in this issue…
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• WCREALTORS Golf Tournament • HBA Crawfish Boil • WCR Austin Wild West REALTORS • Monticello Homes Grand Opening at Bunker Ranch Estates • & Much, Much More!
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JUNE 2018 • VOLUME 23 • ISSUE 2
Agent advises to 'stay in your lane' when selling divorced listings By Riki Markowitz
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here’s a pretty lucrative niche real estate category that in some markets seems to be hiding in plain sight. Many agents in this field say that getting just one listing for a couple in the process of terminating their marriage can lead to more word-of-mouth referrals. And after a divorce finalizes and the sale closes, there’s also the possibility that one or both partners may retain your services to purchase a new home. On paper, it sounds like a win-win situation
all around. But in a saying popularized by the social media generation, it’s complicated. Justine Smith, a broker/owner at Moxie Realty Group, says that working with a couple that is not on speaking terms can have a negative effect on everyone. “It can be very adversarial and it’s definitely stressful,” says Smith, who is a certified divorce real estate specialist (CDRES). “Sometimes they even try to use you as a pawn.” She adds, somewhat tonguein-cheek, “I think every agent should have a degree in counseling.” Many certified divorce specialists in the real estate field suggest getting some training in mediation. In the U.S., 1.2 million couples get divorced every year, according to Carol Ann Wilson, a certified financial divorce practitioner who has been working in this category for more than two decades. Of these divorce cases, more than 70 percent involve either selling a home, buying a home or both. Each year, an entirely new group of one-million-plus couples starts the process anew. So there’s always a demand for agents experienced in this field. Before you jump in feet first, like every real estate category, there is a lot of information that divorcing clients need to know and it is the agent’s job to explain it, such as relevant capital tax gains laws and exclusion rules, rights and deadlines. Clients also need to know the advantages of selling their home and filing a joint tax
Featured Event June 28th, 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. Blackburn Communities: Grand Opening The Crossing at Wells Branch
return while still technically married, versus a post-divorce sale and filing individual tax returns. If they want to sell before the divorce is finalized, there’s not a lot of time to waste on arguments and settling scores. In these transactions, there’s often a third or fourth party that can help you inch your clients toward closing. Each partner’s divorce attorney can step in when heated emotions are interfering with your job. Christy Gessler, broker/owner at Freedom
512 Real Estate Group, said she was working on selling a home in rural Burnet County. “The husband and wife could never agree on a sale price,” she says. “They always wanted to sell much higher, even if it wasn’t reasonable.” When you have angry – maybe even vindictive – ex-spouses for clients, the agent is almost like a proxy for one partner. While Gessler presented her clients with an unbiased, fair-market
Front Page: Continued on page 28
Features of the Month Column: ABoR—It's summer and time for school!. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 4 Column: WCREALTORS—I Don't! What to do when clients divorce. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . pg. 7 Column: HBA—Mid-Year Housing Forecast tickets available while they last. . . . . . . . pg. 17 Column: Women's Council—Selling divorced listings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . pg. 20 Expert Commentary: Something to think about when buying real estate investments. . pg. 22 Associates in Progress: Deerbrooke in Leander . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . pg. 25 Associates in Progress: SouthStar Bank. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . pg. 27 Column: RRC—Take great care when selling divorced listings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . pg. 31 Upcoming Events. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . pg. 33
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A HIGHER LEVEL OF EXPERTISE
When experience matters. Stewart Title of Austin, LLC Round Rock – Sam Bass 2007 Sam Bass Rd., Ste. 100 Round Rock, TX 78681 512.244.2946 main 512.238.0574 fax stewart.com/austin
© 2018 Stewart. All rights reserved.
Pam Freydenfeldt Branch Manager/Sr. Escrow Officer
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Not all transactions are created equal – they are as varied and diverse as the parties involved. That’s why you need a business partner with a proven track record of success. With over 50 years of title experience between us, you can be confident in our ability to expertly navigate any real estate transaction with skill and finesse. We know that when it comes to real estate in Central Texas, anything can happen. Our comprehensive knowledge of title is reinforced by our access to the latest industry technology and a global network of resources, which helps us avoid potential obstacles before they arise. We have an established history of minimizing risk so you and your clients can enjoy a more rewarding closing experience – come by and see us today.
Barbara Jamerson Escrow Officer
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June 2018 www.myRealtyLine.com Austin Board of REALTORS®
President’s Column By Steve Crorey • 2018 President
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bit.ly/ABoRPrepCourse. Finally, learn valuable economic insights that you can take back with you into the field at ABoR’s Central Texas Economic Forecast with Dr. Jim Gaines, chief economist at the Real Es-
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tate Center at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, June 27 at Texas A&M University. This ABoR Forum is always well attended, so RSVP now before seats fill up at ABoR.com/JuneForum. Until next time … have a great summer! RL
EVENTS & EDUCATION:
MORE AT ABOR.COM
It's summer and time for...SCHOOL!!
S
ummer is here, and so is the peak selling season in Central Texas. In a fast-paced industry like ours, it can sometimes be difficult for REALTORS – especially newer agents – to set themselves apart from the crowd and maintain a strong career. It takes more than motivation and creativity to succeed. Experienced REALTORS will tell you that long-term success also requires a commitment to ongoing education – staying on top of industry trends as well as differentiating yourself by earning relevant designations and certifications. So while you’re making your summer vacation plans, I encourage you to set aside a few days for yourself and your business by enrolling in an ABoR Academy course or designation. As one of the largest REALTOR education programs in the state, the award-winning ABoR Academy offers more than 600 classes and 15 different designations and certifications each year (many of them by fellow REALTORS)! What’s more, there are always new courses coming to the ABoR Academy. Starting next month, the ABoR Academy will offer two path-
ways for new agents to knock out the 90 hours of Salesperson Apprentice Education (SAE) coursework that’s required for all new agents — the Graduate REALTOR Institute (GRI) designation and the SAE Program! New to the ABoR Academy, the SAE program offers three, 30hour courses that provide a strong foundation for building your real estate career, including: • Property Management in Texas • Texas Essentials of Real Estate Investment • Sales and Marketing 101 for Real Estate Professionals New agents can save $25 by enrolling in all three SAE courses now. Learn more at ABoR.com/SAE. A designation isn’t the only way you can elevate your business. Are you interested in becoming a real estate broker? Highly recommended by previous students, ABoR’s Real Estate Licensing Prep Course will guide you through organized curriculum and provide study tips to pass the exam. Register for one of the ABoR Academy’s two upcoming Prep Courses June 29-30 and August 10-11 at
Events June 21: TREPAC Movie Night, Alamo Drafthouse South Lamar, 5 to 9:30 p.m. June 27: ABoR Forum: Central Texas Economic Forecast, 10 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. June 29 – 30: Real Estate Licensing Prep Course, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Education June 21: Pricing Strategies: Mastering the CMA (TREC #29351) June 21: New Home Construction Inspections (TREC #33371) June 26: TREC Legal Update I (TREC #33197) June 27: TREC Legal Update II (TREC #33198) June 28: Real Estate Investing: Building Wealth Representing Investors (TREC #32372) July 4: ABoR Offices Closed – Independence Day July 9: TREC Legal Update I (TREC #33197) July 11: GRI Contracts to Closing (4-day class) (TREC #420) July 11: GRI Real Estate Marketing (4-day class) (TREC #0556) July 16: Real Estate investment (TREC#911) July 16: Broker Responsibility (TREC#31450) July 17: TREC Legal Update I (TREC#33197) July 17: TREC Legal Update II (TREC#33198) July 20: MLS on the Go: Mobile Tools You Can Use (TREC#34587) July 23: TREC Legal Update II (TREC#33198) July 24: TREC Legal Update I (TREC#33197) July 24: TREC Legal Update II (TREC#33198)
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Romeo Manzanilla of Realty Austin joins ABoR president Steve Crory and other fellow ABoR members at the Come and Taste It Beer Tasting and TREPAC fundraiser at Austin Beerworks.
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Santa Rita Ranch developer Ed Horne wishes Randall Deavers of Coldwell Banker United REALTORS the best of luck. He qualified for the $10,000 Cash Giveaway at the Santa Rita Ranch Rockin' REALTOR Home Tour.
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Taco Bout a Fiesta! The First American Title team has some fun with the theme at their Cinco de Mayo open house where you can get a "2fer the price of one Ernie!" Pictured are Kelly Murphy, Ernie Perez, Denise Vincent and Sarah Tallman.
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At Belterra, outside possibilities are a sure thing.
Boya Osburn of Team Price Real Estate learns what Trendmaker Homes is selling in Headwaters in Dripping Springs. Lisa Vandenberg with Trendmaker Homes tells her the homes there are Hill Country Modern and start in the $390s.
Explore miles of hike and bike trails
New Amenities, Schools and Models
Neighborhoods from the $300s - $800s
Brookfield Residential I Drees Custom Homes I Highland Homes I Scott Felder Homes Sitterle Homes I Toll Brothers I Trendmaker Homes I Wilshire Homes
469.513.5600 I belterratexas.com
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Williamson County Assoc. of REALTORS®
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President’s Column By Victoria Reviel • 2018 President
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June 2018
process and they can remain calm. For highly charged divorce situations, multiply this feeling by 10 or 11.
Don’t become emotionally involved in their divorce
I Don't! What to do when clients divorce
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ccording to government statistics, 1,200,000 couples get divorced each year and a whopping 61 percent of all divorcees end up having to list their home for sale. This is an emotional and difficult time to need to sell a home. Keep calm, stay professional and negotiate with both spouses so you can help them to get the home sold and each of them can go their separate ways and start anew.
Get everything in writing Communicate to both parties via e-mail as much as possible, so there’s always a written record. For phone and in person meetings, you will want to write down everything exactly as you are hearing it. This is a highly emotional situation, and you may be called to prove what you said or did not say.
Keep calm and be patient REALTORS are used to assessing the “best plan of action” to work with the couple. This includes things such as getting the documents signed, preparing the home to be shown, get-
ting the lockbox and sign in the yard. But in a divorce situation, getting approval on almost anything requires that you exercise extreme patience with two often-disagreeable people. You must listen to both sides Allow clients to talk for as long as they need to talk. Then, repeat what they said and add, “This is what I heard. Is that correct?” Quite often, when they hear their own words, the entire situation calms down, and you can then proceed.
Have a plan for sabotage Many times, one spouse does not want to sell the house, but there may be a court order to do so. Anger may cause hard feelings to come out and ruin parts of the house – or they sabotage an open house by not keeping the house clean. Keep them focused on a new beginning.
Follow up, again and again You need to let the couple know about what's happening so they know the selling
You getting drawn into their relationship problems is a huge mistake. Make sure you focus solely on getting all the parties to the closing table and on to their new lives. If you feel like you can’t resist getting personally involved, consider referring the work to another sales associate.
Learning more The Texas Association of REALTORS has published two articles on how to tackle clients who are divorcing (Texas REALTORS Magazine November 2012 and October 2017). The Texas Association of REALTORS also has
a wonderful Legal Hotline you can call with questions (800-873-9155). If you want to take your knowledge to the next level, there is even a designation/certification offered through Real Estate Divorce Specialists - more information about this course can be found at http://www.realestatedivorcespecialist.com. No matter your involvement in the situation, make sure you are always following Article 11 of the NAR Code of Ethics – “REALTORS shall not undertake to provide specialized professional services concerning a type of property or service that is outside their field of competence unless they engage the assistance of one who is competent on such types of property or service, or unless the facts are fully disclosed to the client”. Happy selling, and I look forward to seeing each of you at the East Side Story Bus Tour on June 20th! RL
Event & Education Schedule
Register at www.wcaor.org
June
July
21
Advanced Matrix CTXMLS
10
Intro to Matrix
22
Legal Update II
11
Farming with Realist
22
Business on a Shoestring Budget
12
Broker Responsibility
26
Business Planning for Realtors
16
Matrix Listing Input
17
28
Intro to PIDs Lunch & Learn
Accredited Buyer Representative Designation Course
29
Turbo Charge CMA
18
Essential of Septic
MY WHY?
I’m selective about who I work for. So, when I heard about the origins of RE/MAX, I was intrigued. Their North Star was simple, yet radical: pay agents what they deserve. And that I can get behind.
Why RE/MAX? Their story is my why. ©2018 RE/MAX, LLC. Each office is independently owned and operated. 18_300076
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Networking is one of the primary pillars of business success. That's why John Little of Maxavenue, Ed Cortes of Guild Mortgage and Mark Hairston of Caliber Home Loans make their rounds at the Home Builders Association's annual Crawfish Boil Builder/ REALTOR mixer.
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Chanti Derrick of New Western Real Estate signs up a new agent at the Champions School of Real Estate Career Fair.
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Sometimes it takes two to get the job done! Sarah and Kyle Hughes of Hughes Realty tangle with the wristbands at the Santa Rita Ranch Rockin' REALTOR Home Tour where they tour 12 builders with prices ranging from the $190s to the $700s.
Come As You Are “Classic Realty is a small, friendly agency. Agents can specialize in different fields of interest and productivity and you can work the way you want to.”
Classic Realty offers numerous benefits to support our agents including: Transaction Manager, Reimbursement for Designations, Paperless Filing System, Lead Tools to build your own database and High splits/Low caps
NOW ACCEPTING NEW AGENTS
Stop by for a tour of our new Round Rock office. MyClassicRealty.com | 512-341-0049
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Our Biggest Strength in the Industry is Our People
www.austintitle.com
Deborah Eagan
Amy Weaver
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SVP, Escrow Manager 512-459-7222
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AUSTIN TITLE NORTH MOPAC OFFICE 9600 NORTH MOPAC EXPRESSWAY, STE. 125 AUSTIN, TX 78759 / 512-459-7222
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These two are no strangers to the annual mudbug ritual. Nicole Torres-Cooke of Schmooze Networking and Patricia Perez of DHI Mortgage show some folks how to get it done, much like they do in business. They chowed down at the Home Builders Association's annual Crawfish Boil Builder/REALTOR mixer at Bryson. Download Photo: RL_060618_K.jpg for FREE at www.myrealtyline.com
Dale Ly n n of Trendmaker Homes shows Deanna Scott of Keller Williams Realty how all their homesites in Headwaters have a greenbelt or Hill Country view.
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ABOR Foundation Directors and hard working students celebrate getting their scholarships. Download Photo: RL_060418_D.jpg for FREE at www.myrealtyline.com
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1310 S 1st Street, Suite 100, Austin TX 78704 512-458-3730 ofc / 512-458-3736 fax info@austinrealpros.com www.austinrealpros.com
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Where there's Bill Evans of Austin Real Pros, there is fun with a sprinkle of nuts. He's pictured with Sandy Bednar of Distinct Austin Properties drooling over the craft beers at Austin Beerworks where the Austin Board of REALTORS hosted its Come and Taste It TREPAC fundraiser.
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EARN MORE!
BONUSES | REWARDS
Sales Event Through June 24 $5,000 bonus for Quick Delivery & Move-In Ready Homes sold at participating communities.* Your clients can get into a new home before school starts! LEANDER
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ADVANCES 50% Advance Commission Program‡
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For more details on all communities & homes available for quick delivery, visit TollBrothers.com/RealtyLine Open Mon.–Sat. 10 am–6 pm, Sun. 12 pm–6 pm. Real estate agents are required to register and to accompany clients on their initial visit. Brokers welcome. Prices subject to change without notice. Program subject to change or cancellation. Investor sales do not qualify. Other restrictions may apply. This is not an offering where prohibited by law. *For licensed real estate agents only. Available on select quick delivery homes under construction and select move-in ready homes only in Sarita Valley, Travisso and Mason Hills. Offer, if any, is valid for new buyers who purchase a home in a participating community in Texas and deposit between 6/9/18 and 6/24/18, sign an agreement of sale, and close on the home. All bonuses will be paid after client settles on home. Offers, incentives, and seller contributions, if any, vary by community and are subject to certain terms, conditions, and restrictions, including but not limited to the availability of home sites. Other restrictions may apply. See sales manager for details. †Subject to employing broker’s approval. Extra Earnings Program for Agents valid on contracts signed between 9/1/17–10/31/18. Bonuses on third, and all subsequent sales are capped at 5%. See sales manager for details. In accordance with Texas Occupations Code Sec. 1101.651(d), all broker’s fees, including BTSAs, are payable to a real estate broker directly and not to a licensed salesperson. 1.5% of the 3% will be paid under the Advance Commission Program and the 1.5% balance will be paid after closing. All/Any additional bonuses earned will be paid at closing and accounted for on the buyer’s Closing Disclosure. ‡Advance Commission Program is valid on contracts signed after 11/1/16. **Relocation Referral Fee Reimbursement Program — eligible referrals must be from outside the Austin area.
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Alyson DeMaio of Better Homes and Gardens Realty and Dave Snowberger of Keller Williams Realty make their way to the Scott Felder Homes model in Santa Rita Ranch while on the Rockin' REALTOR home tour.
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Womens Council of REALTORS members boot scoot across the dance floor at the organization's Wild West REALTORS event at Wild West in Cedar Park.
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Receive a 3% commission on your first closing.
Receive a 1% bonus in addition to your 3% commission on your second closing!*
Receive a 2% bonus in addition to your 3% commission on your third and subsequent closings!*
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Shane Solhtalab and Brian Hill, both of Security National Mortgage, both have loans and skills to get to the finish line. They teamed up at the WCREALTORS annual golf tournament.
Get that Felder Feeling when you sell a new Scott Felder Home! With the Scott Felder Homes 2018 Realtor Loyalty Program, your buyers will quickly embrace our “Choose It. Love It. Live It.” promotion that allows them to enjoy the best we have to offer. CHOOSE from a variety of excellent new home locations and prices. LOVE all our award-winning home designs and interior options. And they LIVE in a home built just for them that will provide value for years to come.
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ScottFelderHomes.com New homes from the $200s-$600s
*All qualified sales must be original Scott Felder Homes (“SFH”) contracts written between January 1, 2018 and November 30, 2018. Sell ONE home and you’re enrolled in SFH’s Co-Broker Loyalty Program! Sell TWO homes between 1/1/18 and 11/30/18 and qualify for a 1% bonus on your 2nd SFH closing. Sell THREE homes between 1/1/18 and 11/30/18 and qualify for a 2% bonus, entitling you to a 5% total commission on your third, and all subsequent closings for the remainder of 2018! Bonus Percentage will be dictated by order of closing: 3% upon first closing, 4% upon 2nd closing, and 5% upon third closing and thereafter between 1/1/2018 and 12/31/2018. All bonuses will be noted on the Closing Disclosure (“CD”) and will be paid at closing. Payments of commissions and bonuses will only be made to actively licensed Texas Brokers. Broker’s commission cannot be used to reduce the price of the home and is only valid if Broker accompanies and registers its client on the first visit to any SFH Austin Division Community during the bonus promotion period AND Broker’s client enters into a new sales agreement for an eligible available home during the bonus promotion period. Bonus paid to Broker upon client’s successful closing and funding and is based on the ORIGINAL contract price as stated in the Sales Agreement, excluding any Seller incentives, subsequent change orders, re-writes, or upgrades. While commission bonuses cannot be used to reduce sales price, Broker may elect to waive participation in the 3%-4%-5% bonus program and apply its Broker bonus, in all or part, towards purchaser’s closing costs. May not be combined with any other Broker bonuses or offers. No team sales: only individual selling agent may qualify. Broker is responsible for all applicable taxes. Please see a SFH Sales Associate for complete details.
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MARK HAIRSTON
When You Want It Done Right the First Time!
The 13 Behaviors as described in
“The Speed of Trust – The One Thing That Changes Everything” by Stephen M.R. Covey
1 TALK STRAIGHT
Tell the truth and leave the right impression. Be honest. Let people know where you stand. Use simple language. Call things what they are. Demonstrate integrity. Don’t manipulate people or distort facts. Don’t spin the truth. Don’t leave false impressions.
3 CREATE TRANSPARENCY
2 DEMONSTRATE RESPECT
Genuinely care for others. Show you care. Respect the dignity of every person and every role. Treat everyone with respect, especially those who can’t do anything for you. Show kindness in the little things. Don’t fake caring. Don’t attempt to be “efficient” with people.
4 RIGHTS WRONGS
Tell the truth in a way people can verify. Get real and genuine. Be open and authentic. Err on the side of disclosure. Operate on the premise of “What you see is what you get.” Don’t have hidden agendas. Don’t hide information.
5 SHOW LOYALTY
Make things right when you’re wrong. Apologize quickly. Make restitution where possible. Practice “service recoveries.” Demonstrate personal humility. Don’t cover things up. Don’t let pride get in the way of doing the right thing.
6 DELIVER RESULTS
Give credit freely. Acknowledge the contributions of others. Speak about people as if they were present. Represent others who aren’t there to speak for themselves. Don’t bad‐mouth others behind their backs. Don’t disclose others’ private information.
7 GET BETTER
Establish a track record of results. Get the right the things done. Make things happen. Accomplish what you’re hired to do. Be on time and within budget. Don’t overpromise and under deliver. Don’t make excuses for not delivering.
8 CONFRONT REALITY
Continuously improve. Increase your Capabilities. Be a constant learner. Develop feedback systems – both formal and informal. Act on the feedback you receive. Thank people for feedback. Don’t consider yourself above feedback. Don’t assume today’s knowledge and skills will be sufficient for tomorrow’s challenges.
9 CLARIFY EXPECTATIONS
Address the tough stuff directly. Acknowledge the unsaid. Lead out courageously in conversation. Remove the “sword from their hands.” Don’t skirt the real issues. Don’t bury your head in the sand.
10 PRACTICE ACCOUNTABILITY
Disclose and reveal expectations. Discuss them. Validate them. Renegotiate them if needed and possible. Don’t violate expectations. Don’t assume that expectations are clear or shared.
Hold yourself accountable. Hold others accountable. Take responsibility for results. Be clear on how you’ll communicate how you’re doing – and how others are doing. Don’t avoid or shirk responsibility. Don’t blame others or point fingers when things go wrong.
11 LISTEN FIRST
12 KEEP COMMITMENTS
Listen before you speak. Understand. Diagnose. Listen with your ears – and your eyes and heart. Find out what the most important behaviors are to the people you’re working with. Don’t assume you know what matters most to others. Don’t presume you have all the answers – or all the questions.
Say what you’re going to do, then do what you say you’re going to do. Make commitments carefully and keep them. Make keeping commitments the symbol of your honor. Don’t break confidences. Don’t attempt to “PR” your way out of a commitment you’ve broken.
13 EXTEND TRUST Demonstrate a propensity to trust. Extend trust abundantly to those who have earned your trust. Extend conditionally to those who are earning your trust. Learn how to appropriately extend trust to others based on the situation, risk, and credibility (character and competence) of the people involved. But have a propensity to trust. Don’t withhold trust because there is risk involved.
Mark Hairston
Senior Loan Officer (NMLS#221417)
512-789-6967 MarkHairston.com
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June 2018 www.myRealtyLine.com
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Red Bull didn't give these girls their wings, Freedom did – Freedom 512 Real Estate that is. Michelle Gundlach-Cowen, Christy Gessler and Amy Kobza, all of Freedom 512 Real Estate – a brokerage of the people, for the people. Download Photo: RL_061018_D.jpg for FREE at www.myrealtyline.com
Even a seasoned pro like Neal Barnes of Starstate Realty can learn new tricks. Diana Lynne of The Real Estate Business School fka Austin Institute of Real Estate invites him to visit with her to set up a continuing education plan. They caught up at the WCR Austin Wild West event. Download Photo: RL_061118_F.jpg for FREE at www.myrealtyline.com
Mike Wittenburg of Monticello Homes welcomes April Mayo of Mayo Properties, Cindy Reeder of RE/ MAX Capital City and Diane Christy of Diane Christy REALTORS to the new model home in Bunker Ranch Estates in Dripping Springs. The builder offers homes on acreage homesites in the luxury masterplanned community starting in the $530s.
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A little obsessed with his crawfish, ABoR President Steve Crory asks if he can have 100 more mudbugs like this one. He attended the Home Builders Association's annual Crawfish Boil Builder/REALTOR mixer at Bryson in Leander.
512-244-3545 ChampionsSchool.com/Austin
INSIDER'S GUIDE TO COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE $119 JUL 11 - 12 Wed: 8:30 am - 6:45 PM Thu: 8:30 am - 5:30 PM
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• 8-Hour TREC Legal Update I & II
• 8-Hour TREC Legal Update I & II
• 6-Hour Broker Responsibility
• Types of Investors
• 4-Hour Texas Common Legal Issues
119
• Valuation of Properties
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• Commercial Contracts • Property Management
Classroom
STRATEGIES FOR CAREER EXCELLENCE JUL 12 - 13
ABR DESIGNATION PROGRAM
18-Hour program includes:
JUL 9 - 10
• 8-Hour TREC Legal Update I & II • Technology Update & Artificial Intelligence >
Mon/Tue: 8:30 am - 5:00 pm
• Success Strategies
New Home Construction
119
Classroom
Online
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$
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Broker Responsibility #06-06-128-31450; Policies & Procedures #02-00-078-31025; Strategies #08-00-129-33534; Tech Update #02-00-129-33533; Legal I #04-04-129-33197; Legal II #04-04-129-33198; Gen Selling #02-00-088-31156; TIL #02-00-129-33532; ABR: #15-00-059-32481; NHC: #08-00-119-33502; Insiders: #10-00-129-33555; Open to the Public TREC #0005
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June 2018
Guaranteed Rate welcomes one of Austin’s top producers Say hello to John Schutze! The mortgage industry is changing fast! Clients want more clarity, control and value. I believe Guaranteed Rate is 3 years ahead of the competition in providing an industry leading digital mortgage process, innovative programs and amazing rates. The digital mortgage process puts the borrower in the driver’s seat.”
16+ 2017 BY AUSTIN MONTHLY YEARS OF EXPERIENCE
MORTGAGE PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR
$312M VOLUME
CAREER
1500 CLIENTS AND COUNTING
Your clients deserve the best of the best. Contact John today!
John Schutze Branch Manager
O: (737) 443-4423 C: (512) 775-6820 john.schutze@rate.com • Rate.com/johnschutze
John Schutze NMLS ID: 208548; TX - Licensed • N MLS ID #2611 (Nationwide Mortgage Licensing System www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org) • TX - Licensed in TX: Licensed Mortgage Banker & Licensed Residential Mortgage Loan Servicer- TX Department of Savings & Mortgage Lending
6207 Bee Cave Rd, Suite 110, Austin, TX 78746
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June 2018 www.myRealtyLine.com
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Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
Carol Strickland and Betty Dubelbeis, both of Kuper Sotheby's International Realty, get ready to present the company sponsored scholarship at the ABoR Foundation scholarship presentation ceremony.
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Lisa Kosub of Keller Williams Realty gives out information to newly graduated real estate agents at the Champions School of Real Estate Career Fair.
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Janice Presnell of Keller Williams Realty, Sherry Stark of Berkshire Hathaway and Vivian Plein of Berkshire Hathaway take a load off between model homes after collecting qualifying chips for the $10,000 cash offered at the Santa Rita Ranch Rockin' REALTOR Home Tour.
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MORE THAN JUST YOUR AVERAGE LENDER Value added services for our valued referral partners MARKETING & DESIGN
EVENTS & PARTNERSHIPS
INDUSTRY EDUCATION & BETTERMENT
• In-house marketing team who can provide custom, co-branded marketing material • Print & digital media material • Marketing/social media, support and education
• Provide networking and relationship-building opportunities • Partnering with philanthropic entities • Sponsoring industry-related events
• TREC MCE Hours • Hosting educational seminars, lunch & learns and sponsored events • Topics include: loan process, personal growth, leadership, sales, budgeting, social media & more!
Before we originate the mortgage, you have to sell a home. How can we help YOU sell more homes? VISIT ONE OF OUR CONVENIENT AUSTIN AREA LOCATIONS TODAY NORTH: 10801 N. Mo-pac Expressway, Bldg. 2 | Suite 140 Austin, TX 78759
LENDER
NMLS#278675
SOUTH: 5707 Southwest Parkway, Bldg. 2 | Suite 150 Austin, TX 78735
www.legacymutual.com
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June 2018
President’s Column By Lee Whitaker • 2018 President
Tickets for Mid-Year Housing Forecast available while they last
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t’s no secret that the local housing market is booming. Demand has surpassed supply for a few years now and with people moving here in excess of 100 per day, experts have been saying for months that a slowdown is not expected anytime soon. The HBA’s annual Mid-Year Housing Forecast is scheduled for July 19. But rather than give you more of the information you already know, this year’s program will focus on specific nuances in the market that will give you, the professional, invaluable insight that will set you apart from your peers when you are out there selling to potential clients. The program promises to give some valuable nuggets of information for all real estate professionals who attend. Whether you are a builder, vendor, REALTOR, title professional or other industry professional, you will walk away having learned something. Vaike O’Grady, Austin regional director for Metrostudy, will moderate a panel that will discuss various audience segments, most notably Millennials and Baby Boomers. In 2019, Millennials will outnumber Baby Boomers. In Austin, they are already impacting our housing market.
Learn what works – and what fails – when it comes to serving this emerging market. • What are the hottest – and coolest – new home markets in Austin? • Home and community designs that are gaining/losing ground • Why and how the custom home market is winning • What about the Boomers? For over 40 years, Metrostudy has been tracking future lots and new home activity throughout the Austin area. Today, Metrostudy also provides key insights into consumer segmentation and future growth. The Mid-Year Forecast will be held from 11:30 a.m. until 1 p.m. on July 19 at HBA’s Phillips Event Center. Members can register for $50 through June 30 ($65 beginning July 1st). Nonmembers can register for $80. As of press time, the event is already more than 50 percent sold out. Admission is limited to just 350 attendees. Promotional opportunities are available to HBA members. Visit www.hbaaustin.com/event/2018 mid-year-forecast for details and to register. RL
Get out the sombreros, it's "Taco Bout a Fiesta" time at First American Title! The company recently hosted an open house at its Northwest Hills office to celebrate Cinco de Mayo and offer free drinks and appetizers to its guests..
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You can feel the excitement brewing at the Monticello Homes model grand opening at Bunker Ranch Estates where Michele Ryon of Keller Williams Realty and Sheila Cook of Pioneer Bank enjoyed live music after taking a tour of the new 2,963 square-foot model. The builder just recently entered the Austin market. Download Photo: RL_061218_J.jpg for FREE at www.myrealtyline.com
Bryson's Tommy Tucker congratulates Dan Rushing on his new gig at Federal Savings Bank. Pictured with Dan is his wife Kandis Rushing of Bryson and their little guy, Jaxon.
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Stay cool this Summer with North American Title
Austin summer temperatures promise to be hot and hotter, and the Austin housing market has kept up with the temperature! But no matter the weather, our dependable, knowledgeable and experienced staff is always ready to guide your transaction to a smooth closing. Get to know us today, and we’ll see you with a contract tomorrow!
Call North American Title for Your Next Transaction
Like Clockwork ®
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RESEARCH 11044 Research Blvd. Bldg. D, Suite 100 Austin, TX 78759 t: 512.249.0576
NORTH AUSTIN 5608 Parkcrest Drive Suite 150 Austin, TX 78731 t: 512.302.3892
ROUND ROCK 1 Chisholm Trail Suite 3100 Round Rock, TX 78681 t: 512.255.6550
www.facebook.com/Austin.nat www.nat.com/ Texas ©2018 North American Title Group, LLC and its subsidiaries. All Rights Reserved. North American Title Group, LLC and its subsidiaries are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for the results obtained from the use of this information. North American Title Company and related design and Like Clockwork are registered Service Marks of North American Title Group, LLC or its corporate parent. | TX 18-13325 R 6.4.18
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ABoR CEO Emily Chenevert, center, tours the Austin Beerworks brewing facility with Jeni Williams and Amy Everhart, both members of her staff. The Board hosted its Come and Taste It TREPAC fundraiser at the brewery.
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The food was great and the homes are spectacular! Sharon Murray, Benee Arndt and Carlisle Kennedy, all of Realty Austin, are excited to see Monticello Homes' new model at Bunker Ranch Estates, which is over 2,900 square feet with 4 bedrooms, 3 baths and an amazing his/ hers walk-in closet that any couple would be excited about!
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Austin Title's Becky Hopkins and Coldwell Banker United, REALTORS Sheri Brummett let off some steam at the WCR Austin Wild West REALTORS event at The Wild West in Cedar Park. Submitted Photo
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Stewart Title of Austin's Shaunna Terry and Casey Williams partner with Rudy's BBQ to provide a much needed lunch to hungry volunteers on Keller Williams Realty Red Day at the ACTS Church in Lakeway.
CONGRATULATIONS TO MORTGAGE LOAN ORIGINATOR
NORMA GUERRERO-COWES
ON HER 21 YEAR ANNIVERSARY WITH DHI MORTGAGE! DHI Mortgage takes pride in making the home buying process as seamless as possible. Local experienced Mortgage Loan Originators are one of the many reasons to choose us!
Norma Guerrero-Cowes
Mortgage Loan Originator, NMLS #211327
www.dhimortgage.com
10700 Pecan Park Blvd., Suite 120 Austin, TX 78750 Direct: 512-533-1312 Cell: 512-595-1164 NGuerrero-Cowes@dhimortgage.com www.dhimortgage.com/norma-guerrero-cowes
Financing offered by DHI Mortgage Company, Ltd. Branch NMLS #38686. 10700 Pecan Park Blvd., Suite 120, Austin, TX 78750. Company NMLS #14622. For information on DHI Mortgage licensing, please visit www.dhimortgage.com/licensing. Provided for informational purposes only. This is not a commitment to lend. Not all borrowers will qualify. REV: 05/23/18 | EXP: 05/23/19
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Happy Dad Day!
NEW HOMES FROM THE MID-$200’S | MODELS OPEN SUMMER 2018
Home. Heart. Hill Country. .
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800 acres of dedicated open space and park land Close proximity to Texas State University, business, shopping and entertainment 45-acre Central Park recreation space Desirable location off IH-35 between Austin and San Antonio Resort-caliber amenities and playgrounds 10+ miles of trails
LaCimaTX.com
...............
ANGELA GARNER | 512-485-3390
SANDI DONNELL | 972-789-3530
CORINNE WALL | 210-807-8244
June 2018
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June 2018 www.myRealtyLine.com Women's Council of REALTORS
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Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
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Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995
President’s Column By Carol Hardy • 2018 President
Selling divorced listings
T
here are few things in life that cause the greatest stress we can be under; two are selling your house and divorce. Together they compound the situation; but the end goal needs to remain in focus for all parties involved. Taking some advice from www.realtytimes. com, there are a few basic tips. Though they won’t magically create a pleasant process, they can help avoid obstacles that can otherwise derail the objective of your transaction and transition! 1. Make agreements ahead of time A very good move is to put every agreement in writing before you put the property on the market. Make an agreement that you will sell the house for a specific price and only accept an offer that is over a certain amount. Don’t leave this to chance because in a divorce, you don’t know what may happen. Having a written agreement gives attorneys something to work with and protects you. Make sure your attorney is familiar with real estate law in your area, assuring they know the local legal requirements. If they aren’t, get a re-
ferral who is and contact them.
sues quickly.
2. Buyers should always work with a REALTOR Buyers who think selling their house on their own during this time are incorrect. Working with a REALTOR will lessen the stress because using an outside adviser will help avoid conflict during this time. A professional REALTOR who knows legal requirements, needed documentation, the area’s market to get both parties the best price and fields all the transaction’s progress is best for all concerned. As an agent, you need to make sure you know exactly what is going on and that you are prepared to deal with the situation that may not be very pleasant.
4. Present a united front Encourage your clients to work together, regardless of why they are divorcing. This will help you make sure everything is taken care of and your clients are not undermining each other which is highly necessary for a smooth transaction. Make your clients understand that focusing on the end result (i.e. money in their pocket) benefits both of them to move on for the future.
3. Build contingency plans What if something goes wrong? Who makes repairs during the inspection? As an agent, you need to make sure to help negotiate these with the buyer. It is a good idea to pre-plan these in writing so there is no surprise. This will help establish which party is best to resolve any is-
5. Stay calm This is a time of high emotion. The client’s home likely holds memories, both good and bad. Removing emotion from the equation will assist your client most during this time. Remind them they are satisfying a legal requirement. There is time after the sale to feel emotional. Looking at the home sale strictly as a financial matter will keep those emotions in check. So, remind your clients the importance of putting everything in writing, to remain calm and mature and reassure them that it’s best to
let the professionals (i.e. you, the agent and your partners) do their job with the business aspect. Before they know it, they will close on their home and can begin rebuilding their life! RL
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June 2018
Register to win a
$500 GIFT CARD of your choice!
We’re Selling! New Year, New Home, New Schools. With Tom Glenn High School right down the street, pocket parks & nature trails line the way from home to homeroom. We are proud to join Leander ISD, one of the finest districts in Central Texas. Not only do our schools outperform state standards, but Deerbrooke is also right down the street from the brand new Tom Glenn High School (est. 2016).
New Homes from the $300’s. • www.deerbrooketx.com
183
512-619-7628 www.brohnhomes.com
512-751-1420 www.sitterlehomes.com
Clayton Fryer at 512-619-7628
Larry Rubin at 512-456-3136
Hals ey Rd.
279
San Gabriel Parkway
Leander 2243
183 alls tal F
way Park
Crys
512-516-1608 www.monticellohomes.com
1-800-247-3779 www.perryhomes.com
Wendy Onken at 512-516-1608
Danny Hood at 737-200-6050
Visit us in Leander, just west of US Hwy 183 near Halsey Road and Collaborative Way.
Offer, prices, plans, specifications and availability are subject to change and/or cancellation at any time without prior notice. $500 Gift Card Giveaway may not be combined with any other offers or promotions. Please contact community sales counselor for additional details and restrictions. Valid registrations accepted at community, homebuilder locations only. Subject to change without notification. Offer expires April 30, 2018. A Randolph Todd Development.
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Who doesn't want a cold beverage after throwing down with some spicy crawfish? Daniel Topolski of Pure Gold Realty, Michael McSpadden of NRL Mortgage and Andrea Favereau of Fine Austin Homes enjoy themselves while networking at the Home Builders Association's annual Crawfish Boil held this year at Bryson in Leander.
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Sherri Berry, escrow officer and Darian Rausch, sales manager, both of Stewart Title of Austin, enjoy the casual Hawaiian themed tournament at hole No. 6 during the WCREALTORS Golf Tournament at Avery Ranch.
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The title business may not sound like the most fun job, but First American Title makes it fun for everyone with creatively themed events like its Cinco de Mayo open house celebration called "Taco Bout a Fiesta." Denise Vincent of First American Title gives Haley Leatherwood of Sky Realty the million dollar tour around the office.
Submitted Photo
CONGRATULATIONS! May
2018
Top Producer at
On Q Financial Austin Branch
AARON PAGE
MORTGAGE CONSULTANT NMLS# 222159 TX# 222159
P: 512.831.4227
Aaron.Page@OnQFinancial.com AaronPage.OnQAustin.com
5914 W. Courtyard Drive Ste 150 B, Austin, TX 78730
On Q Financial Inc. is an Equal Housing Lender. NMLS#5645 | TX#5645 ER0426180681Y000004Ai5V
Eddie Rinehart Top Producer of the Month 1vs 052918.indd 1
5/29/2018 2:10:21 PM
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Experts Speak Out
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Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995
Commentary By Harold Copher, Jr. Willow Bend Mortgage
R
Something to think about when buying real estate as an investment
esidential rental property can be an attractive investment. Unlike stocks, or other financial investments, almost everyone has experienced the role of tenant and/or homeowner. Being familiar with both roles may make an investment in residential rental property less intimidating than other types of investments. Naturally, life as a homeowner or a tenant isn’t all that is required to become a successful real estate investor. Selecting the right property, the best loan terms and the right tenants goes a long way toward determining our success or failure. In my experience, investors in real estate set objectives based on one of two categories: Leveraging their investment dollars to take advantage of appreciation or borrowing with the intent to own real estate for cash flow. Investing for appreciation does not mean we will not have cash flow, just like investing in real estate to target cash flow doesn’t mean we won’t see appreciation with the investment. If history repeats itself, and we are in it for the long haul, we are likely to realize both appre-
ciation and cash flow. There are two characteristics of the property we are considering that are worth noting: the property use and the property type. The property’s use or intended purpose will fall into one of three categories: Primary residence, second home or an investment property. Property type can differentiate between single family attached or detached, duplexes, three to four unit properties, condominiums, or manufactured homes, etc. For lending purposes, residential real estate refers to a single structure with one to four units. If there are five or more residential units in one building, that’s considered commercial multi-family housing. Lenders assign a higher risk (of default) to the same property being purchased as an investment property or rental unit, compared to the same property being used for a primary residence. That risk manifests itself into a larger minimum down payment and higher interest rates. Most of us understand how and why that risk translates into the loan terms offered. Lenders also assign a higher risk based on
www.myRealtyLine.com property type. If you wanted to purchase a multiple unit property, a manufactured home, or certain condominium properties, you should expect to see a larger minimum down payment requirement an d / or a slightly higher interest rate due to property type. For the most part, mortgage programs have been developed and risk parameters refined based on loan performance over time. Put simply, more restrictive loan terms are the result of using historical data to better assess risk parameters that incorporate property use and property type. Doesn’t that also mean we have a better chance of being successful as real estate investors if we analyze our transaction using the same mindset? When meeting with clients, I try to point out lending parameters they may view as constraints should be used to help measure whether their plans are sound. If you’re a first-time home buyer, and your targeted price range nets you a monthly house payment around 25 percent of your gross household income, shouldn’t you derive a measure of comfort knowing that data collected from
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June 2018
mortgage loans over time support your likely success in adjusting your budget from renter to homeowner with that monthly mortgage payment? If we are interested in investing in real estate and are in a position to occupy one of the units in a two to four unit property as our primary residence, the terms are somewhat favorable for an investment property purchase. As a primary residence transaction, we could acquire the property with a minimum 20 percent down payment, instead of the minimum 25 percent down payment required for this property type as an investment property. In addition, the interest rate is likely better than purchasing the same property as a non-owner occupied investment property with a minimum 25 percent down payment. If we’re serious about becoming a real estate investor, and trust the mortgage industry builds in risk factors based on loan performance over time; then does acquiring a multiple unit property as an onsite resident give us a better chance for success than other property types? Is that success due to more favorable loan terms? Yes, but it may also be due to having more than one revenue stream and being onsite as property manager. It could be that’s the less obvious message mortgage lenders are sending. RL
17 AVAILABLE HOMES FOR MOVE-IN AND 6 MODEL HOMES TO TOUR!
Receive a $5,000 credit toward the purchase of a new home for members of the Armed Forces and Law Enforcement as well as Firefighters, Educators, and Healthcare Providers.* 29
LEANDER
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AN REAG
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Brookfield Residential + Chesmar Homes Drees Custom Homes + Lennar Homes Perry Homes + Scott Felder Homes
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homes from the $250s to $500s
*Visit BrysonHeroes.com for complete details.
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In this industry, sometimes you have to take risks. Michael Margason of Keller Williams Realty did just that when he took a swing at the 29th Annual WCREALTORS Golf Tournament. Better luck next time, buddy!.
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Ruth McCarthy of EXP Realty and Leo Welsh of Linda Welsh Realty pick up some cool swag from Regina Spurlock of Santa Rita Ranch. They attended the community's Rockin REALTOR Home Tour where they saw model homes from 12 different builders. Homes in the Liberty Hill community start in the $190s.
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Keller Williams Realty agents fill over 1,000 bags of "grace" during the company's annual RED Day. The bags will be given to help the homeless in our community.
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Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995
Leander: Deerbrooke A S S O C I AT E S I N P R O G R E S S - A d v e r t i s e r P r o f i l e b y K a t i e A g n e s s
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arlier this month, Deerbrooke, Leander’s newest master-planned community, celebrated its grand opening. Phase One of development is complete and doors to the model homes are open. Upon full build out, Deerbrooke will consist of approximately 800 home sites. “My partner, Todd McCullough, and I purchased the land in the summer of 2015 from a family who had owned it for decades,” says Randy Rollo, development partner for Deerbrooke. “The process in taking it from raw ranch land through the entitlement phase and into development took more than two years.” Rollo and McCullough were initially drawn to purchase and develop Deerbooke on this land because it offered unique natural amenities. A creek, nestled between limestone bluffs and surrounded by thick hardwood trees, runs through the property. “The land itself is what separates Deerbrooke from other communi-
ties,” Rollo says. “It is not a treeless prairie without character. From the very first day, we envisioned an impressive nature trail meandering through the center of the property.” Rollo says they went through extreme lengths to protect the natural beauty of the property and to preserve its elements while also considering the design and aesthetics for residents. “We realize the importance of trees in a community and the value they add, so we did much of our planning with conservation in mind,” Rollo says. “We also spent considerable resources designing and constructing our water detention network in a manner that adds rather than detracts from the aesthetics of the community. The limestone rock bridge that crosses the creek also functions as a water control feature. Decorative elements found throughout the community will make our residents feel proud to be associated with Deerbrooke.”
Model Homes Now Open
www.myRealtyLine.com Deerbrooke’s builders include Sitterle Homes, Perry Homes, Waterloo Homes and Monticello Homes. “All of our builders have strong reputations in design, elevations, quality construction and customer service,” Rollo says. “Each homebuilder offers a variety of features and floor plans that differentiates them from the others. You will see all of the current trends, yet with a traditional style that belongs in a community like this.” Located with easy access to the 183A Tollway, residents can enjoy the tranquility of the Texas Hill Country while in close proximity to conveniences. “We are proud that Deerbrooke is not off a busy highway or four-lane road,” Rollo says. “Deerbrooke sits back in its own little world surrounded by acreage homesites.” In addition to its location, the Leander ISD is also a big draw for residents. “One of the strongest benefits from living in Deerbrooke is the schools,” Rollo says. “Leander ISD continues to draw families to the area. The high school, which opened in 2016, is within walking distance and the new middle school will be across from Deerbrooke’s entrance and Amenity Center.” Rollo says they recognize that homebuyers have many choices when selecting their community. “In today’s housing market with home prices going up rapidly, families cannot afford
June 2018
Randy Rollo, Partner
to make a home buying decision that they will regret later,” he says. “As developers, we take this very seriously and work to build communities that keep families engaged, active and proud for years to come.” From its quality homebuilders and amenities to its scenic landscape and convenient location, Deerbrooke is a unique community. “Deerbrooke feels different; it lives different,” Rollo says. “Deerbrooke is a community that you can be proud to call home, meet neighbors, make friends, stay put and raise your family.” Learn more at deerbrooketx.com RL
Choose from Four Builders starting in the $250s
1236 DEERING CREEK DRIVE MON – SAT: 10 AM – 6 PM SUN: 12 PM – 6 PM
Sitterlee Homes: 1300 Deering Creek Drive
Perry Homes: 1009 Deer Rim Road
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Waterloo Homes: 1001 Deer Rim Road
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June 2018 www.myRealtyLine.com
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Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
"Girls just wanna have fun," especially when they earn points to win a trip to Italy by selling in Santa Rita Ranch. Pearl Paul of All City Real Estate and Vicki Jones Jennings of Keller Williams Realty are "in it to win it". Got game?
Download Photo: RL_060518_F.jpg for FREE at www.myrealtyline.com
REALTORS and partners celebrate with Monticello Homes on the grand opening of the builder's new model home at Bunker Ranch Estates — an amazing new luxury masterplanned community in Dripping Springs — an official "dark sky" community 20 minutes south of Austin. Download Photo: RL_061218_O.jpg for FREE at www.myrealtyline.com
Can you believe this amazing view from the new Trendmaker Homes model in Lakes Edge in Bee Cave? John Stanley, left, and Terry Shuffler, right, both of Trendmaker Homes, explain to Debra Groch of Sky Realty and Clari McGougan of Reilly REALTORS that homes there start in the $620s.
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Randy and Will Rollo check out the digs at Bryson in Leander while attending the Home Builders Association's annual Crawfish Boil Builder/REALTOR mixer. Randy is behind the new community of Deerbrooke, just a short jaunt away from Bryson in Leander. The community currently has four builders to choose from, including Monticello Homes!
t e e w e s hom t s u r t e hom NOW OPEN in Blanco Vista! MX3 Homes From the $350’s Great plans, wonderful homesites, beautiful choices of inventory homes already under construction and opportunities to choose your own homesite and selections! Come visit our model home at 439 Ancient Oak Way, San Marcos, TX 78666.
512-596-5542
Open Monday thru Saturday 10 – 6, Sunday 12 – 5. www.mx3homes.com blancovista@mx3homes.com
Home is where you gather with family and friends and make memories that last a lifetime. Hometrust Mortgage has been helping people buy, refinance and construct homes in the Austin area for 31 years. We offer a full array of home mortgage products and your loan is processed and underwritten locally.
Contact Hometrust Mortgage today for a free consultation or to get started on your home purchase or refinance.
Call (512) 450-1222
Richie Rodriguez
Lynn Edgar
NMLS# 222698 NMLS# 221412 rrodriguez@hometrust.com ledgar@hometrust.com
Bradley Rife
NMLS# 221487 brife@hometrust.com
Catherine Darwin
Tyler Browne
NMLS# 1606718 NMLS# 1531348 cdarwin@hometrust.com tbrowne@hometrust.com
Raquel Frazier
NMLS# 460935 rfazier@hometrust.com
Hometrust Mortgage Company, NMLS# 149932 4301 Westbank Dr. Escalade B Suite 150 Austin, TX 78746
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SouthStar Bank A S S O C I AT E S I N P R O G R E S S - A d v e r t i s e r P r o f i l e b y K a t i e A g n e s s
S
SouthStar Bank lenders live, work and play in these communities, building lasting relationships with local REALTORS and their clients. SouthStar Bank provides a variety of services, from conventional and unconventional home mortgages to SBA loans to commercial real estate lending. “Traditional loans are easy and of course we love those, but at many mortgage companies, when your client doesn’t qualify, you have to start all over,” Gibbs says. “Time is valuable, which is especially true for the hot Austin market. Our broad range of products, flexible terms and quick responses give you the best odds of closing.” To meet these needs, SouthStar Bank’s portfolio loans provide solutions for borrowers and
outhStar Bank specializes in residential mortgages, commercial real estate and construction lending. Including its newest branch in Georgetown opening in July 2018, SouthStar Bank operates 15 full-service branches across the Central Texas region. One of the largest independent banks in Texas, SouthStar Bank has been serving the Austin community for more than 20 years. “Soon, our Austin footprint will include six fullservice branches from Georgetown to Dripping Springs,” says Brent Gibbs, EVP and chief lending officer for SouthStar Bank. “One of the things I most appreciate is that each location is unique – we want to emphasize a personal level of service that fits the surrounding community.
Hear what some of our clients say... “Brent Gibb's team at SouthStar Bank is among the best in the business. I never hesitate to send a deal to SouthStar Bank because I know a top notch lender will be working on it.”
“The service is undeniable when it comes to a loan process. SouthStar Bank follows through with clients and the communication between all parties is clear.” – Jana Birdwell, Kuper Sotheby's International Realty
– Steve Mallett, Mallett Integrity Team Real Estate, Keller Williams Realty
M O R N I N G S TA R
I N
www.myRealtyLine.com
June 2018
unique properties that may not fit the strict criteria of the secondary market, including those who are self-employed, retired, starting a new job or recovering from an unexpected life event. Additionally, they are experts in construction lending, so whether a client is selecting the perfect lot, building a new home, or both, SouthStar Bank can provide the solution they need to get started. Because of the variety of service and product offerings, SouthStar Bank caters to a broad range of clients—from first-time home buyers to retired clients purchasing their getaway retreat to investors. “We serve borrowers through a diverse range of products including conventional loans, portfolio loans, jumbo loans, FHA, VA, USDA, and renovation loans,” Gibbs says. To ensure SouthStar Bank clients have a quality experience, Gibbs says they strive to get to know their clients as individuals to find the mortgage products that work best for their situation. “Brent Gibb’s team at SouthStar Bank are some of the best in the business,” says Steve Mallett, team leader/broker associate for Mallett Integrity Team Real Estate, Keller Williams Realty. “They become an extension of my company, treating my clients with respect and professionalism. I never hesitate to send a deal to SouthStar Bank because I know a top notch lender will be working on it.” For the SouthStar Bank team, they understand that communication is key. “We attribute our success to a time-honored methodology: be responsive and be available,” says Gibbs. “It’s no secret that Austin is booming. Timing is everything in real estate, and it’s important to have a responsive lender that can listen to your client, move quickly and get you to the closing table.” Jana Birdwell, senior vice president and REALTOR associate for Kuper Sotheby's In-
L I B E R T Y
H I L L
Brent Gibbs, Executive Vice President & Senior Lending Officer
ternational Realty, says that she enjoys sending her clients to SouthStar Bank due to their quality communication. “The service is undeniable when it comes to a loan process. SouthStar Bank follows through with clients and the communication between all parties is clear,” she says. No matter the size or complexity of the project, SouthStar Bank is eager to help. "I've worked with SouthStar Bank to finance several high-end residential projects. From our first call through the final draw, they consistently make the process easy and straight forward - even when the project is not,” says Marvin Sommerfeld, president of Sommerfeld Construction. “The professionals at SouthStar Bank clearly understand builders and their needs, and deliver as promised." Gibbs adds, “Qualifying for a traditional mortgage is tough. SouthStar Bank offers more than your typical home loan – our flexible, common-sense lenders are dedicated to finding a way to make your client’s dream home a reality.” RL
I S d
THIS IS
LIVIN’ Welcome to MorningStar, where
Great Schools Pools & Parks EASY ACCESS Natural Gas
the living is easy. We’ve got everything you want in a new community – a relaxed, welcoming vibe, resort-style amenities, great builders, and exceptional schools – and nothing you don’t, like over-crowding, congestion, and traffic! A convenient
Fishing Pond
access in and out of the community via both Hwy. 29 and Ronald Reagan. Come out and see us today and breathe easy,
Event Lawn
you’ve found your new home at MorningStar!
RONA
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MORNINGSTAR LivingMorningstar.com
HOMES FROM THE LOW $200 s TO $500 s MERITAGE HOMES | KB HOME | Carothers Executive Homes VINTAGE ESTATE HOMES | WESTIN HOMES
101 Ridgeview Court, Georgetown, TX 78628 512-843-8839
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June 2018 www.myRealtyLine.com Front Page: Continued
estimate of the home’s worth, it was still scrutinized suspiciously. In this situation, one of the attorneys called Gessler and was livid that the transaction was taking so long. She had to explain that the clients were going against her advice. Later, she was asked to testify as an expert witness in the couple’s divorce case. Ultimately, the judge set the sale price. Reflecting back on it now, Gessler believes that one of the partners was intentionally undercutting her efforts (to get back at the ex). Once the divorcing clients close on a house that they own together, they split the equity. In some proceedings, a judge might determine a specific dollar amount that partners are entitled to once the sale is final. Smith doesn’t think this is the best way to split equity from a home sale. Say, for example, in June 2018 a house is appraised at $500k and the judge rules that the husband gets $250k. In 2020, the couple finally gets around to selling the house, which means the property likely gained or lost some value. Based on the judge’s decree, whether the home sells for $750k or $425k, the husband is still entitled to $250k. In other words, by awarding one side with a dollar amount versus a percentage, the judge has inadvertently set everyone up for a whole new set of problems and delays. Gessler and Smith both say that their relationship with divorce attorneys have always been very amicable. Gessler surmises that when friction does occur, it’s due to a client putting pressure on the attorney, who then turns around and puts it right back on the agent. “That’s why you can’t take this particular job personally,” says Gessler. “If you can’t keep your personal feelings out of it and if you’re easily rattled or take offense, this is not a job for you.” Something else agents have to consider be-
fore working in this market is the constant fighting, painful stories and accusations. There’s a mantra Gessler relies on to get through certain days: “Stay in my lane.” You’re here to sell a house, nothing more. The feeling you can get from working on these transactions is nothing like the joy you feel when you match a client with the perfect home. Smith says that her strategy for working with divorcing couples is, first, never take work home, and second, work with a partner who can jump in. For example, Michell Kneeland, an accredited buyer representative (ABR) and Smith’s partner at Moxie, can work with one spouse while Smith works with the other. Lots of divorcing clients respond better when they have separate agents (from the same agency). So now that you’re ready to start signing listings in this category, how do you establish yourself? Early in Smith’s career working with divorcing sellers, a divorce attorney friend told her that it would be easier for her to get referrals if she had a relevant degree or specialization. Well, it turns out that there’s a certification for this. One program, cofounded by Carol Ann Wilson, an expert on marital financial issues and pre-divorce financial planning, is called the Real Estate Divorce Specialist. The curriculum, and others like it, teaches students the legalities, tax laws and issues relevant to sellers who are terminating their marriage. Agents learn how to protect themselves from malpractice and what it means when asked to be an expert witness at a divorce trial. You’re also introduced to an entire industry of professionals certified in different areas of “divorce management,” like divorce planners, financial planners and mediators. The best advice an agent can take before working with divorcing clients is to insulate yourself to the best of your ability. And stay in your lane. RL
SYNERGY ONE LENDING
SAYS WELCOME TO JEFF TENNEY NMLS ID 998737
LOAN OFFICER AUSTIN, TEXAS
WE ARE PROUD TO HAVE HIM ABOARD! Contact Jeff today to find out how he can help you.
512.517.7941 or jtenney@s1lending.com Synergy One Lending Synergy One Lending Inc. NMLS 1025894. 3131 Camino Del Rio N 190, San Diego, CA 92108. Texas Mortgage Banker Registration 1025894.
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Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
P. O. Box 81366 • Austin, Texas 78708-1366 (512) 514-3141 www.myRealtyLine.com E-mail: naomi@myRealtyLine.com
Publisher: Doren L. Carver doren@myRealtyLine.com
Associate Publisher: Tawanna K. Verock tawanna@myRealtyLine.com
Managing Editor: Naomi Bludworth naomi@myRealtyLine.com
Contributing Editor: Linda McNabb Caroline Carver
Contributing Writers: Riki Markowitz, Katie Agness, Naomi Bludworth
Contributing Photographers: Doren L. Carver
Advertising Sales: Emily Vaughn - (512) 418-1800 emily@myRealtyLine.com
Columnists: Steve Crorey, Victoria Reviel, Lee Whitaker, Carol Hardy, Mary Lynne Gibbs, Harold Copher, Jr.
Submission Guidelines: Submit photos, press releases and calendar items to naomi@myrealtyline.com. All photos must be at least 300 dpi and include a caption with first/last name and company affiliation. Press releases must be fewer than 300 words. Non-advertisers submitting calendar items will be charged $25 per submission. All submissions must be received at least seven calendar days prior to ad copy deadlines published at www.myrealtyline.com/blog/advertise.html. Submission items will be included as space allows. Realty Line Austin is published monthly by Caxton Publications, Inc.© as a non-subscription publication for the more than 10,000 members of the Austin Board of REALTORS®(ABoR), the more than 1,500 members of the Williamson County Association of REALTORS® (WCREALTORS) and the Home Builders Association (HBA) of Greater Austin. Realty Line Austin is printed on recycled paper. Realty Line Austin is a proud member of the Austin Board of REALTORS®, the Williamson County Association of REALTORS®, the Home Builders Association (HBA) of Greater Austin and is a honorary member of the Women’s Council of REALTORS. Realty Line Austin is not responsible for opinions or facts expressed by non-staff writers or for errors and any by-products in advertising or editorial copy. REALTOR® is a registered trademark. The word REALTOR® sometimes appears in this publication without the registered trademark symbol (®) for the purpose of saving space. Wherever the word REALTOR® appears in this publication, the registered trademark should be assumed.
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June 2018
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2016 & 2017
AVAILABLE HOMES ON LAKE TRAVIS FROM THE $300s TO $3 MILLION+
PRICE
ADDRESS
BED / BATH
SQ. FT.
FLOORS
EST. COMPLETION
BUILDER
$349,990
127 Cartwheel Bend
3/2
1,461
1
June
Village Builders
$365,990
212 Cartwheel Bend
3 / 2.5
1,702
2
NOW
Village Builders
$369,990
219 Cartwheel Bend
3 / 2.5
1,701
1
June
Village Builders
$396,990
217 Cartwheel Bend
3 / 2.5
1,858
1
June
Village Builders
$419,170
215 Cartwheel Bend
4 / 3.5
2,359
2
June
Village Builders
$451,753
130 Cartwheel Bend
3 / 2.5
2,345
2
July
Village Builders
$486,704
230 Sumalt Gap Way
4/3
3,020
2
NOW
Brookfield Residential
$499,900
223 Sumalt Gap Way
3 / 2.5
2,443
1
June
Drees Homes
$545,500
215 Sumalt Gap Way
4/4
3,263
2
May
Brookfield Residential
$482,990
408 Highland Village Drive
3/2
2,317
1
NOW
Scott Felder Homes
$500,420
504 Summer Wilson Cove
3 / 2.5
2,365
1
NOW
Coventry Homes
$522,053
304 Baldovino Skyway
4 / 3.5
3,281
2
June
Brookfield Residential
$517,990
507 Baldovino Skyway
3 / 2.5
2,720
1
NOW
Scott Felder Homes
$578,990
512 Summer Wilson Cove
4 / 3.5
3,387
2
July
Scott Felder Homes
$513,499
103 Majestic Arroyo Way
3 / 3.5
2,241
1
NOW
Brookfield Residential
$522,968
101 Majestic Arroyo Way
3 / 2.5
2,526
1
NOW
Brookfield Residential
$529,606
105 Majestic Arroyo Way
3/3
2,463
1
NOW
Brookfield Residential
$571,130
628 Anfield Circle
4/3
3,132
2
July
Century Communities
$552,548
104 Feritti Drive
4/3
2,635
1
June
Coventry Homes
$535,000
110 Grant Cannon Lane
4/3
3,081
2
NOW
Coventry Homes
$553,000
115 Grant Cannon Lane
4/3
3,154
2
NOW
Coventry Homes
$598,741
209 Grant Cannon Lane
4/3
3,477
2
NOW
Coventry Homes
$808,900
320 Bisset Court
5 / 5.5
4,392
2
NOW
Wes Peoples Homes
VIEW OUR FULL INVENTORY & DISCOVER ALL 21 NEIGHBORHOODS AT ROUGHHOLLOWLAKEWAY.COM Welcome Center Open Daily • 512.872.4304
Developed by Legend Communities in partnership with Crescent Communities. Exclusive sales and marketing by Legacy International Resort Properties. Obtain the property report required by federal law and read it before signing anything. No federal agency has judged the merits of value, if any, of this property.
060518_TC_RH_RealtyLineAd_FullPage.indd 1
6/5/18 4:33 PM
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Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
Lending for Condo Clients
The Supreme Difference
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Excited to see their vision come to life, Monticello Homes owner Wayne Moravits and Regional Vice President Mike Wittenburg welcome a big crowd of REALTORS and industry partners to the grand opening celebration at Bunker Ranch Estates where they showcased their new model and showed off their plans for the community.
Supreme Lending Specializes in Condo Financing • Warrantable vs. non-warrantable financing options • Determine financing options -new construction, full-gut & non-gut rehabs • We can partner with the developer to support condo review and approvals for FNMA, FHA & VA
Download Photo: RL_010817_M.jpg at www.myrealtyline.com
These successful REALTORS from Mallach and Company are rockin' it at the Santa Rita Ranch Rockin' REALTOR Home Tour. Because they aren't successful by sitting on the sidelines — they get out and learn their market. They learned that Santa Rita Ranch has homes from the $190s to the $700s from 12 different builders, not to mention the community is well known for its fun lifestyle and sprawling views. Pictured left to right are Holly Hogue, Nicole Nieft, Jen Glatz and Tina Mallach.
Contact Supreme Lending to Discuss Condo Financing
John McClellan Branch Manager NMLS #207768
Direct: 512.279.1150 www.JohnMcClellan.com 3520 Executive Center Dr., Suite 200 | Austin, TX 78731
McClellan Region EQUAL HOUSING
OPPORTUNITY
EVERETT FINANCIAL, INC. D/B/A SUPREME LENDING NMLS ID #2129 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org) 14801 Quorum Dr., #300, Dallas, TX 75254. 877-350-5225. © 2017. This is not an offer to enter into an agreement. Information, rates, & programs are subject to change without prior notice and may not be available in all states. All products are subject to credit & property approval. Supreme Lending is not affiliated with any government agency. Intended for Texas consumers, Texas - SML Mortgage Banker Registration. Residential Mortgage Loan Originator.
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Mary Jane Murphy, right, of Wolf Ranch in Georgetown hits up the WCREALTORS Golf Tournament to meet new folks and spread the word about the community's new state-of-the-art amenity center. Pictured with Mary is Byron "Buddy" Schilling of JB Goodwin REALTORS and Cecilia Roberts of Coldwell Banker United, REALTORS.
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Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
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Residential Real Estate Council
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President’s Column
Take great care when selling divorced listings
C
both on all correspondence. A “paper trail” is always a good habit so nothing gets lost in translation. Divorcing couples with children can be the hardest. Paying extra special attention to them will brighten their day. They of course did not wish for these changes in their lives. Will both parties be able to purchase or only able to lease? Is there damaged credit? Housing may be smaller and less affordable based on one person’s income. All these things are to be taken into consideration. The house was once filled with memories, dreams and traditions; the adjustment to change can be very emotional. One spouse may have moved on in another relationship and the other one remaining in the house may have a lot of anger festering with additional responsibilities such as having the house on the market and keeping it show ready. Some tips to help with the sale may be to incentivize the seller with offering housekeeping services paid by the party that is ready to get the
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house sold or offering financial gain for a good showing. Scheduling separate signings at closing may be best for some and less stressful. Divorcing couple representation can be twice as much work and double communication yet certainly worthwhile. RL
By Mary Lynne Gibbs • 2018 Director
losings are typically the time to celebrate and are often topped off with champagne. This is not always the case when couples are divorcing. Our fiduciary duties as professionals are to put our clients at ease; making sure to treat both spouses or soon to be ex-spouses equally. Remain neutral, avoid giving relationship advice, remember you are not a marriage counselor, but have a willingness to listen. The closing may be the final act in dividing assets in a settlement agreement. Separating marital assets should be left in the hands of your clients and their attorneys. Remember REALTORS shall not engage in activities that constitute the unauthorized practice of law as per the Code of Ethics. Obtaining a copy of their divorce decree, open communication with their attorneys and the title company will help ensure a smooth transaction. Utilizing your title resources for a preliminary closing disclosure or estimated net sheet when taking the listing will allow transparency and prevent surprises at closing. Ask your clients how they would like to be communicated with and copy
June 2018
NEXT RRS MEETING: June 20, 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Please join us at the next Residential Real Estate Council (formerly known as CRS) event for our bi-monthly luncheon from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. on June 20 at Westwood Country Club featuring Freddie Jiménez who will discuss “Cyber Security for REALTORS and Their Clients.”
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Giving back to the community is often more rewarding than anything you can do in real estate. Mariella Rivero, Gabriella Marzorati, Kyle Walker, and Veronica Harrison of Keller Williams Realty and Felisha Cockran of Austin Title work together to bring joy and relief to our areas homeless. Way to go!
How to use Facebook & YouTube to Create a Tidal Wave of Qualified Leads • What and Where to Post - Facebook live and Facebook Ads • How to upload movies & ads to social media plus How to maximize views FREE EVENT on June 19th from 10:00AM - Noon with FREE lunch afterward
The Principles of Business 18-hour CE Class Package • • • •
Includes Legal Update 1 & 2 on June 20th June 21st: Principles of Business will be Live in class and broadcast across Texas Principles of Business will teach the 6 components of a business & definition and goal of each Why Marketing is the #1 skill to have, how to put your business on auto-pilot, and much more!
Mentoring Program
Struggling? Need a Re-start? Get more leads, close more deals, make more $, Get Going! • 40 hours of hands-on mentoring with a licensed broker by your side
Real Estate Investing Coaching Club
A property will be purchased during this program! The class will choose a property to purchase based on what they have learned. Minimal lecture, this is a roll up your sleeves and get to work workshop! Next one starts September 12th!
To Learn More or Sign Up Call or e-mail us Today!
512.453.0900 info@buildmyrebusiness.com
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June 2018 www.myRealtyLine.com
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Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.â„¢
CONDOS
1800 E 4TH STREET
ITS EASY AS: 1. FIND US ON THE MLS (or CALL) 2. SEND US YOUR CLIENTS 3. 3% COMMISSION
STARTING AT $249,500 MICRO-LOFT (EFFICIENCY) THROUGH TWO-BED OPTIONS AVAILABLE
SCHEDULE A TOUR WITH:
MARK KENDRICK
512.797.6275
MARK@CANVASPROPERTIES.COM
FourthAndAustin.com/Tour
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Did you know Wilshire Homes is in Santa Rita Ranch in Liberty Hill? Julie Wolber and Sheryl Santos, both with Wilshire Homes, would be glad to give you the grand tour and you don't even have to wait for an event. Stop by and see what they have to offer.
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
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June 2018
Upcoming Events & Education Networking & Other Events
Networking & Other Events
Tuesday, June 19 HBA Greater Austin Young Professionals Council Summer Social Parrish & Company Showroom, 7 to 8:30 p.m.
Thursday, July 12 Austin Mortgage Bankers Assoc: Annual TopGolf Mixer TopGolf, 4 to 7 p.m.
Wednesday, June 20 WCREALTORS: East Side Story Bus Tour WCREALTORS, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Thursday, July 19 HBA of Greater Austin: Mid-Year Housing Forecast Phillips Event Center, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Thursday, June 21 ABoR: TREPAC Movie Night The Highball and Alamo Drafthouse South Lamar, 5 to 9 p.m.
Monthly Association Meetings
Tuesday, June 26 MI Homes: FREE Agent Head Shots Cottages at Belterra Village, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Wednesday, June 20 RRS: Bi-Monthy Meeting Westwood Country Club, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Wednesday, June 27 ABoR: Forum - Mid-Year Economic Forecast ABoR Headquarters, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Tuesday, July 17 CTAMP: Commissioner Caroline Jones TDSML Great Hills Country Club, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Thursday, June 28 Blackburn Communities Grand Opening The Crossing at Wells Branch, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Continuing Education Classes
Thursday, June 28 SouthStar Bank Open House Social Falconhead Branch, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesday, July 10 Champions School of Real Estate: Career Night Round Rock Campus, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Tuesday, June 19 Benchmark Mortgage: How to Present a VA Offer Sellers Will Accept Texas State Capitol, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. (lunch provided)
See details for each event / class and much more at myRealtyLine.com
! y t n i a t ST r A e F … C n 1 u r Daythe way we
’s t a h T
With direct access to Fannie Mae’s Day 1 Certainty Conventional loan program, SecurityNational can quickly provide an initial Automated Underwriting Approval you can take to the bank! • • • • •
An easier documentation process for essential loan information Streamlined loan processing An efficient process that eliminates duplicate documentation Faster underwriting and closing — with confidence Reduction in time may provide a stress free environment
9737 Great Hills Trail, Suite 200, 220 | Austin, TX 78759 | Branch NMLS# 258173 | Office 512.795.5596 | SecurityNational Mortgage Company | Co. NMLS# 3116 This is not a commitment to make a loan. Loans are subject to borrower and property qualifications. Contact loan officer listed for an accurate, personalized quote. Interest rates and program guidelines are subject to change without notice. SecurityNational Mortgage Company, NMLS# 3116 | SNMC0518CONV1573
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June 2018 www.myRealtyLine.com
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Real Estate News & Notes
SAVE BIG! Be home before the school bell rings!
by the
BELL
June 18th-24th
SouthStar Bank Georgetown location opening soon! SouthStar Bank will soon open its newest full-service branch in Georgetown, TX. The branch is located at 4535 Williams Drive and set to open in July 2018. SouthStar Bank specializes in residential mortgage, real estate and construction lending and currently operates 14 full-service branches, including five other Austin-area locations in Steiner Ranch, Bee Cave, Southwest Austin, Round Rock and Leander. The established team includes Kevin Kelly, senior vice president and branch executive, Curtis Wren, senior vice president and chief credit officer, Austin Bryan, senior vice president and regional credit manager, Jeff Pareja, vice president, and Mary Mojica, loan assistant. Newest team members Kathleen Bruning, senior mortgage loan officer, and Tina Zander, branch operations manager also bring welcomed expertise to this reputable team. SouthStar Bank, S.S.B. (headquartered in Moulton, TX) specializes in residential mortgage, real estate and construction lending, op-
erating 14 full-service branches and four loan production offices across the Central Texas region. Built on a 100-year Texas heritage, the bank holds more than $700 million in assets and focuses on community involvement and personal relationships. Decisions are made locally, allowing the flexibility to apply common-sense standards to products, services and loan requests. In addition to lending and traditional financial services, SouthStar Bank brings the latest conveniences to its clients, including online banking and mobile banking with check capture, debit cards with CardValet so you’re always in control and a free worldwide ATM network. SouthStar Bank is one of the largest independent banks in Texas and holds an impressive 5-Star rating by Bauer Financial. Southern Bancshares (Houston, TX) holds majority ownership of SouthStar Bank. Learn more at southstarbank.com. Equal Housing Lender and Member FDIC, NMLS # 410624. RL
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When your clients buy a new Move-In-Ready M/I home that closes by August 31st and your clients will save thousands.
Advertise... Call Emily Vaughn at (512) 418-1800
• Reduced Prices for a Limited Time* • $3,000 in Paid Closing Costs** And Free Designer Upgrades on To-Be-Built Homes*** Call 512-253-7338 or email SalesAustin@mihomes.com for more details.
*Advertised Reduced prices are only valid on contracts written June 18th-June 24th, 2018. **Paid Closing Costs up to $3000 toward closing costs and/or loan discounts. Additional terms and conditions apply. Sale cannot be combined with any other promotion. See New Home Sales Consultant for complete details of selected upgrades. ***Receive up to 50% off the first $10,000 in free designer upgrades on To-Be-Built contracts only. Contract must be written June 18th –June 24, 2018. See New Home Sales Consultant for complete details.
www.nancyhurd.com
NANCY HURD CMPS
®
Branch Manager RMLO NMLS #1083883 O 512-686-1354 | C 512-845-0776 Nancy.Hurd@georgetownmtg.com 1460 E Whitestone Blvd, Ste 140 Cedar Park, TX 78613 | NMLS# 1692732
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
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Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995
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June 2018
THE ESSENTIAL ONLINE
TOOLBOX FOR REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONALS www.texasnationaltitle.com/county/austin/tools As a craftsman of your business, a variety of easy to use and applicable tools will clearly prepare you for any mischief to come. TNT has been diligently working to create a toolbox that contains everything you need to equip yourself for Real Estate Closing Success. Zoccam Our new favorite app to work with! Protect your money when buying a home from wire fraud schemes. Download through the App Store or Google Play
Buyer and Seller Net sheet Estimates for what the buyer may pay and the seller may receive at the closing of a real estate transaction.
Fee Quote Developed specifically to help you accurately quote our fees, the lender’s policy and the owner’s policy that must be quoted in all Good Faith Estimates.
Rate Calculator Designed to help our customers and agents estimate the potential settlement-related costs for a r essential real estate transaction.
MLS Statistics & 5 Year Trends • • •
Keep up with the local residential real estate market status Help home sellers list their homes at an appropriate market price based upon area statistics Help home buyers determine what is priced right in their area of interest
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June 2018 www.myRealtyLine.com
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Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.â„¢