in this issue…
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995™
• WCAoR Tech Tune-Up • RE/MAX 1 Ground Breaking • Downtown Property Tour • ABoR Night at the Ballpark • and much, much more!
Associates in Progress
Save the Date Home Tour October 15
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AUGUST 2011 • VOLUME 16 • ISSUE 4
Back to School: Designations and Certifications Setting Yourself Apart from Your Competition by Stacy Stroud
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P. O. Box 81366, Austin, Texas 78708
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n this highly competitive industry, REALTORS and other industry professionals are continually looking for ways to set themselves apart — and since most are savvy marketers, there’s no limit to the creative ideas that power the growing real estate businesses in Austin. But even in the midst of blogs, virtual tours, QR codes and networking events, there’s still something to be said for good old-fashioned education. Completing certifications and earning designations is one proven way to help you
grow your business and show clients and colleagues that you know your stuff. While coursework for designations is not required to maintain a license, and entirely optional to the REALTOR, those who actively further their education beyond the minimum requirements of state licensure and basic CE credits by pursuing designations tend to stand out from the crowd because of their increased expertise. “Designations and certifications are just another way of confirming with your clients that you are keeping up with industry trends through continuing education,” says Bill Evans at Austin Real Pros. Need proof? A recent survey of REALTORS reveals a difference in median income of approximately $21,800, with
agents holding one or more designations earning a median income of $51,500 — as opposed to those without a designation, who earned a median income of $29,700. According to Kay Andrews of Amelia Bullock REALTORS, “Designations send a clear message to clients: This agent is seasoned, knowledgeable and experienced. They may not know what t h e designations mean, but it gives them a higher
level of confidence in the agent.” Though you may already stand out as an excellent REALTOR or industry professional through experience and reputation, the added boost of confidence that a particular designation may instill in a potential client can tip the scales in your favor. Not only does a designation provide an extra level of assurance to your potential clients, it can also garner credibility and acceptance among other professionals —
Front Page: Continued on pg. 12
Local REALTOR to be Installed as Texas Association of REALTORS Chairman
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oe Stewart of Joe R. Stewart REALTORS will be inducted as Chairman of the Texas Association of REALTORS (TAR) next month, a huge accolade for one of our local leaders. He also has served the Austin Board of REALTORS (ABoR) in numerous roles including chairman in 2003, and was recognized as ABoR’s REALTOR of
the Year in 1997 and 2004. Realty Line visited with him about his involvement in the state organization and what he sees on the horizon for the industry. What do you hope to accomplish as chairman of the TAR and how might you be different from past chairmen? We have a leadership team at the TAR. CEO Travis Kessler, Shad Bogany, secretary/treasurer from Houston, Dan Hatfield, secretary-elect from Comfort, and Dwight Hale, chairman,
from San Antonio and past chairman when I take office on Jan. 1, 2011. The concept is to work closely with the team to support the membership’s issues for several years to come. The continuity of this leadership team is vital for the future visions and mission statement of TAR. My past experience in the corporate world and as a REALTOR/BROKER allows me to give my best to this team on behalf of the
Chairman: Continued on pg. 26
Upcoming Events Thursday, August 18 Friday, August 26 HBA Builder/Associate Networking Social Champions School of Real Estate 4 Day Cabinets - 5 to 7 p.m. Career Fair - Austin/Round Rock Campus 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. ABoR - TREPAC Wine Tasting Tuesday, August 30 Green Pastures - 6 to 8 p.m. HBA Golf Extravaganza More at www.myRealtyLine.com Shadow Glen Golf Club - 12 to 9 p.m.
Thursday, September 1 CCIM Networking Luncheon Westwood Country Club 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesday, September 13 NAPMW Monthly Lucheon Westwood Country Club - 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
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Chairman’s Column By Judith Bundschuh • 2011 Chairman
2011 REALTORS Convention and Trade Expo: Exciting Events You Don’t Want to Miss
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he 2011 Texas REALTORS Convention and Trade Expo is right around the corner. Scheduled for Sept. 9-14, the event will be primarily hosted at Austin’s own convention center, located at 500 E. Cesar Chavez St. Enjoy a variety of education sessions, business meetings and special events without the hassle of traveling. 2011 Texas REALTORS Convention and Trade Expo Schedule: • Sept. 9–11: Business and Governance Meetings • Sept. 12: Trade Expo • Sept. 12–14: Convention The Austin Board of REALTORS is excited about supporting The Best of Texas Chairman’s Installation dinner and reception at 7 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 11, where ABoR Past Chairman Joe Stewart will be installed as the 2011 TAR chairman of the board. In addition, ABoR will sponsor the Convention Welcome Reception from 6:30 to 8 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 12, at Scholz Garten, located at 1607 San Jacinto. Another event you’ll want to attend is the Saturday, Sept. 10 Road Trip to Progress and
Profits bus tour, which will explore mixed-use development sites in downtown Austin. You can reserve your ticket for the bus tour in the business meeting section of the Convention and Trade Expo registration form. From MCE credits to specialized technology skills, the convention is a great place to advance your career. Don’t miss the chance to revitalize your profession. Register for the 2011 Texas REALTORS Convention and Trade Expo today at www.texasrealtors.com/TopLevel/Events/ Registration.cfm. Take a Trip Back to the 80’s at the 2011 Realty Round Up Realty Round Up: Flashback to the 80’s will offer an array of valuable products and services for REALTORS on Wednesday, Oct. 26. Expected to bring more than 1,500 real estate professionals, Realty Round Up is a fantastic place for companies to showcase products, network with REALTORS and advertise for an affordable rate in communications that reach more than 8,000 ABoR members.
www.myRealtyLine.com Booths are filling up fast. To reserve your booth today, contact Gina Willemsen at 4547636, ext. 1601 or at roundup@abor.com. For more details about the tradeshow, visit www. abor.com/roundup. Installation and Awards Gala Set for Dec. 2 Get ready to have fun at the 2011 Installation and Awards Celebration Gala, scheduled for Friday, Dec. 2 at the Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort and Spa. This annual event is designed to honor our incoming leaders and exceptional member accomplishments. If you know a REALTOR who has made outstanding contributions to our industry or community, consider nominating them for one of ABoR’s annual Industry Awards. There are a number of award categories, including REALTOR of the Year, Affiliate of the Year, REALTOR Community Service Award, Salesperson of the Year, Rookie of the Year and the Cultural Awareness Award. The open call for nominations will run from Sept. 14 to Oct. 3. Stay tuned for more information about
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the Industry Award nominations, and save the date for the annual Installation and Awards Celebration Gala. We hope you can join us for this spectacular end-of-the-year event. Secure Your MLS Access: Semi-Annual Participation Fees Due Sept. 15 As REALTORS, the MLS system is a key resource that provides us with the tools we need to better serve our clients. Ensure your access to the MLS by submitting your semi-annual participation fees by Thursday, Sept. 15. Now, you receive so much more than basic MLS access with your MLS subscription, including Fusion MLS, ABoR Mobile MLS, Mobile Edit, Clarus MarketMetrics, ValueMap and ListHub, along with other services like free MLS training courses. Submitting your payment by the Sept. 15 deadline will help you avoid late fees or reinstatement fees. You should receive your invoice by mid-August. If you have questions, feel free to contact ABoR’s Membership Department at membership@abor.com or at 454-7636. RL
ABoR Academy Educational Course Listings Aug. 18: Seize the Power of Your MLS Subscription (South Location) Aug 18: MLX CMA (South Location) Aug. 19: Lunch and Learn Aug. 19: Facebook 301: Advanced Facebook Topics and Facebook Business Page Aug. 20: TREC Legal Update MCE (TREPAC Investment) Aug. 23: Website Management-Personalize Your MLS Agent Website/Lab Aug. 24: Seize the Power of Your MLS Subscription (North Location)
First American is proud to announce the addition of Cindy Mokry to our sales team!
Don’t you and your business deserve the best? Let First American’s team of professionals help create the experience your business deserves.
When the best is expected think First, First American. Sales Team L to R: Heidi Schoonover, Fran Pullin, Kelley Murphy, Erin Harrell, Cindy Mokry, Michele Vannostran First American Title Insurance Company makes no express or implied warranty respecting the information presented and assumes no responsibility for errors or omissions.
©2011 First American Financial Corporation. All rights reserved. | NYSE:FAF
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First American Westlake Team members Fran Pullin, Kelley Murphy, Debbie Peek and Kierstin McBride are recognized by First American Title Division President Jason Klam for a great second quarter performance.
Submitted Photo
AMBA members Eddie Rinehart, Gaylynn Cuming and Kenton Brown of Sente Mortgage share insider secrets (just kidding) at the AMBA Summer Time Fun Happy Hour.
Buy photo: RL_080511_C.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com
National Association of Professional Mortgage Women president Michelle Goldberg makes her first appearance at a National Association of Hispanic Real Estate Professionals meeting where she met up with Jamie Goss of Willow Bend Mortgage.
Buy photo: RL_081211_D.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com Buy photo: RL_081011_B.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com
Katie Farmer of Moreland Properties and Stephen Steakley work together to organize the condos on the Downtown Property Tour.
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The KB Kronicle JULY 29, 2011
KBHOME.COM
512-651-8059
KB Home Appreciates YOU! (Left) Wesley Green & Colette Fitzgerald, both with KB Home, welcome Matt Holm, Team West Realty, to Circle C for the KB Home Realtor Appreciation Wine & Cheese event.
(Above) Nikki Carroll, Keller Williams Realty, joins Colette Fitzgerald, KB Home, to learn about the economic developments in the Manor area.
(Right) Denise Whiteside-Pugh, JB Goodwin, and Stephanie Timmons, Zip Realty, enjoy a special Realtor lunch and tour of the KB Home Shadow Glen community.
Need a sponsor for an upcoming meeting or event? Need a space to hold your next meeting, class, or event? KB Home is always looking for opportunities to work together with our local Realtor partners. Please contact Colette Fitzgerald, KB Home Broker/Realtor Liaison at cfitzgerald@kbhome.com, 512-651-8059, for more information!
Are you ready for a
truly rewarding
bonus program?
Don’t miss out on the 2011 KB Home Austin Broker Rewards program. Earn rewards faster!
FIRST CLOSING
3% COMMISSION
SECOND CLOSING
4% COMMISSION
THIRD CLOSING and every closing thereafter
3% Commission plus 1% Bonus
5% COMMISSION
3% Commission plus 2% Bonus
5% commission on every home closed in 2011 after the first closing.
Receive 1.5% commission at slab pour on every home Broker Cooperation Welcome. ©2011 KB Home (KBH). To participate or qualify for this offer agent/Broker must (a) be a Texas licensed real estate agent/Broker (b) be procuring cause of sale and accompany purchaser to the community and register purchaser on purchaser’s first visit and (c) comply with the terms of the Broker Registration and Commission Agreement. Purchaser must close escrow from 1/1/11 through 12/31/11 for agent/Broker to be eligible for this Bonus Program. Bonus Program applicable in communities with 3% base commission on Built to Order™ homes. Agent/broker must sign the addendum requesting the payment; if the addendum is not signed, agent/broker will not receive payment portion at foundation. Payment made only with office broker approval. Half of the 3% commission is prepaid within 2 weeks of foundation slab pour on Built to Order homes only provided that (i) the purchase of the property is not contingent upon purchaser’s sale or lease of an existing home, (ii) purchaser(s) shall have obtained unconditional loan approval acceptable to the Seller in its sole discretion from a qualified lender prior to the slab being poured, and (iii) purchaser(s) purchase the property as an owner-occupied primary residence. Any “bonus” commission will be paid at close of escrow only. Commission is paid on base price and lot premium only, excluding any KB Home Studio options selected by purchaser or otherwise included in the home. Commission on inventory homes is calculated on total price less discounts. Contingency removal programs do not qualify for graduated commission program. If any commission is prepaid and the purchaser does not close escrow on that property for any reason, agent/Broker will no longer be eligible for any future prepayment on that property for any reason, agent/broker will no longer be eligible for any future prepayment of commission and agent/broker must promptly refund any prepaid commission. Purchaser must close escrow for agent/Broker to qualify for graduated commission rate. Any prepayment or bonus program is subject to change without notice. See Built to Order options and upgrades offered at KB Home Studio. All options/upgrades require additional charges, may require ordering at predetermined stages of construction and are subject to change/discontinuation anytime by KB Home. KB Home is not a custom homebuilder and Built to Order only applies to appliances/options available at KB Home Studio. Photos show upgraded landscaping/options and may not represent communities’ lowest-priced homes. See sales counselor for details.
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Tim Kress, Tammy Bazar and David Matthys, all of RE/ MAX 1, celebrate the ground breaking of the new office location off Parmer Lane in Cedar Park.
Buy photo: RL_080711_J.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com
Keller Williams Lake Travis proudly joins in the Lake Travis July 4 parade winning second place with their holiday float “Proud to be an American.” The flag, stripes and stars, was made up of handprints from the community.
Buy photo: RL_081411_F.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com
ABoR interim president and CEO Benny McMahan watches the Round Rock Express game with his grandson at the ABoR-TREPAC Night at the Ballpark fundraising event.
Submitted Photo
From listing your property to customer appointments, you live by the clock. Your title insurance company should too. At North American Title, we’ve kept pace with real estate professionals for over 50 years. Our experienced closing specialists are time zones ahead of the competition. When it’s time to close, set your clock to North American Title.
Bette Gould Cook
Marketing Director North/Central Austin 512.965.9856
Downtown Austin
Corporate Office 823 Congress Ave., #1400 Austin, Texas 78701 512.482.0851
Gwen Johansen V. P. Marketing Downtown 512.539.7746
Austin Research
12301 Research Blvd. Bldg. 4, Suite 120 Austin, Texas 78759 512.249.0576
Tiesa Hollaway
Marketing Director Round Rock 512.964.8950
North Austin
5608 Parkcrest Drive Suite 150 Austin, Texas 78731 512.302.3892
www.nat.com
Round Rock
1Chisholm Trail Suite 3100 Round Rock,Texas 78681 512.255.6550
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President’s Column By Victoria Reviel • 2011 President
and any other industry news that will affect their home search or sale. But don’t limit the conversation to just business. Talk about your hobbies, trips, favorite movies and music. By doing so, you become “real” and people will want to get to know and work with you.
Never Forget What Made you Successful
Tips to Steal the Show: Set Yourself Apart
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f you want to stand out to your clients and leave your competitors in the dust, you need to be seen as a client-focused REALTOR. Client-focused REALTORS always strive at finding the best ways to keep improving their service and building relationships with their clients. One advantage of being seen as “client-focused” is that it builds your reputation of service and affords you the opportunity to capture a larger share of the real estate market. Clients will be willing to use your services again (repeat business) and refer you business knowing that you will meet their expectations by providing a high level of service. Here are a few things to consider as you strive to keep your clients happy.
Understand Your Competition We always want to follow the NAR Code of Ethics and Federal Anti-Trust Laws, so never make disparaging or untrue remarks about another REALTOR or brokerage. So the question is how well do you know your competitors? It is important that you know
all the services your competition provides so you can point out and identify to the client what sets you and your brokerage apart from the several thousand REALTORS working in Central Texas. By doing this, the client will understand the differences and make an informed decision.
Maintaining customer relationships is the key to the future success of your business and you never can thank them enough. Even though social media is very important, it is only one small part of the equation. There is still something very special about a hand written thank you or note. Taking the time to show the customer that you really value their business will win every time and it will speak volumes.
Be Consistent
Be Accessible To be great a Client-focused REALTOR clients must never struggle to reach you. Always make it easy for clients to be in contact with you and provide them with a list of your phone numbers, e-mail address, fax and website. You want to be accessible, but also make sure you’re clear about your hours of availability. Don’t be afraid to set boundaries, but they need to be stated.
Be Part of the Conversation Let’s face it, social media is a must if you’re a Client-focused REALTOR. Make sure you are represented. You can use this medium to shine with your knowledge about the local market, housing stats, relocation information
No matter what type of marketing we are
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talking about, make it consistent. We now have so many places our name and brokerage name are placed, whether it is online, in person, or on marketing materials, your name and message must look consistent and identifiable. As a Client-focused REALTOR your clients should be able to identify you in an instant by your consistent branding.
Keep Your Momentum Going Don’t let the excitement of your business die. Keep it up and keep it repetitive. Make sure you are in your clients’ minds and do not let your individual message get lost. The Babe Ruth saying: “It’s hard to beat a person who never gives up” should also be your motto. Every day have a goal and a plan of action in mind to help set your business apart from your competition. Stay focused on your clients and you will soon discover that you have set yourself apart. RL
UPCOMING WCAoR EVENTS Aug. 18: Last Clue: “Where is the WC This Month” –Are you the WINNER? Aug. 19: Broker Breakfast: Avis Wukasch and TREC discuss “New Broker Requirements” Aug. 19: Social Media Pro: Twitter 101 Aug. 22: Rookie Academy: “Masterpiece Theatre: Award-Winning REALTOR Panel” Aug. 25: Social Media Pro: LinkedIn 101 Aug. 26: Social Media Pro: Blogging 101
Details at www.wcaor.org
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Each office is independently owned and operated.
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Leisa Ormsbee of JB Goodwin REALTORS, Tiesa Hollaway of North American Title, WCAoR president Victoria Reviel and WCAoR executive office Marge Phillips take a quick break between sessions at the WCAoR Tech TuneUp event at the ACC Cypress Creek campus. Buy photo: RL_081511_H.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com
Rudi Rosengarten, center, and Gilbert Alires, right, of Realty Executives talk with NAHREP newcomer Abraham Galuan at the NAHREP monthly luncheon at Cool River Café.
Buy photo: RL_081011_D.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com
Jason Peebles, left, and Rina Peiffer, both of Bella Casa Realty, win a cool new iPad from John McClellan, center, at the Bella Casa Realty open house in Round Rock. Buy photo: RL_080911_A.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com
Buy photo: RL_080111_B.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com
Paula Bacon of Reliant Title teaches a class on “Title and Title Insurance” with AmeriPro Funding’s loan officer Diane Afflerbach.
Texas American Title Company
Sit back and relax. You are in good hands!
Your Williamson County Team! Summer Pavliska Account Executive Cell: 512-577-5166
Cedar Park Office 715 Discovery Blvd. Suite 205 Cedar Park, TX 78613 Office: 512-259-5950
Jim Goldrick Account Executive Cell: 512-699-5750
Round Rock Office 1001 S. Mays Suite 103 Round Rock TX 78664 Office: 512-255-1550
www.txa mti tl e.com
Please join Keller Williams Realty as we support families in Joplin, Missouri with our continuing fundraising efforts and caring hearts! For more information please contact Tony Brodie at tonybrodie@kw.com or 637-8425
12515-8 Research Blvd., Suite 100
·
Austin, Texas 78759
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Socar ChatmonThomas of Elegant Estates by Auction and Sandy Battise of AmeriPro Funding find a quiet place to catch up during the Austin Mortgage Bankers Association Summer Time Fun Happy Hour.
Buy photo: RL_080511_A.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com
Austin Young Real Estate Professionals keep their fingers on the pulse of the Austin real estate market at its July education event “News You Can Use” at Balcones Country Club.
Buy photo: RL_081111_E.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com
Liz and Jim Bigham, both of Bigham and Associates, know how to keep tenants cool in the hot Texas heat. The two attended the National Association of Residential Property Managers luncheon at Balcones Country Club.
Buy photo: RL_080611_A.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com
Loading up on MCE credits, Reese Avery of Keller Williams Realty listens closely to the live webinar about using social media to prospect the “new consumer.” He attended the program given by Champions School of Real Estate at its Round Rock location.
Buy photo: RL_080811_B.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com
Austin Area Market Update 30-Year Residential Mortgage Rates
5.80%
2009
2010
2011
5.60%
5.40%
Partnerships Built on Trust 5.20%
5.00%
4.80%
4.60%
4.40%
4.20%
4.00%
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
For more information, please contact one of our sales executives. www.gracytitle.com
Nov
Dec
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Front Page: Continued Jazz Lough of Champions School of Real Estate is eager to help Rina Peiffer of Bella Casa Realty put out her new sold signs. The two celebrated the opening of a new office for Bella Casa Realty in Round Rock.
Buy photo: RL_080111_D.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com
David Matthys of RE/MAX 1 conducts a sales meeting for agents – just one of the useful tools the company uses to help its agents succeed in the market.
Buy photo: RL_080711_A.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com
Joe Bryson of Real Estate Alliance and Bill Flood of Stanberry and Associates are ready to get started on the Downtown Property Tour.
Buy photo: RL_081211_A.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com
RATES ARE NEAR RECORD LOWS! Call me today to see if you pre-qualify for a lower interest rate and start saving money today!
not to mention boosting your own personal level of confidence, particularly when establishing your business. “People are drawn to knowledge, and earning designations shows that you’ve taken the extra steps to further your knowledge,” says Jay Gohil of Jay Gohil Realty. “For instance, my CCIM (Certified Commercial Investment Member) designation has gotten me a lot of business. There are also a ton of resources made available to agents in my network, and we pass those benefits onto the client.” By specializing in certain areas, you can be easily recognized by other agents seeking your areas of expertise. Many of the registered designation affiliates provide broad referral networks to keep you in touch with clients. By continuing to further your education it’s also easier to maintain your license requirements in the long term by staying current with the latest industry information. and other industry REALTORS professionals are constantly in search of new ways to define themselves in the marketplace, and becoming a subject matter expert is one way to maximize those efforts. Designations are continually evolving to fit the growing demands of the property-buying public. Since real estate includes a wide array of professional niches, designations and professional certifications are available for just about every area of expertise. They go beyond just sales, management and administration to encompass a much broader spectrum including appraisal, full brokerage, staging, inspection, construction, and emerging concerns such as energy-efficiency and green building. There are designations recognized by specific affiliations and organizations, and for virtually every specialty in the real estate industry. There are special designations for selling different types of property, such as land, foreclosures, and even resorts. Some designations provide the opportunity to network and interact with other agents from very diverse backgrounds - and to learn from them. “The CRS (Certified Residential Specialist) referral network is incredible. I can find an agent to help a buyer or seller in any town — quickly,” Andrews says. “The courses are always cutting edge. The information sharing of the CRS network has changed the way I’ve handled my business through the years and has allowed me to think out of the box.” Here is a short list of more frequently encountered designations.
For REALTORS:
Nicholas Koshell Mortgage Loan Originator
(512) 569-8890 nkoshell@dhimortgage.com NMLS #209188
Provided for informational purposes only. This is not a commitment to lend; not all borrowers and/or properties will qualify. DHI Mortgage Company, LTD, 12554 Riata Vista Circle, First Floor, Austin, TX 78727. NMLS #38686. For information on DHIM licensing and regulation, please visit www.dhimortgage.com/NationalDisclosure.html.
NMLS #14622
ABR - Accredited Buyer Representative A REALTORS designation focused on those who focus on representing buyers. ABRM - Accredited Buyer Representative Manager This designation is geared toward REALTORS who are owners and managers incorporating regular buyer representation. ALC-Accredited Land Consultant Experts recognized in land brokerage transaction areas, farms and ranches, undeveloped tracts, wholesaling of lots; assemblage of land parcels. AREP - Accredited Real Estate Professional Given to real estate agents who have completed coursework of the fundamentals of
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
establishing your real estate presence. ASR - Accredited Seller Representative For professionals choosing to work specifically with home sellers. C-CREC - Consumer Certified Real Estate Consultant A designation geared towards going beyond standards in the industry and re-focusing on what consumers need in today’s market. CBR - Certified Buyer Representative
Designations: Continued on pg. 32
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P. O. Box 81366 • Austin, Texas 78708-1366 (512) 821-1900 www.myRealtyLine.com E-mail: info@myRealtyLine.com Publisher: Doren L. Carver doren@myRealtyLine.com Associate Publisher: Tawanna K. Carver tawanna@myRealtyLine.com Managing Editor: Naomi Bludworth naomi@myRealtyLine.com Contributing Editor: Linda McNabb Contributing Writers: Stacy Stroud, Linda McNabb, Naomi Bludworth Contributing Photographers: Doren L. Carver, Linda McNabb Columnists: Judith Bundschuh, Hank Smith, Rise Johns, Victoria Reviel, Tom Berry, Vaike O’Grady, Cheryl Jenkins 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/advertise.html. Submission items will be included as space allows. Realty Line Austin is published monthly by Caxton Publications, Inc.© as a non-subscription publication for the more than 8,000 members of the Austin Board of REALTORS®(ABoR), the more than 1,100 members of the Williamson County Association of REALTORS® (WCAoR) and the Home Builders Association (HBA) of Greater Austin. Realty Line Austin is printed on recycled paper. Realty Line Austin is a proud member of the Austin Board of REALTORS®, the Williamson County Association of REALTORS® and is a honorary member of the Women’s Council of REALTORS. Realty Line Austin is not responsible for opinions or facts expressed by non-staff writers or for errors and any by-products in advertising or editorial copy. REALTOR® is a registered trademark. The word REALTOR® sometimes appears in this publication without the registered trademark symbol (®) for the purpose of saving space. Wherever the word REALTOR® appears in this publication, the registered trademark should be assumed.
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WCAoR staff Kent Prickett, Devona Groneck and Sandy Steed, both of Capital Title, attend Bella Casa Realty’s open house to check out the company’s new office in Round Rock.
Buy photo: RL_080111_A.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com
Jim Smith, John Horton of John Horton Realty and Carrie Weikert of Keller Williams Realty do a bit of tailgating at the ABoR-TREPAC Night at the Ballpark hosted by the Austin Board of REALTORS.
Buy photo: RL_081411_C.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com
Linda Picazo of Moreland Properties and Cheri Stringer of Ausvest Real Estate compare properties on the Downtown Property Tour.
Buy photo: RL_081511_F.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com
We’re guessing he was a straight A student! David Durham of Keller Williams Realty listens intently in the Trulia class at WCAoR’s Tech Tune-Up.
Buy photo: RL_081211_B.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com
FOR MORE INFORMATION, EMAIL: ROBIN@THEMCMILLANTEAM.COM
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August 2011
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Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
HigHland Homes
Realtor Rewards
2 or More Sales = Big Bonus!
sell one Home
sell TWo Homes
sell THRee Homes
Receive 3% commission on your first closing
Receive a 1% bonus on your Highland Homes Visa Reward Card in addition to your 3% commission!*
Receive a 2% bonus on your third and subsequent closings in addition to your 3% commission!*
New Program members will be mailed a Visa card, while existing members will have bonuses credited on their current card 10 to 14 business days after their second closing. Your Highland Homes Visa Reward Card can be used anywhere Visa is accepted.
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Belterra The Views From the $230s 512-432-0200
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The Ranch at Brushy Creek
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From the $600s 512-266-7117
From the $330s 512-310-7911
Crystal Falls
Commons at Rowe lane From the $150s
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From the low $200s 512-260-8333 LAKE GEORGETOWN
Rocky Creek LIBERTY HILL
From the $330s 512-303-0112
These two really show how the networking game is played! Tom Cunningham of Agent Aquarium and Paula Bacon of Reliant Title exchange business cards at the RSP happy hour at Baby Alcapulco’s on Stonelake.
arbor Place
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From the $210s 512-260-2222 6
Buy photo: RL_081311_D.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com
From the $250s 512-255-4454
Whitestone oaks
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Belterra aspen Hills and mesa Verde Hills From the low $300s 183 512-301-9110
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steiner Ranch
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512-251-8900
35 29
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Submitted Photo
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Mike Jones Broker/Owner of RE/MAX Metro Realty and his wife Gwen welcome guests to the Grand Opening of their new office in southwest Austin at Highway 290/71 and Monterey Oaks.
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ABIA Bergstrom
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*All qualified sales must be original contracts written between January 1, 2011 and35December 31, 2011. For any Realtor incentive or bonus program offered by Highland Homes it is a condition of eligibility to receive payment that the Realtors not offer to rebate or contribute any portion of a bonus or a commission to a home buyer or any other person who is not a licensed Texas Realtor. The company has sole discretion in determining whether this eligibility requirement is met for each sale. We only recognize one Realtor name per sale. CREEDMOOR 45SE TO LL
Buy photo: RL_080311_A.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com
Jodi Machardy of Coldwell Banker United REALTORS makes sure she’s seen around town by advertising her services on her vehicle.
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
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Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995
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With all the condos available in Austin, these pros are ready to see what’s available for their clients on the Downtown Property Tour. George Vonan, Nicole James of Boutique Real Estate and Rob Kellogg of The Gardner Group talk about the benefits of condo living in Austin. Buy photo: RL_081211_C.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com
Houston Morford of WR Starkey Mortgage along with Jeanette Spinelli of AvenueOne Properties and Heather Johnson Cooke of Texas American Title have a few laughs at Texas American Title’s “Statute of Libations! Enjoy Libations. Avoid Limitations” happy hour at 2nd Street Bar and Kitchen in the bottom of the Austonian.
Submitted Photo
Paul Williams of RSP, second from left, hosts a cool networking mixer at Baby Alcapulco’s on Stonelake where Jamie Goss of Willow Bend Mortgage, Lucinda Bachman of AmeriPro Funding, Juliana Brock and Paula Bacon of Reliant Title meet up.
Buy photo: RL_081011_C.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com
NAHREP president Oliva Lerma welcomes the group’s lunch sponsor Jazz Lough of Champions School of Real Estate.
Buy photo: RL_081311_B.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com
LAST PHASE NOW OPEN
FALCONHEAD WEST, the ultimate in Hill Country living... Drees has greenbelt and cul de sac lots that are close to everything in this
sought after community in the Lake Travis area. Now, the final phase of Falconhead West is selling to-be-built custom homes or inventory homes ready for immediate move in. Located in the Lake Travis ISD, this is the community to think about for back to school... They won’t last long, come in today! CaLL ToDay, (512) 263-5806 WYNDHAM BOULTER CELL: (512) 947-0159 MIKE TVINNEREIM CELL: (512) 970-7701
Lowest Tax Rate in Travis County
www.DreesHomes.com
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HBA of Greater Austin
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Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995
President’s Column By Hank Smith • 2011 President
HBA Mid-Year Housing Forecast Confirms Why Now is a Good Time to Buy
R
ight after the Fourth of July, the Home Builders Association (HBA) of Greater Austin hosted its Annual Mid Year Housing Forecast. We were lucky to have the entertaining and informative Dr. Jim Gaines as our speaker. He is a research economist who focuses on housing markets and development with The Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University. Gaines shared valuable information with more than 350 professionals attending the program at our Phillips Event Center, giving us a touchstone on the local housing economy. When I left the program, Gaines had confirmed my intuition: now is an even better time to buy a new home and we are lucky to live in the Austin, Texas, area.
Why the Optimism?
While there are still some economic hurdles the nation must overcome, Gaines shared several reasons for optimism in Texas and the Austin region for new home building. First, Texas job growth is more than double the national rate. CNBC.com ranked
Texas as the second best state in the United States for business. Forbes recently named Austin the number one city best positioned to grow and prosper in the coming decade. A survey by The Business Journals showed Austin is the hottest spot in the nation to start a small business. A good business climate equals new jobs which equals new homes. Second, we are seeing strong population growth. From 2010 to 2030, Texas will add another 14 million people, a rate of 703,000 per year or 1,925 people per day. From 2010 to 2030, Austin will add 1.3 million people, a rate of nearly 66,000 per year or 180 people per day. These people will need housing. Third, the housing market is facing four years of pent up demand. People taking action include those retiring, moving to a new location, buying a house, expanding a business and relocating a business to Texas. Fourth, Austin median home prices now exceed the peak October 2008 level with an average annual appreciation of five percent. Austin’s Home Price Index is up 14.6 percent over the past five years, about three percent
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August 2011
per year. Fifth, Austin ranks second on the Top Ten Major Metro Areas Healthy Market Index according the Builder Magazine. The 2011 residential building permit forecast is 11,000 with building permit growth at 57 percent. Gaines also shared a survey from Fannie Mae that noted • 65 percent of Americans believe it is a good time to buy a home. • Two in three Americans believe that lifestyle benefits of homeownership are superior to the financial benefits of homeownership. • Three in five Americans continue to believe that many different mortgage products are a good thing.
So Why Buy Now?
Just add up everything I outlined. It is simple economics. We will have more housing demand than supply in the days ahead. The Austin American-Statesman reports our area
has the lowest supply of new homes since 2002. Since our area’s available lot supply for new homes is tightening up, new homes will likely be more expensive next year and beyond. Take advantage of the best deals and selection now.
Policy Makers: Momentum
Help
CALL (512) 238-7888
Sr. Loan Officer
Loan Officer
Ken Renner of Keller Williams Realty shares his knowledge of video creation and marketing to fellow REALTORS at WCAoR’s Tech Tune-Up education conference.
Candy Buzan
Max Leaman
Kim Nielsen
Amy Oehler
Branch Manager Sr. Loan Officer
Branch Manager Sr. Loan Officer
Sr. Loan Officer
Sr. Loan Officer
Mary Kennedy
Sr. Loan Officer
Sr. Loan Officer
Sr. Loan Officer
the
Buy photo: RL_081511_B.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com
Trudy Savage
Mark Hoffman Amanda Stewart Misty Lynch
Keep
Budget season is underway for local cities and counties as well as the federal government. As policy makers begin debate on budget and regulatory issues that will impact job creation and future growth, they must understand the important role that housing plays in the economy. While our region is winning many economic accolades, the path forward is perfectly clear: our elected officials must take actions that will create sustainable upward momentum in housing – not raise taxes or create policies that penalize local home buyers especially in what is becoming a much tighter housing market. RL
PRIMELENDING
GREAT RATES LOW FEES COMMUNICATION
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Missy Driskell Diane M. Clark Sr. Loan Officer
Eiric Smith Jori Stern Sr. Loan Officer
Sr. Loan Officer
CALL NOW (512) 238-7888 810 Hester’s Crossing, STE 150 | Round Rock, Texas 78681 © 2011 PrimeLending, A PlainsCapital Company. Trade/service marks are the property of PlainsCapital Corporation, PlainsCapital Bank, or their respective affiliates and/or subsidiaries. Some products may not be available in all states. This is not a commitment to lend. Restrictions apply. All rights reserved. PrimeLending, a PlainsCapital Company (NMLS #: 13649) is a wholly-owned subsidiary of a state-chartered bank and is an exempt lender in TX. Texas Regulated Loan License-license #7293. PrimeLending, A PlainsCapital Company is an Equal Housing Opportunity Lender. NMLS #: Buzan 179412, Leaman 151263, Nielsen 180307, Oehler 225339, Smith 176530, Savage 180854, Kennedy 179666, Driskell 180066, Clark 268025, Hoffman 171464, Stewart 292478, Lynch 280093, Pechal 178433, East 177149, Stern 177299, 176942 Eckert 357516.
Sr. Loan Officer
Sherri Eckert Loan Officer
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There's nothing more
Gracy Title Sales Executives (from left to right)
Tracy Blair 997-8707, Bob Roberts 775-5111, Marilyn Van Uum 658-6475, Holly Schuler 913-9089, Kenneth Osborn 577-6454, Denise Moody 422-5248, Allison Craig 423-9419, Suzanne Jacobs 656-7094, Lisa Altamirano 826-6666, Melissa McGuire Cason 750-4052, Donna Simmons 656-7093
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August 2011
than Excellent Customer Service Our sales executives are dedicated to you, as a liaison to our title services and experienced
escrow staff. Unmatched experience and dedication drives our sales executive team to provide our customers with the guidance needed to succeed. We pride ourselves in building relationships to open a path of communication that is essential throughout the closing process. We’re here as your partner to help with everything from education, to the latest innovative tools and most importantly personal guidance and business goals.
Partnerships Built on Trust
www.gracytitle.com
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Women’s Council of REALTORS®
President’s Column By Cheryl Jenkins • 2011 President
Designations Distinguish You from Your Peers
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s the housing market continues to recover, REALTORS are expanding their knowledge base to better serve their clients. According the NAR, recent survey results reveal that 35 percent of REALTORS currently hold at least one out of six certifications in specialized training, up from 24 percent last year. Our customers are savvier and more demanding. There’s more and more information, but less time to process it. The competition is fiercer and faster than ever. In order to set ourselves apart from the competition, we must show our clients that we are committed to ongoing education and professional excellence, and show our colleagues that we understand and value a powerful network of business connections. August is traditionally the time for preparations for Back-to-School. This is the time we must also consider our educational needs as REALTORS. We are fortunate to have
Buy photo: RL_081511_A.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com
real estate schools, title companies, lenders and other options for MCE, designation and certification courses. Austin WCR will offer our next course which will be a PMN designation course on Wednesday, Sept. 7. The course is Networking and Referral Systems. Between networking and referrals are the relationships we build and manage. The goal of the Networking and Referral Systems course is to provide you with the information and tools you need to make the transition from a salesperson making cold calls to a professional, knowledgeable consultant with a steady stream of advocates and referrals. This class also counts as an elective for NAR’s Resort and Second-Home Property Specialist (RSPS) certification. The Networking and Referral Systems course is free to all Austin WCR Members and also offers seven hours MCE. Non-members pay $89 to attend. RL
Newly Elected Officers for 2012
J.Rene Ward attends a class on video creation and marketing at the Williamson County Association of REALTORS’ Tech Tune-Up.
President – Anita Farrell President-Elect – Chris Rodriguez VP of Membership – Amy Kobza Secretary – Dena Hinds Treasurer – John Schutze
Congratulations! Upcoming WCR Events Buy photo: RL_080811_C.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com
National Association of Residential Property Managers President Marc Witmer asks newcomer Lee Reznicek to introduce himself to the group during the most recent lunch meeting.
• •
September 7 – Networking and Referral Systems PMN Course October 4 – Bras 4 A Cause - Maggiano’s Italian Restaurant. This is a great event with a portion of the proceeds going to the Breast Cancer Resource Center. Get your tickets now, this will be a SOLD OUT event.
Details at www.AustinWCR.org
Buy Photos + Find Events + View Archives
www.myRealtyLine.com Buy photo: RL_081011_A.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com
David Burton of Horizon Realty and Becky Hopkins of Austin Title learn about how to better educate their clients on preventing foreclosure at the National Association of Hispanic REALTORS monthly luncheon.
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August 2011
Celebrate Our Fall Grand Opening New Model Homes, New Builders, New Neighborhoods & New Parks
Lisa is your best selling point.
Kids love her. Mothers fight over her. She even cleans the house before they return home.
Meet the world’s greatest babysitter.
When your clients learn the never ending stories of Falcon Pointe, it becomes more of a matter of “How soon can we move?” Let us help you make the next sale an easy one. Find more stories and the perfect home for your clients at falconpointeTX.com.
Homes in Pflugerville from the $170s • 1,516 - 3,919 sq. ft. Centerra Homes • Lennar • Meritage Homes
Newland Communities is the largest private developer of planned residential and urban mixed-use communities in the United States. We believe it is our responsibility to create enduring, healthier communities for people to live life in ways that matter most to them. www.newlandcommunities.com
This is not intended to be an offer to sell or a solicitation of offers to buy real estate in the Falcon Pointe community to residents of Connecticut, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, New York, New Jersey, and Oregon, or in any other jurisdiction where prohibited by law. All square footage is approximate. Prices, specifications, details and availability of builder’s homes are subject to change without notice. Terrabrook Falcon Pointe, LP (‘Fee Owner’) is the creator of the Falcon Pointe Community (‘Community’). Certain home builders unaffiliated with the Fee Owner or its related entities (collectively ‘Newland’) are building homes in the Community (‘Builder(s)’). Newland is not co-developing, co-building or otherwise responsible for any of the obligations or representations of any of the Builders, and Newland shall have no obligations to any buyer regarding a home purchase from a Builder. Purchasers of homes from any of the Builders waive any claims against Newland arising out of their purchase transaction. © 2011 Newland Real Estate Group, LLC. All Rights Reserved.
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Texas Lone Star CRS Chapter
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
Director ‘s Column By Risé Johns • Director-Elect
The guests at RE/MAX Metro Realty’s Grand Opening enjoy hearing about Broker/ Owner Mike Jones’ vision for his new office.
Submitted Photo
Robin Gulledge of RE/MAX Capital City II learns how to make the most of Trulia at the WCAoR Tech TuneUp. The educational conference was held at the ACC Cypress Creek campus in Cedar Park.
Buy photo: RL_081511_G.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com
T
The Value of Education
he July/August 2011 issue of Austin REALTOR honored students who recently received scholarships from the Austin Board of REALTORS Foundation. These students definitely understand the value of a good education and are going to college to further their knowledge. Reading that article and watching my friends do all the things necessary to get their children ready for the new school year made me stop and think about the high value of a good education. Why would parents frantically shop for school supplies, hassle with crowded malls shopping for new clothes and start rearranging bedtimes so the children can get up early for school if it wasn’t important. They invest their time and attention to pave the way for a good educational foundation. Expanding your mind does not stop with graduation from high school or college. Early in my career, I heard a phrase “Take the attitude of a student, never be too big to ask questions, never know too much to learn something new.” The phrase came from Og Mandino (sales guru). I know I have a broad thirst for knowledge and always want to be learning. There are many ways to be a student and to always be learning. My recommendations to REALTORS are: 1) attend NAR/TAR events and conventions 2) attend your real estate company’s conventions and special trainings 3) attend Sell-a-Bration (CRS’s yearly seminar, held next year in Phoenix, on Jan. 18-21) 4) most importantly, obtain a designation NAR has several designations an agent can obtain. On a personal note, I can tell you the CRS courses gave me information I could immediately implement to improve my business. In 1984, while getting the required hours for my Broker’s license, I took my first CRS (Certified Residential Specialist) course and I was hooked. The classes are filled with great information, the instructors extremely
knowledgeable and the networking far and beyond the best. I received my CRS designation in 1985 and it is still the most valuable tool in my real estate toolbox. The time and money invested in my education was not only worthwhile, it was invaluable. Your mind is opened to new challenges, possibilities and opportunities to enhance your business. Established in 1977, the CRS designation is the professional designation offered by the Council of Residential Specialists. This is the highest professional designation awarded to REALTORS in the residential sales field. Fewer than four percent of all REALTORS hold this status. It is amazing that on average, CRS designees earn three times what other residential real estate agents earn, according to NAR. That difference equates to $79,000 versus $26,200! There are several ways you can become one of the four percent of the agents who earn an average of three times more than the average agent. Depending on the length of time you have been in real estate and/or the volume of your sales or the number of transactions, you can easily obtain your CRS designation. This is achieved by a combination of years in the business, number of transactions, volume and education. There are so many variables; it is too lengthy to explain here. Please go to www.CRS. com and click on “Designation Requirements” to find out which program best suits you. Designation programs require membership in the Council of Residential Specialists. All members are required to maintain active REALTOR or REALTOR ASSOCIATE membership in their local board/state association. There is no time limit in fulfilling the requirements. If you want to be among the select four percent who earn incomes three times that of the average agent, start working towards your CRS designation. It’s time to invest in your education. RL
Submitted Photo
Jason Klam presents Escrow Officer Debbie Peek with an award for being with the company for five years. Both are with First American Title.
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GRAND HAVEN HOMES
Realtors,
Reward Yourself with Grand Haven Homes’
Gr and Rewards
3%
Sell ONE Home
Receive 3% commission on your first closing.
4%
Sell TWO Homes
5%
Sell THREE Homes
Receive a 1% bonus on your Grand Haven Homes Visa Rewards Card in addition to your 3% commission!*
Receive a 2% bonus on your third and subsequent closings in addition to your 3% commission!*
Relocation Reimbursement Progr am Grand Haven Homes will reimburse agents up to 30% of the standard 3% commission. Cannot be combined with other offers. See a Grand Haven Homes sales professional for details.
Our Communities: • Rough Hollow • Silver Oak
Visit us online at www.GrandHavenHomes.net • Avalon • Paloma Lake
• Behrens Ranch • Mayfield Ranch
• Cap Rock at Crystal Falls • Ranch at Brushy Creek
* Must hold an active license with TREC in order to qualify for Grand Rewards. Bonuses and commissions considered earned when homes close and fund. Program members will receive bonuses on the Grand Rewards Visa gift card after closing. Your Grand Rewards card can be used anywhere Visa is accepted. See Sales Professional for details. We reserve the right to modify specifications, prices and/or plans without notice or prior obligation. All square footages are approximate. All renderings are artist’s concept. Consult sales professional for further details.
August 2011
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RE/MAX Capital City agents, their clients, and the surrounding community all pitch in to donate gently used or new books for the library at Dell Children’s Hospital during RE/MAX’s 2nd annual book drive. 1,583 books were collected this year. Submitted Photo
Living it up at the RSP happy hour at Baby Alcapulco’s on Stonelake are Karen Zello of Avalar Realty and Diane Christy of Diane Christy REALTORS.
Buy photo: RL_081311_A.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com
Appraiser Xavier Benites, AMBA President Mike Carroll and mortgage professional Bob Almand have a good time sharing stories at the AMBA Summer Time Fun Happy Hour. Buy photo: RL_081111_A.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com
Katy Crocker and Cynthia Mattiza, both of JB Goodwin REALTORS, get ready to hear from a panel of experts at the AYREP “News You Can Use” education event. The event supported Hospice of Austin.
Buy photo: RL_080511_D.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com
One-Time Close Construction Loans
So You’re Building a Home (Congratulations!) If you decided the only home worthy of your welcome mat is one you build yourself, ViewPoint Mortgage is ready to assist you in financing your dream home!
Consult your loan officer for current rates and terms and conditions. Normal credit standards apply. 10/20/10
11130 Jollyville Road, Suite 302 Austin, Texas 78759-4819 512-323-0224
512-694-8178
Ben Morton Vice President, Loan Officer
512-689-2564
doug.scott@ViewPointMortgage.com
Dierk McWilliams Vice President, Loan Officer
ben.morton@ViewPointMortgage.com
dierk.mcwilliams@ViewPointMortgage.com
CONTACT YOUR VIEWPOINT MORTGAGE PROFESSIONAL TODAY FOR MORE DETAILS.
Doug Scott Senior Vice President, Area Manager
512-971-2233
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Reliant Title A S S O C I AT E S I N P R O G R E S S - A d v e r t i s e r P r o f i l e b y S t a c y S t r o u d
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eliant Title understands the importance of the relationships involved in a real estate transaction. Cited by the Austin Business Journal as one of Austin’s top 20 title companies, Reliant is a partner to REALTORS, focused on providing a smooth transaction and a great customer experience in every closing. Whether you’re a homebuyer, home seller, REALTOR, lender or attorney, it is Reliant Title’s goal to get your transaction closed on time and make the process as carefree as possible for all parties involved. “In today’s world with regard to how difficult it is to get a loan, many people feel beat up by the time they get to their closing,” said Jay Tucker, CEO and general manager. “We make the experience smooth and straightforward, so that buyers and sellers feel that they’ve made a great decision on choosing their agent as well as the entire team involved in the transaction.” Tucker joined Reliant Title just over two years ago, bringing 27 years of experience in the title insurance business. He was initially attracted by the leadership team at Austin-based Tenura Holdings, which owns two brokerage companies, a mortgage bank, an insurance company, and Reliant Title. Tenura makes the home buying and selling process easier by bundling the brokerage, mortgage, title, insurance and warranty transactions together as one.
5%
Reliant Title shares Tenura’s vision, which brings a strong sense of purpose to every transaction. All 17 team members and seven escrow officers at Reliant are committed to:
An Outstanding Customer Experience Reliant Title’s goal is to bring efficiency and effectiveness to the home buying and selling process. They endeavor to provide their customers with a truly exemplary experience.
Empowering the Individual Reliant Title believes in the free market and the potential of the individual, aiming to provide its employees and associates with unlimited potential to use their individual talents and abilities to build strong customer relationships by providing exceptional service and value. Escrow officers at Reliant average 15 years of experience, ranging from six to 28 years in the business. The company has two examiners on staff, each with 20 years of experience.
An Environment of Care Reliant has built a working environment that encourages the respect and well-being of others. They assist and support each other daily in ways that truly instill motivation. Creating an environment of compassion and care for all is of utmost importance, and the
www.myRealtyLine.com company considers it their greatest asset. Reliant’s motto is that if you care about others, everything else will fall into place, and that commitment to care shows in every transaction. Knowing that 80 to 90 percent of a REALTOR’s business comes from referrals, Reliant’s officers act as a true partner to the agent. If challenges arise in the transaction, they are handled proactively and as much behind the scenes as possible so that the customer has a good experience. “We feel honored that REALTORS trust us with their clients,” said Paula Bacon, vice president and branch manager. “When roadblocks come up, we handle them in a positive, seamless manner in order to support the relationship between the agent and their client as if it were our own.” Reliant Title currently operates in 7 counties (Travis, Williamson, Dallas, Collin, Harris, Bexar and Montgomery). Last year, they did business in over 60 counties in Texas, and grew over 330 percent from 2009 to 2010. Reliant provides on-site signings and closings—on time—and offers nearly every kind of transaction, including residential, resale, refinance, construction, commercial,
On all 27+ milestone inventory homes
Townhomes from the $130’s 512-215-5220 Kyle Duran 512-658-0266 • Carrie Cass 512-300-8992 1900 Little Elm Trail, Cedar Park
Garden Homes from the $160’s 512-215-3424 Larry Carter 512-633-1007 11400 West Parmer Lane, Cedar Park
Garden Homes from the $180’s 512-804-2605 • Susan Brubaker 512-577-0465 7233 Manchaca Rd., South Austin
Now Open
Townhomes from the $130’s 512-410-7790 • Randy Crawford 512-619-3538 11249 Lost Maples Trail, South Austin
a nd a h ands- o n e xperience
f or y ou and y our c lients. Now more than ever, MileStone offers a personal touch sure to impress you and your clients. Every time you bring a new client to see a MileStone Community, you’ll each receive a gift card for a relaxing massage at Massage Envy. Helping your clients find the perfect home in the perfect community never felt better. So what are you waiting for? Visit a MileStone Community TODAY!
27 Invent+ Homeory to Clo s 90 Dase in ys
The Pinnacle Collection
Greenbelt Homes from the $200’s 512-264-0900 Mark Lee 512-567-3669 5200 Cypress Ranch Blvd, Spicewood
www.MyMileStone.com
August 2011
5% available only on inventory homes; must close within 30 days. One massage offer per qualified customer, please. Other restrictions apply. See sales consultant for details.
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Jay Tucker COO / General Manager
REO’s, and development. Reliant is moving forward to improve the delivery of customer service in an industry that has maintained the status quo for years. Growth is on the horizon: Reliant aims to use technology to its fullest potential and be paperless by September. The new Plano office opened in July with business in full swing, and Reliant hopes to serve Houston and San Antonio within 18 months. Find this progressive, relationship-focused title company on Facebook, or visit www. relianttitleusa.com. RL
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August 2011
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Chairman: Continued membership. What are the biggest challenges that TAR will face during your term? We will prepare for the next legislative session in hopes of continuing to fight unfair taxation issues, appraisal reform, transfer tax and many more. TAR will work on the issue of the business margins tax that is coming back for re-working. TAR played a major role and we continue to be a player, thanks to the members TREPAC donations, for the future. I wish every member in this state would comprehend how important it is to give to the PAC. I would encourage everyone that gives to TREPAC to make fellow REALTORS aware of what issues are vital to our industry and have them give. Please go to texasrealtors.com to see what the issues were and continue to be.
Agents from the Keller Williams Lake Travis office participate in the Lake Travis July 4 parade.
How do you balance service in a variety of organizations with a successful business? You have to love what you do. Seeing a smile on our member’s faces because we passed legislation that they benefited from is worth volunteering for. I sell residential homes and I understand from the grassroots level the concerns that we deal with day in and day out. I have to tell you, I really love it. One can balance anything in their life if they really, really want to, and the rewards are endless.
Submitted Photo
Neal Barnes, right, of Realty World Neal Barnes and Associates asks Ken Renner of Keller Williams Realty some questions after his class on video creation and marketing workshop at the WCAoR Tech Tune-Up education conference in Cedar Park.
What prompted you to become involved in TAR? How and why should others do so? When I was Chairman of ABoR in 2003, I wanted to move forward with my volunteerism. TAR became that opportunity. If any REALTOR or affiliate wants to know the latest of what is going on in our industry, TAR opens its doors for any member to participate and learn. You are involved at the national level by attending National Association of REALTOR conventions. Why should others attend? The NAR is where all our grassroots
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What thoughts do you have about your upcoming induction and speech? Why would it be beneficial to attend the ceremony? The TAR Convention is in Austin this year for the first time since 1996 and what an opportunity for our Austin members to attend and obtain education, information and fellowship with REALTORS statewide. Do not miss the opportunity to take advantage of all the education and the legislative updates. Now, if you have the time to attend the Gala Installation on Sept. 11 in the evening, please come and support me. I promise you the event will be an exciting one. ABoR will host the welcoming party at Scholz Garten. TAR scored many victories for homeowners in the latest legislative session. Which accomplishments do you find the most rewarding or significant? This year was an exciting year for REALTORS across the state with all the legislation that was favorable that passed and the legislation that died because we did not support those bills. My wish is that every BROKER takes the responsibility to educate their REALTORS and go to texasrealtors.com and click on the legislative accomplishments and share these with every one of their associates. Their eyes will open to the challenges we constantly face every day in our industry. Remember any donation to TEPAC is an investment in our preservation as an industry. What else would you like readers to know? It is my pleasure to serve all of you and God Bless. See you in September! RL
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Loan officers at AmeriPro Funding learn about title insurance from Reliant Title’s Paula Bacon (standing).
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Champions School of Real Estate attracts a full house at its first live broadcast webinar. REALTORS flocked to hear about how to use social media to prospect the “new consumer” and earn some MCE credits.
Buy photo: RL_081511_C.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com Buy photo: RL_080611_B.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com
How do you work this thing? Diane Kennedy of Coldwell Banker United REALTORS is glad there’s a class on smartphones at the WCAoR Tech Tune-Up education conference.
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Experts Speak Out
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Commentary By Tom Berry • Gracy Title
Do You Really Benefit from Earning Professional Designations?
T
he efficacy of professional designations and certifications for real estate agents is one of the most hotly contested areas of debate within our industry. Unquestionably, additional education either on general real estate topics, or areas of specialization, confers greater knowledge and competency. That in itself is a benefit, but the question seems to be, “does it bring more business in the door?” In other words, is there a marketing benefit to having a GRI or CCIM behind your name when potential clients are choosing their real estate professional? Go to your favorite search engine, type in something like “is there a benefit to real estate agent designations?” and you’ll see what I’m talking about. There are REALTOR blogs extolling the virtues of additional designations right next to blogs from other industry professionals saying they don’t matter. It gets confusing in a hurry. Fortunately, the National Association of REALTORS has weighed in on the subject by means of a scientific poll and the numbers
don’t lie. In a 2010 survey of their members, NAR reported that the median income of REALTORS without any additional professional designations was $29,700. When compared with REALTORS with at least one designation, the disparity is shocking. The median income of REALTORS with at least one designation was $51,500, meaning on average a single professional designation translated to $21,800 per year in additional income. Clearly there is a significant financial benefit to additional study, and specialization, but why? Firstly, if they are a part of your marketing campaign, and you advertise them effectively, they tell your potential clients you are a professional who has invested in your career. More importantly, you’ve invested in additional knowledge and competency. Even if the real estate consumer does not know exactly what ABR, or CCIM stands for, they know it means you have studied for and earned additional professional recognition.
www.myRealtyLine.com Secondly, in an ever-shifting market, carefully chosen designations communicate competency in areas that are currently important to real estate consumers. Three of the fastest growing national certifications are CIPS (Certified International Property Specialist), NAR’s GREEN designation and SFR (Short Sale and Foreclosure Resource). The growth of these designations is both indicative of the direction of the real estate market, and the concerns and interests of the real estate consumer. Unprecedented affordability in the U.S. market means many foreign investors are very interested in relocating to the United States and/or purchasing investments here. An increased concern over energy efficiency and environmental issues means real estate buyers are focused on “green” property features like lower energy usage. The unfortunate decline
August 2011
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in real estate equity over the past three years has caused real estate owners and buyers to need additional expertise in handling short sale and foreclosure transactions, because there are many more of them. Beyond national certifications, many brokers at a local and regional level have recognized the impact of these designations on the real estate consumer and have themselves developed designations that speak to local issues and areas of competency. Any potential client with access to the internet now has the ability to locate any property in any market and often they have already “interviewed” you before you ever meet them. They are looking for professionals who demonstrate a commitment to their profession and expertise as an advisor in the ever-shifting real estate landscape. What are you telling them when they research you? RL
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Jim Smith and Rick Ebert thank Brian Birdy for speaking to the Austin chapter of the National Association of Residential Property Managers. Brian was past president of the San Antonio chapter.
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HBA of Greater Austin Professional Women in Building members Meloni Marek, Melissa Bustos, center, and Janice Moran, right, present Sarah Guillory, second from left, and Stephen Lindley $1,000 each from the 2011 Sherry L. Livingston Memorial Scholarship Fund. They both plan to attend Austin Community College. Submitted Photo
Jazz Lough of Champions School of Real Estate introduces the school’s live webinar to a room full of REALTORS. The topic focused on prospecting the “new consumer” via social media.
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Everyone is keeping it cool at the Austin Title Ice Cream social. Sundaes and ice cream floats, oh my!
Buy photo: RL_081511_K.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com Buy photo: RL_080411_B.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com
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Williamson County Association of REALTORS president Victoria Reviel and Pam Drawbaugh of Austin City Living make their rounds at the WCAoR Tech Tune-Up event at ACC’s Cypress Creek campus.
Putting a Face on Real Estate since ITCarb072211.pdf 1 1995.™ 7/27/11
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Independence Title Arboretum Office Dede Haustein
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August 2011 Designations: Continued
This designation is tailored to real estate agents representing buyers as their regular practice. CBS - Certified Buyer Specialist Helps agents develop an online relationship as early as possible in the buying process to attract those consumers to your website. CFS-Certified Foreclosure Specialist For agents and brokers focusing special requirements for clients in the real estate foreclosure market. CRB - Certified Real Estate Brokerage Manager A designation geared towards REALTORS to increase their specialization of managing real estate firms. CSP - Certified New Home Sales Professional Designed for specialists in sales of new homes to help increase their visibility in the home building industry. A Master Certified New Home Sales Professional (MCSP) level is also available. CRE - Counselor of Real Estate An invitation only designation given by real estate advisors to those recognized by their peers and clients for their high level knowledge, experience, professionalism and integrity. CRS - Certified Residential Specialist This is the highest designation awarded to sales associates in the residential sales field. It recognizes professional accomplishments in both experience and education with specific attention to listing and selling. EcoBroker Certified (Green Broker) A program for real estate industry affiliates who care about the environment and who want to take advantage of green marketing opportunities. e-PRO Internet Professional
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Is a new training program, presented online, to certify real estate agents and brokers as Internet Professionals. It is recognized by the National Association of REALTORS (NAR). GRI - Graduate REALTOR Institute This real estate designation is directed at REALTORS who are involved in residential buying and selling, who desire a solid wellrounded base of information for their practice. NAR’s Green Designation The REALTOR designation for residential, commercial and property management professionals looking to specialize in areas of energy efficiency and sustainability in various areas of real estate. RCC - Residential Construction Certified For real estate professionals active in either resale or new home business, RCC delivers comprehensive training covering proper terminology, various materials, construction methods, and specifics of residential construction. RECS - Real Estate CyberSpace Specialist CyberSpace marketing programs are constantly evolving; this certification is geared to help you increase your proficiency for effectively adapting advancing technologies and networking systems. RSPS - Resort and Second-Home Markets Certification Certification for specialized needs of second property purchases. The requirements include NAR’s Resort and Second-Home Market Course, the RLI Tax-Deferred (1031) Exchange Course. SHS - Senior Housing Specialist A designation program that trains real estate agents for further understanding and catering to the specific needs of retirees and senior homebuyers and sellers.
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QSC - Quality Service Certification This certification is for the accountable sales professional who focuses on setting high personal standards and the ongoing delivery of the highest quality service.
For Builders The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) University of Housing offers over 15 professional designation courses for builders covering industry specifics, business skills and specialized programs such as aging in place, green building, and property management. Some examples of common designations are: CGB - Certified Graduate Builder An exclusive professional designation that emphasizes business and project management skills. CGR - Certified Graduate Remodeler An exclusive professional designation that emphasizes business management skills as they relate to remodeling operations. GMB - Graduate Master Builder The ultimate symbol for the building professional who has earned prior industry certifications and who has substantial practical building experience. “The Graduate Master Builder and Master Green Builder Courses I’ve completed have really enhanced my expertise in the field and inspired confidence in my customers,” says
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
Jason Hoover of Taylor Morrison Homes. Where can you go to earn designations and certifications? Many of the individual designation affiliates for REALTORS, brokers and builders have information through their websites to assist you with the certification course assessments you’re seeking. One thing to note: designations from different affiliations may be related, but their requirements and certification processes sometimes vary greatly within each market segment. Certifications can be obtained in traditional class settings and many are also available online. The Austin Board of REALTORS provides a list of accredited courses available at abor.com; as do industry trade organizations such as the Home Builders Association of Greater Austin. The National Association of REALTORS (NAR) website lists the designations that it specifically recognizes in its designation guide, which you can find at REALTOR.org. Real estate schools such as Champions School of Real Estate offer a number of designation classes. And local title companies, mortgage banks and other industry businesses (such as Reliant Title, in this month’s issue) offer free MCE-accredited courses to REALTORS. One of the most complete lists of certifications and designations can found through RealtyU at coursedates.com, in the Online Real Estate Certification Source Guide section. RL
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Experts Speak Out
Commentary By Vaike O’Grady • Newland Communities
GRI. CRS. TEA? Yes - schools have their own alphabet soup!
W
hether they have an ABR, CRS, GRI or one of dozens of available certifications, all smart REALTORS know that top-notch schools can make or break a sale. In this column, we’ll discuss ways to research and market school ratings, from the Texas Education Agency’s vaunted accountability ratings, but also from respected sources such as Great Schools. We’ll also explore how some communities and developers are making good schools even stronger by lending a helping hand.
Selling the Ratings TEA’s annual accountability ratings, based on students’ scores on the Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills (TAKS) test, can be an instant “Good Housekeeping Seal of Approval” for schools. A rating of “Exemplary” or “Recognized” is shorthand that schools are top-notch. The “Academically Acceptable” ranking is next in line, and the “Academically Unacceptable” rating is a major obstacle to overcome with homebuyers.
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TEA releases its new accountability ratings each year, typically in later summer. In 2011, for example, the ratings were released on July 29, right after the deadline for this column. Many good schools retain their top ratings year after year, while others move up or down a rating or so. Making sure you know a school’s current rating is a great selling tool, and it’s easy to find on the TEA or community website. (Districts receive accountability ratings as well.)
August 2011
to drop a level based on the scores of just a few students in a certain category.
30-minute visit; it will pay off when you have “insider” knowledge to share with your clients.
Other Indicators
Community Support
Other great sources of information and ratings that can add more perspective to the TEA ratings include the annual school rankings from Children At Risk. These rankings are usually published in partnership with newspapers and can be found with an easy web search. Greatschools.org, operated by a national non-profit organization, is a great source of information and parent reviews of both public and private schools. Newsweek each year publishes its list of “America’s Top High Schools,” based on how hard schools challenge students with advanced-placement collegelevel courses and tests. But why limit yourself to online research? Many administrators are thrilled to offer REALTORS a tour of their schools. An on-site visit can provide additional insight into the school’s special programs and academic focus. Just contact the principal’s office and ask for a
How much support a school receives from its community, and from the developer in the case of newer communities, can be another valuable indicator. After all, parental and community involvement can have a tremendous impact on the type of rigorous and enriching education a school is able to provide. One of the easiest ways to gauge support is to look at the success of community-wide events created to support schools. Community events can raise thousands of dollars for its onsite schools. At a time when all schools across Texas are facing funding cuts, this kind of local community support can make a big difference. In addition, various communities may also support events that benefit teachers, such as new employee orientations, giving them the opportunity to inform teachers and administration about growth in our communities. RL
Opportunity to Communicate The annual rating release gives REALTORS a great opportunity to keep in touch with clients by touting good news via their newsletters, blogs, social media, e-mail campaigns and good old-fashioned personal contact. If a school moves up – or even retains its top rating – that’s reason to reach out. Often, you can link to news stories directly from a website. If a school moves down the ratings ladder, it’s worth the while to dig deeper and have good information ready for curious homebuyers. For example, it is not unheard of for a school
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RE/MAX 1 agents help break ground on the company’s new office space off Parmer Lane in Cedar Park.
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August 2011
Real Estate News & Notes HBA Member Robert Ross Elected a Senior Life Director of NAHB Home Builders Association (HBA) of Greater Austin member Robert Ross was elected a Senior Life Director of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) at the association’s recent Spring Board of Directors’ Meeting in Washington, DC. Kevin Kelly, NAHB Third Vice Chairman, thanked Robert for his loyalty to NAHB. “I know the commitment it requires to attain and participate at NAHB Board meetings for the 10 years required to achieve the Life Director status,” says Kelly. “To attain Senior Life status through an additional
10
consecutive
years of service is a testimony to your dedication to NAHB and the home
building
industry.” Senior
Life
Directors attain a permanent seat on the NAHB Board with no continuing attendance requirement. RL
JB Goodwin Agents Selected for 2011 Five Star Real State Agents JB Goodwin REALTORS is proud to announce their agents receiving the “2011 Five Star Real Estate Agent Award” by 5 Star Professional and Texas Monthly Magazine. Agents across San Antonio, Austin and the Central Texas region were evaluated by their clients and industry experts on customer service, integrity, communication, finding the right home, negotiation, market knowledge, marketing the home, closing preparation, and overall satisfaction. Agents did not know they were being evaluated. These award winning agents are part of a select group, making up less than 3 percent of
licensed agents in the Central Texas region, San Antonio and Austin. Agents selected from our Austin/Round Rock offices are: Jerry Carroll, Jr., Jon Chambers, Lynda Conway, Robin Curle, Janet Dean, Tammy Gardner, Larry Geller, Leslie Kasen, Xuan Le, Brigitte Mueller, Janet Murdock, Alice Niven, Mary Ellen Kersch, Kevin Breaux, and Linda Larson. Agents selected from our San Antonio office are: Marilyn Wish, Cami Torres, Sandi Peerman, Brigitte Perkins, and Susan Jones. A complete list of winners can be seen in the June issue of Texas Monthly Magazine. RL
Lake Travis Office of Coldwell Banker United, REALTORS Congratulates Million-Dollar-A-Month Club Members The Lake Travis office of Coldwell Banker United, REALTORS would like to congratulate our Million-Dollar-A-Month Club Members for the month of June 2011. To qualify for this distinction, the agent must transact an excess of $1 million in one or more of the following categories: Listings Taken, Business Written, or Business Closed.
• • • •
Sherry Grasman-Dunn $8,375,000 listings taken Susan Conti $9,375,000 listings taken Sue Ellett $2,712,932 business written Jacquelyn Foreman $1,678,979 business written $1,681,000 business closed RL
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Williamson County REALTOR to Serve on Advisory Committee for the Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University Long-time Williamson County REALTOR Avis Wukasch is the newest member of the advisory committee for the Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University. Wukasch will serve as the ex-officio committee member representing the Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC). After serving three years on the commission, Wukasch was appointed TREC chairman by Gov. Rick Perry in May. A resident of Georgetown, Wukasch has served local, state and national REALTOR organizations in numerous capacities. In 2007, she was chairman of the Texas Association of REALTORS (TAR). She is a past president of the Williamson County Association of REALTORS and the Texas chapter of the
Women’s Council of REALTORS. In 1989 and 1999, she was REALTOR of the Year for the Williamson County association. In 1993, Wukasch received that group’s Lifetime Service Award. Currently Wukasch is team leader and broker for Keller Williams Realty, Round Rock Market Center in Round Rock. Wukasch joins six other licensed brokers and three public members on the advisory committee charged with reviewing and recommending research, an annual plan of work and the budget for the nation’s largest publicly funded real estate research organization. The Center is funded by Texas real estate license fees. RL
Goldwasser Announces New Agent, Former UT Quarterback Chance Mock, a Key Hire as Real Estate Brokerage Expands Leading Austin-based, independently owned real estate agency Goldwasser Real Estate recently announced that they have added a key hire as part of the firm’s planned expansion of its pool of top residential real estate agents. Chance Mock, former University of Texas starting quarterback, has joined the firm and will form a residential real estate team. “We are thrilled to have this caliber of talent coming to Goldwasser,” says Greg Cooper, Chief Executive Officer. “Chance is a true leader and possesses the professionalism, real estate market analysis skills, business acumen and dedication to clients that is rarely seen. It’s a huge win for us and for the Austin market. We are excited to have him join us so we can develop even more ways to better serve our clients.” “Adding him to our operation is akin to when a professional sports team recruits a key athlete—it changes the operation and the market the team operates in forever. To have him join our office is such a win-win and a huge step forward for Goldwasser Real Estate,” says Chad Goldwasser. Mock states “Action Sports, my sporting goods store, is doing well and has afforded me the opportunity to expand my horizons and
follow in the footsteps of so many of my family members into the world of real estate. I found Goldwasser to be the highest caliber broker in Austin and wanted to position myself among the best of the best.” Goldwasser Real Estate plans additional hires of key talent in the coming months. Goldwasser Real Estate, LLC is a fullservice, residential real estate company providing world-class experience and quality service to clients, agents and associates. RL
Sales Volume Up, Price Steady for Austin-Area Real Estate. ABoR Releases June Real Estate Statistics Sales of single-family Austin homes were up nine percent in June 2011 compared to June 2010 with 2,145 single-family homes sold, according to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) report released today by the Austin Board of REALTORS. In the same period, the median price for Austin-area homes was $205,000, the same as June 2010. Austin homes spent an average of 75 days on the market, seven percent longer than June 2010. In addition, new listings were down four percent in June 2011 compared to June 2010, and active listings were down 18 percent compared to a year ago. “While this month still felt the lingering effect of last year’s homebuyer tax credits, we are now able to return to a typical month-tomonth comparison to gauge the trends in the real estate market,” said Judith Bundschuh, Chairman of the Austin Board of REALTORS.
Bundschuh went on to say, “Looking at the results, it’s encouraging to see that the demand for homes is strong and that Austin-area homes continue to hold their value.” In addition, pending sales were up for the second consecutive month with 2,114 pending sales in June 2011, a 31 percent increase compared to June 2010. Bundschuh explains, “The increase in pending sales this month, coupled with stable prices and stronger sales this month, are encouraging signs that the market is returning to a pre-recession seasonal cycle.” The volume of leasing activity in Austin also increased in June 2011 with 1,730 properties leased, 16 percent more than June 2010, and a median lease price of $1,300, seven percent higher than the same month of the prior year. RL
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An expert in keeping it cool, Mathew Dubose of Amy’s Ice Cream keeps Austin Title’s Laurie Albarado, Vicki Garritano and Erin Precopia happy with delicious ice cream flavors.
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Dolise McClure of Realty World Neal Barnes and Associates takes on Realty Line in the first ever picture war championship at the ABoR-TREPAC Night at the Ballpark with the Round Rock Express fundraising event.
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Heather Kelly and Denise Moody, both of Gracy Title, head out to join the rest of the group on the Downtown Property Tour.