Texas Hill Country Building Savvy June 2021

June 2021

Texas Hill Country | Homebuilding Industry Publication

INDEPENDENCE TITLE A Foundation You Can Build On

CASA ÜBER ALLES Fredericksburg High School Program Rekindles The Trades

REAL ESTATE REPORT What to Expect With Housing

BLANCO VALLEY HOMES Builders David Anderson and Jerry Smith Lead The Way at Rockin J

PLAY WHERE YOU BELONG

APPLE ROCK GOLF COURSE | HOLE 10

There is no better time for your family to join the club, create memories and enjoy an abundance of amenities in the secluded Lake & Hill Country. Located in the heart of Texas, The Club at Horseshoe Bay Resort is a sprawling property recognized as a tropical oasis.

FOR MORE DETAILS PLEASE CONTACT MEMBERSHIP AT 830.598.7846 OR MEMBERSHIP@HSBRESORT.COM 2

TERRY KEMMY

“ Te r r y i s s o c r e a t i v e when it comes to advertising properties in i n n o v a t i v e w a y s . We l o v e his creative thinking.”

TER RY K EMMY Realtor®

terry0372@kw.com 210.844.1542

FROM THE HILLS TO THE HARBOR, WE HAVE YOU COVERED!

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Born and raised in San Antonio, Te r r y a n d h i s w i f e J a c k i e b o u g h t a condo at Horseshoe Bay Resort a year ago and have enjoyed becoming integrated with the Highlands Lake C o m m u n i t y . Te r r y g r a d u a t e d f r o m T h e U n i v e r s i t y o f Te x a s a n d h a s a strong background in marketing, communications, advertising and publishing. He is also the Publisher of a monthly residential builder trade magazine, B u i l d i n g S a v v y, a n d h a s s u p p o r t e d local and state builders associations for several y e a r s . Te r r y i s v e r y f a m i l i a r w i t h the real estate issues both builders and homeowners face.

The Kemmys enjoy travel (when possible), gardening, their two adorable granddaughters, golfing at Slick Rock and making new friends around the lake.

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Professional & personal service to every client.

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Comprehensive resultsdriven marketing strategies using the latest technology for extensive internet presence.

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EVERY BUYER and SELLER receives expert representation.

Building Savvy

SAVVY’S A-LIST A-LIST SAVVY’S Air Conditioning Architectural Photography Classic Services AC Jason Roberts 830.358.1499 210.789.2033 www.classicairconditioningandheating.com www.jasonroberts.biz Architectural Photographer Architecture Jason Roberts and Associates Delineations 210.789.2033 830.693.9408 www.jasonroberts.biz

Doors The Front Door Company Kohutek Construction 210.340.3141 512.949.7000 www.thefrontdoorco.com Cabinetry

Electrician Carpentry

JPI Electric Rendi’s Trim Carpentry 210.233.6638 830.220.1983 www.jpielectric.com Destination Resort Elevators

Building Materials Banking BMC 512.977.7400

Hill Country National Bank www.buildwithbmc.com 512.756.7363

Home of Texas The ClubElevator at Horseshoe Bay Resort

Guido Companies 210.344.8321 Building Materials www.guidoconstruction.com MG Building Materials 830.257.2300

Sunn Carpets and Flooring Turn 2 Flooring 210.349.7866 512.560.9550

www.sunncarpets.com

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Garage Doors Hollywood-Crawford Accent Granite & Marble 210.494.3434 830.693.1144 www.hollywoodcrawford.com Granite Countertops

Mortgage Company Aligned Mortgage Flawless Painting 210.874.1630 830.265.0170 www.alignedmortgage.com Painting

Real Estate

Pest Control

Terry KemmyPest Keller Williams, Accurate Control River Hill Group 210.495.0499

www.accuratepest.net 210.844.1542

www.accentgranite.com

www.delineations.com

www.hillcountrynationalbank.com

Flooring Flooring

210.340.5702 830.598.3917

www.homeelevator.com www.hsbresort.com

Roofing Plumbing

Home Warranties Centricity Home Technology 727.385.7599 HomeSmart

Williamson DiamondRoofing Plumbing

210.967.6100 830.798.4371

325.388.9278

Electrician Integrity Fireplace Installations

StrucSure www.homesmartanywhere.com 830-624-4450 www.strucsure.com

JPI Electric 210.294.1383

Lighting

210.233.6638

Insulation Hill Country Lighting Klar Insulation 830.257.2425 210.296.5499 www.hillcountrylighting.com

Fireplace Installations

www.jpielectric.com

www.mgbuildingmaterials.com

Independence Title Roofing Kendall County

www.kendallcountyroofing.com www.independencetitle.com Specialty Electronics and Window Coverings & Interiors

Appliances HomeWerks 830.693.8206 210.499.5760 www.customcreationsandinteriors.com www.sanantoniocentralvac.com Custom Creations & Interiors

Specialty Glass and Mirror B&T Glass 210.656.8507 www.btglassandmirror.com

Lumber and Millwork Roddis Lumber 210.226.1426 www.roddislumber.com Luxury Iron Doors and Interiors AMS Group 210.366.0490

Same great service for 27+ years.

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Title Company Roofer

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Title Company First American Title 817.918.2323 www.firstam.com

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DISCLAIMER: Any articles included in this publication and/or opinions

ww w . hom e s m ar t e x p e r ts .co m

expressed therein do not necessarily re ect the views of N2 Publishing but remain solely those of the author(s). The paid advertisements contained within the Building Savvy magazine are not endorsed or recommended by N2

325.388.9278

Publishing or the publisher. Therefore, neither N2 Publishing nor the publisher 100W. Chamberlain Street, Kingsland, TX 78639 may be held liable or responsible for business practices of these companies. NOTE: When community 2634 W. RR 1431, Kingsland, TX 78639 events take place, photographers may be present to take photos for that event and they may be used in this publication.

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[From The Publisher]

Performance Reviews

The Human Factor is Always Important What Next? The Locust?, the title of this month’s Sales Savvy by our friend Paul Evans (VP Builders First Source/BMC) is what a lot of people may be thinking. But if and when material prices and home prices ever come back down, Paul reminds us that if your attitude and customer service commitment remain consistent in the most challenging of times, you’ll be noticed for it in the end when things eventually get back to “normal.”

“Normal” is something that Paul and other industry

reminded that, for a home to operate at its peak

experts are predicting will be a different normal

performance, its systems must be installed the

than any before it. That said, now is time to give

right way, the ductwork and building envelope

your sales team a performance review. Your

must be adequate and devoid of air leaks, and the

competition may not seem like a threat right now

equipment must be properly maintained. This

when you’re selling homes faster than you can

means, once again, that the human factor is just

crank them out, but savvy builders are always

as important as the equipment choice.

watching and evaluating!

Our theme of performance continues with a fun review on performance trucks and cars, and as

Terry Kemmy

we evaluate the capabilities of modern furnace,

Publisher

AC and water heating appliances. We are

210.844.1542

Kohutek Construc�on INC has been crea�ng quality

cra�ed custom cabinetry for custom builders, commercial contractors, architects, designers, and homeowners throughout Central Texas for over 30 years.

5

Anika@Kohutekconst.com

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[Real Estate Report]

T

he housing market and trends have been a nationwide discussion as the country continues to navigate the COVID-19 pandemic and civil discord.

According to chief economist Lawrence Yun with the National Association of REALTORS (NAR), “consumers are facing much higher home prices, rising mortgage rates, and falling affordability, however buyers are still actively in the market.”

The million-dollar question on many people’s minds seems to center around the length of time this market will last. Texans are wondering about this as well…especially with headlines like these:

Houston Chronicle ‘Massive bidding wars’ now the norm in Houston housing market

KXAN Report: Houses in Austin selling for more over asking price than any major U.S. city

San Antonio Express News -

By Sonya Powers,

San Antonio-area home sales and prices rise as supply falls to a

Keller Williams REALTOR®

record low

The housing market in the Highland Lakes is experiencing similar

What

behaviors. According to information from data collected by the Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University and the Highland Lakes Association of REALTORS®, there has been a decrease in active listings in the first quarter of 2021 as compared to the

Can We Expect from The Housing

same time period in 2020. For example, both Llano County and

Market?

months. The situation in this quarter in 2021 shows a significant

Burnet County showed significant drops in active listings this first quarter, a 63.5% and 56.4% decrease, respectively.

Monthly inventory levels in the Highland Lakes indicate in 2020 both Burnet and Llano County showed multiple months of inventory with Burnet having nearly 5 months and Llano over 9 difference with only 1.7 and 2.2 months of inventory, again respectively. What a difference a year makes!

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Sold data also illustrates the change in the housing market as well.

a consideration for new home buyers. But what has affected the

Closed sales in Llano County were up almost 59% in 2021 for the

prices of new home construction is evident in the dramatic increase

first quarter as opposed to an 12% decline in 2020. Comparatively,

in building materials. According to the National Association of Home

Burnet County saw a 42% increase in closings in 2021 after a 21%

Builders (NAHB), the price of an average family home has increased by

increase during the same time period in 2020.

$24,386 since April. Why you ask? Out of safety concerns lumber mills were forced to close, as were so many other businesses, during the

All of these factors have affected the market price of homes as well.

pandemic. The impact of these closures has caused lumber prices to

In an area in need of affordable housing, the median sales price in

increase an astronomical 200%, a cost that is passed on to the clients.

both counties has ticked up a bit due to the high demand in both

It was pretty evident locally when overnight the cost of a sheet of

affordable and luxury properties. The Burnet County housing report

plywood went from $15 to $35.

indicates that median home prices have increased almost 5% over the same time frame in 2020. The median price is $282,500 vs.

But back to my original question – what can we expect? How long will

$269,900 last year. Whereas in Llano County median home prices

this last? Without a crystal ball it’s hard to say. The ups and downs

have skyrocketed by 66%, with median home prices increasing from

of the housing market have felt more like a roller coaster ride but it

$268,000 in 2020 to $445,000 in the first quarter of 2021.

safe to say it is an adaptive market as we’ve seen. The uncertainty of the oil market and our economy not yet at full capacity, low consumer

According to Yun, nationwide “the sales for March

confidence seem to be indicators of a poor outlook. As dismal as that sounds, there are still so many positive factors impacting the real

would have been measurably higher, had there been

estate market where the future still looks promising. NAR’s Lawrence

more inventory.”

Yun has stated that “although mortgage rates have risen a tick, they are

However, another phenomenon to consider is how the pandemic and

still at a favorable level…” NAHB Chairman Chuck Fowke has indicated

civil unrest have affected new home construction, in turn - affecting

that as the roll out of COVID-19 vaccines continues, more lumber mills

inventory.

are expected to be allowed to open again safely. Texas continues to see immense migration, with over 1,000 moving to the state on a daily

As we all have experienced, much of the working population needed

basis according to Texas REALTORS®. In other words, the Highland

the ability to work from home and this has very much become

Lakes is still a great place to buy, build and own a home!

2315 Commerce St, Marble Falls, TX | 512.525.3207 | AccentGranite.com

7

[Industry News]

Fire System Installation Contractors

THINK THEY’RE ALL THE SAME?

By Raylene Thompson, HomeSmart Anywhere

n today’s world of Fire Alarm Systems installation and maintenance practice we see many “fly-by-night”, “pop-up”, “quick to make a buck” type companies. These particular types of companies are volatile to the industry we represent due to misrepresentation of their company, the company’s abilities or lack thereof, and the products which the company provides. As a General Contractor it is in your best interest, and your company’s, to consider the credibility of the Registered Fire Alarm Installation & Maintenance subcontractor you hire onto your project(s) because they are a representation of your better judgment, from the client’s perspective.

licensed employee which means, in order for a company to be issued a Fire Alarm Certificate of Registration (ACR) a designated employee must hold either a Fire Alarm Technician (FAL), Fire Alarm Planning Superintendent (APS), or Residential Fire Alarm Superintendent (RAS) license. The individual Residential Fire

A Registered Fire Alarm Installation Company must maintain individual and company licenses,

Alarm Technician (RAL) license alone,

certifications, registrations and insurance according to the Texas Department of Insurance Texas

which is assigned to a person who

State Fire Marshal. These licenses and certifications are verifiable references for you and your

completes the required certification

clients which prove you are working with a professional, reputable, dependable, and responsible

training, is not sufficient for a

company, along with the individuals employed. The Texas Department of Insurance State Fire

company to be issued a Fire Alarm

Marshal states a company cannot be a registered Fire Alarm Installation company without a

Certificate of Registration (ACR).

8

So why is this important to home builders and remodelers? It’s

your project(s) you are also gaining peace of mind. The State

important because the company you hire could simply present an

Fire Marshal’s Office requires all registered Fire Alarm Installation

Individual License rather than the Company ACR. This individual may

companies to maintain a General Liability Insurance policy which is

have obtained certification through a previous employer who was

going to protect you, your company, and your clients’ investments.

or is a Registered Fire Alarm Installation Company so remember, an

Failure to maintain the required Liability Insurance is grounds for

individual license does not equal a company ACR. Any Fire Alarm

denial, suspension, or revocation. You can be sure if the company

Installation company you’re considering using should willingly

does not have the minimum required liability insurance then they

present their Fire Alarm Certificate of Registration and also an

certainly do not have authorization to install a Fire Alarm System

individual license. If a company fails to present the proper credentials

into your project. The State Fire Marshal’s office offers easy access

it would be wise for you further research the company’s credibility.

for you to search for valid licensed and registered Fire System Installation Companies at https://appscenter.tdi.texas.gov/reports/p/

There is another trend plaguing the rural towns of Texas these days

sfmo. You can search by company name and or registration number.

that everyone should be aware of and that is the Security System

If the company is not listed or you are unable to find registration with

Installation companies who present their company as a Fire System

the information provided by the company it would be safe to assume

Installation company too. These companies usually come into a

a registration number does not exist for that company.

project as a Security Installation company, installing keypads, door and window contacts, motion sensors and other devices of that sort

For today’s trade generation it is more important than ever to equip

specifically pertaining to Security System Installation. A Licensed

yourself with enough knowledge to distinguish a genuine company

Security Installation company is not the equivalent of a Registered

from a fraud. Oftentimes, in our line of work, if it sounds too good to

Fire Alarm Installation company.

be true then it just may be. Don’t be fooled into hiring a non-registered company simply because the price sounds good or “you really like

A Licensed Security System Installation company that doesn’t hold

the guy”, do yourself a favor and engage in a bit of research or you

an ACR along with the required Individual License is unauthorized

just may end up covering an insurance claim of which you were

and is prohibited by the Texas Department of Insurance State Fire

not the cause. Working with a reputable Fire System Installation

Marshal’s office from planning, certifying, leasing, selling, servicing,

company approved by the State of Texas will set your mind at ease

installing, monitoring and maintaining a fire alarm or fire detection

guaranteeing not only your satisfaction but your client’s satisfaction

device or system. The Texas Department of Insurance State Fire

as well.

Marshal’s office defines a “Fire Alarm Device” as any device capable, through audible or visible means, of warning that fire or combustion

It’s a simple question to ask of your contractor, really … “Can I see

has occurred or is occurring. These devices include but are not limited

your Fire License and Registration please?”

to, Smoke Detectors, Carbon Monoxide Detectors and Heat Sensors.

When you hire a Registered Fire Alarm Installation Company for

HILL COUNTRY LIGHTING

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9

[Resort News]

B

y all accounts, the buzzword in 2017 at The Club at Horseshoe Bay Resort was pickleball.

With local interest and the

national trend of pickleball being the fastest growing sport in America, Horseshoe Bay Resort converted four kids’ tennis courts into eight new regulation-sized pickleball courts. This was a smooth transition as the children preferred the regular-sized courts to practice, so there was no displacement.

“Since we converted the facility, we have seen consistent growth in the use of the courts with many longstanding and new club members,” said Bryan Woodward, Managing Director at Horseshoe Bay Resort.

“The casual evening sessions turned into popular club member leagues. In addition to the casual play for members of all ages, we are now hosting sanctioned pickleball tournaments attracting players from all over the country.”

In June, the club will hold its 2nd Super Senior International Pickleball Association Tournament. “It is exciting as our first tournament two years ago had 150

Pickleball is all the Rage

By Stacey Persinger, Director of Membership

participants; this year’s tournament has 233 participants and would have been more if we had not closed registration,” says event coordinator and the club’s Pickleball

Although the club is known best for its multi-course championship golf, pickleball is now

Instructor Bill Dunn. “Players are coming

a recurrent topic in conversation with prospective club members. One out of every three

from as far away as Florida and California

prospective members are inquiring about our pickleball opportunities. It makes sense because

to visit the resort and our beautiful city.

it is a very social game and an ideal activity for our club members to easily connect with one

Pickleball is one of the fastest-growing

another.

sports in America with over 4 million

“The game is straightforward to learn and doesn’t require a ton of movement like tennis

players, and the growth is far from slowing.”

whereby more people can enjoy,” adds Bill Dunn.

In just a few years since the addition of

Israel Castillo is the new Director of Tennis and Pickleball at Horseshoe Bay Resort, replacing

the club’s courts, the increasing member

15-year veteran Michelle Stallard who relocated to Midland, Texas, to support her husband at

participation in this competitive paddle sport

Bush Tennis Center. Managing Director Woodward states, “Castillo is an outstanding leader and

has resulted in facility enhancements with

promoter of the game, working in the tennis industry for 25 years. “

construction underway of a new spectator area adjacent to the courts for people to be able to watch the games and socialize.

The new spectator area will be paved, offer

“This is an exciting time as we are experiencing the surge of another racket sport,” says Israel Castillo. “At the club, we are committed to providing our members with quality programming, activities, and instruction to keep up with the game’s remarkable growth.”

bleacher seating, sun protection, enhanced

Dunn adds, “The word is getting out that if you want to play Pickleball in the Hill Country then

lighting, and landscaping.

come to Horseshoe Bay.”

10

830.693.8206

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TTotally otally Connected 11

[Sales Savvy]

What Next?

By Paul Evans

THE LOCUST?

F

irst, just before Covid set in, most building product manufacturers adopted a just-in-time delivery inventory management process. This involves ordering and receiving inventory for production or sales only as needed. Because inventory is constantly on the move, the process is intended to improve efficiency in manufacturing and reduce warehousing and other costs.

Next, just before the global pandemic, we saw a large price increase by one of only two moulded

WOW is all I can say. In over 40 years in the construction industry, these are the craziest times I have ever seen. If hail and locust are next, since we did get hail as far south as San Antonio in April, I guess the locust will be arriving soon.

panel manufacturers in the country. Once the pandemic set in we anticipated a slowdown in housing starts and saw an overreaction with tens of thousands in workforce layoffs in the spring of 2020.

But the opposite happened; as housing starts climbed, vendors started getting allocations. As manufacturers saw they weren’t going to have enough product to go around, they cut our ordered material back to 50 or 75 percent of what we originally ordered for inventory to allow all vendors to get at least some material. With less inventory and more demand, prices climbed even more. The “ snowmageddon” in February was next, shutting down many factories in Texas and damaging several polymer plants, which sent us into another tailspin for glues and adhesives, leading to more allocations and price increases.

12

I said to some colleagues a few months ago that getting 20 and 30

The bright light in all of this is that we all have a lot of business right

offers on a house that has been on the market for just a few days

now. I now have a true understanding of what my father meant when

or even hours is crazy and can’t last; and it is still happening! I said

he said, “Work like there is no tomorrow.” Time will tell when this

at the beginning of this year that it would be the end of summer

bubble is going to burst. Are the locusts coming? I think not, but I am

when we see a slowdown and then the prices and availability would

working like they are, and making as much hay as I can while the sun

stabilize. But now, I don’t even see that. Even if we see a seasonal

is shining, because the sun will go behind a cloud again when we least

slowdown, I don’t think we will ever see prices back to 2018 levels.

expect it. What you learn now will make you better at your business in a different market cycle. Your business will benefit if you use this as a time to learn how to navigate unprecedented costs and bank that knowledge for later.

Just a few weeks ago, I was on a panel talking about the allocations and the availability of millwork products. Builders kept asking when the price increases were going to stop and when things were going to get back to normal. I answered their questions with these questions: When are the prices of your homes going to stop going up? When are you going to start to build at a slower rate? It is all

One constant in all of this is the customer.

Remember, there are both internal and external customers that must be taken care of at all costs. Some business owners will choose to think they have more business than they can say grace over and not worry

tied together. Here’s the question that might provide the best answer: When are

if they upset a few customers. I can assure

consumers going to stop paying these prices for homes?

you that the time will come when you’ll need every customer and every good employee you can get, and now is the time to cultivate those.

The entire industry, builders included, seem to like the current sales

I can’t leave you without this reminder: Customer service will still be

price numbers, and that leads me to predict that higher prices will

alive and well in the end. This is the time to practice your listening

stick. Sure, the commodity items will still have their fluctuations as

and communication skills. Communicate with every customer about

they have in the past, but I think the days of $7 per sheet OSB and

what is going on and how, together, you are going to solve the issues

$60 moulded panel door units are gone. As long as demand for

at hand. Work to find a different widget to build the house with or a

housing continues, especially in the south, the allocations will stay in

different method of working around a time frame. Find ways to make

play and prices will continue to go up.

sure everyone is on the same page, and no one is left upset because

So, what is normal? I think we have to define normal as whatever it

what they wanted is not happening. Even if you lose a customer to

is at the given time. Maybe the building industry has moved into the

another builder because they don’t like the time frame or the product

21st century like so many other consumable items did years ago.

you have, consider they still may be a customer for you in the future

When you order something online one week and you try to order the

because you were honest and forthcoming with them upfront.

same thing again a month later, it is not uncommon to find that it is no longer available. Your search will generate several alternatives

R. Paul Evans CGA, CAPS, CGP is a native Texan with over 40 years in the

to pick from that will satisfy the need. The construction industry

construction industry. He is the VP of Millwork, Growth & Innovation for

may be headed the same way. When we can’t get this item, but we

Builders First Source/BMC. Paul has been an instructor with the NHBA

can get that one and while it’s a little different, it still does the same

University Housing for over 15 years and is one of only a handful of

thing, we’ll have to learn to be flexible and run with what is available.

Master Instructors for the NHBA in the country. He travels the country

The days of reaching out to find a better price on the exact same

teaching Sales & Marketing, Customer Service and Negotiating Skills

thing are also past. Can you get a better deal someplace? It depends

and has authored numerous articles and published three books on

on how your supplier has managed the market conditions that they

these subjects. Paul is also a voting member of the ICC, is licensed as

are being dealt. Commodity windows are 12 to 14 weeks out. While

an engineer in Texas and Louisiana and holds GC licenses in 17 states.

not back to 2018 times, premium windows are close, at 5 to 6 weeks

Paul also owns and operates a fully sustainable farm and is a licensed

out. So more expensive windows are at least timely and available,

professional race car driver.

and where time is money, may be the better option.

13

[savvy spotlight]

Independence Title A A FOUNDATION FOUNDATION YOU YOU CAN CAN BUILD BUILD ON ON

April Lyon, Sarah Nelson, Natalie Chapa, Gayle Bagwell, Dior Bilyeu

I

We’ve been building for 16 years. Since 2005,

n addition to lenders and real estate agents, Independence Title takes great pride in serving our Texas builders because there’s nothing like building. Whether it’s a home, a community, or a company there is a certain something about creating something of value and impact. You know how that feels and at Independence Title we know how that feels too. .

we’ve worked to build a company that combines years of big experience with local knowledge and decision making, in order to best serve our clients and make developing, building, buying, selling and financing real estate all the easier. But somewhere along the way, we found ourselves building more than a company.

14

We’ve built knowledge, we’ve built trust, and we’ve built relationships.

But no one quite knows the value that the Horseshoe Bay and

Most importantly we’ve built a strong foundation our clients can build

Kingsland teams have to offer the building community better than

on.

Independence Title Business Development Representative Sarah

As builders and developers, you can’t make the daily business

Nelson.

decisions you need to make without the right information. From

Sarah is a Hill Country girl through and through. After attending The

zoning and demographic reports to parcel information and survey

University of Texas at Austin, Sarah was blessed with the opportunity

issues, our Independence Title teams and in house attorneys can

to begin her professional career close to her hometown and dive right

provide the comprehensive information and expertise you need for

back into the communities she had grown up with. She works closely

acquisition, development, and public record processes.

with Horseshoe Bay custom home builder Heath Jackson (her fiancé)

Similarly, when it comes to construction loans and the sale of your finished project, Independence Title offers a variety of customized services designed with you, your client, and a stress-free settlement experience in mind. From land acquisition to the completion and sale

and future father-in-law, Jeff Jackson of Jackson Custom Homes.

Having witnessed how Independence Title has helped those closest to her, Sarah truly could not be more grateful for the various ways in which the company chooses to support builders and developers.

of your new construction, Independence Title truly is a foundation you

From providing comprehensive property information and market

can build on.

statistics to offering legal advice and investing in the home builders

Now with over 70 offices across the state of Texas, there is always an expert team at work near you. Serving Burnet and Llano Counties and the surrounding areas, our Horseshoe Bay and Kingsland teams are hard at work for our clients in the Texas Hill Country. Comprised of local and well experienced industry professionals, the Horseshoe Bay and Kingsland offices are constantly going above and beyond to ensure that our builders are met with the stability they demand, the

association at both a local and state level – it all goes to show how Independence Title is invested in the success of our Texas builders.

Independence Title has supported Sarah’s fiancé and future father-inlaw by providing them with a foundation they can build on, allowing Heath and Jeff to focus on what they do best and enabling them to build a life they love. So come do the same – build a life you love, meet the teams you can trust, and find a strong foundation you can build on!

flexibility they desire, and the service they expect.

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15

[Savvy Builder]

BLANCO VALLEY HOMES Texas Hill

W

hen you combine the rolling hills, the views and the unique culture that is the Texas Hill Country with the beautiful homes and

exceptional quality of Blanco Valley Homes, it’s no wonder more and more people are flocking to the area.

While most of the homes that Blanco Valley builds include a very popular list of features that buyers

“People move to the Hill Country for many reasons,” says David Anderson, owner of Blanco Valley Homes. “But perhaps the main reason is for the incredible scenery.”

in the hill country expect, the company’s expertise in understanding the topography and how a home

That’s primarily why David and Jerry Smith, his manager and builder, go to great lengths

should be oriented on a lot for the best views is what

to assess the land and position homes for optimum views.

sets them apart.

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BVH offers its homebuyers custom designed plans tailored to their unique lifestyles, or full custom drawn plans that fit the buyers wants and needs. Most include granite or composite counter tops in the kitchen and baths, brushed nickel /stainless steel faucets, walk-in showers in the master bath, architectural shingles, covered rear patios, energy efficient construction features, and a 10-year structural warranty.

When David and Jerry began looking at opportunities outside of their established presence in San Antonio, they realized the growing popularity of the Canyon Lake and Fischer new home markets was huge. Blanco became the next area that looked promising for activity for the company. The Rockin’ J Ranch has become a strong market for the team as well. The new home market is growing as Austin and San Antonio expand their cities towards each other. The cities along I 35 have seen the most impact and the smaller cities along HWY 281 have been the most promising for BVH. The big lot subdivisions outside of Blanco are proving to be the next most active in the coming years.

“Other cities in the Texas Hill Country will also be on our radar,” says David. “People love the relaxing lifestyle and we’re here to help them realize it by building homes that let them enjoy it

“We truly enjoy the interaction with our clients and look forward to the design and

to the fullest.”

construction meetings with them throughout the process. Our mantra is ‘the company

Each home undergoes numerous inspections throughout the building process including

is our family, and our homeowners are like our friends’, says Jerry. “We try to build every home as though we were building it for our best friends.”

engineering, code and energy inspections.

The construction managers meet with the homebuyers during many of the critical phases of construction and discuss methods of construction, customer selections, and to address any concerns. BVH even has several lenders to assist its buyers with both interim and mortgage financing, if needed, and title company contacts that assist in the various steps in the building process.

Whether it’s a primary residence, a retirement home, golf course home, lakefront or a vacation home, David Anderson’s 30 years of building quality homes can be seen at not only at the Rockin J Ranch, but Canyon Lake, Mountain Springs Ranch and many of the communities around Canyon Lake. Homes are priced from low $300s.

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Not surprisingly BVH has several strong, loyal partnerships with some of the best vendors, subcontractors and suppliers in the area. Here’s what some of them had to say about their experience working with David and Jerry:

“David Anderson and his crew consistently build quality homes

“David is one of those guys who extremely loyal to his crews

and give exceptional custom service. We really enjoy our

and business partners. He knows how to get things done, takes

partnership with them.”

care of business, pays us on time, is very easy to deal with. We

Lisa Hall, Centricity

couldn’t ask for a better builder to team up with. He’s been a part of our MG family for years.”

“With these guys…honesty, integrity and attention to detail really

Clint Grothues, MG Building Materials

stand out. They are great to work with.”

Kim Bohlander, CW Floors & Lighting

“They are always willing to have their homes checked and doublechecked for maximum efficiency. Most builders don’t go to the

“I’ve known Jerry and his dad for years. They’ve always stood

lengths they do to ensure a super-efficient, low energy using

out as being extremely well-organized, which makes my job

home.”

usually run very smoothly. And they always pay their people very

John Knight, Hill Country Home Energy

promptly.”

Mike Fassler, Integrity Fireplace Installations

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WILLIAMSON

ROOFING

At Williamson Roofing we want to do everything possible to build long-term relationships with our clients. We are committed to providing our clients with quality workmanship and products. Our goal at Williamson Roofing is to give you a long-lasting final project. We keep an open communication throughout your project to help the process go smoothly. We install metal, tile, shingles, gutters, chimney shrouds, metal wall panels, and custom sheet metal, along with just about anything else made of metal for the outside of your home or out-buildings. If you’re looking for a roofing company that you can trust, let Williamson Roofing be your go-to source. Send us your plans and we will work hard to exceed your expectations no matter how difficult the job.

METAL

TILE

SHINGLES

RESIDENTIAL

COMMERCIAL

GUTTERS

830.249.7939 Williamsonroofing.com

RICHARD WESTON

830.798.4371 Richard@WilliamsonRoofing.com

Turn 2 Flooring Residential | Commercial | New Build | Renovation Cori Pearce, Owner 512.560.9550 | turn2flooring@gmail.com 3827 RR 620 S, Bee Cave, TX 78738

19

[Savvy Special Report]

Water Heating WEIGH YOUR OPTIONS TO MAKE THE RIGHT CHOICE Selecting a water heater that

Traditional storage water heaters

works quietly and efficiently

•

use natural gas, electricity or oil to heat water and store it inside the tank until it is ready for use.

•

Electric heaters have a lower initial price (between $300 and $700 without installation) but generally

in the background of the home to provide enough

cost more to run in the long term as well as being subject to power outages.

hot water for the household to accomplish bathing, showering, and washing clothes and dishes is the

•

Gas water heaters cost more ($400 to $1,000) to purchase but are cheaper to power.

•

A family of three to four people typically needs a 40 to 60 gallon water heater. Larger families may require a water heater up to 80 gallons.

goal.

•

can be compared using the Uniform Energy Factor (UEF) ratings system, where higher scoring units produce more hot water using less energy. To earn an Energy Star certification, electric water heaters with tanks up to 55 gallons must have a UEF greater than 2. Gas water heaters with tanks up to 55 gallons only need a UEF above 0.64 or 0.68, depending on how they use water during the day.

•

Life expectancy is from 8 to 12 years on average

•

Typical warranty periods for water heaters installed for use by a single family are 6-years, 9-years, or 12-years. But it is important to know that while tanks are typically warranted against leaks due to rust, corrosion, or chemical action of the water, tank failures due to scale are usually excluded.

Tankless heaters •

warm water on demand as it’s needed rather than using a storage system, using high-powered burners powered by electricity or gas to rapidly heat water as it runs through a heat exchanger and is delivered directly to your faucets or shower.

• The 11 GPM Rinnai RU199IN

The 11 GPM Rinnai RU199IN

Sensei Super is the most powerful

Sensei Super is the most powerful

residential

residential

gas

tankless

water

gas

tankless

water

are about 30 percent more energy efficient on average than tank models.

•

cost two or three times more than storage heaters but may qualify for federal tax rebates, save by taking up

heater and delivers the maximum

heater and delivers the maximum

less valuable square footage, have a life expectancy that

attainable heating capability for a

attainable heating capability for a

is twice as long, and eliminate the worry of costly flood

residential unit (up to 199,000 BTU).

residential unit (up to 199,000 BTU).

damage.

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•

Gas models are more efficient and heat the water faster,

•

however they must be vented, driving up their initial cost.

•

in areas that rarely fall below freezing and in households with significant daytime and evening hot-water needs.

are rated by how many gallons of hot water they produce per minute (GPM) with average at 8 GPM and the very best rated at

•

11 GPM. •

thermosyphon systems implementing a system where warm water rises as cooler water sinks. They are more expensive and require a collector that must be installed below the storage

capacity to meet demand is expressed by a specification

tank. Contractors must pay careful attention to the roof design

called temperature rise — the amount of heat in degrees it can

because of the heavy storage tank.

generate at a GPH flow rate.

•

Integral collector-storage passive systems. These work best

In making the final determination about which water heating

can last 18 to 20 years.

method is best, there is much to compare and consider. Not only can improper installation of a tank water heater lead to a shorter life and voided warranty, it could pose risk of explosion from a

Earning a 2021 Home Building Product Innovation of

combination of pressure, rust, and flooding. Also consider that

the Year Award from Green Builder Media, Rheem’s

tankless unit equipment costs are not only two to three times more,

ProTerra Hybrid Electric Water Heater have a two-

so are installation costs. When it comes to hybrid water heaters,

year payback estimation because they are four

the Department of Energy advises that they be installed in a location

times more efficient than a standard electric tank.

which will stay between 40 degrees and 90 degrees Fahrenheit, and

They are available in 40 to 80 gallon models.

since their heat pumps exhaust large amounts of cold air, they must be vented from the house. Solar water heating systems require a backup system for cloudy days and times of increased demand.

The Westinghouse 4500-Watt Electric Water Heater carries

Whichever system you’re considering for water heating, it is

a lifetime warranty, boasts

important to seek advice from a reputable and knowledgeable

a huge 80-gallon tank made

plumbing contractor and use your reliable source for installation.

of lightweight stainless steel and minimizes the build-up of scale inside.

RESIDENTIAL DESIGN STRUCTURAL ENGINEERING INTERIOR SELECTIONS WIDEEFORMAT PRINTING

Solar water heaters •

implement an innovative system of panels, storage tanks, and solar collectors that work together to heat water with energy created by the sun.

•

Active System types include: •

direct circulation systems that pump household water through the collectors and into the homes. These work well in climates where it rarely freezes.

•

indirect circulation systems that circulate a non-freezing, heat-transfer fluid through the collectors and a heat exchanger. These can be used for climates prone to

518 MAIN STREET, MARBLE FALLS

freezing temperatures.

•

WWW.DELINEATIONS.COM 830.693.9408

Passive Solar Water Heating Systems are typically less expensive than active systems, but not usually as efficient.

They can be more reliable and may last longer. Types include:

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[Focus Section]

Home Comfort Systems

By Beverly Smirnis

Lennox Ultimate Comfort System™ ideally pairs its SLP99V gas furnace with AFUE rating up to 99% or CBA38MV air handler with the SL28XCV air conditioner, rated up to 28 SEER. When connected to the Lennox iComfort® S30 ultrasmart thermostat, the furnace and AC stay finely tuned to changing conditions in the home while the PureAir S air-cleaning system filters out airborne particles and removes germs, bacteria, odors and vapors.

H

ere in Texas, where we experience both blistering summers

Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) ratings are used to compare

and the occasional freezing winter, we traditionally use

the efficiency of gas furnaces. For example, the highest AFUE rating of

HVAC split systems where the condenser and compressor

99% means the furnace converts almost every bit of the energy it uses

are in an outdoor cabinet connected via a line set to an indoor

into heating the home. Air conditioners are compared by Seasonal

cabinet, which holds the evaporator coil, with an air handler sending

Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) ratings. The average cooling output of a

the cool air through the duct system. The traditional central air

system is divided by the average energy the unit consumes in terms of

conditioner/furnace setup places the cooling coil on top of the

watts per hour over a cooling season. In 2023, the minimum rating for

furnace and utilizes the furnace’s blower as the air handler for the air

the southern U.S. will be 15 SEER, but the most efficient split system

conditioning system.

on the market can rate up to 28 SEER.

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Trane S9X2 Gas Furnace, a finalist in Best Home Technology Products at the 2021 International Builders Show, is a dealer-designed furnace that made technicians’ and end-users’ experience easier and more efficient. Blower housing rails on S9X2 make the blower housing and motor easier to slide in and out of the furnace cabinet for servicing. All of the S9X2’s nine speed taps are electronically selectable with their menu-driven Integrated Furnace Control, allowing technicians to change the airflow setting with option buttons and without having to shut down the unit or a lengthy wiring process. The new Trane furnace also resolves one of the most frustrating features of older furnaces that required technicians to disconnect gas lines, remove the entire set of burners, and replace them after cleaning. The S9X2 burners can be snapped in and out of place one at a time with no disconnections required.

Earning a 2021 Green Builder Innovation of the Year Award, the LG Multi-position Vertical Air Handling Unit (VAHU) with LGRED° (Reliable to Extreme Degrees) heating technology features an R1 compressor that can reach speeds up to 135Hz with vapor bypass and vapor injection technologies; this optimizes the VAHU for higher SEER and HSPF ratings across an extremely wide operation range. The LG VAHU is capable of delivering continuous cooling operation to 118°F, 100% heating capacity down to 5°F and continuous heating operation down to -13˚F outdoor ambient temperatures.

Challenging the status quo The move to reduce our dependence on fossil-fuel for home heating

seen them used in super

and to address the desire for single-source heating and cooling has

energy efficient homes that

led to innovation and the increased viability of mini-split systems

require only a small space

even in our hot and humid climate zones. With that, Heating Seasonal

conditioning system. But

Performance Factor (HSPF) ratings will become a more recognized

the newest air handlers

way to compare efficiency ratings. HSPF indicates the total space

have expanded efficiency

heating required during the space heating season, expressed in BTU’s,

and comfort to the point where air handlers are a more mainstream

divided by the total electrical energy consumed by the heat pump

alternative to gas furnaces any climate zone.

system during the same season, expressed in watt-hours. To earn an ENERGY STAR label, a mini-split heat pump must achieve at least 8.5 HSPF. SEER ratings are still used to rate a heat pump’s cooling

Pairing your AC to the furnace

efficiency.

If you’re upgrading or replacing an AC unit in an existing home, you

Mini-split systems implement an outdoor compressor/condenser and

just have to be certain the indoor coil must fit the space above your

indoor air-handling unit. Like a furnace, an air handler is housed in a

furnace and that the furnace has enough blower power for the AC. If

large metal cabinet where air is conditioned and circulated. The air

the AC is a staged or variable speed/modulating AC, however, it may

handling unit itself doesn’t heat or cool the air at all. Instead, it blows

be critical to match the AC to the furnace as well as the thermostat

indoor air across an internal heat exchanger or coil to add or remove

designed for the system to take advantage of communicating control

heat from the air without using heating components like the burners

features.

and heat exchanger.

If you’re building new, there are many benefits to using a like-brand

Linking the outdoor and indoor units requires only about a three-

furnace and AC. The most advanced products HVAC products

inch hole though a wall for the conduit housing the power and

feature digital control panels and compatibility for remote access

communication cables, copper tubing and a condensation drain line.

allowing owners to control temperature settings, view operational

Mini-splits have long-been a go-to solution for room additions when

data, and receive notifications, troubleshooting tips, and historical

extending or installing distribution ductwork isn’t feasible. We’ve also

performance data.

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Panasonic’s Intelli-Balance 100 balances pressure in homes, with two electronically commutated motors (ECMs) providing customizable air flow to eliminate positive or negative pressure. The unit comes with a MERV 8 air filter that prevents outdoor particulates, such as pollens and other biologic allergens, from entering the home.

Air Purification Whole-house systems offered by the major HVAC manufacturers and all put a heightened emphasis on indoor air

The Bottom Line: The higher the AFUE, HSPF and SEER rating your equipment

quality (IAQ), particularly as we begin to

is, the higher the cost is likely to be. But the more efficient it is, the more money

climb out of a global pandemic.

you can potentially save, meaning a swift payback—but not always. Remember

Trane’s IAQ program, Tranquility by

that there are other external factors that can make even your highest level of

Trane, equips builders with innovative

equipment work harder and use more energy. To avoid oversizing your HVAC,

and efficient strategies to transform

you must consider the home’s size, layout and climate zone. Bigger than needed

traditional heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) processes through the application of building science.

This approach ensures optimized performance, energy efficiency, and

is not better; in fact, it’s worse. Furthermore, for equipment to operate at its full potential, the system must be installed the right way, your ductwork and building envelope must be adequate and devoid of air leaks, and the equipment must be properly maintained.

improved occupant health and comfort through superior temperature and humidity control. The Tranquility by Train program and Panasonic’s Intelli-

Beverly Smirnis is the co-founder of Building Savvy magazine and publishes its flagship Dallas/

Balance 100 energy recovery ventilator

Fort Worth edition. She and her business partner and husband, Steve Smirnis, have served as

(ERV) were also among the winners for

judges for the International Builders’ Show Best of IBS Awards and judged numerous homes for

Green Builder’s 2021 Innovation of the

builders association parade events across the country.

Year Awards.

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OUR SERVICES DRYWALL CUSTOM TEXTURES VENETIAN PLASTER NEW CONSTRUCTION

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RESIDENTIAL COMMERCIAL FAUX FINISHES INTERIOR & EXTERIOR PAINTING

[Savvy Youth Initiative]

CASA ÜBER ALLES Fredericksburg High School Program Rekindles the Trades

By Hilory Parker, Nexstream VP Business Development

T

he High School Building Trades Program originated at Fredericksburg

While program implementation was targeted at

High School in the 2016-17 school year under the name Casa Über Alles.

revitalizing the floundering trade curriculum at the

With the help of Fredericksburg builder Richard Laughlin and a team of

high school, it quickly turned into a way to restore

other local building professionals, this program gives students the ability

pride in the building trade profession, making it a

to put on a tool belt and step on a work crew the day after graduation.

sought-after model at many other schools.

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“What started as a way to rekindle the trades and foster a passion in our next generation for

Volunteers

building again, turned into something much bigger,” says Laughlin, president of, Laughlin

Students work alongside industry

Homes & Restoration. “We’re seeing kids come through our program and feeding into

professionals to receive hands-on learning;

an industry that sorely needs qualified, motivated, younger workers. It’s a win-win for

local professionals give back to the

everybody involved.”

community through volunteerism..

Building Trades Skills

Key components of the program include:

Sample multiple trades to find the perfect career to pursue.

Employment Give students a head start on employable skills without requiring a college degree.

Life Skills Even if students don’t pursue a career in the building trades, they leave the program

Teamwork

empowered to complete personal projects

Learn to work as part of a crew to complete a real-world project sold to the community.

and home maintenance.

School Credit Receive class credit and get valuable training at the same time.

Students are given the opportunity to garner on-the-job knowledge by working closely with local builders, trade partners, and suppliers while earning school credit. This prepares students who wish to enter the workforce after high school while giving contractors leads to potential employees.

Each year, the program produces a small, one-bedroom concept home — complete with a living area, kitchen, dining area, bath, closet, and laundry space — from the ground up right on campus. For eight months, local builders donate their time to work with diligent students to have the home ready to be auctioned off in the spring. All proceeds are applied to funding the next year’s concept home.

High schools around the Texas Hill Country have begun to implement their own projects modeled after Casa Über Alles and have accomplished similar goals. One of the key factors of success is community involvement.

Building professionals from the local area provide important guidance and instruction in a real-world setting. These mentors donate their time and resources to invest in the next generation of builders and blue-collar workers.

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“There’s a glaring deficit in skilled labor in the building industry, and everyone is trying to figure out what to do. And school boards are seeing the opportunity here and are looking for ways to make this happen. They realize there is a severe shortage of the trades, and acknowledge that not all of their high school seniors will end up in college ” adds Laughlin.

Casa Über Alles projects have garnered acclaim not just locally, but across the country: •

2017 Best in American Living Awards One-of-a-Kind Custom Home up to 1,500 Sq. Ft.

•

2018 Best in American Living Awards Judges Discretionary Award for Educational Building Trades Program

•

2019 Texas Association of Builders’ Star Award for Best Architectural Design Tiny House Star Award

•

2020 Texas Association of Builders’ Star Award for Best Special Project – NonPrimary Residence

For more information about Casa Über Alles check out highschoolbuildingtrades.org or call 830.798.2266.

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[Savvy Trucks & Toys]

« Ram is touting its all-new 2021 Ram 1500 TRX as “the apex predator of the truck world.” »

Performance Review Battle of Two Brand Families TRX vs. Raptor

Muscle Car Match-Up

Under the airbox cover of the all-new 2021 Ram 1500 TRX is a graphic

Ford won’t take Ram’s challenge lying down. A redesigned

displaying a Tyrannosaurus Rex overwhelming a Velociraptor and a size

2022 Ford F-150 Raptor R is anticipated to be equipped with

comparison of the two dinosaurs in the TRX’s center console, challenging the

a version of the Predator V-8 that powers the 760-hp Mustang

Ford F-150 Raptor in a not-so-subtle way. Ram says the TRX is designed bolt

Shelby GT500, a vehicle that the Savvy Driver recently had

by bolt to significantly outperform every other truck straight from the factory

the pleasure of testing at Texas Motor Speedway. Put 760

and will cement Ram as North America’s off-road truck leader. The Ram 1500

horses of supercharged 5.2-liter V-8 under the hood of a

TRX has been tested to handle the most punishing conditions with extreme

vehicle with the athleticism of a smaller and lighter sports car

durability. Class-leading, uncompromising performance in the harshest

and you get the most powerful production car Ford has ever

environments is achieved in part through the same engine powering its Dodge

built. The rear-wheel-drive coupe enters the racetrack with

cousins of the SRT Hellcat family—the supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI® V-8

attitude, sporting the Cobra snake badge and a Carbon Fiber

engine. Stratospheric power gives TRX 702 horsepower and delivers a new

Handling Package that includes 20-inch carbon-fiber wheels

level of performance: 0-60 miles per hour (mph) in 4.5 seconds, the quarter

and adjustable strut-top mounts, it emits a snarl through the

mile in 12.9 seconds at 108 mph and a top speed 118 mph.

exhaust pipes as it accelerates zero to 60 in 3.4 seconds.

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Sporting the same V8 engine as the Ram TRX, Dodge confidently roars up to any starting line with its drag-strip dominating 807-horsepower Dodge Challenger SRT Super Stock. But Dodge also makes muscle cars for the whole family with the new 797-horsepower Dodge Charger SRT Redeye, the most powerful and fastest massproduced sedan in the world, and the new 710-horsepower Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat, the most powerful SUV ever. Combined, these three muscle cars make Dodge the industry’s most powerful brand, offering more horsepower than any other American brand across its entire lineup.

Banter on social media shows how closely Ford and Stellantis (the parent company of Ram and Dodge) are watching each other.

« 2021 marks the year that Dodge is distilled into a pure performance brand, offering Hellcat-

As full-size pickup trucks make up an ever

powered SRT versions of every model across the lineup including the 807-horsepower 2021 Dodge

greater percentage of a company’s sales and

Challenger SRT Super Stock (left), 710-horsepower 2021 Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat (center) and

the disappearance of other types of coupes

the 797-horsepower 2021 Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat Redeye (right). »

and sedans vault supercharged muscle cars to the forefront, the competition is good and never-ceasing as our domestic automakers contend for market share.

« The Mustang Shelby GT500 is the most advanced, most powerful street-legal Mustang ever produced. »

Beverly & Steve Smirnis are members of the Texas Auto Writers Association and the Texas Motor Press Association, reviewing vehicles and casting their votes at driving events where the Truck of Texas, Car of Texas and Off-Road Truck of Texas are some of the titles awarded. Follow their automotive blog on TheSavvyList.com/TheSavvyDriver

« A limited-production Mopar ’21 Ram 1500 Special Edition adds a package of unique performance parts and accessories from the Mopar Custom Shop to 1500 Lone Star Crew Cab 4x4 trucks equipped with the 5.7-liter HEMI® V-8. »

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Specializing in E xceptional Architectural Photography G R A P H I C D E S I G N • C O M M E R C I A L P H OTO G R A P H Y • W E B S I T E D E V E LO P M E N T • V I D E O P R O D U C T I O N

Presort Standard Us Postage Paid Great Falls, MT Permit# 128

PHOTOGRAPHY • VIDEO PRODUCTION • GRAPHIC DESIGN

Photography & Graphic Design by Jason Roberts has been published in Texas Monthly, Luxury Home Magazine, Cowboys & Indians Magazine, LUXE, The Inspiring Woman Book, San Antonio Woman Magazine, and many other quality periodicals as well as numerous applications for print and electronic media for a wide variety of clients.

Contact me for a quote on your next project:

210.789.2033

www.jasonroberts.biz Featured image photographed for Trinity Custom Builders, Inc. in Stone Creek Ranch • Fair Oaks, Texas 32