January 2025 - Republic Title

Romantic Restaurants in DFW

Love is in the air… and on the menu!

We asked our Republic Title offices to share their favorite romantic restaurants in their area just in time for Valentine’s Day! Whether you’re planning a dreamy date night or a cozy dinner, these local gems are sure to impress.

Swipe through our Valentine’s Day cards for our favorite local spots and lock down your vday plans!

CASTLE HILLS:

Davio’s Northern Italian | Italian Steakhouse | davios.com

Moonglow | Fusion Cuisine | moonglowdallas.com

Red Phone Booth | Cocktail Bar | redphonebooth.com

Seven Doors Kitchen | Modern American | sevendoorskitchen.com

Sheesh Eatery & Lounge | Pakistani Cuisine | sheeshtx.com

FRISCO:

Dee Lincoln Prime | Steakhouse – Seafood – Sushi | deelincolnprime.com

Ill Forks | Chophouse & Seafood | 3forks.com

*La Parisienne | French Bistro | parisienneusa.com

Lombardi Cucina Italiana | Italian Cuisine | lombarrdicucina.com

Trick Rider | Rodeo Culture Inspired Steakhouse | omnihotels.com

LAKEWOOD:

Columbian Country Club | Premier Cocktail Lounge | columbiancc.com

Gemma | New American Bites | gemmadallas.com

Goldie’s | American Cuisine | goldiesdallas.com

LOUNGE HERE | Swanky Neighborhood Lounge | theloungehere.com

Mot Hai Ba | Asian Fusion | mothaibadallas.com

Terilli’s | Italian Cuisine & Live Jazz | terillis.com

NORTH DALLAS:

Al Biernat’s North | Upscale Steak & Seafood | albiernats.com

Antonio Ristorante | Italian Cuisine | antonioristorante.com

Bobbie’s Airway Grill | Mid-Century Inspired American Grill | bobbiesrestaurantdallas.com

Brentwood | Traditional Americana | brentwooddallas.com

Oceanaire | Seafood & Steakhouse | theoceanaire.com

Table 13 | American Cuisine & Live Jazz | table13addison.com

PARK CITIES:

Catch | Seafood & Steakhouse | catchrestaurants.com

Dakota’s | Steakhouse | dakotasrestaurant.com

Dolce Riviera | Italian Cuisine | dolceriviera.com

Fearing’s | Fine Dining Restaurant | fearingsrestaurant.com

Jack & Harry’s | New Orleans Inspired Steakhouse | thejackandharrys.com

Te Deseo | Latin American Cuisine | tedeseo.com

PLANO-ALLEN:

Better Than Sex | Dessert Restaurant | betterthansexdesserts.com

Fontina Ristorante | Authentic Italian Cuisine | fontinaristorante.com

Lavendou Bistro | French Eatery | lavendou.com

Rick’s Chophouse | Fine Dining Steakhouse | rickschophouse.com

Urban Grill & Wine Bar | Gourmet Comfort Food | urbangrillmckinney.com

Zin Zen Wine Bistro | Wine Bar & New American Bites | zinzenwine.com

PRESTON LEGACY:

Bob’s | Steak & Chop House| Bobs-steakandchop.com

Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Grill | Steakhouse | delfriscos.com

Steve Fields | Steakhouse | stevefields.com

Toulouse Café & Bar | French Cuisine | toulousecafeandbar.com

Truluck’s Ocean’s Finest | Seafood & Steakhouse | trulucks.com

The Capital Grille | Fine Dining Steakhouse | thecapitalgrille.com

PROSPER:

HeyDay | Cocktail Lounge & Kitchen | heydaycelina.com

Mi Chante | Mexican Cuisine | michanteprosper.com

Sushi Nunu | Sushi | sushinunu.com

The Forge 1912 | Steakhouse| theforge1912.com

The Wick | American Comfort Food | thewickcelina.com

RICHARDSON:

Lockwood Distilling | Southern Comfort | lockwooddistilling.com

Partenope | Italian – Pizzeria | partenopedallas.com

Silver Fox | American Steakhouse | silverfoxcafe.com

Texas | American Chophouse | thesonoftexas.com

The Fifth | New American | thefifthtx.com

SOUTHLAKE:

Calabrese | Italian – Tuscan Cuisine | calabresetx.com

Capital Grille | American Steakhouse | thecapitalgrille.com

Kirby’s | American Steakhouse | kirbyssteakhouse.com

Pacific Table | Pacific Northwest Inspired | pacifictable.com

Perry’s | Seafood & Chophouse | perryssteakhouse.com

Truluck’s | Seafood & Steakhouse| trulucks.com

TURTLE CREEK:

Carbone | Italian – American Eatery | barsottis-dallas.com

Mister Charles | Classic European Fare| themistercharles.com

Monarch | Italian – Seafood | monarchrestaurants.com

Nobu | Japanese – Peruvian Fare | noburestaurants.com

St. Martin’s | French Cuisine & Live Piano | stmartinswinebistro.com

The Mansion | New American with a French Flair | rosewoodhotels.com

Important Tax Information for 2024 Home Buyers – And existing Home Owners

It’s that time of year again; time for 2024 buyers to apply for their Homestead and other exemptions! Please click the links below (available in English and Spanish) for a helpful PDF that you can provide to your clients with important websites, phone numbers and instructions on how to file their exemptions. Our goal at Republic Title is to provide you with helpful information that saves you time and assists you in building your real estate business.

Important Tax Exemption Information For New Homeowners

Important Tax Exemption Information – Spanish

For a PDF flyer with more in-depth information on all available Texas Tax Exemptions click here: Texas Tax Exemptions

Important note regarding Homestead Exemptions for Existing Home Owners

Beginning in 2024, a modification in the Texas Tax Code requires all Central Appraisal Districts to verify a property owner’s eligibility to continue to receive their homestead exemption. For most districts, this will consist of a review every five years, potentially necessitating some homeowners to reapply for their exemption. Should you receive notification from your Central Appraisal District, it’s crucial not to disregard it. Take proactive measures to confirm your eligibility and ensure ongoing access to the advantages provided by the homestead exemption.

Read More on the changes enacted in 2024 here:

Republic Title Answers Your Questions on Recent Changes to Homestead Exemptions – Republic Title

Texas Homestead Notice – Republic Title

List of DFW area Central Appraisal Districts and their contact information:

2024 DFW Real Estate Year-End Stats at a Glance

Our fourth annual stats report of the DFW real estate market is here!

We’ve taken our monthly stats-at-a-glance reports from January through December of 2024, totaled, averaged, and compared the data to the numbers from 2023. The result is an annual report of the DFW real estate market in 2024.

For more stats information, pdfs and graphics of our stats including detailed information by MLS area and condo stats, visit the Resources section on our website at DFW Area Real Estate Statistics | Republic Title of Texas.

December 2024 DFW Real Estate Stats

As we close the chapter on 2024, North Texas has proven once again why it’s a shining star in the real estate world. With an increase in listings, steady price appreciation, and a growing reputation as the top market for real estate investment, the Dallas-Fort Worth area has solidified its place as a powerhouse. Let’s reflect on how we rounded out 2024 in key counties of North Texas.

Collin County experienced a 39.5% increase in active listings, 18.1% growth in new listings, and a 12.1% rise in closed sales over December 2023. The average sales price dropped down 1.1% to $561,938, and the average days on market increased by 26% to 63 days.

Dallas County recorded a 10.3% rise in new listings, 9.9% growth in closed sales, and a 29.5% surge in active listings from a year ago. The average sales price climbed 15.4% to $590,049, with the average days on market increasing to 54 days, up 31.7%.

Denton County saw significant growth, with active listings rising 29.7%, new listings up 21.4%, and closed sales increasing by 14.6%. The average sales price rose by 5.8% to $580,487, and the days on market increased to 58 days, up 7.4%.

Rockwall County posted a 28.1% jump in active listings, an increase of 13% in new listings, and a 7.1% rise in closed sales. The average sales price climbed 15.8% to $556,204, while the average days on market rose to 87 days, up 19.2%.

Tarrant County experienced a 16.7% rise in active listings, a 4.5% increase in new listings, and a 7.6% growth in closed sales. The average sales price rose by 4.6% to $443,756, while the average days on market increased by 18.8% to 57 days.

As we step into 2025, the North Texas real estate market stands poised for what could be a transformative year. According to the Emerging Trends in Real Estate, a trends and forecast publication, undertaken jointly by PwC and the Urban Land Institute , the DFW Metroplex was recently named the nation’s top spot for real estate investment and development for 2025. Only time will tell how this year will play out, but one thing is certain: North Texas remains a beacon of opportunity and promise. At Republic Title, we’re excited to navigate the possibilities with you, offering expertise and guidance every step of the way. Let’s see what 2025 has in store!

Our stats infographics include a year over year comparison and area highlights for single family homes broken down by county. We encourage you to share these infographics and video with your sphere.

For more stats information, pdfs and graphics of our stats including detailed information by county, visit the Resources section on our website at DFW Area Real Estate Statistics | Republic Title of Texas.

For the full report from the Texas A&M Real Estate Research Center and for NTREIS Local Market reports click here.

7-Reasons-homebuyers-need-Title-Insurance

7 Reasons Why Every Homebuyer Needs Owner’s Title Insurance

BUYING A HOME IS AN EXCITING AND EMOTIONAL TIME FOR MANY PEOPLE. TO HELP YOU BUY YOUR HOME WITH MORE CONFIDENCE, MAKE SURE YOU GET OWNER’S TITLE INSURANCE. HERE’S WHY IT’S SO IMPORTANT FOR YOU:

PROTECTS YOUR LARGEST INVESTMENT
A home is probably the single largest investment you will make in your life. You insure everything else that’s valuable to you—your life, car, health, pets, etc., so why not your largest investment? For a one-time fee, owner’s title insurance protects your property rights for as long as you own your home.
REDUCES YOUR RISK
If you’re buying a home, there are many hidden issues that may pop up only after you purchase your home. Getting an owner’s title insurance policy is the best way to protect yourself from unforeseen title discrepancies. Don’t think it will
happen to you? Think again.
Title claims can include:
– outstanding mortgages and judgments, or a lien against the property because the seller has not paid his taxes
– pending legal action against the property that could affect you
– an unknown heir of a previous owner who is claiming ownership of the property
– boundary disputes, fraud and forgery, clerical and filing errors and more.
YOU CAN’T BEAT THE VALUE
Owner’s title insurance is a one-time fee that’s very low relative to the value it provides. It typically costs around 0.5% of the home’s purchase price.
COVERS YOUR HEIRS
As long as you or your heirs own your home, owner’s title insurance protects your property rights.
NOTHING COMPARES
Homeowners insurance and warranties protect only the structure and belongings of your home. Getting owner’s title insurance ensures your property rights are protected.
8 IN 10 HOMEOWNERS AGREE
Each year, more than 80% of America’s homebuyers choose to get owner’s title insurance.
PEACE OF MIND
If you’re buying a home, owner’s title insurance lets you rest assured, knowing that you’re protected from inheriting possible debts or legal problems, once you’ve closed on your new home.

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Texas Housing Insight October 2024 Summary

All measurements are calculated using seasonally adjusted data, and percentage changes are calculated month-over-month, unless stated otherwise.

October 2024 data dashboard: Total Home Sales +8.8%, Median Home Price $335,773, Mortgage Rates 6.4%, Single-Family Starts 8.7%

Home sales typically cool off by October, but this year is a little different with sales in both September and October higher than they were during the summer. The rate of new listings is still on the rise resulting in rising inventory levels. Home prices, on the other hand, have remained the same. Interest rates increased for the first time since spring 2024. Finally, new-home permits were flat this month, but housing starts made a strong month-over-month (MOM) push.

Sales Increase, New Listings follow

Unlike most years when sales activity is high in July and August and low in the last quarter, 2024 showed the opposite. Sales dipped in August and increased in October by 8.8 percent (28,859) (Table 1). San Antonio had the highest sales increase, reaching almost 17 percent (2,906), followed by Houston with 12 percent (8,066) and Austin at 7 percent (2,488). Dallas was the only city among the Big Four to see a decline in sales (1 percent, or 7,432).

Table 1. Home Sales Volume containing data for September, October and MOM Change for San-Antonio-New Braunfels, Houston-Pasadena-The Woodlands, Texas, Austin-Round Rock-San Marcos, and Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington

New listings have been increasing since July 2024 and continued to increase in October. Among the Big Four, Houston and San Antonio experienced MOM increases of 10.3 percent (14,627) and 8.6 percent (4,447), respectively. San Antonio has been almost at a vertical incline since mid 2024. Dallas and Austin grew by 7.3 percent (12,063) and 5 percent (3,774), respectively.

The state’s average days on market (DOM) fell to 61 days in October, a two-day drop. Houston had the largest decrease—from 53 to 50 days, a 4.3 percent decrease. Austin also fell from 73 days to 71 days, a 3.3 percent decrease, followed by San Antonio, which went from 74 days to 73 days, a 2.1 percent decrease. Dallas was the only Big Four city to see an increase in DOM—from 54 to 56 days, a 4 percent increase.

Texas’ number of active listings increased from 122,192 to 124,663 (2 percent). There has been no significant activity in October across the Big Four. Houston increased by 2.4 percent (30,345) followed by Dallas at 1.8 percent (28,704). Austin had a 0.6 percent decrease in active listings (28,704), while San Antonio had almost no activity, remaining at 14,000 listings.

Statewide pending listings have decreased from 29,006 to 28,516, a 1.7 percent overall drop. Dallas saw a 5.4 percent increase in pending listings, from 7,717 to 8,133, followed by Austin at 2.4 percent (2,565). Dallas has been consistently increasing since August 2024. Houston rose by 2 percent (7,577), while San Antonio fell by 0.6 percent (2,854).

Interest Rates Bounce Back

Treasury and mortgage rates both increased in October with the average ten-year U.S. Treasury Bondyield up by 38 basis points, reaching 4.1 percent. The Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation’s 30-year fixed-rate rose by 25 basis points to 6.43 percent. October was the first month of increase for both rates since spring 2024. Additionally, both rates have increased even as the federal funds rate has continued to drop.

New-Home Starts Rally

Statewide, building permits increased by 0.9 percent MOM in October. Except for Dallas, the Big Four had an upward trend with Austin at 17.7 percent, San Antonio at 7.6 percent, and Houston at 1.6 percent. Dallas fell by 8.6 percent.

Seasonally adjusted statewide single-family starts increased 8.7 percent MOM to 14,332 units. Most of the Big Four had an uptick. San Antonio and Dallas had the highest increases at 30.3 percent (1,164) and 25.6 percent (3,813), respectively. Austin was up by 1.5 percent (1,555), while Houston fell 0.7 percent (4,393).

The state’s total value of single-family starts climbed from $25.4 billion in October 2023 to $32.07 billion in October 2024. Houston accounted for 35.3 percent of the state’s total starts value, followed by Dallas with 27.2 percent.

Home Prices Remain Steady

Texas’ median home price didn’t change in October, remaining at $335,000 (Table 2). Dallas grew the most—3 percent, from $393,340 to $404,995. Austin followed at 1.8 percent ($430,304 to $437,835). San Antonio rose by 0.3 percent, an increase slightly above $1,000, and currently stands at $306,624. Houston fell 0.1 percent to $337,852.

Table 2. Median Housing Prices containing data for September, October, MOM Change for Dallas-Forth Worth-Arlington, Austin-Round Rock-San Marcos, San Antonio-New Braunfels, Texas, and Houston-Pasadena-The Woodlands.

The Texas Repeat Sales Home Price Index (Jan 2005=100), which is a more accurate reflection of home price changes, fell 0.3 percent MOM in October but increased 1.6 percent year over year (YOY). Austin’s annual appreciation remains below the state’s average and fell by 1.5 percent YOY in October.

Source: Texas Housing Insight | Texas Real Estate Research Center (By Joshua Roberson, Rhutu Kallur, and Junqing Wu – January 13, 2025)

Upping Your Social Media Game in 2025

Are you interested in upping your social media game in 2025 but not sure where to start with planning your content?

If so, check our content calendar template to help you crush your social media goals this new year. Our content calendar has 30 days of content ideas, as well as a longer list of items to help you brainstorm. 💡

Click the here for your FREE 30 Day Content Calendar!

Sold house sign in Midwest suburban setting. Focus on sign.

What You Should Know About Buying a House in 2025

As we welcome 2025, the North Texas real estate market is shaping up to be one of the best in the country. Ranked No. 1 for real estate investment in the Urban Land Institute’s annual Emerging Trends in Real Estate forecast, DFW continues to attract attention for its stability, affordability, job growth, and economic diversity. With several years as a top contender in this report, it’s no surprise that investors and homebuyers alike are keeping a close eye on the region. And if you are in the market to buy or sell a home this year, Republic Title is here to make your real estate transactions as smooth and successful as possible.

The Bigger Picture: A Balanced Market

DFW is one of the fastest-growing metro areas in the country, now home to more than 8 million people, according to the latest census estimates.

After several years of extreme market activity, the real estate landscape in North Texas is shifting to a more balanced, buyer-friendly environment.

Home prices across the metro area have remained mostly flat over the past year, and forecasts suggest this trend will likely continue into 2025.

One of the most significant developments for the housing market in 2024 has been the increase in inventory levels. According to Realtor.com’s September 2024 housing market report, active real estate listings in the DFW area surged by 50% year-over-year. This surge provides a much-needed boost to housing supply, giving homebuyers more options and greater negotiating power.

Pent-Up Demand from First-Time Buyers

A significant pent-up demand exists among young buyers and first-time homebuyers. In 2024, only 24% of homebuyers were first-time purchasers, a notable decline from previous years. Many younger buyers have been waiting on the sidelines due to high mortgage rates, limited inventory, and escalating home prices. However, as the market stabilizes, these buyers are expected to reenter in 2025, contributing to increased demand.

Price Reductions and Negotiating Leverage

Data from Redfin and other sources show that up to 40% of homes listed for sale in the DFW area have undergone a price reduction in recent months. The frequency of these price cuts has steadily increased since the start of 2024, signaling two key market shifts:

Sellers are becoming more flexible when pricing their homes.
Buyers have more negotiating power than they have in recent years.

This is a stark contrast to the market conditions seen in the post-pandemic housing frenzy, where bidding wars and skyrocketing prices left buyers scrambling. In 2025, buyers can approach the market with confidence, knowing they have more room to negotiate and less pressure to make hasty decisions.

Mortgage Rates: The New Normal

One of the most critical factors influencing home affordability is mortgage rates. Recent reports indicate that the Federal Reserve may implement fewer cuts to the federal funds rate than initially anticipated, focusing on maintaining stability in the economy. However, mortgage rates are expected to remain steady around 6%, reflecting the “new normal” for borrowing costs.

For buyers who have been sidelined by rising borrowing costs in recent years, the slight stabilization of rates, combined with stable home prices, makes homeownership more accessible and attractive heading into 2025.

Why DFW Continues to Shine

DFW’s appeal extends far beyond real estate. Its growing economy, favorable cost of living, and thriving job market make it a magnet for businesses and families. Industries like technology, logistics, healthcare, and finance continue to expand, attracting talent from across the country. This sustained population and job growth underpin the housing market’s resilience, ensuring demand for homes remains steady.

Furthermore, North Texas’ affordability relative to other major U.S. markets remains a significant advantage. Despite rising costs in recent years, DFW offers a quality of life and value that’s difficult to match in cities like Los Angeles, New York, or San Francisco. This affordability factor keeps DFW attractive to first-time buyers, move-up buyers, and real estate investors alike.

Key Predictions for 2025

Given the trends we’re seeing today, the following forecasts highlight what we can expect from the DFW real estate market in 2025:

Stable Home Prices: Home values are likely to remain flat or experience only modest gains, providing a balanced environment for buyers and sellers.
Increased Inventory: The supply of homes will continue to rise, giving buyers more choices and reducing competition.
Pent-Up Demand: More young and first-time buyers are expected to reenter the market, boosting activity and demand.
Mortgage Rates Around 6%: While federal funds rate cuts are anticipated, mortgage rates will likely stabilize at this new normal.
Buyer-Friendly Market: With sellers showing increased flexibility and price reductions becoming more common, buyers will have more negotiating power than they’ve had in years.

The North Texas real estate market remains a leader in 2025, offering stability, affordability, and opportunities for both buyers and investors. With increased inventory, pent-up demand, and a return to a more balanced market, the conditions are ripe for buyers to take advantage of this moment. If you’re looking to buy or sell in 2025, Republic Title would love to work with you. As your trusted title partner in North Texas, Republic Title is committed to making your real estate transactions smooth, efficient, and successful. Contact them today to learn how they can help you navigate this exciting market. Happy New Year!

Source: Republic Title Boils Down What You Should Know About Buying a House in 2025 – CandysDirt.com

November 2024 DFW Real Estate Stats

The Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) residential real estate market showed notable year-over-year growth across key counties.

Collin County experienced a significant increase in new listings (up 19.6%), active listings (up 38.4%), and closed sales (up 22.5%), with an average sales price up 4.3% and days on market rising to 51.

Dallas County saw a modest rise in new listings (up 3.5%) and closed sales (up 3.9%), while active listings jumped 30.3%, days on market increased to 47, and average sales price edged up 1.3%.

Denton County recorded a 7.8% gain in new listings, a 25.3% boost in active listings, and a 9.4% rise in closed sales, with an average sales price climbing 7.7% and days on market reaching 59.

Rockwall County had substantial growth in new listings (up 18.5%) and closed sales (up 9.4%), with active listings up 27.5%, average sales price increasing 1.9%, and days on market at 71.

Tarrant County was the only area with a decline in new listings (down 2.3%), but it still saw a 9% rise in closed sales, a 6.7% increase in average sales price to $450,000, and a 24.4% rise in days on market to 51.

Overall, the market remains dynamic, with increasing inventory, longer selling times, and rising prices reflecting a shifting balance between supply and demand. The DFW Metroplex is poised to lead the nation as one of the hottest real estate markets in 2025, driven by robust demand, strong economic growth, and an influx of new residents and businesses. At Republic Title, we are ready to help you navigate this dynamic market with confidence. Our expert teams deliver seamless title and escrow services designed to protect your investments and ensure smooth transactions. Whether you’re building, buying, or selling, trust us to make your real estate experience the best it can be in this exciting year ahead. Happy New Year!

For the full report from the Texas A&M Real Estate Research Center and for NTREIS Local Market reports click here.