Chris's Blog

Lakeway homes by Prominence Homes

Sun, 13 Jan 2013 21:37:47 -0800

I had a meeting out in the Lakway area to preview Prominence Homes... and, boy was I glad we saw the homes from this builder. The Country Club setting was picturesque; rolling hills and winding streets, unique to Lakway. Here is view from the model home that is just breathtaking...

There are currently 4 available units... 1 built and 3 in process. If interested in previewing these homesites, contact me for your own personal tour at ChrisSellsAustin@gmail.com or (512) 921-1431. Click link below for details.

Search for Homes

4 results returned

Save Search

New Search

Modify Search

105 Indigo Run CV, Austin, TEXAS 78738

Price: $511,043

Great views in this inviting Chianti Plan by Prominence Homes in prestigious, private Nicklaus Golf ...

View Details

View Photo Gallery (12)

Save Property

Listing# 7286003

MLS: ACTRIS

Bedrooms: 3

Bathrooms: 4

Square Ft: 3115

Acres: 0.251

101 Indigo Run CV, Austin, TEXAS 78738

Price: $484,047

Great views in this inviting Livorno Plan by Prominence Homes in prestigious, private Nicklaus Golf ...

View Details

View Photo Gallery (11)

Save Property

Listing# 4011569

MLS: ACTRIS

Bedrooms: 3

Bathrooms: 3

Square Ft: 2677

Acres: 0.301

109 Indigo Run CV, Austin, TEXAS 78738

Price: $461,656

Great views in this inviting Vivaldi Plan by Prominence Homes in prestigious, private Nicklaus Golf ...

View Details

View Photo Gallery (11)

Save Property

Listing# 8440686

MLS: ACTRIS

Bedrooms: 4

Bathrooms: 3

Square Ft: 2566

Acres: 0.18

205 Indianwood DR, Austin, TEXAS 78738

Price: $407,037

Prominence Homes introduces the Ciano Plan on a corner lot in the gated country club community of Fl ...

View Details

View Photo Gallery (20)

Save Property

Listing# 2784024

MLS: ACTRIS

Bedrooms: 3

Bathrooms: 2

Square Ft: 2012

Acres: 0.247

©2013 Austin Board of Realtors/ACTRIS MLS. All rights reserved. Information Deemed Reliable but Not Guaranteed. The information being provided is for consumers personal, non-commercial use and may not be used for any purpose other than to identify prospective properties consumers may be interested in purchasing.

Data services provided by IDX Broker

Chris Rodriguez, ABR, e-PRO, SFR, TRLP

2013 President, Women's Council of REALTORS® Austin Chapter
2013 ABoR Installation and Awards Committee Chair
2013 WCR State Communications Chair
2013 WCR State Technology Vice-Chair

Austin REAL Pros, REALTORS®
(512) 921-1431 Wireless
(512) 458-3730 Office

REALTY ROUND UP - EVEN BETTER THIS YEAR!!

Tue, 18 Oct 2011 15:42:13 -0700

The Austin Board of REALTORS® is gearing up for the 30th annual Realty Round Up: Flashback to the 80s on October 26. Boost your career at this exciting event by attending a variety of educational sessions, visiting the latest REALTOR®-specific products and services and networking with approximately 1,500 attendees.

This is the largest real-estate oriented trade show in Central Texas. Be Apart of the Drawing to Win... Must Be Present to Win.

1st Prize: MLS Fee + ABoR Dues Paid for 2012
2nd Prize: MLS Fee Paid for 2012
3rd Prize: $500 Cash
4th, 5th, 6th and 7th Prize: 4 Tablets, including 2 iPads

Also, the Custome Contest
2 - $50 Winners at Realty Round Up
2 - $50 Winners at the AYREP After Party

AYREP After Party at Haven Night Club, 409 Colorado
Must have your Realty Round Up wrist band to enter...

Also, a first this year... SUMO WARS: Broker to Broker, Agent to Agent, Affiliate to Affiliate

This is not a wrestling match, but rather, like the Sumo Contest that is shown on the Ellen Show on TV.

You won't want to miss this year's exciting Real Estate Trade-Show: Realty Round Up: Flashback to the 80's at the Austin Convention Center, Oct. 26th, 10am - 4:00pm.

APP CENTRAL AT REALTY ROUND UP

Mon, 25 Jul 2011 14:45:54 -0700

APP CENTRAL at REALTY ROUND UP:

Do you have the "next killer app" for REALTORS®?

I looking for product demos for (6) apps to fill 20-25 min time slots where you can demo and showcase your mobile application to REALTORS®. EMAIL ME ONLY - PLEASE NO PHONE CALLS

REALTY ROUND UP - Austin Board of REALTORS® Annual Trade-Show (#RRU11)

Location: Austin Convention Center

Time: ‎10:00AM Wednesday, October 26th

REALTY ROUND UP PARTNER OPPORTUNITES

Fri, 22 Jul 2011 13:01:29 -0700

We are looking for event partners for Realty Round Up 2011.

We’re celebrating 30 years of Realty Round Up by taking a trip back to the 1980s. The Austin Board of REALTORS® (ABoR) will showcase ways to help REALTORS® continue their professional growth through this radical decade at Realty Round Up on October 26 at the Austin Convention Center.

As the largest real estate-oriented trade show in Central Texas, Realty Round Up provides an excellent opportunity for you to promote your products and services to Central Texas REALTORS®. Our 2010 program drew in more than 1,500 attendees, and this year’s program looks to bring in the same crowd. Plus, with booth prices starting as low as $470, it’s a cost-effective marketing opportunity for your business. Be sure to sign up for your booth by June 30 to make sure you receive the best price.

MEGA PARTNER: $2500 - SOLD - CHASE BANK
Reserved for Affiliate Members Only
Company name on all wristbands
Company logo on back cover of NEW "take-a-way" Event Program
Receive full page ad in Event Program
Receive special recognition on an aisle marker in Exhibit Hall

PLATINUM PARTNER: $2000 - SOLD - RE/MAX OF TEXAS
Company name will appear on the tradeshow’s centerpiece that will hang in the main lounge area of the Exhibit Hall
Company logo will be included on the back cover of the NEW “take-a-way” Event Program
Receive a 50% discount on a full page ad inside the RRU Event Program
Receive special recognition on an aisle marker in the Exhibit Hall

GOLD PARTNER: $1500 - 2 Available
Company Name on Banner over Keynote Stage
Company logo on back cover of NEW "take-a-way" Event Program
Receive 10% off full page ad in event program
Receive special recognition on an aisle marker in Exhibit Hall

SILVER PARTNER: - 1 Each
$500 - SOLD - AUSTIN REAL PROS, REALTORS®
$600
$700
Company name announced as the sponsor during the cash prize drawing announcements
Company logo included on back cover of NEW “take-a-way” Event Program

BRONZE PARTNER: $300 - 5 - Available for 5 different classes
ABoR is expanding the education component of RRU. Showcase your business in a class.

Fabulous Wood Floors in Scofield Farms Subdivision

Wed, 15 Jun 2011 11:44:58 -0700

Chris Rodriguez | Austin REAL Pros, REALTORS® | (512) 921-1431

13405 Kinder Pass, Austin, TX

REDUCED: Gorgeous wood floor, Very well maintained, Move-in
ready, Lots of light

3BR/2BA Single Family House

offered at $199,900

Year Built	1999
Sq Footage	1,877
Bedrooms	3
Bathrooms	2 full, 0 partial
Floors	1
Parking	2 Car garage
Lot Size	.204 acres
HOA/Maint	$31 per month

DESCRIPTION

Scofield Farms Beauty:
$199,900 reduced from $209,500

Call me now and let's get you prequalified.

Listing courtesy of:
Bill Evans, Broker, Austin REAL Pros, REALTORS®

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

- Central A/C	- Central heat	- Fireplace
- Walk-in closet	- Hardwood floor	- Tile floor
- Family room	- Dining room	- Breakfast nook
- Dishwasher	- Refrigerator	- Stove/Oven
- Microwave	- Laundry area - inside

COMMUNITY FEATURES

- Garage parking

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

- Hardwood and tile floors

- Unique bay window effect in kitchen overlooking front yard

- Lots of light

- Double vanity with separate shower and garden tub

- Parmer Elementary, Westview Middle, Connally High

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Front View	Entry
Kitchen	Living Room
Master Suite	Master Bath

Contact info:

Chris Rodriguez

Austin REAL Pros, REALTORS®

Lic #563503

(512) 921-1431

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Jun 13, 2011, 5:16pm PDT

Sunday Open House 2p - 5p: Scofield Farms, Austin, TX

Sat, 28 May 2011 12:55:09 -0700

Details here: http://tiny.cc/scofieldfarms

2011 REALTY ROUND UP: Now signing up booths...

Fri, 13 May 2011 14:17:06 -0700

2011 REALTY ROUND UP

by Chris Rodriguez on Thursday, April 28, 2011 at 4:49pm

2011 REALTY ROUND UP, AUSTIN BOARD OF REALTORS®

Flashback to the 80’s

30th Annual Realty Round Up

http://www.abor.com/roundup/abor_index.cfm

Realty Round Up is the annual industry trade show event put on by the Austin Board of REALTORS® in October where REALTORS® and REALTOR® suppliers join together for one day to share ideas, view industry products, and of course, network. This is the only industry trade show in central Texas specific to REALTORS®.

I would like to invite you to consider bringing your company to our event, Realty Round Up, and showcase it as an exhibitor. The return on your investment is huge. There are currently over 8,000 REALTORS® in the Austin area. You will have an opportunity to present your products and services to a captive group under one roof and all in one day.

Please look at the information below and evaluate our event.

IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN A BOOTH OR KNOW OF SOMEONE WHO IS,

PLEASE CALL ME AT (512) 921-1431 OR EMAIL ME AT CHRISSELLSAUSTIN@GMAIL.COM.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

BUY YOUR BOOTH SPACE HERE: http://www.abor.com/roundup/abor_index.cfm

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

WE ARE LOOKING FOR ANY OF THESE TYPES OF COMPANIES...

• Electronic companies

• Computer companies

• Communication companies: AT&T, Verizon, Sprint, Cricket, Clearwire

• Printers

• Web designers

• Cleaning companies

• Home staging companies

• Title companies

• Mortgage companies

• Other real estate companies looking to recruit

• Carpet cleaning companies

• Commercial cleaning companies

• Maintenance companies

• Pest control companies

• Wholesale companies

• Retail stores

• Any business that may benefit by marketing to REALTORS®

SHOW INFORMATION:

Time: 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Date: October 26, 2011

THEME:

Flashback to the 80’s

MEGA PARTNER: $2500 - 1 Available

Reserved for Affiliate Members Only

Company name on all wristbands

Company logo on back cover of NEW "take-a-way" Event Program

Receive full page ad in Event Program

Receive special recognition on an aisle marker in Exhibit Hall

PLATINUM PARTNER: $2000 - 1 Available
Company name will appear on the tradeshow’s centerpiece that will hang in the main lounge area of the Exhibit Hall

Company logo will be included on the back cover of the NEW “take-a-way” Event Program

Receive a 50% discount on a full page ad inside the RRU Event Program

Receive special recognition on an aisle marker in the Exhibit Hall

GOLD PARTNER: $1500 - 2 Available

Company Name on Banner over Keynote Stage

Company logo on back cover of NEW "take-a-way" Event Program

Receive 10% off full page ad in event program

Receive special recognition on an aisle marker in Exhibit Hall

SILVER PARTNER: $500, $600, AND $700 - 1 Each

Company name announced as the sponsor during the cash prize drawing announcements

Company logo included on back cover of NEW “take-a-way” Event Program

BRONZE PARTNER: $300 - 5 - Available for 5 different classes

ABoR is expanding the education component of RRU. Showcase your business in a class.

Thank you,

Chris Rodriguez,

2011 Austin Board of REALTORS® Realty Round Up Chair

REALTOR® - #563503 - Licensed to Practice Real Estate in the Great State of Texas

Austin REAL Pros, REALTORS®

HUTTO DUPLEXES FOR SALE: Individuals or Investors

Sun, 10 Apr 2011 17:01:08 -0700

Marvin Cove Duplexes For Sale
Hutto, Texas

Hutto, Texas (Outside of Austin)
10 Duplex Units in Hutto, TX
Single Story: $174,300
Two Story: $179,000
Special Pricing for all 10 duplexes

Click image for online presentation...

Chris Rodriguez, e-PRO®, REALTOR®
Austin REAL Pros, REALTORS®
1310 S. 1st Street, #210
Austin, Texas 78704

NORTHWEST HILLS TOWNHOME OFFERED AT $297,600

Fri, 25 Mar 2011 16:40:26 -0700

OPEN HOUSE SUNDAY 2PM - 5PM

Amazing Summer Wood Townhome. One of the larger floor plans, tile floors, bamboo floors up, small master down with shower and large closet, bath accessible to visitors and then a big master up! Jetted tub, walk in closet, large picture window, updated bathroom. Beautiful views from lovely rocked patio covered and uncovered. Fresh interior paint, updated bathrooms and kitchen! Ready for immediate move in! Electric chair on stairwell well makes upstairs accessible to everyone! Come see, it's lovely!

If you know the area, you know these townhomes do not stay on the market very long. PRE-MLS Listing.

1310 S. 1st Street, #210 • Austin, Texas 78704 • (512) 921-1431

8305 Summerwood Dr (google map) (yahoo map)

HARRIS BRANCH: OPEN HOUSE TODAY: 1P-3P

Sun, 06 Mar 2011 09:19:43 -0800

Spacious 4 br home with vaulted ceilings. Perfect family home with a HUGE yard (lot size is over 1/4 acre.) Very motivated. Many Crepe Myrtles on the property are gorgeous when in bloom! 1/2 basketball court. Water feature in back. Inside the home has been freshly painted and is bright and airy. The view of the woods behind the house makes you feel like your far out of town but you're really just 15 minutes from Downtown! (Click image for details)

OPEN HOUSE TODAY: 2P - 5P

Sun, 20 Feb 2011 10:08:30 -0800

DOWNTOWN AUSTIN CONDO
Vertical Living at its Best
(Listing Link: http://tiny.cc/oecop)

AUSTIN REAL PROS, REALTORS® • 1310 S. 1ST STREET #210 • AUSTIN, TX 78704

Rolling Black-Outs in Texas

Wed, 02 Feb 2011 08:45:00 -0800

We are experiencing rolling black-outs due to the extreme (for our area) cold the State is experiencing... Now, I know first hand why all you "snow-birds" are moving to Texas.

Chris Rodriguez, e-PRO®
REALTOR® - #0563503 - Licensed to Practice Real Estate in the Great State of Texas

Austin REAL Pros, REALTORS® - Downtown and Central

(512) 981-5535 Direct Line

(512) 921-1431 iPhone/FaceTime

Women's Council of REALTORS®

• 2011 Marketing Chair

• 2010 Rookie of the Year
Austin Board of REALTORS®

• Realty Round Up Chairman

• Grievance Committee

• Learning Communities Facilitator

• Installation and Awards Committee

Personal Page: Facebook
Fan Page: Downtown and Central Austin Living
Please visit my Real Estate Resource Center at: Austin iHomes (dot) com

Extraordinary agents representing extraordinary clients in the purchase or sale of extraordinary residential real estate.

4 Bd/2 Ba Gorgeous Red Brick in Pflugerville, TX

Tue, 25 Jan 2011 09:21:13 -0800

Beautiful, Living area surround in natural light. Well maintained and clean. Home in central Pflugerville, Established neighborhood, Very near everything, Mature trees, Large back yard, French doors into first bedroom/office, Spacious floor plan with kitchen open to family room, Skylight in kitchen, Mother-in-law master, Separate dual vanity, Separate tub and shower

Regards,

Chris Rodriguez, e-PRO®
REALTOR® - #0563503 - Licensed to Practice Real Estate in the Great State of Texas

Austin REAL Pros, REALTORS® - Downtown and Central

(512) 981-5535 Direct Line

(512) 921-1431 iPhone/FaceTime

Personal Page: Facebook
Fan Page: Downtown and Central Austin Living
Please visit my Real Estate Resource Center at: Austin iHomes (dot) com

Extraordinary agents representing extraordinary clients in the purchase or sale of extraordinary residential real estate.

"04" Living Update... 78704 that is...

Sun, 05 Dec 2010 19:10:20 -0800

Current available home in the "04". The "04" is the hip trendy zip code that is south of the river, central. The neighborhood areas include SoCo, Travis Heights and Barton Hills.

Single Story Homes

2 Story Homes

Oct 2010 Hutto, Tx Market Snapshot

Tue, 16 Nov 2010 15:03:15 -0800

Recipe for Selling Your Home: One Part Art, One Part Science

Mon, 25 Oct 2010 14:03:03 -0700

Recipe for Selling Your Home: One Part Art, One Part Science

Pricing a property to sell is ultimately the Seller's decision. But, with the help of a REALTOR® you can get a better understanding of where that magic price point will be. How one comes up with a price comes down to one part Art and one part Science.

After living in an area for a very long time, you develop an understanding of an area and the people living in that area. You know the neighborhood likes and the dislikes. You know the neighborhoods, the people in the neighborhoods and what other people in other parts of town think of that neighborhood. This is the Art.

Then, you put together the comps. Comps is the short term for "comparable properties to the one you are selling". You look at what has 'sold', what is 'available', what has 'not sold', what properties were 'withdrawn' from the market, what property listing 'expired', and whatever else you can find out about the comps. This is the Science.

Seller's often choose an agent who quotes them the highest price for their home. Here’s a little secret... REALTORS® have no control over the price that a home will sell. The person who ultimately decides on the price is the BUYER! And, if you were a Buyer, would you spend $10k or $20k more for a property just because the Seller was using a particular agent? Of course not. If you were to poll four different REALTORS® about what your home was worth, you would more than likely get four different answers.

When listing your home, I will give your three different prices... the market value, the recommended price to sell the home and an aggressive price to sell the home quickly. Don't fall prey to the "highest list price agent". The object of the game is to sell your home. And, I feel the best way to sell your home comes down to... yes, one part art and one part science.

Chris Rodriguez, e-PRO®
REALTOR® - Licensed to Practice Real Estate in the Great State of Texas
Realty Executives Austin - Downtown and Central
(512) 981-5535 Direct Line
(512) 921-1431 Wireless

2010 Women's Council of REALTORS® Treasurer
2010 Austin Board of REALTORS® Realty Round Up Chairman
2010 Austin Board of REALTORS® Grievance Committee
2010 Austin Board of REALTORS® Learning Communities Facilitator
2010 Austin Board of REALTORS® Installation and Awards Committee

Please visit my Real Estate Resource Center at: http://AustiniHomes.com

UPDATE: Realty Round Up 2010

Fri, 22 Oct 2010 10:02:18 -0700

REALTY ROUND UP UPDATE:

From Sally B. Yaryan, ABoR Director Professional Development & Education, "As of 8:50 a.m. this morning Realty RoundUp Hall of Exhibits is SOLD OUT."

Realty Round Up 2010 (ABoR Annual Trade Show)

Mon, 18 Oct 2010 09:24:05 -0700

COUNTDOWN TO REALTY ROUND UP:
9 DAYS

10 Ways Realty Round Up Helps Your Business Take Flight

Realty Round Up is set for October 27 and this year’s participants are looking to take advantage of the opportunities at this must-see event. Trust us, you don’t want to miss this program.

An Economic Update provided by Dr. Jim Gaines, Research Economist with the Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University, will deliver a glimpse into the current state of the economy and upcoming market trends.

Big cash prizes and booth awards will be presented and additional costume prizes will be awarded.

Educational sessions that arm you with knowledge you can take back to your business are included with your $15 ticket. You will have access to various business and MLS programming.

Access the latest products and services for real estate professionals in the Exhibit Hall by visiting more than 130 exhibitors.

Free coffee will be available during the informal coffee session with Dr. Jim Gaines. Sip your morning coffee while participating in this exclusive discussion with Gaines, during which you will have the opportunity to ask questions.

Meet Mayor Lee Leffingwell, as he joins us at 10:00 a.m. for the ribbon cutting ceremony that officially marks the open of the Exhibit Hall.

Catch up with colleagues and make new friends at Realty Round Up. Drawing more than 1,500 professionals in 2009, Realty Round Up is the place to be if you are ready to network with fellow colleagues and make new contacts.

Free party at the Hilton Hotel Bar after Realty Round Up! Co-hosted by ABoR and the Austin Young Real Estate Professionals (AYREP), the After Party is a great way for you to unwind from the trade show festivities. Your Realty Round Up wristband will earn you a free drink ticket at the party.

Enter the ABoR Bat Cave and stay connected to your business at Realty Round Up. Featuring a Wi-Fi lounge area and refreshments, REALTORS® can take a break from the action inside the bat cave and learn how ABoR membership equips you with the resources essential for your business.

Fun, fun and more fun is how we like to describe the time you’re bound to have at Realty Round Up. From interacting with your colleagues and kicking back in the Bat Cave to attending the informative sessions and browsing the latest-and-greatest in the Exhibit Hall, you won’t want to miss out on any of the Realty Round Up excitement.

Purchase your ticket today for only $15 and you will have access to all program events, including the After Party festivities. We’ll see you at the Austin Convention Center on October 27 for Realty Round Up!

We've had no showings... any thoughts?

Sun, 03 Oct 2010 11:55:22 -0700

I recently received a question from a Seller who was very concerned about the fact that they had put their home on the market and they had not received any showing. They indicated that they priced their home with the help of a real estate agent. They gave a short description of the home, they tell about the professional pictures they had taken and describe the upgrades to the home... but, still no one has looked at the home.

If after listing your home and you have absolutely no interest... it's more than likely the PRICE!

Selling the home is a combination of marketing, pricing and exposure. In the particular area they listed, there are (41) 2-story homes that are available within a mile radius of their golf community. After looking at their particular home, I see the home has no color from the curb color (it's just green, but very well maintained). Have great curb appeal. Price the home according to the "solds" in the area. Increase the exposure of your listing through marketing; flyers, neighborhood cards, door knocking, internet posting... all valid.

Price will get the agents from the listing service, curb appeal will get the lookers driving by, and internet marketing will attract the internet searcher (where most buyers start their search for a home.)

REALTY ROUND UP 2010 (Austin Board of REALTORS® Annual Trade-Show)

Tue, 28 Sep 2010 21:26:28 -0700

REALTY ROUND UP 2010
(Austin Board of REALTORS® Annual Trade-Show)

Time	Wednesday, October 27 · 10:00am - 4:00pm

Location	Austin Convention Center 500 East Cesar Chaves St (1st Street) Austin, TX
More Info	MAKE THIS YEAR YOUR YEAR TO "SPREAD YOUR PROFESSIONAL WINGS" Every year, the Austin Board of REALTORS® puts on the largest trade-show event, Realty Round Up, where REALTORS® and real estate related businesses can get together for one day to share ideas, view industry products, and of course, network. This is the only industry trade show in central Texas specific to REALTORS®. THEME: Halloween PURCHASE TICKETS HERE: Price $15.00 per person http://www.abor.com/events/roundup.cfm EVENT SCHEDULE: http://www.abor.com/roundup/abor_index.cfm?fuseaction=schedule AFTER PARTY (Sponsored by: AYREP): The Hilton Hotel Bar (across the street from the Convention Center)

ABoR Installation and Awards Celebration Sponsorship Opportunities

Tue, 28 Sep 2010 10:39:01 -0700

The Austin Board of REALTORS® Installation and Awards Celebration is on December 3, 2010 at the Austin Country Club, located at 4408 Long Champ Drive, Austin, TX 78746 from 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. This will be a breakfast event, drawing 300 members of the Austin real estate community.

Turn the spotlight to your business by signing up for one of the available sponsorship opportunities. With your sponsorship contribution, you will receive complimentary tickets and the exclusive opportunity to purchase a reserved table. To serve as a first-come, first-served sponsor of the 2011 Themed (“Members First, Member-Driven”) Event, please read about the excellent levels to showcase your business.

Contact me for sponsorship agreement OR CONTACT Shirley Williams, ABoR Education Department (512) 454-7636 ext. 1603

Chris Rodriguez, e-PRO®

REALTOR® - Licensed to Practice Real Estate in the Great State of Texas

Realty Executives - Central Region

(512) 981-5535 Direct Line

(512) 921-1431 Wireless
(512) 691-9061 Internet Fax

2010 Women's Council of REALTORS® Treasurer
2010 Austin Board of REALTORS® Realty Round Up Chairman
2010 Austin Board of REALTORS® Grievance Committee
2010 Austin Board of REALTORS® Learning Communities Facilitator
2010 Austin Board of REALTORS® Installation and Awards Committee

Please visit my Real Estate Resource Center at: http://AustiniHomes.com

Realty Round Up Event Schedule

Wed, 15 Sep 2010 00:52:25 -0700

Schedule of Events

8:30 a.m.: Registration Opens
Tickets to the tradeshow cost $15 each and include a $5 concession coupon that is valid at any of the Austin Convention Center's concessions, including the Starbucks cart.

9:00 - 10:00 a.m.: Informal Coffee with Dr. Jim Gaines
	Join Dr. Jim Gaines, Research Economist with the Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University, for an exclusive discussion over coffee. Bring your burning questions to this session, as you have the opportunity to interact with Gaines in an informal setting.

9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.: ABoR Bat Cave Opens
Enter a world where bats roam freely and REALTORS® stay connected to their businesses. Featuring a lounge area and refreshments, Realty Round Up attendees can take a break from the action inside ABoR's Bat Cave, which will be housed in Meeting Room #2 (MR 2), which is located on the first floor across from exhibitor registration. Use one of the available computers to check your e-mail and take care of business, and learn how membership in ABoR equips you with resources critical to your business.

10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.: Exhibit Hall Opens
An array of exhibitors - from title companies and home builders to insurance and mortgage companies - will showcase their products and services at Realty Round Up 2010. A ribbon cutting ceremony will take place at 10:00 a.m., as the exhibit halls opens for Central Texas' largest real estate trade show of the year.

10:00 - 10:50 a.m.: Morning Educational Sessions, Third Floor
Risk Reduction Task Force
Learn how to reduce risks in your real estate transactions. Join REALTORS® Gordon Gorychka of The GORDON Company,Lynda Conway J.B. Goodwin, REALTORS®, Kirby Parsons of Coldwell Banker United REALTOR®, Jim Reed of James A. Reed & Associates, Sandy Bednar of Distinct Austin Properties and Charles Porter of Bryker Properties for a panel discussion on relevant topics for reducing risk, including the early termination of listings, the seller's disclosure and new contract revisions.

Real Estate Applications for MAC Users
	Discover the latest real estate tools for Macintosh computers, as REALTOR® Chad Cardani of Cardani Group, REALTORS® leads an open forum discussion. The session will feature an "idea swap," where REALTORS® can share their latest discoveries for using Macintosh-based products in real estate.

The Good, the Bad and the Offensive of Online Interaction
	Many REALTORS® are active online, participating in online communities and using social networks to connect with clients. Such a high profile, however, can also render you vulnerable to public criticism.Stacy Armijo of Pierpont Communications believes that fear shouldn't scare you away from this valuable medium, so she'll share insights: why and how to monitor your online reputation; what to do if you encounter criticism or accusations; and case studies of online reputation management - both good and bad - that will help you protect your reputation online.

The Most Dangerous Part of Your Day: Open Houses & Listing Appointments
	As a REALTOR®, showing properties is second nature to you. When previewing properties, your primary focus is on your client, and whether or not your client is interested in the home. However, this shouldn't be your only concern. You must remember to be aware of your safety. From hosting an open house to conducting a listing appointment, REALTORS® should follow basic guidelines and procedures to help stay as safe as possible. Speaker Andrew Wooten will teach you the techniques you need, including what to do before, during and after showing appointments, to help you maximize your safety and the safety of your clients.

11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.: Keynote Presentation, Austin Economic Forecast
	Back by popular demand is Dr. Jim Gaines, Research Economist with the Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University. Gaines will deliver an economic overview and forecast that will help you plan for what the market has in store for the coming year. In this powerful keynote session, Gaines will report on current economic conditions, upcoming trends and expected conditions for the market in the coming year. A dynamic speaker, you won't want to miss Gaines' economic forecast.

1:00 - 1:50 p.m. Afternoon Educational Sessions, Third Floor
10 Things That Can Go Wrong with a Real Estate Transaction and How to Avoid Them
	The title says it all. Noted real estate attorney and featured columnist for Austin REALTOR® magazine,Don Hancock of Hancock & McGill, L.L.P. will explore 10 common mistakes made on real estate contracts that can ultimately lead to the loss of a sale. Don't miss out on your chance to attend this informative session and make sure you don't make small mistakes on your sales contracts.

Business Basics 101
	Learn business basics from Ellen Boettcher, who started her own company, Staging by Design. Establishing your business' blueprint and the support elements that will keep your business running is essential. Attend Boettcher's session and leave with a plan for setting up a business.

Training Session: MLXchange Client Gateway
	Are you prepared to learn how to efficiently use the Client Gateway tool in MLXchange? Join us for this training session and learn how to set up Client Gateway, auto notifications and e-mail listings. Attendees will leave this session having learned the ins-and-outs of Client Gateway from ABoR's MLS InstructorLeslie Van Burkleo.

SEO Tricks of the Trade
	Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is less of a mystery than you might think. Learn how to reduce the cost of your SEO efforts by integrating best practices and gain insights into the latest tricks of the trade. A review of basic concepts will also be presented to ensure the audience is properly focusing efforts and employing trends used by major industry players. Matthew Brutsché has been a professional SEO consultant for three years, most recently at DemandGen Partners, which specializes in providing clients with sales and marketing automation customer relationship management (Real Estate CRM) solutions.

2:00 - 3:00 p.m.: Keynote Presentation, Protecting Your Clients, Protecting Yourself
	External and internal factors can impact your safety and that of your clients. By following established plans and procedures, you can greatly reduce risk from external factors, but what about internal factors? In today's world, it can be critical for you to be able to recognize and react when a fellow agent or client becomes seriously overwhelmed with their circumstances. From foreclosures to lengthy short-sale cycles, constant regulatory changes to challenging mortgage financing, these challenges can be difficult and stressful for anyone. Have you asked yourself, 'how will I know if someone is in over their head?' In this presentation, Andrew Wooten will discuss what to look for, what questions to ask and who to alert when you suspect someone's behavior indicates they need professional assistance.

3:30 - 4:00 p.m.: Door Prizes and Booth Awards Announced
Wrap up the day with cash prize giveaways of $400, $500 and $600 in the Exhibit Hall

4:30 - 7:30 p.m.: After Party
End your day with your fellow REALTORS® at the After Party event co-sponsored by Austin Young Real Estate Professionals (AYREP) and the Austin Board of REALTORS® (ABoR). Realty Round Up attendees with a wristband will receive a free drink ticket at this event.
Location: The Hitlon Hotel Bar (across the street from the Convention Center), 500 E. 4th St.

But My Home is Listed At Appraisal

Tue, 14 Sep 2010 00:24:28 -0700

Today, I had a very interesting conversation with a listing Client.

First, about the home: The home shows very well. It is a single-story 3 bedroom home with 2 baths. The home has been repainted in earth tones and is nicely staged. It is very clean, landscaped and presents itself well. It is priced in that area where homes are selling around Austin.

When the home was first listed, there were several showings... we even received a contract at one point that fell through. Since the first several weeks, the showings have waned and when I talk to the Client I could hear the frustration in their voice about the home still being unsold. It has been approximately 2 months since we first put the home on the market and we did have our initial conversation about, “... if we have no activity for a while, you may want to consider lowering the price.”

Well, this came up today, the lowering the price conversation.

It appeared to the Client that because we have had several showings and an offer at one point, we were “on track” with getting the home sold. But, for me, the REALTOR®, we are only on track if the home sells. Again, in the last month, showings have dropped and there are contracts going up around us.

It was very difficult for some Client’s to grasp the Market Value vs. Appraised Value comparison of the home. Appraisals can be packaged and presented differently and they depend on the entity appraising the home. The Market Value of the home can be simply put as the amount any Buyer is willing to pay for that home, and, this Market Value changes depending on how the homes in the area are selling.

The conversation came down to this. This is the very reason you call on a person like me to help you with the selling of your home. It is my job to get the home the exposure it needs in reaching potential Buyers looking for a home like the one being sold. In today’s Buyer’s Market, if a potential Buyer is getting a “better deal” on another home than the one being sold, we have to create that “value” that the Buyer is looking for. Sometimes this means lowering the list price of a home to be more in line with the Market... and, sometimes this Market Price is lower that the Appraised Price.

This is the reality of realty today in our Market.

Chris Rodriguez, e-PRO®
REALTOR® - Licensed to Practice Real Estate in the Great State of Texas
Realty Executives - Central Region
(512) 921-1431 Wireless
(512) 691-9061 Internet Fax

2010 Women's Council of REALTORS® Treasurer
2010 Austin Board of REALTORS® Realty Round Up Chairman
2010 Austin Board of REALTORS® Grievance Committee
2010 Austin Board of REALTORS® Learning Communities Facilitator
2010 Austin Board of REALTORS® Installation and Awards Committee

Please visit my Real Estate Resource Center at: http://AustiniHomes.com

Realty Round Up has an Event Program this year...

Thu, 26 Aug 2010 23:00:35 -0700

Have You Heard? Realty Round Up has an Event Program this year...

Generally, when someone attends an industry trade-show, they keep the Event Program as a reminder of the event. Some people are even know to collect these Event Programs as sourvenirs. All Exhibitors will be listed in the Event Program.

September 15th is the deadline for advertising in the Realty Round Up premiere Event Program. A sample can be see at this address: https://www.abor.com/roundup/media/SampleProgram.pdf

Take advantage of this premiere Event Program by showcasing your business. Additional details can be found at the address: https://www.abor.com/roundup/pdf/Advertising.pdf

$5.00 Coupon for Food/Drink Available at Realty Round Up

Sun, 15 Aug 2010 15:02:41 -0700

An excellent question was asked today about the $5.00 coupon that is being provided by Realty Round Up to use to purchase food and drink and the Austin Convention Center. The question...

"Chris, I understand our ticket price includes a $5.00 coupon for food or drink at the Convention Center... is this good for anything, even a beer or wine? And are there still prizes at the After Party?

Please allow me to explain a quick bit of history. Last year... due to the economy, we reduced the admission price of Realty Round Up and also cancelled food being provided (for free) at the event. Now, this year, we were in a bit of a better position and are able to offer a coupon to help in the purchase of food or drink at the Event. Please note, this coupon is good for anything sold by the Convention Center, food, drinks, beer and wine. Also, note that this is a coupon... not currency... so, if your purchase amount does not exceed the coupon, there is no change back to you from the coupon.

Additionally, last year there was not an after party provided. This year is a little different. With the help of AYREP's (Austin Young Real Estate Professionals) marketing and sponsorship, we are promoting an After Party for a couple of hours at the Austin Hilton bar. Please feel free to enjoy the networking and exhibitors at both the trade-show event in the Convention and then, relax at the Hilton for a couple of more hours. AYREP is also providing your first beverage complimentary to get your evening started.

While at the Event and the After Party... please were a costume. This year the theme is Halloween and there are two different contests going on. There will be an opportunity to win two $50 gift cards in a "Best Costume Contest".

So, start planning your costume and I will see you at Realty Round Up at the Austin Convention Center on Oct. 27 from 10:00am to 4:00pm.

Chris Rodriguez
Realty Round Up Chair for the Austin Board of REALTORS®

Chris's Blog

Lakeway homes by Prominence Homes

REALTY ROUND UP - EVEN BETTER THIS YEAR!!

APP CENTRAL AT REALTY ROUND UP

REALTY ROUND UP PARTNER OPPORTUNITES

Fabulous Wood Floors in Scofield Farms Subdivision

Sunday Open House 2p - 5p: Scofield Farms, Austin, TX

2011 REALTY ROUND UP: Now signing up booths...

2011 REALTY ROUND UP

HUTTO DUPLEXES FOR SALE: Individuals or Investors

Marvin Cove Duplexes For Sale Hutto, Texas

NORTHWEST HILLS TOWNHOME OFFERED AT $297,600

OPEN HOUSE SUNDAY 2PM - 5PM

HARRIS BRANCH: OPEN HOUSE TODAY: 1P-3P

OPEN HOUSE TODAY: 2P - 5P

Rolling Black-Outs in Texas

4 Bd/2 Ba Gorgeous Red Brick in Pflugerville, TX

"04" Living Update... 78704 that is...

Oct 2010 Hutto, Tx Market Snapshot

Recipe for Selling Your Home: One Part Art, One Part Science

UPDATE: Realty Round Up 2010

Realty Round Up 2010 (ABoR Annual Trade Show)

COUNTDOWN TO REALTY ROUND UP:9 DAYS10 Ways Realty Round Up Helps Your Business Take Flight

We've had no showings... any thoughts?

REALTY ROUND UP 2010 (Austin Board of REALTORS® Annual Trade-Show)

ABoR Installation and Awards Celebration Sponsorship Opportunities

Realty Round Up Event Schedule

But My Home is Listed At Appraisal

Realty Round Up has an Event Program this year...

$5.00 Coupon for Food/Drink Available at Realty Round Up

Marvin Cove Duplexes For Sale
Hutto, Texas

COUNTDOWN TO REALTY ROUND UP:
9 DAYS

10 Ways Realty Round Up Helps Your Business Take Flight