March 2011

in this issue…

Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995™

• Keller Williams Realty Awards • HBA Chili Cook Off • AYREP Mercedes Benz Raffle Kick Off Party and much, much more!

Associates in Progress

9th Annual Crawfish Boil REALTOR /Builder Mixer

page 21

Tickets are not sold at the event, but can be purchased online at www.hbaaustin.com

®

March 24, 2011 • 6pm - 9pm at 512-264-0900

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MARCH 2011 • VOLUME 15 • ISSUE 11

www.MyMileStone.com

Lead Generation, Marketing and Selling Tips for 2011

Upcoming Events Wednesday, March 23 HBA St. Patti’s Day Golf Tournament Forrest Creek Golf Club -11:30 a.m.

Three Simple Ways to Gain a Competitive Edge

Supreme Lending Monthly Happy Hour and iPad Giveaway Baby A’s at Stonelake -5 to 7:30 p.m.

by Stacy Stroud

A

Thursday, March 24 Capital Title: “Opportunities and Obstacles, Where We Are Headed” WCAoR Office - 9:45 to 10:45 a.m.

re you looking for a few ways to outsmart the tough market? Here are three low investment, high return strategies for boosting your lead generation, marketing and selling power in 2011’s competitive real estate environment.

WCR Monthly Luncheon Cool River Café - 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Give Yourself a Digital Facelift

HBA Crawfish Boil Builder/REALTOR® Mixer - West Cypress Hills - 6 to 9 p.m.

Ever hear the words “social media platform” and just want to shut off your brain? After all, in between taking care of leads, making appointments, following up with clients and selling, who has time to build a platform? But as your digital resumé — literally the foundation for so many of those important first impressions — your presence on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and other social media sites tells potential clients that you’re listening, that you’re ready to connect with them, and that you’re an expert with useful content to share.

A recent study of social media usage by

Wednesday, April 6 CCIM Networking Luncheon and Presentation - Westwood Country Club 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Tuesday, April 12 NAPMW Monthly Luncheon - Norris Conference Center - 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

More at www.myRealtyLine.com

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market research firm Chadwick Martin Bailey and iModerate Research Technologies found that over 50 percent of Facebook fans and Twitter followers are more likely to recommend and buy from brands they’ve followed through social media channels. In an environment of cautious buyers and cross-country moves, more people are turning to sites like these to follow up on a recommendation — and many are “shopping” online for an average of 10-12 months before even contacting an agent. If you’ve got a Facebook business page, they can follow you to get a feel for your personality, how much you know, what kinds of resources you’re willing to provide, how connected you are to the community — and even discover what the local community is like. This gives you a unique opportunity to make a great first impression and stay connected to those leads you’re nurturing.

Ideas to Up Your Social Media Game 1. Advertise a mixer or event for clients and friends 2. Promote a new service 3. Post an educational article for homebuyers 4. Connect buyers to fun things to do around the Austin area 5. Share a blog post, promotional or educational YouTube video, or even a video of one of your listings More ideas at: www.realtor.org/about_nar/social_media

Front Page: Continued on page 6

WCAoR Announces New Certification

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n an effort to create awareness and education about social media tools, the Williamson County Association of REALTORS (WCAoR) has created a Social Media Pro (SMP) certification. Courses will explain a particular area of social media and how to use it with your business. In addition to gaining important knowledge, if you take the six required courses you will be recognized by WCAoR as a Social Media Pro. After receiving your certification, you will need to complete one advanced class each year to maintain the certification. There are two types of registration: 1. Purchase an SMP Card (discounted) for $99 (members); $119 (non-members) - get all six classes. If you have taken DocuSign and/ or Photography, you will not need to retake the

course to receive your certification.

2. Purchase each class separately for $20 (members) or $25 (future members).

Photography 101 – 2 Hrs MCE March 9: 1 to 3 p.m.

DocuSign 101 – 2 Hrs MCE March 11: 1 to 3 p.m.

Facebook 101 – 2 Hrs MCE (Pending) March 29: 9 to 11 a.m.

Blogging 101 – 2 Hrs MCE (Pending) April 8: 1 to 3 p.m.

LinkedIn 101 – 2 Hrs MCE (Pending) Twitter 101 - 2 Hrs MCE (Pending) Find more information at www.wcaor.org. RL

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www.myRealtyLine.com

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Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™

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Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™

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Austin Board of REALTORS®

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Chairman’s Column

By Judith Bundschuh • 2011 Chairman

Visit the State Capitol to Show Your Support for the REALTOR Party

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ith the 82nd Legislative Session already underway, it’s time to be proactive and advocate for what matters most to Central Texas REALTORS. In doing so, I urge you to attend the 2011 Texas REALTORS Hill Visits on Tuesday, April 12 to show your support for the real estate industry. You can help make an impact this legislative session by sharing a REALTOR perspective on key issues.

With the state of Texas looking to close the budget shortfall, we as REALTORS need to share our valuable insights with lawmakers about the impact their actions can have on our businesses and private property owners. Transfer taxes on real estate and taxes on our commissions could become topics of discussion amongst members of the legislature. Help combat these harmful proposals by advocating for REALTOR-friendly legislation during the Hill Visits.

We’ve had great turnouts for past Hill Visits and I hope you’ll help make our

2011 trip to the Capitol a success. ABoR encourages members and TREPAC investors to sign up online at https://www.abor.com/ events/hillvisit.cfm. The deadline to sign up is 12 p.m., Monday, April 4.

For more information, contact Christina Ortiz in ABoR’s Government Affairs Department by phone at 454-7636, ext. 1501 or by e-mail at government@abor.com.

Membership Meeting to Feature Keynote Speaker Neal Spelce ABoR is gearing up to host the first Membership Meeting of 2011 on Thursday, April 14. I hope my fellow ABoR members will mark their calendars to attend this exciting event. Neal Spelce, a prominent communications executive and journalist, will deliver the keynote presentation, “Austin: The Past as Prologue to the Future.”

Spelce will offer a historic perspective and snapshot to the future of Austin’s economy during his presentation.

www.myRealtyLine.com As a member benefit, primary and secondary members of ABoR are invited to attend the April 14 Membership Meeting.

The meeting will be hosted in the ABoR Auditorium, located at 10900 Stonelake Boulevard, Suite A-100. Check-in will begin at 9:15 a.m. and the meeting will run from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m.

Space is limited to the first 140 ABoR members who register. Registrations will only be accepted online at https://www.abor. com/events/MemberMeeting.cfm.

For more information, contact Vicki Harris in ABoR’s Executive Department by e-mail at executive@abor.com or by phone at 454-7636. I hope to see you in April.

ABoR Offers Free SupraWEB Keybox Management Training To better assist Supra Key users, ABoR is hosting a SupraWEB Keybox Management course to show users the ins-and-outs of the SupraWEB system. Learn to register Supra Keyboxes, assign listings, access showing reports, e-mail listing agents and customize your signature, photo and feedback questions in this comprehensive course.

ABoR offers on-site SupraWEB training throughout the year with the next course being offered on Friday, April 15 at the ABoR offices, located at 10900 Stonelake Boulevard, Suite A-100. Registrations can be made online at www.abor.com/education.

In addition, ABoR will bring their resources directly to members’ offices for no additional cost. Office visits give you the opportunity to learn more about SupraWEB from the convenience of your own office.

March 2011

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ABoR members and MLS subscribers are invited to contact ABoR’s Membership Trainer James Yanz by phone at 454-7636, ext. 1121 or by e-mail at jyanz@abor.com to set up an office visit.

Annual Chili Cook-Off Marks Another Success for TREPAC Special thanks to everyone who came out for ABoR’s annual TREPAC Chili Cook-Off on Feb. 24. Your participation and support helped ABoR raise more than $8,000 for the Texas Real Estate Political Action Committee (TREPAC). We appreciate your generosity in supporting TREPAC and hope you enjoyed the many flavors of the competition.

Congratulations to the following teams for taking home bragging rights as TREPAC Chili Cook-Off Award Winners: • Central Metro Realty – Best Chili, as voted on by the celebrity judges • Nextage Lincoln Ray Realty – Best Salsa, as voted on by the celebrity judges • ABoR: The Directors – People’s Choice Best Chili • Neuhaus Realty Group – People’s Choice Best Salsa • The Cardani Group – Best Decorated Booth • Dolise McClure – Best Decorated Cake • Aaron Lujan and Dolise McClure – People’s Choice Cake For everyone who came out to support TREPAC in February, I hope you had a fantastic time and I look forward to seeing you again at future TREPAC fund raising events. Don’t forget to check out ABoR’s Facebook page for event photos. RL

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March 2011

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Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995

Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™

Alka Shah, Kathie Holt and Wanda Stewart, all of JB Goodwin REALTORS, wonder who are going to be the top winners at the company’s 39th annual achievement awards breakfast.

Buy photo: RL_030211_K.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

Yash Sabharwal and Jessica Sabharwal join Margaret Liebes, right, and her daughter Grayson at the Real Men Wear Pink bowling tournament.

North American Title, where Jessica and Margaret work, hosted the event.

Buy photo: RL_031011_G.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

NARPM members Jim Smith, Karen Zello and Austin Real Pros’ Bill Evans get the latest news on property management issues at the group’s monthly meeting.

Buy photo: RL_030711_C.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

Buy photo: RL_030611_A.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

Tom Richardson of RE/MAX Austin Associates arms himself with information on how to market himself and his properties in a recession to improve his business. “Marketing in a Recession” was just one of many seminars at RE/MAX of Texas’ Statewide Convention at the Austin Hilton & Convention Center.

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March 2011

REALTORS EXCLUSIVELY AT

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©2011 KB Home (KBH). Payment of Broker Co-op and $5,000 bonus requires Broker to accompany and register buyer on first visit to community and comply with Broker Co-op Agreement. Bonus offer is valid on each eligible sale of quick-move-in homes from February 19, 2011- April 24, 2011 and on contracts for full list price only. For Broker to receive bonus, buyer must sign purchase agreement by 4/24/11. Bonus not transferable or exchangeable and cannot be combined with other offers. Once client has closed escrow, Broker will receive bonus. Bonus awarded only on non-contingent contracts. Cancelled sales are not eligible. Sales of model homes excluded. Broker must be legal U.S. resident and 18 or older, and an active, licensed real estate agent in Texas. Other exclusions, qualifications, restrictions and limitations may apply. 2011 Realtor Bonus Program: To participate or qualify for this off er you must be a Texas Licensed Real Estate Agent and agree to the following terms of the program. Homes that close escrow from 1/1/09 through 12/31/09 are eligible for this program. Bonus Program applicable in communities with 3% base commission on Built to Order homes. 3% Realtor commission is paid in full within 2 weeks of slab pour on Built to Order homes only, excluding Fairway Estates in Circle C Ranch and will be processed after the foundation is poured. To be eligible for any prepayment of commission the purchase of the property can not be contingent upon Purchaser’s sale or lease of an existing home. In addition, Purchaser(s) shall have obtained unconditional loan approval acceptable to the Seller from a qualified lender prior to the slab being poured and purchase the home as owner occupied primary residence. Any “bonus” commission will be paid at close of escrow only.

Commission is paid on base price and lot premium only. Studio options are not factored into the calculation of any commissions paid on Built to Order homes. Commission on inventory homes is calculated on total price less discounts. Contingency removal programs do not qualify for graduated commission program. If any commission is pre-paid and the buyer does not close escrow on the that property, the real estate agent will no longer be eligible for any future pre-payment of commission. Realtor must be procuring cause of sale and accompany buyer to or register the buyer at the community on or before sale date. Plans, pricing, financing, terms, availability and specifications subject to change/prior sale without notice and may vary by neighborhood, lot location and home series. Additional charges apply for lot premiums, options/upgrades. Buyer responsible for all taxes, insurance and other fees. Quick-move-in homes may take up to approximately 90 days before available for closing. See sales representative for details.

Broker Co-op Welcome.

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Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995

Front Page: Continued Because it allows two-way online communication in real-time, social media is changing online marketing and enabling real conversations that might otherwise never happen. And it’s much more than free advertising: in a fraction of the time it would take to attend a networking function or whittle down that stack of business cards you’ve been collecting, you can connect with other agents to share content, build familiarity to smooth out future transactions, make a great restaurant recommendation to clients coming into town, and learn about what’s happening in the market, all from your smart phone. Christy Gessler of RE/MAX Capital City manages her social media marketing time with what she calls “The 30 x 2 Rule” for busy REALTORS: “I’m on Facebook and Twitter for about 30 minutes in the morning and 30 minutes in the afternoon or evening,” says Gessler. “That’s about all it takes to scroll through and see what my clients are up to, make some quick connections or share a useful tidbit. Over time, you can build a real network of good leads, clients and referrals.”

Already plugged into social media, but looking for ways to make the most of it? Here are a few ideas: 1. Advertise a mixer or event for clients and friends 2. Promote a new service 3. Post an educational article for homebuyers 4. Connect buyers to fun things to do around Austin 5. Share a blog post, promotional or educational YouTube video, or even a video of one of your listings Not sure where to start? The National Association of REALTORS website features numerous resources on using social media in lead generation, marketing and selling at www.realtor.org/about_nar/social_media. In addition, you can find any number of free, live classes in Austin on building your social media presence. For example, the Austin Board of REALTORS hosts several MCE-accredited classes on social media strategies; go to www. abor.com/courses/mce_courecatelog.cfm for more information.

“I’d like to buy a vowel.”

Vaike O’Grady of Newland Communities tells David Pimentel of Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate how fortunate his clients would feel living in one of their communities.

With so many REALTORS attending WCAoR’s Super Bowl of Builders event, Newland was running out of prizes.

Buy photo: RL_030811_F.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

Realty Line’s own Caroline Carver has a need for speed. She’s ready to take off in this race car with all of the chili at the HBA’s Chili Cook Off, Horseshoe Tournament and Silent Auction benefiting Home PAC.

Buy photo: RL_030311_L.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

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It may seem like green as a selling tool is just a given. After all, most builders today are using green aspects in their construction, whether it’s low-VOC paint, low-emission carpet or high efficiency appliances.

Generally, green homes are more efficient, more durable and comfortable, and healthier than conventional homes — so building green whenever possible just makes sense.

But where green really comes into play is the resale market. Sellers are in competition with new homes, low prices and unsold inventory. Many buyers are willing to drive the extra 10 minutes for a new home, but many would prefer the older, more established neighborhood — if the home has the right updates.

Which improvements should you suggest when you’re counseling sellers on how to compete with newer, greener homes on the market? First, consider the requirements of the community. In 2009, Austin mandated the Energy Conservation Audit and Disclosure (ECAD) Ordinance, which requires sellers to have an energy analysis or home energy audit on homes 10 years or older. The audit covers heating and cooling system (HVAC) efficiency,

Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™

air infiltration (duct performance, air sealing in plumbing areas and weather-stripping), windows, and attic insulation. (The results must be provided to prospective buyers; for more information, see www.austinenergy. com/go/ecad). These are some of the key areas to focus on when you want to improve the efficiency of a home and increase its resale value, and luckily, they’re the ones that can usually fetch your client and homeowners the best rebates, low interest loans, or tax savings.

For example, the City of Austin offers rebates up to $600 and tax credits up to $1,500 for switching to an ENERGY STAR HVAC unit, rebates up to $164 and tax credits up to $1,500 for low “E” glass windows, rebates up to $470 for new air infiltration and duct sealing, and rebates up to $328 and tax credits up to $1,500 for new attic insulation.

These are in addition to individual rebates for ENERGY STAR rated appliances, which can significantly boost the appeal of an older home on the market.

Boost Your Curb Appeal

As we said earlier, first impressions matter.

Nowhere is that more true than in real estate,

Curb Appeal: Continued on page 22

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P. O. Box 81366 • Austin, Texas 78708-1366 (512) 821-1900 www.myRealtyLine.com E-mail: info@myRealtyLine.com Publisher: Doren L. Carver doren@myRealtyLine.com Associate Publisher: Tawanna K. Carver tawanna@myRealtyLine.com Managing Editor: Naomi Bludworth naomi@myRealtyLine.com Contributing Editor: Linda McNabb Contributing Writers: Stacy Stroud, Linda McNabb Contributing Photographers: Doren L. Carver, Linda McNabb Columnists: Judith Bundschuh, Hank Smith, Kay DaSilva, Victoria Reviel, Cheryl Jenkins, Carrie York, David Tandy, Vaike O’Grady Realty Line Austin is published monthly by Caxton Publications, Inc.© as a non-subscription publication for the more than 8,000 members of the Austin Board of REALTORS®(ABoR), the more than 1,100 members of the Williamson County Association of REALTORS® (WCAoR) and the Home Builders Association (HBA) of Greater Austin.

Realty Line Austin is a proud member of the Austin Board of REALTORS®, the Williamson County Association of REALTORS® and is a honorary member of the Women’s Council of REALTORS. Realty Line Austin is not responsible for opinions or facts expressed by non-staff writers or for errors and any by-products in advertising or editorial copy. REALTOR® is a registered trademark.

The word REALTOR® sometimes appears in this publication without the registered trademark symbol (®) for the purpose of saving space. Wherever the word REALTOR® appears in this publication, the registered trademark should be assumed.

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Williamson County Assoc. of REALTORS®

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President’s Column

By Victoria Reviel • 2011 President

Social Media – Are you connected or disconnected?

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ne of the year’s hottest movies, “The Social Network”, has garnered eight Academy Award nominations including one for Best Picture, and while the Internet phenomenon known as “social networking” may not yet have garnered as much acclaim among many industries, the real estate industry is connecting with this technology. Many REALTORS have a hunger to know more about social networking, but haven’t yet figured out how to use it in their business.

Some of you may think that all this technology is just a waste of time, it’s never going to last, why do I care if you went to the grocery store this morning? Yes, many of us have said all those same things, but social media is here to stay. Do you need to do it all?

No, but you do need to know what’s out there and decide what works for you. Real estate marketing has changed, is changing and will continue to change as technology advances.

Consumers no longer call you to find a house since they begin their home search

on websites like Realtor.com, Zillow and many others. They have made their decision about which houses they want to see and are calling you to set up appointments for viewing. Technology is here to stay and it can be your friend, if you know how to use it.

As one of the REALTORS commented at the Xplode seminar offered by TAR, “27 percent of my business comes from Facebook.”

Another commented that “60 percent of her business came from Twitter.” These are tools that may help you navigate a changing real estate landscape and help you reach more consumers, increase leads and expand your sphere of influence.

The younger generation is linked in to technology and all it has to offer them and may expect the same from you — their REALTOR. Numerous REALTORS have their own personal pages on Facebook, LinkedIn, Trulia, Zillow, Active Rain, etc. As social networking evolves and social networking technology starts to impact a larger percentage of people in the industry, it continues to become more

need buyer lead$?

www.myRealtyLine.com of a value-added phenomenon in the real estate industry.

The Williamson County Association of REALTORS recognizes this phenomenon and is proud to announce our new certification — Social Media Pro. Each course will explain a particular area of social media and how to use it with your business. In addition to gaining important knowledge, if you attend the following courses (six in all) you will be recognized by WCAoR as a Social Media Pro with a certificate. After receiving your certification, you will need to complete one advanced class each year to maintain that certification.

The Certification classes include

Facebook 101, Blogging 101, DocuSign 101, Photography 101, Twitter 101 and LinkedIn 101. Each course comes with two hours of MCE credit and lots of hands on training.

Visit our website at www.wcaor.org today and start getting tech savvy.

Additional WCAoR classes and events include, Accredited Buyer Representative (ABR) plus elective March 21-23 (discounted price), monthly Lunch ‘N Learns, Rookie Academy (monthly sessions) and much more.

Visit our website at www.wcaor.org to sign up. Follow us on Twitter at WCAoR_ REALTORS. View us on Facebook (www. facebook.com/wcaor) and check out our blog at www.wcaorblog.com. RL

Natasha Puccio and Allison Ullrich, both of Patten Law Firm, enjoy meeting new people at the Austin Young Real Estate Professional’s networking mixer at the Hyatt Regency after the organization’s Xplode conference.

Our industry-leading national advertising drives nearly 4 Million National Share of TV Voice

Monthly Unique Visitors to remax.com, generating referral-fee-free leads on all Brokerages’ MLS listings!

Coldwell Banker 41.2%

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& client-incubation software, your database and RE/MAX Internet tech-

RE/MAX percentage of total ad impressions by national real estate franchises for ads purchased through nationwide buys* Adults 25-54/1-4Q 2010 | Source: Nielsen Monitor-Plus / A25-54 GRPS Unequivalized Each office independently owned and operated.

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Buy photo: RL_030411_Q.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

How about 4,647 per day, on average ?

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March 2011

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Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995

Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™

Drew Griffin and Loren Hall, both of Realty Austin, share a moment at Xplode After Dark, a networking event at the Hyatt Regency that the Austin Young Real Estate Professionals hosted.

Buy photo: RL_030411_R.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

Elaine Garner takes home the Profit Share award while Amber Hart earns the Top Individual Unit Listings honor. Mary Hickey walks away with two accolades: the Top Individual in Gross Commission Income and Top Individual in Closed Volume awards. All three received their awards at the Keller Williams Realty Lake Travis annual awards ceremony.

Buy photo: RL_030511_J.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com Submitted photo

Krista Clardy of Highlands Residential Mortgage joins Doug Rives and Marilyn Butler at the annual wine tasting that NAPMW hosted at Maggiano’s Little Italy.

Win a Mercedes Benz and a Trip to Germany!

Austin Board of REALTORS to Raffle Off Mercedes Benz and Trip to Germany.

Proceeds Benefit Scholarship Fund The Austin Board of REALTORS® (ABoR) Foundation will raffle off a brand-new MercedesBenz C-300 and a five-night trip to Germany to pick out your car at the Mercedes-Benz dealership. Raffle tickets cost $100 each, and only 1,500 tickets will be sold. Benefits from the Mercedes-Benz raffle will go towards the ABoR Foundation’s Scholarship Fund, a nonprofit which raises funds to support further education for high school graduates in Central Texas.

The drawing for the Mercedes will take place from 6 to 9 p.m. on Friday, June 10 at the Domain II. Event details will be posted on www.abor.com closer to the event.

If you would like to purchase a raffle ticket please contact Alisa LeBlanc, 923-0191, alisa@ pattentitle.com,

Laura

Pagnozzi,

329-5299,

Lpagnozzi@independencetitle.com,

Laurie

Nunnallee, 422-3721, lnunnallee@firstam.com or any “Friend” of the ABoR Foundation. RL

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HBA of Greater Austin

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Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995

President’s Column

By Hank Smith • 2011 President

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Mortgage Interest Tax Deduction May Be on the Chopping Block

ou or your clients may have been one of the millions of homeowners across the country who recently received the Internal Review Service (IRS) Form 1098 from your mortgage lenders. It is probably the only IRS form that many of you enjoy receiving.

Homeowners file the form with the IRS to detail the amount of interest and mortgagerelated expenses paid on a mortgage during the tax year. The Mortgage Interest Deduction (MID) is one of the few tax deductions available to middle class families. However, if some politicians have their way this deduction may be eliminated along with IRS Form 1098.

Since the creation of this deduction in 1946, homeownership has grown to 66 percent.

During this time, Americans have accumulated roughly $9 trillion in equity in their homes spurring the U.S. economy.

With growing debts and deficits, Congress and the White House will be looking to cut anything and everything. The home ownership deduction cannot be one of those items on the chopping block; now is not the time to jeopardize economic recovery by impairing

home values.

While many homebuilders commend the hard work of President Obama’s National Commission on Fiscal Responsibility and Reform Commission to improve the nation’s fiscal situation, this approach is simply wrong.

It would put a huge tax increase on millions of middle-class homeowners by eliminating or devaluing the mortgage interest deduction.

The consequences would be devastating for housing and the economy.

Research from the National Association of Home Builders shows the deduction is most valuable for younger households; they tend to be recent homebuyers with small amounts of home equity and growing families due to marriages and children.

For a typical homeowner with $54,000 in taxable income and a $180,000 mortgage, the deductions for mortgage interest and real estate taxes are worth $7,500 during the first five years of homeownership. This amount is net — or in excess — of the foregone standard deduction.

For the first 12 years of homeownership, these deductions are worth approximately $17,000.

www.myRealtyLine.com (Note that the median price of a home in the Austin region in 2010 was $189,500 and you get the picture.)

Eliminating this deduction would further depress home prices, putting countless more homeowners underwater which could trigger a new wave of foreclosures. Eliminating or scaling back this vital housing deduction will shrink the local tax base of many communities, causing already cash-strapped state and local governments to further cut jobs and essential services.

If you value homeownership, write your U.S. Congressman and let them know that the economy is too fragile to target your home.

Tell them how important this is to you, not only at tax time, but also as a source of savings you count on each year. Visit www.house. gov and enter your zip code to find out who represents you. You can then easily e-mail your Congressman to share your concerns.

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For more information on this issue, visit “Save My Mortgage Interest Deduction” on Facebook or www. savemymortgageinterestdeduction.com.

Thank you for your attention to this important and timely matter.

Crawfish Boil Builder/REALTOR Mixer March 24 Join us at the 9th Annual HBA Crawfish Boil Builder/REALTOR Mixer from 6 to 9 p.m. on Thursday, March 24. This year’s event is presented by Milestone Community Builders at the beautiful hill country community of West Cypress Hills. Enjoy a crawfish dinner with all the fixins served until 8 p.m., cash bar and excellent networking. The Crawfish Boil is one of the most fun, well attended HBA parties of the year. Buy tickets at www.hbaaustin. com before March 11 for $20 ($25 thereafter).

Tickets will not be available at the door. RL

Buy photo: RL_031011_O.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

Mark Griffiths ponders where his teammate went wrong while J. Rene Ward offers her support at Main Event, where North American Title held the Real Men Wear Pink bowling tournament. Both are with Best Agents in Texas.

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Keeping up to speed with today’s mobile customer, dozens of REALTORS attend a breakout session covering the use of mobile devices and business at RE/ MAX of Texas’ annual Statewide Convention.

Buy photo: RL_030711_E.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

Julian Drakeford, Kenn Renner, Risé Johns, Bill Wilson and Gene Arant all accept awards for their teams at the Keller Williams Realty Lake Travis annual awards ceremony at The Hills Country Club.

Submitted photo

Master of Ceremonies Yvette Evans of Keller Williams Realty has a few laughs with WCAoR Executive Officer Marge Phillips before she helps hand out awards at the Keller Williams Realty Round Rock awards breakfast.

Buy photo: RL_030411_B.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

Tara Goldwasser and Anita Spadaro, both of Goldwasser Real Estate, take advantage of the education and entertainment opportunities at AYREP’s Xplode After Dark and Mercedes Raffle Kickoff Party.

Buy photo: RL_030111_C.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

Austin Area Market Update Austin MSA Jobs Gained/Lost 1999 - 2012

50,000

40,000

1999

2000 2006

2007 2012e

2005

30,000

20,000

2004

2008

2011e 2010

10,000

2001 0

2003

-10,000

-20,000

2002

2009

-30,000

For more information, please contact one of our sales executives. www.gracytitle.com

Partnerships Built on Trust

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March 2011

Introducing the NEW

Escrow Certification Program Gracy Title

We’re Setting the Bar High with Certifiable Title Industry Excellence Gracy Title is proud to introduce our Escrow Certification Program. With the first ever truly standardized escrow education curriculum, this new program was launched in September of 2009 to formalize what was once on-the-job learning into a core set of competencies with the highest standards in the industry. The Program’s multiple levels of certification equip our associates with the most up-to-date and comprehensive escrow and title knowledge in the industry. The Program is comprised of 75 courses which are continually updated and serve as an online resource for all Gracy associates. Once an associate has completed all levels of their certification, they will have invested over 90 hours of study and testing in their escrow education.

Gracy Title associates are known for setting the bar high with their knowledge, experience, and determination to provide top-level customer service. Gracy Title truly supports and applauds our associate’s dedication to continuing education!

Throughout the company, our escrow associates have a 95% participation rate in our Certification Program. We are proud to introduce the escrow associates shown below as those participating in this Program. The three escrow associates pictured below are leading the way in the greater Austin area and real estate industry with the highest honors in Gracy Title Escrow Certification.

Gracy Title Escrow Certification Level IV Associates Jennifer Tate (Left)

Escrow Assistant Gracy Title 6th and Lamar

Shelley Hill (Middle)

Branch Manager / Escrow Officer Gracy Title Dripping Springs

Tamara Saldivar (Right) Jr. Escrow Officer Gracy Title South Mopac

Participants in the Gracy Title Escrow Certification Program Alicia Genung

Amanda Copley

Amanda Molinare-Lopez

Angela Lopez

Ann Townsend

Annie Barkowsky

Barbara Jamerson

Bonnie Alexander

Cate Chism

Catherine Bone

Cathy Bade

Cheryl Sullivan

Debra Holloway

Debra Knox

Desiree Whitely

Diana Cagle

Elizabeth Young

Ellen Banks

Enriqueta Reyes

Erin Precopia

Estella Galan

Elvia Thomas

Faye Gasden

Gaye Pierce

Haylie Shearer

Jill Morgan

Kathy Lagaza

Karan Knippa

KC Clark

Kristy Killinger

Kristi Dobrinski

Kristy Smallwood

Lacey Warren

Lichelle Nanninga

Lila Stone

Lillian Gentry

Linda Vitela

Lorin Burkett

Lynna Lichtenberger

Mandy Dean-Knotts

Marie Love

Marisa Braasch

Marisa DeMitri

Mary Trotter

Michele Gonzales

Michelle LeMay-Fleming

Michelle Sankey

Miranda Mayahi

Monica Eastlack

Nicole Kocurek

Paula Gonzales

Phyllis Blackwell

Rachel Muennink

Raven Rovello

Robyn McNabb

Ryan Rogers

Selina Wilson

Shawn Spencer

Shirley Renfro

Somer Szarlacki

Susan Robertson

Susie McCreary

Tracy Caddell

Tracy Miller

Tracie Haddock

Trish Martinez

Veronica Nippert

Vicki Garritano

Whitney Wright

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David Pavliska, Glenn King, Dusty King and Jim Clark form the RE/MAX Round Rock team at the Real Men Wear Pink bowling tournament that North American Title organized.

Buy photo: RL_031011_C.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

Nicole Boynton of Gracy Title answers questions after her breakout session on “Marketing in a Recession” at the RE/MAX of Texas Statewide Convention and Technology Summit.

Buy photo: RL_031311_F.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

Buy photo: RL_030711_K.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

d

No secrets here. Austin Title’s Carrie Mitchell and Jody Wiltsey (the Spice Girls) have no qualms with giving out their chili recipe for all to take home and enjoy. The two serve up samples at the annual Chili Cook Off hosted by ABoR and benefiting TREPAC.

Full Court Ser vice

DHI Mortgage

Nicholas D. Koshell

Cedar Park Office 715 Discovery Blvd.

Suite 205 Cedar Park, TX 78613 512-259-5950

Texas American Title Company Part of the TRG Family of Companies

Your First Time Home Buyer Expert Ask him about MCC, Bond and other down payment assistance programs.

DHI Mortgage We’re the best present you can give your clients— 12554 Riata Vista Circle 1stNo Floorreturns needed. Re-gifting highly encouraged!

Austin, TX 78727 Phone: 512-257-5479 Cell: 512-569-8890 Email: nkoshell@dhimortgage.com NMLS #209188 www.dhimortgage.com

d

Provided for informational purposes only. This is not a commitment to lend; not all borrowers and/or properties will qualify. DHI Mortgage Company, LTD, 12554 Riata Vista Circle, First Floor, Austin, TX 78727. NMLS #38686.

Round Rock Office 1001 South Mays Round Rock, TX 78664 512-255-1550

Let us take care of the madness to ensure smooth closings!

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Grand Opening of Discovery Park with Five New Model Homes in Teravista

Play March 19-20 Analyze your swing with the Teravista Golf pro Jump on the bungee trampoline Climb the rock wall Enjoy activities and crafts

by Teravista residents and local merchants

Tour the five new model homes in Teravista by Centerra Homes, D.R. Horton, Ryland Homes and Village Builders at the grand opening celebration. Join us for special events March 19 and March 20 in Discovery Park* and experience everything there is to know about Teravista including the Teravista Golf Club, residents clubs, miles of trails and highly-rated schools.

For full event details visit Teravista.com/opening.

New homes from the $150s to the $400s with 1,400 to 4,000 sq. ft.

CastleRock Communities • Centerra Homes • D.R. Horton • Lennar • Meritage Homes Ryland Homes • Spicewood Communities • Village Builders • Wilshire Homes

Newland Communities is the largest private developer of planned residential and urban mixed-use communities in the United States. We believe it is our responsibility to create enduring, healthier communities for people to live life in ways that matter most to them. www.newlandcommunities.com

*Discovery Park is a temporary sales area and not intended for permanent use by residents.

Prices, specifications and details are subject to change without notice. All square footage is approximate.

Homes in the Teravista community are constructed and sold by builders (“Builders”) not affiliated with the developer of such community or the developer’s affiliated companies (collectively, “Developer”). Developer does not guarantee or warrant the obligations of, or construction by, such Builders, or the availability or pricing of homes. Home buyers contract directly with Builders and must rely solely on their own investigation and judgment of the Builder’s construction and financial capabilities. © 2011 Newland Real Estate Group, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

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Texas Lone Star CRS Chapter

Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™

Director ‘s Column

By Kay DaSilva • 2011 Director

Christy Gessler, far right, of RE/MAX Capital City “friends” Shanna Schnieder, Janet Havel, Bill Cozart, and Connie Hentosh, all of Highland Homes, the old fashioned way at the WCAoR Super Bowl of Builders event.

Buy photo: RL_030811_J.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

F

JB Goodwin REALTORS’ Gay Puckett congratulates Sandy Nelson who is retiring after 16 years with the company. Both attended the 39th Annual Achievement Awards breakfast at Austin Country Club.

Buy photo: RL_030211_X.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

National Association of Residential Property Managers’ officers welcome members to their monthly luncheon.

Pictured are Leola Lamb, Mark Witmer, Karl Jennings and Austin Real Pros’ Carrie York.

Buy photo: RL_030611_D.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

Register for CRS Educational Classes

or over 30 years CRS has been developing real estate training that helps REALTORS achieve the next level of success. The classroom and online courses provide systems and strategies that can boost your productivity so you can be more effective for your clients. Subjects include listing, selling, pricing, technology, marketing, referral generation and more.

The updated CRS educational offerings not only provide you with a well-rounded base to pursue a successful residential real estate career, but also will increase your profitability. These two-day courses range in topics from business planning to investments as well as the newest one specifically tailored to financing and tax advantages for you and your clients.

CRS courses provide solutions for a changing marketplace. Whether you are interested in earning the CRS designation or want to learn new systems and strategies for being more productive and successful, CRS has a course for you.

A reminder that CRS 204 (Wealth Building) is being offered in Austin by Texas Lone Star CRS Chapter and ABoR. The class will be held at the ABoR office on May 2 and 3. The cost for this course is $275 and you will receive 15 hours of MCE credit. You may register at www.ABoR.com.

Mark your calendar for the next luncheon meeting to be held at 11:30 a.m. on Wednesday, April 20 at the Westwood Country Club. RL

Upcoming Luncheon: Wednesday, April 20 11:30 a.m.

Westwood Country Club

CRS 204 Education Class: Monday & Tuesday, May 2 & 3 $275 / 15 MCE Credits ABoR office

Register: www.TexasLoneStarCRS.com

Get into the Green Scene!

Any Home Warranty ordered in March will receive the GREEN UPGRADE for FREE!

CALL TODAY! 512-263-3764

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Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995

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Big kudos go to Karen Halsema, Suzie Gole, Carolina Aceituno and Don Dungan, all of Keller Williams Realty, for winning the top individual awards at the company’s Round Rock office annual breakfast and awards program.

Buy photo: RL_030111_H.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

Bright eyed and bushy tailed, John Leach, Karen McGrath and Kim Perez, all of JB Goodwin REALTORS, are excited for all their peers who won awards at the company’s 39th Annual Achievement Awards breakfast.

Buy photo: RL_030211_Q.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

HBA member Ross Brookshire shows off his secret weapon (Lurch) in the HBA Chili Cook off competition.

We were wondering who did the cooking!

Buy photo: RL_030711_I.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

Buy photo: RL_030311_F.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

Supreme Lending has all the tools that you will need to be successful in today’s changing market place!

On-site Underwriting and Processing

Supreme Lending in Austin is looking for well-qualified

Mortgage Professionals.

If you want to join a winning team and find out more information about this opportunity call 512-279-1150 or e-mail John.McClellan@SupremeLending.com Listen to the radio show “The Real Estate Zone” every Sunday 11 to Noon on News Radio 590 KLBJ and 99.7 FM John Mcclellan Branch Manager Supreme Lending - Austin NMLS #207768 3420 Executive Center Dr. #300 Austin, TX 78731 512-279-1150 Office

Supreme Lending is an equal opportunity employer and does not practice discrimination based on age, gender, race, religion, national origin, as well as any other rights afforded to applicants under state and federal law.

“Time is money” as they say. David Davidson of RE/MAX Heart of Texas learns how to make the most of his time by learning how to do short sales at this breakout session; one of many at the RE/MAX of Texas annual Statewide Convention and Technology Summit.

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Women’s Council of REALTORS®

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President’s Column

By Cheryl Jenkins • 2011 President

Grow Your Business Through Referrals

N

AR’s 2010 Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers tells us that 48 percent of our business comes from referrals. A strategy for your referral business will enable you to thrive and do more ‘easy’ business. Your plan should include maximizing your branding by creating a good business page on Facebook, building your recommendations on LinkedIn and regularly seeing and talking to the people most likely to send you referrals. There is no lead more powerful than one referred from someone who knows and trusts you.

Women’s Council members have the opportunity to secure referrals from other Women’s Council members by updating their Member Expertise Profile in the Women’s Council Referral Center. Complete your profile to capture your industry involvement and community leadership, as well as your professional specializations and education.

Don’t forget to upload your color photo, too.

This is a free form of personal advertising that will be used to determine a member’s area of expertise for referrals, speaking and interview

opportunities, organization appointments and more. Check it out today.

If you are looking for referrals from your social media sites and you’re wondering what to do after you’ve created profiles and accounts on the different social media platforms, join us for “Getting on the Social Media Highway.”

This course will be held from 1 to 3 p.m. on Monday, April 11. The cost is $10 for Austin WCR members and $15 for non-members.

With the combination of your personal sphere referral database and your online social media database, you are sure to increase your business through referrals.

Do you want to expand your expertise and receive a certification at the same time?

Another member benefit for Austin WCR is our education series. The next class “At Home With Diversity,” is an educational experience designed to present a picture of the changing face of the real estate industry. More importantly, the class teaches REALTORS how to work effectively with, and within, a rapidly changing multicultural market. Do you want

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to connect with home buyers and sellers to earn more business? Knowing how to transact business in culturally competent ways can make the difference. Learn about do’s and don’ts, fair housing, and other topics that will help you maximize your earning potential. You’ll be able to apply what you learn to a business plan that you can use after you complete the course.

This class is being offered free to Austin WCR Members. It will be held on Wednesday, March 23.

To register for either of these courses, visit our website at www.austinwcr.org.

independence of disadvantaged women by providing professional attire, a network of support and the career development tools to help women thrive in work and in life. In an effort to extend a helping hand, we will be collecting gently loved professional attire to donate to this useful cause. Please bring clothing, jewelry and other items that can assist someone entering the workforce to our March Business Resource Luncheon on Thursday, March 24 at Cool River Café. We hope to see you there.

WCR Gives Back

Austin Women’s Council is hosting an evening of dancing accompanied by dinner and an opportunity to win $2,000. The date is Thursday, April 21 at the Elks Lodge. Don’t be tardy for the party. Tickets are available now. RL

Austin Women’s Council is partnering with Dress for Success. The mission of Dress for Success is to promote the economic

Dance the Night Away – Dancing With the Stars!

Buy photo: RL_031011_N.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

Lisa Messana of Keller Williams Realty, Rod Morgan and Brentley Brinegar, both of Landmark Properties, and Karen Parker of Mike Parker and Co. share a lane at the North American Title Real Men Wear Pink bowling tournament. This event was held at Main Event.

9th Annual Crawfish Boil REALTOR /Builder Mixer ®

March 24, 2011 6pm - 9pm at

The Pinnacle Collection Greenbelt Homes from the $200’s 512-264-0900 Mark Lee 512-567-3669 Kyle Duran 512-658-0266 5200 Cypress Ranch Blvd, Spicewood

Don’t miss the 9th Annual Crawfish Boil at MileStone’s West Cypress Hills Community!

Enjoy a fabulous crawfish dinner and all the fixins’ while you network with friends and colleagues at this not-to-be-missed event!

Tickets are not sold at the event, but you can purchase online for $25 at www.hbaaustin.com.

Barker Roofing Diversified Thermal

www.HBAAustin.com

Reliable Cleaning

www.MyMileStone.com

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With so much to brag about, Buffington Homes’ Ben Shannon shows Catherine Fentanes of RE/ MAX Capital City the variety of products the company has to offer her clients. WCAoR’s Super Bowl of Builders really packs the house.

Buy photo: RL_030811_G.jpg at www.myRealtyLine.com

Christine Whetstone and K.C. Whetstone, both of Keller Williams Realty, celebrate bowling strikes back to back at Main Event, where North American Title held the Real Men Wear Pink Bowling tournament.

Buy photo: RL_030311_G.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

HBA Membership Director Debbie Horridge shows Naomi Bludworth of Realty Line, who never turns down free food, where she can fill up on all the varieties of chili at the HBA Chili Cook Off at the Travis County Expo Center.

Buy photo: RL_031011_J.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

Superior Service ~ Backed by Local Top Producers ~ You’ve Come To Rely On.

Keller Williams Realty Austin Northwest Proudly Announces Their 2011 Agent Leadership Council

In everything we do, we believe people are the key. Our aim is to create loyalty and long-term relationships with our customers.

Andy Allen

Brian Martin

Debbie Harber

Kelvin Glover

Elizabeth Riley

Chris Ott

Heather Witte

Laurie McGary

Karen McCarty

Liz Ott

Memo Vargas

At WR Starkey Mortgage, we pay attention to the needs of the

Jessica Licona

people we serve and strive to take the uncertainty and stress out of the home financing process.

A different kind of company... where people come first.

807 Las Cimas Parkway Suite 150 Austin, Texas 78746 Phone: 512-329-9040 Fax: 512-329-9043 Toll Free: 877-340-9040 www.wrstarkey.com

JAN HILL 512-431-5223

janhill@wrstarkey.com

JULIE BLACK 512-306-6357

jblack@wrstarkey.com

Mike Pourciau

Steve & Judy Scott

Gene Frederick

Tony Brodie

Team Leader

Team Leader

12515-8 Research Blvd, · Suite 100 · Austin Texas 78759 · (512) 346-3550

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Steele Jackson and Susan Burbaker, both of Milestone Community Builders (center) invite Sonia Guardado, left, of Tiffany’s Properties, and Barbara Wigginton, right, of RE/MAX Vision, to the upcoming HBA Crawfish Boil Builder/ REALTOR mixer at the builder’s community at West Cypress Hills.

Buy photo: RL_030811_I.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

Getting a jump start on Fat Tuesday, Mary Mealy and Linda Hall, both of Nextage Lincoln Ray Realty, show off their Mardi Gras theme at ABoR’s Chili Cook Off.

Buy photo: RL_031311_C.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

Robert Fischer and Judy Copple, both of Keller Williams Realty, each take home a group award for total units sold at the company’s annual awards breakfast. No his son was not the trophy.

Buy photo: RL_031211_A.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com Buy photo: RL_030111_J.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

I ate all my Wheaties; nah, just another strike at the WCAoR Bowling Tournament. Victoria Reviel of 98th Meridian and WCAoR president, shows off her stuff as she supports TREPAC by participating in the event.

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Independent Bank Mortgage

HigHland Homes

Realtor Rewards

A S S O C I AT E S I N P R O G R E S S - A d v e r t i s e r P r o f i l e b y S t a c y S t r o u d

I

ndependent Bank Mortgage is the local mortgage banking arm of Independent Bank, a McKinney, Texasbased bank with branches throughout the state and mortgage offices in Austin and McKinney. Although Independent Bank is a conservative lending institution, the ability to lend their own money gives the Austin mortgage team the autonomy and flexibility to consider each client’s needs and specific circumstances on a case-by-case basis.

Combine that independence with a business model built on decades of experience, solid relationships and referrals as a top goal, and you’ve got the perfect recipe for personalized service.

Led by partners Eddie Rinehart, Jim Stone and Josh Borders, the Austin mortgage team also includes two loan officers, Mike Schmuelgen and Tracy St. Pierre, and two loan processors. “Everyone on the team, including our processors, has been in the business at least a decade,” says Rinehart.

“And most of us have 20 or more years.

There aren’t many shops with that kind of experience.”

This shop specializes in lot loans, construction loans, and portfolio loans, but also offers a variety of other home loans including FHA/VA, refinance, home equity and cash out loans. Without multiple layers of management, Independent Bank Mortgage runs a lean operation and passes those savings to its customers in the form of lower rates. “We offer Internet rates with personal service,” says Rinehart.

“REALTORS can be sure that their clients are getting the best deal possible in the marketplace.”

The three principals of

Independent Bank Mortgage’s Austin team have worked together since 2006, when they were partners at Treaty Oak Mortgage. All three were all on the Austin Business Journal’s 2009 list of top mortgage loan originators in Austin, and Rinehart was the 2009 president of the Austin Mortgage Banker’s Association. Jim Stone is a CPA, Josh Borders brings a strong finance background to the partnership, and Rinehart is a mortgage lending expert who has worked in the Austin market since 1991. The group left Treaty Oak in the summer of 2010 to join Independent Bank as it expanded its mortgage operation to the Austin market.

The Austin branch is growing and adding experienced loan officers to the team. In addition, the new flagship location at 40th and Medical Parkway will be complete and open for business within a year.

Independent Bank Mortgage is built on referrals. REALTORS who work with the company quickly understand that the business is based on relationships. From the start to finish of every loan transaction, agents are in the loop and informed at every step. By utilizing their own bank’s funds, Independent Bank Mortgage maintains control of the funding process, assuring timely funding of all their clients’ transactions. The company supports REALTORS with a fully staffed marketing department at the corporate office, and delivers attentive, personal service on every deal.

To get in touch with an experienced lender at Independent Bank Mortgage, call 617-3633 or visit www.independentbankmortgage.com. RL

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March 2011

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.

1

Belterra

2

The Ranch at Brushy Creek

7

From the $600s 512-266-7117

From the $250s 512-255-4454

Whitestone oaks

5

Belterra

From the $330s 512-310-7911

Crystal Falls

6

Commons at Rowe lane From the $150s

9

From the $360s 512-260-8333 LAKE GEORGETOWN

Rocky Creek

arbor Place

8

From the $210s 512-260-2222

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

steiner Ranch

4

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

LIBERTY HILL

From the $330s 512-303-0112

512-251-8900

35 29

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Sam Bass Road

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620

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79

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9

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Scenic Brook

290 1826

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71

290

Josh Borders Senior Vice President

Jim Stone Senior Vice President

130

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Ben White Blvd

1

Eddie Rinehart Senior Vice President

95

GEORGETOWN

Austin ABIA Bergstrom Int’l Airport

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*All qualified sales must be original contracts written between January 1, 2011 and35December 31, 2011. For any Realtor incentive or bonus program offered by Highland Homes it is a condition of eligibility to receive payment that the Realtors not offer to rebate or contribute any portion of a bonus or a commission to a home buyer or any other person who is not a licensed Texas Realtor. The company has sole discretion in determining whether this eligibility requirement is met for each sale. We only recognize one Realtor name per sale.

CREEDMOOR 45SE TO LL

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Colette Fitzgerald and Katie White, both of KB Home, give Keller Williams Realty’s Lisa Madden the 411 on homes and REALTOR incentives KB Home is offering during the WCAoR first Super Bowl of Builders event.

Buy photo: RL_030811_K.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

You expect us to eat the whole pizza?

Chris Sachs, Leisa Ormsbee and Tammy Gardner, all of JB Goodwin REALTORS, question their ability to live up to the challenge at the Williamson County Association of REALTORS Bowling Tournament benefiting TREPAC. Buy photo: RL_030211_H.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

Buy photo: RL_031211_E.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

The 5-5-25

A Personal Communication Strategy

Tish Fenley-Darey of JB Goodwin REALTORS Darey Team and Wayne Richardson eagerly await to hear who the award winners are at the JB Goodwin REALTORS 39th Annual Achievement Awards breakfast. Tish accepted an award for being recognized as a $7 million team producer.

Buy Photos + Find Events + View Archives

www.myRealtyLine.com

Register today for Sente’s

March Power Lunch Thursday, March 24th 12 Noon – 1PM

5-5-25 – Make it work for you Create relationships of trust with this simple formula designed to help you expand, improve, and strengthen your database. The 5-5-25 is a personal communication practice which translates into daily actions that WILL increase your business. Using the 5-5-25 as the primary communication strategy for a year, one of Sente’s mortgage bankers increased their business by 65%! Join us this March to learn how the 5-5-25 can translate into your strategy for success.

Register at www.SenteLearning.com Click on Austin Real Estate Power Lunches For more information on any of our Power Sessions visit:

www.SenteLearning.com

or call 512-637-9900

Curb Appeal: Continued where that first view from the car means the difference between a brisk “no thanks” and “show me what’s inside.” The good news is that many of the small improvements you can recommend to your sellers can make a huge impact. “The 102 percent return on a simple

steel entry door replacement certainly speaks to the importance of curb appeal,” says Gessler, who also recommends keeping potted plants tidy, shrubs and grass trimmed neatly, and if you’re away, asking a neighbor to remove any paper solicitations that accumulate. RL

Remodeling Magazine’s 2010-2011 Cost vs. Value report Top five value remodeling projects

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Two

Four

Five

Entry Door Replacement (Steel) Cost $1,218 Resale value $1,243 Cost recouped 102.1%

Kitchen Remodel (Minor) Cost $21,695 Resale value $15,790 Cost recouped 72.8%

Garage Door Replacement Cost $1,291 Resale value $1,083 Cost recouped 83.9%

Deck Addition (Wood) Cost $10,973 Resale value $7,986 Cost recouped 72.8%

Three

Siding Replacement (Fiber Cement) Cost $13,382 Resale value $10,707 Cost recouped 80.0%

For more on these and other smart value-add remodeling projects, go to www.REALTOR.org.

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Paula Bacon, Cindy Blow and Tiffany Hyland, far right, join NAPMW’s past president Ginny Miller of Ameripro Funding at NAPMW’s annual wine tasting at Maggiano’s Little Italy. Paula, Cindy and Tiffany all are with Reliant Title.

Buy photo: RL_030511_C.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

“Viper Joe” Jarusinsky of Keller Williams Realty, Amy Kobza of Capital Title, and Tiffany Stillwell of Patten Law Firm thank AYREP’s Shannon Powers for helping to put on the fun and educational Xplode conference at the Hyatt Regency.

Buy photo: RL_030411_P.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

It’s a team effort.

Russ Eitel, Mary Ann Grimes, Starr Walker and Patrick Eitel, all of the Eitel group at Keller Williams Realty, clean house and take home awards for Top Group in Gross Commission, Individual Unit Listings and Closed Volume.

They were honored at the company’s annual awards ceremony.

Buy photo: RL_030811_A.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

With a crowd this big, Jack Beezley of JB Goodwin REALTORS and Tiesa Hollaway of North American Title work hard to keep things moving at the WCAoR Super Bowl of Builders.

Submitted photo

WILLOW BEND MORTGAGE is pleased to welcome

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Commentary

By Nicole Boynton • Gracy Title

If Facebook is Wrong, I Don’t Want to be Right

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ave you been thinking about jumping on the Facebook bandwagon but aren’t really sold on the idea yet? Or are you using social media and not sure how to effectively leverage it in your real estate business? The stats don’t lie and social media is here to stay and is changing the way we get information, the way we sell, and how we live.

Erik Qualman, author of the #1 Best Seller, Socialnomics, predicts that “We will no longer search for products and services, they will find us via social media.” He goes on to say that “Social media is not a fad, it’s a fundamental shift in the way we communicate.”

Here are some interesting statistics to ponder: • Facebook is free and has more than 500 million active users.

• The Move.com family of websites (REALTOR.com, Move.com, Moving. com and SeniorHousingNet.com) has an average of 9 million visitors a month. A REALTOR.com Showcase

Agent membership can cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars a year.

• The NAR 2010 Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers says the first step for one third of home buyers was to look online.

• Nine out of 10 homebuyers used the internet to search for homes (according to NAR’s 2010 Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers).

Facebook offers you the opportunity to market real estate for FREE with a business page. The terms of use on Facebook prohibit marketing a business from your personal profile. Through use of the REALTOR.com app, reviews tab, customized contact forms, personalized banners/sidebars, and Facebook ads you can exponentially increase your real estate marketing success.

A word of caution — be sure you are adhering to the NAR Code of Ethics and to TREC online rules of advertising when using social media for business. Rules including but not limited to: truth in advertising, identifying yourself as a Broker or REALTOR, listing

www.myRealtyLine.com your firm name, listing state of licensure, and properly using the REALTOR logo.

Do you want to increase your effectiveness on Facebook? There are a number of MCE classes that feature Facebook techniques including hands-on classes to create your business page and add lead capture tools.

Here are two easy ways for you to improve the way you use Facebook that you can implement today.

Create friend lists. This is equivalent to categorizing your contacts in Microsoft Outlook. By sorting your Facebook friends into lists you can then direct status updates and messages to the people that would find them the most relevant. Local REALTOR oriented Facebook classes can easily show you how to create lists that are grouped by friends, family, buyers, sellers, real estate, non real estate, etc. You can create multiple lists and can add people to more than one list.

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Using friend lists, you can greatly increase your spheres of influence.

Create a Facebook business page.

Marketing your business on a Facebook business page doesn’t have to be time consuming. You don’t have to create your own real estate information and content. You can utilize the information that already exists to show your clients and future clients your market and industry knowledge by “sharing” articles from other Facebook business pages.

A REALTOR oriented Facebook class can show you how to create a business page, post articles from other sites like Inman News, REALTOR Marketer, or Texas Association of REALTORS along with your comments on the articles.

Facebook and other social media helps you better connect with your clients and grow your business in ways that you never realized were possible. RL

Buy photo: RL_021011_B.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

Dan Day, Ashley Kamrath and Wayne Richardson, all of D.R. Horton, are excited about the REALTOR turnout at the Williamson County Association of REALTORS Super Bowl of Builders showcase.

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Real Estate News & Notes Newland Appoints Meyer VP, GM of Austin Division

In the words of Samuel L. Jackson in “Pulp Fiction,” “We’re gonna be like three little Fonzies here. And what’s Fonzie like?

Cool.” David Hooker, Aileen Albert and Mike Luscier, all of Private Label Realty, show everyone how to be cool while waiting their turn at the WCAoR annual TREPAC Bowling Tournament.

Newland Communities has named Bill Meyer as vice president and general manager for its Austin Division, which is developing the 1,577-acre Teravista community in Round Rock and the 710-acre Falcon Pointe community in Pflugerville.

Prior to being appointed to his current position, Meyer worked in Newland’s home office in San Diego as vice president of portfolio management, where he worked to maximize the value of the company’s national portfolio, which includes nearly 40 projects in 14 states. Before that, Meyer was vice president of sales for Newland’s Austin division.

In his 25-year career in planned community development, Meyer has worked on several of the country’s best-selling master

Buy photo: RL_031211_I.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

Nothing like homegrown, organic, grassfed venison to add a little something special to this chili recipe.

Jennifer Archambeash, Greg Petrosewicz and Chad Cardani, all of Cardani Group REALTORS, really know how to bring it home to the annual ABoR Chili Cook Off.

planned communities, including First Colony and Cinco Ranch in Houston. He also served as a vice president and general manager for Terrabrook, where he oversaw projects including Torrey Hills in San Diego.

Meyer holds a degree in accounting from the University of Houston and is a Certified Public Accountant.

“I am very excited to be returning to Austin at a time when the Central Texas new home market is poised for recovery in 2011, and when both Teravista and Falcon Pointe are well-positioned to increase their market share with expanded offerings of homebuilders and price ranges,” Meyer says.

Newland Communities is the largest private developer of planned communities in the United States. Newland specializes in comprehensive residential and urban mixeduse master planning with expertise in leading large-scale single- and multi-family newhome communities. RL

Buy photo: RL_031011_B.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

The Gutter Girls, all from North American Title, welcome competitors to the Real Mean Wear Pink bowling tournament held at Main Event.

Buy photo: RL_031311_H.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

Real Estate News & Notes

5

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Learn more today and register for a class online at www.abor.com/education or call the education department at 512-454-7636.

3/4/2011 2:55:19 PM

Keller Williams Realty Announces 2010 Numbers, Continued Growth During Real Estate Downturn Keller Williams Realty reported at its national convention that it ended 2010 with 79,315 associates, 701 offices, and associate profit share up 7.2 percent, with its agents receiving $34.6 million back. Since the inception of the profit-sharing program, the company has given back over $304 million in earnings to its agents. Additionally, CEO Mark Willis shared in his annual State of the Company address, since the real estate market’s sharp downturn in 2005, the company has grown 30 percent in agents, 40 percent in market centers, 21 percent in closed units and 11 percent in closed GCI. “Keller Williams Realty agents have outpaced the market through productivity and profit share,” says Willis.

Agent productivity continued to rise with units closed up 6 percent from December 2009 to 2010, while comparably, the NAR membership as a whole went down in closed units 4.8 percent. Overall the company’s associates saw productivity year on year percentage increases across the board in listings taken (up 13 percent), contracts closed volume (up 9 percent) and contracts closed units (6 percent).

“These numbers are the most important to us because they are proof that our agents are succeeding, making more money and

growing their businesses. They are truly breaking through,” Willis adds.

Willis also did the honors of “turning on” the industry’s first complete lead-to-close business solution, eEdge, during his address.

This unique tool is now available to every Keller Williams Realty associate at a fraction of the cost they would normally pay with functionality to build their leads, database and sales. Additionally, with the companywide paperless transaction system, consumers can expect a faster, more seamless closing process.

The company received many accolades in 2010 including: • Entrepreneur magazine, No. 1 ranked real estate franchise on the 31st Annual Franchise 500 list • J.D. Power and Associates, highest in overall satisfaction ratings from home buyers among the largest full-service real estate firms for the third year in a row • Inman News, Co-Founder and Chairman of the Board Gary Keller named one of the 100 Most Influential Leaders in Real Estate • Training Magazine, highest ranking real estate franchise on the annual Training Top 125, #47 Overall RL

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Money man John McClellan of Supreme Lending lives up to his name when he gives Art Christy of Diane Christy REALTORS $100 to spend in WCAoR’s REALTOR Store during the Super Bowl of Builders event hosted by WCAoR.

Buy photo: RL_030811_C.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

Educating REALTORS on building and remodeling trends at Capital City Sotheby’s International Real Estate is Melinda Carroll (back row in orange sweater) of Independence Title.

Buy photo: RL_021011_S.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

Mary Ann Castro, right, assistant to J.B. Goodwin, congratulates Leisa Ormsbee, left, for being named Williamson County listing agent of the year and a member of the $6 million club at the JB Goodwin REALTORS annual achievement awards breakfast.

Buy photo: RL_031211_J.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

Buy photo: RL_030211_R.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

Stacey Rider with Keller Williams Realty cooks up a lot of laughs as her ball goes way off course on that roll frame. She may not be a pro, but that isn’t stopping her from supporting TREPAC at the Williamson County Association of REALTORS’ Bowling Tournament.

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Cheering on their best agents for 2010 at JB Goodwin REALTORS’ annual achievement awards breakfast are Chris Sachs, vice president of business development, Reagan Greer, president/ manager of the San Antonio division and Tammy Gardner, Williamson County division president.

Submitted photo

Avis Wukasch, top, announces that Susie Rogers and Sherri Teepen of The Ultimate Home Team, Terri Romere of the Romere Team, Charlotte Aceituno of the Aceituno Team win team awards in all categories at the Keller Williams Realty Round Rock office’s annual awards breakfast.

Award categories are GCI, Total Units Sold, Listing Volume Sold and Closed Volume.

Not pictured is Glenda Dubose.

Buy photo: RL_020311_B.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com Buy photo: RL_030111_G.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

Mike Luscier of Private Label Realty uses his organization skills to keep all the builder information straight at the Super Bowl of Builders. More than a dozen builders participated in the wildly successful event.

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March 2011

Commentary

model home village, allowing them to park once and walk through the exhibits as they

By Vaike O’Grady • Newland Communities go from model to model. Typically, the displays and maps offer the REALTOR the opportunity to continue the conversation and further bond with the buyer.

Here are a few more ideas about how to sell MPCs in today’s market:

Selling MasterPlanned Communities in a Changing Market ith Austin’s new-home market showing unmistakable signs of an upturn this year, REALTORS will have more opportunities to show and sell homes in large-scale master-planned communities (MPCs).

Most buyers don’t need to be “sold” much on the advantages of living in MPCs. Indeed, MPCs traditionally increase market share during challenging economic times, even though their home prices may be higher than those in small new-home subdivisions.

This phenomenon has been called the “flight to quality,” with the consensus that buyers perceive MPCs as the safest havens for their largest investments.

So while buyers may not need much convincing on the benefits of MPCs, REALTORS will find a number of new tools that can help them seal the deal and get the inside track on future resale listings.

One of the newest ideas that can help you close your next sale is the “outdoor information center.” As MPC developers seek to operate more efficiently and adapt to

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buyers’ more fast-paced lifestyles, some are coming up with creative alternatives to the traditional brick-and-mortar information center.

Some communities position their information centers amid decorated model homes to help bring a slice of lifestyle to the home shopping experience, combining an inviting landscaped park with attentiongrabbing displays telling the story of the community’s master plan, schools, developer and other key selling points.

Some even include outdoor amenities such as built-in barbecue grills and spacious paved courtyards. So many communities host special events such as a grand opening, which could include live music, food and activities that celebrate the area’s community lifestyle. With this kind of programming, communities can showcase the lifestyle that they work so hard to nurture through its community activities and amenities.

Finally, information centers help timepressed REALTORS and homebuyers by bringing the MPC message directly to the

•

•

Be a hero and show off the amenities.

One idea is to invite home shoppers to get a pass to become a “resident for a day” and enjoy amenities such as the golf club, pools and fitness center. Even when such a promotion is not formally in effect, contact your builder sales consultant or the MPC’s REALTOR relations liaison.

They will most likely be happy to provide a customized tour of the amenities and possibly even a pass for activities such as golf for your best prospects.

Become a friend of the MPC’s social media efforts, such as its Facebook page

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or Twitter feed. You can get the inside track on community activities, including resident-only events that can offer your buyer a good idea of what it’s like to live in the community. Also, MPC websites are still a great source of information, and they are usually always updated when special events and promotions are offered.

• Attend special events. Whether you learn about them from social media or an old-fashioned flyer, a MPC’s special events can be big selling points. Likewise, when you attend REALTOR-only events such as model home grand openings, you can be the first to know about new sales opportunities.

All these trends add up to a brave new world for MPC marketing, with the bottom line that there have never been more ways to get information when you need it. RL

Buy photo: RL_030611_B.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

NARPM Membership Coordinator Carrie York (right) of Austin Real Pros tells member Steven Meliet what to expect on the agenda at the group’s monthly meeting.

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Real estate agent Freddy Nunnery turned bunny rabbit thanks to Jane Sissons as they await patiently for their turn at WCAoR’s Bowling Tournament with Cecilia Roberts.

All three are with Coldwell Banker United REALTORS. Buy photo: RL_031211_F.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

Former HBA Executive Officer Bob Carnes and Harry Savio, HBA executive vice president, take bets on who the winners are going to be at the organization’s annual Chili Cook Off, Horseshoe Tournament and Silent Auction which benefitted Home PAC. Buy photo: RL_030311_H.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

Champions School of Real Estate’s Jazz Lough, center, gives Crystal College and Chuck Jenner, both of JB Goodwin REALTORS, the latest scoop on the educational programs being offered at the school. They ran into each other at JB Goodwin’s annual achievement awards breakfast.

Buy photo: RL_031311_B.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com Buy photo: RL_030211_D.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

Stacy Mock of Capital Title and David Shipp of Willow Bend Mortgage give a G4 lesson on chili recipes at the Austin Board of REALTORS chili cook off benefiting TREPAC.

Let’s Talk Strength.

Strength is a continuous process that requires effort, dedication, and discipline.

Austin Title is a proud member of the FNF family of companies, which collectively has the industry’s leading reserve for claim losses at $2.2 billion, and an investment portfolio of $4.9 billion to protect the future interest of our policyholders. That’s the kind of strength that can benefit you and your customers.

We are proud of our accomplishments, our position in the market, the trust that our agents and partners place in us, our expert employees, and our financial strength — but we are never satisfied.

The same effort, dedication, and discipline that has helped us gain our current strength is what will help us continue to grow it.

Visit our Web site, www.AustinTitle.com, to learn how our strength, expertise, and service can help your business.

*Financial information as of December 31, 2010. Source Company Filings, 2010 10-K dated February 23, 2011.

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Denise Arndt, center, of Coldwell Banker United REALTORS, joins Wende Wood, left, and Jacque Smith, right, both of Independence Title, at NAPMW’s annual wine tasting at Maggiano’s Little Italy.

Buy photo: RL_030511_B.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

Tommy Cain and Gene Arant congratulate each other on taking home awards at Keller Williams Realty’s awards ceremony.

Tommy takes home the prize for Top Group in Listings Volume while Gene walks away with Top Team in Listings Volume and Top Team in Closed Volume.

Buy photo: RL_030411_N.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

Tim Moncrief of Keller Williams Realty gives a pat on the back to Michelle Murphy of ZIP Realty for winning a gift card at AYREP’s Xplode After Dark party at the Hyatt Regency.

Submitted photo

Make Your Next Move With Me!

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www.myRealtyLine.com Realty Line launches new website. The website is dedicated to providing awareness of industry networking opportunities and being a resource tool you can use everyday.

With over 26 years of experience in the Austin mortgage banking arena, Tracy St. Pierre is a recognized specialist in her field and looks forward to providing you with loan programs tailored to meet your individual needs.

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You can now...

• Read the latest issue of Realty Line or search old issues • Check out our calendar to see what’s happening in Real Estate • Buy photos or search our photo archives • Seek out our Advertisers • e-SCRIBE to our monthly e-Newsletter • Search and post industry job listings (free to our advertising clients)

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JB Goodwin REALTORS®

Presents the bestof

Company Awards

Company Listing Agent of the Year

Peggy Little

Company Sales Agent of the Year Westlake Listing Agent of the Year

Company Listing Team of the Year Westlake Sales Team of the Year

Company Sales Team of the Year

The “A” Team

Janet Murdock, Bettye Turner and Lynda Conway

with President Byron “Buddy” Schilling

The Turner Team

J.B. Goodwin (center) presents team award to Aubrey Shaw, Adrian Grabe, Melissa Garcia and Steve Fohl. Not pictured: Shelly Grabe, Jon Chambers, Phil Barton and Alaina Jones

Dylan Everett with J.B. Goodwin

Westlake

Northwest

Sales Agent of the Year

Listing Team of the Year

Sales & Listing Agent of the Year

Alice Niven

Fuller Team

Gay Puckett

with Westlake Division Vice President Mark Murrell

2010

Link and Peggy Sue Fuller

with J.B. Goodwin

Sales Team of the Year

Curle Premier Team

Marc Moore and Robin Curle with J.B. Goodwin

Listing Team of the Year

Rocky Breon & Lindsay Mitchell

Wm.County

Sales Team of the Year

Constancio Team

Westlake - (512) 502-7600 Williamson County - (512) 502-7705 Northwest - (512) 502-7800 Relocation - (800) 531-5207

Sales Agent of the Year

Listing Agent of the Year

Leisa Ormsbee

Karen McGrath

with J.B. Goodwin

John Leach, Andrew Constancio, Karen Thomas and Molly Avila with J.B. Goodwin (center).

Not pictured: Susan Cheatham and Sandra Topete

with J.B. Goodwin

Norma Mantz with the Mantz Team was the Williamson County Listing Team of the Year

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Nat’l Assoc. of Residential Prop. Mgrs.

Mark Murrell, JB Goodwin REALTORS’ Westlake Division Vice President, catches up with agents Andrea Griffin and Allison Eklund at the company’s annual achievement awards.

Eklund was honored with the Commercial “Rookie of the Year” award.

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Director ‘s Column

By Carrie York • 2011 Director

Buy photo: RL_030211_C.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

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NAPMW officers Matthew Posey and Laura Rosales of Austin Title thank Chandra Carthae of Ameripro Funding and Felix Deherrera, for helping advertise the annual wine tasting which was held at Maggiano’s Little Italy.

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Holly Schuler, Paula Gonzales and David Tandy, all of Gracy Title, compliment Christine Whetstone, far left, of the Keller Williams Realty for being one of the top four teams for listing volume sold at the Keller Williams Realty Round Rock “Wake Up 2010 is Over” awards breakfast.

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he Austin chapter of The National Association of Residential Property Managers (NARPM) provides ongoing educational opportunities for its members including monthly meetings for the exchange of ideas on issues specific to our industry. We are an association of real estate professionals who know the unique problems and challenges of managing single-family and small residential properties.

There are many benefits to joining the Austin NARPM chapter including educational opportunities, publications specific to the Property Manager, Nationally recognized Professional Designation Programs, marketing support, annual national conventions/trade shows and regional conferences.

Our NARPM National Government Affairs Committee keeps us updated on legislation that directly affects our industry with ongoing updates and notices. In addition, this Committee pro actively lobbies with Congress on issues to improve the property management industry.

The Texas Association of REALTORS (TAR) restructured the Property Management Committee last year with a Staff Legal Liaison

YOU’RE INVITED TO A GRAND OPENING PREVIEW friday, March 25th 11:30 AM - 1:30 pm Join us for lunch and preview MileStone’s newest South Austin community.

Tour our new designer-decorated model home and preview homes at different levels of construction.

Register to Win An iPad & Massages Space is limited, so call or e-mail today!

512-804-2605 or RSVP@MyMileStone.com

Garden Homes from the $170’s 512-804-2605 • Susan Brubaker 512-577-0465 7233 Manchaca Rd., Austin

Benefits from Joining the Austin Chapter of NARPM

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5% available on inventory homes that hat close by 3/31/11; 3% on all others. Other restrictions apply. See sales consultant for details.

and NARPM members on the Committee keeping it relevant to us, our needs and the needs of our clients.

The Austin chapter of NARPM is working for Habitat for Humanity this summer. Our members will put their hearts and hands out there to help our community on June 11.

If you are a real estate professional who actively engages in the management of singlefamily homes and other residential properties, joining NARPM is an absolute benefit. The education, networking and tools that we provide will improve your business. Taking advantage of the professional designation programs will hone your skills and take your profession to the next level.

Our Austin chapter meets at 11:45 a.m. to 1 p.m. on the third Tuesday of each month at the Balcones Country Club. We have a lunch buffet, networking camaraderie and a speaker to give you added value.

Learn more about the Austin chapter of NARPM by contacting Carrie York of Austin Real Pros at 458-3730, carrie@austinrealpros. com or visit www.narpmaustin.org. RL

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Susan Horton, right, of John Horton Realty supports the ABoR Foundation by buying a handful of raffle tickets for a chance to win a Mercedes and a trip to Germany. She and Linda Schulman of Independence Title were at AYREP’s Xplode After Party.

Buy photo: RL_030111_A.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

Superman (a.k.a. Clark Johnson) leaps into 2011 with his sidekicks Mary Thornton, left, and Mary Feitek, right. The three superheroes couldn’t wait to see who wins awards at the Keller Williams Realty awards breakfast. All are with Keller Williams Realty’s Round Rock office.

Buy photo: RL_030811_D.JPG at www.myRealtyLine.com

Everything’s bigger in Texas and JB Goodwin REALTORS’ arrival to WCAoR’s Super Bowl of Builders is no exception.

Submitted photo

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Gene Arant hands off the coveted Eagle Award to Tim Rebouche at the Keller Williams Lake Travis annual awards ceremony at the Hills Country Club. The Eagle Award is given to the one who “soars above the crowd” and is voted on by their peers.

Celebrating the old-fashioned way of serving up chili are HBA members Karen Johnston, Carole George and Cristy Bryant at the annual HBA Chili Cook Off, Horseshoe Tournament and Silent Auction.