Dallas Real Estate and Short Sale Blog: Texas: Dallas

Knock, Knock. Who’s There? Sellers Beware!

Door Knocker

I received a call this evening from one of my sellers. A potential buyer had showed up at her home, rang the doorbell, and asked to see the home. While this raised red flags for her, she let him into her home and showed him around.

The good news is that nothing happened.

It’s one thing to allow an agent with a keycard and who has scheduled an appointment into your home, but allowing a stranger off the street to do so could be a recipe for disaster.

Buyers off the street should always be referred to your agent. Agents generally qualify potential buyers before showing homes to them. This process tends to weed out unqualified or “buyers" with other motives.

Sellers, I know you want to sell your home, but please do not forfeit your safety in the process.

Photo licensed from iStockPhoto

Originally posted at http://www.thebranchteam.com/wordpress/2012/04/30/knock-knock-whos-there-sellers-beware/

 

Tom Branch and Gina Branch, The Branch Team with RE/MAX Dallas Suburbs, service the greater North Dallas suburbs including Dallas, Plano, Allen, McKinney, Frisco, Lewisville, and Carrollton.  While Gina concentrates on traditional listings and buyer/tenant representation, Tom specializes in assisting distressed homeowners to avoid foreclosure.  Tom and Gina have published two books (Achieving Rock Star Status and The Field Guide to Short Sales) and are available for speaking engagements in the greater Dallas - Fort Worth Metroplex. Subscribe to The Branch Team Blog.

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Copyright 2009-2012 - The Branch Team
The Branch Team - Texas Real Estate Broker 547597 | Team Members are Texas Licensed Real Estate Professionals
Tom Branch - National Mortgage Licensing System 341963 

Important Notice: The Branch Team with RE/MAX Dallas Suburbs is not associated with the government, and our service is not approved by the government or your lender. Even if you accept this offer and use our service, your lender may not agree to change your loan. If you stop paying your mortgage, you could lose your home and damage your credit rating.

All information provided is deemed reliable but is not guaranteed and should be independently verified. Properties subject to prior sale or rental.

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56 comments • Tom Branch | Broker, CDPE, SFR, ACRE | Plano TX Ambassador | 214-227-6626 • April 30 2012 07:27PM

Dakotas Fine Dallas Dining

Dakotas Dallas Fine Dining

Gina and I celebrated our wedding anniversary last night. We love trying different dining spots and we were refered to Dakotas by one of our recent past clients.

What's really unique about the location is that it's actually located under the streets in downtown Dallas. According to the staff, alcohol sales were not permitted at street level at some point in the past, so the developers went "underground" so to speak. The photo above was shot looking out the window from our table. Dakotas has a great outdoor patio complete with a lighted wall of water coming down from street level.

The food was fantastic. Dakotas is a steak house and the Filet Mignon was wonderful with a nice soft texture and just the right amount of seasoning. Side dishes are served family-style and are large enough for two people. The wine list is extensive and I thought the prices were very good. The wait staff was first class--there when you needed them but not hovering all the time.

Dakotas is located at 600 North Akard. It can be hard to find because the entrance is the top of the elevator shaft sitting in the triangle created by Akard, Erway, and San Jacinto. I drove past it the first time. Parking is very limited but they have complimentary valet service so take advantage of it.

If you're visiting Dallas or a local looking for something new to try, stop by Dakotas.

Tom Branch, Broker, CDPE, SFR

Photo: Copyright 2011 Tom Branch

Originally posted at http://www.thebranchteam.com/wordpress/2011/12/04/dakotas-fine-dallas-dining/

 

Tom Branch and Gina Branch, The Branch Team with RE/MAX Dallas Suburbs, service the greater North Dallas suburbs including Dallas, Plano, Allen, McKinney, Frisco, Lewisville, and Carrollton.  While Gina concentrates on traditional listings and buyer/tenant representation, Tom specializes in assisting distressed homeowners to avoid foreclosure.  Tom and Gina have published two books (Achieving Rock Star Status and The Field Guide to Short Sales) and are available for speaking engagements in the greater Dallas - Fort Worth Metroplex. Subscribe to The Branch Team Blog.

Follwo Us on Facebook          View Our LinkedIn Profile         

Copyright 2009-2012 - The Branch Team
The Branch Team - Texas Real Estate Broker 547597 | Team Members are Texas Licensed Real Estate Professionals
Tom Branch - National Mortgage Licensing System 341963 

Important Notice: The Branch Team with RE/MAX Dallas Suburbs is not associated with the government, and our service is not approved by the government or your lender. Even if you accept this offer and use our service, your lender may not agree to change your loan. If you stop paying your mortgage, you could lose your home and damage your credit rating.

All information provided is deemed reliable but is not guaranteed and should be independently verified. Properties subject to prior sale or rental.

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3 comments • Tom Branch | Broker, CDPE, SFR, ACRE | Plano TX Ambassador | 214-227-6626 • December 04 2011 10:11AM

Dallas TX Lot For Sale 4104 Stonebridge



Opportunity knocks! One of a kind residential lot located in the heart of Turtle Creek Park. This lot offers the rare chance to build your dream home among the majestic trees on this heavily-wooded creek lot in the shadow of downtown Dallas. Located less than 3 miles to UTSW and Parkland Hospital. This lot is being subdivided from a larger estate and is subject to final city approval. Click on any image for a larger view. 



This heavily wooded lot has majestic trees dating back over 50 years. The lot is located on an interior lot and backs to the Katy Trail.



The lot has had a drainage study completed and the preliminary plat has been approved by the City of Dallas.



The higher portion of the lot has a lush Saint Augustine lawn and is terraced down to the creek.

 

There are two preliminary plat maps. Final plat will depend on the buyers needs and desires.



See more details about this Turtle Creek Park Lot for Sale at 4104 Stonebridge.

Originally posted at http://www.thebranchteam.com/wordpress/2011/11/23/dallas-tx-lot-for-sale-4104-stonebridge/

 

Tom Branch and Gina Branch, The Branch Team with RE/MAX Dallas Suburbs, service the greater North Dallas suburbs including Dallas, Plano, Allen, McKinney, Frisco, Lewisville, and Carrollton.  While Gina concentrates on traditional listings and buyer/tenant representation, Tom specializes in assisting distressed homeowners to avoid foreclosure.  Tom and Gina have published two books (Achieving Rock Star Status and The Field Guide to Short Sales) and are available for speaking engagements in the greater Dallas - Fort Worth Metroplex. Subscribe to The Branch Team Blog.

Follwo Us on Facebook          View Our LinkedIn Profile         

Copyright 2009-2012 - The Branch Team
The Branch Team - Texas Real Estate Broker 547597 | Team Members are Texas Licensed Real Estate Professionals
Tom Branch - National Mortgage Licensing System 341963 

Important Notice: The Branch Team with RE/MAX Dallas Suburbs is not associated with the government, and our service is not approved by the government or your lender. Even if you accept this offer and use our service, your lender may not agree to change your loan. If you stop paying your mortgage, you could lose your home and damage your credit rating.

All information provided is deemed reliable but is not guaranteed and should be independently verified. Properties subject to prior sale or rental.

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0 comments • Tom Branch | Broker, CDPE, SFR, ACRE | Plano TX Ambassador | 214-227-6626 • November 23 2011 11:58PM

4104 Stonebridge - A Rare Opportunity

4104 Stonebridge Dallas TX

Opportunity knocks! One of a kind residential lot located in the heart of Turtle Creek Park. This lot offers the rare chance to build your dream home among the majestic trees on this heavily-wooded creek lot in the shadow of downtown Dallas. Located less than 3 miles to UTSW and Parkland Hospital. This lot is being subdivided from a larger estate and is subject to final city approval. Plat, recent appraisal, and drainage studies are available.

Click here for Current Pricing, Details, Photos, and Virtual Tour.

See all Lots for Sale in the Oaklawn Area of Dallas, TX.

Source: 4104 Stonebridge – A Rare Opportunity << The Branch Team

 

Tom Branch and Gina Branch, The Branch Team with RE/MAX Dallas Suburbs, service the greater North Dallas suburbs including Dallas, Plano, Allen, McKinney, Frisco, Lewisville, and Carrollton.  While Gina concentrates on traditional listings and buyer/tenant representation, Tom specializes in assisting distressed homeowners to avoid foreclosure.  Tom and Gina have published two books (Achieving Rock Star Status and The Field Guide to Short Sales) and are available for speaking engagements in the greater Dallas - Fort Worth Metroplex. Subscribe to The Branch Team Blog.

Follwo Us on Facebook          View Our LinkedIn Profile         

Copyright 2009-2012 - The Branch Team
The Branch Team - Texas Real Estate Broker 547597 | Team Members are Texas Licensed Real Estate Professionals
Tom Branch - National Mortgage Licensing System 341963 

Important Notice: The Branch Team with RE/MAX Dallas Suburbs is not associated with the government, and our service is not approved by the government or your lender. Even if you accept this offer and use our service, your lender may not agree to change your loan. If you stop paying your mortgage, you could lose your home and damage your credit rating.

All information provided is deemed reliable but is not guaranteed and should be independently verified. Properties subject to prior sale or rental.

Protected by Copyscape Web Plagiarism Tool

1 comment • Tom Branch | Broker, CDPE, SFR, ACRE | Plano TX Ambassador | 214-227-6626 • October 17 2011 09:23AM

Dallas TX Home For Sale 10824 Saint Michaels

Dallas TX Home For Sale 10824 Saint Michaels

4 Bedrooms | 3.1 Baths | 3 Living | 2 Dining | 2-Car Garage | 2936 SF/Tax

Dallas TX Home For Sale - Updated single-level Preston Hollow home on large lot. Over $500k in updates. Bright kitchen has granite counters, stainless appliances, built-in refrigerator, and wet bar. Master suite has garden tub, dual vanities, separate shower, and dual closets. Gallery formals open to large family room with fireplace. A massive spa room has in-ground spa, sitting area, and separate HVAC. The lush backyard has an open patio that is perfect for entertaining.

Click here for Current Pricing, Details, Photos, and Virtual Tour.

See all Homes For Sale in Royal Park Estates, Dallas TX.

Source: http://www.thebranchteam.com/wordpress/2011/09/14/dallas-tx-home-for-sale-10824-saint-michaels/

 

Tom Branch and Gina Branch, The Branch Team with RE/MAX Dallas Suburbs, service the greater North Dallas suburbs including Dallas, Plano, Allen, McKinney, Frisco, Lewisville, and Carrollton.  While Gina concentrates on traditional listings and buyer/tenant representation, Tom specializes in assisting distressed homeowners to avoid foreclosure.  Tom and Gina have published two books (Achieving Rock Star Status and The Field Guide to Short Sales) and are available for speaking engagements in the greater Dallas - Fort Worth Metroplex. Subscribe to The Branch Team Blog.

Follwo Us on Facebook          View Our LinkedIn Profile         

Copyright 2009-2012 - The Branch Team
The Branch Team - Texas Real Estate Broker 547597 | Team Members are Texas Licensed Real Estate Professionals
Tom Branch - National Mortgage Licensing System 341963 

Important Notice: The Branch Team with RE/MAX Dallas Suburbs is not associated with the government, and our service is not approved by the government or your lender. Even if you accept this offer and use our service, your lender may not agree to change your loan. If you stop paying your mortgage, you could lose your home and damage your credit rating.

All information provided is deemed reliable but is not guaranteed and should be independently verified. Properties subject to prior sale or rental.

Protected by Copyscape Web Plagiarism Tool

1 comment • Tom Branch | Broker, CDPE, SFR, ACRE | Plano TX Ambassador | 214-227-6626 • September 14 2011 04:21PM

Dallas RainCamp Night-Before Dinner

The Dallas RainCamp crowd began to arrive this afternoon. About 18 of us gathered for dinner and face-time at PapaDeaux in Dallas.

Phone calls were made to the missing action (Bob was stuck in Tulsa) and a good time was had by all.

I had to laugh at inflation. On the original menu a Filet Mignon was 45 cents. I paid $29 for one this evening!

Looking forward to seeing everyone tomorrow...

 

Tom Branch and Gina Branch, The Branch Team with RE/MAX Dallas Suburbs, service the greater North Dallas suburbs including Dallas, Plano, Allen, McKinney, Frisco, Lewisville, and Carrollton.  While Gina concentrates on traditional listings and buyer/tenant representation, Tom specializes in assisting distressed homeowners to avoid foreclosure.  Tom and Gina have published two books (Achieving Rock Star Status and The Field Guide to Short Sales) and are available for speaking engagements in the greater Dallas - Fort Worth Metroplex. Subscribe to The Branch Team Blog.

Follwo Us on Facebook          View Our LinkedIn Profile         

Copyright 2009-2012 - The Branch Team
The Branch Team - Texas Real Estate Broker 547597 | Team Members are Texas Licensed Real Estate Professionals
Tom Branch - National Mortgage Licensing System 341963 

Important Notice: The Branch Team with RE/MAX Dallas Suburbs is not associated with the government, and our service is not approved by the government or your lender. Even if you accept this offer and use our service, your lender may not agree to change your loan. If you stop paying your mortgage, you could lose your home and damage your credit rating.

All information provided is deemed reliable but is not guaranteed and should be independently verified. Properties subject to prior sale or rental.

Protected by Copyscape Web Plagiarism Tool

6 comments • Tom Branch | Broker, CDPE, SFR, ACRE | Plano TX Ambassador | 214-227-6626 • May 24 2011 12:52AM

Dallas TX Home For Sale 5026 Wenonah

Dallas TX Home For Sale 5026 Wenonah

3 Bedrooms | 1 Baths | 1644 SF/Appraiser

Dallas TX Home For Sale - 1940s charm with modern updates. Nice single level home has been completely updated including refinished oak floors, marble flooring in wet areas, granite countertops, stainless appliances, attic insulation, Tuff shed, steel entry doors, roof, hot water heater, fresh exterior paint, slate patios, and updated landscaping. Owner has approved plans for extended master suite and 3-car garage. Easy access to Love Field, Dallas Tollway, and downtown.

Dallas Texas Home For Sale for Current Pricing, Details, Photos, and Virtual Tour.

Photo: Copyright ©2011 - Imaged2Sell

Source: http://www.thebranchteam.com/wordpress/2011/03/24/dallas-tx-home-for-sale-5026-wenonah/

 

Tom Branch and Gina Branch, The Branch Team with RE/MAX Dallas Suburbs, service the greater North Dallas suburbs including Dallas, Plano, Allen, McKinney, Frisco, Lewisville, and Carrollton.  While Gina concentrates on traditional listings and buyer/tenant representation, Tom specializes in assisting distressed homeowners to avoid foreclosure.  Tom and Gina have published two books (Achieving Rock Star Status and The Field Guide to Short Sales) and are available for speaking engagements in the greater Dallas - Fort Worth Metroplex. Subscribe to The Branch Team Blog.

Follwo Us on Facebook          View Our LinkedIn Profile         

Copyright 2009-2012 - The Branch Team
The Branch Team - Texas Real Estate Broker 547597 | Team Members are Texas Licensed Real Estate Professionals
Tom Branch - National Mortgage Licensing System 341963 

Important Notice: The Branch Team with RE/MAX Dallas Suburbs is not associated with the government, and our service is not approved by the government or your lender. Even if you accept this offer and use our service, your lender may not agree to change your loan. If you stop paying your mortgage, you could lose your home and damage your credit rating.

All information provided is deemed reliable but is not guaranteed and should be independently verified. Properties subject to prior sale or rental.

Protected by Copyscape Web Plagiarism Tool

1 comment • Tom Branch | Broker, CDPE, SFR, ACRE | Plano TX Ambassador | 214-227-6626 • March 24 2011 08:11AM

Dallas TX Luxury Home For Sale 5305 Southern

Dallas TX Luxury Home For Sale 5305 Southern

3 Bedrooms | 2.1 Baths | 3-Car Garage | 3072 SF/Tax

Dallas TX Luxury Home For Sale - Beautiful Med-style home on corner lot with mature trees and spectacular 2-story entry. Island kitchen with granite, built-in fridge, Mirazzi tile, walk-in pantry and wine rack. Great room overlooks tropical oasis with covered veranda, sparkling pool and outdoor FP. Master suite down has glass block shower and sep. jetted tub. Third living up perfect for game room. 3 floored attics, 3-car garage with cabs, counters and workbench. Many extras!

Current status, pricing, photos, and a virtual tour for this Dallas Texas, Luxury Home For Sale.

Source: NTREIS

 

Tom Branch and Gina Branch, The Branch Team with RE/MAX Dallas Suburbs, service the greater North Dallas suburbs including Dallas, Plano, Allen, McKinney, Frisco, Lewisville, and Carrollton.  While Gina concentrates on traditional listings and buyer/tenant representation, Tom specializes in assisting distressed homeowners to avoid foreclosure.  Tom and Gina have published two books (Achieving Rock Star Status and The Field Guide to Short Sales) and are available for speaking engagements in the greater Dallas - Fort Worth Metroplex. Subscribe to The Branch Team Blog.

Follwo Us on Facebook          View Our LinkedIn Profile         

Copyright 2009-2012 - The Branch Team
The Branch Team - Texas Real Estate Broker 547597 | Team Members are Texas Licensed Real Estate Professionals
Tom Branch - National Mortgage Licensing System 341963 

Important Notice: The Branch Team with RE/MAX Dallas Suburbs is not associated with the government, and our service is not approved by the government or your lender. Even if you accept this offer and use our service, your lender may not agree to change your loan. If you stop paying your mortgage, you could lose your home and damage your credit rating.

All information provided is deemed reliable but is not guaranteed and should be independently verified. Properties subject to prior sale or rental.

Protected by Copyscape Web Plagiarism Tool

2 comments • Tom Branch | Broker, CDPE, SFR, ACRE | Plano TX Ambassador | 214-227-6626 • January 26 2011 07:50AM

The Passing Of Time

I'm a huge fan of old architecture. I really love to wander the downtown areas and take it all in. The dichotomy of the old and the new.

About a week ago, I was riding the DART train into downtown Dallas. I had to switch trains and jumped off at Pearl Street Station in the heart of old Dallas. As I sat there waiting on the next train, my eyes wandered to this old, dilapidated structure across the tracks.

Dallas High School

I was shocked when I read the lettering at the top of the building and I realized this was likely the original Dallas High School. What once served as a place of education now sat, boarded-up, overlooking the grand city that grew up around it.

As I sat there in the late afternoon sun, a wave of sadness overcame me. I wondered what this building had been witness to over the years.  Were children here the day JFK died less than a mile away? Did anyone famous walk the halls of this building somewhere in time?

Some part of me hoped a non-profit would come along and restore the building to its once stately condition, but the reality is that the structure is probably too far gone. I suspect it will be torn down and condos, retail or both will be built on the site. Progress.

My train arrived and the thoughts of the building were left behind. This evening I was pulling photos off my iPhone and came across the shot above. I felt compelled to put these thoughts into writing--a catharsis of sorts.

 Tom Branch, Broker, CDPE, SFR

 

Tom Branch and Gina Branch, The Branch Team with RE/MAX Dallas Suburbs, service the greater North Dallas suburbs including Dallas, Plano, Allen, McKinney, Frisco, Lewisville, and Carrollton.  While Gina concentrates on traditional listings and buyer/tenant representation, Tom specializes in assisting distressed homeowners to avoid foreclosure.  Tom and Gina have published two books (Achieving Rock Star Status and The Field Guide to Short Sales) and are available for speaking engagements in the greater Dallas - Fort Worth Metroplex. Subscribe to The Branch Team Blog.

Follwo Us on Facebook          View Our LinkedIn Profile         

Copyright 2009-2012 - The Branch Team
The Branch Team - Texas Real Estate Broker 547597 | Team Members are Texas Licensed Real Estate Professionals
Tom Branch - National Mortgage Licensing System 341963 

Important Notice: The Branch Team with RE/MAX Dallas Suburbs is not associated with the government, and our service is not approved by the government or your lender. Even if you accept this offer and use our service, your lender may not agree to change your loan. If you stop paying your mortgage, you could lose your home and damage your credit rating.

All information provided is deemed reliable but is not guaranteed and should be independently verified. Properties subject to prior sale or rental.

Protected by Copyscape Web Plagiarism Tool

20 comments • Tom Branch | Broker, CDPE, SFR, ACRE | Plano TX Ambassador | 214-227-6626 • November 02 2010 02:53AM

Condos For Sale in Dallas Texas

The Branch Team | Real Estate Broker 0547597 | RE/MAX Dallas Suburbs

 Dallas TX Condos For Sale

1 Bedrooms | 1 Baths | 1-Car Garage | 852 SF/Tax

Dallas TX Condos For Sale - Uptown living--easy walk to Katy Trail, dining and the nightlife of McKinney Ave, Victory Park, and downtown. Open plan offers wood floors, Berber carpet, ceramic tile, high ceilings, lots of windows, large master and walk-in closet. Amenities include lap pool, fitness center, underground parking, 24hr concierge, and guarded access. Recent HVAC and water heater. Fresh carpet and paint.

Click here for current pricing, photos, and a virtual tour.

Source: NTREIS

 

Tom Branch and Gina Branch, The Branch Team with RE/MAX Dallas Suburbs, service the greater North Dallas suburbs including Dallas, Plano, Allen, McKinney, Frisco, Lewisville, and Carrollton.  While Gina concentrates on traditional listings and buyer/tenant representation, Tom specializes in assisting distressed homeowners to avoid foreclosure.  Tom and Gina have published two books (Achieving Rock Star Status and The Field Guide to Short Sales) and are available for speaking engagements in the greater Dallas - Fort Worth Metroplex. Subscribe to The Branch Team Blog.

Follwo Us on Facebook          View Our LinkedIn Profile         

Copyright 2009-2012 - The Branch Team
The Branch Team - Texas Real Estate Broker 547597 | Team Members are Texas Licensed Real Estate Professionals
Tom Branch - National Mortgage Licensing System 341963 

Important Notice: The Branch Team with RE/MAX Dallas Suburbs is not associated with the government, and our service is not approved by the government or your lender. Even if you accept this offer and use our service, your lender may not agree to change your loan. If you stop paying your mortgage, you could lose your home and damage your credit rating.

All information provided is deemed reliable but is not guaranteed and should be independently verified. Properties subject to prior sale or rental.

Protected by Copyscape Web Plagiarism Tool

0 comments • Tom Branch | Broker, CDPE, SFR, ACRE | Plano TX Ambassador | 214-227-6626 • October 31 2010 11:26AM