Finding the Perfect Home—No Matter What You Want

Over the years, I’ve called many places home—a single-family house in the suburbs, a country home, an apartment, a walk-up condo, a high-rise, a gated community, a lake-view retreat, a home that overlooked a cemetery, one with a front-row seat to a neighbor’s bathroom (not ideal!), and even a mobile home.

But no matter where I’ve lived, one thing has always been constant: nature is never far away.

Some people don’t think twice about trees, creeks, birds, or even the occasional coyote or bear. Me? I seek them out. Whether it’s birdsong in the morning or the rustling of leaves in the wind, I find comfort in nature.

Even in the heart of Dallas, nature can surprise you. In Oak Cliff, we’re lucky to have a backyard creek, towering 80-year-old trees, and a view of the golf course. When I lived in a high-rise, Turtle Creek and the Katy Trail were just across the street.

I’ve helped people find homes that connect them to the outdoors, and I’ve helped others who prefer city views with not a single leaf in sight.

No matter what you’re looking for in a home—nature-filled or nature-free—I’m here to help. Let’s find the perfect place for you.

As Southern As It Gets

Howdy, y’all! Let me introduce myself. Doug Wingfield here, born in Arkansas and having spent most of my life in Texas, I reckon I’m about as Southern as it gets.

When you work with me to buy or sell a home, you’ll quickly find that I’m forthright (a very Southern trait), honest (another Southern hallmark), and just plain kind (definitely a Southern thing).

Now, I do my best to hide my accent, but it’s pretty funny when I’ve been at our house in Hot Springs, AR for a spell. I tend to come back to Dallas with a bit of hillbilly slang and twang. One of my smart-aleck friends is always quick to call me out, of course.

A typical day as a REALTOR® might have you hearing me say things like:

• “Y’all need to look at this house pronto!”
• “Yes ma’am, this home does come with that clothesline in the backyard.”
• “I was fixin’ to call you!”
• “The open house was rough as I was three sheets to the wind last night.” (definitely an exaggeration, I’m a mindful drinker)
• “OOH. Look at this place; it’s a mess.”
• “Well, that wall color was an idea.” (could also refer to landscaping or décor)
• “Look over yonder! Is that a cow I see?” (selling homes in the country)
• “Now don’t throw a hissy fit. We’ll work this out with the buyer, ya hear?”
• Ya’ll-d’ve sold this house by now if you called me instead of Bubba!”

And of course, we’ll laugh—a lot (a very Southern thing). I promise you, we’ll laugh through the whole home buying or selling process. You can count on that, ya hear?

Opacarophile
(n) A person who loves sunsets.

Who doesn’t love sunsets? As an opacarophile, you’ll often find me on the golf course behind my house, soaking in the vibrant hues of the setting sun while dodging golf balls and hearing the occasional “FORE!” echoing in the background.

If you’re like me and crave those breathtaking sunset views, you’ll love my current listings in Waxahachie and Venus, TX. These homes are nestled next to ranches, promising spectacular sunsets every evening. As a new construction home, they offer at least 1 acre of private land, you can enjoy your own slice of paradise. Look at my current listing inventory on my website and check out 551 Cari Lynn (Venus), 270 Maci, 2151 Langston, and 117 Aiden in Waxahachie for great locations and prices!

Ready to find your dream home with the perfect sunset view? Reach out, and let’s make it happen!

**TRYING A NEW FORMAT: CALLING THESE A 1-MINUTE-READ BLOG

I Sell Homes So My Dogs Can Live a Better Life

Woof! We are Sam and Cooper, Doug Wingfield’s loyal companions, here to tell you why our Dad is the best real estate broker around. Dad sells homes so we can live our best lives, and he’s amazing at it!

From listing to closing, Dad makes selling your home effortless and stress-free. He tailors a personalized strategy to highlight your home’s best features, collaborates with professionals for staging and photography, and provides accurate pricing guidance to attract qualified buyers.

Your home will benefit from a comprehensive marketing campaign, maximizing exposure through online and offline channels. Dad negotiates with precision to secure the best terms and price, always keeping your interests at the forefront.

Dad handles every aspect of the transaction, ensuring a seamless process with regular updates and expert guidance. He also understands the importance of creating a comfortable environment for your pets during the move. Here are some tips:

• Maintain your pet’s routine to reduce stress.
• Introduce moving boxes early and keep pets in a familiar room.
• Keep pets in a quiet room or at a friend’s house on moving day.
• Gradually acclimate pets to their crates.
• Pet-proof your new home by securing cords and windows.

Listing your home with Dad means peace of mind and exceptional service. Ready to start this stress-free adventure? Connect with our Dad, aka Doug Wingfield, and explore the exciting possibilities ahead – for you and your pets!

The luxury real estate market in 2024 is evolving rapidly, with a mix of trends that continue to benefit both buyers and sellers. Here’s a streamlined look at what’s shaping the market right now:

Market Overview

While inventory levels are increasing, the market remains favorable to sellers. However, cash buyers now have more opportunities and greater negotiation leverage. Sales are on an upward trend, with single-family homes showing a 13% increase in sales compared to 2023, while condos and townhomes saw a 10% boost. Even though the summer months typically slow down, July bucked this trend, contributing to overall growth. Rising inventory, combined with economic stability and steady interest rates, has made affluent buyers more confident in making purchasing decisions.

Shifting Buyer Preferences

Buyers are moving away from urban centers, seeking privacy and tranquility in suburban and rural areas. High-net-worth individuals are investing in luxurious retreats that offer scenic surroundings, often in resort-like areas. These properties cater to a desire for a balance between luxury living and an escape from city life, without sacrificing access to amenities like golf courses, marinas, and high-end dining.

Price Trends

Interestingly, there’s a slight decline in the median sale prices for luxury properties. While this might suggest some downward pressure due to higher inventory, experts attribute it to a rise in lower-tier luxury sales, keeping the overall price shifts moderate. Buyers are showing more interest in properties that offer value within the lower luxury price brackets.

Demand for Customization and Smart Technology

Affluent buyers are prioritizing personalization, with homes featuring custom layouts, high-end finishes, and bespoke amenities like home theaters, wine cellars, and fitness rooms. Smart home technology is no longer optional; it’s a necessity. Buyers want homes that integrate automated systems for lighting, security, and entertainment, blending convenience with energy efficiency. These features are seen as critical for maintaining both luxury and sustainability.

Luxe Outdoor Living and Wellness

Luxury buyers now demand that outdoor spaces match the elegance of indoor living areas. High-end properties often include expansive patios, outdoor kitchens, and heated pools, designed for entertainment and relaxation. Wellness-focused amenities have also become essential, with buyers seeking homes that offer private gyms, spa-like facilities, and even saltwater pools to support a healthy, balanced lifestyle.

Outlook for 2024

Looking ahead, we expect luxury buyers to focus on properties that offer a combination of privacy, personalization, and wellness. With potential drops in mortgage rates, the fall market could see even more movement, as previously hesitant sellers start listing their homes. If you’re buying or selling, partnering with a Realtor who understands these evolving trends is key to making the most of the current market.

Incorporating these 2024 trends can help you stay competitive, whether you’re buying or selling in this fast-changing luxury real estate landscape

Information from The Institute for Luxury Home Marketing and ChatGPT