in this issue…
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995™
• ABoR Foundation Scholarships • Platinum Top 50 White Party • Keller Williams Realty RED Day • HBA MAX Awards Gala • AMBA Spring Golf Tourney • and much, much more!
Associates in Progress
New Models Now Open
page 25 TM
NORTH AMERICAN TITLE COMPANY
Inside Back Cover
JUNE 2013 • VOLUME 18 • ISSUE 2
Like Clockwork ®
What clients really want and expect from you By Autumn Rhea Carpenter
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successful REALTOR is required to possess a variety of skills, but listening is one that is non-negotiable. A keen listener who spends time differentiating between clients’ specific requests and the reasons driving those desires is the professional who grasps what a client really wants. By spending time during the initial meeting to define a client’s expectations, an agent will save themselves from future anxiety and stress.
Need Fulfillment Clients have specific needs that they ex-
Visit us online 24/7 at www.myRealtyLine.com
P. O. Box 81366, Austin, Texas 78708
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pect REALTORS to fulfill in their home search. A demand for granite countertops could be a desire for prestige or a requirement for a view might translate into a need for privacy. A successful REALTOR gathers clues that clients share and begins to discern the connection between the benefits and needs. Understanding Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, will help a REALTOR connect with his client. This theory in psychology is organized according to self-actualization, esteem, love and belonging, safety and physiological. The average homebuyer’s need checklist contains these requirements: comfort; security; convenience; prestige; privacy; education; value; health; recreation;
Thursday, June 20 WCAoR Luncheon WCAoR Office - 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. HBA Networking Social Travis Tile Sales- 5 to 7 p.m. KB Home Agent Mixer Blackfinn Ameripub - 5 to 7 p.m.
Thursday, July 11 WCR Business Resource Meeting ABoR Office - 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Wednesday, June 26 AMBA Happy Hour Cover 3 - 6 to 8 p.m.
Thursday, July 18 Serene Hills REALTOR Grand Opening 17500 Hwy 71 W - 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Thursday, June 27 Austin Institute of Real Estate: Wealth Mastermind Group AIRE Campus - 11 a.m. to 12 p.m.
HBA Sales & Marketing Council Happy Hour and Million Dollar Club Awards The Range - 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Tuesday, July 2 HBA Lakeway/Bee Cave Chapter Fore - 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday, July 4 Realty Line office closed
Tuesday, July 23 HBA Mid-Year Housing Forecast HBA Office - 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. See more events and education at
www.myRealtyLine.com
aesthetics and entertainment. Since house features fulfill different benefits to different buyers, REALTORS who listen intently to their clients will be able to satisfy their specific basic needs. By recognizing underlying needs, a client can often be satisfied with a house that might not contain a whirlpool bathtub, but fulfills the prestige requirement with a similar feature. “I find out what is important to my clients lives, not in the house,” says Patrick Easter of Avalar Lifestyle Austin Real Estate. “If you find ‘why’ they want the house, not ‘what’ they want in the house, you will find them a home. Many times, the motivating factor for buying a home has more to do with the lifestyle they want, not the absolute ideal house.” Easter recently worked with a couple with differing expectations. The husband is a chef and wife is a teacher; he wanted a gourmet
Front Page: Continued on page 16
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Get out your bathing suits & air up the floaties... SUMMER HAS ARRIVED!!! HOURS OF SUMMER FUN JUST STEPS FROM YOUR FRONT DOOR ~ Belterra, located just minutes from downtown Austin, offers a lifestyle like no other. With miles of hike & bike trails, over a dozen parks, resort-style pool complex, state-ofthe-art fitness center and an on-site elementary school in the highly acclaimed Dripping Springs Independent School District; there is no better place to call home. Visit the Belterra Welcome Center for more information.
New model homes and new neighborhoods NOW OPEN! David Weekley Homes • Highland Homes • Sitterle Homes • Treaty Oak Homes • Wilshire Homes 151 TRINITY HILLS DRIVE • AUSTIN, TX 78737 • 512.301.5000 • BELTERRATEXAS.COM
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Austin Board of REALTORS®
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Chairman’s Column By Cathy Coneway • 2013 Chairman
Adapt for your clients
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n an ever-changing industry, one thing remains the same: real estate is all about the client. And keeping clients first often times means adapting to every new client and situation, which isn’t always easy. According to Inman News, consumers aren’t only looking for listing information when buying; they also want neighborhood, area, school, and lifestyle information. Sellers want a wide scope of information, too, that goes beyond comps and sales prices to include timeline, traffic, and negotiation expectations. Buyers and sellers who work in the Austin tech industry, for example, often want hard data about the market; they’re “numbers” people. The Austin Board of REALTORS (ABoR) provides our members with the tools they need to give buyers and sellers what they want. Agents can use the stats tools in Matrix and market reports in Realist 2 to deliver this information in a way that demonstrates their value and communicate trends, market conditions, and more to consumers. Cloud CMA is another great tool, which blends data from the MLS and major
real estate websites to help agents pull together customizable, comprehensive reports on a wide range of information. This allows agents to show their clients the hard data or school information that specific client is looking for. It’s important for agents to keep clients topof-mind even in e-mails and tweets. This shows that agents are focused on their clients’ needs. Small changes in an agent’s communications, like reducing the number of times the words “I” or “me” are used, can have a positive effect on agent’s marketing to their clients. By serving the client’s individual needs first, both sides win.
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June 2013
The state housing agency has 32 years of experience serving real estate professionals and the unique needs of lower income homebuyers through a variety of homebuyer resources to help your clients achieve the American dream. Review their resources at www.tdhca. state.tx.us/overview.htm. Use the occasion of Homeownership Month to find out how TDHCA can help place your clients in an affordable home of their own.
Help ABoR provide heat relief to Central Texas families Summer can be scorching in Central Texas, and, unfortunately, many families are unable to afford air conditioning or fans. ABoR is excited to announce our partnership with Family Eldercare, a local non-profit, to support their annual Summer Fan Drive. For 23 years, the Fan Drive has connected vulnerable members of our community with important resources to beat
National Homeownership Month June is National Homeownership Month— a great reminder to check out the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs for homebuyer assistance resources. TDHCA has it all, from down payment, closing cost, contract for deed conversion, and owner-builder programs, to mortgage credits and loan products—including the new My First Texas Home Program.
the summer heat. We’re calling on our members to help the cause and donate fans, time, or other resources. Donate today at Abor.com/ FanDrive2013 or drop off a fan at the ABoR offices during normal business hours on Aug. 2, located at 10900 Stonelake Blvd. Austin, 78759.
We’re gearing up for Realty Round Up Don’t wait any longer to purchase your booth at the 2013 Realty Round Up. Purchase a booth by June 30 and get $75 off with our early bird special. Don’t get caught in the taildust and miss out on networking with over 1,500 real estate professionals at the event on Oct. 16 at the Palmer Event Center. REALTORS can once again expect free admission and parking. If you or your business is interested in purchasing a booth or additional advertising opportunities, visit Abor.com/RoundUp. So, start your engines and get revved up for the 2013 Realty Round themed Racing Into the Future. RL
ABoR Academy Educational Courses June 17: Broker Responsibility MCE Course June 20: 8Touches - Your Image Matters June 26: Home Loans for Veterans June 26: Green MLS: The Key to Unlocking the Green Home Market June 26: Advanced iPad June 27: Evernote for iPad July 8: Real Estate Reality-Property Mgmt July 8: Real Estate Reality-Leasing July 8: Real Estate Reality-Prop Mgmt Beyond the Basics
More at www.ABoR.com
First American Austin is growing and we invite you to grow with us. First American Title Company proudly introduces Cynthia Howell as an Escrow Officer. As a licensed Texas attorney and escrow officer, I am pleased to have the opportunity to bring my knowledge, experience and passion for the title industry to First American. I joined the First American team because First American is a company known for its integrity and its focus to serve all customers with the most efficient, accurate and personalized services and products. I have over 10 years’ experience in wills/trusts/probate, business entities, seller financing, and various other real estate arenas. It is my personal commitment to bring this expertise to both commercial and residential transactions. First American’s continuing commitment to instill leadership skills in its employees makes me proud to be a part of First American, where you are first!
When experience and value matter, Wolf Ranch/Georgetown 1015 W. University Ave., Suite 507 | Georgetown, TX 78628 |
office
First American Title Insurance Company makes no express or implied warranty respecting the information presented and assumes no responsibility for errors or omissions. First American, the eagle logo, First American Title, and firstam.com are registered trademarks or trademarks of First American Financial Corporation and/or its affiliates. TX - 05/2013
Cynthia Howell Attorney/Escrow Officer
First American is all you need to know. 512.942.6556
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chowell@firstam.com phone 512.942.6556 ©2013 First American Financial Corporation and/or its affiliates. All rights reserved. | NYSE: FAF
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Megan Molleur, Attorney at Law, Joan Engen and Chelle Renee, both of Russ and Company, Kristin Clardy of Security National Mortgage and Mike Cannatti of Cherry Creek Mortgage gather around for great conversation at the Hay Compere Open House and Networking Event at its new office in downtown Austin. Buy photo: RL_050713_A.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Doing their part to ease the housing shortage are Dana Gilley and Zuzana Balzerova, both of Milestone Community Builders. The two invite you to bring your clients to pick a lot at the builder’s new luxury home community in Cedar Park, Scottsdale Crossing. Buy photo: RL_060913_C.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Gaye Pierce of Gracy Title arrives in style at the Home Builders Association of Greater Austin’s MAX Awards Gala at the Renaissance Austin Hotel with fellow HBA members Donelle Westbrook and Carol Creel. Buy photo: RL_050113_A.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Kevin and Terry Klien, both of Tenura Holdings, enjoy the festivities at One World Theatre while attending the Platinum Top 50 REALTORS’ White Party.
Buy photo: RL_060713_C.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
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GRAND OPENING EXCLUSIVELY FOR REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONALS JOIN US July 18th from 11-2 for food, drinks, and entertainment by guitarist Luis Banuelos. Come experience this luxury community and the unveiling of model homes from all three builders. the new gateway to lakeway. 512-284-8968
serene-hills.com
hwy 71 w. at serene hills dr.
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Sell more. Earn more. Talk about rewarding!
3RD CLOSING+ IN 2013
2ND CLOSING IN 2013
1ST CLOSING IN 2013
5%
3% AT SLAB 2% AT CLOSING
4%
3% AT SLAB 1% AT CLOSING
3% PAID AT SLAB
It pays to sell Built to Order ™ KB homes. Take advantage of this opportunity to increase your commissions with each new sale. Bring your clients to a KB Home community today! McKinney Heights
La Conterra
Turn over for a complete list of KB Home communities near you.
June 2013
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Hey look, we match! Tami and Chad Overhauser, both of AmeriPro Funding, mix a little business with pleasure at the Platinum Top 50 REALTORS White Party at One World Theatre.
Buy photo: RL_060613_E.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Gracy Title celebrates the grand opening of its second office in Georgetown.
Buy photo: RL_060713_I.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Buy photo: RL_060113_B.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Kandis Wilberforce of Lennar takes home the top prize of Marketing Professional of the Year at the Home Builders Association of Greater Austin's Marketing and Advertising Excellence (MAX) Awards Gala at the Renaissance Austin Hotel.
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Williamson County Assoc. of REALTORS®
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President’s Column By Stacey Rider • 2013 President
Customer service is key to meeting client expectations
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ore and more we find the role of a REALTOR expanding in this action-packed market we find ourselves in due to the demand from our clients. So what is it that the clients really want? The key hallmark, in my opinion, is offering concierge level customer service. In the About.com Small Business Canada article, “8 Rules For Good Customer Service” by Susan Ward, she states that if you truly want to have good customer service, all you have to do is ensure that your business consistently does the following things: 1) answer your phone. 2) Don't make promises unless you will keep them. 3) Listen to your customers. 4) Deal with complaints. 5) Be helpful—even if there's no immediate profit in it. 6) Train your staff (if you have any) to always be helpful, courteous, and knowledgeable. 7) Take the extra step. 8) Throw in something extra. What does concierge level customer service mean to the REALTOR? It begins with a solidly implemented buyer/seller program. On the seller's side, it's a well executed listing pre-
www.myRealtyLine.com ing up with dinner amongst the boxes that first night. It's having “the best” offered to the client—leaving no stone unturned and making them feel like your number one. Don't forget however, that education plays a huge role in being able to offer a conciergelevel customer service program to clients. Education expands your information and resources, which allows you to better perform on behalf of your clients. One of the hottest educational classes at WCAoR is the Hot Topic course “Multiple Offers and Back Up
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Contracts” presented by TREC Chair, Avis Wukasch, scheduled next on Monday, June 24 at 9 a.m. Developing excellent customer service relationships takes some pre-planning on the part of the agent that wants this type of reputation. Understand that it takes sitting down in planning mode and writing everything one can possibly think of on a note pad and then grouping them together into a cohesive plan. It's that plan that creates the solid concierge-level customer service program for your client. RL
sentation with prior positive client testimony. It's a plan of action that you act on immediately once the “Exclusive Right to Sell” agreement has been signed and then verify with the seller that items have been done. It’s following up, per the client’s request—by phone call, e-mail, text and in-person. It’s sending out weekly updates with documentation and feedback. It's providing a list of vetted contractors, if needed, after the option period. It’s offering a vendor list in case they need anything. And it is that anything (and everything) and going above and beyond the typical client relationship. On the buyer's side, concierge level customer service starts by having a strong program once the “Residential Buyers Representation” agreement has been signed. It's the agent that offers an information package for every aspect of the buying process—from help in finding the right lender, residential service contractor, neighborhood information and school districts—to a list of referral services such as home, carpet, window cleaners and handyman services. It's organizing their move and show-
REAL TREnds 500 RAnks RE/MAX® Outsells the cOmpetitiOn 2 tO 1*
Every national authority says RE/MAX agents sell more*. Learn why on August 7th at a
FREE RE/MAX overview. Visit remaxtexas.com/learn *2013 Real Trends 500 Report. Download now: http://rem.ax/11nIwlh. Each office is independently owned and operated.
2013.RMX.AUS.Realtyline.June.indd 1
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Wanda Frederick, David Tandy, Lisa Monti and Holly Schuler, all of Gracy Title, continue to push the envelope and grow the company. The four celebrated the grand opening of its second Georgetown office.
Buy photo: RL_060113_K.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Sam Lemelle of Central Metro Realty and Bryon Wiliams kick back on a beautiful day as they listen to live zydeco music at the Central Metro Realty Crawfish Boil at Old Settlers Park in Round Rock.
Buy photo: RL_051013_D.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Amber Thomas and Kelly Maizel, both of Platinum Top 50 REALTORS, welcome Maggie Falvey of Realty Austin to the group’s White Party at One World Theatre. Buy photo: RL_060813_E.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Marty Halseth of United Guaranty and Jay Tucker of Reliant Title head out to the fairway at the AMBA Spring Golf Tournament at the Great Hills Golf Club.
Buy photo: RL_060613_G.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Second Liens
are back!
It’s no mystery
The Place for Top Business Professionals
i s Ke lle r Wi lli am s R ealty
- Rates are at the LOWEST levels they’ve been at in years! - Purchase Money/Refi programs available to 90% cltv - Home Improvement Loan programs available to 90% cltv - Competitive Rates and Fees - Exceptional Customer Service
Cindy Greenwood
Leslie Gossett
Liz Newell
Susan Avant
The Austin Portfolio Real Estate Office is proud to announce the addition of Cindy Greenwood, Leslie Gossett, Liz Newell and Susan Avant to our team. For a confidential interview please contact Diane Johnson or Melanie Kennemann at 512-448-4111.
SOUTHWEST Diane Johnson Melanie Kennemann 448-4111
NORTHWEST Gene Frederick Brian Martin 346-3550
LAKE TRAVIS Mary Lynne Gibbs 263-9090
ROUND ROCK Avis Wukasch 255-5050
Gretchen Rossington, NMLS ID#555982 Austin/San Antonio Account Manager Wholesale Second Liens C. 512.484.1860 gretchen.rossington@cadencebank.com
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Buy photo: RL_051013_E.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Central Metro Realty hosts its Crawfish Boil at Old Settlers Park with live music, lots of food and lots of fun.
Buy Photos + View Archives at
Submitted Photo
www.myRealtyLine.com
Wayne Morgan, third from right, of Austin Institute of Real Estate speaks at a lunch and learn hosted by Pride of Austin Capital Partners in the Frost Bank Tower.
Austin Area Market Update Austin vs. U.S. Unemployment Rate 2008 - 2013 YTD Austin Unemployment
U.S. Unemployment
12
10
8
6
4
2 *Not seasonally adjusted
0 Jan-08 Feb-08 Mar-08 Apr-08 May-08 Jun-08 Jul-08 Aug-08 Sep-08 Oct-08 Nov-08 Dec-08 Jan-09 Feb-09 Mar-09 Apr-09 May-09 Jun-09 Jul-09 Aug-09 Sep-09 Oct-09 Nov-09 Dec-09 Jan-10 Feb-10 Mar-10 Apr-10 May-10 Jun-10 Jul-10 Aug-10 Sep-10 Oct-10 Nov-10 Dec-10 Jan-11 Feb-11 Mar-11 Apr-11 May-11 Jun-11 Jul-11 Aug-11 Sep-11 Oct-11 Nov-11 Dec-11 Jan-12 Feb-12 Mar-12 Apr-12 May-12 Jun-12 Jul-12 Aug-12 Sep-12 Oct-12 Nov-12 Dec-12 Jan-13 Feb-13 Mar-13 Apr-13
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For more information, please contact one of our sales executives. www.gracytitle.com Partnerships Built on Trust
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Texas 78626
Gracy Title Georgetown
Gracy Title Georgetown
UNIVERSITY
SQUARE
950 W University, Building 2, Suite 205
113 W 9th Street
phone (512) 930-0500 • fax (512) 930-0577
phone (512) 876-2024 • fax (512) 857-0347
Janis Shields
Jason Dishongh
Holly Schuler
Andrea Bosma
Branch Manager / Escrow Officer (Georgetown - University)
Williamson County Commercial Sales Executive
Sales Executive
Escrow Officer
janis.shields@gracytitle.com
holly.schuler@gracytitle.com (Georgetown - Square) jason.dishongh@gracytitle.com direct (512) 913-9089 andrea.bosma@gracytitle.com direct (512) 574-3303
We take a modern aproach to doing business, a traditional approach to customer service, and add convenience to give our customers the best possible closing experience!
www.gracytitle.com
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Kasey Parrish and Karen Williams, both of North American Title, host their company’s Cinco de Mayo Client Appreciation Mixer for REALTORS like Lynn Miller, center, of Amelia Bullock REALTORS at the North American Title Round Rock branch.
Buy photo: RL_060313_A.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Richard Ethridge, Jan Albert, Terry Jackson and Melia Gardner, all of Capital Title, show their skills on the green at the WCAoR annual golf tournament at Cimarron Hills in Georgetown.
Submitted Photo
The folks at Milestone Community Builders get ready to turn some dirt at its Ground Breaking ceremony for its new luxury home community, Scottsdale Crossing in Cedar Park. Ready your clients to pick their lot! Buy photo: RL_060513_D.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com Buy photo: RL_060913_F.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Lotti Yuma, right, of Lennar gladly shows Marjean and Larry Allen, both of Ultima Real Estate, the builder’s new model in Hutto Highlands, a new Lennar community.
Texas American Title Company
TEXAS AMERICAN IS PROUD TO ANNOUNCE THE NEW ADDITIONS TO OUR MARKETING TEAM:
Diana Siminski
Audrey Bolander
dsiminski@texasamerican.com 817-371-3524
abolander@texasamerican.com 512-479-7887
Downtown Office 811 Barton Springs Rd. Suite 111 Austin, TX 78704 Office: 512-479-7887 Fax: 512-479-7977
Westlake Office 609 Castle Ridge Rd. Suite 100 Austin, TX 78746 Office: 512-306-9009 Fax: 512-306-9180
Cedar Park Office 715 Discovery Blvd. Suite 205 Cedar Park, TX 78613 Office: 512-259-5950 Fax: 512-259-0540
www.txamtitle.com
Round Rock Office 1001 South Mays Round Rock, TX 78664 Office: 512-255-1550 Fax: 512-255-2329
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WELCOME TO TUSCAN VILLAGE Discover Lakeway’s first and only resort-style community for adults 55+ G IN N PE 13 O 20 E R US E O M BH M U U CL S
Life is a journey — there’s always more to discover. Whether moving closer to family, downsizing or simply making a quality of life decision in preparation for the future, Tuscan Village gives active adults the freedom to enhance their lifestyle and spend time living the way they want to live. Tuscan Village is much more than a neighborhood of homes. It’s a way of life, where you can enjoy a more carefree, opportunity-rich lifestyle in the company of like-minded neighbors — complete with amenities tailored to your interests, lock-and-leave convenience and exclusive benefits of ownership, plus easy proximity to all that Lakeway and the Hill Country have to offer.
SCHEDULE A PRIVATE TOUR OF THE CLUBHOUSE AND PREVIEW OUR AVAILABLE HOMES Villas & Townhomes from the $260’s for Adults 55+ | 512.327.1200 | TuscanVillage.com Exclusively Marketed by Legacy International Resort Properties. Obtain the Property Report required by federal law and read it before signing anything. No federal agency has judged the merits of value, if any, of this property.
Facebook.com/TuscanVillageLakeway
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Shawn Sullivan of Austin Professional Mortgage Women, Austin Mortgage Bankers Association President Michael Scott and Gretchen Rossington of Cadence Bank get ready to show their skills at the AMBA Spring Golf Tournament at Great Hills Golf Club.
Buy photo: RL_060813_A.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Kathy De La Cruz of RE/MAX Austin Associates and Pat Burch of John Horton Realty, a Private Label Realty company, are excited to have handed out over $70,000 in collage scholarships to dozens of area students at the ABoR Foundation Scholarship Presentation event. Buy photo: RL_050813_A.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Good thing these mudbugs are “kid-sized.” Natalie Roberts of Milestone Community Builders shows her son Carter how to rip the tails of these suckers at the Central Metro Realty Crawfish Boil at Old Settlers Park in Round Rock.
Buy photo: RL_060413_D.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
PrimeLending Capital City Conventional, FHA, VA, USDA, HomePath & Jumbo just to name a few loan products!
Candy Buzan Branch Manager Sr. Loan Officer The Candy Buzan Team
Max Leaman Branch Manager Sr. Loan Officer The Leaman Team
Marie Cyr Loan Officer The Candy Buzan Team
Kim Nielsen Production Manager The Candy Buzan Team
Diane M. Clark Sr. Loan Officer
Missy Driskell Sr. Loan Officer
Trudy Savage Sr. Loan Officer
Mark Hoffman Sr. Loan Officer
Amy Bailey Oehler Sr. Loan Officer The Leaman Team
Jori Stern Sr. Loan Officer The Leaman Team
Sherri Eckert Loan Officer The Leaman Team
Nathan Creeger Loan Officer The Leaman Team
Eiric Smith Sr. Loan Officer
Amanda Stewart Sr. Loan Officer
Mary Kennedy Sr. Loan Officer
Mysty Lynch Sr. Loan Officer
Two Great Locations! All loans subject to credit approval. Rates and fees subject to change. Mortgage financing provided by PrimeLending, a PlainsCapital Company. Equal Housing Lender. © 2013 PrimeLending, a PlainsCapital Company. PrimeLending, a PlainsCapital Company (NMLS no: 13649) is a wholly owned subsidiary of a state-chartered bank and is an exempt lender in TX. V012313. NMLS 179412 (Buzan), NMLS 269403 (Cyr), NMLS 184428 (Hoffman), NMLS 292478 (Stewart), NMLS 280093 (Lynch), NMLS 176530 (Smith), NMLS 180307 (Nielsen), NMLS 268025 (Clark), NMLS 232054 (Widmer), NMLS 179666 (Kennedy), NMLS 180066 (Driskell), NMLS 180854 (Savage), NMLS 151263 (Leaman), NMLS 225339 (Bailey), NMLS 177299 (Stern), NMLS 357516 (Eckert), NMLS 741376 (Creeger).
810 Hester’s Crossing, Suite 150 Round Rock, TX 78681 7719 Wood Hollow Drive, Suite 155 Austin, TX 78731
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Mike McCoy of Mission Mortgage gets the details on the new Milestone Community Builders luxury home community, Scottsdale Crossing in Cedar Park from Greg Miller who is the builder’s director of sales.
Buy photo: RL_060913_B.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
The Keller Williams Realty Lake Travis Market Center team gears up for its garage sale to raise money for the local community during RED Day, Keller Williams Realty International's annual charity day.
Buy photo: RL_060613_O.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Cynthia Mattiza of Realty Austin and Sarah Williams of Keller Williams Realty join forces as a networking powerhouse at the Platinum Top 50 REALTORS White Party at One World Theatre.
Submitted Photo
Recognized Nationally. Established & Growing Locally.
www.NetcoTitle.com
Now Serving Bell County! Austin (512) 919-4614 7719 Woodhollow Drive Suite 157 | Austin, TX 78731
Netco Title-Texas
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Kelli SheppeRd
Branch Manager | Escrow Officer (254) 563-6671 kshepperd@netcotitle.com
@NetcoTitle
MiChelle VAnlieu
Escrow Assistant (254) 245-8337 mvanlieu@netcotitle.com
Round Rock (512) 433-6113 1717 North IH 35 | Suite 100 Round Rock, TX 78664
Bell County (254) 245-8337
902 Mountain Lion Circle | Suite 300 Harker Heights, TX 76548
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June 2013 Front Page: Continued
kitchen and she wanted to live close to school. In order to meet these needs, the couple would have to raise their budget by $250,000. “We determined how close was close enough to her work, and how gourmet the kitchen really needed to be, or if he could add his own tastes into the home after closing,” says Easter. “We ended up compromising on a large kitchen that needed updating that was still close to work for her. We were still $150,000 under the initial budget. Needless to say, they were both very happy clients.”
Communication Today’s buyer wants an agent who understands her fears and shows patience. Staying in touch is vital. Ensure that the client never feels neglected. Clients want to know their REALTOR is paying attention because with attention comes the feeling that the agent is truly interested in their individual needs. REALTORS who can recall important dates or details from conversations will also keep track of the most important facts, such as a client’s home search criteria. A client wants personal attention, and never wants to be just another name on a contact list. “I have an 'open door' policy that helps the lines of communication stay open and honest,” says Kristin Hepp of Coldwell Banker United, REALTORS. “I always tell my clients that they can call or e-mail me anytime throughout the entire process with any concerns. Finding the right home is a work in progress, so I need to know if they have changed their 'must-have' items, their desired location or their budget. The more comfortable my clients feel communicating with me, the more enjoyable the whole process is for everyone.”
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Knowledge Today’s real estate agent must be articulate and familiar with the market conditions, a neighborhood’s schools, recreational outlets, history and real estate issues. They must be able to help clients evaluate property affordability and assist in the negotiation process. Sellers want the benefit of an agent’s expertise with pricing their properties and attracting serious buyers quickly. Since REALTORS have access to the Multiple Listing Service, (MLS) this gives them access to a wealth of information and will help the client save time during their home search. REALTORS who make it easy to access listings will increase client satisfaction. A skilled agent guides their clients through a real estate transaction with the least amount of stress as possible. Since a home purchase or sale is usually one of the most difficult times in a person’s life, it’s important that the REALTOR provides supportive, informed advice.
Partnership Buying and selling a house is a joint venture between the buyer, seller and real estate agent. This relationship is most successful when each participant plays an active part in the process. REALTORS not threatened by an informed, involved client who treat the partnership with respect will benefit the most. Especially during this post-housing crisis market, customers want to trust their agent. A REALTOR who possesses integrity and a reputation of honesty is more likely to succeed. “Every client, home and transaction is unique,” says Hepp. “The search for the ‘perfect home’ is different for everyone because we all have different opinions. That’s what keeps me on my toes and makes this job so fun. Every house hunt has its own personality.” RL
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P. O. Box 81366 • Austin, Texas 78708-1366 (512) 821-1900 www.myRealtyLine.com E-mail: info@myRealtyLine.com
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Columnists: Cathy Coneway, Stacey Rider, Risé Johns, Gaye Pierce, Wayne Morgan, Tom Berry 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/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 1,100 members of the Williamson County Association of REALTORS® (WCAoR) 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® 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.
PALOMA LAKE
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Sarah McAloon 512.791.7776 smcaloon@ashtonwoodshomes.com
TIM DOCKERY
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Tim.Dockery@WJBradley.com | www.timdockery.com W.J. Bradley Mortgage Capital, LLC
CRYSTAL KEISER
13785 Highway 183, Suite 125, Austin, TX 78750 512.456.5006 office
Crystal.Keiser@WJBradley.com
WJB120611311
© 2012 W.J. Bradley Mortgage Capital, LLC. 6465 Greenwood Plaza Blvd, Suite 500, Centennial, CO 80111 Phone #303-825-5670. NMLS ID 3233. Trade/service marks are the property of W.J. Bradley Mortgage Capital, LLC. This is not a commitment to lend. Restrictions apply. All rights reserved. Some products may not be available in all states. WJB is not acting on behalf of or at the direction of HUD/FHA or the federal government.
WWW.ASHTONWOODSHOMES.COM
AZ Mortgage Banker License # BK-0903998; Licensed by the Department of Corporations under the California Residential Mortgage Lending Act RML# 4131002; Colorado Mortgage Company Registration NMLS ID 3233 Regulated by the Division of Real Estate. To check the license status of your CO Mortgage Broker, visit www.dora.state.co.us/real-estate/index.htm; Florida Mortgage Lender Servicer license #MLD738; ID Mortgage Broker License No. MBL-7766; IL Residential Mortgage Licensee – License #MB.6760738, 6465 Greenwood Plaza Blvd., Suite 500, Centennial, CO 80111; MN Residential Mortgage Originator License No. MN-MO-3233; NV Mortgage Banker License No. 2061; NV Mortgage Broker License No. 504; NM Mortgage Loan Company and Loan Broker Act Reg. No. 01856; OK Mortgage Broker – License No. MB001365; OR Mortgage Lender License No. ML-776; TX Registered Mortgage Banker – NMLS 3233; Texas Mortgage Banker Disclosure: www.wjbradley.com/Texas-Mortgage-Banker-Disclosure.html; UT Mortgage Lender Company License No. 5495659-NMLC; Utah Consumer Credit Notification and Utah Residential First Mortgage Notification regulated by the Utah Department of Financial Institutions; Vermont Lender License #6341; WA Consumer Loan License No. CL-3233; Wisconsin Mortgage Banker License No. 699991. NMLS consumer access: www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org/EntityDetails.aspx/COMPANY/3233.
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Austin CRS Chapter
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President ‘s Column By Risé Johns • 2013 President
An event this big requires lots of planning. The 2014 ABoR Installation and Awards Gala committee is well underway as they work out all of the details of ABoR's largest event of the year where Bill Evans of Austin Real Pros will be elected as chairman of the board in December.
Submitted Photo
ABoR Foundation Vice-Chairman Susan Horton of John Horton Realty, a Private Label Realty company, announces the scholarship winners at the Scholarship Presentation event in the ABoR Auditorium.
Buy photo: RL_060413_C.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
The best way to find out what your clients want from you? Just ask!
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s agents, we think we know what our clients want, but do we really? Have you ever asked your clients what they expect or want? I make a point to always ask my sellers and buyers what is important to them and what they are looking for in an agent. Some traits are so obvious they shouldn’t need to be mentioned. Any agent can look in MLS and offer comps. Shoot, the public can get the information from Trulia, Zillow, etc. In addition, it’s easy to have the names and contact information of lenders. The public doesn’t need an agent for that. Naturally, there are the basic requirements—things like honesty and integrity. Who would hire someone they didn’t trust? Your clients are looking for an agent who can steer them through the maze of contract-to-closing. They want an agent who is knowledgeable. Being knowledgeable means knowing the local market, being able to answer questions about the HOA, the local schools, medical facilities and more. Another trait your clients expect is resilience. You are working with people who can be very emotional. You need to brush off
the times they explode (and may use foul language) as nothing personal. Your clients are just frustrated by something that is out of their control. They need to vent and you are the obvious choice. The last trait expected by your clients is persistence. There can be delays in getting loans processed, appraisal issues, repair problems, illness, etc. Your clients expect you to keep a level head and figure out how to solve any problems. In "The Art of the Sale" by Philip Broughton, topping the author’s short list of “sales people I have loathed” is the REALTOR "who sold me my house." This individual’s “evasions, distortions, and delays,” fumes Broughton, “befuddled the already torturous process of home buying to such a degree that as I crossed the finish line of closing, I wanted to leave him smeared with honey in a bear-infested woods.” This is definitely not how you want your clients to feel. At the end of the day, you want your clients glad they chose you as their agent and their experience to be a good one. You want them to recommend you to friends and family. The only way to make that referral happen is to ask them what they expect and need. Just ask! RL
WANT TO WORK WITH THE BEST?
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JOIN THE TEAM AT DHI MORTGAGE!
We are only as strong as the team we build, so we work hard to develop passionate talent and encourage a balanced life of work and family. We have developed a mission statement that represents the heart of who we are: The Right People - The Right Way! The following positions are available in our Killeen and Austin branches: Mortgage Loan Originator • Support D.R. Horton communities as their preferred lender in Temple, Waco, Killeen and Ft. Hood • Incentives available for generating non-D.R. Horton business • Base salary plus commission based on production • Additional bonus opportunities available • 2+ years originating required • Fluent in Spanish a plus! • Comfortable speaking to large groups
Want to work for the best? Contact me today! Patricia Wagner
Branch Manager, NMLS #209414
www.dhimortgage.com
Direct: (512) 533-1369 Fax: (866) 364-8284 E-mail: pwagner@dhimortgage.com www.dhimortgage.com/patricia-wagner
Mortgage Loan Processor • 2+ years processing required • Experience with FHA, VA, USDA, MCC, Bond and Conventional Loans • Comfortable in a fast-paced environment • Base salary + overtime • Monthly bonus opportunities available • Fluent in Spanish a plus! At DHI Mortgage, we offer a diverse and collaborative work place that is unmatched by our competition. As an employee, you will: • Be affiliated with D.R. Horton, America’s #1 Home Builder • Mortgage Loan Originators have the ability to originate new home construction, resales & refinance business • Receive a competitive compensation plan with bonus opportunities. • Receive EXCELLENT large company benefits, including 401K matching • Have no-cost marketing support for Mortgage Loan Originators
Provided for informational purposes only. DHI Mortgage is an Equal Opportunity Employer. DHI Mortgage Company, Ltd. Branch NMLS #38686. 10700 Pecan Park Blvd., Suite 200, Austin, TX 78750. Company NMLS #14622. For information on DHIM licensing please visit www.dhimortgage.com/other-pages/licensing. REV: 05/29/13 / EXP: 05/29/14
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June 2013
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Experts Speak Out
Commentary By Gaye Pierce • Gracy Title
Game-changing solutions for a sustainable Austin
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ustin area leaders are stepping up to make sure our city’s development takes into account our environment, unique culture and the health and happiness of all who call it home. Growth is inevitable, and the most responsible thing we can do is to take action to make conscious and creative choices for a sustainable future. Here are some breakthroughs you may want to keep on your radar.
Imagine Austin – City of Austin More than two years in the making, Imagine Austin is the city’s 30-year plan for creating a more vibrant, livable, connected Austin. To develop the plan, city leaders incorporated direct creative input from the Austin community as well as smart growth principles such as development around transit stations, mixed-use developments, and development incentives to make Austin a less car-dependent city. In March, the City Council hired Opticos Design, a design, planning and architecture firm, to begin assisting in the complete overhaul of the Land Development Code for the City of
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Austin. The City has also expanded its Planning and Development Review Department to reduce the permit backlog and support innovative planning solutions. Imagine Austin details how our local government will take action on the following priorities: 1. Invest in a compact and connected Austin 2. Sustainably manage our water resources 3. Continue to grow Austin’s economy by investing in our workforce, education systems, entrepreneurs, and local businesses 4. Use green infrastructure to protect environmentally sensitive areas and integrate nature into the city 5. Grow and invest in our creative economy 6. Develop and maintain household affordability throughout Austin 7. Create a healthy Austin 8. Revise Austin’s development regulations and processes to promote a compact and connected city Learn more about Imagine Austin and how you can get involved at http://austintexas.gov/ department/imagine-austin.
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Matrix MLS – ACTRIS The new Matrix system makes it easier to list and search for properties with greener features. You can enter information about your properties relating to energy efficiency, environment and sustainability, including: • Healthy living features • Energy-efficient appliances, windows and doors, HVAC, and lighting • Features that conserve water • Green construction and/or materials Ask your sellers to complete the Energy, Environment, and Sustainability (EES) attachment on the ABoR Property Forms page to document sustainable property features.
Smart Growth Program – National Association of REALTORS NAR helps REALTORS serve as stewards and advocates for their community by providing knowledge resources to agents and their associations on sustainability, statistics, infrastructure, public schools, and politics. At www. realtor.org/programs/smart-growth-program, you can find statistics and other data for almost every topic related to growing our community sustainably and responsibly. Did you know that during the last recession, residential property values performed 41 percent better on average if they were located near public transportation with high-frequency service? Check out the latest studies on smart growth and infrastructure, such as The New Real Estate Mantra: Location Near Public Transportation.
Sustainable Places Project — CATS Consortium The Sustainable Places Project is a new approach to planning in the Austin-Round Rock-
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San Marcos five-county region. This region adds over 60,000 residents annually, putting pressure on affordability and transportation capacity. The Sustainable Places Project will demonstrate that sustainable activity center growth will benefit our regional communities. The Project examines growth scenarios for activity centers in the region: the Urban Rail system in Austin, the Elgin Activity Center, infrastructure in Dripping Springs, walkable land developments in Lockhart, and the Hutto Activity Center. The SPP has developed an innovative analytics tool to identify the long-term effects of the various scenarios on municipal budgets and the health of communities. The analysis can be used to develop plans that align housing, jobs, and transportation options in a way that complements existing community values. For more information visit www.sustainableplacesproject.com.
Office of Sustainability – City of Austin The Office of Sustainability works collaboratively across multiple projects, and with City departments and community groups, to advance local sustainability and climate action, providing leadership and coordination for initiatives across the Austin community. The Office of Sustainability has created a coordinated framework for sustainability with 10 areas of innovation where we can rethink Austin in a greener mindset. The Sustainability Action Agenda organizes sustainability projects in: Health and Safety, Livability and Complete Neighborhoods, Mobility and Air Quality, Energy and Climate, Water Security, Ecosystems and Green Infrastructure, Zero Waste, Arts and Culture, Schools and Youth, and Green Economy and Innovation. Last year the initiative kicked off more than 150 projects. RL
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Real estate investors Jim Lloyd, left, and Jerry Wilson, right, pose with REALTOR and fund manager David Owen at the monthly RE Investor Pride of Austin Capital Partners Lunch and Learn in the Frost Bank Tower where Wayne Morgan of the Austin Institute of Real Estate was the featured speaker. Submitted Photo
Todd Smith of Fine Austin Living and Kent Redding of Prudential Texas Realty enjoy a little catch up time at the Platinum Top 50 REALTORS White Party. The two once worked together.
Buy photo: RL_060613_N.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Karen Williams, left, of North American Title thanks Christine and KC Whetstone, both of Keller Williams Realty, and David Pavliska of RE/MAX Round Rock for attending her company’s Cinco de Mayo Client Appreciation mixer at its Round Rock branch.
Buy photo: RL_060913_H.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com Buy photo: RL_060313_D.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Garrett Martin of Milestone Community Builders shovels the first pile of dirt at the site of his company’s new luxury home community in Cedar Park, Scottsdale Crossing.
2013 Realty Round Up
Racing Into The Future October 16, 2013 | Palmer Events Center
Start your engines for the 2013 realty round up. This year, the largest real estate trade show in Central Texas is Racing into the future with: • A new location at the Palmer Events Center, • more booth space, • free admission, and • free parking! Reserve your booth by June 30 and receive a $75 discount! Additional advertising opportunities are available. Reserve todaY at abor.com/roundup.
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North American Title 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 R i k i M a r k o w i t z
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orth American Title (NAT), today one of the largest real estate settlement providers in the U.S., is a full-service agent and underwriter operation with a long, storied history, starting with four partners spearheading a small title company in the early 1980s. The company enjoyed unparalleled growth in its early years before joining forces with Lennar Corporation. But to get to know NAT and Austin Division Manager Kristy Santelia, is to understand that the company has had more than one beginning. In 1983, four partners launched North American Title Company in California which was acquired by the Lennar Corporation in 1998. In 1984, Lennar established its affiliated title agency in Miami, Florida. In 1996, the agency entered the Houston market, 1999 Dallas/Ft Worth and in 2000, it entered the Austin market through the acquisition of Texas Professional Title, Inc. By 2001, all of the companies acquired by North American Title Group (NATG) were operating under one name—North American Title Company. Numerous other mergers and acquisitions have occurred since this time allowing North American Title to offer services nationwide. Teaming with Lennar might not have put NAT on the map, but the financial support of the $10.3 billion corporation, and New York
Stock Exchange member, certainly helped North American Title become a competitor among the country’s biggest companies. Kristy Santelia arrived at North American Title in 2002 after serving in the Air Force. “My start in title was a fluke,” says Santelia. “They wanted to hire me but didn’t have a position. I trained at the title plant, learned file examination, became an escrow officer, eventually promoted to branch manager and then division manager.” In 2011, when original founder, Georgia Duke, decided to assume a less involved role, Santelia was promoted and relocated from Houston. Since then, she has set her sites on improving brand recognition and increasing business at the offices currently in operation. Growth and expansion is a new chapter in NAT’s story. “Along with many other companies, we contracted during the recession,” says Santelia. “We were still offering great services but were pared down. Now we’re able to expand again—back to where we were— and set our sites on growing even bigger and better. We are looking to move into different market segments, including different areas of Austin that we weren’t servicing before.” The goal is to open two new offices this year, improving NAT’s presence in the community. One of the distinguishing characteristics of Santelia’s managerial style, a hall-
www.myRealtyLine.com mark of North American Title employees across the board, is a commitment to providing clients with the best service and fostering a great team of solution-oriented associates. For a business that’s as competitive as the title business, NAT’s edge is having a great team, which consists of escrow professionals with 10 to 20 years’ experience servicing the Austin area. They understand the importance of exceeding expectations and making each experience a great one. North American Title also offers underwriting flexibility. “We have seven different underwriters, which give us seven different opportunities to say yes to even the most complex transactions.” One person Santelia thanks for her success is her mentor, Bill Moize, a 45-year veteran of the title business. Moize was born into underwriting. His father started a small shop in Dallas in 1965. In 1999, Lennar came to Moize with a fair offer. The plan was to join North American Title for four years. “After we compared our cultures, it became evident we’d make a good match,” says Moize. “Our contract was up in 2003 and we’re still here. So it’s been a very good relationship.” Working with a corporation like Lennar and folks like Kristy Santelia helped Moize’s family-owned and operated offices expand into Austin and San Antonio. “The managers of our divisions have always told us it feels like they’re running their own business. Sure we have corporate guidelines and policy,” says Moize, “but the management style here has always been to let people grow and blossom in their own way. My personal management style is to foster the brightest stars in
June 2013
Kristy Santelia, Austin Division Manager
the State of Texas and give them an opportunity to succeed.” “The title business is very unusual,” says Moize. “There are no industry schools and no title major in college. It’s not an industry you can break into quickly and become a seasoned veteran in two to three years. If I find someone that has a commitment to service, that’s someone I can mentor.” Santelia surely has those characteristics. “My personal goal is about exceeding expectations,“ she says. “Our associates focus on going above and beyond at every opportunity to build relationships and trust with current and future clients.” Moize used to wonder why his family business, and now North American Title, is so successful. His father provided some memorable insight. “I might not be the smartest guy,” the elder Moize explained, “I just surround myself with the smartest people in the business.” RL
Congratulations
May Top Producer At Starkey Mortgage (WR Starkey Mortgage, LLP NMLSR# 2146) we know the mortgage business...inside and out.Based on the keen insight of our founders, our company is strategically placed and well-positioned to succeed for our clients no matter what the current conditions of the mortgage market may be. In today’s market the name of the lender is irrelevant, but it’s the integrity of the people behind it that is essential. We pride ourselves in being a mid-sized company while continually maintaining our small company mentality.
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Mortgage Banker NMLSR # 316107 Office: 512-329-9040 Cell: 512-577-2060 e-Fax: 866-907-8228 asofia@starkeymtg.com
A Solid, Proven, and Committed Lender! WR Starkey Mortgage, LLP NMLSR# 2146 807 Las Cimas Pkwy., Suite 150, Austin, TX 78746
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This is not a guarantee of nancing. All borrowers must meet certain underwriting guidelines and credit criteria. Rules and Regulations may apply.
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Nick Nowak and Jason Huval, both of Central Metro Realty, show us how mudbugs are cooked at their company’s Crawfish Boil at Old Settlers Park in Round Rock.
Buy photo: RL_051013_A.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
What, what? Someone graciously donated a whirlpool bathtub to Keller Williams Realty Lake Travis to sell at its RED Day Garage Sale where they will raise money for charity. Of course KW agents Vincent Shaw and Melissa Mandry couldn't pass up the opportunity to see how many people could fit inside. We think there's room for one more! Buy photo: RL_060613_A.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Jeff and Tammy Gardner of JB Goodwin REALTORS know that the future’s so bright, they had to wear white (or maybe it’s just the requested attire at the Platinum Top 50 REALTORS White Party at the One World Theatre).
Submitted Photo
Focused on you.
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ITCcalcs053113.pdf 5/30/13 Putting a Face on Real Estate since11995.™
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Commentary
Experts Speak Out
By Wayne Morgan Austin Institute of Real Estate
14 ways to test your marketing collateral
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n our previous article, we wrote that marketing is the number one skill to have and that, as REALTORS, we are all in the education business. If you agree with that, we can start building a marketing campaign that does what marketing is supposed to do: 1. Position you as the expert in your field. 2. Educate your customers about how to “buy” your product or service. 3. Keep you from making heavy discounts to obtain business. 4. Have customers decide, “I would be crazy to do business with anyone but you!” Here are some questions you may find helpful to test your marketing materials to see if they do those four things. Get all of your marketing pieces together: cards, brochures, flyers, etc. Next, access your site. With all of your marketing pieces in front of you, let’s test your marketing and see how you think it stands up. 1. What makes you unique? You must have a unique marketing position—a
phrase or sentence that elevates, separates, differentiates and distinguishes you from all your competitors. You are either unique or the same. If you are the same, or they see you as the same as others, you will be asked to adjust your commission. 2. Why should I do business with you? “Good service” means nothing any more. We can no longer meet their expectations. We all have to exceed their expectations. 3. Is what you are saying believable? Do you believe it? 4. Is your message filled with “I” “me”, “mine”, “our” “us” words? If so, remove them and replace them with “you” and “yours”. Consumers want to know what is in it for them. 5. Who else can say what you say? Your competitors may not be able to do what you do. But, can they say what you say? If so, the marketing doesn’t pass. 6. Is there an offer? Use a lowrisk offer to drive them to action whereby
10. Do you take credit for things you are supposed to do? Read the ad. When you’re done can you say “Well, I would hope so!” 11. Do you measure your results? Measure the results of every action taken and every dollar spent Drop what doesn’t work; focus on what does. 12. What conclusion do you want them to come to? They must come to a conclusion— ideally that they would benefit by taking some action. 13. Is there a direct response trigger or a call to action? Does it say what action to take? Does it say to either call or e-mail you or go to your website for more information (where you can continue building a relationship by educating them in a low-risk way until they decide to do business with you)? 14. Does it answer the question “What’s in it for me?” Your ad must answer this question because that is what we as consumers are asking. You do it, I do it and all your prospects do it. RL
Buy photo: RL_060613_C.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
White clothes can’t mask these colorful personalities—Becky Hopkins of Austin Title, Kristin Carroll of Sente Mortgage and Diana Taber of Keller Williams Realty work the room as they mingle at the Platinum Top 50 REALTORS White Party at One World Theatre.
Austin’s Largest, Award Winning HomeBuilder
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you can further educate them on why they should choose you. Example: “Sell it yourself. Go to my website and download the free report “How to sell your home for top dollar in 60 days or less without a broker”. That will create some activity! 7. Is it educational? Stop selling and start educating. The highest affinity between a customer and a vendor occurs when there is education involved. Show them how to find value in the industry, how to hire a REALTOR, what to look for and what to look out for. Teach them how to buy and sell without you and they will come running to you. 8. Is it filled with adjectives, generalities, and platitudes? Examples: best, all, lowest, highest, every, number one, integrity, honest, trustworthy, good service, on time, follow up. These are old, tired words that don’t add anything to your message and they mean nothing to the consumer. 9. Remove your name and insert the name of a competitor—does the ad still work?
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
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ISSION
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PRESTON Village
Cypress Creek
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Announcing Another Top Selling Community
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Scottsdale Crossing
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AUSTIN West Cypress Hills
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Cedar Park ’s newest luxury community!
Riverside Villas
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Announcing a new exciting lineup of homes including: The latest cutting edge designs
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Majestic oak trees on 60’ home sites • Homes approx. 2,198 to 3,816 sq.ft. • Limited pre-construction pricing
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For more information call 877-676-9622.
Prices, plans, specifications, features, completion dates and the availability of homes are subject to change with notice or obligation. *Extra Realtor commission is available upon closing and with presentation of MileStone Community Builder’s VIP Realtor card.
ask about our $10,000 client incentive!
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AT NORTH AMERICAN TITLE
WE BELIEVE
CUSTOMERS DESERVE PREMIER SERVICE. North American Title has cultivated a team of qualified and experienced title and escrow professionals to ensure your expectations are always exceeded. By choosing North American, you choose to work with knowledgeable and dedicated associates who provide skillful solutions and guide you through the closing process reliably, effectively and efficiently. Our reputation in the real estate industry attests to it. NORTH AMERICAN TITLE COMPANY Like Clockwork ®
NORTH AUSTIN 5608 Parkcrest Drive Suite 150 Austin, TX 78731 t: 512.302.3892 www.facebook.com/Austin.NAT www.nat.com
RESEARCH 11044 Research Blvd. Bldg. D, Suite 100 Austin, TX 78759 t: 512.249.0576
ROUND ROCK 1 Chisholm Trail Suite 3100 Round Rock, TX 78681 t: 512.255.6550
©2013 North American Title Group and its subsidiaries. All Rights Reserved. North American Title Group and its subsidiaries are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for the results obtained from the use of this information. | TX13-2570 R04-29-13
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Ed Ainsworth of Lennar, Julie Ainsworth and Robby Winfield, both of Keller Wiliams Realty, take a tour of the new Gracy Title office in Georgetown during the office grand opening event.
Buy photo: RL_060113_M.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Zuzana Balzerova of Milestone Community Builders and Grant Whittenberger of Outlaw Realty, a Private Label Realty company, stay under the tent at out of the rain during the Milestone Community Builders Ground Breaking ceremony for Scottsdale Crossing, a new luxury home community in Cedar Park. Buy photo: RL_060913_A.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Lago Lopez, left, and Summer Present, right, both of DHI Mortgage, tour Lennar’s new model at Hutto Highlands during the builder’s REALTOR open house event with Brittany Davis of Davis and Associates Realty. Buy photo: RL_050113_N.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com Buy photo: RL_060513_C.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Diane Christy of Diane Christy REALTORS and Tiesa Hollaway of North American Title get ready to enjoy some cuisine de Mexicano at the North American Title Cinco de Mayo Client Appreciation Mixer.
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
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June 2013
EARN MORE, ADD A DESIGNATION Accredited Luxury Home Specialist*
July 29 - 30
Includes 15-Hours of elective MCE
Join the most elite agents in the country by marketing to more affluent clients and specializing in the luxury home market. Discover custom home market trends, clients needs and desires. Learn how to present your services to luxury home buyers, and produce listings and showings for the luxury home market.
$
Mon/Tues Day 1 - 8:30 AM - 4:45 PM Day 2 - 8:30 AM - 4:45 PM Classroom Only
250
Celebrating 30 Years of Excellence in Education
Enroll Today: 512-244-3545
* Experience requirement – Work with 2 luxury home clients. 2 times the average sales price
Certified Home Marketing Specialist
July 31
Includes 9-Hours of elective MCE
Home Staging Skills - Incorporates staging concepts and strategic marketing designed to create an increased level of real estate expertise—from dialogue that motivates sellers to ads and photos that motivate buyers.
199
$
Weds Day 1 - 8:30 AM - 6:15 PM Classroom Only
Courses available in the classroom, home correspondence and online.
MCE RENEWAL, IN CLASS OR ONLINE Farm and Ranch Real Estate
Austin/Round Rock Campus July 10 - 11
15-Hour MCE Package with Legal & Ethics Excellent course for agents looking to improve their rural real estate knowledge. Course covers contracts, mineral rights, reservations in water rights and how they work.
Broker Responsibility
$
Wed/Thurs Day 1 - 8:30 AM - 6:15 PM Day 2 - 8:30 AM - 3:30 PM Available Online
1983 - 2013
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15-Hour MCE Package with Legal & Ethics Brokers who sponsor salespersons or those authorized to supervise other licensees are now required to take this 6-hour course on broker responsibility.
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Broker 06-06-124-24214; Ethics 03-03-123-23556; Hottest 03-00-064-24483; Ethics 03-03-123-23556; Legal 03-03-123-23555; Farm & Ranch 09-00-063-23070; ALHS 15-00-034-24105, CHMS 09-00-084-24324
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Rain, rain go away (not really, just wait until the event is over!) Dana Gilley, center, of Milestone Community Builders, Ed Woolbright, right, of City Wide Realty and Scott Andrews huddle under the tent to stay dry during the Milestone Community Builders Ground Breaking ceremony for its new luxury home community in Cedar Park, Scottsdale Crossing.
Buy photo: RL_060913_K.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Lotti Yuma, Jesse Bryant and Kandis Wilberforce, all of Lennar, stand by to welcome REALTORS to its new model open house in Hutto Highlands.
Buy photo: RL_050513_C.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com Buy photo: RL_060513_B.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Futures are really bright at the Platinum Top 50 REALTORS White Party. Kristin Carroll of Sente Mortgage and Delinda Foster of JB Goodwin REALTORS make their appearance at the event held at One World Theatre.
4 Steps to Effective Communication
TREC MCE Elective Course #: 01-00-065-25652
Build your Business The first step to effective communication is picking the right vehicle for your message. Learn the other three steps to become the person that everyone wants to hear.
Thursday, July18th
12:00 noon – 1:00 p.m. (lunch will be served)
Sente Mortgage | Barton Oaks Plaza | 901 S. MoPac, Bldg. IV, Ste. 125 | Austin,TX 78746
FREE Workshop Optional 1 MCE credit hour for $10 (cash or check only, payable at the door)
Sente Mortgage NMLS ID#Register 13211 |at: www.SenteMortgage.com 901 South MoPac, Building IV Suite 125, Austin TX 78746 | 512.637.9900
www.SenteLearning.com
Sente Mortgage, Inc. | MCE Provider #9841 | NMLS ID# 132111 | www.SenteMortgage.com 901 South MoPac, Building IV Suite 125, Austin TX 78746 | 512.637.9900
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When you join us, the sky’s the limit. Not surprising, since we are now second among real estate franchises as ranked by Entrepreneur Magazine.* ENTREPRENEUR MAGAZINE
2013 500 # FRANCHISE
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With a growing presence in more than 230 markets and 35 states, the independently owned and operated Weichert® franchised offices of Weichert Real Estate Affiliates, Inc. are always looking to add knowledgeable sales associates. Today, in the words of our president, Martin J. Rueter, “Our systems and the strength of the Weichert brand represent an unusually promising opportunity for real estate professionals to represent our company around the nation.” The Weichert commitment to our innovative Internet strategy and our unparalleled agent training have all helped to build Weichert’s reputation as an industry leader in the support of sales associates. Our offices continue to look for ways to grow, so call your local Weichert office today or 800-301-3000. We’d be glad to explain all we can do to send your own fortunes skyward. WEICHERT, REALTORS®– Barton Harris & Co. 8700 Manchaca Road Suite 603 Austin, TX 78748 Phone: 512-330-9300 bart@bartonharrisrealty.com www.weichert.com/careers
Barton Harris & Co.
*2013 Franchise 500®, Entrepreneur Magazine, January 2013 ©2013 Weichert, Realtors®. Weichert® is a federally registered trademark owned by Weichert Co. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. REALTOR® is a federally registered collective membership mark which identifies a real estate professional who is a Member of the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® and subscribes to its strict Code of Ethics. Each WEICHERT® franchised office is independently owned and operated.
RDL 394 WEI Barton Harris 10.25x13.5.indd 1
5/30/13 8:20 AM
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Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
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Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995
Making the rounds at the Platinum Top 50 White Party were Joe Yager of Uptown Realty and Ashley Howard of Austin Title.
Buy photo: RL_060613_M.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Angie Miller of Lennar checks out the new model in Hutto Highlands, a new Lennar community there, with Tim Seibold of Seibold Properties while also talking with him about options the builder offers in her community in Buda.
Buy photo: RL_060513_A.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Wanda Frederick, left, Donna Simmons, center, Michelle Flemming, second from right, all of Gracy Title, Terese Peabody, second from left, of Stanberry and Associates and Lucinda Bachman, right, of Ameripro Funding made sure they all got the memo. They all dressed in their best whites for the Platinum Top 50 REALTORS White Party at One World Theatre.
Buy photo: RL_060713_L.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com Buy photo: RL_060613_F.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Naomi Bludworth of Realty Line is recognized for Best Overall Advertising Campaign for a builder at the Home Builders Association of Greater Austin's MAX Awards Gala at the Renaissance Hotel. We're so proud!
HAVE A PROFESSIONAL GROWTH SPURT
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LEARN MORE BY VISITING WWW.CRS.COM.
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Experts Speak Out
Call 512-821-1900 for information.
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Commentary By Tom Berry, Reliant Title
YES YOU SHOULD Because with the right message and consistency, advertising with us will get you noticed.
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Rules for finding the right fit for your team
I
had lunch with a leading real estate producer last week, and the conversation turned to her challenge in building a team under her that can replicate her individual success. I was surprised to hear that this had been a struggle for her, as she is smart, personable, organized, and has consistently achieved at a high level in real estate. It’s a challenge I hear a great deal from agents who have become very successful in building a business, but then struggle when they attempt to “franchise” themselves. Our discussion turned to her very candid assessment of why she thinks she struggled with this particular aspect of her business. I was impressed with her honesty, and her assessment, because she had identified some very simple rules for team building. Her first rule is self-awareness. In other words, before you start identifying limitations in your team, identify your own limitations. This is important in how you lead people, but it is also important because it dictates how you choose people to lead. If you know
what you need help with, you are much more likely to develop a symbiotic relationship within your team. Too often the very skills that make someone a great individual producer can be an obstacle when it comes time to working with others. She believes being able to accurately assess your own weaknesses, and not be afraid to articulate them to yourself and others, is the first step in effective leadership. Her second rule is awareness of others. Choosing people who not only have the skills, but also the cultural fit with your business is critical. Just because someone can do the job you are hiring for, does not mean they are a good fit for your team. On her team, during talent acquisition, she has learned to focus not only on what is said on the resume and the job application, but also on why someone wants to join her, and why they are leaving where they are. No team or organization is a fit for everyone, no matter how great the model.
Her third rule is defining the role within her team. Once you know yourself and others, it’s important to set expectations. She explained several instances in which talented folks she hired quickly discovered they didn’t like the job she’d hired them for on her team, because they didn’t have an adequate conversation about what the role did and did not entail. As we talked she added her observations about how she is learning the importance of simply reaching out to the people she works with on a regular basis. The simple act of checking in, and acknowledging the work others do is a learned skill for most leaders, and critical to success. RL
HelpP int The Ron Urias Agency
512.448.0844 Do you know the difference between appraised value of a home and replacement cost to structure? Did you know appraised value has NOTHING to do with replacement cost of a residence? One of my passions is to educate Realtors about this misunderstood subject. Call Sandy and I and lets make sure your client has what they need to rebuild the home you helped them to find! 4425 Mopac South, Bldg 2, Ste. 101 Austin, TX 78735 Home • Life • Auto • CommerCiAL • renters “Clients don’t come to us by accident but we handle those too!”
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the avallon building, building 1 | 10415 morado Circle, ste. 100 | austin, tX 78759
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Realty Line Publisher Doren Carver, second from left, hands over the camera so he can thank Kelly Maizel and Amber Thomas, both of Platinum Top 50 REALTORS, for the White Party invite. Longtime friend and associate, David Burton of Horizon Realty, joins in on a quick photo with the group at the One World Theatre. Buy photo: RL_060613_Q.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Lisa Swarts of UAMC, Janet Thomas of DHI Mortgage and Derrick Miller of RE/MAX Austin Skyline tour the new Lennar model home in the new community of Hutto Highlands luau style at the builder’s “Hula in Hutto” REALTOR Open House.
Buy photo: RL_060513_F.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
The ABoR Foundation awards over $70,000 in college scholarships to members’ college bound high school students at its Scholarship Presentation event in the ABoR Auditorium. Submitted Photo
Well that's one way to get rid of a wedding dress you don't want anymore—donate it to Keller Williams Realty's RED Day Garage Sale! Melissa Mandry and Peg Braxton, both of Keller Williams Realty Lake Travis, show off this unusual garage sale item while preparing for the big sale.
Buy photo: RL_060413_G.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
The Austin Institute of Real Estate is The Business School for Real Estate Pros™
50% OFF!
ALL ONLINE CORRESPONDENCE COURSES FROM NOW UNTIL THE END OF THE MONTH! Enter code: RLAUS at www.AustinInstitute.com MCE: $49
SAE: $82 (Get your broker license!) 180 hr. Pre-licensing Package: $410
Why pay more? Buy, read, test, all ONLINE! Go here now: www.AustinInstitute.com Questions? Call: 512-453-0900 8828 Research Blvd. Austin, TX
Correspondence courses are offered by St Edward's University Professional Education Center (#0720) in association with The Austin Institute of Real Estate (#0544/0040).
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Real Estate News & Notes Lourdes Norton, Twin Creeks Realty, earns international designation for luxury home marketing expertise Lourdes Norton with Twin Realty Group, a PLR affiliate has earned the prestigious Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist designation in recognition of her experience, knowledge and expertise in the luxury home market. “Lourdes Norton is an example of a real estate professional who has worked to develop market knowledge and the special skills and competencies necessary to provide exceptional service in the fine homes and estates marketplace,” says Institute President Laurie Moore-Moore, upon announcing Norton’s designation. “Affluent buyers and sellers can turn to sales professionals who have this designation and be confident that they have special expertise and experience in the luxury home marketplace.”
“I am committed to providing outstanding service to my clients,” says Norton. “The Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist designation is evidence of my ability to meet the needs of affluent buyers and sellers. My membership in The Institute for Luxury Home Marketing also provides me with marketing tools and networking capabilities that benefit my clients.” Lourdes Norton is a real estate professional who has gone through special training and met performance standards in the upper tier market. She has been in real estate since 2009 and specializes in the West Austin market. Norton also has 10 years of business experience and is fluent in her native Spanish. RL
Recipients of ABoR Foundation scholarships announced The ABoR Foundation is pleased to announce the recipients of this year’s scholarships. After reviewing the over 250 applications, the Foundation awarded 26 high school seniors and two alumni recipients with a total of $78,600 in scholarships. These students have displayed excellence in both their academics and involvement within their local communities. “The ABoR Foundation is tremendously proud of the students we are able to support. We believe helping these students pursue higher education is an amazing opportunity to advance Central Texas’ vibrant and educated community,” says ABoR Foundation Chair Susan Horton. “A huge thank
you goes out to Central Texas REALTORS, whose support and generosity have facilitated this initiative.” Each year, the ABoR Foundation conducts a drawing for a brand new MercedesBenz to raise funds for the scholarships. For the first time, the ABoR Foundation is awarding five Austin Board of REALTORS Scholarships for $10,000 each to Central Texas students. Congratulations to the following students: • Cheyenne King, Burnet High School • Amanda Muehr. Bastrop High School • Mariah Ramirez, Taylor High School • Samuel Isenberg, Blanco High School • Nichole Hicks, Bastrop High School RL
RL austin
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
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Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995
Lennar honored with three highly coveted MAX Awards The Home Builders Association of Greater Austin awarded Lennar with the MAX Awards last month for Best Product Design—Specialty Product for their revolutionary home design NEXT GEN, as well as Best Website and Marketing Professional of the Year. Each NEXT GEN suite includes a separate entrance, living room, kitchenette, laundry and private bedroom and bathroom. Lennar designed this unique floor plan to be incorporated into the main home floor plan in a way that allows this separate space to be seamlessly connected to the main home. “Imagine having your parents nearby to help care for your children, or saving money on adult care for them because they live with you,” says Fred Wyborski, Austin’s division president of Lennar. “ “Lennar.com resonates with consumers by allowing them to customize many fields for their own personal tastes for not only a home
but a community as well. Friendly icons, beautiful photography, large floor plan images and social media widgets are all part of the consumer’s experience for the techie demographic of this market.” says Kandis WilKandis Wilberforce named berforce, marketMarketing Professional of the Year ing coordinator by Home Builders Association for Lennar and winner of the 2013 Marketing Professional of the Year award. The MAX Awards is presented by the HBA of Greater Austin, which is made up of more than 800 home building industry firms. RL
Rough Hollow celebrates community center grand opening Rough Hollow Lakeway, recently celebrated the grand opening of the newest amenity for residents, the Highland Village Community Center and water-themed amenity. “We’re very excited about Highland Village. We’ve been waiting for it to open since before we moved in,” says Rough Hollow resident of one year Ed Balon. “We’re looking forward to having fun with our son this summer with such a nice place to splash around. Living at Rough Hollow feels like we’re on vacation all the time.” The new Highland Village water-themed amenity includes a children’s zero depth entry pool, toddler splash pads and water foun-
tains, a lazy river and an adult pool with a swim-up bar and grotto. Highland Village also includes an amphitheater and a pavilion with a full catering kitchen available for private events, as well as community events. “We’re excited to welcome our residents to the new Highland Village Community Center, the latest world-class amenity for those living the Rough life!” says Judd Brook, sales and marketing team leader at Rough Hollow Lakeway. “We’ve been looking forward to bringing Highland Village to fruition since the project began, and we’re happy to share this new space with our Rough Hollow community.” RL
ARE YOU TRYING TO FIT EVERYONE INTO AN FHA LOAN? Buyers save more with conventional loans insured by United Guaranty. Choosing conventional loans insured with United Guaranty over FHA loans has clear advantages. More home buying power, faster closings and bigger savings for buyers. And that leads to lots of satisfied customers, more referrals and a growing business for you. Compare the numbers at UGCORP.COM/FHA or call 877-642-4642.
©2013 United Guaranty Corporation. All rights reserved. United Guaranty is a marketing term for United Guaranty Residential Insurance Company and United Guaranty Mortgage Indemnity Company. 230 N. Elm St., Greensboro, NC 27401. Coverage is available through admitted company only. United Guaranty is a registered mark.
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NEW MODELS NOW OPEN! HUTTO HIGHLANDS 115 Hendelson Lane Hutto, TX
From the $150’s
WOODLANDS PARK
1299 Woodlands Drive Kyle, TX
From the $160’s
The Designer Label of Luxury Homebuilding ADDRESS
PLAN
SQ. FT.
BD/BA/STORIES
1. BRADSHAW CROSSING • ERIC: 512-407-0404
5829 Kleberg Trail 5825 Kleberg Trail 5821 Kleberg Trail 5813 Kleberg Trail
Summit Sunset Ridge Summit Sunset Ridge
2379 2050 2379 2050
4/2.5/2 3/2.5/2 4/2.5/2 3/2.5/2
COMMISSION
PRICE
June June June June
4% 4% 4% 4%
$216,340 $206,890 $219,865 $205,565
SOLD SOLD SOLD
SOLD SOLD SOLD
$154,415 $174,640 $158,215
2. COLORADO CROSSING • CLYDE: 512-496-4163 7212 Crestone Road 7200 Crestone Road 7204 Crestone Road
Tucson Sedona Navajo
1313 2402 1641
4/2/1 4/2.5/2 4/2.5/2
3. FALCON POINTE • BRUCE: 512-657-3326 or CINDY 512-736-2698 18801 Shallow Pond Trail 18904 Still Pond Road 3025 Open Plain Drive 18917 Still Pond Road
Whitney Travis Mackenzie Medina
2214 2958 3200 2168
4/3/1 4/3.5/2 4/3.5/2 3/3/1
NOW! NOW! June June
4% 4% 4% 4%
$269,875 $313,005 $315,050 $255,344
4. STONEFIELD • SALLY: 512-401-7717 or CHRISTINA: 512-629-7580 160 Vermillion Marble Trail 178 Vermillion Marble Trail 186 Vermillion Marble Trail 194 Vermillion Marble Trail
Laurel Iris Jasmine Iris
1525 1899 1389 1899
3/2/1 4/2.5/2 3/2/1 4/2.5/2
NOW! NOW! SOLD NOW!
4% 4% SOLD 4%
$180,564 $196,540 $171,324 $197,090
5. SUMMERLYN • DENISE: 512-777-9565 or CLAYTON 512-619-7628 152 Bufflehead Lane 236 Chickadee Lane 231 Chickadee Lane 129 Bufflehead Lane 108 Bufflehead Lane 220 Chichadee Lane
Sante Fe Lavender Iris Navajo Navajo Iris
2206 1755 1899 1641 1641 1899
4/2.5/2 4/2.5/2 4/2.5/2 4/2.5/2 4/2.5/2 4/2.5/2
NOW! NOW! NOW! June June June
4% 4% 4% 4% 4% 4%
$186,040 $187,990 $197,015 $178,615 $175,015 $198,865
6. TERAVISTA • WILL: 512-913-1863 1909 Greenside Trail 2016 Greenside Trail 1910 Greenside Trail
Alabaster Terrazzo Obsidian
2731 2551 2384
4/3/2 4/3.5/2 4/2.5/2
NOW! NOW! SOLD
4% 4% SOLD
$288,336 $290,799 $273,959
7. HUTTO HIGHLANDS • Lottie: 512-373-0939 109 Marklawn Lane 205 Marklawn Lane 207 Marklwan Lane 108 Colthorpe Lane 106 Colthorpe Lane 104 Colthorpe Lane
Violet Daylily Violet Daylily Bluebonnet Daylily
1849 2382 1849 2382 2020 2382
4/2/91 4/2.5/2 4/2/1 4/2.5/2 4/2/1 4/2.5/2
NOW! June June June June June
4% 4% 4% 4% 4% 4%
$176,705 $195,980 $174,930 $205,855 $187,980 $214,747
8. WOODLANDS PARK • ANGIE 512-470-3925 or BORIS: 512-626-8473 152 Dark Forest 164 Dark Forest 176 Dark Forest 202 Dark Forest 214 Dark Forest 226 Dark Forest 238 Dark Forest
Orchid Rosebud Daylily Daylily Hibiscus Daylily Bluebonnet
2567 1685 2382 2382 2945 2382 2020
4/2.5/2 3/2/1 4/2.5/2 4/2.5/2 5/3/2 4/2.5/2 4/2/1
LENNAR.COM
June June June June June June June
4% 4% 4% 4% 4% 4% 4%
$211,764 $173,782 $202,737 $216,305 $226,150 $204,055 $192,130
Prices, features and amenities are subject to change without notice. Visit Lennar.com or see a Lennar New Home Consultant for further details. To qualify for any applicable referral bonus/incentive, registration must occur on the first visit. Offer valid only in states where referrals are permitted. *Effective 6/1/13, 4% commission will be paid on select inventory homes that sell between 6/1/13 and 6/30/13. Ad must be presented at time of contract. Homes must close and fund by 6/30/13. Not valid in conjunction with any other offer. Offers, incentives and seller contributions are subject to certain terms, conditions, and restrictions, which may include use of designated lenders and closing agents. Offer good for a limited time only. Copyright © 2013 Lennar Corporation. Lennar and the Lennar logo, and The Everything’s Included logo are registered service marks or service marks of Lennar Corporation and/or its subsidiaries. 6/13
ADDRESS
PLAN
SQ. FT.
BD/BA/STORIES AVAILABLE COMMISSION PRICE
1. TERAVISTA • Steve: 512-970-3359 or Debbie: 512-808-8729 4219 Pebblestone Trail
New Haven
3946
5/4.5/2
SOLD
SOLD
465,935
4314 Woodledge Place
Bayberry
3487
4/3.5/2
NOW!
4%
$475,698
4316 Woodledge Place
Kinsley
2800
4/3/1
NOW!
4%
$438,361
4212 Pebblestone Trail
Concordia
3548
5/4/2
SOLD
SOLD
$418,059
4210 Pebblestone Trail
Savoy
2834
4/3.5/2
NOW!
4%
$369,937
4206 Pebblestone Trail
Concordia
3548
5/4/2
SOLD
SOLD
$416,984
4303 Greatview Trail
Hartford
3273
4/4.5/2
SOLD
SOLD
$459,916
4317 Greatview Drive
Hartford
3427
4/4.5/2
SOLD
SOLD
$
$
457,834
2. RIM ROCK •COLIN: 284-342-5580 1122 Flint Rock Loop
Langford
3154
4/3.5/1
SOLD
SOLD
$
433,643
268 Southern Sunset Cove
Castille
3246
4/3.5/2
SOLD
SOLD
$
262 Southern Sunset Cove
Concordia
3766
5/4/2
SOLD
SOLD
$399,900
1773 Flint Rock Loop
Castille
3246
4/3.5/2
August
4%
$443,395
302 Towering Cedar Drive
Savoy
2834
4/3.5/1.5
August
4%
$422,189
431,324
3. ROUGH HOLLOW • WILL: 512-809-8026 or Jason 512-619-3148 101 Waverley Spire Court
Concordia
3766
4/2/1/3 Car
SOLD
SOLD
$
465,607
205 Wester Ross Lane
Savoy
2834
4/3.5/1.5/3 Car
SOLD
SOLD
$419,715
103 Princes Court
Belmeade
2407
4/2/1/3 Car
SOLD
SOLD
$407,309
206 Tavish Trail
Castille
3421
4/3.5/2/3 Car
SOLD
SOLD
$447,195
104 Princes Court
Belmeade
2407
4/2/1/3 Car
NOW!
4%
$418,234
New Section Now Open in Rough Hollow! VILLAGEBUILDERS.COM/AUSTIN
Prices, features and amenities are subject to change without notice. Visit Lennar.com or see a Lennar New Home Consultant for further details. To qualify for anyapplicable referral bonus/incentive, registration must occur on the first visit. Offer valid only in states where referrals are permitted. *Effective 6/1/13, 4% commission will be paid on select inventory homes that sell between 6/1/13-6/30/13. Ad must be presented at time of contract. Homes must close and fund by 6/30/13. *Not valid in conjunction with any other offer. Offers, incentives and seller contributions are subject to certain terms, conditions, and restrictions, which may include use of designated lenders and closing agents. Offer good for a limited time only. Copyright © 2013 Lennar Corporation. Village Builders and the Village Builders logos are registered service marks or service marks of Lennar Corporation and/or its subsidiaries. 6/13
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
RL austin
TM
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995
www.myRealtyLine.com
June 2013
40
Lori Bolton of Central Metro Realty is about to throw down some Louisiana mudbugs with her friend, Justin Garner, at her company’s Crawfish Boil at Old Settlers Park in Round Rock.
Buy photo: RL_051013_B.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Awe, it’s like high school all over again. David Schneider of Goldwasser Real Estate and Susan Horton of John Horton Realty, a Private Label Realty company, are crowned prom king and queen at the ABoR Denim and Diamonds 2013 TREPAC Prom. AYREP President Kyle Lynch and David Burton of Horizon Realty congratulate the “couple.” Buy photo: RL_060813_B.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com Buy photo: RL_061013_E.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Can you hear me now? How about now? Steve Builta of Hometrust Mortgage tries hard to get a signal while at the AMBA Spring Golf Tournament at the Great Hills Golf Club.