Rick Raanes

08/06/2026

I'm headed to Chico, California to meet the team behind LIVIN.in and Market Mayors from around the country.

My mission is simple...

Learn how to tell the story of The Woodlands even better.

Buying a home is important...

But falling in love with a community comes first.

I'm excited to take you along over the next few days.

08/02/2026

I saw a yard sign recently in Shalimar.

I can't remember the name of the agent, however, I remember that the agent had the initial C. just before the name.

I wasn't sure if that was real or invented. Either way, it was brilliant.

What if I changed my name to C. Rick Raanes?

08/01/2026

Thousands of families left California for Texas.

In 2020, it was because homes were cheaper.

In 2026... that's still true.

But here's what people miss when they compare prices...

❌ Don't compare the house price alone.
Compare your entire monthly budget.

✅ Even with higher property taxes in many parts of Texas, most families still spend less on housing than they would in many California markets.

✅ No state income tax means many households keep more of what they earn each paycheck.

✅ Everyday costs—from gas to groceries to dining out—are often lower depending on where you choose to live.

✅ You don't have to buy a million-dollar home just to get a yard, good schools, and room for your family.

And here's the biggest mistake people make...

They compare Los Angeles to Austin.

Or San Jose to Dallas.

The better comparison is finding the Texas community that fits your lifestyle and budget.

The families who end up loving Texas aren't always the ones who bought the cheapest house.

They're the ones who found the right town.

That's why I spend so much time helping people understand places like The Woodlands, Conroe, Magnolia, Montgomery, and Spring—because every community offers something different.

If you're wondering what your California budget would actually buy in Texas...

Comment "TEXAS" and I'll show you the numbers.

07/30/2026

Every home for sale is an opportunity for a family to create beautiful memories in a new place.

With so many styles, the traditional home seems to be making a comeback because the older homes were built better and seem to have more creative designs from multiple owners.

The creativity can either be a blessing or a curse for a seller.

What I love about the "older" home is the character and the thought of, "if these walls could talk" fun.

This home is a good mix of creativity and a family loving their time here.

As seasons change, so do the homeowners.

Love to show off the fun this home has had over the years!!

Call ol' Rick or Jennifer for a fun tour of 6611 Chancellor!!

07/28/2026

The numbers are telling an interesting story... 👀

New York isn't disappearing, however, more families, professionals, and businesses are choosing Texas for their next chapter.

Why?

🏡 More attainable homeownership
💼 Strong job opportunities
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Room to grow
🌳 A lifestyle that works for families

I see this trend firsthand as a Realtor LIVIN.in The Woodlands.

Every week I meet people relocating to Texas because they believe it's the best place to build their future.

💬 If you could live anywhere, where would you choose?

07/27/2026

🌳 What do you think makes The Woodlands one of the best places to live in Texas?

If you are already LIVIN.in The Woodlands, tell me your favorite thing in the comments.

If you're thinking about moving here, what's the first thing you'd want to explore?

Follow Rick Livin.in for all the good stuff.

07/27/2026

Most people think of The Woodlands as one big neighborhood.

The truth? It's a collection of unique villages, each with its own personality, style, and sense of community.

🏡 Do you love mature trees and established neighborhoods?

✨ Prefer newer homes with modern designs?

🌲 Dream of living beneath a canopy of towering trees?

🚶 Or maybe you want trails, parks, and water just steps from your front door?

That's what makes The Woodlands such a special place to call home. Every village offers a different lifestyle, and finding the right fit can make all the difference.

I recently explored several of these villages while putting together this story for LIVIN.in, and it reminded me why so many people move here... and never want to leave.

📖 Take a few minutes to read the story and let me know:

Which village in The Woodlands is your favorite—and why?

Whether you're thinking about buying, selling, or just love this community, I'd be happy to help you discover the village that feels like home.

Most people who haven't spent much time here think of The Woodlands as one big community north of Houston. But the more time I spend exploring it for Livin.in, the more I realize how different each village actually feels.

07/26/2026

You're building your dream backyard. You have a $50,000 budget.

What's the first thing you're adding?

Mine? A huge covered patio with an outdoor kitchen. 🍔🍹

👇 I'd love to hear yours.

07/26/2026

🏡 UNDER CONTRACT! 🎉

I'm excited to share that 122 Black Swan is officially under contract!

I'm grateful to my sellers for trusting me to help guide them through the process, and to the buyers for seeing the value this beautiful home has to offer.

Now we move on to inspections, appraisal, and getting this one to the closing table!

If you've been wondering what your home is worth—or you're thinking about making a move before the end of the year—I'd be happy to help you build a game plan.

📞 Thinking about buying or selling in The Woodlands, Magnolia, Spring, or the surrounding Houston area? Let's connect.

Congratulations to everyone involved! 🎉🏡

07/25/2026

🏡 OPEN HOUSE TODAY | Noon–2:00 PM🏡

Looking for a home with space to entertain, relax, and enjoy your own backyard oasis? Stop by and tour this beautiful home today!

📍 6611 Chancellor Dr. | Spring, TX 77379
🕛 Saturday | Noon–2:00 PM

✨ 4 Bedrooms
✨ 3.5 Bathrooms
✨ 3,327 Sq. Ft.
✨ Offered at $440,000

A few of my favorite features:
🏊 Sparkling pool & spa
🎱 Huge game room
💼 Dedicated home office
🌿 Private primary suite with its own patio
🚗 Automatic gated driveway
✅ Never flooded

Located in Wimbledon Estates, you'll also enjoy walking trails, tennis courts, a community pool, playgrounds, and convenient access to shopping, dining, and top-rated schools.

📸 Take a sneak peek before you arrive:
👉 https://bit.ly/45jvU1w

If you're out looking at homes today, I'd love to meet you. Stop by, say hello, and see if this could be your next home!

📲 Questions or can't make the open house? Send me a message to schedule your own private tour.