Volume 7, Issue 09: March 2015
BEYOND THE TAX RETURN
THE MEASUREMENT OF A SUCCESSFUL LIFE
LOCAL NEWS & INFO
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publisher LAUREN TUTTLE STUMBERG director of sales & marketing RUSTY MEADOR art direction DISTINCT MEDIA, LLC cover photography PRITCHETT PHOTOGRAPHY distribution manager DAVE WILD for more information 210.219.6735 107 SHOOTING CLUB RD. BOERNE, TEXAS 78006 LAUREN@DISTINCT-GRAPHICS.COM WWW.BOERNEBUSINESSMONTHLY.COM
advisory council PHILLIP BELL Commercial Realtor, Phillip Bell & Assoc., LLC BETH COYLE President/CEO, Coyle•SDA MATT DIANA CEO, Covenant Services RONNIE E. HUIE Huie Financial Services MIKE LANG Owner & Escrow Officer, Kendall County Abstract Company STEVE MACK CEO, Texas Heritage Bank DAN ROGERS President/CEO, Boerne Kendall County Economic Development Corporation CAROL SCHULTZ Realtor, LoneStar Properties RON WARDEN Financial Advisor, Edward Jones Boerne Business Monthly is published by Distinct Media, LLC, copyright 2014. Reproduction is strictly prohibited without prior consent of the publisher. Opinions expressed in Boerne Business Monthly are those of the writers or sources and do not necessarily represent the views of the publisher, nor do they constitute the endorsement of products or services herein. Although the information and recommendations in this publication have been compiled from sources believed to be reliable, Boerne Business Monthly makes no guarantee as to, and assumes no responsibility for, the correctness, sufficiency or completeness of such information and recommendations.
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publisher's note Hooray! March is here and I’m hoping that this very long winter will be over sooner than later. This month brings us the official first day of spring, and don’t forget what may just be my favorite day of the year, the beginning of Daylight Savings Time on Sunday, March 8th. I am looking forward to longer, brighter days! In this issue we feature an event that I look forward to each spring and fall, the Boerne Handmade Market. This market, that is filled with vendors selling their handmade, creative crafts and creations, will take place on April 18th so be sure to mark your calendars – you don’t want to miss it. Turn to page 14 to learn more about this fun event! Also in this issue we share the great story of Carl and Jean Stevens. Carl is keeping Jean’s memory alive through sales of her cookbook, Recipes Worth Sharing, with the proceeds benefiting a scholarship. Check it out on page 8. Those articles are just the tip of the iceberg for this month’s great, information packed issue of Boerne Business Monthly. We hope you enjoy!
Lauren T. St umberg Publisher
facebook.com/boernebusinessmonthly
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March 2015
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contents 08: profile
The Measurement of a Successful Life: Recipes Worth Sharing Cookbook Benefits Scholarship by Denise R. Marcos
11: calendar 12: newsworthy 14: cover feature
Boerne Handmade Market: Crafty, Creative, One-of-a-Kind Finds! by Lauren T. Stumberg
18: accounting
Beyond the Tax Return! by Jason Nelson, CPA
20: wellbeing
Top 3 Supplements Vital for Health by Dr. Michael Garcia, DC
your SPACE
25: remodel
Boerne Kitchens and Baths Receives Best of Houzz 2015 Award
26: real estate statistics
Local Real Estate News from the Real Estate Classes Institute
28: art
Mooney Makes Sense: Prints, GiclĂŠes, and Reproductions... Oh My!
30: vacation properties
IRS Eyes Vacation Home Rental Deductions
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profile
Measurement Successful Life
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of a
RECIPES WORTH SHARING COOKBOOK HELPS FUND SCHOLARSHIP by Denise R. Marcos
He remembers it vividly, like it was just yesterday. She was standing before him wearing a white, puffed long-sleeve blouse, which against her sun-kissed skin shone brightly in the moonlit evening. Her honey-blonde hair framed her face. As he reluctantly told her that he was going to report for active duty the following Monday, her eyes began to well with tears. She blinked and one slowly streamed down her cheek. “It was a moment I will never forget: the look on her face, her words, the embrace. We were so young and so old at the same time. And that Monday, as I packed up my bags and stood beside my fellow soldiers as we headed to war, I knew that it was her that was going to get me back home safely.” Some people spend their entire lives searching for love, purpose, meaning. But for Carl Stevens, he learned early on what brought him happiness. She was one of them. Dorothy Jean Stinson Stevens better known as “Miss Jean” was his pride and joy—the love of his life. Married for 61 years, they built a lifetime of wonderful friendships and memories together. Carl’s prosperous career as an internationally respected business mentor and college professor introduced many opportunities for travel. And there, always by his side, was Miss Jean. They traveled to dozens of countries around the world—him speaking to students and industry professionals and her working on a project that would later inspire those around her and impact generations to come. Both of them fond of new experiences and delicious cuisine, Jean began gather-
ing recipes of the finest foods she’s tried during her travels. She visited 49 states, 66 countries on 6 continents. It was a fitting hobby for a foodie. She met enthusiasts who shared her same passion, from world-renowned chefs to self-taught home cooks; Jean collected hundreds upon hundreds of recipes. Although they always seemed to be on the go, Jean managed to attend several culinary schools, seminars and demonstrations throughout her time—trying, perfecting and adding her own touch to the dishes. With a little push from a good friend John F. Baugh, founder of the nation’s largest food distributor SYSCO, her unique collection was published and is now sold throughout the country by one of the nation’s most knowledgeable sales-business professionals and her biggest fan—her husband, Carl. The profits made from the 300-page cookbook will go directly to the Jean Stevens Scholarship fund—an endorsement of the passion and adoration both Jean and Carl have for educating future generations. “She absolutely loved children. She has always had that drive in her, to teach, to help shape young minds. Unfortunately, we were not blessed with biological children of our own. But we still had many ‘unfamily’ members, as we like to call them, so she gave her energy to others around her,” Carl said. “This cookbook, this unique collection of recipes that
RELAX. UNWIND. GET A MASSAGE. Jean has gathered throughout the years, is just a way for her to give back. It’s a way for her legacy to live on. Her passion for the Lord and giving will be present through each meal someone makes from this book.” Like Jean, Carl had a unique devotion to learning and a persistence to pass it on. Always eager to figure things out, Carl’s dedication, forward-thinking philosophy, and his ability to sell just about anything, brought him an unwavering success at a young age. He was a double major in psychology and business at Vanderbilt University. Since graduating from his home-state school many years ago, he has received dozens of accolades and recognition for this expertise in his field. He co-authored several books on the topic of selling, which have been adopted in colleges across North America and has created a number of effective business models and programs used by the some of the largest and most successful companies in the world. In addition, he was inducted into the Speaker Hall of Fame, Council of Peers Award for Excellence, the highest award in professional speaking, which he shares with former President Ronald Regan, Dr. Norman Vincent Peale, Art Linkletter, Earl Nightingale and Og Mandino to name a few. “I have lived a lifetime of great success. God has truly blessed me in more ways than one. One of those blessings has been my ability to speak publicly. I love offering my knowledge to those eager to hear, and as you can see I love to tell a good story,” Carl jokes. “But none of this success would be worth anything if I couldn’t continue it somehow. And that is what my intention
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is for Miss Jean’s cookbook. She and I were different in many ways, but we also shared a lot of things. One of those things was our love for educating. I feel it’s my obligation to pass it on somehow. The more money we can provide to the Jean Stevens Scholarship, the more opportunities, those who are awarded it, are given. That’s what I hope to do. Her legacy will live on through the students. It’s the one thing she wanted. And even though she’s gone now, I’m going to continue to help her achieve that dream.” BBM FOR MORE INFORMATION ON HOW TO GET YOUR COPY OF RECIPES WORTH SHARING: 1100 S. GRAND BLVD. #210 | BOERNE, TX 78006
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Open now!
March 2015 CALENDAR OF EVENTS
MARCH 3 GREATER BOERNE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE RIBBON CUTTING FOR QUALITY GUTTERS SYSTEMS 11:30am to 12:00pm | 5 Upper Cibolo Creek Rd. – Boerne MARCH 5 BOERNE INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICTSTATE OF THE DISTRICT AND HONOR TEACHERS OF THE YEAR SPONSORED BY JENNINGS ANDERSON FORD 11:30am to 1:00pm | Fair Oaks Ranch Golf & Country Club 7900 Fair Oaks Pkwy. – Fair Oaks Ranch RSVP required; Cost: $35 for Chamber Members, Future Members $40; www.boerne.org GREATER BOERNE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE RIBBON CUTTING FOR ACCESS STORAGE 4:30pm to 5:00pm | 105 Shooting Club Rd. – Boerne GREATER BOERNE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS AFTER HOURS MIXER SPONSORED BY ACCESS STORAGE & ANGELS ALL AROUND YOU MILITARY MINISTRY 5:00pm to 7:00pm | 105 Shooting Club Rd. – Boerne GREATER BOERNE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE RIBBON CUTTING FOR NISSAN OF BOERNE 6:00pm to 6:30pm | 31805 IH 10 W. – Boerne MARCH 7 THE FARMERS MARKET AT THE CIBOLO 9:00am to 1:00pm | Herff Farm 33 Herff Rd. – Boerne Shop fresh local produce, farm fresh eggs, breads, jams, jellies, local honey and Texas Hill Country arts & crafts at the historic Herff Farm at the Cibolo Nature Center in Boerne. Enjoy free live music, gardening classes, cooking demonstrations and children’s craft activities, too. WINGS OVER BOERNE 11:00am to 5:00pm | Boerne Visitors Center 1407 South Main – Boerne Expect the unexpected as Birds of Prey zoom through the air in the outdoor demonstrations. MARCH 8 DAYLIGHT SAVINGS TIME BEGINS - SPRING FORWARD! MARCH 9 KENDALL COUNTY COMMISSIONERS COURT 9:00am to 11:00am | Kendall County Courthouse 201 E. San Antonio Ave. – Boerne MARCH 10 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 6:00pm to 8:00pm | City Council Chambers 124 Old San Antonio Road – Boerne
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newsworthy
Boerne Mayor Mike Schultz Proclaims March as American Red Cross Month Throughout the Texas Hill Country
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Jacques DuBose, Executive Director of the Hill Country Chapter of the American Red Cross, joined Boerne Mayor Mike Schultz to proclaim March as American Red Cross Month throughout the Texas hill country. They urge all area residents and businesses to volunteer their time and give generously to the American Red Cross in support of their efforts to assist local families when disaster strikes.
Toyota of Boerne Shows Teacher Appreciation
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Citing a desire to demonstrate an unwavering commitment to public education in the Boerne community, the Vaughan family and Toyota of Boerne made a $10,000 gift to Boerne ISD Teacher of the Year, Tisha Pettibon, on Monday, February 23. The award was presented at the regular meeting of the Boerne ISD Board of Trustees. Coach Pettibon teaches pre-Advanced Placement Biology at Boerne High School and coaches volleyball and girls basketball. Vic Vaughan noted his family’s appreciation of public education and of teachers who devote countless hours to their profession. Gracious in her acceptance of the generous gift, Coach Pettibon credited her students and their success in her classes with her ongoing enjoyment and motivation in the classroom. Toyota of Boerne has also been very supportive of Boerne ISD’s automotive technology program, supplying cars, parts and equipment to the program and hiring interns who are enrolled in the program. Pictured here are Shawn Vaughan, Tisha Pettibon, Vic Vaughan and Boerne ISD board president Ernie Pyles.
New Premier Green Builder and Remodeler Comes to the Texas Hill Country
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Mike Nichols Homes, LLC was founded by Jennifer and Mike Nichols, on a belief the earth is a gift and proper stewardship is paramount for the earth’s resources. As a green home builder and remodeler, their focus provides clients with a thoughtfully designed energy efficient custom home. Two main features position Mike Nichols Homes, LLC, as the premier green builder and remodeler in the Texas Hill Country. Firstly, the client portal which grants 24/7 access via the internet to all construction documents (proposals, material selection, project schedules, changes orders, etc.) relating to their clients’ projects. Secondly, their belief that clients deserve quality regardless of their budget. Commitment to maintain the highest standards of excellence and to exceed the expectations of clients stems from their guiding principles. With 20 years of remodeling experience, they bring a passion to serve the environmentally minded market by
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utilizing only high quality, eco-friendly materials and products, and fine craftsmanship. Exemplary customer service ensures clients are extended every courtesy, treated with respect, educated about the construction process and materials selection and afforded a high quality product. Mike Nichols Homes, LLC, integrates cuttingedge, earth friendly products with a common sense approach to home design. They also strive to create a company that not only builds homes, but also friendships that will last for generations. BBM
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photo by Pritchett Photography
cover feature
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Crafty, Creative, One-of-a-Kind Finds! by Lauren T. Stumberg What could be better than a Saturday spent shopping in Boerne? How about a Saturday spent shopping in Boerne at an event filled with unique, creative and one-of-a-kind finds? Sounds pretty good, right? Well mark your calendars for Saturday, April 18th and be sure to attend the Boerne Handmade Market. This fun, local shopping experience happens only twice a year, so make sure not to miss it!
pictured above: Beth Zampese and Alyssa Mantooth
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Boerne Handmade Market held its first event in October of 2012 as a result of co-founders Alyssa Mantooth and Rachel Russo’s desire to create an event where the talents of their very crafty friends could be showcased. “We thought it would be fun to start something that would give our creative friends an outlet to share and sell their creations. We never imagined that it would be as successful as it has been and that so many others outside of our circle of friends would want to participate as well,” said Mantooth enthusiastically. Along the way, co-founder Rachel Russo felt called in another direction and started Vault: Fostering Community which is a local organization to support foster families in the local community and help get things together at a moments notice when a new child is placed in their care. With that taking much of Russo’s time and attention, Beth Zampese stepped in to fill her shoes at Boerne Handmade Market. Mantooth and Zampese both share a passion for handmade treasures and creative souls. Together the pair work tirelessly to find vendors that will fill up each market with products that will keep BHM shoppers coming back for more! “We have tons of new vendors for this upcoming spring market as well as the return of many of the crowd favorites from past markets. This event marks the 6th Boerne Handmade Market and each event just seems to get better and better. We couldn’t be more thrilled with the vendors that are scheduled and the products they will be offering,” stated Zampese. The vendors of Boerne Handmade Market come from all over Texas and offer everything from bath and body products to home decor to children's items and even food items. The main requirement is that the items for sale must be made by the vendor or an employee
of theirs. According to Mantooth, “BHM is actually a juried market so we can turn vendors away. We strive to have no more than 20% of any type of product at each market. This ensures we have a good product mix and don’t become overrun with only jewelry or baby clothes for example. We want both our vendors and our shoppers to have a great experience and by having the market offer a variety of products we feel we can achieve this.” Zampese added, “Even our vendors that have returned market after market continually try to bring new and different products to each BHM. It is that variety that will keep the shoppers coming back and allow the event to evolve and develop.” The upcoming spring BHM is scheduled to showcase over forty vendors that will come from all over Texas. “Most of the vendors have heard of us through word of mouth. When we started BHM all the vendors could easily fit underneath the covered continued on page 16
BoerneHa ndmadeM arket.com
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pavilion at the Pavilion Food Park & Events where the market is held, but now we have outgrown that and have many vendors outside of the pavilion as well,” said Mantooth. In addition to the vendors having grown in number, so have the shoppers. “Each market we see more and more traffic. The word is definitely spreading about Boerne Handmade Market and it’s exciting to see the growth. In fact, we are even extending the event hours by one hour to accommodate more shoppers this time and will be open from 9am to 4pm, instead of opening at 10am as we have in the past!”
In addition to all the shopping going on at the event there will also be live music, food trucks available for snacks or meals and a playground for the kiddos. The event is free to attend and shoppers will receive a free reusable shopping bag (while supplies last). “This event began as a way to give back to the community while offering a one-of-a-kind, unique shopping experience and we feel like we have accomplished that. To us the event is a small, huge success!”BBM
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Boerne (830) 249-3955
leon springs (210) 698-8100
MARCH 2015 CALENDAR OF EVENTS | cont’d MARCH 14 THE FARMERS MARKET AT THE CIBOLO 9:00am to 1:00pm | Herff Farm 33 Herff Rd. – Boerne WINGS OVER BOERNE 11:00am to 5:00pm | Boerne Visitors Center 1407 South Main – Boerne Expect the unexpected as Birds of Prey zoom through the air in the outdoor demonstrations. SECOND SATURDAY ART & WINE 5:00pm to 8:00pm | Galleries in Boerne The 2nd Saturday participants go all out with complimentary beverages and a variety of hors d’oeuvres along with fantastic art! ST. PATRICK’S DAY IN THE CAVE 7:00pm | Cave Without a Name 325 Kreutzberg Rd. – Boerne A bawdy evening of Celtic and Heritage bar music. Come early, BYOB*, and relax before heading down into the Cave’s Throne Room for a one of a kind experience. Warning! This event will get loud, it will be ribald and risque, but more than that, it will be entertaining! $20 in advance/$25 at the door. www.cavewithoutaname.com
THE DODGING DUCK BREWHAUS 402 River Road - Boerne, Texas 78006 (830) 248-3825
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MARCH 14-15 BOERNE MARKET DAYS 10:00am to 5:00pm | Main Plaza – Boerne Main Plaza comes alive with great shopping in an outdoor setting.
www.edwardjones.com
MARCH 15 BOERNE PERFORMING ARTS - 102 YEARS OF BROADWAY 7:30pm to 10:00pm | Champion High Auditorium 201 Charger Blvd. – Boerne 102 Years of Broadway recreates the greatest moments from the finest shows of the century featuring the actual stars of shows such as The Phantom of the Opera, Les Miserables, CATS, Jesus Christ Superstar, and Jekyll & Hyde.
Having More Retirement Accounts is Not the Same as Having More Money. When it comes to the number of retirement accounts you have, the saying “more is better” is not necessarily true. In fact, if you hold multiple accounts with various brokers, it can be difficult to keep track of your investments and to see if you’re properly diversified.* At the very least, multiple accounts usually mean multiple fees. Bringing your accounts to Edward Jones could help solve all that. Plus, one statement can make it easier to see if you’re moving toward your goals.
MARCH 17 SAINT PATRICK’S DAY LIVE AT THE LIBRARY 6:00pm | Patrick Heath Public Library 451 N. Main St. Bldg. 100 – Boerne Featuring Celtic Harp music by Maggie Meek.This outdoor musical concert is held on the back lawn of the Patrick Heath Public Library and is sponsored by the Boerne Public Library Foundation. Some chairs and free refreshments are provided. MARCH 19 GREATER BOERNE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE RIBBON CUTTING FOR VALERIA FARM TO TABLE 11:30am to 12:00pm 109 Waterview Parkway, Ste. 105 – Boerne GREATER BOERNE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE RIBBON CUTTING RIBBON CUTTING FOR OFF MAIN ST. CONSIGNMENTS 1:30pm to 2:00pm | 206 W. Highland Dr. – Boerne MARCH 20 1ST DAY OF SPRING
*Diversification does not guarantee a profit or protect against loss.
To learn why consolidating your retirement accounts to Edward Jones makes sense, call your local financial advisor today. Ron Warden Financial Advisor 215 W Bandera Rd, Ste 113B Boerne, Texas 78006 830-249-8286
Rebeca Short Financial Advisor 104 Medical Drive Boerne, Texas 78006 830-249-4630
Allyson Munsell Financial Advisor 1011 S Main Street Boerne, Texas 78006 830-249-2748
continued on page 26
Member SIPC
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accounting
Beyond the Tax Return
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by Jason Nelson, CPA
Receipts, records, and the seemingly endless influx of tax forms in your mailbox indicate only one thing: tax season has begun. This ritual of gathering and organizing your financial and tax documents is performed at the beginning of every year in order to file your tax return. In most cases, this also involves delivering those files to your tax professional. However, when most people visit their tax preparer, their only thoughts are getting the taxes filed and out of mind. Instead of the rush to file and be done with your taxes, take this time consider if there are other items you should be considering. Are there other questions your tax preparer should be asking you? Are there questions you should be asking them? What other “house keeping” items need to be looked at in your financial portfolio? Below are a few scenarios that many individuals tend to overlook, but should be considered: 1. GENERATIONAL PLANNING: If you own a business, whether large or small, do you have a plan to deal with the transition to the next generation? Do you want to pass your business to your children, or grandchildren; do they even want it? There is a substantial amount of effort put into building a business, but often not much thought is given regarding business continuity once the owner is no longer willing or able to keep working. Without generational planning the business owner may be burdening the next generation with something they are not ready to run or operate, or even fully understand. Turning a company over to those who are not ready could result in the company meeting its demise, or being sold off for far less than it could be worth. A scenario any business owner would find appalling. Don’t let the future of your business fall by the way-side. Consider speaking to a professional regarding generational planning. 2. RETIREMENT ACCOUNTS: Are you properly utilizing the best type of retirement account for your tax situation; is there something better you could be doing? There are many different types of retirement plans available for a business owner. Over time, a retirement plan that was used at the inception of business may not be the most appropriate as the business has matured. The retirement plan in place may not only be
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B OERNE B USINESS M ONTHLY | March 2015
affecting the business owner, but the employees as well. Take some time to review your company’s retirement plan. As with aging technology, your retirement plan may need an upgrade. 3. BENEFICIARIES: When was the last time you looked at the beneficiaries on your various accounts? Depending on how long ago you set up those accounts, it could be years since you chose your beneficiaries. Are they still the people you want receiving funds upon your death? This would apply to retirement accounts, life insurance, and any annuities with a death benefit or a residual payout. As time marches forward and lives change, it becomes easy for individuals to forget to update their beneficiaries. Remember, the beneficiary listed on the account(s) is who will get the funds upon your death, regardless of who is designated by your Will. There have been instances where ex-spouses are still listed, a person’s parents are listed because they were single at the time of designation and are now married, or a child is left off because they had not been born at the time of beneficiary selection. It is important to visit this issue on an annual basis to make sure the beneficiaries listed are in tune with your current intentions.
4. WILLS: A tax preparer cannot prepare a Will for you, but should ask if you have one. If there is no Will, then the tax preparer should be able to recommend an attorney they trust or have worked with in the past. If you already have a Will, it may be a good idea to have your tax professional look it over to make sure it takes into account the current tax laws that may have changed over the past few years. Some existing Wills do not properly address the changes in the estate tax exemption, or the Generation Skipping Tax exemptions, or the relatively new portability rules. 5. ESTATE PLANNING: For those with large estates, is estate planning/gifting being addressed? If not properly communicated, your tax preparer may not be aware if you have an estate tax problem. Not only do you have to take into consideration your current net worth, but you may need to consider future inheritances, which could create potential estate tax issues. Tax preparers with estate tax knowledge may be able to pick up on subtle details on your tax return and realize there could be a problem. However, not all net worth line items generate income and without communication this could create potential problems. The good news is the estate tax currently does not kick in for an individual until their net worth is $5.43 million ($10.86 million married). However, there are proposals being considered to drop this to a lower amount which could make this a hot topic again. While it may seem most important to just get the tax return done, these are a few of the items that are important to discuss with your tax professional now before a problem occurs. Communicate any concerns and let your tax preparer help you be proactive this tax season. BBM Jason Nelson, CPA, is a Tax Manager with Akin, Doherty, Klein & Feuge, P.C. (ADKF).
Accounting for Your Success At Akin, Doherty, Klein & Feuge, we do everything in our power to assist you with your business and personal accounting, tax and financial needs. Akin, Doherty, Klein, & Feuge, personally Serving our clients Since 1991.
830.815.1100 ■ www.adkf.com 507 E. Blanco, Suite 101 ■ Boerne, Texas 78006 8610 North New Braunfels, Suite 101 ■ San Antonio, Texas 78217 672 Ridge Hill Dr., Suite A ■ New Braunfels, Texas 78130
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wellbeing
Top 3 Supplements Vital for Health
I
I am a firm believer that supplementing vitamins and minerals is not a substitute for quality food and exercise. Synthetic vitamins and minerals are not as effective or readily absorbed by the body. Having said that, today’s food does not have the same nutritional value as it did 50 years ago. If you were to narrow it down to three supplements that were critical to health and well being these would be it.
V I TAMIN D3
Vitamin D3 (the activated form of Vitamin D) is not a vitamin and is actually a hormone that is used by the body. It plays a crucial role in the body’s immune function all the way to developing bone strength. It has been studied intensely and has been linked to preventing certain cancers, some depressions and other conditions. The winter months are especially important to supplement since sunlight is not as readily available. 15-20 minutes of sunlight exposure in shorts and a t-shirt is enough to get your daily amount. If you are stuck inside, be sure to consider this important supplement. 1000 IU’s is a great start and 4000 IU’s is the max range according to most experts.
OMEGA 3’S
Omega 3’s are anti-inflammatory fats essential to the body, meaning we cannot produce them. Inflammation can be a good thing, for instance, if you cut your self you would certainly want an inflammatory reaction of white blood cells, etc. Too much of good thing is never good though. Today our society is battling systemic inflammation from eating the standard American diet. The foods we eat (corn, soy, etc), have sky rocketing amounts of Omega 6, which is inflammatory. Low Omega 3 levels have been linked to swollen arterial vessels, depressions, irritability and the list goes on. The best
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B OERNE B USINESS M ONTHLY | March 2015
by Dr. Michael Garcia
way to get your recommended Omega 3 intake is with high quality fish oil or you can eat fresh Atlantic salmon twice a week, by far the safest. The international recommendations are between 500mg-4000mg of EPA and DHA. The higher the number of mg, the more intense the support to your body.
PROBIO T ICS
Probiotic literally means “for life.” We have a symbiotic relationship with the bacteria in our body, we cannot live with out them and they cannot live with out us. Since 80% of your immune system is housed in your gut it goes without saying that probiotics are a must. If you have ever experienced bloating, gassiness, cramping after sugary meals, you may be experiencing a bacterial imbalance. Have allergies? Try paying attention to your gut and what is happening in there on a daily basis. I am not a big fan of commercial, sugar-ridden yogurts. Try sauerkraut, Greek yogurt or high quality supplement. Well, there you have it, the top three supplements the human body can greatly benefit from. I am sure there are many more supplements that are beneficial but did not get mentioned. These are just what I have found to work for my family, my patients and myself. The three supplements mentioned are a great foundation to build health from inside out. As a Structural Chiropractor, inside out healing is important and I always recommend that supplements are never a replacement for real food.BBM Michael A. Garcia, D.C. Boerne Wellness Chiropractic 115 Hwy. 46 W. | Boerne (830)-249-8900 boernewellnesschiropractic.com
emember when... the doctor made house calls?
Healthcare the way it USED to be Modern Medicine at an Old-Fashioned Pace Boerne’s first Concierge Practice
518 N. Main Street Boerne, TX 78006
(830) 249-5400
www.akinfmc.com
TECHNOLOGY YOU EXPECT FROM A BIG BANK. SERVICE YOU DON’T. We’re here with online banking, mobile banking, 1,100+ ATMs and a banker that answers the phone when you call.
frostbank.com 1300 South Main Street Boerne, Texas 78006 (830) 249-6633 MEMBER FDIC
boernebusinessmonthly.com
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PRESERVING THE PAST... Kendall County provides a thriving business environment with an unmatched quality of life. Growth Targets for Kendall County include: •Health & Medical •Resort & Conferences •Clean Industry •Higher Education •Corporate Headquarters •Existing Business & Industry •Retail & Service Expansion
• Business-Friendly Attitudes • Resources to Support Business Growth • Highly Educated Workforce • San Antonio Amenities 25 Minutes Away • Texas Hill Country Lifestyle 830.331.9070 • WWW.KENDALLCOUNTYEDC.COM
You’re frustrated, and so is your child. Classwork and homework by now are a daily struggle of tears and yelling. Your child is falling behind, and the school is clueless as to how to solve the problem.
attention problems such as Dyslexia and ADHD are caused by weak underlying learning skills.
You know your child is smart, but there is something holding him back. You have tried tutoring and hours of homework, but it seems like nothing has worked. So why DO smart kids struggle in school?
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Brain research shows these skills can significantly improve Weak underlying learning skills can be identified using a cognitive skills assessment. Once the student’s cognitive strengths and weaknesses are identified, a specialized program is developed to train those skills. Learning Foundations: 45 years of experience, now in Boerne.
Since 1969, Learning Foundations has helped struggling kids and teens break These skills such as sensory processing, free from painful and embarrassing Is it the parents’ fault? The teachers’ memory, auditory processing and labels. All programs are delivered phonemic awareness build the 1-on-1 with an experienced specialist. fault? Is she just being lazy? foundation for academic and social The real reason is that for 20% of kids success. A weakness in these skills can Free Consultations can be scheduled cause even the smartest child to struggle. by calling (210) 495-2626. in school, reading, spelling and
(210) 495-2626 - Call Now for a Free Consultation - www.learningfoundations.com
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B OERNE B USINESS M ONTHLY | March 2015
your S PAC E
at home or at wor k... love the space you’re in!
THIS SECTION: remodel | Boerne Kitchens and Baths Receives Best of Houzz 2015 Award
real estate statistics | Local Real Estate News from Real Estate Classes Institute
art | Mooney Makes Sense: Prints, GiclĂŠes, and Reproductions...Oh My!
vacation homes | IRS Eyes Vacation Home Rental Deductions boernebusinessmonthly.com
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Courtney Pfeiffer
1595 S. Main Street Boerne, Texas 78006
Keller Williams - Boerne, Broker-Associate 210-274-5975 – cell cpfeiffer@kw.com
READY TO SAVE THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS SELLING YOUR HOME?
125± ACRES 247 OLD HWY #9
Own a little piece of heaven! This property is currently Ag. Exempt and features gorgeous views of the Texas Hill Country, not to mention a seasonal creek, water well, and electricity. Multiple building sites, abundant wildlife and only 8 miles from town! Owner financing available, call agent for terms. Agent must accompany all showings. MLS#1096673 | $1,030,000
100± ACRES 247 OLD #9
Saving Buyers and Sellers Thousands
Various elevations and terrain, approximately 1/2 of the property would make great pastures, while the other 1/2 is treed with great building sites and abundant wildlife – making this ranchette in Comfort worth looking at! Build your dream home and enjoy the views or make it your weekend getaway. Frontage on Old Highway #9, surrounded by large ranches. This property is under Ag. Exemption, please verify Kendall County tax information. Seller will consider splitting property into two, 50 Acre tracts.
DISCOUNT IN PRICE, NOT IN SERVICE!
MLS# 1095711 | $775,000
IT'S YOUR EQUITY, NOT OURS!
Mark Phillips, Broker (830) 331-8900
216 E. Blanco Rd., #206 – Boerne, Tx
11+ Years Real Estate Experience
www.savingbuyersandsellersthousands.com
BALCONES CREEK Homes from the $260s
THE WOODS OF FREDERICK CREEK Homes from the $300s
Community Features:
Community Features:
• • • • •
No city taxes Gas community Gated community Wooded homesites Exemplary Rated Boerne Independent School District
• • • •
Limited Homesites Remain!
Large wooded homesites 3-car garage designs available Hill Country experience offering city conveniences Exemplary Rated Boerne Independent School District
For more information contact Cesar Rivera at 210-381-5187. Johns Rd.
87
Visit ryland.com for more information. In the San Antonio division, prices, plans and specifications are subject to change without notice. Map is an artist’s conception for general information purposes only and is not to scale. Photographs are for illustrative purposes only. Information believed to be accurate but not warranted. See sales counselor for details. © 2015 RH of Texas Limited Partnership. RS1319
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B OERNE B USINESS M ONTHLY | March 2015
Frederick Creek
46
Balcones Creek Map not drawn to scale.
St.
10
in Ma
For more information contact Mark Guerra at 830-981-5301 or Cesar Rivera at 830-981-4464.
46 Fair Oaks Blvd. 87
remodel |
BOERNE KITCHENS AND BATHS RECEIVES BEST OF HOUZZ 2015 AWARD
B
Want to know why you need a Realtor to buy a new HOME?
Over 25 Million Monthly Unique Users Rated Top-Rated Home Building, Remodeling and Design Professionals in the United States and Around the World
Boerne Kitchens and Baths has been awarded “Best Of Houzz” for Customer Satisfaction by Houzz, the leading platform for home remodeling and design. The Kitchen and Bath Remodeling firm was chosen by the more than 25 million monthly unique users that comprise the Houzz community from among more than 500,000 active home building, remodeling and design industry professionals. The Best Of Houzz award is given in two categories: Design and Customer Satisfaction. Design award winners’ work was the most popular among the more than 25 million monthly users on Houzz, known as “Houzzers.” Customer Satisfaction honors are determined by a variety of factors, including the number and quality of client reviews a professional received in 2014. Winners will receive a “Best Of Houzz 2015” badge on their profiles, helping Houzz users around the world who discover and love a professional’s work to learn even more about that business’ popularity and satisfaction rating among their peers in the Houzz community.
About Houzz
Boerne Kitchens and Bath is proud to be recognized for the second year in a row. “Houzz provides homeowners with a 360 degree view of home building, remodeling and design industry professionals, empowering them to engage the right people and products for their project,” said Liza Hausman, vice president of industry marketing for Houzz. “We’re delighted to recognize Boerne Kitchens and Baths among our “Best Of” professionals as judged by our community of homeowners and design enthusiasts who are actively remodeling and decorating their homes.” Follow Boerne Kitchens and Baths on Houzz.com at www.houzz. com/pro/boernekitchensand baths. Boerne Kitchens and Baths is a locally owned Kitchen and Bath Remodeling Company. A member of the National Kitchen and Bath Association, Boerne Kitchens and Baths works almost exclusively with the two most important rooms in your home. They incorporate cutting edge technology and traditional craftsmanship in every project they undertake. BBM
Houzz is the leading platform for home remodeling and design, providing people with everything they need to improve their homes from start to finish - online or from a mobile device. From decorating a room to building a custom home, Houzz connects millions of homeowners, home design enthusiasts and home improvement professionals across the country and around the world. With the largest residential design database in the world and a vibrant community powered by social tools, Houzz is the easiest way for people to find inspiration, get advice, buy products and hire the professionals they need to help turn their ideas into reality. Headquartered in Palo Alto, CA, Houzz also has international offices in London, Berlin and Sydney. For more information, visit www.houzz.com
Steven Karam (210) 414-0105
Naomi Weckesser Tiffany Joslin (830) 688-0282 (210) 394-4399
Renee & Jim Campbell (210) 542-0148 | (210) 838-1896
Kathy & Wiley Cloud, Brokers (210) 710-6601 | (830) 755-8693
Real Estate Office: (830) 755-8693 boernebusinessmonthly.com
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Serving our Friends and Neighbors of the Hill Country Since 1916
“Where experience and service make the difference” From its beginning in 1916, Kendall County Abstract Company has been Kendall County’s locally owned and operated title company. Over the last 97 years, we’ve earned the trust of real estate professionals because we’re experienced, we’re professional, and we care about our customers.
Ashlee Pfeiffer, Manager
Agent for:
• Stewart Title Guaranty Company • Fidelity National Title • First American Title Insurance • Alamo Title Insurance
830.816.2131 | 830.249.3341 - Fax 103 N. Saunders • Boerne, Texas 78006 (across from the courthouse)
VISIT US AT WWW.KCAC.NET
MARCH 2015 CALENDAR OF EVENTS | cont’d MARCH 21 THE FARMERS MARKET AT THE CIBOLO 9:00am to 1:00pm | Herff Farm 33 Herff Rd. – Boerne OUTDOOR FAMILY FAIR 10:00am to 2:00pm | Main Plaza – Boerne This community focused event provides Kendall County families of all ages with the opportunity to enjoy and learn about local services and organizations that are available. A lot of fun available for the whole family at this event!
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WINGS OVER BOERNE 11:00am to 5:00pm | Boerne Visitors Center 1407 South Main – Boerne HILL COUNTRY POTTERY SIXTH ANNUAL SPRING SHOW 1:00pm to 4:00pm | Hill Country Pottery 738 FM 473 – Comfort Join Hill Country Pottery for an afternoon of wood carving and pottery demonstrations, live music, a food truck and fresh hand crafted pottery in the gallery.
B OERNE B USINESS M ONTHLY | March 2015
continued on page 29
Local Real Estate News from
I
It comes as no surprise to us of the Real Estate Classes Institute staff that Texas is a BIG state with BIG requirements. Along these lines and, within the context of a real estate transaction, are such issues as private property, mineral and water rights with corresponding rresponsibilities esponsibilities and documentation between tthe he parties to the transaction (buying/selling). For example, are you familiar with the STATUTE (the Texas Water Code), that requires a seller whose home is located in a municipal utility district, (MUD), is required to give a buyer special and specific notice which includes the then current applicable taxes, any bond indebtedness and any fees, of the MUD?. Also according to the Water Code, the seller must choose one out of 3 types of notices. That’s where a knowledgeable Realtor is a tremendous benefit when buying or selling a property. As to the stats this month, the reports indicate there are currently 287 active single family homes for sale in Kendall County. The average list price today is $726,671. The lowest list price is $135,000 and the highest is $7,250,000. The under contract/SOLD report reflects 113 properties these past two months. The average sales price was $357,072 and the average days on market were 187 days. The longest days on the market was a property reflecting 820 days. The highest priced closing was $1,400,000.00. The report reflects Cordillera Ranch subdivision with 45 active single family homes for sale from $465,000 to $2,800,000 and Tapatio Springs subdivision with 14 active single family homes for sale from $399,000 to $2,400,000. (Stats are according to the San Antonio Board of Realtors MLS services as of 2-262015. These figures do not include “nonMLS” listings such as for sale by owner nor does it include ALL new construction not entered in MLS service.) For more information and assistance, contact your local REALTOR®. Real Estate Classes Institute strives to bring added value and information in support of professional real estate agents and the principals to transactions. BBM
210-749-3131 | www.TxRECI.com
BBM
Phillip Bell
& Assoc., llc
• ENERGY EFFICIENT • WATER CONSERVATION
PHILLIP BELL
REALTOR®, GREEN/Consultant
210.415.8483 pbell@texas.net
phillipbell.net
PRIVATE REAL ESTATE
TRANSACTIONS • FAMILY • ESTATES • COMMERCIAL • INVESTORS (210) 415-8483 – Call for Details pbell@texas.net
34± ACRES: This property at 7 Becker Ln is offered for potential development. Located behind Ingram Readymix, with50 ft. easement fronting on IH-10 access road. There are two family homes and various out-buildings on the property with two wells and three septic systems. The 34+/- acres is not in the City limits but is in the ETJ. Ideal for light, industrial development. Electricity is available from Bandera Elect. CoOp. Water and sewer service available from Kendall Utility. Survey, plat and aerials are available. Call for details. $2.00/Sq. Ft.
LAND SALE FOR
IN THE NEW
INDUSTRIAL ZONE
COMING SOON! INDUSTRIAL/TECHNOLOGY/BUSINESS PARK: This 28.4 acre property is available for development. Recently annexed with Industrial zoning (I) pending, this property is ready for a professional developer to work with the City of Boerne for a most-needed industrial park. City water available. City sewer service in progress. Approx. 1400 feet of frontage on Shooting Club Road with additional access on Hwy 87 (Main Street). The property is under Ag-Exemption. 39 horse stalls, office and apartment to be removed. Contact listing agent for full details.
OTHER UNLiSTED COMMERCiAL PROPERTiES AVAiLABLE! boernebusinessmonthly.com
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art |
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B OERNE B USINESS M ONTHLY | March 2015
MARCH 2015 CALENDAR OF EVENTS | cont’d MARCH 24 GREATER BOERNE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE RIBBON CUTTING FOR FERRIS ORTHODONTICS 11:30am to 12:00pm CITY COUNCIL MEETING 6:00pm to 8:00pm | City Council Chambers 124 Old San Antonio Road – Boerne MARCH 26 GREATER BOERNE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS AFTER HOURS MIXER SPONSORED BY ANNIE'S APOTHECARY 5:00pm to 7:00pm | 31007 IH 10 W., Ste. 108 – Boerne MARCH 28 THE FARMERS MARKET AT THE CIBOLO 9:00am to 1:00pm | Herff Farm 33 Herff Rd. – Boerne
9TH ANNUAL EASTER EGG HUNT 10:30am | Boerne City Lake This event is co-sponsored by the Boerne Police Officers Association, Boerne Family YMCA & the Boerne Parks & Recreation Department. Children are welcome to participate in this free community event. SPRING FEVER FESTIVAL AT THE HERFF FARM 10:30am to 1:30pm | 33 Herff Rd. – Boerne Includes a series of workshops on gardening basics, native and droughttolerant plants, permaculture, backyard chickens and more. MARCH 31 GREATER BOERNE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE RIBBON CUTTING FOR RUKAVINA PHOTOGRAPHY 11:30am to 12:00 | 102 S. Main St. – Boerne BBM
TIME FOR A LITTLE SPRING CLEANING?
Don’t Forget Your AC System! A lot of folks in our industry don’t really want to talk about the #1 Reason for AC system failure: DIRT.
SAVE MONEY. SAVE TIME. SAVE YOURSELF THE HASSLE & HEADACHES... with our 33-Point “Safety and Efficiency” Inspection and Tune-Up.
Here’s what you’ll get... • Full System Inspection • Repair-Free Guarantee:
Send Your Calendar of Events Submissions to lauren@distinct-graphics.com
PLUS get $50.00/year credit for every year you remain a member towards the future replacement of your system with Kendall County Air.
• Carbon Monoxide Test Any repairs made during your inspection and tune-up are guaranteed for the next 12 months!
• PLUS a $89 Savings on Drain Clean Outs so you don’t have any worries of water damage from water overflow.
• Return on Investment Guaranteed: Become a Comfort Club Member and save 10% on any system repairs necessary during your membership year,
830-816-1879
License #: TACLA26171E
EVERYTHING FROM HOME STAGING, LICENSED AND INSURED CONTRACTORS, HANDYMAN SERVICES AND PROFESSIONAL LANDSCAPERS! 20+ YEARS EXPERIENCE AND AN OFFICE IN THE HEART OF BOERNE.
Let Us Get Your Property
SOLD!
FOR SALE! Professional Real Estate Services and Property Management Reach the Broker Day or Night! Office: 830-331-2666 Cell: 210-535-1355 103 E. Kronkosky – Boerne, Tx 78006 Ed Trevino, Broker
CALL ED TODAY!
9.41 acres and a gorgeous Ponderosa Pine log home in Pipe Creek. Call for details today! $347,000
Be Kind To One Another
HomeSweetHomeBoerne.com boernebusinessmonthly.com
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vacation properties |
R
by David S. Jones, Senior Editor, Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University
Recent stock market gains and low mortgage interest rates are enabling more individuals to purchase vacation homes. In addition to offering personal enjoyment, vacation homes can be rented to help offset expenses and reduce the owners’ taxes. “But, beware,” cautions a research fellow for the Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University. “A 2014 tax court case highlights how poor recordkeeping and the manner in which days are spent in connection with repairing a vacation rental home may eliminate eligibility to deduct losses.” Dr. Jerrold Stern discusses the court case and key vacation rental home rules in a new article on the Center’s website (http://www. recenter.tamu.edu/pdf/2089.pdf). “Typical expenses associated with vacation rental homes include mortgage interest and real estate taxes, which are deductible under any circumstances,” he said. “In addition, if the property is rented more than 14 days, a proportionate amount of expenses such as rental management company fees, utilities, maintenance and tax depreciation may also be deductible.” Stern explains that the latter expenses can generate a tax loss (deductible against nonrental income) if the number of personal-use days does not exceed the greater of 14 days or 10 percent of the number of rental days. “Taxpayers must maintain careful records, such as a logbook of how time was spent while at the property along with receipts for all expenses,” he said. If the property is rented for 14 days or less, the rental income and related expenses are ignored for tax purposes. “A 2014 court case illustrates that the IRS assesses personal-use days very carefully when days are spent repairing or maintaining the property,” said Stern. “In the case, the concern was whether tax losses could reduce nonrental income.”
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B OERNE B USINESS M ONTHLY | March 2015
The taxpayer spent 24 days in connection with making repairs and performing maintenance on the vacation home and classified the days as nonpersonal (and nonrental). However, even though the taxpayer endeavored to maintain adequate records, the IRS and the court counted some of the 24 days as personal because they contained a combination of personal use (that is, relaxation) and repairs. Also, some of the taxpayer’s records were suspect. As a result, the number of personal days identified by the court was sufficient to preclude the deduction of tax losses against nonrental income. Taxation of the gain from a subsequent sale of the property is another issue. If the taxpayer sells the property at a gain, the larger of the gain or total tax depreciation deducted during the holding period is taxable. “The rules and tax-planning strategies for a vacation home are complex if the home is rented,” said Stern. “Vacation homeowners are advised to consult with a tax accountant or tax attorney to maximize the tax benefits from vacation home rentals.”BBM
REMODEL • REFRESH • RENOVATE
222 S. Main | Boerne, Texas
830.249.7979
www.hillcountryproperties.net
101 S MAIN COMMERCIAL BUILDING IN THE HEART OF BOERNE Solid income producing investment property with mixture of retail and office space. Recent interior and exterior renovations in 2014. Located in thriving community with high visibility. MLS#1098082 | $1,650,000 Contact Carol Schultz (210) 268-3691
735A FM 289 Home is nicely tucked back off the road. Secluded with trees surrounding the property. Custom built home with unique two sided rock fireplace, windows all across the back of the house with covered patio for watching the wildlife. Master bedroom is downstairs but has a spiral staircase up to a multi-use area. Secondary bedrooms are on opposite end of the home upstairs. Living room has high ceilings, large kitchen for the person that likes to cook! Recently installed carpeting/ new water heater 02/2015. MLS#1099078 | $299,000 Contact Sara Baird (210) 317-9996
103 DEER TRAIL RANGER CREEK SUBDIVISION Convenient to town yet the gift of a serene, park-like back yard – your own little oasis! .75+/- acres, 2200 sq ft, 4 bedrooms (one being used as a study), 2 full baths, one story, some updating, carport, storage shed, native plants for low maintenance. Ranger Creek, no city taxes, highly acclaimed Boerne School District. MLS#1097250 | $290,000 Contact Carol Schultz (210) 268-3691
101 TIMBER MOUNTAIN DRIVE RIVER MOUNTAIN RANCH This lot is priced to sell! The lot is situated on the first street in the subdivision and is a corner lot with some oaks. Subdivision has three gated parks with water access. Exemplary Boerne Schools. MLS#1095150 | $60,000 Contact Sara Baird (210) 317-9996
Experience • Skill • Dedication
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