in this issue…
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995™
• AMBA Installation • Women’s Council Installation • Holiday party pictures and much, much more!
Home Sales & Median Price Statistics
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JANUARY 2011 • VOLUME 15 • ISSUE 9
Take Back Your Time to Meet Goals Four Mantras for Less Stress and More Productivity Every Day by Stacy Stroud
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ou know it, and they know it: the best use of your time is face-to-face with your clients. But with the daily bombardment of e-mails, requests, and followups that REALTORS grapple with, it’s possible to stay very busy without actually making progress on your pipeline. Who hasn’t felt helpless in the face of all there is to do (and not enough time to get it done)? Here are four sound principles to keep in mind when you’re going head-to-head with your workload, along with some practical ways to prioritize.
Commit to a Simple Plan
Was there ever any better advice than “keep it simple”? Though intuitive in principle, in practice, simplicity is a science that requires some planning and commitment up front. In his wildly popular book The 80/20 Principle: The Secret to Achieving More with Less, author David Koch stresses the importance of keeping things simple by applying an economic principle to modern business. Pareto’s Law of income distribution (popu-
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larly known as the “80/20 Principle”) states that 80% of the wealth and income in society is produced and possessed by 20% of the population. Similarly, 80% of the results—in just about any field—are produced by just 20% of the effort, and that includes real estate. The trick is in finding which 20% to zero in on with your focused efforts. To make sure everything you do maps back to the main goals you have for your business, work from a simple system: 1) Create a realistic business plan to drive your sales. This isn’t something you’ll be showing to investors. It can be as simple as this formula: the number of contacts that leads to the number of prospects that generates the required number of listings you need to make your sales goals. 2) Establish a set timeline for when and how often you’ll contact hot, warm, and cold leads. A real estate client relationship database can help you here. Staying in regular contact will eliminate the need for mass communications when sales are lean. 3) Before each day begins, list your most
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important tasks—the ones that will have the greatest and most immediate impact on your bottom line. Don’t trust your memory. Don’t use an electronic to-do list (you’ll be tempted to add more items); just jot them down on a piece of paper or sticky note. Decide which tasks you need to do personally, and delegate the rest. In The 4-Hour Work Week, Timothy Ferriss offers a simple rule of thumb for prioritizing: Ask yourself, “If this is the only thing I accomplish today, will I be satisfied with my day?”
Avoid the Multitasking Myth
Multitasking is counter-productive. Email is the biggest culprit, because checking it constantly throughout the day can be addictive. Turn off e-mail alerts and Front page: Continued on page 2
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Upcoming Events… January 20 WCAoR TREPAC Bowling Event Mel’s Lonestar Lanes - 2 to 5 p.m. 1010 N. Austin Ave, Georgetown January 27 WCR Monthly Luncheon Cool River Cafe - 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. February 11 HBA 2nd Annual Chili Cookoff, Horseshoe Tournament, Silent Auction Travis County Expo Center - 5 to 10 p.m. February 15 & 16 RE/MAX Statewide Convention Austin Hilton & Convention Center February 16 CRS Quarterly Luncheon Westwood Country Club -11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. February 17 WCAoR Super Bowl of Builders WCAoR Board Office - 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. February 24 ABoR TREPAC Chili Cookoff ABoR Auditorium - 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. More events at myRealtyLine.com
Realty Line Names New Managing Editor
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ealty Line Austin is excited to announce that Naomi Bludworth has been named Managing Editor. Bludworth comes to us from the Home Builders Association (HBA) of Greater Austin where she was Communications Director since November 2005. “I’m excited to join the Realty Line team,” says Bludworth. “Over my last eight years in marketing roles in the Austin real estate industry I have become very familiar with Realty Line as have most people in the business. The paper is a lot of fun, adored by its readers and quite frankly has become a staple in the industry. I am proud to be part of such a well respected publication and I look forward to serving the real estate community in this capacity,” Bludworth continues.
As Managing Editor, Bludworth will be responsible for managing all editorial content as well as advertising for the monthly publication. She will also assume the role of marketing director related to promoting the paper to current and potential advertisers; assuring that the advertising products offered are in line with the latest market expectations. Publisher Doren Carver will still maintain the lead role for advertising sales, however. With Bludworth’s help, Realty Line has recently launched a new and improved media kit which includes a slew of reader statistics, a 2011 editorial calendar and several new advertising products such as online adEditor: Continued on page 21
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Front Page: Continued set a regular time to check your messages (preferably before your day actually begins, so you can start off with one accomplishment already under your belt). Block specific times for lead generation activities, listing and appointments, contract negotiations, etc. Stick to your schedule, and do the most profitable items first.
Clear Your Mind
We’re most productive with a clear, quiet mind. But for most busy agents, being “in the zone” is more easily imagined than achieved. First, avoid information overload at all costs: limit time wasters like social networking and browsing. Often we feel most overwhelmed by what we’re not doing. In his book, Getting Things Done, David Allen suggests several reasons why you might have several tasks “on your mind” that you can’t seem to get off your plate: • You haven’t clarified exactly what the intended outcome is • You haven’t decided what the very next physical action step is, and/or • You haven’t put reminders of the out- come and the action required into a system you trust Allen recommends capturing anything
that feels unfinished in a trusted system outside your mind—a folder or a drop box that you know you’ll come back to regularly. Take a break or a few moments to clear your head before diving into the next task. Lastly, you’d be shocked at how much a good night’s sleep can change your outlook on life. Keep a notebook on your nightstand. If something’s keeping you awake, write it down with the promise that you’ll deal with it in the morning. The right answers have a way of coming to a mind that’s at rest.
To Thine Own Self Be True
Perhaps the most important step to effective time management is setting expectations with clients, and with yourself. With new clients, discuss up front how and when you’ll be communicating with them. You’ll enjoy fewer interruptions, fewer “emergency” calls, and more time to focus. You’ll be able to plan your own time after work and keep it sacred, even from your biggest clients. With this consistency in the way you do business, your clients will have more confidence in you. Finally, remember that your to-do list is your tool, not the other way around. Show it who’s boss by taking a few minutes each day to ignore those items and think big picture, solve big problems, try new things, and remember why you love what you do.
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P. O. Box 81366 • Austin, Texas 78708-1366 • (512) 821-1900 www.myRealtyLine.com • E-mail: info@myRealtyLine.com Publisher: Doren L. Carver doren@myRealtyLine.com Associate Publisher: Tawanna K. Carver tawanna@myRealtyLine.com Managing Editor: Naomi Bludworth naomi@myRealtyLine.com Contributing Editor: Linda McNabb
Contributing Writers: Stacy Stroud, Linda McNabb Contributing Photographers: Doren L. Carver, Linda McNabb
Columnists: Judith Bundschuh, Hank Smith, Kay DaSilva Victoria Reviel, Cheryl Jenkins Realty Line Austin is published monthly by Caxton Publications, Inc.© as a non-subscription publication for the more than 8,000 members of the Austin Board of REALTORS®(ABoR), the more than 1,100 members of the Williamson County Association of REALTORS® (WCAoR) and the Home Builders Association (HBA) of Greater Austin. Realty Line Austin is a proud member of the Austin Board of REALTORS®, the Williamson County Association of REALTORS® and is a honorary member of the Women’s Council of REALTORS. Realty Line Austin is not responsible for opinions or facts expressed by non-staff writers or for errors and any by-products in advertising or editorial copy. REALTOR® is a registered trademark. The word REALTOR® sometimes appears in this publication without the registered trademark symbol (®) for the purpose of saving space. Wherever the word REALTOR® appears in this publication, the registered trademark should be assumed.
Mark Hairston, second from right, of Mortgage IQ has a large group of REALTORS attend his recent Insiders Guide to Credit Scoring class.
Realty Line launches re-designed website
www.myRealtyLine.com Buy photo: RL_0106_11_B.JPG at myRealtyLine.com
SWBC Mortgage Corporation congratulates Cameron Breed We’re pleased to announce that Cameron Breed has recently been recognized as the third-highest producer on the Austin Business Journal’s Mortgage Top Producer List for 2010. We know it wouldn’t be possible without the continued support of her valued clients and associates. As always, we appreciate your business. SWBC Mortgage—The Breed Team 7000 North Mopac, Suite 305 Austin, TX 78731 NMLS #216391
(512) 531-1805 www.cameronbreed.com FHA
|
VA
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Conventional Loans
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Jumbo Loans
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Austin Board of REALTORS®
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Chairman’s Column By Judith Bundschuh • 2011 Chairman
TREPAC Chili Cook-Off Adds New Menu Items
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BoR’s annual TREPAC Chili CookOff is right around the corner and my taste buds are anxiously awaiting this mouth-watering event. The 2011 cook-off will take place from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 24, in the ABoR Auditorium at the ABoR offices, located at 10900 Stonelake Boulevard, Suite A-100. With your $25 ticket, you will receive a baked potato, two drink tickets and unlimited chili tastings. For those of you interested in showing off your culinary abilities, consider entering your favorite chili recipe into the competition. Team registration for the chili competition is $110, so start assembling your dream team and preparing your best chili recipe! In addition to the chili competition, I am excited to announce two new categories that will debut at this year’s event: a salsa contest and a cake-off auction. If you have a sizzling salsa recipe, you can enter the salsa competition for $25. If baking is your specialty, enter the cake off auction where prizes will be awarded for the Best Decorated Cake with a TREPAC theme and Top
Dollar Cake. Awards will be given out for the chili and salsa competitions as well, including a People’s Choice Award highlighting your favorite entries at the competition. Your participation in the chili cookoff—either as an attendee or competitor— will count towards your 2011 investment in the Texas Real Estate Political Action Committee (TREPAC). Tickets can be purchased at www.abor.com/chilicookoff. For more information and to enter the competition, contact ABoR’s TREPAC Coordinator Anna Kong by e-mail at pac@ abor.com or by phone at 454-7636, ext. 1502.
Leader’s Choice Makes a Comeback in 2011 Last spring, ABoR teamed up with Mark Leader to offer the Leader’s Choice program at the ABoR Academy. Leader’s Choice aims to help agents increase sales productivity. A success in the spring, Leader’s Choice received positive feedback from
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the Austin area real estate agents who participated in the program. ABoR is pleased to announce that the Leader’s Choice program will be offered again at the ABoR Academy beginning in February. To help you learn more about the potentially positive impact this program could have on your business, ABoR will host an introduction to Leader’s Choice session for agents on Jan. 31 at 9:30 a.m. This free seminar will allow agents to learn more about the Leader’s Choice program, how it can help your business and what topics will be featured throughout the nine-week program. Attendance is free of charge for this seminar, which will take place in the ABoR Auditorium. The Leader’s Choice Program will officially begin its nine-week run at the ABoR Academy on Feb. 22. Enrollment for this nine-week program costs $945 and will earn participants 45 hours of mandatory continuing education (MCE) credit. To learn more, contact Shirley Williams in ABoR’s Education Department by e-mail at swilliams@ abor.com or by phone at 454-7636.
Discuss Key Issues this April at the Legislative Hill Visits With the 2011 Legislative session underway, Texas REALTORS® are monitoring the action taking place at the Capitol and
preparing for the April 12 Legislative Hill Visits. REALTORS® from across the state will gather to meet with state representatives to discuss key legislative issues impacting Texas REALTORS®. This event is a great opportunity to network with fellow REALTORS® from across Texas. In addition, you can let your voices be heard by our state representatives and advocate for legislation that will benefit both your business and the real estate industry as a whole. The issues that will be discussed will likely include mandatory sales price disclosure, combined sales tax on real estate, sales tax on professional services and private transfer fees, among others. For more information about participating in April’s legislative visits, contact ABoR’s Government Affairs Department by e-mail at government@abor.com or by phone at 454-7636.
Here’s to a Great New Year! I’m excited to serve as ABoR’s 2011 Chairman of the Board and would like to thank you for your generous support. The year is starting off with a great lineup of events that we can all look forward to attending. I hope to see you at these and many future events. I want to wish you all the best for the coming year. I look forward to it being a success for us all! Glowing with holiday cheer are John Squires Jr., Sherri Williams and Vince Martinez, all of Keller Williams Realty, and David McMillan of United Lending.
Submitted photo
Laurie Nunnallee
n oRth w e st h i L L s | 512.422.3721
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Austin Mortgage Bankers Association members Bob Almand, Mark Abernathy and Julianna Brock discuss their holiday plans at the AMBA Installation & Holiday Party.
Buy photo: RL_010111_A.JPG at myRealtyLine.com
Edna Stalik, Kay Brown, Jim Gilbert and Claire Gilbert, all of Sky Realty, learn more about credit scoring with Mark Hairston of Mortgage IQ. Also attending was Shara Parker of Austin Real Estate Partners.
Buy photo: RL_010311_B.JPG at myRealtyLine.com
Melinda Carroll of Independence Title and Kim Baker of Coldwell Banker United REALTORS pal around at the Independence Title Christmas Party.
Buy photo: RL_0106_11_A.JPG at myRealtyLine.com
Superior Service ~ Backed by Local Top Producers ~ You’ve Come To Rely On. In everything we do, we believe people are the key. Our aim is to create loyalty and long-term relationships with our customers. At WR Starkey Mortgage, we pay attention to the needs of the people we serve and strive to take the uncertainty and stress out of the home financing process.
A different kind of company... where people come first.
807 Las Cimas Parkway Suite 150 Austin, Texas 78746 Phone: 512-329-9040 Fax: 512-329-9043 Toll Free: 877-340-9040 www.wrstarkey.com
JAN HILL 512-431-5223
janhill@wrstarkey.com
JULIE BLACK 512-306-6357
jblack@wrstarkey.com
Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
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The KB Kronicle JANUARY 7, 2010
KBHOME.COM
512-651-8059
KB Home Appreciates YOU!
(Above) Realtor Phoenix Pike, Keller Williams, visits with Nayeli (Above) Johnie Borgeson and Seth Thompson, both with Zip Realty, get ready to pose for the camera at the KB Home Realtor Headshot event. Garza, KB Home at the Lexington Parke Grand Opening. (Left) Ricardo Penagos, with Casa Grande Realty, tours the new model homes at KB Home’s Lexington Parke with Colette Fitzgerald, KB Home.
Lexington Parke
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• 2 model homes • 19 oor plans • 1,109 to 2,561 square feet • 1- and 2-story homes • 3-5 bedrooms • 2-3 bathrooms • 2-car garage • Del Valle ISD From I-35, head east on Hwy. 71 to Del Valle. Turn right on Ross Rd., and right on Ft. Lexington Dr. to model complex. (512) 247-6174 Need a sponsor for an upcoming meeting or event? Need a space to hold your next meeting, class, or event? KB Home is always looking for opportunities to work together with our local Realtor partners. Please contact Colette Fitzgerald, KB Home Broker/Realtor Liaison at cfitzgerald@kbhome.com, 512-651-8059, for more information!
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Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
Gene Arant of Keller Williams Realty, Steve Zbranek, HBA 2010 president, and Brian Pitman of Independence Title show their holiday spirit at the Independence Title Lakeway office Christmas Party.
Buy photo: RL_010311_F.JPG at myRealtyLine.com
NAHREP installs its 2011 leadership in December. Oliva Lerma, president, Nicole Torres-Cooke, president-elect, Bonnie Barrera, secretary, Donna Thomas, treasurer, Laura Caffey, director of Membership and Frank Gonzalez, director of Education. Buy photo: RL_010511_D.JPG at myRealtyLine.com
Carolyn Wyckoff (past WCR Texas President 1993) of Carolyn Wyckoff Real Estate and Deborah Spangler, 2010 WCR Texas President, sit side by side at the WCR Installation and Awards Luncheon honoring Cheryl Jenkins as the incoming president.
Buy photo: RL_010111_R.JPG at myRealtyLine.com
Austin Mortgage Bankers Association members Toni Vance Halseth of Independence Title and Marty Halseth enjoy the festivities at AMBA’s Installation & Holiday Party.
Buy photo: RL_010211_E.JPG at myRealtyLine.com
Keller Williams Realty Lake Travis
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Proudly Announces Their 2011 Agent Leadership Council
DHI Mortgage
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620 Some lenders may have moved to a minimum FICO score of 640 on FHA loans. At DHA, we have maintained the ability to fund loans with a minimum FICO of 620.
Amber Hart
Gene Arant
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Gregg Klar
Kenn Renner
Mary Lyons
Pearl Jones
Rise’ Johns
Lake Travis Living Team
Mary Lynne Gibbs Team Leader
Just one more reason why DHI Mortgage should be your preferred mortgage lender!
We’re the best present you can give your clients— Re-gifting highly encouraged!
DHI NoMortgage returns needed. 12554 Riata Vista Circle 1st Floor Austin, TX 78727 Phone: 512-502-0545
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d Provided for informational purposes only. This is not a commitment to lend; not all borrowers and/or properties will qualify. DHI Mortgage Company, LTD, 12554 Riata Vista Circle, First Floor, Austin, TX 78727. NMLS #38686.
ALC Mission Statement:
To guarantee our associates a vehicle for giving direct input as to the operation of Keller Williams. 1921 Lohman’s Crossing, Suite 100 • Austin, TX 78734 Austin (512) 263-9090 • Marble Falls (830) 693-6999 • Horseshoe Bay (830) 596-0300
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Williamson County Assoc. of REALTORS®
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President’s Column By Victoria Reviel • 2011 President
Transforming Our Lives, Our Association, and Our Future
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he Williamson County Association of REALTORS® was founded in 1973 by a group of exceptional REALTORS®. These Brokers chose to forge a different path and made the difficult decision to go in another direction because they had a different dream for Williamson County real estate. Thus began the first transformation of WCAoR; Brokers and Salespersons that were like-minded joined and the association began to grow and flourish. WCAoR transformed itself most recently in 2009, when a new building was built at 123 Old Settlers Blvd. Now our valued members have a beautiful, professional and easily accessible place to meet clients, take classes, hold meetings, shop and attend events. WCAoR has continued to grow each year, even in down economic times. As we enter 2011, we are 1,200 members strong and growing! As WCAoR has transformed, so have our members—through membership, relationships, education, and networking. We are a family of REALTORS®. I have also witnessed the pain of agents
5%
that did not grasp the importance of what the association has to offer. They did not get involved or expand their professional education. They never took the jump from a licensee to a professional REALTOR®. If any of you know someone who is struggling, please tell them about the WCAoR Rookie Club, Broker Breakfasts, Hot Topics, Luncheons, Governmental Affairs, TREPAC, Designation Classes, and TRLP, as there are countless events taking place at WCAoR to help them in their career. It’s important to our careers and livelihood that we all take advantage of these professional and personal growth opportunities. It’s not just our lives that are transformed by our relationships; its lives we touch as Williamson County REALTORS® and Industry Professionals. When you are with your client and they spend an hour to tell you about how they need to move to a better school district so their children have a better shot at life—you help transform your client’s life. You help them with their dream of home ownership—that’s meaningful and you should be proud of what you do.
www.myRealtyLine.com What is the future of the real estate industry? It has transformed so much since I received my license in 1997. We had just stopped using the MLS books that were updated only monthly. Now we have MLS that is updated instantly; webinars; Facebook fan pages; widgets; video conferencing; Twitter; Docusign; smart phones; phone apps; listing bar codes; iPads; and the list goes on and on. Who would have imagined? WCAoR embraces the past but it is open to all of the exciting changes happening in the industry today. Our stunning new website was launched on Dec. 15. We are so excited about this because it incorporates much of this new technology. Be sure to
Tuesday, January 18 Fundamentals of Foreclosure Auctions WCAoR office Thursday, January 20 Bowl for TREPAC - 2 to 5 p.m. Mel’s Lonestar Lanes 1010 North Austin Avenue Georgetown, Texas 78626 February 3, 4, 10 & 11 GRI-3: Real Estate Brokerage WCAoR office February 8 Effective Outdoor Staging Alternatives (Pilot Class) Looking to spruce up that “curb appeal”, well this is the class for you. Come learn about some great ways to get those lookers into the home.
a nd a h ands- o n e xperience
f or y ou and y our c lients. Now more than ever, MileStone Communities offer a personal touch sure to impress you and your clients. Every time you bring a new client to see a MileStone Community, you’ll each receive a gift card for a free massage. Treat your clients to a preview of the best new homes on the market, and MileStone will treat you both to a relaxing massage at Massage Envy. Now that’s guaranteed to rub you the right way! Helping your clients find the perfect home in the perfect community never felt better. So what are you waiting for? Visit a MileStone Community TODAY!
Garden Homes from the $150’s 512-215-3424 • John Del Bello 512-516-7423 11400 West Parmer Lane, Cedar Park
The Pinnacle Collection
From the low $200’s 512-264-0900 • Mark Lee 512-567-3669 5200 Cypress Ranch Blvd, Spicewood TX
Garden Homes from the $170’s 512-804-2605 • Susan Brubaker 512-577-0465 7233 Manchaca Rd., Austin
www.MyMileStone.com
check it out at www.wcaor.org. The association is always seeking to develop new innovative education and technology classes. We need your input regarding “what’s hot” out there, what information needs to be on the website, which classes should be developed to make sure Williamson County REALTORS® continue to transform to be state of the art in the industry. We will continue the transformation to serve our loyal membership and we will continue to work alongside each and every one of you to create a bigger, brighter and stronger future. Happy New Year!
Upcoming Events and Classes at WCAoR
On all milestone inventory homes
Townhomes from the $120’s 512-215-5220 • Stacy Sheffield 972-670-2419 1900 Little Elm Trail, Cedar Park
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5% available only on inventory homes; must close within 30 days. One massage offer per qualified customer, please. Other restrictions apply. See sales consultant for details.
February 17 Super Bowl of Builders Expo – Stop by and meet the new home builders of Williamson County. Learn about their products and the great deals waiting for your clients. Don’t forget about those great door prizes! February 18 Bottom-line Business Basics (BBB) – It’s that time again to set up your plan for 2011. Budgeting, Corporate Formation, business deductions – all here in one great class with MCE credit too! Please visit our new website at www.wcaor.org to register and get additional information.
Free Massage at Massage Envy
®
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January 2011
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Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
Gene Fruge and Brandy Finnessey of HomeCity Real Estate, Austin Firefighter Stewart Finnessey and Kirk Lewis also of HomeCity Real Estate help raise more than 200 coats for the Coats for Kids drive.
Submitted photo
Socar ChatmonThomas of Elegant Estates by Auction and NAPMW president Laura De Rosales come to support Bonnie Barrera as she was installed as the 2011 NAHREP Secretary at the NAHREP Installation.
Buy photo: 10-19_G at myRealtyLine.com Buy photo: RL_010511_A.JPG at myRealtyLine.com
Debbie Kelsey of RE/MAX Capital City II can’t wait to sport the fancy sunglasses she won from SAKS at the Drees Custom Homes event, Sunsets at Santa Luz in Steiner Ranch.
Texas American Title Company Part of the TRG Family of Companies
Happy New Year! We are looking for new partners to join us in 2011. Contact us today to become part of the most successful team in Williamson County!
Your Williamson County Team! Summer Pavliska - Account Executive Cedar Park Office 715 Discovery Blvd., Suite 205 Cedar Park, Texas 78613 Office 512-259-5950 Fax 512-259-0540 Mobile 512-577-5166 spavliska@texasamerican.com
Jim Goldrick - Account Executive Round Rock Office 1001 South Mays Round Rock, Texas 78664 Office 512-255-1550 Fax 512-255-2329 Mobile 512-699-5750 jgoldrick@texasamerican.com
TEXAS FRIENDLY. AMERICAN PROUD. WE KNOW TEXAS.TM
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HBA of Greater Austin
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Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995
President’s Column By Hank Smith • 2011 President
Builders Committed to Cutting Edge Green Building Education, Certifications That Benefit Homebuyers
S
ome new initiatives that benefit home buyers and the environment continue to reinforce the Home Builders Association (HBA) of Greater Austin as a pioneer committed to green building. The HBA is teaming up with Austin Energy Green Building (AEGB) for a third year to present its successful “Green Boots” residential green building education series which starts Jan. 18. The series targets the “boots” on the ground since that’s how many people refer to the trades and building superintendents in the field. Local building experts with years of experience (architects, builders, trade contractors and manufacturer representatives) teach the series. They offer cutting edge education in areas including sustainable design, building envelope, plumbing, heating, ventilation, air conditioning, electrical, indoor air quality, landscaping and site management. Builders, architects, and remodeling contractors can register for the entire series and bring each of their trades only to specific programs for each field. The result is that key trades learn about green strategies and prod-
SEE
world-class speakers, instructors, & trainers
ucts that are specific to their industry. The bottom line? New homebuyers will likely benefit from the skills and technology learned by HBA members from the “Green Boots” series. New homebuyers may also benefit from another cutting edge initiative. Austin Energy Green Building and the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) Research Center will now offer dual green building certification for single-family homes. This certification will combine the nation’s oldest local green building program with the only residential green rating system recognized by the American National Standards Institute: the National Green Building Standard (NGBS). Providing a dual certification with the NGBS advances the ball, providing the highest standard for green-built homes in the Central Texas region. Area builders will be able to leverage the tremendous brand recognition of the local green program—the first of its kind in the nation—with the national prominence of certification to first NGBS. The dual certification is available in 27 coun-
LEARN
the success secrets of Texas’ Top Producers
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January 2011
ties throughout Central Texas. The Austin Energy Green Building program has been certifying single-family homes since the early 1980s. In 2009, it certified 700 new homes (about 25% of all new homes built). The program’s rating and inspection protocol was a model for what became the federal Department of Energy’s ENERGY STAR® new home certification program (now numbering more than one million homes). Certifying to the standard provides a broader focus with which the project can gauge its achievements against a national perspective, which many builders and homebuyers desire. Austin Energy officials say the resulting expected savings from energy conservation means that fewer new generation sources will be required to keep up with the area’s growth. While many HBA members already participate in the Austin Energy Green Building program, this dual certification offers participants additional national recognition. The only other builders in the country receiving dual certification are in North Carolina’s Golden Triangle. If you have questions about what this certification means for your clients as new homebuyers, contact Austin Energy Green Building’s Miki Cook 482-5358, miki.cook@ austinenergy.com.
Call for Entries Now Open for Sales and Marketing (MAX) Excellence Awards The HBA of Greater Austin has opened the “Call for Entries” for its 2011 Sales and Marketing Excellence (MAX) Awards. Hosted by the HBA’s Sales and Marketing Council (SMC), the MAX Awards honor builder, developer, remodeler and associate members
DEVELOP
for achievements during 2010. There’s a category for everyone with more than 140 ranging from sales, to marketing, to construction to remodeling. Members can submit their entries online at www.hbaMAXawards.com through Friday, Feb. 25. Independent judges from across the nation who are leaders in the homebuilding industry select the winners. Nothing says you’re the best like an expert third-party endorsement. The HBA will recognize winners at the 2011 MAX Awards gala on Saturday, May 14 at the Renaissance Austin Hotel. Don’t miss this opportunity to participate in Austin’s most exciting industry event. For more information, contact Natalie Bowers, SMC chair, nbowers@merhomes.com, 733-9797, ext. 225.
2nd Annual HBA Chili Cook Off, Horseshoe Pitching Tournament and Silent Auction Feb. 11 Come cook chili, pitch horseshoes and dance the night away at the Second Annual HBA Chili Cook Off, Horseshoe Pitching Tournament and Silent Auction. Don’t miss out on this fun party. The event will be held from 5 to 10 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 11, at the Travis County Expo Center. Listen to live music and bid on your silent auction items (which benefits the HBA’s Home PAC) until 9 p.m. Take advantage of the “Early Bird Special,” just $15 per wristband or package price of 10 for $125. Otherwise, wristbands will be $20 at the door. Register online at www.hbaAustin.com, navigate to “Calendar & Registration, then navigate to the Feb. 11 date.
NETWORK
relationships, skills, techniques, confidence
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with Realtors sending referrals to your city
DISCOVER
the latest technologies to drive your business
2 Dynamic Keynote Speakers Dr. Rick Rigsby & Zan Monroe | Grand Awards Gala & Charity Casino Fundraiser | Esther's Follies Fun Night & Dancing to Duck Soup!
Panels on REO, Asset Management, Foreclosures, Short Sales Seminars on Social Media, Commercial Real Estate, Lead Generation & Management
ote co-keyn
Dr. Rick Rigsby
speaker
co-k
eynot e spea ker Zan Monro e
Updates on RE/MAX Design Center & LeadStreet
register at
remaxtexas.com/convention
Each office independently owned and operated.
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Having a laugh while going over notes before the installation starts are NAHREP past president Ron Urias and NAHREP Public Relations Director Jason Garza.
Buy photo: RL_010511_B.JPG at myRealtyLine.com
Scott Grant of Coldwell Banker United REALTORS and Warren Chirhart of Keller Williams Realty stop by the Independence Title holiday party to wish Melinda Carroll and the gang a merry Christmas.
Buy photo: RL_010311_G.JPG at myRealtyLine.com
Sylvia Pack, left, and Linda Schneider, right, both of RE/MAX Austin Skyline, are happy that Nancy Heaton and Sandi Gillis of Austin Title were able to share in the joy of the holidays at the RE/MAX Austin Skyline Christmas party. Buy photo: RL_Independence_Title_Chili_Cookoff_E at myRealtyLine.com
Tom Cunningham of Keller Williams Realty hopes his careful and slow approach to making chili earns him a top award at Independence Title’s 6th annual chili cook off.
Submitted photo
Austin Area Market Update Austin Home Sales and Median Home Price Source - ABOR and Texas A&M Real Estate Center
35,000
200,000 190,000
30,000
180,000
Partnerships Built on Trust
170,000 160,000
25,000
150,000 140,000
20,000
130,000 120,000
15,000
Median Home Price
2010 e
2009
2008
2007
2006
2005
2004
2003
2002
2001
10,000
2000
110,000
MLS Residential Single Family, Townhouses and Condominiums
For more information, please contact one of our sales executives.
100,000
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In this Changing Market Technology is Key We’re expanding the MCE courses we offer to include critical and important technology classes. Provider # 0371
SUBJECT
COURSE #
**CREDITS
Google It! How to get on Page 1 and Other Useful Tools
02-00-112-22508
2
Marketing in a Recession Ways to cut your marketing spending this year and continue to grow your client base
01-00-112-22509
1
Facebook Step by Step HANDS ON Class to Set Up a Facebook Profile, Business Page, Add Listings, Add Testimonials, and a Feedback Form
03-00-122-22578
3
Facebook Simplified Why Use Facebook, Do’s & Don’ts, Business Pages & Advertising…made easy
01-00-102-22387
1
What the Tweet? Facebook This and Linked In That! Sorting Through the Hype and Confusion of Social Networking
02-00-122-22577
2
**cost of classes are $9 per credit
We’re looking forward to 2011 with a commitment to training! Visit us online at www.gracytitle.com/education and click on “MCE Class Schedule” to see all scheduled classes & contact a Gracy Tile Sale’s Executive to register today!
Partnerships Built on Trust
Nicole Boynton, Trainer We’re excited to announce that Nicole has joined Gracy Title as a full time instructor! Nicole has been an active member with the Round Rock Chamber of Commerce, Women Impacting the Nation, Deep Wood Elementary PTA, Leadership Round Rock, Ascend – Young Leaders, and is a former Director of the Board with Williamson County Association of REALTORS® as well as a recipient of the Rookie of the Year award from WCAOR. Nicole is very passionate about technology and social media. She incorporates her skills and real estate experience to teach you in an easy to understand way providing practical techniques and applications for real estate.
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Rachel Templeton and Laurie Nunnallee, both of First American Title, and Jeff Kessler of Austin Homes REALTORS anxiously await to see if their name is called at the iPad Happy Hour hosted recently by Supreme Lending.
Submitted PHoto
Doris Stout of Drees Custom Homes points out the many advantages to selling in Santa Luz in Steiner Ranch to Corrine Costabile of Keller Williams Realty at the REALTOR appreciation party in Steiner Ranch.
Buy photo: 10-17_F.JPG at myRealtyLine.com
Dan Arnot picks up some points for his team, Rolling Thunder, during the Strike Against Hunger bowling tournament that the Home Builders Association of Greater Austin’s Sales and Marketing Council hosted at Showplace Lanes.
Buy photo: 10-19_A at myRealtyLine.com
Make 2011 A Prosperous New Year!
Happy New Year! Experienced lenders ready to assist you in meeting your financial goals!
The new year is here and more Americans than ever are commited to “making financial resolutions that will change their lives for the better in 2011!*” If purchasing a home or refinancing your existing mortgage is part of your new year’s resolution, call Jim, Josh or Eddie today!
Happy New Year! Alisa, Bette, Gwen & Tiesa
We are prepared to help you meet your financial goals and make 2011 a prosperous year!
WWW.NAT.COM
3500 Jefferson, Suite 208 | Austin, Texas 78731 512.617.3633 | 512.322.5199 fax info@independent-bankmortgage.com | independent-bank.com
* According to the 2010 Fidelity New Year’s Resolution Study
Austin Research 12301 Research Blvd. Building 4, Suite 120 Austin, TX 78759 512.249.0576
Downtown Austin Corporate Office 823 Congress Ave., #1400 Austin, TX 78701 512.482.0851
North Austin 5608 Parkercrest Suite 150 Austin, TX 78731 512.302.3892
Round Rock 1 Chisholm Trail Suite 3100 Round Rock, TX 78681 512.255.6550
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Austin Region of Lone Star CRS Chapter
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Director ‘s Column By Kay DaSilva • 2011 Director
Why Not Make a New Year’s Resolution to Work Towards Obtaining Your CRS Designation?
I
n today’s competitive marketplace, you need to differentiate yourself. Membership in the Council of Residential Specialists gives you several distinct advantages over other residential REALTORS. The Symbol of Residential Real Estate Excellence, The Certified Residential Specialist (CRS) designation, is the highest credential awarded to sales agents in residential real estate. It recognizes achievements in both experience and education. Network of CRS Referrals, The CRS Membership Referral Directory, in print and online, keeps you connected to nearly 40,000 CRS Designees and members throughout the country and in several international locations. One referral could pay your membership many times over. Your CRS membership includes six educational luncheon meetings during the year, a $150 value, with great food, speakers, and a great time to visit with fellow members. The meetings are always held at 11:30 a.m. on the third Wednesday of February, April, June, August, October and the first Wednesday of December at the Westwood
Country Club. If you would like to join us, log onto www.CRS.com and make a reservation. If you are not currently a CRS designee, the cost for the luncheon is $25. If you are a CRS designee, the luncheon is free.
Buy photo: RL_0107_11_A.JPG at myRealtyLine.com
Bill Evans and Carrie York, both of Austin Real Pros, along with many friends, family and business associates enjoy an elegant holiday lunch at Green Pastures restaurant.
2011 Leadership Regional Director - Kay DaSilva Regional Director Elect - Rise’ Johns Education Committee Chair Carrie Weikert Membership Committee Chair Helena Frazier Programs Committee Chair Lynda Conway Budget Committee Chair Joanne Norton Chapter with a Heart Committee Chairs Sherri Teepen/Laura Nye Cindy Reeder/Debbie Kelsey, consultants Technology Committee Chair Fred Norton (Past Regional Director) Ways and Means Committee Chair Les Sherman Strategic Planning Committee Chair Michelle Busby
Buy photo: 10-23_E.JPG at myRealtyLine.com
Shirley Williams and Gary Gentry, both of Keller Williams Realty, get a chance to pal around and visit with some local sponsors at the company’s grand opening of its northwest Austin office.
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Women’s Council of REALTORS®
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President’s Column By Cheryl Jenkins • 2011 President
The 2011 Officers and Directors of the Austin Mortgage Bankers Association are installed at the annual Installation and Holiday Party. This year’s event was held at Maggiano’s in the Domain.
Welcome to 2011 A New Year, a New Start
Buy photo: RL_010111_I.JPG at myRealtyLine.com
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Todd Lessig of SWBC Mortgage is the Affiliate of the Year award recipient for his dedication to the organization. David Burton presented the award at the Women’s Council of REALTORS Installation and Awards luncheon.
elcome to the New Year! The year 2011 is here and bringing great anticipation of hope and excitement, especially for real estate professionals. Of course, business will not be the same as it has been in the past, but that is not always a bad thing. Change and time are two things we cannot control. Yet, for most of us, the change we are experiencing in business is evolutionary; we are actually a part of and participating in the changes and evolving with them, whether we want to or not. Real estate professionals have reconciled with the past and are moving forward with a “bring it on” attitude, ready to meet challenges and good business. This is the time to talk openly about our markets, and professional techniques that are bringing us business success. Though the year is very young, Women’s Council members are open and ready to share with potential members their expertise and experiences—a tremendous membership value. This is the time we need to continue to pull together, mentoring our business practices and leadership skills—another membership value. We know that these two ingredients make dynamic and successful business professionals, value in itself. And, through Women’s Council, we have created a strong referral network—the best value. I have heard from many leaders in real estate, that their industry participation and community service helped give them the competitive edge to build their businesses. However, many REALTORS®, bogged down
Buy photo: RL_010211_G.JPG at myRealtyLine.com
HBA member Jay Childs takes careful aim during the HBA Sales and Marketing Council’s Strike Against Hunger Bowling Tournament at Showplace Lanes that helped raise funds for Mobile Loaves and Fishes.
Buy photo: RL_HBA_Bowling_Tourney_E at myRealtyLine.com
One-Time Close Construction Loans
So You’re Building a Home (Congratulations!)
by the day-to-day business of running a business, fail to see the benefits or believe there is no time to participate. This year, one of my goals is to create growth opportunities for our members and enthusiasm within these volunteers for the tangible business value of their participation. We have planned some great things for the Austin Women’s Council of REALTORS chapter in 2011. We will focus on bringing you information to help you realize your business plan and present speakers that will encourage you to “Kick it up a Notch!” Our first luncheon of the year will hit the ground running. The Program Committee has a great luncheon planned. Join us at our new location for 2011—Cool River Cafe— to hear an update from representatives from ABoR and WCAoR, and also an economic update from the Austin Chamber of Commerce. Our February luncheon will be held in conjunction with the WCR District B meeting and feature more valuable information from speakers to empower us to reach higher in 2011. Not only will our Business Resource Luncheons offer value, we have some fun things planned that give you an opportunity to network and share in a social environment. For our first event, the Austin Toros have invited WCR to join them at their game on Feb. 24. We will have reserved seating and discount tickets. The Miller Lite Lounge will also be reserved for WCR and our guests. Be sure to visit us at www.austinwcr. org and WCRAustin on Facebook for more information.
If you decided the only home worthy of your welcome mat is one you build yourself, ViewPoint Mortgage is ready to assist you in financing your dream home!
Consult your loan officer for current rates and terms and conditions. Normal credit standards apply. 10/20/10
11130 Jollyville Road, Suite 302 Austin, Texas 78759-4819 512-323-0224
512-589-0558
Traci Adams Vice President, Loan Officer
512-296-1904
Ben Morton Vice President, Loan Officer
512-689-2564
doug.scott@ViewPointMortgage.com
Vice President, Loan Officer
ben.morton@viewpointmortgage.com
Charlie Spriggs
traci.adams@ViewPointMortgage.com
charlie.spriggs@ViewPointMortgage.com
CONTACT YOUR VIEWPOINT MORTGAGE PROFESSIONAL TODAY FOR MORE DETAILS.
Doug Scott Senior Vice President, Area Manager
512-971-2233
Buy photo: 84.jpg at myRealtyLine.com
Agents with Keller Williams Realty show off their best moves on the dance floor at the Keller Williams Realty Southwest Market Center Holiday Party.
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Mazen Tawil and Iain Munn, both of Horizon Realty, know the food will be great at the company’s Thanksgiving lunch, as everything was made from scratch by the group’s many great cooks.
Buy photo: RL_Horizon_Realty_A at myRealtyLine.com
Doug Scott of Viewpoint Mortgage officially presents the gavel to Mike Carroll at the Installation and Holiday Party. Mike is the 2011 president of the Austin Mortgage Bankers Association.
Buy photo: RL_010111_H.JPG at myRealtyLine.com
Kirk Kobza and Amy Kobza of Austin Title share wine making tales with Attorney Jim Sackrider at Water 2 Wine, where the Women’s Council of REALTORS held a networking mixer. Buy photo: 10-19_D.jpg at myRealtyLine.com
Mary Lynn Stricklen of Keller Williams Realty takes a peak at the treat she won from Tiffany’s at the Drees Custom Homes appreciation party in Steiner Ranch’s Santa Luz section.
Buy photo: IMG_5151 at myRealtyLine.com
DID YOU KNOW? We lend in all 50 states Willow Bend Mortgage Offers: • Super Jumbos to $3,000,000 • Non-Warrantable Condo’s (Max 80% LTV) • Condo-Tels ($500k max loan size & 70% LTV) • Cash-Out up to $500,000 cash in pocket • Expatriate Loans (recent transferees to the US w/ no SS#) • Investment properties for borrowers who own up to 10 financed properties
Call me to find out more.
Professional Service. Tailored Loans.
Penny Green Sr. Loan Officer 512-784-6090
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inspired by you®
you wanted it
simple and we
listened No Hoops to Jump Through. Taylor Morrison is getting back to basics. In 2011, we are giving our valued real estate professionals just what they want and nothing they don’t – no tier levels or flashy packages. We have been “inspired by you” after asking and listening to YOU. So, in an effort to stay connected, our friendly and experienced Internet Home Consultants will send out weekly inventory emails detailing what we have available and what the associated BONUS is. Simply, provide us with your email address and in return, you will receive your weekly inventory email. That’s all! Stay informed and up-to-date and best of all - No password is required!
GETCONNECTEd be sure to contact your internet Home Consultant or log on to our website to make sure you receive our weekly inventory email updates.
Visit Us Online tO be added tO OUr Mailing list.
WWW.TAYLORMORRISON.COM/REALTOR/AUSTIN
taylormorrison.com Offer void where prohibited or otherwise restricted by law. All incentives, pricing, availability and plans subject to change or delay without notice. All dimensions are approximate. For eligibility REALTOR® must register and accompany its client on first visit to models. The Inventory Bonus is paid at the closing of each eligible home and may vary by community or division. REALTOR® may elect to waive participation by applying its bonus commission to a client’s discount. Please see a Sales Associate or contact your IHC for further details. © January, 2011. Taylor Morrison of Texas, Inc. All rights reserved.
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Shannon Kramer of Keller Williams Realty accepts coat donations from 8-year-old Kennadi Bernard at the collection drop off zone. This is the second year The Bartlett Real Estate Group of Keller Williams Realty has supported the cause.
Submitted photo
Terri Romere and Tara Knight, both of Keller Williams Realty, donat blood on behalf of Harry Gibbs who recently needed over 20 pints of blood after being injured in a car accident.
Buy photo: RL_WCAoR_Quarterly_Meeting_A at myRealtyLine.com Buy photo: RL_010411_A.JPG at myRealtyLine.com
WCAoR 2010 president J. Rene Ward welcomes Travis Kessler of TAR to the organization’s quarterly meeting at the Cedar Park Recreation Center, where they honored service members.
Power Up Your Database! Register today for Sente’s
February Power Lunch Thursday, February 10th 12 Noon – 1PM
Your database is the source of your past, present and future business. Discover how to immediately increase the size of your database and improve your business opportunities and referrals.
Register at www.SenteLearning.com Click on Austin Real Estate Power Lunches Sente Mortgage experienced unprecedented growth in 2010 and we want to share our strategy for success with you. Give us an hour and we will provide you with powerful insight into a key element of your business.
For more information on any of our Power Sessions visit:
www.SenteLearning.com
or call 512-637-9900
www.myRealtyLine.com Realty Line launches new website. The website is dedicated to providing awareness of industry networking opportunities and being a resource tool you can use everyday. You can now... • Read the latest issue of Realty Line or search old issues • Check out our calendar to see what’s happening in Real Estate • Buy photos or search our photo archives • Seek out our Advertisers • e-SCRIBE to our monthly e-Newsletter • Search and post industry job listings (free to our advertising clients)
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Sherie Pfister, Jaymes Willoughby, Betsy Scheffe, Niki Frost, Judy Green, Linda Ramsey, Diane Johnson, Eric Cooper, Jennifer Littlefield, Tim Heyl, Terronald Logan and Jeff Hayenga, all of Keller Williams Realty, are all smiles at the Southwest Market Center Holiday Party. Submitted photo
D.A. Henry, right, of The Aldion Group Realty presents the Entrepreneur Award to Sytha Minter, left, of Horizon Realty at the Women’s Council of REALTORS annual Installation and Awards luncheon.
Buy photo: RL_010211_H.JPG at myRealtyLine.com
Cindy Merchant, Shea Brewer, Sam Lemelle, Linda Scott, David Cavalier, Ida Edwards, Mike Keyes, Dave Wild, Richard Spencer, and Diana Keyes gather under one roof to learn more about Nextage Realty at its recent Business Opportunity Presentation.
Buy photo: RL_010111_P.JPG at myRealtyLine.com
AMBA members John Glenn and Kristin Clardy are both installed as board members for 2011 at the Installation and Holiday Party held at Maggiano’s Restaurant.
Submitted photo
Home Builders Association of Greater Austin
Chili Cook-Off, Horseshoe Pitching & Silent auction Benefiting HBA’ S Home PAC
Friday, February 11, 2011 • 5pm-10pm • Travis County Expo Center
HomePAC
Chili Team
$350
(limited to 25 teams)
Horseshoe Team
REALTORS:
Ask about low-cost, h i g h v i s i b i l i t y opportunities to meet builders face-to-face!
$50
(limited to 30 teams)
Cook Off Chili
Tickets Pre-Sale Buy 10 for At Door
$15 $125 $20
Live music • silent auction • live auction / ask about our promotional partnership and donation opportunities
more information and register at www.hbaaustin.com RL austin
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Editor: Continued vertising opportunities, the addition of new print advertising options and an expansion of advertising frequency programs complete with value added features. Bludworth is also credited with developing a new website for Realty Line which was launched Jan. 1. The new website at www. myRealtyLine.com allows for easy navigation, includes a new “job board” where industry employers can post “help wanted” job listings, the ability for advertisers to pay their bills online with a credit card or electronic check as well as a complete, robust industry event calendar with featured events and an easy search feature. Visit www.myRealtyLine.com for a peek. “We are excited to be working with Naomi and think she will be able to bring a lot of enthusiasm and expertise to the table,” say Doren and Tawanna Carver, publisher and associate publisher, respectively. For more information, contact Naomi Bludworth, managing editor, at 821-1900 or naomi@myrealtyline.com.
Sabharwal Joins North American Title North American Title is pleased to announce its affiliation with Jessica Sabharwal. She moved to Austin to attend the University of Texas at Austin where she graduated with a B.A. in Psychology. Jessica loves real estate and worked for five years as a contract-to-close coordinator for Castle Hill Investments and Spyglass Realty and Investments before switching over to the title insurance side. She is very detail oriented, provides exceptional customer service, Sabharwal and is excited about her new position as escrow officer at North American Title at the North Austin branch. In her free time, she and her husband enjoy cooking together, listening to live music, traveling, and spending time with their two Chihuahuas.
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Invest in TREPAC, Earn MCE Credit on Saturdays The Austin Board of REALTORS® and TREPAC are offering Saturday MCE credits through the ABoR Academy. If you need to fulfill your ethics requirement for license renewal, try a Saturday class, where you will earn your three hours of mandatory continuing education (MCE) credit and your $45 course fee will be invested directly in TREPAC in your name. The course instructors are also donating their time, so 100% of the course fee goes directly to support the important work of the REALTOR® Party. These classes are scheduled to be held from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on the third Saturday of every month. The first quarter dates for 2011 are Jan. 15, Feb. 19 and March 19. Register online at http://www.abor.com/ courses/abor_index.cfm?fuseaction=MCL. If you have questions, contact TREPAC Coordinator Anna Kong at 454-7636, ext. 1502.
Keller Honored by Inman News’ 100 Most Influential People in Real Estate Austin’s own Gary Keller, Keller Williams Realty’s cofounder and chairman, has been named one of Inman’s 100 Most Influential People in Real Estate. Keller provides the strategic direction for the company, while serving as a visionary leader within the North American real estate industry, and one of the most soughtafter speakers, teachers and consultants. According to Inman, the list recognizes brokerage executives, technologists, government leaders, online luminaries and other industry heavyweights who hold the power to move the industry forward during this prolonged period of economic hardship and uncertainty. These individuals were selected after a nomination process and an Inman News editorial review.
Buy photo: 10-22_A.JPG at myRealtyLine.com
Leisa Ormsbee and David Stevens, both of JB Goodwin REALTORS, welcome more than 200 guests to the Williamson Cpunty office lunch for it annual Thanksgiving lunch.
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Comparing “dad life” stories at the annual AMBA installation and Holiday Party are Todd Kurio of Capstar Lending and Chad Overhauser of AmeriPro Funding.
Buy photo: RL_010111_O.JPG at myRealtyLine.com
Betsy Scheffe, Althea Osborn and Steve Scheffe, all of Keller Williams Realty, share fun stories at the Keller Williams Realty Southwest Market Center holiday party.
Buy photo: 10-21 C.jpg at myRealtyLine.com Submitted photo
Marie Dang Schwartz and Joy Herring, both of Realty Executives, talk about holiday plans during a networking mixer at Water 2 Wine, which the Women’s Council of REALTORS hosted.
BYE-BYE 2010
HELLO 2011 WISHING YOU A FABULOUS NEW YEAR! With the new year comes a sense of promise, renewal, and exciting opportunities. Receive my best wishes for 2011. -From Linda Komm and your SWBC Mortgage team. Please call me if you, your friends, or family members are in need of a home loan or would like to refinance and save money!
LINDA S. KOMM Vice President Experience. Results.
512.531.1807 866.766.5252 CELL: 512.422.7958 FAX: 512.531.1848 lkomm@swbc.com www.LindaKomm.com
9600 Great Hills Trail #145 E Austin, TX 78759
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Advertiser Profile By Stacy Stroud
Willow Bend Mortgage
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illow Bend Mortgage is a boutique mortgage company, a correspondent lender that specializes in matching clients with mortgages tailored to their unique needs. The Austin retail branch, led by industry veteran Penny Green, opened in November of 2009 to offer Austin buyers a wide variety of mortgage loans and the flexibility to individually match each loan to the right investor for the best service possible. Willow Bend’s Austin branch is one of nine branches in the Plano, Texas-based company that was started by Bill Shaddock in 1993. An accountant by trade, Shaddock has successfully opened and operated several businesses over the years (including Capital Title) and maintains an accessible, supportive presence in each of them. Penny Green, senior loan officer and manager of the Austin branch, partly attributes the success of Willow Bend (which reached $80 million in production last year) to the company’s entrepreneurial, family-oriented culture and a CEO who’s always accessible and takes personal responsibility for the success of his employees and clients. The rest of that success, Green says, is all about the flexibility to offer buyers the products and pricing they need. “We have a
tremendous advantage in that we’re one of the few mortgage lenders who can still control where the loan is sold on the back end,” says Green, who spent 14 years managing mortgage companies before joining Willow Bend. “We have the ability to hand pick our investors and offer raw pricing, which is unusual today.” In a market where the big banks are driving out smaller niche lenders—and thereby eliminating consumer choices—loans must conform to stricter requirements, as well as meet investor “overlays”, which are even more stringent guidelines beyond what Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac require. And complicating matters even more, each investor has different overlays. Because of the complexity of keeping abreast of the rapidly changing guidelines, most mortgage companies adhere to the strictest layer of overlays, and do not allow the loan officer the flexibility to custom tailor a loan to fit their client’s unique needs or situation. In contrast, since Green and her team have years and years of experience, Willow Bend allows them to decide exactly where the loan will be sold taking advantage of each investor’s unique set of rules. This gives them a very strong competitive edge over other lenders in the Austin area.
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Green adds that Willow Bend also has the option to use their own private money to fund loans with a particular niche. “So we don’t have to offer watered down loans with multiple layers of overlays. If the product is out there and our customers want it, we can get it.” This flexibility and choice when it comes to lenders eliminates much of the stress from the closing process, because the Willow Bend team knows exactly what fees each investor charges ahead of time—meaning there are no surprises come closing time. Willow Bend’s culture of accountability, trust, and personalized service is evident from the top down, even in the partnerships Green’s branch has cultivated. Rather than working with an appraisal management company, Willow Bend Austin uses a rotating list of appraisers, each of whom Green has worked with for 20 years—appraisal issues are extremely rare. Working with a local credit bureau (also hand-picked and trusted by Green since the 1980’s) allows Willow Bend to offer their clients access to credit counseling to help improve their credit as much as possible before applying for the mortgage loan. Dealing with local partners as much as possible, raw pricing, and the ability to close and fund in house gives Willow Bend an edge on customer service. In addition, the company’s in-house processors actually close the loans, eliminating another layer of coordination. Add to that a technology system that makes it possible for the staff to work anywhere, and Willow Bend is one of the few companies that rarely goes beyond 30 days in closing. “We have a great setup,” Green admits. “It allows us to offer a quick response time and make decisions with more autonomy
Penny Green Austin Branch Manager
than your average mortgage lender.” Having a hardworking team of industry veterans also helps. As a rule, Willow Bend hires only experienced self-starters, people who have knowledge of every facet of the industry (several have run their own branches in the past). The Austin team consists of five loan officers, two support staff members, three very accessible underwriters, and a dedicated processor who makes the Willow Bend’s high production volume possible. Willow Bend’s products include the usual array of conventional, non-conforming, and government loans, plus land loans (90% lot loans) with private interim money for builders, as well as a great selection of specialty programs. As interest rates rise in 2011, demand will rise for special programs with potentially lower interest rates, such as MCC bond programs, USDA loans, Texas Veteran Land Board loans, and many others, all of which are on the menu.
Flora Amyett
Marketing Director /Business Development flora.amyett@austintitle.com 512.705.4966
Amy Kobza
Jenny Newman
Sales Executive jenny.newman@austintitle.com 512.426.7865
Sales Executive - Williamson County amy.kobza@austintitle.com 512.921.6296
We Talk Title. Becky Hopkins
AVP / Senior Sales Executive becky.hopkins@austintitle.com 512.656.7095
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Leslie Brvenik
Sales Executive leslie.brvenik@austintitle.com 512.415.6706
Check out our spring 2011 educational series online starting in January at our new Spicewood media center. austintitle.com/ed
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Putting a Face on Real Estate since 1995.™
WCR’s Rookie of the Year award goes to Chris Rodriguez of Austin Real Pros. David Burton of Austin Suburban Properties did the honors of presenting the very deserving award to Chris at the WCR Installation and Awards Banquet.
Buy photo: RL_010211_F.JPG at myRealtyLine.com
Laurie DeLeon, Christine Choate, Karen Montero and Sytha Minter, all of Horizon Realty, take time out to enjoy an afternoon of fun at the company’s Thanksgiving potluck.
Buy photo: RL_Horizon_Realty_D at myRealtyLine.com
Shelia Balagia, Jay Tucker and Paula Bacon, all of Reliant Title, share greetings with guests who arrive at the grand opening of the company’s Round Rock office. Buy photo: 10-17_B.JPG at myRealtyLine.com Buy photo: RL_Reliant_Title_GrandOpening_E at myRealtyLine.com
Colby Leigh celebrates after bowling a strike during Strike Against Hunger, the bowling tournament that the HBA Sales and Marketing Council hosted to raise funds for Mobile Loaves and Fishes.
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Buy photo: 10-19_F at myRealtyLine.com
Marlys Pietri and Mary Lynn Stricklen, both of Keller Williams Realty, each win door prizes from Tiffany’s at Sunsets at Santa Luz, a REALTOR appreciation party in Steiner Ranch hosted by Drees Custom Homes.
Buy photo: RL_010511_C.JPG at myRealtyLine.com
Ann Marie Sandlin of Reta Kays REALTORS, WCR 2011 president Cheryl Jenkins and Chris Rodriguez of Austin Real Pros attend the NAHREP luncheon to honor incoming NAHREP president Oliva Lerma.
Buy photo: RL_10_12_D at myRealtyLine.com Buy photo: RL_WCR_Fredericksburg_Shopping_B at myRealtyLine.com
Winifred Harrison and Jacci Anders, both of Coldwell Banker United REALTORS, bundle up to take part in the Fredericksburg Shopping Day hosted by the Women’s Council of REALTORS.
Lynn Allen of Keller Williams Realty wins a Spurs pack (which included a ticket to an NBA game) when she attended the Texas American Title meet and greet. Pictured with Lynn is Summer Pavliska of Texas American Title.
Buy photo: IMG_5140 at myRealtyLine.com Submitted photo
Joseph Aubin, Melissa Medina, Terry Graf, Cheri Alderman and Tod Alderman, all of J. Paul Aubin Real Estate, showcase their “Home Sweet Home Chili” recipe at the Downtown Georgetown First Annual Chili Cook-Off.
Realty Executives’ Michael Neuman and Ruby Johnson discuss possible solutions to the country’s credit issues with Frank Ivy, who works with the National Credit Union Association. They were attending WCR’s networking mixer at Water 2 Wine.
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Enjoying themselves at the Gracy Title holiday breakfast are Gracy Title’s Jill Morgan and Kay Kaiser and Darlene Campbell, both of Century 21 HSK REALTORS.
Buy photo: RL_Gracy_Title_open_house_B at myRealtyLine.com
Mike Jones of RE/ MAX Austin Skyline and his wife, Gwen, investigate the spread of holiday snacks at the RE/MAX Austin Skyline Christmas party.
Buy photo: RL_Keller_Williams_Grand_Opening_H at myRealtyLine.com
Brian Martin of Keller Williams Realty splits his talents as a real estate agent by day and a musician at night. He played at the ribbon cutting to officially open the new Keller Williams Realty North office.
Submitted photo
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Jeff Kessler, left, of Austin Homes REALTORS was hoping his name would be called and he would be the proud owner of a new iPad at the Supreme Lending iPad Happy Hour. Host of the event was John McClellan of Supreme Lending and attending the event was Laurie Nunnallee of First American Title.
Submitted photo
Enjoying the holiday festivities at the RE/ MAX of Austin Skyline Christmas party are Trent Jackson and Leigh Ann McCoy, both of Mission Mortgage.
Buy photo: RL_JBGoodwin_Thanksgiving_H at myRealtyLine.com
The annual Thanksgiving luncheon at JB Goodwin REALTORS always draws a crowd, as it did again this year at the 26th annual event.
Submitted photo
Supreme Lending has all the tools that you will need to be successful in today’s changing market place! On-site Underwriting and Processing
Supreme Lending in Austin is looking for well-qualified
Mortgage Professionals.
If you want to join a winning team and find out more information about this opportunity call 512-279-1150 or e-mail John.McClellan@SupremeLending.com Listen to the radio show “The Real Estate Zone” every Sunday 11 to Noon on News Radio 590 KLBJ and 99.7 FM John Mcclellan Branch Manager Supreme Lending - Austin NMLS #207768 3420 Executive Center Dr. #300 Austin, TX 78731 512-279-1150 Office
Supreme Lending is an equal opportunity employer and does not practice discrimination based on age, gender, race, religion, national origin, as well as any other rights afforded to applicants under state and federal law.
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You and Independence flying high in 2011!
M
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Independence Title E x p l o r e w w w. I n d e p e n d e n c e T i t l e . c o m
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Oliva Lerma, center, 2011 president of NAHREP Austin, accepts the gavel from Julie Jeter, left, NAHREP Austin’s first president, at the annual installation.
Buy photo: RL_010511_E.JPG at myRealtyLine.com
Phillip Pense of Reliant Title, John Horton of John Horton Realty and Joe Thweatt of Land Mortgage gather at the grant opening of Reliant Title in Round Rock. They say the next time anyone sees Phillip they should ask him about the frog on his desk. Buy photo: RL_Reliant_Title_GrandOpening_D at myRealtyLine.com
Horizon Realty finds it is always more fun to celebrate as a group, as they gathered for the company’s Thanksgiving potluck.
Submitted photo Buy photo: RL_Horizong_Realty_C at myRealtyLine.com
Vivian Daywood of RE/MAX Austin Skyline and her husband Anthony pose in front of the Christmas tree at the annual holiday event.
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JB Goodwin REALTORS Westlake agents and friends finish the 5k Lights of Love walk benefiting Ronald McDonald House. Top: Jack Bego, Rene Gonzalez, Alice Niven, Mike Jones, Lilli Dominy, Patrizia Huhnen, Tim Tierney and Tajuana Fields. Bottom: Ockhee Bego, Nicholas Gonzalez, David Billingsley-Tierney and Trianna Schiller.
Ringing in the holidays at the Independence Title Lakeway office were Jan James and Melinda Carroll, both of Independence Title, and Bryan Anderson of RE/MAX River City REALTORS.
Buy photo: RL_010311_D.JPG at myRealtyLine.com
Tiesa Hollaway of North American Title encourages Karen Wilson of City Realty to try the homemade bread mixes she brought to the Shop ‘Til You Drop event at the title company’s Round Rock office. Buy photo: RL_010111_B.JPG at myRealtyLine.com
Sharing a few laughs at the Austin Mortgage Bankers Association Installation and Holiday Party are Mike Carroll, 2011 AMBA president and Steve Builta of Hometrust Mortgage.
Buy photo: RL_NAT_Holiday_Shopping_B at myRealtyLine.com
Don’t Gamble with your Success in 2011 Bet on United Lending in 2011 and you’ll enjoy. . . • • • • • • • • •
In-house underwriting and closing Experience, Experience, Experience Best operations department in Texas Fully experienced processing staff Portfolio lending Always 24 - 48 hour underwriting and closing a 60-month client marketing campaign 75% LTV up to $4 million sales price Profit Sharing
Top 5 Mortgage Company 2009
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Buy photo: RL_010211_J.JPG at myRealtyLine.com
Deborah Spangler, 2010 WCR President, installs executive officers at the Women’s Council of REALTORS Installation and Awards Banquet.
Buy photo: RL_Keller_Williams_Grand_Opening_D at myRealtyLine.com
Charlotte Hair and Pamela Turlak, both of Keller Williams Realty, mingle with hundreds of fellow agents and associates at the company’s grand opening of its northwest Austin office.
Buy photo: RL_CRS_Installation_D at myRealtyLine.com
Risé Johns, Bill Wilson and Mary Lynn Gibbs, all of Keller Williams Realty, get ready to support their colleagues at the Certified Residential Specialists’ annual installation meeting at the Westwood Country Club.
Buy photo: IMG_5165 at myRealtyLine.com
Becky Hopkins of Austin Title ponders her choices at Water 2 Wine, where the Women’s Council of REALTORS hosted a recent networking mixer.
Buy photo: RL_WCAoR_Installation_F at myRealtyLine.com
Rod Morgan of Landmark Properties greets Linda Demarco, June Green and Victoria Costello, all of Coldwell Banker United REALTORS, at the Williamson County Association of REALTORS installation banquet at Bella Lago at Forest Creek, where they arrived to support the organization’s outgoing and incoming leaders.
Buy photo: RL_010311_E.JPG at myRealtyLine.com
Melinda Carroll, Brian Pitman, Phyllis Avery, Jay Southworth and Jan James, all with Independence Title, send super holiday wishes from their Lakeway office.