RockportTx Real Estate Pat Hall

New Listings at Great Prices

noreply@blogger.com (Rockport Realtor) — Mon, 11 May 2009 20:37:00 +0000

The inventory of listings is good in Rockport, and sometimes that means there are good buys to be found for the savvy buyer. I have two houses I listed recently that are really good buys. Many of you call me from time to time asking me to keep them posted on the bargain homes - so here goes!

174 Whistlers Cove

Owners Relocating!

2 Bedrooms, 2 Baths, Study + a 2 Car Garage

Located in a GREAT NEIGHBORHOOD

Beautiful Condition - In fact it looks like a model home

Pretty and Well Landscaped

Well Appointed Garage for the Handy Person

Priced at $149,900 Well Below The Appraised Value

103 Heron Oaks

2 Bedrooms, 2 Baths, Study and a 2-Car Garage

Located close to the Park, city Pool, and Shopping

Extra Large Lot

Barely Used

Military Couple Is Being Transferred

Priced At $145,000 - Below The Tax Value

Either of these homes will make a great retirement or vacation home - but are large enough for full time living. If you want to see more photos visit my website http://www.rockporttxrealestateonline.com/ or send me an email at rockportrealtor@sbcglobal.net

Summer Fun Is Coming!

noreply@blogger.com (Rockport Realtor) — Sun, 03 May 2009 18:29:00 +0000

After church this morning, I was at our terrific Rockport Beach Park walking and enjoying the outdoors. It was a little windy, but sunny and beautiful. Guys were cleaning fish near the boat ramp, so the fish are biting! Our beautiful Skimmers were choosing nesting places - as were the Terns. As Spring is winding down, you can tell Summer will be here soon.

It is not to early to start planning for trips to the coast this Summer. You know the good places fill up fast. The tents will be put up on Monday for the Maritime Museum Wine Festival over Memorial Day - so better make your reservations now.

This week I listed two darling places (less than 4 years old) at $145,000 & $149,900 - either would make a great vacation or retirement home. When you own your own place here, you never have to worry you won't have a reservation! There is a wonderful selection of properties in our area, and I have NEVER seen such low interest rates. Warren Buffett has said inflation is on the horizon, which will raise our interest rates. Don't wait too long and miss out on the interest rates of a lifetime.

Life is Good In Paradise!

noreply@blogger.com (Rockport Realtor) — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 21:24:00 +0000

Spring is a time of rebirth and growth and we are certainly seeing that in the real estate business in Rockport! Business is brisk and only land and lot sales remain a little slow. The first signs nationally that the recession is easing are certainly making buyers and potential buyers feel better about making purchases. Buyers are looking for prime properties, seeking bargains and finding just the right properties for vacation or retirement. There is a nice inventory of homes and condos in all price ranges and in all neighborhoods. I really think we have the best selection of homes in the last ten years. Lenders are making home loans to qualified buyers - if you need a referral to a local lender let me know. Come on to Rockport, have a little fun, catch a few fish and take a look at some terrific homes. The Rockport Tour of Homes is this weekend and that is always a good excuse to schedule a visit. See you soon!

Business is Brisk, Prices are Good!

noreply@blogger.com (Rockport Realtor) — Mon, 06 Apr 2009 17:00:00 +0000

Spring has arrived in Rockport and we are experiencing typical spring business! Buyers are taking advantage of the lowest interest rates in memory (well less than 5%) and for a change have a nice selection of homes and condos from which to choose. We have a better than usual inventory of properties. The prices are good and from time to time I come across a real bargain. If you are planning a trip to Rockport, email me rockportrealtor@sbcglobal.net and I will send you properties that meet your requirments. Who knows how long this national recession will last? Do miss out on the best prices in years!

Recession of Fear

noreply@blogger.com (Rockport Realtor) — Mon, 12 Jan 2009 15:18:00 +0000

Consumers today are truly suffering a "recession of fear" and are holding tight to their money, afraid to spend on big ticket items out of fear that things might get worse. Buyers who can move beyond their fears have an unprecedented opportunity to make a good buy in the real estate market here in Rockport and elsewhere in the country. Local lenders tell me they have money to lend to credit worthy buyers - those who have a decent job and have safe guarded their credit history and basically keep their credit clean. Interest rates have never been lower in our history. Sellers are more negotiable than they have been in years. We have a great inventory of properties for sale. If you have been wanting a property at the coast - now may be the time for you to snag a great bargain. You might be seeking a small, modest fishing cabin or a lovely home in a canal neighborhood just minutes from your favorite fishing. The low interest rates can save you hundreds of dollars each month, negotiable sellers can save you thousands up front. The best "retirement" advice I can give you, is buy now, buy cheap at todays prices, and enjoy tomorrow in the beautiful Rockport home of your dreams. Call or email me rockportrealtor@sbcglobal.net and I will send you a list of properties that meet your requirements!

Christmas In Rockport

noreply@blogger.com (Rockport Realtor) — Tue, 16 Dec 2008 16:04:00 +0000

Christmas in Rockport is fun with parties and events galore - the Christmas Symphony, caroling at the Fulton Mansion, Tropical Christmas and the historic home tour. The weather is nice and we can still enjoy our favorite outdoor activites including golf, fishing, boating and more.

Although we have not been hard hit with the economic issues facing a lot of the rest of the country, I am starting to see a few "bargains" for those looking for a place on the coast. There is a nice new home in Rockport Country Club that is well priced, and a fixer upper in old Rockport for way less than $100,000! If you are coming our way during the holidays, be sure and schedule some time to look at real estate. Maybe this is the year that Santa will be extra nice and you will get a place in Rockport. See you soon!

I think almost every person on the pl...

noreply@blogger.com (Rockport Realtor) — Tue, 21 Oct 2008 16:55:00 +0000

I think almost every person on the planet has been touched in one way or another by the terrible ups and downs of the financial markets. There is a general feeling of fear and frustration with a situation over which we have no control. We have had enough time to get over the shock, and cool heads are starting to make plans to benefit from the current crises.

Benefit? My nest egg is dwindling away, each news story is worst than the last, how on earth can I benefit you might ask.

Let's look at how the financial and credit crises is affecting the real estate market.

1. Buyers are feeling fear and are reluctant to commit to a purchase.

2. Credit is tight and only buyers with great credit are getting loans.

3. Down payment requirements are more stringent so buyers are having to put off a purchase because they need time to "save" the down payment.

Sellers fall into two catagories - those who want to sell, and those who need to sell. The bargain hunter knows the pool of buyers is smaller right now and seeks properties owned by folks who need to sell. These can be people who have been transferred or relocated for some reason - maintaining two houses is a burden. Another group are people affected by the tight credit market who need to pay school tuition, or even buy a car, and they are willing to deal on a lot or tract of land to raise the cash they need. Properties in estates and those owned by someone who is elderly often can be a bargain.

You will need the services of a good realtor who is willing to invest the time and do the research to help you find these properties with the potential to be a great deal. Difficult times are the best times to pick up properties that will appreciate and grow your long term wealth.

Predatory Investors - A New Danger

noreply@blogger.com (Rockport Realtor) — Mon, 04 Aug 2008 17:21:00 +0000

A recent article by Antonio Matarranz points out a new danger lurking out there for unsuspecting buyers and homeowners. It seems that predatory lending has given way to predatory investing - so beware and on the lookout for the following risky deals!

1. The Owner Financer. He purchases a distressed property that has nothing wrong with it and turns around and offers it for sale with owner financing at a high interest rate. He is not concerned about the buyers resources or credit history. After all, if the buyers can't keep up with the payments, the investor gets the property back and the cycle starts over again. This is the reincarnation of the sub-prime lender.
2. The For Sale By Owner under contract for deed. This predator who is a different version of the first example, offers a method very risky for buyers because they do have any certainty that they will be able to get clear title after making the final payment.
3. The Savior. He is the most dangerous. He "rescues" a financially distressed homeowner by taking title to the property in exchange for getting the mortgage payments current. He promises to return the title to the homeowner once he's repaid with interest. The homeowner now has the same payment but with higher debt and will eventually get evicted instead of foreclosed upon.

Remember to have someone ( your realtor, your buyers agent, your attorney ) on your side in every real estate transaction - and watch out for the unethical people looking to take advantage of those in weaker positions.

noreply@blogger.com (Rockport Realtor) — Thu, 24 Jul 2008 14:57:00 +0000

Hello Dolly!

On Wednesday Hurricane Dolly came ashore at South Padre Island about 3-4 hours south of Rockport. Rockport received about 3" of much needed rain and minimal wind. There is no apparent damage and no one was more than slightly inconvenienced by the storm system.

This is a typical weather pattern that we see here in tropical Texas starting most years in July. Most often this time of year we see tropical weather moving up from the Gulf of Mexico. Most of the time it is not a hurricane but rather a tropical wave or tropical depression. Since summer is normally dry, the rain is welcome and needed. However, sometimes Mother Nature can just go overboard, particularly if the weather system is slow moving. Yesterday we only had 3" of rain, but even a tropical wave can often drop 8"-10" of rain or even more.

Prudent homeowners carry flood insurance to protect themselves in case of damage from rising water. Most claims for flood insurance are due to rain events rather than the more dramatic and news worthy hurricanes. When you are buying property on the coast, talk to me about flood insurance. I will give you the names of several insurance professionals who will give you all the scoop to make an informed decision. (In fact, call your insurance agent at home today! No matter where you live flood insurance is a good idea and very affordable.)

M/V Skimmer Rockport, Tx

noreply@blogger.com (Rockport Realtor) — Sun, 06 Jul 2008 05:00:00 +0000

Wow! What a weekend! 4th of July was fun, fun, fun all three days - but now we can relax just a little. Come on down and have some fun, relax and enjoy yourself.

The next time you are in town, check out the Skimmer in Fulton harbor. Capt. Tommy Moore will give your family wonderful memories and a great time showing you the sights of Rockport from the water, viewing the birds and sea life that abounds in our bays. Young and old, every member of the family will have a grand time!

Rockport Birding and Kayak Adventures continues the tradition of Captain Ted's Whooping Crane Tours aboard the Skimmer. The Skimmer is fast and quiet. She drafts 2.5 feet and cruises comfortably at 25-30 mph making her the fastest birding tour vessel in the area. Built for birding, she carries up to 46 passengers and will maneuver into remote birding areas which gives you an unparalleled vantage point to observe and photograph the abundant bird and wildlife species our area has to offer.

Dolphin & Bird Watching Sunset Tours (June – Oct): You will depart Fulton Harbor in search of the Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphins that feed and play throughout Aransas Bay. Come experience these amazing creatures in their natural habitat. During this trip Capt. Tommy will point out the many different species of birds that live and nest in the area. The Rookery islands provide outstanding birding opportunities until the middle of July. Towards the end of the evening we pull up in the protected waters along San Jose Island to view the sunset over the bay.
Kayak fishing, birding and touring in the Rockport - Fulton and Goose Island area has increased dramatically over the past few years.

http://www.rockportadventures.com/ Capt. Tommy can be reached by following this link - be sure and tell him that Pat sent you!

4th of July In Rockport, Tx

noreply@blogger.com (Rockport Realtor) — Thu, 03 Jul 2008 20:25:00 +0000

2008 ART FESTIVAL
July 5 & 6, 2008

What better place to be on July 4th weekend in Texas than on Aransas Bay, surrounded by water, wildlife, and fine art?
This July 4th... Rockport is the place to be!

Thursday, July 3: ART AUCTION GALA/DINNER begins at 6:30: Valet Parking, Dinner, Auctions, Live Entertainment

Friday, July 4: Noon BOAT PARADE ON LITTLE BAY!

Friday, July 4: FIREWORKS OVER THE BAY!

Saturday, July 5: ART FESTIVAL 10 am - 6 pm..........$6 Adults, $1 Kids under 12

Sunday, July 6: ART FESTIVAL 10 am - 5 pm.............$5 Adults, $1 Kids under 12

How To Make Money In Real Estate

noreply@blogger.com (Rockport Realtor) — Thu, 26 Jun 2008 05:00:00 +0000

HOW TO MAKE MONEY IN REAL ESTATE

Your profit in real estate is not made when you sell but rather when you buy. This is as true a rule as LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION! In spite of all the gloom and doom you hear on the news, only four States in the Country are in serious trouble: California, Nevada, Arizona and Florida. I know, when you listen to the news on TV, or read your morning paper, you hear about the 4 states in trouble, but not the 46 others who are continuing to do just fine or experiencing only mild declines. This "Gloom and Doom" news is having an impact on buyers and sellers-it is making them jittery. Sellers can convince themselves that no one is buying, but here in Rockport, Tx people are still buying & prices are holding steady. I have buyers who are actively looking for the right property - as so all of the other Realtors in my office. A "DOWN" market is the time to buy and savvy investors are picking up bargains left and right-not only here in Rockport, Tx but all across the country. I don't think it really matters if the "DOWN" is real or perceived, it will allow the patient buyer to pick up a wonderful property and make a great investment. My advice to my clients is ignore the news & make your own decision. Be patient but prepared to act quickly when you see a bargain. I wrote in my Blog a few days ago about a great house at a good price - that house was quickly bought by an investor who snapped it up and made a great buy! Buy now and make a great investment in Real Estate and build your personal wealth for the future.

Summertime Livin' in Rockport, Tx

noreply@blogger.com (Rockport Realtor) — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 15:26:00 +0000

SUMMERTIME AND THE LIVIN' IS EASY really applies to Rockport, Tx. The sun shines, the breeze blows and everyone relaxes. Friends from all over seem to make their way to us during the summer - who would not welcome a reason to visit the coast and escape the stifling city heat. Friends are always welcome and it gives us a reason to fire up the BBQ and have impromptu parties to welcome them to town. Nothing like food and drinks under a starry sky enjoying an evening with friends. Entertaining friends is easy here as there is lots to do in addition to the required shopping, eating and napping. I usually like to send them to visit the Lexington and the Texas State Aquarium both located within 30 minutes of Rockport. The Ferry ride to Port Aransas is always popular with visitors. Sometimes my more spirited guests enjoy a kayak tour of Lighthouse Trails easily arranged with Slow Ride Guide Service from Aransas Pass.

Entertaining in this relaxed way still allows me to show property and help clients find their dream home so they too can enjoy the Rockport lifestyle. Summertime is the "busy" time for real estate here in Rockport, Tx. It is the time of year when people have the time to come, look and buy. Call or email me when you are coming and we will find you just the perfect place to relax, and soon your friends will be coming to visit too!

Real Estate Inspections

noreply@blogger.com (Rockport Realtor) — Sun, 15 Jun 2008 15:42:00 +0000

INSPECTIONS - Yes or No?

Clients are always asking me, "Do I really need to do inspections?" and "What inspections should I have done/".The answer is yes you should have the property inspected, inspections are the prudent thing to do. Remember the reason for doing inspections is to check and see if the major systems of the property are operating properly. The goal of the inspections is not to come up with a laundry list of little in need of minor repair, but rather to determine if there is something so seriously wrong with the property that you should not buy the property. In our market here in Rockport, Tx we always start with a building inspection - this is a general inspection. The licensed inspector may see some red flags that will cause him to recommend a specialist such as a plumber or HVAC. Here in Rockport some properties are on a septic system and a septic inspection should always be done - the last thing you want at your new home is to unexpectedly need a new septic system to the tune of $6,000-$7,000. In short, inspections are for your protection!

Boating in Rockport

noreply@blogger.com (Rockport Realtor) — Thu, 12 Jun 2008 15:26:00 +0000

Sundays in Rockport, Tx! Life just could not be any better...lazy and relaxed. Sunday after church we had Scott and his crew at Cove Harbor Marina put our boat in the water. We took one of our dogs, Cissy (a Rat Terrier) and went for a boat ride. It was sunny and windy like it has been all this year, so we stayed in the Intracoastal to avoid the waves out in the bay. The water was clear and we saw lots of birds-Blue Herons, Pelicans and even a Frigate Bird. It is always fun to see the pretty neighborhoods of Bahia Bay and City by the Sea from the water. If you launch your boat from Cove Harbor you can stay in protected water all the way to Ingleside or to Port Aransas. We pulled our boat up to a little "joint" in Conn Brown Harbor to eat some yummy shrimp and gumbo for lunch on the deck. Good and cheap, what could be better? When you are lucky enough to live here in paradise in Rockport, Tx every day is like being on vacation! When you need any information about Rockport, Tx real estate, give me a call!

What's Happening in Rockport, TX

noreply@blogger.com (Rockport Realtor) — Mon, 09 Jun 2008 14:25:00 +0000

If you are lucky enough to be vacationing in Rockport, Tx this week as always there is lots to do for everyone!

June 9 thru June 20, 2008 Sea Camp
Texas Maritime Museum361-729-1271
Summer experience for 1st and 2nd grade Aransas Co kids.

June 9
H2 Odyssey ( A New Camp)
Texas Maritime Museum 361-729-1271

June 10
Music at the MansionFulton Mansion Grounds 361-729-0386
Bring your blankets or lawn chairs for an evening of extraordinary entertainment. 7pm Concerts are free although donations will be accepted. Local musicians will perform a variety of music during the summer concert series.

June 14 4-H BBQ Dinner & Dance Public Welcome!
Paws & Taws Convention Center361-729-2388Live auction & dance

June 14 & 15 Rockport Volunteer Fire Dept Annual Fishing Tournament
Festival Grounds
For more info e-mail RVFDfishingtournament@rockportvfd.org
There will also be a piggy perch tournament for the kids

High Gas Prices???

noreply@blogger.com (Rockport Realtor) — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 20:31:00 +0000

GAS PRICES!

Every driver in Texas and the entire United States is feeling the pinch of high gas prices - and there is no relief in sight. Does this mean you have to give up your dream of a retirement home or vacation spot of your own? Not at all! Millions of people live only a tank of gas or less from Rockport, Texas (Houston, Austin, San Antonio and points in between). Now is the time to buy a place close to home for you and your family to enjoy on weekends and vacations. All indications are that high prices at the gas pump will be continuing for quite some time. Here in beautiful Rockport, Tx there is a nice selection of properties in all price ranges from modest to impressive, and in all sizes from small to palatial. The best part, is they are all located close enough to home for you and your family to enjoy them often. As a bonus, you can rent out your vacation dream spot to help defray the cost fuel to visit your Rockport get-a-way. Winter Texans love Rockport and rent here every winter from 1 to 5 months, and during the summer of course we are a vacation hot spot with fishing, boating, golfing and fun. Rockport, Tx real estate is still a bargain - and only a tank of gas away -check it out! What are you waiting for?

Real Estate Bargains In Rockport, Tx????

noreply@blogger.com (Rockport Realtor) — Sun, 01 Jun 2008 05:01:00 +0000

BARGAINS TO BE HAD!

Rockport, Tx Real Estate is alive and well! Despite our reputation as a wonderful vacation and retirement spot, there are properties in all price ranges. In fact, there are bargains available, although they don't always last too long in this popular market. This week I have been showing several clients homes and I saw several properties that are very well priced for our market. One property in particular caught my eye - it is a roomy brick house, 1700 SF, a large double lot with many trees, wonderful neighborhood for only $139,000. What's the catch? Nothing at all. The owner had lived in the house for years and it needs some updating and work. You could certainly live here while you were doing the updating - a little at a time as the budget and energy permit. Did I tell you it has lovely old terrazo floors and a big fireplace? Bargain hunters who are willing to do a little sweat equity can still score a bargain even here on the beautiful coast of Texas. You can use the link on the right to browse the Rockport Multiple Listing, or send me an email and I will help you.

Rockport Rocks

noreply@blogger.com (Rockport Realtor) — Fri, 30 May 2008 15:27:00 +0000

ROCKPORT ROCKS!

I live and work in Rockport, Texas a small resort town located on the coast of Texas 35 miles north of Corpus Christi. Truly, this little town is so unique - full of friendly, relaxed, fun loving people. Our population consists of "young" retirees and vacationers. I believe I have never lived in a spot where it is easier to make friends and get involved in a community. Although we are a small town, at every turn there is something to do (not just something to do, but something fun!) This past weekend was Memorial day, so in addition to the beach, boats, jet skies, golfing and all of the usual summer fun we had our annual WINE FESTIVAL held on the grounds of the Maritime Museum. The festival is held on Saturday and Sunday evenings - so the gentle breeze off Aransas Bay feels wonderful. It is nice to take a break from the wine tasting, and relax on the grass listening to the music. One of my favorite parts of course, is sampling food from some of our unique restaurants. This year as always I saw all my friends from around town, but lots of clients who purchased purchased homes in recent years. I never realized before I was in the real estate business, that your clients often become your friends. What a nice business - you help people find the perfect vacation home and make new friends in the process. Life is good ...