Could Your Stucco Be Damaging Your Houston Home?

There are many great Houston area homes for sale. Click here to perform a full home search, or if you're thinking of selling your home, click here for a FREE Home Price Evaluation so you know what buyers will pay for your home in today's market. You may also call me at 832-428-6453 for a FREE home buying or selling consultation to answer any of your real estate questions.

We've had a lot of questions lately about stucco from buyers and sellers in Houston, so I wanted to address the topic today. Today I'm joined by Kevin Harbison from Stucco Spec, our go-to guy for home inspections.

First we want to differentiate between the two types of stucco: cement-based (which we refer to as real stucco) and synthetic stucco (referred to as EIFS) which is made out of foam and a thin rendering of cement. The real stucco is actually concrete, and is thicker.

Most people don't dislike stucco as a material itself but tend to dislike the way it is applied and maintained. The problem with stucco is water intrusion. For example, if a window is not caulked properly, water can get in behind the stucco and cause structural damage. Another important detail on homes for preventing water intrusion is flashing, which kicks away water and keeps it away from the house.

"Windows should be resealed every five to six years."

Heat plays a factor here in Houston as well. It takes a toll on caulking, so windows should be resealed every five to six years, according to Kevin. There are specific sealants used, so he recommends always using a professional waterproofing company. If you have a stucco home that hasn't received maintenance in six to 10 years, you want to walk around the home for a self-inspection. Check that your sealants are intact and soil is not touching the bottom of the stucco walls. You can always hire a proven professional like Kevin to make sure the inspection is done right.

If you have more questions about stucco or you're interested in a stucco inspection, you can reach Kevin through Stucco Spec's website. If you have real estate questions or are thinking about buying or selling a home, give me a call and let's talk soon!

How We Impressed Margie By Selling Her House Quickly

Tell us about your experience working with the Mike Gray Home Selling Team?

"He sold my house very quickly. One of the offers on my house fell through, and he had a new buyer for me within 48 hours, maybe less than that. He's good."

To contact Mike Gray, call 832-428-6453 or email Mike@homesfromhouston.com.

How Houston’s Market Rate Compares Nationally

There are many great Houston area homes for sale. Click here to perform a full home search, or if you're thinking of selling your home, click here for a FREE Home Price Evaluation so you know what buyers will pay for your home in today's market. You may also call me at 832-428-6453 for a FREE home buying or selling consultation to answer any of your real estate questions.

There’s been a lot of news lately concerning the national real estate market increase. The market is getting stronger. What I want to tell you today is how this affects Houston’s own real estate market by comparing how its recent history has fared against national trends.

Nationally, from 2001-2005, we underwent a boom. From 2006-2010, the cycle reversed and we experienced a bust. From 2011-2015, we were in recovery mode. Projections show that, by all accounts, 2016-2020 will be another boom. This bounce back is expected to be the result of the number of homes sold and the general demand of housing rather than an increase in pricing.  

"Through the years, Houston’s market remained steady."

In some cases, Houston’s regional market worked against this national ebb and flow. But through these time periods, overall performance remained steady. No extreme highs or extreme lows. This year has been no different, thanks in large part to the resolve of the greater economy in general.

I hope this comparison gives you a more comprehensive idea of what to expect going forward. Be sure to click on the video for a more in-depth, year-by-year statistical analysis. If you have questions about your specific neighborhood or area, we’d be happy to answer them. Just shoot us an email or give us a call.