Real Estate Dreams with Kerry

Cibolo vs. Schertz: Which Suburb is the Better Buy in October 2024? By Kerry Alexander If you're considering buying a home in the San Antonio area, Cibolo and Schertz are two popular suburban options that often top the list. With their proximity to each other, the question of which community is the better buy has long been a topic of debate—especially given their fierce rivalry in high school football. When it comes to high school football, there's no denying that Steele High School in Cibolo, TX, has maintained a dominant edge over its nearby rival, Clemens High School in Schertz. But how will this heated "Battle of 3009" translate when the rivalry spills over into the real estate market? Let’s dive into the current real estate market trends for these two competitive towns in October 2024 to determine which one might be the best fit for your future home. Market Overview: Current Trends in Cibolo and Schertz In Cibolo, the real estate market is currently in a strong seller's position, with the median listing price of homes at $385,990 as of September 2024. Home prices in Cibolo are slightly increasing, and properties are selling for an average of $375K, up 8.6% since last year. This rising trend in property values may reflect the pride that Cibolo takes in both its community amenities and its formidable sports reputation. Meanwhile, Schertz is also seeing some price adjustments, with the median home price sitting at $415,000, and properties selling faster on average at around 66 days on the market. Schertz offers its own appeal with a slightly faster-moving market and high-quality local amenities. The influence of the Clemens High School community and its emphasis on family-oriented activities plays a part in attracting potential buyers. Affordability and Days on Market The affordability factor is key when comparing the two. The average home sold price in Cibolo was $352,604 in August 2024, down by 3.9% year-over-year. This trend might open up opportunities for buyers who are seeking value in an increasingly competitive area. On the other hand, Schertz has slightly higher home prices, but properties are moving off the market faster, which could indicate a healthier market. Buyers may also be drawn to the amenities and strong community programs Schertz offers, backed by the enthusiasm surrounding local events like high school football rivalries. The Battle of 3009: Community Appeal The “Battle of 3009” between Steele and Clemens High Schools has always been about more than just a game. The rivalry adds a unique flavor to the community vibe and directly influences neighborhood appeal and property values. In Cibolo, families rallying behind Steele High School may see the community’s success on the football field as a sign of a tightly-knit neighborhood, one that takes pride in its achievements. Schertz, with Clemens High School, has built a reputation around family-oriented growth and a vibrant community spirit, translating into property values and an attractive neighborhood feel. Conclusion Choosing between Cibolo and Schertz depends on what matters most to you—affordability and potential negotiation opportunities tend to favor Cibolo, while Schertz provides a potentially faster-moving market with a family-oriented feel. The heated high school rivalry adds a unique cultural dynamic that spills over into these communities, shaping everything from property values to neighborhood engagement. Both areas offer fantastic suburban living, so ultimately, you can't go wrong with either choice!

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Are you a veteran or an active-duty military member looking to buy a home? If so, utilizing your VA loan benefits can be a game-changer for you. VA loans offer numerous advantages that make them an attractive option for buyers like you. In this blog post, we will explore some of the benefits of using your VA loan.One of the most significant advantages of the VA loan program is the ability to purchase a home with no down payment. This feature sets VA loans apart from conventional loans that typically require a substantial down payment. With a VA loan, you can finance up to 100% of the home's value, making homeownership more accessible and affordable.Additionally, VA loans often come with more lenient credit requirements compared to other loan types. This means that even if you have less than perfect credit, you may still qualify for a VA loan. While other loan programs might reject applications from individuals with lower credit scores, the VA loan program takes into account your military service and overall financial stability rather than just your credit history.Another benefit of using your VA loan is the absence of private mortgage insurance (PMI) premiums. PMI is typically required for conventional loans when the buyer puts down less than 20%. However, with a VA loan, you are not required to pay PMI, saving you money on your monthly mortgage payments.Furthermore, VA loans offer competitive interest rates, often lower than conventional loans. These lower rates can result in significant savings over the life of your loan. With the potential for lower monthly payments, you can allocate your funds towards other important expenses or savings.Lastly, VA loans provide flexibility when it comes to refinancing options. If you already have a VA loan, you can take advantage of the VA's streamline refinance program, also known as the Interest Rate Reduction Refinance Loan (IRRRL). This program allows you to refinance your existing VA loan to obtain a lower interest rate or switch from an adjustable-rate mortgage to a fixed-rate mortgage.In conclusion, using your VA loan benefits as a buyer can be highly advantageous. From no down payment and lenient credit requirements to the absence of PMI and competitive interest rates, VA loans make homeownership more accessible and affordable for veterans and active-duty military members. So, if you are eligible for a VA loan, don't miss out on the opportunity to take advantage of these valuable benefits and achieve your dream of owning a home.

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