Can you believe we're already here? The lunchboxes are packed, the carpool lines are back in full force, and our calendars are officially overflowing with school events, practices, and homework help at the kitchen table. There's something comforting about getting back into the rhythm of it all, even if the mornings come a little too early.
And of course, fall means football! Whether you're cheering from the bleachers on Friday nights, tailgating on Saturdays, or claiming your spot on the couch every Sunday, this is hands-down one of my favorite times of year. Nothing brings a community together quite like a game day.
On a personal note, I just got back from the most amazing trip to Paris! I spent my days lingering at outdoor cafés and watching the city go by, took a day trip out to the Champagne region (yes, there were tastings, and yes, they were incredible), and capped it all off with a Céline Dion concert that I'll be talking about for years. It was truly a dream, and I came home recharged, inspired, and more grateful than ever for the people and the community I love.
Here's to a cozy, busy, wonderful October. Let's dive in!
HAR just dropped its first look at September, and the theme is pretty much the same: lots of homes, not a lot of rush.
Inventory is heavier than it was this time last year, and new listings kept coming throughout the month.
Asking prices barely budged, averaging around $438,000. Rentals were a little tighter, but rents actually came down about 3%, to roughly $2,300 a month.
Honestly, I'm not surprised things feel a little slow. Between the midterms coming up, all the uncertainty in the economy, and interest rates still on everyone's mind, a lot of people are hitting pause before making a big move.
And that's okay! But if you're ready, this is a market where you can take your time and actually negotiate.
Source: HAR.com FRESH Report, October 1, 2026 
| Candlelight Plaza Trick-or-TreatingMark your calendars for Friday, October 30th, from 6 to 8 p.m.! Trick-or-treating in Candlelight Plaza has grown into one of the most popular events around over the last few years, and it's so much fun. Thanks to the crowds, it's now largely a walking event, so grab your comfy shoes and your costumes and plan to explore on foot.
Be sure to stop by and see us on Brian Haven near Bethlehem, where we'll have adult beverages, water, and pizza to help you refuel along the way. We can't wait to see you there! |
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What are average closing costs when buying a home in Houston?
When you're buying a home, the down payment isn't the only money you'll need at the closing table. There are also closing costs, which usually run about 2% to 5% of the purchase price here in Texas. Every deal is a little different, but here's a rough example of what those costs might include:
- Lender fees for setting up your loan
- Appraisal
- Home inspection
- Survey
- Title company and escrow fees
- County recording fees
- Property taxes paid upfront into escrow
- Your first year of homeowners insurance
- Prepaid interest on your loan
So on a $330,000 home, you could expect to budget somewhere between $6,600 and $16,500 in closing costs. The good news? In some cases, sellers can help cover part of these costs, and in today's market, that's often worth asking for.
Have questions about what your numbers might look like? I'm always happy to walk you through it!
