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About Jasmine Rockwell

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So far Jasmine Rockwell has created 9 blog entries.

A/C System Mandate: What It Means for Your Home and Budget

By |2025-09-30T17:10:22-05:00October 1st, 2025|Advice, News, Our Communities|

Starting January 1, 2025, the EPA mandated that new air conditioning and heat pump systems must not use high-GWP (Global Warming Potential) refrigerants like R-410A. While this may sound technical, the changes affect real-world things like system costs, insurance, and your monthly energy bills. Here’s what Houston homeowners should know, and how to prepare.

What’s Behind the Mandate

R-410A, this refrigerant is the chemical that flows inside your air conditioning system to absorb heat from inside your home and release it outside, keeping your home cool. You may know the older types by their trade names: Freon (phased out in 2010 for damaging the ozone layer) and Puron (R-410A), the current standard.

Under the new rules, systems must comply with a GWP limit of about 700 or lower, ushering in the era of A2L refrigerants, specifically R-454B and R-32. These newer refrigerants are more eco-friendly but mildly flammable, requiring updated safety features in new systems.

Why Is This Happening?

This mandate is part of a broader effort under the American Innovation and Manufacturing (AIM) Act and the global initiative to combat climate change. Enacted in 2020, the AIM Act empowers the EPA to phase down hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs); potent greenhouse gases widely used in air conditioning, refrigeration, and more. The goal is an 85% reduction in HFC production and consumption by 2036.

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How Much Home Can You Afford? – A Buyer’s Guide

By |2025-09-15T09:02:47-05:00September 15th, 2025|Advice, CENTURY 21, Our Communities, Realty Partners|

Whether you’re buying your very first home or you’re a seasoned mover looking for your fourth, one question remains the same: How much home can I afford? It’s one of the most important questions in the homebuying journey and the answer depends on more than just what you want to spend. It’s about what you can comfortably afford while maintaining a healthy financial future. Let’s break it down.

Start With a Big-Picture Financial Review

Before browsing listings or daydreaming about your ideal kitchen island, start by reviewing your full financial picture. Ask yourself:

  • What’s my total household income?
    This includes salary, bonuses, side hustles, and any consistent passive income.
  • How much have I saved for a down payment?
    Most conventional loans require 5-20%, though there are options with lower minimums.
  • Do I have funds for closing costs?
    These typically range from 2-5% of the home’s price and they’re often overlooked.
  • What about my current debts?
    Student loans, credit cards, car payments – your debt load affects your loan eligibility and monthly affordability.
  • How much do I need in reserve?
    Lenders often like to see a cushion, enough to cover a few months of mortgage payments in savings.

The biggest is usually the down payment, which can range from as little as 3% to 20% of the purchase price depending […]

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What Buyers Notice First, And How to Impress Them

By |2025-08-29T16:58:11-05:00September 1st, 2025|Advice, CENTURY 21, Listings, Realty Partners|

You only get one chance to make a first impression and in real estate, that first impression can make or break a sale.

When it comes to selling a home, buyers aren’t just looking at bedrooms and square footage, they’re absorbing the feeling of the space the moment they arrive. Within seconds, subtle details can shape their opinion, setting the tone for the entire showing. A freshly swept walkway might suggest pride of ownership, while a dimly lit entry could unintentionally send up red flags. The truth is, first impressions are powerful in real estate, and they often stick with buyers long after they’ve toured the home.

If you’re preparing to sell, understanding what buyers notice right away is the first step toward making your home stand out. The good news? Most of these details don’t require a massive budget, just a little strategy and care. Here’s what catches buyers’ attention first, and how you can turn those moments into a lasting impression that sells.

1. Curb Appeal: It Starts at the Street

Before buyers ever step inside, they’re already forming an opinion. The exterior of your home sets the tone for the entire showing, signaling whether the property has been cared for or neglected. A tidy lawn and welcoming entry can make buyers feel confident before they even reach the front door.

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The Real Value of Working with a Local Agent

By |2025-07-31T16:28:39-05:00August 1st, 2025|Advice, CENTURY 21, Listings, Our Communities, Realty Partners, Uncategorized|

When it comes to buying or selling a home, many people ask the same question: “Do I really need a local real estate agent?” With all the websites, apps, and nationwide companies out there, it’s easy to believe you can manage everything with a few clicks.

But here’s the truth; working with a local agent, someone who lives in and understands your market, gives you a major advantage. In Houston’s diverse real estate scene, local knowledge isn’t just helpful, it’s essential. So what exactly does a local real estate agent bring to the table? A whole lot more than you might expect.

Local Knowledge That Google Can’t Match

A home’s square footage and list price are just the beginning. A local agent knows why two homes that look nearly identical on paper are priced $50,000 apart and whether that price difference is justified.

We know which neighborhoods have the best school zones, where flood zones can affect insurance costs, and which streets stay quiet versus those that back up during rush hour. We know if that “renovated” home was a true upgrade or just a quick flip with cosmetic changes.

For example, in The Heights and Montrose, buyers love the character and walkability but in Bridgeland or Cypress, families may prioritize newer homes with neighborhood amenities. These are the kinds of insights a local agent brings to […]

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How to Prepare for Summer Storms and Hurricane Season in Houston

By |2025-07-16T11:42:41-05:00July 15th, 2025|Advice, News, Our Communities, Realty Partners|

Houston summers bring more than heat and sunshine; they also bring storm clouds, unexpected downpours, and the heightened risk of hurricanes. This time of year is unpredictable, which is why preparation matters so much for homeowners across the region.

Even quick afternoon storms can knock out power or flood roadways, and hurricane systems can cause damage that takes months to recover from. Every summer, Houstonians are reminded how fast weather can shift and how important it is to prepare ahead of time – not just when a storm is already in the forecast.

Whether it’s a surprise thunderstorm or a named system brewing in the Gulf, here’s how to protect your home, your family, and your peace of mind during Houston’s storm season.

Rainy Day Checklist: Be Ready for Surprise Power Outages

Storms often hit without much notice. Here’s what every Houston household should have stocked year-round in case of sudden power outages or heavy rains:

Rainy Day Checklist:

  • Prescription medications and medical necessities
  • Prescription medications and medical necessities
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    Flash Floods in West Texas and Why Preparedness Matters in Houston

    By |2025-07-15T09:50:54-05:00July 15th, 2025|Advice, News, Our Communities|

    Our hearts go out to the families affected by the catastrophic flash flooding in West Texas during early July. More than 119 lives were tragically lost, including 27 young campers and counselors at Camp Mystic near Hunt. The Guadalupe River surged between 22 and 26 feet in less than an hour, sweeping away cabins, cars, and cherished memories. Reports describe heart-wrenching scenes: bunk beds submerged in mud, personal belongings scattered, and heroic rescue efforts involving helicopters, boats, and drones. These heartbreaking moments remind us just how quickly nature can change everything and how important it is to be prepared, even when we feel far removed from the storm..

    While this tragedy unfolded hundreds of miles from Houston, the lessons are close to home. Greater Houston is no stranger to flash flooding and once-in-a-generation rain events, even far outside designated flood zones. Many Houston homeowners have experienced damage during unexpected downpours or storms, yet remain uninsured because they were told coverage didn’t matter if they didn’t live in a flood zone. While some areas are labeled as high-risk flood zones, the reality is that flooding doesn’t respect those lines.

    Flood insurance is one of the most overlooked, yet critical, protections a homeowner can have. It’s not included in standard homeowners policies, and without it, recovery can be financially devastating. The good news is that in many cases, flood insurance is more affordable than people expect, especially in lower-risk zones. Whether you’re a first-time […]

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    Top 4th of July Events in Houston for 2025

    By |2025-07-03T13:15:04-05:00July 3rd, 2025|Events, Our Communities|

    Houston knows how to light up the sky, and the streets, when it comes to celebrating Independence Day. Whether you’re all about live music, fireworks, family fun, or waterfront views, there’s a 4th of July event with your name on it! Here’s your go-to guide for the top 4th of July events in and around Houston in 2025.

    Freedom Over Texas at Eleanor Tinsley Park

    A signature Houston celebration drawing around 50,000 attendees, with a six-hour festival capped by a “Texas‑sized” fireworks finale!

    Website

    📍 Downtown Houston | 🕓 July 4 | 4 PM–10 PM

    • Live music headliners Ashley McBryde & Lee Brice
    • A full festival with food, games, and vendors
    • A massive fireworks finale over Buffalo Bayou

    🚧 Heads up: Street closures start July 2-5. Plan ahead!

    • Cirque performers, live bands, DJs
      • Cirque performers, live bands, DJs
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    Moving to Houston: What You Need to Know

    By |2025-06-30T12:35:19-05:00July 1st, 2025|CENTURY 21, Realty Partners|

    If Houston’s on your radar, you’re not alone. From booming job opportunities to vibrant neighborhoods and endless entertainment, Houston is one of the fastest-growing cities in the country, and for good reason. Whether you’re relocating from across the state or the other side of the country, here are a few key things to know before making H-Town your hometown.

    Big City Energy with a Neighborhood Feel

    Houston offers the best of both worlds: the cultural richness of a major metro and the charm of local communities. From walkable areas like The Heights and Montrose to suburban family favorites like Katy and Cypress, there’s truly a neighborhood for every lifestyle.
    Pro tip: Not sure where to start? Let’s chat about what fits your lifestyle: urban living, family-friendly, or something in between.

    Career Growth? You’re in the Right Place

    Houston’s economy is as diverse as its people. While it’s well-known for energy and healthcare, the city also has booming tech, finance, and education sectors. That means more opportunities, and more people choosing to call Houston home. According to the recent America’s Best Cities report, Houston attracted 200,000 new residents and even welcomed Chevron’s headquarters, all while maintaining a median home value of about $265,000. This shows Houston’s rare blend of growing opportunities and home affordability. Read the article →

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