Get Uncorked at ABoR’s Annual Wine Tasting Fundraiser Don’t get stuck with sour grapes—protect your industry by attending the TREPAC Wine Tasting and Silent Auction on Thursday, Sept. 3 from 6 to 8 p.m. at Uncorked, a wine bar and tasting room located at 900 E. 7th Street. Join your fellow REALTORS® at the city’s hottest new wine bar, where you can enjoy a wide selection of wines from across the world and peruse the fine selection of silent auction items. All proceeds from this event benefit the Texas Real Estate Political Action Committee (TREPAC), which provides legislative representation to private property owners and real estate professionals across Texas. To
learn more about how TREPAC works for you, visit ww.abor.com/gov_affairs/home.cfm. Tickets to the 2009 TREPAC Wine Tasting are $35 each and may be purchased online at https://www.abor.com/events/wine.cfm. For more information on this event, including sponsorship opportunities, contact Emily Chenevert in ABoR’s Government and Community Affairs Department at echenevert@abor.com or 454-7636, ext. 1501. TREPAC, the Texas Real Estate Political Action Committee, is your profession's insurance policy that safeguards your interests. Invest in yourself and your profession—contribute to the PAC. For further information, contact the Government Affairs Department at 454-7636.
Upcoming Events: AUGUST 5 AMBA Monthly Meeting Austin Country Club - 11:30 a.m.
AUGUST 19 CRS Quarterly Meeting Westwood Country Club - 11:30 a.m.
AUGUST 21 WCAoR Tech Tune-up Wingate Conference Center - 9 to 5 p.m. SEPTEMBER 3 HBA Golf Extravaganza Avery Ranch Golf Club - Noon SEPTEMBER 3 ABoR’s Wine Tasting Fundraiser Uncorked in downtown Austin - 6 p.m.
SEPTEMBER 23 RECA Charity Golf Tournament Avery Ranch Golf Club - Noon See page 30 for more details
—Associates In— PROGRESS AUGUST 2009 • VOL. 14 • ISSUE 4
Enjoyable. Entertaining. It’s all About You.
Add Social Media Networking to Your Business Toolbox McVay, general manager and marketing director for Austin City Living. Friend a person with similar CONTRIBUTING WRITER interests and pretty soon they will know someone who needs help finding or buying a home. Social media sites such as facebook, Linkedin and “Social actions are powerful twitter, once thought of primarily as a way to conbecause they act as trusted nect with friends and family, are increasingly attracting an adult audience who want to use it as a means referrals and reinforce the fact to discuss their professions rather than their latest that people influence people,” writes Mark Zuckerberg who crushes. created facebook and promotes So it’s no surprise that real estate professionals are among those taking advantage of the latest network- it for business use. “Advertising is no longer ing trend. More than one third of REALTORS use just about messages that are social and professional networking sites as a vital broadcasted out by companies, business tool to better serve their clients, according to a recent survey by The National Association of but increasingly about informaREALTORS. Even organizations are finding they tion that is shared between need a social media presence on the web in addition friends.” Another reason the sites are to their corporate web sites. The Austin Board of REALTORS, the National Women’s Council of useful is because of the number REALTORS and the Williamson County Association of eyeballs that can be reached of REALTORS as well as industry professionals such quickly. Facebook reaches 275 million users around as mortgage, title and builders have facebook pages. the world, according to research firm comScore. And One of the reasons people use social tools for busi- Linkedin reports it has over 38 million members ness is because it is a great way to get referrals with- worldwide—including one real estate agent in out acting too much like a sales person, says Lee Ann Missouri who, days after getting a Linkedin profile, connected with a client who ended up listing with Presorted Standard the agent twice in three U.S. Postage PAID years, and got $3 million Austin, Texas in referral sales just by Paid Permit #715 having the profile. Chris Jacob of Metro P.O. Box 81366 Living REALTORS says Austin, Texas 78708-1366 he recently got two referrals via networking media. “One while on Google chat at my computer and one using facebook mobile apps because the client knew I checked Don’t forget: You can visit us online 24/7 at www.realtylineonline.com it from my BlackBerry,” he
By Linda McNabb
said. Those new to social networking can find a multitude of tips on the web as well as a variety of training classes such as the one being offered on August 17 by ABoR and during Tech Tune Up August 21 offered by WCAoR. Individual training is available through consultants such as Will Staney of WJ Bradley Mortgage Capital, who recently was a guest speaker at Amelia Bullock REALTORS. “Social media sites increase your Google juice,” he says. “Include good, rich information on your site so that it shows you as an expert so when it is time to make a real estate transaction, they will choose you.” A quick perusal of a directory of “tweeple” in Austin using twitter shows many REALTORS are using the site to post links to interesting real estate stories and/or listings and comment on real estate happenings, while mixing in comments about what they are up to at the moment such as “eating sausage biscuits and then doing yard work, yard work.” Some find they still want to draw a line between business and pleasure and not share every detail with past and potential clients. Laurie Nunnallee of First American Title says she solves this dilemma by creating a business page that is separate from her friends and family page. In the end, social networks provide real estate professionals with new ways to do what they have always done: make connections, establish themselves as experts, follow leads, develop clients and in the end, close transactions. “Just be careful to shut your phone and computer off at some point,” cautions Jacob. “Otherwise, real estate can become a 24hour a day job.”
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Realty Line of Austin
August 2009
A PUBLICATION OF © CAXTON PUBLICATIONS, INC.
Visitors to the Green Expo learn about the energy saving features of KB Home from Colette Fitzgerald and J o s h u a Washabaugh.
Realty Line of 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. © Caxton Publications, Inc. dba Realty Line of Austin is an active 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. Caxton Publications, Inc. dba Realty Line of 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.
Juliana Brock of Power Training shares information about her upcoming classes with students Dolise McClure of Realty World, Neal Barnes & Associates, Cathy Morris of Keller Williams Realty and Patrick Dixson of RE/MAX Capital City.
Doren L. Carver PUBLISHER Tawanna K. Carver MANAGING EDITOR
Linda McNabb CONTRIBUTING EDITOR/WRITER/PHOTOGRAPHER
COLUMNISTS Jay Gohil - ABoR Chairman Wes Peoples - HBA President Barbara Wigginton - WCAoR President David Tandy - Gracy Title
All photos, press releases or article submissions can be sent to realtyline@austin.rr.com
P. O. Box 81366, Austin, Texas 78708 Office: (512) 821-1900 www.realtylineonline.com
Announces
APPROVAL THROUGH National Mortgage Licensing System and Registration Provider #1400059 DID YOU KNOW A NEW GOOD FAITH AND HUD 1 WILL BE REQUIRED JANUARY 1ST? No Loan Officer, Processor, Real Estate Agent or Closer will want to miss this one! Classes will be launched in September, watch the website for details. Pending approval for 4 TREC Elective Hours and 4 TDSML Core Hours. For more information call us or visit our Web site for a complete listing of courses and schedules.
CALL: 512-451-9112
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All courses, schedules and pricing are subject to change.
August 2009
Realty Line of Austin
ABoR CHAIRMAN’S COLUMN
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To learn more about your ACTRIS subscription, contact our MLS Department at 454-7636 or mlssupport@abor.com.
We’re Looking for a Few Good REALTORS By Jay Gohil • Jay Gohil Realty
2009 Chairman • Austin Board of REALTORS
Celebrate the top performers in your industry by nominating a colleague for one of ABoR’s illustrious industry awards. Categories include: REALTOR® of the Year; Affiliate of the Year; REALTOR® Community Service; Salesperson of the Year; Rookie of the Year; and Cultural Awareness. Full descriptions for each category may be found at https://www.abor.com/events/forms/indy_awards_desc.cfm. Nomination forms are located online at https://www.abor.com/events/forms/indy_awards_form.cfm. All nominations must be received by Friday, Sept. 11. Winners will be honored at the 2010 Installation Celebration on Friday, Dec. 11 at the Renaissance Austin Hotel. For more information on ABoR’s Industry Awards, contact Rita Barousse at 454-7636, ext. 1603 or rbarousse@abor.com
ACTRIS Participation Fees Due September 15 Don’t miss a moment of the quality MLS service you enjoy with your ACTRIS membership. Along with constant access to the MLXchange MLS system, your ACTRIS subscription delivers a host of products and services that make bringing quality information to your clients easy. Subscribers are also entitled to free MLS support from ABoR’s MLS Department, and you listings appear on AustinHomeSearch.com, our consumer search site that receives over 80,000 visitors each month. Semi-annual ACTRIS participation fees are due by Tuesday, Sept. 15. Paying your fees on time ensures you will have uninterrupted access to the MLXchange system. Subscribers who delay paying their fees must pay a $50 reinstatement charge to reactivate their accounts after they have been terminated. You may pay your participation fees online through the “My Account” section of Abor.com or by mailing a check to the Austin Board of REALTORS®, 10900 Stonelake Blvd., Ste. 100, Austin, Texas 78759. Subscribers are also welcome to pay in person at the ABoR offices.
Stay Safe this Summer With the summer selling season in full swing, it’s worth your while to take a few moments to assess your safety habits. As a real estate professional, you come into contact with hundreds of consumers each year. Unfortunately, some of these people do not have your best interest at heart. Ensure your personal security by applying the following tips to your business. • Hold all initial meetings with clients in your office, where you can photocopy their driver ’s licenses and record their license plate numbers. This will provide a record for authorities should an unfortunate event occur during your showing. • When possible, avoid holding an open house alone. If you must go by yourself, have a colleague call or text you at pre-arranged intervals to ensure your safety. • Keep a fully charged cell phone within reach at all times. • Maintain your control and security by driving your own vehicle rather than traveling in a client’s vehicle. • Finally, never force yourself into a situation that makes you feel uneasy. In many cases, your gut instinct is the most powerful resource you have in protecting yourself.
Investing in TREPAC Pays Off Invest in the Texas Real Estate Political Action Committee (TREPAC) in 2009 and you will be entered for a chance to win a year ’s worth of ABoR dues and ACTRIS participation fees. The winner will be announced at Realty Round Up, to be held Wednesday, October 7 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Austin Convention Center. All ABoR members who have invested in TREPAC during the 2009 fiscal year will be entered to win. Those who contribute $1,000 or more will receive 10 raffle entries. TREPAC works diligently to protect the rights of private property owners and real estate professionals. Over the past year, TREPAC has helped to achieve a number of goals for the real estate industry, including fighting for appraisal reform and halting real estate transfer taxes and mandatory sales price disclosure. However, TREPAC is only as strong as the real estate professionals who support it. Invest online at https://www.abor.com/gov_affairs/trepac/ or by contacting Emily Chenevert, Government Affairs representative, at 454-7636, ext. 1501 or echenevert@abor.com.
First American Title...for times like now. In turbulent times, First American provides the rock-solid financial strength your business can depend on. We continue to back all of your transactions with the financial strength of an industry leader. A trusted leader in title services since 1889, we continue to earn strong financial stability ratings from some of the nation’s most respected rating agencies. In an economic downturn, First American has you and your business covered.
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Realty Line of Austin
August 2009
Marty Kaye of RE/MAX Capital City discusses utility discounts with Keith Kauffman and Rob Scott, both of Green Collar Operations who presented information at a recent Austin Young Real Estate Professionals gathering at the Design Center of Austin.
Ron “Bad to the Bone” Urias, right, takes first prize at the WCR style show, while Mary “Lorena” Mealy of Realty Executives took second. Philip Pense of Independence Title won votes by posting his phone number on his back.
Gary “Bernie” Bernfeld of Wells Fargo asks Marty Halseth of United Guaranty about the recent charity work for Sunshine Kids he was involved in. With them were Toni Vance Halseth of Independence Title and Kenton Brown of Sente Mortgage.
ABoR members who were honored at the Profiles in Power luncheon are Krisstina Wise of the Goodlife Team, Jimmie Ann Vaughan of the Jimmie Ann Vaughan Company, Christine Choate of Horizon Realty, Jan Witt of Rainbow Septic, Julie Potts of Hill Country Property Management, Tausha Carlson of Marathon Real Estate and Ashley Whittenberger of the Interiority Complex University. Not pictured: Aralyn Hughes.
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Realty Line of Austin
August 2009
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The KB Kronicle AUGUST
7,
2009
BHOME.COM K
512-651-8059
K B H O M E 2 0 0 9 R E A LT O R B O N U S P R O G R A M
FIRST CLOSING PAID AT SLAB* SECOND CLOSING
Colette Fitzgerald & Josh Washabaugh, both with KB Home, demonstrate KB Home’s green features at the WCAOR GREEN Expo. KB Home strives to be a leader among home builders in the area of energy efficiency and environmental sustainability.
THIRD CLOSING AND FOR EACH ADDITIONAL CLOSING THEREAFTER
KB Home Ɔ’s REALTORS!
Spotlight Home of the Month
404 Springbrook Road • 2,958 sq. ft. Spring Trails in Pflugerville (Above) Zip Realty agents enjoy a KB Home community tour. The group toured Lakes at Northtown in Pflugerville, Silverado Ranch in Cedar Park, and Westwood in Leander. They also enjoyed a “funstruction” tour of a home under construction as well as a delicious lunch and refreshments. (Left) Colette Fitzgerald, KB Home Realtor Liaison, and Juan Garcia, KB Home Studio Consultant, are ready to welcome guests to the KB Home Realtor Appreciation Luau, which was held at the KB Home Design Studio.
Ready for Quick-Move-In! Priced at $234,709 1-story home with 2,958 sq. ft., 5 bdrms, and 3.5 baths. Upgraded master bath with a tub with tile splash, separate shower with tile surround and double vanity with cultured marble countertops. Covered patio and upgraded stone exterior on three sides. For more information, contact our sales team at (512) 990-5304
Spring Trails Community Information • 1,411~3,724 sq. ft. • 2 model homes • 15 floor plans • 1~and 2~story homes • 3~5 bedrooms • 2~3.5 baths • ENERGY STAR qualified homes
To Visit Spring Trails: From I-35 in Round Rock, take Exit 250/SH 45 heading east. Stay on frontage road, turn right on Schultz, left on New Meister and right on Springbrook to community.
If you would like to receive weekly updates from KB Home with our inventory list, Realtor bonuses, and upcoming events, please email our Broker/Realtor Liaison Colette Fitzgerald at cfitzgerald@kbhome.com
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Realty Line of Austin
August 2009
Local real estate professionals head out to preview listings in Williamson County during the Cedar Park property tour.
Kathy Mayer and Jim Plasek, both of S t e i n e r R a n c h / Ta y l o r Morrison, try to figure out “who done it” at the dinner mystery theater at Dave and Busters, where the company hosted a social.
Neal Barnes of Realty World, Neal Barnes and Associates walks down the runway to help raise funds for the Women’s Council of REALTORS during the annual style show.
August 2009
HBA PRESIDENT’S COLUMN
New Homes Built to Fit New Priorities By Wes Peoples • WP Investments
2008-2009 President • Home Builders Association of Greater Austin
Can you imagine living in a 175,000 square foot home? That’s how large George Vanderbilt built his North Carolina home, the Biltmore, in 1895. With 250 rooms and 43 bathrooms, the home had more space than his family, or quite possibly anyone’s family, could ever hope to use. Even though the average home in the United States is far smaller than the Biltmore, it is a fact that Americans have tended to build larger and larger homes over the years. In 1973, the typical newly-built home was 1,660 square feet. Near the end of 2008, the average size had grown to more than 2,500 square feet. But lately, that trend has changed. Builders are now seeing demand for smaller homes. By early 2009, according to federal government data on new housing starts, the average size of homes had decreased to 2,400 square feet. Jerry Howard, president and CEO of the National Association of Home Builders, said, “Our latest surveys show nearly 60 percent of our members are building smaller homes and a similar number are putting more emphasis on lower-priced models.” But a closer look at the data shows that this trend has not held steady throughout from year to year. Decreases occurred in 1981-1982, 1995, 2003 and 2007-2008. A number of factors are most likely the reason for this new trend. First, around a third of new homes are typically purchased by first-time buyers, who can often only afford smaller homes. These buyers are looking to take advantage of the $8,000 first-time home buyer federal tax credit before it expires November 30, 2009, so builders are building to meet the demand from this group. For more information about the first-time home buyer tax credit, go to www.federalhousingtaxcredit.com. Second, the economy is also impacting new home buyers’ decisions. Cost-conscious home buyers are choosing to include more and higher-quality features in their new homes rather than add square footage. For example, a family may prefer to have high-end appliances and granite countertops in their kitchen rather than larger rooms. Third, according to local firm Residential Strategies, Inc., with the lack of jumbo loan programs available in today’s lending market, any home priced above $417,000 is harder to
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Realty Line of Austin
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sell. Smaller entry level homes will be the trend until mortgage standards loosen up. Finally, Americans are becoming more focused on energy conservation. A smaller new home will cost less to heat and cool than a larger home with similar energy-efficient features, and will leave a smaller carbon footprint on the environment. In addition, family size has been decreasing over the years. The average household in 1960 had 3.3 people, while in 2008 it is 2.5. Families don’t need to build homes with a lot of bedrooms if they aren’t planning to have as many kids as previous generations. So, does this mean that every builder should begin building 1,600-square-foot houses? Certainly not. Buyers will continue to buy at different price levels and want different sized homes. Whatever your preference—size, features, price, or something else—new home builders today are providing homes that will appeal to a wide range of tastes and budgets, with more customization choices for your lifestyle than ever before. So the “perfect” home for your family may be a showstopper such as the 2009 New American Home, a nearly 9,000 square foot contemporary home in Las Vegas that incorporates the latest in sustainable design, or it may be something very different. The good news is that you have a wide variety of choices for your new home. To learn more about how to choose a builder or buy a new home, visit the Home Builder’s Association of Greater Austin’s Web site at www.AustinHomeBuilders.com.
AMBA officers Mike Carroll, treasurer, Eddie Rinehart, president, of Treaty Oak Mortgage and Doug Scott, vice president, get ready to enjoy some refreshments with members at the organization’s happy hour at Third Base.
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Realty Line of Austin
August 2009
Aletha Smith of Progressive Real Estate Group and Laura Ortiz of Schaible Realty know that by sitting up front they will not miss a thing at the educational seminar where Chad Goldwasser of Goldwasser Real Estate was a panelist.
Juliana Brock, center, of Power Training keeps her students informed on all regulations and changes within their industry. Eddie Rinehart, Treaty Oak Mortgage; Jason Garza; Heath Hanson; Dolise McClure, Realty World, Neal Barnes & Associates; Leslie Brvenik and Becky Hopkins, both of Austin Title; Patrick Dixson of RE/MAX Capital City and Cathy Morris of Keller Williams Realty.
Scott Norman of the Texas Mortgage Bankers Association discusses business with David Cook of SWBC Mortgage and Steve Builta of H o m e t r u s t Mortgage at an AMBA happy hour.
WCAoR director Chris Sachs of JB Goodwin REALTORS and association executive Marge Phillips talk about how the Green Expo is progressing at the Heritage Center at the Dell Diamond. The organization hosted the community outreach event.
Realty Line of Austin
August 2009
www.realtylineonline.com
Taylor Morrison’s Pyramid Payday is Back and ...
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REP.TAYLORMORRISON.COM *Certain restrictions apply. Visit REP.TAYLORMORRISON.COM for official rules. Bonus commissions that have been waived by the real estate agent or applied to their buyers discounts will not be received by the real estate agent as a bonus commission. ©2009 Taylor Morrison, Inc. All rights reserved.
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Realty Line of Austin
August 2009
Louis El-Deir tells Gena Hammonds of Highland Lakes Real Estate, her mother Gloria Hammonds and Amy Kobza of Austin Title about the discount programs he can offer. He was one of the presenters at the AYREP meeting at the Design Center of Austin.
Aralyn Hughes, right, of Aralyn & Company was honored along with many ABoR members at the Profiles in Power luncheon. With Aralyn is Anna Maria Garcia, an agent with Aralyn & Company.
Janis Arteaga, standing, of Mortgage IQ, helps Amanda Secor of Horizon Realty with a little one on one instruction at an MCE course at Cover 3 on Anderson Lane.
Austin Area Market Update from your friends at Gracy Title New N ew LisƟngs LisƟngs vs. vs. SSales ales 2008 2008 - 2009 2009 SSales ales
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Take your sales career to new heights with MetLife Home Loans.
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A move to MetLife Home Loans can be very rewarding.
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A division of MetLife Bank, N.A., MetLife Home Loans offers mortgage sales professionals a unique blend of benefits and opportunities, including:
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For more market information, please contact one of our sales executives.
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> A wide range of home loan products > A comprehensive benefits package > The opportunity to make a real difference by helping your customers build financial freedom through home ownership
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For more details of career opportunities with MetLife Home Loans, or to apply, contact:
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Bob O’Reilly Area Director 901 S. Mopac Bldg. 2, Suite 140 Austin, TX 78746 Phone: 512-329-3527 Cell: 713-294-4236 Email: roreilly@metlife.com
96.0% 9 6.0% 9 5.0% 95.0% 94.0% 9 4.0% 93.0% 9 3.0%
®
All loans subject to approval. Certain conditions and fees may apply. Mortgage financing provided by MetLife Home Loans, a division of MetLife Bank,N.A. Equal Housing Lender., Equal Opportunity Employer. ©2008 METLIFE, INC. L10081009[exp1009][All States][DC]
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Realty Line of Austin
August 2009
www.realtylineonline.com
We’ve Got Your Back!
Visit us at Booth #200 at Realty Roundup The Susan G. Komen For The Cure Austin
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Realty Line of Austin
August 2009
Debbie Ates of Wilshire Homes, David Burton of Home Team of America and Donna Yoste of RE/MAX Austin Associates get ready to enjoy the style show and vote for new officers at the Women’s Council of REALTORS.
Michael Linderman and Mark Berman, both of Taylor Morrison, attend a dinner mystery theater the homebuilder hosted at Dave and Busters.
Mary Lou York, office manager of the Amelia Bullock REALTORS north office, listens as Karen Knippa and Shirley Renfro, both of Gracy Title, remind the staff of the services their company can provide.
Patricia Wagner of DHI Mortgage encourages applause from the audience for her Texas flair at the Women’s Council of REALTORS style show.
Realty Line of Austin
August 2009
WCAoR PRESIDENT’S COLUMN
3rd Annual Tech Tuneup is just around the corner By Barbara Wigginton • Realty Executives Excellence
2009 President • Williamson County Association of REALTORS
This is an all-in-one, non-stop, all-day infusion of techie, geeky, mind blowing, and world altering information that will thrust your business into the new millennium. Still doing business in the dark ages? Come learn what the technology pros are doing that YOU ARE NOT. Don't be left in the dust! Are you spending inordinate amounts of time trying to make your database, advertising, Web site, or marketing plan? The tools are there! Come check it out! Here's what to expect during the day. There will be 20 different classes, all involving today's technology in some form or fashion. There will be many topics available to you so that you can pick your own schedule. Classes will be about, but not limited to (because we will be adding new subjects daily), the following: Blogging, Search Engine Optimization, Web Lead Generation, Twitter, Facebook, Social Networking, Social Media and Web site generation. And the latest tools to enhance your business are: Google Ad words, Top Producer, Drive By Technology, Photography class, Virtual Tours, MLX exchange and Supra. Come for the technology classes, come for the MCE classes or come for Thom Singer, the keynote speaker. The Peer Panel was a big hit last year and this year will prove to be even more stimulating. Panel members include Avis Wukasch (to speak about TREC rules/regulations regarding today's REALTOR marketing requirements), J. Rene Ward, Curtis Reddehase and Jack Stapleton. This exciting portion of the day will provide insight on how to use technology to improve your business. What... there's more? We will also have exhibitors showing off the latest and greatest products and services. There will be a continental breakfast served in the morning, with snacks and drinks throughout the day. There will be a food vendor providing lunch, which is on your own. There will be prizes, guest appearances, food, fun and loads of information. Come win a Wii or one of the other varieties of prizes our wonderful sponsors will be providing. The world of technology changes daily. How is it possible for a full-time REALTOR to focus on their business and stay abreast of the changing world? The 3rd annual Tech Tune-
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up is your solution. Are you ready for the infusion of business altering information that tech tune-up will provide? The Tech Tune-Up will prove to be one of the hottest events you will attend this year. Mark your calendars for August 21, from 8:15 a.m. to 5 p.m. The day long conference will be held at the Wingate Hotel Conference Center, located at 1209 N IH 35, in Round Rock. For more information about TECH TUNE UP, visit us online at www.techtuneup.org.
Cheeseburgers In Paradise Join us Thursday, Sept. 17, from 4 to 8 p.m. at the Rabb House for plenty of food, games and old fashioned camaraderie. Organized by WCAoR, and benefitting TREPAC, tickets are on sale now for $35. Rabb House is located at 2009 E Palm Valley Blvd., Round Rock.
WCAoR Education Scheduling As always, don’t forget to visit us online to check out the WCAoR Education Schedule. Keep current with your MCE training, the latest in best practices and industry trends or merely as a refresher course. For details about WCAoR’s education scheduling, contact Jackie Woodfin, director of Professional Development, at 255-6211 or on the Web at www.wcaor.org.
New officers for WCR are announced after election results are tabulated. Susanna Boyer of Sellstate Classic Realty is president, Cheryl Jenkins is president-elect, Susan Brown of Realty Executives is vice president of membership and Chris Rodriguez of Realty Executives is treasurer. Anita Farrell (not pictured) of Keller Williams Realty is secretary.
Flexibility s In-house underwriting, processing and closing s Operations manager that is second to none - she keeps that department on track s Fully experienced processing staff - some of these people have been with us 10 to 15 years s Correspondent, broker & portfolio lending - if we can't get your deal done it can't get done s Realtor and condo relationships and MSA’s
Strength Everything you need in the mortgage industry to take your business to the next level, you name it, we have it all. We close and fund over 95 percent of our loans through our warehouse, that means pricing is great and service is even better. At United Lending we have it ALL under one roof. Try us, we’ll not only get them closed but we’ll do it with professionalism, speed, accuracy - and fun! Call Kevin Ginsburg for employment opportunities.
Austin | Houston | San Antonio | Waco
8303 Mopac, Suite A-201 - Austin, Texas 78759 512.592.5400 - unitedlendingusa.com
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COMMENTARY
Realty Line of Austin
Why Austin Remains Strong and Will Recover Early as the Economy Improves As the Austin Chamber of Commerce recently noted, even though Austin showed a slight job loss in June, compared to other cities, we continue to be the number one city in year-over-year job growth of the Top 50 Metro Areas. Even with Austin’s substantial increase to a 7.1% unemployment rate, we still ranked number three for the lowest unemployment in the Top 50. Austin has several factors which provide a strong foundation for job creation and long-term economic strength. Highly educated workforce. Not only does Austin and the surrounding area have an amazing 122,000 students enrolled in colleges and universities, but graduates want to stay in the Austin area. The Chamber lists another 300,000 college students within 200 miles of Austin, most of whom also would love to live in Austin when they graduate. In the world of “knowledge workers,” businesses increasingly relocate where they can find a highly educated workforce, or at least companies will create satellite divisions in those markets. Population growth. The Perryman Group’s latest forecast indicates that the Austin-Round Rock MSA will gain about 75,400 new wage and salary jobs from 2008 to 2013. In June, Bizjournals published their analysis of county-by-county growth patterns within each state, and used that information to predict metropolitan growth at five-year intervals between 2005 and 2025. During this 20-year span, Austin is projected to climb 13 notches from 38th to become the 25th largest metro area in the U.S. Stable home prices. Despite the drop in the number of MLS transactions, home prices remain strong. While most large markets in the U.S. experienced a substantial increase in home prices from 2001 to 2006, and therefore a substantial decline from 2006 to present (some by as much as 50%), Austin’s single-family median home price has remained amazingly stable. Austin ranks high as a place to relocate and expand a business. Kiplinger, a D.C.based publisher of business forecasts and personal finance advice, ranked Austin 8th
August 2009 in its recently released 2009 “Best Places to Live” report. This year’s report emphasized the best cities for work— looking for cities that have stable employment rates in key job areas as well as providing new career opportunities. The report placed a premium on places that will lead the country in employment growth when the recovery takes off. Entrepreneur magazine’s August issue ranks Austin the tenth-best start-up city in America and Forbes ranked Austin number one for economic recovery! The Forbes analysis highlighted the diverse base of business in Austin David Tandy and projected that the Austin economy will grow by $5 bilPresident lion by the end of 2010. The Austin Chamber of Commerce has seen a spike in inquiries and company visits. Gracy Title Company According to the chamber’s data from January 1 through May 31, the Austin region has seen 76 site visits in that time frame from companies looking to relocate. During the same period last year, there were 54 site visits, and in 2007, there were 43. Austin also benefits from the favorable business climate of Texas. No large state compares when it comes to being business-friendly. Texas was recently named the country's Number One state for business by Directorship, a publication that caters to corporate boardroom leaders. Additionally, the U.S. Department of Commerce named Texas the top exporting state in the nation for the seventh year in a row based on 2008 export data. Fiscal responsibility. The Economist recently ran a series of articles comparing Texas and California, noting among other things the favorable business climate and low tax rates in Texas. Even more critical was the difference in the budgets of the two states. Of course, California is not the only state running out of money and slashing education and other budgets. The National Conference of State Legislatures recently reported that 11 states raised taxes this year, eight tapped into “Rainy Day” funds and two states relied solely on spending cuts to balance their budgets. Texas was not included in any of these categories. While many large population states were unable to balance their budget this year, Texas remains economically healthy with a balanced budget—an amazing accomplishment in this economic recession. For these reasons and many more, Austin and Texas are in an excellent position to do well when the overall economy begins to recover.
Donna Ciccarelli working on a new contract with her Tr a n s a c t i o n Coordinator, Nicole Parayno, at Goldwasser Real Estate.
Chad Goldwasser, far left, teaching at the weekly Lunch and Learn session at Goldwasser Real Estate.
Ryan Matthews, center, working with the August ‘09 class of new team members, Justin Gonzalez, Dianne Bartlett, Amy Ballinger and Travis Kenne, at Goldwasser Real Estate.
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Realty Line of Austin
August 2009
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D.A. Henry of The Aldion Group waits while John Schutze of Monday Mortgage LIVE and Todd Lessig of SWBC Mortgage count votes for new officers at the Women’s Council of REALTORS elections.
Becky Hopkins of Austin Title, while participating as a style show contestant, encourages the audience to attend the Women’s Council of REALTORS sock hop that has been rescheduled for September 17. Poodle skirts and Elvis costumes are optional. Mary Lou York of Amelia Bullock REALTORS introduces representatives from Buffington Signature Homes at a recent staff meeting: John Onken, Gary Warren, Catherine Weems, Tom Harmon and Susan Bailey (not pictured).
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Realty Line of Austin
August 2009
Chad Goldwasser, center, of Goldwasser Real Estate, joins Thom Singer, left, and Harold Ware at the Norris Conference Center where they were panelists at an educational seminar.
Guest Andrea Johnson and Leslie Gawthorp of JB Goodwin REALTORS join Glenn King of RE/MAX Round Rock for a tour of more than 10 properties in Round Rock.
Carol Medley Parker of Coldwell Banker United REALTORS wins a basket of treats at the Women’s Council of REALTORS style show.
The number one real estate radio show in town is now on the number one radio station in town Tune in Saturdays at noon. 590 KLBJ AM Saturdays at Noon David McMillan - United Lending 512.592.5444 direct 512.917.8658 cell TheMcMillanTeam.com
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August 2009
Realty Line of Austin
www.realtylineonline.com
TIME IS RUNNING OUT! D.R. Horton has the largest selection of ready-to-move-in homes of any new home builder in Austin plus $8,000* as a housewarming gift from Washington D.C.!
No other builder has as much move-in ready inventory so buying an available home from D.R.Horton gives you great options! Move fast to benefit from this unbelievable government windfall! Hurry, drop by, call us or log on to www.drhorton.com/austin
* Federal tax credit of up to $8,000 available to first-time homebuyers who close escrow on or before November 30, 2009. Income limitations apply. Amount of tax credit, if any, is not paid to buyer upon close of escrow. Buyer must claim the tax credit on buyer’s federal income tax return. Not all buyers will qualify. This information is provided for general guidance only and does not constitute tax advice. Please consult an accountant or attorney for your particular situation. Visit www.federalhousingtaxcredit.com for complete details. Prices, plans, features, options, availability and co-broke are subject to change without notice. Additional restrictions may apply. Square footages are approximate.
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Realty Line of Austin
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August 2009
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Visit our booth (#216) at Realty Round Up on October 7th
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© 2009 Private Label Realty ™, All Rights Reserved
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Realty Line of Austin
August 2009
Judges Michael “Dog” Sedigh of Sellstate Classic Realty, Sheila “Paula Abdul” HawkinsBucklew of Hawkins-Bucklew International and John “Simon” Offord of Realty Executives check out the 22 contestants during the Women’s Council of REALTORS style show.
Theresa Seibold and son Tim Seibold of Seibold Properties talk about listings on the Round Rock property tour.
Former KVUE news anchor Jason Hill, now with Austin City Living, hangs out with Madeline Hollern and John Hafner at a recent condo grand opening in South Austin. Marsha Mitchell of Gardner-Mitchell REALTORS enjoys Music Under the Star at the Bob Bullock State History Museum with her grandchildren Hank and Molly.
August 2009
Realty Line of Austin
www.realtylineonline.com
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Realty Line of Austin
August 2009
Do You Want to Become an Expert in Your Market?
HITTIng THE BullsEYE There is an old saying, “You can’t hit a moving target.â€? Many agents in their ďŹ rst few years of business still have not narrowed down their best target. In other words, who is the best customer for you? What niche market interests you the most? How can you be the “go-toâ€? agent for that demographic? We know that having the right tools is the best way to ensure forward momentum. When you’re ready to ďŹ nd your bullseye, call us. We can help you be a sharp shooter! Are you ready to take control over your real estate career? Are you looking for a real estate brokerage with the exibility required for agents to become successful, independent, and to ďŹ nd their own niche? At REALTY WORLD Neal Barnes & Associates you will receive the tools and systems you need to help build your business. We will provide answers, education, leads, lead generating systems, and marketing tools to ensure your success. At REALTY WORLD Neal Barnes & Associates we have designed commission structures to beneďŹ t you. Our 100% commission plan is $3000/year or $250/month and is one of the favorites. However, you may like our company splits which allow the agent to have no monthly fees. You may like the 80/20 split up to $4500 or the 70/30 up to $4000 or even our 60/40 up to $3500, and then the remainder of your contracts for the year at 100% commission. We have structured our plans this way because our goal is your success. REALTY WORLD is one of the top recognized national franchises. REALTY WORLD Neal Barnes & Associates has commission structures that are hard to beat. With national advertising, lead generation and marketing systems, real estate training and education, free yard signs and business cards, annual bonuses up to $10,000, and a life-time income recruiting program, you owe it to yourself to take a good look at REALTY WORLD.
For more details— Call for your appointment today.
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7800 Shoal Creek Blvd, #100N Austin, TX 78757
“The Right Agent Makes All The Difference In The World�
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TDHCA offers two programs that advance a portion of the $8,000 first-time homebuyer federal tax credit to qualified buyers. The advance can be used for down payment and closing cost assistance. The programs are available only through TDHCAapproved lenders. Restrictions and eligibility requirements apply. Contact TDHCA-approved lender Harper Ray to learn how these programs may fulfill your homebuyers’ needs.
DOWNTOWN DO WNTOWN A AUSTIN USTIN &RUSRUDWH 2IĂ€FH 823 Congress Congress Ave., Ave., #1400 Austin, Texas Texas 78701 512.482.0851
A AUSTIN USTIN RESE RESEARCH ARCH 5HVHDUFK %OYG 5HVHDUFK %OYG %OGJ 6XLWH %OGJ %OGJ 6XLWH 6XLWH Texas Austin, T exas 78759 512.249.0576
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August 2009
Realty Line of Austin
www.realtylineonline.com
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Realty Line of Austin
August 2009
Katie Osborne of Full Moon Design tells Janie Miller of Sky Realty about the services her company offers while sharing refreshments at Opal Divines at a happy hour organized by the Austin Young Real Estate Professionals.
Douglas Craig, Reba Saxon and Cindy McIntyre make sure to stay visible at the Green Expo by wearing green shirts that promoted the Williamson County Association of REALTORS, which sponsored the community event at the Heritage Center at the Dell Diamond.
Contestants at the Women’s Council of REALTORS style show appear on the runway one last time to vie for the audience vote.
Amelia Bullock enjoys hearing her staff sing happy birthday to her during a recent office meeting.
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Get The Scoop Every Week Only 30 minutes
Keep Up On the Latest Mortgage News & Hot Real Estate Topics Impacting Your Business. Join Monday Mortgage Live with John Schutze and Sandy Battise For more info visit: www.mondaymortgagelive.com To Register For the Call Contact: info@mondaymortgagelive.com
Realty Line of Austin
August 2009
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Can Your Lender Handle A Curve Ball?
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43954
The Right Lending Partner Every transaction is unique and to have your business grow you need a strategic partner who can handle any situation. Since 2003 Land Mortgage has grown the right way - great people, sound principles. We execute the fundamentals and exceed expectations everyday. By simply doing what we do best - close & fund loans - our experienced team of professionals ensure your business stays on track. To learn more call today.
About Land Mortgage We are a local mortgage bank with competitive loan programs, reasonable closing costs, and a full range of in-house services. There are no surprises here. We communicate every step of the way to ensure everyone is up-to-date on where financing stands for the transaction. As your preferred lender, we allow you to confidently do what you do best - Sell more homes. A New Era In Mortgage Banking www.landmtg.com 8300 N. MOPAC • Suite 225 • Austin, TX • 78759 • 512.335.5300 • Mortgage Banker No. 43954
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Realty Line of Austin
August 2009
Cari Bieter of Prudential Texas Realty stops by the Oncor booth at the Green Expo to get some tips on energy conservation that she can share with homebuyers.
D Jenette Williams, left, and Marian Williams, both of Exit Realty, chat with Mark Hairston of Mortgage IQ after the class on credit scoring, an MCE class held at Cover 3 on Anderson Lane.
WCR style show contestant David Pavliska of RE/MAX Round Rock has so much fun making it clear he is ready for the lake that judge Sheila HawkinsBucklew of Hawkins-Bucklew International decides to join in.
We W e see lots of GREEN in your FU FUTURE FUT TU URE RE Drees Announces a
NEW PHASE Now w Open in CRYSTAL CRYST YSTAL AL FALLS. FALLS. Lots with trees, lots with views, cul de sacs and lots of green! Crystal FFalls, alls, located in Austin’s Austin’s booming northwest corridor, corridor, is surrounded by by everything everything you you need… Lake Travis, Travis, shopping, major employers employers and acclaimed schools schools within minutes of the community. community. Now,, Drees offers a new phase with spectacular Hill Country views and heavily heavily treed homesites plus new home incenti incentives ves and the DreeSmart Green Program. Program. Homeowners Homeowners can see green and save save green at Crystal FFalls. alls. See a Drees Market Manager today today for details... it’s it’s in your your future!
Kirk SSebastian ebastian | (512) 259-1824 | FFrom rom the $270’s $270’s | wwww.DreesHomes.com wwww.DreesHomes.com
August 2009
Realty Line of Austin
www.realtylineonline.com
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Homes from the $250’s to $3+ million Welcome Center: 512-266-5833 or 800-783-4640 For more information, visit www.steinerranch.com %XLOGHUV 7D\ORU 0RUULVRQ 'UHHV &XVWRP +RPHV +LJKODQG +RPHV 0RQWHUH\ +RPHV 'DYLG :HHNOH\ 3DUWQHUV LQ %XLOGLQJ &XVWRP +RPHV $I¿QLW\ +RPHV 5DQG\ 5ROOR +RPHV (FKHORQ +RPHV ,QIRUPDWLRQ FRQWDLQHG ZLWKLQ WKLV DGYHUWLVHPHQW LV FRUUHFW DW WLPH RI SXEOLFDWLRQ DQG VXEMHFW WR FKDQJH ,Q RUGHU WR UHFHLYH JLIW FDUG 5HDOWRU PXVW DFFRPSDQ\ SURVSHFW LQWR WKH :HOFRPH &HQWHU RQ ¿UVW YLVLW
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Realty Line of Austin
August 2009
2009 Realty Round Up
Growing a Greener Austin Laura Caffey, Laurie Nunnallee of First American Title and Stephanie Parker learn how to survive and thrive with lifelong, prosperous careers by participating in an educational seminar at the Norris Conference Center. This event was hosted by Goldwasser Real Estate.
Turn over a new, energy-efficient leaf at Realty Round Up 2009: Growing a Greener Austin. The Austin Board of REALTORS速 will showcase ways to conserve energy and preserve resources in style. Hop in your hybrid, grab a few friends and get ready to go green!
October 7, 2009 Austin Convention Center Booth Space and Sponsorships Still Available at www.abor.com/roundup or e-mail roundup@abor.com.
WCAoR vice president Elaine Bryne, right, of Elaine Byrne Realty along with other volunteers welcome guests to the Green Expo, a community event the organization sponsored at the Heritage Center at the Dell Diamond.
Sharon Smith, Lilla Ezell, Jeanne White and Shirley Prudhomme discuss what will be the first stop on the property tour, following an office meeting at Amelia Bullock REALTORS.
Realty Line of Austin
August 2009
ASSOCIATES IN PROGRESS
By Linda McNabb
CONTRIBUTING WRITER In an unstable economy, stability may be one of the qualities clients look for most when choosing a home builder—and Drees Custom Homes certainly can deliver that—the company has been building homes for more than 80 years. “Drees Custom Homes is one of the top 30 builders in the nation and is known throughout the industry for providing excellent quality and value to the home buyer,” says Nancy Kearns, sales manager. Not only can the family run company boast longevity, but it also has garnered national attention for excellence in quality. This year, Drees Custom Homes was honored with two major awards: The Leadership in Housing Award, which the Environmental Protection Agency bestows upon homebuilders that achieve specific levels of accomplishment pertaining to energy conservation in homes, and the Excellence in Energy Performance Award, which recognizes homebuilders who construct highly energy efficient homes that exceed Energy Star specifications. “Our homes are easy on the environment and help put money back in your wallet,” Kearns says. “It's no wonder we're one of the nation's top builders and also the winner of the 2008 America's Best Builder award from BUILDER Magazine.” In addition to energy efficiency, Drees Custom Homes prides itself on being customer focused. Evidence of this can be found in its “Designed for Life” initiative, which offers custom features buyers desire such as outstanding elevations and curved staircases in neighborhoods with excellent locations and schools. “Our floor plans are award-winning,” says Kearns. “Our innovations in home design, construction and technology are legendary. Our homes are designed for life—your life. It's the perfect marriage of form and function; we give your new home a dazzling sense of design while giving you all the flexibility you need for today's lifestyle.”
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The newest community is Falconhead West and Drees Custom Homes also has opened a new phase in Crystal Falls. Other neighborhoods include Berry Creek Reserve, Forest Creek, Hidden Glen, Lake Forest, Paloma Lake, Ranch at Brushy Creek, Senna Hills, Steiner Ranch and Walsh Ranch. Prices range from the $260s to the $670s, with square footage ranging from 2,400 to 5,090. In thanks for the support it receives from the REALTOR community, Drees Custom Homes would like REALTORS to know about two great programs underway, the Relo Reimbursement Program and the 3-4-5 Program. “We will help reimburse your relocation fees when you move your client into a Drees Custom Home,” Kearns says. “This is an exclusive program offered by Drees to help REALTORS recover costs associated with client relocation, up to 40 percent.” The second program rewards Realtors who are loyal to Drees Custom Homes, which has been in Austin for 10 years and has 45 local employees. . “Sell two or more Drees Custom Homes in the Austin area between April 1, 2009 and March 31, 2010 and you will receive an additional reward for each closing,” Kearns says. “See your market manager for rules and guidelines.” Drees Custom Homes also is offering half off options, up to $50,000, through the end of August and customers can lock in interest rates for up to 210 days with the Drees Freeze program on to be built homes. So in more ways than one, it appears clients have many reasons to “Make Drees Custom Homes Your Destination.” Drees is headquartered in Fort Mitchell, Kentucky, and in addition to Austin has operations in Cincinnati, Dayton, Cleveland, Indianapolis, Nashville, Raleigh, Frederick, MD., Washington D.C., Jacksonville and Dallas.
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Realty Line of Austin
REAL ESTATE NEWSNOTES
Time Warner Cable is partnering with local Real Estate Agents to begin REALTOR Incentive Program
Time Warner Cable, Austin’s leader in providing the most advanced cable television network is unveiling a new REALTOR Incentive Program that introduces additional revenue into their business while helping their clients create a Total Digital Home.
Time Warner Cable’s Total Digital Home is powered by our Advanced Fiber Network and provides the best in commu-
nication and entertainment services for every room in the house. Digital Cable with FREE HD, Video On Demand, Road Runner™ High Speed Online, Digital Phone service and more, work together to transform a house into a Total Digital Home. The Total Digital Home program is based on the successful association between Time Warner Cable and local
Tidwell
builders/developers in the Austin area. The program, now in its fourth year, creates a link between local builders and Time
Warner Cable to pre-wire new homes for customer entertainment and communication needs with the added benefit of an
additional revenue stream for local builders and developers. The REALTOR Incentive Program creates a similar partnership with local Real Estate
Agents. Participating agents will earn commissions, have access to Time Warner Cable’s Five Star Sales Support Team and enable their clients to receive special package rates on their television, Internet and home phone services. “This new incentive program creates a positive experience for
the Real Estate Agent and maintains their high standards of customer service. We are excited to provide the same level of outstanding service and exceeding customer expectations,” said Melissa Robledo, vice president of Marketing Communications for Time Warner Cable.
If you are interested in learning more about the REALTOR Incentive Program or about how Time Warner Cable can partner with you or your
business, please contact Danette Tidwell, account executive at 486-0357 or Danette.tidwell@twcable.com.
RECA Charity Golf Classic to Benefit Hill Country Conservancy ~ Individual Player Spots on Sale NOW~
Austin’s premier golf tournament, the RECA Charity Golf Classic, will celebrate its 14th year of raising money for Austin charities on
Wednesday Sept. 23, at Avery Ranch Golf Club. Individual player spots are on sale now for $275 each. The RECA Charity Golf Classic has grown increasingly popular with members of the commercial real estate industry since its debut in 1995.
“Everyone looks forward to this tourney. It’s a beautiful course and Avery Ranch Club is just a great venue for the awards dinner,”
said Doug Cotner, of Texas Capital Bank, who co-chairs the event along with Corby Jastrow of Prominent Title.
Proceeds from this year’s RECA Charity Golf Classic will go to the Hill Country Conservancy (HCC), a non-profit land trust that
works to marshal public and private resources to preserve the natural areas and scenic vistas, rivers and streams, working farms and ranches, and the rural heritage of the Central Texas Hill Country for people to enjoy and cherish for generations to come.
“Participants in this tournament include some of the most prominent commercial real estate developers/professionals in Austin who
come together to raise money for HCC. It is a great way to demonstrate that our industry is about more than developing real estate, we are also committed to appropriate and meaningful land conservation,” said Cotner.
The individual player fee of $275 includes green fees and cart, driving range, box lunch, beer, water, soft drinks, dinner buffet, and
cocktails. The format is scramble teams of four and golfers do not need a full four-player team to register.
August 2009
Heather Brown Named RE/MAX Agent of the Quarter
RE/MAX of Texas has announced that Heather Brown of RE/MAX Austin Skyline has been named as an “Agent of the Quarter” for the second quarter of 2009 by the RE/MAX Reporter Magazine.
Brown
Taylor Morrison Home Consultants Are Virtually Everywhere!
Whenever you need answers fast, Taylor Morrison's Internet Home Consultants are here for you. Reach us any time via online Chat, phone or email. Here are a few of the things we can assist you with: Consumer Incentives, Guidance on Community Selections, Available Inventory and a $1,000 Coupon for Your Client. You'll find us on the Taylor Morrison Web site or our REALTOR portal rep.taylormorrison.com. You'll know we're online and ready to assist you when you see the button. Simply click to chat. Use the email link to send us a message and we'll respond within 24 hours. Or, use the number provided and call to speak to us directly. When you have a question or need to get the most current information available, remember your virtual real estate concierge, our Internet Home Consultants.
Sanford joins Land Mortgage as Banker/Loan Officer Glen Sanford joins the Land Mortgage team in Austin as a Mortgage Banker/Loan Officer. Glen has an extensive background in new home sales as a Sales Consultant/Manager for Toll Brothers and Gehan Homes Austin. Glen can be reached at 917-3030 or by email at gsanford@landmtg.com.
Ahh, Sweet Satisfaction ... We take responsibility for making the settlement process as easy and satisfying as possible. Our online document and communication platform, DocStop® delivers documents and transaction information to you and your customers in real time. No tedious sign-in process, no websites to navigate and no passwords to remember. Choose Austin Title, then sit back and relax.
Sanford
Realty Line of Austin
August 2009
www.realtylineonline.com
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ATTN: REALTORS Receive a $25 Gas Card when you register a client at our new model homes before 9/30/09!
It’s
a ...
New Models • New Home Plans • New Pricing Come see all that’s new at The Ranch & Savannah Point!
The Ranch at Brushy Creek A tranquil community surrounded by woodlands and generous amenities including hiking & biking trails, community pool, nearby shopping & dining and access to a 60-acre lake. 10 single and two-story plans from 2,545 to 4,541 sq. ft. NEW PRICING FROM $252,490 to $302,490
(512) 218-1753
Savannah Point at Steiner Ranch An inviting gated community highlighted by Tuscan architectural influences, canyon views and desirable schools. 8 plans from 3,058 to 4,018 sq. ft. with up to 5 bedrooms NEW PRICING FROM $410,900 to $472,900
(512) 266-6300
MeritageHomes.com Prices, terms and availability subject to change without notice or obligation. Photographs are representative of Monterey Homes or Meritage Homes design, but not necessarily offered at advertised communities.
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www.realtylineonline.com
Realty Line of Austin
August 2009
Mike Jones of JB Goodwin REALTORS discusses the new incentives he learned about at the AYREP meeting at the Design Center with Cynthia Riley Loera of Rocket Science Realty, Laurel Lee Hale of Keller Williams Realty and Helen Thomas of RE/MAX Austin Skyline.
Kelley Menefee of Keller Williams Realty and Jennifer Entner of Texas American Title enjoy some coffee and morning cheer before checking out Cedar Park properties.
Sean LeGrant, Brian Bruce and Jack Jones, all of Taylor Morrison Homes, have an opportunity to solve a crime at Dave and Busters dinner mystery theater, where the homebuilder held a fun corporate event.
Fred Meyers of Austin City Living shows David Sundt and Justina Limon around the condominiums during the Summer Solstice Party he organized along with several sponsors including PrimeLending.
August 2009
Realty Line of Austin
ASSOCIATES IN PROGRESS
By Linda McNabb
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Realty Line recently visited with Juliana Brock of Power Training to find out why real estate professionals are flocking to her classes—not to satisfy hours, but to learn. Whether they seek to enter the field or are seasoned and want to refine their skills, they all seem to have fun doing it. Here are some of the secrets to Power Training’s success: Juliana: I have learned that humor is an integral part of the adult learning process. Knowing how each student learns differently is the first step to presenting the material coupled with “real life” stories that bring the career to life. You have to be able to tell when a student doesn’t understand and be able to walk them through it. I tease my students, “I know what you’re thinking. I’m worse than your mom!” When and why did you start Power Training? Power Training started under the name of Power Processing in 1999 after I discovered a niche in processor training that just wasn’t being tapped by any other companies. Being local and having a reputation as a successful and efficient processor, companies trusted me to teach their employees how to do what I did in an adult learning environment. With the passage of the Texas Mortgage Broker Act requiring licensing for all mortgage brokers and loan officers, we added to our menu of educational offerings and the name was changed in 2003 to Power Training. What other kinds of training do you offer? Power Training offers pre-licensing and renewal classes for Loan Officers and live Processing/Jr. Underwriting classes. Through a partnership Power Training can also provide online renewal for Real Estate Agents and licensed loan officers and mortgage brokers. Power Training also offers industry related specifics such as training for FHA/VA/Self Employed, Credit Scoring, Ethics and Reading Appraisals. In addition, we offer forensic underwriting services and offer expert testimony in mortgage fraud cases. We help brokers prepare for their State Audit and consult with companies setting up shop or taking their company to the next level. Power Training is proud to announce we have just received our approval from the National Mortgage Licensing System & Registry to provide education on a national level to bring loan officers and companies in compliance with the SAFE Act.
candy Buzan 797-5580
www.realtylineonline.com
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How are your classes different from other training opportunities? Power Training believes that a loan officer candidate applying for licensing should know more than just the laws. Power Training realizes that we are in a different lending environment and success starts with the details. Our trainers have a minimum of 15 years of mortgage experience individually and most are active loan officers, processors or underwriters. Power Training is known for consistently creating and updating courses that are on the cutting edge of today’s technology. What is the topic of your newest class? Juliana Brock First class out of the gate in September will be on the changes for the Good Faith Estimate and new HUD1 that are effective Jan. 1, 2010. The changes will set our industry on fire and our “comfort” in the HUD1 and the itemization of fees will be drastically changed. This class will be a must for all originators, loan processors, escrow officers and real estate agents, basically anyone who needs to read and understand a HUD1 or a Good Faith. You say there are no shortcuts to becoming a successful loan officer. What are some of the ways that Power Training helps a real estate professional chart a winning path? A winning path requires constant knowledge. What you learned in the past the 10 years no longer applies. A whole new set of rules are in place and if you don’t know what they are you’re in trouble. Regardless of whether you are looking to enter into the industry, move to the next level or take it to stardom, Power Training has the courses you need. We even offer classes for the pros that have been in the industry for years. Remember, it is what you learn after you think you know it all that counts. You have served as a top expert witness and consultant for various entities and agencies, ranging from the FBI to the District Attorney’s office. Have these experiences helped in your training? In 2007, Power Training did a road show in Texas titled “Fraud—Stop it Before it Starts.” The course material stemmed from the case I was working on at the time where a borrower, broker, real estate agent and closing attorney were accused, convicted and served time for mortgage fraud. Absolutely an eye-opening experience! I never thought I would receive mail from jail. In today’s lending climate, fraudsters are becoming more sophisticated and sometimes still make it through the system. What else would you like people in the real estate community to know about you or Power Training? Power Training is very involved in the lending community. We are proud members of many industry related organizations, associations and councils. We have had the honor to serve on boards in the past and currently enjoy being a member and on committees. We support our industry through sponsorships on a regular basis. Power Training attends legislative events at the State and Federal levels to stay on top of changes affecting the industry as a whole.
Max Leaman 293-1239
Kim Nielsen 825-2347
Melissa driskell 964-1864
Mary Kennedy 750-7834
Brian patschke 565-5852
trudy Savage 965-5017
rhonda Neeley 560-3429
Mark Hoffman Shannon Smith 785-3279 560-4590 Not pictured: Michael ray, 784-8488 • terry Weber, 554-4013
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www.realtylineonline.com
Realty Line of Austin
August 2009
Harold Ware, center, of MaxAvenue prepares his presentation on how to turn one-time customers into lifetime champions at the Goldwasser Real Estate educational seminar held at the Norris Conference Center.
Danette Tidwell of Time Warner Cable introduces herself to Tony Droubi of Drees Custom Homes as she passes out movie DVD’s at the recent AY R E P / W C A o R happy hour held at Doc’s Backyard in Pflugerville.
Douglas Craig of Keller Williams Realty gets risky at the Women’s Council of REALTORS style show, a highly anticipated fundraiser for the organization.
August 2009
Mark Hairston of Mortgage IQ leads the “Insiders Guide to Credit Scoring/Restoration� class at Cover 3 on Anderson Lane.
Realty Line of Austin
www.realtylineonline.com
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BUY OUR HOME, WE’LL HELP YOU SELL YOURS Introducing the Wilshire Homes Contingency Partnership Plan ... Because We’re In This Together At Wilshire Homes, Built Around You also means that when you have a home to sell, we have a home to sell. When you enter into a contingency contract with Wilshire Homes, we’ll soon give you and your realtor a call and our team of experienced real estate professionals will come to your home, provide a “quick sale� analysis, and help you WOW shoppers from the moment they lay eyes on your home.
AMBA president Eddie Rinehart of Treaty Oak Mortgage helps Trey Showwalter of Farmers Insurance check in at the organization’s happy hour at Third Base.
Let us free you up to concentrate on your new home. Here’s just a few of the ways we can help you out: CURB APPEAL TRANSFORMATION FOR THE EXTERIOR
PROFESSIONAL PHOTOGRAPHY TO MARKET HOME
HOME STAGING FOR THE INTERIOR
ABILITY TO RECIEVE ENERGY AUDITS
FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE FOR TODAY’S MARKET
REFERRAL TO NATION-WIDE MOVING AND STORAGE COMPANY
www.Wilshire-Homes.com
Marty Kaye and Susan Alonso, both of RE/MAX Capital City, enjoy refreshments with Gene Dietrich and Robert George Dietrich, both of Dietrich Quality Design, after hearing several presentations at the Austin Young Real Estate Professionals event at the Design Center of Austin.
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www.realtylineonline.com
Realty Line of Austin
August 2009
Bring clients to Buffington Signature Homes in South Austin and Katherine Weems will be sure to show you the beautiful homes in the Bridges of Bear Creek.
Women’s Council of REALTORS president Marie Dang-Schwartz is appreciative of Joe Stewart of John Horton Realty for his support, as she gets ready to open the monthly meeting.
Volunteers from The Williamson County Association of REALTORS collect old cell phones at the recycling booth at the Green Expo. Stacey Hurley-Rider and Leisa Ormsbee, with daughters Molly and Lauren.
Lacey Warren and Leslie Brvenik, both of Austin Title, catch up with Kristin Carroll of Sente Mortgage at the Austin Mortgage Bankers Association happy hour at Third Base.
AYREP president Sumina Bhatti of Keller Williams Realty draws a card for another door prize while secretary/treasurer Lili Dominy announces the current winner at the happy hour following a presentation at the Design Center of Austin.