Economy

Dusting Off Texas Real Estate History: Does the Name Billy Sol Estes Ring a Bell?

By Candy Evans / August 20, 2013 /

I recall hearing about this guy, apparently a notorious Texas swindler, when we first moved here in the ’80s. But I never really knew the whole story of how, from a “penniless background, Billy Sol Estes built up a $40 million West Texas empire of cotton, grain, real estate and fertilizers, and then lost it all…

Walkable Cities: Dallas Scores 30, While University Park Snags Most Walkable 'Hood Because Duh, There Are Sidewalks

By Candy Evans / August 20, 2013 /

I sigh not because I do not enjoy walking, but because all this “walkable” talk is so annoying in our climate right now. Oh, I know we have had a really mild summer — last week we would have sat outside in the evening had it not been for the mosquitoes and West Nile.. Really,…

Monday Morning Millionaire II: Giraffe-Jerky Noshing Hedge Fund Manager Puts Highland Park Palazzo Back on the Market

By Candy Evans / August 20, 2013 /

That would be the pad of big time game hunter and Highland Capital Fund Manager co-founder (who likes to have FUN) James Dondero. He once apparently told the Dallas Morning News, as D Magazine reported, that giraffe makes very tasty jerky.  Well looks like Mr. D is going to be doing some HOUSE HUNTING mighty…

Real Estate Investment Nose: America's High-Tech Innovation Hubs Coming to You From Some Surprisingly Remote Towns

By Candy Evans / August 16, 2013 /

It’s worth checking out this map and article from Richard Florida over at The Atlantic Cities so you can see how growth in high-tech start up firms — places where brains and brawn will come together and create jobs — is no longer taking place in the north or northeast. And not so much either…

Low Interest Rates May Not be for Everyone: How To Get Your Credit House in Order Before You Buy

By Candy Evans / August 16, 2013 /

The only thing hotter than the temperature in North Texas is our real estate market.  Houses are being snatched on the day they’re listed, and prices are on a steady upward climb. Everyone is raving about the low interest rates that can get you into those houses… hurry before they go up! In fact, experts…