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Mortgage rates have quietly hit a major turning point — dipping to their lowest levels in nearly three years. After hovering around 7% last year, rates briefly touched the 5s and are now settling into the low 6% range, with experts expecting them to stay there for a while. Why does this matter? Because even a 1% drop can mean hundreds less per month on a mortgage, more buying power, and more flexibility in where and what you can buy. For many buyers — especially first-time buyers — this shift could be the difference between sitting out and stepping in. According to the National Association of Realtors, rates at or below 6% open the door for millions more households to afford a home, with an estimated 550,000 buyers expected to move forward within the next year or so. That means demand is likely to pick up. Bottom line: this isn’t just good news — it’s a real opportunity. If buying didn’t pencil out before, now’s the time to re-run the numbers and see what’s possible. Let’s take a look at how today’s rates could work for you. Contact Neli Spurrell to get started.

Mortgage rates are down a full percentage point since last year. That recent drop doesn’t sound dramatic, until you realize how much it can already save you on the typical $400k loan. Compared to buying in January of last year, that saves you more than $330 a month and almost $120k over the life of your loan. That’s the difference just one year makes. If buying didn’t work for you last year, let’s re-run the numbers and see if 2026 could finally be your year.

Thinking about making a few updates before you sell this spring? Here’s the thing you have to remember: not all projects are created equal. The upgrades you see here tend to deliver some of the strongest returns on your upfront investment because they impact curb appeal and first impressions right away. And in today’s market, that matters more than it did a few years ago. This isn’t about doing everything. It’s about doing the right things for your house and your market. If you want help deciding which updates make sense for your home (and which ones you can skip), let’s talk.

Modern comfort meets coastal freedom in this beautifully updated 3 bed, 2 bath, 1,626 square foot home in Holiday Beach. An open-concept layout with high ceilings, stylish vinyl plank floors, and a designer kitchen sets the tone, while the spa-like primary suite offers a true retreat. Enjoy breezy moments on the upper deck and the privacy of an oversized, gated double lot with room for boats and guests. Located in a waterfront community with a private boat ramp, fishing pier, pool, and ultra-low HOA, just minutes from Goose Island, Rockport Beach, and downtown charm.

Tucked inside the gated waterfront community of Heron’s Roost, this charming 3 bed, 2 bath, 1,494 square foot coastal cottage built in 2004 delivers the lifestyle so many dream about. Light-filled living spaces with vaulted ceilings flow effortlessly to inviting outdoor areas, from a serene screened porch to a shaded pergola perfect for coastal entertaining. With flexible spaces for guests or creativity, private access to a fishing pier on Aransas Bay, and Fulton’s harbor, dining, and shops just blocks away, this move-in-ready retreat is your opportunity to fully embrace relaxed coastal living—one look and you’ll want to know more. David & Neli Spurrell, Realtors Spears & Co. Real Estate Rockport, TX

Light-filled and beautifully designed, this 3 bed, 2 bath, 2,092 square foot Sea Oaks Village home built in 2015 blends modern comfort with coastal convenience. An open-concept layout showcases a chef-inspired kitchen, inviting living spaces, and thoughtful touches throughout—including a tucked-away office nook and a serene owner’s suite with spa-style bath. Step out to an oversized patio made for relaxing or entertaining, all in a low-maintenance, private setting. With a split floor plan, generous storage, and a prime Fulton location just minutes from Rockport dining, shopping, and bay fishing, this is the kind of home you’ll want to explore further. David & Neli Spurrell, Realtors Spears & Co. Real Estate Rockport, TX

A lot of people may think their credit score isn’t good enough to buy a home. That may be because the median buyer’s score is pretty high (775) – so people assume they need near-perfect credit. But that’s not necessarily the case. Data shows some buyers today are qualifying with scores in the mid-600s. And the median for the lowest 10% of buyer scores is 660. So, you may have more options than you think. If your credit is what’s been holding you back, take this as your sign to reach out to a lender to talk through your options. Contact me for more information.

Open House Invitation located at 568 W Post Oak LN, Rockport, TX 78382 Date: Saturday, January 17, 2026 Time: 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM Holiday Beach home. Near Goose Island State park and minutes from Rockport beach and artsy downtown!

Open House invitation at 8 Primrose Fulton, TX 78358 Date: January 17, 2026, Saturday Time: 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM 3-bedroom, 2-bath cottage located in Heron’s Roost. Community private lighted fishing pier and a scenic park with picnic areas overlooking Aransas Bay. Blocks from Fulton’s harbor, restaurants, and shops. Learn more for details.

Open House event invitation. Event location 156 Whistlers Cove Rd. Rockport, TX 78382 Saturday, January 10, 2026 from 12:00 -2:00 pm 2-bedroom, 2-bath plus den home. Located in Whistlers Cove. Learn more for details.

Open House event invitation on Sunday, January 11, 2026, 1:00 -3:00 pm. Location 13745 Tajamar St. Corpus Christi, TX 78418. Open house showing of this 3-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom home. Direct water access and just 5 minutes to the Intracoastal Waterway. New appliances. Learn more for property details

Open House event invitation. Located at 604 Beach Access Road 1A, Unit 3 A, Port Aransas, TX 78373 When: Sunday, January 11, 2026, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM Updated 4-bedroom, 3-bath, two-story condo. Conveniently located near the local airport. Walking distance to the beach. Learn more for details.

We would like to invite you to our open house event on January 10, 2026, from 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM Located at:158 Dustin Ln, Rockport, TX 78382 3-bedroom plus studio, 2.5-bath dome-style home on 3.5+ acres with a pond, and mature trees. Located just minutes from downtown Rockport Art's District and the beach. Learn more for details.

Happy place found! This beautifully vibrant and updated 4-bedroom, 3-bath, two-story condo offers an open-concept layout, and a convenient main-floor primary suite, and stylish stained concrete flooring throughout downstairs for easy maintenance. Upstairs lounge-den and guest bedrooms and baths. Sold furnished, it sleeps 8+ and is perfectly arranged for group getaways, or strong short-term rental income potential. The garage provides excellent storage for an extra vehicle, golf cart, fishing gear, all your beach toys. Enjoy your outdoor patio and deck area—the ideal spot to watch nearby pond birds, unwind after the beach and just steps from the community pool. Gulfside Condominiums enhances the experience with new & in process updates such as exterior paint, new garage doors, and refreshed signage already in progress, making this community an attractive long-term investment. Conveniently located steps from the local airport, for easy to fly-in, drop your bags, and head out on your golf cart to enjoy Port A's downtown shops, marinas, restaurants, nightlife, and vibrant local scene. A short stroll takes you to hang out at the beach, to go surfing, sea turtle watch, and sea shells collecting, and all adventures Port Aransas and Mustang Island is known for. The beach is calling! David & Neli Spurrell Spears & Co Real Estate Rockport, Tx

Live where every day feels like a getaway in this beautiful canal-front home, located in a coveted island neighborhood on North Padre. This recently remodeled 3-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom home with a 2-car garage is designed for seamless indoor-outdoor living, offering the perfect blend of comfort, function, and Texas coastal charm. Inside, the open-concept layout features cathedral ceilings, large windows, and abundant natural light that frames stunning waterfront views. The gourmet kitchen includes granite countertops, a spacious pantry, and a breakfast bar—perfect for both entertaining and daily living. The primary suite is conveniently located on the first floor, along with a flexible office/den that could double as a guest room or hobby space. Step outside to enjoy multi-level decks, a private boat dock, and peaceful moments watching dolphins and coastal birds from your own backyard. With direct water access just 5 minutes to the Intracoastal Waterway, this is truly a fisherman’s dream. Upgrades include hurricane impact windows and doors for added security and efficiency and NEW appliances. The low-maintenance yard lets you spend more time enjoying the water and less time on upkeep. Whether you're searching for a full-time residence, a coastal retreat, or a waterfront investment, 13745 Tajamar delivers the best of island living on the Texas coast. David & Neli Spurrell Spears & Co. Real Estate Rockport, TX

Absolutely charming and unique, 3-bedroom plus studio, 2.5-bath dome-style home nestled on 3.5+ acres with a pond, mature trees, 2 pastures, garden area, and abundant room to enjoy the peaceful settings & Rockport lifestyle. Once home to a renowned local artist, this property blends creativity with comfort and invites a true connection to nature. The main level offers a spacious primary suite, living room with cypress-paneled accent wall, den/study, kitchen, utility room, and a sunroom with cedar ceiling and walls of windows framing the serene outdoors—perfect for watching birds and wildlife. Upstairs features two bedrooms, a guest bath with walk-in shower, and a flexible loft ideal for an office or reading nook. Step outside to a pergola and private patio with firepit leading to a 360-sq.-ft. studio/workshop for art, hobbies, or flex space, plus a large storage room. Property includes a covered carport, and a livestock shed, bring your horses! For the extra guests or income potential, a RV hookup with shed and privacy fence. This energy-efficient dome design offers a rare chance to live close to nature, with space, privacy, and to just minutes from town conveniences, downtown Rockport Art's District, and the beach. David & Neli Spurrell, Realtors Spears & Co. Real Estate Rockport, TX

Discover true coastal comfort in this charming 2-bedroom, 2-bath plus den home featuring an open-concept floor plan with 1,231 finished square feet designed for effortless living. Filled with natural light, the bright and airy layout offers an inviting atmosphere—whether you're entertaining friends or unwinding after a day on the water. Enjoy a comfortable patio and easy-to-maintain backyard, ideal for relaxing or hosting weekend gatherings. Perfectly situated in the heart of Rockport, Whistlers Cove places you next to the city community pool, Tule Creek trails, and just minutes from shopping, dining, and Rockport Beach. Embrace the golf cart lifestyle—cruise to town for lunch, explore local shops, or head to the shore and be home in minutes. A wonderful turnkey opportunity to enjoy the best of coastal Texas living! David & Neli Spurrell, Realtors Spears & Co. Real Estate Rockport, TX

You never really know when the right house is going to hit the market, but being prepared puts you one step ahead when it does. That’s why getting pre-approved for a mortgage before you start looking for a home is key, even if you think buying is still a few months out. Whether you’re ready to make a move now or just thinking about it, let’s talk through your goals and make sure you’re in the best position possible when the time is right.

Selling your house as-is may sound like a good idea – until you look at what’s happening in the market. On the surface, it feels easy. No repairs. No projects. No extra effort. But here’s the reality: Right now, most sellers are making at least some repairs before they list. Why? Because inventory is up, buyers have choices again, and condition matters. Homes that feel move-in ready get more attention and stronger offers. Homes that don’t? They sit longer and sell for less. Now, that doesn’t mean selling as-is is wrong. It just means it comes with trade-offs. Before you choose the easy route, let’s look at all your options. I’ll show you what buyers are responding to right now in our market – and help you decide what makes the most sense for your situation.

Wondering if you’re ready to buy a home in 2026? You’ll want to consider everything from your budget to your personal finances, your timelines, goals, and more. My best advice: focus on what you can control, and take the time to evaluate your own unique situation. These 5 questions are a great starting point to help you figure out if you’re ready for homeownership. And if you want to have a conversation about how to find the right team of pros to help you out along the way, contact me.