Central Mississippi Real Estate and Community News

June 8, 2024

Up and Coming Neighborhoods in Mississippi

With new construction on the rise, comes new neighborhoods and of course, new communities. So whether you’re a couple looking to relocate to Mississippi, a retiree looking to move to MS or a family looking to move to MS. I’m going to break down the best up and coming neighborhoods you should consider in the Central MS area.

 

First up is WaterPointe located in Flowood, MS. WaterPointe is a brand new neighborhood development located adjacent to Dogwood Festival Market and will cover approximately 230 acres. Once completed, WaterPointe will house 184 single family homes and townhomes, luxury lofts and Mississippis first P. Allen Smith inspired assisted living community. Future amenities will include two wharf style restaurants, pool, walking and biking paths, parks, a town square, and a waterfront event area overlooking the 34 acre lake. Retail and office space will also have some space carved out so Waterpointe will be a one stop shop all with walking or biking distance. You would never need to leave the neighborhood with all the amenities it will offer! There are currently 12 active listings and the price range is $465,000 to $698,000 and square footage falls from 2,006 to 3,046. There are also lots available that you could take your pick of and build a custom if you want! There are currently 15 lots available ranging in price from $57,500 to $92,000 and the size range is .07 of an acre to 0.13 of an acre. And if schools are important to you, Waterpointe falls under Rankin County School District with Flowood Elementary and NW Rankin Middle and High School. If you're looking for Flowood, MS homes for sale, this Waterpointe could be a great contender.

Flowood MS neighborhoods

Next up, is a brand new development, Bristol Crossing. Bristol Crossing is located in Flowood, MS at the corner of Hugh Ward Parkway and Manship Road. Close to Dogwood, Lakeland Drive, shopping restaurants and schools. If convenience is important to you, then this is the neighborhood for you! This neighborhood will feature a little bit of everything when it comes to size and price. Currently there are 13 active listings ranging in price from $398,000 to $653,500 and the square footage of these homes range from 2,031 to 3,068. Also the lot sizes of Bristol Crossing is anywhere from 0.3 of an acre all the way to 1.2 acre lots. So as you can see, there are plenty of option when it comes to house and lot sizes depending on what you are looking for. And don’t worry there will be more homes available as the neighborhood continues growing into the final phases of completion so be on the lookout for those! Bristol Crossing amenities will include side walks to enjoy and eventually a clubhouse and pool once the neighborhood near completion. The neighborhood will also be under the umbrella of Rankin County School District and Highland Bluff Elementary and Northwest Rankin Middle and High School. If you are looking for that true neighborhood feel, then Bristol Crossing may be the next home for you! And stay tuned for the end for a tour of one of the completed homes!

Bristol Crossing neighborhood

And the final neighborhood is Kensington, which I have covered once before but it is steadily growing into the final phase for the neighborhood which will consist of all new construction homes. Kensington is a gated neighborhood located off of Hwy 471 and Marshall Rd in Flowood MS with 2 separate gated entrances and only minutes from grocery, dining, and shopping. The neighborhood amenities include sidewalks, clubhouse, pool and a stocked pond to enjoy! The HOA fee for Kensington is $688/Annually which is around the average amount for the area. Most of the homes are 3-4 bedrooms and 2-3.5 baths. There are currently 7 active listings in the neighborhood with several new constructions being built currently that will be hitting the market soon. The price range of the active listings is $399,900 to $450,000 and 5 of those are new construction. The square footage range is 2,175 up to 2,450. All the homes sit on the standard lot size being around 0.2 of an acre, give or take. And as the other neighborhoods, Kensington also falls under Rankin County School District. Any of the neighborhoods, would be a great place to call home!

Bristol Crossing Homes for Sale

If you’re thinking of moving to Central MS, be sure and check out our website www.taylorgroupms.com, it has all MLS listings in Central MS and is updated every 10 minutes.  Whether you're buying or selling, our team is here to help every step of the way.  Contact us today to get started.

 

Taylor Realty Group

601-613-9100

Posted in Neighborhood Tours
May 29, 2024

New Construction Homes for Sale Deerfield Estates

Hi, I’m Donna Taylor with living in Central MS and today we are touring the Deerfield neighborhood in Madison, MS where there are several new construction homes for sale below $400,000.  So, if you’re looking for a home that is very conveniently located, and in a neighborhood with lots of amenities including a golf course, then Deerfield might be for you. Be sure and stay to the end, and we will tour one of these new construction homes.

 

First, let’s look at the map, Deerfield is located right off Yandell Rd at Old Canton Rd in Madison. It’s just outside the city limits of Madison, but it’s still in Madison County Schools.  Madison Crossing is the elementary school that feeds to Germantown Schools! Deerfield is a small neighborhood consisting of approximately 400 homes.

 

Deerfield is a neighborhood that started construction back in 1980.  The centerpiece of this neighborhood is the par 72-hole golf course designed by Byron Nelson.  There is a Clubhouse and restaurant here too.  Joining the golf club is actually very reasonably priced.  It’s a $100 joining fee and $320 a year and includes the cart fee and they require a one-year commitment.  So, even if you choose one of the many other neighborhoods nearby, joining the Deerfield Golf Club, might still be a great option for you.

 

Let’s take a quick look at the neighborhood comps.  During the last year, there were 10 homes sold in Deerfield.  The average sold price was right at $300,000 and 2,200 sq feet.  Most of the homes in Deerfield are 3 bedrooms with 2 baths, but there are some 4-bedroom options too.  There are currently 7 active listings ranging in price from $255,000 to $499,000.  3 of these active listings are new construction.  The new construction homes are all price right around $390-$399k, and they all feature 4 beds and 3 baths.  Most of the homes in Deerfield are on ½ acre lots. The HOA fees are currently $450 a year, and the property taxes on a $400,000 home will cost around $2,000 a year, if they are homesteaded.

Deerfield Madison MS

 

Today, we are in the Deerfield Estates part of the neighborhood. There are currently 3 active new construction listings with more coming later this summer.  And, by the way, the builder is giving $10,000 in closing costs concessions…they also have their own mortgage company that’s offering lower interest rates than most.  So, if you’re on the fence because you’re short of funds, or you think the rates are too high, reach out to us and let us connect you. 

 

 If you're looking for that perfect Madison, MS Home for sale, check out our website taylorgroupms. It has all of the MLS listings and is updated every 10 minutes. 

 

Taylor Realty Group

601-613-9100

 

 

Posted in Neighborhood Tours
May 21, 2024

Flowood MS Homes for Sale

Hey guys! Tinsley Mitchell here with Living in Central MS and today we are going to take a neighborhood tour of Dogwood located In Flowood, MS.

Dogwood is a hidden treasure located just off of Lakeland Drive in Flowood, MS. If you're looking for Flowood MS Homes for sale, this could be the perfect fit!  The gated neighborhood features established homes and new construction with mature trees and landscaping throughout. All of the homes are located on larger lots with most being on at least an acre and the homes are larger in square footage so the price point of the neighborhood is higher than the average for the area. There are currently 5 active listings in Dogwood ranging in price from $699,900 to $959,400 and square footage is between 3,787 to 5,182. Dogwood is located within minutes from grocery, shopping and dining and is a short 15 minute drive to the airport if that convenience is important to you. The neighborhood falls under Rankin County School District and Northwest Rankin Schools. The neighborhood does not include any amenities since they are more estate sized lots and the annual HOA dues are $2,000. Stay tuned and let’s take a tour of this luxury new construction listing located in Dogwood in Flowood, MS.

 

If you’re thinking of moving to Mississippi, be sure and check out our website www.taylorgroupms.com, it has all MLS listings in Central MS and is updated every 10 minutes.  Whether you're buying or selling, our team is here to help every step of the way.  Contact us today to get started.

 

Taylor Realty Group

601-613-9100

Posted in Neighborhood Tours
May 14, 2024

Reasons to Move to Mississippi

Why are people moving to Mississippi in 2024?  Is it the housing, the affordability or the lifestyle?  Well, we’re covering all of that, so read below or check out our YouTube Video!

 

So, first a little about Mississippi…the last census in 2020 showed a population for our state is just under 3 million with about ½ million of those living in Central MS which is where we focus our channel.

 

Hi, I’m Donna Taylor, and in today’s video, I’ll talk about the 5 main reasons why people are moving to Mississippi and what states they are moving here from.  We’ve helped a lot of people just like you move to MS from other states over the last 2.5 years since we started our YT channel.  So, if you’re thinking about moving here and want to see what a typical, average priced home in our area sales for…stay tuned to the end and we’ll tour an active listing.  

 

But first, let’s talk about the first reason folks are moving here…and by the way, my 5 reasons are in no particular order, because it’s really based on individual needs and wants.  But the first thing I’ll discuss today is affordability.  And of course, for most people, the biggest cost  they’ll incur in life is their home.  So, it’s no wonder why people are attracted to states where home prices are stable and affordable.  In the metro Jackson area of the state, which is where I am today, average home costs are around $250k - $450k depending on which town you choose, but both Rankin County to the east of the city of Jackson, or Madison County to the north both have great school districts, low crime rates, and growing cities. The real estate taxes in either of these county’s are likely lower than other parts of the country…around $2,000 a year for a $350,000.  Mississippi has grown slowly but surely in the last few years as people that are retiring or for remote workers looking for a cheaper place to live and raise a family.  And where are these people coming from?  Surprisingly they are coming from other southern states.  According to Stacker.com https://stacker.com/mississippi/states-sending-most-people-mississippi 16% of people that moved to MS during the last year, moved here from TX.  I’ve helped a few of those former Texans myself that wanted to live in a nice city, but without all the traffic and headaches of a large Metropolis.  We’ve also relocated several folks from FL and Louisiana that are escaping rising home insurance costs and hurricanes…yet want to state in a warm climate. A small percentage of people are also moving here from the west coast seeking a more conservative state, there’s no shortage of hospitality here…which brings me to my next reason that people are seeking out Mississippi is the community.  

 

While we might not have tons of things to do like Major League Sports teams or high-tech jobs, we make up for in community.  Mississippi’s nickname is the Hospitality State and people that relocate here from outside the southern US are always remarking about how friendly the people here are.  So, don’t be surprised if you’re here for a visit and see a complete stranger wave and say hello!   I’m always surprised at my clients that ask how people here will react to a “outside” moving here.  I think some people rely too much on the old cliché’s of MS being a closed off, or too much of a rich cultural heritage, but I think that’s what makes the State so unique.  Many of our clients are impressed after visiting here, how much they underestimated the diversity of our towns! There is so much history here, so if you are up for a trip, I encourage you to make a visit, you won’t regret it! 

 

Another reason people are moving to Mississippi is the warm climate.  A few of our new residents we’ve helped move here from states like Michigan, Idaho and Wisconsin decided to relocate here because they never wanted to shovel snow or see freezing tempatures again.  Here in Central MS is almost never snows. About once every few years, we’ll get an inch of snow that melts away the next day.  So, if you currently live in a state where you’re wearing your heavy coat most of the winter and are looking to get it rid of it permanently, consider a state like Mississippi where our average winter temps for Central MS are 60 degree highs and lows that rarely get below freezing!  Mississippi is a perfect place to call home for outdoor enthusiasts too…unless you’re looking for winter sports of course!  We have lots of lakes for fishing or boating, acres and acres of wildlife for hunting or birdwatching, and lots of great spots for Camping.  Mississippi averages around 54 inches or rain each year, keeping our beautiful surroundings lush and green. 

 

Last on the list is the economic growth.  The current governor of Mississippi has been working really hard over his years on office to bring significant economic growth to Mississippi. The state won projects totalling $5.4 billion in capital investment in 2022, a record amount, according to the Mississippi Development Authority, including an announcement last year by Steel Dynamics that is investing $2.5 billion creating 1,000 jobs in eastern Mississippi.  While it may be very slow growth, it’s trending in the right direction.

 

If you’re thinking of moving to Central MS, be sure and check out our website www.taylorgroupms.com, it has all the MLS listings and is updated every 10 minutes.  If you enjoyed this video, I’m sure you’ll like the rest on our YT channel, which you can find here!

 

Taylor Realty Group

601-613-9100

 

Posted in Market Updates
May 3, 2024

Madison MS Homes for Rent

Should you rent…or should you buy?  A question that has crossed everyone’s mind at one point, except….the answer is not always obvious, and choosing the wrong option could actually burn a hold in your pocket in ways you never thought possible.  So, let’s break down each option and we’re starting right now.

 

Renting can actually be a good idea when moving to a new state.  There is flexibility in renting if you’re unsure of the exact area you want to be in, or maybe you’re strapped for cash and don’t have the money needed for upfront cash for purchasing a home.  If you’re considering moving to the Central MS area, we have several great options.  Depending on your needs and wants, you might want to look in the Brandon area.  There are lots of great apartment complexes to choose from, and if you decide after a year that you like the Madison area better, then you can take your time and find a home to purchase.  Or, maybe you decide you don’t like it, you can easily leave after the lease is up and find a new town to call home.  OR maybe you know that you only plan to stay for a year or two, renting would most likely be a better option.   I’ve moved cross country once, and we couldn’t decide between renting or buying and I’m so glad I rented first because the area we first chose was not the best fit for us.  Luckily, we were able to sign a 6-month lease, so our time in that rental was short lived and we moved to a much better part of town when our lease was finished.  Apartments in our area rent for around $1,500-$2,000 a month for a 2-bedroom apartment in a nice part of town.  There are homes for rent also.  Those range from $2,000-$4,000 a month depending on size and neighborhood. By the way, I discovered that you could find homes for rent on apartments.com in our area while I was doing some research for this video.  Some people find it difficult to find a home to rent in our area because there aren’t many and most real estate agents don’t work rentals in our market.  So, it’s good to know that you can go to aparments.com and find both homes and apartments in one spot.   If you’ve seen any of my videos on living in Madison, MS, you might know that there are NO apartment complexes in the City of Madison….that’s b/c our long standing Mayor has kept them away.  So, if you are looking to move to Madison because of the great schools, you might be able to find a home to rent but be prepared to pay more than you think.  And, if you think your credit score is keeping you from buying, remember that most rental companies and landlords will also be scrubbing your credit, so if your credit is sub-par, you might want to get to work on that regardless!

 

Next up, let’s talk about buying in Central MS.  Looking at our 2 most popular cities, Madison, and Brandon over the last 6 months.  The median home price in Brandon was $291k, which will buy you about 2,000 sq feet on average at about $146 psf…And in Madison, the median home price was $388k for 2,250 sq feet at $172 psf.  So, let’s say you put 10% down on a $350,000 home, at 7% interest, your monthly principal and interest would be $2,100, which is about what you’d be paying in rent for a 3-bedroom home once you add about $300 per month for taxes and insurance.  But, assuming you keep your house for at least 5 years, the home’s value is increasing each year, and so would be your rent…but your mortgage stays the same.  If you’re young and working, hopefully your pay is also increasing each year.  In theory, if you buy your first home in your mid to late 20’s and do a 30-year mortgage, you should have it paid off by the time you retire.  Whereas, if you rent and never purchase a home, you’ll literally be paying rent until you die.  I bought my first house when I was 27.  I put it on a 30-year mortgage and put the minimum 3.5% down, since I was pretty much broke and didn’t have help from family. When I sold it 5 years later, I used the equity to make a nice down payment, but instead of doing another 30-year mortgage, I shortened by new home to 20 years.  Then I did the same thing about 8 years later and shortened that new home to a 15-year mortgage (it was a much bigger “forever home” purchase).  So, now that home will be paid free and clear in a few years.  Don’t repeat the mistake some people make and keep doing a 30-year mortgage every time you move.  You’ll never have significant equity that way and it will keep you working to pay the mortgage and who wants to do that?!!?

 

Let’s talk about home repairs and maintenance for a moment.  Because this is a big factor that weighs in on why some people don’t want to own a home, they don’t want to be outside mowing the grass every weekend, or they don’t want to worry when the air conditioning goes out and having the money to fix it.  My suggestion is to put a very small amount away each month to prepare for unexpected costs.  You can also buy a home warranty, which is basically an insurance program for home maintenance items.  And if the thought of spending hours each week in the summer taking care of a lawn makes you shudder, then consider a home with a zero-lot line or a tiny yard, like a patio home, we have plenty of those type homes in our area.  By the way, if you’re a first-time home buyer, we are starting to see sellers paying some closing costs again, so if down payment is what’s keeping you from purchasing, reach out to us, because there are definitely options!  

 

Next, let’s talk about man’s best friend!  A lot of people forget to take their pets into consideration when looking for rentals, which is crazy to me since 66% of Americans have a pet!  Most, if not all, rentals will charge a higher deposit and/or additional pet rental each month for your fur baby.  And, of course, some won’t allow pets at all, or will have restrictions on the types and size of dogs that are allowed.  So, make sure you keep that in the back of your mind if you have a dog…like me!  The freedom of owning your own home and getting to make the rules as you see fit is what makes owning a home worth it.

 

So, that’s it for today!  Make sure you check out our website at taylorgroupms.com, it has ALL of the MLS listings on it and it’s updated every 10 minutes.  If you see a home you want to tour, just reach out to us.  If you’re looking for a local lender, let me know, I can help with that too! 

 

Taylor Realty Group

601-613-9100

Posted in Buying a Home
April 26, 2024

Simple Home Improvement Ideas

Hey guys! Tinsley Mitchell here with Living in Central MS and today we are going to talk about 5 affordable home upgrades to increase your homes value. Sometimes the smallest tweaks to a home can give you the most ROI. Do you need to spend $20,000 plus dollars on a single home upgrade to increase the value? Absolutely not. Here are 5 affordable home upgrades that you can do that are guaranteed to increase the value of your home!

 

First up is curb appeal.

Curb appeal is the way your home looks from the outside and how attractive it is to anyone who passes by. The color and condition of the exterior, the landscaping and the overall maintenance of the property all contribute to its curb appeal. Some simple and cost effective ideas can be repainting the house. A dingy exterior can sometimes be unappealing before they even step inside. One of the best ways to refresh your home is with a coat of fresh paint especially if the paint has faded or chipping. Even just repainting or staining just the doors can have an impact, painting just the front doors or garages can help spruce up the entry ways to the home since its one of the first thing potential buyers see and both of these items can be DIY if you choose. Another item is cleaning the windows and making sure the window screens are in good condition, this is both easy and inexpensive. Refreshing the landscape around your home can help tremendously. This does not have to be professionally done or expensive either. This can be as simple as new pinestraw or mulch, tidying up flowerbeds and adding new plants, flowers or a few pre potted plants and flowers to walk ways or porches to add a pop of color. And lastly powerwashing the driveway or porches/patios. For many homes, the driveway is front and center so making sure it is clean and polished up will have a great impact on the overall curb appeal of your home. 

Next up, is kitchen upgrades.

And we are not talking about a full kitchen renovation. Some simple upgrades such as painting cabinets, replacing hardware, updating light fixtures, and installing a stylish backsplash can make a huge impact.         Paint Cabinets: Painting or staining your kitchen cabinets can give them a whole new look without the expense of replacing them entirely. Choose a color that complements your kitchen's style and other elements.

         Update Hardware: Replace old cabinet knobs and drawer pulls with modern or stylish alternatives. This simple change can make a big difference in the overall appearance of your kitchen.

         Add a Backsplash: Installing a new backsplash can instantly update the look of your kitchen. You can use affordable materials like subway tile, or even paint.

         Upgrade Lighting: Updating your kitchen lighting can dramatically improve the ambiance. Consider installing under-cabinet lighting, pendant lights, or replacing old fixtures with energy-efficient LED options. 

         Replace Faucet: Upgrading your kitchen faucet can make a noticeable difference in both style and functionality. Look for a stylish yet affordable option that fits your kitchen's aesthetic.

         Upgrade Countertops: If your budget allows, consider replacing old laminate countertops with affordable alternatives like butcher block, granite tile, or concrete. You can also explore resurfacing options for existing countertops.

         Organize and Declutter: Sometimes, a simple reorganization and decluttering can make your kitchen feel brand new. Invest in affordable storage solutions like drawer organizers, shelf risers, and hanging racks to maximize space and efficiency. These are all items that can take your kitchen to the next level and still budget friendly. 

 

       3rd on List...Bathroom updates.

     Update Fixtures: Replace outdated faucets, showerheads, towel bars, and toilet paper holders with newer, more stylish options. This can instantly modernize the look of your bathroom without a major renovation.

         Add New Hardware: Swapping out cabinet knobs, drawer pulls, and other hardware can give your bathroom vanity a whole new look. Choose finishes that match your fixtures for a cohesive design.

         Install a New Mirror: Upgrade your bathroom mirror with a stylish frame or replace it altogether with a newer, more modern option. Mirrors can help make a small bathroom feel larger and brighter.

         Replace Lighting: Updating old light fixtures can improve both the aesthetics and functionality of your bathroom. Consider energy-efficient LED fixtures or vanity lights with adjustable settings for optimal lighting. Upgrade Shower Curtain or Screen: If you have a shower curtain, consider replacing it with a new one in a fresh pattern or color. Alternatively, upgrade to a sleek glass shower screen for a modern look.

         Refresh Grout and Caulk: Over time, grout and caulk can become discolored or damaged. Refreshing them with new grout and caulk can make your bathroom look cleaner and more well-maintained. Remember to prioritize upgrades based on your budget and the areas of your bathroom that need the most attention. Even small changes can have a significant impact on the look and feel of your space.

Next on the list...Making your home more energy-efficient

This not only reduces your carbon footprint but also saves you money on utility bills in the long run. Here are some affordable energy-efficient upgrades you can consider:

         Seal Air Leaks: Air leaks around windows, doors, and other openings can waste a significant amount of energy. Use caulking or weatherstripping to seal these gaps and prevent heat loss or gain.

         Install a Programmable Thermostat: A programmable thermostat allows you to set different temperatures for different times of the day, so you're not heating or cooling your home when it's not necessary.

         Upgrade to LED Lighting: LED light bulbs use significantly less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs and last much longer. Consider replacing your old bulbs with energy-efficient LEDs throughout your home.

         By implementing these simple energy-efficient upgrades, you can reduce your home's energy consumption and save money while also contributing to a more sustainable future. 

         Lastly and maybe not the most affordable of all the home upgrades but can be most effective is fresh paint and flooring.

      Fresh paint and new flooring can completely transform the look and feel of your home. Here are some tips for upgrading both affordably: Fresh Paint. Choose Light Colors: Lighter paint colors can make rooms feel larger and more airy. They also reflect more natural light, reducing the need for artificial lighting during the day. Don't Forget the Ceiling: Giving your ceiling a fresh coat of paint can brighten up a room and make it feel more cohesive. Consider using a lighter shade of the wall color for a seamless look.

         DIY vs. Hiring a Professional: Painting can be a DIY project if you're comfortable with the process and have the time and energy to dedicate to it. However, for larger or more challenging spaces, hiring a professional painter may be worth the investment to ensure a flawless finish.  Flooring:

         Consider Laminate or Vinyl Plank Flooring: Laminate and vinyl plank flooring are affordable options that mimic the look of hardwood or tile at a fraction of the cost. They're also durable, easy to install, and low-maintenance.

         Shop for Deals: Look for sales or discounts on flooring materials to save money. Many home improvement stores offer promotions throughout the year, especially during holidays or seasonal sales events.

         DIY Installation: If you're handy and have the time, consider installing the flooring yourself to save on labor costs. Many flooring options, like laminate or vinyl plank, come with easy-to-follow installation instructions. Consider Refinishing Hardwood Floors: If you have hardwood floors that are in decent condition but looking a bit worn, consider refinishing them instead of replacing them. This can restore their beauty and shine at a fraction of the cost of new flooring.

         Budget-Friendly Tile Options: If you prefer tile flooring, look for budget-friendly options like ceramic or porcelain tile. These materials come in a wide range of styles and colors to suit any decor.

Remember to consider your budget, personal style, and the overall aesthetic of your home when choosing paint colors and flooring materials. With a little creativity and planning, you can achieve stunning results without breaking the bank.

I get calls all the time from people moving home specifically in the Brandon area. So reach out to me if you are looking at buying in or around Central Mississippi or would like to know more, my number is in the description below! If you enjoyed this video, I am sure you will love the next one on screen. Don’t forget to sign up for daily market updates on our website www.taylorgroupms.com

 

Taylor Realty Group

601-613-9100

Posted in Buying a Home
April 20, 2024

A Comprehensive Guide to finding the Best Realtor in Madison MS

 

 

If you’re looking for a Realtor in Madison MS, you’ve come to the right place now keep reading because this is not your typical fluff piece!  Your home is probably the most expensive single purchase you’ll ever make in your life.  And finding someone that you trust to guide you through that journey is so hard.  Unfortunately, the world of real estate agents is filled with people with little education that passed a far too simple exam and bam, they are now a real estate agent!  The National Association of Realtors study shows that 87% of realtors fail within the first 5 years of getting their license.  Wow!  I doubt that any other industry has a failure rate that high!  So, with that in mind, here are our top 5 steps to choosing your realtor!

 

1.        Interview more than one agent!  This should be obvious, but so many people just go with the first Agent they get on the phone!  And speaking of phone, if you leave an agent a message and it takes them more than 24 hours to call you back, consider how they will be during the transaction time. Communication is EVERYTHING when working with your agent!  I’m not saying they should answer 24/7, because we all have lives!  In fact, I DO NOT answer my phone from 8pm-7am.  That is family time, but if call or text outside of those hours, you can bet your pants I’ll be responding to you same day!  Back to the interview, when you’re talking to agents, ask them how long they’ve been licensed, if less than 5 years, think about that NAR statistic I just mentioned…will they be here when you’re ready to sell in a few years?  Do you really want to go thru this process of picking an agent again?  Surely not!

2.        Google your agent!! Make sure they have plenty of google reviews, take a minute to read a few of them.  Do the reviews highlight things that you think are important in an agent?  If you can’t find your agent on the web, chances are they either aren’t a full-time agent (there are so many agents that are part time, and I don’t recommend this type of agent especially if you’re new to an area).  

3.        Ask your agent how long they’ve lived in the area where you’ll be buying or selling.  This is so important, yet often overlooked. Don’t be afraid to ask why they recommend one area over another. Tell them what you want in a home and neighborhood.  I’ve lived in Madison, MS for over 20 years, and can tell you every neighborhood in the area and why it would fit with want you want or why it won’t! Don’t always pick the big-name brokerages, many times, that’s where the newer unseasoned agents will go right after passing the exam.  Consider a smaller boutique brokerage with a small team that serves your specific area.

4.        Ask them about the current market.  If they can’t answer you satisfactorily off the top of their head, fun for hills!  Any good agent is in tune with the market and studies it everyday and should be able to tell you honestly how the current market is at any time.

5.        Ask them how much they charge.  I’m always surprised at how many people don’t know how real estate agents are compensated.  So ask!  Ask them how buyer vs. seller agents are compensated in your market.  Ask them what they will be charging you.  It's crucial that you understand this before signing any contract!  Do you want an agent that charges less and do more of the work yourself?  Or do you prefer a more white glove approach and don’t mind paying a little more?  Remember, this is one of the biggest purchases of your life, it might not be time to skimp! 

 

Once you’ve done these 5 steps with at least 3 agents, listen to your gut.  Pick the agent that you feel comfortable communicating with, because this person will be in our life day to day for the next several months. Hopefully you’ll find a person you can trust and an agent you can use and refer to friends and family for life!

Madison MS Realtors

Read more about the Taylor Realty Group Team HERE: 

 

If you’re thinking of moving to Mississippi, be sure and check out our website www.taylorgroupms.com, it has all MLS listings in Central MS and is updated every 10 minutes.  Whether you're buying or selling, our team is here to help every step of the way.  Contact us today to get started.

 

Taylor Realty Group

601-613-9100

Posted in Selling Your Home
April 20, 2024

Homes for Sale in Brandon MS with Acreage

Are you looking for a Home for sale in Brandon, MS with acreage?  If so, make sure you check out the new neighborhood, Pisgah Place.  Today we are going to take a neighborhood tour of Pisgah Place located just off of Hwy 43 and minutes from the Ross Barnett Reservoir in sought after community of Pisgah.

Pisgah Place is a brand new development and consists of only 17 homes so if you are looking for that smaller neighborhood, then this may interest you! Each home is located on at least 1 acre and the largest lot is 1.41 acres. The price point of Pisgah Place ranges from $445,000 to $473,400 and the square footage of the homes ranges from 2,225 to 2,367 and they all offer 4 Bedrooms and either 2.5 or 3 Baths. Pisgah Place is located within Rankin County School District and falls under Pisgah Schools which is currently A rated according to niche.com. There will be a small neighborhood association, but fees will be low in price. Pisgah is located a little bit on the outskirts of town so grocery stores, restaurants and shopping are going to be about a 15-20 minute drive but it is a perfect mix if you are looking to get out of the hustle and bustle of city limits. But there is a local waterfront restaurant only minutes from the neighborhood, the Sunset Grill and Tommy’s Landing which serves food and store items plus several boat landings for your convenience. Come along as we take a look at one of the completed homes in Pisgah Place and let us know what you think! I will also post a link in the comments to all available homes for you to check out!

I hope you enjoyed todays tour of Pisgah Place! I get calls all the time from people moving home specifically in the Brandon area.

If you’re thinking of moving to Mississippi, be sure and check out our website www.taylorgroupms.com, it has all MLS listings in Central MS and is updated every 10 minutes.  Whether you're buying or selling, our team is here to help every step of the way.  Contact us today to get started.

 

 

Taylor Realty Group

601-613-9100

Posted in Neighborhood Tours
April 5, 2024

River Forest Homes for Sale Updated

Are you looking for Homes for Sale in Brandon, MS?  Make sure to check out River Forest, which is conveniently located to shopping, restaurants and grocery all within 5-10 minutes from the neighborhood. And about 20 minutes to the airport if you need quick access to the Jackson, MS airport. River Forest is also located within Rankin County School District serviced by Flowood Elementary and Northwest Rankin middle and high schools.

Check out this video for a tour of one of the beautiful homes in River Forest.

 

Now let’s get into some neighborhood facts.

River Forest is a fairly newer neighborhood that was started in 2017 and it consists of existing and new construction. There are currently five active listings and they are all new construction. They range in price from $450,000 to $538,900 and square footage falls from 2,169 to 2,623 and they are all 4 Bedrooms/3 Bath floor plans. There will be morel listings throughout the year as they are adding on and finishing phase IV of the neighborhood. Most of the lots are close to a quarter acre, so you do have room for a decent sized front and back yard. There are not any neighborhood amenities such as a pool, so the neighborhood HOA dues are low. 

If you’re thinking of moving to Mississippi, be sure and check out our website www.taylorgroupms.com, it has all MLS listings in Central MS and is updated every 10 minutes.  Whether you're buying or selling, our team is here to help every step of the way.  Contact us today to get started.

 

Taylor Realty Group

601-613-9100

Posted in Neighborhood Tours
March 29, 2024

Madison MS Homes For Sale

Tired of your hometown and want to find a great town in the Southern US that's consistently voted the top city in our State?  Well, let's dive into why Madison is the BEST!  Once you're done reading this, no doubt you'll want to find your own Madison MS Home to buy!

 

Madison is consistently given an A+ rating on niche.com for things like Safety, Schools, Home Prices, etc.  The median household income for Madison is $123,600, which is substantially higher than the national average.  

 

Madison MS Homes for Sale

 

As a native Mississippian and someone that's live in Madison for well over 20 years, it's easy to see why Madison is the best city in the state!  The thing I love and have learned to appreciate about Mississippi and especially Madison is the slower, more peaceful pace of life.  As a town of about 30,000 people, there’s almost never any traffic, the weather is mostly warm and and the town is clean!!!   Madison has several  neighborhoods with lakes, like Lake Caroline, where you can live in this lake community starting at around $350k which gets you a nice brick home, 3 bed, 2 bath and fairly new construction. 

 

 

There are lots of higher end neighborhood also, like Reunion, which is situated on a gorgeous 18 hole golf course where home prices typically start around $600,00 up to around $1,500,000.  Most of the homes in Madison are in covenant protected communities, which also helps keep the home values from falling.  Nothing worse than having your next door neighbor decide they want to paint their home an atrocious color or start a graveyard for dead cars out front!  

 

Madison is a short 20 minute drive to Jackson, MS, so if you work in the city at one of the many hospitals or in the downtown part of Jackson, the commute to Madison is a no brainer!  Many is a quiet bedroom community, and mostly residential.  There are lots of parks to stroll, walking trails, and bike trails around the Rez.  Madison's neighbor to the south, is the small city of Ridgeland that has some great restaurants and shopping.  There's a Costco, Apple Store, Barnes and Noble, Orvis, Anthropologie just to name a few!  

 

Let's talk a little more about why some people moving from out of state find it difficult AT FIRST to find a Madison MS home for sale...well part of that reason is because they start of looking for rentals.  Well, you won't find ANY apartments in the city of Madison.  The Mayor forbids it and that won't likely change.  In fact, it's even difficult to find a home to rent.  The rate of home ownership is 95%, and that's something that is significantly higher than the national average.  The city is not friendly to big investors buying homes here just to rent.  In fact, many neighborhood HOA have changed their covenants in the past few years to forbid rentals.  So, this can be a bit of a deterrent when looking to move here, but no fear...you can easily find a smaller home to purchase that will hold its value for years to come.  The home prices in Madison have consistently risen year over year, even when some parts of the country have seen a bubble burst, but not here!   

 

Like much of the nation, Madison is currently experiencing and inventory shortage and there are only 191 homes for sale as I write this post.  Here's a LINK to all active Madison listings, and this is updated every 15 minutes.  So, if you're looking for a Madison MS Home for sale, check back often!

 

 

One thing I’d also like to mention for those of you that don’t know much about Madison…over the last 10 or so years, as the east side of town ran out of land, new construction has pushed to the west side of the Interstate. What was once lacking in shopping and restaurants has really started to pick up some great spots.There’s a high end Mexican restaurant, coffee/donut shop, Asian , Mediterranean and even a new restaurant called the Twisted Turnip, which I ate at today.It’s only been opened for a couple of weeks, and it was super tasty.There’s also a new grocery store called Sullivans…and new shops being added every month it seems like.This new area is only about 4 miles from Lake Caroline, so no more having to drive to Jackson or Ridgeland for good food!

 

If you’re thinking of moving to Mississippi, be sure and check out our website www.taylorgroupms.com, it has all MLS listings in Central MS and is updated every 10 minutes.  Whether you're buying or selling, our team is here to help every step of the way.  Contact us today to get started.

 

Taylor Realty Group

601-613-9100

Posted in Buying a Home