in this issue…
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995™
• HBA MAX Awards Gala • WCREALTORS Bus Tour • JB Goodwin/Austin Title Mixer • ALREC Happy Hour • WCR TREPAC Cake Auction • and much, much more!
Associates in Progress
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Page 25 MAY 2016 • VOLUME 20 • ISSUE 12
Negotiating the best deal for clients egotiating is a unique skill, best left for those who are confident and assertive. For REALTORS, making offers and countering, turning down bids and asking for more money are some of the most important work you will do. To find out how to get the best deal for buyers and sellers, Realty Line spoke with three Austin real estate professionals.
people are bidding like crazy and they can’t afford it.” Kelly Freeman, an agent at Twelve Rivers Realty, says that she’s had buyers offer $20,000 above the asking price because they just had to have that property, but then the appraisal comes in. If the buyer doesn’t have the cash to cover the difference, not only do they have to back out of the deal they became emotionally attached to, but it’s the agent who has to break the news to the other side.
Don’t be emotional
Get to know your team
By Riki Markowitz
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Candy Cooke, a REALTOR Negotiations class instructor with ABoR, suggests discussing with buyers ways that emotions can interfere with their end goal. “In this market,
Of course, the reason there is a rule about emotions is because it’s human nature to act on feelings. Tim Landy, an agent with Twelve Rivers Realty, tries to stay in front of emotional bidding by getting to know his team early in the process. During his conversation with the lender, he finds out if his client is preapproved, how much they can afford, and if there are any problems that can come up before closing. Arming himself with this knowledge can be an advantage in a bidding war and help a buyer stand out from the crowd, which does not necessarily mean offering more money.
When competing against several bidders, consider different options In Austin, properties can go under contract after just 48 hours. Some homes don’t even make it onto the MLS. One strategy Landy uses when a client has their heart set on a property – along with four or five other potential buyers – is to go straight to the seller’s agent with the asking price. “At the bare minimum, the seller already has been offered their full asking price and are also getting bids over list price.” There’s no point in throwing out a low offer and negotiating up from there, he says. “Most sellers are not going to respond to that because they don’t have to.” Rather than encouraging his clients to throw more money on the table, first Landy asks the seller’s agent about special considerations. Does the family have to be out of the house by a certain date? “If everyone else is coming in with a 30 or 45-day close, I’ll ask
the lender if they can do a 21-day close.”
Upcoming Events Wednesday, May 18th Bryson: REALTOR Breakfast & Home Tour - Bryson Welcome Center 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Wednesday, May 18th Belterra: REALTOR Breakfast & Home Tour - Belterra Welcome Center - 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Or do they need some leeway on their move-out date? If Landy can get his client to offer $0 lease-back, that’s another way to stand out. For some sellers, agreeing on certain concessions is more important than walking away with an extra $5,000. “Not every buyer has to offer more money,” says Landry.
Don’t be uncompromising When negotiations get difficult, it’s easy to resort to being pushy and combative. Landy says there’s another mentality that works best for him: “I say, ‘Let’s find a way to make it work.’” Negotiating Tips for Sellers There’s the belief that in Austin’s low-inventory market, sellers have all the say. Certainly they’re calling many of the shots, but buyers do have some control, says Cooke. “There are 32 different ways for buyers to get out of contract and get their money back. There are just three on the seller’s side.”
Don’t be emotional, II The idea of a big payday can be seductive. But with so many opportunities for buyers to change their mind while still in contract, snatching the highest offer is not always the best option. “It can be quite the opposite,” says Freeman. “You have to study all the
Front Page: Continued on page 28
Wednesday, May 18th AYREP: May Happy Hour Sherlock's Baker St. Pub and Grill 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, May 19th Drees Custom Homes: Dusty Boot Preview & Party -Deer Haven in Georgetown - 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday, May 20th HBA/ABoR: Find Your FAN Factor: 10 Attributes of a FANatical Salesperson Norris Conference Center - 9 to 11 a.m. Friday, May 24th Clearwater Ranch: Phase 2 Grand Opening REALTOR Preview Clearwater Ranch - 4 to 6 p.m. Wednesday, May 25th HBA Lakeway/Bee Cave Chapter Social Frogpad Showroom - 5 to 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, June 1st WCREALTORS: Battle of the Burgers Brushy Creek Lake Park - 3:30 to 6:00 p.m. Wednesday, June 8th HBA: Gayle Berkbigler Golf Classic Flintrock Falls - 11 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Thursday, July 21st AMBA: TopGolf Networking Event TopGolf - 4 to 7 p.m. More at www.myRealtyLine.com
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COMMERCIAL CLOSING SUCCESS Our diverse knowledge and combined years of experience is our testament to assure you that you are working with the most proficient commercial team in Central Texas.
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From left to right:
Marie Love - Senior Commercial Escrow Officer Bill Bradshaw - Senior Vice President / Chief Legal Counsel Susie McCreary - Vice President / Commercial Division Escrow Manager Latra Szal - Vice President / Legal Counsel Mandy Dean-Knotts - Commercial Escrow Officer Bob Roberts - Senior Vice President / Commercial Division Manager Shawna Fletcher - Commercial Escrow Officer
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President’s Column By Aaron Farmer • 2016 President
www.myRealtyLine.com sociation leadership, and I hope you’ll join me in helping shape the future of real estate in Central Texas. Submit your application at ABoR.com/Leadership.
Game On for Realty Round Up booth sales I hope you are ready to have some fun at this year’s Realty Round Up. This year’s trade show will make you feel like you’ve won the
Saturday services at ABoR South In case you haven’t heard yet, ABoR will soon be expanding services to bring more value to your membership. Next month, we’ll open a new Williamson County office – “ABoR North.” Located at the intersection of 1431 and 734 (close to the Cedar Park Medical Center), any ABoR members who work, live, or play in Williamson County will have the same great services provided at ABoR South and the HQ, but right in their backyard! ABoR North will give you access to on-site training, a member service/business center, a REALTOR Store, and even a closing room. And just as we currently offer at ABoR South, the Williamson County location will be open on Saturdays! We’re proud to be the first REALTOR association in the region to offer these weekend services. Stay tuned for an exact launch date in June. I look forward to opening up these doors!
goMLS Austin is your MLS on the go We’re also expanding your membership value in the digital world. Our newest app,
goMLS Austin, gives you a powerful new tool to access the MLS, edit listings, and even share those listings with your clients straight from the app itself. The app will be ready for download on Wednesday, June 1. Simple search for “goMLS Austin” in the App Store (bit.ly/goMLSapp) or Google Play Store (bit. ly/goMLSgoogle), download the app, and sign in using your same MLS credentials you use to access Matrix. Clients will be able to download the app and create a new login, so they can quickly and easily see listings via their agent’s branded version of the app.
Learn to lead as an ABoR Director Applications for key leadership positions within the Association and TAR are open once again. The Associations are looking for diverse, hard-working real estate professionals who are willing to represent and work on behalf of your peers. Positions available include ABoR Director, TAR Director, and TAR Regional Vice President. I’ve learned a lot and gained valuable experience working with As-
May 2016
grand prize of connecting to 2,000 of your real estate professional peers. It’s “Game On” at the Palmer Event Center this October 19, but now’s the time to purchase your booth. Not only will you get an early-bird discount, but you’ll also get the chance to pick from a bigger field of available booths; the best booths go the fastest! You can find out more info about Realty Round Up: Game On and purchasing a booth at ABoRRoundUp.com/booths. RL
ABoR Academy Educational Courses May 24: Professional Standards for REALTORS® – ABoR South (TREC# 03-00-027-28212) May 25: Know Your Code: Articles 4-9 (TREC# 01-00-117-29851) May 25: REALTOR® Code of Ethics: Your Promise of Professionalism (TREC# 03-00-057-28953) May 26: Fight Texas Tax Appraisal & Win (TREC# 04-00-047-28480) June 1: Matrix CMA (TREC# 02-00-067-28917) June 3: Introduction to Matrix (TREC# 03-00-057-28941) June 6: zipForm Plus (TREC# 03-00-097-29405) June 8: New Home Construction & Buyer Representative (TREC# 08-00-117-29385) June 8: RPR Introduction (TREC# 01-00-027-28401) June 8: RPR Advanced (TREC# 02-00-097-29146) June 9: TREC Legal Update I (TREC# 04-04-127-29622) June 9: TREC Legal Update II (TREC# 04-04-127-29623)
More at www.ABoR.com/courses
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Take a look at the Mercedes Give-a-way by Highland Homes! Lili Maliner, left, and Andrea McShane, right, both of Coldwell Banker United REALTORS ask Highland Homes’ Ron Glenn how they can win the grand prize!
Buy Photo: RL_050216_F.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
JR Esquivel, Donna Nichols, Aaron Boenig and Greg Barber, all of Brohn Homes, get ready to show off their new model at Easton Park to REALTORS and guests at the HBA’s Crawfish Boil Builder/ REALTOR Mixer.
Buy Photo: RL_050916_C.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
Joy Stokes of the Hay Group and Jason Peebles of J Stafford Group win two awards for their scrumptious chili recipe at the ABoR Chili Cook Off for TREPAC. Buy Photo: RL_050116_A.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
Natalie Jack Penland, right, of Legacy Mutual Mortgage and Liz Don Carlos of Scott Felder Homes are excited to see all of their hard work come to fruition at the HBA’s MAX Awards Gala: A Night in the Emerald City. Natalie was one of the committee co-chairs and Liz was a committee member.
Buy Photo: RL_031416_K.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
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Kerri Parker, right, of Keller Williams Realty, is excited she won a weekend in Lost Pines at the Newland Communities Jagged Luck “Realtour” Sale-abration event. Bill Meyer of Newland Communities congratulates her on her prize.
Buy Photo: RL_050416_J.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
Amarie Dalmolin and Alicia Bell, both of J Stafford Group have their “spoons up” for Chili at the ABoR TREPAC Chilci Cook off.
Buy Photo: RL_050616_B.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com Buy Photo: RL_040616_E.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
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Beth Acton, right, of First American Title, shows Michael Volling and Marcy Urban, both of Urban Homes & Land, the way to the theatre where First American Title hosted a Tech Symposium at Alamo Drafthouse.
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Williamson County Assoc. of REALTORS®
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President’s Column By Shavonne Martin • 2016 President
Negotiating tips
A
ccording to industry mogul Gary Keller, “Extraordinary results are directly determined by how narrow you can make your focus.” Since 2014 Williamson County REALTORs have been experiencing a multiple offer market. One of the main factors in securing an executed contract is the ability to effectively negotiate on behalf of their client. It is important to have clear expectations on what each party wants before negotiation begins. For example; when a listing agent calls to get feedback after a showing appointment, they may ask if the buyer has a home to sell. A buyer’s agent may call prior to showing a home to find out if the seller needs a lease back. Knowing these pertinent facts up front could be a strong point of negotiation if handled correctly. In some cases, a seller may consider an acceptable sales price if they need a lease back option over a higher offer with no option to lease back. Always listen to understand, ask more questions to determine everyone’s “big why.” Negotiations start when someone says no.
Together is better.
A wise person knows that a no is an opportunity to get a yes. Lead with facts and not emotions, keeping in mind professionalism and integrity of not only yourself, but also our industry and the clients you represent. It’s always best to convey all messages to the person responsible for making the decision. After confirming what is being offered or suggested relay that message back to the appropriate person and give them the opportunity to respond. Too many times negotiations are ruined because the message wasn’t relayed as originally stated. And too often, personal agendas get in the way. Even if your client has instructed you that certain terms will not be considered, you should always present that information to your client and let them make the final decision rather than assuming. It’s not always about money. As I mentioned before, the timing or move out details may take precedence over monetary gain. And yet we know in most cases money is a critical part of the transaction. When negotiating, it is important to not promise or guarantee things
www.myRealtyLine.com out of our control. Use statements that put your client in control of their financial decisions such as: “Do you feel comfortable with this price?” “If your offer is not accepted will you be satisfied with your highest and best offer?” Giving your clients power to decide the amount they accept or offer on a home will reduce the remorse that often happens when a house sells quickly or an offer is accepted right away. You may be looking for a pat on the back and your client may be feeling like you didn’t have their back. Help them make the decision and weigh out all of their options based on information you provided before and during the process. This strategy usually leads to a happy and more transparent professional relationship. Be even headed. My broker Avis Wukasch always says you never know what people are dealing with. How many times have you later found out that someone who was hard to negotiate with was caring for a sick family member or had a major crisis going on in their life? It’s possible to be both calm and firm; you can state facts without emotions. At the same time, you can empathize and be purpose-
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ful with your client’s bottom line goal. Just because the other party and your client may have different agendas and goals it doesn’t make one or the other wrong. After all, you need both sides to make this deal effective, so keep that in mind and always seek a win-win solution. Even the most seasoned and successful agents find themselves being burned out and needing a refresher on negotiations. I happen to love the class, “The Language of Sales,” which focuses on the words we use, and how we use them. Over 39,000 agents have the CNE Designation (Certified Negotiation Expert), which was just held at the WCREALTORS this month and is compared to national negotiation programs such as Harvard & Wharton Training, which do not focus on real estate specific topics. WCREALTOR is hosting Many Faces of Negotiating 5/20, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. for only $60. Both members and non-members may Register online at http://www.wcrealtors.org/ Calendar/events/5988 Keep the end in mind, be solution focused, and most importantly be flexible. RL
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ABOVE THE REST People know the balloon. We bet you do too. The RE/MAX brand has been around for over 40 years. From humble beginnings to a presence in nearly 100 countries, RE/MAX is home to one of the most iconic logos in real estate. We’re confident you’ll wear it well. Join our team.
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Buy Photo: RL_050916_G.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
Steve Crorey of Sierra Homes Realty loads up on mud bugs at the HBA’s 12th Annual Crawfish Boil Builder/ REALTOR mixer at Easton Park.
Buy Photo: RL_051116_I.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
Karen Williams, second from left, and Karla Aguilar, second from right, both of North American Title, help sponsor the ALREC happy hour at Kung Fu Saloon to support the Latinitas, a non-profit organization that informs, entertains, and inspires young Latinas to grow into healthy, confident and successful Latinas. With them were Mike Cremona, of Cremona Property Inspections and Sally Decelis of RE/MAX Round Rock.
Since 1976 Buy Photo: RL_050116_N.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
Darey Baylis and John Moon, both of Aubrey Homes, have a magical evening at the HBA’s MAX Awards Gala: A Night in the Emerald City at the JW Marriott hotel.
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Austin Title
Susan Graham VP/Branch Manager Escrow Officer Susan.Graham@austintitle.com 512-346-4020
Spicewood Springs
A Tradition of Trust
Jody Wiltsey VP/Escrow Officer Jody.Wiltsey@austintitle.com 512-346-4020
Becky Hopkins AVP/Business Development 512-656-7095/Becky.Hopkins@austintitle.com
Sandi Gillis VP/Escrow Officer Sandi.Gillis@austintitle.com 512-346-4020
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Christine Herrera AVP/Escrow Officer Christine.Herrera@austintitle.com 512-346-4020
Service You Deserve from People You Can Count On.
3 7 0 8 S p i c e w o o d S p r i n g s R o a d , S t e . 1 0 0 , A u s t i n , T e x a s 7 8 7 5 9 • 5 12 - 3 4 6 - 4 0 2 0
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Tommy Tucker of Crescent Communities, Jennifer Stary and Staci Wimbush, both of Legacy International, Rachelle Sturgis of Rough Hollow, Loren Dickey and Philip Jalufka, both of Legacy International, celebrate their Grand MAX Community of the Year award, one of three awards for Rough Hollow at the HBA's MAX Awards Gala. Submitted Photo
Chad Goldwasser, third from right, of Pure Gold Realty brings his team with him to the Highland Homes Palmera Ridge Grand Opening. Pictured with Chad (left to right) are: Amy Keillor and Mark Pearce, both of Pure Gold Realty, Kristen Green, Margaret Ann Decker and Ana Schweizer, all of Highland Homes. Buy Photo: RL_050216_I.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
The Austin Latino Real Estate Community mixers give industry colleagues a chance to mingle with others and check out new venues, such as the Kung Fu Saloon. From left: Robert Evans of Academy Mortgage, Joseph Skiff and Oscar Velasquez, both of Nationwide, and Debra Groch of Avalar Austin Real Estate.
Buy Photo: RL_051216_C.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
Leonard Guerrero of JB Goodwin REALTORS wonders how stable the Jenga stack is at the Kung Fu Saloon, where JB Goodwin and Austin Title held a recent mixer.
Buy Photo: RL_051116_F.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
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Chris Sachs of JB Goodwin Realtors spies a victory while playing Connect Four with Roxanne Ford of Austin Title at a mixer for the two companies at Kung Fu Saloon.
Buy Photo: RL_051216_D.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
Denise Vincent of First American Title welcomes Andy Fisher of Keller Williams Realty to the company’s Tech Symposium at Alamo Drafthouse.
Buy Photo: RL_050116_D.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
Buy Photo: RL_050616_E.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
Dan Rushing of Highland Mortgage congratulates his wife, Kandis Rushing of Crescent Communities on her MAX Award for 2016 Marketing Professional of the Year. Kandis is the HBA’s 2016 Communications Vice President and Sales and Marketing Council Chair. With so many titles, she’s going to have to get a bigger business card. Congratulations Kandis!
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The Gracy Title crew attends the HBA’s MAX Awards Gala to cheer on their friends, clients and colleagues as awards are announced at the JW Marriott hotel.
Buy Photo: RL_050116_P.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
It’s a bit crowded in here! REALTORS pack it in at the First American Title Tech Symposium at Alamo Drafthouse.
Buy Photo: RL_050616_K.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
Renee Tarrance of H ighland Homes thanks Risé Johns of Keller Williams Realty for stopping by to take a look at their new model home in Palmera Ridge. Buy Photo: RL_050416_H.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
Vaike O’Grady, right, of Newland Communities congratulates Leisa Ormsbee of JB Goodwin REALTORS on her prize for winning the ‘80s Trivia Question, “What do green M&Ms make you?” We caught up with the two at the Newland Communities Jagged Luck “Realtour” at Westside Alehouse in Round Rock.
Buy Photo: RL_050216_D.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
Continuing Education Courses (CE) 18-Hour CE Program
18-Hour CE Program
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Jun 25 - 26
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$99 Real Estate
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$80 for 8 hours TREC Legal Update I & II only
Included in this 18-hour program:
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President’s Column By Wes Wigginton • 2016 President
H
Remodel or relocate?
ome buying and home remodeling television programs aren’t just a fad; their enduring popularity indicates that they’re here to stay. If you’re finding that your clients are among the growing masses of dedicated viewers, you have likely heard about their perceived shortcomings in their own homes. Inadequate storage, limited cooking space or simply an outdated design tend to conjure thoughts of one day taking steps to make home improvements. Or instead, perhaps consider moving into a bigger or newer home. Whether they decide to remodel or relocate, their decision will involve a great deal of logistics, emotions and, of course, finances. If you’re working with someone who is thinking about taking on a remodel project or contemplating a move, thoroughly weighing the pros and cons of each option will help them feel more prepared to act when the time is right. Here are a few questions you can pose to your client to help them make their decisions: 1. What’s in their budget? The first step is the most obvious: they’ll need to crunch some [realistic!] numbers to determine what is fi-
nancially feasible. Remodeling can be a great investment and save your clients the hassle of moving; but it requires a great deal of patience and flexibility on their part – and advisement on your part. On the other hand, buying a home can be instantly gratifying, but the true costs of buying (and selling) – such as commissions, closing costs and moving fees – need to be part of the equation, as that is money the client won’t get back. 2. Is it a simple fix that they can do themselves? Or a bigger project that will require a professional? Some homeowners are especially handy and want to tackle the job themselves. But most others like having the assurance of knowing a professional – who has the necessary equipment, expertise and resources – will get the job done right the first time. 3. What is the current value of their home compared to similar homes in their neighborhood? If your client’s home is already the most expensive one in the neighborhood, they might not see a significant return on their investment if they remodel. But if comparable home values are greater than their home’s value, they’re
www.myRealtyLine.com much more likely to see a strong return by making improvements. 4. How might your decision impact their taxes? Remodeling their current home or moving to a new home will have an effect on your client’s property taxes. The change may or may not be significant, so it’s good to keep it in mind. 5. How might their needs change in the next 3, 5 or 10 years? A growing family, kids going off to college, an aging family member moving in – all are examples of factors that can significantly impact your client’s future requirements for a home, and the timing of a purchase or remodel. 6. Is the layout of their current home conducive to a remodel? All other considerations aside, if your client has limited options to alter their home in a way that will address their needs (such as load-bearing walls that can’t be removed, or space constraints that will not allow for an addition), they may need to consider moving. 7. Are there any zoning restrictions that would affect the remodeling project(s) you envision? These laws vary widely by city, and even by neighborhood here in the City of Austin, so go to your local planning and zoning office and ask for a copy of your local ordinances and rules. 8. How do they feel about their current neighborhood? Even if your client changed everything about their home, there are many things outside of their home over which they have no control. Give some thought to the school district, proximity to work, parks and shopping centers, and the overall look and feel of the community. The answers to these questions are different for everyone, which is why it is important
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for your clients to carefully consider each one while keeping in mind their unique situation. For additional resources on home remodeling or buying a new home, contact visit www. hbaaustin.com or visit nahb.org/forconsumers.
Celebrating 10 years at the Phillips Event Center Time sure does fly! It seems like only yesterday that the HBA was making plans to build its own home, working with members to secure donations and land, and moving dirt. Now it’s been a full 10 years since the HBA’s new home, the Phillips Event Center (PEC), opened its doors in the Summer of 2006. The Phillips Event Center was named after one of Austin’s iconic home builders, Nash Phillips, of Nash Phillips/Copus (NPC) Builders, Inc., NPC, founded in 1945, was once among the nation’s biggest private home builders. At its peak in 1984, it had operations in Austin, Dallas, San Antonio Houston, and Phoenix. The Phillips Event Center is not only home to the HBA of Greater Austin; it is also one of the largest event venues in the Greater Austin region. The PEC offers a 4,800 sq. ft. ballroom and 1,200 sq. ft. outdoor patio for rent along with a Board Room perfect for smaller meetings or educational programs. Accommodating up to 300 people, the PEC regularly hosts weddings, quincieneras, and other special events. The Phillips Event Center’s central location near the intersection of US Hwy 183 and 290 East makes it convenient to Downtown Austin, Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, several of Austin’s top hotels and the University of Texas at Austin campus. To learn more, check availability and book your next event, visit www.phillipseventcenter. com or by emailing pec@hbaaustin.com. RL
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Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
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May 2016
NEW & RESALE HOMES FROM THE $300s
Join us for breakfast & our
M O N T H LY H O M E TO U R
2016 Stop by the welcome center for breakfast
T H I R D W E D N E S D A Y S 9 : 0 0 A M
Download the Belterra App (with the latest Belterra Inventory)
Start the Home Tour!
Tour Dates to save to your calendar January 20
May 18
September 21
February 17
June 15
October 19
March 16
July 20
November 16
April 20
August 17
December 21
Belterra Welcome Center 151 Trinity Hills Drive Austin, TX 78737
(512) 301-5000
Live the Best of Both Worlds.
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Harold Presnell and Janice Keller Presnell, both of Keller Williams Realty, have some brews at the Newland Communities Jagged Luck Realtour with live music by Jagged Luck at Westside Alehouse in Round Rock.
Buy Photo: RL_050416_B.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
Tony Monfort and Christy Monfort join Dorothy Palmore, all of JB Goodwin Realtors, at a company mixer at Kung Fu Saloon.
Buy Photo: RL_031416_D.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
Dawn Schweter, Christina Isaac and Margaret Liebes, all of North American Title, wear their sunglasses to the ABoR Chili Cook-Off to hide the tears from eating all of the spicy chili.
Buy Photo: RL_051216_A.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
Do you want to...
Design the Life YOU want to Lead?
Upcoming Classes & Events
Learn the Business Objectives to LIVE the Life you’ve Designed! If you ALSO want to INCREASE your PRODUCTION with this amazing class
:
BOLD Business Objective, A Life by Design BOLD is coming to Williamson County in August To Reserve Your Spot
Hosted by
Call Avis at (512) 635-0628 or Don at (512) 818-0812 TODAY
SOUTHWEST Diane Johnson Melanie Kennemann 448-4111
NORTHWEST Christi Davidson Brian Martin 346-3550
LAKE TRAVIS Melissa Webb 263-9090
123 E. Old Settlers Blvd. | Round Rock, TX 78664 512.255.6211 | wcrealtors.org
ROUND ROCK Avis Wukasch 255-5050
May 19 Water Matters in Williamson County May 19 The Basics of Consumer Advocacy SMay 20 The Many Faces of Negotiation May 20 TREC Legal Update II May 24 - 26 Texas Residential Property Manager (TRPM) May 26 The Agent Investor: Building Wealth June 1 TREPAC Battle of the Burgers June 3 TREC Legal Update I June 15 Affordable Housing Town Hall Meeting June 17 TREC Legal Update II June 21, 22, 28 & 29 GRI Finance Broadcast Course June 22 Home Loans for Veterans June 23 Eviction Basics June 24 Broker Responsibility Visit www.wcrealtors.org to register For more information on Williamson County, visit www.wclife.org
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Kandis Rushing and Tommy Tucker, both of Crescent Communities, show off their MAX Awards at the HBA's MAX Awards Gala.
Buy Photo: RL_050116_O.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
Anthony Campos of Supreme Lending joins Maria Osio, left, and Ginger Carnright, right, both of Premier Nationwide Lending, at the ALREC happy hour at Kung Fu Saloon.
Buy Photo: RL_040216_E.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
The First American Title gang is all here always putting on “The Ritz” for REALTORS. The company hosted a Tech Symposium to showcase its technology that helps REALTORS do business.
Buy Photo: RL_051116_C.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
N O R T H A M E R I C A N T I T L E C O M PA N Y
is pleased to introduce
Kim Correa, Escrow Officer NATC's Round Rock Branch Welcomes Kim Correa! Kim, an Austin native, is well known in the Round Rock and Austin real estate communities. In the 1980s, her mother was a founding partner of the first, all-women-owned title company in Austin, so her roots run deep in the industry. For 30 years, Kim has worked in the title industry, a job she loves because she enjoys helping buyers and sellers maneuver through the closing process. She finds it especially rewarding to close first-time homebuyers. Kim offers her customers an understanding of their concerns with an eye toward accuracy, honesty and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations. Call on her when you are looking for excellent customer service.
Your Closing Professionals 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
ROUND ROCK 1 Chisholm Trail Suite 3100 Round Rock, TX 78681 t: 512.255.6550
www.facebook.com/Austin.nat www.nat.com/Texas
©2016 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. | TX16-9128 TX 5-2-16
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Amanda Pettitt and David Raesz, both of Keller Williams Realty, are front and center at the First American Title Tech Symposium to learn about new tools to make their business more efficient.
Buy Photo: RL_050616_I.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
Over 100 REALTORS attend the Highland Homes Palmera Ridge Grand Opening event.
Buy Photo: RL_050216_J.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
Mike Carroll and Kristin Carroll of Sente Mortgage enjoy a fun evening at the HBA’s annual MAX Awards. The Wizard of Oz themed event was held at the JW Marriott downtown. Buy Photo: RL_050416_I.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com Buy Photo: RL_050116_J.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
Cindy Pease, Shannon Salamone, Tom Ford and Becky Larsen, all of Lennar Homes, are ready to party at the Newland Communities’‘80s themed Jagged Luck “Realtour” party at Westside Alehouse in Round Rock.
2016 R E A LT O R R E WA R D S
Mercedes
drivehome in a new
from highland homes !
Sell 2 Highland homes between
JANUARY 1 & SEPTEMBER 30, 2016 and you'll be entered for a chance to win a
MERCEDES E-350!
MORE SURPRISES AWAIT!
DRIVE IN STYLE!
ITCrollingwood042516RL.pdf Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
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May 2016 Austin CRS Chapter
T
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Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
President ‘s Column
to reserve your spot since these luncheons sell
Technical Institute at Memphis. Robert en-
By Mary Miner • 2016 President
out. Log on to www.CRS.com, select “State
tered the real estate field in 1985 and has been
and Regional CRS,” select “Texas,” click on
actively involved in real estate sales and train-
“Austin Luncheon” and register.
ing since that time. He is currently a selling
CRS Austin Chapter is busy: join us!
he Council of Residential Specialists is the largest not-for-profit affiliate of the National Association of REALTORS. With nearly 30,000 members, CRS represents the most successful REALTORS in the U.S. We provide best-in-class continuing education, networking, practitioner-developed tools and mentoring—and we also award the CRS designation to experienced agents who have completed advanced professional training and have demonstrated outstanding professional achievement in residential real estate. Your local Austin CRS Networking group has been very active this year. We held a luncheon in April at the Westwood Country Club with over 50 attendees. The speaker, Kent Morrison, presented on REALTOR Safety. His focus was to indicate that we are the ones who create the safety issue. Why would he say that? We are addicted to our phones and we use ear buds while running or focusing on something else rather than being aware of our surroundings. The best form of protection is being aware of our surroundings. Just look around. How many people do not know you
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are in their space while they are texting, talking on the phone, reading Facebook/web or jogging with ear buds. Kent Morrison stated that women are worse than men but men are catching up. So think about your surroundings when you are out and about. Also in April we held the CRS 204 class, “Buying and Selling Income Properties” with Dale Carlton. We had CRS REALTORS from all over the area, including California. What a great class. We even had monitors of the class raving about Dale Carlton and the class information. Jim Smith, past president of the Austin CRS Chapter, took the class again to gain the new material. David Pavliska, another past CRS president, monitored the class for a few hours and told us he wished he had taken it. We also had a visit from a CRS Regional Vice President, Rise’ Johns. She spoke to the class about membership and the advantage of obtaining your CRS designation. The Austin Area gained around 10 new members over the two-day course. Our next Luncheon is June 15th at 11:30 a.m. at the Westwood Country Club. Be sure
CRS has the “Best in Class” educational
broker with Bob Parks Realty, LLC, located in
classes. Our next class will be “CRS 210: Build-
Smyrna, Tennessee, where he actively lists and
ing an Exceptional Customer Service Referral
sells real estate with team, Team Robert Mor-
Business.” It will be September 28th and 29th
ris. Robert was honored with the 2000 Realtor
with Robert Morris (location is TBD).
of the Year award at one of his local associa-
Building an Exceptional Customer Service Referral Business is a highly interactive
tions as well as Tennessee Realtor® Educator of the year in 1995.
course designed to deliver all the essentials
Robert is an international speaker, trainer
for refocusing the student’s business plan to
and consultant who holds 11 professional
a customer service centered, repeat and refer-
designations/certifications. He has conducted
ral business. The information provided will
seminars, training workshops and leadership
help identify the expectations of the “new
conferences for countless numbers of REAL-
consumer,” the “new behaviors” necessary to
TORS, boards, conventions and associations
meet those expectations and specific systems
throughout the continental U.S., Hawaii,
to make the agent’s business more productive,
Alaska, Canada, Puerto Rico and the British
more profitable and more enjoyable.
West Indies.
Robert Morris graduated from Middle
This education is for everyone, no matter
Tennessee State University with a Bachelor of
if you want your CRS designation or not. This
Science in Biology and an Associate Degree
is valuable information to make you succeed.
in Mid-Management Technology from State
We hope to see you all on June 15th. RL
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DHI MORTGAGE WELCOMES
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CHICAGO TITLE Austin
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May 2016
JOIN DREES FOR A PREVIEW OF THEIR NEWEST COMMUNITY IN GEORGETOWN... DEER HAVEN Dusty Boot Preview • May 19th, 11:00 - 1:00 •BBQ from Salt Lick. Music.
Prizes Wine & Dinner for 2 at The Hollow Restaurant An Apple Watch A Designer Purse A Yeti Cooler, and A Nordstrom Shopping Spree
3816 Williams Drive, Georgetown TX 78628
RSVP: May 12, 2016 SGugala@Dreeshomes.com 512-471-7000
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Kelly Lux of Kelly Lux Properties, Darlene Louk of Hines and Daisy Dongieux of Berkshire Hathaway REALTORS are eager to learn about all of the technology First American Title has to offer at the company’s recent Tech Symposium at Alamo Draft House. Buy Photo: RL_050616_H.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
Amy Keillor and Jason Campbell, both of Pure Gold Realty, check out the new Palmera Ridge Community and Highland Homes’ new model home there.
Buy Photo: RL_050216_G.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
Natalie Look, Ed Horne and Renee Lewis, all of Santa Rita Ranch, enjoy visiting with friends and colleagues at the HBA’s annual MAX Awards Gala. Buy Photo: RL_050916_E.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com Buy Photo: RL_050116_I.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
Lee Easter of Lee Easter, Inc. and Gabriel Trinidad of Lighting Inc. grab a couple of beers from the bar at the HBA’s 12th Annual Crawfish Boil Builder/REALTOR Mixer at Easton Park.
NMLS #149932
Put your Trust in our Experience With over 100 years of combined industry experience, our executive team continues to take aggressive steps to innovate and improve the industry.
(512) 450-1222
4807 Spicewood Springs Rd., Bldg. 1, Ste 1100
Richie Rodriguez
Scott Sewell
rrodriguez@ hometrust.com
ssewell@ hometrust.com
vp production
sales manager
NMLS #211987
NMLS #222698
Bradley Rife
sales manager
brife@ hometrust.com
Kyle Bierschwale kbierschwale@ hometrust.com NMLS #1150439
Lynn Edgar ledgar@hometrust.com NMLS #221412
NMLS #221487
www.hometrust.com
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Trendmaker Homes A S S O C I AT E S I N P R O G R E S S - A d v e r t i s e r P r o f i l e b y K a t i e B r o w n
F
or the past 45 years, Trendmaker Homes has been a leader in the Houston homebuilding market and is now bringing its quality reputation to Austin. In 2014, Trendmaker became a member of TRI Pointe Group, making it one of six homebuilding brands that stretch across the country. “We combine the local expertise of a local builder with the strength of a national company—the best of both worlds, says Terry Shuffler, vice president and general manager of Trendmaker’s Austin division. “Becoming part of TRI Pointe Group gave us the support to expand, and we are excited about bringing our unique brand of homes to Austin homebuyers.” Trendmaker Homes currently has three projects in the works around the greater Austin area. Recently, Trendmaker opened its first single-family model home and started actively selling in Austin in the San Saba neighborhood of Belterra, which was named the 2015 Community of the Year by the Austin Business Journal. Upcoming projects include Crystal Falls in Leander, with a targeted grand opening of September 2016, and Headwaters in Dripping Springs, where home construction is expected to begin in May. “We’re excited to be expanding in the Austin market and are focused on being able to offer Trendmaker’s homes in great communities all around Austin,” Shuffler says.
The Trendmaker Homes philosophy, “Where the Upgrades are Standard,” truly rings throughout the homebuilding process. “When customers tour our model homes, they can learn in just a few seconds what highlighted features are considered upgrades or options,” Shuffler says. “The rest are included. We pride ourselves on this fact, as opposed to other builders, where these items are upgrades. This has certainly helped set us apart from the competition in the Houston and Austin markets.” Trendmaker Homes has also pioneered a number of things that REALTORS and their buyers are sure to love. “One we’re most proud of is our casual dining designs. This means that we’ve taken the breakfast rooms and enhanced them to dining room sizes and added an extralarge bar that sits up to six people and more. The dining room is still there, but we’ve taken the walls down and opened these spaces up. People just don’t use formal living rooms and dining rooms like they used to. Open, flexible spaces feel much larger and buyers love them,” says Shuffler. Trendmaker Homes has also managed to find the perfect match between function and style. Being an established builder in Texas, the company strives to continually improve home designs to offer buyers the best in style, functionality, and quality. The company has transcended production home-building by incor-
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May 2016
porating high architectural design with modern lifestyle conveniences. When it comes to its distinctive style, Trendmaker offers unique homes with warm and inviting elevations. From empty nesters to young families and everything in between, Trendmaker provides its customers with an array of options. Homeowners are able to choose from a variety of customizable options to make their property the best fit possible for their family and lifestyle. Options include media rooms, outdoor living areas, second-floor covered balconies, home security and automation, audio/video features, lighting packages and more. “The detail in design and the offered features are not only pleasing in appearance, but also provide homeowners with the freedom to live how they want to live with great open floor plans, luxurious master suites and large outdoor living areas—all available on incredible homesites in great neighborhoods,” Shuffler says. In addition to its expansive customization options, Trendmaker Homes’ LivingSmart program delivers homes with money-saving, energy-efficient features that its buyers appreciate and desire. From HealthSmart features that foster healthy living and cleaner air to EnergySmart technology that leads to lower energy usage and utility bills, Trendmaker Homes offers homes that people want and are proud to call their home. “We deliver an amazing product with fresh design and features that are created by experienced professionals before, during, and after the building process, which makes for a great homebuying and home-owning experience,” Shuffler says. “We survey our homeowners, listen to and react to their feedback, as well as feedback from REALTORS and other industry experts, to help shape our designs, features, and processes into a
NEW LOCATION. SAME GREAT SERVICE.
Terry Shuffler, Austin Division Vice President and General Manager
great experience for our customers.” Trendmaker Homes also realizes the value of REALTOR relationships in the Austin market and strives to be competitive with incentives for both buyers and real estate professionals. Established in 1971, Trendmaker Homes is recognized as one of the premier new home builders in Texas. The company focuses on the needs and desires of the most discriminating home buyers through innovative designs and customer service. Trendmaker’s logo, the iconic “T”, is more than a symbol of a premier home; it represents nothing less than a superior homebuying experience. Trendmaker Homes is a member of TRI Pointe Group (NYSE: TPH), a family of premium regional homebuilders. TRI Pointe Group is one of the largest homebuilders in the U.S and was recently recognized as 2015 Builder of the Year and 2014 Developer of the Year. For more information about Trendmaker Homes, please visit www.TrendmakerHomes. com. RL
Building Connections
We’re expanding our services north in June! Convenient Location
On-site training
Member Service
ABoR North
Business Center
1120 Cottonwood Creek Trail, Bldg B Suite 220 Cedar Park, TX 78613 Hours
Tuesday – Friday 9am – 5pm
Saturday 10am – 2pm
25
REALTOR® Store
Closing Room
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May 2016
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Lorena Zuniga, Monica Middelton, Melissa Alcocer and Kiffen Deleon, all of Capital Title, offer three kinds of chili at the ABoR Chili Cook-off; mild hot and OMG!
Buy Photo: RL_031416_H.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
Memo Vargas of Keller Williams Realty admires the beautiful model home by Highland Homes at Palmera Ridge. Brittney Heffernan of Highland Homes and Jenny McCalla of Highland Homes give him a personal tour.
Buy Photo: RL_040316_C.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com Buy Photo: RL_050216_E.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
Jodi Blynn of Newland Communities rocks out with Jagged Luck guitarist at the Newland Communities Realtour Sale-abration event for REALTORS at Westside Ale House in Round Rock.
Hilltop perches. Immersive days. Celestial observations. Altered course.
Begin anew, come to the source.
Opening Summer 2016 An amazing collection of neighborhoods, amenities and scenic expanses with something close to every home. LiveHeadwaters.com
DAVID WEEKLEY HOMES | DREES CUSTOM HOMES | TRENDMAKER HOMES Materials are protected by copyright, trademark, and other intellectual property laws. All rights in these materials are reserved. All products and company names marked as trademarked (™) or registered (®) are trademarks of their respective holders. Copying, reproduction and distribution of materials without prior written consent of Freehold Communities is strictly prohibited. All information, plans, and pricing are subject to change without notice. This information does not represent a specific offer of sale or solicitation to purchase property within Headwaters. Models do not reflect racial preference.
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1% B O N U S C O M M I S S I O N ! * N O W S E L L I N G I N B E LT E R R A
One gorgeous model. Eight open floor plans. Trendmaker Homes is now in Austin, with its signature, no-surprises homebuilding model. Realtors get an attractive 1% bonus commission, full communication and transparency, plus great care for your clients. Style built in from the beginning. Not upgrades. Not extras. The high-end, designer-selected finishes your clients see in our model are built right into the home and the price. That means a home buying experience
Fully appointed homes in Belterra from the $550s n
One- and two-story homes
n
4-5 bedrooms
n
Up to 4 baths
n
Up to 3-car garages
n
8 open floor plans
you – and your clients – will love. Learn more, and sign up for special Realtor® offers at TrendmakerHomes.com/vip-realtors. * Offer applies to contracts written and accepted between April 1, 2016 and June 30, 2016. Home must close and fund to receive bonus. Offer cannot be combined with any other bonus to selling agent (BTSA) or any current offer. Realtor is responsible for taxes and will receive a 1099. Offer is redeemable after the close and funding of home. Realtor must be registered as client’s Realtor of record at time of initial visit and is not valid on previously negotiated or written contracts.
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terms.” Look at your net, but also your closing date. Are buyers asking for warranty? Are they asking for your appliances?” Here, too, sellers have to keep emotions in check and not let the possibility of an extra few thousand dollars go to their head, especially if they need to move by a certain date, or need the capital from their sale to go toward a new home. If the buyer backs out for any reason, the seller can suddenly swing from earning more than asking price to settling for a lot of terms they would otherwise not have.
Pick the deal that can close For the most part, Austin sellers are walking away from deals with more money than ever. But the real estate professionals that spoke with us couldn’t stress enough that choosing the highest offer – unless it’s cash – can actually backfire. “Anyone can make an offer on a property, says Landy. I need to help my client choose the offer that can close.”
Expand your professional circle There are definitely advantages to having a large professional network. “I go out as often as possible, partly to meet other agents and build a rapport,” says Landy. Developing these connections has definitely helped him make some tough decisions. If there are 15 potential buyers and he knows the agent submitting a particularly attractive offer, Landy is more likely to suggest going with the REALTOR he knows, if all things are equal. “I know they’re going to guide their buyer through the transaction and they’ll handle any unforeseen issues.” On the other hand, if a seller is tempted by an extremely generous bid from an agent
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he’s never worked with or even talked to before, there’s a real concern that something can go wrong. “It’s always a hard conversation when you go with the wrong offer and then have to tell your seller it’s not going to close; we need to go back on the market and get into contract with someone new. No one wants to start the clock over.”
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P. O. Box 81366 • Austin, Texas 78708-1366 (512) 821-1900 www.myRealtyLine.com E-mail: info@myRealtyLine.com
Publisher: Doren L. Carver doren@myRealtyLine.com
Associate Publisher: Tawanna K. Carver tawanna@myRealtyLine.com
Managing Editor: Naomi Bludworth naomi@myRealtyLine.com
Contributing Editor: Linda McNabb
Contributing Writers: Riki Markowitz, Katie Brown, Linda McNabb, Naomi Bludworth
Contributing Photographers: Doren L. Carver, Linda McNabb
Stay off social media Cooke has seen her fair share of reset clocks; and not that long ago, social media was one seller’s downfall. A client shared on a networking site that she needed a cheap way to get her water heater fixed. That post was shared with hundreds of neighbors and because the broken water heater was not previously disclosed, when the buyer in contract caught wind of the busted appliance, he backed out. “The buyer starts worrying about what else is the seller is not disclosing,” says Cooke. A different approach may not have sent the house back on the market. Getting from offer-to-close can be fraught with a lot of uncertainty and anxiety for buyers and sellers. Over her three decades in business, and now in one of the longest housing bubbles in recent history, Cooke realizes that tempering expectations early is probably the most important deal-brokering skill of all. RL
Congratulations
Columnists: Aaron Farmer, Shavonne Martin, Wes Wigginton, Mary Miner Submission Guidelines: Submit photos, press releases and calendar items to naomi@myrealtyline.com. All photos must be at least 300 dpi and include a caption with first/last name and company affiliation. Press releases must be fewer than 300 words. Non-advertisers submitting calendar items will be charged $25 per submission. All submissions must be received at least seven calendar days prior to ad copy deadlines published at www.myrealtyline.com/blog/advertise.html. Submission items will be included as space allows. Realty Line Austin is published monthly by Caxton Publications, Inc.© as a non-subscription publication for the more than 8,000 members of the Austin Board of REALTORS®(ABoR), the more than 1,500 members of the Williamson County Association of REALTORS® (WCREALTORS) and the Home Builders Association (HBA) of Greater Austin. Realty Line Austin is printed on recycled paper. Realty Line Austin is a proud member of the Austin Board of REALTORS®, the Williamson County Association of REALTORS®, the Home Builders Association (HBA) of Greater Austin and is a honorary member of the Women’s Council of REALTORS. Realty Line Austin is not responsible for opinions or facts expressed by non-staff writers or for errors and any by-products in advertising or editorial copy. REALTOR® is a registered trademark. The word REALTOR® sometimes appears in this publication without the registered trademark symbol (®) for the purpose of saving space. Wherever the word REALTOR® appears in this publication, the registered trademark should be assumed.
EDGEWATER
April
Top Producer Julie Black
Senior Loan Officer NMLSR # 232023 Phone: 306-6357 e-Fax: 866-561-8955 jblack@starkeymtg.com
A Solid, Proven, and Committed Lender!
Homes from the $260s •Gated community off 1431 & Ronald Reagan Blvd • Lock & Leave community- Yard maintenance included! • Amenity center with bocce ball, pool with beach entry and lap lane, fire pit and more! • Over 10 acres of green, open space
NOW SELLING PHASE 1 WR Starkey Mortgage, LLP NMLSR# 2146 | 12301 Research Blvd., Suite 150, Austin, TX 78759 | This is not a guarantee of financing. All borrowers must meet certain underwriting guidelines and credit criteria. Rules and Regulations may apply.
Rich Daugherty 512.948.1166 • richd@brohnhomes.com
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Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
austin
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Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995
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May 2016
29
NEWLAND COMMUNITIES WOULD LIKE TO RECOGNIZE ITS FIRST QUARTER
TOP TEN REALTORS
These highly-performing Real Estate Professionals work with Newland Communities Austin and its builder partners to achieve new home closings at Falcon Pointe, Rancho Sienna, Sweetwater, and Teravista in 2016!†
JASON TAYLOR
CLAY WOODARD
THOMAS CHENG
Realty Austin
Move-Up America
Keller Williams
“Newland Communities offer the full package – a variety of builders with forward-thinking floor plans, great school districts, convenience to major freeways/landmarks, beautiful amenities, well-manicured landscapes and an active community association. Our clients love living in a flourishing community and we are grateful to be able to help.”
“Newland affords our clients the opportunity to live in some of the area’s most popular destinations and school districts. In terms of amenities, greenspace and community design, you would be hard pressed to find more aesthetically pleasing communities anywhere places families are proud to call home. Featuring top area home builders such as Chesmar and CalAtlantic to choose from, I am assured our buyers will have access to a homebuilder that supports the quality and superior reputation Newland has worked hard to achieve.”
“I like to bring clients to Newland Communities because the homes are beautiful and the communities are very well planned out.”
SIJO VADAKKAN Trinity Texas Realty
DANNY WILSON Keller Williams, MoPac
TODD SHERMAN Resident Realty
DIANE KENNEDY Coldwell Banker United
SONNY & ERIN BARA
ESTA INGLE Ingle Realty
NEIL DESAI City View Realty
Realty Austin
WE APPRECIATE YOUR EFFORTS TO MARKET AND SELL IN OUR NEW-HOME COMMUNITIES. THANK YOU!
Newland Communities is the largest private developer of planned residential and urban mixed-use communities in the United States from coast-to-coast. Together with our partner, North America Sekisui House, LLC, we believe it is our responsibility to create enduring, healthier communities for people to live life in ways that matter most to them. www.newlandcommunities.com and www.nashcommunities.com †Real Estate Professionals selected based on new home closing volume, January–March 2016. This is not intended to be an offer to sell or a solicitation of offers to buy real estate in the Falcon Pointe, Teravista, Rancho Sienna, or Sweetwater communities (the “Austin Communities”) to residents in Connecticut, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, New York, New Jersey, or Oregon, or in any other jurisdiction where prohibited by law. No guarantee can be made that completion of the Falcon Pointe, Teravista, Rancho Sienna, or Sweetwater communities will proceed as described. ©2016 Newland Austin. All Rights Reserved.
May 2016
30
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RL austin
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Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
Brains. Brains. Brains! John and Susan Horton of John Horton Realty pose with the Realty Line Scarecrow at the HBA’s MAX Awards Gala: A Night in the Emerald City where Susan won the REALTOR of the Year award. Congratulations Susan!
Buy Photo: RL_050116_R.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
Phil Conlon and Larry Schuler, both of Highland Homes, are proud of their new model at Palmera Ridge. They invite all REALTORS to come see what the new community has to offer.
Buy Photo: RL_050616_A.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
First American Title’s VP of Marketing and Technology Scott Hoen and colleague Sarah Tallman welcome REALTORS to the company’s Tech Symposium at Alamo Drafthouse in Downtown Austin.
Buy Photo: RL_050216_A.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
bout Ask A or a Re lt S INCENTIVE
Host an Open House in our Community
CenturyCommunities.com 195
183
Lake Georgetown
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1. Woodland Park $410s 101 W. Red Bud Meadow Georgetown, TX 78633 (512) 930-4043
7. Siena $210s 7021 Leonardo Drive Round Rock, TX 78665 (512) 271-3785
2. Heritage Oaks Final Opportunity! By Appointment Only (512) 930-4005
8. Rough Hollow $390s 303 Borgo Allegri Cove Lakeway, TX 78738 (512) 271-3823
3. Crystal Falls $540s 3203 Crystal Falls Parkway Leander, TX 78641 (512) 931-2800
9. Reagan’s Overlook $540s 2900 Vista Heights Drive Leander, TX 78641 (512) 271-3787
4. Rim Rock $470s 1043 Arbor Canyon Pass Driftwood, TX 78619 (512) 354-1940
10. Blackhawk $320s 20425 Martin Lane Pflugerville, TX 78660 (512) 271-3790
5. Avalon $290s 3705 Gildas Path Pflugerville, TX 78660 (512) 271-3884
11. Pearson Place $420s at Avery Ranch 10105 Double Eagle Pass Austin, TX 78717 (512) 271-3855
Liberty Hill Georgetown
195
4 3
9 FM 14
243 Crystal Falls Pkwy
FM 14
Limmer Loop
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Cedar Park
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Round Rock 0
FM 2
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Leander
Sh e
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Ronald Reagan Blvd
1 1 Williams Dr.
35
130 Kelly Lane
620 RR
8 10
Parmer Ln
Lake Austin Lak
ew
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35
ay B
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Bee
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Pkw
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Pflugerville 1
Lake Travis
Lakeway
Rowe Lane
10
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Hamilton Pool Rd
Dripping Springs 6 12
150
Austin
1 290
Butler Ranch Rd
4
163
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35
1826
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Home, pricing, features, and community information is subject to change at any time without notice or obligation. Images are conceptual and may depict or contain floor plans, square footages, elevations, options, upgrades, decorations, landscaping, pool, spa, furnishings, appliances, and other design features and amenities that are not included as part of the home and/or may not be available in all communities. © 2016 Century Communities. All Rights Reserved. 05.02.2016
6. Butler Ranch $430s 145 Lloyd Lane Dripping Springs, TX (512) 271-3784
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Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
austin
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Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995
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May 2016
31
Mission Mortgage Senior loan officer Trent Jackson has a little fun at the company bowling tournament at Dart Bowl.
Submitted Photo
Cindie Brooks of Chicago Title hosts an MCE class with Shelton Green of Colonial Mortgage. REALTOR Brenden Ross thanks them for the great information.
Submitted Photo
Karla Aguilar of North American Title, one of the sponsors of the ALREC happy hour at Kung Fu Saloon, spends time on the patio with Christi Baylor with Up Realty, Yazmin Perez of Curve Realty and Tatiana Wohleking of Eats by Taty.
Buy Photo: RL_050616_D.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
Cheryl Stephens of 98th Meridian and Carol Hardy of C-21 Hellmann Stribling grab a hot cup of coffee to go with the hot topics at First American Title’s Tech Symposium where they learn about the company’s new app.
PARK at BRUSHY CREEK · HUTTO
Buy Photo: RL_051116_H.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
304 Fistral Drive · 78634 · 512.642.6048
Martin Ramos · mramos@mybuffington.com · Cell 512.868.7884 THE COVES 109 Buescher Cove 110 Buescher Cove 105 Yukon Cove 107 Yukon Cove
Turnberry-D Oakmont-C Sterling-B Ferguson II-B
1,973 1,693 2,372 1,632
2Story/3Bed/2.5Bath/2Gar 2Story/3Bed/2.5Bath/2Gar 2Story/4Bed/2.5Bath/2Gar 1Story/3Bed/2Bath/2Gar
$245,111 $226,770 $251,695 $223,200
NOW NOW SEPT SEPT
4223960 2443025
20305 Hidden Gully Lane · 78660 · 512.614.2377 SILVERLEAF · ROUND ROCK Deborah J. Peel · dpeel@mybuffington.com · Cell 512.998.0051 James Pham · jpham@mybuffington.com · Cell 512.731.6756 SILVER TRAIL 108 Blue Spruce Way 112 Blue Spruce Way 204 Blue Spruce Way 208 Blue Spruce Way 105 Caribou Crossing
Colorado-E Brazos-C Comal-E Sabine-F Colorado-C
2,577 2,451 2,019 2,088 2,549
2Story/3Bed/2.5Bath/2Gar 2Story/4Bed/2.5Bath/2Gar 1Story/4Bed/3Bath/2.5Gar 1Story/4Bed/2Bath/2.5Gar 2Story/4Bed/3.5Bath/2Gar
$337,205 $319,990 $338,400 $331,185 $333,575
THE VILLAS AT UNIVERSITY PARK · ROUND ROCK
AUG SEPT NOW NOW AUG
78665 · 512.579.4809
Thomas Van Lith · tvanlith@mybuffington.com · Cell 512.484.8677 3651 Sandy Brook #200 Muirfield-B 3651 Sandy Brook #202 Oakmont-A 3651 Sandy Brook #204 Turnberry-C
1,756 1,693 1,973
2Story/3Bed/2.5Bath/2Gar 2Story/3Bed/2.5Bath/2Gar 2Story/3Bed/2.5Bath/2Gar
9219300 4602053 9515539 6539339 6666701
$293,210 $282,410 $290,550
SEPT SEPT SEPT
PENLEY PARK · PFLUGERVILLE
20305 Hidden Gully Lane · 78660 · 512.614.2377 Deborah J. Peel · dpeel@mybuffington.com · Cell 512.998.0051 James Pham · jpham@mybuffington.com · Cell 512.731.6756 20200 Hidden Gully 20204 Hidden Gully 20209 Hidden Gully 717 Carillion Drive
Caldwell-B Comal-D Caldwell-B Caldwell-C
1,812 2,019 1,812 1,772
1Story/3Bed/2Bath/2Gar 1Story/4Bed/3Bath/3Gar 1Story/3Bed/2Bath/2Gar 1Story/3Bed/2Bath/2Gar
VILLAGES of HIDDEN LAKE · PFLUGERVILLE
$259,400 $314,990 $262,440 $259,760
JUL NOW AUG JUN
4813963 2717839 5289939 7540998
3916 Jennie Marie Drive · 78660 · 512.645.0059
Lillian Pham · lpham@mybuffington.com · Cell 512.775.5447 Brennan Doty · bdoty@mybuffington.com · Cell 409.853.6942 3612 Anchor Bay Drive 3636 Anchor Bay Drive 3700 Anchor Bay Drive 3617 Wetland Drive 3705 Wetland Drive 18308 Drecker Springs 18312 Drecker Springs
Timberlake-C 2,027 Houston-B 1,908 Caldwell-E 1,823 Caldwell-B 1,772 Parker-B 2,695 Houston-B 1,908 Stevenson II-C 2,492
1Story/3Bed/2Bath/3Gar 1Story/3Bed/2Bath/2Gar 1Story/3Bed/2Bath/2Gar 1Story/3Bed/2Bath/2Gar 2Story/3Bed/2Bath/2Gar 1Story/3Bed/2Bath/2Gar 2Story/3Bed/2.5Bath/2Gar
$273,820 $266,210 $261,030 $251,060 $291,740 $266,380 $279,570
AUG JUL AUG MAY SEPT SEPT SEPT
4985421 9999231 4022679 1018077 8383492 1254477
Brazos-C Sabine-F Rio Grande-B Brazos-A
2Story/4Bed/2.5Bath/2Gar 1Story/4Bed/2Bath/3Gar 2Story/5Bed/3Bath/2Gar 2Story/4Bed/2.5Bath/2Gar
$305,870 $311,885 $330,075 $296,310
SEPT NOW SEPT SEPT
6108282 9316029 2964311 6999879
60 ft Homesites 17321 Silent Harbor 17324 Silent Harbor 17328 Silent Harbor 17401 Silent Harbor
2,422 2,062 2,981 2,451
Austin’s Leading Local Homebuilder
32
May 2016
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Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
Jennifer Lish and Anita Farrell, both of Keller Williams Realty, warn ABoR Foundation Chair Steve Crorey that their chili is so hot it might melt the ladle. The two entered their recipe in the annual ABoR Chili Cook-Off.
Buy Photo: RL_031416_E.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
Denise Hosek, center, of Highland Mortgage, shows off her Mercury at the Lone Star Round Up car show at the Austin Expo Center. Pictured with her are custom car builder Mercury Charlie and Realty Line’s Doren Carver.
Buy Photo: RL_050516_B.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
Newland Communities “rocks out” with the band Jagged Luck at the company’s Jagged Luck “Sale-abration” Realtour event at Westside Ale House in Round Rock. Buy Photo: RL_050916_D.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
Buy Photo: RL_050416_F.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
Wes Peoples of Wes Peoples Homes and 2016 ABoR President Aaron Farmer have a crawfish “critter fight” at the HBA’s Crawfish Boil Builder/REALTOR mixer at Easton Park. A little hot water and Cajun seasonings and those crawfish didn’t stand a chance!