in this issue…
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995™
• Austin Title End of Summer Bash • CRS Bimonthly Meeting • NAREB Monthly Meeting • ABoR Member Week • Century Communities Headshots • and much, much more!
Associates in Progress
TM
Are you ready for CFPB? Page 9
Page 25 SEPTEMBER 2015 • VOLUME 20 • ISSUE 5
Are you networking effectively? Take our quiz By Riki Markowitz
I
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f you were forced to evaluate your professional networking abilities, would you give yourself a good grade? Ask yourself if you know the best time to trade business cards, or how soon after schmoozing you should call a potential client. Just because someone gave you his or her email address, does that it mean it’s OK to send a message once a week? What about twice a week? Networking “rules” are always changing and shifting as different generations become more dominant. No matter your age or how much time you’ve been in the workforce, it’s almost
guaranteed that you’re stumped about some basic networking principles. Realty Line spoke with a couple local agents about schmoozing do’s and don’t’s. Take our quiz right now and find out if you’re an effective networker. 1. Paid networking events are better for your career than free events. False. “I’ve made great contacts at informal events,” says Jason Crouch, CRS, broker/ owner at Austin Texas Homes. “There may be an exception, however, if the bar to attend is set at a higher level.” Chloe Chiang, REALTOR at Twelve Rivers Realty, agrees that free events have always been beneficial for her career, but adds that events sponsored by paid membership organizations, like Young Women’s Alliance or Young Men’s Business League, have regular and more focused attendees, which is important for a young agent just starting out looking to create professional alliances. 2. Never organize your own networking events – leave it to a professional. False. It’s a great opportunity to showcase your leadership skills to the community. Chiang, who is a relocation expert and avid exerciser and, once organized an event for other exercise enthusiasts and also a wine and cheese class for recruiters – a core
group that consistently sends her quality leads. Crouch, who likes smaller crowds, has hosted lunch and happy hour events with a few select clients. 3. Don’t swap business cards the moment you start chatting with someone. True. Waiting less than a few beats before asking to trade cards can seem like you’re collecting potential leads instead of building relationships. Crouch makes it a habit to ask for a card at the end of a chat. But Chiang says swapping cards mid-conversation works better for her. Having something to talk about that’s unrelated to work can help you stand out, like a nicely designed business card, for example. And for those who are bad at remembering names, you now have a cheat sheet in-hand. 4. A “busy” business card is too hectic. True. No one expert has a convincing argument for what information should absolutely go on a business card. A general guideline to follow is to lead with your strengths: list certifications, professional affiliations, or recent awards. Chiang believes a photo (with a big smile) is crucial because it helps people remember your face, but is adamant about leaving off social media URLs since they’re easy to find online.
5. Take notes after meeting someone. True. If you don’t take notes, says Crouch, “a few weeks later you will find yourself with a pile of cards from people you barely remember.” Chiang writes down everything from pet names to a favorite restaurant and whether the person likes concerts. These details are great conversation and e-mail starters. 6. Networking is serious. If you’re having too much fun, it can make you look bad. False. “While there are probably some people who want a “serious” agent, most of us like to work with people we like and trust,” says Crouch. “Having fun together can be a bonding experience.” Remember, though, the real estate business is fueled on reputation. “Getting drunk and acting like a fool will jeopardize that,” says Chiang. 7. Always put your phone away. True. Few people ever say it’s a good idea to check texts or messages while networking, yet, at these events, it’s not uncommon to see a sea of professionals engaging their phone in some way. Some people will feel you’re being rude by simply holding your phone while others have no problem with some phone activity, like glancing at the
Front Page: Continued on page 26
Upcoming Events Thursday, October 1 Thursday, September 17 AMBA Monthly Meeting WCR Breakfast "The Austin 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. - Austin Country Club Mortgage Report" Radio Live 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. , ABoR Thursday, October 8 NEW COMMUNITY: Bryson HBA TopGolf Networking Social Grand Opening VIP REALTOR Preview 3 to 6:30 p.m., TopGolf 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. - Leander Wednesday, October 14 AYREP Annual Charity Night ABoR: Realty Round Up 6 to 9 p.m. Zilker Clubhouse 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. - Palmer Event Center
Wednesday, October 21 CRS Bi-Monthly Meeting 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. - Westwood Country Club Wednesday, October 28 HBA Elected Officials Appreciation Night & BBQ Bash w/Special Guest Lt. Governor Dan Patrick - 6 to 9 p.m. Phillips Event Center More at www.myRealtyLine.com
2
September 2015
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Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
183 North - Balcones 13018 Research Blvd. Suite B Austin, Texas 78750 Tel: 512.346.3500 Fax: 512.346.7132
Barton Oaks 901 S. Mopac, Bldg. III Suite 100 Austin, TX 78746 Tel: 512.472.9231 Fax: 512.472.3101
Cedar Park - Parmer Lane 3009 Glacier Pass Lane Suite 102 Cedar Park, TX 78613 Tel: 512.690.2260 Fax: 512.727.6216
Round Rock - Crystal Park 2300 Greenhill Dr. Suite 210 Round Rock, TX 78644 Tel: 512.582.4900 Fax: 512.857.1148
183 North - Oak Knoll 12515-8 Research Blvd. Suite 120 Austin, Texas 78759 Tel: 512.795.8434 Fax: 512.795.9062
Buda/Kyle 205 Cimarron Park Loop Suite B Buda, TX 78610 Tel: 512.312.2611 Fax: 512.312.5114
Dripping Springs 333 Hwy 290 East Suite 375 Dripping Springs, TX 78620 Tel: 512.894.3060 Fax: 512.894.3260
Round Rock - Sam Bass 2007 Sam Bass Rd. Suite 100 Round Rock, TX 78681 Tel: 512.244.2946 Fax: 512.238.0574
360 3600 B Capital of TX Hwy. Suite 110 Austin, TX 78746 Tel: 512.328.3596 Fax: 512.328.0190
Cedar Park - Quest Pkwy 900 Quest Pkwy Suite B Cedar Park, TX 78613 Tel: 512.343.4168 Fax: 512.343.4169
Georgetown - University 950 W. University Suite 205 Georgetown, TX 78626 Tel: 512.930.0500 Fax: 512.930.0577
South MoPac 1801 S. MoPac. Suite 250 Austin, TX 78746 Tel: 512.306.1120 Fax: 512.306.0104
6th & Lamar 524 N. Lamar Suite 200 Austin, TX 78703 Tel: 512.472.8421 Fax: 512.478.6038
Cedar Park - Cypress Creek 1903 Cypress Creek Rd. Suite 102 Cedar Park, TX 78613 Tel: 512.331.9647 Fax: 512.331.0251
Lake Travis - 620 1313 RR 620 S. Suite 100 & 101 Austin, TX 78734 Tel: 512.263.5651 Fax: 512.263.5800
Wimberley 13210 RR 12 Bldg. A, Suite B Wimberley, TX 78676 Tel: 512.847.5555 Fax: 512.847.3009
See us at any of our convenient Central Texas locations or visit us online!
www.gracytitle.com
Partnerships Built on Trust
Lake Travis - Lohmans 1921 Lohmans Crossing Rd. Suite 200 Austin, TX 78734 Tel: 512.261.7819 Fax: 512.261.7829
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Austin Board of REALTORS®
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President’s Column By Barb Cooper • 2015 President
www.myRealtyLine.com taxes and protect your home from additional taxes – saving you an average of $120 a year. You can be part of the effort to decide whether to amend the Texas Constitution and increase the homestead exemption up to $25,000 total
September 2015
and permanently ban real estate transfer taxes. Help your clients save some money and preserve the strength of our housing market. You can learn more about the ballot measure at TexansForProp1.com. RL
ABoR Academy Educational Courses Sep 21: Professional Standards for REALTORS (TREC # 03-00-027-28212) Sep 21: Know Your Code, Articles 2-3 (TREC #: 01-00-125-26592)
2015 rolls along...
T
he year continues to fly by, and I’m excited to see what the final few months of 2015 have in store. Here are a few events you’ll want to mark your calendars for!
Register for Realty Round Up FREE Registration for the 2015 Realty Round Up trade show is currently open. Walk the red carpet with over 2,000 real estate professionals for FREE by registering at ABoRRoundUp. com by Oct. 6. There will be a cost at the door, so register now and make sure you block off Wednesday, Oct. 14. Whether you’re a REALTOR, affiliate, or somewhere in between, Realty Round Up is the best chance of the year to showcase your business. We’ll also be hosting a special Annual Meeting at this year’s event. It’s the perfect chance to engage with your leadership and hear about the topics that impact the Association and your business. While you’re registering at ABoRRoundUp.com, check out the rest of the schedule to find the high-profile net-
Sep 22: Know Your Real Estate Contracts (TREC #: 04-00-086-27526) Sep 22: Leasing 102, Best Practices for Lease Locating – South Office
working, keynotes, and education you won’t want to miss!
Sep 22: Agent Investor 101 (TREC #: 04-00-086-27526)
The ABoR Foundation Raffle is back!
Sep 23: Green MLS: The Key to Unlocking the Green Home Market (TREC #: 03-00-066-27366)
And it’s better than ever. The annual fundraiser, which helps support the Central Texas community via scholarships, a Habitat for Humanity home build, and disaster relief, now offers you the chance to win one of three great prizes. For just $50 per ticket, you could win a brand-new Mazda 6, a Harley-Davidson Sportster bike, or a $1,000 VISA gift card. Not only that, but if you buy four tickets, you get a fifth one for free! You can join the Foundation’s effort by visiting ABoR.com/Foundation to purchase your tickets. Hurry, only 2,500 tickets will be sold!
ABoR supports Proposition 1 Voting season will be here before we know it, and there’s an important item on the agenda: Proposition 1 – the Homeowner Relief Proposition. This election season, ABoR supports Proposition 1, which would cut property
Sep 22: TREC Legal Update (TREC #: 03-03-125-26392)
Sep 23: Agent Investor 102 (TREC #: 04-00-067-28995) Sep 24-25: Accredited Buyer Representative (TREC #16-00-095-26024) Sep 28: Leasing 102, Best Practices for Lease Locating Sep 28: Agent Responsibility (TREC #: 03-00-077-28921) Sep 29: Business Planning and Goal Setting for REALTORS® (TREC #: 03-00-105-26401) Sep 30: Top 10 Secrets to Protect RE as an Investment (TREC #:04-00-077-29131) Oct 5:
Home Loans for Veterans (TREC #:02-00-037-28449)
Oct 5:
(TREC #:01-00-047-28632)
TX Vet: Housing and Land Loan Program
More at www.ABoR.com/courses
Your Austin
Trusted Advisors Team Solid, SophiSticated SaleS Support
Sarah Tallman
Veda Jablan
Julie Kuntz
Tiesa Hollaway
l a k e way
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westlake
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phone
737.247.3842
phone
512.795.9755
phone
phone
512.920.0316
Denise Vincent
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Lee Ann Ray
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westlake
round rock
georgetown
phone
512.795.9755
phone
512.328.3794
phone
www.firstamaustin.com ©2015 First American Financial Corporation and/or its affiliates. All rights reserved. | NYSE: FAF
First American Title Insurance Company, and the operating divisions thereof, make no express or implied warranty respecting the information presented and assume no responsibility for errors or omissions. First American, the eagle logo, First American Title, and firstam.com are registered trademarks or trademarks of First American Financial Corporation and/or its affiliates. TX - 07/2015
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512.942.6556
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September 2015
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Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
Wow! Check this BBQ Sandwich out from the Slab BBQ truck. Tom Britton of 3-Men Movers just had to check it out while he attended ABoR’s Member Week.
Buy photo: RL_090515_A.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
Farin Farzaneh of Aesta Properties and Mark Minchew of RE/ MAX Austin Skyline get “the good seats” with a view of the lake at the Austin Title End of Summer Bash at Abel’s on the Lake.
Buy photo: RL_090615_G.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
Jill Smith, Natasha Puccio and Laura Lee, all of Patten Law Firm, celebrate the grand opening of the company’s new Avery Ranch office. Buy photo: RL_080415_H.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
Buy photo: RL_080715_E.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
ABoR’s Beth Helberg thanks Patricia Wagner of DHI Mortgage for her help throughout the years. Patricia has served on a number of committees and helped plan a variety of meetings and events for many years. RL found them doing what they do best at the TAR Mega Region Meeting at the ABoR headquarters.
REGISTER TO ATTEND October 14, 2015
Realty Round Up
1 day, 2,000 real estate professionals. Will you be there? Register at ABoRRoundUp.com
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
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September 2015
5
A great new neighborhood is coming to Hutto!
BE READY
We’ve put the finishing touches on some innovative new-home designs, and in a few short months, we’ll be rolling out the red carpet at Villas at Star Ranch in Hutto. Beautiful new homes. A great new neighborhood. Get ready—KB Home is coming.
Villas at Star Ranch in Hutto Coming Soon • 1,315–2,708 sq. ft., 3–6 bdrms., 2–4 baths • convenient to Dell and other major employers • master-planned community with pool and park; planned park with putting green • golf course homesites available Winterfield Dr. and Silkstone St., Hutto, TX 78634 From Hwy. 130, exit Gattis School Rd. heading west. Turn right on Winterfield Dr. to community on the right. (888) 524-6637
Broker Cooperation Welcome. ©2015 KB Home (KBH). No affiliation or sponsorship is intended or implied with Dell, and all trademarks are owned by the trademark owner. 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. HOA applies. Future development of planned amenities is subject to change and not guaranteed. Photo may depict upgraded landscaping/options and may not represent lowest-priced homes. See sales representative for details. AUS-21153
6
September 2015
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Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
ABoR staff Shirley Williams and Gina Willemsen thank Gordon Gorycha of The Gordon Company for teaching the contracts class during ABoR’s Member Week.
Buy photo: RL_090115_C.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
Gary Cocanougher of ERA Colonial Real Estate, Reba Saxon and Suzanne Gantner of Sky Realty attend the TAR Mega Region meeting at the ABoR office.
Buy photo: RL_090615_J.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com Buy photo: RL_080415_F.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
We are
growing to better support your business
Welcome our newest Mortgage Loan Originator,
SHALANDA SMITH She is excited to be a part of our team and looks forward to providing new opportunities for clients.
DHI Mortgage customers enjoy: • • • •
Local teams work with you face-to-face Personal service for your clients Competitive interest rates Convenient online prequalification
Shalanda Smith
Mortgage Loan Originator, NMLS #554554
www.dhimortgage.com
10700 Pecan Park Blvd., Suite 200 Austin, TX 78750 Direct: 512-257-5541 | Cell: 512-348-9950 Efax: 866-364-7647 SDSmith@dhimortgage.com www.dhimortgage.com/shalanda-smith
Financing offered by DHI Mortgage Company, Ltd. 10700 Pecan Park Blvd., Suite 200, Austin, TX 78750. Branch NMLS #38686. Company NMLS #14622. DHIM is an affiliate of D.R. Horton. For more information about DHIM and its licensing please visit www.dhimortgage.com/affiliate/. Provided for informational purposes only. This is not a commitment to lend. Not all borrowers will qualify. REV: 08/21/15 | EXP: 08/21/16
A Big Welcome to
Michael and Shelly Kelly, both of RE/MAX 1, have a night out with Austin Title at the company’s End of Summer Bash at Abels on the Lake.
Our Newest
Loan Officer Cameron Phelps
Loan Officer NMLSR # 1381594 Mobile: 909-921-5712 Office: 512-334-1083 (81092) Cphelps@starkeymtg.com
A Solid, Proven, and Committed Lender!
WR Starkey Mortgage, LLP NMLSR# 2146 | 807 Las Cimas Pkwy., Suite 150, Austin, TX 78746 | This is not a guarantee of financing. All borrowers must meet certain underwriting guidelines and credit criteria. Rules and Regulations may apply.
austin
Williamson County Assoc. of REALTORS®
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President’s Column By Jack Stapleton • 2015 President
A Central Texas MLS?
P
art of our duty in Association leadership is to continually explore new and innovative ideas that will help our members achieve their goals and maximize their income. The MLS is the single biggest piece of technology REALTORS have in their toolbox and it is critical that our MLS solution be continually reviewed to ensure we are recommending the best state of the art technologies for both the short term and long term needs of our Members. Earlier this year, the Williamson County Association of REALTORS was approached by Temple-Belton Board of REALTORS along with Bryan-College Station Regional Association of REALTORS and Fort Hood Area Association of REALTORS to discuss a powerful and innovative concept of consolidating MLS systems while keeping their Associations intact with the premise focused around consolidating MLS systems and not the local Associations/Boards. The goal of the initial meeting was to discuss the possibilities of a regional MLS, its benefits, and to ascertain if the
conversation had enough interest and merit to warrant a second meeting. This half-day ground breaking conversation took place at the Texas Association of REALTORS offices in Austin, Texas with all four boards present and facilitated by Kevin McQueen, CEO of Focus Forward. Mr. McQueen was the chosen facilitator as he specializes in the unique niche business of merging MLS systems while most facilitators in the field specialize in Association mergers, which was not a topic on the agenda for discussion. Mr. McQueen opened the meeting stating eighty-nine Associations dissolved or merged last year, and 50 MLS systems consolidated while maintaining their local Association identity and autonomy. Kevin offered “The information age has rapidly changed the way we do business. This is our chance to be a part of the future shaping of our industry, versus waiting to be part of someone else’s vision.” Mr. McQueen concluded this historic meeting with the following thoughts; “Your Association's have only three options. (1) Do nothing
www.myRealtyLine.com and maintain the status-quo, (2) Merge your Associations, or (3) Partner-up with other like-minded leaders to create a larger regional MLS" as major industry MLS changes are taking place and the smaller MLS’s will have a harder time weathering the storm. Each Association's leadership took the conversation back to their boardrooms. Since then, three subsequent meetings have taken place, the most recent being on August 26th. The interest has widened to include eight Associations with the inclusion of the Austin Board of REALTORS, South Central Board of REALTORS, Highland Lakes Association of REALTORS and Four Rivers Association of REALTORS. Bringing the total count of boards to eight. A Central Texas Regional MLS would add substantial value to Central Texas REALTORS and brokerage offices. There are currently several other regional MLS’s in Texas. The largest being the North Texas Real Estate Information Systems, Inc. (“NTREIS”) that has been extremely successful and co-owned by 15 North Texas Associations: Abilene, Arlington, Collin County, Ellis Hill, Granary, Denton, Fort Worth, Lewisville, Greater Metro West, Texoma, Heartland, Johnson County, Metorex, Montague, and Stephenville Associations’ of REALTORS. NETRIS provides MLS’s services to over 27,000 MLS subscribers, and over 6,000 real estate offices. Currently, brokerage offices must first subscribe to the MLS prior to any REALTOR members in that office joining. This has been a significant expense for each brokerage office joining each individual MLS in order for its REALTOR members to have the option to subscribe and work in those markets. There is also incredible value in having all of our
THINKER
LEADER MOTIVATOR
GROUND BREAKER
©2015 RE/MAX, LLC. Each RE/MAX® office is independently owned and operated. As measured by total residential transaction sides. 150461
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September 2015
7
Central Texas listings and sold data being housed in one central database. This adds unprecedented value to REALTORS as the listing data would be accessible to a larger audience through our listing portals, the listing data would have to be entered only once across the entire region (no more tracking multiple MLS numbers and managing status changes across different MLS solutions and technologies). This greatly simplifies REALTORS day-to-day operations, simplifies syndication, improves data accuracy and integrity, and lowers Brokerage and Association costs. There is also an exciting benefit to appraisers as they too would benefit from joining only one MLS to have access to all of our Central Texas sold data giving them the tools they need to better and more accurately assess our Central Texas home values. Lockboxes across the region would be uniform, training and education would be simplified, and each Association would have a co-ownership interest in a much larger regional MLS with reduced expenses and increased resources to ensure our REALTOR members have access to cutting edge technologies and data to help ensure we are raising the bar of professionalism in our marketplace as to better assist our consumers and growing membership. The Williamson County Association of REALTORS will be hosting a Broker Breakfast in late September. Please check the website for further information. www.wcrealtors.org. In the meantime, if you have further questions or concerns, please contact the Association. RL
You don’t stretch limits. You shatter them. So why stay somewhere that restricts your business and withholds the independence you’re entitled to? We broke ground with our business model over four decades ago and we’ve never looked back. Find yourself at RE/MAX.
8
September 2015
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Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995
Buy photo: RL_090615_E.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
Brittany Morisson and Cheryl Scully, both of Austin Title, check in over 400 REALTORS and associates at the company’s End of Summer Bash at Abel’s on the Lake where Suede rocked the house.
NMLS #149932
Put your Trust in our Experience With over 100 years of combined industry experience, our executive team continues to take aggressive steps to innovate and improve the industry.
(512) 450-1222
4807 Spicewood Springs Rd., Bldg. 1, Ste 1100
Richie Rodriguez
Scott Sewell
rrodriguez@ hometrust.com
ssewell@ hometrust.com
sales manager
mihomes.com
vp production
NMLS #222698
NMLS #211987
Kyle Bierschwale kbierschwale@ hometrust.com
Bradley Rife
NMLS #1150439
Michael Snyder msnyder@ hometrust.com
sales manager
brife@ hometrust.com
NMLS #1102707
Lynn Edgar ledgar@hometrust.com NMLS #221412
NMLS #221487
Kelly McClanahan kmcclanahan@ hometrust.com NMLS #1180578
www.hometrust.com
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September 2015
CFPB
We Are Prepared... Are You? If you still have questions don’t worry
we’ve got answers!
Join us for a Lunch & Learn with John McClellan with Supreme Lending Thursday, October 1st at 12:00pm
Austin Title
9600 N. MoPac Expwy, Ste. 225 Austin, TX 78759
RSVP to jamie.iacobacci@austintitle.com
Becky Hopkins
becky.hopkins@austintitle.com 512-656-7095 Mobile
Jenny Newman
jenny.newman@austintitle.com 512-426-7865 Mobile
Cheryl Scully
cheryl.scully@austintitle.com 512-632-5136 Mobile
Leslie Linder
leslie.linder@austintitle.com 512-415-6706 Mobile
Pam Carroll
pamela.carroll@austintitle.com 214-738-9888 Mobile
Roxanne Ford
VP/Director of Business Development roxanne.ford@austintitle.com 512-771-1195 Mobile
Tina Fucile
tina.fucile@austintitle.com 512-789-7912 Mobile
Brittany Byrd Morrison
brittany.morrison@austintitle.com 512-751-0870 Mobile
Know before you close.
.
The New Closing Disclosur e Explained
re you close
Know befo
Changes
to the
Sunday
3
2 Three-day Non-hand (i.e. mail)
Delivery of
Closing Delivery of Occurs Disclosure
delivery period
Three-day
13
12
11
10
First day signing / closing may occur
Sunday not counted
Three-day
waiting period
Closing Disclosure
9
8 waiting cont.
7
6
5
4
First day disbursement may occur on most refinances
right of rescission
(Applicable
14
to most refinances)
What is the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau? Simple answers about the CFPB and how the new rules will change real estate transactions.
t
Waiting Period
Delivery Period
Monday
Tuesday
Preceding Thursday
Preceding Monday
Day
Wednesday
Preceding Friday
Preceding Tuesday
Preceding Wednesday
Preceding Monday
Preceding Thursday
Friday
Preceding Tuesday
Preceding Friday
Saturday
Preceding Wednesday
Preceding Saturday
NOTE: within the holiday falls Periods, • If a federal Waiting Delivery and/or business day. add an additional
period is measured three-day • The hours. Thus, by days, not must be delivered and disclosure before closing, three days prior to closing. not 72 hours be delivered may also • Disclosures to start the Delivery electronically be signed in may Period and with E-Sign compliance requirements.
Be able to explain the new Loan Estimate and Closing Disclosure
Act
the Closing Disclosure to the consumer, but creditors may use settlement agents to provide the Closing Disclosure,
On November 20, 2013 the CFPB announced the
completion of their new integrated mortgage disclosure
There is still a requirement for one Closing Disclosure for each loan and charge descriptions used on the Loan Estimate must be substantially similar to the descriptions used on the Closing Disclosure. This is so a consumer may easily identify a change in costs or terms by a comparison of the two forms.
forms along with their regulations (RESPA Regulation Š 2015 | Austin Title X and TILA Regulation Z) for the proper completion and
In plain English, please
timely delivery to the consumer. These regulations are
For more than 30 years, federal law has required all lenders apply for a mortgage and two additional short forms before
Act (TILA) and the Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act Title Group
Charge descriptions on both the Loan Estimate and Closing
(TILA)
disclosure and the HUD-1 Settlement integrating the mortgage loan disclosures under the TILA Statement.
and RESPA.
AT01_CDFEX_02_2015V1
Timing of closings are impacted by disclosure delivery rules Title fees may need to be adjusted at closing and explained Line numbers have been removed and there are now 7 fee areas Your client will likely receive more than one Closing Disclosure
known as “The Rule�. Any residential loan originated after October 3, 2015 will be subject to the new rules and forms set forth by the CFPB*. The Rule replaces the Good Faith Estimate (GFE) and early TILA form with the new Loan Estimate. It also
(RESPA). *Loans in progress (applications submitted prior to October 3, 2015) will use current TILA and RESPA forms.
1. Be able to explain the new Loan Estimate and the Closing Disclosure the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB). Among borrowers at both the beginning and end of their loan these two new combined forms. The Loan Estimate – Currently, borrowers receive two separate forms from their lender at the beginning of the transaction: the Good Faith Estimate (GFE), a form required
By now you have heard of CFPB, but the question still remains, “How will it impact me?� While CFPB will not your seller and buyer clients will be looking to you for general information about the new rules and forms, as well as the impact on both the loan process and the closing of the transaction.
Five Things Lenders Need to Know Before October 2015
under the Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act (RESPA), and the initial disclosure required under the Truth-in Lending Act (TILA). For loan applications taken on or after October 3, 2015 the creditor will instead use a combined Loan
Who will prepare the new Closing Disclosure? Who will deliver the Closing Disclosure? How will settlement agents and lenders communicate data? Who will make changes to the Closing Disclosure? How will settlement agents communicate title and settlement fees?
Changes to the new RESPA/TILA Mortgage Disclosure forms are just around the corner (October 3, 2015) and that means we need to work with our lender partners to determine processes for completing and delivering the new Closing Disclosure (“CD�) form. To get things started, here are some of the topics we would like to cover:
Estimate form intended to replace the two previous forms. The new three-page Loan Estimate form must be provided to borrowers on a timetable similar to the current receipt of
Š 2015 | Austin Title
the GFE.
Š 2015 | Austin Title Š 2015 | Austin Title
A Member of Fidelity National Title Group
befor
Accordi ng the answ to the Con er is sum NO for just er Fina about ncial Prot everybo ection Bure dy. au,
Straight talk about how we can have a smooth transition to the new CFPB regulations and the Closing Disclosures.
A few things we should talk about:
Five things to know:
situations consumers have often faced when purchasing Disclosure must match.
Thewith Closing Disclosure Protection Bureau (CFPB) and charged the bureau replaces the Truth-in-Lending
Better comparison shopping Avoid costly surprises at the closing table
they close on the home loan. These forms were developed
Fidelity National
New mortgage disclosure forms and how they change every transaction you work on after October 2015.
long
New form replaces the TILA and HUD-1 One Closing Disclosure is required for each loan
provided for the creation of the Consumer Financial
Improved consumer understanding
to provide two disclosure forms to consumers when they
Š 2015 |
The new form is 5 pages
t
To help simplify matters and avoid the confusing
Easier-to-use disclosure forms
Thursday
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Five Things Real Estate Agents Need to Know Before October
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A look at the different sections of the Closing and explanations of Disclosure each page.
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information regarding delivery, but some lenders, as a Š 2015 result of compliance concerns, may opt to deliver the CD | Austin
upon the decision regarding delivery.
Title
John Lockhart
john.lockhart@austintitle.com 512-589-5646 Mobile
Felisha Cockran
felisha.cockran@austintitle.com 936-371-3161 Mobile
Richard Ethridge
richard.ethridge@austintitle.com 512-784-5960 Mobile
Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have time for a class? Austin Title has a dedicated CFPB website with educational videos, handouts and sample forms to get you up to speed. http://www.austintitle.com/cfpb/
N AT I O N A L T I T L E G R O U P
Know before you close. Your CFPB readiness partner - ever y step of the way.
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Bobby Galvez of REMAX Heart of Texas and Beth Oliver of Beth Oliver Real Estate are all smiles after hearing Dr. Jim Gaines' rosy assessment of the Austin real estate market at the CRS bimonthly meeting at the Westwood Country Club.
Buy photo: RL_090315_B.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
Veda Jablan of First American Title, Elizabeth Manzutto of Austin Inspection Services and Christina Isaac of North American Title are feeling the appreciation at the ABoR Affiliate Appreciation Happy Hour.
Buy photo: RL_090215_B.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
Everybody has a good time with Suede at the Austin Title End of Summer Bash at Abel’s on the Lake.
Buy photo: RL_090115_H.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
ABoR’s Cynthia Lesko and Hem Ramachandran of Indus Realty are selling tickets for the ABoR Foundation for a Harley Davidson motorcycle.
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TESSERA ON LAKE TRAVIS FALL 2015 HOME TOUR
GAME DAY featuring: Home Tours | Stadium Snacks | Beverages | Prizes
SATURDAY SEPT 19 11am-7pm SHOW US YOUR TEAM SPIRIT AT 9316 TESSERA PARKWAY, LAGO VISTA, TX 78645
TOUR DATES FROM SEPT 19-20 & 26-27
www.TesseraOnLakeTravis.com
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Jeffrey Jungbauer and Thomas Perrin, both of Engel & Volkers Realty, make their way out to the food trucks for a tasty treat while attending ABoR’s Member Week event.
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ABoR Past President Bill Evans of Austin Real Pros gives his spiel to Paul Hilgers, ABoR’s CEO, on how everyone should give to TREPAC. To which Paul replied, “you’re preaching to the choir.”
Buy photo: RL_090115_B.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
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Century Communities
2015 Free MCE Course Series Planning for Next Year MCE Elective Course # 01-00-105-26163
Oct. 8, 2015 11:00 am – 12:00 pm Complimentary lunch following class.
Woodland Park 101 W. Red Bud Meadow Georgetown, Texas 78633
Presented by Sente Mortgage, Inc. | MCE Provider #9841 For more information and to register:
eventsTX@CenturyCommunities.com Sente Mortgage NMLS ID# 13211 | www.SenteMortgage.com 901 South MoPac, Building IV Suite 125, Austin TX 78746 | 512.637.9900
Sente Mortgage | NMLS ID# 132111 | www.SenteMortgage.com 901 South MoPac, Building IV Suite 125, Austin TX 78746 | 512.637.9900 Sente Mortgage is an Equal Housing Opportunity lender.
Susan Warren of Supreme Lending, Mary Beth Kamnetz of Pacestter Properties and Carol Ann Pevehouse of Lee Easter Realty, get the latest information on contracts at ABoR’s contracts class held during its Member Week.
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WCR members and officers get ready to hear from the group’s guest speaker at its monthly breakfast meeting at ABoR’s new offices. Pictured left to right are Ruby Johnson, Becky DeButts, David Teague, Amy Kobza and Patricia Wagner.
Buy photo: RL_090415_A.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
Everybody loves Suede. That’s exactly why Richard Ethridge, Emily Morris and Josh Williams, all of Austin Title, were on board when the company hired the band for the End of Summer Bash at Abels on the Lake.
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Risé Johns of Keller Williams Realty, Justin Hrabovsky and Tommy Nelms, both of United Lending, and Bill Watson of Keller Williams Realty are thrilled with the good news delivered by Dr. Jim Gaines of the Texas A&M Real Estate Center. Dr. Gaines praised Austin’s “hot market” at the bi-monthly CRS meeting at the Westwood Country Club.
Buy photo: RL_080415_K.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
ABoR President Barb Cooper introduces San Antonio Board of Realtors President Mary Ann Jeffers to ABoR members at the TAR Mega Region Meeting at ABoR’s offices.
Buy photo: RL_090315_C.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
PrimeLending Capital City Conventional, FHA, VA, USDA, & Jumbo to name only a few loan products!
Candy Buzan Branch Manager The Candy Buzan Team
Max Leaman Branch Manager The Leaman Team
Kim Nielsen Production Manager The Candy Buzan Team
Amy Bailey Oehler Production Manager The Leaman Team
Marie Cyr
Diane M. Clark
Missy Driskell
Jori Stern
Sherri Eckert
Amanda Stewart
The Leaman Team
The Leaman Team
The Leaman Team
Trudy Savage
Eiric Smith
Mary Kennedy
Two Great Locations! © 2015 PrimeLending, a PlainsCapital Company. PrimeLending, a PlainsCapital Company (NMLS: 13649) is a wholly owned subsidiary of a state-chartered bank and is an exempt lender TX V121013. NMLS 268025 (Clark), NMLS 179666 (Kennedy), NMLS 180066 (Driskell), NMLS 180854 (Savage), NMLS 151263 (Leaman), NMLS 225339 (Bailey), NMLS 177299 (Stern), NMLS 357516 (Eckert).
810 Hester’s Crossing, Suite 150 Round Rock, TX 78681 3724 Executive Center Drive, Suite 110 Austin, TX 78731
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TaKe Me Home
TOUR UWWWXWWVWXY jeeellmlkn SEPt. 19 & 20 I SEPt. 26 & 27 CraFtEd By tHE
d X P o WIN ENtEr t 9.27 to tour by t n e li C r u 0 Bring yo Win $1,00 o t r e t is g & re
11+ tаsтings, 9 models & Enter to win $1,000 • WIN a chance at $1,000 if you bring a client to tour • SIP at our wine tasting by Grape Creek Winery • TASTE local olive oil by Texas Hill Country Olive Oil • SNACK on light bites from all model homes • GROOVE to live music from 2-4pm • PLAY lawn games on the Great Lawn • And most importantly, HAVE FUN ALONG THE WAY
SaturdayS & SuNdayS 9.19r 9.27
New Homes
Ronald Reagan @ Hwy 29 libeRty Hill, tX. 78642
From THe $200 s - $700 s
512.201.8567 | SantaRitaRanCHHometouR.Com
Wine Tasting tasting
Tour To wiN
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2 tRoad u Bikes
798 Builders
CasTleroCk • DaviD weekley • GraND HaveN • HiGHlaND Homes • rylaND Homes • PulTe Homes • sCoTT FelDer Homes • wesTiN Homes • wilsHire Homes
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Live at your perfect pace.
grand opening vip realtor preview
D R I N KS
HEAVY APPETIZE RS
P RI Z E S
DE V E L O P E R P RE S E N TATI O N
BUILDER Q&A
TH U R SD AY, SEPT EM B ER 17, 20 1 5 4
PM
TO
6 PM
Join us to learn more about Central Texas’ newest community. At Bryson, you can connect to the excitement of Austin or reconnect to the calm of Mother Nature; experience a rural way of life while remaining plugged in to the modern world. Live fast. Live slow. Live at your perfect pace. From Austin take 183A north toward Leander. Bryson is located on the right hand side at Bryson Ridge Trail just past San Gabriel Parkway.
New homes from the $200s to $500s LiveAtBryson.com | 512-820-8306 D AVI D W EEKLEY HOMES
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September 2015
Movie night at the Belterra Pool.
Live the best of both worlds
Downtown movie night in Austin.
Welcome to Belterra, voted Austinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 2015 Master-Planned Community of the Year. Where you can enjoy Downtown movie night in Austin, just minutes away, or a one-of-kind poolside movie experience in your own community! At Belterra, we create the best of both worlds.
belterratexas.com / 512.301.5000 / New homes from the $300s to $700s
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Ken Biggers of Blessed Properties brings his guest Dorathy Thompson to the NAREB meeting to listen to the Greater Austin Black Chamber of Commerce President and CEO speak.
Buy photo: RL_080515_B.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
TAR and ABoR Director of the Board Joe Stewart, TAR CEO and President Travis Kessler and John Rosshirt of Stanberry & Associates get ready to get down to business at the TAR Mega Region Meeting.
Buy photo: RL_090315_F.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
Gena Hammonds and Sheri Taylor, both of Highland Lakes Real Estate, are excited to hear the legendary Dr. Jim Gaines of the A&M Real Estate Center give his thoughts on the Austin real estate market. The two attended the bi-monthly CRS meeting at the Westwood Country Club.
Buy photo: RL_080415_J.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
Need Help
Explaining the New Loan Estimate and Closing Disclosure to Your Client?
NAT HAS THE
North American Title Company has released a series of videos educating our customers about the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s new Loan Estimate and Closing Disclosure. In addition to specific videos for Lenders and Real Estate Agents about our preparations for the transition to the new forms, we created two videos that focus on the Loan Estimate and Closing Disclosure. The instructional videos provide you and your client an opportunity to take a “walk-through” of both forms. Each section of the forms is highlighted and explained. More importantly, the video shows how the two forms can work together to ensure your client is informed and prepared for the final closing or settlement.
Check out our videos today, at www.nat.com/NATTV/CFPB
New Closing Disclosure
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Working with Lenders
For Our Real Estate Agents
Empowering your homebuyers with the information they need to attend their closing or settlement with confidence will ensure a smooth and joyful experience for everyone. Check out all of our videos at www.nat.com/NATTV today and start your clients on the road to a successful closing with North American Title.
Your Closing Professionals NORTH AMERICAN TITLE COMPANY Like Clockwork ®
NORTH AUSTIN 5608 Parkcrest Drive Suite 150 Austin, TX 78731 t: 512.302.3892 www.facebook.com/Austin.NAT www.nat.com/Texas
RESEARCH 11044 Research Blvd. Bldg. D, Suite 100 Austin, TX 78759 t: 512.249.0576
ROUND ROCK 1 Chisholm Trail Suite 3100 Round Rock, TX 78681 t: 512.255.6550
SOUTH AUSTIN Grand Oaks Office Park 8700 Manchaca Road | Suite 102 Austin, TX 78748 t: 512.482.0851
©2015 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. | TX15-7739 TX 07-29-15
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Ann Marie-Sandlin of Ann Marie Sandlin Co. and Jay Brummett of Jay Brummett REALTORS attend the Women’s Council of REALTORS breakfast to hear the guest speaker discuss, “Seeing the Real in Realtor.”
Buy photo: RL_090415_B.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
Shannon Allen of Century Communities shows Charlie Hensen of Highland Lakes Real Estate the spacious model they have at Reagan’s Overlook. Charlie stopped by for a tour and a new headshot during the builder’s free headshot event for REALTORS.
Buy photo: RL_090115_D.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
Evelyn Meditz of Keller Williams Realty is all set to get the contracts class started with her laptop and phone ready to go. She attended ABoR’s Member Week.
Buy photo: RL_080315_C.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
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September 2015
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Austin CRS Chapter
President ‘s Column By Michelle Busby • 2015 President
N
Nailing your next client presentation
etworking effectively is a powerful tool in real estate. It can open doors to clients, mentors and strategic alliances. It’s also a learned skill. With a little preparation and a little practice, anyone can network effectively. 1. Do your homework. Before you head out the door, polish your LinkedIn profile. When your name is searched, LinkedIn ranks among the highest in Google’s search results. Your profile is your online persona and resume. Make sure it’s reflective of how you want others to see you. Order more business cards. Although we’re digital with many things, it’s always good to have something to put into a new contact’s hands. Practice your elevator pitch. In one sentence, what is it that you do? How do you want others to perceive you? Make it interesting, succinct and powerful.
2. Be curious. While it may have gotten the cat in trouble, it’s one of the most effective
networking secrets. Remember, networking is a two-way street. No selling. Just be curious. Ask questions, build rapport and learn about the other person. Practice the F.O.R.D. principle when you aren’t sure what to ask. F=Family, O=Occupation, R=Recreation and D=Dreams. People do business with people, and people will remember someone who’s genuinely interested in what they have to say. 3. Be a connector. Have a contact who could help someone you’ve just met? Be an everyday hero and make introductions. One of the most powerful networking opportunities is connecting others. 4. Host a post-event “huddle” with yourself. Take a few moments after the event to jot down what you learned about each person on the back of their business card. Your ability to remember details can also be your point of distinction. 5. Don’t be a card collector. Be a follow-up ninja. Meeting someone is the first step to networking effectively. A day after your
a e v a h u o Will y s? a m t s i r h C y r r e M
Productivity Coaching
Our New Agents in Coaching have earned over $1,000,000 this year, so far...
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To find out more about any of these programs contact: Avis Wukasch, avis@kw.com or Don H. Johnson, don_johnson@kw.com.
SOUTHWEST Diane Johnson Melanie Kennemann 448-4111
NORTHWEST Christi Davidson Brian Martin 346-3550
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Our culture
ROUND ROCK Avis Wukasch 255-5050
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meeting, send a follow-up email or make a follow-up call. Set a lunch date or book a 30-minute coffee appointment to learn more about who you’ve met. 6. Who do you already know? Look through your existing contacts and reconnect. Look for strategic partners or alliances with potential for mutually-beneficial business relationships. For instance, if you’re a real estate agent, who do you know that’s a CPA, a divorce attorney, an estate attorney or a mortgage lender? Clearly, you’ll be able to help one another in many ways. Approach them with an offer of value to help them in their business. Give, give, give, before any expectation of receiving. 7. Get out of the office. What things do you enjoy doing? Golf? A cooking class? Mentoring young people? Get out and do those things. Widen your sphere of influence and have fun doing it! 8. Give back. Get involved in community or volunteer projects. Serve on a non-profit board of directors. Meet people in different circles. Show others you care. 9. Good practice makes perfect. The more
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
you get out and meet people, the easier it becomes to network effectively. Whenever you feel timid, fall back on the F.O.R.D. principles and innate curiosity. If you’d like to move on from a long conversation at an event, politely say, “It’s been wonderful to meet and learn more about you. I’d better pop around and meet a few more people before the end of the evening.” Always be genuine. Always care about what others have to say. Looking for some great local opportunities to connect? We’d love to meet and learn more about you at our Certified Residential Specialist (CRS) luncheons that take place third Wednesday of every other month. Our next luncheon is at 11:30 a.m. on October 21st at Westwood Country Club. Come join us and put your effective networking skills to work! Check out our upcoming CRS courses: November 2-3 CRS 202: Buyer’s Sales - 15 CE Hours November 9 It’s a Price War to the Door 3 CE Electives Register online at abor.com/courses. RL
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September 2015
HOMES They’re Ready When You Are!
The Time Is NOW
Gorgeous floor plans to choose from!
Don’t delay! 6% Commission
*
Now through September 30 , 2015 th
on Inventory homes that close by November 30th, 2015
LENNAR.COM FOR REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONALS ONLY: In order to earn a broker co-op fee, broker must bring client into a Welcome Home Center and register them on the client’s first visit. No commission will be paid when agent/ broker is acting as a principal/buyer. Not valid if client has previously registered with Village Builders or Villagebuilders.com, whether individually or with a broker. Village Builders reserves the right to discontinue this program at any time. Other terms and conditions apply. See a New Home Consultant for more information. *Effective September 1, 2015, 6% commission will be paid on select inventory homes that sell between September 1, 2015 and September 30, 2015. Homes must close and fund by November 30, 2015. Contracts fully executed prior to September 1, 2015 are excluded. Not valid in conjunction with any other offer. Offer good for a limited time only. Village Builders makes no guarantee as to availability of homes stated above. While supplies last. Void Where Prohibited By Law. Copyright © 2015 Lennar Corporation. All rights reserved. Village Builders, the Village Builders logo are registered service marks or service marks of Lennar Corporation and/or its subsidiaries. (13649) 9/1/15
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ABoR President Barb Cooper and WCREALTORS President Jack Stapleton talk about what a whirlwind of a year its been leading region’s Boards of REALTORS. The two caught up at the TAR Mega Region Meeting held at ABoR’s office.
Buy photo: RL_080415_I.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
Alisa Stubbs, left, and Tiffany Stillwell, right, both of Patten Law Firm, welcome Cynthia Mattiza of Realty Austin to the company’s grand opening celebration of its new Avery Ranch office.
Buy photo: RL_080715_C.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
National Assoc. of Real Estate Brokers (NAHREB) Chapter President Robert Wright thanks Natalie Madeida-Cofield for speaking to the group. Natalie is president and CEO of the Greater Austin Black Chamber of Commerce.
Buy photo: RL_080315_D.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com Buy photo: RL_080515_F.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
Paula Gold of Stanberry & Associates finishes up a model home tour with Century Communities’ Karl Craigie in Reagan’s Overlook.
Drees Realtor Reward Programs Two Great Ways to Earn More with Drees Custom Homes We value the relationships we’ve developed with our Realtor partners. That’s why we offer two Realtor Rewards Programs. When you sell a Drees home between April 1, 2015 and March 31, 2016, you’ll be eligible to earn a 5% commission or be reimbursed 100% of your location fees. The choice is yours!
Drees Two-Step*
Relocation Reimbursement**
Sell two or more Drees Custom homes between April 1, 2015 and March 31, 2016 to receive an additional reward for each closing.
100% of your relocation fees will be reimbursed when you move your client into a new Drees Custom home.
1st closing
3%
commission
2nd closing & beyond
5%
commission
We’ll reimburse
OR
100 %
of your relocation fees
**Limitations apply, see a Drees Custom Homes Market Manager for more information and details.
dreeshomes.com
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CRS Austin Chapter President Michelle Busby thanks Dr. Jim Gaines of A&M Real Estate Center for his presentation about Austin’s “hot market”. Dr. Gaines was the guest speaker at the CRS bi-monthly meeting at Westwood Country Club. Buy photo: RL_090315_A.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
Patti Stevens of CSC Floors shows Mark Hairston of United Lending she has the upper hand in this game; pure child’s play! The two attended Member Week at the Austin Board of REALTORS.
Buy photo: RL_090215_A.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
Delana Goetz of Austin Title, Nancy Readon of Denton H Art and Dawn Kana of Stanberry and Associates enjoy the tunes by Suede at the Austin Title End of Summer Bash. Buy photo: RL_080215_G.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
Victoria Reviel of 98th Meridian Real Estate congratulates Alfred Engstrand of Alfred’s Catering on yet another exceptionally tasty meal for the WCR Breakfast meeting.
Buy photo: RL_090615_T.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
Home Loans. Made Easy. From start to finish, we do it all. Local Service. Local Knowledge. Local Lending. f
in
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VA, FHA, & CONVENTIONAL LOANS CONSTRUCTION LOANS
Stephanie Fredrickson Mortgage Consultant Georgetown 512.868.4170 extracobanks.com NMLS# 464139
FIXED & ADJUSTABLE RATES
Matt Morrow Branch Manager Georgetown 512.868.4170 extracobanks.com NMLS# 464148
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September 2015
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Barbara Core, back left, of Champions School of Real Estate reminds seasoned agents Chris Rodriguez of Chris Rodriguez Photography and Ruby Johnson of J. Stafford Group that they offer some of the best MCE courses in the region. Champions sponsored the NAREB meeting at ABoR.
Buy photo: RL_080515_A.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
Amber from Sprout Imagery gets Ron Jones’ best side while taking his new headshot at the Century Communities free headshot event at its model in Reagan’s Overlook.
Buy photo: RL_080715_B.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
Derrick Jones of Austin City Living brings his daughter Jordan along for a little fun at the Patten Law Firm Avery Ranch Office Grand Opening Celebration.
Buy photo: RL_080315_B.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
IS NOW
Host an Open House in our Community 512.745.9443 weloverealtors@centurycommunities.com
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Williams Dr.
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Lake Georgetown
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Leander
35
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31
Cedar Park
RR
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22
98
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110
Round Rock
Crystal Falls Pkwy
FM 14
Limmer Loop
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4
10
FM 14
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RR
FM 22
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Pflugerville
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9 10
35
Austin
1
7
290
12
150
Butler Ranch Rd
163
45
3. HERITAGE OAKS 4805 Big Bend Trail Georgetown, TX 78633 512.930.4005 HIGH $200s
9. ROUGH HOLLOW 303 Borgo Allegri Cove Lakeway, TX 78738 512.271.3823 LOW $400S
4. CRYSTAL FALLS 3203 Crystal Falls Parkway Leander, TX 78641 512.931.2800 LOW $500s
10. REAGAN’S OVERLOOK 2900 Vista Heights Leander, TX 78641 LOW $400S 512.271.3787
5. RIMROCK 1043 Arbor Canyon Pass Driftwood, TX 78612 512.354.1940 MID $400s
11. BLACKHAWK 20425 Martin Lane Pflugerville, TX 78660 512.271.3790 LOW $300S
6. AVALON 3805 Glastonbury Trail Pflugerville, TX 78660 512.271.3884 HIGH $200s
12. PEARSON PLACE AT AVERY RANCH 10105 Double Eagle Pass Austin, TX 78717 512.271.3855 LOW $400S
290
Bee Creek Pkwy
Dripping Springs
8. SIENA 7021 Leonardo Drive Round Rock, TX 78665 512.271.3785 LOW $200s
Rowe Lane
11 Kelly Lane
Lake Travis
Lakeway
1. WOODLAND PARK 101 W. Redbud Meadow Georgetown, TX 78633 512.930.4043 LOW $400s
Georgetown Ronald Reagan Blvd
or s Realt ut 29 o Liberty Hill a ask b S INCENTIVE
35
1826
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www.CenturyCommunities.com/Austin Century Communities is proud to be verified by the internationally-recognized LEED for Homes Green Building Program. A LEED-certified home is designed and constructed in accordance with the rigorous guidelines of the LEED for Homes green building certification program. LEED for Homes is a consensus-developed, third party verified, voluntary rating system which promotes the design and construction of high-performance green homes. Prices, plans, and features are subject to change without notice. Upgrade elevations may reflect a higher price. Photos are not necessarily reflective of current standard features. 08.27.2015
7. BUTLER RANCH 145 Lloyd Lane Dripping Springs, TX 78620 512.271.3784 LOW $400S
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25
indigenous wildlife, the natural environment of
Crescent Communities
the Belterra community provides an outdoor playground to suit every age, every personality and every mood,” says Wilberforce. “With a variety of distinctive programming that inspires
A S S O C I AT E S I N P R O G R E S S - A d v e r t i s e r P r o f i l e b y K a t i e B r o w n
F
or more than 50 years, Crescent Communities has created residential, commercial, multi-family, mixed-use and
resort developments aimed at cultivating a sense of community in each setting. To-
day, Crescent has grown to encompass 22 master-planned
communities,
15
multi-
family developments, and other communi-
and the Home Builders Association of Greater Austin, Belterra’s 1,600 acres boast ample outdoor space, four miles of trails, countless amenities and a wide range of housing options with diverse floorplans. Belterra, which residents include families and empty nesters, offers its residents the option to build a home on a builder’s
people to use the land to its fullest, Belterra brings this unique environment to life for its community members.” For families, Belterra is located within the prestigious Dripping Springs ISD, which is ranked the sixth best school districts of Central Texas. Belterra is also the home of the exemplary rated Rooster Springs Elementary, so the community’s younger residents are just a bike
ties across the mid-Atlantic, southeast and
Kandis Wilberforce, Marketing Manager
southwestern parts of the United States. In the Austin area alone, Crescent Communities has three master planned communities — Belterra in Dripping Springs, Rough Hollow in Lakeway and Bryson in Leander. Just minutes from downtown Austin, Belterra is one of Central Texas’ premier masterplanned communities. “Nestled in the rolling hills of Southwest Austin with creeks, wide
In the Austin area alone, Crescent Communities has three master planned communities—Belterra, Rough Hollow and Bryson.
open spaces and other natural features, Belterra’s open space provides the ideal haven for experiencing true outdoor living,” says Kandis Wilberforce, marketing manager for Crescent Communities. “Here, residents have access to excellent education, the authentic small-town feel of Dripping Springs and the culture and spirit of Austin.” Named the 2015 Master-Planned Community of the Year by the Austin Business Journal
lot or purchase an inventory home that is already built and ready for move in. Home prices range from $300,000 to $700,000. Additionally, Belterra’s outdoor amenities are highly sought after. “From exploring the extensive trail system and bonding at the edge of a fishing pond to laughing in the backyard and discovering the cliffs, springs, creeks and
ride away from school, and will soon have the opportunity to attend the much anticipated new middle school, also planned to be in Belterra's backyard. In addition to the new middle school, Belterra has big plans for the future. More neighborhoods and builders are coming onboard later this year, with nearly 400 lots remaining for de-
velopment. In Spring 2014, Belterra announced a partnership with Endeavor Real Estate Group to develop more than 90 acres of mixed-use commercial property, which will include shops, restaurants, office space, high-density residential and more. With construction beginning in early 2016, the 275,000-square-foot development will eventually contain retail, a medical facility, senior housing and a hotel. Wilberforce says Belterra’s detail-oriented design recognizes the importance of the little things in life, which truly enables its community members to define their own lifestyles. She says, “Belterra has a rock-and-roll attitude with rolling hills and peacefulness. Belterra is electric and independent. It’s warm and welcoming. It’s the community where residents get the most out of every element of this distinctive lifestyle.” RL
26
September 2015 Front Page: Continued
screen when a text comes through. Chiang mentions the importance of knowing your audience. Since you can’t possibly know what a stranger’s view is on cell phone etiquette, it’s best to stash your device in a pocket or a purse. If you can’t resist the pull of your phone, or are expecting an important call, take restroom breaks between conversations. 8. If someone is standing alone and not talking to anyone, it’s best to leave them be. False. It can be hard to strike up a conversation with people you don’t know, even at a networking event. Crouch suggests having two or three “pre-loaded” questions to break the ice. “Start by asking their name and what they do. If they’re networking, they do something – or want to do something.” 9. Don’t be pushy. After connecting with leads at a networking event, wait for them to call you first. False, resoundingly. “If someone shares their contact information with you, they have opened the door to further communication,” says Crouch. So as not to impose, the first thing Chiang does when she calls a potential client is ask how much time they have to talk. Crouch adds, “It’s not an opportunity to pester someone mercilessly. But rather, an opportunity to start a relationship.” 10. You should “friend” all new connections on social media a day or two after a networking event. True – mostly. Chiang says this is one of her go-to moves. She’ll start a friend request with a question or recommendation based on notes she jotted down from the previous evening. (“The dog park near Riverside
is great for large and small dogs!”) How can you tell when it’s OK to connect on social media? If an individual’s Facebook, Twitter or Instagram are locked or has few followers, it’s likely they’re not interested in combining their business and personal life.
Always be prepared Now that you know what to do and what not to do when at a networking event, you also want to be sure that you are prepared the next time you’re planning to shake hands and exchange business cards. According to the Network After Work blog, if you want to guarantee you’re well prepared for any planned or impromptu networking event, you should have these items handy at all times: • Business cards: Keep a stack in your car, workbag, gym bag, and stash a few in your wallet and keep them updated. • Pen: You never know when someone is going to ask for information that’s not on your business card. Also, writing a personal note will help make you stand out. • Breath mints: Don’t trust that your employees will tell you they can still detect the Italian sandwich you had for lunch. • Money: Offering to buy a round is a great way to keep the conversation going. Be sure to ask permission first. Ultimately, socializing in large groups is not for everyone. But it is the best way to open your professional social circles and meet a group of new people at one time. So if you want to establish or maintain a good reputation around town, you will need to show up to at least one or two professional networking events every few months. By following the suggestions outlined here, you’re bound to make a good impression on colleagues and clients. And you may even have some fun. RL
Let Cadence Bank help grow your business! At Cadence, we are committed to delivering you competitive 2nd lien rates and the highest quality service in the industry. Cadence Bank offers: • •
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Loans are subject to credit approval. Cadence Mortgage is a division of Cadence Bank, N.A.NMLS# 525022
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Contributing Writers: Riki Markowitz, Katie Brown, Naomi Bludworth
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Columnists: Barb Cooper, Jack Stapleton, Michelle Busby Submission Guidelines: Submit photos, press releases and calendar items to naomi@myrealtyline.com. All photos must be at least 300 dpi and include a caption with first/last name and company affiliation. Press releases must be fewer than 300 words. Non-advertisers submitting calendar items will be charged $25 per submission. All submissions must be received at least seven calendar days prior to ad copy deadlines published at www.myrealtyline.com/blog/advertise.html. Submission items will be included as space allows. Realty Line Austin is published monthly by Caxton Publications, Inc.© as a non-subscription publication for the more than 8,000 members of the Austin Board of REALTORS®(ABoR), the more than 1,500 members of the Williamson County Association of REALTORS® (WCREALTORS) and the Home Builders Association (HBA) of Greater Austin. Realty Line Austin is printed on recycled paper. Realty Line Austin is a proud member of the Austin Board of REALTORS®, the Williamson County Association of REALTORS®, the Home Builders Association (HBA) of Greater Austin and is a honorary member of the Women’s Council of REALTORS. Realty Line Austin is not responsible for opinions or facts expressed by non-staff writers or for errors and any by-products in advertising or editorial copy. REALTOR® is a registered trademark. The word REALTOR® sometimes appears in this publication without the registered trademark symbol (®) for the purpose of saving space. Wherever the word REALTOR® appears in this publication, the registered trademark should be assumed.
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WE’VE EXPANDED EVEN MORE...
Introducing our brand new office!
September 2015
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Patten Law Firm
A Closing Office for Texas American Title Company
Raising the Bar for Closing Services
T: 512.241.1818 | www.PLFPC.com
A huge THANK YOU to everyone who participated in this year’s TopGolf Tee Off For Tykes! Together we were able to raise $28,000 for the Austin Children’s Services!
LOCATED AT THE SHOPS AT AVERY RANCH Avery Ranch Office: 10526 W. Parmer LN Ste 421 Austin, TX 78717
Great Hills Office: 9600 Great Hills Trl Ste150E Austin, TX 78759
Davenport Village Office: 3801 N. Cap. of TX Hwy Ste J-120 Austin, TX 78746
T: 512.241.1818 | www.PLFPC.com
www.myRealtyLine.com Mandatory Continuing Education Courses (MCE) Stay current with the latest technology, trends in the market and real estate laws with Champions School of Real Estate MCE courses. Make sure you know how the industry is changing and satisfy your MCE requirement today.
15-Hour Online MCE
79
$
Salesperson Apprenticeship Education Courses (SAE) Salesperson Apprenticeship Education courses are the first step to maintaining your real estate license and furthering your real estate education. Our 30-hour core SAE courses help you not only keep your Texas real estate license active but also helps to focus your real estate education to improve your career.
Marketing 1 Two-day Course, 30-hour elective SAE
✓ Accessible from any connection ✓ Instructor support ✓ Instant results ✓ Live customer service
✓ Self-paced, no timer ✓ Saves your place while testing ✓ Courses never expire ✓ Downloadable PDF books
This course is about the fundamentals of real estate marketing which will serve the sales agent throughout their career, and be a determining factor in their success.
15-Hour Classroom MCE
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Sep 28 - 29
✓ Flexible class schedule ✓ Questions answered in real-time ✓ Commit to completing your class for credit
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Purchase the 90-hour Program, Save $40!
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3203 S I-35 Ste 520, Round Rock, TX 78664 - Located at I-35 & 45 Toll Road Ethics 03-03-125-26393; Legal 03-03-125-26392; Hottest 03-00-066-26967; Broker: 06-06-124-24214
$425
Includes three 30-hour SAE classes
Real Estate
ChampionsSchool.com/Austin
$155
Mon/Tues, 8:30 AM - 4:45 PM
Designations
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September 2015
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So we think it was this duo's sneaky idea to have food trucks at ABoR’s member week just so they could have ‘round-the-clock snacks—not a bad idea! Lindsey Carter and Will Burnham, both of ABoR, sneak out from the office for a treat.
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New WCR members Pat Black-Georgens, Leigh Hillard and Liz Sullivan, all of Keller Williams Realty are at the cusp of reaping the networking benefits of the Women’s Council of REALTORS. Don’t let the name fool you, men can join too!
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Sandy Urias of Farmers Insurance and David Burton of Horizon Realty rub elbows with ABoR President Barb Cooper at ABoR’s Affiliate Appreciation Happy Hour
Austin American Statesmen Best Places to Work 2014 + 2015 Fastest Growing Companies in Central Texas
Congrats to Our Newest Team Members!!!
Glen McMullin Damon Rogers
Emily Vaughn Greg Vassaur
www.homecity.com 512.750.2294
Lauren Tindal
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Real Estate News & Notes Inc. names Willow Bend Mortgage among 2015’s Fastest Growing Private Companies for third consecutive year Willow Bend Mortgage has been named one of 2015's fastest growing privately owned businesses on the Inc. 5,000 for the third year in a row. Willow Bend Mortgage is thrilled to add this honor to its growing list of accolades collected over the past few years. As a 2013, 2014 and 2015 winner, Willow Bend Mortgage shares a pedigree with Intuit, Zappos, Under Armour, Microsoft, GoPro, Timberland, Clif Bar, Patagonia, Oracle, and other notable alumni. “For 34 years, Inc. has welcomed the fastestgrowing private companies in America into a very exclusive club,” stated Eric Schurenberg, Editor in Chief of Inc. magazine. “On average, the companies on this list have grown almost sixfold over the past three years. That's a result
most businesses could only dream of." Willow Bend Mortgage has grown 54 percent since 2012 and currently employs approximately 136 loan officers responsible for successfully originating over 2,100 loans valued over $482 million over the past 12 months alone. The company is not new to the news circuit, with past acknowledgments including individual employees selected as Best Mortgage Professionals from D Magazine for 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014 and 2015, Dallas 100 Award for 2011, Comerica Collin 60 Award 2011, and Collin County Business Press Celebration of Enterprise 2011. To see Willow Bend Mortgage’s company profile on Inc. 5,000 go to www.inc.com/profile/willow-bend-mortgage-company. RL
Realty Austin wins ABJ's No. 1 Best Places to Work Realty Austin wins No. 1 Best Places to Work in Central Texas for the second consecutive year. The company’s fun culture, tireless innovation, and its mission of giving back to the community were noted as why Realty Austin was named as the No. 1 Best Places to Work 2015. Yvette Boatwright, co-owner of Realty Austin said, “Fun and work are not mutually exclusive at Realty Austin. Our team of agents and our incredible staff truly make our company the best place to work. We work hard, play hard, and make it a priority to give back to the community.”
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Century Communities now building in Blackhawk in Plugerville Century Communities, which acquired Jimmy Jacobs Homes in 2013, is now crafting quality homes in the family-friendly community of Blackhawk in Pflugerville, TX. This community is located near the booming hightech industry, two unique shopping centers, and restaurants as well as having a vibrant culture with a neighborly feel. Our homes are located in one of the best school districts in Texas, with resort-style amenities such as golf courses, swimming pools, splash pads, parks, playgrounds, and more. Our homes are investments where memories are made, families are raised, and stories begin to unfold. Our mission is to create thriving, enduring neighborhoods by building new homes with impeccable quality, integrity and lasting value. Century Communities homes are a step above the rest with our standard features and attention to detail. We have taken energy efficiency a step further. In addition to our ENERGY STAR certified homes, we go the extra
mile to ensure that our homes meet EcoSmart standards, meaning each of our newly built Century Communities homes are LEED certified. Our homes are certified with the U.S. Green Building Council and to back that up we also guarantee heating and cooling costs for two years. We encourage our REALTOR partners to host an open house in one of our finely crafted completed inventory homes in any of our communities to experience the Century difference. We love partnering with realtors and have up to 5 percent REALTOR commissions on selected inventory homes. You may schedule an Open House by emailing weloverealtors@centurycommunities.com and specifying “Open House Request” in the subject line. We would love to see you at our Blackhawk community Grand Opening in October. To join our interest list and be kept up to date on our newest community please send an email to weloverealtors@centurycommunities.com. 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.
The Austin Business Journal’s Best Places to Work list identifies the top workplaces in Central Texas. Companies are ranked in four categories using criteria by an independent rating agency. RL
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HOMES They’re Ready When You Are!
The Time Is NOW Designer Floor Plans Available!
Don’t delay! 6% Commission
*
Now through September 30, 2015 on Inventory homes that close by November 30th,2015
LENNAR.COM FOR REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONALS ONLY: In order to earn a broker co-op fee, broker must bring client into a Welcome Home Center and register them on the client’s first visit. No commission will be paid when agent/ broker is acting as a principal/buyer. Not valid if client has previously registered with Lennar or Lennar.com, whether individually or with a broker. Lennar reserves the right to discontinue this program at any time. Other terms and conditions apply. See a New Home Consultant for more information. *Effective September 1, 2015, 6% commission will be paid on select inventory homes that sell between September 1, 2015 and September 30,2015. Homes must close and fund by November 30, 2015. Contracts fully executed prior to September 1, 2015 are excluded. Not valid in conjunction with any other offer. Offer good for a limited time only. Lennar makes no guarantee as to availability of homes stated above. Please see your New Home Consultant and home purchase and sale agreement for actual features designated as an Everything’s Included® feature, additional information, disclosures, and disclaimers relating to your home and its features. †The information from Builder 100 is used or reprinted with permission of Hanley Wood Media,Inc. Void Where Prohibited. Copyright©2015 Lennar Corporation. All rights reserved. Lennar, the Lennar logo, Next Gen® - The Home Within A Home®, the Next Gen® logo and the Everything’s Included® logo are registered service marks or service marks of Lennar Corporation and/or its subsidiaries. (13648) 9/1/15
†
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September 2015
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And for the big reveal, Brian Adair and Tiffany Stillwell, center, both of Patten Law Firm, get ready to cut the ceremonial ribbon at the company’s grand opening celebration of its new Avery Ranch office.
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Austin Title’s own John Lickhart plays in Austin’s favorite band, Suede! The band played at Austin Title's End of Summer Bash.
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Shara Parker of Realty Austin and Patrick Dixson of Private Label Realty give the ABoR Contracts class a thumbs up.
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As president of the National Association of Real Estate Brokers Austin Chapter, Robert Wright of R. Wright Realty starts the meeting, which was held in the auditorium at ABoR’s new offices.