A U S T I N S P O T L I G H T OCTOBER 2020
C O N T E N T S
06 16 18 TROY SCHLICKER
REAL ESTATE RELOCATION GUIDE: 7 STEPS TO A SEEMLESS MOVE More people are relocating than ever. Here are 7 steps to make that stressful transition as smooth as possilbe.
TROY SCHLICKER
4 FUN THINGS TO DO IN AUSTIN THIS MONTH
Check out these 4 options for enjoying Austin and our great fall weather.
CAITLIN JOHNSON
12 AUSTIN BREWPUBS
Fill up with with delicious craft beer and foot at these 12 Austin Brewpubs.
C O N T E N T S
28 36 38 TROY SCHLICKER
5 SECRETS BUYERS & SELLERS MUST KNOW ABOUT VIRTUAL HOME TOURS Virtual home tours are the popular things right now, but that doesn't mean they're the only option for buying and selling.
TROY SCHLICKER
TIPS TO START YOUR WORKOUT ROUTINE 5 Tips to help you get back into your workout routine.
BRYNNA CONNOR, M.D.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT BENZODIAZEPINES
While benzodiazepines work well for some people in certain situations do that mean their are right for you?
C R E D I T S Photo Credits Kevin McCutcheon on Unsplash Adeolu Eletu on Unsplash Vera Davidova on Unsplash gryffyn on Unsplash Jonathan J. Castellon on Unsplash Solen Feyissa on Unsplash Engin Akyurt on Unsplash Fayatri Malhotra on Unsplash Annie Spratt on Unsplash Terricks Noah on Unsplash Afif Kusuma on Unsplash Gustavo Padron Fabian Moller on Unsplash Mark Adriane on Unsplash Siniz Kim on Unsplash Kelly Sikkema on Unsplash Thomas Park on Unsplash I Live Here I Give Here Glenn Carstens-Peters on Unsplash Karolina Grabowska from Pexels Jason Briscoe on Unsplash Austin Distel on Unsplash Matt Ragland on Unsplash Konstantinos Eleftheriadis from Pexels Tina Witherspoon on Unsplash
A U S T I N S P O T L I G H T INSIGHTS AND STOREIS
October in Austin means the start of cooler weather, UT football games and ACL Festival. While some of those things look different this year it's still a welcomed relief from the summer heat and sense that things are getting back to a normal routine. Whether things are normal or we're simple very good at adapting this issue provides some things to help keep your lives more normal.
Troy Schlicker
Whatever your reasons are for relocating to a new area, the process can feel overwhelming. Whether you’re moving across town or across the country, you’ll be changing more than your address. Besides a new house, you may also be searching for new jobs, schools, doctors, restaurants, stores, service providers and more. Of course you’ll need to pack, make moving arrangements, and possibly sell your old home. With so much to do, you may be wondering: Where do I start? In this guide, we outline seven steps to help you get prepared, get organized, and get settled in your new community. Our hope is to alleviate the hassle of relocating— so you can focus on the exciting adventure ahead!
1. Gather Information If you’re unfamiliar with your new area, start by doing some research. Look for data on average housing prices, demographics, school rankings and crime statistics. Search for maps that
illustrate local geography, landmarks, public transportation routes and major interstates. If you’re moving across the country, research climate and seasonal weather patterns. Check out local newspapers and blogs for information on political issues and developments that could impact your new community. You may also want to search for online forums and Facebook Groups relevant to your new area. These can be a great place to find information, ask questions and just observe local attitudes and outlooks. If you’re relocating for a job, find out if your new employer offers any relocation assistance. Many large corporations have a designated human resources professional to assist employees with relocation efforts, while others may contract this service out to a third party. Some employers will also cover all or a portion of your relocation and moving costs. By gathering this information up
front, you’ll be better prepared to make informed decisions down the road. Reach out to a trusted real estate advisor or look for a referral to assistance with your information gathering process. A local Realtor will have a wealth of knowledge about this area, and they keep a number of reports and statistics on file. They would be happy to share information and answer any questions you may have.
2. Identify Your Ideal Neighborhoods Once you’ve sufficiently researched your new area, you can start to identify your ideal neighborhoods. The first step is to prioritize your “needs” and “wants.” Consider factors such as budget; commute time; quality of schools; crime rate; walkability; access to public transportation; proximity to restaurants, shopping, and place of worship; and neighborhood vibe. If possible, visit the area in person
to get a feel for the community. If you’re comfortable, strike up conversations with local residents and ask about their experiences living in the area. Still not sure which neighborhood is the best fit for you and your family? Contact a local real estate agent for expert assistance. It’s usually the most efficient and effective way to narrow down your options. A local real estate advisor will provide neighborhood assessments and advice as a free service if you’re relocating to our area. Or, if you’re moving out of town, they can refer you to a local agent who has knowledge and expertise on your new city
3. Find Your New Home (and Sell Your Old One) Once you’ve narrowed down your list of preferred neighborhoods, it’s time to start looking for a home. If you haven’t already contacted a real estate agent, now is the time. They can search for current property listings that meet
your needs, typically at no cost to you. Create another list of “needs” and “wants,” but this time for your new home. Include your basic requirements for square footage, bedrooms and bathrooms, but also think about what other factors are important to you and your family. An updated kitchen? A large backyard? Double sinks in the master bathroom? Narrow your list down to your top 10 and prioritize them in order of importance. This will give you a good starting point to begin your home search. Unless you have an unlimited budget, don’t expect to find a home with everything on your list. But having a prioritized list can help you (and your agent) understand which home features are the most important, and which ones you may be willing to sacrifice. If you already own a home, you’ll also need to start the process of selling it or renting it out. A real estate agent can help you
evaluate your options based on current market conditions. He or she can also give you an idea of how much equity you have in your current home so you know how much you can afford to spend on your new one. Your agent can also advise you on how to time your sale and purchase. While some buyers are able to qualify for and cover the costs of two concurrent mortgages, many are not. There are a number of options available, and a skilled agent can help you determine the best course given your circumstances. Your trusted real estate advisor would love to assist you if you have plans to buy or sell a home in our area. They can set up a free
consultation to discuss your unique needs and devise a custom plan to make your relocation as seamless as possible. If you’re relocating outside of our area, we can help you find a trusted agent in your new city.
4. Prepare for Your Departure While everyone considers packing a fundamental part of moving, we often overlook the emotional preparation that needs to take place. If you have children, this can be especially important. Communicate the move in an ageappropriate way, and if possible take them on a tour of your new home and neighborhood. This can alleviate some of the mystery and apprehension around the move. Allow yourself plenty of time to
pack up your belongings. Before you start, gather supplies, including boxes, tape, tissue paper and bubble wrap. Begin with non-essentials—such as offseason clothes or holiday decorations—and sort items into four categories: take, trash, sell and donate/give away.
home, map out the route. And, if necessary, make arrangements for overnight accommodations along the way. If driving is not a good option, you may need to have your vehicles transported and make travel arrangements for you, your family and your pets.
To make the unpacking process easier, be sure to label the top and sides of boxes with helpful information, including contents, room, and any special instructions. Keep a master inventory list so you can refer back to it if something goes missing.
Lastly, if you will be leaving friends or family behind, schedule final get-togethers before your departure. The last days before moving can be incredibly hectic, so make sure you block off some time in advance for proper goodbyes.
If you will be using a moving company, start researching and pricing your options. To ensure an accurate estimate of your final cost, it’s best to have them conduct an in-person walkthrough. Make sure you’re working with a reputable company, and avoid paying a large deposit before your belongings are delivered. If you plan to drive to your new
Looking for a reputable moving company? Your trusted real estate advisor is happy to provide referrals, as well as recommendations on where to procure packing supplies in our area.
5. Prepare for Your Arrival To make your transition go smoothly, prepare for your arrival well before moving day. Depending on how long your
belongings will take to arrive, you may need to arrange for temporary hotel accommodations. If you plan to move in directly, pack an “essentials box” with everything you’ll need for the first couple of nights in your new home, such as toiletries, toilet paper, towels, linens, pajamas, cell phone chargers, snacks, pet food and a change of clothes. This will keep you from searching through boxes after an exhausting day of moving. Arrange in advance for your utilities to be turned on, especially essentials like water, electricity and gas. (And while you’re at it, schedule a shut-off date for your current utilities.) Update your address on all accounts and subscriptions and arrange to have your mail forwarded through the postal service. If you have children, register them for their new school or daycare and arrange for the transfer of any necessary records. You may want to have the house professionally cleaned before
moving in. And if you plan to remodel, paint or install new flooring, it’s easier to have it done before you bring in all of your belongings. However, it’s not always feasible without someone you trust locally who can supervise. Another option is to keep a portion of your things in storage while you complete some of these projects. If there are no window treatments, you may need to install some (or at least put up temporary privacy film), especially in bedrooms and bathrooms. And if appliances are missing, consider purchasing them ahead of time and arranging for delivery and installation shortly after you arrive. Just be sure to check measurements and installation instructions carefully so you aren’t stuck with an appliance that doesn’t fit or that requires costly modifications to your new home. If you own a car, check the requirements for a driver’s license and vehicle registration in your new area and contact your insurance company to update
your policy. If you will rely on public transportation, research options and schedules. If you’re relocating to our area, a local real estate advisor can help with a list of preferred hotels, utility providers, housekeepers, contractors and more!
6. Get Settled In Your New Home While staring at an endless pile of boxes can feel daunting, you should take advantage of this opportunity to make a fresh start. By creating a plan ahead of time, you can ensure your new house is thoughtfully laid out and well organized.
If you followed our suggestion to pack an “essentials box” (see Step 5), you should have easy access to everything you’ll need to get you through the first couple of nights in your new home. This will allow you some breathing room to unpack your remaining items in a deliberate manner, instead of rushing through the process. If you have young children, consider unpacking their rooms first. Seeing their familiar items can help them establish a sense of comfort and normalcy during a confusing time. Then move on to any items you use on a daily basis. Pets can also get overwhelmed by a new, unfamiliar space. Let them
adjust to a single room first, which should include their favorite toys, treats, food and water bowl, and a litter box for cats. Once they seem comfortable, you can gradually introduce them to other rooms in the home. As you unpack, make a list of items that need to be purchased so you’re not making multiple trips to the store. Also, start a list of needed repairs and installations. If you have a home warranty, find out what’s covered and the process for filing a service order. Although you may be eager to get everything unpacked, it’s important to take occasional breaks. Have some fun, relax and explore your new hometown! Need help with unpacking, organizing or decorating your new home? Your real estate advisor has recommended professionals in your area. And when you’re ready to start exploring local “hot spots,” they'd love to fill you in on top restaurants, stores, parks and other attractions!
7. Get Involved In Your New Community Studies show that moving can lead to feelings of loneliness and depression. People who have recently moved tend to be isolated socially, more stressed, and less likely to participate in exercise and hobbies. However, there are ways to combat these negative effects. First, get out and explore. In a 2016 study, recent movers were shown to spend less time on physical activities and more time on their computers, which has been proven to lead to feelings of depression and loneliness. Instead, get out of your house and investigate your new area. And if you travel by foot, you’ll gain the advantages of fresh air and exercise. Combat feelings of isolation by making an effort to meet people in your new community. Find a local interest group, take a class, join a place of worship or volunteer for a cause. Don’t wait for friends to come knocking on
your door. Instead, go out and find them. Finally, be a good neighbor. Make an effort to introduce yourself to your new neighbors, invite them over for coffee or dinner, and offer assistance when they need it. Once you’ve developed friendships and a support system within your new neighborhood, it will truly start to feel like home. Want more ideas on how to get involved in your community? Contact us for a free copy of our report, “Welcome Home: 10 Tips to Turn Your Neighborhood Into a Hometown Haven.”
LET’S GET MOVING While moving is never easy, these seven steps offer an action plan to get you started on your new adventure. To avoid getting overwhelmed, focus on one step at a time. And don’t hesitate to ask for help! In a 2015 study, 61 percent of participants ranked moving at the top of their stress list, above divorce and starting a new job. But with a little preparation—and the right team of professionals to assist you—it is possible to have a positive relocation experience.
We specialize in assisting home buyers and sellers with a seamless and “lessstress” relocation. Along with our referral network of movers, handymen, housekeepers, decorators, contractors and other service providers, we can help take the hassle and headache out of your upcoming move. Give us a call or message us to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation! Article by Troy Schlicker Troy Schlicker is a Real Estate Advisor & Broker with Reserve Realty. He is also the host of the Austin Spotlight Podcast. 512.809.6166 | troy@reserverealty.com | www.troyschlicker.com
4 Fun Things To Do In Austin This Month. Austin has been growing by leaps and bounds the last few decades. While there are many reasons that factor into this from affordable cost of living, a great economy and job market and warm southern weather; another reason Austin tops many lists of places to live and visit are the numerous activities available to guests and residents. While we have been limited in our
options on things to do lately here are 4 things you could do this month in and around Austin.
Austin Salt Cave Halotherapy started gaining traction in Europe in the 1960s and has become increasing popular ever since. Many people use it for respiratory and skin conditions and it's a great option for people dealing with Austin allergies or who want a relaxing afternoon.
Peter Pan Mini Golf Over the years, the park has gained a reputation as a place for families and people of all ages to spend a great day or evening, Austin style. This Austin landmark has been entertaining families for over 70 years and lets be honest mini golf is much less frustrating than actual golf.
River Place Nature Trail Austin has plenty of trails and green space and this is one of the best times of the year to enjoy them as temperatures cool. I like the River Place Trail as it's provides a challenge with the elevation change as well as being a little further out of the way from some of central trails and parks so it's generally not as crowded.
Urban Axes Let's be honestly we'd all like to throw an ax at something these days and Urban Axes allows you to do that. You'll want to book ahead of time for your group but you'll be able to let off some steam as well as get the competitive juices flowing in a event you've likely never done before.
Article by Troy Schlicker Troy Schlicker is a Real Estate Advisor & Broker with Reserve Realty. He is also the host of the Austin Spotlight Podcast. 512.809.6166 | troy@reserverealty.com | www.troyschlicker.com
Fill Up With Delicious Craft Beer & Food at These 12 Austin Brewpubs
Brewpubs are never given the amount of credit they deserve. I mean, it’s one thing to successfully open a restaurant with a delicious menu and kitchen staff that are kept busy. And its totally different brewing beers and creating a brand that cultivates diehard fans. So, to bring those two business goals together, under one roof, and to do it well is absolutely impressive. Here in Austin, I consider us to be quite lucky for many reasons. One big reason is we have 12 phenomenal brewpubs, with that number only continuing to grow. That’s not even mentioning the fact that the best brewpub in the country is right here in Austin, Texas!
Brewery vs Brewpub? For the purpose of this brewpub guide, let’s all get on the same page:
According to The Brewer’s Association, a Brewpub is defined as: A brewpub is a hybrid between a restaurant and a brewery. It sells at least 25% of its beer on-site in combination with significant food services. At a brewpub, the beer is primarily brewed for sale inside the restaurant or bar. Where it’s legally allowed, brewpubs may sell beer to go or distribute it to some offsite destinations. Now for my Austin brewpub guide, I’m keeping it easy and including Austin’s top brewpubs that are not only brewing beer but also making delicious food in a restaurant setting.
Austin Brewpubs In Austin, Texas we’re blessed with over a dozen brewpubs pulling double-duty serving up magnificent dishes to pair with their delicious craft beers. Below, you’re going to find details on each one and their can’t miss
The warehouse-style beer garden is a perfect community gathering place to bring your friends and family. Expect to fill up on good brews and eats with music from some of Austin’s favorite artists.
brews and bites, Plus, everything else you should know about each unique brewpub!
Austin Beer Garden and Brewery Austin brewery known for its award-winning pilsners, live music schedule, and charitable, community-driven missions. This place is always packed… That’s what happens when you brew delicious beer! In fact, The ABGB isn’t just one of Austin’s Best Brewpubs. It’s also been recognized for being a great brewpub on a national level! The ABGB team actually won Large Brewpub Of The Year & Large Brewpub Brewer Of The Year at the Great American Beer Festival multiple times.
What to eat: Their Margherita pizza is not one to be missed! I’ve also heard they have incredible salads. Dog-friendly: Yes, outside only, with a large outside beer garden that’s shaded. 1305 W Oltorf Street, 78704
Batch Brewhouse A kolache bakery, coffee shop, taco food truck, bottle shop, and brewery combined into a one-stop spot. Batch Craft Beer and Kolaches is an Austin, family-owned and operated kolache bakery, taproom, and retail craft beer shop. The cofounders of Batch, brothers Josh and Noah Lit, turned a portion of their facility next door into a brewery where John Sydner can brew his beers.
Currently, Batch specializes in table beers, barrel-aged sours, IPAs, fruity sours, and all of that fun stuff. This is one of my favorite places to work during the day and it’s a spot I recommend to everyone coming into town, even before they started brewing their own beer. They’ve recently added Taco Bronco food truck giving you even more reasons to love this mishmash of a brewery/kolache bakery. What to Eat: Kolaches (sweet and savory) of course. But definitely check out the brisket tacos from Taco Bronco food truck out back. Dog-Friendly? Yes, very! They have a large outside area with lots of shade from trees. 3220 Manor Road, 78723
Beerburg Brewing Farm-to-table Hill Country brewery and kitchen with outdoor dog-park and kid-friendly playground. Just down the road from Jester
King is one of Hill Country’s newest brewpubs: Beerburg Brewing. Founded by Tervor Nearburg, former head brewer of Uncle Billy’s, his brewpub sits on 15acres of gorgeous Hill Country land. His 10-barrel brewhouse takes the centerstage in the taproom, but the delicious food menu competes for a close second. Bring your whole crew and the dogs out to this Hill Country brewpub! Out back, they have an off-leash dog park and a fenced in kid’s playground. It’s a little something for everyone at this oasis of a brewery.
What to Eat: You can’t go wrong with any of the street tacos served on tortillas made in-house. Dog-Friendly? Yes! There is an awesome off-leash dog park at this brewery! 13476 Fitzhugh Road, 78736
Black Star Co-Op Employee-owned brewery serving beers alongside food in a large industrial space with a petfriendly patio. Black Star Co-op prides itself on being the first cooperativelyowned and worker self-managed brewpub in the world. Members of Black Star created their brewpub to be a democratic
workplace, with livable wages for employees, while devoting themselves to using only the best local ingredients. FYI, The patio is dog-friendly and they’re fabulously located right at Austin’s Crestview Light Rail Station. What to Eat: Definitely the fish and chips, these are some of the best in town. Dog-friendly: Yes, outside, with a small covered area that provides plenty of shade in summer. 7020 Easy Wind Drive, 78752
The Brewtorium Homebrewers Chris and Whitney are brewing delicious lagers and
serving up a menu of delightful eats in their North Austin location. Homebrewers Chris Rauschuber and Whitney Roberts are the owners and brewers behind this North Austin brewpub. In the kitchen, they’re making small plates with fresh ingredients to serve alongside German-style beers. These two have had plenty of practice brewing, so they’ve been able to open up to the public with a long list of knockouts. They brew plenty of German lagers, but they’re not scared to experiment with barrel-aging, hoppy IPAs, and fruity sours. It’s always a delight visiting this Austin brewpub! What to Eat: Everything here is good. Try the pot stickers, there are both pork and veggie options available and their deviled eggs are sinfully delicious. Dog-friendly: Yes, there is a covered beer garden out back. 6015 Dillard Circle
Central Machine Works East Austin’s newest brewery boasts a large beer hall, plus pub grub menu in a spacious converted machine works with a beer garden and outdoor music stage. Central Machine Works is East Austin’s newest brewery and their building will take your breath away. The massive 10,000 square foot building is from the 1940’s and was once an airplane part repair shop. The beer is made in full view of the dog-friendly beer hall. But there is also an attached restaurant serving up classic pub fare. Currently (as of summer 2020), they are not putting out many beers, and they’re not consistently able to offer their brews on tap… So you might want to call and ask before you make the trip out. Dog-Friendly? Yes, they have a separate dog-friendly indoor area, along with lots of room outside. 4824 E Cesar Chavez Street, 78702
Hold Out Brewing Burgers, beers, and hip vibes are all around at downtown Austin’s newest brewery. Hold Out Brewing did the impossible: they opened during a pandemic. And they’ve been wildly popular since! A couple of years ago the teams behind Wright Bros coffee and Better Half Bar decided to open a brewery. It was a long process but certainly worth the wait. When it comes to the team behind the brews, they’ve assembled a crew with decades of brewery and service industry experience from local greats such as Real Ale Brewing, Jester King Brewery, Hops & Grain Brewing, and The Austin Beer Garden Brewing Company. Their downtown Austin taproom is large and features a dreamy patio space centered around a historic (and hugomongues) Live Oak tree. There is also plenty of parking considering the location, which is always a nice plus.
What to Eat: The burgers are absolutely divine! My tip is to double up on the patties. Dog-Friendly? Yes, there is plenty of shaded, outdoor seating. 1208 W 4th Street, 78703
Jester King Brewery Farm brewery specializing in wild fermentation sitting on 200 acres in Hill Country. Any visit to Jester King’s farmhouse brewery out in Texas Hill Country means a whole bunch of funky new sours to check out. Many of these beers are one-offs, with a few regulars, so it’s pretty exciting checking out the new releases. With that in mind, some weekends are bottle release weekends which means long lines, like 2,500 people long. So, make sure to check out the official brewery blog or Facebook page first! This brewery is open weekends and definitely bring the dogs and family. Foodwise, this brewery has
a delicious menu of pizza that features fresh ingredients, many sourced right from the farm. I highly suggest going on the tours offered throughout the afternoon. Don’t worry about specific times, just keep an ear out for one of the workers to shout out a warning notice in a booming voice! What to Eat: The Sud Pizza with smoked green tomatoes, braised pork, pepper jack, mozzarella, green cabbage, and fresh fresno chili salsa. Dog-Friendly? Yes, there is plenty of shaded picnic tables around the farm at Jester King. 13187 Fitzhugh Road, 78736
Lazarus Brewing Co. Cozy taproom with a long list of Belgian-inspired craft brews. Plus, espresso and tacos. Ok, I don’t have favorites, but this Austin brewpub is a knockout from top to bottom. Lazarus Brewing Company is right in the middle of East Austin’s popular Sixth Street district; you’ll spot the brewery by its bright teal exterior. For coffee lovers in Austin, you’ll love the cozy atmosphere and freshly roasted coffee. A perfect place overall to get some work done. For craft beer lovers though, this brewery will only leave you craving more.
The best part about Lazarus Brewing is they are constantly experimenting and brewing the most-underrepresented styles of beer. Meaning you’ll never get bored of their beer list. What to Eat: The menu is mostly simple tacos and homemade salsas, that being said, their al Pastor taco is outof-this-world delicious. Dog-friendly: Yes, plenty of shaded space outside. 1902 E 6th Street, 78702
Oasis Texas Brewing Company Lake Travis brewery with the best views in Austin serving American pub farm and sessionable brews. Possibly one of the greatest views in all of Austin and the surrounding areas is the one enjoyed with a cold beer in hand at Oasis Texas Brewing Company sitting 400 feet over Lake Travis. Their food menu is pretty small but many agree it’s some of the most
delicious you’ll get at the Oasis docks. What to Eat: Big appetite or not, their cheese and beer pairing board is a fun treat to share with friends! Dog-friendly: Oasis, has a massive, dog-friendly outdoor patio with views of Lake Travis in every direction. 6550 Comanche Trail #301, 78732
Oddwood Ales Rustic brewery with outdoor patio serving experimental saisons and ales with thin-crust pizza.
What once was a side project for Adelbert’s Brewery has now become one of the most exciting new breweries in east Austin. Oddwood Ales is a small brewpub in east Austin near Mueller Park with a focus almost entirely on American style wild ales and saisons. The East Austin taproom was designed by OPA Design Studio with the goal of being your cozy neighborhood pub. There are vintage arcades machines, large wooden chairs around hefty tables, and a custom bar with eyecatching navy and yellow tiles. What to Eat: The food menu consists of small thin crust bar pizzas and other delicious Italian fare. Dog-Friendly? Yes, outside only. Their patio is a bit small but is shaded. 3108 Manor Road, 78723
Pinthouse Pizza Brewery known across the country for their incredible IPAs and, known to me, for having the best pizza in Austin. Pinthouse Pizza is equally adored for their pizza as they are for their IPAs and barrel-aged beer. For foodies, good luck trying to decide on just one of Pinthouse’s pizzas! I highly suggest getting pizza rolls regardless, you can thank me later. Right now there are two locations (South Lamar and Burnet) but a third location is opening soon in Round Rock. What to Eat: Pizza rolls with queso dip, done. Dog-friendly: Yes, south’s location is roomier with more shade. 3 Locations: North, South, and Round Rock
Article by Caitlin Johnson Caitlin is the writer of Big World, Small Girl blog and website. She loves sharing her adventures and stories of visiting great restaurants, breweries and hotels. You can catch her on her website www.bigworldsmallgirl.com
For years now, virtual home tours have helped real estate buyers far and wide find the perfect home. From long-distance military personnel being relocated, to investors expanding their portfolio, to homeowners looking for a vacation getaway, this technology makes finding a house that’s a bit out of driving distance much easier. And for real estate agents, virtual tours have been a useful way to help buyers with their home search and to assist sellers in creatively marketing their listings. Because of the pandemic, virtual home showing options recently experienced a huge spike in popularity. One survey found that nearly 33% of recent home tour requests were for virtual tours, as compared to just 2% prepandemic. And it’s easy to see why. Buyers want to quickly find their next safe haven, one that may need to serve as their office, gym, and even classroom for months to come. And sellers want to limit the number of strangers in their
home, yet still have the ability to reach enough potential buyers to get the best offer on their property. Virtual home tours are the popular thing right now, but that doesn’t automatically mean they’re the only option for your homebuying or selling experience. In this post, we’ll reveal five important secrets behind the virtual real estate scene. Read on to learn how they impact today’s home buyers and sellers.
SECRET #1: Virtual Tours Have Evolved Lots of real estate professionals who had never used virtual tours before were forced to quickly adapt when the pandemic struck. Because of restrictions on time and resources, not everyone is able to create what would have been deemed a “virtual tour” last year. So instead, we’ve expanded the definition of the phrase by creating innovative new ways to show homes while keeping our clients safe and socially-distanced. Here are some
terms you might come across as you explore homes with virtual tours. Traditional virtual tours use 360° Photos, which are images that allow you to see all angles of a space. These are what allow virtual tour viewers to look up, down, and all around the interior and exterior shots of a home. Using a software program, 360° photos can be stitched together to create a digital model that looks like a dollhouse. This is called a 3D Tour. Sometimes agents will also add Virtual Staging, which decorates rooms with digital furniture and accents like wallpaper or paint. Traditional virtual tours allow you to click to move from room to room in the home, but Online Walkthroughs feature the actual action of walking around. Either the seller or the agent (depending on factors such as time and safety requirements) will create a video by holding their camera or smartphone and simply moving through the home. Online Walkthroughs can be filmed
in advance or happen live. If they are live, they can also be referred to as Virtual Showings or Online Open Houses. A Virtual Showing is often a scheduled, one-on-one event that mimics an in-person tour of the home, in which the agent and viewer start at the exterior and move their way through the property. If your agent offers to FaceTime or Skype you from a home you’re interested in, for example, that would be a type of Virtual Showing. In contrast, an Online Open House is more freeform, allowing more viewers to pop in and out of a group video call on apps such as Facebook or Zoom.
SECRET #2: Virtual Doesn’t Mean Impersonal All these styles of virtual tours showcase the property’s details better than static photos ever could. But for a purchase as intimate as your next home, details like a new refrigerator or the size of the master closet aren’t the only deciding factors. Luckily, virtual tours are exceptional tools for personal connection.
As a prospective buyer, virtual tours give you a feel for the property, inside and out, so you can easily picture yourself in the space and decide if the home’s flow and features work for your lifestyle. Live video walkthroughs with the real estate agent will give you insights on those crucial nonvisual aspects, like creaky floors, super-fast internet speed, and neighborhood dynamics. Plus, you’ll be able to ask questions and get an insider’s perspective on what’s so great about the home. For sellers, if your agent recommends using a virtual tour to market your home, you could attract more buyers. And you can be sure that those interested buyers are still getting the upclose and personal look inside your home that will inspire their strongest offers.
SECRET #3: Virtual Is Just The First Step To Safe Home Sales Even as government restrictions
begin to ease in some areas, virtual tours are still recommended as a safer way to buy and sell real estate. Buyers don’t have to worry about exposure to anyone who previously visited the property, and sellers cut down on the foot traffic in their home. Some data even suggest that virtual tours keep agents safer as well, since they’re hosting fewer in-person showings and open houses. But despite the variety of virtual tours available, some buyers will still need to visit a home themselves in order to feel confident enough to submit an offer. In this situation, listing agents and sellers will work together to come up with a procedure that ensures everyone
feels safe and comfortable. Some recommendations include requiring interested buyers to present a pre-qualification letter, conducting tours only by appointment and with essential parties, and asking buyers to selfdisclose whether they have COVID19 or exhibit any symptoms. The day of the in-person tour, agents might ask buyers to remain in their vehicle until they arrive at the property, and to wear protective gear such as face coverings and gloves. Many will provide hand sanitizer and will ask buyers to refrain from touching any surfaces in the home. Instead, the agent (or seller, prior to the buyers’ arrival) will turn on lights, open doors, and pull back curtains. Then, after everyone has left, the agent
will return the home to its original state and disinfect it as needed.
SECRET #4: The Speed of Closing Depends on Your Goals Though maybe not literally, virtual tours are opening doors for both buyers and sellers in terms of options available to them. In 2019, buyers viewed an average of 10 homes over a period of 10 weeks before submitting an offer. But thanks to an increased prevalence of virtual tours saving them driving time, they’re able to peek inside that number of homes in a much shorter period to make their final choice. With all this viewing activity, it makes sense that sellers whose listings feature virtual tours are receiving more offers on their properties. According to one study, virtual tours can add between two and three percent to the sales price of a home, in part because increased buyer interest has made sellers feel confident waiting for the exact right offer.
So if you’re a buyer luxuriating in viewing homes from your couch, just remember that you’re not alone in your search. Your competition is virtually viewing the same properties you are, so it’s still important to work with your real estate agent to quickly submit a strong offer when you find the home of your dreams. And for sellers, if a speedy sale is important to you, carefully weigh that against the temptation to entertain more and more offers, which can keep your home on the market up to six percent longer. Your agent can help you decide the right strategy for your priorities.
SECRET #5: Virtual May Not Always Be the Right Choice Creating, editing, uploading, and marketing virtual tours for a listing can be pricey. Packages through popular 3D imaging platforms like Matterport and Immoviewers can cost hundreds of dollars on their own. Virtual staging will further bloat a listing’s marketing budget, and then there’s the advertising
dollars needed. Even seemingly inexpensive options like video call walkthroughs still require time and energy on behalf of both the seller and agent. These costs mean that a full virtual tour package might not always be the right choice for sellers. When you talk to your agent about marketing your home, it may be that an elaborate virtual tour, showing, and open house just don’t make sense. It could be that your potential buyers may not resonate with that type of marketing, that the investment-to-return ratio isn’t in your favor, or that there are more effective ways to get your listing seen by qualified buyers. Buyers, you may notice that some listings within your search parameters don’t offer virtual tours. That’s because those forsale homes might not have needed a full virtual marketing package to entice buyers to submit offers, or those homes are better marketed through more traditional tactics. Don’t close the door on your dream home
because it doesn’t have virtual events and features. Stay openminded so you can consider the wealth of home options that fit your lifestyle, needs, and budget.
ARE VIRTUAL HOME TOURS IN YOUR FUTURE? As technology develops, it will become easier and cheaper to create virtual tours. Coupled with the high demand for them, this means that virtual tour options
are likely not only here to stay, but will continue to grow into a common addition to listings. If buying or selling a home is on your mind, discuss how virtual tours can play a part in your experience with a trusted real estate advisor. Reach out and let them help you find local homes for sale that have virtual tours, or to chat about if adding a virtual tour to your upcoming listing is the right fit.
Article by Troy Schlicker Troy Schlicker is a Real Estate Advisor & Broker with Reserve Realty. He is also the host of the Austin Spotlight Podcast. 512.809.6166 | troy@reserverealty.com | www.troyschlicker.com
Tips to Start Your Workout Routine When shelter in place orders were first given it was a welcome reprieve from our lives and the regular daily grind. However, what started as a chance to binge watch a couple shows or catch up on some rest has turned into an unwanted routine of eating unhealthy and spending too much time on the couch for many. Starting a workout routine or getting back into one is challenging in the best of times but with all the current restrictions in place how do you start to lose
the COVID 15? 1. Start Slow If it's been weeks or months since your last workout you're not going to make up for all of that in one day. Not only will rush back too hard increase your risk of injury which could sideline you longer but you're more likely to be discouraged by the progress you've lost. 2. Set a Routine The best way for any changes to take affect is to set a routine so
that your workouts become automatic. It make take a while for these changes to become permanent but small changes to your fitness routine will pay off big dividends down the road. 3. Set Goals Setting specific, measurable goals will help give you a reason to push through those workouts on days that your less motivated. Speaking of motivation consider trying new things in your workout. Not only will they keep things interesting but your muscles will thank you for changing things up. 4. Hire a Trainer If you haven't hit the gym in a while or want to try something new hiring a trainer can be a great way to learn as well as having a cheerleader in your corner.
5. Recruit a Friend It's probably been too long since you've seen some of your friends and having an accountability partner is more likely to help you commit to your workout as well as make them more fun.
Article by Troy Schlicker Troy Schlicker is a Real Estate Advisor & Broker with Reserve Realty. He is also the host of the Austin Spotlight Podcast. 512.809.6166 | troy@reserverealty.com | www.troyschlicker.com
What You Need to Know About Benzodiazepines Many people struggle with anxiety and how to manage stress in a healthy way. Unfortunately, mental health concerns have worsened for many people since COVID-19 has caused significant disruptions in peoples' lives. While benzodiazepines work well for some people in certain situations, they are not a good fit for many— and for many reasons. In particular, benzodiazepines are only meant for short-term use and are not a good solution for people who need long-term help with anxiety.
What are Benzodiazepines? Benzodiazepines are a type of prescription medication that may
be prescribed for health problems such as anxiety and insomnia. Drugs in this category slow down processes within the brain and body. Examples of benzodiazepines include: Alprazolam (brand name Xanax) Chlordiazepoxide (Librium) Clonazepam (Klonopin) Diazepam (Valium) Lorazepam (Ativan) Temazepam (Restoril) Benzodiazepines work by modifying a person's brain chemistry. Gamma amino butyric acid (GABA) is a molecule in the brain that slows or stops brain signals. Benzodiazepines enhance
the effect of GABA and create a drop-in brain activity. This can lead to not only a calming effect on the mind, but also a slowing down of other processes within the body.
Benzodiazepine Uses Anxiety disorders are the most common mental health disorders. Nearly one-third of U.S. adults have anxiety at some point in their lives. Benzodiazepines are sometimes prescribed to people for different types of anxiety including generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, and panic disorder. However, scientific research has demonstrated that this class of drugs is only effective for short periods of time – less than four weeks – and when other types of anxiety treatments have failed. People who are looking for more long-term strategies to fight anxiety often have better luck with other medications or treatment plans. In fact, when used long-term,
benzodiazepines can actually increase anxiety. Additionally, benzodiazepines don't necessarily help with every type of anxiety. For example, they do not help people with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), a type of anxiety disorder that can develop after someone experiences a terrifying event or situation. Benzodiazepines may also be prescribed for insomnia. Again, however, our evidence thus far shows that they likely only help with short-term use. Although benzodiazepines can make you feel tired, they also can lead to a worse night's sleep. These drugs often make it easier to fall asleep, but they tend to also make it harder for people to enter into stages of deeper sleep. Benzodiazepines may also be prescribed for other purposes, such as: muscle relaxation, treatment of seizures, calming people before a medical procedure or surgery, and treatment of alcohol withdrawal.
Benzodiazepine Risk and Potential Side Effects Because benzodiazepines slow down the brain and nervous system, they can have certain negative side effects on the body that include: Sleepiness or fatigue Slower reflexes Lack of motor coordination Muscle pain or spasms Dizziness Blurry vision Slurred speech Nausea or vomiting Sexual dysfunction Benzodiazepines may also come with negative side effects related to mood or brain function. People who take these drugs can experience: Restlessness Confused thinking Disconnection from their surroundings Irritability Acting hostile or aggressive Mood swings Hallucinations Paranoia Disturbing dreams
These side effects may get worse the longer you take these medications. Some types of benzodiazepines take a while to be cleared from your body, so the side effects can build up and become more severe over time. Someone who regularly takes these drugs over a long period may be more likely to experience side effects like confusion or difficulties with thinking and processing. Benzodiazepines can make certain mental health issues worse. They can cause people to start feeling depressed, or make depression more severe. Long-term use of these medications has also been linked to brain function issues. People who use benzodiazepines can have problems with processing information, learning, and focusing, and may be more likely to develop dementia or lose cognitive function in the long run. Certain groups of people should avoid this class of drugs. People who are pregnant or may become
pregnant shouldn't take benzodiazepines because they can lead to birth defects. Additionally, these medications may not be a good fit for elderly populations because they can increase a person's risk of a fall. Older people are more likely to experience benzodiazepine side effects because the kidney has a harder time clearing out drugs from a person's system as they age.
Benzodiazepine Dependency Benzodiazepines can lead to tolerance, dependence, and addiction for some people. These terms are related, but they are not the same. Tolerance occurs when a person's body becomes used to the presence of a drug, and the usual dose doesn't have the same effect it once did. This often leads to someone feeling like they need to take higher doses. Dependence on a drug means that a person will experience withdrawal symptoms once they stop using it. Addiction is a disease in which a person no longer has control over their use of
a substance and is not able to stop taking it, even if they want to. When people use benzodiazepines long-term, they often build up tolerance. In this situation, future doses of benzodiazepine medications do not work as well. This may lead people to have an even harder time coping with stress than they did before. People may also need to take more of the medication in order to feel the same effect, which may lead to worse side effects. People can also become dependent on benzodiazepines. Studies have estimated that anywhere from 58-100% of people who use these drugs long-term become dependent on them. When people become physically dependent on benzodiazepines and then try to stop using them, they may experience withdrawal. People are more likely to go through withdrawal if they've used benzodiazepines for a long time or taken them in high doses. People who go through withdrawal may have trouble sleeping, increased
anxiety, muscle tremors, and seizures. Benzodiazepine dependence is more likely to happen when these medications are used illicitly along with other drugs. However, it is still important to understand that this risk is a possibility, especially for people who use benzodiazepines long-term or people who have a family history of substance abuse. In order to reduce your risk of dependency and take benzodiazepines safely, I suggest the following strategies:
Don't take benzodiazepines unless they've been prescribed to you Take your medication exactly as prescribed – don't take benzodiazepines more often or in higher doses than your doctor has recommended Don't rely on these drugs for long-term treatment Drink alcohol only moderation, or not at all, while taking benzodiazepines Don't take benzodiazepines if you have a history of drug or alcohol dependence
When people become tolerant to or dependent on the effects of benzodiazepines, they may start taking higher doses. This can lead to overdose which may cause breathing problems, a drop in blood pressure, and possibly death. However, benzodiazepine overdose typically doesn't happen unless these drugs are combined with other substances, such as alcohol or opiates.
Drug Interactions Benzodiazepines can have dangerous effects when combined with other substances. For example, certain medications can raise the levels of benzodiazepines in the body. These include certain antibiotics like chloramphenicol, antiretrovirals like ritonavir, and even grapefruit juice. Taking benzodiazepines with these other substances may lead to stronger effects. Because benzodiazepines can slow down processes in the body, they shouldn't be combined with other substances that have this same slowing effect. This includes
alcohol, opioids, melatonin, and marijuana. Using these substances with benzodiazepines can cause someone's lungs and heart to slow down so much that they are at risk of serious health problems and even death. Benzodiazepines are especially dangerous when combined with opioids, and are involved in over 30% of opioid overdoses. This may be an issue for people who have been prescribed opioid painkillers, are using opioids illicitly, or are taking cold and cough medications that contain opioids, including codeine and hydrocodone. People can die from combining benzodiazepines with opioids or with alcohol. Make sure to let your doctor know every medication that you are taking in order to reduce your risk of harmful drug interactions.
Benzodiazepine Alternatives Behavioral Therapy Experts recommend therapy, medication, or both when it comes to successfully treating anxiety. The most common type of therapy for anxiety is called cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). During a CBT session, a counselor or psychologist will help a person examine their underlying beliefs and feelings and adjust them in order to encourage healthier thought patterns. For example, someone with anxiety may only notice the negative elements surrounding a certain event, and fail to recognize the positives. CBT can help a person use more balanced thinking. This type of therapy can help a person build new skills to better deal with their anxiety. Therapists may use other strategies to help treat anxiety as well. For example, exposure therapy is a type of CBT that can help people with different kinds of anxiety. The theory behind this
treatment is that facing your fears helps you become less afraid of them. For example, therapists may ask you to talk through a specific situation that triggers your anxiety. Other types of therapy such as eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) may also help to lessen anxiety. Talk to your physician, or a licensed counselor or psychologist, to learn more about therapy options that could help you.
Non-Benzodiazepine Medications Experts generally say that SSRIs should be the first drugs that people try to help manage anxiety. SSRIs, or serotonin and norepinephrine re-uptake inhibitors, are typically classified as antidepressants but also work well for other mental health problems. SSRIs and other drugs that affect serotonin brain pathways often take longer to start producing an effect, but they are known to work better, have fewer side effects, and are less likely to cause dependence. Other types of antidepressants, as well as drugs
that affect the way the body uses calcium, may also be effective for anxiety. If you're feeling more stressed than usual or having trouble dealing with anxiety, talk to your doctor about which medications may be a good fit for you. Other Strategies Both exercise and relaxation can help reduce anxiety symptoms. In particular, physical activity and relaxation can work well alongside these other treatments as part of a comprehensive anxiety management plan. Relaxation techniques include meditation, yoga, and self-hypnosis. Anxiety and COVID-19 If you've been struggling with anxiety and stress more than usual within the past several months, know that you're not alone. Many people are reporting high levels of anxiety and panic in the wake of life disruptions during the pandemic.
Worrying about health and finances, experiencing changes in appetite or sleep, having trouble focusing, using substances like drugs or alcohol, and having problems with physical and mental health are common health concerns that I speak with patients about every day in my own practice. There are several possible ways to help manage increased anxiety include taking a break from the news or social media, trying to eat healthy foods, getting more exercise, finding ways to connect with people online or in-person in safe ways, and dedicating time to winding down and relaxing. Make sure to talk to your doctor about any concerns you have about your mental health. Trying out therapy or medication may help you cope with these unusual times.
Conclusions Research does demonstrate that drugs such as SSRIs and psychotherapy such as CBT are the best first options for treating anxiety. These types of treatments will work well for most people, but not everyone. If you have tried other options and are still struggling with severe anxiety, your doctor may prescribe a benzodiazepine. If so, it is important to take your medication exactly as prescribed in order to reduce your chances of becoming dependent on or tolerant of benzodiazepines. Talk to your doctor if you start experiencing side effects or have concerns. Finally, ask your healthcare provider what other treatments may help you reduce stress and improve your mental health. Article by Brynna Connor, M.D. Dr. Connor is a physician who is double board certified in Family Medicine and Anti-Aging & Regenerative Medicine. 512-382-9500 | www.doctorconnor.com brynnaconnormd@gmail.com
