It’s that time again...Register for the 2009 TREPAC Golf Tournament today! Calling all golfers! Registration for the annual Texas Real Estate Political Action Committee (TREPAC) Golf Tournament is now underway. The tournament will be held on Friday, May 1 at the award-winning Falconhead Golf Club, located at 15201 Falconhead Blvd. in South Austin. With a registration fee of just $99 per person, this event is sure to sell out. If golf isn’t your sport, you can still show your support for TREPAC by purchasing a $25 dinner ticket.
The 2009 TREPAC Golf Tournament begins at 10 a.m. with check-in and practice. Lunch will be served from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., at which time the tournament will begin. Be sure to stay for the awards ceremony and dinner at 5:30 p.m. Prizes will be awarded for putting, men’s longest drive, women’s longest drive and more. Registration fee includes lunch, range balls, green fees, golf cart, beverages and dinner. Payments are accepted via cash, check or credit card. All payments are a direct investment in TREPAC. For more information and to purchase tickets, contact Emily Chenevert at echenevert@abor.com or 454-7636, ext. 1501.
Upcoming Events: MARCH 25 ABoR Foundation Mueller Tour Purchase Tickets for $10 - 11 a.m. MARCH 26 WCR Monthly Networking Meeting ABoR Auditorium - 11 a.m. APRIL 2 Crawfish Boil Builder/REALTOR Mixer Falconhead West - 6 to 10 p.m. APRIL 15 Austin Mortgage Bankers Meeting Austin Country Club - 11:30 a.m. APRIL 17 WCAoR Grand Opening 123 E. Old Settlers Blvd - 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. MAY 1 TREPAC Golf Tournament Falconhead Golf Club - 10 a.m. MAY 18 AMBA Spring Golf Event Great Hills Country Club - 10 a.m.
–A s s o c i a t e s I n —
Pr o g r e s s
MARCH 2009 • VOL. 13 • ISSUE 11
Enjoyable. Entertaining. It’s all About You.
ABoR Foundation helps students pursue goals ABoR Foundation chair Carol Medley Parker listens intently as ambitious and academically talented high school seniors tell her why he or she is deserving of a scholarship. She is both filled with sorrow and pride, as these teenagers share their stories of dedication amid a variety of strife. One works long hours to pay his own college expenses because his father is incarcerated and won’t be able to help. Another lives with her elderly grandfather because her mother recently died from breast cancer. Another is so focused that he has already accumulated 20 hours of college credit by taking dual credit courses while in high school, and hopes to be an engineer. Another works diligently as a volunteer at a local vet clinic to prepare herself for her goal of becoming a veterinarian. “They are really incredible kids,” Parker says. “You always need a box of tissues when you conduct the interviews. They deserve these scholarships.” More than 300 students each year submit applications and the Foundation selects 25 to 30 for personal interviews, after which 10 to 12 are awarded $1,000 scholarships to attend a Texas college or university. Established in 1978, the ABoR Foundation has awarded nearly 250 scholarships and now hopes to grow its funds to increase the number of scholarships granted each year or increase the amount of each scholarship. “One of our goals is to create an endowment where enough interest would be generated to pay for the scholarships,” Parker says. “In addition, some REALTORS have created Individual scholarships and we would like to encourage endowments through trusts or other legal avenues.” Parker works with six other directors: vice chairman Cathy Coneway of Stanberry Commercial REALTORS, John Horton of John Horton Realty, Carol Dochen of Carol Dochen REALTORS, Leonard Guerrero of JB Goodwin REALTORS and Kara
P.O. Box 81366 Austin, Texas 78708-1366
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McGregor and Foundation Friends chairman Laura Pagnozzi, both of Independence Title. To increase reserves for the scholarships, the directors hope to make more REALTORS aware of the Foundation and its purpose, in hopes of shoring up donations. The Directors have visited many of the REALTOR organizations, visited oneon-one with REALTORS, hosted open houses and conducted silent auctions at various events. “Some of our most successful events have been several luxury open houses in Barton Creek organized by Laura Pagnozzi of Independence Title and Chair of the Friends of the Foundation,” Parker says. “We also had a downtown condo bus tour put togethTickets are $10 per person er by Cathy Coneway of Stanberry & (lunch provided) Associates. We had nearly 400 REALBus Tour viewing model homes TORS join us and we raised $14,000. and Mueller Community “Many people think to raise funds you have to go out and find a $100,000 Over $1000 in giveaways donor or a $10,000 donor, but it does not and door prizes happen like that. It is more of a grass roots effort. If I charge you $10 and then Tickets can be purchased give you something back for that $10 from one of the Friends of the then we have built awareness of the Foundation or online at campaign and it will grow from there.” WWW.ABOR.COM What should promise to be another successful fundraiser is the March 25 tour of the Mueller Development, a planned community located at northbound I-35 and 51st Street. A mix of residential and retail buildings, the project seeks to create a sustainable neighborhood built on the principles of New Urbanism. The event lasts from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and includes a tour of model homes, lunch at the Old Mueller Hangar and an address by Austin Mayor Will Wynn. Chartered buses will pick up attendees between 11-11:45 a.m. in the Mueller Development retail center. The $10 fee also includes registration for more than $1,000 in giveaways. The Foundation is an independent 501(c) nonprofit organization so tickets fees and donations are tax deductible. “The Mueller community has committed to providing the ABoR Foundation with a matching donation for each attendee, so this is a great opportunity to maximize your contribution,” Parker says. Foundation Continued on page 7
Mueller Development Property Tour Wednesday, March 25
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Realty Line of Austin
March 2009
Three ABoR Members honored by State Association
The Austin Board of REALTORS® (ABoR) congratulates Sytha Gustafson Minter, Charles R. Porter and James A. Reed for the honors they received at the 2009 Texas Association of REALTORS® (TAR) Winter Meeting this month. Garnering awards in both political involvement and education, these individuals exemplify the diversity and dedication of our
membership. Sytha Gustafson Minter of Horizon Realty received the Strike Force Award for her contributions to TAR’s grassroots initiatives. Minter was awarded this honor based on her involvement in the opportunity race program, her service as a legislative liaison and her participation in various TAR Political Affairs programs.
Visiting at the Highland Homes “There’s no place like a Highland Home” REALTOR luncheon held at Cool River Cafe was Highland Homes’ Ron Glenn, division vice president and Jean Ann Brock, executive vice president/co-owner and Mark Sprague of Residential Strategies.
She is also a committed investor in the Texas Real Estate Political Action Committee (TREPAC) and a registered voter. Charles R. Porter, 2007 ABoR Chairman and owner of Bryker Properties, received this year’s Ethics Program Award for his course “Basic Water Rights of Texas,” which premiered in June 2008. This class explores the important role water rights play in Texas real estate brokerage, touching on topics including the founding principles of Texas water law, the “Rule of Capture” and how it impacts aquifers, and riparian rights and “flowing water.” James A. Reed of James A. Reed and Associates received the Sales and Marketing Program Award for his “Short Sales 101” course. In this class, agents are provided with a fuller understanding of the process involved in negotiating “short sale” transactions. First taught in July 2008, the course educates students on what constitutes a short sale, how the foreclosure process is handled in Texas, how to successfully negotiate a short sale and common problems with these transactions. More information on TREPAC and ABoR’s political involvement may be found at www.abor.com/gov_affairs/home.cfm. Both “Basic Water Rights of Texas” and “Short Sales 101” are offered regularly through the ABoR Academy. Visit www.abor.com/courses to view a full course schedule and to register for classes.
A PUBLICATION OF © CAXTON PUBLICATIONS, INC.
Realty Line of Austin is published monthly by ©Caxton Publications, Inc., as a non-subscription publication for the more than 8,500 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. ©Caxton Publications, Inc. dba Realty Line of Austin is an active 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. Caxton Publications, Inc. dba Realty Line of 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.
Doren L. Carver PUBLISHER
Tawanna K. Carver MANAGING EDITOR
Linda McNabb CONTRIBUTING EDITOR/WRITER/PHOTOGRAPHER
COLUMNISTS Jay Gohil - ABoR Chairman Marie Dang-Schwartz - WCR President Wes Peoples - HBA President Barbara Wigginton - WCAoR President All photos, press releases or article submissions can be sent to
E-mail: realtyline@austin.rr.com
P. O. Box 81366, Austin, Texas 78708 Office: 821-1900 www.realtylineonline.com
Realty Line of Austin
March 2009
ABoR CHAIRMAN’S COLUMN
New MCE Courses offer a Real Estate Reality Check By Jay Gohil • Jay Gohil Realty 2009 Chairman • Austin Board of REALTORS To help you better understand all aspects of the real estate industry, the ABoR Academy has added two new MCE courses: Real Estate Reality — Property Management and Real Estate Reality — Leasing. Each class carries three hours of Mandatory Continuing Education (MCE) credit (TREC approval pending) and costs $27 for ABoR members and $33 for non-members. Both courses will premier on Thursday, April 2 and will be taught by Bill Evans. Real Estate Reality — Property Management will last from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. Students will learn how the Code of Ethics applies to property management, how to communicate with owners and tenants, which forms are currently used in these transactions and how the Texas Property Code comes into play. Real Estate Reality — Leasing covers who may lease properties, how to attract clients, which party the leasing agent represents, no-fault advertising and the realities of property leasing. The class will be held from 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. To register for either of these courses, visit www.abor.com/courses. If you have questions or concerns, please contact ABoR’s Education Department at education@abor.com or 454-7636.
Update to Property Forms – Don’t Miss These Changes!
Recommendations from ABoR’s Risk Reduction Task Force and mandates from the National Association of REALTORS® have prompted changes to the Seller ’s Disclosure and Exclusive Right to Sell Agreement forms. Agents are encouraged to review these new forms, which are available at https://www.abor.com/mls/pforms.cfm and through the Texas Association of REALTORS® (TAR) ZipForm library, available at www.texasrealtors.com under the “Legal Tools” heading. The Seller ’s Disclosure form now features several new checkboxes, as well as verbiage to address the City of Austin’s Energy Audit requirement and the installation of smoke detectors for the hearing impaired. Additionally, a new form titled
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“Addendum Updating Seller ’s Disclosure Notice” has been created. This form eliminates the need for the “Seller ’s Disclosure Notice of Changes to Property Condition” box from the Seller ’s Disclosure notice. A sentence concerning IDX options has been added to Item 7E of the Exclusive Right to Sell Agreement: “I understand and acknowledge that, if I have selected option (b) above, consumers who conduct searches for listings on the Internet will not see information about the Property in response to their search. (Seller ’s initials required.)” If you have questions or concerns regarding changes to the Seller ’s Disclosure or Exclusive Right to Sell Agreement forms, please contact ABoR’s MLS Support Team at mlssupport@abor.com or 454-7636.
Participants Wanted for “I am ABoR” Campaign
Would you like to be featured on the homepage of Abor.com? ABoR’s Marketing Department is currently seeking participants for its ongoing “I Am ABoR” campaign. The campaign uses ABoR members’ photographs and quotations to illustrate the value of their ABoR membership and to encourage other members to become active in the association. The photos and quotations are displayed on the homepage of Abor.com and are rotated regularly throughout the year. If you are interested in taking part, contact the Marketing Department at marketing@abor.com or 454-7636 by Friday, April 24. Please note that only current ABoR members may participate in this campaign and that members showing a strong commitment to the Association will be given first priority.
TREPAC Investing Goes Online
If you are looking for a quick and easy way to invest in the Texas Real Estate Political Action Committee (TREPAC), we have the answer. A new TREPAC online investment feature is available through the Government Affairs section of Abor.com. Simply click on the link beneath the “Invest in TREPAC” heading to make your investment. Contributing to TREPAC is an excellent way to protect your profession. Throughout the year, TREPAC works to promote legislation supporting private property rights and the real estate industry. To learn more, visit http://www.abor.com/gov_affairs/home.cfm or contact ABoR’s Government and Community Affairs Department at government@abor.com or 454-7636.
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4
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March 2009
Sandy Mann and Diana Taber, also known as City Girls Residential, celebrate winning the top team award for listing volume and were bronze medal winners GCI $60,000-$119,999 or 15-26 units sold at the Keller Williams Realty Southwest Market Center awards.
the pics Purchase ine at r o w ie L V in Realty e.com you see lin n o e altylin www.re
Jim Clark of the Big, Big Art Show at Pacesetter Homes’ grand opening in Greenridge in Round Rock helps Cecily and Sean Hamilton pick up some art for their new home. Stop by the Greenridge community today and visit with Rudi Rosengarten. She’ll show your clients around.
Bill Hubbard of BR Hubbard Realty Services thanks Sean LeGrant of Taylor Morrison Homes for showing him around the model at Falconhead West.
Get your 15 hours of MCE completed in 3 days! Dates: April 14th- April 16th NEW LOCATION! This year’s event to be held at the brand new location of the Williamson County Association of Realtors.
Registration coming soon www.IndependenceTitle.com (Education/Training Tab) or contact your business development representative today!
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March 2009
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The KB Kronicle MARCH 5, 2009
KBHOME.COM
512-651-8059
KB Home 2009 Realtor Bonus Program
What level are you at?
New model Realtor Sneak Peak! Visit Silverado Ranch and Westwood on March 25 from 11am-2pm for an exclusive preview of our newest models in these great communities.
FIrst CLOSING
3% COMMISSION
Silverado Ranch Starting from $144,950 • 2 Model Homes • 18 Floorplans
Paid at slab*
• 1,246-3,728 square feet • 1-2 Story Homes • 3-5 Bedrooms • 2-2.5 Bathrooms • 512-260-5805
Second CLOSING
4% COMMISSION
Silverado Ranch
Vista Ridge
Colonial Parkway
Vista Ridge High School
Parmer Lane
1431
Brushy Creek
Westwood
Third Closing
Starting from $109,950 • 2 Model Homes • 18 Floorplans
5% COMMISSION
• 1,246-3,728 square feet • 1-2 Story Homes • 3-5 Bedrooms • 2-2.5 Bathrooms • 512-528-1371
and for each additional CLosing thereafter Here's how it works: To participate or qualify for this offer you must be a Texas licensed real estate agent and agree to the following terms of the program. Homes that close escrow from 1/1/09 through 12/31/09 are eligible for this program. Bonus Program applicable in communities with 3% base commission on built to order homes. 3% Realtor commission is paid in full at slab within 2 weeks of slab pour on built to order homes only, excluding Fairway Estates in Circle C Ranch, and will be processed after the foundation is poured. To be eligible for any prepayment of commission The purchase of the Property can not be contingent upon Purchaser’s sale or lease of an existing home. In addition, Purchaser(s) shall have obtained unconditional loan approval acceptable to Seller from a qualified lender prior to the time the slab is being poured and purchase the home as an owner occupied primary residence. Any "Bonus" commission will be paid at close of escrow only. Commission is paid on base price and lot premium only. Studio options are not factored into the calculation of any commissions paid on Built to Order homes. Commission on inventory homes is calculated on total price less discounts. Contingency removal programs do not qualify for graduated commission program. If any commission is pre-paid and the buyer doesn't close escrow on that property, that real estate agent will no longer be eligible for any future pre-payment of commission. Realtor must be procuring cause of sale and accompany buyer to or register the buyer at the community on or before sale date. *Sale must close escrow to qualify for graduated commission rate. Any pre-payment or bonus program is subject to change without notice.
17 new-home communities to choose from. 130 TOLL
16 Temple
Williams Dr
Leander
tern hwes Sout Blvd
29
NORTH Wildwood Dr
95
13
Georgetown 39 7 p Lo o
1431 3406 Vistae Ridg Blvd
11
Champions Dr
12
1460
183
35
Rd Creek Brushy
SOUTH AUSTIN
GEORGETOWN
1 El Camino Real
7 Berdoll Farms
13 University Park
1,109–2,837 sq. ft.
From the $80s
From the $100s
(512) 878-0927
1,109–2,962 sq. ft.
1,109–3,728 sq. ft.
(512) 247-6174
(512) 863-8363
8 The Enclave at Circle C
TAYLOR
KYLE
2243 Sunny Brook
Wood Way
SAN MARCOS
14
North Park Dr
2 Waterleaf From the $90s 1,109–3,728 sq. ft.
79
(512) 262-2117
Round Rock 183A TOLL
Gattis School Rd
Lake Travis
3 Plum Creek
45 TOLL
15
Red Bud Blvd
620
71
45
n W. Parme r L
TOLL
Cedar Park
From the $140s Pflugerville
(512) 268-0780
1 1825
2222
17 85 M6
Burnet Rd
Lake Austin
130
F
TOLL
Elgin
Austin
360
71
1
Oak Hill
290 290 71
Nuckols Crossing
St. Elmo Stassney
5
4 FM 1
50
3 2
Kyle
35
Alum Rock Dr
FM 973
Salt Spring Dr
William Ca nnon Slaughter
1
Ross Rd
Escarpment
Bluff Springs
9 10 8
1
(512) 432-0107 9 Enclave Estates at Circle C
Pearce Lane
130
From the low $100s 1,109–3,824 sq. ft. (512) 365-3262
From the high $300s
PFLUGERVILLE
3,169–5,211 sq. ft.
15 Spring Trails
(512) 432-0107
From the $150s
From the low $200s
From the mid $400s
TEMPLE
1,903–5,211 sq. ft.
3,015–5,368 sq. ft.
(512) 292-3652
(512) 432-0103
16 Village of Sage Meadows
5 McKinney Heights
CEDAR PARK
From the $90s
From the $80s
11 Silverado Ranch
1,582–3,728 sq. ft.
1,090–2,561 sq. ft.
From the $140s
(254) 780-9037
(512) 282-0014
1,585–5,211 sq. ft.
NORTH AUSTIN
From the $80s (512) 247-6174
• KB Home is an Energy Star Certified Builder. • KB Home is the only national builder to receive the prestigious National Housing Quality (NHQ) Certification. • KB Home offers Down Payment Assistance programs for qualified buyers. • KB Home Austin has a dedicated Broker/Realtor Liaison to make selling a KB Home a smooth and positive experience for our valuable Realtors! • KB Home pays Realtors 3% Commission at slab pour on Built-To-Order homes (some conditions apply).
1,743–3,742 sq. ft.
10 Fairway Estates at Circle C
1,106–2,962 sq. ft.
50
14 Summerfield
4 Oak at Twin Creeks
6 Meadows at Berdoll
TOLL
San Marcos
SOUTH AUSTIN
2,226–3,332 sq. ft.
(512) 260-5805
7 6
183
FM 1
1,326–2,000 sq. ft.
From the high $200s
Did you know...
(512) 990-5304
17 Lakes at Northtown
LEANDER
From the $140s
12 Westwood
1,659–3,728 sq. ft.
From the $110s
(512) 670-0217
1,202–2,962 sq. ft. (512) 528-1371
©2009 KB Home (KBH). Broker Cooperation Welcome. Prices/terms subject to change, prior sale, homesite premiums and/or predetermined options. Floorplans, options, elevations, views vary by community/homesite location and are not guaranteed. Prices subject to change without notice. Restrictions and limitations apply. See sales agents for details.
If you would like to receive weekly updates from KB Home with our current inventory list, Realtor bonuses, and upcoming events, please email our Broker/Realtor Liaison, Colette Fitzgerald at cfitzgerald@kbhome.com.
• Recognized as the “World’s Most Admired Homebuilder” by FORTUNE Magazine in 2009.
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March 2009
It pays to visit a JB Goodwin REALTORS open house, as Jeffrey Cicolani found out when he won a $1,000 drawing at an open house held by agent David Hardt of the Westlake office. Entries had been taken at various locations over the past three months.
Mary Miner, standing, right, of M.E. “Gene” Johnson REALTORS thanks Jennifer Entner, standing left, of Texas American Title for letting her conduct an MCE class in Jennifer’s office.
Rose Costas of Prudential Ultima Realty and Victor Montalvo, NAHREP’s past president, enjoy visiting while waiting for a nice meal at Cool River Café where NAHREP held its monthly luncheon.
Realty Line of Austin
March 2009
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WCR PRESIDENT’S COLUMN
A Message From Your President
By Marie Dang-Schwartz • Realty Executives Austin 2009 President • Women’s Council of REALTORS Joyce Melugin of Amelia Bullock REALTORS and Fred Norton, CRS Austin chapter president-elect, discuss the latest headlines at the organization’s quarterly meeting at Westwood Country Club. Foundation
Continued from front page
Future projects under consideration are a Fun Run in the fall and possible involvement with area food banks and Habitat for Humanity. These would support the Foundation’s goal of developing strong ties to the community to foster positive relations between REALTORS and consumers. Previously, the Foundation was able to donate considerable contributions for disaster relief after Hurricane Rita and Hurricane Ike hit parts of Texas. “A REALTOR could go out and cultivate community goodwill on his or her own, but why not get involved with an organization that is already doing it?” Parker says. “Collectively, we have more power to make a positive impact than we do individually.” To get involved with the Foundation, or make donations to the 2009 Scholarship Fund, please contact one of the Directors or Friends of the Foundation. To purchase tickets for the Mueller Development tour, go to ABoR.com or contact any of the following Friends of the Foundation: Laura Pagnozzi, chair, lpagnozzi@independencetitle.com; Connie Hentosh, chentosh@hhomesltd.com; Kevin Bales, kbales@firstam.com; Alisa Leblanc, aleblanc@nat.com; Randi Grove, rgrove@timeinsurance.com; April Downey, adowney@independencetitle.com; Doren Carver, realtyline@austin.rr.com; Lynn Bates, lbates@aptaustin.com; Mary Ellen Schmidt, meschmidt@ahslink.com; Vicky Gouge, gouge@fullmoondesigngroup.com; Linda Schulman, lschulman@independencetitle.com; and Andrea Gowan, andrea@kpaustin.com, or Sandy Mann and Diana Taber, both of Keller Williams Realty.
Dear members, The Executive Officers and I had an opportunity to represent the Austin Chapter at the TAR/WCR Winter meeting. The WCR State Chapter had another opportunity to raise money for TREPAC with a top-notch “Celebrity Waiter Dinner” evening event. WCR National President Becky Hill, as Sonny, and TAR Trustee, David Burton, as Cher, rocked through the night. The event was so much fun and the State Chapter was able to raise $11,000 for TREPAC through its members and guests. I also had an opportunity to see the NAR President, Charles McMillan, at the meeting. He has been actively supporting our Texas REALTORS by attending every session. Please help me to congratulate Joe Stewart, our 2005 WCR Austin Chapter past president, who will serve as the 2010 TAR Secretary/Treasurer. In addition, Mary Miner, who is a WCR member and current director of the Williamson County Association of REALTORS, now holds the position of TAR Region 8 Vice President for 2010. We wish you both a great journey, which fulfills your visions and goals for our State. Our next Social Networking Mixer will be on the second Tuesday in April. More details will come, and if you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact WCR Networking Committee chair Becky Hopkins. Our next monthly luncheon will be on Thursday, March 26 at ABoR. We will have Dr. James P. Gaines from the Real Estate Center at Texas A&M. Dr. Gaines will help us to understand the 2009 Economic and Housing Outlook in Austin and the State of Texas. Thank you very much for supporting the WCR Austin Chapter, and I hope to see you at our next event.
Does Brand Really Matter? Ask this $10 Million Dollar Producer After stints with a local independent and another national br After brand, and, Shar Shara aP Parker arker mo moved ved her business tto o RE/MAX, ffeeling eeling she needed syst systems ems and suppor supportt in or order der tto o mo move ve tto o the next lev level. el. Pr Previously, eviously,, her ttop eviously op pr production oduction w was as under $3 million, but after after moving aft moving to to RE/MAX, she produced produced $10 $10 million in her first year. year ear..
“I’d w “I’d worked orked mostly with buy buyers, ers, and usually only ttook ook 6 or 8 year. Now have many listings a y ear. No w I sometimes ha ve as man y as 25 listings at a time! And those listings br bring ing me a tterrific errific v volume olume of buy buyers. ers. Customers Cust omers love love the RE/MAX advertising, advertising, and I’ I’ve ve no now wg got ot the business model I alw always ays needed.” needed.”
Make sure your company works as hard as you do. To T o lear learn n more, more, visit
www.remaxtexas.com/TopTen Each h Office Independently O Owned and Operated.
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Realty Line of Austin
March 2009
K e l l y Loudenslager, Carisa Ferrier, Kathy Moorhead and Cathy Trifiro enjoy the winners spotlight at the Keller Williams Realty SWMC Awards Ceremony.
the pics Purchase ine at r o w ie L V in Realty e.com you see lin n o e altylin www.re
Gwen BlaiseJohansen of North American Title finishes the Austin Half Marathon with an excellent running partner—her daughter Summer Blaise, who is a personal trainer.
Diane Schouten of Ash Creek Homes reminds REALTORS about their new construction and great location at Anderson Mill Road and Highway 183.
Leigh Ann McCoy, right, of Mission Mortgage, shares some of the latest lending guidelines with Blanca Zamora-Garcia, left, of Casa Blanca Realty and Iqbal Khan of Ellmaker Realty at the lunch and learn session at Pecan Park Place hosted by Cornerstone Communities. the pics urchase P r o w Line at Vie in Realty e.com you see n o lin altyline www.re
Kim Smith and Louise Peach are all smiles at the JB G o o d w i n REALTORS awards breakfast at Austin Country Club.
Michelle Keahey of Avenue One Properties and Denise Moody of Gracy Title find each other in a crowd of over 300 people who were in attendance at the economic forecast to hear the latest statistics presented by Ted Jones at Austin Country Club.
Realty Line of Austin
March 2009
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Realty Line of Austin
March 2009
Mark Hairston of Mortgage IQ addresses the finer points of credit scoring at his recent MCE class held at Cover 3. More of Mark’s upcoming classes can be found on page 30.
Susan Brown and Jeanne White, both of Amelia Bullock REALTORS, join Liz Newell and Karen Cunningham, both of AvenueOne Properties, at Austin Country Club, where they hope to hear good news about the Austin economy.
Kathy Neu, franchise relations director for Keller Williams Realty’s Northwest Market Center, energizes the crowd at the Northwest Market Center awards ceremony. She and Linda Bartlett served as masters of ceremonies.
Realty Line of Austin
March 2009
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Unlock your
Luxury Home
Marketing Potential Become a C Certified ertified LLuxury uxur y Home Home M Marketing arketing Specialist Specialist The Institute for Luxury Home Marketing helps real estate professionals provide high quality service to the buyers and sellers of luxury homes and in so doing, maximize their own success in the upper tier residential market. Membership is international. For complete information on Institute membership and the CLHMS designation, visit www.LuxuryHomeMarketing.com or call 214-485-3000.
Laurie Moore-Moore
Instructor and founder of the Institute for Luxury Home Marketing
Wednesday, April 22nd & Thursday, April 23rd 8:30 am - 5:00 pm Breakfast and Lunch Included
The Crossings
13500 FM 2769 Austin, TX 78726
Register online:
www.luxuryhomemarketing.com (TREC credit: 15 hours) Investment: $525.00 (Includes training, one-year Institute membership and benefits)
Seminar Hosted by: Gracy Title is committed to your success, and we know that targeting the upper-tier can be challenging. Earning the Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist designation will position you as an expert and give you the tools you need to move to the next level as the agent of choice for affluent buyers and sellers. Gracy is pleased to host this two-day seminar for our special friends.
www.gracytitle.com
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Realty Line of Austin
March 2009
Cynthia Reeder, CRS chapter with a heart chair, and Kay DaSilva, CRS Austin chapter treasurer, keep the numbers straight while going through receipts at the organization’s quarterly meeting.
the pics Purchase ine at r o w ie L V in Realty e.com you see lin n o e altylin www.re
Kathy De La Cruz, Donna Yoste and Joanna Hatton rest their feet after dancing the night away at the RE/MAX of Texas annual convention held in San Antonio.
Gary Cocanougher of Avalar Real Estate and Candy Buzan of PrimeLending marvel at the new Williamson County Association of REALTORS’ new building at 123 E. Old Settler’s Blvd.
Realty Line of Austin
March 2009
WCAoR PRESIDENT’S COLUMN
WCAoR has Moved! By Barbara Wigginton • Realty Executives Excellence 2009 President • Williamson County Association of REALTORS Join us for the grand opening of the new building on April 17 at 123 E. Old Settlers in Round Rock. The day will start at 10 a.m. with a Triple Ribbon Cutting from the City of Round Rock, the City of Georgetown and the City of Cedar Park. Immediately following the ribbon cutting we will have an all day open house (10 a.m. – 4 p.m.). Grand Opening Highlights: ~ Food: Appetizers, snacks, and drinks will be available all day long ~ Best Recipe Contest: REALTORS and Affiliate members will compete for bragging rights and $25 gift cards to the REALTOR store. Recipe categories include: Best Dessert and best appetizer. ~ Committee Booths: Each of our WCAoR committees will be on hand at a booth to answer questions on projects they do and how to get involved. ~ Music: Various musical performances from local Williamson County high schools and middle schools will be performing throughout the day. ~ Photos: Come get a new photo for your business card. Tom Soliz with Lone Star Image Design will be available for photo shoots. For every $50 shoot he will donate $10 to the WCAoR new building. New Building Amenities The new building located at 123 E. Old Settlers Blvd., Round Rock, Texas 78665 boasts a handful of exciting amenities. Some of these include: 1. REALTOR Store: The new REALTOR Store is about twice the size of the old Store and will offer many brand new products. 2. Auditorium: The nearly 2,200 square feet auditorium is outfitted with the latest in technology for our instructors and students. 3. REALTOR Café: The Café was designed to be a place for WCAoR members to have a quiet place to grab a quick bite, check their e-mail or just get out of the office.
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Rent the New Building for your next function! The new building will have two rooms available for rental. Our auditorium is great for educational classes, large meetings, wedding receptions and other events for large gatherings. The auditorium is 2,197 square feet and has a capacity of 250 chairs or 120 chairs with tables. The WCAoR Board Room works well for smaller classes, meetings and gatherings. The Board Room is 617 square feet and has a capacity of 50 chairs or 40 chairs with tables. Contact WCAoR at 255-6211 for more information or to schedule your rental date. For information on building rental rates, please visit: www.wcaor.org/RoomRental.asp.
Chris Corbett, far left, of Cornerstone Communities opens the model home at Pecan Park Place to lenders and REALTORS for the recent lunch and learn program, where they received invaluable information about condo underwriting.
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Realty Line of Austin
March 2009
Allison Alford accepts the company leasing agent of the year award from J.B. Goodwin at the JB Goodwin REALTORS awards breakfast.
Winning awards at the Keller Williams Realty SWMC Awards Ceremony were John Squires Jr., Kevin Scraggs, Dee Shultz, Pat Bedunah and Leah Busboom.
Hellena Frazier of JB Goodwin REALTORS and Sherri Teepen, CRS Austin chapter region director, race to see who can enter the next lunch date on their Blackberries during the first CRS quarterly luncheon of 2009.
Realty Line of Austin
March 2009
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Realty Line of Austin
March 2009
The Bartlett Real Estate group of Keller Williams Realty Northwest Market Center celebrates winning the double platinum GCI award.
the pics Purchase ine at r o w ie L V in Realty e.com you see lin n o e altylin www.re
Suzanne Gantner of Sky Realty, Tawanna Carver of Realty Line and Edmond McEnany of Realty Executives Excellence attend the first meeting at the new Williamson County Association of REALTORS building at 123 E. Old Settler’s Blvd.
Angela Faucher of Keller Williams Realty follows the yellow brick road to Cool River Cafe where she was treated to a great lunch. Angela attended Highland Homes REALTOR Appreciation luncheon. Greeting her was Wayne Richardson of Highland Homes.
Realty Line of Austin
March 2009
HBA PRESIDENT’S COLUMN
New Homebuyer Tax Credit is Bigger and Better; Now is the Time to Buy By Wes Peoples • WP Investments 2008-2009 President • Home Builders Association of Greater Austin On February 17, President Obama signed the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 into law. As part of $787 billion in economic stimulus measures, the legislation created a home buyer tax credit that is bigger and better than the previous credit that was implemented in July 2008. The Web site www.FederalHousingTaxCredit.com explains in detail the provisions of the new tax credit. In a nutshell, it: • Provides a tax credit equal to 10 percent of the sale price of the home, up to an $8,000 maximum. • Is a true tax credit. It does not need to be repaid, unless the home owner sells the home within three years of the purchase. • Can only be used with the purchase of a home that will be the buyer’s principal residence. It cannot be claimed for the purchase of a vacation home or property to be used as a rental. • Available to anyone who has not owned a principal residence for three years or more. • Applies to homes purchased by qualified buyers between January 1 and November 30, 2009. The purchase date is the date when closing occurs and the title transfers. This new tax credit provides an unprecedented opportunity for people looking to buy a new home. Plus, buyers will be taking advantage of recordlow interest rates and competitive home prices. These opportunities won’t be around forever. Keep in mind that your clients have to close on their house on or before November 30 to take advantage of the new tax credit and the Federal Reserve can not possibly sustain record low interest rates for very long. So when your clients ask what does it really mean when we say it’s a buyers’ market? Tell them to expect to find many builders who have inventory
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that is “move-in ready,” and may offer upgrades or other incentives to seal the deal. But don’t expect the inventory to last very long. In fact, because builders in Central Texas began in 2007 reducing the number of new houses built, our region does not have an oversupply of housing inventory. Metro Study, a firm dedicated to tracking the new home market, showed that as of the end of 2008 our region had just over two months of supply in finished, vacant newly built homes. And, Metro Study expects builders to continue to reduce the number of homes built this year by another 25%. In addition, in January Metro Study also noted that for the last 10 consecutive quarters, builders in Central Texas have continued to close more homes than they have started. This indicates people are currently buying much of the inventory builders are putting on the ground. In testimony before Congress recently, Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke added that he saw the end of the recession in the fourth quarter of 2009 and the recovery to begin in 2010. But if your clients are taking a “wait and see” approach to buying a home, remind them that in order for them to reap the benefits of the current buyers’ market, they have to actually buy. Sitting on the fence, waiting for bigger and better deals, trying to time the market and shuffling your feet will likely get you no where. Housing markets are cyclical and this cycle too will pass. All in all, people who know enough to recognize they are in a buyers market and buy when opportunities are there are the smart ones. These are the folks who know that those who “make a killing” on a home purchase are just very lucky. They realize that trying to time when the market will “bottom out” is unrealistic. Currently, Metro Study predicts the local housing market will begin to rebound at the end of this year or in early 2010. This means that for those considering buying a new home, NOW IS THE TIME TO BUY. For resources to help everyone understand the process of financing and buying a home, visit www.nahb.org/forconsumers today. To learn more about how to choose a builder or buy a new home, visit the Home Builder ’s Association of Greater Austin’s Web site at www.AustinHomeBuilders.com.
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Realty Line of Austin
March 2009
Socar ChatmonThomas, center, of Coldwell Banker United REALTORS, joins Ryan Matthews, left, and Greg Cooper, both of Goldwasser Real Estate, at the AYREP’s Mardi Gras Bash on Sixth Street.
Juliana Brock of Power Training conducts an MCE class at her campus at 8000 Anderson Square.
John Kovas of Kovas and Associates and Michael Ray of Keller Williams, The Scheffe Group, trade business cards at the Central Texas Commercial Association of REALTORS property exchange.
March 2009
Among those enjoying the Keller Williams Realty Northwest Market Center awards ceremony were Bob Osborn and Althea Osborn.
Carolyn Nelson, Liz Boyles and Lisa Brooks, all of Synterra Property Group, attend the economic forecast presented by Ted Jones and organized by Gracy Title at Austin Country Club.
Michael Neuman of Realty Executives and Linda Knowles-Katz of Land Mortgage share their opinions on the wine offerings at Water 2 Wine, where the Women’s Council of REALTORS held a happy hour and wine tasting event.
Realty Line of Austin
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Realty Line of Austin
March 2009
Chuck Strasburg presents Mark Minchew of RE/MAX Austin Associates with the Platinum Club award at the annual RE/MAX of Texas Convention.
the pics Purchase ine at r o w ie L V in Realty e.com you see lin n o e altylin www.re
ABoR received two awards at the TAR mid-winter meeting. One was for the Sales & Marketing Program of the Year, “Short Sales 101” and the second was for Ethics Program of the Year, “Basic Water Right.” Sally Yaryan, education director, proudly shows off the awards which are evidence that ABoR provides outstanding educational programs. J.B. Goodwin, right, congratulates Ron Mason for winning the company lease listing agent of the year award at the company’s awards breakfast at Austin Country Club.
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Realty Line of Austin
March 2009
Mortgage Banking 101: Close the Loan, Fund The Loan
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Ranked # 4 by ABJ 2008 Residential Mortgage Companies
Lesson 1 • Timing is Everything Question: Is every mortgage company having funding issues? Answer: No, but it might seem like it. At Land Mortgage we fund on time. A signature on the dotted line is one step to completing a transaction but delivery of funds seals it. Since 2003 we have grown our business the right way - great people, sound principles. We execute the fundamentals and exceed expectations everyday. Our experienced team of professionals ensure funds are in place on every transaction to avoid delays and guarantee your business stays on track. To learn more call today.
About Land Mortgage We are a local mortgage bank with competitive loan programs, reasonable closing costs, and a full range of in-house services. There are no surprises here. We communicate every step of the way to ensure everyone is up-to-date on where financing for the transaction stands. As your preferred lender, we allow you to confidently do what you do best - Sell more homes.
Experience the Difference www.landmtg.com 8300 N. MOPAC • Suite 225 • Austin, TX • 78759 • 512.335.5300 • Mortgage Banker No. 43954
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Realty Line of Austin
March 2009
Shane T. White of RE/MAX Town & Country in Liberty Hill has been selected by Howard Brinton to join the most progressive forward-thinking professionals in real estate today to share their methods of success through his STAR POWER club.
TREPAC investors are honored at the Williamson County Association of REALTORS meeting, which was the first one held in the organization’s new building. From left: Gary Cocanougher, Capitol Club $500; Victoria Reviel, Lonestar Club, $250; Jim Smith, Sterling R, $1,000; Pam Drawbaugh, Crystal R, $2,500; Avis Wukasch, Golden R, $5,000; Harry Gibbs, Sterling R, $1,000; Harry Pokorny, Capitol Club, $500 and Christy Gessler, Lonestar Club, $250.
Gracy Title CEO David Tandy welcomes guest speaker Ted Jones, chief economist of Gracy Title, to the presentation at Austin Country Club, where he told real estate professionals that Austin is still one of the best places to be.
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Realty Line of Austin
March 2009
ASSOCIATES IN PROGRESS
Austin Inspectors Exchange By Linda McNabb CONTRIBUTING WRITER Realty Line recently visited with Billy Meyerdirk of Austin Inspectors Exchange to find out more about how this company aims to help REALTORS find a qualified and dependable inspector with ease and confidence. He first filled us in on how the company emerged. Billy Meyerdirk: The owner of The Exchange, Betsy Hodge, had the vision and insight to recognize the major needs in our industry. She also had the determination to put the Exchange in the right place at the right time. What a great time to build Austin’s premier inspection company during the worst time for real estate since the 80s. I think we both love swimming upstream when you can see the calm waters just ahead. Betsy’s Exchange allows us to pool our resources and cut our overhead but also enables us to multiply our marketing money, add additional services for agents and enjoy camaraderie and fellowship. Realty Line: Austin Inspectors Exchange specializes in bringing together quality inspectors and individuals in need of inspection services. What criteria must these inspectors meet? Billy: The majority of inspectors are from the old Home Critic. I have personally worked with them, in some cases as many as 15 years. The newer inspectors were hand picked and trained in house by our more experienced inspectors. RL: How do you match home buyers and the real estate community with your inspectors? Billy: Most of the agents have built working relationships with one or more of our inspectors and have had a proven successful track record. We do match sometimes when we need certain specific expertise upon request from a buyer or we need a bilingual inspector. RL: What services other than home inspections do you offer buyers and REALTORS? Billy: I can not think of any service in our industry we do not offer. We hold numerous licenses in multiple disciplines. RL: Why would an inspector want to become a member of the exchange and how can they do so? Billy: Because we are so big and so diverse we have the ability to cut any inspector’s overhead, double (at a minimum) their advertising reach, and offer each other to consult
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with. You also get a free breakfast every month or so at our meetings. RL: How long has A u s t i n Inspectors Exchange been in Austin? Billy: The inspectors have over 60 Austin Inspectors Exchange Family years of combined experience inspecting in Austin. We all became members in the exchange within the past two years. RL: Why should REALTORS consider using Austin Inspectors Exchange? Billy: Customer service, experience and our reputation in the real-estate community. There is just no substitute. We also give back to our real estate community. Our clients’ money stays in Austin. RL: What can REALTORS tell their home sellers and buyers to help make the inspection process as smooth as possible? Billy: That they are in good hands with the exchange! It’s that simple. RL: Would you encourage sellers to have their property inspected prior to a sales offer in order to make their property more attractive to buyers? Billy: In the year 2000, no! Houses had sold signs before they had for sale signs, and nobody cared what they were buying. In 2009, yes! You must have the best product for sale in your neighborhood or people will move to the next house. With all this inventory, you want a good, clean inspection. How many buyers are doing this? The number represented one percent in the 90s and early 2000. In the last year, it has become as high as five percent. It looks like more than a trend. RL: What do you most want the real estate community to know about Austin Inspectors Exchange? Billy: That we love what we do, we have fun and we are dedicated to being the best.
Visit a preferred Centex neighborhood!
5. Retreat at Blackhawk $140s - $210s 512-990-0344
Every new Centex home comes with energy-efficiency features that help you control energy costs. Centex is the first home builder to offer this impressive package of features in every home we build. It’s time you took advantage of the Centex Energy Advantage.TM • Wireless Energy Monitor ®
• Lennox 14 SEER high efficiency air conditioning with R-410a refrigerant
7. Stirling Bridge $130s - $170s 512-272-4985
WAY
DAV
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290
71
967 150
1626 12
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183
11
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13
150
2001
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973
6
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9
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130
10. Los Cielos $100s - $140s 512-247-9023
1660
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4
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360
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Energy efficiency comes standard in every new Centex® home.
6. Cantarra $120s - $160s 512-272-9954
LAKEWAY
45
183
ITY
ERS
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than a typical 10-year-old home.
4. Creek Bend $100s - $180s 512-759-2948
45
620
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1431
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130
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3. La Conterra $140s - $170s 512-930-0201
CRYSTAL FALLS
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%
2. Cold Springs $160s - $240s 512-259-3282
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GEORGETOWN
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1. Westview Meadows $100s - $160s 512-260-0289
969
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71 PEARCE
21
NORTH
ELGIN 290
BASTROP
11. Ashbrook $140s - $160s 512-292-8922
12. Garlic Creek $160s - $240s 512-312-2107
13. Green Meadows $110s - $160s 512-312-2229
14. Terrace at The Preserve $240s - $400s 512-402-1889
• Solar Board® Radiant Barrier Decking • R-38 blown insulation in attic • Honeywell® Programmable Thermostat
• Compact Fluorescent Lights • Double pane Low-E glass windows (CFL’s) in select locations
• Energy Star® qualified appliances • Home operation guide to help maximize energy efficiency
Purchase a new Centex home by 3/31/2009 to receive 25% Off Options up to $15,000.*
Centex Energy Advantage included with every to-be-built Centex home contracted on or after November 1, 2008. Centex Energy Advantage is designed to help reduce energy usage. Actual energy costs are dependent on a number of factors, including rate, energy consumption, and weather conditions. Centex Energy Advantage will be supplemented or otherwise adjusted as required by state and local codes. In several markets, Centex is currently building homes with components that exceed the combined efficiencies provided by the Centex Energy Advantage. Lennox® high-efficiency HVAC system: 14 SEER air conditioning or 90 percent AFUE furnace, depending on climate zone. Radiant-barrier roof decking, by climate zone, as indicated by Energy Star® requirements. Terms, prices, and availability are subject to change or withdrawal without notice or obligation. Additional conditions or restrictions may apply. See a Centex Homes sales representative for details. This material shall not constitute a valid offer in any state where prior registration is required or if void by law. * Offer available on Centex to-be-built homes only in the greater Austin area on contracts written from 3-1-09 through 3-3109. Features, options and upgrades will vary per series of homes, per plan and may vary per community. Not valid with any EQUAL HOUSING other offers or discounts and subject to change. See a sales representative for details. Prices subject to change without notice. OPPORTUNITY
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Realty Line of Austin
March 2009
Mike Luscier of John Horton Realty, Karen Parker of Mike Parker and Company and Reba Saxon of Keller Williams Realty are eager to check out the new Williamson County Association of REALTORS’ building.
the pics Purchase ine at r o w ie L V in Realty e.com you see lin n o e altylin www.re
Marie Carson and Cheryl Lancaster enjoy morning coffee and chatter at the Renaissance Austin Hotel, where the awards ceremony was held for the Keller Williams Realty Northwest Market Center.
Alicia Cabezuela, NAHREP’s director of education, visits with president-elect Lise Renee Samuels at the organization’s monthly luncheon at Cool River Café.
March 2009
Realty Line of Austin
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Homes from the $250’s to $3+ million Welcome Center: 512-266-5833 or 800-783-4640 For more information, visit www.steinerranch.com %XLOGHUV 7D\ORU 0RUULVRQ 'UHHV &XVWRP +RPHV +LJKODQG +RPHV 0RQWHUH\ +RPHV 'DYLG :HHNOH\ 3DUWQHUV LQ %XLOGLQJ &XVWRP +RPHV $I¿QLW\ +RPHV 5DQG\ 5ROOR +RPHV (FKHORQ +RPHV ,QIRUPDWLRQ FRQWDLQHG ZLWKLQ WKLV DGYHUWLVHPHQW LV FRUUHFW DW WLPH RI SXEOLFDWLRQ DQG VXEMHFW WR FKDQJH ,Q RUGHU WR UHFHLYH JLIW FDUG 5HDOWRU PXVW DFFRPSDQ\ SURVSHFW LQWR WKH :HOFRPH &HQWHU RQ ¿UVW YLVLW
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Realty Line of Austin
March 2009
Tausha Carlson and Luisa Mauro, owners of Marathon Real Estate, enjoy the Austin Under 40 Celebration at the Austin Music Hall where Tausha was a finalist.
Turnquist Partners REALTORS award the Turnquist Partners Commitment to Excellence Scholarship to a Lake Travis High School graduating senior that has demonstrated the desire to succeed. The scholarship is presented in partnership with the Lakeway Rotary Club. The amount of the scholarship depends on the financial need of the recipient and can be anywhere from $1,000 to $5,000. Pictured are Christa Beyer, Larry Bishop, Tracie Patterson, Pam Bishop, Rick Winter, Dan Robinson, E.H. “Bubba” Breazeale, Jeff Lamb, Doris Van Trease, Catherine Darwin, Joan Bockenkamp and Lee Hollingsworth.
Victoria Reviel of ZIP Realty and Harry Pokorny of Lone Star Properties have room to visit in the new WCAoR building without being elbow to elbow.
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Campus is conveniently located 1 block north of Lamar on the southbound frontage road of 183. 8000 Anderson Square #103 Austin, Texas 78757
For more information call us or visit our Web site for a complete listing of courses and schedules.
Assembles an All Star cast of instructors to teach you how to be a Real Estate or Loan Superstar
Calling all Bankers/Brokers and Loan Officers... Are you in compliance with the S.A.F.E. Act?
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We can help you get there!
CALL: 512-451-9112
www.PowerTrainingInc.com All courses, schedules and pricing are subject to change.
Realty Line of Austin
March 2009
ASSOCIATES IN PROGRESS
Highland Homes By Linda McNabb CONTRIBUTING WRITER Highland Homes is a Lone Star Builder with Five Star Quality, which means the company not only knows how to build a home right, but how to build a home smart. They use cutting edge technology to meet the needs of today’s savvy home buyers. “Texas is a one-of-a-kind place and we build with that in mind,” says Janet Havel, Director of Sales Operations. “We started in Texas and choose to remain only in Texas. We take pride in fact that we put money back in the Texas economy.” Highland Homes is a family owned business that Rod Sanders and his sister Jean Ann Brock began in 1985 in Dallas. Today, the company also builds in Austin, San Antonio and Houston. One benefit of focusing on Texas is that the company remains strong financially, amid volatility that is seen by builders who have interests in other parts of the country that are harder hit by the current economic woes. “We are one of the most financially stable builders in the market,” Havel says. “You may rest assured that Highland is not only financially stable but continues its commitment to provide the highest quality homes, warranty service, and customer satisfaction.” Another strength of Highland Homes is its innovative use of space. Vast windows flood rooms with pools of flattering natural light. Soaring ceilings adorned with designer light fixtures create a sense of luxury. Arched doorways and crown molding give every room distinction and individuality. To ensure that each of these features is carried out to the buyer’s satisfaction, buyers meet regularly with their own personal construction manager who will be their partner throughout the building process. “Our construction managers have eight to 10 years of experience,” she says. “We don’t practice building on your home. Our production team is uniquely qualified, well trained and provide great customer service.” Buyers also have the opportunity to meet with an interior designer who will be available to assist them in choosing items that are will help make the house their personal haven.
Mary Kennedy 750-7834 Not pictured:
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“Buyers can personalize with a choice of more than 150 shades and textures of fine carpet, more than 50 colors of imported tile, more than 20 types of granite and scores of Model Home in The Ranch at Brushy Creek designer cabinets, countertops and interior and exterior paints,” Havel says. Buyers can also make architectural changes to their home to make it uniquely theirs. “We are a production builder but we offer custom changes,” she says. “We can modify a plan to make it fit their needs and still do it in four to six months time. We never sacrifice quality for speed. We are able to give our clients both.” Highland Homes also cultivates its relationships with REALTORS. The company views them as experts, and as a result, has won a lot of respect. “We strive every day to earn the respect and confidence of our REALTORS,” Havel says. “More than 50 percent of our business is from referrals.” Another reason to buy a Highland Home is that they are all Energy Star qualified. Havel points out that this means every home is tested and receives a certificate of compliance, resulting in savings on utilities and maintenance costs, plus a living environment that is healthy and safe. So where can you find Highland Homes? A good place to start is Hidden Glen in Round Rock, where less than 10 homes remain. The Ranch at Brushy Creek in Cedar Park features courtyards and dramatic elevations with an Old World feel. Selling is underway for a new phase in Steiner Ranch called Santa Luz, with a new model being unveiled in April. Other neighborhoods include Whitestone Oaks in Cedar Park, Walsh Ranch in Round Rock, Commons at Rowe Lane in Pflugerville and Belterra in South Austin.
candy Buzan 797-5580
Max Leaman 293-1239
Kim Nielsen 825-2347
Melissa driskell 964-1864
terrie doggett 415-0212
Brian patschke 565-5852
trudy Savage 965-5017
Mark Hoffman 785-3279
Shannon Smith 560-4590
tretha Harris 601-613-9269
Michael ray, 784-8488 • terry Weber, 554-4013
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rhonda Neeley 560-3429
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Realty Line of Austin
March 2009
Jim Walker, executive director of the Central Texas Sustainability Indicators Project, thanks Heather Graham of Texas American Title for organizing the event at the Four Seasons Hotel. Joining them was Alison Street of Amelia Bullock REALTORS.
the pics Purchase ine at r o w ie L V in Realty e.com you see lin n o e altylin www.re
Robert Wright of R.L. Wright REALTORS and J Rene Ward of Best Agents in Texas, at the CRS Austin chapter quarterly meeting, share tips on how to thrive in the current market.
Mike Hill of The Premiere Team at Keller Williams Realty’s Northwest Market Center accepts the award for quadruple gold GCI.
Realty Line of Austin
March 2009
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Challenge! d see how our an s e g n le al ch g e ebuyin ! t s you and the hom ring us your hom e B t n e t. e e ke h tw ar e t b m o d e t at an s st Come put u myths associated with today’s real e knock down the barriers you think st e ts in history! guarantees can ke d ar We’re busting th an m g st in e c at ri p re g s, e e of th ing program from missing on u exclusive financ yo p e ke h yt m Don’t let a of your dreams. The best names in homebuilding are busting the barriers to homeownership at over 25 neighborhoods throughout the Austin region. # :
MYTH 1
There’s no way for your clients to make their house payment if they get laid off.
HUTTO CEDAR PARK
ROUND ROCK
PFLUGERVILLE
MYTH #2 : LAKEWAY
These days your clients can’t qualify for a home loan without perfect credit.
MYTH #3 : Your clients can’t buy a new home until they sell their current home.
BEE CAVE
MANOR DOWNTOWN
OAK HILL
N MAP NOT TO SCALE
BUDA
Legacy Homes KYLE
Meritage Homes Monterey Homes
See more myths at
MythChallenge.com Myth Buster promotion available for a limited time only. Meritage Homes’ “Job Loss Protection Program” available to those who qualify. Certain limitations, restrictions and qualification criteria apply. Credit evaluations offered through Meritage Homes’ “Home Buyer Solutions Program”. Financing offered through Prestige Lending Services, Ltd., an affiliated lender. TX License No. 75436. (512)527-0200. 8920 Business Park Dr. #175, Austin, TX 78759. Equal opportunity lender. “Home Sold Program” available to contingent homebuyers on selected homes. Certain restrictions and qualification criteria apply. Please see sales agent for details. Prices, rates, terms and availability subject to change or revocation without prior notice or obligation. Photos are representative of a Meritage Homes design, but not necessarily offered at the advertised communities.
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Realty Line of Austin
March 2009
WCR president Marie Dang Schwartz, Jazz Lough of Real Living Lifestyles Realty and Sherri Williams of Keller Williams Realty enjoy light appetizers and networking games at the happy hour at Water 2 Wine.
John Doucet of Doucet and Associates, Gwen Johansen of North American Title and Adeline Rem of Celtic Bank join Cathy Coneway and Dan Steakley, both of Stanberry & Associates, at Casa Chapala for a Mexican breakfast and awesome networking opportunities during the CTCAR property exchange.
Gracy Title president Wanda Fredrick and Kevin Roy of ERA Bettinger Realty make their way through the crowd of real estate professionals on hand to attend the economic forecast presented by Ted Jones at the Austin Country Club.
Course
Date
Time
Location
FHA is the Way
TUES 3/24
1-4 pm
WCAoR 123 Old Settlers in Round Rock 512-255-6211
Come Early for FREE lunch
THURS 3/26
2-5 pm Happy Hour to follow
Cover 3 2700 W Anderson Lane #202 www.cover-3.com
Stay after for HAPPY HOUR!
THURS 4/2
9 am-12 pm
First American Title 3520 Executive Center Suite G-100
FREE lunch
WED 4/8
1-4 pm
WCAoR 123 Old Settlers in Round Rock 512-255-6211
Come Early for FREE lunch
THURS 4/9
2-5 pm Happy Hour to follow
Cover 3 2700 W Anderson Lane #202 www.cover-3.com
Stay after for HAPPY HOUR!
TUES 4/14
1-4 pm
Bastrop County Board of REALTORS www.bastroprealtors.org
Course #03-00-070-7190
Earn 3 MCE credits at one of our upcoming valuable seminars.
$25 per 3-hour Seminar RSVP Janis@TexasMortgageIQ.com REGISTER EARLY - LIMITED SEATING
Instructor Mark Hairston
Certified Mortgage Planner Provider #0606 Direct 789-6967 Mark@TexasMortgageIQ.com
Insiders Guide to Credit Scoring/Repair Course #03-00-011-7715
Mortgages 2009... Back to the Future Course #03-00-090-7486 0 Down...Around “A” Town “VA/USDA Loans” Course #03-00-090-7417 Insiders Guide to Credit Scoring/Repair Course #03-00-011-7715 0 Down...Around “A” Town “VA/USDA Loans” Course #03-00-090-7417
“I would give your credit scoring class a 10! I think this course is a MUST!” — Vickie Boozer, CRS, GRI, ABR, e-Pro, REALM Professionals
Realty Line of Austin
March 2009
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Three reasons to celebrate: D.R. Horton, Lennar, and new homes from the $170s. Two new neighborhoods by D.R. Horton and Lennar are debuting at Falcon Pointe, and you’re invited to bring your clients and come tour these beautiful new model homes.
Starting in the $170,000s, homes feature the high quality craftsmanship you’ve come to expect at Falcon Pointe at a price homebuyers can aord. Plus, your clients will enjoy the convenience of three on-site schools, a Residents Club with pool, clubhouse, tennis and more! An Activities Director organizes community events to get your clients connected throughout the year. It’s any homebuyer’s dream.
D.R. Horton 1,500 – 2,000 sq. ft. From the $170,000s
Visit
Lennar 2,000 – 3,000 sq. ft. From the $220,000s
falcon-pointe.com/opening for detailed information.
Driving Directions From IH-35: Take IH-35 to Louis Henna/SH45 East. Exit Kelly Lane. Stay straight through light and take a right on Falcon Pointe Blvd. From MoPac (Loop 1): Take MoPac to SH45 East. Exit Kelly Lane. Stay straight through light and take a right on Falcon Pointe Blvd. Newland Communities is a privately owned company that creates residential and urban mixed-use communities in 14 states from coast-to-coast. 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 This is not intended to be an offer to sell nor a solicitation of offers to buy real estate in Falcon Pointe or to residents of Connecticut, Florida, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, New York, New Jersey, and Oregon, or in any other jurisdiction ZKHUH SURKLELWHG E\ ODZ +RPHV ZLWKLQ WKH )DOFRQ 3RLQWH FRPPXQLW\ DUH FRQVWUXFWHG DQG VROG E\ EXLOGHUV QRW DI¿OLDWHG ZLWK 1HZODQG &RPPXQLWLHV RU 1HZODQG &RPPXQLWLHVœ DI¿OLDWHG FRPSDQLHV $OO VTXDUH IRRWDJH LV DSSUR[LPDWH 3ULFHV VSHFL¿FDWLRQV DQG GHWDLOV DUH VXEMHFW WR FKDQJH ZLWKRXW QRWLFH ‹ 1HZODQG &RPPXQLWLHV $OO ULJKWV UHVHUYHG
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Realty Line of Austin
March 2009
Sharon Walker, Linda Bartlett and Rich Walker, all of Keller Williams Realty’s Northwest Market Center, are gold award recipients for the GCI awards at the company’s awards ceremony.
the pics Purchase ine at r o w ie L V in Realty e.com you see lin n o e altylin www.re
Ford Meazell and Tex Meazell, both of Keller Williams Realty, enjoy some father and son time at the Mardi Gras Bash at J Black’s on Sixth Street hosted by the Austin Young Real Estate Professionals.
Longtime friends Gaye Pierce of Gracy Title and Susan Conti of Coldwell Banker United REALTORS catch up on the latest news in the Austin market by attending the economic forecast by Ted Jones at the Austin Country Club.
March 2009
Realty Line of Austin
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Realty Line of Austin
Real Estate NEWS & NOTES
Keller Williams Realty Climbs to Third-Largest Real Estate Franchise in United States
Keller Williams® Realty Inc., announced last week at its annual convention in Orlando, Fla. that it is now the third-largest real estate franchise in the United States, surpassing RE/MAX® International. According to Steve Murray of REAL Trends, a leading source of analysis and information in the residential real estate industry, the Austin based company claimed the number three spot with 72,794 U.S. associates at the end of 2008. “The success of Keller Williams Realty can be directly attributed to the hard work and perseverance of our associates and the soundness of our economic and organizational models,” said Mark Willis, CEO of Keller Williams Realty, Inc. “While others might be looking at this market and seeing fear and uncertainty, we have always approached it as our opportunity to shine and grow. And that mindset has paid off.” The company has been gaining ground for the last three years, outpacing pervasive downward trends in the real estate industry. From 2006 to 2008, Keller Williams Realty increased its associate count by 52 percent, market share for its offices increased 83 percent and agent gross commission income went up 35 percent. Currently, the company has 679 offices operating in the United States. The company also shared more than $30 million in profits with its associates in 2008 through its company-wide profit sharing program. “Through profit share, our phenomenal coaching and training and our technology offerings, we are offering agents their own ‘bailout plan’ for this market.” Willis added. The company also announced that after years of searching for a partnership to provide its associates with affordable health insurance, they are moving forward with a solution. The soon-to-be-launched Keller Williams Health Providers Program will include options for major medical, limited medical, catastrophic coverage and a separate cancer plan. The health insurance coverage is the first step toward a total wellness program for associates. “We have always been very aware that as independent contractors, our agents face barriers to obtaining health coverage,” said Mary Tennant, president and COO of Keller Williams Realty.” We know that for many, this new option may alleviate some of the stress that they face in today’s economy. After all, our associates are not just our partners – they are our family.”
March 2009
Victoria Reviel named Zip Realty’s Broker of the Year 2008
“If there was ever someone who is the epitome of the phrase ‘Giving 110%’ it is this year’s Broker of the Year, Victoria Reviel. Whether it is training, team support, revenue achievement, leadership, agent development, or community involvement, Victoria immerses herself in the task with vigor and enthusiasm and follows through with incredible detail until the task at hand is achieved with success. With that attitude and dedication, it is no wonder that Victoria has launched an extremely successful Broker Boot Camp for the Austin agents that Reviel has been modeled by other districts, contributed greatly to the achievement of District goals, is a highly recognized member of the Austin REALTOR community, is lauded constantly by her agents, DD, and fellow management and peers and holds the position as Zip Realty’s Texas Designated Broker.” says Bob Yakominich, senior vice president of Sales, Zip Realty Inc.
KB Home named as the #1 Green Homebuilder
KB Home was recently ranked the #1 Green Homebuilder by the prestigious investment firm Calvert Asset Management and the Boston College Institute for Responsible Investment. In conveying this honor, the Calvert report stated, “One company is clearly leading the homebuilding industry in terms of environmental sustainability: KB Home…this company leads the pack because of its comprehensive approach to sustainability.” TM In achieving this recognition the survey highlighted KB Home’s “My Home, My Earth. program. This innovative program provides homebuyers the opportunity to incorporate environmentally-friendly product selections in their Built to OrderTM homes. Options are available in four categories: Energy Efficient, Water Wise, Sustainable Sources and HealthyHome. Earlier this year, KB Home became the first of the nation’s largest homebuilders to build exclusively with ENERGY STAR® qualified refrigerators, dishwashers and laundry appliances from Whirlpool Corporation. These appliances meet strict government guidelines for energy and water-efficiency and are offered to homebuyers nationwide through KB Home Studios, the retaillike design centers where customers select among 5,000 options to personalize their Built to Order new homes. “KB Home’s commitment is an important step in helping homebuyers reduce their carbon footprint,” said Ken Langston, Austin division president. “Since ENERGY STAR qualified appliances use 10-50 percent less energy and water than standard models, the potential environmental impact of this new initiative by KB Home is considerable.”
Realty Line of Austin
March 2009
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Life comes together at
Â?–”‘†—…‹Â?‰ —ƼÂ?‰–‘Â? ‹‰Â?ƒ–—”‡ ‘Â?‡• ˆ”‘Â? –Š‡ ͔͔͂͗ǥ͔͔͔• Teravista, Round Rock’s award-winning master-planned community is celebrating –Š‡ ”ƒÂ?† ’‡Â?‹Â?‰ ‘ˆ —ƼÂ?‰–‘Â? ‹‰Â?ƒ–—”‡ ‘Â?‡• ƒÂ?† ›‘—ǯ”‡ ‹Â?˜‹–‡†Ǩ ”‡˜‹‡™ the homes, ranging from 2,753 sq. ft.— 4,512 sq. ft.
—ƼÂ?‰–‘Â? ‹‰Â?ƒ–—”‡ ‘Â?‡• ”ƒÂ?† ’‡Â?‹Â?‰ ÂŠÂ—Â”Â•Â†ÂƒÂ›ÇĄ ƒ”…Š ͖͚–Š Í˜ÇŚÍ›Â’Â? Enjoy an assortment of Greek delicacies and cocktails at the new model home. Â?–‡” ˆ‘” ›‘—” …ŠƒÂ?…‡ –‘ ™‹Â? ƒ Í˜Í–Çł ĆŞÂƒÂ– •…”‡‡Â? ÇĄ ƒ ”‘—Â?† ‘ˆ ‰‘Žˆ ˆ‘” –™‘ǥ ‘” ƒ †‡Ž‡…–ƒ„Ž‡ ‰‘—”Â?‡– ™‹Â?‡ ƒÂ?† …Š‡‡•‡ „ƒ•Â?‡–Ǥ*
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Newland Communities is a privately owned company that creates residential and urban mixed-use communities in 14 states from coast-to-coast. 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 *Please see builder model homes for complete list of rules and regulations. This is not intended to be an offer to sell nor a solicitation of offers to buy real estate in Teravista to residents of Connecticut, Florida, +DZDLL ,GDKR ,OOLQRLV 1HZ <RUN 1HZ -HUVH\ DQG 2UHJRQ RU LQ DQ\ RWKHU MXULVGLFWLRQ ZKHUH SURKLELWHG E\ ODZ +RPHV ZLWKLQ WKH 7HUDYLVWD FRPPXQLW\ DUH FRQVWUXFWHG DQG VROG E\ EXLOGHUV QRW DIÂżOLDWH ZLWK 1HZODQG &RPPXQLWLHV RU 1HZODQG &RPPXQLWLHVÂś DIÂżOLDWHG FRPSDQLHV $OO VTXDUH IRRWDJH LV DSSUR[LPDWH 3ULFHV VSHFLÂżFDWLRQV DQG GHWDLOV DUH VXEMHFW WR FKDQJH ZLWKRXW QRWLFH Â&#x2039; 1HZODQG &RPPXQLWLHV $OO ULJKWV UHVHUYHG
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Realty Line of Austin
March 2009
The BACK PAGE
Commercial agents are urged to sign up for upcoming CCIM courses. For more information, see the advertisement on page 12.
WCAoR president Barbara Wigginton, WCAoR’s executive officer Marjorie Phillips and WCAoR’s director of marketing Mike Burton are excited about using the auditorium for the first time in the organization’s new building.
Heather Graham and Heather Cooke, both of Texas American Title, welcome Jim Walker, left, executive director of the Central Texas Sustainability Indicators Project, and Gerald Daugherty, former county commissioner, to the Real Estate Forum at the Four Seasons Hotel. Both served as guest speakers.
Victoria Costello of Coldwell Banker United REALTORS meets Jean Ann Brock at the Highland Homes REALTOR Appreciation luncheon held at Cool River Cafe. Jean Ann is the executive vice president/co-owner of Highland Homes.
Relocation Director Judy Alloway and J.B. Goodwin, center, honor the RELO funny award winners, from left, Leisa Ormsbee, Lori Hartman, Janet Dean and Dylan Everett.
Cheryl Jenkins of Coldwell Banker United REALTORS talks to WCR’s president-elect, Susanna Boyer, at the organization’s happy hour and wine tasting event at Water 2 Wine on Anderson Lane.