Selden Tual Real Estate

08/26/2026

Putting down earnest money in Dallas? One wrong assumption could put thousands of dollars at risk.

Earnest money is more than just a deposit. It can affect a buyer’s negotiating position and may be at risk if contract deadlines and contingencies are not handled correctly.

This guide explains how much Dallas buyers should consider depositing in 2026, how earnest money works, and what buyers need to know before signing a contract.

Read the full guide:
https://seldentual.com/blog/dallas-earnest-money-how-much-buyers-should-deposit-2026/

08/26/2026

The buyer found problems during the inspection. Now the seller has a choice: negotiate, make repairs, or say no.

In a 2026 Dallas buyers market, inspection findings can have a major impact on a real estate transaction. Sellers need to understand when a repair request is reasonable, when negotiating makes sense, and when it may be better to decline.

This guide breaks down how Dallas sellers can approach inspection repairs with a clear strategy while protecting the value of their home.

Read the full guide:
https://seldentual.com/blog/2026-dallas-buyers-market-home-inspection-repairs-sellers-negotiate-decline/

08/25/2026

The appraisal came in lower than the offer. Now what?

An appraisal gap can turn an exciting Dallas home purchase into a stressful negotiation, especially when the buyer and seller disagree on what the property is worth.

This guide explains practical appraisal gap solutions for Dallas home buyers in 2026, from renegotiating the price to bringing additional cash to the table.

Understanding the options before an appraisal issue happens can help buyers make a more informed decision.

Read the full guide:
https://seldentual.com/blog/appraisal-gap-solutions-dallas-home-buyers-2026/

08/24/2026

The offer was accepted. The inspection went well. Then the appraisal came in low.

For Dallas luxury home sellers and buyers, a low appraisal can create a serious challenge and potentially put a deal at risk. Understanding why luxury properties may appraise differently and what options are available can make a significant difference.

This guide explains what happens when a Dallas luxury home appraises below the contract price and what buyers and sellers can do next.

Read the full guide:

When a home appraises low in Dallas luxury markets like Highland Park and University Park, you face an appraisal gap—but you're not stuck. In 2026, you have four real options: request a price reduction (the most common in today's buyer's market), bring additional cash, split the difference with th...

08/23/2026

Think you can afford the mortgage? The real cost of owning a Dallas home may be more than the monthly payment.

From property taxes and insurance to maintenance, repairs, and unexpected expenses, homeownership comes with costs that are easy to overlook.

This guide breaks down the true cost of owning a home in Dallas in 2026 so buyers can better understand what to budget for before making a move.

Read the full guide:
https://seldentual.com/blog/true-cost-of-homeownership-dallas-2026/

08/22/2026

Renting may feel easier, but could buying actually make more sense in Dallas in 2026?

With home prices, mortgage rates, monthly payments, and long term goals all playing a role, the decision is not always as simple as rent versus mortgage.

This guide breaks down the key factors Dallas renters and buyers should consider before making the move.

Read the full guide:

Should you rent or buy in Dallas in 2026? Renting runs $2,100/month; buying runs $2,945/month all-in. For stays under 6 years, renting wins financially. For 7+ years, buying builds wealth through appreciation and principal paydown. Dallas's zero state income tax, booming job market, and buyer's-mark...

08/22/2026

Stunning luxury 3-story townhome-style condo perfectly situated across from Highland Park Fountain, walking distance to Shops at Highland Park, Katy Trail, and Highland Park Village in highly sought after Oak Lawn neighborhood!

2 beds, 2.1 baths, 1,919 square feet

4220 Hawthorne Avenue #103 offered for $8,000 per month

08/21/2026

Inherited a home in Dallas and unsure what to do next?

Selling an inherited property can involve probate, taxes, repairs, multiple heirs, and important decisions about timing. This guide explains the key steps involved in selling an inherited home in Dallas, including the options available to homeowners and important considerations along the way.

Read the full guide to learn more:

When you inherit a Dallas home, you can sell through traditional listing (60-90 days), cash buyers (14-30 days), or probate auction. Texas's stepped-up basis rule eliminates capital gains taxes for inherited property, and the state has no inheritance tax. Your best path depends on urgency and the ho...

08/17/2026

Dallas Market Update — What the Data Shows

A fresh look at the latest Dallas real estate market data, giving buyers and sellers a clear picture of where things stand right now.

From pricing trends to inventory levels, understanding the numbers behind the market helps clients make smarter decisions — whether they're buying a first home or listing a property they've owned for years.

Swipe through for the full breakdown, and reach out today for a personalized look at how these trends affect your specific situation.

08/13/2026

Summer can still be an excellent time to sell a home in Dallas, but success depends on pricing, presentation, and understanding current market conditions. A thoughtful strategy can help attract motivated buyers and maximize your home's value.

Read more:

Summer 2026 is slower than April's peak window, but pricing for current market conditions matters far more than season. Navigate Dallas's buyer-favorable market with realistic pricing, focus on corporate relocations, and leverage neighborhoods with strong demand like Highland Park and Uptown. 47% of...