Veterans now have access to a new VA renovation loan to refurbish or remodel their homes.  This loan program is available for new home purchases as well as for remodeling homes currently owned by the veteran.  It is estimated that over 50% of homes nationally are 40 years or older, and in the current housing market many homes are in need of updating, addressing deferred maintenance, or improving the energy efficiency of homes to lower utility costs.VA loan benefits include the following unique advantages:  a.  up to 100% financing, b.  no mortgage insurance, c.  up to $ 35,000 in renovation funds escrowed, d.  all renovations must be completed within 60 days of closing, e.  you can close on a purchase or refinance in the “as is” condition, f. you can borrow against the future value of t... 08/08/2019

Veterans now have access to a new VA renovation loan to refurbish or remodel their homes.  This loan program is available for new home purchases as well as for remodeling homes currently owned by the veteran.  It is estimated that over 50% of homes nationally are 40 years or older, and in the current housing market many homes are in need of updating, addressing deferred maintenance, or improving the energy efficiency of homes to lower utility costs.VA loan benefits include the following unique advantages:  a.  up to 100% financing, b.  no mortgage insurance, c.  up to $ 35,000 in renovation funds escrowed, d.  all renovations must be completed within 60 days of closing, e.  you can close on a purchase or refinance in the “as is” condition, f. you can borrow against the future value of t... 04/26/2019

Veterans now have access to a new VA renovation loan to refurbish or remodel their homes.  This loan program is available for new home purchases as well as for remodeling homes currently owned by the veteran.  It is estimated that over 50% of homes nationally are 40 years or older, and in the current housing market many homes are in need of updating, addressing deferred maintenance, or improving the energy efficiency of homes to lower utility costs.VA loan benefits include the following unique advantages:  a.  up to 100% financing, b.  no mortgage insurance, c.  up to $ 35,000 in renovation funds escrowed, d.  all renovations must be completed within 60 days of closing, e.  you can close on a purchase or refinance in the “as is” condition, f. you can borrow against the future value of t... 03/07/2019

Being a Midland Texas First Time Homebuyer makes you have to consider your options before you buy. The first thing you will need to consider is what your long-term goals are with being a home owner  and how your goals fit in with that plan. One goal could be to stop paying rent that just increases after every lease you renewBuying your own home first is one of the happiest times of your life! However, a lot of paperwork and time goes into it and finding a lender with great reviews will ease much of the stress. But, the satisfaction you get from your first home closing is something you will never forget! The benefits of being a Midland Texas First Time Homebuyer greatly outweighs renting for the following reasons:          Greater privacy.          Homes typically increase in value the o... 12/10/2018

Being a Midland TX First Time Homebuyer makes you have to consider your options before you buy. The first thing you will need to consider is what your long-term goals are with being a home owner  and how your goals fit in with that plan. One goal could be to stop paying rent that just increases after every lease you renewBuying your own home first is one of the happiest times of your life! However, a lot of paperwork and time goes into it and finding a lender with great reviews will ease much of the stress. But, the satisfaction you get from your first home closing is something you will never forget! The benefits of being a Midland TX First Time Homebuyer greatly outweighs renting for the following reasons:          Greater privacy.          Homes typically increase in value the older t... 11/15/2018

Surrounding Midland area is a prime area for 100% financing on a home loan. Midland Texas buyers can get 100% financing on new home purchases in close by areas.This 100% program is truly not just for rural housing but for most of the geographic areas surrounding Midland, Texas qualifies for: - 100% Financing Available- Small Monthly Mortgage Insurance (.30% of loan amount per year)- Interest Rates are still very competitive compared to Conventional and FHA. The biggest benefit is no down payment to a USDA loan- true 100% financing- with long term, 30 year fixed rate loans. Low MI (mortgage insurance) compare it to FHA and Conventional and see the savings! Let's take a look at qualifying requirements for a USDA home loan: There are some geographic areas that do not allow for USDA loans- ... 10/31/2018

The benefits of a preapproval (not prequalification) for Home Loans in Midland, TX. Many consumers are not informed on the proper way for buying a home. No question, this is a big decision, and one that can be either immensely stressful- or immensely enjoyable- depending on how you go about the home buying process of Home Loans in Midland, TX and the surrounding areas. The key is to take the proper steps to educate yourself on your buying power, initial investment, and taking some time to think about your lifestyle choices. This article will cover all of these.   Education   The steps necessary to purchasing a home in Midland, Texas starts with getting pre-approved for your home loan. Notice we did not say get prequalified- in today’s world a prequalification is not meaningful. You shou... 06/28/2018

We have been specializing in Midland TX Vet Loans for over 20 years! Learn how to qualify for your Vet home loan benefits in this article.   1:  Verify eligibility through your Certificate of eligibility (COE).   The first step to obtaining Midland TX Vet Loans is veryfying your eligibility. This is done by ordering your Certificate of Eligibility (COE) through VA which will also confirm the amount of your eligibility. If you are an honorably discharged Vet, or are active duty or reserves currently, then you are likely eligible.   How do you order your COE? Your lender can help you get your COE fast, usually the same day you request it. You can also order the COE through the VA either by mail or online. Honorably discharged Vets will need a copy of their DD214.   #2:  Obtain pre-approva... 12/30/2016

Lo Que Usted Necesita Saber Sobre Una Garantía ResidencialSi usted esta comprando o vendiendo una casa, una garantía puede hacer su experiencia mas segura y placentera.  Una garantía residencial es un producto ofrecido por agencias de garantía independientes que trabajan con ciertos contratistas para ofrecer reparaciones imprevistas que se presentan cuando se es dueño de una casa.  Como vendedor, una garantía puede agilizar la venta de su casa, traer un mejor precio de venta, y prevenir costosas reparaciones en el futuro.  Como comprador, especialmente un comprador con ahorros para emergencia limitados, que no es necesariamente muy buen mil usos, o como comprador primerizo preocupado por su inversion, una garantía le puede ayudar a cubrir ciertos gastos que vienen con el ser dueño de su... 10/15/2015

The Value of a Home WarrantyWhether you are buying or selling a home, a home warranty can make your real estate experience more secure. A home warranty is a product offered by independent home warranty companies who work with specific contractors to offer repairs for unforeseen expenses of home ownership.As the seller of a house, a home warranty can expedite the sale of your home, bring you closer to asking price, and prevent future repair costs. As a buyer, especially a home buyer with a limited or coveted emergency funds, who isn’t particularly handy, or a first time home buyer who is concerned about their investment, a home warranty can help cover the costs of home ownership, such as unforeseen breaks in major systems and appliances.A home warranty may cover things like heating and a... 10/07/2015

Things to Do in Midland TX for HalloweenThis is the season for spooky things, candy apples, pumpkin carving, and Halloween adventures. That’s right, Halloween time is here! The cool weather gives us a wonderful opportunity to enjoy the outdoors with friends and family. So, this is the perfect time to seek out events that get you out of the house.Midland, TX stays alive during this season with numerous activities for people of all ages. From costume contests and hay rides to the corn mazes that will keep you guessing, you’re sure to find something that fills your October with fun activities. The Laura Castillo Group has put together a number of fun and creative things to do during this time of year.Click Here for More 09/29/2015

House Staging Tips for Your PoolMost people dream of having a pool where they can relax and entertain. If you’re lucky enough to have a pool, you’ve just increased the likelihood that a potential buyer will take an active interest in your house. The most important thing to remember about having a pool is the need to show it in the best light possible. The Laura Castillo Group in Midland, TX has a few tips to help you stage your pool successfully.Cool, Clear WaterThe first thing a potential buyer is going to notice about your pool is the water. It’s extremely important to make sure the water is crystal clear and free of debris. While your house is on the market and being shown to buyers, make sure you clean the pool water frequently. This means skimming it to keep out stray leaves or ins... 09/21/2015

House Staging Tips with Children in MindYou’ll want to make things as appealing as possible to potential buyers when your house is up for sale. It doesn’t have to cost a fortune or take an excessive amount of time to create the right atmosphere, but it does take an eye for details. This eye for details becomes increasingly important when you’re staging rooms that are normally used by children. When it comes to house staging, The Laura Castillo Group can offer you some helpful tips to creating a space that sells.Put Away the ToysWhen it comes to showing your house, you’ll want to put away the toys and games. Most children have a large selection of toys to choose from when they are playing. To make things easier to manage while in the showing stage, select an assortment of your child’s fa... 09/09/2015

 House Staging Tips for BathroomsBathroom doors covered in soap residue and dirty tiles can throw up a red flag for potential buyers. The impression left on them by bathrooms in your home plays a big part in assessment of how well the house was cared for during your ownership. An unclean or messy bathroom takes their eyes away from the potential of the space and creates a block when it comes to selling your house as quickly as possible. When it comes to house staging and bathrooms, The Laura Castillo Group can offer you some helpful tips to creating a bathroom that sells.CLICK HERE FOR COMPLETE ARTICLEHomes for Sale in Midland TX  08/28/2015

The Importance of Local School DistrictsWhen buying a home, consider the importance of local school districts. Even if you don’t have children, the school district that serves your area can be of significance should you ever decide to sell your home. People who have children, or are planning to have children, will spend more money to be near highly rated public schools. Even in a down market, the value of living in an area with a top scoring school district can be beneficial and protect the value of your home.Midland is served by two schools districts. The Greenwood Independent School District is comprised of one elementary school, one middle school, and one high school. The Midland Independent School District is comprised of twenty-four elementary schools and twelve secondary schools.M... 08/18/2015

Back to School Supplies and Tips for Midland TX It will soon be time to bid summer a fond farewell and offer a friendly greeting to school days. While you’re still enjoying the freedom of those summer days, it’s never too early to begin planning for the coming school year.To find the complete article on back to school supplies and tips for Midland, TX:CLICK HERE  08/17/2015

Each Month, Laura Castillo Group brings you the Monthly Market Report. To find out how this affects homes in your area, contact Laura at 806-401-4217.CLICK HERE ----->> To see previous market reports.Wondering how much your home is worth? Check our home value estimator.Browse Homes for Sale in Midland TX 08/13/2015

Fun Things to Do With Your Dad in Midland TXWe love and appreciate our fathers all through the year, but on June 21st we get to show them just how special they are to us by doing something special for them. You could rely on the usual dinner out, or you could get creative this year and do something different this year. Here’s a couple of fun things to do with your dad in Midland, TX to help get your creative wheels turning.Marian West and William Blakemore Planetarium is located at the Museum of the Southwest. The museum is located at 1705 West Missouri Avenue in Midland, TX. This address is in the 79701 zip code area. They can be reached by phone at 432-638-2882.The museum is open Tuesday – Saturday from 10 AM – 5 PM and Sunday from 2 PM – 5PM. Cost of admission is $5 for anyone 12 and... 06/11/2015

Helpful Ideas When Moving to Midland TX Finding a new home in your town can be exciting, overwhelming, thrilling, and stressful. Finding a new home in another town, city, state, or country can magnify those feelings and leave you running for cover. The good news is that the Laura Castillo Group can assist you with your relocation and make things less stressful.Laura is extremely knowledgeable about the Midland, TX area. Laura knows about Midland because she calls it home. Laura lives in Midland with her husband and their son. Her family is invested in the community. When talking to Laura about Midland, you can be sure that you’re getting information about the community that can only come from someone who knows the area because of her personal experiences and interactions.While you’re wr... 06/01/2015

Dream Homes for Sale in Midland TX – What Do To When You Find Yours!You’ve looked through dozens of home plan magazines. You’ve driven around neighborhood after neighborhood in Midland, slowly taking in all the details of the homes that catch your eye. Now, you’ve finally found the one that checks all your boxes. This is the home of your dreams!Before you rush to sign on the dotted line and commit yourself to a 30-year mortgage, take off your rose colored glasses and look closely at your dream home. Turn off your emotions and ask some tough questions. Often, a home buyer gets caught up in the excitement of the dream and ignores important things that they wish they had paid attention to when the sparkling clouds of their dream vanish.Tough QuestionsDon’t be afraid to ask the tough questi... 05/15/2015