Realty Line September 2012 Issue by RealtyLine

in this issue…

Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995™

• Realty Austin Annual Bowling Tournament • WCAoR Tech Tune-Up • Champions School of Real Estate Career Day • and much, much more!

Associates in Progress

for REALTORS

page 25

page 17

Grand Rewards

SEPTEMBER 2012 • VOLUME 17 • ISSUE 5

Getting ready for the 2013 legislative session by Stacy Hale

Visit us online 24/7 at www.myRealtyLine.com

P. O. Box 81366, Austin, Texas 78708

austin

Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995

Printed on recycled paper.

Presorted Standard U.S. Postage PAID Austin, Texas Paid Permit #715

lthough the 82nd Texas Legislative Session officially begins on Jan. 8 of 2013, political action committees and government affairs offices in our industry’s associations are gearing up. The general election will be in November, and there are plenty of issues on the table that affect REALTORS, builders, brokers, and other industry professionals. It’s up to organizations such as ABoR, WCAoR, TREPAC, HBA of Greater Austin, and on the state level, Texas Association of Builders and Texas Association of REALTORS, to keep the path

to homeownership clear from unnecessary legislation and overregulation. Realty Line spoke with the leaders of some of these organizations to get the scoop on the important issues and policies they expect will be discussed in the upcoming session, as well as why your support is needed.

Infrastructure “I think you’ll see TAR step out on some infrastructure issues,” says Emily Chenevert, director of government affairs and community relations with the Austin Board of REALTORS. “Specifically finding sources of revenue for the statewide water plan.” In the past, ABoR has focused mostly on typical private property rights and REALTORrelated issues, but water in the state of Texas is

such a growing concern that REALTORS and builders have to take part in the conversation. The state has not yet funded the water plan, and in light of the drought, it is of serious concern as our area continues to grow and builders and developers look for new sources of water to supply the homes. The Texas Association of Builders is also heavily involved, working with business and cities to make headway toward making the water plan a reality. Road infrastructure is likely to be an issue up for discussion. As the Texas Department

of Transportation runs out of funds, after next year, it may be unable to properly maintain existing roads, much less build new ones. There are on average over a 1,000 people per day moving to Texas. In order to build homes to house them, transport needed materials, and get people to work, road infrastructure should be an obvious concern.

Front Page: Continued on page 26

Upcoming Events Thursday, September 20 WCAoR Pardner Up Event WCAoR Office - 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Tuesday, October 2 HBA Lakeway Chapter Fore - 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Tuesday, October 16 HBA Georgetown Chapter Bob's Catfish 'N More - 12 to 1 p.m.

NARI General Membership Meeting Dave & Busters - 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

WCR Bras for a Cause Maggiano's Little Italy - 6 to 10 p.m.

HBA Golf Extravaganza Forest Creek Golf Club - 12 to 6 p.m.

Wednesday, October 5 AMBA Monthly Luncheon Austin Country Club - 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Wednesday, October 17 AMBA Fall Golf Tournament Great Hills Country Club - 10 a.m.

CCIM Skeet Shoot and Horseshoe Tournament Four-O Ranch - 1 to 7 p.m. Thursday, September 27 imortgage Open House imortgage Office - 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, September 28 WCAoR Farm & Ranch Meeting WCAoR Office - 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. More at www.myRealtyLine.com

Tuesday, October 9 ABoR Realty Round Up Austin Convention Center 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday, October 10 HBA Elected Officials Appreciation Night & BBQ - HBA Office- 6 to 9 p.m. Thursday, October 11 WCR Monthly Meeting Cool River Café - 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

CRS Bi-Monthly Meeting Westwood Country Club - 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. NAHREP Monthly Luncheon Cool River Café - 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday, October 25 HBA Parade of Homes VIP Preview Party The Overlook Estates - 6 to 8 p.m. Saturday, October 27 HBA Parade of Homes Kicks Off The Overlook Estates - 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. NARI Tour of Remodeled Homes Various Locations - 12 to 6 p.m.

September 2012

Talk

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RL austin

Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995

Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™

Tiger Pride!

Dripping Springs High School Recognized Among the Nation's Best!

New model homes and new neighborhoods NOW OPEN! Buffington Homes • David Weekley Homes • Highland Homes • Sitterle Homes • Treaty Oak Homes • Wilshire Homes 151 TRINITY HILLS DRIVE • AUSTIN, TX 78737 • 512.301.5000 • BELTERRATEXAS.COM

Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™

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Austin Board of REALTORS®

Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995

Chairman’s Column By Leonard Guerrero • 2012 Chairman

Vote is the word

he REALTOR Party experienced great success this past primary election cycle with 80 association-supported candidates winning their elections. With the November election just around the corner, it is still critical to get out the REALTOR vote. The Capitol affects what happens in Austin, just as our local elections impact the decision-making in Washington. Educate yourself, your REALTOR colleagues and your friends to ensure the REALTOR voice is heard. Taking a small step to learn more today will mean greater benefits in the future. For more information on the REALTOR Party, I encourage you to visit www.realtoractioncenter.com. If you are a broker, I urge you to join the Broker Involvement Program, which is a quick and easy way to alert your agents about the critical legislative issues affecting our industry. The program allows your agents to get a personalized call-for-action message from you. Because agents are very likely to open a message from their broker, this is a great way to spread important messages and ensure the REALTOR Party

is well-represented. Sign up is free at www.realtoractioncenter.com/realtors/brokers. When you alert your agents to issues, they listen and take action. To stay in-the-know, you can also follow TREPAC on Twitter at TexasTREPAC.

www.myRealtyLine.com

September 2012

A new year for ABoR means a good time for REALTORS

Tickets available for 2013 housingforecast event

Each year, the Austin Board of REALTORS celebrates the dedication of the past year’s board of directors, welcomes the new leaders and honors award-winning REALTORS at the Installation Awards and Gala. The 2012 Installation, Dancing with the Stars of Real Estate, will start 2013 off on the right foot. Themed "Educate, Advocate, Participate," the gala will take place from 6 to 11 p.m. on Dec. 7. We will celebrate a great year’s end and an even better one to come with dancing, awards, door prizes and music. Partnerships are available until Oct. 31 and tickets are available at www.abor.com/installation. For more information, contact Shirley Williams at 545-7636, ext. 1603.

Join ABoR and the Home Builders Association (HBA) of Greater Austin as we get a jump start on the coming year. The annual Housing Forecast is set for 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. with registration beginning at 7:30 a.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 8, 2013. The event will feature real estate industry analysts as they review the trends from 2012 and set expectations for the year ahead. With an indepth analysis of the local and national economies, no real estate professional will want to miss this event. Prepare for the year ahead by gaining insight into market trends that will affect your industry. Tickets have sold out for this event in the last two years, so purchase your ticket early at www.abor.com/housing to secure your seat. RL

September Educational Courses

Realty Round Up is free and wild (West, that is)

Sept. 18: 15 Hour MCE Renewal Package-Information for Broker

The largest real estate trade show in Central Texas is happening Oct. 9 at the Austin Convention Center. The western-themed Realty Round Up will be a must-attend event. This year, you don’t have any excuses to miss it because the entire event is free! Save time at check-in by registering for the event online ahead of time at www. abor.com/roundup. Prepare to enjoy two hours of free MCE credit, keynote speaker Daymond John of ABC’s Shark Tank and a grand prize drawing. Prizes include iPads, MLS subscriptions and an ABoR Academy card. The event begins at 8:30 a.m. and ends at 4 p.m. Join ABoR and Austin Young Real Estate Professionals (AYREP) afterwards for the after party at Lustre Pearl and Bar 96 on nearby Rainey Street.

Sept. 19: Broker Responsibility MCE Course

Services (9/18-9/19) Sept. 19: Hot Topics - Brokerage Sept. 20: Renovation Lending-The FHA 203K Program Sept. 20: 8 Touches - Your Image Matters Sept. 20: MLS Advanced Features & CMA Sept. 25: Seize the Power of Your MLS Subscription Sept. 26: Green MLS: The Key to Unlocking the Green Home Market Sept. 27: Just Facebook Sept. 27: Technology 103: Putting Technology to Work for You

More at www.ABoR.com

A commitment to excellence

is what First American is all about.

With excellence in mind,

First American Title is pleased to announce the addition of Monique Modica as

Sales Manager of it’s Austin Division.

When experience and value matter, First American is all you need to know.

First American Title Insurance Company makes no express or implied warranty respecting the information presented and assumes no responsibility for errors or omissions. First American, the eagle logo, First American Title, and firstam.com are registered trademarks or trademarks of First American Financial Corporation and/or its affiliates.

September 2012

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austin

Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™

Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995

Members of NAHREP feel privileged to have been able to walk directly on the F1 track during their tour. Turn one is a whopping 133 feet above the rest of the course.

Buy photo: RL_090212_M.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com

Dephanie Cates, center, of Horizon Realty attends the Platinum Top 50 REALTORS luncheon—where she meets Amber Emerson-Thomas, left, of Platinum Top 50 REALTORS and Shannon Smith, right, of Ameripro Funding—to find out more about how to become a Platinum Top 50 REALTOR. Buy photo: RL_090412_A.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com

Buy photo: RL_090512_G.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com

Jenna Gilbert of Realty Austin is serious about getting a strike at the company’s third Annual Agent Bowling Tournament at Highball.

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Buy photo: RL_091012_E.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com

Great

Milestone Community Builders enjoys a big turnout to its MCE class at its Paradiso community. Glenn King of RE/ MAX, Mark Griffiths of Best Agents in Texas, Loree Neiman of Neiman Real Estate and Mark Hairston, right, thank Charlie Spriggs and Belinda Araguz, third and second from right, both of Milestone Community Builders, for hosting the class.

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Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™

RL austin

Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995

www.myRealtyLine.com

September 2012

The power of solar living? At your fingertips!

A 1.4kW solar package is included on all homes at The Enclave at Twin Creeks. Call today and learn how you can save on your utility bills.

Solar saves. Discover the energy-efficient benefits at The Enclave at Twin Creeks in Austin • New homes from the $220s • 2,004–3,728 sq. ft., 3–6 bedrooms, 2–4 baths • minutes to hiking, biking and jogging at Lady Bird Lake and Barton Creek Greenbelt Take I-35 to South Austin and exit Slaughter Ln. heading west. Turn left on S. 1st St. and turn right on Wye Oak St. (512) 292-3652

Broker Cooperation Welcome. ©2012 KB Home (KBH). A 1.4kW solar power system is included as a standard component of a new KB home at The Enclave at Twin Creeks. Energy bill savings are based on estimated monthly costs for electricity and gas for a home as designed (not as built) with the corresponding solar power system compared to estimated monthly costs for electricity and gas without the system. KBH makes no guarantee of energy production by any solar power system installed with a home or of energy costs or savings, if any, experienced by any homeowner. Energy costs and savings, if any, will vary by floor plan, home size, occupancy, daily activities, appliance usage, thermostat settings, climate conditions and orientation of the home and the solar power system size and operating conditions, among other factors. KBH reserves the right to modify, discontinue or replace any solar options at any time without prior notice. Other restrictions and limitations may apply. Solar power systems are supplied by SunPower Corporation®. KBH and SunPower Corporation are independent companies. SunPower and the SunPower logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of SunPower Corporation. Plans, pricing, financing, terms, availability and specifications subject to change/prior sale without notice and may vary by neighborhood, lot location and home series. Buyer responsible for all taxes, insurance and other fees. Sq. footage is approximate. 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-103553

www.myRealtyLine.com

September 2012

RL austin

Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™

Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995

Linda Ramon and Benjamin Love, both of Best Agents in Texas, try to lure new agents with a giant margarita—wait, no, that’s punch. Oh well, it looks good anyway! The two talk with people looking for information on real estate brokerages at the Champions School of Real Estate Career Day.

Buy photo: RL_090312_B.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com

You know you’re in the age of the Jetsons when your course instructor is talking to you from a flat screen on the wall. These REALTORS attend the “I have a lead, now what” class taught via Skype at the WCAoR annual Tech Tune-Up education event.

Buy photo: RL_090112_A.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com

Buy photo: RL_090612_H.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com

Texas American Title Company

Hearing the positive forecast of Austin’s housing industry makes Patricia Wagner of DHI Mortgage and fellow mortgage professional David Cook very happy. The two attended the AMBA monthly luncheon where Eldon Rude of Metrostudy presented the findings of his most recent study.

Building Your Inner Circle TREC MCE Elective Course #: 01-00-063-23147

September MCE Power Lunch Thursday, September 27th 12 Noon – 1PM FREE WORKSHOP Optional 1 MCE credit hour for $10 (Cash or check only, payable at the door.)

Building Your Inner Circle

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.

Your Inner Circle are those people in your database who won’t do business with anyone else. Having a big Inner Circle means you’ve got a covert lead-generation team on the street. In this seminar, you’ll discover how to qualify people for your Inner Circle, how to move them towards your Inner Circle, and how to keep them there.

For more information on any of our MCE Classes and to register visit:

www.SenteMortgage.com

Cedar Park Office

Round Rock Office

715 Discovery Boulevard Suite 205 Cedar Park, TX 78613 Office: 512-259-5950 Fax: 512-259-0540

1001 South Mays Round Rock, TX 78664 Office: 512-255-1550 Fax: 512-255-2329

www.txa mtitle.com

Click on Real Estate Power Lunches at the bottom of our homepage or call 512-637-9900 • Sente Mortgage, Inc. MCE Provider #9841 901 South MoPac, Building IV Suite 125, Austin TX 78746

Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™

austin

Williamson County Assoc. of REALTORS®

Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995

President’s Column By Christy Gessler • 2012 President

Politics is your business

f real estate is your profession, then politics is your business. That is a simple yet powerful statement. For those of you who know me personally, you know that I am passionate about the Texas Real Estate Political Action Committee (TREPAC) and I am not afraid to have a conversation about politics. For those of you who do not know me personally, allow me a moment of your time to highlight the importance of TREPAC. It's easy to be cynical about politics. Anytime a politician takes an ethical misstep or an election turns into an expensive mudslinging contest or an issue deteriorates into an ugly partisan battle, it makes some people want to disengage from the process. But disengaging only makes things worse. Voting, getting involved in campaigns, voicing your opinion on issues to your elected officials— these are the ways to make a difference. That's why I'm proud to be part of an organization that has such strong political grassroots. This is not a legislative year, but an election year. We are in the throws of a

heated presidential race. You can’t turn on the television, radio or go online without being bombarded with information about the election, and it’s only going to escalate in the coming months. If you listen closely to these reports or tune-in to one of the many debates taking place, you’ll hear a lot of talk about the real estate market. With budget shortfalls, many politicians look to the real estate market, and REALTORS, to find sources of revenue. Texas has one of the strongest real estate markets in the nation for several reasons including carefully crafted home equity lending laws and the absence of a transfer tax on real estate transactions. Why is this? TREPAC! The Williamson County Association of REALTORS holds various TREPAC fundraising events throughout the year including TREPAC Bowling and Cheezburgers in Paradise, which supports local issues. At the state level, the Texas Association of REALTORS (TAR) keeps a close eye on a variety of issues that affect property owners and the real

www.myRealtyLine.com estate industry—including water rights and conservation efforts, mineral interests, energy production, transportation, taxation, real estate valuation and development, regulatory oversight of free enterprise, private-property rights, and more. A list like that can make for a wide legislative agenda. Because of that, the association usually enters legislative sessions with a defensive posture. However, this year, the association pursued an aggressive agenda centered on four specific issues—all of which passed. It’s not always about getting bills passed. TAR staff helped kill numerous pieces of legislation dealing with county rulemaking authority, sales-price disclosure, and homeequity lending, as well as an insurance bill that would have been detrimental to homeowners. In fact, at the end of the session, the association opposed 95 bills—and not one of them became law. NAR also has a program for brokers called the Broker Involvement Program. NAR's

September 2012

Broker Involvement Program empowers broker owners to alert their agents to key REALTOR issues. When brokers speak, agents listen and respond. By urging REALTORS to respond to NAR's calls for action, we can shine a bright light in Congress on important real estate issues. The more agents that take action, the more Congress will know the voice of the REALTOR party and will respond to our industry's needs. Individuals can also go to http://realtoractioncenter.com/ to receive information of how you can get involved. I encourage you to invest today. You purchase insurance for your home, belongings, automobile, and health. Why not purchase insurance for your business? The fair share investment is only $35 per year. That is an incredible value for the benefits you receive. To learn more, visit www.wcaor.org and click on the “advocacy” tab. Investing in TREPAC gives you a positive voice to protect our business and private property rights in Texas, thus keeping our market strong. Speak up and invest today. RL

Upcoming Events & Education Sept. 20-21: GRI 3 – Real Estate Brokerage Sept. 20: Pardner Up Event Oct. 1 -2: Certified Negotiation Expert (CNE)

More at www.WCAoR.org Buy Photos + Find Events + View Archives

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September 2012

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RL austin

Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995

Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™

While most people were “catching the wave and surfing with Google” at the WCAoR Luncheon, Barbara McLaughlin of JB Goodwin REALTORS was busy trying to catch a ride (wink, wink).

Buy photo: RL_091212_I.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com

Edie Finch of Edie Finch REALTORS and Diane Gomez of RE/ MAX Austin Associates try to find a table before CRS leadership starts to welcome its new members at the group’s bi-monthly luncheon at the Westwood Country Club.

Buy photo: RL_090812_F.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com

There’s always room to learn more. Shavonne Martin of Keller Williams Realty gets some pointers from real estate coach Byron Van Arsdale at the annual WCAoR Tech Tune-Up education event.

Buy photo: RL_091112_D.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com

Buy photo: RL_090612_B.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com

THE FIRST MAJOR AUSTIN HOMEBUILDER VERIFIED LEED FOR HOMES

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*5% REALTOR® commission available on a Realtor Assisted sale with an original contract effective date of January 1, 2012 through December 31, 2012 for a Wilshire Home, Coventry Home, or Plantation Home in the Austin metropolitan area. Must be a licensed Texas Realtor to participate. Not available on existing contracts prior to January 1, 2012. Not available with ‘Build on Your Lot’ sales. Builder reserves the right to change or withdraw this program at any time. Prices are subject to change without notice. See a Sales Counselor for complete list of available homes. MHI A 12145

Past ABoR Chairman of the Board Socar Chatmon-Thomas of Elegant Estates by Auction and J. Rene Ward of Best Agents in Texas are excited to be a part of the new Austin Association of Real Estate Brokers group. J. Rene is the first vice president of the association. The group held its first meeting at Cool River Café.

Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.â&#x201E;˘

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Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995

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September 2012

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September 2012

austin

Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™

Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995

Industry professionals gave a thumbs up after touring the F1 track.

Buy photo: RL_090212_A.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com

Robby and Tricia Winfield, both of Keller Williams Realty, learn about the latest apps offered by AT&T that help make real estate easier on-the-go. Kevin Gilchriest, right, of AT&T explains the details at the WCAoR annual Tech Tune Up event.

Buy photo: RL_090812_E.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com

Good friends Kay DaSilva of Avalar Austin and Diane Christy of Diane Christy REALTORS get together at the monthly CRS meeting at the Westwood Country Club.

Buy photo: RL_090612_G.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com

Austin Area Market Update Austin MSA Months Supply of Inventory 2008 - 2012 Months of Inventory

12 Month Rolling Average

12.0

10.0

Partnerships Built on Trust

8.0

6.0

4.0

2.0

For more information, please contact one of our sales executives. www.gracytitle.com

Jul-12

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RL austin

Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995

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September 2012

Take a Turn for the Better

Make Your Way on Over to Booth #400 This year weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re delighted to announce that we have joined forces with our friends at SafePlace Austin. Saddle up and stop by our booth on October 9th for your chance to rope-in some prizes and help get involved with the fight to stop sexual and domestic violence. All proceeds from Realty Roundup will be donated to SafePlace.

To learn more about SafePlace and how you can get involved, visit www.SafePlace.org

www.gracytitle.com

Realty Roundup 2012

Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.â&#x201E;˘

September 2012

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Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™

Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995

Kindra Zepeda and Bonnie Barrera, both of Independence Title, hold on to their goodie bags while on the bus headed to the F1 track where they and the rest of their fellow NAHREP members get to go on a grand tour.

Buy photo: RL_090212_B.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com

Austin Association of Real Estate Brokers Tr e a s u r e r R o b e r t Wright of R.L. Wright R E A LT O R S t h a n k s mortgage professional Sandy Battise for attending the group’s first meeting at Cool River Café.

Buy photo: RL_091112_B.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com

Are you ready to rumble? Wait, this is bowling… oops. Julieann Derham, Susan Doyle and Lisa Foster, all of Realty Austin, make their way to their lanes during the third Annual Agent Bowling Tournament at Highball.

Buy photo: RL_090612_F.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com

With all of the technology that Lennar comes equipped with, it is only appropriate that they show it off at the annual WCAoR Tech Tune-Up education event. Christina Haladyna and Kandis Henkes, both of Lennar, gear up for attendees when they come roaring through.

Buy photo: RL_090512_A.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com

Providing Award-Winning Real Estate Education Since 1983

NEW MCE COURSES AVAILABLE! 15-Hour Broker Responsibility MCE Package with Legal and Ethics Brokers who sponsor salespersons or those authorized to supervise other licensees are now required to take a 6-hour course on broker responsibility. This course package also includes: • TREC Legal and Ethics updates (6-hrs) • Regulatory aspects of management • Business entities for ownership • Advertising per TRELA & TIL Regs

• Hot Technology Tips (3-hrs) • How to supervise sales agents • Policy and procedure requirements • Agent recruitment and retainage

Real Estate Game Changers 15-hours

Discover how to reconnect with your target market using modern communication and social media tools. TREC Legal and Ethics updates included (6-hrs).

Farm and Ranch 15-hours

This course package is perfect for the commercial, agricultural and rural real estate agent. It covers contracts, mineral rights, reservations in Texas water rights and environmental issues.

Oct 11 - 12

Thurs/Fri

Enroll Now: 512-244-3545

Day 1 - 8:30 AM - 3:30 PM TREC Legal & Ethics Update ($60 only)

Broker License | SAE

Day 1 - 3:30 PM - 6:15 PM Hot Technology Tips ($30 course only)

MCE | Designations

Day 2 - 8:30 AM - 3:30 PM Broker Responsibility ($60 course only)

Classroom Correspondence

Oct 11 - 12

Thurs/Fri

Day 1 - 8:30 AM - 6:15 PM Day 2 - 8:30 AM - 3:30 PM

Oct 10 - 11

Online Austin/Round Rock Campus

Wed/Thurs

3203 S I-35 Ste 520, Round Rock, TX 78664 Located at I-35 & 45 Toll Road ph: 512-244-3545 fax: 512-244-9892

Day 1 - 8:30 AM - 6:15 PM Day 2 - 8:30 AM - 3:30 PM

CHAMPIONS SCHOOL OF REAL ESTATE

Real Estate | Loan Origination | Home Inspection | Appraisal | Online Open to the Public; TREC #0005 Lone Star College Tomball Provider #0123

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Broker 06-06-124-24214; Ethics 03-03-123-23556; Game Changers 09-00-123-23783; Hottest 03-00-064-24483 Insider’s Guide 09-00-054-24325; Ethics 03-03-123-23556; Legal 03-03-123-23555; 23890 Farm & Ranch 09-00-063-23070

Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.â&#x201E;˘

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Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995

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September 2012

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Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995

Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™

WCAoR President Christy Gessler, left, and Stacy Rider, both of Keller Williams Realt y thank Paul Gonzalez of Google for speaking at the WCAoR Quarterly Luncheon. Paul presented information about his company ’s Google Adwords program and how to use it.

Buy photo: RL_091212_K.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com

Ken Renner of Keller Williams Realty teaches a class on using video to sell real estate at the WCAoR Tech-Tune Up at WCAoR offices. For more, see his article on page 37.

Buy photo: RL_090312_C.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com Buy photo: RL_090612_K.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com

Bradley Pounds, right, of Walters International Real Estate talks to a REALTOR in the making at the Champions School of Real Estate Career Day.

SAY GOODBYE TO SUMMER, AND HELLO TO UNITED LENDING. We offer our loan originators tools so cool, they’ll make you drool. Contact us to find out how you can become part of our team.

For more information contact: David McMillan (NMLS #117439) or Tommy Nelms (NMLS #122291)

United Lending, a division of Network Funding LP #2297

Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™

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Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995

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September 2012

If you can dream it, we are building it.

Tour five extraordinary custom homes from some of Austin’s premier custom builders. The 2012 Parade of HomesTM is showcasing five exquisite dream homes in The Overlook Estates just south of “the Y” at Oak Hill. Priced from the mid $800s to more than $1 million, two homes are sold, but this is your chance to tour all five. See the very latest design trends and architectural features from some of Austin’s finest builders.

The Builders

Dillon Custom Homes • Enertech Builders JKD Builder • PGM Design + Build • Pillar Custom Homes

Tour Information

Bee Cave Hwy 71

October 27 ~ November 11*

Lenape

11 a.m. to 7 p.m. • The Overlook Estates *Closed on Tuesdays. Realtors get in free with their business card on designated days.

Circle Dr

Oak Hill Hwy 290

Hwy 290

Purchase tickets at the gate (cash only) $15 for adults 18 and over; $25 for couples; $12 for seniors 62 and better as well as children 3 to 17 years. With a military ID, tickets are just $10. Free for children under 3.

www.ParadeofHomesAustin.com

Thomas Springs

Brought to you by

September 2012

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Mary Tran of Independence Title and David Schneider of Goldwasser Real Estate are excited to see the view of downtown Austin from turn one on the F1 track. We stopped them for a quick photo during the tour hosted by NAHREP.

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There’s always safety in numbers, right? Joy Herring, Cynthia Mattiza, Brittanie Flegle, Romeo Manzanilla and Colby Paterson, all of Realty Austin, crash the scene at the AYREP monthly happy hour at Gibson Bar.

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Sarah Mcaloon of Ashton Woods Homes shows off the goodie bag she’s giving out to WCAoR Tech TuneUp attendees as the entrance sponsor at the event. Buy photo: RL_090112_C.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com Buy photo: RL_090612_L.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com

Kim Gayer of Gayer Group REALTORS enjoys visiting with Denise Moody of Gracy Title while they wait for the AMBA monthly luncheon to kick off at the Austin Country Club.

Let’s Harvest Success This Season. We’ve harvested the Title Industry’s premier knowledge, experience, and technological advances and you can reap the benefits. Together we can make this a wonderful season filled with seamless closings.

The Ron Urias Agency

HelpP int

Integrity.

It’s what we share and have in common as business professionals.

512.448.0844 We will NEVER compromise our integrity and always do what’s in the best interest of those we serve. Our job is to educate Realtors and our clients and we’ve been doing just that for over 3 decades.

Call me for a quote today!

Jeanine West

Bette Gould Cook

Susan D. Spence

Tiesa Hollaway

Downtown Austin

North Austin

Research

Round Rock

Branch Manager Escrow Officer

823 Congress Ave. Suite 1400 Austin, TX 78701 t: 512.482.0851

“Clients don’t come to us by accident but we handle those too!”

5608 Parkcrest Drive Suite 150 Austin, TX 78731 t: 512.302.3892

Marketing Director c: 512.921.9699

12301 Research Blvd. Bldg. 4, Suite 120 Austin, TX 78759 t: 512.249.0576

Marketing Director c: 512.964.8950

1 Chisholm Trail Suite 3100 Round Rock, TX 78681 t: 512.255.6550

www.facebook.com/Austin.NAT www.nat.com

4425 Mopac South, Bldg 2, Ste. 101 Austin, TX 78735 Home • Life • Auto • CommerCiAL • renters

Marketing Director c: 512.965.9856

Like Clockwork ®

©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. | TX12-0976 R 8-29-12

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September 2012

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Austin CRS Chapter

President ‘s Column By Risé Johns • 2012 President

Va,va,va, vroom! Sandy and Ron Urias, both of Farmers Insurance, enjoy the fruits of their labor at the F1 track. The two coordinated the tour for NAHREP and its members.

Buy photo: RL_090212_J.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com

Google’s got a “plus” now? Diane Clark of PrimeLending and Al Frazier of JB Goodwin REALTORS sit tight to hear more about Google Plus at the WCAoR Quarterly Luncheon.

Buy photo: RL_080312_D.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

We must approach the 2013 legislative session together—united

s we get ready for the 2013 legislative session, it is truly important that, as REALTORS, we preserve and restore the integrity of the home buying process. It is equally important that we protect private property rights. There are several issues that we must address and with a united voice. It is very important to support your local, state and national PACs to make your voice heard. There is indeed strength in numbers. First of all, we must pre s e r ve t he mor t g age interest de duc tion. The interest deduction for interest paid on a debt secured by a first or second home must not be removed or restricted. There is already in place a cap on the mortgage interest deduction. Complete removal of the mortgage interest deduction would have a devastating impact on real estate. Second, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac need to be reformed. NAR’s position is that the federal government must play a continued role in the secondary mortgage market. I am

not suggesting a bailout, just some guidance and control. Third, there needs to be some control of short sales. Delays in approving requests for a short sale remain a significant impediment to this option as a way to avoid foreclosure. Streamlining short sales will improve the likelihood of the transaction ever closing. (As I write this article, I have had an offer submitted on a short sale for over two months. There is no indication of a decision or counter any time soon.) Reducing the time for banks to approve short sales to 45 days or less will reduce the number of foreclosures. Everyone will benefit— lenders, sellers, and buyers. These are just a few of the issues that need to be addressed in the upcoming legislative session. As REALTORS, we need to be informed, stay connected and let our legislators know where we stand on issues impacting real estate. Support the PACs and make your voice heard. RL

Keller Williams Realty Round Rock Proudly Announces Our 2012 Agent Leadership Council

Cindy Crawford

Don Dungan

Judy Copple

Kari Christ

Kasey Jorgenson

Kiersty Lombar

Kim Johnson

Kristi Sanguinet

Robert Fischer

Sherry Raymer

Suzie Gole

An Independent Member Broker 2300 Greenhill Drive, Suite 200 • Round Rock 78664 Round Rock (512) 255-5050 • Northwest (512) 346-3550 Southwest (512) 448-4111 • Lake Travis (512) 263-9090

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September 2012

Join us in Welcoming Wes Peoples Homes to The Bluffs Check Out Our 25 Available Inventory Homes Rapidly Progressing on Highland Village Community Center

Featuring

COVENTRY • GRAND HAVEN • RIVER OAKS • SCOTT FELDER STANDARD PACIFIC • VILLAGE BUILDERS • WES PEOPLES

Homes from the $290’s to over $1M 512.617.1776 | RoughHollowLakeway.com | Developed by Legend Communities in partnership with Crescent Resources. Exclusively marketed by Legacy International Resort Properties. Obtain the Property Report required by federal law and read it before signing anything. No federal agency has judged the merits of value, if any, of this property.

September 2012

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September 2012

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Women’s Council of REALTORS®

Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™

President’s Column By Anita Farrell • 2012 President

Gretchen Rossington and Penny Green, both of Willowbend Mortgage, attend the AMBA monthly luncheon at the Austin Country Club to get an edge on what’s happening in the market. Eldon Rude of Metrostudy presented information about local trends.

Join us for "Bras For A Cause" in October

Buy photo: RL_090112_B.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com

ur Austin Chapter of the Women’s Council of REALTORS is proud to support an organization created by breast cancer survivors that benefits all women and men in Texas that are facing the breast cancer challenge. Breast Cancer Resource Centers of Texas (BCRC) is a non-profit grassroots organization. It is a centralized source for breast cancer information, education, and support for the victims of this terrible disease. They help people of any age, gender, culture, education, profession, or financial status. They aid those navigating the condition from diagnosis through recovery at no charge. On Oct. 2, 2012, Austin WCR will hold the second annual Bras for a Cause event. It will be held at Maggiano’s Little Italy at The Domain and will benefit the Breast Cancer Resource Center of Texas. It will feature bras

decorated by partners and modeled by some very handsome men volunteers. There will be a silent auction including decorated bras, door prize drawings, food, a cash bar and lots of fun and laughter for everyone. The master of ceremonies will be Mark Chapin, an Austin TV personality. The Women’s Council o f R E A LT O R S i s a national organization o f R E A LT O R S t h a t empower women to exercise their potential as entrepreneurs and industry leaders. As such, we seek to empower all women to higher success and greater participation as leaders in all professions. Tickets and information on partnership opportunities for the Bras for a Cause event are available on the Austin WCR website at www.austinwcr.org. Please contact anyone on the leadership team available on the website for additional information. RL

se u a C for a 012 s a r B ,2 2 . t Oc

Shavonne Martin, left, of Keller Williams Realty and Sally D e ce l i s , r i g h t , o f RE/MAX Round Rock catch up with WCAoR PastPresident Victorial Reviel, center, of 98th Merdian at the WCAoR Quarterly Luncheon.

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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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September 2012

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Touring the F1 track puts a whole new reality on the term, “gentlemen, start your engines.” Members of NAHREP pull out their cameras to get a good shot of the track from the top of turn one.

Buy photo: RL_090212_D.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com

Earning a CRS designation is a big deal. Congrats to David Burton and Christine Choate, both of Horizon Realty, for taking the CRS plunge. New CRS members were recognized at the group’s bi-monthly meeting at Westwood Country Club.

Buy photo: RL_090312_E.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com Buy photo: RL_090812_A.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com

Gary Wakefield, Cecelia Roberts and Kirby Parsons, all of Coldwell United REALTORS, are keeping it festive at Champions School of Real Estate’s Career Day at their Round Rock campus.

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Ron Urias Farmers Insurance Group 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 M a r i l y n M c C r a y

econd generation Austinite Ron Urias says it’s all a matter of attitude. He embodies the dynamics that characterize Austin—progressive, independent, eclectic, creative and accepting the culture of artistic and individual expression. For Urias, there is no place like home. Urias has operated his Farmers Insurance agency for more than 36 years. He followed in his uncle’s footsteps, who started with Farmers in 1957. He met his wife, Sandy, at Farmers and now his son Russell has joined the family business. The multiline agency offers personalized coverage for families and businesses throughout the Austin area. The agency is growing and will be adding a few staff members to help customers with their insurance and financial needs. A member of the top three percent of Farmers agents’ Toppers Club, Urias is dedicated and passionate about a higher standard of customer service. With most insurance companies, a customer with a claim calls a 1-800 number reaching a faceless person in a call center. If one of his customers has a claim, Urias and his team are there for them, literally. “When customers lost homes in the Oak Hill fires it was a traumatic experience. We were there to walk

hand-in-hand with them through the details, helping plan for all the things that need to be done, whether it was finding a post office box, a kennel for the pets, or a contractor to rebuild,” he says. “Customers don’t come to us by accident, but we handle that too.” Urias grew up in an era when speaking Spanish was frowned upon so he learned Spanish as an adult. He is passionate about

www.myRealtyLine.com ties to groups of like-minded people that include many REALTORS, mortgage brokers and title companies. His connections with the real estate community include providing specialized services such as a MCE approved course for REALTORS on the Comprehensive Loss Underwriting Exchange or CLUE report that provides claims histories. He is a member of the Austin Board of REALTORS and several other organizations but is especially proud of belonging to the National Association of Hispanic Real Estate Professionals (NAHREP). Members of the organization are trusted advisors and advocates who help more Hispanic families achieve the American dream of home ownership—in a sustainable way—that empowers them for generations to come. Urias believes in a more traditional approach to insurance sales—one that relies on personal contact with the customer. “When insurance met the Internet the business changed,” he says. “While it provided more information, it was difficult for people to get exactly the coverage they needed.” Urias likes to say he started in the insurance business before the Internet, in an age of old-fashioned personal connections. Urias believes in giving back to the community. “We have to do the right thing,” he says proudly. “We volunteer our time, talents and resources for Habitat for Humanity and just recently finished a school supply fundraiser for three underprivileged schools in East Austin.” He also works with the Housing Authority of the City of Austin, helping

Customers don't come to us by accident, but we handle that too. being able to communicate with anyone who needs insurance no matter which language they speak. He is dedicated to wiping out predatory insurance and title practices that take advantage of people who speak another language. He thinks that, in spite of the growth, that Austin is still a small town where integrity and relationships matter. He maintains close

September 2012

Ron Urias Owner/Agent

homeowners find low cost insurance. When they are not helping people with their insurance needs, he and Sandy can be found enjoying the Austin live music scene at Shady Grove, or any of the other well-known clubs around town. He also volunteers every year at the Old Settlers Music Festival. When their two sons finished high school, Urias and his wife found another pastime. They now enjoy crisscrossing the back roads of Texas on a 2001 Harley Davidson Road King visiting dive bars, music halls and general stores in places like Sisterdale. For personalized insurance coverage, contact the Ron Urias Insurance Agency at 866-556-3489 or 448-0844. www.ronuriasagency.com. RL

Candy Buzan

Max Leaman

Kim Nielsen

Amy Oehler

Janet Widmer

Branch Manager Sr. Loan Officer

Sr. Loan Officer

Trudy Savage

Mary Kennedy

Missy Driskell

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

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

September 2012

to stop development.

Front Page: Continued

Budget ABoR will again be playing defense on the budget. “There are some structural deficits on the budgets that have to do with the franchise tax, but also some of the tricks that they played to balance last sessions’ budget will catch up to this session,” Chenevert says. “Anytime there is a deficit we fear transfer tax and a tax on commission or services to make up for it.”

Rules and Regulations Each session, the Home Builders Association of Greater Austin looks at what’s happening in the regulatory environment, with a focus on vested rights (to ensure that once rules are put in place they are not changed in process), blocking unnecessary builder licensing initiatives, and watching for expanding county authority. “The counties often go after ordinancemaking authority,” says Harry Savio, executive vice president of the HBA. “But there are reasons people live in these counties—specifically not to have to deal with more government.” For example, Travis County has been given water quality authority and has used it in an expansive manner to regulate tree mitigation and impervious cover, which is inconsistent with the authority of any other county. Scott Norman, executive director of the Texas Association of Builders, says that his organization is always concerned about regulation when it becomes a detriment to homeownership and is used for political purposes, such as using environmental regulation or land use controls

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Taxes The Texas Association of Builders expects that there is likely to be some tax reform in the special session. “We’re always concerned every session with making sure decision makers keep the impact of the decisions in mind on housing and affordability,” Norman says. “Taxes are always a big issue because any increase raises the cost of housing and makes it more difficult for folks to buy.” Taxes on real estate transactions and REALTOR services will be an ongoing concern for the Williamson County Association of REALTORS, according to Chrissly Gessler, 2012 president. “Requiring consumers to pay a tax on REALTOR fees and commissions would discourage use of real estate professionals and increase housing costs,” Gessler says. “Increasing the cost of housing with such a tax burdens consumers and hurts the state's economy.” For the same reason, mandatory sales price disclosure will also be watched closely by WCAoR, because providing full disclosure of real estate sales to appraisal districts is usually the first step toward taxing real estate transactions.

TREC budget ABoR and WCAoR both like to work with the Texas Real Estate Commission to make sure they’re being taken care of in the session. Cuts to the TREC budget could mean increased licensing fees.

Appraisals and broker price opinions Federal legislation has put the legality of broker price opinions in question.

austin

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Homeowners associations Reforming laws controlling HOAs prevents them from overreaching their bylaws and stigmatizing communities and hurting local real estate markets.

Mortgage finance: home equity Relaxing home-equity lending restrictions would expose Texas to many of the abuses that fueled other states' economic downturns.

Mortgage finance: seller financing Consumers should be able to seller-finance a limited number of residential transactions without having to obtain a mortgage license.

Private transfer fees These hard-to-find deed restrictions expose Texas REALTORS to liability and serve no purpose other than padding the pockets of developers.

Eminent domain Limiting this government tool protects property owners.

Gaming Expanding opportunities for gaming in Texas offers a potentially significant source of new revenue.

Energy Adding new capacity from diverse sources will ensure Texas continues to grow.

Tort reform Frivolous lawsuits hurt the Texas business climate. Reforms need to be made to the civil justice system to better protect the people who drive the state's economy.

Rental registration

Focused on you. Vista Lending is comprised of

Local Lending Experts who, with our

Realtor partners, have helped thousands of Texans finance their dream home.

Please call to reconnect or to meet and discuss how we can help you!

Our Team

Get in touch

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Back Row: Russ Laing Mary Canales Heather Shuttles Jennifer Cantrell Shawn Andrew Front Row: Sonya Valia Mike Robertson

NFLP NMLS# 2297

W W W. v i s ta a u s t i n . c o m

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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, Marilyn McCray, Naomi Bludworth Contributing Photographers: Doren L. Carver Columnists: Leonard Guerrero, Christy Gessler, Risé Johns, Anita Farrell, Denise Moody, Ken Renner, Tom Berry

Problems and inconsistencies plague community ordinances that require owners to pay a fee for the registration and inspection of their rental properties.

Submit photos, press releases and calendar items to

Get Involved

and company affiliation. Press releases must be fewer

To help shape the landscape of the industry and work together to make homeownership a possibility for all people, these organizations need your help. The greatest demand for housing comes from entry level first-time buyers, who don’t have the strongest voice in politics because they are not yet homeowners. According to the Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University, for every $1,000 you increase the median price of a single family home, over 27,000 Texas families are priced out of the market. “It doesn’t take much to add $1,000 to a price,” says Scott Norman. Government action is often responsible for these increases. “That’s one of the things we are constantly trying to educate legislators and decision makers on, so they think about their impact as our state grows and prospers.” Your support and involvement in your local professional organization helps build support for REALTORS, builders, remodelers, developers and other industry professionals and helps PACs, government affairs committees, and statewide organizations support the interests of homeowners before the executive and judicial branches and state agencies. Be the voice of housing. RL

Submission Guidelines: naomi@myrealtyline.com. All photos must be at least 300 dpi and include a caption with first/last name 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.

ITCeducationEver090412.pdf Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™

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September 2012

with

Go Back to School Independence Title! Our Business Development and Education Teams are ready to welcome you! Whether you’re interested in new technology skills, cutting edge selling strategies, better understanding of title and escrow processes, or just need MCE classes that are enjoyable and informative, Independence is your back to school headquarters.

Our Highlight Class Topic for September is ...

EVERNOTE

Evernote stores anything and everything you need to keep your life on track. With apps for every smart phone or tablet, Evernote syncs your information across all of your devices.

EVERNOTE 101

(1 Hour MCE)

Explore all the basics of Evernote: – creating and accessing your account – creating new notes to include text, audio, task lists, pictures, PDFs and web clips – using Evernote's comprehensive search tool to gain quick access to your information

EVERNOTE for iPad

(1 Hour MCE)

Evernote is by far our favorite app for the iPad! Learn the basics of Evernote in a mobile environment: – creating new notes to include text, audio, task lists, pictures, PDFS and web clips – adding notebooks, tags and stacks – using the comprehensive search tool to gain quick access to your information while on the go

And coming in November …

EVERNOTE for Buyers

(1 Hour MCE)

EVERNOTE for Sellers

(1 Hour MCE)

Learn how to incorporate our favorite app into the purchase transaction. By organizing and storing everything from snapshots of your buyer’s favorite homes to PDFs of appliance manuals, you will be able to easily provide a high-level purchase experience - and stay organized!

As a listing agent or seller, there is a lot to keep up with in a real estate transaction. We’ll help get you started in our Evernote for Sellers class, where we’ll cover suggestions for creating and storing templates for listings and notebooks to share with your sellers during a transaction, from listing appointment to closing table. *Add a 1-hour Lab to either of the above Evernote and/or iPad courses for hands-on application! Talk to your Independence Title Business Representative for details.

Independence Title Explore

w w w. I n d e p e n d e n c e T i t l e . c o m

Austin Business Jour nal’s Number 1 Title Company

September 2012

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Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995

Denise Bodman, Crystal Kilpatrick and Erin Bara, all of Realty Austin, show the crowd at Highball that REALTORS can sing too. They performed a karaoke number at the company’s third Annual Agent Bowling Tournament.

Buy photo: RL_090512_F.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com

April Solimine and Ranee Williams, both of Meritage Homes, educate REALTORS at the WCAoR Tech TuneUp about what makes a Meritage home stand out.

Buy photo: RL_090612_A.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com

It’s Career Day at Champions School of Real Estate—the place where real estate hopefuls come to learn what it takes to make it in “the real world.” Katie Sharp, Rick Ellis and Deborah Rubley, all of Prudential Texas Realty, stand by to answer questions.

Buy photo: RL_091112_E.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com Buy photo: RL_090312_D.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com

Shirley Williams of the Austin Board of REALTORS expresses her support of the new Austin Association of Real Estate Brokers to D.A. Henry of The Aldion Group Realty. D.A. has been elected secretary for the group.

Experience the SWBC Difference Our commitment to you: •

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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

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Ann Jones nmls# 221084 512.422.9036

investments

the avallon building, building 1 | 10415 morado Circle, ste. 100 | austin, tX 78759

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September 2012

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, one of Texas’ Top 25 Courses †††

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 /

Model Homes

Georgetown or Falcon Pointe in Pflugerville and discover how good it feels to be part of a winning tradition.

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Why wait? See all Quick Move-ins.

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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. • †††In its category, Dallas Morning News 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 Terrabrook Falcon Pointe, LP and NNP-Teravista, LP. All Rights Reserved.

006902FPt_10Yr_RL_Sept17.indd 1

8/30/12 10:58 AM

September 2012

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Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995

Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™

With all the different social media options out there, Tammy Gardner of JB Goodwin REALTORS and David Matthys of RE/MAX 1 are happy to learn what makes Google Plus so different. The two attended the WCAoR Quarterly Lu n c h e o n t o h e a r Google company representatives talk about the site.

Buy photo: RL_091212_L.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com

Joyce Melugin and Margaret Gilbreth, both of Amelia Bullock REALTORS, talk about the ups and downs of real estate with Terese Peabody of Stanberry and Associates at the CRS bi-monthly meeting at the Westwood Country Club.

Buy photo: RL_091112_A.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com

Buy photo: RL_090812_D.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com

U R I NG AT

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Kathy De La Cruz of RE/MAX Austin congratulates Austin Association of Real Estate Brokers President Marian Williams of Syd Mar Properties in her efforts to lead the new group. The first meeting was held at Cool River Café.

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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

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Garden Homes from the $180’s 512-804-2605

Garden Homes from the $160’s 512-961-5553

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Garden Homes from the $160’s 512-410-0899

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Single Family Homes from the $160’s 512-630-8978 16016 Travesia Way • Austin

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Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™

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Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995

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September 2012

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Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995

Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™

CRS President Risé Johns, right, of Keller Williams Realty presents Dolise McClure of Realty World, Neal Barnes & Associates with her certificate for completing the CRS designation courses. Dolise was recognized at the bi-monthly CRS meeting at the Westwood Country Club. Buy photo: RL_090812_H.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com

Launching a new association chapter is no small feat! Socar Ch at m o n -Th o m a s of Elegant Estates by Auction, J. Rene Ward of Best Agents in Texas and Marian Williams of Sydmar Properties make sure everyone has their notes in order before the first meeting of the Austin Association of Real Estate Brokers at Cool River Café.

Buy photo: RL_091112_C.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com

AY R E P ’s m o n t h l y net work ing happy hour is always a fun e x p e r i e n c e . Te x Meazell, center, of Keller Williams Realty relaxes after a busy day in real estate with Erica D unk ley o f Ragland Realty and Taylor Nyberg.

Buy photo: RL_090112_F.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com

Eldon Rude of Metrostudy gives Austin a positive outlook for the year at the AMBA monthly luncheon— making the group of mortgage bankers very happy.

Buy photo: RL_090912_E.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com

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Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™

austin

Experts Speak Out

Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995

www.myRealtyLine.com

September 2012

Commentary By Tom Berry • Reliant Title

Will Hayes, right, of Lennar gives Greg Hodge of RE/MAX Capital City the 411 on all of the energy efficient amenities that come with Lennar homes.

Good advice for your buyers with credit issues

ost industry experts agree that mistakes, usually slight, exist on almost everyone’s credit report, and the prevailing wisdom is that borrowers should carefully review their credit report and note any inaccuracies. Often, it is advisable that the borrower write a letter to the credit agency, noting the inaccuracies and copying the Federal Trade Commission. The credit bureau may write a letter asking the borrower to call. Most credit experts I’ve spoken to advise strongly against calling. The best advice is to simply write back with copies of their original letters, telling them of the original date they submitted the initial request. Keep a file of all correspondence to and from the credit bureau and follow through continually. The process is that credit bureaus forward the dispute to the individual creditors, who have

45 days to respond. If they do not respond within the allotted time, the item must be removed. However, if they do respond at a later date with information that documents the credit report is correct, the item will be placed back on their credit report. For those borrowers who have filed bankruptcy in the past, the items that were discharged will normally show up as a charge-off or uncollected debt. They should write to the credit bureaus, providing a copy of complete bankruptcy papers and request that they show the debt as "discharged in bankruptcy." This looks better and can raise FICO scores. FICO scores above 700 make it easier to obtain mortgage loans. While a borrower may not be able to clean up every item on their credit report using these methods, they will certainly be able to improve the way it looks to potential creditors. RL

Buy photo: RL_090612_E.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com

Everyone is welcome at the Tenura Home Center—a place where industry professionals and their clients can meet for appointments, closings, loan applications, etc.

Buy photo: RL_081212_G.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com

September 2012

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RL austin

Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995

Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™

Jenny Walker and Colette Fitzgerald, both of Realty Austin, team up for the company’s third Annual Agent Bowling Tournament at Highball.

Buy photo: RL_090512_D.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com

R eal estate coach Bernice Ross gives a quick demonstration on what she believes to be the most useful mobile app for on-the-go real estate to George Wali of JB Goodwin REALTORS at the WCAoR Tech Tune-Up event at the WCAoR office.

Buy photo: RL_090112_D.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com

Buy photo: RL_090612_D.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com

While they already knew it’s great doing business in Austin, John McClellan of Supreme Lending and Phillip Pense of Independence Title still like to get the positive reinforcement every once in a while. Eldon Rude of Metrostudy did just that at the AMBA monthly luncheon.

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Mortgage Loan Originator, NMLS #849576 12554 Riata Vista Circle, First Floor Austin, TX 78727 Office: 512-257-5542 / Cell: 512-318-3824 / Fax: 866-518-8703 Email: mjanderson2@dhimortgage.com www.dhimortgage.com/miranda-anderson

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: 08/22/12 / EXP: 08/22/13

Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™

austin

Experts Speak Out

Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995

Commentary By Denise Moody • Gracy Title

Renovation financing: a quicker, easier path to the dream home

ow many times has your client regretfully passed up that cute little house in the perfect neighborhood because it was going to be “too much work” or too hard to finance the repairs and updates? How many more as-is properties could have been dream homes if the home purchase and renovation process were easier for buyers and sellers? Now you can greatly expand options for your buyers and sellers with renovation financing. Renovation financing is a little-known home loan for all types of “fixer-uppers”, and it makes things easier for sellers and for buyers looking for an affordable alternative to new construction. In our current market where there is an inventory shortage of available properties, it is a practical but underutilized way to get homebuyers into their dream home. With a renovation loan, a homebuyer can finance the purchase price of the house and the cost for repairs with one application, one approval process, one loan

closing and one monthly payment. The loan amount is based on the lesser of acquisition costs or after-improved appraised value of the property. After the single close, fully amortized transaction is completed, a buyer-selected contractor begins work. Renovations covered by the loan can include required repairs to bring the property up to code or satisfy appraisal requirements, such as roof replacement, plumbing repairs, “invisible” structural repairs such as foundation, electrical upgrades, or termite damage repair. Obviously, a home inspection is an essential part of the process. Renovation loans also cover optional repairs to update a home or increase its resale value. These improvements could include kitchen updates, room additions, pool, bathroom remodels, new paint, new carpet or flooring, landscaping, energy efficiency improvements, and much more. Benefits to REALTORS: • Overcome the challenges of selling a

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September 2012

fixer-upper • Increase number of homebuyers and their options • Sellers not required to make or pay for repairs prior to listing • Sell more homes, faster • Lower total interest rate cost than a home equity loan Benefits to homebuyers: • Easier way to get into the neighborhood they want • Renovation costs spread throughout the mortgage term • Enjoy the home sooner: renovation begins right after closing • Wide range of eligible renovations • Fixed-rate and adjustable-rate loan terms available • May finance up to six months of payments during construction phase Loan features: • Low down payment options; LTV up to 96.5 percent • Credit qualifying • FHA county or FNMA loan limits apply Renovation loans can include single family (condos allowed), two-four units, and mixed-use properties. With renovation financing as an option, you may also feel more comfortable extending your buyers’ search by including distressed properties and foreclosures. Some lenders specialize in renovation financing and provide a range of products to choose from. The Streamline 203(K) is just one kind of renovation loan, intended for minor repairs and requiring little expertise to manage. This loan is

convenient for common minor repairs such as HVAC systems, weatherization, minor remodels such as kitchens, roofs, plumbing, new flooring, and deck/patio repairs or additions. Seventy percent of the homes in the U.S. were built before 1992. In today’s Austin area market, the inventory of new homes has not yet caught up to the high demand. “We expect that here will be a lot of new people coming into the market in the next two to three years,” says Krista Corkill, home mortgage consultant and renovation specialist at Wells Fargo. “Renovation is going to be a smart option for buyers to get the home they want now and see the most resale value later.” Renovation financing tips To prevent closing delays in a renovation loan, ensure that your buyers have a pre-approval letter to submit with their purchase offer. Most renovation loans need between 45-60 days to close. Be sure the purchase price of the home and the cost of renovations, when added together, do not over-improve the home and move it out of the neighborhood price range. Corkill believes that every property is a potential renovation loan: “I tell the students in my renovation loan MCE course that when your seller says, ‘I’d repair that, but I don’t have the funds,’ or your buyer says, ‘I love this house, but…’,just know that whatever that ‘but’ is, a renovation loan can take care of it.” She adds, “REALTORS stand to close a lot more deals with this in their bag of tricks.” Talk to your lender about renovation loans today. RL

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September 2012

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Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995

Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™

The Holy Bowlers have a ball at the annual Realty Austin Agent Bowling Tournament at Highball.

Buy photo: RL_090512_H.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com

When you know, you know—and when it comes to Pinterest, Klout and Evernote, Marjorie Tinnell of Indpendence Title and Kent Pricket of RE/MAX Vision are in the know. They lend their knowledge to attendees at the WCAoR annual Tech Tune-Up education event. Buy photo: RL_090612_J.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com

After a long, busy day at the Austin Board of REALTORS, ABoR staff Angela Brutsché and Emily Chenever t unwind at AYREP’s August happy hour at the Gibson Bar. Buy photo: RL_090312_H.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com

Buy photo: RL_090912_A.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com

Jazz Lough, right, of Champions School of Real Estate thanks Tammy Gardner and Mark Murrell, both of JB Goodwin REALTORS, for participating in the school’s career day where soon-to-be REALTORS learn the differences between brokers.

YES YOU SHOULD ... because with the right message and consistency, advertising with us will get you noticed.

Call 512-821-1900 for information.

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Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995

Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™

austin

Experts Speak Out

Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995

Commentary By Ken Renner , Keller Williams Realty

Five tips to shooting better video

sing video to help sell your listings and gain new clients is an invaluable tool. Not only is this tool invaluable, with so few professionals in the real estate industry using video, it is one that offers dramatically less competition when it comes to getting your message through the clutter of information on the world wide web. I encourage you to start using video in smart and create ways and here are a few tips: 1. Just do it. Polls show that 78 percent of sellers want their agent to have a video internet presence, yet only 12 percent of agents nationwide have a video channel. Video is your unique selling proposition (USP) to get more business. Video is cheap and easy. YouTube is free. Your smartphone most likely has a great on board video camera and you can load videos directly to YouTube right from your phone. Quick and easy! 2. Do video e-mail. Right now very few people use video e-mail. Take the advantage and differentiate yourself from the crowd. Clients love to see you face-to-face (on video).

It’s great for a pre-listing appointment or a buyer “hello” communication. Video files are large so sending video as attachments doesn’t work very well. Use a free or inexpensive video e-mail service such as Eyejot or BombBomb. Video e-mail will also help you overcome common camera shyness. 3. What to shoot? There are 10 types of videos that make you money. They are: a. Property b. Neighborhood c. Branding d. Testimonial e. Educational / How To f. P.R. g. Transactional h. Co-Branding i. Sandwich Video j. Lifestyle My favorite is the testimonial. This is one where your clients talk about what a great REALTOR you are. Shoot it at the closing table (that’s where we all want to be, right?) Ask them their experience with you.

neTCo TITle is on the move…

www.myRealtyLine.com Ask them if they would eagerly refer you to friends and family. Were there any challenges you helped them solve, etc. Ask how they found you and chose you to become their agent (maybe through a video?) Send them the testimonial video link and ask them to post it to their Facebook, Twitter, etc. 5. Social media quality is fine. Agents will sometimes avoid video because they want to make them perfect. Keep in mind we are not producing a Super Bowl ad. In the Internet w or l d , y ou r audience w a n t s authenticity over perfection. In fact, if your videos are to o “s l i c k” and over pro duced, p eople won’t trust them. You obviously don’t want to put out garbage, but d on’t wor r y ab out l itt l e mistakes—it shows you are real. People like the “real you.” 5. Google loves video – Can you say search engine optimization? Video is your wild card to rank on the search engines. Google owns YouTube and favors video. Google searches for relative content to display as search results to its users. It pulls from millions

September 2012

of websites but only dozens or hundreds of videos offering relevant content. You have an exponentially easier chance of being found on the internet by your video content as opposed to your website content. Try it! Post a video of your listings with the address, MLS number, neighborhood name, etc. in the YouTube title, tags, and description. Impress your sellers with your search engine savvy when their home video pops up on the top of the search engines. Your video will rank higher than your competitors and the national search s i t e s . Ta k e your leads back, start shooting and posting video today. Ke nn R e nn e r of Keller Williams L a k e Tr a v i s M a r k e t center is a self-proclaimed auth or it y on re al estate video marketing. His YouTube channel is the No. 1 ranked real estate video channel in the nation with nearly 10 million views. He is a maps coach and has a video fast track coaching program that teaches agents how to leverage the power of video in their business. RL

Find Property Tours at

www.myRealtyLine.com John Voyles, CAEA

Vice President - Texas Operations jvoyles@netcotitle.com

With more than 50 years of experience in title insurance and the real estate industry, John Voyles and summer Pavliska are leading the operations in Central Texas! established in 1987, neTCo has a nationwide presence and is highly respected throughout the country.

suMMeR PAVlIskA AVP of Sales and Operations spavliska@netcotitle.com

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Round Rock & houston Coming Soon!

September 2012

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Real Estate News & Notes RE/MAX Bastrop REALTOR recognized in local newspaper Frank Rainosek of RE/MAX Bastrop Area wishes to thank his staff, clients, family and friends for their votes of confidence making him the runner up for 2012 as Best REALTOR in the Bastrop Advertiser poll. He proudly serves Bastrop County in residential, farm and ranch, and commercial real estate. He consistently receives the No. 1 Overall Top Individual Production award from the Bastrop County Board of REALTORS. He placed second for the first quarter of 2012 and third for the second quarter in the RE/MAX Austin Council area,

as well as receiving the prestigious To p 2 0 o f Texas out of over 4,000 RE/MAX R E A LT O R S statewide for 2011. For the 11th year, he attained the RE/MAX Platinum Club Award, one of the highest single year commission honors. RL

Teravista, Falcon Pointe mark 10th birthdays What a difference a decade makes. When Teravista opened 10 years ago, the intersection of I-35 North and University Blvd. was not yet a dynamic retail hub, home to everything from the Round Rock Premium Outlet Malls to IKEA. And the stretch of University right across from Teravista was not yet a burgeoning educational and healthcare corridor. And when Falcon Pointe opened “way back” in 2002, the Texas 130 and Texas 45 tollways were just a gleam in planners’ eyes, not yet superconvenient expressways that connected Pflugerville’s small-town charm to the energy of greater Austin. Nor had a public-private partnership between the city and developer created several extremely popular parks in Falcon Pointe. This fall, as Teravista and Falcon Pointe both celebrate their 10th birthdays, the communities are planning festivities including live music concerts and groundbreaking ceremonies. For example, both Falcon Pointe and Teravista will pause to commemorate the ground-

breaking for an important new project in the region – the new HomeAid Family Cottage that will soon be under construction and open next year at the Texas Baptist Children’s Home. At 10 years old, the 1,550-acre Teravista community is far from done. In fact, we’ll soon be unveiling more details about our exciting new phase of development, which will include an awesome new recreational amenity that celebrates the region’s beautiful natural environment and its special affection for wildflowers. And while Falcon Pointe is a bit smaller than Teravista—at 710 acres—the community also has a bright future ahead, with a major new roadway that will improve connections for hundreds of new homeowners. We hope REALTORS, residents and future homeowners will join us for the 10th anniversary festivities in store for Falcon Pointe and Teravista this fall. Solidly grounded in our 10-year history, we’re excited about the future. RL

Local REALTORS Chad Goldwasser and Greg Cooper hit Amazon best seller list with “The New Rise In Real Estate” Chad Goldwasser and Greg Cooper, founders of Goldwasser Real Estate and the Goldwasser Institute, recently joined with a select group of America’s leading real estate professionals and members of the National Association of Expert Advisors to co-write the best-selling real estate book titled, "The New Rise in Real Estate: The Nation's Trusted Real Estate Advisors Reveal Their Top Secrets for Buying and Selling Homes in the New Real Estate Economy." The book was released in June and features proven secrets and strategies from some of America's leading real estate experts. These experts share how to adjust and adapt to the new economy and succeed in a rapidly changing real estate industry. On the day of the release, the book reached best-seller status in seven Amazon.com real estate and business categories. Goldwasser Real Estate is one of the top real estate sales teams in Austin, Texas, and was the number one team worldwide for Keller Williams Realty prior to the launch of Goldwasser's independent brokerage in 2008. Goldwasser Institute is one of the premiere sales and real estate training companies in the

world. After such a successful release, Cooper and Goldwasser will be recognized by The National Academy of Best-Selling Authors, an organization that honors authors from many of the leading independent best-seller lists. RL

RL austin

Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995

Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™

Realty Austin named finalist for Inman Innovator award Realty Austin was selected as a finalist for the 2012 Inman Innovator Award. The awards and announcements were made at the annual Real Estate Connect conference held Aug. 3 in San Francisco. Realty Austin was recognized for its website realtyaustin.com. Often described as Austin's No.1 home search tool, the website is a thoughtful blend of home listings, colorful neighborhood descriptions, detailed analysis and vital area statistics. With over 300,000 unique visitors per month, realtyaustin.com continues to lead the residential marketplace. Jonathan Boatwright, co-owner of Realty Austin said, "Integrating best-of-breed solutions to solve complex industry problems is a top priority at our company. By thinking outside of the box and keeping our customer’s needs top of mind, we are truly able to deliver innovative solutions. We are humbled to be recognized by Inman who is an innovator themselves as the leading source of our industry news." Realty Austin's outstanding performance for 2011 placed the company among these in-

dustry leaders. Realty Austin has made a deep impact on Austin's real estate landscape earning the company over $420 million in sales in 2011, ranking as the third highest producing Austin agency in just seven short years. Yvette Boatwright, co-owner of Realty Austin said, "As a business owner in one of the top metropolitan areas, we are honored to be recognized among the nation's leading Innovators. Not only is the foundation of Realty Austin built on innovation, but also our professional agents continue to be an example of excellence by raising the bar every day." According to Inman News, the finalists are companies who demonstrate success in innovation by developing tools and services that improve the real estate transaction process and experience for consumers and industry professionals. This year marks the first time Realty Austin has been a nominee for the Inman Innovator Award which was created in 1997. This year there were 56 finalists in seven categories honoring the real estate industry. RL

Austin Board of REALTORS reveals new look and improved functionality to Austinhomesearch.com The Austin Board of REALTORS (ABoR) launched its revamped consumer property search website, AustinHomeSearch.com. Updates to the design and functionality of the website were integrated using input from ABoR REALTOR members and prospective homebuyers. Upon visiting the restructured website, users will discover an overall improvement in website navigation, search functionality and real estate tools. “As trusted resources for accurate and timely Austin area real estate market information, the members of the Austin Board of REALTORS are pleased to offer a public website that will more effectively meet the needs of those who are contemplating steps to buy or lease property,” says Angela Brutsché, ABoR director of marketing and communications. “Visitors will enjoy identifying REALTORS and properties that match a multitude of preferences using the available AustinHomeSearch advanced search features.” “Rather than competing with member websites, this portal ensures that consumer

traffic goes back to the brokers and agents,” says John Hensley, chief product and technology officer with Real Estate Digital, the company providing AustinHomeSearch’s property search platform. “Recent research shows that consumers who are allowed independent access to listings are better informed and more loyal to the real estate professional that helps with their sale or purchase.” T h e user-friendly website showcases more than 20,000 active listings in various property types and over 8,500 Cent r a l Te x a s REALTORS. A new property search component allows users to easily search based on city, county, zip code, area, subdivision and region without dropdown menus. Improved mapping capabilities have also been added, allowing visitors an aerial view of available properties. Additionally, the website contains detailed neighborhood information and consumer tools—including a mortgage calculator and enhanced REALTOR profiles. RL

Submission Guidelines: Submit photos, press releases and calendar items to naomi@myrealtyline.com. All photos must be at least 300 dpi and include a caption with first/last name, company affiliation and a short description. Press releases must be fewer than 300 words. Calendar items are free to advertisers and $25 per submission for others. All submissions must be received at least seven calendar days prior to ad copy deadlines published at www.myrealtyline.com/advertise. html. Submission items will be included as space allows.

Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™

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September 2012

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*commission on September Closings

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307 Sandstone Trail

Onyx

1,797

3/2/1

NOW!

319 Sandstone Trail

Obsidian

2,384

4/2.5/2

NOW!

287 Travertine Trail

Terrazzo

2,521

4/3.5/2

NOW!

294 Travertine Trail

Alabster

2,731

4/3/2

NOW!

4. STONEFIELD • SALLY: 512-401-7717

5. SUMMERLYN • DENISE: 512-777-9565

244,326 207,308

ADDRESS

PLAN

SQ. FT.

BD/BA/STORIES AVAILABLE COMMISSION PRICE

1. TERAVISTA • SANDEE: 512-670-6804 • Steve: 512-970-3359 4219 Pebblestone Trail

New Haven 3,946

4318 Woodledge Place

Oakmont

4301 Woodledge Place

465,935

5/4.5/2

NOW!

3,501

5/4/2

NOW!

Carlyle

3,550

5/3.5/2

Sept

4303 Woodledge Place

Bayberry

3,487

5/3.5/2

Sept

1519 Hidden Springs Path

Castille

3,246

4/3.5/2

October

1525 Hidden Springs Path

Savoy

2,834

4/3.5/2

October

4516 Cervinia Drive

Castille

3,246

4/3.5/2

SOLD

4609 Monterosa Lane

Savoy

2,834

4/3.5/2

SOLD

441,987 475,110

450,508 375,849

345,208 367,574

377,808

195,741

221,039 212,340 215,522

2. RIM ROCK • KYLE: 512-627-0900 1122 Flint Rock Loop

Langford

3,154

4/3.5/1

SOLD

433,643

141 Houseﬁnch Loop

Terrazzo

2,521

4/3.5/2

NOW!

268 Southern Sunset Cove

Castille

3,246

4/3.5/2

NOW!

620 Mourning Dove Lane

Saguaro

1,789

4/2.5/2

NOW!

159,965

Lavendar

1,753

4/2.5/2

SOLD

Concordia

3,548

5/4/2

NOW!

109 Chickadee Lane

262 Southern Sunset Cove

121 Chickadee Lane

Iris

1,899

4/2.5/2

SOLD

1158 Flint Rock Loop

Oakmont

3,501

5/4/2

NOW!

1140 Flint Rock Loop

Concordia

3,548

5/4/2

SOLD

1098 Flint Rock Loop

Castille

3,246

4/3.5/2

SOLD

1072 Flint Rock Loop

Kinsley

2,800

4/3/1

SOLD

167,340

172,081 179,276

6. TERAVISTA • WILL: 512-913-1863 2017 Autumn Run Lane

Travertine

1,983

4/2/1

NOW!

2003 Autumn Run Lane

Alabaster

2,731

4/3/2

NOW!

244,399

4618 Chestnut Meadows Bend Sabine

2,675

4/2.5/2

August

4625 Chestnut Meadows Bend Blanco

2,101

3/2/91

August

259,428 280,195

242,599

7. VISTAS OF STONEY RIDGE • CLYDE: 512-496-4163 6809 Plains Crest Drive

Carlsbad

1,230

3/2/1

NOW!

120,990

6805 Plains Crest Drive

Sante Fe

2,206

4/2.5/2

SOLD

6739 Plains Crest Drive

Sante Fe

2,206

4/2.5/2

SOLD

6735 Plains Crest Drive

Sedona

2,402

4/2.5/2

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 9/1/12, 5% commission will be paid on select inventory homes that sell between 9/1/12 and 9/30/12. Ad must be presented at time of contract. Homes must close and fund by 9/30/12. 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. 9/12

431,324

449,765 470,177

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

424,255

101 Waverley Spire Court

Concordia

3,766

4/2/1/3 Car

SOLD

205 Wester Ross Lane

Savoy

2,834

4/3.5/1.5/3 Car

NOV ʻ12

205 Tavish Trail

Castille

3,246

4/3.5/2/3 Car

NOV ʻ12

465,607

432,465 457,724

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 9/1/12, 5% commission will be paid on select inventory homes that sell between 9/1/12 and 9/30/12. Ad must be presented at time of contract. Homes must close and fund by 9/30/12. *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. 9/12

Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™

RL austin

Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995

www.myRealtyLine.com

September 2012

No one knows tech like our friends of “the force.” Susan Spence, Kristy Santelia and Karen Williams, all of North American Title, show off their Jedi knowledge at the WCAoR Tech Tune-Up at the WCAoR office in Round Rock.

Buy photo: RL_090612_C.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com

Mortgage professional Roan King says he likes the driver of this race car. He checks out these hot wheels while touring the F1 facility with NAHREP.

Buy photo: RL_090712_A.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com Buy photo: RL_090212_P.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com

Tiesa Hollaway of North American Title shows off the shoes collected during her company’s “Soothe Their Soles” Shoe Drive for the Round Rock Angel Heart Children Center.