Realty Line December 2011 Issue by RealtyLine

in this issue…

Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995™

• ABoR 2012 Installation Banquet • WCR Monthly Meeting • NAHREP Installation Reception • Platinum Top 50 REALTORS Awards Ceremony • and much, much more!

Associates in Progress

Austin Based Texas Proud

page 25

page 35 TM

DECEMBER 2011 • VOLUME 16 • ISSUE 8

‘Tis the season to be weary: tips to get through the holiday madness Know when to slow down

by Stacy Hale

Visit us online 24/7 at www.myRealtyLine.com

P. O. Box 81366, Austin, Texas 78708

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o say that “things slow down” for REALTORS as the holidays approach would be a bit misleading. Sales and showings may grind to a near-halt, but then in come the holiday parties, family events, and greeting card mailings — and before you know it, you’re just as busy (if not more) than you were the rest of the year. Here’s our advice on how to manage all that jolly juggling and come out ahead.

Perhaps the key to keeping your business healthy during a whole season when everyone has their mind on other things is to accept that “business as usual” just doesn’t apply in November and December, and instead focus on creative ways to incubate your business for many happy returns in the New Year.

Block out time Plan your vacations first and then work around them. Know when you won’t be available so you won’t have to answer your cell phone while everyone else is caroling. This simple step, according to Melissa Mandry of Keller Williams Lake Travis, will do wonders for your stress levels and make you more proactive — not to mention ensure that your clients aren’t surprised that you’re on Christmas vacation. And after taking time away from your business to relax and spend time with your family, you’ll be even better prepared to jump right in and make the most of January.

Don’t be in the dark “After 31 years in real estate, I’ve learned not to show properties after dark,” says Carol Strickland of Amelia Bullock REALTORS. “If I can’t have the buyer back home by 5:30 when the sun starts setting, I’ll usually reschedule the showing.” There are several reasons not to show properties to buyers after dark in the cold winter months: it doesn’t feel as safe and homey, you can’t see all the exterior features, it’s cold, it’s

harder to find addresses, and homes just don’t show as well. Not to mention it frees you up in the evenings to spend time with your family and prepare for the holidays with Christmas shopping, decorating and time to relax when the pace is set at triple time. The same goes for open houses. While throughout the rest of the year you might schedule them for late afternoon or early evening, consider inclement weather and holiday rush hour traffic, and consider a lunchtime or weekend open house instead.

Just go with it Take comfort in knowing that everyone else is doing what you’re doing — preparing for the holidays. Many sellers pull their listings during the holiday months, and as you may know, this isn’t necessarily a bad thing. This time of year is less convenient for showings and closings, schedules are hard to coordinate, and the home will be fresher in January as a new listing anyway. For Terry Godbold of Reliable Property Management, these months are a season of giving and understanding all the while maintaining responsibility and flexibility. “My effort is trying to keep all the people happy all the time,” Godbold says. “Is that possible? Not hardly. During the holiday season we here at RPM take it a day at a time and try to keep smiling!”

Find your groove and set the stage On the flip side, there’s no need to write

www.ameriprofunding.com

Upcoming Events Thursday, January 10 NAPMW Monthly Luncheon Norris Conference Center 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday, January 12 ABoR/HBA 2012 Housing Forecast Renaissance Austin Hotel 7:30 to 11:30 a.m. Sente Mortgage Business Planning Bootcamp Sente Mortgage Office 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday, January 25 CCIM New Year Kick Off Social The Daily Grill at The Domain 5:30 to 6 p.m. More at www.myRealtyLine.com off the whole season as a loss. On the contrary, less surface activity in your sales process can free up valuable time for lead nurturing and all those business-building activities you’ve been meaning to invest in all year long.

'Tis the season to be social Networking opportunities are

a natural by-product of the holiday season. Think about it: Christmas parties, office parties, neighborhood parties, tree lightings, community socials, professional luncheons, charity events, family gatherings... the list goes on and on. Your colleagues and potential clients are making time to get out and be social because, well, that’s just what you do this time of year. “This is the time to network, drop off a gift basket, knock on doors and hand out candy canes,” says Melissa Mandry. “People expect

Front Page: Continued on page 14

December 2011

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Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995

Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™

ALL I WANT FOR CHRISTMAS IS... TO LIVE IN BELTERRA

Belterra, located just minutes from downtown Austin offers a lifestyle like no other. With miles of hike & bike trails, over a dozen parks, resort-style pool complex, state-of-the-art fitness center and an on-site elementary school in the highly acclaimed Dripping Springs Independent School District.

Merry Christmas 2011 151 Trinity Hills Drive • Austin, TX 78737 • 512.301.5000 • BelterraTexas.com

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Austin Board of REALTORS®

Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995

Chairman’s Column By Judith Bundschuh • 2011 Chairman

Secure your seat at the 2012 Housing Forecast

ive your business a boost in the new year by attending the 2012 Housing Forecast, hosted by the Austin Board of REALTORS (ABoR) and the Home Builders Association (HBA) of Greater Austin on Thursday, Jan. 12, 2012. Strategically prepare next year’s business plan with valuable information from industry experts, including University of Texas’ McCombs School of Business faculty member Dr. Greg Hallman, Director of the Austin Market for Metrostudy Eldon Rude and KXAN News Chief Weathercaster Jim Spencer, who will speak about recent changes in the economic and housing markets, as well as the implications of the drought on the real estate market. The 2012 Housing Forecast will be hosted at the Renaissance Austin Hotel in the Arboretum. Registration will begin at 7:30 a.m., followed by a breakfast at 8 a.m, and the program will run from 8:30 to 11 a.m. Visit www.abor.com/Forecast to purchase your $65 ticket until Jan. 11 or until tickets run out. Contact Shirley Williams in ABoR’s

Education Department at 454-7636, ext.1603 or swilliams@abor.com to learn more about this informative event.

Invest in TREPAC: It’s just that easy TREPAC’s 2012 fundraising year is underway, and ABoR’s PAC Committee has a number of exciting investment opportunities for members. I encourage you to participate in one of these fundraising initiatives to ensure your interests are protected at the national, state and local level. TREPAC is excited to announce the latest campaign, “Put Up and We’ll Shut Up.” If $250,000 is invested in TREPAC by Dec. 31, 2011 PAC Chair and 2012 ABoR Secretary/ Treasurer Bill Evans will stop requesting TREPAC investments for the rest of the 2012 fundraising year. Learn more about this campaign by visiting http://youtube/ tlkEJKWboDk. Is your chili recipe trophy worthy? Organize your chili team, and get ready for the upcoming Chili Cook-off at the Mueller

Looking for an easier way to manage your transactions on the go? Well, you don’t need an App for that!

www.myRealtyLine.com Hangar from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. on Feb. 16, 2012. Tickets cost $15 per person or $110 per chili team entry. All ticket proceeds benefit TREPAC and will go towards your 2012 TREPAC investment. Visit www.abor.com/TREPAC to learn more about these investment opportunities. If you have questions, contact TREPAC Coordinator Anna Kong at pac@abor.com or 454-7636.

MLS vendor review: ABoR needs your feedback As a member-driven organization, one of ABoR’s priorities is to deliver a robust Multiple Listing Service (MLS) system that meets the needs of our members. As we approach the end of our contract with the current MLS vendor in Nov. 2012, the ACTRIS Advisory Committee is working diligently to ensure that we meet this goal. After considering system features, usability and member priorities, such as cross-browser and mobile compatibility, the committee selected three systems for further consideration: connectMLS (dynaConnections), Fusion (CoreLogic MarketLinx) and Matrix (CoreLogic MarketLinx). Following this year’s theme, “Members

December 2011

First, Member-Driven,” the ACTRIS Advisory Committee wants member input to identify the next MLS system. Beginning in January 2012, all ACTRIS subscribers will have access to connectMLS, Fusion and Matrix. Members will have the opportunity to test all three MLS products and provide feedback to the committee from January through mid-March. System demonstrations will also be available during this time at ABoR. More information about system testing and demonstrations will be available on the MLS vendor review page on Abor.com by the end of the year. I encourage you to become involved in this process, and read up on FAQs, updates and the expected timeline at www. abor.com/mls/VendorReview.cfm.

Thank you for an excellent year! Thanks to the efforts of our tireless volunteers, our dedicated members and a great board of officers and directors, ABoR and the real estate community made 2011 a triumph. It has been my honor to serve as ABoR’s chairman of the board and a pleasure getting to know each of you at our various events. Thank all of you for your continuous support of ABoR’s initiatives. I wish you and your family a festive holiday season, as well as a prosperous 2012. RL

ABoR Academy Educational Course Listings Dec. 14: Green MLS - The Key to Unlocking the Green Home Market Dec. 14: MLX Client Management - Keep a Customer for Life/Lab Dec. 15: MLX/CMA/South Training Center (South Location) Dec. 15: Seize the Power of Your MLS Subscription (South Location) Dec. 17: TREC Legal Update MCE TREPAC Investment

Details at www.abor.org

Winter Edwards

Erin Harrell

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512.745.2410 wedwards@firstam.com

c e l l 512.497.8350 eharrell@firstam.com

Heidi Schoonover

Fran Pullin

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c e l l 512.695.8634 fpullin@firstam.com

Kelley Murphy

Cindy Mokry

512.658.0068 kemurphy@firstam.com

c e l l 512.658.7087 cmokry@firstam.com

cell

Michelle Vannostran c e l l 512.534.6563 mvannostran@firstam.com

Contact a First American Representative to learn more about your myFirstAm.com account and other great mobile tools. First American Title Insurance Company makes no express or implied warranty respecting the information presented and assumes no responsibility for errors or omissions.

December 2011

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Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995

Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™

Agents at Keller Williams Realty’s Cedar Park office celebrate the office's 3rd anniversary at El Patron Mexican restaurant.

Buy photo: RL_120911_B.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

Jennifer Archambeault of Cardani REALTORS and John Schutze of Supreme Lending show up to the WCR November luncheon to meet ABoR’s new CEO and President Matt Maire.

Buy photo: RL_120611_F.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

Toasting with a bit of “daytime bubbly” (sparkling water with raspberries) at Highland Homes’ REALTOR Appreciation Luncheon are Sherri Teepen of Keller Williams Realty, Caryn Pollock of Highland Homes, Carolyn Banes of New Home Locators Realty and Cindy Pease of Highland Homes.ITCrlNewYear.pdf

Buy photo: RL_121711_U.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com 1

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1:14 PM

Buy photo: RL_120111_C.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

Congratulations to Vanessa Nunez of Vox Real Estate for winning the Austin Board of REALTORS Rookie of the Year award. She was honored for her success at ABoR's Installation and Awards Banquet at the Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort.

Independence Title E x p l o r e w w w. I n d e p e n d e n c e T i t l e . c o m

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December 2011

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New Mexico.indd 3

4/22/11 12:52 PM

All ENERGY STAR® qualified KB homes feature an EPG®: an Energy Performance Guide that shows you our homes’ energy efficiency and an estimate of the average monthly energy costs.

Every new KB home is ENERGY STAR® qualified and includes energy-efficient features designed to help save your clients’ money.

See reverse for a complete list of KB Home communities in the Austin area.

December 2011

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Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995

Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™

D.A. Henry, right, of The Aldion Group Realty and her guest L.B. Henderson, turn heads as they await the ceremony to begin at the Austin Board of REALTORS Installation and Awards Banquet at the Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort.

Buy photo: RL_121811_B.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

Gene Frederick, center, of Keller Williams Realty, is happy to see industry leaders Texas Association of REALTORS Chairman Joe Stewart and ABoR’s ImmediatePast Chairman Judith Bundschuh at the company’s grand opening celebration of its new office at Spectrum Crystal Park in Round Rock. Buy photo: RL_120811_B.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

Buy photo: RL_121011_E.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

WILLOW BEND MORTGAGE is pleased to welcome

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Mary Witt's pooch, Jada Sue, wants to know where all the Scooby snacks are. Mary, who’s with JB Goodwin REALTORS, brings her fur-baby out to the “Yappy Hour” at the new dog park at Newland Communities’ Falcon Pointe community in Pflugerville.

Texas American Title Company Texas American Title extends our sincere Thank you for your continued successful partnership through the Holiday season!

Heather Cooke, Summer Pavliska, Salli Dennis, Jim Goldrick, Tera Keesee, Anne Henderson, Mandy Andrews (not pictured) Westlake Office Round Rock Office 609 Castle Ridge Rd. 1001 S. Mays Suite 10 Suite 103 Austin, TX 78746 Round Rock, TX 78664 Office: 512-306-9009 Office: 512-255-1550 Downtown Office Cedar Park Office 811 Barton Springs Rd. 715 Discovery Blvd. Suite 111 Suite 205 Austin, TX 78704 Cedar Park, TX 78613 Office: 512-479-7887 Office: 512-259-5950

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Williamson County Assoc. of REALTORS®

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President’s Column By Victoria Reviel • 2011 President

What a wonderful life and year... transforming our lives, our association and our future

t has been an honor and a privilege to serve as the 2011 president of the Williamson County Association of REALTORS. I have had the opportunity to meet so many wonderful industry professionals and have made many new friends that I will cherish always. Even though I will be your 2012 pastpresident, I will continue to support and serve this outstanding association and its cherished members in any way I can for years to come. My heartfelt thanks go to the WCAoR 2011 directors and officers for your continued guidance and commitment to this remarkable association. They are John McClellan, 2011 affiliate liaison; directors Reba Saxon, Chris Sachs, Michelle Busby, Thomas Soliz, Susanna Boyer, Kim Perez, Jack Stapleton, Elaine Byrne, Leisa Ormsbee and Susan Brown; and executive officers: J. Rene Ward, Marty Kelly, Stacey Rider and Christy Gessler. Our 2011 chairpersons and committees have done an outstanding job and made sure that each and every event held at the WCAoR this year was sold out! Awards committee

chair Jimmy Goff; by-laws committee chair Barbara Wigginton; finance committee chair Marty Kelly; community service chair Shavonne Martin; education committee chair Sally Decelis; membership committee chair Ruby Johnson; golf committee chair Holly Schuler; TREPAC and governmental committee chair Avis Wukasch; nominations committee chair Gary Wakefield; and Tech Tune-Up committee chair Jack Stapleton are to be commended. I also extend a huge hug and thank you to the association Executive Officer Marjorie Phillips and her amazing staff led by Director of Professional Development Jackie Woodfin, Director of Membership Services Linda Hall and Office Administrator Shonte Battle. All of you have worked tirelessly on behalf of the association and its members. This year would not have been so successful without your devotion and determination. Finally to you— the WCAoR members— I promise that we will never take your valued membership for granted and we will

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December 2011

do everything in our power to assist you in growing your business. Because at the WCAoR, you will find our focus is and will be forever on you and how the real estate climate impacts your business. When you join or renew your membership you will immediately notice a refreshing atmosphere of genuine support and guidance to help you cultivate your career and ensure your business grows to be successful and rewarding. The WCAoR hosts an array of networking and community service opportunities with other professionals that will help you build lasting

partnerships to grow your business and give something back to your industry and community. The WCAoR was founded in 1973 and will be here for many, many years to come. It will continue its transformation to serve our loyal membership, transform lives, and we will go on to work alongside each and every one of you to create a bigger, brighter and stronger future for our clients, our industry and our membership. It has been a true honor to serve you and happy holidays! RL

Buy photo: RL_121811_Q.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

And the award goes to ... Mary Miner, center, of Nextage Lincoln Ray Realty. Mary is presented with the Community Service of the Year award by outgoing ABoR Chairman Judith Bundschuh of Catalyst Realty and TAR Chairman Joe Stewart of Joe R. Stewart, REALTORS.

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December 2011

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Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995

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Officers of the Austin Board of REALTORS are sworn in at the Installation and Awards Banquet at the Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort.

Buy photo: RL_121711_N.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

Peg Braxton, Risé Johns, Mary Lynne Gibbs, Amber Hart, Georganna Zaba and Deb Groom, all of Keller Williams Realty, are inaugurated into the 2011 Platinum Top 50 REALTORS at the Austin Music Hall.

Buy photo: RL_121511_I.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

The National Association of Hispanic Real Estate Professionals Installs its 2012 officers. Pictured are Nicole Torres-Cooke (president), Oliva Lerma (past-president), Sandy Urias (director of membership), Genaro Rodriguez (secretary) and Jason Garza (president-elect).

Buy photo: RL_120311_B.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

Buy photo: RL_121611_J.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

Mmmm that’s the ticket! Master turkey chef Kevin Breaux of JB Goodwin REALTORS shows them how to fry up the perfect turkey at the company's annual Thanksgiving Luncheon.

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December 2011

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Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995

Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™

Every year, JB Goodwin REALTORS collects donations at its annual Thanksgiving Luncheon to give to the local food panty and Coats for Kids. Raymond Husser and Daniel Garrion accept fellow agents' donations and load them up for delivery.

Buy photo: RL_120311_L.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

Yummo! (front row) Brenda Perez, Debbie Alexander, (back row) Yolla Bsaibes and David Hooker, all of Horizon Realty, hope they don’t put on extra pounds after eating all the food at the company’s annual Thanksgiving lunch.

Buy photo: RL_120211_B.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com Buy photo: RL_120711_D.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

Now that’s spicy! Glenn King and David Pavliska, both of RE/MAX Round Rock, kick it up a notch at the Independence Title Annual Chili-Cook Off at its Round Rock office.

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Introducing the faces of Gracy in Hays County (from left to right)

Whitney Hauser, Sales Executive Michelle LeMay-Fleming, Buda/Kyle Escrow Partner Tracy Miller, Buda/Kyle Escrow Officer Enriqueta (Que) B. Reyes, Buda/Kyle Manager & Escrow Officer Marie Farber, Wimberley Escrow Officer Shelley Hill, Dripping Springs Manager & Escrow Officer Whitney Wright, Dripping Springs Escrow Officer Donna Simmons, Vice President - Corporate Accounts Get Better Acquainted with Your Neighbors in Hays at: www.gracytitle.com/locations/budakyle www.gracytitle.com/locations/dripping-springs www.gracytitle.com/locations/wimberley

Partnerships Built on Trust

December 2011

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December 2011

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Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™

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Risé Johns and Bill Wilson, both of Keller Williams Realty, Becky Hopkins of Austin Title, Michael Neuman and Martha Chavez, both of Realty Executives and Rudy Hopkins of Austin Title have a few laughs before the start of ABoR's 2012 Installation and Awards Banquet. Buy photo: RL_121811_F.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

Ann Marie Sandlin of Reta Kays REALTORS and Chris Rodriguez of Austin Real Pros are excited to see each other at the NAHREP Installation Reception at Design with Consignment.

Buy photo: RL_121611_B.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

2011 WCR President Cheryl Jenkins of Realty Executives takes the opportunity to meet with ABoR’s new CEO and President, Matt Maire and the Texas Association of REALTORS Chairman Joe Stewart. WCR gave its members a chance to meet the two leaders at its November luncheon.

Buy photo: RL_121011_C.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com Buy photo: RL_120611_H.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

Kick Start 2012!

Shanna Schneider of RE/MAX Capital City and her husband Ross Schneider make an appearance at the Keller Williams Realty Grand Opening Celebration of its new office at Spectrum Crystal Park in Round Rock.

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December 2011

Instant serenity. At Rough Hollow, the 1,787-acre lakefront community in the heart of the Texas Hill Country, The Rough Life means thoughtfully crafted home designs complemented by a wealth of social and recreational activities at the Yacht Club & Marina, The Grille and the Highland Village waterthemed amenity now under construction. It also means yoga, pilates and boot camp classes at the state-of-the-art Fitness Center.

Stop by the Welcome Center for a map to our eight brand new, move-in-ready homes! Or build your Rough Life with The Rough Life Maker on our new website at www.roughhollowlakeway.com!

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December 2011

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Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995

Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™

Front Page: Continued contact during this time of year: there are HBA lunches, title company holiday opportunities, and plenty of volunteer opportunities to help out those in need and get your name out there in the process.” The key is staying in front even when business is slow, and people will remember that investment come January.

Heather Poggi-Mannis and Will Mannis, both of Exit Option Realty, enjoy a night out at the ABoR Installation and Awards Banquet at the Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort.

Stay structured There’s no getting around disrupted routines this time of year, but continue to treat your business like an eight-to-five as much as possible. Maintaining structure will help you stay efficient. Answer your e-mails and work your leads first thing in the morning; continue to post to your blog and produce useful content. Tackle these regular activities as you get started for the day, and you protect them from disruption in the afternoon. Having a slow morning? Sow the seeds for next quarter’s business by writing holiday cards, sending reminder letters to your recent buyers to file for homestead exemption, and anything else that’s fallen off your plate any other time of year.

Buy photo: RL_121811_I.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

Mary Lynn Gibbs, Bill Wilson and Risé Johns, all of Keller Williams Realty, celebrate the grand opening of the company’s new Spectrum Crystal Park Round Rock office with Amy Kobza, left, of Capital Title.

Use those gadgets!

Buy photo: RL_121011_G.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

A hungry child is Just around the corner.

She needs our

We want to do our part.

Help

Remember that iPad you got as a present last year? Now’s the perfect time to put it to the test. Technology is your friend during the holidays, when your personal and business lives collide. Real estate apps, productivity apps, reminders, MLS tools and other beneficial planning tools abound on your tablet or smartphone. Plan your day ahead of time to make the most of your time and gas during all that running around. On a run to the mall to pick up a gift for her granddaughter, Carol Strickland came prepared with the item number of the gift she needed on her iPad. It saved her the shopping time, the whole thing was scheduled on the calendar, and she even got some e-mails answered from the parking lot. “My key to surviving the holidays? I’m a planner and a list maker, and I always have my tools with me,” Strickland says. So make that list and check it twice! Happy Holidays from Realty Line. RL

RL austin

Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995

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 Hale, Naomi Bludworth Contributing Photographers: Doren L. Carver, Naomi Bludworth Columnists: Judith Bundschuh, Marshall Durrett, Victoria Reviel, Cassandra Majors, Kay DaSilva 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.

For each transaction we close together,

Realty Line Austin is published monthly by Caxton Publications, Inc.© as a non-subscription publication for the more than 8,000

a portion of our

members of the Austin Board of REALTORS®(ABoR), the more than 1,100 members of the Williamson County Association of

commission will go

REALTORS® (WCAoR) and the Home Builders Association (HBA) of Greater Austin. Realty Line Austin is printed on recycled paper.

to CAFB.

Realty Line Austin is a proud member of the Austin Board of Michelle Lee-Wilder Realtor ® 512.554.3976 E-mail: mleewilder@gmail.com www.TexasAgentWorkingForYou.com Coldwell Banker United, Realtors Each office independently owned and operated.

Emily Franke

REALTORS®, the Williamson County Association of REALTORS® and NMLS#223977

Mortgage Consultant Experience. Results. 512.531.1800 CELL: 512.809.7680 EFranke@swbc.com www.EmilyFranke.com

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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austin

Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995

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December 2011

GRAND HAVEN HOMES

Thank you, Central Texas Realtors

For your outstanding support of Grand Haven Homes in 2011 Inspired by Life. Built for Living. Georgetown

183A TOLL

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Br u

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anch

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Rough Hollow Available 5 2 4>> 7 Homes 7 6 3 $368,000-$580,600 512.608.9610

Paloma Lake >5> 1 Home 4 7 8 6 Available 3 $225,950 512.692.9465

Behrens 5Ranch6 >> 4 Homes 4 7 8Available 9 10 $263,990-$315,990 512.291.6158

Mayfield 5 7 >> 48Homes 6Ranch CS 9 Available 10 $314,990-$370,600 512.535.7740

e ud Lan Red B

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620

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e Blvd

ga Rea ald Ron Blvd.

ay arkw lls P Lakelin

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26 Move-In Ready Homes!

Round Rock

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Four New Communities Opening 2012!

Pearson Place at Avery Ranch, Sarita Valley, Avery Station, and Estates at Crystal Falls

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Live more for less with LifezonesTM Avalon Paloma Lake Avery Station (CS)

Behrens Ranch Mayfield Ranch Estates at Crystal Falls (CS)

Cap Rock at Crystal Falls Ranch at Brushy Creek Pearson Place at Avery Ranch (CS)

* Apple is not a participant in or sponsor of this promotion. Apple is a registered trademark of Apple Inc. All rights reserved. NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Void where prohibited. Must be a licensed Realtor in the state of Texas. Drawing on 12/15/2011. Winner will be notified by phone or e-mail, and is responsible for all taxes, connection, and other fees. Prize is not exchangeable for cash, not transferable or assignable. GHH reserves the right to extend, modify or discontinue at any time without prior notice. We reserve the right to modify specifications, prices and/or plans without notice or prior obligation. All square footages are approximate. All renderings are artistâ€™s concept. Consult sales professional for further details.

December 2011

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austin

Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™

Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995

Hmm, what’s that smell? Suzanne Gantner of Sky Realty and Tiesa Hollaway of North American Title get a whiff of all the holiday scents at the Scentsy booth during North American Title’s 5th Annual Holiday Party and Shop ‘Till You Drop event.

Buy photo: RL_120511_A.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

It's always good to run into these guys. Doug Land of Capital City Sotheby's International Realty, Todd Smith of Fine Austin Living and Frank Perdichizzi of Private Label Realty support their colleagues at the Platinum Top 50 REALTORS Awards Ceremony at Austin Music Hall. Buy photo: RL_121811_P.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

Laura Pagnozzi, center, of Independence Title proudly accepts her award for Affiliate of the Year from TAR Chairman Joe Stewart of Joe R. Stewart, REALTORS and Judith Bundschuh (2011 ABoR chairman of the board) of Catalyst Realty at ABoR's Installation and Awards Banquet.

Buy photo: RL_121511_M.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

Lake line . Blvd ress Cyp ek Rd. Cre

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The Pinnacle Collection Greenbelt Homes from the $200’s-$400’s 512-264-0900 5200 Cypress Ranch Blvd. Spicewood

ers And

on M

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cypress creek Townhomes from the $130’s 512-215-5220 1900 Little Elm Trail Cedar Park

Garden Homes from the $180’s 512-804-2605 7233 Manchaca Rd. South Austin

Garden Homes from the $160’s 512-215-3424 11400 West Parmer Lane Cedar Park

COMING SOON

6 7

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BRUSHY CREEK

The Pinnacle Collection Single Family Homes from the mid $200’s Breakway Rd. & Brushy Creek Rd. Cedar Park

ARBOR RIDGE Townhomes from the $90’s Southeast Austin

silver leaf

Garden Homes from the $290’s 512-410-7683 2602 Del Curto Rd. Downtown Austin

23 Invent+ Home ory Close s to 60 Da in ys

6 southbridge villas

3 paradiso villas

ravenscroft

Townhomes from the $130’s 512 410-7790 11249 Lost Maples Trail • South Austin

New Community Info: 877-676-9622

RIVERSIDE villas

Garden Homes from the $140’s - $200’s 5401 E. Riverside Drive East Austin

www.MyMileStone.com

10 SOUTHPARK MEADOWS Garden Homes from the $150’s - $200’s South Austin

5% only on inventory homes if contract by 12/31/11 & close by 1/31/12. Other restrictions apply. See sales consultant for details.

Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™

austin

HBA of Greater Austin

Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995

President’s Column By Marshall Durrett • 2012 President

Attend our annual housing industry forecast to learn what's to come in 2012

s a reader of Realty Line, your livelihood probably depends on a healthy real estate market. Nearly every day someone asks me where I think the home building and real estate market is headed. One of the best resources for that information is our annual housing forecast meeting. For the fourth year, the Home Builders Association (HBA) of Greater Austin and the Austin Board of REALTORS (ABoR) will host this special event on Thursday, Jan. 12. If you are involved in the home building industry — whether it is in sales, marketing, construction or remodeling — you will not want to miss this important program. Our own HBA Board of Directors’ member Eldon Rude, director of the Austin market for Metrostudy, has put together another fantastic speaker line up. These experts will explain the trends during 2011 and set expectations for 2012. Rude has earned a reputation in the housing industry for thorough analysis and candid insight into the factors that impact the supply and demand for housing.

Rude will moderate this year’s program, as well as deliver the Austin housing market forecast. Dr. Greg Hallman, University of Texas McCombs School of Business, will deliver the national economy forecast. Hallman is a member of the faculty in the finance department of the University of Texas McCombs School of Business where he teaches graduate-level courses in valuation, real estate finance, and investment theory, and serves as the director of the McCombs MBA REIT Fund. In addition to his work at the University of Texas, Hallman works as a consultant on valuation and litigation matters. He holds a PhD in finance from the University of Texas at Austin, an MBA from Tulane University and a BA in chemistry from the University of Virginia. Jim Spencer, chief weathercaster, KXAN News will discuss the effects of the drought on the local economy. Spencer is a four-time winner of the Texas Associated Press Best Weathercaster Award, and a 10-time winner of the Austin Chronicle’s Best Weathercaster

www.myRealtyLine.com Award. He has been named TV Personality of the Year by Austin’s American Women in Radio and TV Chapter four times, including his most recent 2010 award. He is also a past recipient of the National Weather Association’s Weathercaster of the Year award. The Renaissance Austin Hotel at the Arboretum in Northwest Austin will once again be the site of this year’s program. Registration starts at 7:30 a.m., breakfast at 8 a.m. with the program from 8:30 to 11 a.m. Tickets are $65 per person or $550 per table. Tickets are required for admission and to receive a program.

December 2011

HBA members can buy their tickets online at www.AustinHomeBuilders.com (navigate to calendar and registration, go to Jan. 12) or you can buy in person at the HBA office at 8140 Exchange Drive in Austin. ABoR members can buy their tickets online at www.ABoR.com. Tickets sell out quickly so make sure to buy yours early. The housing forecast event is also an excellent opportunity to showcase your business in front of decision makers. For promotional partner opportunities, contact Debbie Horridge at 454-5588, ext. 103. We hope you make plans to attend this important, informative event. On behalf of the HBA, I wish you a happy holiday season and a prosperous 2012. RL

Buy photo: RL_121811_H.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

ABoR's Installation and Awards Banquet always attracts industry leaders and the 2012 was no exception. Realty Line spots Neal Barnes of Realty World, Neal Barnes & Associates and Terry Godbold of Reliable Property Management rubbing elbows before the start of the ceremony at the Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort.

Working as a team - its just how we roll! (no pun intended, snowman)

The gang’s all here, come and join us Contact Kevin Ginsburg: 512-632-7971 kevin.ginsburg@unitedlendingusa.com

www.myRealtyLine.com

December 2011

austin

Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995

Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™

Janet Havel of Highland Homes welcomes Lori Wakefield of Keller Williams Realty to the company’s REALTOR Appreciation Luncheon at Steiner Ranch Steakhouse overlooking the Lake Travis (or what’s left of it).

Buy photo: RL_120111_B.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

ABoR staff Shirley Williams assures new ABoR CEO and President Matt Maire and his wife Stephanie things are running smoothly. We stopped them for a photo op at the ABoR 2012 Installation and Awards banquet.

Buy photo: RL_121711_H.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

Don’t be a minute late or you’ll end up in a long line at the JB Goodwin REALTORS annual Thanksgiving Luncheon. Veronica Walther and Remina Reyes learn their lesson when they found themselves at end of the line.

Buy photo: RL_120211_N.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

EconForecast_RealityLineNov.pdf

11/7/2011

As Vada said in the movie My Girl, "I like ice cream a whole lot. It tastes good on days that are hot. On a cone or in a dish. This will be my only wish. Vanilla, chocolate, Rocky Road, even with pie, a la mode." Diane Clark of PrimeLending serves ice cream to cool the heat at the Independence Title annual Chili Cook-Off.

4:52:59 PM

Buy photo: RL_120311_F.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

What lies ahead for the local housing market in 2012? Our Speakers: Join the Austin Board of REALTORS® and the Home Builders Association of Greater Austin to hear the most recent statistics and insight on our economy and housing market.

Hear from the experts at the 2012 Housing Forecast:

Thursday, January 12, 2012 Registration 7:30 a.m. Breakfast 8:00 a.m. Program 8:30 - 11:30 a.m.

Renaissance Austin Hotel 9721 Arboretum Boulevard Austin, TX 78759

Individual tickets: $65 Corporate Tables: $550 (seat 10) Seating is limited. NO Billing. ALL tickets must be pre-paid with cash, check or credit card. NO replacement of lost tickets. NO tickets will be sold at the event.

Eldon Rude

MODERATOR AND AUSTIN HOUSING MARKET FORECAST

Serving as director of the Austin Market for Metrostudy, Rude has earned a reputation in the housing industry for thorough analysis and candid insight into the factors that impact the supply and demand for housing.

Dr. Greg Hallman

NATIONAL ECONOMY FORECAST

Hallman is a faculty member at The University of Texas' McCombs School of Business, where he teaches graduate-level courses in valuation, real estate finance and investment theory, and serves as the Director of the McCombs MBA REIT Fund. Dr. Hallman also works as a consultant on valuation and litigation matters.

Jim Spencer

DROUGHT IMPLICATIONS FOR LOCAL AREA

Spencer serves as the Chief Weathercaster for KXAN News. He is a fourtime winner of the Texas Associated Press Best Weathercast Award and a 10 time winner of the Austin Chronicle’s Best Weathercaster Award. Additionally, he is a past recipient of the National Weather Association’s Weathercaster of the Year award.

Online: www.Abor.com/Forecast or www.AustinHomeBuilders.com

By Phone: 512-454-7636 (ABoR) or 512-454-5588 (HBA)

Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™

RL austin

Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995

www.myRealtyLine.com

December 2011

Three chefs are better than one. Marcus Garcia, Carlos Flores and Gary Wakefield, all of Coldwell Bankers United REALTORS, team up to compete at the Independence Title Annual Chili Cook-Off.

Buy photo: RL_120211_G.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

Buy photo: RL_120111_G.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

So how do you get a seat at this table? Sell a lot of houses, that’s how! Highland Homes’co-founders Rod Sanders and Jean Ann Brock, back row, honor Lynn Miller, back row, far right, of Amelia Bullock REALTORS, Matt Menard and Mike McKim, both of Keller Williams Realty, and Tammy Gardner of JB Goodwin REALTORS at the company’s REALTOR Appreciation Luncheon.

Bill Stanberry of Stanberry & Associates catches up with Aralyn Hughes of Aralyn & Company at the annual ABoR Installation and Awards Banquet. Buy photo: RL_120311_D.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

Every year agents at JB Goodwin REALTORS take their real estate hats off and put their kitchen shoes on at the company’s Thanksgiving Luncheon. Stacy Amezquita and Karen McGrath pitch in at the 28th annual event.

Buy photo: RL_121711_F.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

December 2011

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austin

Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995

Texas Lone Star CRS Chapter

In support of their colleagues, Barb Cooper of Coldwell Banker United REALTORS, Aaron Farmer of Texas Discount Realty, Lia Farmer, guest, and David Barton of Horizon Realty cheer on as ABoR recognizes award winners and installs its 2012 officers and directors at the annual Installation and Awards Banquet.

Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™

Director ‘s Column By Kay DaSilva • 2011 Director

Buy photo: RL_121811_K.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

Amber Emerson Thomas of Platinum Top 50 REALTORS presents award winner Russell Tam of Ashlaur Real Estate with one of the first 50 awards presented at the Awards Ceremony held at the Austin Music Hall.

Buy photo: RL_121511_B.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

Ok, where’s the dessert? Kylie Ebersole, Byron “Buddy” Schilling and Norma Mantz, all of JB Goodwin REALTORS, go on a hunt for the yummy pies and cakes at the company’s 28th Annual Thanksgiving Luncheon.

Buy photo: RL_120311_O.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

When you’re HOT… you’re

HOT!

1297 LOANS CLOSED FY 2011

DHI Mortgage Home Buyers Club* can help buyers with less than perfect credit achieve their homeownership goals. That’s 1297 buyers last fiscal year, and over the last five fiscal years, we’ve assisted with more than 6000 closed loans! The success rate has been astounding! Don’t turn away credit challenged buyers – offer them the DHI Mortgage Home Buyers Club solution!

EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

hbc.dhimortgage.com

DHI Mortgage 12554 Riata Vista Cir., 1st Floor Austin , TX 78727 Phone: (512) 502-0545

Provided for informational purposes only. This is not a commitment to lend. Not all borrowers will qualify. *The DHI Mortgage Home Buyers Club does not guarantee to raise the credit score or guarantee loan approval. Credit Counseling offered by the DHI Mortgage Home Buyers Club does not assure participants that they will qualify for, or successfully obtain, a home mortgage loan. Participants are not required to finance their home purchase through DHI Mortgage or to purchase a home from DHI Mortgage’s affiliated builder, D.R. Horton, to enroll in the DHI Mortgage Home Buyers Club. DHI Mortgage Company, Ltd. Branch NMLS# 38686. Company NMLS# 14622. 12554 Riata Vista Circle First Floor Austin, TX 78727. For information on DHIM licensing visit http://www.dhimortgage.com/other-pages/licensing/. REV: 11/23/11 / EXP: 11/22/12

A new year and a new era for Austin area CRS

he Austin Area CRS Chapter is proud to announce that a Certificate of Chapter Charter by the National Council of Residential Specialists, an affiliate of the National Association of REALTORS was granted on Nov. 12, 2011. Previously, the Texas Lone Star chapter had served members in the Austin area. An Austin area CRS chapter will be able to be more responsive to the needs of our local members than the statewide chapter. The Austin Area CRS leadership believes that with better control of our finances and scheduling for events and benefits, a local chapter will be a positive step toward enhanced membership opportunities. The monthly luncheons will continue to be held on the third Wednesday of every other month beginning in February. The bi-monthly meetings are held at the Westwood Country Club and are free to paid members of Austin Area CRS as a member benefit. The luncheons offer great food, fantastic speakers and a wonderful opportunity to network with your fellow CRS members. The Austin Area CRS will be offering two CRS designation courses in the spring of 2012. Details are being finalized but the current plan

is to offer the courses the first week of May. If you have been waiting for the opportunity to have these classes offered locally, you will have that opportunity next year. The following dedicated CRS professionals have volunteered to lead this new chapter into the new year: Risé Johns, president David Pavliska, president-elect Jim Smith, vice-president Les Sherman, treasurer Hellena Frazier, secretary Kay DaSilva, immediate past-director Carrie Weikert, education chair Michelle Busby, membership chair Lynda Conway, speaker/programs chair Mary Ann Nations, chapter with a heart chair Charlie Hensen, ways and means chair Fred Norton, publicity/technology chair Emma Polk, chaplain All of the CRS volunteer leadership, past, present and future, are a talented group of professionals who generously give of their time and talents to make this group a strong and effective organization. To all of you, my sincere thanks and best wishes for a highly successful 2012 and beyond. RL

Thank You

for putting your trust in us to service your clients’ home warranties. We look forward to continuing to earn your business in 2012. From our family to yours –

We wish you peace and love in the New Year!

Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™

RL austin

Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995

www.myRealtyLine.com

December 2011

‘Tis the season, to “shop ‘til you drop!” Dawn Schweter, Karen Williams, Tiesa Hollaway, Lisa McEntire and Bette Cook, all of North American Title, get a leg up on their holiday shopping at the company’s 5th Annual Holiday Party and Shop ‘Til You Drop event.

Buy photo: RL_120511_C.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

The Keller Williams Realty Round Rock team cooks up a pot of Hail Mary Football Chili at the Annual Independence Title Chili Cook-Off.

Buy photo: RL_120311_E.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

Some like it hot, hot, hot! Barbara McLaughlin and Gayle McLanahan, both of JB Goodwin REALTORS, work hard to keep the food warm at the company’s annual Thanksgiving Luncheon.

Buy photo: RL_120211_K.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

ROCKY CREEK

ROCKY CREEK, one of the best selling communities in the

Austin area, now has many new inventory homes ready to show your clients. Among the spectacular features Rocky Creek has to offer: Community amenities: • 300 acres of open and green space • Hill Country Views • 5,000 Linear feet of Rocky Creek frontage • Primitive hike and bike trails • Neighborhood swimming pool Now Open! • Playground and park • Exemplary Elementary & Middle Schools • Top-rated Lake Travis ISD • Nearby Hill Country

NEW INVENTORY NOW AVAILABLE Homes from the $300s

Galleria shopping

CaLL TODay,

(512) 264-2444 Mike Tvinnereim

www.DreesHomes.com

December 2011

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RL austin

Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™

Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995

David Schneider, center, of Goldwasser Real Estate takes home the honor of Salesperson of the Year from ABoR. TAR Chairman Joe Stewart of Joe R. Stewart, REALTORS and Judith Bundschuh (2011 Chairman) of Catalyst Realty present him with the award at the ABoR Installation and Awards Banquet. Buy photo: RL_121811_S.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

Norma Cowes of DHI Mortgage and Bill Roguemore of Prestige Realty help the Austin CRS Chapter raise money for a good cause at its Charity Casino Night.

Buy photo: RL_110211_B.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

Lula Leon and Kelsey Danielson, center, both of Highland Homes, make sure Sandy Cary of Capital City Sotheby’s International Realty and Kevin Elliot of Home Resource Group are having a good time at the builder’s REALTOR Appreciation Luncheon at Steiner Ranch Steakhouse.

Buy photo: RL_120211_J.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

Buy photo: RL_120111_F.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

We didn’t know you could whack a marshmallow that far! Phillip Pense of Independence Title demonstrates how to play this game where the one who hits the marshmallow the farthest wins a prize; just a little something different at the company’s annual Chili Cook-Off at its Round Rock office.

Buying a home is an important decision so make sure your financial decision is with an Industry Leader! Experienced In

usda, fHa and va loans And Staffed By

Knowledgeable, experienced, active Mortgage professionals with In-House

underwriter and processing!

Listen to the radio show “The Real Estate Zone” every Saturday from 3-4 p.m. on News Radio 590 KLBJ and 99.7 FM

Call Today! John Mcclellan Branch Manager Supreme Lending - Austin NMLS #207768 3420 Executive Center Dr. #300 Austin, TX 78731 512-279-1150 Office

Loan product availability is subject to loan amount and qualification of borrower. Not every applicant qualifies or is eligible for every loan program. Some loan products may not be available in all states. Loan approval, note rate and annual percentage rate are dependent on factors including, but not limited to, credit, collateral, income, assets and overall financial history. Not all applicants will be approved for a loan. All loan programs, terms and annual interest rates are subject to change without notice. For all other licenses, visit http://www. nmlsconsumeraccess.org/. © 2011 Everett Financial, Inc. dba Supreme Lending (NMLS ID #2129) at 14801 Quorum Dr., #300, Dallas, TX 75254. All rights reserved.

Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.â„˘

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Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995

www.myRealtyLine.com

December 2011

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Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995

Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™

J.B. Goodwin of JB Goodwin REALTORS installs Leonard Guerrero of JB Goodwin REALTORS as the ABoR's 2012 Chairman of the Board at the association's Installation and Awards Banquet held at the Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort.

Buy photo: RL_121711_Q.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

Wow, this place is nice! United Lending’s Tommy Nelms tells Brenda Scholin of Keller Williams Realty how nice her new office space is. The new Keller Williams Realty office is now located at Spectrum Crystal Park in Round Rock.

Buy photo: RL_120211_D.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com Buy photo: RL_121011_F.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

Careful, we don’t want any fingers in the chili! Traci Bannert of Independence Title chops up the veggies to include in her chili recipe at the company’s annual Chili Cook-Off.

Thank you all for your business and dedication. Best wishes to you and yours.

Happy Holidays

Sincerely, Doren, Tawanna & Naomi

RL austin

Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™

RL austin

Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995

Reliable Property Management 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 H a l e

roperty management is one of the most specialized areas of real estate, and also one of the most difficult to manage, says Terry Godbold, a master property manager, a graduate of the Texas REALTOR Leadership Program and owner/broker of Reliable Property Management, a full service residential property management company. “Not to mention, it’s a very litigious area of real estate,” Godbold says. “Unfortunately in most cases, it’s not a matter of if you’ll get sued, but when.” Reliable Property Management specializes in the professional property management of upscale homes in Austin, Kyle/Buda, Round Rock, Cedar Park, Leander, Pflugerville and Hutto, with a current average rent of $1,250 per month. Godbold, who co-owns Reliable Property Management with his wife and helped found the National Association of Residential Property Managers (NARPM) Austin Chapter, has been in real estate and property management for over 20 years. Currently the company manages about 275 properties; in the past, they have managed as many as 350. Many of RPM’s clients are REALTORS who have invested in several properties and understand the advantage of referring management out to a professional business. Approximately 30 to 50 percent of all complaints filed with the Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC) are property-

management related. Common complaints include issues like commingling funds, deposit disputes from tenants, trust account management, and other monetary issues that are not only almost inevitable, but are more easily solved by a professional. And that’s how property management has become a profession of its own. Aside from being an upscale property management company, RPM is unique because it manages property differently than most companies. Unlike many managers, real estate investment brokerage and property management are RPM’s specialties, not its sideline. RPM operates according to a very strict set of guidelines, adheres strictly to the Texas Property Code and Landlord Tenant Code, and is actively involved in elevating the industry by advocating higher professional standards and offering property management education to REALTORS. Some management companies have their own internal maintenance company. RPM considers that practice a conflict of interest, and instead contracts a team of trusted vendors — each of whom is insured and carries a liability policy naming RPM as insured in order to protect the property owners. A property manager wears many hats: people manager, employee, employer, fair housing specialist, salesperson, insurance person, leasing agent, tenant screener,

www.myRealtyLine.com application processor, rent collector, eviction and small claims specialist, bookkeeper, record keeper, trust accountant, mediator, arbitrator, psychologist, computer wiz, appraiser, financial advisor, contractor, plumber, electrician, handyman, risk and liability specialist, banker, real estate advertiser, landscaper, photographer, maid, locksmith, carpet cleaner, chauffeur, make-ready specialist, pseudo-attorney and jack of all trades. In other words, it isn’t a field you want to get into without knowing the potential risks and having the time and expertise to keep copious records and stay on top of the many issues that can arise. Godbold serves on committees at the Texas Association of REALTORS (TAR) and Austin Board of REALTORS (ABoR), where REALTORS who have an interest in learning about property management can take courses (written by certified TREC instructors) on anything from leasing agreements to leadbased paint requirements. Any REALTOR considering becoming a property manager should check out these courses — with the understanding that very soon, property management will soon be considered its own

December 2011

Terry Godbold Owner/Broker

trade in the real estate industry. Along those lines, Godbold’s next big project is working through TAR to create a standardized statewide property management curriculum. Fortunately, most of the property management companies in the greater Austin area are friendly competitors who work together with REALTORS and with the National Association of Residential Property Managers (NARPM) to elevate the profession to its highest service potential. So if you’re interested in delving in yourself — or you’d rather trust the whole thing to a professional — call Terry at 732-8388 and he’ll put you on track to do it right. RL

December 2011

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austin

Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995

Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™

Edward Farmer, Jana Dahl, Ray Weaver and Christine Choate, all of Horizon Realty, get ready to enjoy a Thanksgiving lunch with fellow colleagues at the company’s annual Thanksgiving luncheon.

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Holly Schuler, right, of Gracy Title congratulates Wendy Power of Keller Williams Realty on the grand opening of the company’s new office digs at the Spectrum Crystal Park building in Round Rock.

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Michael Markiewicz, right, of KB Home tells Noble Davis of Lakeline Realty and Ron Tata of Keller Williams Realty about all of the REALTOR incentives offered by KB Home at its agent open house at La Conterra in Georgetown.

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Can we have dessert first? Dorothy Palmore and Dellene Davis, both of JB Goodwin REALTORS, are the first in line at the dessert table at the annual JB Goodwin REALTORS Thanksgiving Luncheon.

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Candy Buzan

Max Leaman

Kim Nielsen

Amy Oehler

Branch Manager Sr. Loan Officer

Sr. Loan Officer

Trudy Savage

Mary Kennedy

Missy Driskell

Sr. Loan Officer

GREAT RATES LOW FEES

Diane M. Clark

Eiric Smith Mark Hoffman

Sr. Loan Officer

COMMUNICATION CALL (512) 238- 7888 Amanda Stewart

Misty Lynch

Jori Stern

Sherri Eckert

Loan Officer

Sr. Loan Officer

Loan Officer

810 HESTER’S CROSSING, STE 150 | ROUND ROCK, TEXAS 78681

Conventional, FHA, VA, USDA, HomePath & Jumbo just to name a few loan products! © 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, Stern 177299, 176942 Eckert 357516.

Sr. Loan Officer

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December 2011

Tommy Nelms and David McMillan, both of United Lending, join Tammy Gardner of JB Goodwin REALTORS at her office's annual Thanksgiving Luncheon…nom, nom, nom.

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Incoming WCR President-elect Chris Rodriguez of Austin Real Pros and incoming WCR Secretary Dena Hinds of RE/MAX Capital City check folks in at the November luncheon at Cool River Café.

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Meleese Mabery, right, of KB Home gives Joleen van Zanden and Beverly Roddy, both of Pacesetter Properties, a grand tour of the builder’s model homes at La Conterra in Georgetown. Buy photo: RL_120211_A.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com 1 12/6/11 1:18 PMchili to put on that dog at the company’s Do you thinkITCrlPflugervilleOL.pdf Jacque Smith of Independence Title can find some 7th Annual Chili Cook-Off?

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December 2011

Experts Speak Out

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austin

Commentary

Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995

above 96 percent, which is better than the last three years and shows again that Austin homes are not losing value.

By Cassandra Majors • Gracy Title

The Austin MSA’s population is expected to double in the next 20 years While that may seem terrifying from a traffic standpoint (time to buy a bicycle!), it’s great news for real estate. New development is not only likely, it’s going to be an absolute necessity as all of the newcomers look for a place to live. The largest growth is expected in Williamson County, so look there for great opportunities in real estate. In 2010, the census population for WilCo was 435,355. By 2030, it will be almost 1.2 million. Hays County’s population will more than double by 2040, and even Travis County’s population will reach almost 2.3 million by 2020, compared to only 1.8 million or so now. Recession or no, the greater Austin area’s population is exploding, and it’s not going to stop.

Tired of hearing the recession is over?

hey say that bad news sells better than good news, but I think the best selling news is good news about recent bad news. Since the housing crisis and subsequent recession began in 2008, not a month has gone by that some news source, economist, politician, market analyst, think tank, etc. hasn’t boldly announced that the recession is over, usually phrased, “We’ve finally hit the bottom and there’s nowhere to go but up!” It’s what we want to hear, but after a while, they all seem to be crying “wolf ” and leaving us suspicious of their expertise, not to mention their motives. The ups and downs of the economy and the real estate market specifically are very hard to predict, for sure, but how many times can we hear that everything will be okay and be disappointed when it’s not? My buddy Dr. Ted Jones, chief economist for our parent company, Stewart Title, is fond of saying that there’s no such thing as a national real estate market, and he couldn’t be more right. Even though our local economy will always be affected by the nation’s economy, the

best way to get past all the conflicting answers and politically motivated predictions is to focus on the hard data of what’s going on in our own backyard. I’ve been analyzing real estate data for Central Texas for the last three years, and I’m here to tell you: the recession isn’t over. But, there is good news and very good reasons for believing that next year’s Christmas goose will be fatter than this year’s.

Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™

Austin is adding more jobs every day According to the Austin Chamber of Commerce. Austin is now 2,800 jobs ahead of its pre-recession peak jobs total. Our unemployment rate is falling in recent months, and is now 7.1 percent, well below other major Texas cities like Dallas/Fort Worth, Houston, and San Antonio. Compared to the national unemployment rate of 8.5 percent, we’re doing very well. Without good jobs, our local real estate market would struggle to recover, but Austin has a highly educated and innovative work force, and strong indicators of an increasingly healthy job market. I’m not making any bold predictions or announcing the end of the recession. We exist in a national and global economy, and no one knows for sure what is around the corner. But I can say that as a real estate professional in the Austin market, I’m very lucky to live where I do, and I’m thrilled to be on the cusp of the exponential growth our real estate market will see in the months and years to come. RL

Austin homes have not lost their value The Austin market was hard hit by the recession, and no matter how many economists tell you that we have it better than the rest of the country, it doesn’t bring much comfort when you look at the bottom line compared to years past. Still, the fact that Austin’s median home price has continued to rise year after year is a very good sign that we have a healthy market. Though the annual median price took a small dip after 2008 ($188,200 compared to $186,000 in 2009), it has risen every year since and now stands at $191,700 for 2011. We’re also holding on to a great list-to-sold ratio just

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Being named REALTOR of the Year is no small feat. So a big congratulations goes to Joe Bryson of Real Estate Alliance, Inc. for the honor. He is shown here giving his acceptance speech at the ABoR Installation and Awards banquet at the Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort.

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Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995

Amber Hart

Keller Williams - Lake Travis

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Arlene Maze Carol Dochen REALTORS, INC.

Bertina Schreiber Moreland Properties

December 2011

Betty Hood Real Estate

Cara and Joe Keenan

Carol Burdette

Realty Austin

Gottesman Residential Real Estate

Betty Hood

Carol Dochen

Carole Martin

Chad Goldwasser

Charles Lawrence

Cord Shiflet

Dana Dean

David Schneider

Denise Bodman

Diane Kennedy

Doreen Dillard

Francie Little

Gay Puckett

Georganna Zaba

Jacquelyn Foreman

John Mick

Kathleen Bucher

Kathryn Bechtol

Kay Andrews

Kenneth Hilbig

Kent Redding

Krisstina Wise

Laura Gottesman

Laurel Prats

Leisa Ormsbee

Lisa Munoz

Luisa Mauro

Maria Barlow

Mary Battaglia

Mary Briggle

Paula Greenfield

Paula Hui

Paula Jo Pierce

Peg Braxton

Rick Payton

Rise’ Johns

Rita Keenan

Robin Hammond

Russ Phillips

Russell Tam

Ryan Rodenbeck

Shannon Schmitz

Susan Griffith

Tarek Morshed

Teresa Gouldie

Todd Smith

William Steakley

Carol Dochen REALTORS, INC.

Goldwasser Real Estate

Keller Williams Realty

Realty Austin

Goldwasser Real Estate

Coldwell Banker United REALTOR

Keller Williams Realty

Coldwell Banker United REALTOR

Moreland Properties

Keller Williams Realty

Gottesman Residential Real Estate

J.B. Goodwin, REALTORS

Congratulations 2011 Platinum Top 50 Realtors! Meet the 2011 Platinum Top 50 Realtors online and learn how you can find or become a PT50 REALTOR at pt50austin.com

Keller Williams - Lake Travis

Gottesman Residential Real Estate

Realty Austin

Texas Platinum Properties

Turnquist Partners, REALTORS

John Horton Realty

Deb Groom

Newcomer of the Year Keller Williams

Coldwell Banker United REALTOR

Prudential Texas Realty

Marathon Real Estate

Turnquist Partners, REALTORS

Keller Williams Realty

Coldwell Banker United REALTOR

JB Goodwin

Broker of the Year JB Goodwin REALTORS

RE/MAX Capital City

The Goodlife Team

J.B. Goodwin, REALTORS

Keller Williams - Lake Travis

ASHLAUR Real Estate Inc

Fine Austin Living, REALTORS

Ken Pearcy

Trainer of the Year Coldwell Banker United

Keller Williams Realty

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Turnquist Partners, REALTORS

Spyglass Realty

DEN Property Group

Mona Crum

Manager of the Year Turnquist Partners

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Moreland Properties

Keller Williams Realty Lake Travis

Turnquist Partners, REALTORS

Amelia Bullock, REALTORS

J.B. Goodwin, REALTORS

Coldwell Banker United REALTOR

Moreland Properties

Amelia Bullock, REALTORS

December 2011

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RL austin

Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995

Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™

Amber Emerson Thomas of Platinum Top 50 REALTORS congratulates J.B. Goodwin of JB Goodwin REALTORS on his award for Broker of the Year from the Platinum Top 50 REALTORS group at its Awards Ceremony at Austin Music Hall.

Buy photo: RL_121511_K.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

Who let the dogs out? Bill Meyer of Newland Communities shows Megan Turnipseed of Keller Williams Realty and Sean Chandler of Lennar Homes around the new dog park at the developer’s Falcon Pointe community in Pflugerville. Newland Communities hosted a “Yappy Hour” to kick off the opening of the new park. Buy photo: RL_120211_F.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com Buy photo: RL_120811_C.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

LAND...LAND...LAND • Ranch Management • Oil and Gas Management Services • Farm and Ranch Brokerage • Land and Livestock Consultation • Live and Timed Land Auctions

We hope Kirby Parsons insurance is current. This Coldwell Banker United REALTORS agent takes some risky measures to decorate his booth at Independence Title’s 7th Annual Chili Cook-Off.

25 Years of Service Arboretum Branch 4807 Spicewood Springs Rd., Bldg. 1, Ste 1100

(512) 450-1222 Steve Builta Martin Ochs Branch Manager Mortgage Planner Kat Carter Mortgage Banker

Rick Baron Mortgage Banker

Monty Meusch • Area Sales Manager, Auctioneer Phone: (817) 600-9485 11933 Palisades Parkway Austin, Texas 78732 MMeusch@FarmersNational.com

Lisa Forte Loan Officer

Lynn Edgar Mortgage Consultant

Kimberly Altier Rosemary Jennings Sr. Loan Officer Loan Officer Westlake Branch 950 Westbank Drive, Suite 104

(512) 615-6499 Bradley Rife Cindy Fenley Branch Manager Senior Loan Originator

Serving America’s Landowners Since 1929

www.FarmersNational.com Real Estate Sales • Auctions • Farm and Ranch Management Appraisal • Insurance • Consultation • Oil and Gas Management Lake Management • National Hunting Leases

Hometrust Mortgage Company

Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™

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Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995

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December 2011

HigHland Homes

Realtor Rewards

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The Platinum Top 50 REALTORS group honors its 2011 inductees at its award ceremony at Austin Music Hall.

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. Buy photo: RL_120611_G.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

ABoR’s Immediate-Past Chairman Judith Bundschuh congratulates Anita Farrell of Keller Williams Realty who is taking the helm as president of the Women’s Council of REALTORS. The two visit at WCR’s November luncheon at Cool River Café.

The Keller Williams Lake Travis Market Center has

Whatever your niche, we’ve got you covered. So what are you waiting for? Allow us to say “Welcome to the family.”

The Ranch at Brushy Creek

From the $600s 512-266-7117

From the $250s 512-255-4454

Whitestone oaks

Belterra

From the $330s 512-310-7911

Crystal Falls

Commons at Rowe lane From the $150s

From the low $200s 512-260-8333 LAKE GEORGETOWN

Rocky Creek

arbor Place

From the $210s 512-260-2222

aspen Hills and mesa Verde Hills From the low $300s 183 512-301-9110 3

steiner Ranch

The Views From the $230s 512-432-0200

“Got It All Under One Roof!” ~ Farm & Ranch • KW Commercial • Luxury Homes • Residential ~

Belterra

LIBERTY HILL

From the $330s 512-303-0112

512-251-8900

35 29

1460

TAYLOR

2243

highlandhomes.com HUTTO 2243

LEANDER

183

Old

Sam Bass Road

1431 183A

620

TO LL

La Frontera

Whitestone Blvd. Lakeline Mall

9 Commons Parkway

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Rowe Lane

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Round Rock Express

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PFLUGERVILLE 130

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Samsung

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290

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2244

BEECAVE

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3238

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183

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Zilker Park

AUSTIN Town Lake

Park way

Scenic Brook

290 1826

LOOP

290

Round Rock – 255.5050 Northwest – 346.3550 Southwest – 448.4111

130

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. Ben White Blvd

Mary Lynne Gibbs Lake Travis – 263.9090

GEORGETOWN

Austin ABIA Bergstrom Int’l Airport

1 2

*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

December 2011

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RL austin

Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995

Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.â„˘

Kristin Clardy of Venta Financial, Jim Vosseller of Streetman Homes and Kelea Piper of Champions School of Real Estate attend the NAHREP installation reception at Design with Consignment.

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ABoR Foundation officers take their oath at the ABoR Installation and Awards Banquet. The event was held at the Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort.

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Michele Turnquist, far right, of Turnquist Partners, REALTORS congratulates her agents on winning Platinum Top 50 REALTORS awards. Pictured are Rick Payton, Mona Crum, Kathryn Bechtol, Laurel Prats, Shannon Schmitz, Paula Pierce and Robin Hammond.

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The Marc Jacobs handbag catches the attention of Lauren Powell at the Highland Homes REALTOR Appreciation Luncheon. Highland Homes' Jean Ann Brock presents the item as a token of appreciation.

Welcoming Back ~ Clive Hambrook ~ Starkey Mortgage (WR Starkey Mortgage, LLP) is an independently owned correspondent mortgage bank. Specializing in conventional and government home loans. In-house processing, underwriting and funding allow us to simplify and expedite the approval process.

Clive Hambrook

Production Partner to Eddie Rinehart and Julie Black NMLSR # 190073 Office: 512-329-9040 chambrook@starkeymortgage.com

Starkey Mortgage WR Starkey Mortgage LLP NMLSR# 2146 807 Las Cimas Parkway Suite 150 Austin, Texas 78746

WR Starkey Mortgage, LLP NMLSR #2146. This is not a guarantee of financing. All borrowers must meet certain underwriting guidelines and credit criteria Rules and Regulations may apply.

Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.â„˘

RL austin

Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995

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December 2011

Real Estate News & Notes RE/MAX Capital City welcomes Shanna Schneider as marketing director for its three Austin offices Jeff Osborne, owner and broker of RE/ MAX Capital City, an award winning and top producing real estate team, welcomes Shanna Schneider to the Austin team. Shanna joins RE/MAX Capital City as its marketing director for its three Austin area offices which include North Austin, Cedar Park and Round Rock. Shanna will be responsible for overseeing both marketing and agent development/recruitment for the Austin area. Prior to joining RE/MAX Capital City, Shanna worked for over 10 years in real estate marketing for area home builders. In her most recent position,

Shanna managed the marketing for Highland Homes and was employed by Wilshire Homes as the regional m a r k e t i n g manager for over eight years. Her experience is enhanced by her bachelor’s degree in business with a marketing major from Texas State University. RL

RE/MAX Austin Broker/Owner Mark Minchew influences industry as new CRS president Mark Minchew is the new president of the Council of Residential Specialists and was honored at the 2011 REALTORS Conference and Expo in Anaheim, CA. The CRS is a national organization of more than 33,000 CRS designees that grants the designation. “RE/MAX International’s Vinnie Tracy and Margaret Kelly were there to install me and my officers,” Minchew said. “They spoke highly of the fine RE/MAX organization in Texas. All of the officers and EO for TAR were present as was the Austin and Arlington Board of REALTORS." Minchew began his real estate career in 1977. In the past 17 years, Minchew has served more than 2,000 homeowners. He holds seven NAR designations and has a masters degree from

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Baylor University. He served as a GRI instructor and is a certified MCE instructor. He was inducted into the NAR fraternity Omega Tau Rho in 1997 and is a RPAC Gold, President’s Circle member. He was awarded the CRS President’s Award in 2007 and the CRS Medallion Award in 2005. He is a Lifetime Achievement Award recipient for the Women’s Council of REALTORS as well as RE/MAX International and still lists and sells homes every day. RL

austin

Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™

Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995

Karl G. Jennings joins Smart Source/Chris Warren Realty Smart Source Realty/Chris Warren Realty announces the addition of Karl G. Jennings Jr. as property manager/accounts owner. Karl has 16 years of property management experience and currently manages 81 accounts. Karl is currently a member of the National Association of Residential Property Managers and has earned his Residential

Man a ge m e nt Professional

(RMP)

designation as well as served the local NARPM chapter as secretary for the last two years. RL

Marie Jackson and Marlene Ladusky join JBGoodwin REALTORS JB Goodwin REALTORS is pleased to announce that top producing and long-time Central Texas REALTORS Marie Jackson and Marlene Ladusky joined their firm. Marie Jackson has 18 plus years experience and has handled every kind of real estate transaction, from the first-time home buyer to luxury home seller, from the most basic to the highly complex. Her background of more than 20 years in mortgage sales and management enhances the range of service she provides. She can be reached by phone at 502-7892 or by e-mail at mariejackson@jbgoodwincom Marlene has been a REALTOR since 1992 and has worked with several real estate companies with an extensive background in

leasing and sales. Her experiences have prepared her to be able to understand the challenges involved in finding the right home Marie Jackson and to assist clients through the process. She can be reached by phone at 502-7866 or by e-mail at mladusky@ jbgoodwin.com Jackson and Ladusky Marlene Ladusky both work at JB Goodwin REALTORS' Northwest location at 3933 Steck Ave. Ste. B-110. RL

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Thank you for the

best gift of all...

A special thank you to fellow REALTORS® for your referrals over the years. You have helped us to establish ourselves as the premier management firm for single-family homes, condos and duplexes.

512.794.8171 • www.alpsmgmt.com Austin Landmark Property Services, Inc., CRMC® REALTORS®

Rick Ebert MPM® RMP®

Karen Ebert MPM® RMP®

Mike Ebert RMP®

Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.â„˘

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Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995

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December 2011

Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™

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Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995

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December 2011

The Horizon Realty group wishes everyone "Happy Holidays" at the annual office Thanksgiving luncheon.

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John Leach of JB Goodwin REALTORS holds one of nine fried turkeys about to be fed to the army of agents at the company’s 28th Annual Thanksgiving Luncheon.

Buy photo: RL_120211_C.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

Buy photo: RL_120311_C.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

Yee haw … we think these Dixie chicks put a little white lightnin’ in their chili! Stacy Amezquita, Molly Avila and Leisa Ormsbee, all of JB Goodwin REALTORS, cook some chili with a secret sauce at the 7th Annual Independence Title Chili Cook-Off.