West Austin Lifestyle presented by Stephanie Nick

West Austin

Visit me in my new West Austin office!

Barton Creek Village 2700 Barton Creek Blvd.

Austin, TX 78735

July | August 2013

Today’s Tech Takes Home Automation Beyond The Jetsons

E

Barton Creek

IV

SO

AC T

IV AC T

Westlake | $1,429,000

Get Smart!

LD Barton Creek

LD

E

Lake Austin

Barton Creek | $985,000

SO

LD

Westlake | $3,495,000

SO

SO

LD

Barton Creek | $2,785,000

AC TIV E

AC TIV E

AC TIV E

Providing A Lifestyle, Not Just An Address.

Lake Austin

Barton Creek | $725,000

All information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed.

Your Home’s Square Footage

www.StephanieNick.com

Realtor® Million Dollar Guild, CLHMS

512.426.9183 St.Nick@SothebysRealty.com

If your home is currently listed, this is not a solicitation for that listing.

Is it Measured Accurately?

WANT YOUR PROPERTY TO BE OUR NEXT COVER HOME? Call Stephanie Nick for the most effective marketing to sell your West Austin property at 512.426.9183.

Produced by UpscaleRealEstateMarketing.com • 877.660.0996

Simple + Fresh = Delicious West Austin

Real Estate Is Hot This Summer!

Parkside’s Broccoli Soup

In Good Taste Featuring Parkside 512.474.9898 | Parkside-Austin.com

BROCCOLI SOUP Ingredients 11 cups broccoli 5 1/2 cups onion, diced 1 Tbsp. garlic, sliced 4 cups parsley

3 1/2 Tbsp. lemon juice

1/2 Tbsp. Tabasco 8 cups vegetable stock 2 cups cream Method • Blanch and shock broccoli (stems separately) • Blanch and shock parsley • Sweat diced onion and sliced garlic until transparent and cool on a sheet tray • Puree broccoli, parsley, onion and garlic with vegetable stock and warm cream, in batches, until smooth • Pass puree through a chinois conical strainer • Season with lemon juice, Tabasco and salt

Event Calendar

the future is now.

Did I turn the thermostat down? Is the security alarm set? Did I forget to close the garage door? Just a few of the questions that will soon be moot once you make the jump and your get home fully wired. That’s right ... your home can soon be smarter than you!

So just what can today’s super-tech homes do for you and your family? One of the coolest new capabilities is the remote access to your home’s climate control. If you like to come home to a nice cool abode but don’t like the bill that comes from running the AC all day while you’re at work, you can turn on the AC right from your smart phone or computer.

This saves on your electric bill in spades.

Some experts estimate you can save up to 10 percent on your bill from using these new systems. And just imagine never again walking into a closed-up, stifling home upon returning from vacation or a long weekend! Where do we sign up?

Security is another highlight of today’s high-tech homes. With the touch of a button on your smart phone or computer, you can set the security system in your home to any desired level of protection.

you can see what’s going on in your home while you’re away or at work.

Have kids? Talk about having eyes in the back of your head! With installed cameras strategically placed throughout your home, you can remotely keep an eye on them in the yard, as they come in the front door from school, or just see what they’re doing in the kitchen with their friends while you run errands. And in the event that the security system is tripped, your home’s system can instantly send you photos or videos of the point of entry so you can be apprised of the situation.

Another great feature which enhances security and makes your life easier is the remote control of your home’s lighting.

Out later than you thought you’d be?

Turn on the front lights with the touch

of a button on your smart phone.

Want to make it appear as if

someone is home while you’re

away? Set up the system to

have lights go on and off in different rooms at specific times throughout the night.

Sounds like a smart home installation may be the smartest thing you can do for your family this year! And since the systems are wireless, installation is usually easy and quick!

IS YOUR HOME WIRED UP?

If the system gets tripped while you’re away, you’ll automatically know via email or texts telling you exactly what has occurred in your absence. Many systems can automatically detect fire, water damage, or broken glass, and instantly let the homeowner and authorities know. Carbon monoxide detection can also be added. And in

case of one of these emergencies, you’ll have direct contact to fire and police for a quick response. An added bonus? You could save up to 20 percent on your homeowner’s insurance when this type of security system is installed.

Many of today’s suppliers can also install indoor and outdoor cameras so

JULY | AUGUST 2013 Luminous Blanton Museum of Art, July 25th 512.471.7324 | BlantonMuseum.org Celebrate the Blanton’s 50th anniversary with a selection of high-quality works on paper from their permanent collection. From Old Master drawings to contemporary prints, this exhibition highlights the beauty, intricacy and luminosity of prints and drawings at the Blanton. Admission and tours on Thursdays are free.

Austin Pet Expo Palmer Event Center, August 3rd 800.977.3609 | AustinPetExpo.com Bring your animal friend to a day-long petapalooza!

See demonstrations in agility, obedience and pet care.

Browse pet-related retailers, visit rescue groups, enter the costume contest and meet Shorty Rossi and his pit bull Hercules from the hit TV show Pit Boss. Woof!

Austin Ice Cream Festival Fiesta Gardens, August 17th 512.441.9015 | IceCreamFestival.org I scream, you scream, we ALL scream for ice cream!

With proceeds benefitting local charities, what better way to spend a Saturday? You’ll find games, activities, contests, live entertainment and of course, there just

THE FACTS BEHIND SQUARE FOOTAGE Consider this scenario: A homeowner encloses their back patio. When they list their home, they inform the real estate agent that the patio is a home improvement that increases the overall square footage in the house.

The homeowner has measured the room dimensions and calculated the additional square footage that has been added to the home.

While measuring and calculating square footage may appear simple, there are several considerations as defined by an industry standard that makes the process a bit more complex.

The standard for square footage calculation is defined by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). The standard titled ANSI Z765 states, “To claim adherence to this standard, the following methods of measurement and calculation must be employed when quantifying square footage in single-family houses.” Realtors realize the importance of a third-party independent measurement and calculation of square footage because they do not want to make any false statements about square footage that could be disputed by potential buyers. If you have made any substantial addition to your home, you should consider an independent firm that can measure and calculate square footage and can claim adherence to the ANSI standard.

Some interesting facets of the ANSI standard include the discussion of what is to be considered “finished square

footage.” Walls and ceilings must be “finished.” Finishes include painted or wallpapered dry wall or paneling.

In our original example where the homeowner enclosed a patio – the wall and ceiling finishes must be evaluated in order for the space to qualify as “finished square footage.” If the room is dry-walled and taped, but no wall finish such as paint or wallpaper was applied, it is not considered “finished.” Likewise in terms of floor finishes. ANSI recognized floor finishes are carpeting, vinyl sheeting, hardwood flooring and concrete floors with decorative finishes, but does not include bare or painted concrete. Interestingly, stained concrete is considered finished because it is considered long lasting or permanent. Therefore, if the enclosed patio has a bare concrete floor, it is not considered “finished” and should not be quoted as part of the home’s overall finished square footage.

The ANSI standard is also very clear about stating finished square footage that is “above grade” and “below grade” and that those should always be provided separately and identified as such. When a basement is finished, it can be measured and the resulting below grade square footage can be a selling point for the home but must be stated as below grade square footage. The ANSI standard also states, “Porches, balconies, decks and similar areas that are not enclosed or are not suitable for year-round occupancy cannot be included in the

might be some ice cream to indulge in!

Fall Home & Garden Show Austin Convention Center, August 23rd- 25th AustinHomeAndGardenShow.com Turn your home and garden dreams into reality with thousands of square feet of exhibits. It’s a homeowner’s paradise – for do-it-yourselfers, or for those searching for qualified contractors. You’ll find ideas for decks, pools, statement of finished square footage.”

When physically measuring square footage, ANSI requires that measurements be taken to the nearest inch and the resulting square footage be reported to the nearest square foot. Laser-based measuring devices are available that can accurately measure distances with less chance of human error (unlike the standard tape measure). An example is the handheld laser measuring device Disto D5 by Leica®.

The best practice is to have a professional who is well versed in the ANSI standard measure and qualify any square footage that will be advertised in selling your home.

spas, entertainment systems, landscaping, kitchens and much more.

Austin Symphony presents Concerts in the Park Hartman Concert Park, Sundays through August 25th 512.476.6064 | AustinSymphony.org Each Sunday a different ensemble of the Austin Symphony will be featured at the new Hartman Park, located on the grounds of the Long Center for the Performing Arts. Bring a picnic dinner and blanket and enjoy music from jazz and light classical, to pop selections and film scores.

In Good Taste Featuring Parkside 512.474.9898 | Parkside-Austin.com

BROCCOLI SOUP Ingredients 11 cups broccoli 5 1/2 cups onion, diced 1 Tbsp. garlic, sliced 4 cups parsley

3 1/2 Tbsp. lemon juice

1/2 Tbsp. Tabasco 8 cups vegetable stock 2 cups cream Method • Blanch and shock broccoli (stems separately) • Blanch and shock parsley • Sweat diced onion and sliced garlic until transparent and cool on a sheet tray • Puree broccoli, parsley, onion and garlic with vegetable stock and warm cream, in batches, until smooth • Pass puree through a chinois conical strainer • Season with lemon juice, Tabasco and salt

Event Calendar

the future is now.

Did I turn the thermostat down? Is the security alarm set? Did I forget to close the garage door? Just a few of the questions that will soon be moot once you make the jump and your get home fully wired. That’s right ... your home can soon be smarter than you!

So just what can today’s super-tech homes do for you and your family? One of the coolest new capabilities is the remote access to your home’s climate control. If you like to come home to a nice cool abode but don’t like the bill that comes from running the AC all day while you’re at work, you can turn on the AC right from your smart phone or computer.

This saves on your electric bill in spades.

Some experts estimate you can save up to 10 percent on your bill from using these new systems. And just imagine never again walking into a closed-up, stifling home upon returning from vacation or a long weekend! Where do we sign up?

Security is another highlight of today’s high-tech homes. With the touch of a button on your smart phone or computer, you can set the security system in your home to any desired level of protection.

you can see what’s going on in your home while you’re away or at work.

Have kids? Talk about having eyes in the back of your head! With installed cameras strategically placed throughout your home, you can remotely keep an eye on them in the yard, as they come in the front door from school, or just see what they’re doing in the kitchen with their friends while you run errands. And in the event that the security system is tripped, your home’s system can instantly send you photos or videos of the point of entry so you can be apprised of the situation.

Another great feature which enhances security and makes your life easier is the remote control of your home’s lighting.

Out later than you thought you’d be?

Turn on the front lights with the touch

of a button on your smart phone.

Want to make it appear as if

someone is home while you’re

away? Set up the system to

have lights go on and off in different rooms at specific times throughout the night.

Sounds like a smart home installation may be the smartest thing you can do for your family this year! And since the systems are wireless, installation is usually easy and quick!

IS YOUR HOME WIRED UP?

If the system gets tripped while you’re away, you’ll automatically know via email or texts telling you exactly what has occurred in your absence. Many systems can automatically detect fire, water damage, or broken glass, and instantly let the homeowner and authorities know. Carbon monoxide detection can also be added. And in

case of one of these emergencies, you’ll have direct contact to fire and police for a quick response. An added bonus? You could save up to 20 percent on your homeowner’s insurance when this type of security system is installed.

Many of today’s suppliers can also install indoor and outdoor cameras so

JULY | AUGUST 2013 Luminous Blanton Museum of Art, July 25th 512.471.7324 | BlantonMuseum.org Celebrate the Blanton’s 50th anniversary with a selection of high-quality works on paper from their permanent collection. From Old Master drawings to contemporary prints, this exhibition highlights the beauty, intricacy and luminosity of prints and drawings at the Blanton. Admission and tours on Thursdays are free.

Austin Pet Expo Palmer Event Center, August 3rd 800.977.3609 | AustinPetExpo.com Bring your animal friend to a day-long petapalooza!

See demonstrations in agility, obedience and pet care.

Browse pet-related retailers, visit rescue groups, enter the costume contest and meet Shorty Rossi and his pit bull Hercules from the hit TV show Pit Boss. Woof!

Austin Ice Cream Festival Fiesta Gardens, August 17th 512.441.9015 | IceCreamFestival.org I scream, you scream, we ALL scream for ice cream!

With proceeds benefitting local charities, what better way to spend a Saturday? You’ll find games, activities, contests, live entertainment and of course, there just

THE FACTS BEHIND SQUARE FOOTAGE Consider this scenario: A homeowner encloses their back patio. When they list their home, they inform the real estate agent that the patio is a home improvement that increases the overall square footage in the house.

The homeowner has measured the room dimensions and calculated the additional square footage that has been added to the home.

While measuring and calculating square footage may appear simple, there are several considerations as defined by an industry standard that makes the process a bit more complex.

The standard for square footage calculation is defined by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). The standard titled ANSI Z765 states, “To claim adherence to this standard, the following methods of measurement and calculation must be employed when quantifying square footage in single-family houses.” Realtors realize the importance of a third-party independent measurement and calculation of square footage because they do not want to make any false statements about square footage that could be disputed by potential buyers. If you have made any substantial addition to your home, you should consider an independent firm that can measure and calculate square footage and can claim adherence to the ANSI standard.

Some interesting facets of the ANSI standard include the discussion of what is to be considered “finished square

footage.” Walls and ceilings must be “finished.” Finishes include painted or wallpapered dry wall or paneling.

In our original example where the homeowner enclosed a patio – the wall and ceiling finishes must be evaluated in order for the space to qualify as “finished square footage.” If the room is dry-walled and taped, but no wall finish such as paint or wallpaper was applied, it is not considered “finished.” Likewise in terms of floor finishes. ANSI recognized floor finishes are carpeting, vinyl sheeting, hardwood flooring and concrete floors with decorative finishes, but does not include bare or painted concrete. Interestingly, stained concrete is considered finished because it is considered long lasting or permanent. Therefore, if the enclosed patio has a bare concrete floor, it is not considered “finished” and should not be quoted as part of the home’s overall finished square footage.

The ANSI standard is also very clear about stating finished square footage that is “above grade” and “below grade” and that those should always be provided separately and identified as such. When a basement is finished, it can be measured and the resulting below grade square footage can be a selling point for the home but must be stated as below grade square footage. The ANSI standard also states, “Porches, balconies, decks and similar areas that are not enclosed or are not suitable for year-round occupancy cannot be included in the

might be some ice cream to indulge in!

Fall Home & Garden Show Austin Convention Center, August 23rd- 25th AustinHomeAndGardenShow.com Turn your home and garden dreams into reality with thousands of square feet of exhibits. It’s a homeowner’s paradise – for do-it-yourselfers, or for those searching for qualified contractors. You’ll find ideas for decks, pools, statement of finished square footage.”

When physically measuring square footage, ANSI requires that measurements be taken to the nearest inch and the resulting square footage be reported to the nearest square foot. Laser-based measuring devices are available that can accurately measure distances with less chance of human error (unlike the standard tape measure). An example is the handheld laser measuring device Disto D5 by Leica®.

The best practice is to have a professional who is well versed in the ANSI standard measure and qualify any square footage that will be advertised in selling your home.

spas, entertainment systems, landscaping, kitchens and much more.

Austin Symphony presents Concerts in the Park Hartman Concert Park, Sundays through August 25th 512.476.6064 | AustinSymphony.org Each Sunday a different ensemble of the Austin Symphony will be featured at the new Hartman Park, located on the grounds of the Long Center for the Performing Arts. Bring a picnic dinner and blanket and enjoy music from jazz and light classical, to pop selections and film scores.

West Austin

Visit me in my new West Austin office!

Barton Creek Village 2700 Barton Creek Blvd.

Austin, TX 78735

July | August 2013

Today’s Tech Takes Home Automation Beyond The Jetsons

E

Barton Creek

IV

SO

AC T

IV AC T

Westlake | $1,429,000

Get Smart!

LD Barton Creek

LD

E

Lake Austin

Barton Creek | $985,000

SO

LD

Westlake | $3,495,000

SO

SO

LD

Barton Creek | $2,785,000

AC TIV E

AC TIV E

AC TIV E

Providing A Lifestyle, Not Just An Address.

Lake Austin

Barton Creek | $725,000

All information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed.

Your Home’s Square Footage

www.StephanieNick.com

Realtor® Million Dollar Guild, CLHMS

512.426.9183 St.Nick@SothebysRealty.com

If your home is currently listed, this is not a solicitation for that listing.

Is it Measured Accurately?

WANT YOUR PROPERTY TO BE OUR NEXT COVER HOME? Call Stephanie Nick for the most effective marketing to sell your West Austin property at 512.426.9183.

Produced by UpscaleRealEstateMarketing.com • 877.660.0996

Simple + Fresh = Delicious West Austin

Real Estate Is Hot This Summer!

Parkside’s Broccoli Soup