The Real Estate Questions Everyone Is Asking

Part 3: Should I Buy or Rent? (It’s Not Just a Money Question)

If you’ve ever asked whether it’s better to buy or rent a home, you’re not alone.

It’s one of the most searched real estate questions online—and one of the most misunderstood.

Most people expect a simple answer.

But the truth is… there isn’t one.

Because this decision isn’t just about money.

It’s about lifestyle, freedom, responsibility, and timing.

🏡 The Real Question Behind “Should I Buy or Rent?”

Most people think the question is:

👉 “Which one costs less?”

But the better question is:

👉 “What kind of life do I want right now?”

Because buying and renting each come with very different kinds of freedom—and very different responsibilities.

🎨 When Buying Makes Sense

Buying a home gives you something renting usually doesn’t:

Freedom.

Freedom to:

• Paint your walls any color you want
• Plant a garden without asking permission
• Renovate and improve your space over time
• Make a house truly feel like your home

There’s something powerful about knowing the space is yours to shape.

But ownership also comes with responsibility.

A home isn’t just a monthly payment—it’s maintenance, repairs, and planning ahead for both the small fixes and the big surprises.

✈️ When Renting Might Make More Sense

Renting is often misunderstood as “throwing money away.”

But for many people, it actually provides something very valuable:

Flexibility and peace of mind.

Renting may make sense if:

• You travel frequently for work
• You don’t want to handle repairs or maintenance
• You prefer someone else to take care of the property
• You want the freedom to move without selling a home

In those cases, renting can be a smart lifestyle choice—not a financial mistake.

🔧 The Part Most People Don’t Think About

One of the biggest differences between renting and owning is what happens when life gets “real.”

Homeownership includes more than just a monthly mortgage payment.

There are always unexpected costs:

• HVAC repairs
• Roof issues
• Plumbing problems
• Appliances that eventually need replacing

Some homeowners are very hands-on and enjoy fixing things themselves (I’m lucky enough to be married to one of those 😊).

Others prefer the simplicity of renting, where those responsibilities aren’t on their shoulders.

Neither choice is wrong—it just depends on your lifestyle.

💚 Get Jacque’s Take

One of the biggest mistakes I see people make is trying to force this decision into a math problem.

But real estate is rarely just math—it’s life.

When I talk with clients, I usually ask:

“Do you want more freedom in your space… or more freedom from responsibility?”

That answer usually makes the decision much clearer.

Because the right choice isn’t about what everyone else is doing.

It’s about what fits your life right now.

📚 Coming Next in the Series

You’re reading Part 3 of my six-part series:

💚 Get Jacque’s Answers: The Real Estate Questions Everyone Is Asking

💰 Part 4: How Much House Can I Afford?

📅 Part 5: When Is the Best Time to Buy or Sell?

🔨 Part 6: What Should I Fix Before Selling My Home?

💚 Thinking About Buying or Renting?

If you’re trying to decide what makes the most sense for your situation, I’m always happy to walk through it with you—no pressure, just honest conversation.

For all your real estate needs, Get Jacque!

Serving Montgomery County | Lake Conroe | Houston | DFW & beyond

#GetJacque #SayYesToTexas #TexasRealEstate #LakeConroeRealEstate #MontgomeryTX #HomeBuying #RentVsBuy #RealEstateTips

The Real Estate Questions Everyone Is Asking

Part 2: How Much Is My Home Worth? (And Why Zillow Isn’t the Whole Story)

If you’ve ever thought about selling your home—or even just wondered what it might be worth—there’s a good chance you’ve already done what most people do first…

You Googled it.

Maybe you checked Zillow.
Maybe you looked at Realtor.com or Redfin.
Maybe you even tried all three just to compare.

And if you did… you probably noticed something interesting.

The numbers don’t always match.

Every month, millions of homeowners search online for their home’s value. It’s quick, easy, and feels like a solid starting point.

But the real question is:

How accurate are those numbers?

🏡 The Problem With Online Home Values

Online home value tools use algorithms—not local expertise—to estimate what your home is worth.

They typically look at things like:

• Recent sales nearby
• Square footage
• Number of bedrooms and bathrooms
• Basic public records

But here’s what they don’t truly understand:

• Your updates and renovations
• Whether your home backs up to water, a golf course, or a busy road
• The condition of your home compared to others nearby
• Buyer demand in your exact neighborhood right now
• The subtle differences that matter locally in places like Montgomery County, Lake Conroe, Houston, and DFW

And those details can make a huge difference in value.

Two homes on the same street can look identical online—but sell for very different prices in real life.

💡 A Real Example From the Field

When I go on listing appointments, I always bring printouts from Zillow, Redfin, Realtor.com, and Trulia.

And here’s something I see all the time…

They rarely agree.

Sometimes the difference is small.
Sometimes it’s $50,000… $75,000… even $100,000 apart.

That’s because each platform is using its own algorithm and data model—not real-time local market knowledge.

And that’s the key difference.

These websites don’t walk your neighborhood.
They don’t see your upgrades.
They don’t understand buyer demand on your street this month.

Which brings me to one of the most important truths in real estate:

Your home is worth what a buyer is willing to pay for it.

Not what an algorithm says.
Not what a website estimates.
Not what someone thinks it should be worth.

Only a real offer—backed by real money—defines value.

Just last week, a client called me after receiving a letter in the mail from someone claiming they would buy their home for a specific price.

He wanted my opinion.

I told him:

👉 “Get it in writing—and make sure it’s real. Cash or fully verified financing.”

Because at the end of the day, a number on a letter is just that… a number.

So far, no written offer has ever been submitted.

And that’s the difference between interest and value.

🤔 So What Is Your Home Actually Worth?

The most accurate way to determine value is through a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA).

That’s where a REALTOR® reviews:

• Recent nearby sales
• Active competition
• Current buyer demand
• Your home’s condition and upgrades
• Local market trends

It’s not guesswork—it’s real-time market strategy.

💚 Get Jacque’s Take

One thing that surprises homeowners the most is how much location within the same neighborhood matters.

A home on a quiet cul-de-sac can sell differently than one on a busier street just a few turns away.

A lake view or greenbelt lot can shift value significantly compared to a standard interior lot.

That’s why I always remind my clients:

“Your home doesn’t have a price tag until it hits the market.”

The market decides value—not a website.

📚 Coming Next in the Series

You’re reading Part 2 of my six-part series:

💚 Get Jacque’s Answers: The Real Estate Questions Everyone Is Asking

➡️ Part 3: Should I Buy or Rent?

💰 Part 4: How Much House Can I Afford?

📅 Part 5: When Is the Best Time to Buy or Sell?

🔨 Part 6: What Should I Fix Before Selling My Home?

💚 Thinking About Your Home Value?

If you’re curious what your home might actually sell for in today’s market, I’m happy to prepare a real, local market analysis for you.

No algorithms. No guessing. Just real numbers backed by real market data.

For all your real estate needs, Get Jacque!

Serving Montgomery County | Lake Conroe | Houston | DFW & beyond

#GetJacque #SayYesToTexas #TexasRealEstate #LakeConroeRealEstate #MontgomeryTX #HomeValue #ZillowEstimate #RealEstateTips

The Real Estate Questions Everyone Is Asking

Part 1: The Top 5 Real Estate Questions Everyone Is Asking (And the Answers May Surprise You)

Every month, millions of people turn to Google with the same real estate questions: “What’s my home worth?” “Should I buy or rent?” and “Is now a good time to sell?”

And the interesting part? Most of them are getting conflicting answers.

If you're thinking about buying or selling a home, chances are you've already turned to Google for answers. Every day, people search for advice on everything from home values to the best time to sell.

The problem? The internet is full of conflicting information. One website tells you to renovate your kitchen before selling, while another says don't spend a dime. One says it's always better to buy than rent, while another says to wait.

As a REALTOR® serving Montgomery County, Lake Conroe, Houston, DFW, and communities across Texas, I've heard these same questions hundreds of times. The good news? Most of the answers are simpler than you think—once you know what really matters.

Welcome to Get Jacque's Answers, a six-part series where I'll answer the real estate questions people ask most often and help you separate fact from fiction.

Let's get started!

1. How Much Is My Home Worth?

This is probably the most common question I hear—and for good reason.

Most homeowners head straight to an online home value estimator. They're fast, convenient, and can provide a general starting point.

But here's what they don't know:

• Did you remodel your kitchen?
• Do you have one of the best lake views in the neighborhood?
• Does your home back up to a golf course instead of a busy road?

Those details can make a significant difference in value.

In Part 2, I'll explain why two homes on the same street can sell for very different prices—and how to discover what your home is really worth.

2. Should I Buy or Rent?

People often ask which option saves the most money.

The truth is, this isn't just a financial decision.

The first question I ask isn't, "How much do you make?"

It's...

"Where do you see yourself in the next three to five years?"

That answer usually tells us more than any mortgage calculator ever could.

In Part 3, we'll look at the factors that can help you decide whether buying or renting makes the most sense for your lifestyle and goals.

3. How Much House Can I Afford?

Your lender can tell you the maximum amount you qualify to borrow.

But that doesn't necessarily mean it's the amount you'll feel comfortable spending every month.

A home should fit your budget and your lifestyle.

Monthly payments are only part of the picture.

In Part 4, we'll explore how to choose a home you can truly enjoy—not one that stretches your budget too thin.

4. When Is the Best Time to Buy or Sell?

You've probably heard spring is the best time to sell a home.

Sometimes that's true.

Sometimes it isn't.

The best time to make a move depends on far more than the season. Inventory levels, interest rates, local market conditions, and your personal situation all play a role.

In Part 5, we'll discuss how to recognize the right time for you to buy or sell.

5. What Should I Fix Before Selling My Home?

Before you start replacing countertops or planning a major remodel, ask yourself two questions:

How much time do I have?

What's my budget?

Sometimes a weekend of painting, decluttering, and improving curb appeal can provide a better return than spending thousands on renovations.

The key is knowing where your money will make the biggest impact.

In Part 6, I'll share which updates are worth making before you list your home—and which ones you can probably skip.

💚 Get Jacque's Take

One thing I've learned after helping buyers and sellers over the years is this:

There is rarely a "one-size-fits-all" answer in real estate.

Every home is different.

Every family is different.

Every market is different.

That's why I believe the best advice starts with listening before recommending a solution. Whether you're buying your first home, selling your forever home, or just wondering what your options are, the right answer should always fit your goals—not someone else's.

📚 Get Jacque's Answers Series

You're reading Part 1 of my six-part series on the real estate questions everyone is asking.

✅ Part 1: The Top 5 Real Estate Questions Everyone Is Asking (You're here!)

➡️ Part 2: How Much Is My Home Worth? (And Why Zillow Isn't the Whole Story)

🏡 Part 3: Should I Buy or Rent?

💰 Part 4: How Much House Can I Afford?

📅 Part 5: When Is the Best Time to Buy or Sell?

🔨 Part 6: What Should I Fix Before Selling My Home?

I hope you'll join me for the rest of the series as we take a closer look at each question with practical advice, local market insight, and tips to help you make informed real estate decisions.

Ready to Talk About Your Next Move?

Whether you're buying, selling, or simply planning ahead, I'm here to help.

For all your real estate needs, Get Jacque!

Serving Montgomery County, Lake Conroe, Houston, DFW & beyond.

#GetJacque #SayYesToTexas #TexasRealEstate #LakeConroeRealEstate #MontgomeryTX #HomeBuying #HomeSelling #INCRealty

Easy No-Churn Peach Ice Cream Recipe | Perfect for Fourth of July Weekend

When I think of summer, one of my favorite memories isn't fireworks or backyard barbecues—it's homemade ice cream.

Growing up, we had one of those old-fashioned ice cream makers with the wooden bucket. We'd pack it with ice and rock salt, turn it on, and then came the hardest part...waiting!

Every few minutes someone would ask, "Is it ready yet?" We'd peek under the lid, hoping it had magically turned into ice cream. It never had. 😊

But when it finally was ready? That first creamy scoop was absolutely worth the wait.

With the Fourth of July weekend here, so many of us will be spending time with family and friends—grilling burgers, watching fireworks, laughing together, and making memories. Homemade peach ice cream feels like the perfect way to end the day.

The best part? You don't even need an old-fashioned ice cream freezer anymore. This no-churn version is simple, delicious, and tastes like summer in every bite.

🍑 No-Churn Peach Ice Cream

Ingredients

• 2 cups fresh or thawed frozen peaches, peeled and chopped
• 2 tablespoons sugar (optional, depending on how sweet your peaches are)
• 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
• 2 cups heavy whipping cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• Optional: ½ teaspoon cinnamon

Directions

1. Blend the peaches until mostly smooth, leaving a few small chunks if you like a little texture.
2. In a large bowl, stir together the peaches, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla, salt, and cinnamon.
3. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
4. Gently fold the whipped cream into the peach mixture until combined.
5. Pour into a loaf pan or freezer-safe container.
6. Cover and freeze for 6–8 hours or overnight.
7. Let it sit on the counter for 5–10 minutes before scooping.

🍑 Jacque's Tip

I always keep frozen peaches in my freezer, so I can make this recipe any time of year. Just thaw them first and drain off any extra liquid before blending.

Want to make it even more special? Stir in a handful of chopped peaches or toasted pecans before freezing for a little extra texture.

❤️ Foodie Friday Thought

The older I get, the more I realize it isn't really about the ice cream.

It's about slowing down long enough to enjoy the people around us.

This holiday weekend, I hope you spend time with the people who matter most, enjoy some great food, and maybe even start a new family tradition.

Wishing you all a safe, happy, and delicious Fourth of July weekend!

Happy Foodie Friday!

As America celebrates its 250th birthday this Fourth of July, I find myself reflecting on what this country means to me.

Not just as an American.

But as the daughter of two incredible people who showed me, in very different ways, the meaning of freedom, opportunity, sacrifice, and home.

I remember July 4, 1976 — America’s Bicentennial celebration.

As a child, I watched the celebrations on television and remember the excitement and the spectacle of seeing our nation celebrate 200 years. The flags, the parades, the fireworks — it felt like a moment in history.

Now, 50 years later, as America celebrates its 250th birthday, I find myself seeing it differently.

The wonder is still there. The fireworks will still light up the sky. Families will still gather together.

But now I understand the story behind the celebration.

I understand it through my family.

My father was not born in the United States.

He came from Belgium, a country that experienced the darkness of World War II and the pain that comes with war. As a child, he lived through occupation. His own brother served in the French Resistance and was killed during the war.

Imagine carrying those memories.

And yet, after everything he had experienced, my father saw something special in America.

He came to the United States through Ellis Island.

He chose this country.

He believed in the promise of America — the idea that a person could come here, work hard, build a life, and become part of something bigger than themselves.

And then he gave back.

He joined the United States Army and proudly served for more than 23 years.

The country that welcomed him became the country he chose to defend.

But this story is not just about my father.

It is also about my mother.

My mom was a strong force in our family. She loved her Southern roots, the traditions, the people, and the warmth that comes with the South.

But she also embraced every adventure that came with military life.

Together, my parents took our family around America and even overseas.

As an Army brat, I attended 12 different schools from kindergarten through college. At the time, I didn’t always appreciate just how unique that life was.

Moving was simply what we did.

New homes. New friends. New places.

I remember living in Germany while my father was serving there. As a child, I saw it as an adventure — a chance to experience another country and another culture.

It was only later, as I grew older, that I began to understand the incredible story behind it.

My father, who had lived through war and occupation, was now serving in Germany as an American soldier.

My mother was creating a home for our family wherever we were sent.

They showed me that home is not always one place.

Home is the people who love you, the memories you create, and the communities that welcome you.

Today, my mom is 89 years old, and she still has that same spirit. She still wants to go, explore, experience, and enjoy life. She still loves this country and everything it represents.

Looking back now, I realize my parents gave me a gift.

I didn’t just learn about America from a textbook.

I lived it.

I saw different states, different landscapes, different cultures, and different communities. Everywhere we went, I saw people working hard, raising families, helping neighbors, and believing in a better tomorrow.

And that is what I think about when I think of America’s 250th birthday.

The spirit that led to our revolution is still alive today.

You see it in people all around us.

You see it in the family working toward their first home.

You see it in the small business owner taking a chance on a dream.

You see it in neighbors helping each other through difficult times.

You see it in people who leave everything familiar behind because they believe there is an opportunity for something better.

That is the American Dream.

And as a Realtor, I am fortunate enough to see it every day.

A home is more than walls and a roof.

A home represents stability. Hope. A future.

It is where families grow, where memories are made, and where generations begin.

America has never been perfect, but for 250 years, people have continued to believe in the possibilities this country offers.

That belief is powerful.

Through my father’s journey, I learned how precious freedom truly is.

Through my mother’s example, I learned how to embrace every adventure and find home wherever life takes you.

Together, they taught me what it means to be an American.

This Fourth of July, as we celebrate 250 years, I hope we take time to remember the sacrifices that came before us, appreciate the freedoms we have today, and continue building a future worthy of those who came before us.

Happy 250th Birthday, America.

From my family to yours — God Bless America.

Every Fourth of July, people ask the same question:

"Where's the best place to watch fireworks around Montgomery County?"

There are some fantastic celebrations in our area, but if you ask me, I already have my answer.

After living here, celebrating here, and experiencing these events firsthand, here are my favorite places to celebrate Independence Day.

🥇 1. Walden on Lake Conroe (My Favorite!)

If you ask me where to celebrate the Fourth of July, my answer is always the same... Walden on Lake Conroe!

For me, the celebration starts long before the fireworks. I love kicking off the day by watching the Walden Independence Day Parade, then heading over to my office to celebrate with friends, neighbors, and clients. We'll be open from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM, so if you're out enjoying the festivities, stop by and say hello! We'll have cold drinks, a few treats, and would love to wish you and your family a Happy Fourth of July.

As the sun begins to set, I simply walk from my house down to the lake. One of the things I love most is watching fireworks light up the sky from communities all around Lake Conroe. It's beautiful to see them reflecting off the water.

Then, just when you think the evening couldn't get any better...

Walden's fireworks begin.

Year after year, they put on an incredible show, and in my opinion, it's the best fireworks display on Lake Conroe. It's become one of my favorite traditions and one of the many reasons I love living and working in this amazing community.

🥈 2. The Woodlands

If you're looking for a full day of family fun, The Woodlands is always a great choice.

From live entertainment and activities for the kids to food vendors and one of the area's biggest fireworks displays, there's something for everyone. If you're planning to attend, be sure to arrive early—parking fills up quickly, and the best viewing spots go fast!

🥉 3. Houston

If you don't mind a little extra driving (and a little extra traffic), Houston puts on one of the largest Fourth of July celebrations in Texas.

The fireworks over the city skyline are spectacular, and the event usually includes live music, entertainment, food, and activities throughout the day. It's perfect if you're looking for a big-city celebration.

A Little Reminder About Our Four-Legged Friends 🐾

As much as we enjoy fireworks, our pets often don't.

Last year, while walking home after the Walden fireworks, we came across a dog that was still attached to its leash—but its owner was nowhere in sight.

The fireworks had frightened the dog enough that it had gotten separated from its family.

Thankfully, we were able to walk around until we found the owners, and everyone was reunited. It had a happy ending, but it reminded me how quickly things can happen on a night like the Fourth of July.

Even the sweetest, best-trained dog can panic when fireworks start. Fear gives them incredible strength, and a startled pet can slip out of a collar or pull away before you realize what's happening.

If you'll be celebrating with your furry family members this year, here are a few simple ways to help keep them safe:

• 🐾 Make sure collars fit properly and ID tags are up to date.
• 🐾 Check that your pet's microchip information is current.
• 🐾 Bring pets indoors before the fireworks begin.
• 🐾 Close curtains and turn on a TV, fan, or music to help mask the noise.
• 🐾 Walk your dog before dark, when possible.
• 🐾 Keep a secure grip on the leash if you do take them outside.

A little preparation can make all the difference.

Happy Fourth of July!

Whether you're spending the day at Walden, heading to The Woodlands, or making the trip into Houston, I hope your Independence Day is filled with family, friends, and wonderful memories.

And if you're celebrating in Walden, I hope you'll wave at me during the parade, stop by my office for a cold drink between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM, and then enjoy what I think is the best fireworks show on Lake Conroe.

Have a safe, happy, and blessed Fourth of July!

Buying a home is exciting...but it can also be stressful. One of the best ways to make the process smoother is to build a great relationship with your real estate agent.

Your REALTOR® works for you, but like any professional relationship, communication and trust go a long way.

Here are a few things that can help make your home-buying journey a success.

1. Be Open and Honest

Tell your agent exactly what you're looking for—and just as importantly, what you're not.

If your budget changes...
If your priorities change...
If you suddenly decide you hate open floor plans...

Tell us!

The more we know, the better we can help you find the right home.

2. Speak Up If Something Isn't Working

Every REALTOR® has a different style.

If you feel like communication isn't where you'd like it to be, have a conversation.

Many issues can be solved with one honest discussion.

If, after talking, you still don't feel like it's the right fit, it's okay to move on.

In Texas, ending the relationship is often fairly simple—but always read your Buyer Representation Agreement first. Some agreements include cancellation terms or fees if the relationship ends before closing.

3. It's Okay to Text...

...and it's okay to call.

Really.

That's what we're here for.

If you have a question, ask it.

The only thing to remember is that your REALTOR® may be showing homes, negotiating contracts, attending inspections, or even spending time with family when your message comes in.

If it's urgent, let us know.

Most agents will respond as quickly as possible.

If your questions consistently go unanswered or you feel like you're bothering your agent simply by asking questions, that may be a sign it's time for another conversation.

4. Last-Minute Showings Aren't Always Possible

Most REALTORS® are juggling multiple clients, appointments, inspections, closings, and family commitments.

If your agent can't show you a home immediately, don't assume they aren't interested.

Ask when they can show it.

If they repeatedly can't accommodate your schedule, ask why.

Sometimes there's a perfectly reasonable explanation.

5. Get Pre-Approved First

This one is huge.

A mortgage pre-approval helps everyone.

It tells you:

• What price range fits your budget.
• What your monthly payment may look like.
• That you're ready to make an offer when you find the right home.

I'd hate for you to fall in love with a $500,000 home only to discover your budget is $300,000.

Even worse would be finding out you need to improve your finances before qualifying for a loan.

Knowing early saves disappointment later.

6. Timing Matters

Sometimes buyers want to start looking months before they're actually ready.

There's nothing wrong with dreaming...

But if you still need to sell your current home, improve your credit, save for a down payment, or get financing in place, the "perfect" home may be long gone before you're ready.

A good REALTOR® will help you create a realistic timeline so you're shopping when you're in the best position to buy.

7. Trust Your Agent's Advice

You hired your REALTOR® for a reason.

We study the market every day.

Sometimes our advice isn't what you hoped to hear—but it's meant to protect your interests, not sell you the first house you see.

8. Ask Questions

There are no silly questions.

Real estate has its own language, paperwork, deadlines, inspections, appraisals, title companies, earnest money...

If something doesn't make sense, ask.

An agent should never make you feel uncomfortable for wanting to understand the process.

9. Respect Goes Both Ways

The best real estate relationships are partnerships.

Mutual respect, honesty, and communication create the smoothest transactions.

Your agent should respect your goals, budget, and concerns.

You should feel comfortable sharing yours openly.

10. Remember Who Your REALTOR® Works For

At the end of the day, your REALTOR® has one job:

To put your interests first.

That means being ethical, honest, protecting your confidential information, negotiating on your behalf, and helping you make informed decisions—not pressuring you into buying a house.

The right REALTOR® isn't there to sell you a home.

They're there to help you find your home.

Final Thoughts

Buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions most people will ever make.

Choose an agent you trust. Communicate openly. Ask questions. And if the relationship isn't working after you've talked through the issues, it's okay to find someone who better fits your needs.

A great REALTOR® won't be offended by honest communication—they'll welcome it.

Because when buyers and REALTORS® work together as a team, everyone wins.

Thinking about buying or selling a home in Montgomery, Lake Conroe, DFW, or anywhere in Texas? I'd love the opportunity to earn your trust and help guide you through the process. Reach out anytime—I'm always happy to answer your questions.
For all your real estate needs, Get Jacque! 💚🏡

June 26 always hits a little differently for me—it’s my wedding anniversary.

And if I’m being honest… I always end up thinking about cake first.

Not just any cake, either. John’s groom cake. Strawberry-shaped, chocolate icing, cherries on top… and it was sooo good. The kind of dessert you don’t forget, even years later.

There’s something about food that locks memories in place. One bite, one smell, one look—and suddenly you’re right back in a moment you didn’t realize would matter forever.

But what makes this memory even more special is where everything started.

We actually got married in June right here in Texas—in the backyard of what would become our first home.

We didn’t have a big budget or a fancy venue. John mowed the grass. Friends brought chairs and a red carpet. My parents helped dress it up and make it feel special. We had cake, punch, laughter… and a whole lot of love.

And honestly? It was perfect.

No ballroom. No pressure. Just a home, the people we love, and the start of a life we were building together.

Looking back now, I realize how much that matters—not just as a memory, but as a reminder.

Homes aren’t just walls and roofs. They’re where life actually unfolds. The first time a place truly felt like ours. The everyday routines. The celebrations that happen without planning. The quiet mornings, the messy kitchens, the laughter in rooms that somehow always become the center of everything.

Those are the moments that turn a house into a home.

And that’s still what I love most about real estate.

As a local agent in Montgomery, Lake Conroe, and DFW, I get to help people find those places where their stories begin—or continue—or sometimes start all over again.

Because every home has the potential to hold someone’s most meaningful moments… even if they don’t realize it yet.

So I’ll ask you this—what’s one home memory you’ll never forget?

For all your real estate needs, get Jacque! Serving Montgomery, Lake Conroe, DFW & beyond.

Published June 2026

If you own rental property in Texas—or you're a renter with an assistance animal—there's an important federal housing update you should know about.

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) recently announced a significant change in how it will handle requests involving assistance animals in rental housing.

In short: HUD will no longer require landlords to waive pet policies for untrained Emotional Support Animals (ESAs).

This change has generated a lot of discussion among property owners, property managers, and tenants, so let's break down what it means.

What Changed?

According to HUD's updated guidance, housing providers are still expected to make reasonable accommodations for animals that are trained to perform specific disability-related tasks.

However, HUD has determined that requests involving untrained Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) are not automatically considered reasonable accommodations under its new interpretation.

As a result, HUD will now focus its investigations on cases involving animals that have been trained to provide disability-related assistance.

Service Animals vs. Emotional Support Animals

Many people use the terms interchangeably, but they are not the same under federal law.

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) defines a service animal as an animal that has been individually trained to perform work or tasks for a person with a disability.

Examples may include:

• Guiding individuals with visual impairments
• Alerting individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing
• Assisting with mobility challenges
• Performing psychiatric-related tasks when specifically trained to do so

According to the ADA, simply providing comfort, companionship, emotional support, or a sense of well-being does not qualify as a trained task.

What Does This Mean for Texas Landlords?

For landlords, this change could provide more clarity regarding pet policies and accommodation requests.

However, it does not necessarily mean landlords should immediately begin charging pet deposits or pet fees to existing tenants with Emotional Support Animals.

Texas REALTORS® recommends a measured approach because:

• Existing leases are legally binding contracts.
• Lease language may already address assistance animals.
• Federal and state guidance could continue to evolve.
• Individual situations may require legal review.

Before making changes to policies or existing leases, landlords should consult qualified legal counsel.

What Does This Mean for Renters?

For tenants, the key takeaway is that documentation alone may no longer be enough if an animal has not been trained to perform disability-related tasks.

Renters who rely on assistance animals should understand:

• Service animals remain protected under federal law.
• Housing providers may evaluate requests differently under HUD's new guidance.
• Lease terms remain important.
• Questions about specific situations should be directed to legal or fair housing professionals.

Why This Matters

The debate surrounding Emotional Support Animals has grown over the last several years as more housing providers, airlines, and businesses have attempted to balance accessibility needs with operational concerns.

HUD's latest guidance appears to align more closely with the ADA's emphasis on training and disability-related tasks.

For both landlords and tenants, the most important step is understanding the rules before signing a lease or making policy changes.

Final Thoughts

Real estate laws and housing regulations are constantly changing. Whether you're a landlord managing investment property or a renter looking for housing, staying informed can help prevent misunderstandings and costly disputes.

As always, this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. Anyone with questions about their specific situation should consult an attorney familiar with Texas landlord-tenant and fair housing law.

Have questions about buying, selling, investing, or leasing property in Montgomery County, Lake Conroe, Houston, or the DFW area? I'd be happy to help.

For all your real estate needs, Get Jacque!

Become a TEXAN!

If you've spent any time watching the FIFA matches being played in Texas this year, you've probably noticed something.

People from all over the world have come to Dallas, Houston, and other Texas cities and left talking about how much they enjoyed their experience.

The hospitality.

The food.

The people.

The energy.

As a Texan, I love hearing that.

One of my favorite moments wasn't even on the field. It was watching fans from Japan continue their tradition of cleaning up the stadium after matches. They weren't trying to change Texas. They weren't criticizing how things were done. They were simply showing appreciation and respect for a place they were visiting.

That simple act got me thinking.

Last week, I attended a home inspection with some buyer clients. The inspector shared that he originally came from Alabama. He told us Texas offered better opportunities, a stronger job market, and great schools, but if he could, he'd move back to Alabama tomorrow because he liked it better there.

He also mentioned that Texans weren't always as friendly as he expected.

As soon as he said that, I found myself thinking back to 1979 when my family moved to Texas.

I'm an Army brat. By the time I graduated from Baylor University, I had attended twelve different schools. Moving was simply part of life. Every new place felt strange at first. Every move came with the same thoughts:

"I liked my old town better."

"My old friends were better."

"Things were done differently there."

But as I settled into Texas, made friends, and became part of the community, I learned something important.

Texas wasn't asking me to forget where I came from.

Texas was asking me to join.

And that's a difference many people miss.

For decades, people have moved to Texas seeking opportunity. In fact, during the late 1970s and early 1980s, Texas experienced explosive growth as families arrived from all over the country looking for jobs and a better future.

Most were grateful to be here.

Some spent their time explaining why everything back home was better.

I've been hearing those conversations ever since.

"The food was better."

"The beaches were better."

"The schools were better."

"The people were better."

After a while, imagine how that sounds.

Think of it this way.

You own a home. You work hard to maintain it. You take pride in it.

One day, a family member asks if they can stay with you because they're having problems at their own house.

Being the welcoming person you are, you say yes.

Then every day they tell you how much better their old house was.

How they would redesign your kitchen.

How they would organize your garage.

How they would run things differently if they were in charge.

How long before your patience starts wearing thin?

That's not because you're unfriendly.

It's because respect matters.

The truth is that Texans generally love newcomers.

We're proud of our state and enjoy showing it off.

We'll tell you where to find the best BBQ.

We'll debate which Tex-Mex restaurant is the best.

We'll argue over whether Houston or Dallas has the better food scene.

We'll recommend a small-town festival, a hidden lake, a Friday night football game, or a weekend trip to the Hill Country.

We genuinely want people to enjoy Texas.

But if you're moving here, don't just come for the paycheck.

Learn our history.

Explore our small towns.

Visit the Gulf Coast.

Drive through the Hill Country.

Experience East Texas, West Texas, Dallas-Fort Worth, Houston, San Antonio, Austin, and the communities in between.

Try the Tex-Mex.

Eat the BBQ.

Learn why so many Texans proudly fly the Texas flag right alongside the American flag.

You don't have to believe Texas is perfect.

Trust me, Texans debate plenty among ourselves.

But if you choose Texas, embrace Texas.

Become part of the community.

Contribute to what makes this place special.

Because Texas isn't just where many of us live.

It's home.

And yes, we know there are burgers everywhere.

But Whataburger is our burger.

And we're pretty proud of that.

So if you're thinking about visiting Texas, come on down. We'd love to have you.

And if you're thinking about moving to Texas, we'd love to welcome you too.

Just come ready to become part of Texas.

Because around here, hospitality works best when appreciation goes both ways.

And that's something Texans will always respect.

If you think you are ready to become a TEXAN and would like to talk about Texas, call me.