Matthew Grubbs- Realtor

06/12/2026

One of the biggest questions I’m getting right now is: “What’s going to happen with the housing market in the second half of the year?”

And it makes sense why everyone is asking.

Affordability is tight. Rates feel high. Prices do too.

And people want to know if the second half of the year is going to be better.

Here's the honest answer. A lot of it depends on what happens with inflation – and the lingering uncertainty overseas. But even in today’s market, there’s opportunity, if you know where to look.



Want a breakdown of what’s impacting the market, where experts think things could go from here, and what you can actually do about it?

Send a DM or drop a comment below and I can send you over an article that breaks it all down.

06/11/2026

Still deciding whether to buy your first home now or wait? Here’s something you’ll want to consider.

Buyers who get into their first home around age 30 build about $119,000 more in net worth by age 50 compared to those who wait until their 40s.

So, every year you spend saving for the "right" moment could quietly chip away at your future wealth.

That doesn’t mean buy before you’re ready. But it does mean, if you’re ready and able to buy now, it may be a better strategy than waiting.

DM me and let's map out what timeline fits your situation and our market. You might find that a head start matters more than waiting to save the "perfect" down payment.

06/11/2026

The simple truth is: most first-time buyers don’t put 20% down. And if you’ve been waiting to buy until you have that saved, you may be setting a timeline that’s longer than necessary.

To find out what you really need to save and if you qualify for any help, connect with a trusted lender who can walk you through your options. You may be able to buy sooner than you thought.

According to Google Trends, online searches for down payment information recently hit an all-time high.

06/10/2026

Want to boost your home’s value without a full renovation? Start with curb appeal.

One of the easiest DIY upgrades homeowners can make is refreshing the front entry.

Try this weekend project:

✔ Power wash the driveway and walkway
✔ Add fresh mulch or clean landscaping rock
✔ Paint or restain the front door
✔ Replace old house numbers
✔ Add a new welcome mat
✔ Update porch lighting
✔ Add two matching planters by the door

Buyers start forming an opinion before they ever walk inside. A clean, updated entry makes your home feel cared for, inviting, and move-in ready.

Small upgrades can make a big difference when it’s time to sell.

Thinking about making improvements before listing? I can help you focus on the updates that actually matter.

Matthew Grubbs
RE/MAX Grand

06/10/2026

Online searches for down payment information recently hit an all-time high. That shows a lot of buyers aren’t sure what’s actually required, and they’re looking for answers.

Unfortunately, many still think they have to put 20% down.

But the data says something very different is happening.

The typical first-time buyer actually puts down about 10% – that’s half of what you probably expected. And some do as little as 3.5% or even 0% down (depending on their loan type).

So, that 20% myth is only holding you back and delaying your timeline more than necessary.

If you’re curious about what’s really required, it’s worth having a conversation with a trusted lender. A true expert can give you better information than an online search.

Then let's chat about what your budget can get you in today’s market.

06/10/2026

Down payment assistance programs could provide an average of $17,000 for qualified buyers, potentially turning the dream of homeownership into reality.

Talk to a lender to see what you qualify for. With the help of these programs, you may be closer to getting into a home than you think.

06/09/2026

If you’ve been putting off buying a home because the down payment feels like too much to tackle, let’s talk. You may not need as much as you think, and there are plenty of resources out there, so you don’t have to do it alone. You just need an expert to point you in the right direction.

If a down payment wasn’t holding you back, would you be ready to start your home search?

Buying a home is exciting… until you start thinking about the down payment. That’s when the worry can set in.

06/09/2026

🏡 Featured Home of the Week

This week, I’m featuring this beautifully maintained one story home in Grand Mission Estates.

📍 20715 Arrow Falls Ln
Richmond, TX 77407

This home offers 3 bedrooms, 2 full baths, 2,032 sq ft, fresh paint, new carpet, a home office, flexible bonus space, and an oversized backyard with room to dream.

Whether you’re a first time buyer, downsizing, or looking for a move in ready home in a great location, this one deserves a closer look.

Message me “ARROW FALLS” for details or to schedule a private showing.

Matthew Grubbs
RE/MAX Grand
713.458.8500

https://www.har.com/homedetail/20715-arrow-falls-ln-richmond-tx-77407/13137195?cid=grubbsmh

06/09/2026

A lot of buyers think affordability is impossible right now.

But sometimes it’s not about giving up on homeownership. It’s about expanding where you’re looking.

Yes, some states are significantly more affordable than others. This list breaks down the top 10. But that doesn’t mean you have to make a cross-country move to find better options.
Even in expensive markets, there are usually neighborhoods, towns, and communities nearby where home prices, property taxes, or overall costs are a lot more manageable.

The key is knowing where to look – and a local agent can help you find those opportunities.

Curious what's out there? Broadening your search, even just a little outside of town, might open up more options than you'd expect.

Drop a comment below or send a message if you want some advice on where to look based on your price point.

06/08/2026

Stuck deciding whether to buy now or wait? Waiting too long could cost you a sizeable nest egg. Buying your first home at 30 (instead of 40) could give you $119,000 more in net worth by age 50. Wondering if now’s your moment? Let’s chat.