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America's Got Talent Is Coming to Austin March 2012

Thu, 01 Mar 2012 12:31:26 -0800

FREE TICKETS!! For live tapings on Saturday March 17, 2012 at Noon and 5 p.m. and Sunday March 18th, at Noon and 5 p.m. on a first come, first serve basis.

http://thelongcenter.org/americas_got_talent.aspx?hq_e=el&hq_m=271894&hq_l=1&hq_v=5eac823886

Strict rules are given, since these will be live audience tapings with Howard Stern, Sharon Osbourne, Howie Mandel and Nick Cannon in attendance. Performers have already been pre-selected, no auditions will take place.

Get your tickets now before they are gone! The Long Center is located at 1701 W. Riverside (at the corner of S. 1st St.)

Debbie Barrera REALTOR
Cell/Text : 512-203-1912
DebbieKnowsAustin.com
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Adele Cancels Austin Tour Date for October 19, 2011

Wed, 05 Oct 2011 17:46:52 -0700

On a non-real estate related topic, the British singer, Adele, just announced that she has to cancel (again for the second time) her Austin, Texas date on her U.S. tour. It was scheduled for Wednesday, October 19th at the Frank Erwin Center. She has issued an explanation and apology on her official website, http://www.Adele.tv however, the site is a bit overloaded with traffic right now, so try again later. Here's a link to the her blog http://www.adele.tv/blog/352/important-blog The is the latest ticket refund information via the Texas Box Office: Customers who purchased tickets for the Oct. 19 concert: · Online or by phone will be automatically refunded beginning Friday, Oct. 7 at noon. Tickets will be credited back to the original credit card used for the purchase. If the refund does not appear on the credit card statement by Friday, Oct. 21 or if the customer would like more information, they are asked to call (512) 477-6060. · Using a credit card at the Frank Erwin Center box office, or using cash or check may obtain a refund by returning their tickets to the Texas Box Office point of purchase beginning Friday, Oct. 7 at noon or by mailing the tickets to: Texas Box Office Attention: Adele Refund P.O. Box 2929 Austin, TX 78768-2929 Customers who purchased tickets to the originally scheduled Stubb’s show: · May obtain a refund by returning their tickets to the Frank Erwin Center box office beginning Friday, Oct. 7 at noon. The Frank Erwin Center box office is located on Red River Street and is open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. For more information, please call (512) 477-6060. Originally, I may be one of the very few lucky ones who was able to exchange the Stubb's ticket I bought through Craigslist who's seller bought from StubHub and they had bought from the original Stubb's ticket owner nonsense. However, I paid $160 via Craigslist for my ticket and had to track down the "owner" of the original ticket and that was a nightmare. Thank you LinkedIn! But it looks like all I might recover from this nightmare is the original price of the ticket....get this....$25!!!! But in the end, I don't get to see a wonderful performer that I've been waiting to see for months and now I might be out $135. Oh Adele, if you read this, please come back to Austin, Texas very soon, once your vocal chords are well, and I will be in the audience cheering you on. I'll leave you with my favorite song off her 21 CD, "Don't You Remember" Thanks!

Debbie Barrera REALTOR
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Austin Texas Rental Market Tips

Fri, 08 Jul 2011 16:58:38 -0700

The Austin, Texas rental market is super hot right now. Prices are up and inventory is down. It all comes down to basic economics. When there is no supply, the demand is high, which means leasing prices have gone up and it's making a lot of renters panic. Take a deep breath and let's be realistic about what you are looking for. I've made a list of a few tips to help you (and your Realtor) while you are searching for a property to lease.

1.)Know what you are looking for. What does that mean? First - location. Narrow down your search based on where you want to live. Near a freeway? Near your job? Near your favorite park? Near Downtown? Lots of factors go into this and express to your Realtor your wants. Don't have them send you homes in North Austin when you want to live in South Austin. The more you narrow down your search, the better results you will have to choose from. Plus with the price of gas lately, it saves time and money for everyone.

2.)Fill out an application ahead of time. Your Realtor can send you a blank application (minus the address) so that way, they can tell you upfront if you are a Good prospective tenant for a future landlord. This application will include your rental history, your job history, your credit history, and your permission for a criminal background check. These 4 items are super important to pass with flying colors if you expect to rent a new place. If there is problems in any of these departments, just be honest, because it will come up once the application is processed. Lying on your application can be ground for immediate rejection, so the truth matters. Also, keep in mind that most owners/property management companies are looking for 3 to 4 times the amount of rent to equal your income. For example, if you are looking in the $1000 rental range, you must make at least $3000-$4000 a month on your paychecks to qualify. If you don't, then lower your price range.

3.)Be prepared to have your application fee and deposit funds ready to submit with your application. If you don't have current money in the bank to cover these 2 important steps, then you shouldn't be looking at rentals. The market is so hot right now that homes are being snagged up as soon as they are listed. By putting your deposit in with your application, it takes the property "off the market" and goes pending, so no other person can steal it from under you. Most companies do a "first come", "first serve" It's a competitive race right now and not only are you looking but many other persons are trying to rent as well.

Let me know how I can help you with rentals in Austin, Texas. I can set you up on an automatic search that emails you the latest listings to keep you in the loop ahead of other renters. Thanks for reading!

Debbie Barrera REALTOR
Cell/Text : 512-203-1912
DebbieKnowsAustin.com
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Austin, Texas Capital MetroRail Daytime Schedule

Tue, 19 Apr 2011 00:25:23 -0700

To increase ridership, Capital Metro decided in mid-January 2011 to offer daytime service for it's MetroRail line instead of just the commuter times in the early morning and evenings. Now in Austin, Texas, you can ride pretty much almost everyhour from 5:50 a.m. until 7:36 p.m. depending on if you are going North or South. Check out the schedule right here, http://www.capmetro.org/MetroRail/schedules.asp

For instance, one day, when I didn't have to take clients around in my car, I decided to get some exercise and took a 1/2 mile bicycle ride to my nearest station at Saltillo Plaza and caught the 1:18 p.m. train. I rode the MetroRail for about 14 minutes and got off at the Highland Plaza station right across from Highland Mall on Airport Blvd. Then I rode my bike to my Central Austin office on W. Koenig, approx. 1 1/2 miles away. It was a beautiful, sunshining, day with a slight breeze and arrived at the office with barely a sweat. With gas prices almost $4 a gallon here in Austin, my commute only cost $1 to get there and a $1 back. I even made the evening news below:

I made a two quick videos, one to show how you buy a ticket, and two, what you will see on your ride. I will definitely use this service more in the near future. They even opened up for weekends in March and evenings during SXSW music festival and with the increased ridership, they plan on doing more in the near future. Next weekend service...the Pecan Street Festival, May 7th, 2011. My birthday! Yea!

Debbie Barrera REALTOR
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Mark Zuckerberg - I want to SELL you a house!

Mon, 07 Feb 2011 17:10:47 -0800

Last night, before I went to bed, I re-read my Time Magazine - Person of the Year - edition, you know the one with Facebook founder, Mark Zuckerberg on the cover. Somehow overnight, his face and an idea popped into my head. If you haven't read it, or seen his recent Oprah interview, Mark Zuckerberg is a RENTER!! That's right, one of the most wealthiest men in America, rents his home. Don't get me wrong, I enjoy finding leases for many of my clients. Most aren't ready to make the jump into home or condo ownership and I personally was a renter for many, many years. I think in my lifetime alone (and I'm 40 years old), I have lived at over 15 different addresses in my 20s and 30s, until I bought my first place. However, this is Mark Zuckerberg!! You know the guy that has most of us glued to his Facebook website at least once or twice in a day (if not more, with the invention of Smart Phones.)

Upon some internet research, the previous home he leased, found right here in this Oprah clip, cost over 7K to rent. http://www.oprah.com/oprahshow/Take-a-Look-into-the-Life-of-Mark-Zuckerberg-Video_1 And now just last month, he upgraded to a bigger pad which if I had to guess, cost closer 9K a month to rent, which you can find here on Gawker http://gawker.com/5725833/this-is-mark-zuckerbergs-new-home

Have you seen the prices in Palo Alto, CA? I did a quick search on http://www.realtor.com/ and found that in the rental section, there is only 7 places for lease. For sale, there are currently only 176 properties. I guess selection is very slim in that area of the Silicon Valley. Compare that to Austin, Texas and Realtor.com lists 4,795 homes for sale and 948 rentals on the market. I know the cost of living is way higher in California, but really almost 10K a month in rental times 12 months is throwing away almost $120,000 a year! You can at least get a starter condo for that price here in Austin. Save another year and you can buy a really nice house. And just think of the Mortgage Interest you could write off every year on your taxes? But you are Mark Zuckerberg, you probably wouldn't need a loan but it's a thought.

So to you Mark Zuckerberg (and I know you must have a Google Alert set up for your name, I would), when your lease is almost up and you are ready to make your first time homebuyer purchase, give me a call or send me an email. Why? The best part of being a Realtor is the out-of-state/city referrals. By being a part of the Active Rain network of agents, I found a great one right here. http://activerain.com/cdimond She can find you the house of your dreams in Palo Alto, CA, where your main offices are located and I receive a referral fee. It stimulates the economy (and my checkbook) and we all end up happy.

And by the way, just in case you come to visit your new Facebook offices in Austin, Texas soon, also feel free to call or email me, and let me treat you to coffee so I can explain the benefits of home ownership. And if you are interested in a second or vacation home in Austin, Texas, I would be happy to sell you a house here too. Sandra Bullock, Andy Roddick, and Lance Armstrong would probably be glad to have you as one of their neighbors, I know I would.

p.s. Thanks for reading. And if anyone in Austin, Texas has friends moving out-of-state, or out-of the city, feel free to pass along my name and number/email too. You get a $50 gift card to the establishment of your choice and I will find them a great Realtor to help them with their new home search.

Debbie Barrera REALTOR
Cell/Text : 512-203-1912
DebbieKnowsAustin.com
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Craigslist Scams Are Back - Homes for Rent in Austin Texas

Thu, 03 Feb 2011 16:08:40 -0800

Not only do I work with Buyers and Sellers but I also work with Renters/Tenants and Owners/Lease Listings. A lease listing is when I market an owner's home for lease to try and find a qualifed tenant through many types of marketing including Craigslist. Here in Austin, Craiglist.org isn't as effective as it used to be in years past. In fact, now it's pretty much full of Apartment locators trying to do the ol' bait and switch. But that is not what this post is about. It's about the current influx of SCAMS on CRAIGSLIST.

For instance, this past summer alone, I know of 2 agents in our office that were targeted. One agent, we'll call him Agent A, was busy showing a client a ton of different properties in the Austin, TX area but his client, we'll call her Client A was getting frustrated with selection and prices, so she started looking on her own on Craigslist. Agent A gave a follow-up call to Client A and see how her search was going. She was so excited that she found a newer Duplex in Central Austin, built in 2010 with over 1200 sq. ft. for $900 and was going to meet with the owner to turn in money orders and their approved application. Hold up!! Agent A said this sounded too good to be true and asked his client for the address to confirm his suspicions. That same duplex was listed on the Austin MLS for $2700 a month!!! Client A was about to turn over money to some stranger and thanked Agent A for helping her almost making a huge mistake. Just goes to show that it's always good to have a Realtor on your side when looking for rental properties.

Agent B had listed a 3 bedroom/2 bath renovated home on a corner lot in Central Austin and posted an ad on Craigslist for $1600 a month. This house was located in a hot area of the Crestview neighborhood and the phone calls came rolling in. One Saturday afternoon, he got a call from an overly eager couple who wanted to see the place immediately and were very interested in putting in applications. Agent B went to meet them an hour later and gave them a tour of the house. They said they would take it and asked if they could turn in their apps with the $1000 deposit. Agent B looked puzzled, he said, the deposit is $1600 a month. The eager couple said, that is not what Craigslist said, it's said deposit was $1000 and first month's rent was $1000. That wasn't from the Ad that the agent had posted. Someone copied his pictures and detailed information but changed the price and email contact address. charminghome78@yahoo.com was not the listing Realtor's email address!! Someone almost scammed all parties.

Upon further investigation, here's the response below we got from emailing a request to see that address. Remember, do your homework with a Realtor before you turn money orders over to anyone. Google the address and see what other marketing is out there. And please do not fall for the drive-by and look at the outside line. Get an Austin Realtor to get you access to the inside of the house and prove it's legit. Has this happened in your town? Thanks for reading!

Greetings!!!

Thanks for your email.. The house is still available. I decided to rent the house because we are going to spend more time here in West Africa, about 7 years.. Let me start by introducing myself.I must confess that I am very new in this landlord business..However, My name is John R Carlin. I and my wife own the house located at (**** Lazy, Austin TX ).Due to my job as a civil engineer, I works for a German company called JULIUS BERGER CONSTRUCTION LTD, and now i have been transfer to West Africa to work in a branch in West Africa.I spent less time in the States so I could not get a hold on any Realtor to handle this rent issue, although it was when I knew how long we are going to stay in Africa that I decided to rent out the house. However,the initial plan was to sale out the House. which I tried, but sometimes the agents inflates the prize and it takes longer to sell.The house include the utilities like Heat, A/C in wall/window, Hydro, cable, Garbage Disposal, Fireplace , Fridge, stove, Dishwasher, Dryer, Breakfast Bar, Dining Table and Sofa Set,Refrigerator,Canopied deck overlooking nature.,internet access e.t.c. because of this reason and more we need a responsible person that can take very good care of it as we are not after the money , but want it to be clean and for you to take it as if it were yours.

The rent is: $1000
Security Deposit: $1000
For this 2BR/2BA.
Pets Allowed:Dogs and Cats.
Available :Available Now for move in.


PLEASE TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF

                                       RENT APPLICATION FORM
FIRST NAME:__________________
MIDDLE NAME: _________________
LAST NAME: __________________
PROFESSION: ________________
PHONE (____) __________
(CELL)PHONE (____) __________
(WORK)PHONE (____) __________
(HOME)
KIDS _____ (YES/NO), HOW MANY ________
PRESENT ADDRESS: _____________________
CITY: _______________
STATE: ______________
ZIP CODE: ____________
HOW LONG? ___________IF RENTING
WHY ARE YOU LEAVING? IF THIS APARTMENT IS BEING GIVEN TO YOU,
HOW LONG DO YOU INTEND STAYING? ____________
WHEN DO YOU INTEND MOVING IN? ______________
IF YOU HAVE A PET,
NAME OF PET: _____________
KIND OF PETS: _____________
HABITS
DO YOU SMOKE? ______________
DO YOU DRINK? ______________
DO YOU WORK LATE NIGHT? ____
HOW SOON CAN YOU SEND THE PAYMENT______________
.......................................................................................
TAKE NOTE: YOU CAN ONLY DRIVE BY AND SEE MY HOUSE FROM THE OUTSIDE AND IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN RENTING GET THE APPLICATION FORM FILLED

Debbie Barrera REALTOR
Cell/Text : 512-203-1912
DebbieKnowsAustin.com
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Top 10 Most Searched Real Estate Cities In 2010 On Realtor.com - Austin Texas is #8

Thu, 13 Jan 2011 18:49:35 -0800

The national website Realtor.com has just announced their Top 10 List of Most Searched Cities in the United States and 2 Texas cities have made the cut. San Antonio and Austin. Be sure that when your agent, such as myself, lists your home on their local MLS, that they choose the best 4 photos up front, because that is what shows on the Realtor.com website when someone seaches for homes on their website. Also, your real estate agent can also pay to upgrade and get all 25 photos (the max) onto the website as well. Don't forget about virtual tours too. The homes with the most detailed information, best photos, and virtual tours get more visual and physical showings than those with only one photo of the front of a home or in some cases, blurry photos. Make sure your agent is doing the best to market your home and see which agents really stand out. Check it out for yourself at www.Realtor.com or download their FREE app for iPhone, Windows, or Android phone at www.realtor.com/mobile/

The Top 10 Most Searched Cities According to Realtor.com

1.)Las Vegas, Nevada

2.)Los Angeles, California

3.)Orlando, Florida

4.)San Antonio, Texas

5.)Miami, Florida

6.)Phoenix, Arizona

7.)San Diego, California

8.)Austin, Texas

9.)Chicago, Illinois

10.)Tampa, Florida

I've personally heard from some of my sellers/owners after I've sold/leased their homes, (and some are now buyers/renters looking online) and they are grateful for how I marketed their homes with professional photos, virtual tours, social media, etc... and wish that more agents out there would really take the time and double check what is showing in cyberspace to get their homes sold/rented.

Have you searched for listings online and what are your thoughts?

Debbie Barrera REALTOR
Cell/Text : 512-203-1912
DebbieKnowsAustin.com
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Rodeo Austin 2011 live music lineup - I've got the inside scoop on concerts

Mon, 10 Jan 2011 21:43:11 -0800

Howdy partner, so I have this really good anonymous friend with great inside connections who gave me the scoop 2 weeks ago and now the Rodeo Austin concert lineup is on their official website. Here's the 2011 concert lineup for the Austin Rodeo at the Travis County fairgrounds, March 12th - March 26th, 2011 Mark your calendars, tickets on sale January 28th at 10:00 a.m.

http://www.rodeoaustin.com

OFFICIAL Line up for Rodeo Austin:

Saturday- March 12 - Eli Young Band

Sunday -March 13 - Big Time Rush

Monday-March 14 - Dierks Bentley

Tuesday-March 15 - Jason Derulo

Wednesday-March 16 - Blake Shelton

Thursday-March 17 - Easton Corbin

Friday-March 18 - Josh Turner

Saturday-March 19 - The Band Perry

Sunday-March 20 - Ronnie Milsap

Monday-March 21 - Joe Nichols

Tuesday-March 22 - Joan Jett and the Blackhearts

Wednesday-March 23 - Clay Walker

Thursday-March 24 - Rick Springfield

Friday -March 25 - Loretta Lynn

Saturday-March 26 - Kevin Fowler

I'll be seeing you at Joan Jett, Rick Springfield and Loretta Lynn! I love rock n' roll with Jessie's Girl and the Coal Miner's Daughter.

If you are thinking about buying, selling, or leasing in Austin, Texas, contact me, I'm here for you. $50 gift card for all referrals. Yee-haw!

Debbie Barrera REALTOR
Cell/Text : 512-203-1912
DebbieKnowsAustin.com
PresidioGroup.com

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Nissan LEAF 100% Electric Car - Test Drive in Austin, Texas

Wed, 22 Dec 2010 06:01:54 -0800

On Friday, December 17th, the Nissan LEAF Drive Electric Tour came through Austin, Texas at the Domain shopping center in North Austin. Nissan had set up an enormous exhibit in the parking lot with detailed information about the new Electric car on the block. I was super pumped to be one of the first participants in Texas for this exciting event.

In January 2011, there will be two more stops in Dallas, Texas and Pearland, Texas. If you have the chance to make this event, I highly recommend you sign up now. Details can be found at http://www.drivenissanleaf.com But let's get to the good stuff below:

The Nissan LEAF is 100% electric. What does that mean? Well, for starters, no gas! That's right, no filling up the tank. This car has Zero Emissions to help the environment. The retail price estimated to be about $35,000. However, you will have extra separate cost options on how to "charge" the vehicle's battery. From what I was told, there will be 2 home options to choose from and then 1 for when you are on the road. The first home option would be to buy a separate hand-held charge (kind of looks like a jumper cable) that you can plug into a 220V in your garage, that takes about approx. 20 hours to charge the battery fully. The second home option would be to have a charging station installed by an licensed electrician (extra monetary charge) that could be a removable fixture in your garage but similar to a "gas" tank. See the photos to understand what I'm talking about. You could take it with you if you decide to move/sell your house, or it would be a great marketing tool for the future, if these vehicles take off. Similar to solar panels, you can market your garage as Green option with the plug-in station already installed. This option would take about 8 hours to charge your battery, so you can leave it plugged in while your are sleeping so the car will be fully charged in the morning. The last option would be to drive to some of the city charging stations that would be in and around town, such as at Whole Foods (while you are grocery shopping) and possibly in the near future, Cracker Barrel, for those freeway stops. In fact, the Whole Foods flagship store here in Austin, Texas has one. And you might even see our resident celebrity Lance Armstrong driving his LIVESTRONG Nissan Leaf around the Austin City Limits.

What is the catch? Well for now, the cars are designed to be drivin within the City Limits. Their initial charge only lasts for up to 100 miles. So therefore, this would be a most excellent choice of vehicles for a Realtor like me. Eventually, there are going to be charging stations on most of the heavily driven Interstate highways/freeways like I-10 which runs nearby from San Antonio to Houston and so forth.

p.s. I just recently switched from a 2006 VW Passat to a 2009 Chevy Malibu Hybrid to try and save some gas money. But 100 % electric would be awesome!

****If you liked my blog, PLEASE vote from now until January 20th, so that I can have a chance a winning a FREE Nissan Leaf. Just click on the link below, enter your email address, and then open the email from Nissan to verify it, so it counts. I don't have access to your email addresses and Nissan swears they aren't gonna spam you. It's just a 1 time only/per email address vote.

https://www.drivenissanleaf.com/Win/Vote.aspx?b=D8USCFX3PRNW

**** Good karma will come to you and please feel free to email the above link to your family and friends. ****

Also, if your curious how my test drive went, and to hear more detailed information about the Nissan LEAF, watch my YouTube video below taken my the lovely marketing rep, Brigette, as she videotapes me driving.

Debbie Barrera REALTOR
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car2go Smart Cars Now Available for Austin Texas Residents

Wed, 09 Jun 2010 20:57:15 -0700

Live in Austin, Texas? If so , then maybe you have seen the new white and blue car2go Smart Cars zooming around in and around Downtown. Well now they are available for public use. Austin is the 4th largest city in Texas and is the only test city in the whole United States that got picked for this. Sign up now at http://www.car2go.com/austin/en/to get your FREE membership card (only for a limited time). Soon, they will be charging approximately $35 a card, so get yours now. All you then have to do is link it to a credit card for your usage payments. More information can be found on their online magazine http://www.car2read.com

The concept is simple. You need a car to get from point A to point B in Austin. Maybe yours is in the repair shop, maybe you don't even have a car. No sweat! 200 car2go cars are available in Austin, Texas. You can drive it anywhere within the Austin area, the catch is that you have to return it within the city limits to any public parking area, repeat, public parking area, so you can't park it in your driveway. Here's the map with the return areas highlighted in blue, http://www.car2go.com/austin/en/files/car2go_operating_area.pdf

Cost??? .35 cents a minute which includes gas, insurance, parking, maintenance, and mileage. Per Hour is $12.99 maximum. Per Day is $65.99 (based on 24 hour period) and if you go over 150 miles in one day, you will then be charged .45 cents per mile.

I have used it to personally to drive to Downtown Austin on a Saturday night for an event and then just left it there parked Downtown in a designated car2go parking spot and/or a city meter which is free parking for car2go members. This is an example of "closing" out my rental and making the car available to the next member. A one-way destination, where if the car was checked out by another member by the time I finished my event, then no problem, I could take a cab home instead(especially after a few cocktails).

Another time, I used a car2go that was parked near my condo in East Austin at the Livestrong building - to go pick up a client at his apartment - to go sign a new lease for his new rental at the other agent's Downtown office - and then back home (parked publicly curbside). This rental was not "closed out" until the end of my trip, so that no other member could use my car.

Once you get your membership card, you will understand the difference of a car available (blinking green) as opposed to one that is checked out (blinking red). It's a very roomy ride, even though it's a 2 seater, and it comes with a radio and built-in.

I was explaining it to my friend Leia while heading to lunch the other day and she asked, how does it work? In other words, how do they know it's you driving, keys, etc...and we filmed a short video. Enjoy! Also, would love your comments if you have used one or have any further questions.

Debbie Barrera REALTOR
Cell/Text : 512-203-1912
DebbieKnowsAustin.com
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One of my faves on E. 6th Street El Milagro Tortilleria in Austin, TX 78702

Thu, 22 Apr 2010 15:11:56 -0700

So I've recently taking the jump back into blogging and my favorite is called "vlogging" or Video blogging. I want to feature from time to time, different places up and down my neighborhood on E. 6th Street. About a year ago, I did a video on You Tube with me in my car driving up the street showing a quick preview of the area retailers. (See previous blog posting.) Now I'm going to concentrate on showing one by one, more of my 'hood hot spots. The video up above is from a local factory that produces tortillas, chips, masa, etc...that is distributed all around the Texas area. In fact, one of my You Tube viewers sent me a note that this place, El Milagro, was owned by her Uncle/Godfather. Her story is below. My Uncle/Godfather founded "El Milagro" in 1950. All of the original "El Milagro" stores, Restaurants, and products were started in Chicago. All of them are still in operation in Chicago to this day. There are also " El Milagro" stores and restaurants in, Atlanta, and Austin. There is an " El Milagro" restaurant in Memphis, and also a taqueria " El Milagro" on you tube but those " El Milagro's" are in no way affiliated or part of the original Lopez family owned " El Milagro" restaurants, stores or products. for more information on the original " El Milagro" tortilleria's, and taquerias please visit http://www.el-milagro.com for more information and history. Thank you Also, as a bonus, I have added my neighborhood map from Yelp.com to show you some of my favorite places in the area. Enjoy!!

My Neighborhood

What's this?

Debbie Barrera REALTOR
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Chim chiminey Chim chiminey Chim chim cher-ee! Chimney Sweep In Austin, Texas

Mon, 08 Mar 2010 17:09:55 -0800

Chim chiminey
Chim chiminey
Chim chim cher-ee!
A sweep is as lucky
As lucky can be

Chim chiminey
Chim chiminey
Chim chim cher-oo!
Good luck will rub off when
I shake 'ands with you
Or blow me a kiss
And that's lucky too

- Mary Poppins

Here in Austin, Texas, the weather has been crazy. One day it's cold (even snowing), next day, it's raining, and the day after that everyone is out enjoying the sunny weather. We have a saying here in Texas, just wait 10 minutes and the weather will change.

I recently had a buyer who just received their home inspection and one of the things mentioned was a busted chimney cap and chimney in need of cleaning and repairing. I asked around the office and here's what I found. AREA WIDE CHIMNEY SWEEP & AIR DUCT CLEANING - AKA CHARLES FISK. He's the owner and manager. They do No Mess Chimney Sweeping, Restorations, Caps and Repairs. Plus they also do air duct and dryer vent cleaning too. Phone number (512) 924-9686 or cell (512) 323-0698 http://www.areawidechimneysweep.com

Charles was a really interesting guy and even showed up in a Top Hat, straight from the movies, and for a second there, I thought he was Dick Van Dyke. I thought Julie Andrews, aka Mary Poppins was going to show up with her umbrella, ella, ella, eh, eh....

When you get an estimate from them (about $50), and you use them for chimney work later, they will credit you the $50 on your bill. One last thing, Charles says just like the lyrics above, to shake a chimney sweeps hand is good luck....so I went and bought a lottery ticket!

Tell 'em DebbieKnowsAustin sent ya!

Debbie Barrera REALTOR
Cell/Text : 512-203-1912
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Bouldin Creek Cottage for Lease in 78704 Available 4/1/10

Tue, 23 Feb 2010 17:09:14 -0800

2 bedroom/2.5 bath 2 car garage self-standing condo in heart of 78704. Walk to Polvo's, Freddie's, and Jovita's. Ride your bike to ACL. Hardwood floors throughout first floor. One covered patio and one covered balcony. Huge oak tree in backyard. Gas fireplace. Refrigerator stays. Washer/Dryer negotiable. Gated community. 2 car garage. Gas fireplace. Partial fenced backyard, owner will fence if Pets OK. See You Tube video below

Debbie Barrera REALTOR
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All Aboard!! Capital MetroRail, the commuter train, is coming soon to Austin, Texas

Tue, 17 Feb 2009 14:04:07 -0800

Capital Metro is having free open houses the next few weeks in preparation for the upcoming MetroRail, the commuter train service. It will finish/start in Downtown Austin near the Convention Center, travel through East Austin, with stops at Plaza Saltillo and MLK, Jr. and then back West, with stops at Highland (Mall) , Crestview and Kramer Ln. and further up North, stopping at Howard Ln., Lakeline (Mall) and then it's beginning/final stop to Leander. As I write this, 2 open houses have already taken place in Leander and Plaza Saltillo (E. 5th and Comal), with more to come.

The next open houses are as follows from the Capital Metro website:

Crestview Station - Saturday, Feb. 21
10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
6920 North Lamar Blvd.
Access St. Johns for limited parking at adjacent development

MLK, Jr. Station - Saturday, Feb. 21
10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
1719 Alexander Ave.
Limited parking next to station

Downtown Station - Friday, Feb. 27
2 p.m. - 7 p.m.
401 E. 4th Street

At the open houses, you can get a train schedule which will be effective March 30, 2009 thru August 22, 2009, plus you can learn how to operate the ticket machines. The preliminary schedule has trains operating between the morning hours of 5:40 a.m. and 9:40 a.m and then the afternoon trips from 3:45 p.m. to 7:45 p.m. There will also be free wi-fi on the trains and bicycle racks for the bike commuter. If all 6 racks are taken, there is even a spot where you can stand with your bike if there is room on the train. Tickets will range from $1 to $1.50 with discounts available to students, active duty and reserve military.

I live at the TwentyOne24 Condos in East Austin so I got a chance to make the 2 1/2 block walk to visit Plaza Saltillo this past weekend just in the nick of time. I was on the last tour of the day and had the pleasure of seeing the inside of the train, Downtown Austin in the background, and then watching the MetroRail as it took off to the East. Enjoy the video and if you want further information, please visit http://allsystemsgo.capmetro.org/capital-metrorail.shtml or call (512)474-1200

Debbie Barrera REALTOR
Cell/Text : 512-203-1912
DebbieKnowsAustin.com
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1-800-454-9078 called me today and it was worth it!

Mon, 09 Feb 2009 17:48:34 -0800

Early this morning, I got this call from a 1-800 number. I let it go to voicemail because usually it's a telemarketer, someone wanting me to extend my car warranty, or someone wanting me to pay for real estate leads. I do not need any of the above right now. I let it go to voicemail and then listened to the message. It was a call claiming to be from Chase Credit Card Fraud department and they said the last 4 digits of my credit card. They wanted me to call them back immediately, so I did. However, when I called the number, it asked me to enter my credit card information....hmmm...let me rethink this. I immediately hung up and then Googled the 1-800 number. Come to find out that half the online community posts say it's real and half say it's a scam.

Instead, I decided to look up the customer service number on the www.Chase.com website and called them directly. My goal last year was to pay off all my credit cards (which I did, yippee!) however, I have 2 Chase cards, one for business and one for personal (like hotels, rental cars, etc...) I paid off both cards and they each have a zero balance. They verified my information and I didn't even have to type in my credit card information. Why? Because it was Chase directly and they have all my information on the screen. Just a quick verification of my last for digits of my social security number and mother's maiden name -no need to type in my full credit card information.

Someone had tried to use one of my credit cards to make an online purchase. $92.58 to be exact, to IBM? Cosmetics, an online store. Apparently, they didn't know the correct expiration date so it was flagged. I told the woman on the phone that I haven't used that card in months and it should have a zero balance. She mentioned I had a $3.95 charge for a dermatology clinic that was revolving monthly charge. Again, a fraudulent charge, because I don't use the card. She reversed both charges and then told me they were going to close that account and reissue me a new card with a different account number, so it wouldn't affect my credit.

What is the lesson here? If in doubt, call your credit card company directly from the number off the back of your card or from their legitimate website. It could save you from identity theft. Good luck!

Debbie Barrera REALTOR
Cell/Text : 512-203-1912
DebbieKnowsAustin.com
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FURNISHED Loft for Lease $1600 a month near Downtown Austin at TwentyOne24 Condos

Tue, 16 Dec 2008 17:54:31 -0800

Just in time for the new year. If you have someone moving to Austin and they need a place for 6 months to 1 year, this is it! This condo unit comes with furniture, washer and dryer, plus refrigerator. Also, towels, soap, flatware, plates, pots and pans are available upon request. The owner pays for water, sewer and trash. Your tenant would be responsible for electric, cable and Internet. However, there are many coffeeshops within walking distance with free wi-fi. It's also only a $5 cab ride to Downtown.

Can be unfurnished for $1500 a month
2 bedroom/2 bathroom Loft style condo
Approx. 1083 sq. ft. Built in late 2007
Never Lived In!! Furnished with Refrigerator and Washer and Dryer
WrapAround Balcony with view of Downtown and State Capitol
Exciting East Austin neighborhood with many restaurants and bars
Stained Concrete Floors, Kenmore Appliances, Ceiling Fans, Track Lighting, Dining Room Table, Couch, Walk-In Closet, Travertine Tile Tub and Shower, Granite Countertops
$1600 a month/$1600 deposit/$40 application fee

See virtual tour at http://www.visualtour.com/shownp.asp?T=1744544

And see YouTube video below

Debbie Barrera - REALTOR

Presidio Group REALTORS

www.DebbieKnowsAustin.com

Debbie Barrera REALTOR
Cell/Text : 512-203-1912
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What a difference a month makes...Gas Prices under $2.00!!

Thu, 20 Nov 2008 00:35:32 -0800

Low gas prices are available right here in Austin, Texas! I noticed how much gas has gone down in price since my last post. In fact, most of the gas stations here in East Austin are under $2.00 a gallon. I filled up at my favorite place, Major Brand on Cesar Chavez and by paying with my debit card, it was 2 cents cheaper than advertised on the sign. I paid $1.92!!

I did notice one sign in Houston on my drive back from the Madonna concert this past weekend (a future blog to come) and it was advertised at $1.87. Can you believe it?

As a REALTOR who does lots of driving, I just have to say, Yippee!!! If you live and Austin and are paying over $2.00 for gas, you are getting ripped off! Visit www.AustinGasPrices.com to see the cheapest in your neighborhood. What is the cheapest you have paid lately and where?

Debbie Barrera REALTOR
Cell/Text : 512-203-1912
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The Cheapest Gas Price In Austin...For Today $2.59 a Gallon!!!

Tue, 14 Oct 2008 23:10:27 -0700

My 2006 VW Passat was running low on gas a few days ago and I passed a station on Cesar Chavez In East Austin that said $2.79 and and I was like, wow, I'm going to fill up there, however, time was slipping away so I decided to come back another time. And lo and behold, 2 days later it's now $2.59!! The Major Brand Gas store is a big yellow building with American flags on top of it. I waited in line about 7 minutes for my turn in line (there were quite a few cars already there) and then it was my turn. It felt so good to spend less than $45 to fill my tank, when just months ago I was spending over $60 of my hard earned cash. The VW is great on gas mileage, it gets about 26-33 MPG. Take note of this website www.austingasprices.com and check your neighborhood for the cheapest gas. I posted my find today and it's currently the least expensive gas in Austin right now. The 2 other stations that beat it are in Taylor.

In fact, while my car was in the shop recently getting repaired, I decided to buy a Scooter to run errands around town in. It was one of the best investments I've ever made. I took that Scooter back to the same station to fill up and it cost me $5.44, yes, that's right, just over $5. It's a 2-gallon tank. And it gets 80-85 MPG. The Austin American Statesman newspaper had a great article on scooters in Austin recently, here is the link. http://www.statesman.com/life/content/life/stories/style/07/24/0724scooters.html

I just joined a Scooter club here in Austin but haven't had time to go for a long-distance ride yet due to work. I'm not complaining, it's great that I live in one of the few towns in America with a strong real estate market. Check my website at www.DebbieKnowsAustin.com for the latest listings. So if you're one of my clients and you want to go see some homes on my Scooter instead of my VW, I won't mind...

Debbie Barrera REALTOR
Cell/Text : 512-203-1912
DebbieKnowsAustin.com
PresidioGroup.com

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J. Kelly's Barbeque on E. 11th and a Drive down E. 6th in East Austin

Sat, 11 Oct 2008 23:26:22 -0700

Mmmm!!! Texas, BBQ and Football...Just got home from dinner and tried a "new" restaurant at 900 E. 11th called J. Kelly's Barbeque. I say "new" with quotations marks because it's actually an "old" restaurant with a new makeover. Ben's Longbranch Barbeque was an East Austin landmark just off I-35 and E. 11th (behind the CVS Pharmacy). Not to be confused with the Longbranch Bar down the street.

The very nice, helpful, and knowledgeable woman behind the counter said that Ben still comes in and that they use his original recipes. And that we can catch him down the street at Gene's Original Po-Boys one day (cause he frequents there too.) The dry rub ribs were awesome! Sausage was very meaty and the brisket was yummy too. Mustard potato salad, nice and cold just like I like it. The beans were so-so, could have used some brown sugar in them for sweetness. But speaking of sweet, oh my gosh, the sweet tea was the sweetest tea I have ever tasted (even more than the year I spent in North Carolina and they know sweet tea!). I had to mix it with the unsweetened to make it to my liking.

The patio was a nice setting to a long day (yes, UT beat OU!!) and had televisions playing outside with sports highlights. (Texas Tech beat Nebraska!) I will be back and recommend that you visit this Austin establishment.

So as an experiment, I thought I would rattle off some restaurants, bars, and of course Real Estate while driving home one day on E. 6th (My Holly neighborhood). Yes, that is me driving, but please notice, I am following the rules of the roads and all watering holes are visited during non-working hours, which is few and far between in this business. Enjoy the video...

Debbie Barrera REALTOR
Cell/Text : 512-203-1912
DebbieKnowsAustin.com
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East Austin Capital MetroRail ESTE

Sat, 13 Sep 2008 17:39:49 -0700

So on the weekends, I'm a tour guide at the TwentyOne24 Condos and the new ESTE condominiums for the developer Constructive Ventures in East Austin. I live with my partner at TwentyOne24 and know all about the neighborhood and it's perks. One Saturday afternoon, Capital Metro was out there testing the new upcoming commuter MetroRail. It's a really exciting thing that will be coming soon to my neighborhood. Originally they were supposed to be ready by the end of this year, 2008. However, it's now been pushed until April 2009. But once they are up and running, it will be fun to hop on one and go to Highland and Lakeline Mall without having to worry about parking. There will even be bicycle racks inside the trains and wi-fi too! Here's a link to more information about the routes and maps.

http://allsystemsgo.capmetro.org/capital-metrorail.shtml

And here is a link to the video I took:

Since Capital Metro has taken away the trolley looking bus, the 'Dillo, on E. 6th from my Eastside neighborhood, I am even more excited about this upcoming event.

Debbie Barrera REALTOR
Cell/Text : 512-203-1912
DebbieKnowsAustin.com
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I have arrived!! Debbie's First Blog Austin, Texas

Thu, 21 Aug 2008 19:38:35 -0700

So here I am at the Presidio Group office. A Realtor's job is never done... Working on flyers for some listings, returning phone calls, adding pictures to our company website, and then working later tonight on Virtual (Visual) tours. With Austin being such a great town and active real estate market, there is never a dull moment.

Just thinking about all of the wonderful people I have met since I became a Realtor over 5 years ago. Played 9 hole golf with Jacob the other day and had a blast. Harvey Penick Golf Course, next door to the YMCA off 183, they have carts!!

However, I have an earache and can't hear anything currently out of my right ear. Went to doctor, got some medicine. Thank you Michael Dell for my medical insurance!!

The iTunes on my laptop just played some Ghostland Observatory and I want to get up and dance, but I don't feel well. I'm hungry. Will be headed out in a bit to go by some new softball equipment at the new Sports Authority before I head out to Seattle next week for the World Series of NAGAAA softball. Might catch a new restaurant at Southpark Meadows.

I know I'm supposed to be writing about current market conditions, real estate listings, blah, blah, blah, but for my first blog, I just wanted to write a stream of conciousness before I write later about my listing, buyers, experiences, etc...

Hello Active Rain, I've got a feeling we will be seeing a lot of each other. I'm a talker (typer)!

Debbie Barrera REALTOR
Cell/Text : 512-203-1912
DebbieKnowsAustin.com
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