in this issue…
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995™
• Champions School of Real Estate Career Day • WCREALTORS Golf Tournament • Coldwell Banker Grand Opening • TREPAC Movie Night • and much, much more!
Associates in Progress
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JUNE 2016 • VOLUME 21 • ISSUE 1
PICTURES CTUR CT TUR
20 years of growth in Greater Austin; then vs. now By Riki Markowitz
T
Printed on recycled paper.
Presorted Standard U.S. Postage PAID Austin, Texas Paid Permit #715
he refrain is so common, it’s cliché, never talk about religion or politics in polite society. For anyone living in Austin, there’s a third box to tick off: the city’s population boom. Just mentioning growth over the past generation can draw immediate criticism about transplants, traffic, housing shortages, and more. It’s probably not surprising to find out that for the real estate industry, the city’s growth has been a boon, even if some professionals are still reminiscent of “the olden days.” For the most part, the changes in Austin and Travis County have been a combination of drastic, yet positive. And though it has
been a bit of an overwhelming two decades, compared to most other cities in the U.S., Austin has dealt with its growing pains fantastically well.
THEN
Landscape Between 2002 and 2015, Austin has grown almost 49 square miles, which translates to a nearly 18 percent expansion. The most visually apparent evidence of this meteoric explosion is the fully transformed, barely recognizable downtown district. In the mid 1990s, the tallest building in the city was One Congress Plaza (398 feet, 30 floors). Today, there are at least a dozen residential buildings with more than 30 floors and early this year, developers broke ground on the 685-foot tall, 58-story Independent tower. If anyone is wondering whether Austin needs 370 downtown condos, in addition to the scores of condos, rentals, and new home construction across the entire county, the answer is a resounding “Yes.” Last summer, at least five months before construction began, 90 percent of the residences were reserved, according to building management. It goes without saying that what irks folks most is Austin’s population growth, from just over half a million in 1995 to almost 901,000 in 2015 – or more than 2 million when you
factor in Round Rock. This is precisely why Loop 1, from Parmer Lane to US 290, was ranked 2.7 on the Commuter Stress Index (CSI), meaning that during the busiest time of day, what should be a 20-minute commute takes 54-minutes to complete. Jennifer Archambeault, an owner and broker at Urban Provision REALTORS, can recall how easy it was to fly from 183 to Slaughter Lane in the 1990s.
Kevin Bown, broker and owner at 12 Rivers Realty, says that when he started his career in the late 1990s, an agent could sell a home from nearly any corner of the city. One of the biggest differences between then and now, he says, is that people weren’t coming to Austin to make home in outlying areas like Kyle, Buda, or Round Rock.
Wednesday, June15th Belterra Monthly Home Tour Belterra Welcome Center - 9 a.m.
Wednesday, June16th Schmooze Fest Wagner's Backyard- 5 to 9 p.m.
Bryson Monthly Home Tour Bryson Welcome Center - 9 a.m.
Wednesday, June 22nd Reliant Title: Round Rock Open House Round Rock Office- 4 to 7 p.m.
Tuesday, July 19th HBA: Million Dollar Club Networking Happy Hour - Dogwood Rock Rose - 6 to 8:30 p.m. Thursday, July 21st AMBA: TopGolf Networking Event TopGolf - 4 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, July 27th ABoR: TREPAC's Got Talent! ABoR Headquarters - More Info Soon!
Front Page: Continued on page 28
Visit us online 24/7 at www.myRealtyLine.com
P. O. Box 81366, Austin, Texas 78708
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Upcoming Events
CRS Austin: Bi-Monthly Meeting Westwood Country Club- 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. AYREP: June Networking Happy Hour Doc's Backyard Bar & Grill - 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Wednesday, June 23rd WCREALTORS: Battle of the Burgers Brushy Creek Lake Park - 3:30 to 6:00 p.m.
Wednesday, June16th WCR: Business Resource Meeting Estancia Churrascaria - 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Wednesday, July 13th HBA: Mid-Year Housing Update Phillips Event Center - 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
More at www.myRealtyLine.com
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TWo ConvenienT LoCaTionS Both Feature Easy Accessibility and Ample Parking
Our new downtown office at 5th and Rio Grande, on the third floor of the BB&T building.
Our north office at Shoal Creek and Anderson Lane, on the second floor of the Bank of America building.
exTraordinarY eSCroW TaLenT Experienced and dedicated Escrow Officers deliver the highest standard of service for clients of The hay Legal group PLLC, a fee attorney of Independence Title Company. DOwNTOwN OFFICE:
hEAThER kELLY Escrow Officer
ShOAL CREEk OFFICE:
BRANDI FLEMINg Escrow Officer
JOY STOkES Escrow Officer
STEPhANIE FARBER Escrow Officer
JOhN A. hAY III Managing Partner
TIFFANY ISAACS SMITh Escrow Officer
kYLIE LYNCh Escrow Officer
AShLEY BOYD Director of Sales
BETh COFFEY Sr. Sales Associate
hANNAh MYRES Sales Associate
REAgAN SANSOM Sales Associate
Contact Us To See What You’ve Been Missing. PLLC A FEE ATTORNEY FOR INDEPENDENCE TITLE COMPANY
www.haylegal.com
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Austin Board of REALTORS®
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President’s Column By Aaron Farmer • 2016 President
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June 2016
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ABoR Academy Educational Courses Jun 20: Leasing 101 (No CE) Jun 20: ECAD Secrets: An Auditor Explains the Real Reasons You Get Recommendations (No CE) Jun 21: Broker Responsibility (TREC# 06-06-126-27765)
Talent Show, goMLS Austin app, ABoR North
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e’re calling for all REALTORS to bring your secret (or not-so-secret) talent to the big stage in support of TREPAC. We’ll be hosting the first-ever TREPAC talent show, TREPAC’s Got Talent!, on Wednesday, July 27 at the ABoR HQ. We all know we shine when working with clients and impacting the community, but what other talents are we hiding? Perhaps you’re a great dancer, or maybe you can juggle fire (I wouldn’t recommend that one), or even a former world-traveling opera singer. If you have a talent, we want to see it! Best of all, tickets and entries purchased for the event go directly to support TREPAC. Participants can enter the contest to impress their peers for $110, and supportive audience members can purchase early-bird tickets for $45 each until Wednesday, July 20. You can find an entry form and tickets at ABoR.com/TalentShow.
ABoR North is open for business ABoR North has officially opened its doors for business! Your services are now expanded to our new location in Cedar Park to offer you the same great services, but in another convenient
location. You’ll have access to a REALTOR Store, member services, training and Academy courses, and much more. We’re also offering the same Saturday walk-in service hours, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. that we do at ABoR South. ABoR North is located at 1120 Cottonwood Creek Trail, Building B, Suite 220. Stop by and check out the new digs!
Get going with goMLS Austin Your newest MLS tool gives you and your clients a robust MLS platform while on the move. The mobile MLS app, goMLS Austin, gives you the MLS at your fingertips and allows you to easily send your clients information directly through the app when they need it. GoMLS Austin has a bevy of neat features, including agent-branded profiles, social sharing, Realist Tax integration, and even driving directions between listings—all from within the app! The app works with Androids and iPhones, and best of all, goMLS Austin is included as a free tool with your ABoR membership, replacing MLS-Touch. Visit ABoR.com/GoMLSAustin for more details, FAQs, and download links. RL
Jun 22: Realist Tax 2.0 (TREC# 02-00-067-28919) Jun 23: Agency Issues Impacting Property Managers and Leasing Agents (TREC# 03-00-076-27374) Jun 23: The Essentials of Residential Leasing (TREC# 03-00-076-27372) Jun 24: Marketing and Leasing Residential Properties (TREC# 03-00-076-27370) Jun 24: The TAR Residential Lease Agreement (TREC# 03-00-076-27373) Jun 27: Guerilla Marketing for Real Estate Pros (TREC# 03-00-117-29749) Jun 28: Professional Standards for REALTORS® (TREC# 03-00-027-28212)
Jun 29: Green MLS: The Key to Unlocking the Green Home Market (TREC# 03-00-066-27366) Jul 13-14/20-21: GRI Real Estate Marketing (TREC# 0555)
More at www.ABoR.com/courses
Buy Photos • Find Events • View Archives
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Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
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Robert Zavala and Skylar Gardner, both of 360 Home Connect, enjoy sharing with others at AYREP’s happy hour at Sherlock’s how they can connect the dots – movers, home security, utilities, etc. for their clients when they make a real estate transaction.
Buy Photo: RL_060616_A.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
Teri Maclennan of Georgetown Mortgage meets a neighbor (Marcy Urban of Urban Properties) at the AMBA Monthly Meeting. Teri is new to the area and is excited to get connected with new friends and colleagues. Buy Photo: RL_051016_F.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
Former CRS Austin Chapter President Risé Johns of Keller Williams Realty and Gena Hammonds of Highland Lakes Realty, who is currently serving as an Officer on the Chapter’s leadership team, have devoted a ton of time and passion into the Austin real estate industry. The two had lunch at the Bi-Monthly CRS Chapter Meeting at the Westwood Country Club.
Buy Photo: RL_050316_A.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
Legacy Mutual Mortgage Proudly Welcomes
The Josh Brown Team
Consistently recognized by the Austin Business Journal as one of Austin’s Top Mortgage Producers!
The team’s loan expertise includes conventional, FHA, VA, USDA, and jumbo. In addition, The Josh Brown Team also offers assistance and guidance for first time home buyers.
Call (512) 776-1413 Ask for The Josh Brown Team!
Max McGregor Loan Officer (NMLS# 1180858)
Max.McGregor@LegacyMutual.com Josh Brown, Senior Loan Officer (NMLS # 216153) Josh.Brown@LegacyMutual.com
Cassidy Davidson
Michelle Burton
Contract to Close Coordinator
Senior Loan Processor
Cassidy.Davidson@LegacyMutual.com
Michelle.Burton@LegacyMutual.com
10801 N. Mopac Expy |Building 2 Suite 140 |Austin, TX 78759
Josh Brown brings over a decade of mortgage industry experience with him to Legacy. He and his Team take pride in working with their client to select the mortgage loan that best integrates into their overall short and long-term financial and investment goals. Over the past several years, Josh has been consistently recognized on the Austin Business Journal’s Mortgage Top Producers list. Copyright © 2016 Legacy Mutual Mortgage. All rights reserved. Legacy Mutual Mortgage is a division of Crockett National Bank and is an Equal Housing Lender, NMLS# 278675.
Call: (512) 512-669-1141 Email: JoshBrownTeam@JoshBrownTeam.com Or visit www.JoshBrown.Team.com To start the application process today. Find Us On:
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BE SOLD
3%
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4TH CLOSING+
3RD CLOSING
1ST AND 2ND CLOSINGS
June 2016
3%
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+2% BONUS
+1% BONUS
Sell more. Earn more. Talk about rewarding! Take advantage of this great opportunity to increase your commission with each new sale. Just another way it pays to partner with KB Home. Visit kbhome.com to find a KB Home community in the Austin or Temple areas.
Have homebuyers who are relocating? Get 3% commission plus an additional 1% bonus when you sell a KB home to a relocating homebuyer. Valid only on first and second closings.
Broker Cooperation Welcome. Š2016 KB Home (KBH). Three percent Broker Co-op is applicable only on KB homes sold in Texas. Payment of Broker Co-op and bonus requires Broker or agent to accompany and register buyer on first visit to community and comply with Broker Co-op Agreement. Bonus commission is valid on each eligible sale of select KB homes in the Austin area and on contracts for full list price only. Broker must submit a relocation verification form at time of contract. For Broker to receive bonus, buyer must sign purchase agreement between 1/1/16 and 12/31/16, and close escrow by 12/31/16. Bonus not transferable or exchangeable and cannot be combined with any other offers. Once client has closed escrow, Broker will receive bonus by mail. Bonus awarded only on non-contingent contracts. Cancelled sales are not eligible. Sales of model homes excluded. Broker must be legal U.S. resident and 18 or older, and an active, licensed real estate agent in Texas. Other exclusions, qualifications, restrictions and limitations may apply. Photos may depict upgraded landscaping/options and display decorator items/furnishings not available for purchase, and may not represent lowest-priced homes. Photo does not depict racial preference. See sales counselor for details. AUS-62213
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Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
David Thompson of Coldwell Banker, United REALTORS, and Susan Horton of John Horton Realty, take a photo with Chief of Police Art Acevedo of the Austin Police Department at ABoR's Most Worthy Citizen event honoring Austin Mayor Steve Adler. Buy Photo: 060916_L.JPG at www.myrealtyline.com
Nobody is more excited than Felisha Cochran and Cheryl Scully, both of Austin Title Company, about being a Hole Sponsor at the WCREALTORS annual Golf Tournament.
Buy Photo: 061016_E.JPG at www.myrealtyline.com
Sheri Brummett of Coldwell Banker United REALTORS and CT Hancock of Coldwell Banker Home Loans are eager to meet with clients in the new Northwest Office that just opened. Buy Photo: RL_050716_J.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com Buy Photo: 060816_M.JPG at www.myrealtyline.com
Congratulations
Shaun Lyons and Christina Roberto, both of Keller Williams Realty, are certain they can find buyers for these beautiful homes at Bryson while touring model homes on the WCREALTORS West Side Story Bus Tour.
May Top Producer Cameron Phelps
Loan Officer NMLSR # 1381594 Mobile: 909-921-5712 Office: 512-334-1083 (81092) Cphelps@starkeymtg.com
A Solid, Proven, and Committed Lender!
WR Starkey Mortgage, LLP NMLSR# 2146 | 12301 Research Blvd., Suite 150, Austin, TX 78759 | This is not a guarantee of financing. All borrowers must meet certain underwriting guidelines and credit criteria. Rules and Regulations may apply.
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Williamson County Assoc. of REALTORS®
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Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995
President’s Column By Shavonne Martin • 2016 President
The birth of the new Williamson County
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0 Years. 7,307 days (do not forget the leap days). Things have changed so much in Williamson County over the past 20 years. How many of you have lived in Williamson County since 1996? That is one of the first indications of changes within the WC. According to the US Census Bureau’s population estimates, if you get a group of 10 friends (or clients) together, less than four have lived in Williamson County 20 years or longer. Of those six that have not, approximately two of them have been here less than five years. The most drastic change we have seen is growth. According to the US Census Bureau, the July 1996 population estimate of Williamson County was just 195,548 residents; slightly more than the current estimated population of Round Rock and Cedar Park combined. The most current population estimate of Williamson County is just over 500,000 residents. This means the population of Williamson County has increased over two and a half times in just 20 years. The early 2000s was a time of unprece-
Together is better.
dented growth within Williamson County. A lot of that due to the tech boom and the idea of suburbanization, which denotes population shift from rural areas into urban centers. During suburbanization, many residents of a metropolitan area still work within the central urban area, however, choose to live in satellite communities called suburbs and commute to work. This is one of the many reasons why the WC continues to have explosive growth. Another big change we have seen is median home prices. The median price of a home in Williamson County has risen over 142 percent since 1996. According to the data in the ACTRIS MLS, the median price of a home in Williamson County was only $102,500 in 1996. The most recent release of data has the median price around $250,000. The number of homes selling (according to the MLS) has soared to 9,675 homes sold in 2015, compared to 1,451 in 1996. According to The Real Estate Center at Texas A&M, the number of building permits in 1996 was 3,685 with a median value of $102,000; 2015 saw 3,747 permits approved
www.myRealtyLine.com with a median value of $257,900. What does this mean? It means that with the population of Williamson County near tripling, the law of supply and demand has come into play. The population has increased, but the amount of land has remained the same. The price of land has increased radically, along with the price of homes. More people, less inventory, higher prices. With this growth, the county commissions, city leaders, and the residents of Williamson County have done an outstanding job trying to update the infrastructure to keep up with the growth. Roads have been widened, extended and built to help ease the congestion within the county. Thanks to the 45 Toll Road, one can get from Lakeline Mall in Western Williamson County to East Round Rock in a 15-minute non-stop trip; a task that used to take over 30 minutes and include endless red lights and windy roads. Parmer Lane has been widened and extended north all the way to Jarrell and 1460/AW Grimes/Grand
June 2016
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Avenue/2243 (all the same road, just many different names) extends from North Leander into Austin for a simple trip through the heart of Williamson County. In just the past 10 years, FM 1431 through Cedar Park has been widened and redesigned twice, to help the residents. Williamson County is a wonderful place to live, and it is our job as REALTORS to help those looking to relocate to Central Texas realize the beauty of Williamson County and to help your new neighbors in the adventure of making The WC their new home. The Association has developed a tool to assist you in assisting your clients with their relocation. A new website, www.WCLife.org, was created with the vision of being the “go-to” website about Williamson County. Take a couple minutes out of your day and experience WCLife for yourself; please reach out to the Association staff with any feedback you have on the site; it’s there for you to use and to help you do your job. RL
STAND OUT
ABOVE THE REST People know the balloon. We bet you do too. The RE/MAX brand has been around for over 40 years. From humble beginnings to a presence in nearly 100 countries, RE/MAX is home to one of the most iconic logos in real estate. We’re confident you’ll wear it well. Join our team.
©2015 RE/MAX, LLC. Each RE/MAX® office is independently owned and operated. 16_90698
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Jennifer Lish of Keller Williams Realty wonders if she can sneak a taste without getting caught. Those cakes at the WCR TREPAC Cake Auction sure did look tasty!
Buy Photo: RL_050816_D.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
Neleen McCormick of Mission Mortgage Brenda Wendel of Goosehead Insurance, Kathie Femal of Mission Mortgage and Marnie Colehour of Austin Homescapes Realty “wine down” a bit at the Mission Mortgage Wine Tasting at the Austin Board of REALTORS’ headquarters.
Buy Photo: RL_060616_J.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com Buy Photo: RL_060516_B.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
By writing super large on his nametag, Al Hagopian of World Financial Group makes sure people all the way across the room know his name at the AYREP mixer at Sherlock’s.
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June 2016
AUSTIN TITLE IS PLEASED TO WELCOME MARIAN ROBERTS
Marian Roberts, Escrow Officer marian.roberts@austintitle.com 512-459-7222 Office
Shawn Spencer, Escrow Assistant shawn.spencer@austintitle.com
PLEASE THINK OF MY TEAM WHEN IT IS TIME TO CLOSE YOUR NEXT TRANSACTION.
Marian began her career in the title industry in 1996. Her closing experience includes refinances, residential resale and builder transactions. Marian prides herself in great customer service and a strong work ethic. Her goal is to earn the trust of her clients by providing courteous and knowledgeable service. She strives for a smooth and pleasant closing experience through proactive communication, professionalism and attention to detail.
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Buy Photo: 061016_C.JPG at www.myrealtyline.com
Dawn Bright and Randall Allsup, both of Taylor Morrisson, head out to get started on a great tournament with felow WCREALTORS members.
Submitted Photo
Keller Williams Realty agents come together to give back to their community on the company's "Red Day." This year, they donated their time at the New Hope Manor Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Cedar Park.
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Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
Buy Photo: RL_060216_C.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
David Pavliska and Ann Cano, both of RE/MAX Round Rock, and Denny Holt of Denny Holt REALTORS take a tour of the new model homes at Teravista in Georgetown. Newland Communities recently held a grand opening in a new section of the award-winning community.
Buy Photo: RL_060516_A.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
Kathie Femal of Mission Mortgage thanks Joe “Condo Joe” Bryson of Real Estate Alliance for stopping by her company’s wine tasting hosted at the ABoR headquarters off Spicewood Springs Road.
Buy Photo: 060816_L.JPG at www.myrealtyline.com
Buy Photo: RL_060116_F.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
Sheri Brummett, Dorie Dillard, and Gene Dillard, all with Coldwell Banker United, REALTORS are ready to start writing contracts at the new office in Northwest Austin.
Bruce Evans of Stanberry and Associates and Brandon Aderete of the Texas Association of REALTORS show their support for TREPAC and get a sneak Peek at the new Captain America Civil War movie at the IMAX Theatre.
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June 2016
1% B O N U S C O M M I S S I O N ! * N O W S E L L I N G I N B E LT E R R A
One gorgeous model. Eight open floor plans. Trendmaker Homes is now in Austin, with its signature, no-surprises homebuilding model. Realtors get an attractive 1% bonus commission, full communication and transparency, plus great care for your clients. Style built in from the beginning. Not upgrades. Not extras. The high-end, designer-selected finishes your clients see in our model are built right into the home and the price. That means a home buying experience
Fully appointed homes in Belterra from the $550s n
One- and two-story homes
n
4-5 bedrooms
n
Up to 4 baths
n
Up to 3-car garages
n
8 open floor plans
you – and your clients – will love. Learn more, and sign up for special Realtor® offers at TrendmakerHomes.com/vip-realtors. * Offer applies to contracts written and accepted between April 1, 2016 and June 30, 2016. Home must close and fund to receive bonus. Offer cannot be combined with any other bonus to selling agent (BTSA) or any current offer. Realtor is responsible for taxes and will receive a 1099. Offer is redeemable after the close and funding of home. Realtor must be registered as client’s Realtor of record at time of initial visit and is not valid on previously negotiated or written contracts.
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Bart Harris and Ed Benson II, both of Weichert REALTORS, set up at Champions School of Real Estate’s Career Day to meet students ready to get their feet wet in the real estate industry.
Buy Photo: RL_060316_A.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
Vicki Jones Jennings and Angela Hills, both of Keller Williams Realty, attend Capital Title’s Master Minds Panel at WCREALTORS’ Auditorium to hear great agents discuss their paths to success
Buy Photo: RL_060416_C.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
Becky Hopkins of Austin Title and Chris Rodriguez of J Stafford Group have some fun catching up at the TREPAC Movie Night hosted by ABoR at the Bob Bullock Museium IMAX Theatre. Buy Photo: RL_051216_C.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
Lili Maliner of Coldwell Banker United, REALTORS gets a “Taste of Teravista” and some local eateries while touring new model homes in a Newland Communities’ new section in Teravista.
Buy Photo: RL_060116_A.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
PRIDE IN OUR WORK bout Ask A or Realt S INCENTIVE
Host an Open House in our Community
CenturyCommunities.com 195
183
Lake Georgetown
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1. Woodland Park $410s 101 W. Red Bud Meadow Georgetown, TX 78633 (512) 930-4043
7. Siena $210s 7021 Leonardo Drive Round Rock, TX 78665 (512) 271-3785
2. Heritage Oaks Final Opportunity! By Appointment Only (512) 930-4005
8. Rough Hollow $390s 303 Borgo Allegri Cove Lakeway, TX 78738 (512) 271-3823
3. Crystal Falls $540s 3203 Crystal Falls Parkway Leander, TX 78641 (512) 931-2800
9. Reagan’s Overlook $540s 2900 Vista Heights Drive Leander, TX 78641 (512) 271-3787
4. Rim Rock $470s 1043 Arbor Canyon Pass Driftwood, TX 78619 (512) 354-1940
10. Blackhawk $320s 20425 Martin Lane Pflugerville, TX 78660 (512) 271-3790
5. Avalon $290s 3705 Gildas Path Pflugerville, TX 78660 (512) 271-3884
11. Pearson Place $420s at Avery Ranch 10105 Double Eagle Pass Austin, TX 78717 (512) 271-3855
“I take pride in providing customers with the tools needed to make their home buying experience as smooth and enjoyable as possible.” Jesse Leon
Mortgage Loan Originator, NMLS #1278267 Se habla español
Liberty Hill Georgetown
195
4 3
9 FM 14
243 Crystal Falls Pkwy
FM 14
Limmer Loop
31
31
11
45
Cedar Park
97
79
110
Round Rock 0
FM 2
62
35
RR
Rd . ll
Leander
Sh e
32
Ronald Reagan Blvd
1 1 Williams Dr.
35
130 Kelly Lane
620 RR
1
Parmer Ln
8 10
ew
290
35
ay B
lvd
Bee
Cre e
kP
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Lake Austin Lak
5
Pflugerville
Lake Travis
Lakeway
Rowe Lane
10
12
183
Hamilton Pool Rd
6 12
150
Austin
1 290
Dripping Springs Butler Ranch Rd
4
163
45
35
1826
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Home, pricing, features, and community information is subject to change at any time without notice or obligation. Images are conceptual and may depict or contain floor plans, square footages, elevations, options, upgrades, decorations, landscaping, pool, spa, furnishings, appliances, and other design features and amenities that are not included as part of the home and/or may not be available in all communities. © 2016 Century Communities. All Rights Reserved. 05.02.2016
6. Butler Ranch $430s 145 Lloyd Lane Dripping Springs, TX (512) 271-3784
www.dhimortgage.com
Call DHI Mortgage today!
512-502-0545
Financing offered by DHI Mortgage Company, Ltd. Branch NMLS #38686. 10700 Pecan Park Blvd., Suite 120, Austin, TX 78750. Company NMLS #14622. For information on DHI Mortgage licensing, please visit www.dhimortgage.com/otherpages/licensing. Provided for informational purposes only. This is not a commitment to lend. Not all borrowers will qualify. REV: 05/25/16 / EXP: 05/25/17
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Melissa Maio and Steve Fohl, both of Reliant Title, enjoy mingling with industry colleagues at Sherlock’s, where the Austin Young Real Estate Professionals held a recent spring mixer.
Buy Photo: RL_060616_B.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
Carrie Weikert of Keller Williams Realty, Tamara Moritz and Debbie Pruitt, both of Coldwell Banker United, REALTORS have lunch with the CRS Austin Chapter at Westwood Country Club.
Buy Photo: RL_051016_B.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
Monica Middleton of Capital Title thanks Scott Tolar and Avis Wukasch, both of Keller Williams Realty, for participating on the Master Minds Panel hosted by Capital Title at the WCREALTORS’ Auditorium in Round Rock.
Buy Photo: RL_050716_G.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
First stop on the WCREALTORS West Side Story Bus Tour — Bryson, Crescent Communities’ newest masterplanned community in Leander. Linda Malesky of RE/MAX Capital City, Robin Gulledge of Austin 512 Realty and Greg Hodge of RE/MAX Capital City take a tour through the model homes there.
Buy Photo: RL_060416_E.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
Hilltop perches. Immersive days. Celestial observations. Altered course.
Begin anew, come to the source.
Opening Summer 2016 An amazing collection of neighborhoods, amenities and scenic expanses with something close to every home. LiveHeadwaters.com
DAVID WEEKLEY HOMES | DREES CUSTOM HOMES | TRENDMAKER HOMES Materials are protected by copyright, trademark, and other intellectual property laws. All rights in these materials are reserved. All products and company names marked as trademarked (™) or registered (®) are trademarks of their respective holders. Copying, reproduction and distribution of materials without prior written consent of Freehold Communities is strictly prohibited. All information, plans, and pricing are subject to change without notice. This information does not represent a specific offer of sale or solicitation to purchase property within Headwaters. Models do not reflect racial preference.
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Home Builders Assoc. of Greater Austin
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President’s Column By Wes Wigginton • 2016 President
Mid-Year Housing Update registration now open The year is flying by. It seems like just yesterday we were gearing up for the annual Housing Forecast at the JW Marriott eager to hear from local experts about what our industry could expect to see happen in 2016. Now it’s already June and the HBA of Greater Austin is preparing to get an annual Mid-Year Housing Update to see how well the predictions from January’s Housing Forecast have held up, what changes have impacted us as the year has transpired, and where we’ll likely end up in December. It’s not news to anyone in this industry that the Greater Austin housing market is booming, that we are seeing a population growth rate that seems to be “out of this world,” and housing prices have risen so sharply - and at such a fast pace - that our heads are spinning. In fact, it’s a good thing that we are now starting to see the conversation shift to focus on our region’s affordability issues with association after association hosting numerous workshops and town-hall meetings on the subject. It’s often the “devil in the details” that helps us, as professionals, better understand the nu-
CHICAGO TITLE Austin
ances of the market, it’s important that, while we benefit from the boons, we understand its challenges for our clients’ sake. I invite you to join us on Wednesday, July 13th at the HBA’s Phillips Event Center to hear from market researcher Tim Sullivan of Meyers Research Group at the HBA’s annual MidYear Housing Update. The knowledge you take away from events like these help you to be a better professional and serve your clients with the kind of expertise they want when they seek out a real estate professional. If you’re already a member of the HBA of Greater Austin, the cost is just $35 per person and includes lunch. If you’re not a member, you’re welcome to still join us at the non-member rate of just $45. Register at www.hbaaustin.com.
2016 Parade of Homes™ is coming this Fall! The HBA of Greater Austin’s members have been working hard to bring you yet another fantastic Parade of Homes this fall. Showcasing four multi-million dollar homes in one of
WELCOME
2016 Parade of Homes entry by Arborgast Custom Homes. The 3,623 sq. ft. house includes four bedrooms, three full bathrooms and is currently selling for $1,199,000. Visit www.ParadeofHomesAsutin.com for details.
the region’s hottest areas, Dripping Springs, this year’s Parade won’t disappoint. Nestled along Onion Creek in beautiful Caliterra, these spectacular homes will be jam-packed with the latest building technology, upgrades galore and the best design ideas in the region. All four homes are currently available for sale. If you have a client looking to settle into a prestigious, luxurious and comfortable “home of their dreams,” buying a Parade home is an opportunity of a lifetime. Here’s just a peek at one of the homes “on Parade” this Fall: Arborgast Custom Homes Arbogast Custom Homes is a boutique custom homebuilder committed to absolute client satisfaction. Accepting only a limited number of clients per year, Tod Arbogast insists on being personally involved in every home he builds. Exquisite craftsmanship, attention to detail and building with integrity are cornerstones of his company. With well over a decade in residential construction as well as a valuable background in commercial construction, Tod
and his team deliver superior quality and outstanding service every time. About the home: Inspiration for this one of a kind Santa Barbara style Arbogast Custom Homes project comes from a wide variety of sources: the adobe and colonial buildings of Monterey, California; late forms of Moorish architecture; medieval Spanish and Italian church architecture; Ultra-Baroque design of colonial Spain and Portugal; and Italian Romanesque and Renaissance revival elements. The timeless style, livable floor plan and amazing finishes make this home one of a kind. This home will please the most discriminating buyer. Arbogast Custom Homes is proud to be part of the 2016 Home Builders Association Parade of Homes. The Parade Home will be available Fall 2016 for $1,199,000. For more information on this home as well as all of the other homes in the 2016 Parade of Homes, visit www.paradeofhomesaustin. com. RL
OUR MISSION:
WE WILL PROCESS AND CLOSE YOUR HOME LOAN IN 30 DAYS OR LESS. GUARANTEED.
Ellen Banks Kelly Mosley Ruth Bukowsky Escrow Assistant Escrow Assistant Escrow Assistant
Debbie Peek Vice President Senior Escrow Officer
We are pleased to announce that Debbie Peek and her Escrow Team have joined Chicago Title.
For 30 years, Mission Mortgage has been providing professional residential lending services in Austin. We are a locally owned company with the resources of a national lender. We provide processing, underwriting, closing and funding services inside our company, allowing us to complete your transaction with the fewest delays. For more information on our 30 day guarantee, visit us at missionmortgage.com/guarantee
Office: 512-480-8353 Debbie.Peek@ctt.com 1501 S. Mopac, Suite 130, Austin, TX 78746. NMLS #207583
www.chicagotitleaustin.com
Mission Mortgage
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Jack Stapleton of JB Goodwin, REALTORS is eager to get the WCREALTORS’ West Side Story Bus Tour on the road and on to its first stop at Bryson in Leander where four builders are building beautiful new homes from the $250s.
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It’s a sign of the times— Jo Carol Snowden and Rita Keenan, both of Moreland Properties Christies International, and Christy Dixon of Homes ATX are all having “meetings at a meeting.” Talk about the art of multi-tasking! These ladies were getting major work done while attending the CRS Bi-Monthly Chapter Bi-Monthly Meeting at the Westwood Country Club.
Since 1976
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Josh and Natalie Penland, both of Legacy Mutual Mortgage, enjoy some family time with the kids AND raise money for TREPAC at the TREPAC Movie Night with the Austin Board of REALTORS.
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Crescent has upped the ante with the Great Crescent Poker Run! Each visit to one of our communities increases your chance of winning.
Realtor Rewards Program
QUARTERLY DRAWING TO WIN A $250 VISA® GIFT CARD
ANNUAL DRAWING TO WIN A $500 VISA® GIFT CARD
STATEWIDE DRAWING TO WIN A $2,500 VISA® GIFT CARD
At Crescent Communities, we know how valuable your time is and we want to reward you for time well spent at any one of our five master-planned communities in Texas. Every property visit, every client registration, every model home tour, every contract, and every closing wins you more and more poker chips in the Great Crescent Poker Run. See how easily your poker chips stack up in our display at the Welcome Center for each property. The more active you are, the better your chances are of winning. So, register now and start winning your chips today.
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Adam Sadovsky, Barbara Shallue and Kimberly Mills, all of Keller Williams Realty, donate their time at the New Home Manor Nursing and Rehabilitation Center on KW Red Day.
Submitted Photo
Faith Laciste of JB Goodwin, Susie Stringer of Willow Bend Mortgage and Becky Hopkins of Austin Title check out the lucky shamrocks at Sherlock’s during a recent mixer that AYREP hosted.
Buy Photo: RL_060316_F.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com Buy Photo: RL_060616_C.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
The Oaks at San Gabriel Georgetown, TX 78628 Nature Trails & Park Space | Liberty Hill ISD | Community Pool Homes starting from the $250s
Amber Houmes 254.371.2204 AmberH@brohnhomes.com
David Burton of Better Homes and Gardens Bradfield Properties meets with new students who are about to get their licenses at the Champions School of Real Estate’s Career Day.
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Teresa Recar, manager of the Coldwell Banker United, REALTORS, celebrates the grand opening of the new office in Northwest Austin with friends and colleagues.
Buy Photo: 060816_A.JPG at www.myrealtyline.com
Ruby Johnson of J Stafford Group can’t wait for the Captain American Civil War movie to start. She attended TREPAC Movie Night hosted by the Austin Board of REALTORS at the IMAX Theatre.
Buy Photo: 061016_G.JPG at www.myrealtyline.com
Celina Johnson of Advisa Mortgage and Kandis Rushing of Crescent Communities are excited to get out of the office and enjoy a beautiful day at the WCREALTORS annual Golf Tournament.
Buy Photo: RL_060116_I.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
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June 2016
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REALTORS get ready to go on the Round Rock Property Tour where listings are going quickly in this market!
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Katie Bourne and Phillip Moreno, both of Liberty Mutual Insurance, channel their inner "Chevy" as hole sponsors at the WCREALTORS Golf Tournament.
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The Austin Board of REALTORS ABoR Foundation awards scholarships to several Austin Area high school students.
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John Rosshirt of Stanberry and Associates and his son John III catch the Captain American Civil War flick with the Austin Board of REALTORS for TREPAC Movie Night at the Bob Bullock Museum IMAX Theatre.
Wthings e know three enjoyable about Summer
1. Appreciating a full Lake Travis from a lakeside restaurant or on the water 2. Diving into the cool depths of a backyard pool 3. Eating a double dip of Mexican vanilla at Amy’s Ice Creams The Austin housing market is just as sizzling as the Austin summer temperatures promise to be. We have the dependable, knowledgeable and experienced staff to guide your transaction to a smooth closing. Get to know us today and we’ll see you with a contract tomorrow!
Your Closing Professionals
NORTH AMERICAN TITLE COMPANY Like Clockwork ®
VISIT OUR WEBSITE:
www.facebook.com/Austin.nat www.nat.com/Texas
Christina Isaac Business Consultant c: 512.497.7306 e: cisaac@nat.com
Bette Cook Business Consultant c: 512.965.9856 e: bcook@nat.com
Victor Aguilar Business Consultant c: 512.909.1532 e: vaguilar@nat.com
RESEARCH 11044 Research Blvd. Bldg. D, Suite 100 Austin, TX 78759 t: 512.249.0576
NORTH AUSTIN 5608 Parkcrest Drive Suite 150 Austin, TX 78731 t: 512.302.3892
ROUND ROCK 1 Chisholm Trail Suite 3100 Round Rock, TX 78681 t: 512.255.6550
©2016 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. | TX16-9259 TX 5-27-16
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Austin CRS Chapter
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President ‘s Column By Mary Miner • 2016 President
How are you handling the market?
D
ick Greenberg has been quoted as saying, "Low inventory is endemic. It has become a common phenomenon in many markets across the country, and we’ve had to learn how to deal with it, as it has created opportunities for our sellers and challenges for our buyers. It would probably be fair to say that for many of us, over the last couple of years, it has been the single largest factor characterizing our markets.” “Despite small gains across the region in April 2016, monthly housing inventory in the Austin-Round Rock MSA remained low at 2.3 months. This is nearly two-thirds less than the 6.5 month-level the Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University cites as a market in which supply and demand for homes is balanced. In Austin, housing inventory remained at nearcritical levels of 1.8 months, an increase of 0.3 months from April 2015 (ABOR, 2016).” With Inventory low, we as REALTORS tend to forget the basics of keeping our pipeline full. If we are listing agents, our homes are selling in a record amount of time, and we are busy, so the basics get left behind. We need to
stay focused during the good times and keep marketing, networking and letting everyone know we are still the REALTOR to use. As a buyer’s agent, it is very important to educate your buyer about the market. It is tough for the buyers to sometimes understand, and it is our job to keep everything under control. Since many people are coming to Austin and the cities surrounding Austin, we need to understand the power of networking with our fellow agents in other areas of the country. Certified Residential Specialist (CRS) is all about the importance of networking and becoming successful. Throughout the State, we will be having luncheons, happy hours and education classes to service the agents in our local areas. Education is a key principle within the CRS organization. We have classes coming up June 14 and June 15 in San Antonio – two, one-day courses that will enhance your knowledge, register online at www.CRS.com: CRS 120 - Converting Leads into Closings Taught by Mike Selvaggio – To register, visit http://community.crs.com/p/cm/ld/fid=1196
HIGHPOINTE · AUSTIN
Tommy Coats · tcoats@mybuffington.com · Cell 512.750.7276 201 Honeybee Lane 157 Stone River Drive 113 Swallowtail Drive 197 Swallowtail Drive
San Gabriel-B Lavaca-C Pecos-C Lavaca-B
3,609 2,731 2,637 2,731
1589 Cool Springs · 78737 · 512.382.0629
2Story/5Bed/3.5Bath/3Gar 1Story/4Bed/2.5Bath/3Gar 1Story/3Bed/2.5Bath/3Gar 1Story/4Bed/3Bath/3Gar
$570,320 $424,540 $447,990 $419,990
NOW NOW NOW NOW
6877493 8888042 8035870 2720111
BRIDGES of BEAR CREEK · AUSTIN
2216 Williston Loop · 78748 · 512.292.6500 Christine Gauna · cgauna@mybuffington.com · Cell 512.554.4800 2208 Williston Loop 2300 Williston Loop 2309 Williston Loop 2313 Williston Loop 2224 Williston Loop
Comal-B Colorado-D Red River-B Trinity-F Trinity-E
2,085 2,568 2,948 1,880 1,826
1Story/4Bed/3Bath/2.5Gar 2Story/4Bed/3.5Bath/2.5Gar 2Story/4Bed/3.5Bath/2.5Gar 1Story/3Bed/2Bath/2.5Gar 1Story/3Bed/2Bath/2.5Gar
$419,990 $447,070 $457,990 $398,990 $394,990
NOW JUL NOW NOW NOW
3997349 8827351 9510906 9873421 1835838
ADDISON · AUSTIN
5508 Gooding Drive · 78744 · 737.703.5595 Thomas Van Lith · tvanlith@mybuffington.com · Cell 512.484.8677 Alfredo Flores · aflores@mybuffington.com · Cell 512.775.0404 5313 Ingersoll Lane 8020 Izetta Lane 8016 Annalise Drive 8024 Annalise Drive 8028 Annalise Drive 5101 Bonnevile Bend 5105 Bonnevile Bend 5109 Bonnevile Bend 5117 Bonneville Bend 5317 Bonneville Bend 5409 Bonneville Bend 5521 Bonneville Bend
Pebble Beach-C Pebble Beach-A Turnberry-C Hazeltine-C Timberlake-C Caldwell-C Houston-B Parker-C Sawgrass-B Muirfield-B Muirfield-B Muirfield-C
2,155 2,155 1,973 1,851 1,988 1,772 1,908 2,695 2,110 1,756 1,756 1,756
2Story/4Bed/3.5Bath/2Gar 2Story/4Bed/3.5Bath/2Gar 2Story/3Bed/2.5Bath/2Gar 2Story/3Bed/2.5Bath/3Gar 1Story/4Bed/2Bath/3Gar 1Story/3Bed/2Bath/2Gar 1Story/3Bed/2Bath/2Gar 2Story/3Bed/2Bath/2Gar 2Story/3Bed/2.5Bath/2Gar 2Story/3Bed/2.5Bath/2Gar 2Story/3Bed/2.5Bath/2Gar 2Story/3Bed/2.5Bath/2Gar
$272,830 $277,370 $272,940 $272,860 $282,060 $272,150 $283,240 $318,670 $275,770 $275,660 $264,030 $264,090
NOW AUG SEPT NOW AUG SEPT SEPT SEPT NOW SEPT SEPT SEPT
1839970 6904692 1928140
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CRS 123 - Mastering Consumer-Focused Marketing, taught by Frank Serio To register, visit http://community.crs.com/p/cm/ld/ fid=1192 The Austin CRS Luncheon is June 14 at Westwood Country Club, and we are planning a Happy Hour in July at the UT Club. September 28 and 29, we are hosting a class called. “Building an Exceptional Customer Service Referral Business”. This a highly interactive course designed to deliver all the essentials for refocusing the student’s business plan to a customer service centered, repeat and referral business. The information provided will help identify the expectations of the “new consumer,” the “new behaviors” necessary to
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meet those expectations and specific systems to make the agent’s business more productive, more profitable and more enjoyable. You can register on the CRS Website. http://community.crs.com/p/cm/ld/fid=1004 Austin area CRS covers a large area and we want to know what you need as a CRS in our great state. Please join us at our luncheons June 14, August 17 and Oct 19 at the Westwood Country Club at 11:30 am. Please contact me at mary.b.miner@gmail.com if you have any concerns or ideas to improve the Austin CRS. We love ideas and want to bring education, networking and other events that help you in your business. RL
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Cheryl Scully and Becky Hopkins, both of Austin Title, are pretty proud of their pretty cake they donated to the WCR TREPAC Cake Auction — all for a good cause!
BLANCO VISTA · SAN MARCOS
318 Leather Oak Loop · 78666 · 512.395.2040 Nancy Fernandez-Romero · nfromero@mybuffington.com · Cell 512.230.2503 Rob Lewis · rlewis@mybuffington.com · Cell 512.797.5539 110 Leather Oak Loop 125 Leather Oak Loop 133 Leather Oak Loop 201 Leather Oak Loop 210 Leather Oak Loop 245 Leather Oak Loop 310 Leather Oak Loop 116 Sawtooth Drive 120 Sawtooth Drive 125 Sawtooth Drive 204 Sawtooth Drive 205 Sawtooth Drive 3238 Jacob Lane
Sterling-A Houston-B Parker-C Caldwell-B Stevenson II-D Parker-B Burleson-B Sterling-B Caldwell-B Parker-C Timberlake-C Houston-A Caldwell-C
2,441 1,908 2,695 1,812 2,528 2,747 2,949 2,417 1,812 2,747 2,027 1,908 1,812
2Story/4Bed/2.5Bath/2Gar 1Story/3Bed/2Bath/2Gar 2Story/4Bed/2.5Bath/2Gar 1Story/3Bed/2Bath/2Gar 2Story/4Bed/3.5Bath/2.5Gar 2Story/4Bed/2.5Bath/2Gar 2Story/5Bed/3Bath/2.5Gar 2Story/4Bed/2.5Bath/2Gar 1Story/3Bed/2Bath/2Gar 2Story/3Bed/2.5Bath/2Gar 1Story/4Bed/2Bath/3Gar 1Story/3Bed/2Bath/2Gar 1Story/3Bed/2Bath/2Gar
$271,260 $272,500 $299,700 $259,990 $291,990 $287,710 $309,990 $273,910 $249,990 $290,290 $270,490 $272,040 $261,140
JUL OCT SEPT JUL NOW SEPT NOW JUL JUL AUG SEPT OCT JUL
4264412
8345808 1655568 8700435 5928980 8869511 9083956 7406076 9474919 4378587
SOUTHPARK MEADOWS · AUSTIN
9700 Sawyer Fay Lane · 78748 · 512.280.1931 Forrest Eiland · feiland@mybuffington.com · 512.585.9061 Bob Cutshall · rcutshall@mybuffington.com · Cell 512.217.7989 9432 Hunter Lane 9433 Hunter Lane 9436 Hunter Lane 9437 Hunter Lane 9504 Hunter Lane 9404 Hunter Lane 9400 Hunter Lane 9525 Hunter Lane
Sawgrass-C Muirfield-C Hazeltine-C Oakmont-C Sawgrass-C Turnberry-C Muirfield-C Muirfield-D
Austin’s Leading Local Homebuilder
2,135 1,773 1,851 1,727 2,110 1,973 1,756 1,756
2Story/3Bed/2.5Bath/2Gar 2Story/3Bed/2.5Bath/2Gar 2Story/3Bed/2.5Bath/2Gar 2Story/3Bed/2.5Bath/2Gar 2Story/3Bed/2.5Bath/2Gar 2Story/3Bed/2.5Bath/2Gar 2Story/3Bed/2.5Bath/2Gar 2Story/3Bed/2.5Bath/2Gar
$318,750 $299,990 $317,240 $295,430 $317,390 $315,880 $308,660 $305,760
NOW NOW OCT AUG NOW SEPT SEPT SEPT
8057843 2547043 9217388 9850391 5556104
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Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
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Dave Floyd, left, and Sara Foskitt, third from left, both of Capstone Title, and Paula Kothmann of Brigham Real Estate thank Jonathan Sarver., second from left, for being one of the sponsors of the AYREP mixer at Sherlock’s.
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Les Sherman of Sherman & Company REALTORS and Beth Oliver of Beth Oliver Real Estate catch up before sitting down to lunch at the CRS Austin Chapter Bi-Monthly Meeting at the Westwood Country Club.
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Highland Homes celebrates the grand opening of its new model home in Santa Rita Ranch. Pictured left to right are Ed Horne, owner and developer of Santa Rita Ranch, Gracie Bice, of Highland Homes , Regina Spurlock of Santa Rita Ranch, Brittney Heffernan, Andrew Saggiomo, III, and Nico Robinson, all of Highland Homes, C.A. Elder of Santa Rita Ranch, Jenny McCalla and Todd Nunnally, both of Highland Homes.
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The ABoR Foundation donates $1,000 to ECHO, an organization that's mission is to end homelessness in Austin. ABoR Foundation leadership Tami Baker, Michael DeSilva, Sandy Urias, Carrie Weikert Valerie Doyle, Steve Crorey, and ABoR CEO Paul Hilgers with Austin Mayor Steve Adler, ABoR's "Most Worthy Citizen."
Cheers to a great tournament. Tammy Gardner of JB Goodwin REALTORS and Matt Heaton of Heaton Bennett Insurance are certain that mixing business with pleasure is quite, well, pleasurable! The two took part in the WCREALTORS annual golf tournament.
Members of the Austin Board of REALTORS help raise money for TREPAC with a super cool sneak peak at the new Captain America Civil War movie in 3D at the IMAX Theatre.
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CJ Pfau of Pfau and Company, James Hilfiker of Keller Williams Realty and Susan Patterson of Independence Title tour Bryson’s model home while on the WCREALTORS West Side Story Bus Tour. The tour offered REALTORS an opportunity to see what’s developing west of I-35 in Williamson County.
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Andrew Saggiomo III and Larry Schuler, both of Highland Homes and Chris Gradtof of All City Real Estate are planning to show folks how to win a golf tournament at the WCREALTORS annual golf tournament.
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William Burnham of ABoR and Alani Rondon of RealSavvy enjoy a moment a Sherlock’s, where the Austin Young Real Estate Professionals welcomed industry colleagues to a mixer.
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2016 R E A LT O R R E WA R D S
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Sell 2 Highland homes between
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It’s Really a No Brainer! Request a Media Kit 512-821-1900 • info@myrealtyline.com
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Keller Williams Realty 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
ounded in 1983 and headquartered in Austin, Texas, Keller Williams Realty has grown from a single office to
an international real estate franchise with more than 139,000 associates and over 790 affiliated market centers across the globe. “Keller Williams began their operations here in Austin over 30 years ago, and the cul-
ture and philosophy remains the same today,” says Christi Davidson, team leader at the Keller Williams Realty, Northwest Austin market center. “We currently have some of the original founding agents, as well as the next generation of real estate agents. Because of all the varied ethnic and work backgrounds of our agents— from CPAs and finance managers to engineers and high-tech managers—they are all willing to give back in their areas of expertise, which makes the Keller Williams family so unique and diverse.” “In agent count, Keller Williams is the largest real estate company in the world,” says Avis Wukasch, Broker/Team Leader, Keller Williams Realty, Round Rock Market Center. “As a company, Keller Williams is growing all over the world. Currently we are in North America, Central America, South America, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Asia and Australia/New
Zealand.” While Keller Williams’ presence has expanded internationally, its home is in Austin, where it was founded 33 years ago. Throughout the Austin area, there are six market centers and four business centers to serve Keller Williams agents and the community. Locations include Northwest Austin, Southwest Austin, Round Rock, Georgetown, Lake Travis, Cedar Park, Dripping Springs, Bastrop and Buda. One reason for Keller Williams Realty’s long-lasting success is its quality agents and dedication to its company belief system. “I truly believe clients seek our services because of our associates,” says Lauren Sansing, agent services coordinator at the Keller Williams Realty, Round Rock Market Center. “Real estate is about the client-agent relationship. Our associates are their own business owners because we are teaching them to turn their real estate practice into a true business.” According to Davidson, the company’s belief system, which includes a dedication to integrity, customers, trust, teamwork and more, ensures an “agent-centric” approach and provides a quality experience for their clients. “Our agents benefit from the ongoing education, personally and professionally,” David-
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son says. “Our commission structure is the same for all and hasn’t changed since Gary Keller created the company 30 years ago. We train our agents to be entrepreneurs where they can keep 100 percent of their commission. This is a business worth owning and a life worth living.” “Keller Williams Realty is outpacing REALTOR boards in agent growth both locally and nationally,” says Melissa Webb, Team Leader, Keller Williams Realty, Lake Travis Market. “We do that because we are agent centric as we truly want our agents to build these great businesses so they can fund great lives.” While Keller Williams has some long-standing agents, they focus on mentoring and training for their new agents as well. “Keller Williams Realty offers amazing new agent training through the award winning class called Ignite,” Webb says. “It was written so that new agents boost their production. “I am blessed to work with so many amazing business owners. I call them business owners, as that is what they are. We are here to support them and help them grow their businesses.” In addition to having communicative agents, Keller Williams Realty also utilizes technology to assist its customers throughout the process. “The KW.com website provides real-time agent and property searches anywhere in the world,” says Davidson. “We also have one of the most comprehensive real-time real estate mobile apps that's branded for our agents. Wukasch agrees saying, “Keller Williams’ technology keeps improving and growing. We
Top: Avis Wuckash and Christy Davidson; Bottom: Laura Sansing and Melissa Webb
have a ‘search to close’ paperless transaction system for our associates and their customers. The company has given each individual associate their own personal app to market their business to assist their customers and clients to search for properties.” As Keller Williams Realty continues to serve Austin’s hot real estate market and expand throughout the city and beyond, it remains committed to its agents’ success and providing a high-quality home buying or selling experience. “Keller Williams' mission is ‘to build careers worth having, businesses worth owning and lives worth living,’” Davidson says. “We are doing just that.” “At Keller Williams, we have a very strong culture within our offices,” Sansing says. “We truly want each other to succeed. This shows when working with customers and clients.” RL
PrimeLending Capital City Conventional, FHA, VA, USDA, & Jumbo to name only a few loan products!
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Marlene Gray of American Home Shield, one of the event sponsors at AYREP’s mixer at Sherlock’s, shares her business card plus a “success kit” that included a penny to immediately increase the recipient’s net worth. Joe Becerra of NetWorth Realty also found an eraser in the pack “to get rid of any mistakes.”
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The WCREALTORS’ West Side Story Bus tour is a major attraction for the Association’s members. This year they filled up three buses of REALTORS eager to see “what’s new”. First stop was Bryson in Leander.
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Heather Gaddes of Independence Title and Emma Polk of Coldwell Banker SG Billings REALTORS are glad to be in the business of real estate in Austin — business is GOOD! The two have lunch with the CRS Austin Chapter at the Westwood Country Club to keep up with industry issues and network.
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WISHES YOU A HAPPY AND PROSPEROUS NEW YEAR SOUTHWEST Diane Johnson Melanie Kennemann 448-4111
NORTHWEST Christi Davidson Brian Martin 346-3550
LAKE TRAVIS Melissa Webb 263-9090
ROUND ROCK Avis Wukasch 255-5050
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June 2016 Front Page: Continued
Technology “Just 18 years ago there were more neighborhood specialists than there are today,” says Bown. In a smaller town, an agent could spend more time getting to know a specific territory. But with technology, most buyers are already educated about an area before their first broker meet-and-greet. Even 10 years ago, Archambeault expected to be asked about school districts when she was showing properties to her clients. Today, buyers learn more about a neighborhood online than most agents can even keep up with. “I decided not to talk about school ratings or locations because everything changes so rapidly.” Over the past generation, technology has changed the way real estate professionals work more than almost anything else. While the traffic certainly makes navigating the city spectacularly difficult, thanks to technology, agents are not driving nearly as much as they did in the 1990s, before the internet came along. “On almost every transaction, you would have to drive to meet somebody several times to get a contract signed,” says Bown. Even though there were fax machines in 1995, after multiple transmissions, by the time closing arrived, Bown would need a fresh contract drawn up because the original was unreadable. “With the web and electronic signatures, I can write a contract on my phone or tablet – wherever I am,” says Archambeault. “And my client can be in China the entire time.”
Policy Barrier to entry into the field is more dif-
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ficult, says Bown. “The amount of classes you have to take for your license, that’s been tightened up.” While it may take longer to get a license or cost more to keep it, agents are sharper today than ever. It benefits the customer, but it’s also a far better working environment. Though it’s more of a paperless profession, the amount of “paperwork” has grown exponentially. Mortgage professionals have seen this almost more than any other real estate professional. “The process has become more regulated and complicated,” says John Schutze, branch manager and senior loan officer at Supreme Lending. Around 20 years ago, lenders still had a lot of time-consuming paperwork. But then, the country went through a phase; everyone should be a homeowner. We all know what happened after that. “Now, there are even more hoops to jump through,” says Schutze. In addition to the additional documentation – going from “We’ll take your word on what you make,” and back to verifying income and assets – there are rigid policies and timelines that put lenders at risk of being penalized by regulators or in lost income. “It would be like going to get your brakes fixed and the mechanic has to commit 100 percent to the estimated cost.” All the agents we interviewed agreed that these days, there is more cooperation between agents, brokers, lenders and title agents. There is more coordination behind the scenes. That’s something that can only happen after a period of growth and change, which is never a bad thing. RL
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Columnists: Aaron Farmer, Shavonne Martin, Wes Wigginton, Mary Miner Submission Guidelines: Submit photos, press releases and calendar items to naomi@myrealtyline.com. All photos must be at least 300 dpi and include a caption with first/last name and company affiliation. Press releases must be fewer than 300 words. Non-advertisers submitting calendar items will be charged $25 per submission. All submissions must be received at least seven calendar days prior to ad copy deadlines published at www.myrealtyline.com/blog/advertise.html. Submission items will be included as space allows. Realty Line Austin is published monthly by Caxton Publications, Inc.© as a non-subscription publication for the more than 8,000 members of the Austin Board of REALTORS®(ABoR), the more than 1,500 members of the Williamson County Association of REALTORS® (WCREALTORS) and the Home Builders Association (HBA) of Greater Austin. Realty Line Austin is printed on recycled paper. Realty Line Austin is a proud member of the Austin Board of REALTORS®, the Williamson County Association of REALTORS®, the Home Builders Association (HBA) of Greater Austin and is a honorary member of the Women’s Council of REALTORS. Realty Line Austin is not responsible for opinions or facts expressed by non-staff writers or for errors and any by-products in advertising or editorial copy. REALTOR® is a registered trademark. The word REALTOR® sometimes appears in this publication without the registered trademark symbol (®) for the purpose of saving space. Wherever the word REALTOR® appears in this publication, the registered trademark should be assumed.
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The Home Builders Association of Greater Austin donates over $36,000 to Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Texas. Proceeds were generated through the sale of the Association's annual Benefit Home. The donation was just half of what was donated with the remaining going to Dell Children's Medical Center. Submitted Photo
King Bravo and Robert Hinojosa, both of Nextage Lone Star Realty, talk up the benefits of their company with up and coming REALTORS during Champions School of Real Estate’s Career Day event.
Buy Photo: RL_060316_C.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
Kate Rossi, Ramone Richason, and Helen Edwards, all with Coldwell Banker United REALTORS, celebrate the grand opening of the company's Northwest office. Buy Photo: RL_060616_L.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
Haley Hartley of Independence Title and Liz Carrillo of Mary Fields Realty discuss how the housing market is keeping them busy this spring. They were attending the AYREP mixer at Sherlock’s.
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Builders association donates over $73,000 to local charities
Twelve Central Texas students receive combined $28,500 in annual scholarships
The Austin Board of REALTORS (ABoR) Foundation is pleased to announce its 2016 scholarship recipients. During the organization’s annual scholarship event, the Foundation awarded 12 Central Texas high school seniors and university students with a total of $28,500 in scholarships to pursue higher education. “The ABoR Foundation sees giving back to the community through scholarships as one of the most sustainable ways to make a difference in the future of Central Texas,” said 2016 ABoR Foundation Chair Steve Crorey. “We’re proud to help these talented local students achieve their academic goals because we know they will take what they learn in school and ultimately help shape the success of our community in years to come.” The Foundation has awarded more than 300 scholarships since its inception in 1978, including more than $250,000 in the last five years alone. “The ABoR Foundation couldn’t do this without the generous support of the Austin-area REALTORS® and community members who partnered with us to make this year’s scholarships possible,” said Crorey. “We’re excited to see what’s in store for these promising students and hope that the scholarships help alleviate some of the financial stress that can accompany a college education.” Congratulations to the following students: • Alicia St.Germaine – Hendrickson High
School, Pflugerville • Allison Dip – Cedar Creek High School, Cedar Creek • Carmelita Gonzalez – Cedar Creek High School, Cedar Creek • Emily Percifull – Wimberley High School, Wimberley • Gabrielle Serrano – Cedar Creek High School, Cedar Creek • Hayley Mathues – West Texas A&M University (alumni scholarship recipient) • Hannah Markins – McNeil High School, Austin • Kaley Switzer – Round Rock High School, Round Rock • Odalis Mondragon Vargas – Reagan Early College School, Austin • Raul Escobar – Hendrickson High School, Pflugerville • Ryan Albert – Wimberley High School, Wimberley • Travis Rhames – Burnet High School, Burnet Scholarship winners are selected each year based on academic performance, demonstrated leadership skills and involvement in their local communities. “The financial assistance [the ABoR Foundation] generously gave allowed me more time to study and become active in organizations while spending less time worrying about how I would pay for needed items,” said Morgan Oliver, 2015 ABoR Foundation Scholarship Recipient. “Part of my motivation for future success is linked to wanting to continue the philanthropic ideas that your foundation embodies. I hope to make a difference someday in the lives of others the same way that [the Foundation] has made a difference in my life.” RL
Last month, the HBA presented two checks for $36,667 each to Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Texas and Dell Children’s Medical Center Foundation. Proceeds were generated from the HBA’s Benefit Home project in Rancho Sienna, a new-home community being developed by Newland Communities in northwestern Williamson County. The Nathaniel, a two-story home, built by Chesmar Homes, is 2,838 sq. ft. and features four bedrooms, three bathrooms, a game room, and an oversized two-car garage. It was sold on the open market. Led by Chesmar Homes, HBA members work together to solicit materials and donations to help build the new home. "We are deeply grateful to the Home Builders Association of Greater Austin, Chesmar Homes and Newland Communities for generously supporting our children and families with the 2015 Benefit Home," comments Carolyn Schwarz, chief executive officer of Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Texas. “The Home Builders Association of Greater Austin is a shining example of what it means to be a community champion and to do so seem-
Best Outdoor Living Space Custom Home (under $1.5 million), and Best Kitchen Custom Home (under $700k) at their annual Marketing and Advertising Excellence (MAX) Awards and Gala at the JW
Pecan Park is in close proximity to State Highway 71, with downtown Austin located approximately 20 miles away. Residents will be located near downtown Bastrop with local gift shops, antiques and dining options. Students attend Bastrop Independent School District. For more information about Pecan Park, visit davidweekleyhomes.com or call 512-9253210. RL
Marriott Austin. Felicia Foster is a third generation Austinite and her grandfather was the first three-time All American at U.T. in the 40’s. She started with a well-known local Architecture firm and worked her way up to Project Manager for one of their National Builders. Felicia was then the Director of Design for a local homebuilder before starting Barron Custom Design over a de-
Texas Association of Builders launches new website The Texas Association of Builders just launched a newly designed website. The TexasBuilders.org site aims to extend the reach of all the association programs. The new TexasBuilders.org site features six high profile buttons that focus on the association’s main topics – Government Affairs, HOMEPAC, Sunbelt Builders Show™, Texas Builders Foundation, Product Depot and a Members Only section. In addition, a Builder Member Directory search button is featured on the home page. TAB’s “Of the Year Awards” and nationally recognized Star Awards are featured under the About Us button. The site also focuses on the association’s membership program that
includes education, committees and councils, members rebate and insurance programs. The redesign incorporates bold colors, photos galleries, social media tools and a new navigation system. It’s fully responsive, and the updated platform makes it extremely user friendly on all smart phones and tablets. The new platform allows stronger functionality and user-friendly navigation. Visitors will see a much cleaner site that allows them navigate the page buttons easily to stay up-to-date on the industry’s most important topics, upcoming events and call-to-action requests. The ability to purchase TAB’s Residential Construction Contracts Package and Model Safety Plan are just a few clicks away. RL
ingly effortlessly. We’re thankful for the unwavering dedication, effort and championing it took to be able to donate this $36,000 wonderful gift to Dell Children’s,” says Armando Zambrano, Dell Children’s Medical Center director of annual giving. “The HBA has a long standing history of giving back to our community through charitable donations and we are proud of that,” says HBA Executive Vice President Emily Lubbers. Last year, the HBA donated more than $50,000, over half the net proceeds from the sale of the 2014 Benefit Home, to Dell Children’s Medical Center Foundation and the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Texas. To date, the HBA has supported dozens of local charities and educational institutions with more than $2 million in donations. In May, the HBA broke ground on its 2016 Benefit Home at Santa Rita Ranch North, just minutes away from Rancho Sienna on Ronald Reagan Boulevard in Williamson County. The 4-bedroom, 3.5-bedroom home, built by Scott Felder Homes, on a lot generously donated by Santa Rita Ranch’s developer, SRKC, LLC, will have an estimated market value of $350,000 to $430,000 when completed. The HBA has selected three charities who will benefit from the net proceeds from the sale of this home; they include Dell Children’s Medical Center Foundation, Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Texas and Mobile Loaves and Fishes’ Community First Village for the chronically homeless. RL
Barron Custom Design honored with four MAX Awards
David Weekley Homes now selling in Bastrop David Weekley Homes is now selling homes in the Bastrop community of Pecan Park, which is situated on the banks of the Colorado River. Priced from the $220s, homebuyers can choose from seven floor plans ranging in size from 1,600 to nearly 3,800 square feet. This community offers natural landscapes with river access, hike and bike trails, parks and open space.
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cade ago. Felicia has also been featured on On Saturday, April 2, the Home Builders Association (HBA) of Greater Austin awarded the woman-owned business Barron Custom Design, LLC with four MAX Awards for Best Custom Home Product Design ($100k-$249,999), Best Custom Home Product Design ($250k-$499,999),
HGTV.com http://people.hgtv.com/professionals/ barron-custom-design www.hbaaustin.com/news/284079/ MAX-Awards-HBA-Honors-Austin-Area-Builders-Remodelers-for-Industry-Excellence.htm RL
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Keller Williams Realty agents create new tool to help buyers and sellers
Josh Molleur and Kasey Jorgenson, two real estate agents with Keller Williams Realty Round Rock, introduce a unique and transparent, agent-to-agent, networking platform where agents cannot only see other agents buyer needs but these buyer needs are now dynamically searchable, shareable and get emailed out to tons of other local agents. BuyerNeeds.com is a free, mobile friendly website (web app) for real estate agents in which buyer agents can post their buyer needs and listing agents can search to find buyers for their listings or pocket listings. “We wanted to provide a way to fully represent our clients and to also give agents a valuable edge that is needed to stay ahead in the ever changing world of real estate,” says Josh Molleur. Listing agents can also utilize the site. Even after a listing is entered into the MLS, there are
times when the listing may have been overlooked or unintentionally eliminated by a potential buyer. BuyerNeeds.com allows listing agents to search and reach out to these buyer agents who might have clients that are a perfect match for their listings or even their pocket listings. One huge obstacle they had to overcome is how to make a buyer need searchable. Unfortunately, agents have different ways of describing where their buyers wish to live. One agent might use a zip code in a post while another might reference a neighborhood instead. This is a perfect scenario where a text to text search would fail to render correct results. They wanted a solution that would include zip codes, neighborhoods, and other criteria without having the agent enter all of this information manually. The solution: a map. Their map feature made dynamic searches possible. When posting a buyer need, you simply outline on a map where your buyer wishes to live. Once outlined, vital location information such as county or counties, city or cities, zip code(s), neighborhood(s), school(s), addresses, etc. are automatically attached to your buyer need on the backend once it’s posted. “One of the reasons we haven’t see a site like this is because, ultimately, storing what a buyer is looking for is a hard problem. How do you search for a buyer need and how do you organize the data? Luckily for us, the timing was perfect as new geospatial technology became available right as we were building the site. This made it possible to store and search entire areas instead of single points which allowed us to solve the buyer need problem,” says Jesse Jorgenson, cofounder. Although the concept is straightforward, don’t let the clean and simple look of the site fool you. This tool is supported by powerful technology that makes use easy and quick for agents. BuyerNeeds.com wanted to streamline the posting process and make it simple for agents to use on the go, and automation is a key part of that process. From fast posting and automatic email alerts to generating custom overviews for sharing to Facebook, the site’s backend performance is setup to create absolute ease for the agents. RL
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Affordable Housing Town Hall Meeting June 15th at WCREALTORS Help keep Williamson County affordable! Come hear from the movers and shakers in the industry on how we can educate the communities on what is really happening and put a face on those that are searching for affordable housing. On June 15th at 1 p.m. at the WCREALTORS office, come get an understanding on as to why moving further out of the cities is not always the most affordable solution. We will have a question and answer session
after our panel tells us about their challenges and experiences with this ongoing issue. This panel will include: Leisa Ormsbee with JB Goodwin, King Bravo with Nextage Lone Star Realty, John Schutze with Supreme Lending, Walt Doering formerly with Georgetown Housing Advisory Board Geoffrey Tahuahua with Home Builders Association of Greater Austin. RL
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices launches first phase of international expansion Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices has now completed Phase I of its global expansion and announced plans to expand internationally in 2017. As part of its first phase the network has launched a powerful, new property searchplatform on its popular BerkshireHathawayHS.com website and a listing-syndication program now broadcasting Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices network listings over, $200K, to 70 worldwide real estate websites in 37 countries across five continents. The platform offers the industry’s most
complete search experience for global shoppers of U.S. real estate. With two mouse clicks, consumers may choose to translate the website in any of 10 languages. The site also seamlessly converts currency and measurements. Consumers can now have full MLS data containing all listings in their search area. Also, by using the “Inside Access” feature they gain the latest pending and sold information, market reports and property-price history. This home search platform is an indispensable resource for any global buyer of U.S. real estate. RL
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Service dogs Raffi and Cadence draw smiles and friendly pats from guests, such as Drew Colvin, right, of Texas Ranch Brokers, at AYREP’s mixer at Sherlock’s.
Buy Photo: RL_060616_H.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
Hope you registered early, because these buses are FULL! It’s time to see all the new development west of I-35 —the mission of WCREALTORS’ West Side Story Bus Tour.
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Lisa Jacobson of Coldwell Banker United, REALTORS has information ready to hand out when real estate students pay her a visit at Champions School of Real Estate’s Career Day event.