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George: Does the seller always pay an agent's commission?
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The tax credit isn’t the only help for homebuyers
by MARTY KRAMER
consumer columnist
 It looks like Congress is going to extend the homebuyer tax credit. That will give first-time homebuyers a few more months to benefit from this great incentive. The plan on the table will even provide a credit to many existing homeowners who purchase a home. Read more
Primary owners now in the seasonal rental game
by tom Kelly
investment columnist
 According to the most recent HomeAway Vacation Rental Marketplace Report, this couple is not alone. Approximately 15% of vacation rental owners have rented their primary residence to travelers, and the practice is becoming more common. A weakened economy, along with heavy demand for accommodations during popular short-term events like the Presidential Inauguration and the Super Bowl, have persuaded owners to move out and dust off the welcome mat for eager renters who have come to town. Read more
Even wooly-headed profs have good ideas
By David S. Jones
INSIGHT FROM ONE OF THE EXPERTS
AT THE TEXAS REAL ESTATE CENTER
 In the academic world, applied research is — to put it mildly — frowned upon. To get ahead (i.e., tenure) "real" professors must write a number of think-pieces for scholarly journals refereed by their peers. That’s why the researchers at the Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University are so popular with everyday Texans, but have rarely gotten the respect they deserve from academia. Read more
Moving to Texas
If you're thinking about moving to Texas, here's a guide to get you started. Read more
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Texas homeowners win important protections in constitutional amendment election
On Nov. 3, 2009, the voters of Texas will once again have an opportunity to take a stand against the burdensome and uneven taxation of residential property. There are four amendments that will directly affect all property owners in the state. 