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Spring Home Maintenance Checklist

Spring Home Maintenance Checklist

Posted on by Ali Palacios - Broker

Spring Home Maintenance Checklist

Spring is the perfect time to refresh your home after winter. This detailed checklist covers indoor and outdoor tasks to keep your home in top shape.

📌 Exterior Maintenance

1. Roof & Gutters
[ ] Inspect the roof for missing, loose, or damaged shingles. Use binoculars to take a closer look.

[ ] Clean gutters & downspouts to prevent clogs and water damage. Check for damage and make repairs.

[ ] Check for leaks around flashing, chimneys, and vents. Check soffits. Soffit vents should be clear and clean so your home can breath.

[ ] Ensure proper drainage, extend downspouts at least 5 ft from the foundation. Check for gutter leaks and rust

[ ] Trim all plants/trees that are touching your home.

Tip: Install gutter guards

2. Siding & Paint
[ ] Wash exterior walls to remove dirt, mildew, and pollen.

[ ] Inspect for peeling paint or rot, repair as needed.

[ ] Check caulking around windows and doors for gaps.

 

3. Windows & Doors
[ ] Clean windows & screens (inside and out). Fix torn screens

[ ] Check weatherstripping and replace if worn.

[ ] Lubricate door hinges & locks with silicone spray.

Tip: Have a fear of spiders? Just spray some WD-40 on places where spiders and other insects can get in, such as window sills and door frames. It will keep the spiders and other bugs out.

Tip: Sticky windows?

 

4. Foundation & Drainage
[ ] Inspect the foundation for cracks or water damage.

[ ] Grade soil away from the house (slope should be 6 inches over 10 ft).

[ ] Clear debris from drainage systems (French drains, etc.).

[ ] Repair cracked concrete

5. Deck & Patio
[ ] Sweep & wash deck/patio surfaces.

[ ] Check for loose boards or nails, tighten or replace.

[ ] Apply sealant or stain if needed.

[ ] Inspect outdoor furniture, clean or repair as necessary.

 

6. Yard & Landscaping
[ ] Rake leftover leaves & debris to prevent mold.

[ ] Aerate & fertilize the lawn for healthy growth.

[ ] Prune shrubs & trees (trim branches away from the house).

[ ] Check sprinkler system for leaks and adjust spray heads. They should be spraying away from your home.

[ ] Mulch garden beds to retain moisture and prevent weeds.

[ ] Look for insect infestation. Carpenter Ants,  Termites swarm in the spring. If there’s a bunch of winged insects flying out of a hole in the woodwork, it might be termites.

7. Outdoor Plumbing & HVAC
[ ] Turn on outdoor water supply and check for leaks.

[ ] Inspect hoses & faucets for winter damage.

[ ] Service AC unit: Clean condenser coils, change filters, and check refrigerant levels.

 

🏠 Interior Maintenance

1. Deep Cleaning

[ ] Dust ceiling fans & light fixtures.

[ ] Blean blinds and window treatments

[ ] Organize closets & storage areas (spring decluttering!).

[ ] Clean your Garbage Disposal

[ ] Clean your dishwasher

[ ] Clean your washing machine

[ ] Overall Maintenance & Clean Refrigerator Coils

[ ] Clean the range hood filter

[ ] Clean your dryer vent (super important, it’s one of the most common cause of fires)

Tip: Other items to clean and maintain in the kitchen

 

2. HVAC System
[ ] Replace air filters (do this every 1-3 months).

[ ] Schedule professional HVAC maintenance (Ideally schedule maintenance twice a year, spring and fall).

[ ] Clean vents & ducts to improve air quality.

 

3. Plumbing Check
[ ] Inspect under sinks for leaks.

[ ] Test sump pump (pour water into the pit to ensure it activates). (if applicable)

[ ] Flush water heater to remove sediment buildup.

[ ] Check for loose faucets and shower heads.

[ ] Check the caulking around toilets, bathtubs, faucets, showerheads, sinks, etc.

[ ] Remove hard water stains using Bar Keepers Friend and WD40. Especially on glass.

[ ] Running toilet?

Tip: Do you faucets or shower heads have low pressure or starts spraying to the side, it’s usually due to a dirty aerator screen.  To remove the mineral and other deposits, soak the aerator in vinegar, then scrub it with a toothbrush. This usually solves the problem. Still having issues? Do a showerhead deep clean.

Tip: How to unclog a drain

Tip: things you should not put down the garbage disposal

 

4. Safety Checks
[ ] Test smoke & carbon monoxide detectors (replace batteries if needed).

[ ] Check fire extinguishers (ensure they’re charged and accessible).

[ ] Review emergency exits & plans.

 

5. Attic & Basement
[ ] Look for signs of pests (rodents, insects).

[ ] Check for moisture or mold, improve ventilation if needed.

[ ] Insulate pipes to prevent condensation.

🚗 Bonus: Garage 
[ ] Declutter & organize the garage

[ ] Inspect garage door, lubricate springs and tracks.

 

✅ Final Step: Schedule Repairs
Make a list of any major issues (roof leaks, foundation cracks, etc.) and schedule professional help if needed.

24 DIY Tools You Should Have at the Ready for Quick-Fix Home Repairs

By tackling these tasks, your home will be ready for summer! 🌸✨

 

TEXAS SENATE MOVES AT LIGHTSPEED TO PASS OVER HALF OF TOP 40 PRIORITIES

Posted on by Ali Palacios - Broker

TEXAS SENATE MOVES AT LIGHTSPEED TO PASS OVER HALF OF TOP 40 PRIORITIES

https://www.ltgov.texas.gov/2025/03/24/texas-senate-moves-at-lightspeed-to-pass-over-half-of-top-40-priorities/

Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick has identified key bills as top priorities for this legislative session. At the midpoint of the 89th Texas Legislature, the Senate is making strong progress in advancing this legislation. In January, he introduced the most ambitious conservative agenda in Senate history—and within just one week of the bill-filing deadline, they already passed 21 of our top 40 priority bills. These included his own priorities.

He has urged Speaker Dade Phelan and the Texas House to act swiftly so these essential reforms can become law.

The ones in bold affect property and housing:

Senate Bill 1 – Senate’s Budget for Texas
Senate Bill 2 – Providing School Choice – This bill has passed the senate. it will need to go through the House and Governor. This will not require voter approval.
Senate Bill 3 – Banning THC in Texas
Senate Bill 4 – Increasing the Homestead Exemption to $140,000 ($150,000 for seniors) – This bill has been passed by the Senate. It will need to go through the house and the governor. 
Senate Bill 5 – Combatting Alzheimer’s – Establishing DPRIT (Dementia Prevention & Research Institute of Texas)
Senate Bill 6 – Increasing Texas’ Electric Grid Reliability
Senate Bill 7 – Increasing Investments in Texas’ Water Supply
Senate Bill 8 – Requiring Local Law Enforcement to Assist the Federal Government’s Deportation Efforts
Senate Bill 9 – Reforming Bail – Keeping Violent Criminals Off Our Streets
Senate Bill 10 – Placing the Ten Commandments in School
Senate Bill 11 – Protecting the Freedom to Pray in School
Senate Bill 12 – Establishing a Parental Bill of Rights in Public Education
Senate Bill 13 – Guarding Against Inappropriate Books in Public Schools
Senate Bill 14 – Texas DOGE – Improving Government Efficiency
Senate Bill 15 – Removing Barriers to Affordable Housing. This bill has been passed by the Senate. It will need to go through the house and the governor. 
Senate Bill 16 – Stopping Non-Citizens from Voting
Senate Bill 17 – Stopping Foreign Adversaries’ Land Grabs
Senate Bill 18 – Stopping Drag Time Story Hour
Senate Bill 19 – Stopping Taxpayer Dollars for Lobbyists
Senate Bill 20 – Stopping AI Child Pornography
Senate Bill 21 – Establishing the Texas Bitcoin Reserve
Senate Bill 22 – Establishing Texas as America’s Film Capital
Senate Bill 23 – Removing the Cap on the Rainy Day Fund to Secure Texas’ Long-term Financial Future (text not available as of March 30, 2025)
Senate Bill 24 – Educating Texas Students on the Horrors of Communism
Senate Bill 25 – Making Texas Healthy Again

The list includes 40 bills but he has only released 25 so far.

Senate Bill 17

Posted on by Ali Palacios - Broker

Senate Bill 17 – Relating to the purchase or acquisition of real property by certain aliens or foreign entities.

This is a short summary. Read the entire bill here.

This Texas bill, effective September 1, 2025, restricts certain foreign individuals and entities from purchasing or acquiring real property (including agricultural, residential, commercial, and industrial land) in the state.

Key Provisions:
1. Prohibited Buyers:
– Governments, organizations, or individuals from “designated countries” (those deemed a national security threat by U.S. intelligence).
– Entities controlled by these governments or individuals.

2. Exceptions:
– U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents (even if from a restricted country).
– Homestead properties (primary residences).
– Leaseholds under 100 years.

3. Enforcement:
– The Texas Attorney General can investigate and sue to block illegal purchases.
– Courts may appoint a receiver to seize and sell prohibited properties.

4. Impact:
– Does not void past purchases (only applies to transactions after Sept. 1, 2025).
– Aims to prevent foreign adversaries from gaining control over Texas land, especially agricultural and strategic properties.

Bottom Line:
Texas is tightening rules on foreign real estate ownership to address national security concerns, while protecting lawful residents and homestead rights.

 

Senate Bill – 15

Posted on by Ali Palacios - Broker

Senate Bill – 15 – Relating to size and density requirements for residential lots in certain municipalities; authorizing a fee.

This is a summary of the bill. Read the entire bill here.

This Texas bill, effective September 1, 2025, imposes new restrictions on municipalities with populations over 150,000 (located in counties with 300,000+ residents) regarding residential zoning. Key provisions include:

1. Lot Size & Density Limits:
– Bans minimum lot sizes larger than 1,400 sq. ft., widths under 20 feet, or depths under 60 feet for certain single-family zoned tracts (5+ acres, unplatted).
– Prohibits density limits below 31.1 units per acre.

**This will allow for more housing in a smaller area: 1. More affordable housing options – Smaller lots (as tiny as 1,400 sq. ft.) mean lower land costs, potentially reducing home prices. 2. More housing supply – Could ease shortages in high-demand cities (e.g., Austin, Houston, San Antonio). 3. Flexibility in design – Fewer restrictions on setbacks, parking, and height allow for more creative home layouts (e.g., townhomes, skinny houses).

2. Small Lot Protections (≤4,000 sq. ft.):
– Limits setbacks to 5 feet (front/back/sides).
– Bans requirements like covered parking, >1 parking space/unit, >30% open space, or height restrictions under 3 stories (max 10 ft./floor).
– Exempts aquifer recharge zones from permeable surface rules.

3. Enforcement & Legal Action:
– Allows lawsuits by affected parties/housing organizations for violations, with remedies including damages, injunctions, and attorney’s fees.
– Waives governmental immunity for such claims.

4. Exemptions:
– Does not override private HOA rules, stormwater mitigation, or short-term rental regulations.
– Excludes areas near law enforcement training centers in populous counties (e.g., Harris County).

Goal: Promote higher-density housing by reducing local zoning barriers, while preserving environmental and private contractual protections.

 

Senate Bill – 7

Posted on by Ali Palacios - Broker

Senate Bill – 7 – Relating to the oversight and financing of certain water infrastructure matters under the jurisdiction of the Texas Water Development Board.

This is a summary of the bill. Read the entire bill here. This bill will require voter approval.

This bill enhances the Texas Water Development Board’s (TWDB) authority to plan, fund, and coordinate water infrastructure projects, focusing on new water supplies, efficient conveyance, and regional coordination.

Key Provisions:
1. Water Supply & Conveyance Coordination
– TWDB must facilitate joint planning between utilities, governments, and industries to:
– Maximize use of existing easements (reducing eminent domain needs).
– Standardize water pipeline designs for interconnectivity.
– Plan for excess capacity in new infrastructure.

2. Funding Expansions
– Allows TWDB to use the Texas Water Fund for:
– Desalination, produced water treatment, aquifer storage, and reservoirs.
– New water conveyance infrastructure (but not for transporting fresh groundwater).
– Streamlines transfers between state water funds.

3. Advisory Committee Reforms
– Expands the Texas Water Fund Advisory Committee to include emergency management oversight.
– Requires biennial reports on water project progress and funding.

4. Permitting & Oversight
– TWDB can pay for expedited permit reviews (up to $2M) to speed up water projects.
– Strengthens legislative oversight of water fund spending.

5. Out-of-State Water Transfers
– Explicitly allows TWDB to purchase and transfer water rights from other states for Texas’ benefit.

Effective Dates:
– Most provisions take effect September 1, 2025.
– Some funding changes depend on voter approval of a 2025 constitutional amendment (S.J.R. 66).

Impact:
– Faster project delivery through better coordination and funding.
– More water supply options (desalination, reservoirs, imported water).
– Reduced eminent domain use by prioritizing existing easements.
– Accountability via stricter legislative oversight and public reporting.

This bill aims to modernize Texas’ water infrastructure planning while ensuring funds are spent effectively.

Senate Bill – 6

Posted on by Ali Palacios - Broker

SB 6 – Relating to electricity planning and infrastructure costs for large loads.

This is a short Summary: Texas Large Load Electricity Planning Bill. Read the entire bill here

This bill has passed the Senate but still has to go through the House and the Governor.

This bill establishes new rules for large electricity customers (75+ megawatts, A large electricity customer in this bill refers to any industrial, commercial, or institutional facility that requires 75 megawatts (MW) or more of power at a single site.) in Texas to ensure grid reliability, fair cost-sharing, and transparency in infrastructure planning.

Key Provisions:
1. Cost Recovery for Utilities
– Large customers must help pay for grid interconnection costs.
– Municipal utilities and co-ops can pass these costs directly to large users.

2. New Standards for Large Loads
– Disclosure requirements: Customers must reveal if they’re seeking similar service elsewhere (to prevent wasted infrastructure).
– Backup power reporting: Large customers must disclose on-site backup generators, which ERCOT can call on during emergencies.
– Study fees: At least $100,000 for initial transmission studies (refundable if unused).
– Financial commitments: Customers must provide security (e.g., bonds, prepayments) before utilities build transmission lines.

3. Grid Reliability Measures
– ERCOT can require large customers to curtail usage or activate backup power during emergencies.
– New demand-response program for loads over 75 MW to help prevent blackouts.

4. Net Metering Rules
– Companies pairing large new loads with existing generation (e.g., industrial solar) must get regulatory approval to ensure grid stability.

5. Transmission Cost Review
– The PUC must study whether current wholesale transmission pricing fairly allocates costs.

Effective Date:
– Immediately if passed by a 2/3 majority, otherwise September 1, 2025.

Impact:
– Large businesses: Higher upfront costs but clearer rules for connecting to the grid.
– Utilities: More certainty in recovering infrastructure expenses.
– ERCOT: Better tools to manage demand during emergencies.

This bill aims to balance economic growth with grid reliability while ensuring large users pay their fair share.

Why is this important?

We have experienced black out because of our failing power grid system and any added strain can affect us further. There is a very large AI data center and Tesla’s new battery factory that will/are currently being built in Texas. These will have a major impact on Texas’ energy grid, but this new law is designed to manage that impact. Here’s how:

1. How These Facilities Strain the Grid
– AI Data Centers
– Extremely power-hungry, some AI facilities use 100+ MW (equivalent to ~20,000+ homes).
– 24/7 operation with no flexibility, unlike factories, they can’t easily power down during shortages.
– Tesla Battery Factories
– Gigafactories (like Tesla’s in Austin) can require 200+ MW at full production.
– High demand for lithium processing, which is energy-intensive.

Result: If multiple such projects connect to the grid without planning, they could overwhelm local transmission lines and increase blackout risks.

Senate Bill – 4

Posted on by Ali Palacios - Broker

Senate Bill – 4 – Relating to an increase in the amount of the exemption of residence homesteads from ad valorem taxation by a school district and the protection of school districts against certain losses in local revenue.

This bill increases the homestead exemption for school district property taxes from $100,000 to $140,000, contingent on voter approval of a constitutional amendment in November 2025.

This bill will require voter approval in November if it passes through legislature. Read the entire bill here.

This just a summery

Key Points:
1. Tax Relief for Homeowners
– Raises the school district homestead exemption by $40,000, reducing taxable value for homeowners.
– Effective: January 1, 2025 (if voters approve the amendment).

2. Protection for School Districts
– Provides state aid to offset lost revenue for districts impacted by the exemption increase.
– Ensures districts can still service debt (bonds) despite lower local tax revenue.

3. Transition Rules for 2025 Tax Year
– Provisional tax bills will be issued, reflecting the new exemption.
– If the amendment fails, supplemental tax bills will be sent to cover the difference.

4. Enforcement & Adjustments
– The Texas Education Agency (TEA) and local appraisal districts must adjust tax rates and aid calculations accordingly.
– Deadlines & safeguards are in place to ensure smooth implementation.

Impact:
– Homeowners: Lower property taxes if the amendment passes.
– School Districts: Guaranteed state aid to compensate for lost revenue.
– Tax Process: Temporary adjustments in 2025 until the amendment’s fate is decided.

This bill aims to balance tax relief for homeowners with financial stability for schools, pending voter approval.

House Bill – 17

Posted on by Ali Palacios - Broker

HB – 17 – Relating to the purchase of or acquisition of title to real property by certain aliens or foreign entities; creating a criminal offense.

This bill has only been filed as of March 30, 2025. Read the entire bill here

This Texas bill prohibits individuals and entities from certain foreign countries (China, Iran, North Korea, and Russia, plus others the governor may designate) from buying or acquiring real estate in Texas.

Key Points:
– Who’s Banned?
– Governments, companies, and individuals domiciled in designated countries.
– Companies controlled by these governments or citizens.
– Exceptions:
– U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, and non-resident foreign citizens (if not from a banned country).
– Leasehold interests (rentals) are still allowed.
– Enforcement:
– The attorney general investigates violations and can force the sale of illegally acquired property.
– Violators face state jail felonies (for individuals) or fines up to $250,000 or 50% of the property’s value (for companies).
– Effective Date: September 1, 2025 (does not apply to property bought before then).

Purpose:
To restrict foreign influence and national security risks by preventing adversarial nations from owning Texas land.

 

House Bill – 9

Posted on by Ali Palacios - Broker

HB-9 – Relating to an exemption from ad valorem taxation of a portion of the appraised value of tangible personal property a person owns that is held or used for the production of income.

This bill has passed the committee and now has to go through the House, Senate and then signed by the governor. So a lot can happen between now and then (update: March 30, 2025).

This will require voter approval in November 2025

This is summery, read the entire bill here

This bill proposes changes to property tax laws in Texas, contingent on a constitutional amendment, to provide relief for owners of tangible personal property used to produce income (e.g., business equipment, machinery, tools).

Key Provisions:

1. Tax Exemption Increase (Article 1 – Contingent on Constitutional Amendment)
– Current Law: Only exempts income-producing personal property valued at less than $2,500.
– Proposed Change: Increases the exemption to $250,000 of the appraised value.
– Effective: Applies to tax years beginning January 1, 2025, but only if voters approve the constitutional amendment in November 2025.

2. Rendering Requirements (Reporting for Taxation)
– Taxpayers must report (render) their income-producing personal property only if the total market value exceeds the $250,000 exemption in any taxing unit.

3. Transition Rules for 2025 Tax Year (Article 2 – Not Contingent on Amendment)
– Provisional Tax Roll: Appraisal districts must prepare provisional tax rolls for 2025, assuming the exemption is in effect.
– Tax Bills:
– If the amendment passes, the provisional tax bill becomes final, reflecting the lower tax amount.
– If the amendment fails, taxpayers will receive a supplemental tax bill for the difference.
– Tax Rate Calculations: Local governments must calculate tax rates as if the exemption applies, ensuring transparency in potential tax relief.

4. Voter Approval & Effective Dates
– The bill’s main tax exemption (Article 1) only takes effect if voters approve the constitutional amendment in November 2025.
– The procedural provisions (Article 2) take effect immediately (if passed by a 2/3 legislative majority) or by September 1, 2025.

Impact:
– Small Businesses & Entrepreneurs: Significant tax relief for owners of equipment, tools, and other income-generating property.
– Local Governments: Must adjust tax rolls and billing processes to account for the potential exemption.
– Taxpayers: Will see lower 2025 tax bills if the amendment passes, but may owe supplemental taxes if it fails.

This bill aims to reduce the tax burden on businesses while ensuring a smooth transition for tax authorities. The ultimate effect depends on voter approval of the constitutional amendment.

Understanding Escrow: A Homeowner’s Guide

Posted on by Ali Palacios - Broker

Understanding Escrow: A Homeowner’s Guide

When you make a monthly mortgage payment, it typically includes two parts:
1️⃣ Principal & Interest – Pays down your loan.
2️⃣ Escrow – Covers property taxes and insurance (homeowners, mortgage, or flood insurance).

Lenders usually require an escrow account if your down payment was less than 20%. This ensures your taxes and insurance are paid on time, simplifying budgeting by spreading costs over 12 months.

How Escrow Works in Texas

In Texas, property taxes are paid in arrears, meaning your 2024 taxes are due by January 31, 2025. These may include:

  • County & city taxes
  • School district taxes
  • MUD/LID/Drainage fees (if applicable)

Start the Year Right: 2 Key Checks

1️⃣ Confirm Your Taxes Were Paid

  • Lenders occasionally miss payments. Verify a $0 balance on your county tax website by January 31.
  • If taxes show unpaid, contact your lender immediately.

2️⃣ Review Your Escrow Annually

  • Lenders analyze your account yearly to adjust for tax/insurance changes. Understanding Escrow: A Homeowner’s Guide
  • You’ll receive a statement (by mail or online) detailing shortages or surpluses.

Escrow Shortages & Surpluses

📉 Shortage?

Caused by rising taxes/insurance. You can:

  • Pay the shortage upfront or
  • Spread it over 12 months (e.g., a $500 shortage ≈ +$42/month).
    Note: Even if you pay the shortage, your payment may still rise to cover future increases.

📈 Surplus?

  • If taxes/insurance decrease, you may receive a refund check after the lender retains their required cushion.

Stay Proactive

  • Monitor Notices: Watch for assessment letters (sent by May) and insurance renewals.
  • Monitor your insurance premium. You can shop for insurance at any time. If your insurance premium has increased, shop around. This can lower your monthly payment.
  • Adjust Early: If you expect higher costs, add extra to escrow monthly to avoid shortages.
  • Request Reviews: Don’t wait—lenders can analyze your escrow anytime.

Don’t Forget: Protest Your Taxes!

Texas homeowners can protest their property valuations annually (deadline: May 31). This doesn’t affect market value but could lower your tax burden. You don’t have to do this yourself, there are companies that do this for a small fee only if they are able to lower your payment.

📌 Need Help? I’m happy to clarify or provide a free home value update to inform your tax planning. Let’s connect!