Austin Texas Real Estate Blog

Green Grilling!

Affinity Properties, Inc — Sat, 21 Jun 2008 19:08:25 -0500

Summer’s here, and its time to fire up the old barbeque grill to celebrate our American past times. Many people will stray away from the barbeque to prevent unnecessary environmental waste and pollution. Before you throw tour barbeque out, try some of these quick tips to safely barbeque. You can celebrate America safely and waste-free!

Green grilling cannot be done with a charcoal grill. The green plan is to definitely purchase an electric or propane grill. If you are forced to utilize a charcoal grill, make sure to purchase natural charcoals, many of which can be found in your local grocery stores. If the flavor gotten from wood grill is what you long for, be sure to purchase the environmentally friendly choice of the Wood Flame grill.
On top of the risk of heart disease and cholesterol overdose, meat is also unfriendly to environment. Try replacing the meat you planned to cook with pork, beans, or chicken.
Go green even more by barbequing some all natural organic vegetables. Just about everything tastes better when it’s kabobed. Roll out the skewers and turn on the grill. Its time for the veggie grilling.

Try to green out your beer selection too. The locally and organic brews are much better for the environment, and also quite eco- friendly. Also try organic fruit juices and sodas such as blue sky or unpopular energy drinks.

Instead of buying the Styrofoam disposables, use the china and dishwasher ware. You can also try the recyclable, reusable leaf plates – green and green!

Though your probably most comfortable in your backyard, sometimes you should try contacting your public park for utilization. They are often less prone to waste and easier to clean up.

Get outside and get ready for your summer fun. You can barbeque while keeping the planet beautifully green. Enjoy your outdoor food extravaganza while supporting the environment. What could be better to top off your day?

Joe

Bellview Signature Homes | Round Rock Texas Parks and Recreation

DOJ/NAR Settlement

Affinity Properties, Inc — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 22:41:04 -0500

In response to a litigation originally filed in September 2005, the United States Department of Justice (USDoJ) and the National Association of Realtors (NAR) have recently come to terms on an overwhelming agreement, to the approval of RE/MAX International.

For some time now, government officials have investigated the policies of NAR, and has found that NAR need not pay any fines or fees. The settlement and trial finds them not guilty of any such wrongdoings. Since “opt-out” is not the issue it once was, NAR policies will continue, remaining intact.

Even though this agreement is a step in the right direction, the results of this settlement will not likely be seen as a lucrative impact on the real estate market. The National Association of Realtor’s IDX guidelines have never been confronted with defiance. The newly rewritten Virtual Office Website documents will seemingly be placed into effect, as a renewed permanent policy. The opposing Multiple Listing Services shall continue to remain closely associated with the works of professional real estate brokerages, especially those who pay to subscribe.

“Opt-out”, a brokerage policy, has been directly impacted by the evolution of the market place. The formerly instated policy allowed traditional brokerages to “opt-out” from their professional responsibilities, withholding their information from their competitors.

Years in the past, RE/MAX decided to provide potential customers with sought after home listings, right along side that of their competitors. Recently as technology has been used to track consumer site clicks/visits, Remax.com has proven to be the most visited site amongst the national real estate corporations. This adds to the proven success of RE/Max.

Joe

ReMax Austin

Joe Cline works in Austin Texas Real Estate. If you are looking to buy, sell, or lease Austin Real Estate, it would be my pleasure to help. I also work selling Lakeway Real Estate.

Fannie Mae Loosens Down Payment Knot

Affinity Properties, Inc — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 23:08:33 -0500

Fannie Mae, the largest home loan funding source, has announced that they are changing their down payment requirements for all homes in the US market, even those where home values have steadily declined in recent months. This comes after the December 07 announcement that a tighter restriction was to be placed on down payments following the home sales decline through the past year.

Fannie Mae has pledged to stimulate the US housing market with more than $10 billion in changes to their down payment practices. At this time they are offering down payments as low as 3% of the homes value on single family dwellings. That is allowing mortgage originators more options when seeking funding for their clients. Fannie Mae hopes that this will stimulate the lagging market enough to increase consumer confidence across the board.

A 97% loan to value ratio is set by Fannie Mae at this time and Freddie Mac has landed with the 95% loan to value ratio. Both of these companies have stated that they will continue with normal operations. They have several programs in place, such as the second lien system, which allows a consumer to have a second lien to help pay for down payment and closing costs. The new down payment requirements come into play with the idea of the standard mortgages that Fannie Mae will purchase from lenders allowing the companies to lend more over time.

This stimulation package by the two big names in mortgage funding is set to slowly boost the national average and pull the US out of the housing slump.

Source: http://news.moneycentral.msn.com/provider/providerarticle.aspx?feed=OBR&date=20080516&id=8655869

Hope you enjoyed this post!

Joe

Westfield Texas Listings | Commanders Point Real Estate

Office Leasing

Affinity Properties, Inc — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 22:29:59 -0500

You aren’t trying to buy a house or a condo or a luxury apartment. In fact, you couldn’t care less about houses and condos and luxury apartments. What you are trying to do is lease office space where you can set up your business and toil away forty hours a week. Compared to purchasing a 4-acre property, this sounds like a simple task, but it’s not. There is some work required to leasing, or at least to leasing intelligently.

It all starts with hiring the proper representatives. You need a real estate broker and a lawyer. The real estate broker will deal with the landlord’s representative and handle all of the commercial aspects, which while an important part of the deal aren’t the only aspects you should concern yourself with. There are legal matters, as well. And that is why you need a lawyer. He will cover the bases your broker does not.

Once you and the landlord have the proper representatives, you need to determine the terms of your lease. You must consider the rent, the length of the lease, personal guarantee, renewal options and much, much more. You should know how much the security deposit will be, whether you’ll be forced to relocate in the future, and if you’ll be able to add more space. Essentially, you need to make sure every detail of the agreement works for you and the landlord. If any don’t, you should negotiate (this is where the broker and attorney come in handy), but don’t nitpick over everything. Choose your battles, determining what will benefit you most in the long run and what is just a waste of argument.

Finally, cover the little details you wouldn’t think of until the heat broke in the dead of winter. Know what will happen if repairs are needed or damage occurs. Know who is responsible for paying utilities and property taxes. Can you sublet? If there is an irresolvable dispute between you and the landlord, will you be able to back out of the deal without losing an inordinate amount of money? Discuss everything. Be intelligent and informed. If you walk into this with your head on straight, you can get a deal that will serve as an amazing start to your business. Do it, and then get down to work.

I know you don't really absolutely need a lawyer, but when buying business assets as large as property, I always like to be over covered. :)

Joe

Austin Production Builder | Flintrock at Hurst Creek Lakeway Real Estate

A Look at Austin Texas

Affinity Properties, Inc — Sun, 01 Jun 2008 15:39:15 -0500

It’s not the largest city in the country. It’s not even the largest city in Texas, but that doesn’t mean Austin is lacking . . . in anything. As the third fastest growing large city in the United States, Austin is thriving with history, industry and, most importantly, realty.

History

What today is Austin was at first named Waterloo and was originally home to a number of Native American tribes, such as the Tonkawa, a nomadic group who used the area as one of their many stops throughout the year. Plans to turn Austin into a city more European than Native American did not develop until the 1830s. And even then, it was not until 1839 that Austin was truly established and became Texas’ capital.

The city began with a promising start, but a severe population drop in the 1840s offset the region’s initial growth spurt. Months into 1841, the city was home to only 200 people. In 1842, the title of capital was taken from the dwindling city and given to Houston. But three years later, when Texas was annexed into the United States, that wrong was righted, albeit on a temporary basis. And in 1872, Austin was permanently selected as the Lone Star’s capital.

From there, Austin had nowhere to go but up. And up it went. Austin quickly established itself as a legitimate metropolitan, building the Texas State Capitol, creating a reputable public school system, and bringing higher education and booming industry into the region. Today, it houses politicians, businessmen, students, musicians and scientists. It is safe to say that Austin is a far cry from the barely populated town it began as.

Economy/Jobs

Much of the industry in Austin is technology based. The steady flow of graduates from the University of Texas at Austin feed the growing need for employees as technology and science continue to develop, branching out into new, untapped territories. Dell, IBM, Motorola, the University of Texas and the state itself employ most of Austin’s citizens. However, there is no lack of other corporations. Everything from Google to Whole Foods has a base in Austin.

This trend of budding corporations finding a home in Austin does not look to end soon. Commercial, pharmaceutical, and state and local possibilities arise every day. Even as the nation’s economy teeters, Austin’s remains strong, allowing for more jobs, more work and more people.

Real Estate

Just as the economy is strong, real estate is strong. While sales have slowed recently, they have not stopped. The price of living compared to the price of houses is more than appealing, particularly when compared to surrounding areas and metropolitans. New buildings and developments are plotted, begun or finished nearly every day. People are rushing into Austin for homes and offices at startling rates.

To make matters even better, Austin has established itself as one of the greenest cities in the country, mapping the course for green construction, alternative means of energy and environmental friendliness. It is working on becoming an urban area that both respects and takes part in saving the ecosystem.

It is a city that may have begun as a temporary dwelling for nomadic tribes but is now one of the best places to live in the United States, let alone Texas.

Hope you like Austin TX as much as I do now that you know some more about it.

Joe

Austin Real Estate Blog | Austin Real Estate Blog

Austin: What It Is Today

Affinity Properties, Inc — Sat, 31 May 2008 22:13:54 -0500

The city of Austin has come a long way since its days as a buffalo-hunting ground for the Tonkawa and other Indian tribes. The 4,224 square miles now hold more than 1.5 million people. The city has one of the fastest growing populations in the country and the fastest growing income in the state. Neither shows signs of slowing, as more than 8,000 new inhabitants are anticipated every year with 2,000 fewer leaving. But with all these people, where are they living?

Many are in apartments, but more still are in houses, the average price of which are 184,200 dollars - slightly higher than in Texas as a whole but lower than throughout the United States. Most families easily afford the cost, as they are making at least $45,314 and on average $69,300. Incomes for first-time homebuyers are naturally a little less.

While the value of homes are not as high as they were in 2001, when real estate peaked, they are much better than they used to be. Compared to 2003, 2007 prices were extraordinary. Declines are slight, and it’s likely Austin could soon come full circle, back to the booming value of the early boom. If value rises, so does sale pricing; therefore, expect a continuing increase throughout the area.

If you’re concerned not about how much you will get for your home, but how much you will have to pay and if you can, don’t be. Employment is on the rise as well. The University of Texas - Austin is one of the fastest growing schools in the country. With companies such as Dell, Seton Health Care, IBM and AT&T offering jobs, you know that with the right skills, you can get the right position. There is no shortage of employment opportunities.

Austin is a city of possibility. The statistics show it - now all you have to do is prove it.

Just a little post about Austin as I find that overviews are often helpful.

Joe

Pflugerville Texas MLS Listings | Austin City Lofts

Quit Quitclaims

Affinity Properties, Inc — Fri, 30 May 2008 16:41:47 -0500

The real estate world is full of mysterious jargon that only select few understand. Realtors often seem like they are speaking a language all their own, a fact that can make dealing with them and their clients intimidating, overwhelming and seemingly not worth a fight. But that kind of attitude can hurt you, especially if you get talked into something as risky as a Quitclaim.

A Quitclaim Deed, often mistakenly called a Quick Claim Deed, is a deed in which the landowner does not promise he has no interest in the land but says he will surrender any that may exist. It is a vague statement that doesn’t specifically give the buyer full hold over the property, and thus is something that can easily backfire on you. Moreover, it is essentially useless in Texas. Therefore, what you want instead is a Warranty Deed, or at the very least, a Quitclaim Deed that has been painstakingly examined by your representative, because that is the key to breaking through the real estate jargon - a realtor on your side.

Hiring a real estate agent who already knows the language, the tricks and the loopholes that could both benefit and hurt you will ensure you get a deal that is truly a deal. It will lead to a sale that benefits more than one party, and it will prevent much of the frustration and headaches in your future. So before you sign anything, before you even look at anything, consult a real estate agent. Do the research, and end up on top.

Joe Cline, REALTOR, Broker, CRS, ABR

Austin Real Estate Blog | Avery Ranch Texas Listings

Commercial Building Slows to Residential's Pace

Affinity Properties, Inc — Tue, 27 May 2008 23:24:25 -0500

In 2007, everyone stopped building homes. For that matter, they stopped buying and selling homes, too. They weren't wanted; they weren't needed; and they certainly weren't in the budget. That wasn't the case, however, for commercial structures. Offices, malls, hotels and public institutions continued to be built throughout the year. These buildings seemed to feel very little of the economy's tightening, remaining strong and newly erected while everything else weakened.

Unfortunately, that's no longer true.

Current trends show that nonresidential construction is about to hit a standstill. Projects already in the works are tentatively continuing, unsure if they'll have enough funds for completion. And projects only in the planning stages seem to be ultimately doomed. In March, the number of nonresidential starts dropped by 23 percent; hotels dipped 67 percent, offices 28 and stores 18. Since the dip is relatively recent, it could be hoped that this is only temporary, but with the increased difficulty of obtaining a loan, the weak dollar and the high price of building materials, it's doubtful that's true. This won't be turning around any time soon.

That means the economy is only going to get worse. An estimated $250 billion is put into the economy annually by commercial buildings. Without them, there will only be a tighter squeeze - more strain on your wallet. Construction jobs will dwindle even more than they already have, and the real estate market will take yet another hit, making it doubly difficult to stay afloat, whether you are commercial or residential, buyer, seller or builder.

Hopefully, we'll all weather this storm adn come out stronger than we were before the tough times hit.

Joe

Selling a Home in Austin Texas | New Year 2008 Texas Economy Forecast

Austin Begins Work on Dictating Another Aspect of Homes

Affinity Properties, Inc — Wed, 21 May 2008 02:25:19 -0500

I CAN'T BELEIVE IT. I just got this in my email. I thought the forced green upgrades was out of characted for Austin, but I must be losing it. Now the city wants to force builders to build with certain specifications. Forget custom homes. Now the city is working on making all homes follow these guidelines.

MANDATORY VISITABILITY IN CAPITAL CITY?

AUSTIN (Austin Business Journal) – A proposed city ordinance could require local home builders to equip all new single-family homes with features designed especially for disabled individuals and the elderly.

The city council this month passed a resolution to initiate code amendments requiring new homes to comply with the city's “visitability standards,” which currently apply only to homes built using public funds.

Among the proposed requirements are:

- at least one building entrance on the first floor served by a ramp or no-step entrance,
- doors that are at least 32 inches wide,
- hallways that are at least 36 inches across and level with door thresholds, and
- first-floor bathrooms with reinforced walls capable of supporting grab bars.

The city's law department is currently drafting an ordinance for public hearings and a city council vote next month.

What gives? Isn't anyone else as disturbed by this as me? I'm all for making public buildings accessible, but forcing the requirement on homes?

Joe

Buyer Closing Costs | New Home Austin Texas

My opinion on the forced green movement in Austin.

Affinity Properties, Inc — Wed, 21 May 2008 01:26:57 -0500

I posted a note about the potential point of sale green update ordinance in Austin a few days ago. Here's my thoughts on the issue now that I've had a few days to think about it.

There’s no denying the importance of eco-conscious living. We have, after all, caused considerable damage to the environment. Whatever we can do to reverse this should be done, but because we want to not because our mayor or government as a whole says we should.

The new energy efficiency ordinances currently under consideration by Austin officials are not the solution to our environmental problems. They are in fact the opposite. Few in this country like to be told what to do; they like even less to be kept from completing their plans, which in this case would be selling their home. Their reaction, therefore, to the ordinances would be largely hostile, most likely creating an environmental backlash. Those currently claiming that the green movement is based in nothing more than unsubstantiated hype would garner support from the frustrated. The eco-consciousness building in today’s society would be shadowed by anger and annoyance.

The key is not to force the citizens of Austin to bow to the government’s will. Nothing will be accomplished if we force residents to install costly measures before they can move forward with their plans. If we do, they will only know the negative. We must instead find ways to properly educate them on the benefits of being green. There are many - tax rebates, higher property values, longer lasting properties and a future on this Earth - and if they know this, they may be willing to voluntarily install the energy efficient systems Austin is so vehemently supporting.

If you think differently, I'd love to know why. I'm always open to changing my mind. :)

Joe

Spillman Ranch Property for Sale | Austin Real Estate Blog

Anybody else feel like doing this?

Affinity Properties, Inc — Mon, 19 May 2008 02:32:12 -0500

Check out this excerpt from the New York Times. It's about a family in Austin that is bucking the growing trend of materialism and going to live simply.

May 17, 2008

Chasing Utopia, Family Imagines No Possessions

By RALPH BLUMENTHAL and RACHEL MOSTELLER

AUSTIN, Tex. — Like many other young couples, Aimee and Jeff Harris spent the first years of their marriage eagerly accumulating stuff: cars, furniture, clothes, appliances and, after a son and a daughter came along, toys, toys, toys.

Now they are trying to get rid of it all, down to their fancy wedding bands. Chasing a utopian vision of a self-sustaining life on the land as partisans of a movement some call voluntary simplicity, they are donating virtually all their possessions to charity and hitting the road at the end of May.

“It’s amazing the amount of things a family can acquire,” said Mrs. Harris, 28, attributing their good life to “the ridiculous amount of money” her husband earned as a computer network engineer in this early Wi-Fi mecca.

The Harrises now hope to end up as organic homesteaders in Vermont.

“We’re not attached to any outcome,” said Mrs. Harris, a would-be doctor before dropping out of college, who grew up poverty-stricken in a family that traces its lineage back through the Delanos and President Franklin D. Roosevelt to a Mayflower settler, Isaac Allerton.

Mr. Harris, 30, who dropped out of high school and “rode the Internet wave,” agreed, saying they were “letting the universe take us for a ride.”

They are not alone.

Matt and Sara Janssen, who traded down from their house in Iowa to a studio apartment in Montana and finally an R.V. powered by vegetable oil, now crisscross the country with their 4-year-old daughter, highway nomads living on $1,500 a month.

Not that simplicity need be that spartan. Cindy Wallach and her husband, Doug Vibbert, of Annapolis, Md., moved out of their apartment with an “everything must go” party and, along with their 3-year-old son, now sail and make their home on a 44-by-24-foot catamaran.

“We never wanted four walls and beige carpet,” Ms. Wallach said.

Though it may not be the stuff of the typical American dream, the voluntary simplicity movement, which traces its inception to 1980s Seattle, is drawing a great deal of renewed interest, some experts say.

“If you think about some of the shifts we’re having economically — shifts in oil and energy — it may be the right time,” said Mary E. Grigsby, associate professor of rural sociology at the University of Missouri and the author of “Buying Time and Getting By: The Voluntary Simplicity Movement.”

“The idea in the movement was ‘everything you own owns you,’ ” said Dr. Grigsby, who sees roots of the philosophy in the lives of the Puritans. “You have to care for it, store it. It becomes an appendage, I think. If it enhances your life and helps you do the things you want to do, great. If you are burdened by these things and they become the center of what you have to do to live, is that really positive?”

Juliet B. Schor, a sociology professor at Boston College and author of “The Overspent American,” said the modern “downshifters,” as she called them, owed debts to the hippies and the travel romance of Jack Kerouac.

“Their previous lives have become too stressful,” Dr. Schor said. “They have a lack of meaning because their jobs are too demanding.”

Mrs. Harris, who with her husband home-schools their son, Quinn, 5, and plans to do the same with their 15-month-old daughter, Nichola, agreed that there was something of the hippies in their quest: “the ideals, the peace and love, the giving and freedom.”

But she said they had no tolerance for idleness or drugs. “Any state that can be induced by drugs, the mind and body are already capable of,” she said.

I read this today and I was totally taken by the fact that the Harris family is going from a relatively normal lifestyle to a simpler, healthier one.

You can read the full article and view photos of the Harris family at the New York Times website. The Harris family is also keeping a blog at www.cagefreefamily.com. I wrote another post about my admiration for the family here.

If you wish them well, you should give them a note of support. What they are doing must be exhilarating and scary at the same time.

Have a good one.
Joe

Affinity Properties, Austin Realtors | Selling Austin Real Estate

Apartments for Sale Galor in Austin

Affinity Properties, Inc — Fri, 16 May 2008 15:23:54 -0500

I have sold some multifamily properties in the Austin area and love apartments as investments for the most part. After all everyone needs a place to live and not everyone wants to be tied down with a house. When I saw this news clip come across my email I was pretty shocked given the apartment outlook for the area. As you can see, someone already snapped up 9 of the properties.

Now is certainly the time to buy at a decent price with the economy being semi-distressed and the folks who are cash poor needing to become more liquid. I'm not sure that is the case with Equity residential, but having been through a few downturns it wouldn't suprise me if this was a liquidity move or a focusing on core competencies move by the company.

Happy investing!

Joe

Shepherd Mountain Real Estate | Marina Village at Lakeway Homes and Condos

Below is an excerpt from the article. You can read the full story at the American Statesman site.

Nearly 3,000 apartments in Austin area on the block

Chicago firm is selling all of its multifamily properties in Texas.

By M.B. Taboada
AMERICAN-STATESMAN STAFF
Friday, May 09, 2008

Equity Residential, the nation's largest publicly traded owner and operator of multifamily housing, is pulling out of Texas and selling its entire Austin apartment portfolio, totaling nearly 3,000 units.

Marty McKenna, a spokesman for Chicago-based Equity, said the firm is leaving because it has "been investing in markets that have better long-term prospects," primarily on the East and West coasts. He did not elaborate.

Although McKenna would not discuss details of the Austin sales, GlobeSt.com, a real estate news site, reported that an unidentified buyer has a contract on the Central Texas properties. They include the Madison at the Arboretum and River Stone Ranch, in addition to seven other properties in Northwest Hills, far North Austin and Southwest Austin.

Equity has sold its Houston portfolio, and a pullout from Texas would mean sales of 17 properties in the Dallas area and two in San Antonio.

Equity's multifamily properties in Austin averaged 96 percent occupancy for the first quarter, above the average local occupancy of 93 percent, according to data collected by Austin Investor Interests LLC, which tracks and forecasts the apartment market.

The nine properties are Class B and were built between 1984 and 1997, with an average of 849 square feet and an average monthly rent of $841.

Sales of multifamily properties in the Austin area are on the rise. About 30 percent of the multifamily inventory in the area has changed ownership in the past two years, said Robin Davis, president of Austin Investor Interests.

Continued at the AAS website.

Check out the storm that hit Austin.

Affinity Properties, Inc — Fri, 16 May 2008 01:22:00 -0500

Last night around 12:20am a huge storm rolled over my house and through west austin - central austin - and out of town through east austin. I got some photos of the damage at my place. It was no fun, but at least no one was hurt.

Joe

2+ inch piece of hail that I picked up from the garage.

Neighbor's tree took out my fence.

Another of my neighblor's trees and part of the fence taken out.

Joe

Cat Mountain TX Homes MLS Search | Lakewood Real Estate and Cat Mountain Real Estate

Take Action: Stop Point of Sale in Austin

Affinity Properties, Inc — Wed, 14 May 2008 16:39:17 -0500

I wanted to help get the word out about this so I'm posting the email I got from TREPAC. I already sent emails to the city council. I encourage all Austin homeowners and agents to do the same if you have not already. You can check out the site at http://www.keepaustinaffordable.com

In doing research on the potential effects of this odrinance I'm curious if any other areas around the country have had this sort of forced upgrade at the threat of not being allowed to sell your home. Please send me any info that you have. I would greatly appreciate it!

Joe

Joe Cline works in Austin Texas Real Estate. If you are looking to buy, sell, or lease Austin Real Estate, it would be my pleasure to help. I also work selling Lakeway Real Estate.

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

Dear Austin Realtor

Keep Austin Affordable

The Austin Board of REALTORS needs you to answer this Call for Action to allow your voice to be heard to protect your business and Austin homeowners.

Mayor Will Wynn is pushing the Austin City Council to consider a proposal that would require homeowners to upgrade or retrofit their homes with energy efficient features before they can sell it. We support energy efficiency, but we oppose the draft ordinance being developed because it will limit homeownership opportunities for many Austinites.

Please click on Take Action below to let Austin Mayor Will Wynn know that you support the Austin Board of REALTORS®' alternative solutions for achieving energy efficiency. ABOR proposes the following measures as a more efficient and effective solution to energy efficiency:

Support free energy audits in all Austin homes and include that information in ABOR's Seller's Disclosure Notice to allow the market to adapt to the "value" of energy efficiency in homes.

Expand the incentives for homeowners who voluntarily make upgrades to their homes by offering annual homestead exemptions and sales tax relief on items related to those upgrades.

Allow the 9000+ members of ABOR to act as educators who encourage homeowners to take advantage of the many programs Austin Energy already has in place.

Let your voice be heard at City Hall, click now on Take Action to tell Mayor Will Wynn there is a more efficient and effective solution to make Austin homes energy efficiency!

Visit the web address below to tell your friends about this.

We encourage you to take action by June 4, 2008

Keep Austin Affordable

New San Antonio Condo Development In The Works

Affinity Properties, Inc — Tue, 13 May 2008 17:20:02 -0500

Prospective buyers in the San Antonio area have access to a new condominium development that will begin construction in April of 2009. The Palmilla at Port Aransas will be a waterfront community, overlooking the Corpus Christi Bay and the Gulf of Mexico. These luxury condos will feature floor plans ranging from 1600 to 3000 square feet, with prices starting in the $400,000 market. The project will include a total of 94 units, as well as amenities such as a fitness center, event rooms, Internet café, and a community pool. Sales have already begun, with units having already been sold.

Developers state that the natural beauty of the property on which the development will be situated was the inspiration for the design of the community. Features and amenities will include a private marina with boat slips for the use of the condo owners. There will also be a mile long bulkhead, stretching along the edge of the bay, with several floating docks. Future plans include a private golf course and other features that will add to the spectacular views.

The project is being developed by the firm of Koontz McCombs, which has been developing real estate in the San Antonio area since 1997. Their hopes are that these luxury condominiums will draw a variety of new owners from around the region. The plans are already being compared to a number of luxury developments of a similar stature along the Caribbean and Gulf Coast regions. Currently, the plans for the project are unrivaled within the San Antonio area. Total completion of the projects and all included condominiums are expected sometime in the summer of 2010.

Happu Condo Hunting!

Joe

Joe Cline works in Austin Texas Real Estate. If you are looking to buy, sell, or lease Austin Real Estate, it would be my pleasure to help.

May Real Estate Stats for Austin Texas

Affinity Properties, Inc — Mon, 12 May 2008 22:51:53 -0500

The Month in Review April 2008

Units for Sale: (compared to April 2007)

New listings were up 48.05%.

Pendings were down 67.04%.

Solds decreased by 17.31%.

As for Average Prices:

The "New Listings" average list price is down 0.47% to 330,528. In April 2007 the average list price was $332,105. In March (2008) it was $322,288.

Sold average sales prices decreased 0.75% to $241,610. For April 2007 it was $243,425. In March (2008) it was $234,386.

Check it out at http://www.alamotitle-austin.com/mls_statistics.php

Did You Know...?

That we had 9,527 active listings during the same week in 2007? Today there are 11,892 active listings! That is a 25.03% increase from last year.

So how does this affect your listing? Check out our "Months of Inventory" chart on our website to get the details for your MLS area and price range. The report is available in two formats, just in case you need to print it out for your listing presentation.

Click here MLS Area Inventory Report

All the best,
Joe

Flintrock Falls Real Estate | Homes in Austin and Surrounding Areas: Austin TX Home Listings

Remodeling for the long haul

Affinity Properties, Inc — Sat, 10 May 2008 11:08:34 -0500

Are you considering selling your home in a difficult market? Although many people today are looking to sell because of foreclosures perhaps you are one with a growing family. Due to the buyers market is possible for you not get the value your house deserves, thus you should consider alternatives. One inexpensive yet effective alternative is remodeling. According to remodeling magazines at 2007 analysis it's possible for homeowner to gay 70 to 80% return on the cost of most remodeling projects. This makes the choice of remodeling a positive option for homeowners willing to wait out the market.

There are five very common options that can bring of great value to your home. The first of these would be a modest or basic kitchen upgrade. This would mean remaining within the kitchen footprint in focusing improvements and modifications to the cosmetic choice his own this would mean replacing or refinishing cabinets and hardware, replacing appliances and possibly the trim. The same could hold true for a bathroom remodel. Both of these options provide additional value at modest cost for any home, and may subsequently make it more bearable while waiting market.

Two additional and otherwise inexpensive options are new Windows and new siding. Both options add savings to energy bills such as heating and cooling costs making these economic choices as well as remodeling to options. Additionally as a bonus to homeowners there are possible rebates for improving the energy efficiency of the home. These rebates may come from the state level or in some cases the federal level. This is a bonus worth looking into.

The last item albeit not the least is an in law suite. Creating space for aging parents or growing family came double the benefits of remodeling when you are prepared to sell. Home buyers find great value in a secondary master suite or in law apartment. As you can see there are many benefits to remodeling. Some of these options are inexpensive to choose and simple to implement. Be aware of your options investigate and research to find the best fit for you and your home.

Good luck and best wishes,

Joe

Austin Texas Real Estate Blog | Davenport Ranch, Texas MLS Listings

Commercial Real Estate Expo

Affinity Properties, Inc — Fri, 09 May 2008 15:00:58 -0500

Just learned about this event and wanted to pass it along in case you are interested in commercial real estate like I am. Drop me a note if you're going and we can meet up.

Joe

Red Oaks Cedar Park Listings | Austin Texas Listings

Central Texas Commercial Association of Realtors
	2008 2nd Annual Showcase Expo
General Information
When: 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Thursday, June 19, 2008 Where: Omni Austin Hotel @ Downtown 700 San Jacinto @ 8th St., Austin 78701(Parking Free with Validation) What: The CTCAR Expo is a three hour informational reception and commercial real estate information and product convention that attracts hundreds of commercial sales and leasing professionals throughout Central Texas. The 2008 CTCAR Showcase Expo is the Central Texas premier opportunity for commercial real estate professionals to gather new market information, meet the most active developers, discover the latest properties and products and network with some of the real estate industry’s top brokers. Who Attends the Expo? Brokers, Developers, Leasing Agents, Owners and Investors, Corporate Real Estate professionals, Lenders, Title Company Professionals, Economic Development Councils, Surveyors, Architects, Aerial Photography, Map Companies, Engineering companies and representatives from all of our affiliated commercial sectors. Who is Exhibiting at the Expo? Developers, Office Buildings, Retail brokerages, Industrial owners, Brokerage Firms, Research Companies, Pension Fund Advisors, Financial Services, Technology Companies, Real Estate News Media, Economic Development Agencies and all organizations seeking to reach the commercial real estate community. Join other exhibitors and take advantage of this great opportunity to profile your project or service and check out the competition. (If you wish to exhibit at our Expo download the form at www.ctcaronline.com . Online Registrations: Members $15.00 and Non-Members $25.00 (Add $5.00 at the door) Click Here for Online General Registration Click Here to download the General Registration Form Click Here to download the Exhibitor / Vendor Form

The New Landlord-Is it the answer?

Affinity Properties, Inc — Thu, 08 May 2008 18:02:31 -0500

There is not a doubt across the nation, it is a buyers market. Foreclosures are at an all time high and more and more homeowners are trying to find creative ways to make sure they can hold on to there home.

But what about homeowners caught in a flaccid market where home are subject to the sting of a fire-sale offer or to competition forcing pricing to bargain basement lows. For some this will have to be tolerated in order to sell the house.

For fortunate homeowner who can afford to ride the tide, consumer reports show that many homeowners are choosing to ride out the market prices by renting their homes to assist with the expenses.

Many homeowners are becoming landlords for the first time. There are many informative sites available for that new venture. www.Landlordonline.com is a site that provides a wealth of information for new landlords as well as the experienced landlord. There is also www.ezlandlordforms.com for online document systems for landlords. The Federal Trade Commission at: http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/conline/pubs/buspubs/landlord.shtm provides consumer reports to evaluate rental applications. These are only a few sites available to assist new landlords with much needed information. The internet can provide a wealth of information. Take advantage of it.

Renting your home rather than selling is not for everyone. For individuals who have the ability to keep their homes until the market takes an upward turn, with a little research and knowledge, it can be an auspicious time.

If you're looking to buy or sell and want help, give me a call. :)

Joe

Lakeway Real Estate | Austin Real Estate

Solar Energy and Green Building Event

Affinity Properties, Inc — Wed, 07 May 2008 16:51:02 -0500

I just got information about this in the mail. Pretty cool looking program. If you are going shoot me an email and we can meet.

Joe

Lakeway Real Estate | Austin Real Estate

Program Details

Friday, May 16, 2008
11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

Here Comes the Sun: Solar Energy in Green Building
In 2007, the U.S. Department of Energy selected Austin as one of the first 13 Solar America Cities to help lay the foundation for a solar energy market that can serve as a model for cities around the nation. Find out what Austin Energy is doing to encourage solar installations in the residential and commercial sector. Also hear from a residential design team about considerations and lessons learned from incorporating solar into home design. Finally, learn what it takes to make a case for commercial solar from a successful local solar design and installation company.

Speakers:
Eric Rauser, Architect, Rauser Architecture
Roger Jennings, CEO, Avail Energy
Doug Marcis, Developer, 30 Degrees North
Andrew McCalla, President, Meridian Energy Systems, Inc.
Tim Harvey, Conservation Program Specialist, Austin Energy Solar Rebate Program

About the Venue
Our seminars are held at the LCRA Dalchau Service Center at 3505 Montopolis Drive. This is a 3-star rated building in a great location - it takes only a few minutes to get there from downtown - and there is plenty of easy parking!

Vending, soda, and water machines are available in the building, along with a cafeteria-style restaurant. Please feel free to bring your lunch or purchase food from the on-site cafeteria.

Directions
To get to the Service Center, take Highway 71 east to Montopolis Drive. Turn south (or right) onto Montopolis Drive, the LCRA facilities will be to the left about 1/10 mile. Enter the fenced parking area at the third gated drive (Gate 4), and park near the flagpole. We meet in Building A, Rooms 504 and 505, also called the Large Safety Conference Room.

Attendance
Seminars are open to Green Building Program professionals and other invited guests. Advance registration or RSVP is not required. Seating is on a first-come, first-serve basis. Learning Units are available for architects and designers. Certificates of Completion are also available for self reporting to professional organizations.

HUD Releases New Loan Limits

Affinity Properties, Inc — Tue, 06 May 2008 23:28:10 -0500

For a long time, it has seemed that the government is all talk and no action. The members of the House and Senate discuss the teetering real estate market in depth regularly. They theorize about what will make it better and propose bills and plans that should benefit everyone. When all is said and done, there is no progress. Fortunately, that’s not the case anymore.

In March of this year, the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) released new FHA and conforming loan limits. The limits are based on median home prices throughout the country and set at 125 percent of those calculated by HUD. They will not allow loans to exceed $729,750 nor will they allow them to fall below $271,050 for FHA and $417,000 for Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.

It is hoped that these steps will reinvigorate the real estate market, granting it new life and generating more activity. In fact, the NAR believes that the limits will stimulate more than 300,000 home sales with prices at least 2 percent better than they are now. They should also, theoretically, enable more than 130,000 Americans to buy a home and nearly 200,000 current homeowners to refinance and keep their homes and property.

For you, these increased loan limits could be the sign you were waiting for. Now is the time to act. Put your home on the market, refinance your mortgage or start shopping for your first house. The government has finally done its part to better the real estate market. It’s time for you to do yours.

A little late, but good to know all the same. :)

Joe

Round Rock Texas Real Estate | Austin Texas Real Estate

REIT?

Affinity Properties, Inc — Mon, 05 May 2008 17:41:30 -0500

Real Estate is often a solid investment for those who are looking to invest in the ‘safer’ options. During difficult economic times, this still holds true. Investments can be made in varying levels. The most commonly known is the rental property. This is one that comes with significant tenant concerns. This applies to either a rental home, as many facing foreclosure are being forced to do, or a building. There are other real estate investment options that investors not prepared for the landlord position can examine. For smaller portions of real estate an investor can seek out real estate investment trusts that have a steady return.

Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT) weathered a difficult year in 2007. This year however, is starting to look up. Those who would be interested in the investment side of the real estate market the REIT as a safe bet, to offer a hedge against any difficult times in the economy. This is a smaller chunk of the real estate market that no all investors know about. With real estate being a singularly steady return, this is definitely worth some research.

So, what exactly is a REIT? It is similar to a mutual fund. Investors can purchase units of a REIT specific to the commercial project of interest. This enabling process allows investors to be a part of the large-scale real estate projects as well as multiple buildings construction and investments. Historically real estate investment is a good long-term investment with positive returns. As an investor researches the properties, the right one could return incredible dividends. Real Estate investment in any form is huge.

If you have any questions or want to know more about REITs, feel free to give me an email.

Joe

Austin Real Estate Blog | Austin Texas Commercial Real Estate

Texas Shoot Out

Affinity Properties, Inc — Sun, 04 May 2008 22:05:25 -0500

The Dallas Country Club hosted a Texas Shoot Out for the second year. This test of commercial real estate skills was an impressive display of talent, intellectual strength, and ability. Teams of four to six people were assigned to evaluate a complex real estate situation. This situation focused on the sales-leaseback arrangements as well as the corporation consolidation of two business campuses in a difficult market. This market challenge was set in a difficult and declining marketplace such as what they may experience today. Teams then conferred and designed solutions for the potentially real life issues. After reaching their conclusions the teams discussed these with a panel of real estate executives, experts in the field.

This competition is in it's third year. It was designed with the intention to build and strengthen the ties between the Dallas real estate brokerage community and the student real estate programs. It is the goal to show the development of talent young real estate students to those who can hire them locally. The panel selects from among the competitive teams one winner. The winning team receives a 10 thousand dollars prize, and second place takes home 7, 500. The prizes are divided first between the school they represent, then among the team members. This builds the school and the teams. Teams keep 60% of the winnings while 40% is apportioned to the school. From there the winning is divided among the teams.

This year the University of Texas - Texas Longhorn Team took home the top prize.

Joe

Rollingwood Real Estate | Flintrock at Hurst Creek Lakeway Homes for Sale

Mold can be a significant issue in any home

Affinity Properties, Inc — Sat, 03 May 2008 00:26:19 -0500

Mold in any home is a significant issue. It is a health risk, a liability, and often a hidden danger. Mold develops when a given area is damp or wet, even through the drying process. When mold develops it is difficult, but not impossible to get rid of. The first step however is detection, and that is not the easiest thing. Should you be selling a home, this could be one of the hardest points to address, unless you hire an inspector.

The mold liability issue has become so vast that many of the insurance agencies are dismissing the claims, having suite filed against them, or facing the choice of rewriting what policies they do have to exclude mold. If you are selling a home, you don’t want to risk it with something so easily address as mold, so you need to identify that it is there.

Some of the most obvious signs are black, green, or purple blotches on walls, carpet or ceilings. These can be where you are able to easily see them, or it can be behind the walls, ceiling panels, or under the rugs. Smell is often another indicator of mold. Should the basement, or home smell musty chances are there is some hidden mold some where in the area. These would be the red flags to indicate you need to hire a professional inspector to fully ascertain the problem, and give you situation specific direction on the resolution.

Prevention is always better than resolution. Keep your home, basement and attic ventilated, and if at all possible, full of sunlight. By having an area that is prepared to dry quickly and evenly mold cannot exist. Although you can also keep your humidity levels regulated to minimal needed for health, and vent your appliances to the outside appropriately, this is only one part of the process in prevention. Add that together with a strong sunlight basis, ventilation at all times (including when you are cleaning) and you will be able to prevent mold in your home. Sellers will not buy mold problems, so you need to be proactive from the start.

Stay safe!

Joe

Search for Austin Texas Real Estate: Austin TX Homes for Sale Listings | Homes for Sale in Meridian

Homevestors...

Affinity Properties, Inc — Fri, 02 May 2008 00:59:00 -0500

HomeVestors of America Inc, the Dallas-based company is once again trying to have an impact on the economy. The We Buy Ugly Houses company is sponsoring a National Real Estate Investors Association meeting with Congress members and representatives. The day on the Hill event will occur April 30 in Washington to DC. The goal of the meeting is to discuss with Congress to be impact real estate investors are able to have on a current housing market crisis. This will be a true meeting of the real estate minds.

There is a legitimate investment opportunity, which has an impact on the backbone of the housing industry. As one of the largest solid industries in this country, real estate investors can make a credible and positive impact on the downturn the housing market has taken. On the whole real estate investors, improve communities from the inside out. They are able to provide affordable housing to first-time homebuyers, assist homeowners who need to exit difficult real estate situations while revitalizing older neighborhoods. With this in place nationwide, the country has seen many areas grow when there was little possible growth before in the area. This can apply to the market with the combined expertise of the investors as well as the improvements the investors have made on the area.

It is the goal of HomeVestors of America and their real estate investor core to continue to have a positive impact. It is the hope that with support from Congress, the housing market crunch will begin to turn around soon.

Take care,

Joe

Home Inspection Information | Davenport Ranch Real Estate