Fraudsters are impersonating property owners to illegally sell commercial or residential property. Fraudsters are using the real property owner’s Social Security and driver’s license numbers in the transaction, as well as legitimate notary credentials, which may be applied without the notary’s knowledge. The criminals are highly sophisticated and hard to detect if you are not vigilant.
REALTORS® can be a huge part of the solution if they know the red flags to look for and understand how important their role is.
Property and Seller Red Flags to Watch Out For – Vacant or non-owner occupied ( such as investment, vacation or rental property) – The owner’s mailing address on the tax roll is different than the property address – Property has no outstanding mortgage or liens – Property is being listed for a price below market value – Seller demands a quick sale with a cash buyer & the proceeds to be wired to an out of state or out of the country bank – Seller refuses to attend closing & claims to be out of the state or country – Seller is difficult to contact & will only communicate by text or email – Seller refuses or is unable to complete multi-factor authentication or identity verification – Seller wants to use their own notary – Seller has an area code that is unrecognizable or foreign
VERIFY THE SELLER’S IDENTITY
• Get a copy of 2 forms of ID • Ask questions about the property that are not available in public records • Conduct additional due diligence as needed
USE PUBLIC RECORDS
• Get a copy of 2 forms of ID • Ask questions about the property that are not available in public records • Conduct additional due diligence as needed
WHERE TO GO FOR FRAUD INFO & REPORTING
• FBI: ic3.fbi • Secret Service: secretservice.gov • FTC: reportfraud.ftc.gov • Also check with local State law enforcement, Attorney General and/or the Secretary of State for more information & notary violations.
We’re excited to announce the release of the 2024 Commercial Endorsement Guide, your go-to resource for the top ALTA commercial endorsements. This guide is now available in both printed and digital formats, ensuring that you have the flexibility to access the information you need, whenever and wherever you need it.
What’s New in the 2024 Guide?
Interactive Digital Flipbook: The digital version of our guide is designed as an easy-to-navigate flipbook. You can quickly access a clickable list of top commercial endorsements and perform keyword searches to find exactly what you’re looking for. The flipbook is linked here for your convenience.
Alignment with 2021 Policy Forms: All endorsements in the guide are related to the 2021 Owners and Loan Policy forms.
New Endorsements: We’ve included new ALTA 10.2 and 10.3 endorsements.
Revised Endorsements: The guide also features updated endorsements, including the ALTA 3.3, ALTA 14 series, and ALTA 42.
Whether you prefer the tactile experience of a printed guide or the convenience of a digital one, the 2024 Commercial Endorsement Guide is designed to make your work easier and more efficient. Access it today and ensure you have the best tools at your disposal for your commercial transactions.
Whether you’re a lifelong resident or new to the area, there’s always something new to discover about your neighborhood. With that in mind, we created a Fast Facts sheet for cities and neighborhoods all over the DFW area. Our DFW Area fast facts have detailed real estate insights, things to do, places to shop and some of our favorite restaurants in each area.
Saginaw, Texas, is a vibrant suburban city located in Tarrant County, just northwest of Fort Worth. Known for its friendly community atmosphere and family-oriented environment, Saginaw offers a range of amenities including parks, schools, and local businesses. The city combines a small-town feel with convenient access to the larger urban areas of the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, making it an attractive place for residents seeking a balanced lifestyle.
POPULATION
24K
AVERAGE HOUSEHOLD INCOME
$96K
MEDIAN AGE
37
HOUSING
73% OWN 27% RENT
AVERAGE SALES PRICE
$310K
AREA ACTIVITIES & FEATURES
• FORT WORTH STOCKYARDS • EAGLE MOUNTAIN LAKE • LAKE WORTH • GOLF RESORT ON EAGLE MOUNTAIN LAKE • SWITCHYARD FOOD TRUCK PARK • SAGINAW FARMERS MARKET • SAGINAW MAIN STREET PARK • SAGINAW AQUATIC CENTER • SAGINAW HERITAGE SQUARE • GOLF CLUB AT FOSSIL CREEK • LINKS ON THE LAKE | DISC GOLF COURSE
FAVORITE LOCAL DINING & DRINK SPOTS
• FAMOUS DAVE’S BAR-B-QUE • JAKES OLD CITY GRILL • • THE SCOTTISH INN • TEXAS PIT BBQ • SAGINAW NUTRITION • HARVEY’S GRILL & BAR • RETRO ROCKS • • ARTISAN URBAN BISTRO • EL SOMBRERO • EAGLE’S POINT BAR & GRILL • JOE’S PIZZA & PASTA • JR’S CAFÉ OF SAGINAW • THE LAKEHOUSE • BAD AZZ BURRITOS • TASTY STEAKS • CHINA FLAG • GUISO MEXICAN KITCHEN • EL MIL TACOS • PHO REAL • BLUE MOUND CAFE • SALSAZON • • CHARLEYS CHEESESTEAKS • BLUE 32 •
FAVORITE LOCAL SHOPPING
• RHINESTONE RANCH BOUTIQUE • WHATCHA WHIPPING CANDLE CO • SAGINAW SCENTS • ALLIANCE TOWN CENTER • • RIDGLEA SHOPPING CENTER • HULEN MALL •
AVERAGE DRIVE TIMES
• DOWNTOWN DALLAS | 60 MINUTES • DALLAS LOVE FIELD AIRPORT | 45 MINUTES • DFW INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT | 25 MINUTES • AT&T STADIUM & GLOBE LIFE FIELD | 40 MINUTES • DOWNTOWN FORT WORTH | 20 MINUTES
In July 2024, the real estate market in the DFW Metroplex displayed varied trends across different counties. Overall, the DFW Metroplex saw a mix of rising listing activity and extended market times, with some counties experiencing price growth while others faced slight declines in sales.
Collin County saw significant activity, with new listings increasing by 27% and active listings surging by 46.1%. The days on market (DOM) rose to 39 days, marking a 25% increase from the prior year. The average sales price was approximately $580K, slightly down by 1.4%, while the average price per square foot rose by 1.3% to $228. Closed sales increased marginally by 1.2%, reaching 1,452 units.
In Dallas County, new listings grew by 14.9%, and active listings by 42.2%. The DOM increased to 37 days, up over 27% from the previous year. The average sales price rose by 8.7% to $575K, with the price per square foot also seeing a rise of 2.1% to $241. However, closed sales declined by 3.3%, totaling 1,797 units.
Denton County followed a similar trend, with new listings up by 11.9% and active listings by 26.8%. The DOM was 39 days, up 8.3% from the previous year. The average sales price increased by 1.5% to $578K, and the price per square foot rose slightly by 0.5% to $223. Closed sales remained nearly flat, with a slight decrease of 0.1%, ending at 1,274 units.
Rockwall County experienced a modest increase in new listings by 6.2% and active listings by 31.7%. However, the DOM rose significantly to 60 days, an increase of over 33% from the prior year. The average sales price increased by 11% to $537K, while the price per square foot went up by 3.7% to $197. Closed sales dropped notably by 17.5%, totaling 179 units.
In Tarrant County, new listings increased by 11.9%, and active listings by 30.5%. The DOM was 40 days, a 25% increase from the previous year. The average sales price was $454K, with the price per square foot at $201. Closed sales saw a slight rise of 2.1%, reaching 2,054 units.
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.
We are proud to announce that we have won the Readers’ Choice award by Living Magazine for Best Title Company in Coppell & North Irving, Frisco & Plano, Keller, McKinney & Allen, Prosper & Celina, and Richardson & Murphy! Thank you to our valued customers for trusting us with your title and escrow needs. To see all the 2024 winners visit: livingmagazine.net
Whether you’re a lifelong resident or new to the area, there’s always something new to discover about your neighborhood. With that in mind, we created a Fast Facts sheet for cities and neighborhoods all over the DFW area. Our DFW Area fast facts have detailed real estate insights, things to do, places to shop and some of our favorite restaurants in each area.
Sachse, Texas, is a growing suburban community located in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. Known for its friendly atmosphere and family-oriented environment, Sachse offers a blend of modern amenities and a small-town charm. The city features well-maintained parks, recreational facilities, and community events, making it an appealing place for residents who appreciate a balanced and active lifestyle.
POPULATION
31K
AVERAGE HOUSEHOLD INCOME
$143K
MEDIAN AGE
42
HOUSING
91% OWN 9% RENT
AVERAGE SALES PRICE
$467K
AREA ACTIVITIES & FEATURES
• SACHSE HISTORICAL SOCIETY MUSEUM • MUDDY CREEK NATURE RESERVE • SACHSE PUBLIC LIBRARY • JOE J. AND PATRICIA D. STONE PARK • HAPIK DALLAS FIREWHEEL • SALMON PARK
FAVORITE LOCAL DINING & DRINK SPOTS
• SACHSE ICE HOUSE • BOP JOA • FRANKIE’S MEXICAN CUISINE • OSAKA HIBACHI SUSHI AND BAR • WOODBRIDGE CAFÉ • THE BRASS TAP • PRIMO BROTHERS PIZZA • • PHO STATION • DOUGH GOURMET PIZZA • THE FILLMORE PUB • TAQUERIA GUANAJUATO • YE SHIRE TAVERN • • MR. PIDE • PANDA CHEF • GYROS & KABOBS • THE TIPSY CHICKEN • MANNY’S TEX-MEX • SACHSE NUTRITION •
FAVORITE LOCAL SHOPPING
• FIREWHEEL TOWN CENTER • LAVISH REALM • ALLEN PREMIUM OUTLETS • AESTHETIC BOUTIQUE •
AVERAGE DRIVE TIMES
• DOWNTOWN DALLAS | 35 MINUTES • DALLAS LOVE FIELD AIRPORT | 40 MINUTES • DFW INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT | 35 MINUTES • AT&T STADIUM & GLOBE LIFE FIELD | 45 MINUTES • DOWNTOWN FORT WORTH | 60 MINUTES
Housing activity for both new and existing homes decreased considerably in June. Growth in active listings resulted in downward pressure on home prices. Seasonally adjusted home prices dipped 1.5 percent, which is uncharacteristic for June when housing activity normally peaks for the year.
Home Sales Take Major Downhill Slide in June
Texas witnessed a 14.2 percent month over month (MOM) decrease in seasonally adjusted home sales in June, resulting in 23,791 homes sold (Table 1). Dallas experienced the largest decrease among the Big Four at 16.8 percent (6,571) followed by Houston (6,474) and Austin (2,299), which each fell by 14.5 percent. The decline in San Antonio was relatively minimal, at 13 percent (2,587). As of June, year-to-date home sales are at the same levels as last year.
Recent data indicate a shift in new listings following a period of steady growth, notably led by Austin among the major metropolitan areas, which experienced a 13.6 percent decline to 3,513 listings. While all Big Four cities saw decreases, Austin’s decline was the most pronounced. Houston and San Antonio saw reductions of 3.8 percent (12,919 listings) and 2.4 percent (4,692 listings), respectively. Dallas exhibited the least variation, with a modest decrease of 1.2 percent (10,852 listings).
The state’s average days on market (DOM) increased from 57 to 59. Austin and Houston each increased by three days and are currently at 68 and 50 days, respectively. San Antonio and Dallas each increased by two days. San Antonio had the highest days on market among the Big Four with 74 days. Dallas had an average of 51 days. The number of Texas active listings went up from 113,714 to 116,797 (2.7 percent). The active listings across the Big Four were mixed in June with Houston increasing by 15.7 percent (30,179) while Dallas fell 9.7 percent (24,557). San Antonio and Austin had relatively smaller increases of 2.5 percent (13,576) and 0.3 percent (11,407), respectively.
Statewide pending listings in Texas have been on a decline since February with only a slight increase of 0.3 percent in June. San Antonio and Dallas both decreased by 10 percent and are currently at 2,459 and 6,493, respectively. Houston and Austin increased by 8 percent (7,592) and 4 percent (2,464), respectively. The slowdown in sales and pending listings in San Antonio and Dallas have contributed to their higher-than-normal active listing count.
Interest Rates Dip Slightly
Treasury and mortgage rates both declined in the month of June but was not enough to positively influence housing sales. The average ten-year U.S. Treasury Bond yield fell 17 basis points to 4.31 percent. The Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation’s 30-year fixed-rate fell by 14 basis points to 6.92 percent.
Single-Family Permits Follow Sales Decline
Texas state monthly building permits plummeted 18.9 percent MOM in June reaching 10,977. The Big Four faced a comprehensive decline to varying degrees. The decrease in Austin was the most significant, reaching 30.1 percent. Dallas also experienced a substantial drop, with a decrease of 20.1 percent. Houston and San Antonio had smaller declines of 7.1 and 7.7 percent, respectively.
Single-family construction starts also declined but to a much lesser degree according to data from Dodge Construction Network. Seasonally adjusted statewide single-family starts decreased by 0.3 percent MOM to 13,198 units. Austin had a slower month for permits with a decline of 3.2 percent. DFW actually increased 2.8 percent over May, reaching 3,566 starts. Houston and San Antonio had a slight increase of 0.4 and 0.1 percent, respectively.
The state’s total value of single-family starts climbed from $14.68 billion in June 2023 to $20.06 billion in June 2024. Houston accounted for 36.3 percent of the state’s total starts value followed by Dallas with 26.8 percent.
Home Price Declines
Texas’ median home price fell by 1.5 percent MOM in June with an overall decline in the Big Four areas (Table 2). Houston, San Antonio, and Austin each declined by less than one percent. Dallas experienced the largest decline, with a drop of 1.7 percent, surpassing the overall state decline. For a better understanding of repeat sales from the median approach, see Texas Home Price Index Explained – REC 101.
The Texas Repeat Sales Home Price Index (Jan 2005=100), which is a more accurate reflection of home price changes, fell 0.4 percent MOM in June but increased 1.4 percent year over year (YOY). Austin’s annual appreciation remains below the state’s average and fell by 1.5 percent YOY in June.
Scorching temperatures again this weekend, which calls for a lake-cation! Check out this map of local lakes where you can camp, grill, boat or even swim as you soak up the sun!
Republic Title is pleased to offer a variety of continuing education classes for our customers. Join us in August for classes including:
Backup, Contingent & Multiple Offers APPROVED TREC CONTRACT COURSE This class will prepare licensees to handle the unique aspects of backup, contingent and multiple offer transactions by reviewing pertinent TREC addenda along with critical dates and deadlines. August 6th 10:00 am – 11:00 am Republic Title Preston Legacy
Is This Homestead and Why do Title Companies Care? Homestead rights can be very confusing! This class will help licensees understand how the State of Texas views homesteads and what factors influence the title company’s underwriting decisions. August 14th 10:00 am – 11:00 am Zoom
The REALTORS® Playbook to RPR® Attend this class for a play by play of the best REALTOR® tools available…“RPR®”. RPR® will increase credibility with your clients through the use of numerous data sources so you can research and create attractive reports, which will help set you apart from the rest. Learn to research properties, create attractive reports, create a CMA and tons more. August 20th 10:00 am – 12:00 pm Republic Title Preston Legacy
Escape Hatches for Buyers APPROVED TREC CONTRACT COURSE In this class licensees will become familiar with specific conditions & contingencies within the contract and related addenda that, if not adhered to, could result in a Buyer’s valid termination of the contract. August 21st 10:00 am – 11:00 am Zoom
Build a Better CMA using Cloud CMA If you don’t stand out, you don’t stand a chance! Cloud CMA helps you build a better Comparative Market Analysis report that includes interactive presentations that win more listings, provides a lasting impression and builds trust. Join us in this class to learn how to search for comparables in Matrix, review the Buyer Tour/Property/Flyer Tabs, explore the Automatic Reports features, and more. August 22nd 10:00 am – 11:00 am Zoom
Incredible Canva Tips and Tricks Boost your listings and properties easily and efficiently using Canva’s beautiful real estate templates. Join us to learn new tips and tricks to make designing even easier and make marketing one of your new favorite tasks! August 28th 11:30 am – 12:30 pm Republic Title Prosper
Buying a home is an exciting journey, often marking a significant milestone in one’s life. However, it can also be a complex process, filled with important decisions and necessary steps. Partnering with an experienced and reliable title company, like Republic Title, can make this journey smoother and more enjoyable. With a mission to provide value to every customer they serve through Proven Experience, Dedicated Service, and Lasting Relationships, Republic Title ensures the transfer and protection of your title with the highest level of professionalism and integrity. Let’s walk through the steps of the home-buying process to help you confidently move forward in finding your dream home.
Step 1: Determine Your Budget and Get Pre-Approved
The first step in the home-buying process is determining how much you can afford. This involves evaluating your income, debts, and savings. Use a mortgage calculator to get an estimate of your monthly payments and consider getting pre-approved for a loan. Pre-approval gives you a clear picture of what you can afford and strengthens your offer when you find the right home.
Step 2: Research and Select a Real Estate Agent
A knowledgeable real estate agent is valuable in navigating the home-buying process. They provide expertise on the local market, help you find homes that meet your criteria, and guide you through negotiations. Look for agents with good reviews, local experience, and a solid track record.
Step 3: Start House Hunting
Once you have your budget and real estate agent, it’s time to start looking for your new home. Make a list of must-haves and nice-to-haves to narrow down your search. Attend open houses, schedule private showings, and explore various neighborhoods to find a home that fits your needs and lifestyle.
Step 4: Make an Offer
When you find the right home, your real estate agent will help you make an offer. This involves determining a fair price based on comparable homes in the area, the condition of the property, and current market conditions. Be prepared for negotiations with the seller until you reach an agreement.
Step 5: Option Period
After your offer is accepted, you’ll enter the option period, a phase allowing you to conduct due diligence. While the option period is not mandatory, it is commonly negotiated and agreed to by the parties in residential real estate transactions. Typically lasting seven to 10 days, this period lets you further inspect the property and negotiate repairs or terms based on your findings. The option period allows you to back out of the contract without losing your earnest money if significant issues arise.
Following the acceptance of your offer and the signing of the contract, you have three days to deposit the agreed-upon amount of earnest money with the title company. This deposit, held in escrow, demonstrates your commitment to the purchase. Republic Title will then conduct a thorough examination of public records to determine the property’s ownership, identify any liens, and uncover other matters that could affect the title, such as judgments, bankruptcies, divorce, or death. Any issues found will require further investigation by the title company before closing can occur, ensuring that you receive a clear title.
Step 7: Conduct a Home Inspection
A home inspection is crucial to identify any potential issues with the property. Hire a professional inspector to evaluate the home’s condition, including the foundation, roof, electrical systems, and plumbing. If significant issues are found, you may negotiate repairs or adjust your offer.
Step 8: Get a Home Appraisal
Your lender will require a home appraisal to determine the property’s value. This ensures that the loan amount does not exceed the home’s worth. An appraiser will assess the property’s condition, location, and comparable home sales in the area.
Step 9: Loan Approval
After the home appraisal, your lender will review your loan application, accompanying documents, and credit history. An underwriter will analyze this information to ensure everything meets the lender’s requirements. Once approved, you will receive final loan approval, confirming your financing is secure.
Step 10: Purchase Homeowners Insurance
Homeowners insurance is essential for protecting your new investment. This insurance covers damages to the home and personal property due to events like fire, theft, and natural disasters. Ensure you have a policy in place before closing to protect your home from the day you take ownership.
Step 11: Close the Deal
The final step is the closing process. During this stage, you’ll review and sign various documents, including the loan agreement and deed. Republic Title’s team will facilitate the transfer of funds and ensure all legal requirements are met. After closing, you’ll receive the keys to your new home.
The home-buying process can be intricate, but with the right guidance and support, it becomes a rewarding experience. By choosing Republic Title, you’re not just protecting your investment; you’re partnering with a company dedicated to making your home-buying experience smooth, secure, and successful. For more home-buying resources, visit republictitle.com/buyer-resources.
