in this issue…
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995™
• WC REALTORS Bowling for TREPAC • Pure Gold Realty's Launch Party • Independence Title Headquarters Grand Opening • WCR Monthly Meeting • and much, much more!
Associates in Progress
Become Wealthy Without Risk! page 11
page 25
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APRIL 2014 • VOLUME 18 • ISSUE 12
hay
darby
A Professional Limited Liability Company
Ready or not, ABoR severs ties with ListHub as of April 30 By Riki Markowitz
A
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P. O. Box 81366, Austin, Texas 78708
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s April 30 quickly approaches, the Austin real estate community sits in anticipation of what the anything-but-ordinary day will bring. On that Wednesday, the Austin Board of REALTORS’ (ABoR) decision to terminate its contract with ListHub will go into effect. ABoR and ListHub, a listing asset management system and parent site for several popular third party real estate syndicators,
like Zillow, Trulia and Homes.com, started a business relationship in 2007. Since then, the tech company has been through a variety of acquisitions and leadership changes. The deal provides ListHub with a property-listing feed from the Multiple Listing Service (MLS), which is then posted on to its portfolio of syndication sites. In turn, ListHub sells leads back to agents. After a 2012 study by the WAV Group demonstrated that a good percentage of data posted by syndicate websites was inaccurate, ABoR created a task force to evaluate the partnership. One year later, Oct. 9, 2013, the Board announced its decision to stop syndicating listings to non-REALTOR consumer websites. Shortly thereafter, eight real estate agencies in the city followed suit. Even though the decision to pull the plug on non-REALTOR syndicators was announced about six months ago, strong opinions continue to fuel emotions and generate clicks online. Interestingly, the entire country has its eye on April 30. Real estate professionals everywhere are aware of ABoR and ListHub’s contractual demise. It has been written about in large publications like Philadelphia Weekly, and small venues, like Todd Miller TV, a video blog hosted by a Nevada-based real estate consultant. One reason why Austin is so divided on this issue is because a lot of agents and brokers don’t understand ABoR’s decision. “Several conversations [are] taking place under the umbrella of the word syndication. [It] has muddied up the conversation,” says Jack Stapleton, Williamson County Association of REALTORS’ president-elect. Stapleton explains that the primary reason for terminating the relationship with ListHub was due to the integrity of listing data. By publishing inaccurate information, syndicators were compromising the National Association of REAL-
TORS (NAR) Codes of Ethics and Standards of Practice, which hold brokers and agents liable for the dissemination of bad listings. Among other inaccurate data, the WAV Group, a national real estate consultancy, found that up to 37 percent of listings that appear on syndication websites were no longer for sale and that 20 percent of homes listed on the MLS, the portal agents use as a syndicator go-between, are never posted. The biggest syndication “offenders” are Zillow and Trulia. Incidentally, a Google search for “Austin Real Estate” shows that these sites appear on the first page, often in the top three to five positions – arguably the most valuable spots on the page. This point is not lost on Todd Miller, the owner of Nevada Reality Solutions. On his Oct. 10, 2013 broadcast, Miller said that Zillow and Trulia’s Google rankings could be used as leverage by Austin brokers. “I think [terminating the ListHub contract] is a shortsighted idea,” said Miller in his video blog. “If I were an agent in that market, I would bring this article with me and say, ‘Look, you can list with them, but your house is not going to show up on Zillow and Trulia. If you list with me, it will.’ Miller was referring to the Oct. 10th press release indicating that eight Austin brokerages would also stop listing properties on third party syndication websites. (ABoR fully supports agents’ advertising their listings on any website they choose, including ListHub sites.) Rob Hahn, a managing partner at 7DS, a real estate marketing and technology firm in Houston, is another professional who sees ABoR’s move as imprudent. But, unlike Miller, rather than using ABoR’s decision as a way to divide the real estate community, Hahn takes to his popular website, The Notorious
Front Page: Continued on page 28
Upcoming Events Wednesday, April 23 AYREP Happy Hour Moontower Saloon - 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Thursday, April 24 Santa Rita Ranch S REALTOR Preview Luncheon 101 Norcia Loop -11 a.m. to 2 p.m. HBA Parade of Homes VIP Preview Party Willie Nelson's Tierra Vista - 5 to 8 p.m. Saturday April 26 HBA Parade of Homes Opens Willie Nelson's Tierra Vista 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday April 26-27 Santa Rita Ranch S Grand Opening 101 Norcia Loop - 12 to 5 p.m. Thursday, May 1 HBA Parade of Homes REALTOR Day Willie Nelson's Tierra Vista 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Hay Darby 5th Annual Open House 402 West 7th Street - 4 to 7 p.m. Thursday, May 8 ABoR TREPAC Golf Party Top Golf Austin - 4:30 to 7 p.m. Monday, May 19 WC 25th Annual Golf Classic Cimarron Hills Golf Club - 11:30 a.m. More at www.myRealtyLine.com
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Master Planned living Hill Country style YOU CAN HAVE IT ALL ~ Belterra, located just minutes from downtown Austin, offers a lifestyle like no other. With miles of hike and bike trails, over a dozen parks, resortstyle pool complex, state-of-the-art fitness center and an on-site elementary school in the highly acclaimed Dripping Springs Independent School District; there is no better place to call home. Stop by the Belterra Welcome Center for more information.
New model homes and new neighborhoods NOW OPEN! David Weekley Homes • Highland Homes • Sitterle Homes • Treaty Oak Homes • Wilshire Homes
151 T riniTy H ills Drive • A usTin, TX 78737 • 512.301.5000 • B elTerrATeXAs. com
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Austin Board of REALTORS®
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Chairman’s Column By Bill Evans • 2014 President
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April 2014
in mind that there are potential legal consequences if your advertisement is out of date or inaccurate. To set up a RETS feed, visit Abor. com/MLS/DAL.cfm. ABoR is also working on alternative syndication options but these may not be ready before April 30.
A
pril is here, and as many of you know, ABoR will discontinue its agreement with ListHub this month. After April 30, brokers will have to make independent decisions with their agents and clients about syndication. Our clients demand and depend on accurate data, so let’s give them what they are asking for! To do that, we need to ensure that consumers have access to accurate, up-to-date listing information. With so much unreliable property data available online, many buyers and sellers are left questioning the credibility and integrity of our profession. While the idea of spreading a listing’s information as far and wide as possible may seem like a good idea for maximum exposure, data is left to sit for months without any updates, even if the property is sold. The further this inaccurate information travels, the more potential damage can be done, and the worse we look. Websites that display this inaccurate information are not only damaging the reputation of REALTORS, they mislead buyers and sellers by setting unrealistic expectations about the market. However you look at it, bad
data is bad for real estate. As brokers and agents, we have a responsibility to make informed, deliberate decisions about syndication and take a more active role in our online advertising practices. The days of “set-it-and-forget-it” syndication are over. It’s up to us to take ownership of where our data is being displayed and how it’s being used. ABoR will continue to offer syndication to REALTOR-friendly websites AustinHomeSearch. com, TexasRealEstate.com, and Realtor.com. These sites protect your data and are closely aligned with the principles of the REALTOR Code of Ethics.
But, what if syndication is right for my client and me? A RETS (Real Estate Transaction Standard) feed allows brokers to independently syndicate to any third-party website. When you set up a RETS feed through ABoR, you become responsible for the independent dissemination of the data by way of a RETS vendor. It’s up to you to keep track of the data that’s out there, and keep
Please visit ABoR.com/Syndication for downloadable educational resources. You will also find information about the history of syndication and your online advertising options after April 30. In the coming weeks, take the time to speak to your colleagues about syndication and the ways your business will change after
Take the power back
The end of April brings the end of automatic syndication with ListHub
This decision was made to give us the power over our data once again. I’m tired of being blamed for inaccurate data; it’s time to take the power back. But, as with any major transition, there will be some growing pains. I want to make sure you are ahead of the game when April 30 arrives. ABoR has resources available to help us all through the transition period.
April 30. I have become weary of explaining data inaccuracies to my clients and colleagues, and I believe that returning syndication decisions to the brokers will benefit our industry. I’m eager to see our real estate community step up to the plate and protect our reputation as REALTORS. RL
ABoR Academy Educational Courses April 22: Broker Responsibility MCE Course (TREC# 06-06-124-24214) April 23: Green MLS: The Key to Unlocking the Green Home Market/Aud C (TREC #03-00-064-24332) April 24: Fight the Texas Tax Appraisal & Win (TREC #04-00-035-25408) May 12: Fight the Texas Tax Appraisal & Win (TREC #04-00-035-25408) May 20: Broker Responsibility MCE Course (TREC # 06-06-124-24214) May 21: Leasing 103, Listing for Agents May 21: The TAR Residential Lease Agreement (TREC #03-00-016-26692) May 27: Fight the Texas Tax Appraisal & Win (TREC #04-00-035-25408) May 29: Buying & Selling Historic Properties (TREC #08-00-025-25055)
More at www.ABoR.com/courses
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NAPMW President Laura Rosales and Becky Hopkins of Austin Title parade around the NAPMW Mardi Gras Masquerade in style with their fabulous tiaras. The event was held at the iPic Theatre.
Buy photo: RL_040114_B.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Wow, what a great turnout at the WC REALTORS Bowling for TREPAC event at Mel’s Lonestar Lanes. The event sold out this year!
Buy photo: RL_030514_J.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Ruby Johnson of Nextage Lone Star Realty and Stacye Blake of Landmark Home Warranty chat about how Stacye’s company can help Ruby’s business. The two met at a recent WCR mixer.
Submitted Photo
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*Offer expires 10/31/2014. Credit of $500 subject to seller contribution limits. For residential loans only. Must present at the time of loan application. Universal American Mortgage Company LLC dba Eagle Home Mortgage - Company NMLS #1058, Branch NMLS #1068413, 12301 Research Blvd., Bldg. 4, Suite #185, Austin, TX 78759; NMLS #1020880, 15950 N. Dallas Pkwy, Suite 400, Dallas, TX 75248; NMLS #1075077, 2201 South W.S. Young Drive, Suite 111-A, Killeen, TX 76543; NMLS #1084944, 18756 Stone Oak Parkway, Suite 200, San Antonio, TX 78258. Certain restrictions apply. This is not a commitment to lend. Applicants must qualify.
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EXPLORE OPTIONS
New KB Home neighborhoods are now open! Discover all that’s possible with Built to Order ™.
Berry Creek
Mason Hills in Leander Coming Soon 1,792–3,125 sq. ft., 3–6 bdrms., 2–5 baths 1433 Macfarland St., Leander, TX 78641 (512) 259-0171
Berry Creek in Georgetown From the low $200s
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1,792–3,699 sq. ft., 3–6 bdrms., 2–5 baths
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Creekside at Georgetown Village in Georgetown From the $180s
Retreat at Willow Creek in San Marcos From the $180s
1,516–3,023 sq. ft., 3–6 bdrms., 2–4 baths
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107 Sageleaf Willow Dr. San Marcos, TX 78666 (512) 844-8536
Broker Cooperation Welcome. ©2014 KB Home (KBH). See Built to Order™ options and upgrades offered at KB Home Studio. All options/upgrades require additional charges and ordering at predetermined stages of construction, and are subject to change/discontinuation anytime by KB Home. KB Home is not a custom homebuilder. Plans, pricing, financing, terms, availability and specifications subject to change/prior sale without notice and may vary by neighborhood, lot location and home series. Buyer responsible for all taxes, insurance and other fees. Sq. footage is approximate. Photo may depict upgraded landscaping/options and may not represent lowest-priced homes. Photo does not depict racial preference. See sales representative for details. AUS-116970
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Matthew Posey, right, of AmeriPro Funding compliments Michelle Goldberg on her very festive mask at the NAPMW Mardi Gras Masquerade event. We’re still wondering what George Light, left, had to do for those beads (wink). All three serve as officers on the NAPMW board of directors. Buy photo: RL_040114_A.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
The Independence Title team is ready to knock down some pins at the WC REALTORS Bowling for TREPAC event at Mel’s Lonestar Lanes in Georgetown. The event was a huge success, selling out weeks before it happened.
Submitted Photo
Austin has such a tight-knit real estate community, you’re sure to run into people you know when going to an AYREP mixer. Mark Bennet of Austin City Living, Rich Coffey of Hay Darby LLC and John Schutze of Supreme Lending relaxed a bit after a long day of hard work.
Buy photo: RL_040314_C.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Aimee Randle and Monica Middleton, both of Capital Title, attend the AMBA monthly meeting to network and drum up new business for the company.
Buy photo: RL_030514_E.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
WANT TO WORK WITH THE BEST?
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a balanced life of work and family. We have developed a mission statement that represents the heart of who we are: The Right People - The Right Way! The following positions are available in our Killeen and Austin branches: Mortgage Loan Originator • Support D.R. Horton communities as their preferred lender in Temple, Waco, Killeen and Ft. Hood • Incentives available for generating non-D.R. Horton business • Base salary plus commission based on production • Additional bonus opportunities available • 2+ years originating required • Fluent in Spanish a plus! • Comfortable speaking to large groups
Want to work for the best? Contact me today! Patricia Wagner
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Mortgage Loan Processor • 2+ years processing required • Experience with FHA, VA, USDA, MCC, Bond and Conventional Loans • Comfortable in a fast-paced environment • Base salary + overtime • Monthly bonus opportunities available • Fluent in Spanish a plus! At DHI Mortgage, we offer a diverse and collaborative work place that is unmatched by our competition. As an employee, you will: • Be affiliated with D.R. Horton, America’s #1 Home Builder • Mortgage Loan Originators have the ability to originate new home construction, resales & refinance business • Receive a competitive compensation plan with bonus opportunities. • Receive EXCELLENT large company benefits, including 401K matching • Have no-cost marketing support for Mortgage Loan Originators
Provided for informational purposes only. DHI Mortgage is an Equal Opportunity Employer. DHI Mortgage Company, Ltd. Branch NMLS #38686. 10700 Pecan Park Blvd., Suite 200, Austin, TX 78750. Company NMLS #14622. For information on DHIM licensing please visit www.dhimortgage.com/other-pages/licensing. REV: 05/29/13 / EXP: 05/29/14
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Williamson County Assoc. of REALTORS®
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President’s Column By Gary Cocanougher • 2014 President
Professional development can be serious fun
H
ere at the Williamson County Association of REALTORS we take pride in providing industry education, networking, and charitable giving opportunities that build our community in a fun, creative atmosphere. Being professional does not mean ignoring the lighter side of life. On the contrary, blending professional growth opportunities with fun activities improves participation and desired outcomes. On May 19, we'll celebrate our 25th Annual WC Golf Classic at Cimarron Hills Golf Club. This provides a wonderful opportunity for our members to meet each other and affiliate member vendors. We accomplish many of our association goals while having a lot fun in the sun. Our members have a chance to meet new people or catch up with old friends in a warm and friendly format. Our affiliated real estate service providers can showcase their teamwork and congeniality. Strong connections can develop over time that serve our members well. These relationships forged in water hazards and sand traps help create an improved overall buying and selling expe-
rience for our clients, and more referral/income generation for our members. All this can happen while we stretch our legs, breathe fresh air, and sink a few putts. Sports columnist Grantland Rice once said that "Eighteen holes of golf will teach you more about a person than 18 years of dealing with him across a desk." We certainly agree! Even as we are blessed in this time of prosperity to live in the fastest growing county in the United States, there are some among us who do not share in our good fortune. Eighteen percent of Texas residents live with food insecurity. That means they aren't always sure they will be able to eat three nutritional meals each day. Most people who suffer from food insecurity are children who have one or two parents working in full or part-time jobs, but can't afford to keep food on the table. I'm so proud of our members at the Williamson County Association of REALTORS. They give back to the community, and they have a fun doing it. We are organizing a food drive this July, and we encourage you to participate in this event. Details on how you can help will be
www.myRealtyLine.com “coming soon.” In can be difficult keeping track of what's going on in Williamson County but it's become so busy. And our members have often requested the use of our calendar or e-mail system to help promote their events. For all the new residents and our members, we have compiled a list of resources they need to navigate Williamson County. We call this new website, WCLIFE. We
April 2014
invite you to check it out at http://www.wclife. org/. REALTORS and affiliate members can use WCLIFE as a great resource for their clients, but they can also advertise their services and list their events in our calendar. We're very pleased with the results. Have a great Spring! Stay busy, but remember that you can have some serious fun at WCREALTORS. RL
Buy Photos + Find Events + View Archives
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Think more than just big, think global
©2014 RE/MAX, LLC. Each RE/MAX® office is independently owned and operated. 140211
ACCEPT NO BOUNDARIES. When you’re part of a global network in over 90 countries, you benefit from worldwide brand awareness and referral opportunities your competitors can’t touch. The real estate industry is global now. Are you?
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Susanna Boyer of 1st Source Realty is ready to hand out trophies at the WC REALTORS Bowling for TREPAC event at Mel’s Lonestar Lanes.
Submitted Photo
Sarah Holmes and Brian Pitman, both of Independence Title, welcome Veda Jablan of ERA Colonial Real Estate to the company’s Open House event celebrating the grand opening of its new headquarters. The big event also helped raise money for the American Heart Association and included live music, outdoor trailer food and drinks.
Buy photo: RL_040314_A.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Buy photo: RL_030914_E.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Tommy Holmes, left, of Capital Title loves to hear ABoR President Bill Evans of Austin Real Pros when he speaks. Bill updated the group about the works of the Austin Board of REALTORS and provided insights on what is critical to ensuring success between lenders and REALTORS.
Worth Knowing. GRETCHEN ROSSINGTON / Account Manager
“Building relationships is essential to gaining someone’s trust - and TRUST is what sets Cadence Bank apart”
Your Trusted Source for Second Liens 512-484-1860 / NMLS# 555982 gretchen.rossington@cadencebank.com
BAN K Loans are subject to credit approval. Cadence Mortgage is a division of Cadence Bank, N.A.
Realty Line Ad.indd 1
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Austin Title Celebrates
St. Patrick’s Day!
WWW.AUSTINTITLE.COM
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Rough Hollow Lakeway hosts the second annual Heart & Sole Epilepsy Walk/5K. The event kicked off at the community's Welcome Center.
Submitted Photo
Realty Austin owner Yvette Boatwright, front center, and her team of agents support the American Heart Association's Go Red for Women campaign. Pictured clockwise from left center are Lori Goto, Cristina Valdes, MJ Moran, Darcy Newton, Caren Upshaw, Evonne Gottsch, and Charla Housson. Submitted Photo
Black Fret founders Eric Anonsen and Matt Ott discuss the possibility of a house concert with Jim Smith of The Property Management Company. They were attending the launch party at The Belmont for Pure Gold Realty, which benefitted Black Fret, a non-profit for patrons of local music, and the Capital Area Food Bank.
Submitted Photo Buy photo: RL_040514_H.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com
Rodney Rodriguez of Longhorn Real Estate Group accepts a top three production award from Keller Williams Realty Cedar Park broker/team leader Christy Gessler.
Jimmy Jacobs Homes
2014 Free MCE CoursE sEriEs Next Class
Create Your Market Identity TREC MCE Elective Course #: 01-00-065-25651
What makes you unique in your market? How do your referral sources describe you? You have a market identity. The question is who is creating it— you or the people who are talking about you?
When
Where
Wednesday, May 7th 10:30am - 11:30am
Jimmy Jacobs Model Home
Complimentary Lunch Following Class
IM OCK 1043 Arbor Canyon Pass Driftwood, TX 78619
rSVP (512) 354-1949 info@jacobshomes.com Seats will fill up fast!
Course curriculum provided by sente Mortgage, inc.
901 south MoPac
MCE Provider #9841
Bldg 4, suite 125
Main 512.637.9900
Austin, Texas 78746
FOR MORE INFORMATION ON KW CAREER OPPORTUNITIES CONTACT CEDAR PARK NORTHWEST LAKE TRAVIS ROUND ROCK SOUTHWEST Gene Frederick/ Brian Martin 512-346-3550
Christy Gessler 512-616-4000
Gayla McGowan 512-263-9090
Avis Wukasch 512-255-5050
Diane Johnson/ Melanie Kennemann 512-448-4111
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If you stopped working today, would your income stop? Principles of Investing (#0911) TREC Approved 30-Hour SAE Course
*Increase Your Financial IQ *How to Become Wealthy Without Risk *Learn How to Find, Analyze, Buy, Rehab & Resell for Profit *6 Clauses to Put in Every Contract *AND Much, Much, More!
Join us for the 3-day Wealth Weekend!
July 18th – July 20th from 8:30am - 7:30pm Open to the Public! Bring your Clients! Have Fun While Learning Investment Strategies of the Rich!
Location: 8828 Research Blvd Austin, TX 78758 To register, go to www.AustinInstitute.com or Call 512-453-0900 To learn more about this course, building wealth, and handling money, watch this video on our YouTube channel: “Investing your Profits-The Austin Institute of Real Estate” OUR GUARANTEE: you WILL leave this class knowing what Wealth is and how to achieve it or we will refund your total tuition & give you another class of your choice absolutely free.
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LET US MAKE YOUR JOB EASY.
As Lakeway’s only 55+ active-adult resort community, Tuscan Village offers just the kind of resort amenities and lifestyle your clients have been dreaming of. Our right-sized villas and townhomes offer the perfect setting to play, walk, shop, learn, golf, swim, boat, gather, dine, dance and have the time of their lives — all in the heart of Austin’s best playground. Call now to preview available homes and tour our model
Buy photo: RL_040514_R.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Jazz Lough, right, of Pure Gold Realty celebrates with guests, including good friend Liz Mabon, at the company’s launch party at The Belmont.
home and clubhouse. Future townhomes are filling up fast!
®
Buy photo: RL_040414_C.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com
Luncheon sponsor Francis “Bubba” Bashaw of Prime Lending gets ready to speak to the Women’s Council of REALTORS about the renovation/purchase and renovation/refi loans he offers. Jeremy Reisig was on hand to share information about how Cutco products can make great closing gifts.
Homes from the $280s for Adults 55+ (512) 327-1200 | TuscanVillage.com Prices are subject to change without notice. Exclusively marketed by Legacy International Resort Properties. Obtain the Property Report required by federal law and read it before signing anything. No federal agency has judged the merits of value, if any, of this property.
Submitted Photo
The Pin Masters show off 1st place trophies after winning the WC REALTORS Bowling for TREPAC tournament. Pictured left to right are Bill Spencer and David Drawhorn, both of Spencer Properties, Karen Trevino and Randy Downing, both of Georgetown Mortgage and Ronnie Wooten, front, of Wooten Enterprises.
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Marilyn VanUum, Connie Wooster and Mona Breeze, all of Independence Title, are ready to rock and roll at the company’s open house event showcasing its new office headquarters in Austin.
Buy photo: RL_030914_A.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Time management specialist Scott Carley gives some tips to Lori Bolton of Central Metro Realty and Denise Guerrero at the AYREP Happy Hour event.
Buy photo: RL_040314_F.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Now who wouldn’t want to attend an AMBA meeting when greeted by these two smiling faces? Gretchen Rossington of Cadence Bank and Dan Rushing of Highlands Residential Mortgage check people in as they arrive to the meeting at the Austin Country Club.
Buy photo: RL_030514_D.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
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Sue Elliot and Natalie Hoover, both of Coldwell Banker United, REALTORS, learn about new tools at the company’s Regional Sales Rally at the ABoR office.
Buy photo: RL_040214_F.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
WCR president Victoria Reviel, far right, and vice president of membership Ruby Johnson, second from right, welcome several new members at a recent meeting.
Submitted Photo Buy photo: RL_040414_F.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com
Scott Felder Homes wins Grand MAX Volume Builder of the Year at the HBA's MAX Awards Gala. Scott Felder and Steve Krassoff accepted the award for the second year in a row.
Texas American Title Company
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austin
President’s Column By John Sparrow • 2014 President
HBA members honored for industry excellence at 2014 MAX Awards
O
n April 5, the Home Builders Association (HBA) of Greater Austin honored dozens of its members with the coveted Marketing and Advertising Excellence (MAX) Awards. The honors recognize achievements in new home building, marketing, remodeling and personal accomplishments throughout 2013. The evening culminated with the “Grand MAX” Awards. These top honors went to Scott Felder Homes for Volume Builder of the Year, Foursquare Builders for Custom Builder of the Year and David Wilkes Builders for Remodeler of the Year. The “Best Overall Community for a Developer” was awarded to: • Ash Creek Homes, “The Grove at Falconhead” (under 100 units) • Brookfield Residential, “Blanco Vista” (101-300 units) • Wheelock Communities, “Sweetwater” (300+ units) Several HBA custom and production builders were honored for “Product Achievement.” Best Product Design, Volume Builder • $100,000-$150,000: Pacesetter Homes
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• $150k $230k: Grand Haven Homes • $230k $250k: Brohn Homes • $250k - $300k: Centerra Homes • $300k - $350k: Centerra Homes • $350k - $400k: Scott Felder Homes • $400k - $500k: Scott Felder Homes • $500k-$1,000,000: Brohn Homes • Over $1,000,000: Scott Felder Homes • Specialty Product: Legacy DCS Best Product Design, Custom Builder (lot price not included) • $250,000-$300,000: Aubrey Homes • $300,000-$420,000: Casa Sereno Homes • $420,000-$500,000: Vogel Builders • Over $500,000: Joseph Fowler Homes • Specialty Product: Foursquare Builders Best Green Home
April 2014
• Solluna Builders Best Custom Spec Home • Integrity Builders Best Custom Home Kitchen • Foursquare Builders Best Custom Home Master Bath • Integrity Builders Best Outdoor Living Space • Seven Custom Homes Best One-of-a-Kind Home • Foursquare Builders Best One-Of-AKind Townhome • Novak BrothersSeveral HBA members received awards for their remodeling projects. Best Remodeled Project under $200,000 • PGM Design+Build Best Remodeled Project over $200,000 • David Wilkes Builders Best Kitchen Remodel under $75,000 • David Wilkes Builders Best Kitchen Remodel over $75,000 • David Wilkes Builders Interior Merchandisers were also recognized for their work in HBA Builder members’ model homes. Best Interior Merchandising for a Model Home $200,000-$250,000 • Wes Peoples Homes (Interior Merchandiser: Mary DeWalt Design Group) Best Interior Merchandising for a Model Home $250,000-$300,000 • Wes Peoples Homes (Interior Merchandiser: Mary DeWalt Design Group)
Best Interior Merchandising for a Model Home $350,000-$400,000 • Scott Felder Homes (Interior Merchandiser: Linfield Design Associates) Best Interior Merchandising for a Model Home $400,000-$450,000 • Scott Felder Homes (Interior Merchandiser: Linfield Design Associates) Best Interior Merchandising for a Model Home $450,000-$500,000 • Standard Pacific Homes (Interior Merchandiser: Mary DeWalt Design Group) Best Interior Merchandising for a Model Home Over $500,000 Mary DeWalt Design Group Other winners included: Best REALTOR of the Year • Jacquelyn Foreman of Coldwell Banker United, REALTORS for her work with Scott Felder Homes HBA member SmartTouch Interactive took home several MAX Awards for its advertising efforts including the following categories: • Best Color Print Ad – Developer • Best Television Ad – Developer • Best Online Ad – Volume Builder • Best Online Ad – Developer Members were also honored in many other categories including: • Ad Campaigns, Billboards, Direct Mail • Electronic and Internet Media • Sales Brochures and Promotions • Sales Office/Design Center/Showroom View the complete list of MAX Award winners at www.HBAAustin.com under “Latest News”. Contact any of these award-winning HBA members for your next home building or remodeling project at www.HBAustin.com (click on “Find a Member”). RL
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Buy photo: RL_040414_D.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com
WCR vice president of membership Ruby Johnson of Nextage Lone Star Realty tells members about the ongoing retention and membership drive, which will feature an iPad mini giveaway at the April luncheon.
Visit us today to tour our Scott Felder, Gh Reserve and Grand Haven model homes!
12 neighborhoods, 15 award-winning builders, 52 available homes HOME DESIGNS BY: DrEES • HIGHlaND • GraND HaVEN • SCOTT FElDEr TaYlOr MOrrISON • COVENTrY • WES PEOPlES • rIVEr OaKS • CENTErra lC lUXUrY HOMES • Gh rESErVE • VIllaGE BUIlDErS • STaNDarD PaCIFIC CUSTOM HOME BUIlDErS
INClUDING CaNYONSIDE BUIlDErS aND BElla VITa
Buy photo: RL_040214_G.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Brooke Konopacki, left, of Champions School of Real Estate congratulates Sheri Brummett of Coldwell Banker United, REALTORS for being recognized as part of the company’s International Diamond Society. Coldwell Banker United, REALTORS hosted its Regional Sales Rally at the ABoR office.
A LAKEFRONT NEIGHBORHOOD
RoughHollowLakeway.com
Call us
512.617.1776
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Developed by Legend Communities in partnership with Crescent Communities. Exclusively marketed by Legacy International Resort Properties. Obtain the Property Report required by federal law and read it before signing anything. No federal agency has judged the merits of value, if any, of this property.
Submitted Photo
The JB Goodwin REALTORS team is truly incredible! Cesar Marc Soliz, Karen McGrath, Tammy Gardner and Jack Stapleton show off their incredible bowling skills at the WC REALTORS Bowling for TREPAC event at Mel’s Lonestar Lanes.
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April 2014
We’re
2013 Pricing is Frozen on all Move-In Ready Homes Buy photo: RL_040514_G.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com
Chad Goldwasser, right, of Pure Gold Realty celebrates with David McMillan of United Lending after enjoying a set onstage with musicians Kalu James and Brotha James at the launch party at The Belmont for his new company, Pure Gold Realty.
• Energy Saving Whole Home building standards • Backed by our 10-Year Transferable Structural Warranty • Amazing included features that give the buyer great selections to choose from Georgetown
Parkside at Mayfield Ranch
35
Highlands at Mayfield Ranch
Caballo Ranch
130
1431
Paloma Lake
Cedar Park 183
Buy photo: RL_030914_F.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Sue Barrilleaux, Debbie and David Pruitt, all of Coldwell Banker United, REALTORS are enjoying the evening with Independence Title complete with quintessential Austin live music, trailer food, drinks and networking. Independence Title recently celebrated the grand opening of its new office headquarters.
79
130
734
Round Rock
183A 45 45
to Austin 1
35
To Find Out More Information, Call Emma at 45 512-253-7338 or visit mihomes.com/Austin today! 1 183
1
35 Buy photo: RL_040314_E.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Jim Sikes and Denis Hosek, both of Northstar Bank of Texas enjoy a delicious lunch as they wait for the program to start at the monthly AMBA meeting at the Austin Country Club.
Austin Aust-034-4-14 Realty Line Ad 5"x13.5".indd 1
4/2/14 3:55 PM
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www.facebook.com/RealtyLineAustin
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Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
Buy photo: RL_030514_G.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
John McClellan of Supreme Lending and Helen Thomas of RE/MAX Austin Skyline discuss the daily grind while at a recent AYREP mixer.
North American Title Company is pleased to introduce:
Christina Isaac, Business Consultant NATC's Research Branch Welcomes Christina Isaac! Christina is a native Texan and has called Austin home for the last eight years. She has a combined 22 years of sales, marketing and event management experience. However, she has worked for the last five years as a professional matchmaker – so it’s a bit of an understatement to say she is an expert in building relationships! If Christina looks familiar, it is probably because she is actively involved in two local nonprofits. As a board member of Operation Turkey, she has helped feed Austin’s homeless for eight years on Thanksgiving Day. She also is the local Chapter Captain for Team RWB (Red, White and Blue), a national 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that helps connect veterans to their communities through physical and social activities. Christina truly believes in paying it forward. “My goal is to impact every person I come in contact with, even if it is just with a friendly smile,” she says. Christina is looking forward to meeting Austin’s real estate community!
Your Closing Professionals NORTH AUSTIN 5608 Parkcrest Drive Suite 150 Austin, TX 78731 t: 512.302.3892 www.facebook.com/Austin.NAT www.nat.com
RESEARCH 11044 Research Blvd. Bldg. D, Suite 100 Austin, TX 78759 t: 512.249.0576
ROUND ROCK 1 Chisholm Trail Suite 3100 Round Rock, TX 78681 t: 512.255.6550
LAKEWAY 1008 RR 620 S Suite 102 Lakeway, TX 78734 t: 512.614.5485
©2014 North American Title Group and its subsidiaries. All Rights Reserved. North American Title Group and its subsidiaries are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for the results obtained from the use of this information. | TX14-4435 R 03-28-13
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gRand haven homes
Rough hollow at lakeway
new west Rim now model open! 201 enchanted hilltop way
Quick Move-In Homes Available Enjoy Concierge Service at The Summit in Rough Hollow Designed to simplify and enhance the homebuilding experience, individual service and consultations with key craftsmen allow for customization of areas throughout the home where personalization and choice have the most impact.
www.GrandHavenHomes.net 512-608-9610 • Lakeway@GrandHavenHomes.net GHH_RealtyLine_Feb2014_v3.indd 1
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April 2014 Austin CRS Chapter
President ‘s Column By Jim Smith • 2014 President
I
Referrals are powerful; learn how to master the art of referrals
entered the real estate profession 30 years ago with one of Austin’s largest brokerage firms at the time. As a requirement, I attended a three week “Charm School” that was essentially a data-dump: I finished with a level of expertise to do everything from a full-tilt boogie market analysis and presentation, showing skills to beat the drum, and the ability to masterly work every electronic device in the office. My reward was a desk with no view, a telephone, and the opportunity to sign up as an over-glorified receptionist, also known as the duty agent. So there I sat; college degrees in hand, training certificates on the wall, and the incredible enthusiasm that the world was going to call me! And I sat; and I sat. In retrospect, who the heck was going to call? And why would they entrust their single-largest investment with someone who just got licensed? What have I accomplished, and who will champion me? My education had just begun. I was blessed and fortunate to ask for, and receive, many mentors. Many have passed on, including most recently one of my favorites, Betty
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Parsons. She taught me many lessons about people and contacts. She taught me warm calls. She taught me referrals. Re-fer-ral: An act of referring someone or something for consulting, review, or further action. In the age of Internet advertising and social media marketing, where everyone is a “friend,” many agents have lost track of the cultural nature of real estate. While technology provides many wonderful tools we use daily to assist us in making and maintaining contact, they cannot replace the human connection. When first time homebuyers or a budding young professional or empty nesters, etc. decide to buy or sell, they ask around. They want to be “referred” to an agent based on the opinion of a person they know and trust. Trust is the unifier that brings agents and prospective buyers and sellers together. Technology cannot replace personal service, genuine care and experience in a real estate transaction. When someone, somewhere, somehow, believes you are so good at what you do; they are willing to put their own reputation on the line and recommend you, it creates an instant level of trust. With over 9,000 REALTORS in the
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Austin area; even more, considering our license allows us to sell anywhere in Texas, how and why do you stand out? The CRS designation is someone who is a “Certified Residential Specialist.” When I speak to various groups around the country, I define CRS as the “Cash Referral System.” The referral system is the entrance for new relationships. However, the value placed on developing that relationship and earning someone’s trust is what really builds your strong and successful business.
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
The Austin Area CRS Chapter is offering an opportunity to begin your mastery of referrals. April 28-29, we are offering you an opportunity to master the referral method. CRS-210 is being held at ABoR, as well as CRS-103 (Positive Change) on the 30th. I challenge you to set yourself apart from the other 9,000 plus REALTORS in our area and begin (or affirm) your mastery of referral business. Class size is limited, so call ABoR today at 512454-7636 and reserve your seat! RL
Submitted Photo
Wes Wigginton of Foursquare Builders takes home top honors as Grand MAX Custom Home Builder of the Year for his custom home building company at the HBA's MAX Awards and Gala.
• One of Austin’s top places to work • Austin’s #3 ranked mortgage lender • Unparalleled support team Discover United Lending - and your unlimited career potential Ranked #3 Mortgage Lender by the
David McMillan (NMLS #117439) or Tommy Nelms (NMLS #122291)
(512) 592-5400
United Lending, a division of Network Funding LP #2297 3429 Executive Center Drive, Suite 200 Austin, Texas 78731 unitedlendingusa.com
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s a nta R ita R a n ch s o uth g R a n d o Pe n in g
RealtoR PReview aPRil 24, 2014 | lunch fRom 11 – 2 P. m . to u R s a ll day fRom 10 - 6 P. m .
Join us for lunch
& chance to win $500 Enjoy catering by Bellini’s Texas Grill and register to win a $500 gift certificate to The Domain! Shop ‘til you drop!
4 model homes
& welcome centeR
Bring your ProsPects to our grand oPening weekend aPril 26 & 27, 12-5 P.m. Homes Priced from $190’s - $360’s Give us a call, y’all!
512.201.8567
Tour our Farm House Welcome Center and four fully-furnished
model homes by Castlerock, Highland Homes & Wilshire Homes. Learn about our builder incentives for Grand Opening Weekend. n
Become one of our PRefeRRed RealtoRs Stay in the know about our model openings, inventory, previews, promotions and exclusive Realtor events and incentives. Make Santa Rita Ranch your cash cow this year!
101 noRcia looP libeRty hill, texas
78642
Two miles off 183 North Toll or 183 A, just north of the Hwy 29 and Parmer Lane (Ronald Reagan) intersection.
Visit us at santaRitaRanchaustin.com austin’s newest masteR-Planned community, hill countRy style Prices, specifications and details are subject to change without notice. Homes within Santa Rita Ranch are constructed and sold by builders not affiliated with Santa Rita Ranch or Mariner Development.
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Put your Trust in our Experience With over 100 years of combined industry experience, our executive team continues to take aggressive steps to innovate and improve the industry. 4807 Spicewood Springs Rd., Bldg. 1, Ste 1100
(512) 450-1222 Kyle Bierschwale kbierschwale@ hometrust.com
Richie Rodriguez
sales manager
rrodriguez@ hometrust.com
NMLS #1150439
NMLS #222698
Amy Elizondo aelizondo@ hometrust.com
Lynn Edgar ledgar@hometrust.com NMLS #2211412
NMLS #1128166
www.hometrust.com
NMLS #149932
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HILL COUNTRY SPIRIT
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
Known as the Texans’ playground, the Hill Country and its rich regional architecture has inspired an engaging new-home community. Its character is genuine, natural and open, just like those who choose to call it home. Why not kick up your heels and stay awhile?
RanchoSienna.com A new-home community in North Austin Priced from the $200,000s
Visit our other Newland Communities in North Austin, the award-winning Falcon Pointe in Pflugerville and the acclaimed Teravista in Round Rock/Georgetown.
Newland Communities is the largest private developer of planned residential and urban mixed-use communities in the United States from coast-to-coast. Together with our partner, North America Sekisui House, LLC, we believe it is our responsibility to create enduring, healthier communities for people to live life in ways that matter most to them. www.newlandcommunities.com and www.nashcommunities.com Map not to scale. This community map and illustrations for illustration purposes only, based upon current development concepts, which are subject to change without notice. No guarantee is made that the features depicted will be built, or, if built, will be as depicted. • NASH Rancho Hills, LLC (“Fee Owner”) is the owner and developer of the Rancho Sienna Community (“Community”). Certain homebuilders unaffiliated with the Fee Owner or its related entities (collectively, “Rancho Sienna”) are building homes in the Community (“Builder(s)”). Fee Owner has retained Newland Communities solely as the property manager for the Community. North America Sekisui House has an interest in one of the members in Owner. Newland Communities and North America Sekisui House are not co-developing, co-building or otherwise responsible for any of the obligations or representations of any of the Builders, and shall have no obligations to any buyer regarding a home purchase from a Builder. Purchasers of homes from any of the Builders waive any claims against Newland Communities and/or North America Sekisui House arising out of their purchase transaction. • Actual development may vary from developer’s vision. No guarantee can be made that development will proceed as described. • Prices, specifications, details and availability of Builder’s homes are subject to change without notice. • 2014 © Rancho Sienna. All Rights Reserved. Rancho Sienna is a trademark of NASH Rancho Hills, LLC, and may not be copied, imitated or used, in whole or in part, without prior written permission.
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austin
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tor® l a e R VIP 1% e n o t MileS additional 001 759 0 8 7 2 1 0 9111 2 one.com t S e l i M y www.M
As a Realtor VIP at MileStone, enjoy: 4% Commissions on ALL sales Exclusive Networking Events Complimentary New Home Sales Education Courses And, Much More!
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West Cypress Hills
Arbor Ridge
Scenic Homes from the $280’s 512-264-0900
5501 Nuckols Crossing • Austin
Pinnacle Luxury Collection
5200 Cypress Ranch Blvd. • Spicewood
Reserve at Brushy Creek
S. Austin Homes from the $130’s 512-410-1993
Scottsdale Crossing
Pinnacle Luxury Collection
Luxury Homes from the $290’s 512-410-7792
Breakway Rd. & Brushy Creek Rd. • Cedar Park
Teravista
Homes from the $320’s 512-961-5556
183 North & Scottsdale Rd. • Cedar Park
Preston Village
Luxury Homes from the $210’s 512-551-0791
16016 Travesia Way • Austin
Stinson Oaks
Modern Homes from the $210’s 512-900-8891
Luxury Homes from the $240’s 512-804-2605
New Homes from the $160’s 512-215-5220
Arbors At Lakeline
1900 Little Elm Trail • Cedar Park
Southpark Meadows
Distinct Homes from the low $200’s 512-961-5553 9808 Milla Circle • South Austin
Chad Goldwasser informs the crowd about Black Fret, a non-profit for patrons of local music, at the launch party for his new company, Pure Gold Realty, at The Belmont. The party benefitted Black Fret as well as the Capital Area Food Bank
7709 Manchaca Rd. • Austin
Townhomes from the $190’s 512-477-3707
2214 South Lakeline Blvd. • Cedar Park
Woodford Estates & Woodford Gardens
Shadow Creek
Luxury & Vintage Garden Homes 512-477-3707
203 Shadow Creek Blvd. • Buda
Eastwood at Riverside
New Homes from the $150’s 512-782-2040
Buy photo: RL_040514_D.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com
4912 Scenic Lake Drive • Georgetown
Cypress Creek
Final Opportunity!
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Austin’s Largest, Award Winning HomeBuilder
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Tuscan Style Homes from the $210’s 512-804-2605
COMING SOON • 877-676-9622
Experience the SWBC Difference
7233 Manchaca Rd. • South Austin
Hills of Bear Creek
COMING SOON • 877-676-9622
Our commitment to you:
Southbridge Villas Final Opportunity!
COMING SOON • 877-676-9622
Searight Village
©2014 MileStone Community Builders. Terms and conditions are subject to change without notification. Please see Sales Counselors for details and community exclusions. As our preferred Realtor®, you will receive an additional 1% on every sale after initial sale by December 31, 2014. Prices, plans, specifications, features, completion dates and the availability of homes are subject to change with notice or obligation. *Extra Realtor commission is available upon closing and with presentation of the MCB VIP Realtor card.
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Austin Business Journal
award winner 2011
of the year 2012
THANK YOU FOR HELPING MILESTONE BECOME THE 6TH FASTEST GROWING COMPANY IN AMERICA!
Volume Builder
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In-house underwriting, processing, and funding for smooth, seamless transactions
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Control of the servicing for most conventional loans we close
Find out why much of our business for the past two decades is from repeat customers or referrals from agents, builders, and clients who appreciate exceptional service. Linda Komm, vP nmls# 219050 512.422.7958
Rhona Bogie nmls# 222089 512.917.1954
Conventional www.MyMileStone.com
We’re a best company to work for and with!
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Jumbo
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investments
the avallon building, building 1 | 10415 morado Circle, ste. 100 | austin, tX 78759
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First American Title A S S O C I AT E S I N P R O G R E S S - A d v e r t i s e r P r o f i l e b y K a t i e B r o w n
F
irst American Title has serviced the Greater Austin Area since 1984. For more than 25 years, First American Title has provided its clients with an exceptional customer experience from a knowledgeable and friendly staff. This customer-first attitude personifies itself with the service provided to its clients. A centralized title plant allows for prompt turnaround time on all Travis, Hays and Williamson County title requests. At First American Title, a belief that personalized service ensures success drives the company’s goals. Innovative technology combined with skilled professionals enables First American Title to provide precision and exceptional service through every aspect of the closing process. First American Title is dedicated to leading the industry in customer satisfaction by providing consistently high-quality service; in innovation by developing and marketing new systems, products and services; in profitability by demanding efficiency; and in growth. First American Title Insurance Company is the largest subsidiary in The First American Corporation family. As the largest title insurer in the nation, the company offers title services through a network of more than 300 offices and 4,000 agents throughout the United States, as well as in Australia, the Bahama Islands, Canada, Guam, Mexico, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and the United Kingdom. Closing services are also available in many First American offices.
The expertise of a successful national company with the attentiveness of a local customer-focused business – that’s what you experience when working with First American Title. “Austin is such a close-knit community,” says Jason Vasek, Austin divisional president for First American Title. “While it’s a national company that has done business in 70 countries, we pride ourselves on remaining locally focused and investing back into the communities we serve.” The company focuses its efforts on its core business lines, which include title insurance, closing and settlement services, title plant management services, title and other real property records and images, valuation products and services, home warranty products, property and casualty insurance, and banking, trust and investment advisory services. Previously located in Houston, Vasek, who has been with First American Title for 12 years, was recently brought to the Austin market to continue growing the First American Title brand. “Our focal point and vision is to continue to deliver our services with integrity,” Vasek says. Within the past year alone, First American Title has experienced tremendous growth in the Austin area, which is a true testament to Austin’s booming real estate market and the strength of the company’s offerings. Since 2013, the company has added 13 new employees and plans to add more in the coming months.
www.myRealtyLine.com The company’s roots date back to Orange County in 1889 when two title firms opened in the recently developed county. Five years later, the companies merged and created the Orange County Title company, which is the predecessor to First American Title Insurance Company. In 1957, in an effort to become a powerhouse in Southern California, the company began extensive expansion plans. By 1982, First American Title served every region of the country. Then in 2010, the company separated its real estate information business from its title insurance and financial services business. This created two independent companies: CoreLogic, Inc., and First American Financial Corporation, respectively. Today, First American Title’s business presence extends throughout the U.S. and into nearly 70 countries. However, while this global company is evolving and growing, the customers in the individual markets are experiencing the benefits, particularly in regard to technological tools, of working with a company that has a sound financial standing and high-quality innovation. First American Title has been investing in its technology to provide its customers with accessible resources, all at the touch of a button. From mobile apps to comprehensive, full-service sites, Vasek says that one of First American Title’s greatest assets is its ability to provide customers with the resources they need to do their jobs in an efficient and productive manner. “We have an array of tools to help our clients and customers increase their business from a variety of marketing standpoints,” Vasek says. These technological tools are websites and apps that specifically tailor to the needs of REALTORS, homebuilders, homebuyers, sellers and more. Some specific examples of these technological tools include myFirstAm.com, a system
HomeCity Welcomes it ’s New
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Jason Vasek, Division President
that allows REALTORS to quickly and easily send property information and data, including aerial maps and Excel spreadsheets, to their customers through their smartphone or computer. In May 2013, this app was made Influencer’s Top iOS Apps for Real Estate List. To better manage the closing of a property, First American Title has two innovative resources. The CostsFirst Mobile App lets you calculate closing costs, make updates to files and e-mail, print or save the estimated HUD1. With Digital Docs, this free service automatically delivers closing and post-closing documents electronically, and customers are able to access these important documents in a secure, authenticated cloud. For more than 120 years, First American Title has been providing the real estate market with exceptional and innovative customer service and resources on an international, national and local level. Here in Austin, Vasek and his team provide the real estate community with proficiencies of a nationwide business while maintaining a customer-focused approach locally. RL
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Douglas Haines
Celeste Lovelace
Drew Evans
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NAPMW Director Angela Bujnoch almost doesn’t recognize Tom Miller with his mask on at the NAPMW Mardi Gras Masquerade.
Buy photo: RL_040114_C.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
WC REALTORS Association Executive Marge Phillips and Avis Wukasch of Keller Williams Realty are elated that the WC REALTORS bowling event to raise funds for TREPAC was a sell out.
Submitted Photo
Cecilia Roberts, center, and Kelly Guerrero, right, both of Coldwell Banker United, REALTORS, catch up with their friend Mary Ellen Schmidt, left, at the Coldwell Banker United, REALTORS Regional Sales Rally. Buy photo: RL_040514_N.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com Buy photo: RL_040214_B.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Penny Green of Willow Bend Mortgage and Jill Smith of Patten Law Firm share the spotlight with Alpha Rev, one of four Austin bands that performed at the launch party for Pure Gold Realty at The Belmont.
THE PERFECT HOME COMES WITH THE BEST SEATS IN THE HOUSE.
The Most Trusted Builder in America* is bringing you America’s favorite pastime. Purchase a beautifully designed Ashton Woods home and receive Friday Night Fireworks Season Tickets to the Round Rock Express. ** You’ll also be entered into a drawing to attend a Live Remote with Bucky & Erin form The Horn on the Ashton Woods Homes Party Deck leading up to the game. Talk about knocking it out of the park!
855.308.00398
•
ashtonwoods.com/austin
*According to Lifestory Research 2014 Most Trusted Builder in America Study **Buyer incentive offers are available on Ashton Woods homes purchased between 4/1/14-5/31/14 only. Buyer will receive tickets once loan approval terms are met per the earnest money contract. See sales consultant for details.
When Your Clients Purchase an Ashton Woods Home in April or May, They Will Receive
Friday Night Fireworks Season Tickets to the Round Rock Express
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April 2014 Front Page: Continued
Rob (http://www.notorious-rob.com), to hold thoughtful debates about one of the more exciting things to happen to the Austin real estate community since the invention of the internet. “First, there’s sort of a general sense of people looking and watching and see what happens,” says Hahn. After all, the eight agencies ending syndication listings, while they may be some of the largest brokerages in Austin, still only make up 5 percent of brokers and agents here. Even without MLS listings, Zillow and Trulia stand to maintain a relationship with 95 percent of Austin REALTORS. Since the ListHub websites are already displaying just 80 percent of agent-listed homes, according to the WAV study, those syndicators should have nothing to worry about. Supposing third party syndication websites do take a major hit in the Austin market, the fact is that ABoR will have facilitated the move that corrected a serious problem for area agents. “My opinion is we need to put the brokers back in charge of where they want to advertise their properties,” says Bill Evans, ABoR president. “The ABoR is charged with educating the membership, not making recommendations but giving members the information they need to make an informed decision.” If top syndication websites continue to list available properties on a seven to nine day delay, and feature dozens of homes that are no longer for sale (37 percent for Trulia and 36 percent for Zillow) after April 30, Evans and Stapleton can at least feel vindicated that the NAR Code of Ethics is not being violated by Austin agents. It should be noted, of more than 6,000 listings in 11 U.S. markets that the WAV Group analyzed, none were in Texas. The conversation about pulling the plug on
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syndicators will stay convoluted as long as real estate professionals continue to debate whether ABoR’s decision was based on lead-gen fees, market saturation or faulty listing management. There are also the anecdotes that helped ABoR reach its decision, but reportedly were not the reason for terminating its contract with ListHub. Stapleton adds, “Many brokerages have presented data that shows listings actually sell faster and for more when they are not listed on third party websites.” When it’s all said and done, one significant change will occur on April 30. Rather than receiving data directly from the MLS, agents will have to personally post their listings on syndication sites. Prior to April 30, through the MLS, agents only had to select an option for all of their listings to be added to a ListHub feed. Now those sites will have to show that clients are finding properties and buyers are closing deals thanks to portals like Zillow and Trulia, and it will be more difficult for ListHub to ignore site management problems (listing errors and sold properties squatting on sites long after they’re off the market). Real estate professionals everywhere will be taking note of this controversial experiment. Not to mention, scores of tech professionals are waiting in the wings to introduce new tools for connecting agents and clients in even more creative ways. If Zillow and Trulia do not survive the next several months, perhaps agents and brokers everywhere will have ABoR to thank for helping the profession take its next brave step toward improving how listing data is disseminated. RL
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P. O. Box 81366 • Austin, Texas 78708-1366 (512) 821-1900 www.myRealtyLine.com E-mail: info@myRealtyLine.com
Publisher: Doren L. Carver doren@myRealtyLine.com
Associate Publisher: Tawanna K. Carver tawanna@myRealtyLine.com
Managing Editor: Naomi Bludworth naomi@myRealtyLine.com
Contributing Editor: Linda McNabb
Contributing Writers: Riki Markowitz, Katie Brown Naomi Bludworth, Linda McNabb
Contributing Photographers: Doren L. Carver, Linda McNabb
Columnists: Bill Evans, Gary Cocanougher, John Sparrow, Jim Smith, Wayne Morgan Submission Guidelines: Submit photos, press releases and calendar items to naomi@myrealtyline.com. All photos must be at least 300 dpi and include a caption with first/last name and company affiliation. Press releases must be fewer than 300 words. Non-advertisers submitting calendar items will be charged $25 per submission. All submissions must be received at least seven calendar days prior to ad copy deadlines published at www.myrealtyline.com/blog/advertise.html. Submission items will be included as space allows. Realty Line Austin is published monthly by Caxton Publications, Inc.© as a non-subscription publication for the more than 8,000 members of the Austin Board of REALTORS®(ABoR), the more than 1,100 members of the Williamson County Association of REALTORS® (WCAoR) and the Home Builders Association (HBA) of Greater Austin. Realty Line Austin is printed on recycled paper. Realty Line Austin is a proud member of the Austin Board of REALTORS®, the Williamson County Association of REALTORS® and is a honorary member of the Women’s Council of REALTORS. Realty Line Austin is not responsible for opinions or facts expressed by non-staff writers or for errors and any by-products in advertising or editorial copy. REALTOR® is a registered trademark. The word REALTOR® sometimes appears in this publication without the registered trademark symbol (®) for the purpose of saving space. Wherever the word REALTOR® appears in this publication, the registered trademark should be assumed.
Congratulations March
Top Producer Julie Black, NMLSR # 232023 Senior Loan Officer Phone: 306-6357 e-Fax: 866-561-8955 jblack@starkeymtg.com
Patty Chapman, Senior Processor Gerald Scott, Loan Administrator
A Solid, Proven, and Committed Lender! WR Starkey Mortgage, LLP NMLSR# 2146 807 Las Cimas Pkwy., Suite 150, Austin, TX 78746
This is not a guarantee of nancing. All borrowers must meet certain underwriting guidelines and credit criteria. Rules and Regulations may apply.
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To the Happiest Place on Earth We’re giving you a reason to whistle while you work. From now through the end of June, you have the chance to win the Dream Come True Getaway. If selected, you will be treated to a magical adventure at the of the Disneyland®
Each Winner will Receive ...
Resort theme park in Anaheim, California. While there you will attend our All Ears REALTOR® Roundtable inside Disneyland® Park – as well as have plenty of time to explore and enjoy the resort with your guest
• Airfare for You and a Guest • Two Nights Hotel Stay • An Invitation to the All Ears REALTOR® Roundtable (AUG 5th) • Two Passes to the Disneyland® Resort theme park (AUG 6th) • VIP Tour by Special Guest
Three lucky REALTORS® will be selected. The winners will be selected based on the following:
1 The REALTOR® with the Top Sales volume 2 The REALTOR® with the Top Dollar volume 3 One Random Drawing Winner at a REALTOR® Grand Opening Event this Summer Visit any of our 9 Austin area communities and show your clients what Taylor Morrison has to offer!
taylormorrison.com Three winners of the Taylor Morrison Austin Division’s Dream Come True Getaway™ (“Promotion”) will be chosen for the Grand Prize based on: (1) Top Sales Volume during the Promotion Period, (2) Top Dollar Volume during the Promotion Period and (3) a random drawing to be held at a REALTOR® Grand Opening Event to be determined later in June 2014. The Promotion is open to those REALTORS® who have registered a client at a Taylor Morrison Austin community during the timeframe of March 1, 2014 and June 30, 2014, (“Promotional Period”), and a purchase agreement is written with that client in the same promotional period. Disneyland® Resort and its parent, related, subsidiary or affiliated companies are not a Sponsor of this Promotion, are not affiliated with, assume no liability and offer no warranty with respect to the terms, marketing materials or incentives of this Promotion. Offer void where prohibited. Additional rules can be found at www.TaylorMorrison.com. All decisions by Taylor Morrison are final. Taylor Morrison reserves the right to change/modify the details of the trip including accommodations, prize value, date, number of winners and transportation. Please see a Taylor Morrison Sales Associate for details and visit www.taylormorrison.com for additional disclaimers. © April, 2014, Taylor Morrison of Texas, Inc. All rights reserved.
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Realty Austin owner Yvette Boatwright (front center) and her team of agents support American Heart Association's Go Red for Women campaign. (back row) Cristina Valdes, MJ Moran, Caren Upshaw, Lockie Ealy, Darcy Newton, Charla Housson; (front row) Ruth Powers, Lori Goto, Evonne Gottsch, and Jen Davis. Submitted Photo
The "Tool Belt Divas" take home the prize for Best Dressed Team at the WC REALTORS' Bowling for TREPAC event at Mel's Lonestar Lanes.
Submitted Photo
Diana Brown, left, Toni Halseth, second from right, and Kara McGregor, right, all of Independence Title, thank Johnny and Claudia Cuchia, both of Gold Key Real Estate, for taking time out of their day to attend the company’s Open House celebration event.
Buy photo: RL_040514_O.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com
Jim Smith of The Property Management Group trades business cards with Charlie Pitkin of Outlaw Realty, a Private Label Company, as they enjoy music from Alpha Rev at launch party for Pure Gold Realty.
Buy photo: RL_030914_G.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
PrimeLending Capital City Conventional, FHA, VA, USDA, HomePath & Jumbo just to name a few loan products!
Candy Buzan Branch Manager Sr. Loan Officer The Candy Buzan Team
Marie Cyr Loan Officer The Candy Buzan Team
Max Leaman Branch Manager Sr. Loan Officer The Leaman Team
Kim Nielsen Production Manager The Candy Buzan Team
Amy Bailey Oehler Sr. Loan Officer The Leaman Team
Diane M. Clark Sr. Loan Officer
Jori Stern Sr. Loan Officer The Leaman Team
Missy Driskell Sr. Loan Officer
Sherri Eckert Loan Officer The Leaman Team
Trudy Savage Sr. Loan Officer
Eiric Smith Sr. Loan Officer
Mark Hoffman Sr. Loan Officer
Amanda Stewart Sr. Loan Officer
Mary Kennedy Sr. Loan Officer
Mysty Lynch Sr. Loan Officer
Two Great Locations! All loans subject to credit approval. Rates and fees subject to change. Mortgage financing provided by PrimeLending, a PlainsCapital Company. Equal Housing Lender. © 2014 PrimeLending, a PlainsCapital Company. PrimeLending, a PlainsCapital Company (NMLS: 13649) is a wholly owned subsidiary of a state-chartered bank and is an exempt lender TX V121013. NMLS 179412 (Buzan), NMLS 269403 (Cyr), NMLS 184428 (Hoffman), NMLS 292478 (Stewart), NMLS 280093 (Lynch), NMLS 176530 (Smith), NMLS 180307 (Nielsen), NMLS 268025 (Clark), NMLS 179666 (Kennedy), NMLS 180066 (Driskell), NMLS 180854 (Savage), NMLS 151263 (Leaman), NMLS 225339 (Bailey), NMLS 177299 (Stern), NMLS 357516 (Eckert).
810 Hester’s Crossing, Suite 150 Round Rock, TX 78681 7719 Wood Hollow Drive, Suite 155 Austin, TX 78731
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Amy Keillor, center, of Pure Gold Realty thanks Sal Zuniga, left, of Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate, and David McMillan, right, of United Lending as they arrive at The Belmont, to support Pure Gold’s launch and enjoy music from four Austin bands.
Buy photo: RL_040514_S.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Thumbs up for TREPAC! Amy Kobza, left, of Keller Williams Realty, Karen Williams Williams, second from left, and Tiesa Hollaway, third from left, both of North American Title, Suzanne Gantner of Sky Realty, Phillip Moreno, left in back, of Liberty Mutual, Michael McSpadden of Principle Mortgage Partners and Jim Smith, right, of Property M anagement Company help raise money for TREPAC at the WC REALTORS Bowling for TREPAC event.
Buy photo: RL_040414_A.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com
Former Women’s Council of REALTORS president Anita Farrell, right, thanks Chef Michael Wards for providing a delicious luncheon and also is appreciative of Stacye Blake of Landmark Warranty for being one of the event sponsors.
Submitted Photo
Two New Communities! www.dreeshomes.com REAGAN’S OVERLOOK,
This new home community is conveniently located in Leander, just north of Austin and just minutes from great shopping, dining, and major roads. Reagan’s Overlook features one-acre homesites, and over abundance of trees and open green space that offers the perfect backdrop to your new Drees Custom home. We invite you to look over the many floorplans and designs perfectly suited for your family’s lifestyle. Green Space Wooded Homesites Oversized Homesites Cul-de-sac Homesites Leander ISD Convenient to Expressways
Janet Havel (512) 294-6401 Jon Blance (512) 947-3005.
CLEARWATER RANCH,
This gorgeous, heavily treed, open green space community has that small town feeling, yet is conveniently located to everything you need, including easy access to the tollways. Choose from a variety of floorplans and design styles that will make your home uniquely yours.Your new home will be the perfect compliment to the acre and wooded homesites available at Clearwater Ranch. It’s a clear choice...make Clearwater Ranch home today! Large Oversized Homesites Open Green Space Heavily Treed Community Comfortable Outdoor Living Spaces Creek Lots Liberty Hill ISD
Kirk Sebastian (512) 423-7881
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Mortgage Master Inc.: Austin is our Texas Regional HQ! Our experienced mortgage professionals will place your clients in the lowest rate mortgage solution for their specific needs. Extensive products, unparalleled customer service and quick closings!
Over $26 Billion Funded Over the Last 5 Years Providing Best in Class Service for 25 Years
Over 50 Years Combined Experience
Austin Office
Larry Weisinger Branch Manager NSMLS# 1127909
Cell: 512-699-7130
LWeisinger@mortgagemaster.com
11614 Bee Caves Rd, Suite 270 Austin, TX 78738
512-537-0527 Call Today!
Michael Cannatti Texas Regional Sales Manager NSMLS# 266887
Cell: 512-423-6776
Corporate HQ
MCannatti@mortgagemaster.com
www.mortgagemaster.com
102 Elm Street Walpole, MA 02081 508-850-4100
As your trusted expert, we’ll offer you the right mortgage solution for your specific needs. We have a very large range of products and unparalleled customer service.
Mortgage Master Celebrates 25 Years by Being Named to Inc. 5000 List This is not a guarantee of financing. All borrowers must meet certain underwriting guidelines and credit criteria. Rules and Regulations may apply. Mortgage Master Inc. NMLS # 4251/ Originator NMLS # 299096
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Commentary By Wayne Morgan Austin Institute of Real Estate
What’s the biggest obstacle to learning?
I
was taught in school to not make mistakes. My teachers would always count my incorrect answers, compare them to my correctly memorized answers and calculate the ration between the two. 75 percent. 83 percent. 90 percent. They never asked me what I learned, only what I memorized. We learn via trial and error. We were designed to make mistakes. We learn how to walk, talk, and drive: almost everything we know we learn via correcting our mistakes. I loved playing football. We practiced almost every day. Practice consisted of repeating the same play over and over until it was approved by the coach. We kept correcting our mistakes until we got it right. Once we mastered one play from the playbook in that fashion, we were taught another one using the same method. Mistake, correct. Mistake, correct. Eventually we learned the entire play book. We learn real estate the same way. Try as we might, we cannot teach you how to take a listing in class. The environment is too sterile.
If it were a traditional class, we would cover all the steps involved in taking a listing and have the student memorize each and every step until they could recall the list perfectly. Then we would hand them a test and say, “Tell us what you know about listing a house by answering these 50 questions.” The student who paid the most attention and had the best memory would receive the highest ration score and would be deemed to be “smart.” Those whose mind wandered during the “teaching process” or who didn’t memorize as many answers would be deemed less smart. The real problem is that no matter who scored what, no one knew anything about how to take a listing. The only way to learn how to become a top notch professional listing agent is to go out into the breakfast rooms of the city and mess up 10, 12 or 15 presentations. You can now successfully discover what you don’t know. You discover what did not work. You correct your mistakes. Go again. Make some more. Correct those. Go again. Make some new mis-
takes. Correct them. Go again. Mistake, correct. Mistake, correct. Then the marketplace will grade you. It will tell you when you have passed your exam, not by memorizing the “right answers” but by having the courage to face the unknown and master your craft using nature’s prescribed method: trial and error. How will the marketplace tell you? Sellers will begin to list with you. The more you repeat this process, the more you learn and the “smarter” you become. This is the process the most successful among us understand. They fail their way to success. When we memorize answers, we have knowledge of the subject. But we don’t truly know it until we can do it. Talking isn’t teaching, listening isn’t learning, and memorization of right answers is no indication of a person’s intelligence or ability. I heard a story long ago that has stuck with me. I grew up in a small town near NASA. In 1969 we landed a man on the moon. What percentage of the time was the Apollo spacecraft on course? I heard 3 percent. It was on the correct course only 3 percent of the entire
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
time! What was it doing 97 percent of the time? Correcting its flight path. Mistake, correct. Mistake, correct. Mistake, correct. Success! Do you know someone who makes the same mistakes over and over again? It’s seems like they just don’t learn from their mistakes. They do the presentations but still don’t know how to respond to simple concerns like “I don’t want to give out a key.” Or “I don’t want a sign in my yard.” “My home is worth more than that.” The home sits on the market until it expires because it is overpriced, fewer people know it’s for sale and the people who do know have trouble getting in it. Ego is the biggest obstacle to learning. Show me someone who makes the same mistakes over and over and I will show you someone with a huge ego. True professionals handle their mistakes graciously and with humor. They know mistakes are a gift from Heaven. They appreciate them because they just learned something new; they just got smarter; they just, once again (thank goodness) successfully discovered something else they did not know! So, do true professionals justify their mistakes? Do they blame others for their mistakes? No, of course not. They get the lesson. Personally, I have made millions, maybe even billions of mistakes. That’s why I know so much. Now go out there, take action, and discover what you don’t know! Then, at the end of the day, review your mistakes and ask yourself this question “What did I learn today?” RL
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OPENHOUSE
Join us for the 5th Annual Hay Darby PLLC
May 1, 2014 4:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Offices of Hay Darby PLLC 402 West 7th Street Located in the Historic Bremond House
Please join us at the Historic Bremond House for an afternoon of music and networking at our 5th annual Firm Open House. Network with those in the legal, real estate and banking community while enjoying delicious bites by Alfred’s Catering, wines by Spicewood Vineyards, and music by Aaron Navarro.
hay
darby
A Professional Limited Liability Company Attorneys and Counselors at Law
www.haydarby.com
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Mortgage Master, Inc.’s Mike Cannatti, right, thanks AMBA Director Bob Almand for his part in hosting another successful AMBA meeting.
Buy photo: RL_040314_B.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Ann Buck, Leslie Buck and Amanda McGee, all of Coldwell Banker United, REALTORS, welcome fellow agents to the company’s Regional Sales Meeting.
Submitted Photo Buy photo: RL_040214_A.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Sherri Teepen of Keller Williams Realty shows her team spirit at the WC REALTORS TREPAC Bowling event at Mel’s Lonestar Lanes in Georgetown.
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Brand Spankin’ New C E LE B R ATE
E V E RY TH I N G
N E W
I N
TE R AV I S TA
Model Home Village • Low Maintenance Designs Clubhouse and Pool • Fitness Center • Future Elementary School All in addition to our award-winning golf course† and respected Round Rock and Georgetown school districts.
See it all at Teravista.com/new or call 512.861.2103.
40+ Quick Move-In Homes Available Today! Six-time Winner Best Master Planned Community†† From the $200,000s to the $700,000s
Newland Communities is the largest private developer of planned residential and urban mixed-use communities in the United States from coast-to-coast. Together with our partner, North America Sekisui House, LLC, we believe it is our responsibility to create enduring, healthier communities for people to live life in ways that matter most to them. www.newlandcommunities.com and www.nashcommunities.com Teravista Golf Club is a public golf course with daily fee and membership options. Access to, and use of, the Teravista Golf Club is not included in the purchase of homes or homesites and requires separate membership and membership requirements. Combined total wins by HBA of Greater Austin 2003, 2004, 2007, 2011 and 2013 and Austin Business Journal 2013. NNP-Teravista, LP (“Fee Owner”) is the owner and developer of the Teravista Community (“Community”). Certain homebuilders unaffiliated with the Fee Owner or its related entities (collectively, “Teravista”) are building homes in the Community (“Builder(s)”). Fee Owner has retained Newland Communities solely as the property manager for the Community. North America Sekisui House has an interest in one of the members in Owner. Newland Communities and North America Sekisui House are not co-developing, co-building or otherwise responsible for any of the obligations or representations of any of the Builders, and shall have no obligations to any buyer regarding a home purchase from a Builder. Purchasers of homes from any of the Builders waive any claims against Newland Communities and/or North America Sekisui House arising out of their purchase transaction. Actual development may vary from developer’s vision. No guarantee can be made that development will proceed as described. Prices, specifications, details and availability of Builder’s homes are subject to change without notice. 2014 © Teravista is a trademark of NNP-Teravista, LLC, and may not be copied, imitated or used, in whole or in part, without prior written permission.
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Real Estate News & Notes Georgetown Mortgage hires reverse mortgage veteran Georgetown Mortgage’s reverse mortgage division Reverse Mortgage Focus announced that reverse mortgage veteran David Cook has been recruited to help expand its retail channel. In 2004, after nearly 40 years in mortgage banking, David joined Financial Freedom and soon after determined he would devote the balance of his career to the Reverse Mortgage space. Since then, David has worked for Senior Lending Network, Network Funding and most recently, as national wholesale manager with Liberty Home Equity Solutions. “I have learned from some of the very best and it is always a difficult decision to leave a team like the one Liberty has put together,” says Cook. “I have known David for nearly 10 years. I consider him a friend and mentor, and it is a privilege to have him join our team,” says Barry Scoles, national sales manager for the Reverse Mortgage Division of Georgetown Mortgage. Cook states that, “Despite the many opportunities I have had in this industry, my heart has always been at the kitchen table working
with seniors. Georgetown Mortgage is everything I was looking for in order to get back into retail. They are locally owned in Georgetown, Texas, a Full-Eagle Correspondent for forward and reverse mortgages, and well known for doing what is in the best interest of the borrowers.” “With David’s experience and reputation in Texas mortgage banking and his deep desire to work with seniors, Georgetown Mortgage has hit a home run,” says Georgetown Mortgage CEO Roy Jones. Cook will divide his time working with Texas real estate professionals promoting the now available reverse mortgage purchase, helping to attract additional production channels to Georgetown Mortgage, and working directly with seniors. RL
Legacy International donates $1,000 to LISD Virtual Library Legacy International’s President and CEO Philip Jalufka presented a $1,000 check to the Hill Country Education Foundation for the district’s virtual library called OverDrive during its annual Gala. “We are honored to help enhance our educational system and make the great schools in our community even better,” said Jalufka. “LISD’s digital online library gives us an opportunity to
make a direct benefit to our students as they take advantage of today’s technology while at the same time focusing on the fundamentals like reading." “We continue to chart increases in eBook usage by our students and staff and this donation will allow us to purchase additional content to meet the growing demand of our patrons,” said Becky Calzada, LISD library coordinator. RL
RL austin
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
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Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995
Independence Title licenses new technology to access instant property information for its customers Independence Title is licensing Zonability to gain faster access to useful, data driven insights about thousands of parcels of land in seven central Texas cities. Zonability is a powerful, new web application that converts multiple sources of data into innovative, graphically rich reports and interactive maps for PCs and mobile devices. By licensing the Zonability application, Independence Title staffers will be able to quickly uncover unique insights into real estate opportunities for their clients derived from zoning rules, public record data, FEMA status, and calculations to show estimates of maximum building size and height for a specific address or parcel of land. Clients will benefit by having greater transparency into important rules that control property potential.
With Zonability, Independence Title will be able to instantly access in-depth information about thousands of parcels of land in Austin, Pflugerville, Cedar Park, Georgetown, Round Rock, Bee Cave, and Lakeway. The company plans to add more Texas cities soon. “Zonability is an amazing new technology product,” says Erik Wanson, director of customer service for Independence Title. “We are always looking for cutting edge tools that solve problems for our customers. Frequently, we receive questions regarding potential uses for a property and potential locations for businesses. Now, Zonability instantly compiles and presents answers to these questions that previously would have required hours of manual research.” RL
RE/MAX 1 takes top honors at RE/MAX statewide convention RE/MAX 1 in Cedar Park, owned by Tim and Tammy Kress, recently captured big honors at the RE/ MAX of Texas statewide convention in Las Colinas.
Among the 30 plus RE/MAX offices in the greater Austin area, RE/MAX 1 captured first place in listing units, listing volume, selling units, selling volume, total sales by units and volume, and commissions paid. Tim and Tammy Kress were additionally recognized among over 250 RE/MAX offices in Texas with approximately 4,800 agents, as the Broker/Owners of the Year, metro division. RL
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All photos must be at least 300 dpi and include a caption with first/last name, company affiliation and a short description. Press releases must be fewer than 300 words. Calendar items are free to advertisers and $25 per submission for others. All submissions must be received at least seven calendar days prior to ad copy deadlines published at www.myrealtyline.com/blog/advertise.html. Submission items will be included as space allows.
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
RL austin
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Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995
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April 2014
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LENNAR®
LENNAR® 1. THE HIGHLANDS AT MAYFIELD RANCH Offering The Brookstone & Vista II Collections From the $270s For Details Contact: Jeana or Clayton 512-291-6947 3205 Mayfield Ranch Cove, Georgetown, TX 78626 2. TERAVISTA Offering The Springwood II Collection From the $210s For Details Contact: Lottie 512-248-8131 4924 Scenic Lake Drive, Georgetown, TX 78626 3. FALCON POINTE Offering The Brookstone, Lakeside & Oak Knoll III Collections From the $200s For Details Contact: Bruce 512-657-3326 or Cindy 512-736-2698 18825 Falcon Pointe Blvd, Pflugerville, TX 78660 4. BRADSHAW CROSSING Offering the Oak Knoll and Frontier Collections From the $170s For Details Contact: Eric 512-507-0404 10409 Premiere Park, Austin, TX 78747 5. STONEFIELD Offering The Brookstone, Fairfield & Oak Knoll Collections From the $180s For Details Contact: Sally 512-401-7717 135 Travertine Trail, Buda, TX 78610 6. SUMMERLYN Offering The Fairfield & Oak Knoll Collection From the $170s For Details Contact: Will 512-913-1863 or Denise: 512-777-9565 200 Mourning Dove Lane, Leander, TX 78641
Village Builders 1. TERAVISTA - A GOLF COURSE COMMUNITY Offering The Provence Collection From the mid $300s For Details Contact: Debbie 512-808-8729 4211 Grand Vista Circle, Round Rock, TX 78665 IH 35 Exit 256, Right on University, Left onto Teravista Club Drive. 2. RIM ROCK Offering the Provence Collection and the Vistas by Lennar® From the mid $300s For Details Contact: Colin 248-342-5580 Please call to schedule an appointment. 3. ROUGH HOLLOW Offering The Provence Collection From the mid $400s For Details Contact: Jason 512-619-3148 201 Tavish Trail, Austin, TX 78738 N FM 620, Right onto Lakeway Boulevard, Left onto World of Tennis Square, Right on Tavish Trail. 4. THE RESERVE AT CABALLO RANCH - NOW SELLING! Offering The Provence Collection From the $300s For Details Contact: Jesse 512-774-8178 Ronald Reagan Blvd & CR 180, Cedar Park, TX 78641 5. SERENE HILLS - NOW SELLING! Offering the Canyon Collection From the $500s For Details Contact: Jesse 512-774-8178 Model Coming Soon
7. HUTTO HIGHLANDS Offering The Springwood II Collection From the $160s For Details Contact: Clyde 512-642-6260 115 Hendelson Lane, Hutto, TX 78634
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8. WOODLANDS PARK Offering The Springwood II Collection From the mid $170s For Details Contact: Angie 512-470-3925 1299 Woodlands Drive, Kyle, TX 78640 9. ENCLAVE AT ESTANCIA - NOW SELLING! Offering the Brookstone II & Vista II Collections From the mid $200s For Details Contact: Alexis or Christina 512-965-9347 Model Coming Soon
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LENNAR.COM/AustiN
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FOR REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONALS ONLY: In order to earn a broker co-op fee, broker must bring client into a welcome home center and register them on the client’s first visit. No commission will be paid when agent/broker is acting as a principal/buyer. Not valid if client has previously registered with Lennar, Lennar.com, Village Builders or VillageBuilders.com whether individually or with a broker. Lennar and Village Builders reserves the right to discontinue this program at any time. Other terms and conditions apply. See a new home consultant for more information. *Effective 04/01/14, 4% commission will be paid on select inventory homes that sell between 04/01/14 and 05/01/14. Homes must close and fund by 05/30/14. Contracts signed prior to 04/01/14 are excluded. Not valid in conjunction with any other offer.information. Offers, incentives and seller contributions are subject to certain terms, conditions, and restrictions, which may include use of designated lenders and closing agents. Offer good for a limited time only. Homes subject to prior sale. Prices, features and amenities are subject to change without notice. Visit Lennar.com or see a Lennar New Home Consultant for further details. Offer valid only in states where referrals are permitted. Copyright © 2014 Lennar Corporation. Lennar, the Lennar logo, Village Builders, the Village Builders logo and The Everything’s Included logo are registered service marks or service marks of Lennar Corporation and/or its subsidiaries. (7189) 3/31/14
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The “Brainy Bunch” team lands a trophy at the WC REALTORS Bowling for TREPAC event for the “Dead Ass Last” category. Pictured left to right are Lori Hartman, Tara Lopez, Renee Massey and Rina Peiffer, all of Bella Casa Realty.
Submitted Photo
Beth Helberg of ABoR, Kandis Wilberforce and Anne Ford, both of Brohn Homes, show off their “lip blankets” at the NAPMW Mardi Gras Masquerade.
Buy photo: RL_040514_Q.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com Buy photo: RL_040114_F.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Alpha Rev's Casey McPherson sings "New Morning," at the Pure Gold Realty launch event at The Belmont. Chad Goldwasser, bottom right, formerly of Goldwasser Realty, started the new company.