Brick by Brick: Real Estate with Malcolm Davis

  Why Living in a Military Town Means You Should Work With a Veteran Realtor By Malcolm Davis, REALTOR® | Army Veteran When you call a military town home—whether it’s Killeen, Belton, Temple, or another Central Texas community—you’re part of a unique environment shaped by service, loyalty, and resilience. As an Army veteran and full-time Realtor, I’ve learned firsthand how important it is for military families, active-duty members, and veterans to work with someone who truly understands their lifestyle and challenges when buying or selling a home. In this post, I’ll break down exactly why a veteran Realtor like myself is an invaluable resource in any military community—and how it benefits your real estate journey from start to finish. The Realities of Military Life: Constant Change and Unique Needs Military towns never sleep. PCS orders, deployments, promotions, retirements, and changing family needs keep the housing market dynamic year-round. In a typical civilian town, homebuyers...

  Local Market Update: What’s Moving in Your City (CTX) This September? As we head into fall, the Central Texas (CTX) housing market sees a marked shift from the rapid pace and tight competition of previous years. September sales are showing buyers more options and opportunities for negotiation, while sellers are adjusting expectations and embracing strategy as the market balances. Killeen & Temple Home values in the Killeen-Temple area average around $252,920, reflecting a slight annual dip of 2.5%. Over 3,300 homes remain for sale, with median days to pending at 42 days—giving buyers more breathing room and sellers extra visibility. Listing prices are solid, but nearly half of homes close below list, meaning negotiation is a real possibility this month. New listings and steady inventory ensure activity remains up and down. Temple stands out with median sales prices rising to $279,000 (up 2.1% year-over-year). While competition softens, desirable homes still receive multiple o...

  Understanding the Differences Between VA, FHA, USDA, Conventional, and Jumbo Loans By Malcolm Davis, Realtor & Veteran When buying a home, one of the most important decisions is choosing the right mortgage. Each loan type—VA, FHA, USDA, Conventional, and Jumbo—serves different needs and has distinct advantages, requirements, and limitations. Here’s a breakdown to help clarify your options. VA Loans: For Veterans and Military Families VA loans are backed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, designed specifically for eligible veterans, active-duty service members, and some surviving spouses. Down Payment: No down payment required Credit Score: No official minimum, but lenders usually look for at least 620 Mortgage Insurance: No PMI required, but a VA funding fee applies Property Requirements: Must be a primary residence VA loans are notable for their affordability, but borrowers must meet military service criteria. FHA Loans: Easier Qualification, Especially for First-Ti...