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April 30.2025
3 Minutes Read

Rate's New Leaders Revolutionize Houston Mortgage Landscape: Here’s What to Expect

Professional men in business attire, Houston mortgage rates.

Rate's Strategic Leadership Move: A Game Changer for Northwest Houston

In a surprising yet impactful move for the local housing market, Rate has expanded its leadership team by adding two veterans from Houston: Torrey Jacoby as vice president of mortgage and Brett Snortland as vice president of market growth and development. This strategic enhancement comes at a pivotal moment for the Northwest Houston property market, as the region shows signs of vibrant growth and evolving real estate trends.

Meet the Newly Appointed Leaders

Torrey Jacoby, previously a loan officer and sales manager with Network Funding, brings a robust background in mortgage financing with a remarkable closure of over $62 million in production volume in 2024 alone. Jacoby firmly believes that customer service is the foundation of long-term success in the mortgage business, emphasizing that excellent service leads to lifelong referrals. This philosophy is essential in an ever-competitive market like Houston, where relationships can dictate business success.

Brett Snortland, on the other hand, has formidable experience, having served as the executive vice president of business development for Fiber Mortgage. With over three decades in the industry, Snortland's enthusiasm for joining Rate during this period of innovation underscores the potential unfolding in the local market. His insights could be particularly beneficial for Northwest Houston investors seeking to maximize their opportunities.

Why This Matters for Homebuyers and Investors in Northwest Houston

For homebuyers and investors in Northwest Houston, the addition of Jacoby and Snortland signals a promising evolution in mortgage options and market growth strategies. Their combined expertise aims to bolster Rate's offerings, thus providing residents with a wider array of Houston home loan options. As the Houston housing market continues to heat up, having knowledgeable leaders is crucial for navigating mortgage rates and finding affordable housing solutions.

Current Trends in Northwest Houston's Real Estate Market

The real estate market in Northwest Houston is showing robust activity, driven by an influx of investment properties and a growing demand for new home developments. Many first-time homebuyers are finding HUD homes for sale in Houston, which offer viable entry points for those looking to start their journey in real estate. With the predicted interest rate adjustments and housing finance programs likely to influence investment strategies, the offerings from Rate under their new leadership become timely and relevant to the community.

Looking Ahead: What This Could Mean for the Future

As Northwest Houston experiences a housing boom, the foundational changes at Rate may be an indicator of broader industry shifts. With local real estate insights becoming increasingly vital, the developments at Rate reflect an understanding of the changing dynamics in the housing market. Homebuyers, investors, and small business owners can expect tailored guidance as market data and expert knowledge becomes readily available through both Jacoby’s and Snortland’s initiatives to emphasize technology and talent in their operations.

Investors looking into commercial real estate in Houston should keep an eye on Rate’s growing influence. Their forward-thinking approach could provide a competitive edge in a saturated market, appealing not only to residential clients but also to the expanding sectors of commercial real estate and investment.

Join the Conversation

The real estate landscape in Houston is evolving, and the community is encouraged to stay engaged and informed. As the local market continues to flourish with new homebuyer education programs and investment trends, proactive measures can lead to successful outcomes. Learn more about how these recent changes at Rate could impact your real estate strategies and experience the benefits of being part of a connected neighborhood.

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09.04.2025

Al Brende's Legacy Lives On: Impacting Houston's Property Market

Update Remembering Al Brende: A Pillar of Houston’s Development Community On August 26, 2025, the Houston community mourned the loss of Al Brende, a prominent figure in the real estate industry, who passed away at the age of 80. His legacy as the co-founder and owner of Land Tejas, a major player in developing master-planned communities in the Houston area, resonates deeply with all who knew him. Transforming Houston's Landscape Brende's journey began in North Dakota, but it was in Houston where he made a significant impact. After relocating from California in the mid-90s, he founded Land Tejas in 1997, which has since developed more than 15,000 acres. His vision included introducing moderately priced, guard-gated communities during a time when such innovations were rare. One of his landmark achievements was the Balmoral Crystal Clear Lagoons, marking Houston's first resort-style amenity and setting a new standard for luxury in residential living. A Legacy of Philanthropy and Community Engagement Al Brende was not just about development; he was also committed to the community. His philanthropic efforts included donating 17 lots to the Greater Houston Builders Association’s Benefit Home program and spearheading the Land Tejas Adopt-a-School initiative. These contributions exemplify his belief that progress in real estate goes hand-in-hand with community support. Continuing the Family Legacy Following Brende's passing, his son, Alan Brende, will assume operational oversight at Land Tejas alongside Chief Financial Officer Melanie Ohl. This transition indicates that the values and vision instilled by Al Brende will continue to guide the company. Mike Moser, CEO of Starwood Land, shared insights on Brende’s incredible work ethic and his innovative spirit, underlining the vast influence he had on others in the industry. What This Means for Northwest Houston The impact of Brende's work is particularly relevant for the Northwest Houston property market, which is seeing growth and a rising demand for affordable housing options. As home affordability climbs to 39%, understanding the legacy left by leaders like Al Brende can help investors and homebuyers navigate the evolving landscape of Houston's real estate. Looking Forward: Housing Market Trends in 2025 As the housing market adapts to changing economic conditions, insights into the trends and forecasts can guide first-time homebuyers and seasoned investors alike. With interest rates fluctuating and new housing regulations coming into play, staying informed about the real estate market in Houston and its suburbs has never been more critical in making informed, strategic decisions about property investments. Join the Conversation on Al Brende’s Legacy Though Al Brende is no longer with us, his contributions to Houston's real estate landscape will live on. As the community continues to grow, let us celebrate his legacy by engaging in local developments and supporting initiatives that uphold the values of innovation and community welfare that he championed.

09.01.2025

AREAA Houston's Decade of Impact: Leading Diversity and Advocacy in Real Estate

Update Celebrating a Decade of Diversity and Growth in Houston's Real EstateThe AREAA Houston chapter, founded in April 2015, is marking its 10th anniversary this year. Under the leadership of founding president Dawn Lin and past AREAA National Chair Kenneth Li, the chapter has blossomed into one of the largest in the nation. This impressive growth reflects a commitment not just to real estate, but to the diverse community that makes up Houston.Broadening the Membership SpectrumAREAA Houston's membership extends beyond residential real estate agents to include professionals from various sectors related to real estate. Commercial professionals, lenders, bankers, appraisers, inspectors, and contractors are all part of this dynamic group. This diversity enriches the chapter’s offerings, allowing members to benefit from focused educational events and networking opportunities that reflect the multi-faceted nature of Houston's property market.Staying Informed on Legislative Changes Affecting BusinessA recent Lunch & Learn event addressed significant legislative issues, such as SB17, which impacts foreign ownership and all real estate practitioners in Texas. The chapter hosted policy experts and attorneys to explain the implications of this law, showcasing their commitment to advocacy and ensuring members remain informed about legal changes that can affect their businesses.Future-Focused Initiatives for Houston's Real Estate MarketLooking ahead, current president Eriko Ishii outlines a vision for the next decade that includes expanding membership and engaging more young professionals. This focus on new talent is crucial for the sustainability of AREAA's mission to provide valuable education and community connections. Ishii emphasizes the intention to collaborate with other nonprofit organizations to promote homeownership and serve the broader Houston community.The Value of Diversity and InclusionOne of the most unique aspects of AREAA Houston is its open-door policy: membership is inclusive and not limited to individuals of Asian descent. This principle of diversity strengthens the chapter, allowing it to connect on both national and international levels, enriching the professional lives of its members.Empowering Homeownership Across HoustonAs AREAA Houston embarks on its next decade, the commitment to educating and promoting homeownership remains central to its mission. Collaborating with corporate sponsors, the chapter aims to ensure that their initiatives benefit not just their members, but the community at large. This bears significance not only for real estate professionals but also for potential homebuyers and investors in the Houston area.Conclusion: A Community Effort for a Brighter FutureCommunity engagement, ongoing education, and advocacy are at the heart of AREAA Houston's impact over the past decade. As they continue to grow, the chapter remains committed to fostering connections that empower its members and the community. Whether you are an investor looking for opportunities in real estate, a first-time homebuyer seeking valuable insights, or a business owner interested in the housing market, the future looks promising in Houston.

08.30.2025

Closed Houston Home Sales Jump 12.3%: What Investors Need to Know

Update Houston Home Sales Surge: What This Means for Buyers In a remarkable turn of events, closed home sales in Houston witnessed a significant leap of 12.3% year-over-year during the week that ended on August 25. This data, extracted from the Weekly Activity Snapshot provided by the Houston Association of REALTORS®, clearly illustrates a burgeoning demand in the property market. Homebuyers finalized 1,767 transactions compared to just 1,573 during the same week the previous year. However, amidst this positive momentum, the number of pending listings saw a slight decline, with 2,088 properties going under contract, down from 2,100 a year ago. New Listings: A Cautious Growth Interestingly, while sales figures are rising, new listings have also taken a positive turn, with a 3.1% increase year over year. Realtors reported adding 3,552 properties to the MLS, which is a crucial indicator for prospective homeowners and investors. The balance of newly listed properties against the rapid-selling homes will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the northwest Houston property market. What This Means for Northwest Houston Buyers and Investors The surge in closed sales can be seen as a significant sign of confidence in the Houston housing market, particularly critical for first-time buyers and investors looking for HUD homes for sale in Houston. With the increase in new listings, potential investors should also be attentive to emerging opportunities that provide a chance to start or enhance their investment portfolio. The current trends signify a favorable environment for buyers who are looking to capitalize on the momentum of the housing market. Market Conditions: Interest Rates and Housing Affordability As the economy evolves, so do mortgage rates, which pose an influential factor in home purchases. While interest rates have seen fluctuations, they remain relatively manageable for buyers. The affordability rate for homes in Houston currently sits at around 39%, making homeownership a realistic goal for many prospective homeowners. Those looking for guidance on mortgage lenders in Northwest Houston will find a variety of options to suit their financial strategies. Future Trends: Investment Predictions in Real Estate Given the current trajectory of the housing market in Houston, experts predict continued growth in sales and new listings through the upcoming months of 2025. Investors considering tomball investment properties or seeking commercial real estate in Houston should observe the trends closely. The steady increase in closed sales suggests a competitive market, yet ample opportunities remain for those who are proactive. The Local Perspective: Voices from Northwest Houston This upward trajectory is not just numbers; it represents the hopes, dreams, and aspirations of families hoping to settle down in vibrant Northwest Houston communities. Local agents emphasize stories of families finding their forever homes amidst a sea of options, showcasing the emotional story behind each transaction. These experiences highlight why understanding the local market is essential for both buyers and investors. By tapping into these personal stories, we see that the housing market is deeply intertwined with community growth and development. The increase in closed home sales in Houston and the rise in new listings demonstrate a strengthened market that caters to both buyers and investors alike. Whether you are a first-time homebuyer or seeking investment properties in Northwest Houston, this dynamic environment presents exciting opportunities. Interested individuals should consider engaging with local real estate experts or market analytics to stay ahead in this rapidly evolving landscape.

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