Twila Bertrand, Realtor, Century 21 Cota Realty

09/29/2026

More Homes for Sale Now Than Any Time Since 2019

House hunting? You've got more homes to choose from than you've had in years. Right now, the number of homes for sale is the highest it's been since 2019. That's basically back to back to pre-pandemic normal – so there's more to pick from, and it's easier to find one that fits your budget. So, when you’re ready, let’s find your home and negotiate a deal you'll feel good about.

09/28/2026

The Mortgage Rate You See Online Isn’t Necessarily the One You’d Get.

Headlines and social media make today’s rates sound high. But you have to remember, the rate you’re seeing online and your actual rate could be different. The only way to know what your rate could be is to talk to a trusted lender.

With the right help, you can find out what your real rate is – and where it can take you.

You may have seen the headlines saying mortgage rates have climbed to the highest point since January 2025. And if that's left you reluctant to buy a home, here's what you need to remember…

09/25/2026

Why So Many Sellers Are Cutting Their Price Right Now

Price cuts are a normal part of today’s housing market, and both buyers and sellers can use them to their advantage. Let's look at what's actually happening with prices in your neighborhood, so you know exactly where you stand before you list or make an offer.

Price cuts are turning up everywhere right now, and they read very differently depending on which side of the deal you’re on.

09/24/2026

🏡 Have you heard of an assumable mortgage?

If you’re buying a home in East Texas, this is one financing option worth asking about. An assumable loan may let a qualified buyer take over the seller’s remaining mortgage balance at its existing interest rate.

Here’s the part that often surprises buyers: you still have to cover the difference between the loan balance and the purchase price. If a home sells for $300,000 and the remaining loan is $220,000, that’s an $80,000 gap, plus closing costs. 💰

For sellers, an attractive existing rate could help your home stand out. But the loan servicer must approve the assumption, and you’ll want to confirm you’re released from liability. VA sellers also need to ask how it affects their VA loan entitlement.

Every loan is different, so I always recommend looking at the whole picture—the rate, remaining balance, cash needed, monthly payment, and approval timeline.

I wrote a more detailed guide for East Texas buyers and sellers on my website: https://twilabertrand.sites.c21.homes/?p=495

Have questions about buying or selling in Lufkin, Huntington, Nacogdoches, or the surrounding area? I’d be glad to help!

Twila Bertrand, REALTOR®
CENTURY 21 Cota Realty | Your Hometown Realtor
📱 936-208-7631

09/23/2026

There Are 4 Types of Housing Markets Right Now. Which 1 Are You In?

Four different housing markets are running at once: cash buyers, financed buyers, locked-in owners, and builders. Each one plays by its own rules, and the right move for one is exactly the wrong move for another.

Let's figure out which one you're actually in and build your next move from there.

Today’s housing market splits into four distinct types. You’ve got cash buyers, buyers financing a purchase, owners who feel locked into a low rate, and builders with homes to sell.

09/23/2026

🤩🏡 New Listing Video - Home for Sale in Huntington!! 🤩🏡

If you are familiar with Huntington, I know you have been wanting to see this property! Fully updated inside and out with a whole new modern look!! Take a sneak peak inside on the video below and schedule a time to come see this incredible the new listing at 706 Ave A in Huntington in person to see all it has to offer!

This 3 Bedroom, 2 Bath brick home now has gorgeous quartz countertops, all new appliances, a tile backsplash, and plenty of cabinet space. You’ll also find new flooring throughout, a new concrete driveway, and a newly expanded large covered back patio.

The home sits on a spacious 0.83 acre lot and has an attached garage, a metal carport, and a workshop on a slab. There’s room to spread out and space for your projects, too!

Listed at $249,900. Watch the walkthrough, then give me a call if you’d like to see it in person! 📲 936-208-7631

Click the link below for more details and pictures:
https://twilabertrand.sites.c21.homes/listing/TX/Huntington/706-Avenue-a-75949/233284180

09/22/2026

Get Your House Buyer-Ready for Fall

Prepping your house to sell this fall and not sure where to focus? Start where buyers do – at the curb. Their first few seconds out front shape how buyers feel about the rest of the house.A few simple touches make a big difference. Freshen up the front door with a new coat of paint, touch up your landscaping or bring in seasonal flowers, sweep the walkways and clean the gutters, and make sure the path to the door is well lit. A great agent knows what today's buyers will notice, and which touch-ups are worth your time. So, let’s connect and get your house ready to turn heads this fall.

09/21/2026

3 Things You Can Actually Control About Your Mortgage Rate Right Now

You can't control where mortgage rates go, but you can control your credit, your loan, and the kind of home you buy. Working with a trusted lender can help you lock in the best rate you qualify for. And when you’re ready to make a move that fits your budget, let’s connect.

If you're trying to buy a home, affordability is probably what keeps you up at night.

09/19/2026

🎥🏡 NEW VIDEO WALKTHROUGH | 2122 Paul Ave, Lufkin, TX

Come take a look inside this beautifully updated and spacious property sitting on 9.36 acres INSIDE the city limits of Lufkin! 🌳✨

🏡 4 Bedrooms | 3 Bathrooms
🌿 Over 9 acres with gorgeous views
💦 Private pond
✨ Beautifully renovated interior
🍽️ Spacious open-concept kitchen & living area
⚡ Full-house generator
🚪 Gated entrance
🐾 Fenced backyard

This property gives you that peaceful country feel while still being close to everything in town! Take the video tour and come see it in person to see just how special it is. ❤️

👉 More photos, details & pricing on the link below:
https://twilabertrand.sites.c21.homes/listing/TX/Lufkin/2122-Paul-Avenue-75901/233045776 🏡