Boerne Business Monthly – February 2015

Volume 7, Issue 08: February 2015

BOERNE business monthly

Accounting

Success

AKIN, DOHERTY, KLEIN & FEUGE, P.C.

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WHAT MOTIVATES COMPANIES TO HIRE YOU? ARE MY HEADACHES NORMAL? LOC AL NEWS & INFO

The Fastest Internet Speeds Customized Phone Plans 24/7 Security Monitoring Crystal Clear Cable TV Fiber for Future Growth

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Offering Services in Accounting and Tax for Small Business, Individuals, and Non-Profits

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Sometimes the best way to mind your business is to get away from it.

That’s exactly what Joshua Creek Ranch had in mind when plans came together for the brand new, Branch Haus Lodge and Conference Facility.

Opening in early Spring 2015, the Branch Haus will feature 11 luxury guest rooms, massage rooms and a 2,400 square-foot, state-of-the-art conference and event facility – all with incredible views of the beautiful Texas Hill Country.

Combine that with the world-class hunting, shooting, fishing and gourmet dining Joshua Creek Ranch has cultivated over the last 25 years and you’ve got the perfect setting for strategizing, planning and developing your business.

Call today and book your next meeting, conference or retreat in paradise.

Located in Boerne, TX, just 45 minutes NW of San Antonio, offering guests a first-class setting to enjoy the ultimate outdoor experience.

(830) 537-5090

info@joshuacreek.com

www.joshuacreek.com

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publisher LAUREN TUTTLE STUMBERG director of sales & marketing RUSTY MEADOR art direction DISTINCT MEDIA, LLC cover photography PRITCHETT PHOTOGRAPHY distribution manager DAVE WILD for more information 210.219.6735 107 SHOOTING CLUB RD. BOERNE, TEXAS 78006 LAUREN@DISTINCT-GRAPHICS.COM WWW.BOERNEBUSINESSMONTHLY.COM

advisory council PHILLIP BELL Commercial Realtor, Phillip Bell & Assoc., LLC

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publisher's note February is here and I am so excited! This month is one of my busiest times of the year. For me, February means fun, family and lots of functions. I am looking forward to all that this month has to offer!

For the February issue of BBM we showcase local business

Akin, Doherty, Klein & Feuge, P.C., or ADKF. Turn to page 14 to learn what sets this public accounting firm apart from the rest!

Also in this issue Mayor Mike Schultz fills us in on what is happening in the City of Boerne as we enter into 2015, Ron

BETH COYLE President/CEO, Coyle•SDA

Warden of Edward Jones shares with us why we should skip

MATT DIANA CEO, Covenant Services

the flowers and candy this Valentine’s Day and gift our loved

RONNIE E. HUIE Huie Financial Services

ones with financial preparations instead, and Dr. Michael

MIKE LANG Owner & Escrow Officer, Kendall County Abstract Company STEVE MACK CEO, Texas Heritage Bank DAN ROGERS President/CEO, Boerne Kendall County Economic Development Corporation CAROL SCHULTZ Realtor, LoneStar Properties

Garcia educates us about the different types of headaches.

All of this and so much more fills the pages of the February issue of Boerne Business Monthly. We hope you enjoy it!

Lauren T. St umberg Publisher

RON WARDEN Financial Advisor, Edward Jones Boerne Business Monthly is published by Distinct Media, LLC, copyright 2014. Reproduction is strictly prohibited without prior consent of the publisher.

Opinions expressed in Boerne Business Monthly are those of the writers or sources and do not necessarily represent the views of the publisher, nor do they constitute the endorsement of products or services herein. Although the information and recommendations in this publication have been compiled from sources believed to be reliable, Boerne Business Monthly makes no guarantee as to, and assumes no responsibility for, the correctness, sufficiency or completeness of such information and recommendations.

facebook.com/boernebusinessmonthly

www.eggersscapital.com 114 E. Highland Boerne, Texas 78006

210.526.0057

1.888.511.1211

Karl J. Eggerss President & CEO

Eggerss Capital Management (ECM) is a Registered Investment Advisory firm based in Texas and registered with the Texas State Securities Board.

Tune in to The Eggerss Report,Your Investing Playbook Saturdays at 7:00 a.m. on 930AM THE ANSWER

February 2015

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contents 08: from the mayor

Quality of Life in Boerne Remains Top Priority for 2015

09: calendar 10: wellbeing

Are My Headaches Normal?

by Dr. Michael Garcia, DC

12: finances

Financial Preparations for Spouse Can Brighten Every Valentine’s Day courtesy of Edward Jones

25

14: cover feature

ADKF: Accounting for Your Success

by Lauren T. Stumberg

19: job search

What Motivates Companies to Hire You?

by Mary Elizabeth Bradford

20: ribbon cuttings 23: bisd news

your SPACE 25: organize

Common Organization Mistakes

26: real estate statistics

RECI Looks at Local Real Estate Activity in 2015

29: art

Mooney Makes Sense: Cheap Gas

30: mortgage

Home Mortgage Route Most Traveled Avenue to Homeownership

Meet

Play

Celebrate

Corporate Presentations - Classes - Trainings - Seminars Trade Shows - Regular Meetings - Banquets - Receptions X A

T

E

BOERNE S

CIVIC CENTER

820 Adler Rd.

Boerne, TX

830.249.2811

boerne-tx.gov\civiccenter

RR_Business_Ad_Final.pdf

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from the mayor

Quality of Life

in Boerne

remains top priority in 2015

H

Here we are again facing a new year full of possibilities in our personal lives as well as in our community. My family is so blessed to live and work in Boerne, and I know most of you feel exactly the same way, whether you have been here for decades or have recently arrived.

A quick recap of some 2014 highlights includes the high profile advertising Boerne received in several magazines and online polls. In case you missed them, we received the following accolades: “4th Most Livable City” by Livability.com; “Best 50 Small Towns for Retirees” list in a Huffington Post report; “Top 10 Best Places to Live in the San Antonio metro area” list by San Antonio Magazine; and the icing on the cake – “Top 10 Best Places for Families” list by Family Circle Magazine. I learned recently that the Boerne Convention and Visitors Bureau has been receiving numerous calls and walk-in visitors from around the country who are considering relocating to our special hill country town to enjoy what we all came here for in the first place.

Other highlights include the continuing promotion of the Hill Country Mile, our unique public private partnership with Main Street merchants. The Downtown Revitalization Grant program is a huge success with seven grants awarded to Hill Country Mile business owners last year. We have added to our Public Art Program with the installation of bronzes on the Cibolo Creek Trail and at Main Plaza. Dickens on Main was another incredible success with over 15,000 people enjoying our special holiday festival on Thanksgiving weekend. And of course, the Main Street bridge, with its new safer sidewalk was completed by the Texas Department of Transportation.

Public safety enhancements are always a top priority and in 2014 several behind-the-scenes improvements were made related to technology and communications, ultimately making our police force more efficient and responsive. Our law enforcement partnership with the Kendall County Sheriff’s Office and the Fair Oaks Ranch Police Department is the best it has ever been.

These agencies are now collaborating on a joint Citizens Police Academy to educate more people on public safety challenges and opportunities and to encourage our citizenry to be more watchful and engaged in the community. And as usual we had record numbers of neighborhoods and people participating in the annual National Night Out events last October.

The Boerne Fire Department received some great news in 2014 – the insurance rating provided by the Texas Department of Insurance was upgraded from the public protection class “four”

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B oerne B usiness M onthly | February 2015

rating, which we have maintained for the last several years, to a “two” rating. This significant improvement is primarily due to the completion of our full-time staffing plan and water system availability throughout our city. The Boerne Fire Department now consists of three full-time firefighting shifts working twenty-four hours per day, seven days per week, 365 days per year, along with thirty volunteer firefighters that assist whenever needed. It was indeed an honor to recognize not only the Boerne Fire Department first responders, but all of the Kendall County EMS personnel at their holiday events last month.

As we look forward to 2015, we are continuing to work with Kendall County and TXDOT leaders to improve our transportation system. I have mentioned several of the major projects in this column before, but the most visible, of course, is the Herff Road project. We are all looking forward to the roadway and River Road intersection realignment work being completed in the next few months. School Street from San Antonio Street to the IH-10 frontage road will also get upgraded this year. The City Council is expected to authorize a construction contract at one of the January city council meetings. You will also begin seeing the construction of the new westbound IH-10 frontage roadway leading up to Bandera Road very soon.

Those of you that visit the Patrick Heath Public Library are seeing the construction of an outdoor amphitheater behind the library. The City is partnering with the Boerne Public Library Foundation and the Majestic Ranch Arts Foundation to build this new outdoor performance venue. Once that is finished, a playground will be added and these new facilities will complete the library campus master plan. We are looking forward to then working on the rest of the City Campus master plan with a goal to build a new city hall in the future.

As a growing community, we must be prepared to tolerate the temporary frustration that comes with construction, and we will be proud of the end results. Your elected officials and government leaders all live here too, so we will continue to be proactive, to protect our quality of life, to be fiscally responsible, and to provide our residents and business owners with the quality services they deserve and expect.

Our future is bright in Boerne.

Carol and I wish you many blessings during this new year!BBM

–Mayor Mike

Open now!

February 2015 CALENDAR OF EVENTS

124 East Bandera Road Suite 406 B o e r n e , Te x a s 7 8 0 0 6 830-428-0090

Sp eci a lt y Ca re

Meet Boerne’s newest specialists!

Annette Jones RN, CNM Certified Nurse Midwife Obstetrics/Gynecology

Clint Morris, MD

FEBRUARY 9 KENDALL COUNTY COMMISSIONERS COURT 9:00am to 11:00am | Kendall County Courthouse 201 E. San Antonio Ave. – Boerne FEBRUARY 10 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 6:00pm to 8:00pm | City Council Chambers 124 Old San Antonio Road – Boerne LIVE AT THE LIBRARY 6:00pm | Patrick Heath Public Library 451 N. Main St. Bldg. 100 – Boerne Featuring Jazz Trio Mission City Hot Rhythm Cats.

This outdoor musical concert is held on the back lawn of the Patrick Heath Public Library and is sponsored by the Boerne Public Library Foundation.

FEBRUARY 14 VALENTINE’S DAY

Orthopaedic Surgeon Sports Medicine

Niessa Meier RN, CNM Certified Nurse Midwife Obstetrics/Gynecology

Sylvester Ramirez, MD Otolaryngology (Ear, Nose & Throat)

Michael Rensch, MD Gastroenterologist

Award Winning Specialty Care

FEBRUARY 5 GREATER BOERNE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE RIBBON CUTTING CEREMONY FOR GOSS PEST CONTROL 11:30am to12:00pm | 121 South Main – Boerne

BOERNE CHOCOLATE WALK – Event Sold Out! 11:00am to 5:00pm The walk will take you through Boerne’s Downtown district and you will see firsthand our unique stores, galleries and restaurants. Tickets are available online only starting January 14.

SECOND SATURDAY ART & WINE 5:00pm to 8:00pm | Galleries in Boerne The 2nd Saturday participants go all out with complimentary beverages and a variety of hors d’oeuvres along with fantastic art!

FEBRUARY 14-15 BOERNE MARKET DAYS 10:00am to 5:00pm | Main Plaza – Boerne Main Plaza comes alive with great shopping in an outdoor setting.

FEBRUARY 16 PRESIDENTS’ DAY

Learn more

www.petersonrmc.com

FEBRUARY 19 GREATER BOERNE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE SPEED NETWORKING LUNCH SPONSORED BY G & A PARTNER AND ADKF CPAS 11:00am to 1:00pm | Tapatio Springs Hill Country Resort & Spa 1 Resort Way – Boerne RSVP required Cost: $35 for Chamber Members, Future Members $40 continued on page 17

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wellbeing

Health by Choice ...

Not by Chance !

I

ARE MY HEADACHES NORMAL?

by Dr. Michael Garcia

In practice, I have heard from patients that headaches are a normal part of life for them. Sometimes I hear that their headaches are no big deal while other times it can really impact someone's life. The truth is that the human body is designed to be at homeostasis, at ease, regulating every function to BENEFIT the individual. For example, lots of people have heart disease, yet heart disease is not normal to have. For the body to produce head pain for no apparent reason is against the foundation of the human body to adapt and heal.

There are many questions to consider: What are the types of headaches? What can I do to help them?

Should I be worried about this?

Tension headaches are some of the most common headaches that people get and are familiar with.

Typically they are at the base of the skull and can make a band like pressure around the head. Stress is a big factor with this type and it seems to worsen as stress rises. Tight muscles cause tension and pulling which affects the meninges and blood vessels. Tension headaches can be severely debilitating as far as pain goes. The key is the absence of neurological symptoms which we see in other types of headaches.

Yoga and managing stress are common activities that people use to get temporary or lasting relief.

Migraine headaches are related to abnormal brain flow of blood and CSF (cerebral spinal fluid). Along with these vascular abnormalities also comes neurological symptoms.

Some of the neurological signs include: pins and needles, throbbing in the head, auras, sensitive

to light and vomiting to name a few. Treatments can include Botox injections, caffeine management or Imitrix prescribed by your doctor.

Other headaches may be due to sinus pressure, trigeminal neuralgia. It is important to know which one is most common to you to correctly diagnose.

The upper cervical spine and part of the brain stem called the trigeminal nucleus are in control of the body's neurology. Nerve cells branch off from here and are embedded in the head, neck, blood vessels and the protective coverings of the brain and spinal chord called meninges. Think of this area as a central hub for information relayed from brain and spinal chord to head and neck.

Structural Shifts in the Upper cervical spine Asymmetry found in the head and neck are a common cause for headaches and neurological symptoms. Structural Chiropractic focuses on finding and correcting spinal shifts. However, not all headaches are due to spinal shifting and may need further investigation. For example, grain and gluten sensitivities can cause headaches as one of the symptoms. Luckily, most cases of headaches are due to spinal shifts and respond great under our care.

Checking for a Structural Shift in the spine is a great start to finding a solution for not just headaches but other secondary conditions (back pain, numbness and tingling, gut problems, etc.) as well. Gentle and effective corrections to the spine are made to help guide the spine to a more normal position. BBM

Michael A. Garcia, D.C. Boerne Wellness Chiropractic 115 Hwy. 46 W. | Boerne (830)-249-8900 boernewellnesschiropractic.com

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B oerne B usiness M onthly | February 2015

James Kennell, DC Michael Garcia, DC Achieving maximum health and wellness through chiropractic care.

115 Highway 46 W Boerne, TX 78006 830-249-8900

www.boernewellnesschiropractic.com

COMMERCIAL SPACES AVAILABLE! THE FALLS GARDEN OFFICES – 105 FALLS COURT | BEHIND WALMART

One Boerne's premier Office Condo Developments; 3 blks off Main Street, Great Spaces for Professional services, Medical, Real Estate, Attorney, CPA, Insurance Companies. Large reception areas, 3-4 offices, Front and rear door for access, ADA bathroom, Fully wired for Internet, Small kitchen areas. Plenty of parking.

• 109 Falls Court #700-1250 SF - Lease rate: $2,000 Month • 113 Falls Court #400-1250 SF - For Sale $249,500 or Lease $2,000 Month • 113 Falls Court #300-1250 SF - For Sale $249,500 • 105 Falls Court #300-1250 SF - For Sale $249,900

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Suite #208-Great Office Location on S. Main St. in the GVTC building, all utilities included in Lease except Tele/Internet. Common areas available for tenant, restrooms, Lobby area. No assigned parking, but plenty of it. Good Spot for Attorneys, CPA, Real Estate, Health Care, Insurance Services. 1080 SF, $2,160 Month

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ALHS, ABR Realtor Direct Line 210-413-8229 TMangus2002@yahoo.com www.LifeInBoerne.net

KELLER WILLIAMS BOERNE 1595 S. Main St, Ste 101 | Boerne, Texas 78006 830-816-3500 Each Office Independently Owned and Operated

Custom Built Homes from the $500s In-Town Location

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Call for More Information Baron W. Houser | (210) 313-7677

boernebusinessmonthly.com

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finances

F inancial Preparations for Spouse CAN BRIGHTEN EVERY

V

Valentine's Day

Valentine’s Day is almost here. And while it’s certainly fun to give and receive chocolates and roses, why not go a little deeper this year? Specifically, if you are married, consider using this commemoration of love as a starting point for taking care of your spouse in the future — even if you’re not part of it.

Actually, both you and your spouse could designate Valentine’s Day as the beginning of your joint efforts to provide financial security for the surviving spouse when one of you is gone. Your strategy should involve at least these three key elements: Understanding your household’s finances — In some marriages, one spouse handles all the household financial matters, including investments. If this person were to pass away first, it could leave the surviving spouse with the dual responsibility of managing day-to-day finances and tracking down all investment information. These tasks could be overwhelming to someone who is unprepared to deal with them, so you’ll want to take steps to ensure you and your spouse are aware of your joint financial picture. For starters, keep good records of all your financial assets, including investment accounts, life insurance policies and legal documents — and make sure both of you know where these records are kept. Also, if you use the services of a financial professional, it’s a good idea for you and your spouse to meet regularly with this individual to ensure both of you know where your money is being invested and how close you are to achieving your financial goals.

Creating a future income plan — You and your spouse should discuss your sources of income and identify which ones are specifically tied to each spouse and may be affected by a death, such as pensions and Social Security benefits. You’ll also want to talk about options to boost future income upon the death of a spouse. Do you have adequate life insurance? Have you considered investments that can be structured to provide a lifetime income stream? Have you thought about having the higherearning spouse delay taking Social Security to maximize the survivor benefit for the surviving spouse? These are the types of questions you’ll want to answer as you think about providing adequate income for the partner who outlives the other.

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B oerne B usiness M onthly | February 2015

Leaving a legacy — If you and your spouse haven’t already done so, take this opportunity to discuss your estate plans. For example, you may want to talk about the need to consult with a legal advisor to determine if you, as a couple, could benefit from setting up some type of trust arrangement. You should also discuss how, when the time comes, you want to handle any retirement assets, such as IRAs, that were titled in the deceased spouse’s name. Do you both want the assets to immediately roll over to the surviving spouse, or should you name your children as beneficiaries? Estate considerations can be complex and involve many different aspects of your financial resources. So you and your spouse need to be “on the same page” with your desires and goals.

Valentine’s Day will come and go quickly.

But if you use the occasion to start having the types of discussions described above, you can create something that will last a lot longer than candy or flowers. BBM Ron Warden is a financial advisor for Edward Jones.

830.249.8286, www.edwardjones.com 215 W Bandera Rd Ste 113 B Boerne, Texas 78006

Retreat Hill Country Group • Major Medical Health Plans • Individual & Small Group • Life Insurance • Medicare Supplemental Plans

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830-428-0018

2 Spencer Rd, Ste. 102 Boerne, Texas

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830.214.1565 www.HearLifeAgain.com

boernebusinessmonthly.com

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cover feature

Accounting

Success

W

AKIN, DOHERTY, KLEIN & FEUGE, P.C.

by Lauren T. Stumberg | photos by Pritchett Photography pictured above: ADKF’s Boerne branch employees Dylan Boss, co-managing partner Howard Klein, Jr., CPA,Valerie Brauner, CPA, and Austin Lee

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B oerne B usiness M onthly | February 2015

While most accounting firms are focused on billable hours, the partners at Akin, Doherty, Klein & Feuge, P.C., or ADKF, choose to look at things differently.

They instead concentrate on client and employee relationships, maintaining the belief that their employees’ happiness is reflected in their clients’ satisfaction.

According to Howard “Bo” Klein Jr., co-managing partner for ADKF, “What sets our firm apart is that we have great people who do their very best to serve our clients. Our employees are an incredible asset to our firm, and we have a company culture in place that nourishes that.” In fact, ADKF was even voted by the San Antonio Express-News as one of the best places to work in 2014.

“We tell our employees that life is too short to be miserable in a job. If every day they don’t enjoy coming to work then let us know and we will help them find a place with one of our 1,000’s

of clients. However, we do instill in our employees that they should live their lives with these five priorities in place, and in this order: Have a personal faith in God; Family; Church and Community; Their Employer; and Recreation. If they can run their lives with these priorities in place they are going to thrive,” stated Klein. “We encourage our employees to never miss a family event or their children’s activities because of work.

When they are 85 years old, looking back on their lives, those are the things that are going to matter. They need to take the time to be present in their families lives – even during tax season,” Klein said with a smile.

ADKF offers everything from financial auditing, financial statement preparation, and tax preparation to consulting services in countless areas and truly enjoys providing personal ADKF’s Partners (top row, left to right): Howard H. Klein, Jr, CPA, Rene Garcia, CPA, Joseph A. Hernandez, CPA, Thomas A. Akin, CPA; (bottom row, left to right): Scot C. Kopecky, CPA, Susan Valdez, CPA and David J. Doherty, CPA service to their clients. “We like what we do for our clients,” Klein added.

“If your client dreads hearing from they tend to become a client for life,” Klein said with a smile.

It is that kind of commitment and dedication to their clients that has resulted in the growth that ADKF you then you are doing something wrong! I tell my clients that type has seen since it opened its doors in 1991. Based in San Antonio with offices in both Boerne and New of relationship will never work!” Braunfels, ADKF has grown to 60 employees since the company got its start 24 years ago. The firm’s seven Instead, Klein gives each client his partners, who include Thomas Akin, CPA, David Doherty, CPA, Rene Garcia, CPA, Howard Klein Jr., CPA, own personal cell phone number Scott Kopecky, CPA, Joseph Hernandez, CPA and Susan Valdez, CPA, each have over 20 years of experiso they can call anytime they ence and have spent many years planning, strategizing, and analyzing both personal and business finances.

Serving as independent accountants for a number of San Antonio and south Texas businesses that range want. “This is something that has developed throughout the firm. We from small, family-owned businesses to large, multi-state companies, ADKF’s experience includes a wide don’t bill for every phone call either. variety of industries that include restaurant and entertainment, non-profit, manufacturing, oil and gas, banks Lots of time it’s a quick two-minute and financial institutions, and health care just to name a few. “We serve clients from very small start-ups to conversation that we need to have in large, public companies and everywhere in between,” stated Klein.

For those clients who are sole proprietors or small business owners, ADKF offers monthly bookkeeping, order to get their question answered.” payroll tax filings and compliance, executive compensation planOver ADKF’s ning and even retirement planning and implementation strategies.

24 years in business, ADKF also provides consulting services with CPA’s in multiple their commitment areas, such as: business acquisitions and sales, business valuations, to customer satisestate and trust planning, international tax matters and personal faction has led the financial planning. firm to offer someThe partners and staff of ADKF are committed to maintaining times unique sercurrent knowledge of each client’s business and personal needs by vices. “We always being available throughout the year to discuss and review matters ask our clients what with them. Their goal is to provide a more effective service by their biggest probensuring that each client sees the partner group throughout the full lems are and every ADKF’s New Braunfels location. course of the engagement. According to Klein, “We believe that now and then we our tremendous growth is largely the result of each partner being get some very eccentric answers,” laughed Klein. directly engaged with our clients. One example of this is in our audits. Many firms have a huge turnover “There was one instance where rate with their auditors. At ADKF all the managers and partners are active and involved in the audits so we I asked a client this question and are all working together. This in turn results in happier employees and a lower turnover rate. The clients are his biggest problem was finding happier too as a result of not having to continuously work with new auditors.”

Though the services offered by ADKF may be of a serious nature, they believe in the importance of fingerling fish for his stock tank. So guess what? That afternoon I found laughing a lot and enjoying what they do. Klein added, “In the end, we believe we will be successful if we myself helping him fill up his stock strive to do it better, have more fun and keep our five priorities.”BBM tank with those fingerling fish! Once you’ve solved someone’s problem

www.adkf.com

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Accounting for Your Success At Akin, Doherty, Klein & Feuge, we do everything in our power to assist you with your business and personal accounting, tax and financial needs.

Akin, Doherty, Klein, & Feuge, personally Serving our clients Since 1991.

830.815.1100 n www.adkf.com 507 E. Blanco, Suite 101 n Boerne, Texas 78006 8610 North New Braunfels, Suite 101 n San Antonio, Texas 78217 672 Ridge Hill Dr., Suite A n New Braunfels, Texas 78130

Boerne (830) 249-3955

leon springs (210) 698-8100

HAPPY VALENTINES DAY FROM e+l Barre!

Join us as we work to create YOUR perfect body with our low-impact, strength training Barre classes that are perfect for all fitness levels!

Looking for the Perfect Gift for the Woman in Your Life?

Shop our Barre Lounge for the perfect accessory or fitness apparel, or purchase a gift certificate to use towards Barre or Yoga classes!

830.331.8939

To schedule your classes online, visit www.EleganceandLife.com

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B oerne B usiness M onthly | February 2015

New Client Special: $99.00 (unlimited classes) 5 – Class Pack Special: $65.00 (expires 60 days) Interested in a fitness and health regime that works for YOUR body? Ask us about our personal training sessions and nutrition and weight loss plans designed specifically for you and your fitness goals! Get started today!!

FEBRUARY 2015 CALENDAR OF EVENTS | cont’d FEBRUARY 19 GREATER BOERNE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE RIBBON CUTTING FOR BOERNE COMMUNITY THEATRE - BCT ACADEMY 1:30pm to 2:00pm | Boerne Community Theatre 113 S. Plant Ste. DD – Boerne FEBRUARY 21-22 HILL COUNTRY OPTIMISTS ANTIQUE SHOW Spend your weekend browsing over 60 antique dealers for classic items of all varieties.

CITY COUNCIL MEETING 6:00pm to 8:00pm | City Council Chambers 124 Old San Antonio Road – Boerne FEBRUARY 26 GREATER BOERNE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS AFTER HOURS MIXER SPONSORED

BY JENNINGS ANDERSON FORD 5:00pm to 7:00pm | 31480 IH 10 West, exit 543 – Boerne BOERNE PERFORMING ARTS - NEW SHANGHAI CIRCUS 7:30pm to 10:00pm | Champion High Auditorium 201 Charger Blvd. – Boerne Direct from China, the troupe of The New Shanghai Circus features astonishing athletes that will defy gravity and execute breathtaking feats as they stretch the limits of human ability in this spellbinding show. www.boerneperformingarts.com for ticket info.

FEBRUARY 28 HAPPY H RANCH WILD WOMEN AND WINE FESTIVAL 12:00pm to 6:00pm | Happy H Ranch 505 U.S. 87 – Comfort A full day of celebrating Texas Hill Country Wine, Food & Craft Vendors, Live Music, Demonstrations, Contests & Prizes All Day! Live music featuring Texas Female Artists Susan Gibson, The Wolf Sisters & Lola Pistola.

Guys Are Welcome!

Rain or Shine, Covered, Indoor, Spacious Event Center, Free Parking & Shuttle. www.happyhranch.com for more info. BBM

THE DODGING DUCK BREWHAUS 402 River Road - Boerne, Texas 78006 (830) 248-3825

WWW.DODGINGDUCK.COM www.edwardjones.com

To Our Troops, We’d Simply Like to Say

“Thanks.”

Thanks for your courage and loyalty, and for reminding us that real heroes still exist.

Ron Warden Financial Advisor 215 W Bandera Rd, Ste 113B Boerne, Texas 78006 830-249-8286

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FEBRUARY 24 GREATER BOERNE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE RIBBON CUTTING FOR BOERNE ORTHODONTICS AND PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY 11:30am to12:00pm | 215 W. Bandera St., Ste 112 – Boerne

Rebeca Short Financial Advisor 104 Medical Drive Boerne, Texas 78006 830-249-4630

Allyson Munsell

GOT AN EVENT YOU WANT TO TELL THE READERS OF BOERNE BUSINESS MONTHLY ABOUT! Send Your Calendar of Events Submissions to lauren@distinct-graphics.com

Financial Advisor 1011 S Main Street Boerne, Texas 78006 830-249-2748

Member SIPC

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Time for a Second Opinion on your Financial Future?

Call Cisneros Financial Services Today for a Risk-Free Review.

For over 40 years, Cisneros Financial Services, in conjunction with Russell Investments, a global leader in multimanager investing, has been consulting with and advising individuals, sole proprietors and business owners on strategies to help maximize their investment return in an ever-changing market.

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13 Upper Balcones Road | Boerne, Texas 78006 (830) 249-9900 | www.cisnerosfinancial.com Securities & Advisory Services offered through VSR Financial Services, Inc., A Registered Investment Adviser and Member NASD/SPIC. Cisneros Financial Services is independent of VSR.

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CUTS • COLOR • STYLING

Appointment booking available online at barbiesinboerne.com (210) 836-5728 | 725 N. Main Street – Boerne, Texas

B oerne B usiness M onthly | February 2015

Veronica “Barbie” Rogers, Owner/Stylist

job search

What Motivates Companies to Hire You?

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by Mary Elizabeth Bradford

Knowing what triggers a company’s interest and quickly motivates them to sit up and take notice of you is powerful knowledge that you can use over and over again.

Of course, each situation is different, but the running themes that connect them are the same. Here are several motivators you can begin using to increase a company’s interest in you: MOTIVATOR #1 – YOU CAN SOLVE A PROBLEM THEY HAVE Perhaps you read about it in a job ad or in a news article. No matter where, a company that has a challenge will appreciate your attention to it and willingness to be either a part of the solution or THE solution!

MOTIVATOR #2 – YOU HAVE LITTLE, IF ANY, COMPETITION Don’t wait for a job ad to post on a major job board before you connect with your companies of choice!

Connect with a decision maker (not human resources) and express your interest and qualifications. Companies ALWAYS have a need for talented people across all departments – so why wait when responding to a job board ad means competing with hundreds of other resumes? Compounded by the fact that over 80% of jobs aren’t even advertised!

MOTIVATOR #3 – YOU HAVE A REALLY IMPRESSIVE RESUME This is where hiring a resume writer really pays off. One of my clients told me he landed a great interview in a new industry he was targeting. When he got there, the first thing the interviewer told him was “I just had to meet the man behind this resume!” Needless to say, the interview went very well and he got the job!

A compelling resume is just one component of a successful job

search, but it is a powerful help to have your interviewer “primed up” by impressing them with a resume that builds the excitement of meeting you!

MOTIVATOR #4 – YOU ARE ENTHUSIASTIC You will score BIG, BIG POINTS if during your interview, you find an opportune time to say, “I am really impressed with your company and I can definitely see myself working here” or “I am really excited about this position” or even “I want this job!” Just think about it, would you want to hire someone who didn’t want to work with you? Of course not!

MOTIVATOR #5 – YOU ARE POSITIVE There is no deal breaker like a string of negative questions and answers. People that are critical thinkers have to be especially careful about coming off too quiet or too questioning in interviews (my engineering, technology, and finance friends, you know who you are).

You don’t have to be something that you are not, but take a little time to prepare for your interviews putting a special focus on the positive responses you can give, PLUS (and this is a big plus) stories about your accomplishments! Critical thinkers and introverts can display their brilliance and their aptitudes just as easily as outgoing people as long as they take time to prepare for their interviews.

These are simple, but tried and true techniques that are easy to overlook, but pay off in more generous offers if you take the time to incorporate them into your job search strategy!BBM Mary Elizabeth Bradford, CERW, MCD is an Internationally Certified Advanced Resume Writer & author of the Amazon bestseller: The Career Artisan Series: The 21st Century Resume Guide for the Perplexed (with Custom Online Resume Templates).This eBook has helped thousands of jobseekers worldwide tackle the toughest resume writing challenges - giving job seekers both word.doc templates (online link) and step by step instructions on how to easily craft a results producing resume that works in today's job market. www.maryelizabethbradford.com

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ribbon cuttings

Greater Boerne Chamber of Commerce Ribbon Cuttings – December 2014/January 2015

At Northeast OB/GYN Associates, they are women’s healthcare specialists and have been practicing in San Antonio and the surrounding areas for over 25 years.

Their patients rely on them from their first gynecological exam through their pregnancies, menopause, and post-menopausal care. Throughout their life stages, they are there for them. Dr. Scott Farhart and his staff are located at 124 E. Bandera Rd., Suite 204, Boerne and to schedule an appointment at (210) 653-5501. For more information on Northeast OB/GYN Associates, please visit their website www.ne-obgyn.com.

Since 1985, Lawing Financial has stayed true to its client-centric, team approach to financial planning. This clarity of purpose and method propels their employees to work with efficiency, intelligence, and integrity for their clients. Financial Advisor Matt Nelson would love to discuss your financial needs and you can call him at (830) 816-5131. You can find Lawing Financial at 206 S. Saunders in Boerne and visit their website at www.lawingfinancial.com.

Summer and Brian Poole have opened a new art venture, The Shabby Palette, a unique art parlor in Boerne, Texas. They offer Paint and Sip parties, community education classes, event rentals, and more. The art parlor is conveniently located at 402 E. San Antonio Street. For information on events or to book a party, call Summer at (830) 331-2161 or visit The Shabby Palette’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/shabbypalette.

Paychex offers best-in-class solutions that help you run your business better including online payroll, mobile apps, top reporting features, human resource management,employee benefits,401(k) administration,and more. They are the payroll company of choice for over 500,000 businesses. At their Boerne location at 9118 Overlook Road, Tara Lackey will be happy to go over all their services and find a plan that best fits your business. You can call Paychex at (210) 694-6570 or visit their website at www.paychex.com.

Ms. Sue’s Art Studio owner Susan Barnes sold her first work of art as a teenager and began teaching art to neighborhood children at seventeen. She studied at San Diego State University while accumulating a portfolio to enter the prestigious Art Center College of Design in Pasadena, California. After earning her degree, she studied abroad in Geneva, Switzerland for one year. Since relocating to Texas, she has found her way back to her pure passion to paint, create and teach. Susan has opened Ms. Sue’s Art Studio and is teaching more than 15 classes a week to 5 to 95 year olds. The studio also holds private parties and summer camps. You can call Susan at (210) 551-3843 for more information. Ms. Sue’s Art Studio is located at 101 Old Fredericksburg Road, Boerne and their website address is www.mssuesart.com.

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B oerne B usiness M onthly | February 2015

ENT Clinics of San Antonio, P.A. has opened an office in Boerne. They are dedicated to the prevention and alleviation of human suffering in patients with medical and surgical disorders in the field of Otolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery. The ENT Clinics of San Antonio’s Boerne clinic is located at 301 Norris Lane and you can call Tracy Gibson or Rebecca Davis at (210) 616-0283 to schedule an appointment or visit their website at www.entclinicsofsa.com.

Urban Defense Training, is your premier source for fitness, advanced hand to hand combat, and medical training for fire, police and military operators. They are completely and wholly dedicated to serving the men and women of city fire services, police services and US armed services.

They are committed to their community. Boerne’s Chief Instructor, Kevin Durio will be happy to discuss their training and services in detail, you can call him at (214) 232-8603 or visit their location at 635 IH 46 E., Ste. 101A in Boerne. For more information, visit Urban Defense Training’s website www.urbandefensetraining.com.

Kyle Kirl is the founder of Envision Excellence and has an extensive business background, which includes over 22 years of experience in business to business and consumer goods sales and marketing. The company was formed to be a partner with businesses big and small in need of assistance with business strategy refinement, enablement and implementation. Focus areas for Envision Excellence include; Profitable Growth, Productivity and how you’re People bring your vision to reality. Please give Kyle a call at (830) 388-0862 to discuss how he might be able to help your company and please be sure to visit Kyle’s LinkedIn page www.linkedin.com/profile/viewid=43211050&trk=nav_responsive_tab_ profile.

H Ranch Roads H Chip Seal H Land Clearing

H Stock Tanks H Septic Systems H Fencing

H Arenas H Metal Buildings H Barns

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B oerne , T exas 78006 boernebusinessmonthly.com

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You’re frustrated, and so is your child. Classwork and homework by now are a daily struggle of tears and yelling. Your child is falling behind, and the school is clueless as to how to solve the problem.

attention problems such as Dyslexia and ADHD are caused by weak underlying learning skills.

You know your child is smart, but there is something holding him back.

You have tried tutoring and hours of homework, but it seems like nothing has worked.

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“My child is smart, but is terrified of reading in front of the class.”

Brain research shows these skills can significantly improve Weak underlying learning skills can be identified using a cognitive skills assessment.

Once the student’s cognitive strengths and weaknesses are identified, a specialized program is developed to train those skills.

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Since 1969, Learning Foundations has helped struggling kids and teens break These skills such as sensory processing, free from painful and embarrassing Is it the parents’ fault? The teachers’ memory, auditory processing and labels. All programs are delivered phonemic awareness build the 1-on-1 with an experienced specialist. fault? Is she just being lazy? foundation for academic and social The real reason is that for 20% of kids success. A weakness in these skills can Free Consultations can be scheduled cause even the smartest child to struggle. by calling (210) 495-2626. in school, reading, spelling and

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B oerne B usiness M onthly | February 2015

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Tisha Pettibon, biology teacher and head volleyball coach at Boerne High School, has been named 2015 Boerne ISD Teacher of the Year. Having won this honor, she now will represent the district in the area-wide competition for the Trinity Prize for Excellence in Teaching, awarded each spring by Trinity University.

Boerne ISD superintendent David Stelmazewski presented the Teacher of the Year award to Pettibon in front of one of her biology classes.

“What you are doing as a classroom teacher and what you are doing to help your colleagues grow as professionals is truly impressive,” Stelmazewski said in making the presentation. “You are a great representative for our district and we are proud of you.”

Pettibon, who came to Boerne in 2009, teaches pre-advanced placement Biology and is credited with creating successful tutorial sessions that are open not just to her students but to all biology students at the school.

“My students help make my classes better,” Pettibon told the interview committee that selected her for districtwide recognition from among this year’s nine campus Teacher of the Year honorees. “They have good ideas and they make class interesting.

“I love what I do. I love biology. I get to teach it every day. It is so relevant to our daily lives. When the Ebola outbreak was in the news, what do you think we were talking about in class? We were talking about the outbreak.

That’s part of biology. It is current, it is exciting and I love teaching it.”

Pettibon says her students would describe her as being energetic, being a solid leader, and being well-versed in biology. Her colleagues, she says, would describe her as “always busy, always non-stop.”

“I like to help all of our biology teachers and I want one hundred percent of our students to be successful. I will do whatever it takes to make that happen.”

Boerne High School principal Natalie Farber described Pettibon as a fierce competitor in academics as well as athletics.

“Tisha is both a mentor and a model to teachers within the Science

bisd news

PETTIBON NAMED BOERNE ISD TEACHER OF THE YEAR Department,” Farber said. “Her instructional practices challenge students to not only learn the material, but to apply that knowledge to everyday life.

“In order to improve scores and passing rates on the Biology End of Course Exam, Tisha implemented academic instructional sessions targeting specific areas of needed growth. These sessions were outside the regular school day and open to not just Tisha’s students, but to all students taking Biology. The sessions were very popular and very helpful.”

Boerne ISD athletic director Stan Leech says that Pettibon was a key hire as head volleyball coach when Boerne High School reopened its doors in 2009 after being closed for a year during extensive remodeling.

“She brought instant respect and credibility for our program at Boerne High because of her coaching success,” Leech says of Pettibon.

“We sought her out because she is a great teacher, but she also is a very successful coach. She helped make us immediately competitive. Her volleyball teams have gone to a regional finals and a regional semi-finals in the past three years. And she and Coach Ruede have taken their basketball teams to the regional finals the last two years.”

Pettibon went to high school in Hondo and she holds her bachelor’s degree in Biology from the University of Texas-Austin. She credits instructors at both school for influencing her decision to enter the education field.

“My Hondo High School calculus teacher, Cindy Jones, who is still teaching there, was a tremendous influence on me,” Pettibon says. “I’m not someone who enjoys math. But she came to class every day excited to be there. She knew her material. And she cared about us as students.

“In college, my mentor was Dr. (Dean) Hendrickson, professor of ichthyology. He was a great role model, a great dad, and extremely smart.

He actually discovered a new species of fish in Mexico while doing research. Basically, he is my biology idol. I couldn’t wait until the next class. He had a way of keeping students motivated, that’s for sure.”BBM

BEF AWARDS $78,000 IN TEACHER GRANTS The Boerne Education Foundation awarded $78,000 in Teacher Impact Grants (TIGs) to educators in the Boerne ISD at the district’s annual faculty meeting on Friday, January 9, 2015. 37 teachers received grants based on their proposals for classroom projects and educational enhancements.

“Some truly great things are going to happen in classrooms across the district because of the creativity, commitment and perseverance of our grant recipients,” said Boerne ISD superintendent David Stelmazewski, “and the generosity of the BEF and its donors.”

Anna Floyd, chair of BEF’s Teacher Impact

Grants committee, and BEF president Angie Lemmons made the presentation along with three of BEF’s Annual Campaign contributors, Mark Strode from Methodist Stone Oak Hospital, Paula White from GVTC, and Aggies for Education, a group of A&M alumni.

“I commend these teachers,” Floyd said, “for taking time to write these grant requests for items that they can use to educate our children in more engaging ways. In some cases, grants were for classroom materials beyond the district’s budget.”

The grants are awarded as part of a competitive process, with teacher identity and

campus affiliation shielded from the committee during proposal evaluation. The foundation received proposals from 45 applicants totaling more than $154,000 in requests.

Funds to support the TIG program are the result of proceeds from BEF’s annual fundraising gala, Rock On, the Annual Giving Campaign and various other fundraisers throughout the year. Rock On Hollywood, the 2015 fundraising gala, will take place on April 18th at The Cana Ballroom at St. Peter the Apostle Catholic Church.BBM boernebusinessmonthly.com

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your S PAC E

at home or at wor k... love the space you’re in!

THIS SECTION: organize | Common Organizing Mistakes

real estate statistics | RECI Looks at Numbers for Local Real Estate Activity in 2015

art | Mooney Makes Sense: Cheap Gas

mortgage | Home Mortgage Route Most Traveled Avenue to Homeownership

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B oerne B usiness M onthly | February 2015

organize |

Spring is just around the corner...

No...Really!

Want to find out the secret to selling your current home fast & buy a NEW HOME 2015?

Common Organizing MISTAKES

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by Taylor Davis Spring will be here before we know it and it’ll be time to do a little seasonal cleaning and organizing. While we all have good intentions, it turns out that quite often we might be doing it all wrong. Here are a few common mistakes made and some clutter-busting tips on how to fix them. Follow these and your home is sure to look spic and span in no time!

MISTAKE #1: SHOPPING FIRST, ORGANIZING LATER Have you ever gone out and bought a bunch or organizational bins just to find out you didn’t know what to do with them? Instead, you need to edit your stuff first and then go buy what you need to put what’s left away in an orderly fashion. Otherwise you’ll just have a bunch of useless bins taking up even more room!

MISTAKE #2: SKIPPING LABELS Everyone thinks that bins are the ultimate answer when it comes to organization. Bins are great, but they need to be properly labeled and specific in order for them to really do their job. Adding a label helps you to stop and think “Oh, this doesn’t belong in here,” before you put something in that will just make a mess of your organizational system all over again!

MISTAKE #3: IMPROPER UNDER-BED STORAGE So you got all your stuff hidden away under your bed and you think you’re doing good, right? Under-bed storage can be a great way to clear clutter and save space, but only if it is well hidden or displayed properly. Exposed boxes and bins under the bed can make your space look messy, so opt for a bed skirt for a cleaner look or consider a bed with built-in under-bed storage.

Tiffany Joslin (210) 394-4399

Naomi Weckesser Steven Karam (830) 688-0282 (210) 414-0105

Renee & Jim Campbell (210) 542-0148 | (210) 838-1896

MISTAKE #4: OUT OF ORDER DRAWERS Technically, a drawer is a container in itself. However, just throwing your stuff in a drawer so it’s out of sight does not count as being organized. By using additional containers and dividers within the drawers your items will be more visually appealing and easier to access.

MISTAKE #5: USING THE FRIDGE AS A MESSAGE CENTER You think you are doing a great thing by corralling all the messages and papers into one easily accessible spot, however the truth is that notes and magnets all over the refrigerator just look messy. We all think this is a great place to put stuff so that people will notice it, but they don’t. Most of the time they never even look at it. Instead, households need a designated area that everyone knows is the go-to place to look for messages, mail and communication. Consider a tucked away bulletin board on the inside of the pantry or anywhere that messy papers won’t be out in the open.BBM

Kathy & Wiley Cloud, Brokers (210) 710-6601 | (830) 755-8693

Real Estate Office: (830) 755-8693 boernebusinessmonthly.com

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Serving our Friends and Neighbors of the Hill Country Since 1916

REAL ESTATE CLASSES INSTITUTE IS LOOKING AT THE NUMBERS FOR REAL ESTATE ACTIVITY 2015.

K

According to the San Antonio Board of Realtors MLS services as of 01-17-2015.

“Where experience and service make the difference” From its beginning in 1916, Kendall County Abstract Company has been Kendall County’s locally owned and operated title company. Over the last 97 years, we’ve earned the trust of real estate professionals because we’re experienced, we’re professional, and we care about our customers.

Ashlee Pfeiffer, Manager

Agent for:

• Stewart Title Guaranty Company • Fidelity National Title • First American Title Insurance • Alamo Title Insurance

830.816.2131 | 830.249.3341 - Fax 103 N. Saunders • Boerne, Texas 78006 (across from the courthouse)

VISIT US AT WWW.KCAC.NET

S

Kendall County continues into 2015 with about the same number of residential listings, 314 for sale on the MLS service. There has been some lowering of list prices. The highest priced listing is $3,000,000.00 while the lowest priced listing is $85,500.00. The average list price is $661,816.00 The number of Sold/Closed listings for the past 30 days is 34 units with an average sales price of $484,387.00. The highest priced sale in the last 30 days was $1,980,000.00. The total sold volume in the past 30 days is $16,469,171.00 A few subdivisions showing current listings of residential homes for sale include one in Bentwood $210,500, one in Cibolo Crossing at $168,000, six in Ranger Creek $175,000 - $390,000 and fifteen in River Mountain Ranch $339,900 - $1,400,000.00.

Wondering what the best source to obtain more specific real estate information? Or want to begin your own home search or sale? Real Estate Classes Institute recommends that you contact a local Real Estate Specialist and determine their level of expertise. Then, ask for specifics that are of interest to you; which areas have larger lots, acreage, and other amenities such as pools or waterfront, and how they can help you with a new home purchase. Find out how they will be able to best represent you in your sale or purchase. They’re the experts!

(These figures do not include “non-MLS” listings such as for sale by owner nor does it include ALL new construction not entered in MLS service.)

Still curious about your own subdivision? Let us hear from you and we’ll try to include it in the next issue.BBM

210-749-3131 | www.TxRECI.com

INCOME, POPULATION GROWTH SPUR TEXAS LUXURY HOME SALES

Strong growth in luxury home sales continued in 2014 throughout Texas’ largest markets, according to the 2015 Texas Luxury Home Sales Report released yesterday by the Texas Association of Realtors.

The report cited sales volume increases from 9 percent up to more than 25 percent for homes sold at $1 million or more in markets including Austin, DallasFort Worth, Houston and San Antonio.

"The overall economic growth and prosperity in Texas have contributed heavily to the luxury market, making it one of the strongest segments of housing in Texas in 2014," said Real Estate Center Research Economist Dr. Jim Gaines.

Gaines said the state also benefited from people moving here from places like California, where a mod-

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est two-bedroom condo can be valued at $1 million or more.

"Those people sell their home in California, move to Texas and realize their money goes much further in our market," Gaines said. "Thus, even if they don’t have an income typical of a luxury homeowner, they have assets to purchase luxury homes and are stimulating that market."

In terms of volume, the Houston area had the largest number of luxury home sales in Texas, with homes valued at $1 million or more representing almost 2 percent of overall home sales. Luxury sales were up 13 percent over the prior year, which significantly outpaced the 2 percent year-over-year growth seen in volume for the total market. Active listings for luxury

B oerne B usiness M onthly | February 2015

homes in Houston were up 19.7 percent over the previous year.

Austin showed similar trends, with luxury homes representing 2 percent of the overall housing market and increasing 9 percent over the previous year.

In Dallas-Fort Worth, luxury sales represented a smaller percentage of the market at 1.2 percent, but the sales volume was the second highest in the state and increased by double digits, up 15 percent over the previous year, when overall home sales were flat.

The most aggressive growth in luxury sales was in San Antonio, where homes valued at $1 million or more represented less than 1 percent of the market, but volume increased 26 percent over 2013. BBM Information courtesy of the Texas Association of Realtors

BBM

Phillip Bell

& Assoc., llc

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PHILLIP BELL

REALTOR®, GREEN/Consultant

210.415.8483 pbell@texas.net

phillipbell.net

PRIVATE REAL ESTATE

TRANSACTIONS • FAMILY • ESTATES • COMMERCIAL • INVESTORS (210) 415-8483 – Call for Details pbell@texas.net

34± ACRES: This property at 7 Becker Ln is offered for potential development. Located behind Ingram Readymix, with50 ft. easement fronting on IH-10 access road. There are two family homes and various out-buildings on the property with two wells and three septic systems.

The 34+/- acres is not in the City limits but is in the ETJ. Ideal for light, industrial development. Electricity is available from Bandera Elect. CoOp. Water and sewer service available from Kendall Utility. Survey, plat and aerials are available. Call for details. $2.00/Sq. Ft.

LAND SALE for

in the new

INDUSTRIAL ZONE

COMING SOON! INDUSTRIAL/TECHNOLOGY/BUSINESS PARK: This 28.4 acre property is available for development. Recently annexed with Industrial zoning (I) pending, this property is ready for a professional developer to work with the City of Boerne for a most-needed industrial park. City water available. City sewer service in progress.

Approx. 1400 feet of frontage on Shooting Club Road with additional access on Hwy 87 (Main Street). The property is under Ag-Exemption. 39 horse stalls, office and apartment to be removed. Contact listing agent for full details.

OTHER UNLiSTED COMMERCiAL PROPERTiES AVAiLABLE! boernebusinessmonthly.com

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art |

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B oerne B usiness M onthly | February 2015

EVERYTHING FROM HOME STAGING, LICENSED AND INSURED CONTRACTORS, HANDYMAN SERVICES AND PROFESSIONAL LANDSCAPERS! 20+ YEARS EXPERIENCE AND AN OFFICE IN THE HEART OF BOERNE.

Let Us Get Your Property

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Office: 830-331-2666 Cell: 210-535-1355 103 E. Kronkosky – Boerne, Tx 78006 Ed Trevino, Broker

CALL ED TODAY!

Brand New in Boerne starting at just $187,000!

Granite, all appliances, mini blinds included!

Hurry call Ed today! 210-535-13555 (Prices subject to changed based on availability)

Be Kind To One Another

HomeSweetHomeBoerne.com

BALCONES CREEK Homes from the $250s

THE WOODS OF FREDERICK CREEK Homes from the $270s

Community Features:

Community Features:

• • • • •

No city taxes Gas community Gated community Wooded homesites Exemplary Rated Boerne Independent School District

• • • •

Limited Homesites Remain!

Large wooded homesites 3-car garage designs available Hill Country experience offering city conveniences Boerne Independent School District

For more information contact Stephanie Keene at 210-415-8668.

Johns Rd.

87

Visit ryland.com for more information.

In the San Antonio division, prices, plans and specifications are subject to change without notice. Map is an artist’s conception for general information purposes only and is not to scale. Photographs are for illustrative purposes only. Information believed to be accurate but not warranted. See sales counselor for details. © 2015 RH of Texas Limited Partnership.

RS1319

Frederick Creek

46

Balcones Creek

St.

10

in Ma

For more information contact Mark Guerra at 830-981-5301 or Cesar Rivera at 830-981-4464.

46 Fair Oaks Blvd.

87

Map not drawn to scale.

boernebusinessmonthly.com

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mortgage |

Home Mortgage Route Most Traveled Avenue to Homeownership

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By David S. Jones, Senior Editor, Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University

While the number of all-cash home sales has increased, don’t be fooled into thinking it’s commonplace, says a noted economist. The residential mortgage remains king of the home-financing hill.

“The all-cash phenomenon is an aberration,” said Dr. Mark Dotzour, chief economist for the Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University. “Most U.S. homebuyers do not have sufficient funds to pay cash for a home. In fact, many have difficulty coming up with a modest down payment.”

When mortgage rates are low, buyers can buy larger, more expensive homes. On the other hand, higher rates preclude them from buying larger homes because the monthly payments increase beyond their ability to pay.

“Consequently, changes in mortgage interest rates have a profound impact on sales of singlefamily homes,” said Dotzour.

Homebuyers and real estate professionals need to understand why interest rates fluctuate. A wouldbe homebuyer may defer purchasing if they think mortgage rates are likely to fall. Conversely, if they think rates will rise in the near future, they may buy before that happens.

The 30-year, fixed-rate mortgage rate moves closely in tandem with the ten-year U.S. Treasury bond rate, explains Dotzour. Bond investors have numerous choices for investments, including residential mortgages, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac bonds, corporate bonds and U.S. Treasury bonds.

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B oerne B usiness M onthly | February 2015

When the interest rate on the ten-year Treasury goes up 1 percent, said Dotzour, it’s highly likely that the interest rate on all other bonds will increase by nearly the same amount. When the ten-year Treasury bond rate moves up, mortgage rates almost immediately move up as well.

“The mortgage rate is always higher than the Treasury rate,” he explained. “That’s because investors perceive mortgages to be riskier investments than U.S. government debt.”

Over the last 14 years, the mortgage rate averaged 5.62 percent. The average Treasury rate was 3.84 percent. The difference between the two is known as “the spread.” Over the same years, the spread averaged 1.78 percent.

“So, the 30-year mortgage is likely to be about 1.8 percent higher than the current Treasury rate,” Dotzour added. “The two rates, however, are not in perfect unison. There was a big spike to nearly 3 percent in 2008 when bond investors lost faith in America’s housing market.”

The ten-year Treasury rate moves up and down based on how much inflation investors expect to see over the next decade. If high inflation is expected, Treasury bond interest rates rise. Inflation was high in the 1970s and 1980s. So were interest rates. BBM To learn more about how mortgage interest rates are determined, read “Heart of the Housing Market” in the January issue of the Center’s magazine Tierra Grande.

222 S. Main | Boerne, Texas

830.249.7979

www.hillcountryproperties.net

101 TIMBER MOUNTAIN DRIVE – RIVER MOUNTAIN RANCH This lot is priced to sell! The lot is situated on the first street in the subdivision and is a corner lot with some oaks. Subdivision has three gated parks with water access. Exemplary Boerne Schools.

MLS#1095150 | $60,000 Contact Sara Baird (210) 317-9996

PRICE REDUCED!!

103 DEER TRAIL – RANGER CREEK SUBDIVISION Convenient to town yet the gift of a serene, park-like back yard – your own little oasis! .75+/- acres, 2200 sq ft, 4 bedrooms (one being used as a study), 2 full baths, one story, some updating, carport, storage shed, native plants for low maintenance. Ranger Creek, no city taxes, highly acclaimed Boerne School District. $290,000 Contact Carol Schultz (210) 268-3691

PRICE REDUCED!!

103 COTERIE PLACE – TAPATIO SPRINGS Come to Tapatio Springs and enjoy the low maintenance style living in this immaculate garden home. 3 bedrooms, 2 baths with a gorgeous courtyard entry. Within the last year owner has updated with ceramic tile throughout and interior painting. Great trellis covered patio with builtin outdoor grill. Patio is the perfect place to watch the deer! There are beautiful views of the greenbelt area and cliff that outline the wet weather creek. Boerne exemplary school district and no city tax.

632-636 HIGH ST – HISTORICAL PROPERTY! Charming & unique 1902 historical property located in the desirable residential/business area of Comfort! Property has multi-use capabilities for a business/residence. This property boasts long leaf pine throughout most of the building, full kitchen, 2 hot water heaters, oversized rooms with multi-use, and high ceilings! Outdoors is a pond, a brick pizza oven, 2 outdoor restrooms with AC, a large storage building/workshop, utility room with 9X9 storage area upstairs, and beautiful landscaping!

MLS#1087643 | $298,000 Contact Sara Baird (210) 317-9996

MLS#1066793 | $495,000 Contact Shannan Baird (210) 379-8063

Experience • Skill • Dedication

boernebusinessmonthly.com

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VisitBoerne.org 830.249.7277

TICKETS: ONLINE: IN PERSON: PHONE:

$20 (student)-$30-$40-$60 www.BoernePerformingArts.com Greater Boerne Chamber of Commerce 830.331.9079

7:30 PM • BOERNE CHAMPION AUDITORIUM OR

Boerne Convention and Visitors Bureau Boerne Performing Arts is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization

TECHNOLOGY YOU EXPECT FROM A BIG BANK. SERVICE YOU DON’T. We’re here with online banking, mobile banking, 1,100+ ATMs and a banker that answers the phone when you call.

frostbank.com 1300 South Main Street Boerne, Texas 78006 (830) 249-6633 MEMBER FDIC