in this issue…
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995™
• Gracy Title Economic Forecast • ABoR Installation/Awards Banquet • CRS Austin Installation Luncheon • HBA/ABoR Housing Forecast • WCR Winter White Party • and much, much more!
Associates in Progress
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Page 25 FEBRUARY 2016 • VOLUME 20 • ISSUE 9
Tapping into Millennial generation homebuyers By Riki Markowitz
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he least surprising thing you will hear today is that one of the hardest parts of being a real estate agent is finding clients. To help ease the burden, professional organizations like the National Association of REALTORS release annual trend reports – a trove of data that quantifies everything from consumer age to income levels, and buying habits. While this information is invaluable for its rich statistical content, it can still be a twodimensional snapshot of the real estate market. On January 13, Austin Board of REALTORS (ABoR) and the Home Builders Association (HBA) of Greater Austin hosted the 2016 Housing Forecast. The event featured in-
dustry analysts sharing insights on trends from this past year. Speaker Malee Tobias, vice president of research at Newland Real Estate Group with 15 years experience in consumer research, presented the report, “Designing for Today’s Consumer.” We asked Tobias to talk more about the buyer persona, which is an extraordinarily detailed description of today’s real estate customer.
Upcoming Events Wednesday, February 17 HBA Sales & Marketing Council Million Dollar Club Networking Happy Hour The Roosevelt Room - 6:30 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, February 17 CRS Austin Chapter Meeting Westwood Country Club 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Home buying trends One reason why Tobias’ research is especially fascinating is because Millennials – those kids under the age of 35 – are now fully part of the real estate market. These young people, born between 1980 and 1995, are shaking up the industry in a way we haven’t seen since innovations like planned communities and HOAs. Suddenly, there is a different type of shopper out there. “What was creating value for today’s buyers forced us to do our homework and dig in to what mattered with customers,” says Tobias. “We are seeing some huge demographic shifts happening right now.” Some commonalities revealed in the report are that with access to more information online, consumers of all ages are smarter and more financially conservative. When you look closer at the different generations, however, that’s where many similarities end.
Actual home buyers To find out how well Austin buyers are represented by the Newland report, Realty Line interviewed a random sampling of Austin homeowners, including Millennials, Gen X-ers, and Boomers. Some buyer behaviors they shared were startlingly on point. In her presentation, Tobias explained that today’s real estate customers have a whole new set of skills. In once sense, she’s referring to how the Great Recession has made careful, calculated, penny pinchers of us all. But that only tells part of the story. A lot of what she
talked about was a nod to the chasm between Millennials, Gen X-ers, and Boomers. Every new generation eventually hits adulthood and starts “adulting,” or getting married, starting a family, and buying a home. Up until now, there was a pretty predictable path between moving out of mom and dad’s house and into a couple’s first marital home. Tracking Millennials’ path, though, is more like a graphing an earthquake’s seismic activity. “These young people are going into adulthood much later than previous generations and they’re doing it their own way,” says Tobias. “They’re much more non-linear, and have a more flexible life path. Millennials are making a huge impact on buyer demographics.” Millennials grew up on the Internet and as a result, they’re walking into agents’ offices armed with more information than their predecessors ever had access to. “That was a game changer,” says John Horton, past president for ABoR. When the first Millennials started trickling into the marketplace, agents and brokers feared that sites like Zillow and Redfin could make them unnecessary and redundant. “They already knew about the property. They already knew what properties they wanted to see. At first, it was disconcerting because it felt like we were losing control. With a buyer that much more knowledgeable
Front Page: Continued on page 28
Wednesday, February 17 AYREP Happy Hour Blackfinn Ameripub - 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Thursday, February 18 Brohn Homes: REALTOR Breakfast Edgewater - 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Thursday, February 25 ABoR 5th Annual Chili Cook-Off ABoR Headquarters - 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, March 4 WCAoR Murder Mystery Dinner Austin Marriott North - 6:30 to 11:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 8 Parade of Homes Stud Party Caliterra - 4 to 6 p.m. Wednesday, February 17 HBA Million $ Club Awards Happy Hour The Roosevelt Room- 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Wednesday, February 17 CRS Luncheon - Westwood Country Club 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. More at www.myRealtyLine.com
February 2016
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Austin Board of REALTORS®
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President’s Column By Aaron Farmer • 2016 President
www.myRealtyLine.com goes beyond the bare-minimum TREC standards; make sure you’re learning as much as you can to stand out among the pack!
Gather ‘round the campfire for TREPAC Chili Cook-Off
Making the most of your MLS
A
s an ABoR member and a subscriber to our MLS, you have access to the market’s most complete, accurate, and up-to-date information. You probably already knew that. What you may not know, though, is that the MLS is enhanced with tools (some new and some old) to help you serve your clients.
Give your clients accurate traffic commute times The newest MLS tool, INRIX Drive Time, allows you to show clients an accurate prediction of something we all share a disdain for: traffic commutes. Drive Time is already built into the MLS map display and all you have to do is choose a location, an arrival time, and an estimated time of travel. In a matter of seconds, you’ll see all the properties that fit your criteria. Your clients will quickly and clearly see which listings could work for their commute times to and from work. Considering that 75 percent of new homebuyers consider potential drive times
a key factor in their home choice, this new, free tool gives you yet another way to provide value to your clients.
Grow your business with the ABoR Academy With 2016 already picking up steam, now’s the time to make those resolutions come true and take the next step to grow your business. As an ABoR member, you have access to exclusive discounts on Academy courses. These courses are designed to give you what you need to succeed. For example, the Business Planning for Real Estate Agents CE course on February 22 and March 29 offers insights and best practices specifically focused on growing a successful business. All of the ABoR Academy courses offer top-notch programming, taught by some of the industry’s best and most recognized instructors. And remember, as an ABoR member, you save money when registering for these classes. Our duty to our clients
At this year’s TREPAC Chili Cook-off, we’re “roughing it” by gathering around the campfire on Thursday, Feb. 25. There’s still time left to purchase a ticket (which conveniently counts towards your TREPAC investment), and come join in on the fun. The tastiest fundraiser of the year will be held at
February 2016
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the ABoR HQ. Visit ABoR.com/ChiliCookOff to find out more information and purchase your ticket. In conclusion, we’re gearing up for election season. Please visit ABoR.com to find out more about how you can get out the REALTOR Vote. As we start to get into the busy summer months, I hope you continue to take full advantage of all the resources your Association has for you. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to reach out to me at president@abor.com. As a friendly reminder, MLS invoices are due by Tuesday, March 15! RL
ABoR Academy Educational Courses Feb 19: After Tax Analysis of Income Property
(TREC#: 05-00-017-28194)
Feb 22: Leasing 102 - Best Practices for Lease Locating Feb 22: zipForm Plus (TREC#: 03-00-097-29405) Feb 22: Business Planning for Real Estate Agents (TREC#: 04-00-117-29879) Feb 23: Broker Responsibility (TREC#: 06-06-126-27765) Feb 24: Introduction to Matrix – Williamson County (TREC#: 03-00-057-28941) Feb 25: Agency Issues Impacting Property Managers & Leasing Agents (TREC# 03-00-076-27374) Feb 25: Adding & Editing Listings (TREC# 02-00-067-28920) Feb 25: Basics of the Client Portal Feb 25: The Essentials of Residential Leasing (TREC#: 03-00-076-27372) Feb 26: Marketing and Leasing Residential Properties
More at www.ABoR.com/courses
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Laura Duggan of West Austin Properties, Mary Ellen Schmidt of American Home Shield, Katy Duggan Freshour of West Austin Properties and Kristin Carroll of Sente Mortgage, gather before the start of the CRS Austin Chapter’s Installation Luncheon at the Westwood Country Club. Buy Photo: RL_010216_F.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
Melissa Mandry and Melissa Webb, both of Keller Williams Realty, present a check donation of more than $6,000 to Pam Wolfe, president of Lake Travis Crisis Ministries.
Buy Photo: RL_010116_C.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
Tracy Lazorik of Diane Dopson Properties had such a fantastic year in 2015 she was recognized as Rookie of the Year by the Austin Board of REALTORS. 2016 ABoR President Aaron Farmer presents her with the award at the ABoR Installation and Awards Banquet.
Buy Photo: RL_020416_I.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
KB Home regularly hosts agent appreciation mixers to show their appreciation for REALTORS. Bob Ruiz, right, of KB Home takes the time to personally thank Wesley Steck of JB Goodwin REALTORS for all he does.
Buy Photo: RL_020216_K.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
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BE READY
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Broker Cooperation Welcome. ©2016 KB Home (KBH). No affiliation or sponsorship is intended or implied with Dell, IBM, National Instruments™, La Frontera Square or Stone Hill Town Center, and all trademarks are owned by the respective trademark owners. Plans, pricing, financing, terms, availability and specifications subject to change/prior sale without notice and may vary by neighborhood, lot location and home series. Buyer responsible for all taxes, insurance and other fees. Sq. footage is approximate. Photo may depict upgraded landscaping/options and may not represent lowest-priced homes. See sales counselor for details. AUS-54702
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David Johnsmiller, Teresa Quinn and Dan Smith, all of Keller Williams Realty, take advantage of the company’s continuing education program at the Keller Williams Lake Travis office where they attended a lunch and learn.
Buy Photo: RL_010116_B.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
ABoR 2016 President Aaron Farmer gladly presents Socar Chatmon-Thomas of Elegant Estates by Auction with the REALTOR Community Service Award at the ABoR Installation and Awards Banquet.
Buy Photo: RL_020916_O.JPG at www.myrealtyline.com
Leonard Guerrero of JB Goodwin REALTORS and Brian Pitman of Independence Title learn interesting demographic information at the 2016 Housing Forecast hosted by the HBA of Greater Austin and the Austin Board of REALTORS at the new JW Marriott Austin.
Buy Photo: RL_020216_J.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
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Williamson County Assoc. of REALTORS®
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President’s Column By Shavonne Martin • 2016 President
What Does 2016 Have in Store for the WC?
W
illiamson County is a hotbed of growth; anyone who has lived here, even if for a short period of time, can testify that new housing communities pop up daily, there is roadwork on major throughways, and slightly longer commute times are a reality for Williamson County residents and are indications of a booming economy. The Texas State Data Center marked 2015 as the year that Williamson County surpassed 500,000 residents; showing a 16.8 percent increase in population from the 2010 census. This means that Williamson County now accounts for more than 25 percent of all population in the metro area. How does this growth affect real estate? From 2010 – 2015, the average of the monthly median home prices increased 31.5 percent (see chart to the right) and the number of homes sold nearly doubled (5,694 in 2010 and 9,621 in 2015). With Williamson County on the cusp of 10,000 transactions per year, the housing market is as strong as ever with over 35 percent of
Together is better.
all real estate transactions happening in Williamson County. The population projections from the Data Center estimate that Williamson County will reach over 1 million residents in 2032, and be just shy of 2 million residents by 2050, assuming the current growth rate of 3 to 4 percent per year remains steady. “Many employers who move to the Austin area are looking for more affordable housing for their employees than what can be found in Travis County,” says David Tandy, CEO of Gracy Title. “The average home price in Williamson was $263,100 while the average in Travis was $389,000, a difference of $125,900!” This growth is attributed to many different factors coming together to create an ideal community where people want to live, work, and play. “Williamson County is strategically located in Central Texas,” says Dr. Jim Gaines, chief economist with The Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University. “The local communities have done a great job of prepping for the growth resulting from the overflow from Aus-
www.myRealtyLine.com tin. North/South corridors are very important for residents to commute to/from Austin; Williamson County has done a great job with either constructing or widening many of the major roadways.” Both Dr. Gaines and Mr. Tandy agree that 2016 will be somewhat of a “breather” with a slight slowdown in the market due to outside conditions. “Job growth will slow somewhat in 2016 as Texas absorbs the impact of lower oil prices, stock market volatility, and impact on exports from even more volatile foreign markets such as China, but Texas will continue to be one of the stronger, long-term job markets in the US,” says Tandy. The largest issue facing WC Real Estate to consider is affordability; while Williamson County is still more affordable than Travis County, there are still some concerns about how fast home prices have risen in comparison to salaries. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the average salary of a resident of the Austin-Round Rock MSA is $63,600; however, the median price of a home in Williamson County is close to $250,000. “We’ve had five years of boom, over 10 percent appreciation year-over-year and home prices around four times an annual salary, which is a stretch for many people,” says Dr. Gaines. “A 3:1 or 3.5:1 ratio of home price to salary is optimal, desirable, and sustainable.” With only 29 percent of the homes sold in Williamson County priced under $200,000, this is a cause for concern. The Association is growing along with the county! Since moving into the new building in 2009, we have seen a 60 percent increase in membership. Now that the market has picked up and our members are starting to attend classes again, we are seeing record-breaking
February 2016
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Williamson County Median Home Sales Price
attendance numbers in all of our classes. The Association has increased its presence in the community through events, the WCLife website, and the revitalization of the Scholarship Foundation with the Murder Mystery Dinner from 6:30–10:30 p.m. on Friday, March 4. Check the website (www.wcrealtors.org) for more details about our classes and events. The biggest news coming out of the Association for 2016 is the proposed partnership between WCREALTORS, the Temple-Belton Board, and the Bryan College Station Regional Association of REALTORS to form a regional MLS. At this point in the process, the business plan has been written, incorporation documents ready for review, and the decision to use CoreLogic’s latest release of the Matrix software. More information will be available on the WCREALTORS Blog under the “MLS Discussion” category as it becomes available. As our community continues to grow, do not shut yourself out of new opportunities. We are fortunate enough to be in the booming economy of Texas and the WC will be mostly spared from the oil crisis. Yes, our tight housing inventory is a growing pain, but Williamson County is one of the best places to call home. RL
JOIN THE
MOVERS & SHAKERS At RE/MAX, you’re among real estate agents who take themselves seriously. We’re talking forward-thinking professionals who do anything but ride on the coattails of others. We’re a talented league of agents – and you’re a perfect fit. Join our team.
©2015 RE/MAX, LLC. Each RE/MAX® office is independently owned and operated. 15-39450
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Aaron Farmer, ABoR 2016 President, greets guests as they arrive to the ABoR Installation and Awards Banquet.
Buy Photo: RL_020216_C.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
The Keller Williams Realty team is ready to win at the TREPAC Bowling Tournament hosted by WCREALTORS at Uncle Buck’s Fish & Bowl.
Buy Photo: RL_020316_I.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
Lisa Kosub of Keller Williams Realty wins the auction for the Fender guitar signed by Suede at the WCR Winter White Party at Star Ranch in Hutto. Rock on! Buy Photo: RL_020116_N.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
Gretchen Rossington of Cadence Bank, Debra Godwin of AmeriPro Home Loans and Jennifer Odom of Coldwell Banker United, REALTORS are excited to hear the good news from Dr. Jim Gaines at the NAPMW Economic Forecast.
Buy Photo: RL_020516_J.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
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AUSTIN TITLE WELCOMES
CHRISTI TENNISON We are very pleased to announce that Christi Tennison has joined Austin Title Company.
CHRISTI TENNISON AVP/COMMERCIAL ESCROW OFFICER
CHRISTI.TENNISON@AUSTINTITLE.COM
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Christi is a true Austinite. She graduated from the University of Texas at Austin with a Degree in Finance in 1990, and obtained her paralegal certificate from the University of Texas Legal Assistant Program in 1991. She immediately began working for a real estate attorney and continued there for over 15 years. Her closing experience in the legal industry led her to her career in the title industry in 2005 where she has been closing real estate transactions for over 10 years. Christi is a seasoned closer handling a multitude of commercial transactions ranging anywhere from high rise hotels to land acquisition and development. With her legal background and real estate experience, you can be confident that she is qualified to handle your caliber of business.
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February 2016
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Sandy Bednar of Distinct Austin Properties and Beth Oliver of Beth Oliver Real Estate attend the CRS Installation Luncheon to help usher in the new 2016 leadership panel.
Buy Photo: RL_010216_D.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
Arriving just in time, newlyweds Dan and Kandis Rushing wouldn't miss the HBA/ ABoR 2016 Housing Forecast for the world! Dan is with Highlands Residential Mortgage and Kandis is with Crescent Communities.
Buy Photo: RL_020216_G.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com Buy Photo: RL_020916_H.JPG at www.myrealtyline.com
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Sharon and John Rosshirt, both of Stanberry & Associates, attend the ABoR Installation Banquet where John was the MC.
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February 2016
H E L LO, AU ST I N ! what you see
is what you get
After 45 years as Houston’s leading homebuilder, Trendmaker Homes is bringing its signature homebuilding model to Austin. What’s so different about Trendmaker Homes? What other builders call “upgrades,” we deliver with every home. The high-end, designerselected finishes your clients see in our models—features like premier countertops, flooring, cabinets and more—are built right
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Learn more, and sign up for special Realtor® offers at TrendmakerHomes.com/vip-realtors. Floorplans, square footage, specifications, prices, and available options may vary by elevation and/or community and are subject to change without prior notice. Images are an artist’s conception and not a guarantee of final specifications. Please see your Trendmaker New Home Advisor for details and additional information.
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Sheri Taylor and Gena Hammonds, both of Highland Lakes Real Estate, Jim Smith of The Property Management Company and Anita Farrell of Keller Williams Realty are ready for a great lunch at the CRS Installation Luncheon at the Westwood Country Club. Buy Photo: RL_010216_C.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
Members of the ABoR Foundation are recognized at the Austin Board of REALTORS’ Installation and Awards Banquet.
Buy Photo: RL_020216_P.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
Vaike O'Grady, left, of Newland Communities wishes Malee Tobias the best during her speech at the HBA/ ABoR 2016 Housing Forecast. Malee, VP of market research for Newland Real Estate Company, presented her findings on changing housing trends in response to meeting Millennial generation demand.
Buy Photo: RL_020316_G.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
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Sarah Toler of Sphere Realty takes aim as she tries to get a strike in the TREPAC Bowling Tournament hosted by WCREALTORS.
Buy Photo: RL_020916_K.JPG at www.myrealtyline.com
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2016
STUD PARTY
MARCH 8 | 4 to 6 p.m. 26025 Ranch Rd 12, Dripping Springs, TX 78620 2016 Parade homes at early stages of construction. “Dusty Boot” attire appropriate.
hors d'oeuvres Buy Photo: RL_020516_B.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
Debra Groch of Avalar Austin and Di Anne Warlick of Benchmark Mortgage are dressed in white and looking great for the WCR Winter White Party at Star Ranch in Hutto.
prizes
refreshments
Get a sneak peek at the homes in the Parade of Homes this Fall TM
four premier custom builders homes start at $1.2 million new luxury community in dripping springs Buy Photo: RL_020716_C.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
Sonya Powers and Shanna Garrett, both of Pinnacle Realty, drove in from Kingsland for Ruby Johnson’s first meeting as WCR president.
arbogast custom homes sommerfield construction
lake travis builders sterling custom homes
RSVP to tina@hbaaustin.com by March 4th Photo by Drew Rice, Red Pants Studio
Buy Photo: RL_020116_R.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
NAPMW President George Light thanks Jim Gaines, Texas A&M Real Estate economist, for speaking at the group’s economic forecast event. According to Gaines, 2016 is looking good!
paradeofhomesaustin.com
February 2016
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The Austin Board of REALTORS recognizes Susan Horton of John Horton Realty as the 2015 Sales Person of the Year! 2016 ABoR President Aaron Farmer congratulated her.
Buy Photo: RL_020216_M.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
Chris Ayala of Better Homes & Gardens Bradfield Properties, Leisa Ormsbee of JB Goodwin REALTORS, Steve Fohl of Reliant Title and Roxanne Ford of Austin Title go fishing for a strike at the TREPAC Bowling Tournament.
Buy Photo: RL_020816_K.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com Buy Photo: RL_010316_O.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
Ted Jones of Gracy Title reviews 2015 and past statistics during his presentation at the Gracy Title Economic Forecast event where over 200 REALTORS were in attendance.
CATALINA RANCH
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SOUTHWEST WILLIAMSON COUNTY REGIONAL PARK
• Highly amenitized homes with classic French Country architecture • Floorplans ranging from 1,805 to 3,899 S.F. • Minutes from highly acclaimed Leander ISD • Close proximity to 1431, Williamson County Park, shopping, dining & more!
DERRICK MILLER 512.470.3969 • derrickm@brohnhomes.com
SOUTHWEST Diane Johnson Melanie Kennemann 448-4111
NORTHWEST Christi Davidson Marci Deaver 346-3550
LAKE TRAVIS Gayla McGowan 263-9090
ROUND ROCK Avis Wukasch 255-5050
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Home Builders Assoc. of Greater Austin
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President’s Column By Wes Wigginton • 2016 President
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Affordable housing = housing that is affordable
s industry professionals well versed in the local housing market, we are experiencing record housing price growth due to real fundamental economic factors — increased demand coupled with not enough supply. The Greater Austin housing market is booming and local experts agree that even with downward pressure coming from the Texas energy market, Austin is very well positioned to weather the storm with its diversified employment opportunities. Combine this increased demand with the fact the the majority of people moving here are coming with higher incomes than the average Austin household and from areas with housing prices much higher than what Austinites are used to. Our new neighbors’ perceptions of what “a good deal” is for a house are very different from those who have lived in the region a long time. It is this very combination that is supporting the market and pushing prices even higher. In fact, according to the Austin Board of Realtors’ most recent report, the cur-
rent median priced home in the Greater Austin market is $270,000 as of November 2015. Which means half of the homes sold for more and half sold for less. This is a 10 percent increase over November 2014 and an increase of more than 30 percent (or $70,000) since August 2010. So what does this all mean for affordability? In 2014, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics recorded that approximately 65 percent of Austin-area professionals made less than $50,000. According to the City of Austin’s 2014 Comprehensive Housing Market Analysis, affordable housing costs should be less than 30 percent of gross monthly income. So for households making $50,000 per year, a mortgage payment translates to $1,250 per month (not including taxes and insurance) and would fall in a home sales price range of $200,000–$215,000 — well below the new median home price of $270,000. With those figures in mind, I think it’s safe to say that the greater Austin area has a housing affordability challenge. Housing affordability is a collective prob-
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February 2016
lem that affects all of us. No one is better positioned to come together to help address housing affordability in this market, than builders, developers and real estate professionals. Not only are we best positioned, but it is our duty and ultimately it affects everyone’s bottom line. As builders and developers, meeting market demand for diversity in housing options is just one piece of the puzzle. Working with our local and state governments to find efficiencies and cost savings measures that can ease sharp price increases is another. Members of the Home Builders Association (HBA) of Greater Austin and the Texas Association of Builders (TAB) are constantly working to educate city staff and elected officials about the very issues that affect affordability. But we must do more! As we progress into 2016, it is my goal and the goal of the HBA of Greater Austin to build more “bridges” in our community to solve real problems that affect the lives of real people — our neighbors. I encourage you to get involved so you too can make a difference in your community and your industry. Consider joining the HBA, attend our monthly Government Relations Committee to learn the issues and get plugged in. Visit www.hbaaustin.com or call Debbie Horridge, membership director, at (512) 982-9173 to learn more.
Million Dollar Club Awards and Networking Happy Hour The HBA’s Sales and Marketing Council invites you to attend its bi-annual Million Dollar club Awards and Networking Happy Hour on Wednesday, Feb. 17 from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. at The Roosevelt Room
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on 5th Street. The bi-annual event celebrates achievements in new home sales for new home sales professionals, REALTORS, mortgage professionals and title professionals. Those who’ve met a minimum threshold of sales on three distinct levels within the previous two sales quarters are recognized with a certificate of achievement at the event. This event is a great opportunity to network with other professionals, meet builders and top sales and marketing professionals in the region. The cost to attend is just $10 (if you are not already a member). Register at www.hbaaustin.com.
Parade of Homes™ Stud Party The HBA is working on its 2016 Parade of Homes, scheduled to debut this Fall in one of Dripping Springs’ newest luxury home communities, Caliterra, nestled along Onion Creek. Four spectacular, cutting edge homes by four of Austin’s most premier builders are will start at $1.2 million. On March 8th, you’re invited to get a sneak peek at what the homes are evolving into, meet the builders as well as the developer of Caliterra. This is a can’t miss event for any REALTOR focused on the luxury home market in the Greater Austin area. True to Parade of Homes form, these homes will have all the bells and whistles you’ve come to expect from a Parade home. Please join us from 4-6 p.m. on Tuesday, March 8th for a “dusty boot” tour, hors d’oeuvres, refreshments and yes, PRIZES. RSVP to Tina Wheeler at tina@hbaaustin.com by Friday, March 4th. Visit www.paradeofhomesaustin.com for additional Parade of Homes details and location. We hope to see you there! RL
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February 2016
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Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
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Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995
2016 Realtor® Advisory board Congratulations on your achievement! It's going to be a great year!
Cecilia Roberts Dave Snowberger Gilbert Gonzalez
Lockie Ealy
Jason Matthews
Jonathon Bane
Coldwell Banker United Realtors
Keller Williams Realty
Keller Williams Realty
Realty Austin
Keller Williams Realty
HomeCity Realty
Michelle Gomez
Paula Lizama
Jenny Sawyer
Sherri Revier
Sijo Vadakkan
Tammy Gardner
Keller Williams Realty
BHGRE Bradfield Properties
Maxavenue
ERA Colonial
Trinity Texas Realty
JB Goodwin Realtors
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homes from the High $200s to $500s www.liveatbryson.com | 512.426.6396
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DAVID WEEKLEY HOMES
DREES CUSTOM HOMES
GRAND HAVEN HOMES
SCOTT FELDER HOMES
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
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February 2016
NEW & RESALE HOMES FROM THE $300s
Join us for breakfast & our
M O N T H LY H O M E TO U R
2016 Stop by the welcome center for breakfast
T H I R D W E D N E S D A Y S 9 : 0 0 A M
Download the Belterra App (with the latest Belterra Inventory)
Start the Home Tour!
Tour Dates to save to your calendar January 20
May 18
September 21
February 17
June 15
October 19
March 16
July 20
November 16
April 20
August 17
December 21
Belterra Welcome Center 151 Trinity Hills Drive Austin, TX 78737
(512) 301-5000
Live the Best of Both Worlds.
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Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
Allison Craig of Gracy Title welcomes Dan Arnot of Austin Real Estate Experts and David Wang of Kera Realty to her company’s Economic Forecast at Norris Conference Center.
Buy Photo: RL_011016_E.JPG at www.myrealtyline.com
Women’s Council of REALTORS is not just for women not only are Jay Brummett and Al Fraizer both members, Jay is a WCR past president! The two attended the WCR monthly meeting at Abel’s North.
Buy Photo: RL_020716_B.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
Michael Da Silva, left, and Kay Da Silva, right, both of Avalar Properties catch up with friend Kay Andrews of Kuper Sotheby’s International Realty at the Austin Board of REALTORS’ Installation and Awards Banquet.
Buy Photo: RL_010816_I.JPG at www.myrealtyline.com Buy Photo: RL_020216_D.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
Shavonne Martin, WCREALTORS’ 2016 president, and Michelle Sherwood of Keller Williams Realty arrive ready to bowl at the TREPAC Bowling Tournament.
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Austin CRS Chapter
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February 2016
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President ‘s Column By Mary Miner • 2016 President
Wow - what a year 2015 was for real estate
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he City of Austin and surrounding areas experienced major growth. The unemployment rate is just 3.4 percent. The median house price has increased by 10 percent in the last year. Inventory is still low, and buyers need to act fast. 2016 is expected to be at the same pace. Since many buyers are coming to Texas, particularly Austin, we need to understand the power of networking with our fellow agents in other areas of the country. Certified Residential Specialist (CRS) is all about the importance of networking and becoming successful. Statewide, we will host luncheons, happy hours and classes to service the agents in our local areas. CRS National has a great referral program. Many CRS REALTORS throughout the nation refer to other CRS REALTORS because only 3 percent of all REALTORS have the education and production volume to achieve the CRS designation. Courses are presented by top REALTORS. Texas CRS will have many classes this year. The Austin area has planned a class in the spring and fall. If you cannot make those, then you can go to Houston, Dallas or San Antonio. Classes are delivered by national instructors that are experts
We are
in their field. The courses are even beneficial to REALTORS that have the designation. There are many CRS opportunities available for you to get to know the other agents. CRS has national meetings at the National Association of REALTORS’ conventions. We can also network at Texas Association of REALTORS’ events. Networking and building relationships are key components in real estate. This last month we remembered a wonderful person and member of our CRS family. Rise’ Johns, a regional vice president of National CRS and past president of the Austin CRS Chapter, lost her soulmate, Bill Wilson, in December. Bill wanted us to celebrate his life and not mourn his passing. That was not hard to do since Bill was very positive and saw only the good in everyone. Bill had a smile that lit up the room and was there to welcome anyone and help at any time. During some of the classes and events throughout the years, we all got to know Bill and learn how important relationships were to him. He was a wonderful man, REALTOR, and a great inspiration to all. Rise’, thank you for introducing us to Bill and allowing us to learn from such a great person. RL
growing to better support your business
WELCOME TO THE GREATER AUSTIN AREA TEAM Jamé Swackhamer Business Development Jame.Swackhamer@title365.com 7200 N. Mopac Expy., # 170, Austin, TX
TITLE365 ROUND ROCK NORTH
2300 Greenhill Dr., #310, Round Rock, TX 78664
HOLLY SCHULER
CHERYL HARDISON
VP, Business Development Holly.Schuler@title365.com
Escrow Officer Cheryl.Hardison@title365.com
JILL MORGAN
ANN TOWNSEND
Escrow Officer Jill.Morgan@title365.com
Escrow Officer Ann.Townsend@title365.com
MICHELLE ANDERS
MARIA MARTINEZ
Escrow Assistant Michelle.Anders@title365.com
Escrow Assistant Maria.Martinez@title365.com
Welcome our newest Mortgage Loan Originator,
MAGGIE NYLAND She is excited to be a part of our team and looks forward to providing new opportunities for clients.
DHI Mortgage customers enjoy: • • • •
Local teams work with you face-to-face Personal service for your clients Competitive interest rates Convenient online prequalification
Maggie Nyland
Mortgage Loan Originator, NMLS #1321859
www.dhimortgage.com
10700 Pecan Park Blvd., Suite 200 Austin, TX 78750 Direct: 512-257-5457 | Cell: 512-348-9966 Efax: 844-263-4716 MANyland@dhimortgage.com
Financing offered by DHI Mortgage Company, Ltd. 10700 Pecan Park Blvd., Suite 200, Austin, TX 78750. Branch NMLS #38686. Company NMLS #14622. DHIM is an affiliate of D.R. Horton. For more information about DHIM and its licensing please visit www.dhimortgage.com/affiliate/. Provided for informational purposes only. This is not a commitment to lend. Not all borrowers will qualify. REV: 12/22/15 | EXP: 12/21/16
Austin: 7200 N Mopac Expy., #170, Austin, TX Round Rock: 2300 Greenhill Dr., #310, Round Rock, TX
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February 2016
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Buy Photo: RL_010516_C.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
Gracy Title CEO David Tandy and Michelle Piperi welcome David Matthys of RE/MAX 1 to the company’s Economic Forecast where over 200 REALTORS were in attendance.
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Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
Buy Photo: RL_020716_G.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
Darlene Tempelton explains how to “sparklestart” your business for 2016 at the WCR monthly meeting at Abel’s North.
Buy Photo: RL_010216_H.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com Buy Photo: RL_020216_R.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
ABoR CEO Paul Hilgers welcomes Austin Mayor Steve Adler to the ABoR Installation and Awards Banquet.
Jim Smith of The Property Management Co. has the honor of performing the installation ceremony for the 2016 CRS Austin Chapter President, Mary Miner of Nextage Lone Star Realty. Jim is a CRS Austin Chapter past-president.
Reach 10,000+ REALTORS Monthly!
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It’s Really a No Brainer! Request a Media Kit 512-821-1900 • info@myrealtyline.com
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Newland Communities presents the
2016 TOP TEN REALTOR PROGRAM Would you like to be recognized in the Newland TOP TEN program for 2016? All new home closing agents are invited to quarterly recognition events and to the TOP TEN year-end closing event where there will be chances to win spectacular prizes! The more you sell, the more you win. It is easy, just close a new home in one of our Austin communities between January 1st and October 31st, 2016.
CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR TOP 2015 REALTORS
DANNY WILSON
CLAY WOODARD Move-Up America
Austin Real Estate Experts
“Newland Communities takes a personal approach to developing communities and designs them with a high level of amenities that exceed our clients’ expectations. The company’s dedication to developing the finest master planned communities to fit a wide range of lifestyles in great locations is what sets Newland apart.”
“Newland affords our clients the opportunity to live in some of the area’s most popular destinations and school districts. In terms of amenities, greenspace and community design, you would be hard pressed to find more aesthetically pleasing communities anywhere…places families are proud to call home. Featuring top area home builders such as Chesmar and CalAtlantic to choose from, I am assured our buyers will have access to a homebuilder that supports the quality and superior reputation Newland has worked hard to achieve.”
“Everyone we work with at Newland Communities goes above and beyond for our clients and our team of agents and staff. From their customer-focused approach to service to their quality of execution and understanding of the importance of open communication, we can really see why our clients and agents keep going back to Newland.”
Keller Williams
GREG YOUNG
Andrew Clements, Andrew Clements Realty Ellen Outlaw, Reilly Realtors Austin Candace & Jeff Patterson, Team West Realty Jason Taylor, Realty Austin John Horton, Move-Up America Sijo Vadakkan, Trinity Texas Realty Ross Speed, Realty Austin These highly-performing Real Estate Professionals work with Newland Communities Austin and its builder partners to achieve new home closings at Falcon Pointe, Rancho Sienna, Sweetwater, and Teravista in 2015!† We appreciate your efforts to market and sell in our new-home communities. Thank you!
Newland Communities is the largest private developer of planned residential and urban mixed-use communities in the United States from coast-to-coast. Together with our partner, North America Sekisui House, LLC, we believe it is our responsibility to create enduring, healthier communities for people to live life in ways that matter most to them. www.newlandcommunities.com and www.nashcommunities.com †Real Estate Professionals selected based on new home closings during 2015. See rules and regulations for more details. This is not intended to be an offer to sell nor a solicitation of offers to buy real estate in Rancho Sienna, Teravista, or Falcon Pointe to residents of Connecticut, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, New York, New Jersey, and Oregon, or in any other jurisdiction where prohibited by law. No guarantee can be made that completion of the Rancho Sienna, Teravista, or Falcon Pointe communities will proceed as described. ©2015 Rancho Sienna, Teravista, Falcon Pointe. All Rights Reserved.
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Carrie York and Bill Evans, both of Austin Real Pros, are thrilled that Bill was awarded the REALTOR of the Year distinction by the Austin Board of Realtors at the association’s Installation Banquet.
Buy Photo: RL_010816_B.JPG at www.myrealtyline.com
Barbara Mclaughlin, Melissa O’Neil and Joshua James, all of JB Goodwin REALTORS, unwind at the end of the day at the KB Home Agent Appreciation Mixer at The Park at The Domain.
Buy Photo: RL_020416_K.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
Women’s Council of REALTORS’ officers Becky DeButts, Melia Gardner and Ruby Johnson get their groove on with some live music by Suede at the WCR Winter White Party at Star Ranch in Hutto.
Buy Photo: RL_020316_C.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
Buy Photo: RL_020516_A.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
“BUSINESS IS BOOMING AND WE NEED YOU”
Patten Law Firm is looking for driven individuals to join the team!
ESCROW OFFICERS | ESCROW ASSISTANTS | MARKETING REPRESENTATIVES
For inquiries please contact Tiffany Stillwell: Tiffany@plfpc.com 512.241.1818 www.PLFPC.com
Patten Law Firm
A Closing Office For Texas American Title Company
Raising the Bar for Closing Services
• Great, Team-Like Atmosphere • Profit Sharing • 401K Employer Matching • Excellent Benefits • No Quotas • We have a Book of Business waiting for you
Jenn Welch of Armstrong Group arrives at the TREPAC Bowling Tournament in costume hoping to win “best dressed” and finds one of her “under the sea” pals. The Tournament was hosted by WCREALTORS to raise money for TREPAC – a political advocacy fund that supports initiatives benefiting the industry.
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Buy Photo: RL_020416_J.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
Tony Pounds, left, and Megan McAnelly, right, both of KB Home, thank Emily Wright of JB Goodwin REALTORS for attending the builder’s Agent Appreciation Mixer at The Park at the Domain.
Buy Photo: RL_020316_B.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
David Durham of Keller Williams Realty and Robert Isaacson of Round Rock Remodeling hope this under-thesea enchantress brings them good luck at the TREPAC Bowling Tournament hosted by WCREALTORS.
Since 1976 Buy photo: RL_070514_D.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com
Tim Traister of Capital Farm Credit, Denise Hosek of Northstar Bank and Thomas Van Lith of Buffington Homes enjoy a wonderful evening at the ABoR Installation and Awards Banquet.
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Champions School of Real Estate A S S O C I AT E S I N P R O G R E S S - A d v e r t i s e r P r o f i l e b y K a t i e B r o w n
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or more than 30 years, Champions School of Real Estate has been serving Texas REALTORS by providing licensing and continuing education courses taught by nationally recognized instructors. Over the years, the Champions School of Real Estate expanded greatly—both geographically and digitally. Currently in Texas, they have brick and mortar schools in Austin, Dallas, Fort Worth, Houston and San Antonio. Additionally, to accommodate the busy and demanding schedules of REALTORS, the Champions School of Real Estate began offering online courses in 2004 to all of Texas. Today, they have grown to provide services to thousands of real estate students. “We offer pre-licensing and continuing education courses for the real estate, loan origination, professional inspection and appraisal fields,” says Cynthia Carter, the Austin campus manager. “Our courses are offered via classroom, correspondence, online and live broadcast.” Currently, the majority of the online courses are offered online via correspondence. “This program allows the student to download a PDF textbook, read through the material and then go online to complete homework and
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take exams for each of their courses,” says Curt Knobloch, online manager for the Champions School of Real Estate online department, which oversees the Learning Management System (LMS) that offers courses to students. “In addition, we have just begun offering our Champions LIVE broadcast courses, where the student will log into a live classroom and learn from the teacher teaching the course.” Knobloch adds, “Students participating in the
February 2016
With the growing, thriving real estate market in Austin and throughout Texas, Knobloch says that now is a great time to become involved in the real estate industry. Because of Champions School’s longevity in the marketplace, Knobloch notes that the school attracts many of the top Texas real estate professionals to learn from experienced teachers with years—and even decades—of industry experience. “We give our students the tools they need to succeed in their chosen careers,” Carter says. “We are with them every step of the way and are there to help them out even once they become licensed. We know that if we provide them the best education possible and the tools for them to succeed, we will have a customer for life.” Before graduation, Champions School ensures its students are wellprepared for the industry. “Graduates are starting to put more emphasis on learning and the continuing education courses that are required in their first two years of being licensed,” Carter says. “We emphasize ‘the more you learn, the more you earn!’” Upon seeing great success in the Texas real estate market and in online education, Champions School of Real Estate has begun expanding their offerings into new areas. “We have recently entered other states offering continuing education courses,” Knobloch says. “We have just entered into Oklahoma and Florida
We offer pre-licensing and continuing education courses for the real estate, loan origination, professional inspection and appraisal fields Champions LIVE method enjoy the flexibility of learning from the comfort of their own home or office.” For those interested in classroom courses, class sizes range for 10-80 students on any given day. “Our courses are taught by industry professionals, many who are nationally recognized for their industry experience and expertise,” Carter says.
Cynthia Carter, the Austin Campus Manager
Curt Knobloch, Online Manager
and are expanding into California in the first quarter of 2016.” Champions School of Real Estate has been living by the motto, “You can do it! We can help!” since its creation. “We have been providing nationally recognized education taught by nationally recognized instructors for over more than 30 years,” says Knobloch. “We pride ourselves in our education and our customer service. We look at ourselves as partners with our students. If our students succeed then we succeed.” RL
Christina Isaac Congratulations
Recognized for Working with the REALTOR® Community
The Austin Board of REALTORS® has recognized Christina Isaac as its 2015 Affiliate of the Year. ABoR recognized Christina’s 24 years of sales and marketing experience, business accomplishments and community service as chief factors in her receiving this award. Specifically, she is an active volunteer for two local nonprofits, Operation Turkey and Team RWB (Red, White and Blue), as well as for ABoR’s affiliate activities. We are proud Christina is recognized for the energy, creativity and fun she brings to her work at North American Title and shares with other affiliates and REALTORS®. Give her a call and put her enthusiasm to work for you!
RESEARCH 11044 Research Blvd. Bldg. D, Suite 100 Austin, TX 78759 t: 512.249.0576
NORTH AUSTIN 5608 Parkcrest Drive Suite 150 Austin, TX 78731 t: 512.302.3892
ROUND ROCK 1 Chisholm Trail Suite 3100 Round Rock, TX 78681 t: 512.255.6550
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Samantha Eileen Idais and James Becker of Wells Fargo Home Mortgage are interested to hear where interest rates might go in 2016. The two attended the Gracy Title Economic Forecast event at Norris Conference Center.
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Live music by Suede gets the group moving at the WCR Winter White Party.
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Ashley Singh of Sphere Realty manages to get her ball back from an under-the-sea friend in the ball return at the WCREALTORS TREPAC Bowling Tournament Fundraiser.
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Fort Worth Campus 6324 Waverly Way Fort Worth, TX 76116 phone: 214-687-0000
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Houston North Campus 5627 Cypress Crk Pkwy, Ste 100 Houston, TX 77069 phone: 281-893-4484
San Antonio Campus 10000 San Pedro, Ste 100 San Antonio, TX 78216 phone: 210-349-7600
As a Texas leader in real estate education, Champions School of Real Estate has been providing quality education since 1983 and has become a leading school in the industry. Our Texas pre-licensing and continuing education courses are offered in the classroom, by correspondence home study and online for real estate, loan originator, appraiser and inspector professionals. We offer Texas real estate classes seven days a week with day, evening and weekend schedules available.
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Texas Complete with Broker Responsibility addresses the regulatory aspects of the management, operation and supervision of a real estate brokerage firm in Texas. The course provides an understanding and working knowledge of a broker’s responsibilities and obligations under the laws laying out specific requirements and best practices for brokers.
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| Texas Complete with Broker Responsibility
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Texas Complete with Broker Responsibility TEXAS EDITION
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Amber Cotter, David Treto and Rebecca Kuykandall, all of Keller Williams Realty, attend a lunch & learn at the Lake Travis office in Lakeway.
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Josh Penland of Sente Mortgage and Warren Marshall of Private Label Realty suit up for another successful year in the real estate business. The two attended the CRS Austin Chapter Installation Luncheon at the Westwood Country Club.
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Tracy St. Pierre of City Bank and Michelle Goldberg of Stone Gate Mortgage attend the NAPMW Economic Forecast event to glean some insight from Dr. Jim Gaines of the Texas A&M Real Estate Center.
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February 2016 Front Page: Continued
– they wouldn’t need us.” But in actuality, says Horton, it turned out to be a boon for the industry. New buyers were getting neutral, third party information online, then relying on their agents as trusted advisors. So what does Horton think about his Millennial clients now? “It’s a very good thing.”
Generational shakeups Boomers, in their 50s to 70s today, now have two or three home purchases under their belt. They generally jumped into the market buying a comfortable family home, then upgraded to something more spacious for a growing family, then, as empty nesters, patiently selected a more manageable home they could enjoy in their retirement years. One young Boomer we spoke with, Jerry Elmas, is a 54-year-old salesman who moved to Austin with his wife from Los Angeles in the mid 1990s. While they didn’t come here for the lower cost of living, it was something they quickly celebrated. The Elmas’ purchased their starter home in Gracywoods. After the arrival of their daughter and then an uptick in local crime, they moved to a roomier house just a mile and a half north. When that neighborhood started showing signs of distress, the Elmas’ packed up and moved to Hill Country, near 2222 and 620. It was a perfect third house for a Boomer couple: a safe, spacious home in a good school district with plenty of kids for their daughter to play with. The Elmas’ home buying experience couldn’t be more opposite from a Millennial couple we spoke with. Jensen Yancy, 27, and Brandon Willett, 33, owners of Createscape coworking in East Austin, just purchased their first home together as an unmarried couple. About 10 years ago, Willett bought a condo after he graduated from college, but this is Yancy’s first foray into home ownership. Unlike the Elmas’, Yancy and Willett specifically looked for homes in areas of the city that the Elmas’ moved away from not once, but twice. And because the couple intentionally bought a fixer-upper, they didn’t have a list of demands for their agent, other than proximity to the city. The young couple, who do not plan to have kids, wanted a small house (“It’s just easier to maintain,” said Yancy), and very low on their list of concerns were the school district, living in a neighborhood with low crime, and surface features like surrounding manicured yards. The pair sought out a bungalow in St. John’s, a neighborhood on the edge today, but one the boys foresee turning a corner and flourishing in the future.
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Newland’s consumer report found that compared to older generations, Millennials are more financially comfortable and less anxious about keeping up with cost of living. Yancy and Willett couldn’t be a better representation of another Newland declaration. A couple in or nearing their 30s, juggle multiple careers and no family-planning agenda, “these young people tend to choose alternative life paths and life stage trajectories.” Not that much older than the Millennial pair, Randy, a Gen X-er and prosecutor for the city of Austin, purchased his first home in 2012. While Randy’s path between living with his parents to home ownership was not linear, like the typical Boomer, it wasn’t because he was following a Millennial's alternative life path, either. The Newland report explains that before buying their first home, many Gen Xers, like Randy, first get an education and then get established in their career. When Randy was ready to buy a house, the bachelor wasn’t very concerned about whether he’d fill his three-bedroom, two-bath ranch with a wife and kids one day, but he did want a spacious home for that possibility. Similar to the more predictable Boomer generation, Randy was concerned with neighborhood safety and property values, but unlike maverick Millennials, he had no aspirations to be a gentrifying trailblazer. Interestingly, Randy’s house is in Gracywoods, the same zip code the Elmas’ left twice and a 2015 “Hottest Neighborhood,” according to the November issue of Realty Line.
We all have the same needs Tobias says that while the generations tend to follow much different paths, in the end, we all have the same needs. You can see this in our recent past, and how homeowners’ perceptions have evolved over the decades. In the 1950s, Americans viewed their home as their castle. Then the country hit a few bumps. The early 2000s, recovering from 9/11 and one of the scariest moments in American history, people were craving connection and saw their home as a “hive.” After the recession, homes were viewed like an anchor and taking care of responsibilities were core values. “In the twenty-teens, we think of our home like a lighthouse. It’s where we can be with our family, connect with our neighbors and friends, and really think about our lives and future,” explains Tobias. “It’s a place to help us find true north.” RL
HAPPY SELLING
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Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
P. O. Box 81366 • Austin, Texas 78708-1366 (512) 821-1900 www.myRealtyLine.com E-mail: info@myRealtyLine.com
Publisher: Doren L. Carver doren@myRealtyLine.com
Associate Publisher: Tawanna K. Carver tawanna@myRealtyLine.com
Managing Editor: Naomi Bludworth naomi@myRealtyLine.com
Contributing Editor: Linda McNabb
Contributing Writers: Riki Markowitz, Naomi Bludworth
Contributing Photographers: Doren L. Carver, Naomi Bludworth, Phillip Haustein
Columnists: Aaron Farmer, Shavonne Martin, Wes Wigginton, Mary Miner Submission Guidelines: Submit photos, press releases and calendar items to naomi@myrealtyline.com. All photos must be at least 300 dpi and include a caption with first/last name and company affiliation. Press releases must be fewer than 300 words. Non-advertisers submitting calendar items will be charged $25 per submission. All submissions must be received at least seven calendar days prior to ad copy deadlines published at www.myrealtyline.com/blog/advertise.html. Submission items will be included as space allows. Realty Line Austin is published monthly by Caxton Publications, Inc.© as a non-subscription publication for the more than 8,000 members of the Austin Board of REALTORS®(ABoR), the more than 1,500 members of the Williamson County Association of REALTORS® (WCREALTORS) and the Home Builders Association (HBA) of Greater Austin. Realty Line Austin is printed on recycled paper. Realty Line Austin is a proud member of the Austin Board of REALTORS®, the Williamson County Association of REALTORS®, the Home Builders Association (HBA) of Greater Austin and is a honorary member of the Women’s Council of REALTORS. Realty Line Austin is not responsible for opinions or facts expressed by non-staff writers or for errors and any by-products in advertising or editorial copy. REALTOR® is a registered trademark. The word REALTOR® sometimes appears in this publication without the registered trademark symbol (®) for the purpose of saving space. Wherever the word REALTOR® appears in this publication, the registered trademark should be assumed.
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HBA 2016 President Wes Wigginton, right, of Foursquare Builders thanks all three 2016 Housing Forecast speakers for their contribution to the event. Pictured with Wes are (left to right): Brian Kelsey of Civic Analytics, Malee Tobias of Newland Real Estate Company and Eldon Rude of 360º Real Estate Analytics. Buy Photo: RL_010816_B.JPG at www.myrealtyline.com
Congratulations to the 2016 CRS Austin Chapter Leadership!
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April Downey and Phillip Pense, both of Independence Title, and Sandy Plummer of Austin Telco Federal Credit Union look for a seat in a crowded room at the NAPMW Economic Forecast at the Norris Conference Center.
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J Rene Ward of Best Agents in Texas and Christine Collins of Champions School of Real Estate get ready for a great meeting at the WCR monthly meeting at Abel’s North.
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Real Estate News & Notes M/I Homes’ seventh area community opens in Wilco
M/I Homes continues to expand its presence with the addition of its seventh model in Williamson County in the new Leander community of Palmera Ridge. The masterplanned community, when completed, will include a community pool, parks, wet ponds, and sidewalks. M/I will be building two of its most popular collections of homes, the Heritage and Legacy Series, on 50’ and 60’ homesites. The Heritage Series offers both one- and two-story homes ranging from 2,050-2,750 square feet with either 3 or 4 bedrooms. They start in the low $270s and are ideal for both young families and empty nesters. The Legacy Series of-
fers one- and two-story homes ranging in size from 2,263-3,282 square feet and have 3, 4, or 5 bedroom options. These home are designed for today’s on-the-go families and start in the upper $330s M/I Homes prides itself on its lengthy list of included features and this community is no different. Both series offers open floorplans, tankless water heaters, granite countertops, large walk-in master closets, covered back patios, 4 sides masonry, full sod and fenced backyards. Four different lighting packages, 27 different options for custom-made cabinets are just two examples of the many included choices! "This is going to be a fantastic community,” said Ursula Whitworth, New Home Consultant at Palmera Ridge. “It’s surrounded by scenic ranches and hill country, but it’s only 10 minutes away from 183A, terrific restaurants and grocery stores." To celebrate the model home opening, M/I Homes is offering several promotions and incentives to consumers. To find out more, or to schedule a visit, contact Melissa Peel at 512265-0288 or salesaustin@mihomes.com. RL
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Submit photos, press releases and calendar items to naomi@myrealtyline.com. All photos must be at least 300 dpi and include a caption with first/last name, company affiliation and a short description. Press releases must be fewer than 300 words. Calendar items are free to advertisers and $25 per submission for others. All submissions must be received at least seven calendar days prior to ad copy deadlines published at www.myrealtyline.com/advertise.html. Submission items will be included as space allows.
Exceptional Living
FROM THE UPPER $200’S • Highly Acclaimed LAGO VISTA ISD • • Award-Winning BUILDERS • • Resort-Caliber AMENITIES • • Extensive TRAIL SYSTEM •
On the north shore of Lake Travis, at the footsteps of the majestic Texas Hill Country, rests Tessera, an approximately 875-acre master-planned community offering an urban oasis of outdoor recreation and resort-caliber amenities with all of the conveniences of city living.
InspIred MoMents, InspIred LIfe. TesseraOnLakeTravis.com
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Dripping Springs’ Caliterra community to host Home Builders Association's 2016 Parade of Homes The Home Builders Association (HBA) of Greater Austin has selected Caliterra, a beautiful 600-acre master-planned community minutes from downtown Dripping Springs, as the next location for its flagship luxury home tour, the Parade of Homes. This year’s Parade of Homes will take place Oct. 28th through Nov. 13th. The Parade of Homes showcases “The Leading-Edge and Best in Homebuilding” and Caliterra is leading the pack in Dripping Springs – an area prime for major growth Site of Parade of Homes at Caliterra. Photo Credit: Drew Rice over the next few years. Nestled in the picturesque Texas Hill Country, tacular views, a 30-acre nature park, trails and its natural scenic views, rolling topography natural play areas. and access to miles of Onion Creek shoreline Four luxury homes built by some of the make living here a one-of-a-kind opportunity. finest home builders in Central Texas will be The Parade is being held in the gated fully furnished and on display for thousands Wildwood neighborhood of Caliterra, an 18 of visitors — an opportunity for attendees lot enclave of luxury homes located between to marvel at the latest luxury home design, two creeks and wooded greenbelts. Set along construction, technology, interior decor and beautiful Onion Creek, Caliterra residents landscaping trends. The homes will start at will enjoy over 250 acres of trails, greenbelts, $1.2 million and range from approximately parks and amenities including a Treehouse 3,800 to 4,400 sq. ft. The builders selected to Park, multi-use indoor-outdoor pavilion participate in the 2016 Parade of Homes™ inwith band loft, sprawling event lawn, a fishing dock, creekside picnic pavilion and an clude Arbogast Custom Homes, Lake Travis Adventure Club Cabin. A Welcome Lodge Builders, Sommerfeld Construction and Sterwith boutique coffee shop will be the hub of ling Custom Homes. The 2016 Parade of Homes is slated for the community and overlook creative play areas including a children’s splash pad designed Oct. 28th through Nov. 13th, 2016. Join our to incorporate the history of the land and the mailing list to stay informed on the latest Dripping Springs ranching heritage. Future news and updates. For more information and phases will include an expansive resort club- to purchase tickets, visit www.ParadeofHomehouse, pools and gathering places with spec- sAustin.com. RL
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The “Nun of Your Business” team prays for first place at the TREPAC Bowling Tournament at Uncle Buck’s Fish & Bowl.
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Christina Isaac of North American Title is named ABoR’s Affiliate of the Year at the association’s Installation and Awards Banquet held downtown.
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It’s time to rock ‘n roll with Willow Bend Mortgage. Pictured left to right: Tim Dockery, Penny Green, Annette Corbin and Tom Brown.