in this issue…
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995™
• Capital Title Lakeway office grand opening • AAREB Monthly Meeting • AYREP Masquerade Happy Hour • Austin Title CP office opening • and much, much more!
Associates in Progress
8th Annual Chili Cook Off
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page 21
OCTOBER 2012 • VOLUME 17 • ISSUE 6
Learn how to take the work out of networking by Autumn Rhea Carpenter
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hether professional networking evokes pure joy or sheer terror, the practice is necessary to increase leads, promote marketing efforts, connect with colleagues, and establish referral sources. With a little preparation, REALTORS can make the most of a networking event, and leave with more than a stack of business cards and an improved handshake.
Research
Saturday, October 20 Teravista 10th Anniversary Celebration - Teravista - 7 to 10 p.m.
Thursday, October 25
Parade of Homes VIP Preview Party The Overlook Estates - 6 to 9 p.m.
Visit us online 24/7 at www.myRealtyLine.com
P. O. Box 81366, Austin, Texas 78708
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Friday, October 26 WCAoR Farm & Ranch Meeting WCAoR Office - 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
austin
Communication Breaking through the chatter into a deeper, more meaningful conversation creates more authentic interactions. Ditch the mundane discussion about rain chances and ask the person what brought them to the event. Be a good listener, always mindful of the conversation’s direction. Sincerity, reliability, skill and polish can make all the difference at these events. An effective networker also remembers to care about people. Real estate is not about the houses; it’s about lives and situations. According to Patty DeNucci, author of The
Upcoming Events Printed on recycled paper.
Presorted Standard U.S. Postage PAID Austin, Texas Paid Permit #715
Many networking events include pub-
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lic RSVP lists, but if this information isn’t available people might be discussing the event on Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn. Use social media tools to target your networking efforts by reaching out to fellow attendees online. By making this initial connection beforehand the first in-person meeting will be much less awkward. Putting a face to a name is a powerful technique in the networking game. Know where the event venue is located, parking options and whether business cards are required. Arriving in a frazzled state is not a way to leave a good first impression.
Saturday, October 27 Parade of Homes Opens to Public The Overlook Estates - 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. NARI Tour of Remodeled Homes Various Locations - 12 to 6 p.m. Wednesday, October 31 ABoR Safe Halloween Alternative ABoR Office - 3 to 5 p.m. Thursday, November 1 REALTOR Day at Parade of Homes The Overlook Estates - 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Saturday, November 3 Keller Williams Realty 19th Annual Food Drive & Chili Cook Off Riverbend Church - 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday, November 8 REALTOR Day at Parade of Homes The Overlook Estates - 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. WCR Monthly Meeting Cool River Café - 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Chef's Night at Parade of Homes The Overlook Estates - 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, November 14 Independence Title Chili Cook Off 101 E. Old Settlers Blvd. - 12 p.m. HBA Awards & Installation Dinner HBA Office - 6 to 9 p.m. Wednesday, November 21 NAHREP Monthly Luncheon Cool River Café - 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. More at www.myRealtyLine.com
Intentional Networker, “Buying and selling a house often coincides with a major life change such as marriage, divorce, expanding a family, relocating, downsizing for retirement, even death. When you really care about serving people, that's when your value rises,” says DeNucci. Compose an elevator speech—15 seconds that describes how you offer value, benefit and quality to your customer. Practice until the speech feels natural and unrehearsed. Remember to speak
Front Page: Continued on page 16
austin Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995
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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
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Buffington Homes • 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...
October 2012
They may be small, but to us they’re BIG STUFF!
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Austin Board of REALTORS®
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Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995
Chairman’s Column By Leonard Guerrero • 2012 Chairman
Advance your career at the 2013 Leadership Academy
A
pplications are now being accepted for the 2013 Leadership Academy and I encourage anyone seeking to hone their leadership skills to apply. Accepted applicants can anticipate broadening their skill set with leadership-building sessions, spokesperson training and success-planning modules. The course will kickoff at the Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort and Spa Jan. 10–11 with the following sessions held at ABoR offices and the State Capitol. Leadership Academy students will graduate on May 2 and the cost to attend these eight in-depth, specialized sessions is $400, which includes the cost of the retreat. Visit www.abor.com/LeadershipAcademy for more details and information on available scholarship opportunities. The application deadline is Nov. 1.
Safe Halloween alternative at ABoR Join ABoR staff, fellow members and their trick-or-treaters for an afternoon of safe Halloween fun. From 3-5 p.m. on Oct. 31, kiddos can tour the ABoR office, filling their
bags with goodies along the way. This spooktacular event will feature hayless hayrides, a pumpkin patch with treats for the picking, photo opportunities at the witches’ den and so much more. Parents and friends can enjoy snacks and punch while getting a kick out of the scary costumes of the ABoR staff. Visit www.abor.com/halloween for more details.
Reserve your spot at the annual REALTOR Installation and Awards Gala Tickets are now available for the REALTOR party of the year. ABoR’s 2012 Installation and Awards Gala, Dancing with the Star of Real Estate, will welcome in the new leaders and honor industry award-winning REALTORS. Themed “Educate, Advocate, Participate,” the gala will take place from 6-11 p.m. on Dec. 7. at the Renaissance Austin Hotel, located at 9721 Arboretum Boulevard. This year’s event will include an exquisite meal, award and installation ceremony, professional dance performance, silent auction and more.
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October 2012
Find your dancing shoes and purchase your $65 ticket soon, before this event sells out. Your business can be a part of the yearend event by becoming an official partner. Partnerships are available until Oct. 31. Partnership details and tickets are available at www.abor.com/installation. For more information, contact Shirley Williams at swilliams@abor.com or 545-7636, ext. 1603.
Hear it from the experts at the 2013 Housing Forecast You don’t want to miss out on the 2013 Housing Forecast, co-sponsored by ABoR and the Home Builders Association of Greater Austin. From 8:30-11:30 a.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 8, get an in-depth look at the past year’s trends
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from the viewpoint of industry analysts, including Eldon Rude, director of the Austin market for Metrostudy and Jay Hartzell, executive director of UT’s Real Estate Finance and Investment Center. During the event, our experts will review the latest changes to the local and national economic and housing markets. Prepare for the year ahead by gaining insight into the market trends expected to affect our industry in 2013. Tickets have sold out for this event the last three years, so purchase your ticket early at www.abor.com/ housing to secure your seat. Tickets for members are $75 and tables seating 10 are available for $650. The event will be hosted at the Renaissance Austin Hotel. Registration begins at 7:30 a.m. followed by breakfast at 8 a.m. RL
ABoR Academy Educational Courses Oct. 24: Green MLS—The Key to Unlocking the Green Home Market Oct. 25: MLS Advanced Features & CMA (North location) Oct. 29: Broker Responsibility MCE Course Nov. 1: Mediate, Arbitrate, Litigate Nov. 7: Income Property Analysis Updated
More at www.ABoR.com
Buy Photos + Find Events + View Archives
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Introducing ™ CostsFirst By First American Title Get the closing costs you need, when you need them.
Mobile App now available!
Quick and easy online access Calculate closing costs for most transaction types Email, print or save estimated HUD1
Visit www.FirstAmAustin.com and click the CostsFirst™ button in the toolbar.
Make updates to saved files First American Title Insurance Company, and the operating divisions thereof, make no express or implied warranty respecting the information presented and assume 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.
©2012 First American Financial Corporation and/or its affiliates. All rights reserved. | NYSE: FAF
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Grand Haven Homes invites everyone to visit its new model home in Paloma Lake.
Buy photo: RL_100312_D.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
It’s business as usual at the Tenura Holdings sales meeting. Paula Bacon of Reliant Title and Matt Posey of Ameripro Funding stay informed of the company’s plans for the future.
Submitted Photo Buy photo: RL_100212_D.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Bryan Greenleaf. of Realty Austin lends his helping hands to build a home with Habitat for Humanity for a very deserving family.
Experience the SWBC Difference Our commitment to you: •
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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
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Kathleen Condry nmls# 214903 512.658.7436
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investments
the avallon building, building 1 | 10415 morado Circle, ste. 100 | austin, tX 78759
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October 2012
One-stop home shopping? You’ll find it here! The KB Home Finding Center—complimentary, one-on-one attention you and your clients deserve.
EXPLORE GREAT NEIGHBORHOODS AND NEW-HOME DESIGNS.
SAVE TIME. SAVE MONEY. SAVE GAS!
REGISTER YOUR CLIENTS.
DISCOVER, YOUR CLIENTS HOMEBUYING POTENTIAL.
CALL THE HOME FINDING CENTER AT (512) 651-0898 FOR DETAILS. KB HOME FINDING CENTER
10800 PECAN PARK BLVD., SUITE 110 AUSTIN, TX 78750
OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK MON.–SUN.: 10AM–7PM From downtown Austin, take I-35 North and exit Hwy. 183 North (Research Blvd.). Exit at Loop 620/Lake Creek Pkwy./Pecan Park Blvd. and turn left on Pecan Park Blvd. Travel under the overpass and look for two identical buildings on the right. The Studio is located on the first floor of the second building.
Broker Cooperation Welcome. ©2012 KB Home (KBH). Payment of Broker Co-op requires Broker to accompany and register buyer on first visit and comply with Broker Co-op Agreement. Photo may depict upgraded landscaping/options and may not represent lowest-priced homes. Photo does not depict racial preference. See sales representative for details. AUS-105003
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Mary Lynne Gibbs and Diane Breazeale are pleased that Maria Kohler could attend the Keller Williams Lake Travis fundraiser event that will help raise funds for her husband, Mike Kohler, who was highly instrumental in the early development of the area and is now ailing. Buy photo: RL_101012_O_1.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Eric and Pat Vincent, both of Coldwell Banker United REALTORS, are glad to see Capital Title and WillowBend Mortgage in Lakeway where Capital Title opened its new office. The two attended the grand opening.
Buy photo: RL_100112_G.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Joy Stokes and Cheryle Scully, both of Austin Title, welcome a big crowd to their c o m p a n y ’s g r a n d opening of its new Cedar Park office. Submitted Photo Buy photo: RL_100412_A.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
For a limited time, Realtors will Receive a
U R I NG AT
4%
$500 VISA Holiday Gift Card for every quick move in home that closes by November 30th!
C
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Everyone loves to win! Frank Harren and Roxanne Escobedo can hardly contain themselves after winning the weekly “VROOM” F1 race drawing at the Coldwell Banker United, REALTORS Westlake office.
MMISS
West Cypress Hills
Southpark Meadows
5200 Cypress Ranch Blvd. • Spicewood
3039 Little River Road • South Austin
Cypress Creek
Ravenscroft
Scenic Homes from the $230’s 512-264-0900
New Homes from the $130’s 512-215-5220 1900 Little Elm Trail • Cedar Park
The Reserve at Brushy Creek Single Family Homes from the $280’s 512-961-5556
Breakway Rd. & Brushy Creek Rd. • Cedar Park
Paradiso Villas
Garden Homes from the $160’s 512-215-3424 11400 West Parmer Lane • Cedar Park
Southbridge Villas
12 Gorgeous, new homes available for an immediate move-in and 4% commission! Prices, plans, specifications, features, completion dates and the availability of homes are subject to change with notice or obligation. *$500 VISA gift card available on inventory homes that close by November 30, 2012. VISA® gift card in the amount of $500.00 will be presented within 5 business days of actual closing.
Garden Homes from the $180’s 512-804-2605
Garden Homes from the $170’s 512-961-5553
New Homes from the $140’s 512-410-7790 11309 Lost Maples Trail • South Austin
Shadow Creek
Single Family Homes from the $130’s 512-782-2040 203 Shadow Creek Blvd. • Buda
Arbor Ridge
Garden Homes from the $100’s 512-410-1993 5001 Nuckols Crossing Rd. • Southeast Austin
Riverside Villas
7233 Manchaca Rd. • South Austin
Garden Homes from the $160’s 512-410-0899
Preston Village
2001 Faro Drive • Downtown Austin
Single Family Homes from the $170’s 512-630-8978 16016 Travesia Way • Austin
Volume Home Builder of the year 2012
Austin Business Journal
www.MyMileStone.com
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Williamson County Assoc. of REALTORS®
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President’s Column By Christy Gessler • 2012 President
Networking do's and don'ts
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he topic of this month’s Realty Line is addressing professional networking. I can’t think of a more appropriate topic as we move forward into the fall and winter selling season. It is truly time to get yourself back out there and network at a variety of venues to continue to grow your business and plan for an awesome 2013. So, for this article, I looked to some experts in a variety of business fields and found the following “do’s and don’ts” for professional networking. Following these tips will certainly help ensure you have your best game on for effective networking.
Do: • Make an entrance. Have good posture, smile and be noticed. • Use your personality and your interactions to develop a rapport with others, so that you can have a formal business meeting at another time. Most people will remember very little about the standard “what do you do?” business conversation. • Become a friend first. Find a common
interest and go do that interest together. A warm sell is easier than a cold sell, always. • Look successful, have a positive image and understand the purpose of the group or situation you are in. • Suggest a tip, tool, reference, book, website or referral to help that person out. Naturally, the other person will like your helpfulness, ask questions, and request your business card. • Take a big supply of business cards with you to every networking event. • Sit with people you don’t know to maximize networking opportunities. Use that time to share war stories and successes which will help you bond with new contacts. • Volunteer to help the event coordinators. This is the best way to network and meet people. • Introduce yourself and pretend that you are at a social event where no one really cares what you do. Engage the people you meet in a conversation that focuses on them. • Make your own luck by going up to the people you want to meet and introduce yourself. Whatever you do, don’t waste the networking
www.myRealtyLine.com opportunity by seeking out the people you already know well (except to the extent that they can help you with introductions). • Get to the event early. It’s easier transition to go into an almost empty room rather than when it’s full of conversation. By doing this you also almost turn into a greeter and get to meet the first group of people one-on-one. • Hold your liquor. Getting drunk in front of your new contacts is an image burned into their memory forever. • Start with a firm handshake coupled with good eye contact. Make sure your hands are clean, not sweaty or dirty. Maybe rub a little sanitizer before you walk in to the event.
Don’t: • Rudely interrupt. It’s impolite to interrupt a conversation. If two people are talking facing each other that is a closed conversation. • Talk trash or get too personal. Do not talk about your recent divorce, your nasty boss or your sleazy competition in your conversation. People may remember you, but not for the right reasons. • Mention your business first. It is a networking turn off. • Say your phone number, website, e-mail or address—that is for your business card. • Make the mistake of promoting or selling yourself to the people you meet. The best way to “work the room” is to find someone and ask them about themselves and their interests. • Treat everyone like a prospect. Those you meet at events could become prospects, don’t assume that they are. • Spend too much time with any one person, since you want to meet a range of people and you don’t want to monopolize other people’s time. Keep in mind that meeting new people
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and following up later during the event or after the event is what makes the networking work. • Be shy like most new entrepreneurs. You need to be brave. To be brave, be like an actor and ‘act brave.’ • Ever ask what they do and especially don’t ask what their spouse does. Keep the conversation light and enjoyable. When people “network” it is often an uncomfortable place to be. Make it a chat so that you can get to know others. • Fully pitch your business at a social gathering, only do the introductions thing and maybe just one line summaries of what your business does, and use that introduction to set up a time to pitch at length later. • Expect to pass out your business card and get business. We call that the “spray and pray” method – just spraying yourself out there but not making connections. One good connection and follow up is better than meeting 10 people and just being superficial. • Get cornered. If the discussion isn’t working for you, excuse yourself and move on. It is expected and it isn’t rude. • Ever run out of business cards. When you open a new box, immediately shove a small stack in a hidden area of your wallet. They will be out of your way and when you meet that unexpected contact you won’t be fumbling with your smartphone to input a new contact. • Just shake hands or collect business cards from everyone. A couple good conversations are better than 20 business cards. Now get out there and grow your business for 2013 and beyond. For more information about great upcoming classes and events to implement your best networking skills at the Williamson County Association of REALTORS, visit www.wcaor.org. RL
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REALTORS learn techniques on staging a home in this class called “Making a Listing Pop” offered by Ashton Woods Homes at its model home in Paloma Lake.
Buy photo: RL_100312_B.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Fay Strange and Michael Nasserfar, both of Ameripro Funding, take a quick break with Greg Ward of Ward Real Estate, a Private Label Realty company, during the Tenura Holdings sales meeting.
Buy photo: RL_101112_S.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com Buy photo: RL_100212_E.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
AYREP’s Seth Thompson, center, mingles with Carlton Reese and Silvia Vandenberg of Realty Austin at the Easter Seals benefit AYREP hosted at the Umlauf Sculpture Garden.
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October 2012
NORTH MOPAC OFFICE 9600 North MoPac Expressway, Ste #125, Austin, TX 78759 Phone 512.459.7222 Fax 512.459.7460/www.austintitle.com
Executive Team
Escrow
Brian Baize
Deborah Eagan
President brian.baize@austintitle.com 512.459.7222
VP/Senior Escrow Officer deborah.eagan@austintitle.com 512.459.7222
Janis Thomas
Escrow Officer janis.thomas@austintitle.com 512.459.7222
Janice Hataway
Senior Vice President Operations Manager janice.hataway@austintitle.com 512.459.7222
Renee’ Reyna
Escrow Officer renee.reyna@austintitle.com 512.459.7222
Christine Herrera
Escrow Officer christine.herrera@austintitle.com 512.459.7222
Taresa Hale
Senior Vice President Operations Manager taresa.hale@austintitle.com 512.459.7222
Veronica.Harrison
Escrow Officer veronica.harrison@austintitle.com 512.459.7222
Aisha Dull
Denise Braun
AVP/Escrow Officer aisha.dull@austintitle.com 512.459.7222
Executive Vice President denise.braun@austintitle.com 512.459.7222
Tiffany Isaacs
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PLEASE KEEP US IN MIND, WE WOULD LOVE TO HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO ASSIST YOU ON YOUR NEXT CONTRACT!
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Escrow Officer tonie.mcgillicuddy@austintitle.com 512.459.7222
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October 2012
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Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
Austin Title celebrates the opening of its new office in Cedar Park with a ribbon cutting ceremony.
Submitted Photo
Guest speaker John Daves, center, of John Daves and Associates, Attorneys at Law, discusses the issue of fair housing with Victor Henry, left of ESG Realty and Eiric Smith of PrimeLending and other Austin Association of Real Estate Brokers members at the monthly meeting at Cool River CafĂŠ. Buy photo: RL_100512_C.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
ABoR Chairman of the Board Leonard Guerrero, far right, joins, from left, Ron Urias and Sandy Urias, both of Farmers Insurance, Cissy Stacio and Jason Garza at the black and white party at the Umlauf Sculpture Garden, hosted by AYREP.
Buy photo: RL_101012_S.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Linda Schulman and Scott Bullard of Keller Williams Realty are pleased to see so many people having fun while raising money for the Lake Travis Cares program, which benefitted Mike and Maria Kohler.
Buy photo: RL_101112_K.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Median Sales Price 2007-2012 $230,000
$220,000 2007 2008
$210,000
2009 2010
$200,000
2011 2012
$190,000 Source: Texas A&M Real Estate Center
$180,000
$170,000 Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Partnerships Built on Trust
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
For more information, please contact one of our sales executives. www.gracytitle.com
Dec
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October 2012
Making Real Estate Transactions
Easy as Pie In the real estate industry, there are few things more satisfying than completing a closing. But to get to that point, you need all of the right tools for preparation. As your partner in real estate, Gracy Title has developed a web site that keeps up with the changing technology to provide the most up-to-date tools in the industry. The tools section of our site has been developed for real estate professionals in mind to facilitate the process from contract to close with the convenience of 24 hr. access.
www.gracytitle.com/tools
Some of our featured tools include: • MLS Area Profiles: Useful links & important information broken down by neighborhood within each MLS area. • Title & Refinance Orders: Place your orders at your convenience, we’ll be on the other end waiting! • Premium Rate Calculator: Just enter the policy amount and click a button to calculate. • Access to Mobile Phone Apps: - Market View - Austin: MLS area statistics - SureClose: Access your closing documents - Net Sheets: Estimate buyer and seller closing costs • Fee Quote System: Developed for loan officers for optimum accuracy on fee quotes. • Online Relocation Guide: A guide for the general public covering everything that Central Texas has to offer.
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Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
Stacey Rider puts her chef skills to work with Christy Gessler at the WCAoR Cook Off. Both ladies are with Keller Williams Realty.
Buy photo: RL_100812_J.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
A little music, food and fun go a long way. Kathie Buras and Valerie DiFabio, both of Keller Williams Realty, check out Capital Title’s new digs in Lakeway during its grand opening sponsored by WillowBend Mortgage.
Buy photo: RL_100312_C.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com Buy photo: RL_100112_K.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
DHI MORTGAGE
The Right People, The Right Way. This is our mission statement. It represents the heart of who we are, and it defines how we serve our customers every day. We offer a variety of product choices and provide personal assistance for all of our clients. Contact your DHI Mortgage Loan Originator today.
Norma Guerrero Cowes www.dhimortgage.com
Mortgage Loan Originator, NMLS #211327 12554 Riata Vista Circle, First Floor Austin, TX 78727 Office: 512-533-1312 / Fax: 866-841-1944 Email: nguerrero-cowes@dhimortgage.com www.normacowes.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. Company NMLS# 14622. 12554 Riata Vista Circle, First Floor, Austin, TX 78727. Company NMLS#14622. For information on DHIM licensing, please visit www.dhimortgage.com/other-pages/licensing/. REV: 09/18/12 / EXP: 01/01/13
Ursula Whitworth of Ashton Woods Homes is proud of her company’s model home in Paloma Lake where she helps REALTORS and their clients find the right home for their budget and lifestyle.
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
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October 2012
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Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
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Grand Haven Homes celebrates its groundbreaking of Northwoods at Avery Ranch.
Buy photo: RL_100612_A.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Angie and Derrick Miller, both of Goldwasser Real Estate, tour Capital Title’s new space in Lakeway during the company’s grand opening sponsored by WillowBend Mortgage.
Buy photo: RL_100112_M.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Marketing superstars Elaine Byrne, left, of Elaine Byrne Realty and David Burton, second from left, of Horizon Realty share their secrets with a class full of eager students including Lisa Navarro, Ray Bernett, Javier Sanchez and Janet Henley. Jazz Lough, center in red, of Champions School of Real Estate, welcomes the crew to the school's Round Rock campus.
Buy photo: RL_100712_E.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com Buy photo: RL_100912_A.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
NAHREP National President Jerry Ascencio congratulates local NAHREP President Nicole Torres-Cooke for leading a successful chapter here in Austin. He attended the NAHREP Austin meeting at Cool River Café.
RIDGEVIEW A Touch of Hill Country Living SummeR PAvliSkA AVP of Sales and Operations (512) 577-5166 spavliska@netcotitle.com
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President’s Column By Marshall Durrett • 2012 President
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2012 Parade of Homes kicks off Oct. 25 with VIP Preview Party—opens to public Oct. 27
ith Austin’s housing market on an upswing, the Home Builders Association (HBA) of Greater Austin is excited to open the doors to its 2012 Parade of Homes. The annual event gives visitors a chance to tour new custom homes from some of Austin’s finest builders and see the latest in architectural trends and designs ideas. This year’s Parade takes place at The Overlook Estates in southwest Austin, Saturday, Oct. 27 through Sunday, Nov. 11. The event will be open from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. every day except Tuesdays when the tour is closed. The Overlook Estates development is located off of Circle Drive, past the Thomas Springs Road intersection and just southwest of the ‘Y’ in Oak Hill. The development features acreage lots with beautiful, long hill country views just 20 minutes from downtown and is priced perfectly for families seeking good nearby schools and close proximity to Austin. The Overlook Estates neighborhood was selected to showcase six exquisite homes built by Dillon Custom Homes, Enertech Builders, Hennessee Custom Homes, JKD Builder,
PGM Design + Build and Pillar Custom Homes, Inc. Two of the six homes are sold, but you can tour all six which span 3,500 to 4,900 square feet and are priced from the mid $700’s to $1.5 million. The HBA’s Parade of Homes at The Overlook Estates offers thousands of prospective homebuyers and REALTORS the opportunity to see first hand the stunning line-up of Texas Hill Country, Craftsman, Soft Contemporary and Ultra-Modern custom home designs available for purchase. For participating builders, the tour is an excellent opportunity to showcase the best they have to offer to the home buying public and the regional real estate community. The newest trends in construction, building design, interior décor and landscaping are included in each of these very special homes.
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Thursday, Oct. 25. Appetizers and refreshments will be provided and a bar available. All homes will be completely furnished and decorated with top-of-the-line products, appliances and furnishings for guests' viewing pleasure. This will be the opportunity to preview the best the home building industry has to offer before the tour opens to the general public. Tickets are $75 each and include appetizers plus two drink tickets. Tickets can be purchased at www.AustinHomeBuilders. com; sales end at noon on Monday, Oct. 22. Your tickets will be mailed if your order is placed before Friday, Oct. 12. Parking will be available in convenient, designated parking just next to The Overlook Estates.
REALTOR Days Each year, the HBA of Greater Austin invites REALTORS to attend the Parade of Homes free of charge by showing their business card on designated days. Thursday,
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Oct. 1 will be the first REALTOR Day where REALTORS will be admitted free of charge. Plus, for the first time ever, another REALTOR Day is being added on Thursday, Oct. 8 where REALTORS will enjoy free admission all day long plus are invited to a very special Chef ’s Night from 6-8 p.m. On this night, each of the participating Parade builders will be hosting a distinct style of cuisine. Please, be our very special guests on one or both of these REALTOR days.
Tickets Tickets for the regular Parade of Homes days, Oct. 27 through Nov. 11, will be available, cash only, at the gate and are $15 for adults 18 and over; $25 for couples; $12 for seniors 62 plus as well as children three to 17 years of age. Children under three are admitted free. With a military ID, tickets are just $10. For more information visit www. ParadeOfHomesAustin.com. RL
VIP Preview Party, Thurs. Oct. 25 This VIP Preview Party, an exclusive event for HBA members, industry professionals and special guests is scheduled for 6-9 p.m. on
Buy photo: RL_100112_E.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
There’s nothing quite like celebrating success. Congratulations to Kelly Perkinson and Stacy Mock, both of Capital Title, for opening another new office, this time in Lakeway.
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Front Page: Continued
Industry Networking Opportunities Austin Association of Real Estate Brokers (AAREB) Austin Board of REALTORS (ABoR) Austin Mortgage Bankers Association (AMBA) Austin Real Estate Networking Club (RENC) Austin Young Real Estate Professionals (AYREP) Asian Real Estate Professionals, Austin (AREP) BASHH (Big Ass Social Happy Hour) BNI International Council of Residential Specialists (CRS) Home Builders Association (HBA) of Greater Austin National Association of Hispanic Real Estate Professionals, Austin Chapter (NAHREP) Network in Austin Real Estate Networking Club of Austin Real Estate Staging Association (RESA) Williamson County Association of REALTORS (WCAoR) Women's Council of REALTORS (WCR)
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slowly and don’t ramble; this can make listeners uncomfortable.
Image Presenting a polished, authentic image and cohesive brand goes a long way at a networking event. “I often suggest that professionals work on their demeanor and attitude, appearance and image which includes grooming, attire, social skills, voice, marketing materials, voice mail messages, web presence and social media presence,” DeNucci says. “Wear attire that is neither too sexy or casual nor too stiff or intimidating. The advice of a good image consultant who understands business and the messages you send with your attire is worth the investment.” “Consider what your sweet spot is and work on matching that with all of your messages,” DeNucci says. “If you are working in the high-end market, obviously everything you do should match up with that image. On the other hand, if you help middle class newlyweds find their first home, driving up in a Jaguar may convey the wrong message.”
Technology There are endless networking opportunities online, but successful REALTORS make the connection between online and reality and use social media tools to their benefit. For Nannette Labastida of Austin Fine Properties, Twitter and Facebook have been effective networking tools. They have given her a noticeable presence in Austin’s real estate scene as people that she meets in life connect her to her online persona. This window into Labastida’s company reminds all of her contacts that she is a REALTOR. “Follow up is key after attending a networking event and social media makes that process easier,” says Labastida. “I use Twitter if there was a fleeting, casual meeting. If a good friend introduces me to a new contact, I use Facebook.” Smartphones can improve the follow up process. “I'm terrible at memorizing names so if I meet someone that I want to talk to again, I make a note in my phone with their name and a little information about them,” says Labastida. After collecting a mountain of business cards, there are a few apps that can bring order to your desk. Camcard, ScanBizCards
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and WorldCardMobile scan and organize business cards. Smartphone users (Android and iPhone) can also use the Bump app that wirelessly transfers contact information when the phone is held next to another person’s device with the same app.
Common Mistakes Understand gaffes that happen often in the networking scene so that you can avoid the same pitfalls. Don’t try to work the room, meeting everyone while wildly tossing business cards at unsuspecting attendees. Ask permission to share a card and never make a person feel threatened or pressured. Libations are often served at networking events and can be a good conversation starter. Go easy on the alcohol because presenting a professional image is the goal. Never dominate a conversation. Networking is all about trading information and the best connections happen when a common interest is discovered. This will never occur if one person is ranting about politics or ignoring the other person’s nonverbal cues. Set a real estate networking strategy to determine how the practice will equal more sales. Establishing this plan involves determining the four main networking components: new contacts, referral group, inner circle and existing contacts as well as a percentage of time you’d like to dedicate to each area next to each group. New contact includes people met for the first time. A referral group is an organization where leads are generated amongst members and only one industry is represented in each group. The inner circle incorporates family, close friends, business associates and colleagues. Existing contacts are people met at events over the past year. Set a specific number of hours dedicated to networking and divide that time accordingly, focusing on one group each time. “The number of events you attend per week and month will vary according to your schedule, vision and goals,” says DeNucci. “In general, it is better to select a few events that you attend regularly than to try to spread yourself too thin. Once a week for a group event is a nice guideline.” RL
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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: Stacy Hale, Linda McNabb, Naomi Bludworth Contributing Photographers: Doren L. Carver Columnists: Leonard Guerrero, Christy Gessler, Risé Johns, Marshall Durrett, Melissa Cason, Tom Berry Submission Guidelines: Submit photos, press releases and calendar items to naomi@myrealtyline.com. All photos must be at least 300 dpi and include a caption with first/last name and company affiliation. Press releases must be fewer than 300 words. Non-advertisers submitting calendar items will be charged $25 per submission. All submissions must be received at least seven calendar days prior to ad copy deadlines published at www. myrealtyline.com/advertise.html. Submission items will be included as space allows. Realty Line Austin is published monthly by Caxton Publications, Inc.© as a non-subscription publication for the more than 8,000 members of the Austin Board of REALTORS®(ABoR), the more than 1,100 members of the Williamson County Association of REALTORS® (WCAoR) and the Home Builders Association (HBA) of Greater Austin. Realty Line Austin is printed on recycled paper. Realty Line Austin is a proud member of the Austin Board of REALTORS®, the Williamson County Association of REALTORS® and is a honorary member of the Women’s Council of REALTORS. Realty Line Austin is not responsible for opinions or facts expressed by non-staff writers or for errors and any by-products in advertising or editorial copy. REALTOR® is a registered trademark. The word REALTOR® sometimes appears in this publication without the registered trademark symbol (®) for the purpose of saving space. Wherever the word REALTOR® appears in this publication, the registered trademark should be assumed.
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Tour six extraordinary custom homes
If you can dream it, we are building it. Don’t miss this year’s Parade of six exquisite dream homes in The Overlook Estates, just west of “the Y” at Oak Hill. Priced from the mid $700’s to more than $1 million, two homes are sold, but this is your chance to tour them all. See the latest design trends and architectural features from some of Austin’s finest builders.
Realtors get in free Nov. 1 & 8*
The Builders Dillon Custom Homes • Enertech Builders • Pillar Custom Homes PGM Design + Build • JKD Builder • Hennessee Custom Homes
The Community
October 27 ~ November 11 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. • Closed on Tuesdays at The Overlook Estates
Tickets
The Overlook Estates is a gated, custom home community just 20 minutes southwest of Austin. The development features acreage lots with hill country views close to shopping and great schools.
Purchase tickets at the gate. Cash only. $15 for adults 18 and over; $25 for couples; $12 for seniors 62+/children 3 to 17
VIP Preview Party Thursday, October 25th • 6-9 p.m. A limited number of tickets are available until Oct. 22 at www.AustinHomeBuilders.com
Bee Cave Hwy 71
Realtor Days
Thomas Springs Rd.
Lenape Trail
Free admission for Realtors on both designated days.
Oak Hill Hwy 290 W
Hwy 290 W
Chef’s Night • November 8th • 6-8 p.m. *Realtors must present their business card for free admission on designated days.
Directions to The Overlook Estates Drive west on Hwy 290 W to Circle Dr. Turn on to Lenape Trail from Circle Dr. and follow the signs.
www.ParadeofHomesAustin.com
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Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
Jay Tucker introduces Tom Berry as senior VP of operations at the Tenura Holdings sales meeting. Both are with Reliant Title.
Buy photo: RL_100212_H.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Austin Title President Brian Baize, Sandi Gillis, left, of Austin Title’s Westlake office and Leslie Brvenik, also of Austin Title, celebrate the grand opening of the company’s Cedar Park office.
Submitted Photo
Lisa Munoz of Realty Austin is a big gun on and off the construction site. She took the phrase, "all hands on deck" seriously at her company's Habitat for Humanity build.
Buy photo: RL_100412_B.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Candy Buzan
Max Leaman
Kim Nielsen
Amy Oehler
Janet Widmer
Branch Manager Sr. Loan Officer
Branch Manager Sr. Loan Officer
Sr. Loan Officer
Sr. Loan Officer
Sr. Loan Officer
Trudy Savage
Mary Kennedy
Missy Driskell
Sr. Loan Officer
Sr. Loan Officer
Sr. Loan Officer
GREAT RATES LOW FEES
Diane M. Clark Sr. Loan Officer
Eiric Smith Mark Hoffman Sr. Loan Officer
CLOSE ON TIME CALL (512) 238- 7888 Amanda Stewart
Misty Lynch
Jori Stern
Sherri Eckert
Marie Cyr
Loan Officer
Sr. Loan Officer
Sr. Loan Officer
Loan Officer
Loan Officer
810 HESTER’S CROSSING, STE 150 | ROUND ROCK, TEXAS 78681
Conventional, FHA, VA, USDA, HomePath & Jumbo just to name a few loan products! © 2012 PrimeLending, A PlainsCapital Company. Trade/service marks are the property of PlainsCapital Corporation, PlainsCapital Bank, or their respective affiliates and/or subsidiaries. Some products may not be available in all states. This is not a commitment to lend. Restrictions apply. All rights reserved. PrimeLending, a PlainsCapital Company (NMLS #: 13649) is a wholly-owned subsidiary of a state-chartered bank and is an exempt lender in TX. Texas Regulated Loan License-license #7293. PrimeLending, A PlainsCapital Company is an Equal Housing Opportunity Lender. NMLS #: Buzan 179412, Leaman 151263, Nielsen 180307, Oehler 225339, Smith 176530, Savage 180854, Kennedy 179666, Driskell 180066, Clark 268025, Hoffman 171464, Stewart 292478, Lynch 280093, Stern 177299, Eckert 357516, Widmer 232054.
Sr. Loan Officer
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WE’VE GOT BRAGGING RIGHTS. AFTER 10 YEARS, WE’VE EARNED THEM. 11 parks, 11 miles of trails in Falcon Pointe
Falcon Pointe has Pflugerville’s first dog park.
Teravista, Community of the Year 2004, 2007, 2011†
Teravista, ranked Best Public Golf Course †††
Falcon Pointe and Teravista are celebrating 10 years of success in Austin, and your clients can be part of the excitement. With over 75 quick move-in homes available, there’s never been a better time to be part of one of Austin’s best selling communities.†† Visit Teravista in Round Rock /
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Model Homes
Georgetown or Falcon Pointe in Pflugerville and discover how good it feels to be part of a winning tradition.
75+
Quick Move-In Homes
Why wait? See all Quick Move-ins.
TheBestOfTX.com EAR 10 Y
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New homes from the high $100,000s to over $600,000. Open 7 days. 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
MAX Award • ††Source MetroStudy Q2 2012, Top 25. • †††Source Austin Business Journal 2012 • Terrabrook Falcon Pointe, LP and NNP-Teravista, LP (“Fee Owner”) are the creators of the Falcon Pointe Community and Teravista Community (“Community”). Certain home builders unaffiliated with the Fee Owner or its related entities (collectively “Newland”) are building homes in the Community (“Builder(s)”). Newland is not co-developing, co-building or otherwise responsible for any of the obligations or representations of any of the Builders, and Newland shall have no obligations to any buyer regarding a home purchase from a Builder. Purchasers of homes from any of the Builders waive any claims against Newland arising out of their purchase transaction. The information provided in this print ad is subject to governmental review/approvals. Actual development may vary from development manager’s vision. No guarantee can be made that development will proceed as described. Prices, specifications, details and availability of Builder’s homes are subject to change without notice. © 2012 Falcon Pointe and Teravista. All Rights Reserved.
†
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Austin CRS Chapter
President ‘s Column By Risé Johns • 2012 President
Lucinda Bachman of AmeriPro Funding and Judy Hollen of 1% Realty try to find their seats in a packed house at the Tenura Holdings sales meeting.
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Why networking is important in real estate
etworking is the backbone of our business. Without networking, you are constantly searching for business. Networking is a facilitator that opens the doors to new business, buyers, sellers and investors to work with. The easiest way to start networking is to ask everyone you know “who do you know that needs to buy or sell?” Be sure to ask your clients at closing “who else can I give the same great service to? Who do you know that needs my help?” Of course it is imperative you gave those clients top-of-the-line service. Next, when you go to the TAR meetings, the NAR meetings, CRS’s Sell-a-Bration or your company’s yearly conventions, exchange business cards. When you exchange business cards make sure you do something so they remember you. Your goal is not to collect a stack of business cards; your goal is to receive referrals. It does no good to collect business cards, go home and put them in a drawer. And yes, we have all done that. Networking does not mean collecting other people’s business cards and stashing them. Networking takes effort on our part. When you return to the office after going to an event, develop an e-mail list for the people you recently
Buy photo: RL_100212_F.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Mike Luscier of Dominion Estate Network Realty and Nicole Scott of Coldwell Banker United Realty place their bids in the TREPAC silent auction at the WCAoR Pardner Up and Cowboy Cook Off event.
Buy photo: RL_100812_A.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
met. Next, e-mail them something, anything. You can send some aha’s about the event you just attended. You can send information about you, your awards, and your productivity. The key is to send something soon after the event. Consistency is important here when in the follow up phase. You cannot e-mail brokers and agents you have met at a convention once and expect them to remember you. You need to e-mail them every four to six weeks with something of interest. Fortunately, we live in the Austin area and receive all sorts of good press. Just send a short piece about what a great place we live in. You want people in your network to think of you when they know someone moving here or moving away. The other group we need to network with is our past clients. If you gave them great service (and we are assuming you did) these people are your advocates. People love to refer good people to their friends. You just need to remind them you are still in business on a regular basis. You need to be at the top of their mind when they hear about someone buying or selling. Real estate can be either a hard job or an easy one. Good, consistent networking definitely makes it easier. RL
Welcoming
our new loan officer
Find out how YOU can be part of our winning team and make 2013 your BEST year EVER!! Contact Team Leaders Melanie Kennemann and Diane Johnson at the Austin Southwest Market Center today... because who you are in business with MATTERS!
Scott Hoey
Mortgage Banker
512-524-2103 W • 512-350-9368 C
shoey@willowbendmortgage.com • NMLS # 320552
www.kwaustin.com 512.448.4111
SOUTHWEST Diane Johnson 448-4111
NORTHWEST Gene Frederick 346-3550
LAKE TRAVIS Mary Lynne Gibbs 263-9090
ROUND ROCK Avis Wukasch 255-5050
Professional Service. Tailored Loans. 13809 Research Blvd, #802 • Austin TX 78750
ITCchilicookoff100112.pdf Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™ 1
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Tim Dockery of WillowBend Mortgage gives Helen Thomas of RE/MAX Austin Skyline a quick tour of the new Capital Title Lakeway office at the company’s grand opening. WillowBend Mortgage sponsored the event.
Buy photo: RL_100112_F.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Ruby Johnson and Chris Rodriguez, both of Austin Real Pros, line up to meet the national NAHREP President Jerry Ascencio at the local NAHREP meeting at Cool River Café.
Buy photo: Bertha Godinez.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com Buy photo: RL_100712_C.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Bertha Godinez of Coldwell Banker United’s Georgetown office wins a Coach gift card at the recent Coldwell Banker Texas Rally in San Marcos.
SARITA VALLEY
New Model Home Plan... Now Open! SARITA VALLEY, newest community in the Leander, Cedar Park area. This long awaited community touts homes from the mid $200’s. Among the spectacular features Sarita Valley has to offer:
Community amenities:
• 50, 60, 70 ft. Lots • Future pool and playground • Green space • Creeks • Cul de sac homesites • Leander ISD Call Today,
512-260-7302 Mike Tvinnereim
The Colton
www.DreesHomes.com
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Celebrating five years of
In 2007, Sente Mortgage opened our doors in Austin. We have since grown into Houston, San Antonio, and Dallas/Fort Worth. When we opened, we were in the midst of the housing crisis and credit crunch. People thought we were crazy—but we believed we could make a smarter mortgage company.
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From the beginning we wanted to help people lead healthy financial lives. After doing thousands of mortgages and funding billions of dollars in loans, we are so excited about what we’ve accomplished with your help.
Thank you...
to the entire Austin real estate community for helping to make our dream of a different kind of mortgage company a reality. We look forward to many more years of partnership.
901 S MoPac, Bldg IV, Suite 12 5 | Austin, TX 78746 | 512.637.9900 NMLS ID #132111
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Rita Klages, Jennifer Berg and Kristi Richards, all of ZIP Realty, strike a pose at the masquerade party that AYREP hosted at the Umlauf Sculpture Garden to benefit Easter Seals.
Buy photo: RL_101112_R.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
NAHREP officers Genaro Rodriguez, Nicole Torres-Cooke, Donna Thomas, Mary Mealy, Jason Garza, Rodney Bustamante, Oliva Lerma and Sandy Urias pose with the group’s original banner created when it first formed. Cool River staff found the sign stored away while the monthly meeting was taking place. Buy photo: RL_100712_A.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
When you use the Tenura Welcome Center for your closings and other meetings, the coffee is free. Take that Starbucks!
Buy photo: RL_101012_E_1.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com Buy photo: RL_081212_B.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Marty Gibbs, husband of Mary Lynne Gibbs of Keller Williams Lake Travis, hopes for the right numbers as their daughter, Kristy Gibbs, throws the dice at the craps table at the company’s fundraising event.
NO TRICKS, JUST TREATS
Knock on our door this season! We offer top notch technology, administrative support, and more than 20 years of experience you can trust. Find out how our treats can help you build a better future.
For more information contact: David McMillan (NMLS #117439) or Tommy Nelms (NMLS #122291)
United Lending, a division of Network Funding LP #2297
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Every Ashton Woods home incorporates these energy-efficient innovations. All of the homes are Energy Star Platinum-rated and 10 percent more efficient than Energy Star 4.0. Ashton Woods recently opened the master planned community of Sweetwater, just 3.4 miles west of Hwy 620 on 71. The community features hill country views, Lake Travis schools, and amazing amenities, such as yoga rooms, hiking trails and butterfly gardens. Sweetwater is located less than five miles from the Hill Country Galleria. To see more, visit www.sweetwaterliving.com. The community of Richview is 2.5 miles south of the fork on 290 at Oak Hill. It’s cleverly located in a pocket of hill country only ten minutes from downtown Austin. This community is great for people who want to live and spend time near Austin proper, but have a large yard, big oak trees and a family lifestyle. Richview just opened this month, but already has close to 10 sales contracted. Versante Canyon is Ashton Woods’ own community. It’s a gated community of villa homes and townhomes in the Mediterranean style, with tile tops and stucco interiors, and a clubhouse with a fitness center and full kitchen. Enjoy views of the Balcones Canyonlands from the Laguna pool, outdoor fireplace, or your own back deck. In Buttercup Creek, the master-planned community of Westside Preserve is one of
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personalized to the buyer. Whether you’re a buyer or a REALTOR, shopping is easy. Ashtonwoodshomes.com features interactive floor plans, several types of calculators, a mobile site, and a smartphone app with a geolocator that alerts you when you’re near an Ashton Woods community. Scan the QR code below to learn more and explore. Ashton Woods Homes is re-introducing its 6 percent REALTOR commission. See www.ashtonwoods.com for details. RL
the last few opportunities to own a new home in the heart of Cedar Park. The community features two great pools and parks, Leander schools, hiking trails, homes that face the greenbelt, and even a few properties in the Twin Creeks golf course community. In addition to these featured Austin area communities, Ashton Woods also builds in four communities in the Killeen area. All of this MAX Award-winning builder’s high-end homes are beautifully finished and
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shton Woods Homes is at the forefront of technology for healthy living. Working from the four cornerstones of location, design, quality and service at the foundation of its business, Ashton Woods Homes has carved out a position as one of Austin’s most sought-after builders among homebuyers. This nationwide builder’s unique approach balances healthy-home features with energy efficiency by designing versatile, eco-friendly homes close to jobs, shopping and transportation corridors. With Environments for Living performance standards on its PowerHouse Green homes, Ashton Woods saves homeowners an average of 25-45 percent per year on energy bills. Homes feature more efficient water management faucets, dishwashers, toilets and more effective compact florescent lights, to help homeowners live healthier, safer and greener than they ever thought possible. All single family homes and townhomes are designed and built using a scientific procedure that includes: • Tight construction • Fresh air ventilation • Improved insulation systems • “Right-sized” HVAC equipment • Pressure balancing • Interior moisture management • Combustion safety
October 2012
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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 S t a c y H a l e
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Experts Speak Out
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Commentary By Tom Berry • Reliant Title
RE/MAX Capital City agents and partners show their support for the Children’s Miracle Network Miracle Jeans’ Day
Healthcare is still king in Central Texas
Submitted Photo
Stephanie Price and Vicky Harris, both of of Coldwell Banker United REALTORS, are poised to learn at the recent Coldwell Banker Texas Rally in San Marcos.
Submitted Photo
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hen it comes to the growth of healthcare facilities in and around Austin, I’ve had a front row seat over the past 10 years. My wife, Tanya, is a commercial architect focusing exclusively on medical facilities. Currently, our house is awash in construction drawings for the new bed tower addition at Seton’s Dell Children’s Hospital. While Tanya’s firm was not involved in the new Lakeway Hospital, we live there, and I drive by it every day. Conservative estimates place the job growth in Lakeway, as a direct result of the hospital, at 500 jobs. For reference, Lakeway has a total population of 11,830 according to the most current available census data. According to Austin Chamber of Commerce statistics, healthcare jobs are the second fastest growing job sector in Austin after hospitality and leisure. Since 2007, healthcare jobs have grown by 18 percent to 80,000 jobs in 2011. One quarter of those jobs are in hospitals, and the growth of hospital jobs leads to the growth of surrounding specialty clinics, support service vendors, technology companies, accounting
services, etc. So the job growth impact may be much greater that what is measured purely in “healthcare jobs.” Currently, a number of healthcare providers in Austin (including Seton) estimate that population growth in Austin will necessitate the addition of 2,000 primary care physicians in the Austin area over the next decade, just to keep up with current growth. Add to that nurses, administrative staff, etc., and you are looking at a truly large number of new jobs. We all know more jobs equals more people and transactions, the long term impact is more significant. As our population grows and ages, the existence of world class medical facilities becomes a draw that brings people here to live. While entertainment venues and events like ACL, South by Southwest and F1 are more glamorous when it comes to Austin’s image, and tech companies have made Austin a destination for Silicon Valley refugees, it is the more mundane community services like healthcare that may ultimately prove the bigger driver of real estate transactions. RL
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We are excited to announce our newest additions in our Austin Branch Buy photo: RL_100212_G.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
There’s nothing like an early morning meeting to get things rolling. Paula Bacon of Reliant Title and Julie Wocke of The W Group, a Private Label Realty company, grab a bite to eat while chatting before the Tenura Holdings sales meeting at its main office.
Nikki Bryant Mortgage Banker NMLSR# 221272 Direct: 512.413.1164 e-Fax: 866.907.4065 nikki@lakehillslending.com LakeHillsLending.com
John Segrest Mortgage Banker NMLSR# 746416 Direct: 361.815.5252 e-Fax: 866.907.4064 JSegrest@starkeymtg.com LendWithJohn.com Daniel Conway Mortgage Banker NMLSR# 260868 Direct: 512.626.8562 e-Fax: 866.907.7194 DConway@starkeymtg.com DanielsHomeLoans.com Buy photo: RL_100812_F.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Kelea Piper of Champions School of Real Estate, Tiesa Hollaway of North American Title and J. Rene Ward of Best Agents in Texas peruse the isles at the WCAoR Pardner Up and Cowboy Cook Off event at the WCAoR offices.
Texas American Title Company
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hether it’s the lake, the hill country, downtown, campus, historic or the fairway, we want to be a part of your choice. Texas American Title Company will take care of all your residential and commercial title needs.
Aurelius Sofia Mortgage Banker NMLSR# 316107 Direct: 512.577.2060 e-Fax: 866.907.8228 ASofia@starkeymtg.com MyAustinMortgageLender.com
At Starkey Mortgage (WR Starkey Mortgage, LLP NMLSR# 2146) we know the mortgage business... inside and out.Based on the keen insight of our founders, our company is strategically placed and well-positioned to succeed for our clients no matter what the current conditions of the mortgage market may be. In today’s market the name of the lender is irrelevant, but it’s the integrity of the people behind it that is essential. We pride ourselves in being a mid-sized company while continually maintaining our small company mentality.
A Solid, Proven, and Committed Lender! Cedar Park Office 715 Discovery Boulevard, Suite 205 Cedar Park, TX 78613 Office: 512-259-5950 Fax: 512-259-0540
WR Starkey Mortgage, LLP NMLSR# 2146 807 Las Cimas Pkwy., Suite 150, Austin, TX 78746
Round Rock Office 1001 South Mays Round Rock, TX 78664 Office: 512-255-1550 Fax: 512-255-2329
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Designed by WR Starkey Mortgage, LLP NMLSR# 2146. Any reproduction without the express written consent of WR Starkey Mortgage, LLP is strictly prohibited. This is not a guarantee of financing. All borrowers must meet certain underwriting guidelines and credit criteria. Rules and Regulations may apply.
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October 2012 Experts Speak Out
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Commentary By Melissa Cason • Gracy Title
Desire for home ownership still strong, despite claims of a “rental culture”
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he natural reserve of consumers in today’s marketplace has seen the emergence of what some are calling a “rental culture”. After all, in the wake of the financial meltdown we’ve experienced over the last few years, there’s a certain safety in avoiding financial commitment. With the help of a clever wave of online businesses and exchanges, you can find anything from cars to tools and of course homes for rent with a click of a button. People are opting for house swaps over hotels, Zipcars over the car payment, Netflix over buying DVDs. And in increasing numbers, many are choosing to rent their homes vs. buying. Although technology and the state of the market has incentivized many to enjoy a certain standard of living by consuming intelligently and avoiding financial encumbrance, are we really okay with renting the American Dream? Most sources say that while delaying ownership might be a popular strategy, most Americans still want to own a home versus renting indefinitely. For most people, it takes a lot of borrowing
to own a home. A typical consumer spends nearly 32 percent of his/her budget on housing, the single largest source of consumption in our country. That’s a big chunk of the budget when prices for living necessities have risen, gas prices are again on the rise, and lending requirements have tightened almost ridiculously, with the need for larger down payments and stronger credit. So it makes sense that, according to a recent survey by Rent.com, 61 percent of renters nationwide have delayed home ownership because of financial reasons. Here are some of the reasons the renters surveyed stated for waiting: • 47 percent are waiting to save a down payment • 11 percent are waiting for the real estate market to stabilize • 22 percent are waiting for their credit to improve to qualify for a home loan • 20 percent are waiting to feel more secure about their employment situation The Rent.com survey found that the comfort level of women is higher than that
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of men: 18 percent of men who are delaying home ownership are waiting for the market to stabilize, compared to just 5 percent of women. Nine percent of survey respondents said their interest in buying a home has waned in the last five years, and another eight percent said they’ve lost interest altogether. Have people really given up hope on the prospect of owning a home? Have goals and lifestyles changed and are we now better suited to a rentership society? Renting offers obvious advantages for busy, on-the-go people who don’t have time to devote to home maintenance and don’t want to tie up their cash and credit on a home purchase. But is delaying home ownership a choice today’s generations make because they’d rather rent, or do they still ultimately desire homeownership? A study by Fannie Mae featured in Realtor magazine contends that the desire for home ownership has not swayed significantly, despite the financial crisis. According to the newly released Fannie Mae national housing survey, in which over 12,000 people were interviewed last year, the financial crisis hasn’t been a big factor in Americans’ decisions to rent or buy. This study found that 85 percent of Americans still prefer home ownership over renting. That’s because, the authors of the study state, for most Americans the decision to buy a home is a highly complex one, with emotions and the nonfinancial benefits people derive from owning a home overriding the
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
negative experiences many homebuyers have had. Thirty-three percent of current renters surveyed said demographics such as employment, age, income and marital status are the more important determinants on the decision to keep renting or to buy. The majority (42 percent) cited attitudes about housing had the greatest effect on their decision—feelings about whether renting or buying made more sense, market timing, flexibility, and negative experiences. Only a quarter of the participants named financial attitudes as a leading factor in their decision. It seems that the prospect of owning a home still has a strong emotional pull for most Americans (85 percent still prefer home ownership over renting, according to the Fannie Mae study). Whether or not renters should be discouraged by the status of the housing market and exposure to mortgage default, home value depreciation or underwater status, it isn’t a reliable predictor of whether they’ll choose to rent or own for their next move. The August 2012 REAL Trends housing market report showed that new and existing unit sales were up 11.7 percent from last year, and the average price of homes sold continues to rise. How is this possible in a so-called rental culture? Look to the tight rental market with soaring rents—and Austin is a prime example here—and many renters may be rethinking their strategy in favor for a more long-term, rewarding approach. RL
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Cindy Niels, left, and Sharon Hillhouse, right, both of Hillhouse Realty, Inc., and Jennifer Kahler of Reliant Title take a moment to smile for our camera after having what appeared to be a very serious conversation on a closing. We found the trio at Tenura Holdings sales meeting. Buy photo: RL_100212_J.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
The Williamson County Hispanic Real Estate Professionals get together for happy hour at Krave Wine Bar.
Buy photo: RL_100412_E.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Barbara and Sam Wigginton, both of Central Texas Realty Experts, get a little staging advice from Kathy Reddick at the WCAoR Pardner Up and Cowboy Cook Off event. Buy photo: RL_101012_L_1.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
The silent auction table always draws interest, as it did this time from Tracy McCalla and Laurie Nunnallee, both of Capital Title, at the Keller Williams Lake Travis casino night. Capital Title was one of the event sponsors.
Buy photo: RL_100812_B.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
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Sonya Valdez of Keller Williams Realty gets updated information from a vendor at WCAoR’s Pardner Up and Cowboy Cookoff at the WCAoR office.
Buy photo: RL_100812_E.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Megan Companion and Laurel Brown, both of Keller Williams Realty, take a tour of the new Austin Title Cedar Park office at the company’s grand opening.
Submitted Photo
Realty Austin agents Kevin McCarthy and Shelly Hall show off their skills at the Habitat for Humanity build that the whole Realty Austin crew participated in.
Buy photo: RL_100412_C.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
No Tricks, Just Treats, When You Close with NAT. With the Title Industry’s premier knowledge, experienced professionals, and technological advances on your side, you benefit from seamless closings. There’s nothing to be scared of or frightened by. Treat yourself to scare-proof closings with NAT.
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©2012 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. | TX12-1203 R 9-26-12
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Joe Thweatt of Ameripro Funding and Tom Sunstrom of Outlaw Real Estate Group, a Private Label Realty company, get an update on Tenura Holdings’ new ventures at its sales meeting.
Buy photo: RL_100212_C.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Capital Title’s CEO Bill Shaddock celebrates the opening of another Austin area office with Capital Title Austin President Monica Middleton, left, and Jackie Yancey, the new Lakeway office branch manager.
Buy photo: RL_100312_A.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Sarah McAloon of Ashton Woods Homes talks with Mary Boatright of RE/MAX 1 about staging techniques she can use to make her listings sell more quickly. Ashton Woods Homes hosted a class on staging for REALTORS at its model home in Paloma Lake.
Buy photo: RL_100112_J.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
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Vicki Garritano of Austin Title, Shelley Grissom, Chip Bubela of Bubela and Associates, Michael and Shelly Kelly, both of RE/MAX One and Erin Precopia of Austin Title are glad to see the Austin Title’s new office in Cedar Park. They toured the new digs during the company’s grand opening. Buy photo: RL_100412_D.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Theresa Seibold and Frank Perdichizzi, both of Private Label Realty, team up to move forward in sales—obviously an exciting venture judging by the smiles on their faces.
Buy photo: RL_100212_I.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
It’s not gambling if it’s for a good cause, right? Gathering around the poker table at Keller Williams Realty Lake Travis were Rose Land, Mary Lyons and Jeanne Anne Klein, all of Keller Williams, Sherri Pfenninger of Land Art and Melinda Carroll of Independence Title.
Buy photo: RL_100812_H.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com Buy photo: RL_101012_H_1.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Susan Patterson of Independence Title and David Pavliska of RE/MAX Round Rock fire up the grill (yes, bacon goes with everything) at the WCAoR Pardner Up and Cowboy Cook Off at WCAoR’s offices.
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October 2012
VOTE FOR A LARGER PIECE OF THE PIE. Vote YES on PROP 3! Citizens Districting 10-1
For 40 years, 4 zip codes have elected more than 50% of our council and 15 of the last 17 mayors. That means that less than 10% of the population has had 50% of the representation and decides how to spend the other 90% of tax payers dollars.
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Real Estate News & Notes Keller Williams Realty sponsoring food drive Nov. 3, benefitting Capital Area Food Bank The Keller Williams Realty offices, including the Southwest, Northwest, and Cedar Park market centers, believe in giving back to the Austin community. In that spirit, Keller Williams Realty will be holding their 19th Annual Food Drive on Nov. 3 at the Riverbend Church to benefit Capital Area Food Bank. “Keller Williams Realty agents and staff have collected and donated over 300,000 pounds of food to CAFB over the past 18 years. With our 19th Annual Food Drive, our agents have engaged the local community at the highest level and we intend to collect more food than we have in the past. We believe in supporting the community that we live and work in and look forward to this every year,”
says Southwest Market Center Team Leader, Diane Johnson. In its 31st year of service, the Capital Area Food Bank of Texas (CAFB) provides food and grocery products to more than 300 partner agencies in 21 Central Texas counties. In fiscal year 2010-11, CAFB provided more than 24 million pounds of food. The CAFB service area covers 19,064 square miles in Central Texas. The mission of the Capital Area Food Bank is to nourish hungry people and lead the community in ending hunger. If you would like to contribute to this worthwhile campaign, please contact Dena Lacey of the Southwest Market Center at 512330-1069. RL
Newland Communities, Ryland join to build HomeAid Family Cottage at Texas Baptist Children’s Home Most people wouldn’t think to call a ninebedroom, 7,000-square-foot home a “cottage,” unless it’s the new HomeAid Family Cottage to be built at the Texas Baptist Children’s Home (TBCH) in Round Rock. Sponsored by Newland Communities and Ryland Homes, the HomeAid Family Cottage is the first Texas project of HomeAid on Wheels (HOW), a new program designed to expand HomeAid’s capacity to deliver dignified housing for homeless families and individuals in regions such as Austin that do not have HomeAid chapters. As the newest addition to the TBCH Family Care Program, the HomeAid Family Cottage will provide a home-like environment that can host up to seven single mothers and their children, with stays ranging from three months to two years per family. The program provides homes for single mothers so they can stay together with their children while the moms work to complete their education or improve their job skills. The HomeAid Family Cottage will be the first new residential facility built at TBCH in 10 years, and will help to ease a waiting list for the Family Care program, which currently includes eight cottages and is constantly full. Construction is planned to begin this fall,
Dawson Clark, Children At Heart Foundation; Todd Roberson, Children At Heart Ministries; Don Forrester, Texas Baptist Children’s Home; Dino Longi, Ryland Homes; Pam Herman, HomeAid on Wheels; Bill Meyer, Newland Communities; Keith Dyer, Texas Baptist Children’s Home
with the first families moving in during the Spring of 2013. Newland Communities, developer of Teravista in Round Rock and Falcon Pointe in Pflugerville, is a national founding sponsor of HomeAid on Wheels. For the HomeAid Family Cottage at TBCH, Newland Communities is donating seed money raised at charitable events held at Teravista and Falcon Pointe. Newland also recruited Ryland Homes, which builds in both communities, to be the pro-bono builder captain for the HomeAid Family Cottage. Together they will work with TBCH and HOW to fund the project. RL
Former KVUE Anchor Melissa Gale sets eyes on real estate industry with new company that helps tell company stories After 20 years in broadcasting, former KVUE-TV Morning Anchor Melissa Gale is celebrating the launch of her new company “More Eyes Media”, a video production company specializing in video/search engine optimization, and website mobility. Gale says, “I certainly didn’t expect to start my own business, but the need was there and the conditions were right for a move to new media. During my time as a broadcaster I saw thousands of business owners who had great stories, but never got their chance to be on camera and TV advertising can be expensive. I’m a storyteller by trade, so I wanted to create a company that tells the stories of these companies and gets them the exposure they deserve. Gale says, “ I learned in Journalism school
many years ago, that people remember what they “feel” for a lot longer than what they “know”. Video creates an emotional connection with people that words cannot. In fact, visitors will spend an average of two minutes longer on a website with video on the homepage. More Eyes Media created custom videos for FIAT of Austin, a Westlake dermatologist, and a local painting company. The company now has its eyes on the real estate industry and has started working with a local custom home builder. www.moreeyesmedia.com RL
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Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
Village Builders’ “NextGen” series to debut at Teravista With its research showing a rising trend of multiple generations living together under one roof, national home builder Lennar has created a new series of innovative floor plans that it calls “NextGen.” Billed as “The Home Within a Home,” the NextGen concept is making its Austin debut at the Teravista master-planned community in Round Rock. A NextGen display home by Lennar’s Village Builders division is now under construction in the Teravista Model Home Village, and the NextGen series is being offered for sale in Teravista’s new Miraval neighborhood. “It’s like getting two homes in one,” says Fred Wyborski, division president, with Lennar. “Extended family living together has made a major resurgence in America, and Lennar is excited to be the first home builder to bring a product designed especially for multigenerational living to the Austin area.” Wyborski said that the NextGen concept allows extended family members to live all together in one home—except with separate living spaces. NextGen is offered as an option for select Village Builders plans, such as the Concordia display home now under construction. Like all NextGen plans, the Concordia’s private suite includes a separate exterior entrance, along with a living area, bedroom, full bathroom and kitchenette. Overall, the Concordia’s NextGen suite includes 3,607 square feet and prices start
in the $340’s. Some NextGen plans also include separate garages and private porch areas. Nationally, Lennar says that the economy contributed to its decision to roll out the NextGen product in markets across the U.S. The opportunity to share a mortgage makes a lot of economic sense for many families. But in Austin, with its relatively robust economy and demographically diverse population, the NextGen product is being marketed as more of a lifestyle choice for multigenerational households. “At Newland, we are constantly striving to offer homebuyers the newest products that are best for their lifestyles and budgets,” says Vaike O'Grady. “NextGen is perfect for Teravista, because we have always had amenities, resident groups and activities that embrace every member of the family, from young kids to grandparents.” O’Grady adds that Teravista’s location along University Boulevard—across from a growing conglomeration of healthcare and higher education institutions—also makes it a logical choice for the NextGen debut. “As a society, we are seeing more kids living with parents while they are earning their degrees. There is also an increasing number of aging parents living with or near their children, and healthcare is important to them. For these and other reasons, Teravista and Village Builder’s NextGen are a perfect fit.” RL
McGuyer Homebuilders, Inc. awarded green certification for another home in Sweetwater community McGuyer Homebuilders, Inc. (MHI: dba Wilshire Homes and Coventry Homes) has been awarded yet another Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) (level of certification) at 5708 Tonkawa Draw Road in Sweetwater. This is MHI’s third community award for achievement in green home construction and design. LEED for Homes, developed by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), is a national voluntary certification system that provides guidance and verification that homes are designed and built to be energy- and resourceefficient and healthy for occupants.
“MHI is the first volume home builder to be awarded this LEED certification in the Austin area. Our homes in Sweetwater serve as a model for greener living for the entire community,” states Dennis Werner, area sales manager for MHI who accepted this award at the ceremony. LEED homes provide the homeowner with a guaranteed monthly utility bill not to exceed a certain amount. This guarantee is provided through the Efficiency Promise Program by Tex Energy Solutions. MHI has presold three homes in Sweetwater of which each one will be LEED certified. RL
2013 Housing Forecast to deliver key insight for Austin area Real estate professionals across Central Texas are marking their calendars for Tuesday, Jan. 8, 2013 as they prepare for the 2013 Housing Forecast, co-hosted by the Austin Board of REALTORS (ABoR) and the Home Builders Association (HBA) of Greater Austin. Don’t miss the opportunity to hear experts discuss the local, state and national housing markets, helping you strategically plan for the coming year. The program will be held at the Renaissance Austin Hotel. Registration will begin at 7:30 a.m., followed by breakfast at 8 a.m. The program will run from 8:30 to 11 a.m. Attendees of the 2013 Housing Forecast will hear about the latest changes in the economic and housing markets and gain insight
about the expected trends for the upcoming year. Speakers will include the director of the Austin market for Metrostudy Eldon Rude, who will moderate the event and deliver the Austin housing market forecast. Stay tuned to the event website at www.abor.com/forecast for additional details. Tickets may be purchased for $75 on the 2013 Housing Forecast website. Tables seating 10 will be available for $650. Tickets have sold out for the Housing Forecast event the past three years, so be sure to purchase your ticket early. For more information about the event or available promotional partnerships, contact Shirley Williams at swilliams@abor.com or 454-7636, ext. 1603. RL
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Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
RL austin
TM
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995
www.myRealtyLine.com
October 2012
39
Fall in love with
5%
*commission on September Closings
The Designer Label of Luxury Homebuilding ADDRESS
PLAN
SQ. FT.
BD/BA/STORIES
COMMISSION
PRICE
1. BRADSHAW CROSSING • ERIC: 512-407-0404, OR BORIS: 512-626-8473 10113 Deer Chase Drive
Sante Fe
2,206
4/2.5/2
NOW!
5%
$
10116 Copper Ridge Cove
Laurel
1,565
3/2/1
NOW!
5%
$
2. COLORADO CROSSING • CLYDE: 512-496-4163
185,840 179,790
7213 Outfitter Drive
Saguaro
1,789
4/2.5/2
NOW!
5%
$
7208 Outfitter Drive
Carlsbad
1,230
3/2/1
SOLD
SOLD
$
164,990
140,090
3. FALCON POINTE • BRUCE: 512-657-3326• CHRISTINA: 512-629-7580 1917 Mendering Meadows
Alabaster
2,731
4/3/2
SOLD
SOLD
$
2901 Dusty Chisolm Trail
Rio Grande
2,998
4/2.5/2
NOW!
6%
$
233,011
2908 Dusty Chisolm Trail
San Jacinto 2,850
4/3.5/2
NOW!
6%
$
2905 Dusty Chisolm Trail
Blanco
294,052 276,139
2,102
3/2/1
NOW!
6%
$
1913 Meandering Meadows Obsidian
2,384
4/2.5/2
SOLD
SOLD
$
307 Sandstone Trail
Onyx
1,797
3/2/1
SOLD
SOLD
$
319 Sandstone Trail
Obsidian
2,384
4/2.5/2
NOW!
5%
$
287 Travertine Trail
Terrazzo
2,521
4/3.5/2
NOW!
5%
$
294 Travertine Trail
Alabster
2,731
4/3/2
NOW!
5%
$
4. STONEFIELD • SALLY: 512-401-7717
5. SUMMERLYN • DENISE: 512-777-9565
246326
207,308
ADDRESS
PLAN
SQ. FT.
BD/BA/STORIES AVAILABLE COMMISSION PRICE
1. TERAVISTA • Steve: 512-970-3359 4219 Pebblestone Trail
New Haven 3,946
4318 Woodledge Place
Oakmont
1518 Hidden Spings Path
465,935
5/4.5/2
NOW!
5%
$
3,501
5/4/2
NOW!
5%
$
Savoy
2,824
4/3.5/1.5
October
5%
$
4303 Woodledge Place
Bayberry
3,487
5/3.5/2
October
5%
$
1519 Hidden Springs Path
Castille
3,246
4/3.5/2
October
5%
$
1525 Hidden Springs Path
Savoy
2,834
4/3.5/2
October
5%
$
4313 Greatview Drive
Bellview
4,358
4/3.5/2
November
5%
$
4317 Greatview Drive
Hartford
3,427
4/4.5/2
November
5%
$
446,987 377,959
455,508 380,849
350,208 566,385 457,834
195,741
223,039 214,340 217,522
141 Housefinch Loop
Terrazzo
2,521
4/3.5/2
SOLD
SOLD
$
167,340
157 Housefinch Loop
Sante Fe
2,206
4/2.5/2
NOW!
5%
$
109 Chickadee Lane
Lavendar
1,753
4/2.5/2
SOLD
SOLD
$
121 Chickadee Lane
Iris
1,899
4/2.5/2
SOLD
SOLD
$
177,880
172,081 179,276
6. TERAVISTA • WILL: 512-913-1863 2017 Autumn Run Lane
Travertine
1,983
4/2/1
SOLD
SOLD
$
2003 Autumn Run Lane
Alabaster
2,731
4/3/2
NOW!
5%
$
244,399
4616 Chestnut Meadows Bend Brazos
2,324
4/2/1
NOW!
5%
$
4625 Chestnut Meadows Bend Blanco
2,101
3/2/91
NOW!
5%
$
264,428 271,045 247,599
7. VISTAS OF STONEY RIDGE • CLYDE: 512-496-4163 6809 Plains Crest Drive
Carlsbad
1,230
3/2/1
NOW!
5%
$
121,390
6805 Plains Crest Drive
Sante Fe
2,206
4/2.5/2
SOLD
SOLD
$
6739 Plains Crest Drive
Sante Fe
2,206
4/2.5/2
SOLD
SOLD
$
6735 Plains Crest Drive
Sedona
2,402
4/2.5/2
SOLD
SOLD
$
143,990 143,990 149,240
LENNAR.COM/AustinRealtors
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 10/1/12, 5% commission will be paid on select inventory homes that sell between 10/1/12 and 11/30/12.**6% ommission only available in Falcon Pointe. Ad must be presented at time of contract. Homes must close and fund by 11/30/12. 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 © 2012 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. 10/12
2. RIM ROCK • KYLE: 512-627-0900 1122 Flint Rock Loop
Langford
3,154
4/3.5/1
SOLD
SOLD
$
433,643
268 Southern Sunset Cove
Castille
3,246
4/3.5/2
SOLD
SOLD
$
262 Southern Sunset Cove
Concordia
3,548
5/4/2
NOW!
5%
$
1158 Flint Rock Loop
Oakmont
3,501
5/4/2
NOW!
5%
$
1140 Flint Rock Loop
Concordia
3,548
5/4/2
SOLD
SOLD
$
1098 Flint Rock Loop
Castille
3,246
4/3.5/2
SOLD
SOLD
$
1072 Flint Rock Loop
Kinsley
2,800
4/3/1
SOLD
SOLD
$
431,324 451,765 472,177
433,007
403,045 415,132
3. ROUGH HOLLOW • WILL: 512-809-8026 204 Tavish Trail
Belmeade
2,407
4/2/1/3 Car
DEC ʻ12
5%
$
404,255
101 Waverley Spire Court
Concordia
3,766
4/2/1/3 Car
SOLD
SOLD
$
205 Wester Ross Lane
Savoy
2,834
4/3.5/1.5/3 Car
NOV ʻ12
5%
205 Tavish Trail
Castille
3,246
4/3.5/2/3 Car
NOV ʻ12
5%
465,607 412,715
$
439,349
$
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 10/1/12, 5% commission will be paid on select inventory homes that sell between 10/1/12-11/30/12. Ad must be presented at time of contract. Homes must close and fund by 11/30/12. *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 © 2012 Lennar Corporation. Village Builders and the Village Builders logos are registered service marks or service marks of Lennar Corporation and/or its subsidiaries. 10/12
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
RL austin
TM
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995
www.myRealtyLine.com
October 2012
40
Realty Austin co-owner Jonathan Boatwright presents a check to Stephanie Sobotik and Kelly Weiss, both of the Austin Chapter of Habitat for Humanity.
Submitted Photo
Ron Urias of Farmers Insurance obviously bleeds orange— at least that’s the impression we got, but we could be wrong.
Buy photo: RL_100812_L.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com Buy photo: RL_100712_B.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Will Hayes and Kandis Henkes, both of Lennar Homes, show off their tasty cheeseburgers at the WCAoR Pardner Up and Cowboy Cookoff at the WCAoR offices.