  View my Seven Meadows Real Estate page to view listing in and around this up and coming area!

Construction is expected to be completed by late summer, and the development is hoping to open by Thanksgiving.  Note that there is a Wells Fargo that is existing on the corner and that is not part of the proposed shopping center.

View my Katy Real Estate Search to view all MLS listings available in an around the surrounding areas!!

If you have any questions or would like to see any of the real estate in the Katy/ Houston Area, I would love to be the agent you choose to make your dreams come true.  You may reach me at 713-253-5678 or at Angela@AngelaKhomes.com.

Dec
29

Katy Real Estate: The Dream of Owning versus Renting

December 29, 2011 By 1 Comment

December 29, 2011 By 1 Comment

Now is the time!  Own a home, rather than renting.  If you have been paying attention to the news over the past few years, you know that the housing market has been in a deep depression.  Luckily we live in Katy, Texas where the market is still above the nations average!   From a sellers perspective, sometimes a market like this makes life a lot harder.  But for a buyer, it can mean a wider world of options and limitless opportunities.

There are many factors that have contributed to the market’s instability, and one of them is that lenders are reluctant to give loans to homebuyers.  After a housing crisis, it is not surprising that lenders would be more demanding.  If you want to become owners rather than renters, you need to present a pristine financial profile.  Here are a few tips to take into consideration so that you may become a homeowner in Katy, Texas in 2012:

*Pay down your debt before you even apply for a mortgage.  The smaller your debt load, the better your debt-to-income ratio which lenders use to determine how much they will allow you to borrow.

*Check up on your credit.  Paying down your debt in the first tip, will have the added benefit of improving your credit.  Having good credit is another essential element in smart home buying.  The better shape your credit is in, the better your potential to get the mortgage of your dreams.

*Make the biggest down payment possible.  Zero down loans are out there but making a sizeable down payment can also save you money on mortgage insurance.  A minimum of 20 percent down is a good idea, and if you can do more, so much the better.  If you don’t think you can afford a down payment of 20 percent on the house you are considering, there are other options.  Make sure when CHOOSING; choose the option that is budget friendly to you and your income level.

*Be an informed buyer.  There is a seemingly endless list of things to know about buying a home, and the faster you want to buy, the faster you will need to learn it all.  One of the best things you can do is find a qualified real estate agent to help you in your process.  Agents have a wealth of knowledge and can assist you in every step of the way.  The more you know, the better equipped you will be to make smart decisions that will make you a happy homeowner for years to come.

View my Katy Real Estate Search to view all MLS listings available in an around the surrounding areas!!

If you have any questions or would like to see any of the real estate in the Katy/ Houston Area, I would love to be the agent you choose to make your dreams come true.  You may reach me at 713-253-5678 or at Angela@AngelaKhomes.com. 

 

Dec
01

Falcon Ranch Real Estate: 24731 Cobble Canyon, Katy, Tx 77494 (For Lease)

December 1, 2011 By Leave a Comment

December 1, 2011 By Leave a Comment

This beautiful home has been updated with a sprinkler system, fresh landscaping, granite counter tops with new back splash, shampooed carpets and a fresh coat of paint. A new washer, dryer and Stainless Steel refrigerator are included in the lease price. Alarm system to be installed by owner and monthly monitoring will be tenants responsibility. Master bedroom is down with a huge game room located upstairs with 4 spacious bedrooms and a full bathroom. This is a great home with great schools!

 

Falcon Ranch Real Estate: 24731 Cobble Canyon Property Details

For More Information Or To Schedule A Showing Contact Angela Kraushaar

Listing Price: $2000 per month
Address: 24731 Cobble Canyon
Subdivision: Falcon Ranch
City: Katy
State TX
Zip 77494
MLS # (if any): 61924624
Square Feet: 2,791
Bedrooms: 5
Bathrooms: 2 1/2
Garage: 2 Car
Contact Name: Angela Kraushaar
Contact Number: 713-253-5678

If you have any questions or would like to see any of the real estate in the Katy Area, please feel free to contact me, Angela Kraushaar, at 713-253-5678 or at Angela@AngelaKhomes.com.

If you would like to view homes in all Katy subdivisions, check out my Katy Real Estate home page.

 

Katy Real Estate Photos

Nov
28

Information Affecting Katy Real Estate: 2011 Demographic Update

November 28, 2011 By Leave a Comment

November 28, 2011 By Leave a Comment

Katy ISD

Katy ISD

During the October 24 Board of Trustees meeting, Dr. Pat Guseman, president of Population and Survey Analysts presented the 2011 Demographic Update that shows steady growth for Katy ISD, at a rate of approximately three percent each year over the next five years. While slightly slower than the rapid growth experienced between 2001 and 2009, the report shows approximately 23,000 additional students moving to the district during the next 10 years.

The district also announced that as part of the Long Range Facilites Plan process, Katy ISD has entered into the initial stages of the Attendance Boundary Modification process.

Last November, Katy ISD voters approved a bond referendum that included five new campuses -three elementary schools, one junior high and one high school. Four of the five campuses are set to open in fall 2012, and High School No.7 is slated to open in fall 2013.

As part of the attendance boundary modification process, Katy ISD has scheduled two public workshops, both to be held in the Katy ISD Educational Support Complex located at 6301 S. Stadium Ln. Public Workshop #1 was held on  Tuesday, November 15, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. The first public workshop reviewed the 2011 Demographic Update, as well as the values, assumptions and data that will be used in creating the attendance boundary recommendation for the new campuses. Attendance boundary recommendations were not presented at this first meeting.

Public Workshop #2 is scheduled for Thursday, December 8, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. At the second public workshop, the district will present the proposed attendance boundary changes and solicit input from the community.

For those community members who cannot participate in one or both of the public workshops, the district will post on its website online surveys. Oetails about the online surveys will come at a later date.  Information about the ABM process can be found on the Katy ISD website.

Katy ISD is a TEA recognized district serving more than 62,000 students. Covering 181 square miles west of downtown Houston, Katy ISD is comprised of 53 campuses, and with more than 8,000 employees is one of the largest employers in the West Houston area.

View my Katy Real Estate Search to view all MLS listings available in an around the surrounding areas!!

If you are interested in any real estate in any of the areas in which these schools feed, please feel free to contact me, Angela Kraushaar, at 713-253-5678 for more specific information regarding the market area. 

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