in this issue…
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995™
• WCR Monthly Meeting • AYREP Happy Hour • Tuscan Village "Dusty Foot" Tour • Hay Compere Open House • ABoR Hill Visits • and much, much more!
Associates in Progress
In Just Four Short Years page 36
page 25
TM
MAY 2013 • VOLUME 18 • ISSUE 1
Marketing in real estate changing with proliferation of smartphones By Stacy Hale
A
Visit us online 24/7 at www.myRealtyLine.com
P. O. Box 81366, Austin, Texas 78708
TM
austin
RL
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995
Printed on recycled paper.
Presorted Standard U.S. Postage PAID Austin, Texas Paid Permit #715
recent survey from the Pew Research Center found that 22 percent of U.S. adults own a tablet computer, and almost half of all adults in the U.S. have a smart phone. Data gathered in our field overwhelmingly suggests that most buyers start their search for a home online, and many times, that’s through a website or app on a mobile phone or tablet. With that in mind, it pays to consider how listings and searches
are presented in this brave new world of mobile real estate. Last October NAR ran a blog post on Realtor.org that brought to mind a particular nuance when it comes to mobile real estate marketing: many search tools designed for smartphones and tablets allow buyers to get very specific about their criteria; for example, price. Most apps have either a $25,000 or $50,000 price spread between two different brackets, with typical ranges from no minimum up to $300,000. Depending on how you price the home, it may show up in one bracket but not another, even if your price c o m e s very close. (So if you normally price a home at $199,999, you might want to list it at $200,000 exactly, so that it will show up in both search brackets.) Many of the real estate search apps now offer features that connect buyers to agents in ways similar to social media. For example, the Realtor.com app allows you to add your clients much like a friend request on Facebook and connect with them collaboratively. You can use the app to send your clients homes they may be interested in, or they can use the “Send to Agent” feature that delivers all of their requests for more information and appointment requests directly to you. Other apps from Realtor.com can help you create a mobile-ready Facebook business page or a QR mobile marketing system. Real estate CRMs are catching on too. Top Producer is mobile and cloud-based, with apps like Top Connector that let you
send out marketing pieces via mobile. BrightOpen for Market Snapshot creates a soup-to-nuts open house experience, complete with contact forms visitors can fill out on the spot (and right on your device) and follow-up tools. Or, if you’re a real trailblazer and you’ve got the resources, you can create your own app. The point of mobile marketing in real estate is the same as it is in any business: to consider every touch point of the customer experience, and make it (the information you want them to access, the action you want them to take) easy and accessible. The best content marketers understand that relevance and convenience are the keys to winning customers’ hearts and minds, never forgetting, of course, that personal touch that fosters great relationships. The general rules are as follows: 1. Consider where they are. People like their information presented in formats that are compatible with their technology ecosystems. Use mobile-responsive design (content and layout that automatically adapts to any screen size) and mobile-friendly content (powerful headlines, to-the-point copy, images that grab). 2. Consider where they’re going. Real estate by nature is not a geographically static business. Your clients need to get from point A to point B to point C, and you don’t want them getting lost. Apps like Glympse can securely
Front Page: Continued on page 22
Upcoming Events Friday, May 17 HBA 2013 Tour of Homes REALTOR Day - Various Locations - 12 to 6 p.m. Monday, May 20 WCAoR 24th Annual Golf Tournament - Cimarron Hills - 10 to 6 p.m. Tuesday, May 21 HBA Georgetown Chapter Meeting Bob's Catfish 'N More - 12 to 1 p.m. Wednesday, May 22 Netco Title: "Come Get Happy" Happy Hour - Doc's Backyard & Grill 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday, May 23 ABoR TREPAC Prom: Denim & Diamonds - Scottish Rite Theatre 6:30 to 10:30 p.m. Tuesday, June 4 HBA Lakeway/Bee Cave Chapter Meeting - Fore - 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesday, June 4 HBA Lakeway/Bee Cave Chapter Meeting - Fore - 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday, June 6 ABoR Member Meeting - Austin Country Club - 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. ABoR Foundation Mercedes Benz Raffle Drawing - ABoR Office 6 to 9:30 p.m. Wednesday, June 19 CRS Bi-Monthly Meeting Westwood Country Club 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. More at www.myRealtyLine.com
austin Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995
TM
151 TR IN I TY H I LLS DR IV E • AU S T I N, T X 78737 • 512. 301. 5000 • B EL TERRATEX A S . C OM
RL
David Weekley Homes • Highland Homes • Sitterle Homes • Treaty Oak Homes • Wilshire Homes
Introducing...Belterra’s class of 2025!
www.myRealtyLine.com
Tomorrow’s teachers, artists, doctors, athletes, home builders, bankers, engineers, musicians, attorneys, chefs, dancers, actors and politicians...
May 2013
They may be small, but to us they’re BIG STUFF!
2 Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
RL
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
austin
Austin Board of REALTORS®
www.myRealtyLine.com
TM
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995
Chairman’s Column By Cathy Coneway • 2013 Chairman
May 2013
your pals in the photo booth, and dance to the beats of the DJ from 6:30 to 10:30 p.m. at the Scottish Rite Theatre. Tickets are available at Abor.com/Prom for $45 a person or $80 a couple. For more information, contact William Dane in ABoR’s Government Affairs Department at wdane@abor.com.
Realty Round Up is racing up the track The 2013 Realty Round Up is revving up. This is a great event for real estate professionals
Spend June 6 with ABoR
M
ark your calendars; there are two great events coming up at ABoR on June 6. First, meeting from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Austin Country Club is ABoR’s 2013 Membership Meeting. Join us there to hear updates on our MLS conversion, kickstart our strategic planning for 2014, and learn about the future ABoR facility. This event is an opportunity for ABoR and ACTRIS members to learn more about the association and how to get involved. To purchase your ticket to this exciting and informative event, please visit Abor. com/MemberMeeting. Later that day, the ABoR Foundation is putting on its Mercedes Raffle from 6 to 9 p.m. Hosted at the ABoR offices, this event is always a fun one. Join the fun by purchasing your chance at winning a brand new Mercedes-Benz at Foundation-Abor.com. Tickets are $100 and only 1,500 will be sold. Two REALTOR members have won in the past; so don’t wait to purchase your ticket before they’re gone. The winner of the raffle not only wins a new car, but the chance to handpick their Mercedes at the fac-
and businesses to network and build business. Get ready by purchasing your booth before June 30 and receive a $75 early bird discount. On Oct. 16, join ABoR and Central Texas REALTORS as we race into the future at the 2013 Realty Round Up. This year, Realty Round Up has a new location and will take place 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. RL
ABoR Academy Educational Courses
tory in Germany. Proceeds from the raffle benefit the ABoR Foundation’s Scholarship Fund, which helps Central Texas high school seniors pay for higher education.
May 16: Broker Responsibility MCE Course May 16: Hot Topics - Brokerage May 20: Ziplogix Suite May 29: Fight the Texas Tax Appraisal & Win May 29: Green MLS: The Key to Unlocking the Green Home Market May 30: Getting It Right June 4: Salesperson to Spielberg June 4: What's New and How Do I Use it June 6: Evernote 101 June 6: Mediate, Arbitrate, Litigate June 12: Know Your Code Articles 12 & 14
Answer the call to serve your local association The open call for leadership positions for ABoR and TAR Board of Directors are underway. ACTRIS and PAC leadership positions will be open for application starting June 15. Visit Abor.com/Leadership to learn about the opportunities and submit your application today. If you have any questions, contact Vicki Harris in ABoR’s executive department at 454-7636.
More at www.ABoR.com
It’s prom night TREPAC-style Dance the night away at ABoR PAC’s firstever TREPAC Prom! Put on your finest duds, grab your dancing shoes or boots, and enjoy music at this Denim & Diamonds theme event on Thursday, May 23. Enjoy heavy hors d’oeuvres while waiting for the prom king and prom queen to be announced, crack up with
Buy Photos + View Archives at
www.myRealtyLine.com
First American Austin is growing and we invite you to grow with us. Jason Vasek welcomes Theresa Wilcox, Carroll Hyndman and Denise Vincent to the First American Team. With a combined 30 plus years in the title industry, we are passionate about our clients. We enjoy the diversity of servicing all aspects of our business with a strong focus on residential and commercial transactions. My team and I are excited to be a part of First American Title in Northwest Hills, where you are first!
Theresa Wilcox Branch Manager / Escrow Officer
Carroll Hyndman
When experience and value matter,
Escrow Assistant & Officer
First American is all you need to know.
Denise Vincent Business Consultant | 512.431.7572
3520 Executive Center Drive, Suite G-100 | Austin, TX 78731 |
office
512.795.9755
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 - 04/2013
3
©2013 First American Financial Corporation and/or its affiliates. All rights reserved. | NYSE: FAF
4
May 2013
RL
www.myRealtyLine.com
austin
TM
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
Christa Beyer and Sonny Bara, both of Realty Austin, admire the view at Rough Hollow’s new Highland Village waterthemed amenity center during the grand opening celebration.
Buy photo: RL_050813_C.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Alicia Kelley and Tammy Elliott, both of Realty Austin, are glad to see Realty Line’s Doren Carver at the Hay Compere Annual Open House and Networking Event at its new historic office in downtown Austin.
Buy photo: RL_050713_H.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
New home sales pro Chris Dodd talks market news with Phillip Myers of Goldwasser Real Estate at AYREP's March Madness Happy Hour at Blackfinn American Pub. Buy photo: RL_050113_A.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com Buy photo: RL_040813_B.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
John Rosshirt of Stanberry and Associates is feeling frisky as he gears up to educate state legislators on real estate issues during ABoR’s Hill Visits at the state capitol.
Focused on you. Vista Lending is comprised of
Local Lending Experts who, with our
Realtor partners, have helped thousands of Texans finance their dream home.
Please call to reconnect or to meet and
The Ron Urias Agency
discuss how we can help you!
512.448.0844 Our Team Most customers have NO CLUE how much hard
Get in touch
512-358-6262 info@vistaaustin.com
Back Row: Russ Laing Mary Canales Heather Shuttles Jennifer Cantrell Shawn Andrew
work, research and effort goes into the home purchase process. Everyone needs a trusted advisor to guide them through the closing process and that’s where YOU come in as their Realtor. Hey Realtors, we’re your trusted advisors
HelpP int
when it comes to insurance solutions. Call us today!
Front Row: Sonya Valia Mike Robertson
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!”
NFLP NMLS# 2297
W W W. v i s ta a u s t i n . c o m
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
RL austin
TM
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995
www.myRealtyLine.com
May 2013
5
GET A MOVE ON Beautiful new quick move-in homes under construction. Loaded with amazing options. What are you waiting for? Visit Circle C – Fairway Estates to learn more.
10917 Canfield, Austin, TX 78739 Homesite 15/A-3 2-story, 3,664 sq. ft., 5 bdrms., 3 baths, 3-car garage This home features a full outdoor kitchen on lanai with fireplace, media room above the garage, fifth bedroom and bath in lieu of the den, wrought iron stair rail, 6-panel interior doors, 5.25-in. Colonial baseboards, crown molding and chair rail molding accents, luxury kitchen with raised-panel maple cabinets, additional sinks at butler’s pantry and laundry, raised vanities at master and secondary baths, 42-in. garden tub with tile surround and separate shower with tile surround at master bath, porcelain tub and shower with tile surround at bath 2, and shower with marble surround in lieu of tub at bath 3. Please see sales counselor for a complete list of included features.
11204 Cowher, Austin, TX 78739 Homesite 3/A-2 2-story, 3,862 sq. ft., 5 bdrms., 4.5 baths, 2-car garage This home features gutters in included areas, fifth bedroom at the attic space, enlarged master bedroom, extended nook, study with walk-in closet and full bath in lieu of 3-car garage, wrought iron stair rail, crown molding and chair rail molding accents, 5.25-in. Colonial baseboards, 6-panel interior doors, utility sink at laundry room, 42-in. marble garden tub and separate shower at master bath, and porcelain tub and shower with tile surround at baths 2 and 3. Please see sales counselor for a complete list of included features.
From Loop 1 (Mopac) in South Austin, exit Slaughter Ln. and head west. Turn left on Escarpment, right on La Crosse and right on Spruce Cyn. into community. (512) 432-0103
Broker Cooperation Welcome. ©2013 KB Home (KBH). Many features/upgrades are preselected and included in cost of home. Buyer may be required to pay for any additional features/ upgrades and is responsible for all taxes, insurance and other fees. Plans, inventory pricing, financing, terms, availability and specifications subject to change/prior sale without notice and may vary by neighborhood, lot location and home series. Sq. footage is approximate. Quick move-in homes may require up to approximately 90 days before available for closing. Photos may depict upgraded landscaping/options and may not represent lowest-priced or quick move-in homes as listed. See sales representative for details. AUS-108583
6
RL
www.myRealtyLine.com
May 2013
austin
TM
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
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
RESEARCH 11044 Research Blvd. Bldg. D, Suite 100 Austin, TX 78759 t: 512.249.0576
www.facebook.com/Austin.NAT www.nat.com
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
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
RL
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
austin
Williamson County Assoc. of REALTORS®
www.myRealtyLine.com
TM
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995
President’s Column By Stacey Rider • 2013 President
However, with this amazing technology there comes a price. Personally, I've lost a sense of division between my work life and my home life. I've heard many REALTORS state that it's too easy to be so connected—that you lose your private time. To make this instantaneous connection work in a cohesive manner, we need to face the fact that change is going
B
Robert Butler, a word-of-mouth marketing professional states "Smartphones and tablets are revolutionizing the speed and efficiency of doing business in real estate." He continues on by stating “Real estate professionals have always been on the move. Now they can literally take the entire office along with them, and maintain live, constant communication with any client from around the world.” The REALTORS who master this technology will ultimately be the most successful. I can't imagine competing with another agent in an offer/ counter offer scenario without mobile apps like Docusign—just one example of a product no one had ever heard of five or six years ago that is now an integral part of the sales process today. We've entered an age of constantly improving technology and professionals from every industry are feeling the pressure to keep up. Five years from now, I suspect that smartphones may be totally replaced by another technology. Google continues its work on Google Glass and Apple is supposedly designing a new watch.
to happen and we can tailor it to fit our individual needs by setting boundaries both in the work place and at home. Rest assured that Williamson County Association of REALTORS will be here to help ease this transition into change by offering dynamic and hands on courses specific to new tools, techniques, and technology. RL
May 20-24: Annual Golf Classic (Cimarron Hills) May 23: Matrix Maximo May 24: TREC Ethics and Legal (Cedar Park) June 6 -7: Accredited Buyer Representative (ABR) June 6: Matrix CMA June 10: LinkedIn and Real Estate 101 June 12: Matrix Maximo June 13: Luncheon - Capital Metro Updates June 13: Word of Mouth Marketing
More at www.WCAoR.org
Submitted Photo
Kelly Thate of Realty Austin, Mary Faseler and Ashley Doczy, both of Devine Design Staging, and Becky Ladner have a little "girl time" at the ABoR Foundation Mercedes-Benz raffle event at Steiner Ranch Steakhouse.
POWER. BRAND. EXPERTISE. TOP PRODUCER
referrAls & A 95/5 split
1
TOP 10 CommerCiAl BrAnd
2
A Better WAy in CommerCiAl reAl estAte
40 YEARS of reAl estAte guidAnCe
GLOBAL COMMERCIAL PRESENCE
OVER 45 COUNTRIES • 400 OffICES & DIVISIONS • 4 CCIM PRESIdENTS IN 10 yEaRS
®
To Learn More Visit
remaxcommercial.com. 1
7
Upcoming Events & Education
There's a price to pay to be connected 24/7 eing armed with the right tools to enable you to do the best job you can as a REALTOR is paramount. Over the past few years we have seen an explosion of the smartphone with numerous applications which make the job of real estate so much easier, portable, and faster. It is the multi-tasking tool we cannot live without now, and it's redefined how we live because it's the first thing we reach for in the morning and it's the last thing we put down at night. I'll admit, I wake up in the middle of the night and I'll check e-mails. I hardly put it down. Applications make our lives easier from the ekey, REALTOR Action Center, Mortgage Plus from TREPAC, Realtor.com, and ZipForms. We have unlimited access to information 24 hours a day, seven days a week. We don't have to be at home or the office; we are on the go. We can easily parlay that information over to our clients because they love the instant gratification just as much as we do and again, it's about having the right tools to enable the client to buy or sell.
May 2013
SCAN THIS QR CODE OR GO TO: rem.ax/10XyzWb
Individual office rates may vary by franchise 2 by number and total square feet of listings. ©2013 RE/MAX, LLC. All rights reserved. Each office is independently owned and operated.
8
May 2013
www.myRealtyLine.com
RL austin
TM
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
Big things are happening in Rough Hollow and Don Michaelik, Karen Michaelik, Tammy Templin, all of Coldwell Banker United, REALTORS, along with Rob and Karen Matuszewski, both of By Design Real Estate Services, and Steve Presti attend the Highland Village grand opening event to find out what’s going on. Highland Village is Rough Hollow’s new water-themed amenity center. Buy photo: RL_050813_F.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Tricia Winfield and Julie Ainsworth, both of Keller Williams Realty, have a lot to share with new agents coming into the field. They are both eager to talk with recent graduates at the Champions School of Real Estate career day at its Round Rock campus.
Buy photo: RL_050613_F.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Wild about chili, Barb Cooper and Vanessa Bivens, both of Coldwell Banker United, REALTORS, with Kelea Piper, center, of Champions School of Real Estate try to put out the fire on their tongues as they go from booth to booth to get a taste of everyone’s chili recipes.
Buy photo: RL_050713_D.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Andy Cates of Texas Association of REALTORS and Nicole Griggs enjoy an evening in Austin while at the Hay Compere Annual Open House and Networking Event at its new office downtown.
Buy photo: RL_040713_L.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
H DHI Mortgage Austin welcomes... E L L Mortgage Loan Originator O NMLS #513736
Hey!
Lago Lopez
The DHI Mortgage Austin team is growing! Welcome our newest Mortgage Loan Originator, Lago. He is excited to be a part of our team and looks forward to providing new opportunities for clients. With the support of DHI, Lago can provide: • Potential financial savings • A variety of products and choices • Convenient online prequalification • Personal assistance for your clients
Let’s talk! Lago Lopez
www.dhimortgage.com
Mortgage Loan Originator, NMLS #513736 10700 Pecan Park Blvd., Ste. 200, Austin, TX 78750 Direct: 512-533-1322 | Cell: 512-202-7987 Efax: 866-829-0553 Email: LLopez@dhimortgage.com
Provided for informational purposes only. This is not a commitment to lend. Not all borrowers will qualify. DHI Mortgage Company, Ltd. Branch NMLS #38686. 10700 Pecan Park Blvd., Ste. 200, Austin, TX 78750. Company NMLS #14622. For information on DHIM licensing, please visit www.dhimortgage.com/other-pages/licensing/. REV: 04/29/13 / EXP: 04/29/14
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
RL austin
TM
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995
www.myRealtyLine.com
May 2013
9
10
RL
www.myRealtyLine.com
May 2013
austin
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
TM
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995
Bobby Cloud of Supreme Lending talks business with Dyron Taylor of Keller Williams Realty during AYREP’s March Madness Happy Hour at Blackfinn American Pub.
Buy photo: RL_040813_C.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Melia Gardner, Sandy Steed and Marcie Whited, all of Capital Title, get a dose of education at the monthly WCR meeting at the ABoR auditorium.
Buy photo: RL_050813_A.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Rough Hollow’s new water-themed amenity center called Highland Village helps make selling homes in Rough Hollow easy. Mark Bennett of Bella Real Estate and Marilyn Kurka of New Home Solutions Realty take a tour during the Highland Village grand opening event.
Buy photo: RL_040313_E.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Austin Area Market Update Austin - San Marcos Building Permits 1980 - 2013 YTD Single Family
Multifamily
30,000 27,500 25,000 22,500 20,000 17,500 15,000 12,500 10,000 7,500 5,000 2,500
Partnerships Built on Trust
2012
2011
2010
2009
2013 YTD
For more information, please contact one of our sales executives. www.gracytitle.com
2008
2007
2006
2005
2004
2003
2002
2001
2000
1999
1998
1997
1996
1995
1994
1993
1992
1991
1990
1989
1988
1987
1986
1985
1984
1983
1982
1981
1980
0
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
RL austin
TM
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995
www.myRealtyLine.com
At Gracy Title, we find absolutely nothin’ odd about the # Our associates have spoken ... and were heard loud and clear!
May 2013
11
12
May 2013
www.myRealtyLine.com
RL austin
TM
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
Angela Ferrales and Jazz Lough, both of Netco Title, talk with Mary Caro of Equity Texas Realty about who she’s using for title services these days. They met at Champions School of Real Estate’s Career Day event at its Round Rock campus.
Buy photo: RL_050613_E.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Susan Peck and Stephanie Loth, both of imortgage, say some of the chili was a little too hot to handle. The two taste test all of the chili at the 6th Annual ABoR Chili Cook Off benefiting TREPAC.
Buy photo: RL_040713_D.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Pam Drawbaugh of Four Directions Realty and ABoR Chairman Cathy Coneway of Stanberry and Associates get things rolling at the ABoR Hill Visits at the state capitol. Buy photo: RL_050213_E.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Buy photo: RL_050113_B.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
They may look friendly right now, but don’t underestimate these two’s ability to duke it out over this cake! Ron Urias of Farmers Insurance and Chris Rodriguez of Austin Real Pros challenge each other on who the real owner of this cake should be at the 7th Annual WCR Celebrity TREPAC Cake Auction at the ABoR Auditorium.
austin
Round Rock 620
d. kR ee Cr
45
res
s
Cedar Park
k Cree
TOLL
C yp
45
TOLL
PRESTON Village
Cypress Creek
Pflugerville 1
183
620
35 360
AUSTIN West Cypress Hills
183 71
290 aR oa d
290
nc ha c Ma
g lau
ht er L an
71
e
Southbridge Villas
45
TOLL
Buda .
Windy ll R d Hi
Shadow Creek
Scenic Homes from the mid $200’s 512-264-0900
7233 Manchaca Rd. • South Austin
New Homes from the $140’s 512-782-2040
5200 Cypress Ranch Blvd. Spicewood, Texas
Southpark Meadows
The Reserve at Brushy Creek
3039 Little River Road • South Austin
Distinct Homes from the $190’s 512-961-5553
UP TO 7% COMMISSION!
203 Shadow Creek Blvd. • Buda
Riverside Villas
Distinct Homes from the $200’s 512-410-0899 2001 Faro Drive • Downtown Austin
Homes from the low $300’s 512-961-5556
Cypress Creek
New Homes from the $150’s 512-215-5220 1900 Little Elm Trail • Cedar Park
Another Top Selling Community
Scottsdale Crossing
Cedar Park ’s newest luxury community!
Modern Homes from the $190’s 512-630-8978 16016 Travesia Way • Austin
Volume Home Builder
Announcing a new exciting lineup of homes featuring : • The latest cutting edge designs • Majestic oak trees on 60’ home sites • Homes approx. 2,198 to 3,816 sq.ft. • Limited pre-construction pricing
Call Dana Gilley at 512-538-8026 or at dgilley@mymilestone.com
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.
President’s Choice
of the year 2012
Austin Business Journal
ISSION
Shadow Creek
Tuscan Style Homes from the $190’s 512-804-2605
Preston Village
Southpark Meadows
M
Southbridge Villas
Pinnacle Luxury Collection
Breakway Rd. & Brushy Creek Rd. Cedar Park, Te xas
Riverside Villas
4% ATUR
West Cypress Hills
Pinnacle Luxury Collection
1
S
Austin’s Largest, Award Winning HomeBuilder
FE
COM
hy Brus
13
May 2013
G
1431
Rd. ale ttsd Sco
www.myRealtyLine.com
IN
The Reserve At Brushy Creek Scottsdale Crossing
TM
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995
!
RL
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
Volume Builder
www.MyMileStone.com
award winner 2011
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.
14
May 2013
www.myRealtyLine.com
President’s Column By Brent Allison • 2013 President
O
HBA honors Austin-area builders, remodelers and associate members for industry excellence
n Saturday, May 11, the Home Builders Association (HBA) of Greater Austin honored dozens of members with its coveted Marketing and Advertising Excellence (MAX) Awards at the Renaissance Austin Hotel. The annual awards recognize HBA member achievements in new home building, marketing, remodeling and professional accomplishments for individuals during 2012. After a lively social hour and dinner, the evening culminated with the big granddaddy of them all, the “Grand MAX” awards. These top honors went to Scott Felder Homes for Volume Builder of the Year, Lake Travis Builders for Custom Builder of the Year and David Wilkes Builders for Remodeler of the Year. HBA builders were honored for a variety of product achievement awards for homes built and HBA remodeler members received awards for a number of different remodeling projects, including Best Master Bath, Best Kitchen, Best Outdoor Living and more. Awards were also doled out to recognize
builders, remodelers and associate members in various promotional categories, including: • Ad campaigns, billboards, direct mail, print ads • Electronic and Internet media • Interior merchandising • Sales brochures and promotions • Sales office/design center/showroom In addition, individuals were recognized for personal achievement in sales, marketing, construction, title and mortgage. The HBA also selects its REALTOR of the Year for outstanding work with members. You can view the complete list of winners under “Latest News” on our website's home page. Contact any of these award-winning HBA members for your next home building or remodeling project by clicking "find a member" at www.AustinHomeBuilders.com. Since 1953, the Home Builders Association (HBA) of Greater Austin has served as the leading not-for-profit trade organization dedicated to residential construction and remodeling in Central Texas. RL
RL austin
TM
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
Home Builders Association of Greater Austin
S l a t e
o f
W i n n e r s
Grand MAX "Volume Builder of the Year" Scott Felder Homes Grand MAX "Custom Builder of the Year" Lake Travis Builders Grand MAX "Remodeler of the Year" David Wilkes Builders Best Overall Community Under 100 units: The Grove at Falconhead 101-300 units: The Reserve at Lake Travis 300+ units: Teravista Best Product Design - Custom Lake Travis Builders
Best Custom One-of-a-Kind Home Zbranek & Holt Custom Homes Best Master Bath - Custom Home Gossett Jones Homes Best Outdoor Living - Custom Home Zbranek & Holt Custom Homes
Best Product Design - Volume $100k - $199,999: Pacesetter Homes $200k - $249,999: Centerra Homes $250k - Over $500k: Scott Felder Homes
Best Remodeled Project Under $200k: David Wilkes Builders Over $200k: Brad Marshall Homes
Best Product Design - Specialty Prod. Lennar Homes
Best Kitchen Remodel David Wilkes Builders
Best Green Home - Custom Builder Lake Travis Builders
Best Master Bath Remodel Tier 1 Group, LLC
Best Kitchen - Custom Home Silverton Custom Homes Gossett Jones Homes
REALTOR of the Year Jacquelyn Foreman, Coldwell Banker United, REALTORS
View the complete list of winners at www.AustinHomeBuilders.com
FEELING STUCK? Join the team at United Lending, you’ll be jumping over the moon.
Ranked #3 Mortgage Lender by the
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
RL austin
TM
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995
www.myRealtyLine.com
May 2013
15
G R A N D H AV E N H O M E S presents Homes On The Fairway at Cimarron Hills Golf & Country Club Luxury Homes from the mid $400’s 2,400 - 4,800 Sq Ft 512.535.2096 cimarronhills@grandhavenhomes.net, GrandHavenHomes.net cimarronhills@grandhavenhomes.net, GHReserveHomes.com
All plans and features are preliminary, and we fully expect to make changes in an effort to continuously improve our homes. We reserve the right to modify
16
May 2013
www.myRealtyLine.com
RL austin
TM
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
Kelea Piper of Champions School of Real Estate tries to improve her view while Genara Rodriguez of Alterra Mortgage answers questions for a customer. The two attended ABoR’s Hill Visits at the state capitol to show solidarity with the local real estate industry.
Buy photo: RL_050113_L.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Beth Helberg of ABoR and Stephanie Loth of imortgage take some time to meet new people at the AYREP Happy Hour at The Nook Amphitheater.
Buy photo: RL_040813_D.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com Buy photo: RL_050413_C.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Dan Rushing of imortgage and Kandis Wilberforce of Lennar mix and mingle with REALTORS during AYREP’s March Madness Happy Hour at Blackfinn American Pub.
Congratulations April Top Producer Julie Black, NMLSR # 232023
Senior Loan Officer Phone: 306-6357 e-Fax: 866-561-8955 jblack@starkeymtg.com
Patty Chapman, Senior Processor Robb Spreen, Loan Administrator
A Solid, Proven, and Committed Lender! WR Starkey Mortgage, LLP NMLSR# 2146 807 Las Cimas Pkwy., Suite 150, Austin, TX 78746
This is not a guarantee of nancing. All borrowers must meet certain underwriting guidelines and credit criteria. Rules and Regulations may apply.
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
RL austin
TM
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995
www.myRealtyLine.com
May 2013
17
Join us May 17–19 at rough Hollow for the 2013 tour of Homes presented by the Greater austin Home Builders association the ultimate Open House
A LAKE
HOME DESIGNS BY: VIllaGE BuIlDErS • GraND HaVEN • rIVEr OakS • DrEES StaNDarD PacIfIc • cOVENtrY • ScOtt fElDEr • HIGHlaND • WES PEOPlES AND
Start your rough Life at
CUSTOM HOMES FROM THE $700’s
RoughHollowLakeway.com
Call us
512.617.1776
Follow us
Developed by Legend Communities in partnership with Crescent Resources. 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.
18
May 2013
www.myRealtyLine.com
RL austin
TM
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
Nichole Burse and Mark Griffiths, both of Best Agents in Texas, listen to a potential new recruit talk about what she is looking for in a broker while at the Champions School of Real Estate career day.
Buy photo: RL_050613_A.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Jan Griffin of Jan Griffin REALTORS and Linda Scott of Nextage Lone Star Realty arrive to the WCR Monthly Meeting early to ensure they get a good seat.
Buy photo: RL_050813_E.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Lakeway Mayor Pro Tem Joe Bain, right, congratulates Haythem Dawlett of Legend Communities (developer for Rough Hollow and Tuscan Village) on the grand opening of Rough Hollow’s new Highland Village water-themed amenity center.
Buy photo: RL_040313_C.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
THE FIRST MAJOR AUSTIN HOMEBUILDER VERIFIED LEED FOR HOMES
Now proudly serving
Austin, Texas
5
% Commission on
Inventory!*
We have 15 Communities from the $120s-$500s in the Austin Metro Area!
W.J. Bradley Mortgage Capital, LLC welcomes Tim Dockery and Crystal Keiser. Tim Dockery brings with him more than 20 years of mortgage experience to offer the highest level of customer service to his mortgage clients. He has a strong team supporting him, including Crystal Keiser.
Aus tin · CedA r PA rk · GeorGe t oW n · Hu t t o · L A k e WAy L e A nder · M A nor · PfLuGerviL L e · round roCk · sPiCe Wood
Founded in 2002, W.J. Bradley Mortgage Capital, LLC is a rapidly-growing boutique residential mortgage
banking firm headquartered in Centennial, Colo. with centralized fulfillment operations in Salt Lake City and a second operations location near its headquarters in Centennial.
conforming & jumbo loans · 5-, 10- & 30-yr fixed · low adjustable rates FHA fixed and adjustable rates · VA and 203(k) loan TIM DOCKERY
Branch Manager | NMLS# 228077
13785 Highway 183, Suite 125, Austin, TX 78750
512.456.5006 office | 512.970.3711 cell | 877.273.5832 office
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
CoventryHomes.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. 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.
Wilshire-Homes.com
PlantationHomes.com
*5% REALTOR® commission available on a Realtor Assisted sale with an original contract effective date of January 1, 2013 through December 31, 2013 for a Wilshire Home, Coventry Home, or Plantation Home in the Austin metropolitan area. Must be a licensed Texas Realtor to participate. Not available on existing contracts prior to January 1, 2013. Not available with ‘Build on Your Lot’ sales. Builder reserves the right to change or withdraw this program at any time. Prices are subject to change without notice. See a Sales Counselor for complete list of available homes. MHI A 13055
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
RL austin
TM
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995
www.myRealtyLine.com
May 2013
19
20
May 2013
RL
www.myRealtyLine.com
austin
TM
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995
Austin CRS Chapter
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
President ‘s Column By Risé Johns • 2013 President
Socar Chatmon-Thomas of Elegant Estates by Auction and Cheryl Jenkins of Keller Williams Realty make their way into the ABoR Auditorium for the 6th Annual TREPAC Chili Cook Off.
Buy photo: RL_040713_G.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
“Come to Keller Williams Lake Travis where everyday is like a vacay.” Chuck Blair and Kathie Buras of Keller Williams Realty’s Lake Travis Market Center woo new agents at the Champions School of Real Estate Career Day at its Round Rock campus.
Buy photo: RL_050613_H.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
I
There’s an app for that
n an age where “Google” is a verb, information is accessed at the speed of light, or however fast your cell browser is. There are so many chances to see and be seen in our everevolving mobile world, that if you are not using your smartphone for real estate dealings, you are definitely missing something important. Huge home search sites like Realtor.com, Zillow and Trulia have all gone mobile. Anyone can search for homes in an instant from anywhere. Once they have found the places they want to see, they can e-mail their agents directly from their phones. This can be useful for an out-of-town client who only has access to their REALTOR through digital exchanges. More and more transactions are moving from the PC and laptop to our handheld devices. There are mobile apps that a home hunter can use to access information about a house, which may not even be for sale, just by taking a photo with a smartphone. Our ever-ready cameras can be used to take pictures of properties for listings or to send to our out-of-town client. Facebook, Youtube, Pinterest—need I say more? They are mobile; are you?
The endless number of apps have made it easier for agents too. Companies like DocuSign make it possible to send, receive and sign documents all on our smartphones. Digital transactions are quickly becoming the norm; making them more efficient and generating less paper. Point and click any QR code on a real estate flyer for instant access to an agent’s website. Look around—they are everywhere. Where would we be without our mini-hand-held-computers? Lost—literally lost. Without our cell GPS, some of us would never be able to show property. New updates on MLS have grown with the times as well. Agents now have access to MLS pages from their phones that can save them from making frustrating phone calls to find out a simple security code. It is on the sheet and accessible on your cell screen in seconds. The term, “there’s an app for that,” has never been more true. Our smartphones have made life in the real estate world move faster than ever before. For the house hunter, the busy agent and even the casual browser, search away. There really is an app for that. RL
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
RL austin
TM
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995
www.myRealtyLine.com
May 2013
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
21
22
RL
www.myRealtyLine.com
May 2013
austin
TM
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
Front Page: Continued
Staci Wimbush and Vicky Busbee, both of Tuscan Village, show Joanna Jennings of Reilly REALTORS the layout of what will become the new Tuscan Village amenity center during the Tuscan Village “Dusty Foot” Tour in Lakeway.
Buy photo: RL_040913_H.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Hay Compere’s new office at the historic Bremond House at 402 West 7th Street includes a lovely front yard that reminds us why Austin is the “place to be.”
Buy photo: RL_050713_C.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
share your location—in real time via e-mail, SMS, or the social sites—for the duration you specify. You text them a “glimpse” and they can find you without having the app installed. 3. Consider everywhere they might be. Think about the places your customers are hanging out, even the unlikely places, and how your message might catch their eye. Consider how much time they might have (or not) to digest your message and adjust your strategy accordingly, whether it’s a headline and a QR code that takes them to more indepth content that they can digest at their convenience, or a virtual tour clip shared on social media. Be ready to answer on-the-fly questions with on-the-fly solutions. For example, the MagicPlan app lets you measure your floor plan by taking photos with your phone and publish an interactive floor plan you can share on the web. 4. Consider the response. Measure, measure, measure. Test strategies and collect data on response rates to learn from each step of your marketing campaigns (no doubt there are apps for this too). If it works, put it in your next presentation. If it didn’t, try something new next time. Great mobile marketing is a patchwork masterpiece, part science and part art—trialand-error building toward measurable outcomes, until you find what “clicks.” (And then the next generation of technology comes out.) If you’re the type of agent who loves talking to your clients (and you are), just pay attention the next time you see them zoning out on their device. Sometimes a killer strategy starts as simply as asking, “So what’s new in your world?” RL
RL austin
TM
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995
P. O. Box 81366 • Austin, Texas 78708-1366 (512) 821-1900 www.myRealtyLine.com E-mail: info@myRealtyLine.com Publisher: Doren L. Carver doren@myRealtyLine.com Associate Publisher: Tawanna K. Carver tawanna@myRealtyLine.com Managing Editor: Naomi Bludworth naomi@myRealtyLine.com Contributing Editor: Linda McNabb Contributing Writers: Stacy Hale, Naomi Bludworth, Riki Markowitz Contributing Photographers: Doren L. Carver, Naomi Bludworth Columnists: Cathy Coneway, Stacy Rider, Risé Johns, Nicole Boynton, Wayne Morgan Submission Guidelines:
Create Your Market IDentity
TREC MCE Elective Course #: 01-00-063-23148
Build your Business What makes you unique in your market? How do your referral sources describe you?
YES YOU SHOULD
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
Because with the right message and consistency, advertising with us will get you noticed.
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
You have a market identity. The question is who is creating it — you or the people who are talking about you? In this session, you’ll create a tagline that is the basis for your identity and learn how to use it in everything from casual conversation to marketing to helping your Inner Circle refer you in the way you prefer. th
REALTORS® (WCAoR) and the Home Builders Association (HBA) of Greater Austin. Realty Line Austin is printed on recycled paper.
Thursday, June 6
Realty Line Austin is a proud member of the Austin Board of
(rescheduled from May 9 )
REALTORS®, the Williamson County Association of REALTORS® and
4:00 – 5:00 p.m.
is a honorary member of the Women’s Council of REALTORS.
th
(Happy Hour to follow)
Sente Mortgage | Barton Oaks Plaza | 901 S. MoPac, Bldg. IV, Ste. 125 | Austin,TX 78746
Workshop Sente Mortgage NMLSFREE ID# 13211 | www.SenteMortgage.com Optional 1 MCE hourTXfor $10| 512.637.9900 901 South MoPac, Building IV Suitecredit 125, Austin 78746 (cash or check only, payable at the door)
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
Realty Line Austin is not responsible for opinions or facts
Call 512-821-1900 for information.
RL austin
TM
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995
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.
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
RL austin
TM
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995
www.myRealtyLine.com
May 2013
23
Steve Crorey of Sierra Homes Realty and Carol Delgado of Stanberry and Associates attend the ABoR Foundation's Mercedes-Benz raffle event. Money raised from the raffle goes toward scholarships for area high-school students.
Submitted Photo
Ann Marie Sandlin of Reta Kays REALTORS and Patricia Wagner of DHI Mortgage are happy to support TREPAC by buying a cake during WCR’s annual Celebrity TREPAC Cake Auction at the ABoR Auditorium.
Buy photo: RL_050613_B.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Susan Albertson of Citywide Realty reminds agents that her company is a great place to get started with a real estate career. She talked with potential recruits during Champions School of Real Estate’s Career Day at it Round Rock campus.
Buy photo: RL_050213_A.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
EARN MORE, ADD A DESIGNATION Accredited Luxury Home Specialist* 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.
June 18 - 19
$
Tues/Wed Day 1 - 8:30 AM - 4:45 PM Day 2 - 8:30 AM - 4:45 PM Classroom Only
250
Enroll Today: 512-244-3545
* Experience requirement – Work with 2 luxury home clients. 2 times the average sales price
Certified Home Marketing Specialist 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.
June 20
199
$
Wed/Thurs 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 Insider’s Guide to Commercial Real Estate 15-Hour MCE Package with Legal & Ethics
Austin/Round Rock Campus June 12 - 13
Excellent course for those looking to increase their commercial real estate knowledge and learn the ins and outs of the business.
Wed/Thurs Day 1 - 8:30 AM - 6:15 PM Day 2 - 8:30 AM - 3:30 PM Available Online
Broker Responsibility
June 13 - 14
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.
$
$
Thurs/Fri Day 1 - 8:30 AM - 6:15 PM Day 2 - 8:30 AM - 3:30 PM Available Online
CHAMPIONS SCHOOL OF REAL ESTATE Open to the Public; TREC #0005 Lone Star College Tomball Provider #0123
99
3203 S I-35 Ste 520, Round Rock, TX 78664 Located at I-35 & 45 Toll Road
1983 - 2013
®
Real Estate | Loan Origination | Home Inspection | Appraisal | Online
Celebrating 30 Years of Excellence in Education
99
RY 30th ANNIVERSA
www.ChampionsSchool.com
Broker 06-06-124-24214; Ethics 03-03-123-23556; Game Changers 09-00-123-23783; Hottest 03-00-064-24483 Insider’s Guide 09-00-054-24325; Ethics 03-03-123-23556; Legal 03-03-123-23555; 23890 Farm & Ranch 09-00-063-23070
24
May 2013
www.myRealtyLine.com
RL austin
TM
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
Martin Ochs of Hometrust Mortgage, Dolis McClure of Starstate Realty and John Moore of John Horton Realty, a Private Label Realty company, are excited to attend WCR’s monthly meeting at ABoR where they learn invaluable information at each meeting. Buy photo: RL_040313_D.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Mark Murrell of JB Goodwin REALTORS touts his company to new agents at the Champions School of Real Estate Career Day at its Round Rock campus.
Buy photo: RL_050613_L.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
With a model like this, these homes should be “easy sells” for active adults looking to buy a home in Lakeway. Linda Stoddard, Jean Phillips of Moreland Properties and Julie Lavender of Keller Williams Realty check out one of the furnished models during the Tuscan Village “Dusty Foot” Tour.
Buy photo: RL_050113_N.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
David Pavliska of RE/MAX Round Rock and ABoR President-Elect Bill Evans of Austin Real Pros take charge on Capitol Hill during the ABoR’s Hill Visits with state legislators.
Buy photo: RL_040913_F.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Thank you
KELLER WILLIAMS REALTY Round Rock Market Center for your help at Texas Baptist Children’s Home
Second Liens
are back! - 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
Gretchen Rossington, NMLS ID#555982 Austin/San Antonio Account Manager Wholesale Second Liens C. 512.484.1860 gretchen.rossington@cadencebank.com Each year, tens of thousands of KW associates from across the United States and Canada participate in a wide range of projects, devoting their time to renewing and energizing aspects of the neighborhoods in which they serve.
SOUTHWEST Diane Johnson Melanie Kennemann 448-4111
NORTHWEST Gene Frederick 346-3550
LAKE TRAVIS Mary Lynne Gibbs 263-9090
ROUND ROCK Avis Wukasch 255-5050
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
RL austin
TM
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995
Hometrust Mortgage 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
H
ometrust Mortgage, once a mediumsized Texas-based company headquartered in Houston, has two Austin outlets, including one in Westlake Hills and another in Spicewood Springs. Founded in 1986 as Hometrust (a Texas Trust Company), the business took the name Hometrust Mortgage Company in 1992 when it ceased being a trust company and became a traditional mortgage company. Hometrust has weathered many shifts in the ever-changing world of mortgage lending. They watched many colleagues take up new professions when an estimated 65 percent of lenders left the business from 2007 to 2010. But guys like Steve Builta, regional manager representing Austin and San Antonio and an Austin Mortgage Bankers Association past president; Jim Sikes, Spicewood Springs/N. Austin branch manager; and Steve Builta Regional Manager Westlake branch manager Bradley Rife, persevered. Collectively, the three have upwards of 75 years in the mortgage banking business. Today, their determination is paying off.
In 2012, the unshakable Hometrust Mortgage, now in its 26th year, merged with southern firm, Mortgage America. Overnight, Hometrust doubled in size after acquiring the assets of the company, which operates in Alabama, Georgia, Florida, and other southeastern states. “At the time of the acquisition, we were doing around $600 million to $900 million in annual business,” says Builta. “We doubled that instantly and in 2012 we ended up with just over $1.4 billion.” Jim Sikes, Hometrust north Austin branch manager, says, “So now we’re at the size and net worth where we’re eligible to be a direct seller for Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. This means that we Jim Sikes are able to price and N. Austin Branch Mgr. underwrite competitively.” This allows the mortgage company the option of no longer going through larger national lenders to secure a loan. Hometrust can underwrite to a standardized set of guidelines following FNMA and FHLMC agency guidelines as opposed to guidelines specific to national servicers. To stay in the lending business as long as
www.myRealtyLine.com Builta has, focus is just one vital virtue. “Last year we concentrated on merging two cultures into one bigger company and working out operational logistics.” So 2012 has been a year of integration, getting all the systems working together and getting all the departments in unison. “A fresh start is probably a good way to state it,” agrees Builta. For 2013, the plan is to capitalize on volume and growth within each market—especially the IH-35 corridor from Waco to south of San Antonio, including Austin. “We’re ready to grow,” says Builta. “We have the infrastructure in place.” Rife, Sikes and Builta agree that Austin is ready for that growth, too. “This is a great market compared to the rest of the country,” says Sikes. “But we haven’t seen the influx of new people yet.” Now Builta’s main focus is on seeking out talent. “I’m looking for opportunities to either hire individuals or find smaller companies in the area that want to join a larger group,” he explains. Bringing in new blood should accomplish at least two goals. First, Hometrust can continue providing the same stellar service that has been a hallmark of their business over the past quarter century. But also, there’s a new generation of homebuyers out there but not a huge pool of new people coming up the ranks to service them. “There’s a need for the new generation to come into the industry, learn it and mature with it,” says Sikes. “The bad news is that the industry is actually harder. Lenders need to get licensed now and it’s not an easy process. It’s not so hard that people can’t do it,” says Sikes. “We’ve all done it.” Younger people think about things differently and have unique talents. They think about different ways to market. “What I would envision in the next five years is a new genera-
May 2013
25
tion coming in that approaches sales in a completely different way,” says Builta. “For marketing to people or attaining new business, that’s where I think young minds can bring fuel to the fire,” says Sikes. That’s not to say that homebuyers can expect to see a seismic shift in the mortgage banking business. Ultimately, there are protocols in place that won’t change. “Once the client gets into process, it’s pretty much a set way of doing things,” says Sikes. “Our product mix of what we offer consumers is among the best in the industry. Our systems for getting things done are as good as anyone in the marketplace, and we really put that together with veteran people. We don’t just throw bodies,” says Builta. “Other lenders throw bodies trying to create volume and that just doesn’t work in a positive way.” Bradley Rife is also excited about the future of the Austin housing market as property values continue to rise. “Potential Buyers who have been sitting on the sidelines looking for a good deal have finally awakened and are actively looking to purchase a home,” says Rife. At the end of the day, Hometrust Mortgage will stay on message with the Bradley Rife fact that experience is Westlake Branch Mgr. what sets them apart from the competition. “What we really focus on is being very good at what we do. We have veteran loan officers with exceptional support, exceptional processing, exceptional underwriting and exceptional closing,” says Builta. RL
26
May 2013
www.myRealtyLine.com
RL austin
TM
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
Erica Mouns, Emily Pryor and Brittanie Flegle, all of Realty Austin, all pitched in to help organize the company’s grand opening and ribbon cutting ceremony event for its Southwest office.
Buy photo: RL_041013_A.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
ABoR President-Elect Bill Evans of Austin Real Pros gives WCR members an update for TREPAC during its monthly meeting at the ABoR auditorium.
Buy photo: RL_040913_B.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com Buy photo: RL_040313_G.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Sharon Siebert and Andrew Brown, both of Keller Williams Realty, find their way to the new Tuscan Village model home during its “Dusty Foot” Tour.
A NEW ASHTON WOODS HOME
With Up To $30,000 Towards
OPTIONS & UPGRADES*
Paloma Lake • Round Rock • 512.238.1250 Buttercup Creek • Cedar Park • 512.215.2409 Versante Canyon • NW Austin • 512.250.8520 Ridgeview • SW Austin • 512.394.9938 Sweetwater • W Austin • 512.264.2001 Vistancia • W Austin (Summer ‘13) • 855.308.0039
According to Lifestory Research Most Trusted Builders Study lifestoryresearch.com
Availability, pricing, incentives and plans are subject to change without notice. To-be-built incentives vary per community and are valid on contracts dated 5/01/2013—5/31/2013. See sales consultant for full details.
WWW.ASHTONWOODSHOMES.COM
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
RL austin
TM
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995
www.myRealtyLine.com
May 2013
27
28
May 2013
www.myRealtyLine.com
RL austin
TM
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
Diana Mitchell and Sharon Siebert, both of Keller Williams Realty, are certain they can find buyers who will love Rough Hollow’s new water-themed Highland Village amenity center. They discuss the possibilities with Joni Langle, center, of Highlands Realty during the Highland Village grand opening celebration. Buy photo: RL_050813_B.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
The secret in this group’s chili was the “love” that these WCR members put in. WCR’s ABoR Chili Cook Off team members include Ruby Johnson of Austin Real Pros, Patricia Wagner of DHI Title, Mary Miner of Nextage Lonestar Realty and Chris Rodriguez of Austin Real Pros. Buy photo: RL_040713_B.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Longtime friends and colleagues Mary Miner of Nextage Lone Star Realty, Jimmy Goff of Goff Properties and Ruby Johnson of Austin Real Pros catch up while attending AYREP’s March Madness Happy Hour at Blackfinn American Pub. Buy photo: RL_050613_C.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com Buy photo: RL_040813_A.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Brian Martin of Keller Williams Realty talks with a new agent looking for a good brokerage he can work with at the Champions School of Real Estate Career Day at its Round Rock campus.
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).
RL
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
austin
Experts Speak Out
TM
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995
Commentary By Nicole Boynton • Gracy Title
www.myRealtyLine.com some of the latest popular digital signature services on the market, including DocuSign, Dotloop, and RightSignature. Mobile scanners Smart, wireless and cordless scanners like Doxie are great for scanning receipts and contracts on-the-go.
Wired real estate, part 2: Wireless, paperless, and in-the-cloud
L
ast month we talked about the new Matrix MLS system and its new features. This month, we continue our discussion of real estate technology with a look at the tools and practices that are changing real estate. The widespread use and expansion of mobile technology has made homebuyers’ lifestyles increasingly more reliant on smartphones, tablets and cloud-based technology. A handful of small, portable devices make information accessible anytime, anywhere. If you’re doing any of your business online and using any services that store your data for you online, you’re already “in the cloud.” But what does it mean to go the whole nine yards and become a cloud-based, wireless, paperless business? There’s no single integrated cloudbased solution for everything yet, but there are plenty of options available to free you from your desk completely and keep you in touch with your clients in real-time, 24/7. Of course there’s no substitute for real connection, but the whole point of cutting edge mobile technology is to deliver a richer, more
convenient transaction experience with: • Easily accessible tools • More shareable information • A “synced” experience for your whole team • Cloud-based services that free you from your hardware and your desk • Greater time and cost efficiency Let’s take a look at a few of the must-haves for Realty 2.0 if you want to become a wireless, paperless, in-the-cloud business. Tablets The tablet market has exploded, and today you’ve got more lighter, cheaper options available and hundreds of thousands of apps to choose from. Chad Curry, managing director of the NAR Center for REALTOR Technology, recommends the Nexus 7 tablet in a recent article in Realtor Magazine, along with a smattering of useful accessories. Electronic signatures Using a digital signature is more convenient and secure (they’re harder to forge). In March, Realtor Magazine did a comparison piece on
Transaction management software Transaction management software (the real estate version of a CRM) keeps all your documents in one place. This means you can generate one CD at the end of the transaction, and you can use that for your broker file and give the client a copy (instead of a thick paper folder). Many of the best services are cloud-based software and are available as a subscription, and some are very compatible and intuitive with social networking. Check out Top Producer, EZCoordinator, Skyslope, SettlementRoom, PropertyBase, PaperlessPipeline, IXACT, and Reesio. Host online training For learning apps, databases, software, or social networking, online training is great. Consider brown bag webinars (where you have lunch delivered to your trainees’ office while you deliver training online) or interactive training to offer time flexibility. GoToMeeting is an easy service for webinars, and there are also services geared toward creating online training content, such as Bloomfire and Mindflash. Deliver a rich virtual experience Instead of wasting paper and gas keeping those “take one” tubes filled, put QR codes on your signs that take visitors to YouTube for virtual tours. Keep up with your clients on social media networks (the more visual the better— consider Pinterest) using comments to offer relevant information and stay in conversation.
May 2013
29
Make sure your online presence is as mobilefriendly (or mobile-optimized) as possible. Sync your team and your information Sync your data and everything you do in real time, using services like iCloud, Googledocs, Dropbox, or sync in the background with your whole team using SugarSync Business. Online collaboration tools like Podio make collaboration easy and keep your virtual team in tune, wherever they are. Other ways to save paper • Rethink your filing system—store documents electronically in the cloud • Allow your team and clients to complete forms online, on your tablet, or laminate a print-out to scan and reuse. • “Print to PDF” and save electronic files instead of printing paper. • Think of social media as the new flyer. Back up your data If you’re going to go paperless, make sure you have your data backed up in at least three locations. It’s best if one of them is offsite. Design your system Create a consistent system for where everything will be filed and how it will be organized, uploaded and accessed. Makes sure everyone on your team knows the protocol. Security Use strong, secure passwords and change them at regular intervals. High-tech realty is an evolutionary process. Pick the services/practices that work for you, mastering each one and gradually adopting more in your transition to cloud-based collaboration, storage and marketing, until you have the ecosystem of tools that fit your team culture, clients, and the way you like to work. RL
ENJOY YOUR BEST YEAR EVER WITH
THE BROADHURST GROUP
AARON PAGE
aaron.page@onqfinancial.com www.AaronPageTeam.com 512.831.4227
MONICA JENKINS
monica.jenkins@onqfinancial.com www.MonicaJenkinsTeam.com 512.831.4178
TIM BROADHURST
tim.broadhurst@onqfinancial.com www.TheBroadhurstGroup.com 512.831.4198
GORDON MCMAUDE
gordon.mcmaude@onqfinancial.com www.TheBroadhurstGroup.com 512.784.0308
Team members in order from left to right in photo: Yolanda Cantrell, Aaron Page, Monica Jenkins, Shannon Smith, Tim Broadhurst, Julie Henderson. Tim Broadhurst NMLS# 208158 ǀ Monica Jenkins NMLS#224483 ǀ Aaron Page NMLS#222159 ǀ Gordon McMaude NMLS#218634. On Q Financial, Inc. is an Equal Housing Lender. Corp NMLS# 5645.
30
May 2013
RL
www.myRealtyLine.com
austin
TM
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
And they’re off! The first duck to the finish line wins an iPad Mini for one lucky REALTOR at the Rough Hollow Highland Village duck races during the grand opening event.
Buy photo: RL_050813_I.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Cheryl Jenkins of Keller Williams Realty, Ruby Johnson of Austin Real Pros and Amy Kobza of Keller Williams Realty wait patiently while their stomachs rumble with anticipation of the BBQ Lunch after a busy morning of talking with state legislators during ABoR’s Hill Visits at the state capitol.
Buy photo: RL_050413_A.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Jazz Lough of Netco Title and Mark Wilkerson make an appearance at the AYREP Happy Hour at The Nook Amphitheater.
Buy photo: RL_050113_C.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
With competitive rates, incomparable services and a process that guides you easily from application all the way through closing, we are confident that you’ll agree that imortgage has made financing your home...
8303 North Mopac Expressway, Suite B125 Austin, Texas 78759 Office: 512-485-3575 Dan.Rushing@imortgage.com
..simple as that® FHA & VA
CONVENTIONAL
JUMBO
www.imortgage.com NMLS ID 256441
USDA RURAL
REVERSE
Consumer is subject to specific program qualifications. This is not an advertisement to extend consumer credit as defined by section 226.2 of Regulation Z. Rates, terms and availability of programs are subject to change without notice. Licensed by the Texas Department of Savings and Mortgage Lending. All rights reserved 2012.
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
RL austin
TM
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995
www.myRealtyLine.com
May 2013
31
Kay Hogge of Tuscan Village gives Kim McCormick of Keller Williams Realty the low down on the new Tuscan Village active adult community in Lakeway during the community’s “Dusty Foot” Tour.
Buy photo: RL_040913_D.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Chelsea Brown of KB Home, Susan Horton of John Horton Realty, a Private Label Realty company, and Cristy Bloomingdale of Milestone Community Builders combine spicy chili with a “cool time” at the ABoR Chili Cook Off to raise funds for TREPAC.
Buy photo: RL_050513_A.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Vaike O'Grady of Newland Communities comes prepared on a rainy day. She participates in the Williamson County Association of REALTORS' East Side Story bus tour.
Buy photo: RL_040713_C.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
2014 Installation and Awards Gala
Building our Future Together
Save the Date
Saturday, December 7, 2013 It 's not just an installation,
It's an Event!
Advertising opportunities available for the Austin Board of REALTORS®’ Annual Installation and Awards Gala. This fabulous event will provide your business with multiple channeled exposure to real estate professionals. Contact Beth Helberg at bhelberg@abor.com for details.
32
May 2013 Experts Speak Out
Commentary By Wayne Morgan Austin Institute of Real Estate
“Why should I do business with you?”
A
nother way of asking this is “What’s in it for me?” This is what most consumers, including you, are asking. As a local real estate services consumer with approximately 8,325 other local REALTORS to choose from, why should I choose you? Marketing is the No. 1 skill to have. It is the engine that drives leads into your business. Do you want to dominate your market area and make your competition irrelevant? A successful marketing campaign will do that! So, why should I do business with you (you can’t say “service!”)? Unfortunately, most marketing campaigns do not do what they are supposed to do, which is lead prospects to the logical decision, “I would have to be an idiot to do business with anyone but you no matter what the commission is!” Most agents think when they don’t get hired it’s because they would not negotiate their commission. That may be the case now and then. I have had sellers who did not care about our marketing expertise, our ability to get results, our ability to position and sell property at top
RL
www.myRealtyLine.com
dollar; they just wanted a discount broker. But that’s rare. What they want is value. In the absence of value, they resort to price. Look at your marketing pieces and your ads. Most marketing pieces are filled with generalities and platitudes that do nothing to solve the prospects’ problem, articulate the value you add, educate them, promise more information or ask them to take action. “We’re number one!” Who cares besides you? Does this solve the sellers’ problem? What makes you unique? What makes you different? Why should I hire you? Ask your title rep why you should do business with them. Ask your lender why you should do business with them. Remember, they can’t say “service!” Service is a generality, a platitude that means nothing to the consumer. Since almost everyone uses it, and it often doesn’t exist, it has lost its meaning. What do you say when you are asked? Go look at your ads. Most ads are actually announcements. The difference? An ad educates, pulls and drives consumers to take action.
austin
TM
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995
Here is the formula: 1. Headline: the purpose is to interrupt them and get them to read the sub-headline. 2. Sub-headline: promises more information so they will continue reading. 3. Body: educates them. Teach them how to buy, sell, choose, attach value, and what to look for, (or look out for). 4. Call to Action: give them a low-risk way to learn more or give them more information so they can make a logical decision (remember, the general public thinks all REALTORS are the SAME). Tell them how to hire a REALTOR, what to look for, what to look out for, how to choose one, what you do, how you do it, why you do it that way and the benefit to them (all while answering the question, “what’s in it for me?”). Never say “we have great service.” So, to recap, your ad writing formula is: 1. Interrupt 2. Engage 3. Educate 4. Offer
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
I used to call on FSBOs. I loved FSBOs! They were cheap to contact (you are measuring your cost-per-contact, right?), easy to find, an identified source (they wanted to sell) and the odds were great (nine out of 10 ultimately list). So I built a website called REFSBO.org and I told the FSBO this: “I am the only broker in the state who created a website to help you sell your home without a broker.” What was my listing percentage you ask? Nine out of 10. Once I educated them about all the things we do to market the home, prep, position, decorate, stage, inspect, repair, write the contract, negotiate on their behalf, approve the buyers, and get it to closing, they were totally overwhelmed. They thought all they needed was a sign and a lockbox. Now go look at your website. Is it content rich? Does it educate sellers about how to sell their homes? Does it educate buyers about how to obtain financing and buy a home? Does it educate investors about how to create wealth via real estate? Does it tell them how to choose a REALTOR (specifically you)? Does it separate you from other REALTORS? RL
Submitted Photo
Austin AUSA Chapter President Stan Lenox, left, and TCAC First Vice President Bob Halverson, far right, recognize Jazz Lough, Summer Pavliska and Dewayne Naumann, all of Netco Title, as corporate members of the U.S. Army at Camp Mabry.
ITCtitleRates050113.pdf 1 Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
5/2/13
RL
6:02 PM
austin
TM
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995
www.myRealtyLine.com
May 2013
Four Ways to Get the New Title Rates! TX Title Calc
Texas Title Calculator App
Rates as of May 1, 2013
www.IndependenceTitle.com/Mobile-Apps To get a quick answer on the go for the basic title premium, download this free App to your iPhone or iPad! Search “Texas Title Calculator” in the App Store. If you already have the App, the update is now ready for download. The Android version is coming soon!
Owners T i t l e Policy
Independence Title
Seller Net Sheet Calculator
www.IndependenceTitle.com/sellers-net-sheet-calculator Our online calculator is mobile-optimized and all new, with the new rate calculations built in. Bookmark this page on your computer and mobile device, for an easy estimate of your home seller’s net! Look for the Reverse button at the end – this allows you to enter a different net and calculate the other values back to the sales price! MacBook Pro
Title Insurance Premium Calculator
www.IndependenceTitle.com/title-insurance-premium-calculator A more user-friendly take on the original, Independence Title’s new online version generates complete premium costs, including endorsements, Loan Title Rates and Owner’s Title Rates.
Texas Title Rate Sheet
www.IndependenceTitle.com/titlerates2013 Independence Title’s version offers a more detailed breakdown of fees in the price ranges that are most active in your market.
More Updated Calculators ...
Mortgage Amortization Calculator Independence Title’s new online version calculator is mobile-optimized and more user-friendly. Good Faith Title Calculator A quick and detailed estimate of title fees for lenders that line up neatly with the Good Faith Estimate. The next-generation version offers a streamlined interface along with updated title rates (coming soon). Refinance Calculator More user-friendly than the original, this is a clean, fast estimate of title costs, including standard endorsements, and renewal and extension credits (coming soon).
Independence Title E x p l o r e w w w. I n d e p e n d e n c e T i t l e . c o m Austin Business Journal's Number One Title Company!
33
34
May 2013
www.myRealtyLine.com
RL austin
TM
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
Rough Hollow’s Highland Village amenity center is just one reason why Valerie and Dante DiFabio and Linda Schulman, all of Keller Williams Realty, like selling homes there. The three attended the Highland Village grand opening event to find out what residents have access to.
Buy photo: RL_050813_G.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
The Hay Compere team shows off its new digs at the historic Bremond House at 402 West 7th Street during its Annual Open House and Networking Event.
Buy photo: RL_050513_C.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com Buy photo: RL_050713_G.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
WCAoR President Stacy Rider of Keller Williams Realty is ready to get this show on the road. She revs up the engine of the bus to get the attention of WCAoR members getting ready to take the East Side Story Bus Tour.
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
RL austin
TM
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995
www.myRealtyLine.com
May 2013
35
Leslie Linder, left, of Austin Title and Jane Anne Van Wisse, right, congratulate Crystal Kilpatrick of Realty Austin on her company’s grand opening of its Southwest Austin office during the company’s grand opening and ribbon cutting ceremony.
Buy photo: RL_041013_L.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Denise WhitesidePugh of JB Goodwin REALTORS and Meridith Brewer of Realty Austin learn more about lending and appraisal issues during the monthly WCR meeting at the ABoR auditorium.
Buy photo: RL_050113_O.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
These REALTORS are on a mission to educate state legislators on issues that affect the real estate industry during ABoR’s bi-annual Hill Visits during each Texas legislative session.
Buy photo: RL_040313_H.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Team
Team
austin DeWayNe NaumaNN
Sr. Escrow Officer dnaumann@netcotitle.com
aNGela feRRales
Escrow Officer aferrales@netcotitle.com
leNoRa lambRiGhT
Escrow Assistant llambright@netcotitle.com
Every successful closing has a team full of talent! Netco Title: Local Team with National Resources
25 Years of Exceptional Service
DoNica Williams
Escrow Officer dwilliams@netcotitle.com
Team
Rachelle GWyNN
sales & marketing
Escrow Assistant rgwynn@netcotitle.com
(512) 433-6113 1717 N IH 35 | Suite 100 Round Rock, TX 78664
(512) 919-4614
7719 Wood Hollow Drive Suite 157 | Austin, TX 78731
Round Rock
summeR pavliska
AVP Sales | Operations (512) 577-5166 spavliska@netcotitle.com
jazz louGh
Divisional Sales (214) 995-0139 jlough@netcotitle.com
www.NetcoTitle.com
Netco Title-Texas
@NetcoTitle
36
May 2013
www.myRealtyLine.com
RL austin
TM
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
RL austin
TM
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995
www.myRealtyLine.com
May 2013
37
38
May 2013
Real Estate News & Notes and aim to provide the best online experience using the latest technology available.
In today’s day and age, 90 percent of the
home buying process begins online, and Amelia Bullock REALTORS is dedicated to providing a more enjoyable and streamlined search experience. RL
Coldwell Banker United, REALTORS recognizes top agents Coldwell Banker United, REALTORS congratulates the following sales associates in its Austin area offices for transactions exceeding $1 million in one or more of the following categories: Listings Taken, Business Written or Business closed in March 2013. Sandra Alvarez, Jacci Anders, Sue Barrilleaux, Mary Battaglia, Deborah BenNun, Jana Birdwell, Barb Bittner, Sheri Brummett, Donna Bryant, Linda DeMarco, Dorie Dillard, Jeff Dillard, Polly Eagle, Brian Fahey, Debora Flores, Jacquelyn Foreman, Teresa Gouldie,
Elicia Gower, Becky Griner, Vicky Harris, Roselind Hejl, Bryan Kelley, Ellen Kelsey, Diane Kennedy, Eve Kush, Kristi Larkam, Iletra Lawrence, Simon Magnus, Siobhan McCullough, Dawn McKim, Karen Michalik, Dave Murray, Hanalei Myers, Fred Nunnery, Paragon Property Group, John Paul Porter, Julie Pratt, Joany Price, Debbie Pruitt, Kay Roush, Jane Sanford, Ruby Segura, Stan Smith, Rebecca Spratlin, Monika Suhnholz, Tammy Templin, Debbie Thrush, Pat Vincent, Michael Watkins and Doug Young. RL
Netco Title welcomes new senior escrow officer to its team Netco Title is pleased to welcome Dewayne Naumann as a senior escrow officer for its Austin location at 7719 Wood Hollow Drive., Ste. 157. Dewayne is a fifth generation Austinite with 27 years of combined experience in title escrow and business development. His expertise is in both commercial and residential real estate. Dewayne brings knowledge, solutions and results in getting a transaction closed. He is a family man who
austin
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
TM
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995
Realty Austin named to RisMedia's Power Broker list
The next generation in online home search has arrived Amelia Bullock REALTORS is pleased to announce the next generation in mobile and online home search. On Monday, April 29, 2013 Amelia Bullock REALTORS released a redesigned www.AmeliaBullock.com and an all-new app for iPhone and Android. The new website and app are designed in partnership with The Active Enterprise Network
RL
www.myRealtyLine.com
loves drag racing and proudly serves the State of Texas in the Texas Military Forces, headquartered at Camp Mabry, bringing great value to helping those in the service. RL
Realty Austin was named to the Power Broker List on RISMedia's 25th Annual Power Broker Report, an annual ranking of the nation's top firms. Realty Austin, one of only two Austin-based companies recognized on the list, ranked no. 152 with sales of $794,758,263; and no. 212 with 2,575 closed transactions. Jonathan Boatwright, co-owner of Realty Austin says, "Our company's performance is a direct result of our powerhouse team of top agents backed by our incredible support team.” The 2012 Power Broker Report unveiled the most competitive crop in the list's history, with firms collectively amassing $767,983,687,087 in sales volume for 2012 and 2,985,668 in closed transactions. Yvette Boatwright, co-owner of Realty Austin says, "We are honored to be recognized on RIS Media's Power Broker Report. We believe in our agents— they are all among the best in the business, capable of achieving great things.
Our staff never stops working to help them achieve their full potential. As a result, they sell five times more real estate than the average agent in Austin." Realty Austin management prides itself on Yvette and Jonathan Boatright being transparent within the company about future growth and strategic positioning. "Our competitive differentiation lies in we hand pick success-driven, technology savvy agents to join our team. We continually strive to stack our deck by only engaging with candidates who meet our high standards and expectations." This year marks the first time Realty Austin has appeared on the annual report. RL
RE/MAX offers lead generation training to area REALTORS Current and prospective RE/MAX agents from the Austin area attended the class on lead generation, online marketing, listing presentations, and emerging real estate technology at the RE/MAX Power Start class at the Norris Conference Center (rear entrance to Northcross Mall, Anderson Lane at Burnet Road).
The free class (next one is June 19) is open to interested realty professionals, who can find out more by visiting www.remaxtexas. com/education. RL
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, company affiliation and a short description. Press releases must be fewer than 300 words. Calendar items are free to advertisers and $25 per submission for others. All submissions must be received at least seven calendar days prior to ad copy deadlines published at www.myrealtyline.com/advertise.html. Submission items will be included as space allows.
Texas American Title Company
TEXAS AMERICAN IS PROUD TO ANNOUNCE THE NEW ADDITIONS TO OUR MARKETING TEAM:
Experience the SWBC Difference Our commitment to you:
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
Round Rock Office 1001 South Mays Round Rock, TX 78664 Office: 512-255-1550 Fax: 512-255-2329
•
On-time closings
•
In-house underwriting, processing, and funding for smooth, seamless transactions
•
Control of the servicing for most conventional loans we close
We’re a best company to work for and with!
Find out why much of our business for the past two decades is from repeat customers or referrals from agents, builders, and clients who appreciate exceptional service. Linda Komm, vP nmls# 219050 512.422.7958
Rhona Bogie nmls# 222089 512.917.1954
Conventional
•
va
•
© 2012 sWbC. all rights reserved.
Kathleen Condry nmls# 214903 512.658.7436
FHa
•
tX vet
Emily Franke nmls# 223977 512.797.5480 •
Jumbo
•
Ann Jones nmls# 221084 512.422.9036
investments
the avallon building, building 1 | 10415 morado Circle, ste. 100 | austin, tX 78759
www.txamtitle.com
RL
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
austin
TM
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995
www.myRealtyLine.com
May 2013
39
NEW MODELS NOW OPEN! *Up to 5% COMMISSION!
HUTTO HIGHLANDS From the $140’s
WOODLANDS PARK From the $150’s
The Designer Label of Luxury Homebuilding ADDRESS
PLAN
SQ. FT.
BD/BA/STORIES
COMMISSION
1. BRADSHAW CROSSING • ERIC: 512-407-0404 or BORIS: 512-626-8473
10220 Copper Ridge Cove 5829 Kleberg Trail 5825 Kleberg Trail 5821 Kleberg Trail
Lavender Summit Sunset Ridge Summit
1755 2379 2050 2379
4/2.5/2 4/2.5/2 3/2.5/2 4/2.5/2
PRICE
NOW! May May May
4% 4% 4% 4%
$202,649 $216,340 $206,890 $219,865
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 2101 Tranquility Lane
Whitney Travis Mackenzie Travertine
2214 2958 3200 1983
4/3/1 4/3.5/2 4/3.5/2 4/2/1
May May May May
4% 4% 4% 4%
$265,439 $308,480 $313,050 $232,274
4% 4% 4% 4%
$176,564 $192,540 $171,324 $193,090
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
May May May May
5. SUMMERLYN • DENISE: 512-777-9565 or CLAYTON 512-619-7628 152 Bufflehead Lane 236 Chickadee Lane 140 Bufflehead Lane 169 Bufflehead Lane 231 Chickadee Lane 157 Eagle Owl Loop
Sante Fe Lavender Navajo Carlsbad Iris Lavender
2206 1755 1641 1230 1899 1755
4/2.5/2 4/2.5/2 4/2.5/2 3/2/1 4/2.5/2 4/2.5/2
NOW! NOW! May May May May
4% 4% 4% 4% 4% 4%
$184,040 $181,990 $174,671 $155,640 $195,015 $187,031
6. TERAVISTA • WILL: 512-913-1863 1908 Autumn Run Lane 2016 Greenside Trail 1910 Greenside Trail
Obsidian Terrazzo Obsidian
2384 2551 2384
4/2.5/2 4/3.5/2 4/2.5/2
NOW! NOW! NOW!
4% 4% 4%
$263,609 $282,174 $273,959
7. HUTTO HIGHLANDS • Lottie: 512-373-0939 109 Marklawn Lane 201 Marklawn Lane 205 Marklawn Lane 207 Marklwan Lane 110 Colthorpe Lane 108 Colthorpe Lane
Violet Hawthorn Daylily Violet Hawthorn Daylily
1849 1536 2382 1849 1536 2382
4/2/91 3/2/1 4/2.5/2 4/2/1 3/2/1 4/2.5/2
May May June June June June
4% 4% 4% 4% 4% 4%
$174,705 $159,075 $193,980 $172,930 $168,760 $201,855
8. WOODLANDS PARK • 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%
$207,764 $171,782 $198,467 $200,305 $222,150 $200,055 $188,130
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 5/1/13, 4% commission will be paid on select inventory homes that sell between 5/1/13 and 5/31/13. Ad must be presented at time of contract. Homes must close and fund by 5/31/13. 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. 5/13
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%
$472,698
4316 Woodledge Place
Kinsley
2800
4/3/1
NOW!
4%
$435,361
4212 Pebblestone Trail
Concordia
3548
5/4/2
NOW!
4%
$418,059
4210 Pebblestone Trail
Savoy
2834
4/3.5/2
NOW!
4%
$366,937
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%
$439,395
302 Towering Cedar Drive
Savoy
2834
4/3.5/1.5
August
4%
$418,189
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
204 Tavish Trail
Belmeade
2407
4/2/1/3 Car
NOW!
4%
410,855
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 5/1/13, 4% commission will be paid on select inventory homes that sell between 5/1/13-5/31/13. Ad must be presented at time of contract. Homes must close and fund by 5/31/13. *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. 5/13
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
RL austin
TM
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995
www.myRealtyLine.com
May 2013
40
We caught up with the WCAoR crew at the bi-annual Hill Visits at the state capitol. Christy Gessler of Keller Williams Realty, Marjorie Phillips of WCAoR, Gary Cocanougher of ERA Colonial Real Estate and WCAoR President Stacey Rider of Keller Williams Realty grab their BBQ plates while at TAR offices.
Buy photo: RL_050113_K.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
WCAoR members pack 'em in to take the East Side Story bus tour of properties in Williamson County east of IH-35.
Buy photo: RL_040713_J.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com Buy photo: RL_050513_B.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
My lips are sealed folks! Kristy Sanelia of North American Title vows never to reveal her company’s chili recipe secret. North American Title made a pot of chili for the 6th Annual ABoR Chili Cook-Off benefiting TREPAC.