So, what are you waiting for? Grab your golf bag and hit the links in Dallas-Fort Worth!

1. Eagle’s Bluff – This 18-hole golf course was named one of “America’s Best Residential Golf Courses” and a “Golf Course of Distinction” by Golf Week. This course sits along Lake Palestine, thereby providing a picturesque backdrop to the course.

2. The Bridges at Preston Crossings – This Fred Couples signature course is a challenging course that is characterized by rolling hills and towering oak trees.

3. The Reserve at Sugar Tree – This course is surrounded by a master-planned community of the same name and is characterized by its heavily wooded surroundings and large estate homes.

4. Bent Tree Country Club – This golf course features wide-open spaces that are kind to golfers of all levels. The country club has hosted the LPGA and senior tours since the 1980s.

5. Bridlewood Golf Course – Located in Flower Mound, Bridlewood is an 18-hole championship golf course that also boasts a 14-acre practice facility and a 12,000-square-foot clubhouse.

6. Brookhaven Country Club – Located in Farmers Branch, the Brookhaven Country Club features three courses: the Master’s course, the President’s course and the Championship course.

7. Brookhollow Country Club – This private course is both traditional and challenging and was ranked by Golf Digest as the 8th best in the state of Texas in the late 1990s.
8. Canyon Creek – This private course, which is located in Richardson, is kind to players of all skill levels.

9. Chase Oaks – Chase Oak is a Plano course that boasts an 18-hole championship course and a nine-hole regulation course. This course was rated for its “playability” by the “Dallas Morning News.”

10. Coyote Ridge – Known as one of the most challenging courses in North Texas, Coyote Ridge is a Carrollton public course that is surrounded by towering oak and pecan trees. This course also boasts excellent practice and clubhouse facilities.

Here is our list of the top 10 hottest markets in Dallas (in no particular order):

1. University Park – We love University Park because of its wide array of affordable real estate and its excellent location. Dallas professionals often choose University Park because of its ideal proximity to downtown Dallas, as well as Methodist University.

2. Highland Park – Highland Park is a highly desirable community in Dallas that has consistently experienced increasing property values. Highland Park is home to many of Dallas’ socialites, politicians and celebrities, and it’s quite common to find massive homes here, complete with beautifully landscaped grounds and maids’ quarters.

3. Carrollton – Carrollton is always a sure bet for real estate, as many Dallas professionals call this Dallas community home. Gated communities and lofty estate homes are a common sight here, and downtown Carrollton is a lovely area teeming with shops and upscale restaurants.

4. Irving – Irving, although established in 1902, really gained in popularity when Las Colinas, a massive, mixed-use complex that is home to a number of Fortune 500 companies and upscale homes, took shape. Because of the many business opportunities available in Las Colinas, Irving has continued to enjoy growth in population and real estate values.

5. Downtown Dallas – For Dallas professionals, downtown Dallas simply can’t be beat. In addition to living within walking distance to the countless companies and corporations that call this area of Dallas home, residents here enjoy towering skyscraper homes that boast everything from rooftop swimming pools to concierge service and pristine homes, complete with floor-to-ceiling windows and gourmet kitchens.

6. Perry Heights – We like Perry Heights because of its diverse population and its higher-than-average home values. From city professionals to first-time homebuyers, Perry Heights is a beautiful and affordable area in which to reside in Dallas.

7. State Thomas – State Thomas, as one of the most historic neighborhoods in Dallas, boasts Victorian-style homes, as well as new construction along the Woodall Rogers Freeway.

8. Knox Park –Knox Park has become quite a popular neighborhood in Dallas because of its wide variety of residential neighborhoods that are both affordable and attractive. Located close to Katy Trail and many of Dallas’ business districts, Knox Park residents enjoy suburban living and city conveniences.

9. Plano – Plano is, without a doubt, one of the most affluent suburbs in Dallas and real estate here is highly desirable. Often referred to as the “All American City,” Plano was also recently named the 11th best place to live in the United States by Money magazine.

10. Deep Ellum – The arts and entertainment district of Deep Ellum is just one of the reasons why this beautiful suburb of Dallas is so revered. Located just minutes from downtown Dallas, Deep Ellum is now a hub for young, urban professionals.

Here are just a few of the Merry Christmas activities and fun in Dallas:

• Galleria Holiday Celebration – The Dallas Galleria is transformed each holiday season into a Christmas wonderland. From its massive Christmas tree in the middle of the ice rink to its ice skating Santa Claus and choreographed shows, the Galleria is a true Dallas Christmas tradition. Don’t forget to catch the carollers and other musicians who perform throughout the holiday season!

• Fair Park – Dallas’ Fair Park is a beautiful example of the holiday magic that abounds in Dallas throughout the Christmas season. Fair Park boasts the beautiful Esplanade Fountain, which actually “dances” to the beat of the holiday music, the 33 Christmas trees and the breath taking light display that lasts until New Years.

• The Trains at North Park – Christmas in Dallas is never complete without the trains at North Park. This display, which benefits the Ronald McDonald House of Dallas, boasts more than 40 trains and covers an area of nearly 3,000 square feet. From vintage toy locomotives to elaborate miniature scenes, this event is a must during the Christmas season!

• ICE! Exhibit – The Gaylord Texas Resort in Grapevine is home to the ICE! Exhibit, a display of hand-carved ice sculptures that feature everything from gingerbread houses to an entire train depot. Free cookies and warm parkas are just a few of the perks of visiting this Christmas tradition!

• Lone Star Christmas – Grapevine plays hosts to the annual Lone Star Christmas, a jaw-dropping indoor light show that boasts over one million lights and even a 40-foot Christmas tree. Other fun sites enjoyed here include electric train displays, live reindeer and a visit from Mrs. Claus.

• Christmas Pops – The Dallas Symphony Pops: Christmas Pops is an annual show that is presented at the Morton H. Myerson Symphony Center. Visitors here enjoy classic holiday hits and even an audience sing-along.

What will it take to experience a solid recovery? It appears that it will only happen once we begin to clear out the glut of foreclosures in the market. Once the inventory of foreclosures and short sales has been greatly reduced, we can expect to see rising real estate statistics nationwide.

Most real estate experts agree that we are still in the midst of the housing crash, but that the forecast will begin to improve once the foreclosure issues – and the legal issues that surround them – begin to resolve.

Across the Nation

The market overall across the nation has shown signs of hope, as some areas of the country have already begin experiencing an increase in home prices. Other markets have stabilized, which is a good sign, as well.

Because the overall job sector has improved across the country since 2010, and more than two million private sector jobs being created, the real estate market is expected to follow suit.

U.S. Home Prices

Most experts note that, across the country, home prices will continue to slide downward, at least until the first part of 2012.

In August, statistics showed that sales of distressed properties were way up, along with short sales and real estate owned properties. However, these distressed property sales also meant
that home prices declined by four percent when compared to a year prior.

A Recovery in the Works?

Mark G. Doutzour, a chief economist at Texas A&M University’s Real Estate Center, paints a different picture about the U.S. real estate economy. In fact, he expects a recover of the economy to occur after the 2012 election.

Home prices across the nation rebounded in March by 2.2 percent, and median home prices rose to nearly $160,000. However, these statistics are almost 6 percent below what they were a year prior, and the median price is close to 2002 levels. In addition, almost two out of five homes sold in March were distressed properties, which usually sell at a discount.

If you want to experience the best of the Downtown Dallas condo market, consider residing in one of the beautifully restored historic buildings. From exposed brick walls to soaring ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows, loft living in downtown Dallas is one of the coolest ways to experience city living.

However, if you want to reside in one of the many new condo buildings and enjoy the benefits of sublime, modern living, it pays to check out the Mosaic. Located in the heart of downtown Dallas, the Mosaic boasts upscale amenities and interiors that are sure to impress even the most demanding buyers.

Building amenities as the Mosaic are designed to accommodate the busy urban professional. They include:

• A rooftop theatre
• A poker and cigar lounge
• Access to the Trophy Fitness Club
• Concierge services
• Valet car services
• Sweeping, panoramic views of downtown Dallas and beyond
• Easy access to public transportation (light rail station)
• Gated, underground parking

The interiors of the residences of the Mosaic speak to the luxury and opulence found here. In fact, there are stunning, modern interiors designed by today’s best designers:

Interior Features

The interiors of the residences are designed by Kevin Travell, Ray + Thorton and Ike Isenhour, and all include the following features:

• Custom cabinetry and designer hardware
• Granite and marble countertops
• Stainless steel appliances
• Expansive windows and breath taking views

The homes of Kevin Travell boast light grey cabinetry and black and white backsplash, while the homes of Kul: Ray + Thorton feature dark chocolate cabinetry. All interiors feature their own, distinct color pallets, and all of the homes of the Mosaic boast balconies or terraces that allow residents to enjoy sweeping views of the downtown Dallas skyline.

In addition, the homes of the Mosaic all boast open floor plans that let in plenty of natural light. The layout of these homes is free-flowing and spacious, thereby offering a whole new level of comfort for the residents.

The Dallas commercial real estate market 2011 saw an upswing due to the employment generated in the Dallas-Fort Worth metropolitan area. In fact, employment was up during the 12-month period ending in August, as more than 50,000 jobs were added to the region during this time.

Most analysts expect vacancy rates for the Dallas commercial real estate market 2011 to continue to decrease, with rental rates expected to gain momentum. In addition, many capital markets have seen lending activities increase and investment sales are also expected to increase in the near future.

Real Estate Owned Properties

During the first half of 2011 almost a half-billion dollars in commercial properties were sold by lenders. Although these numbers may suggest an increase in real estate owned properties, the statistics actually show that the number of commercial property foreclosures in Dallas is actually down from the same time a year prior.

Although there were plenty of analysts who predicted a glut of commercial foreclosures, this prediction simply didn’t materialize. During the first six months, 300 commercial properties were sold at auction by lenders, which is a 7 percent decline from a year prior. In addition, the dollar volume for foreclosures in the Dallas real estate market has also dropped an impressive 30 percent from 2010. In other words, compared to the market crash in the early part of the 1990s, things are looking really good.

Commercial Foreclosures

Although the Dallas commercial real estate market appears to be moving forward with swift momentum, this area has still seen its share of foreclosures this year, including the Fenton Center in Farmers Branch, the Crowne Plaza hotel in Addison, sections of the Lewisville Town Crossing and a number of development sites in both Irving and Frisco. Land that is not yet developed has accounted for the largest share of commercial foreclosures in the Dallas-Fort Worth metropolitan area this past year.

Overall, 2011 was a year of recovery, albeit a gradual one. According to Freddie Mac, both housing and mortgage sectors saw slow recovery. One thing is for certain: the Dallas real estate market 2011 saw mortgage rates reach historic lows, which helped home sales stabilize.

In addition, the rock-bottom interest rates allowed refinancing to experience resurgence, as well. In fact, four out of five home loan applications for single-family homes were of the refinance variety.

As far as home values go, it is quite usual to see softness in the market during this time of year. Seasonal slowdown always results in lower home prices, so this has been expected. In addition, real-estate owned properties continue to cause a general weakness in the Dallas real estate market for the better part of 2011.
Home Affordability

It is definitely a buyer’s market in Dallas, as the home affordability index is at its highest levels. The three factors that comprise home affordability are: mortgage rates, house prices and income. With mortgage rates near historic lows, buyer affordability has reached its highest level in decades. As a result, the Dallas housing market has been inundated with first-time homebuyers. The influx of new homebuyers is expected to carry well into 2012.

Dallas Home Prices

Dallas home prices are still down quite significantly, and trends show that home prices are down nearly 10 percent over the last four years. It is expected for home prices to continue to decline throughout 2012.

Home prices in North Texas aren’t expected to reach their lowest until the end of this year, according to Fiserv Inc. These projections were based on the Case-Shiller Home Price Index. In the last year alone, home prices in Dallas were down five percent from a year prior. Median sales prices of homes in North Texas also declined during this period.

Mortgage Delinquency Rates

Although mortgage delinquency rates still continue to plague the Dallas real estate market, the market is definitely showing signs of stabilization, according Fiserv. In fact, mortgage delinquency rates have continued to decline for the better part of 2011, along with foreclosure rates.

In conclusion, it pays to mention that, overall, Dallas escaped the brunt of the recession and is now entering a period of price correction and stabilization.

Not only are the townhomes of Coppell luxury communities attractive and practical for many homeowners, they are also quite affordable. Coppell townhomes usually start in the $200,000 price range, thereby making them an affordable option for many of today’s home buyers.

What can you expect in a Coppell townhome? Plenty of amenities, for starters. Here are just a few of the features and amenities of two of Coppell’s townhome communities: Riverchase Townhomes and the Villas at Lake Vista:

The Villas at Lake Vista

The residents of the Villas at Lake Vista enjoy use of the community spa, swimming pool, outdoor cooking area, community greenbelt, bike path, and fitness center. The homes here boast a number of wonderful conveniences and features. They include:

• Pre-wired for burglar and fire sprinkler systems
• Bathroom garden tubs, jetted tubs, separate showers, separate vanities and walk-in closets
• Double-pane windows, low-E, energy efficient windows, radiant barriers, and programmable thermostats
• Balconies and/or covered porches and exterior lighting systems
• Direct vent gas fireplaces
• Carpeting, ceramic tile and wood floors
• All homes are energy-star certified
• Central air conditioning
• HOA membership includes: backyard maintenance, blanket insurance, exterior maintenance, front yard maintenance and management fees.
• Interior features include: cable television, decorative lighting, pre-wired for flat panel televisions, high-speed internet available and skylights
• Kitchens include: stove, dishwasher, refrigerator with water line, microwave oven and garbage disposal.

Riverchase Townhomes

Riverchase townhomes, which was built in 2006, has become a popular townhome community in Coppell. Children here attend the Carrollton-Farmers Branch Independent school district. Just some of the features found in these attractive units include:

• Bathroom features include: garden tubs, separate showers and walk-in closets.
• Brick exteriors
• Thermo windows and ceiling fans
• Carpet and ceramic tile floors
• Central air conditioning
• HOA fees include: backyard maintenance, blanket insurance, exterior maintenance, front yard maintenance and management fees
• Kitchens include: stove, dishwasher, refrigerator with water line, microwave oven and garbage disposal.