Tarrytown Austin Texas

Tarrytown is a beloved central Austin community. Home to a variety of houses, from the 1940's bungalow to the newer and more modern homes. Tarrytown has always been an area well known for its picturesque homes and scenery. For years this has been one of my favorite parts of town to walk. Scenic Drive runs right through this area and is home to some of the most amazing views and homes in Austin. Right along the river the scenery is just outstanding. Many seek this area because of the award winning elementary school Casis Elementary. However, location is a prime aspect - close to downtown and the University of Texas.

Jester Estates Austin Texas

A Northwest Austin community, Jester Estates is an active community that hosts many events, parades and community parties. Jester also provides it's resident's with the Warbler, an active resident based newsletter. Their pool and clubhouse is a joy for it's residents as well as the panoramic views of the northwest hill country. Learn about the homes for sale in Jester Estates.

I think it's no coincidence that we are noticing more and more scams these days. It seems like recessions and depressions really bring out the rats both in the real estate world, lending world and in the world in general.

Like all these companies promising to increase our business if we fork over thousands of dollars to them - but that's a different rant for another day.

Today I feel the need to warn the public about Real Estate scams - specifically "Joe the I'm not really a real estate agent, but I play one to get your money".

If you are going to lease or buy real estate - keep in mind the landlord and seller pay the commission in most cases. Which means there is no reason for you NOT to use a Realtor. And if a landlord or seller do not want to pay commissions that will be clear from the get go.

Why do I say this all of a sudden - because I am seeing SO many scams out there right now from people that may or may not be a licensed agent.

1. Yard signs: Make sure its a valid agency sign - not a sign that looks like it was created this morning at Kinkos. And if it was crated by Kinkos does it say "by owner" if not - then why isn't it a brokerage sign?

2. If you're looking online and it's listed by an agent - especially apartments and lofts - beware - JUST because it's an agent doesn't mean the listing is on the up and up. Call them and do your homework.

Particularly on Craig’s' List where they are not required to use MLS #'s etc. For years I have found agents using the ol bait and switch tactic. You call on property A they tell you "oh I'm sorry that property is no longer available, but I have several others in that unit and area I'd be happy to show you." In this instance they were using property A to lure you to call them - they are prospecting clients by using a property that is no longer available. Clever but no dice!

Once again - why is this coming up all of a sudden - well yesterday I got to play detective for a bit.

My day was hijacked when a local broker that specializes in Campus properties called and asked if we had a listing on a particular street. I looked it up in the listing system and nope not there. I asked him if there was a name on the sign and he said - "no not a name just a phone number and when I call it all it says is Sky Realty and then there is a beep". ODD??

So I get the address from him and get the phone number he called and put on my investigation cap. I call the number he gave me - sure enough all it says is "Sky Realty" and then a beep. What? our agents wouldn't do that, my broker would have their head for that and they know it!

So I go back to my broker's office and say call this number. He dials and when the mystery message comes on looks at me like what the hell was that? So at this point this is getting very strange and very fishy. I hop in my car, camera in hand and go visit this property.

First of all it's not one of our signs, it's a home grown sign - that says "pre lease" and the phone number in question. I snap my pictures and go knock on the door. This is one of those ultra modern homes that kind of look like an office building. So I start wondering if it's an office building and perhaps they are using a sign to generate business- so I knock and then open the door. Well it's not a business and now I'm standing in someones house with three college girls all in workout clothes and Uggs staring at me like I'm crazy - which apparently I am.

After establishing it's their house I ask about the sign. "Yeah our landlord put that up because he doesn't want to work with agents - that's not even his phone number". RED FLAG RED FLAG.

So I tell them he's representing himself as someone from Sky Realty and that I'm from Sky Realty and we are getting "calls" (one call but whatever) on the property. Then she lets loose "what an idiot, you can take that sign down I don't even know why he put it up, do you want his real number?" Why yes I would - thank you. (that was easy)

She proceeds to give me his name and number - and I head back to download some photos. Long story short - we found out this guy ISN'T a Realtor - he was misleading those that called and using our company name to do it. IDIOT party of one. Actually party of three b/c I suspect the owners of the house -which are his parents are in on this as well. And yeah one of the owners is a local doctor!

The only thing we can't figure out is why? If he didn't want to work with agents just put a "For Rent by Owner" and then if an agent calls say you don't pay broker's commissions. You'll sit on the property forever but it's better than sitting in jail!

So heads up buyers, renters and agents - fraud looms around every corner and it's up to us to be aware and spend a little extra time doing some homework.

If you are in the market for real estate - of any kind - call a professional and avoid the fishy shifty "I'm not an agent but I play one to take your money" kinda people.

Lindshire Park and Duck Pond has increasingly become a favorite Southwest Austin spot

Recently I was showing buyer's homes in a great Southwest Austin neighborhood called Bauerle Ranch. Just before you get to Baurele Ranch you spot this great park on the side of the road. It's so inviting with it's great landscaping and huge duck pond and it's one of those spots that just draw you in. Luckily for me I had time to pull over and enjoy the weather a bit and even better I had my camera.

If you decide to visit and you want to feed the ducks bring a large bag of bread, they've gotten used to the better things in life.

The park includes a great walking trail and plenty of areas to just stop and enjoy the day. Often these are the types of places that are indicative of Central Austin or the Zilker Park area - but the great thing about this city is that our fantastic parks are everywhere.

South Austin Condo - Popular and highly sought area, 78704 Zip!

Malita Jones | Sky Realty, Inc. | malita@skyrealtyaustin.com | (512) 497-6442 900 South Lamar #307, Austin, TX HOT 78704 Zip Code - LOCATION and Condo are too good to pass up! Melrose Place meets South Austin. 2BR/1BA Condo   LEASED Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms 1 full, 0 partial Sq Footage 856 Parking 1 dedicated Pet Policy No pets Deposit $1,300 DESCRIPTION Located in popular 78704 zip code just south of Barton Springs Rd and next to Alamo Drafthouse. Gleaming bamboo floors, custom paint including industrial style brick accent walls. The kitchen is fully loaded with granite counter tops, stainless steel appliances including oversize refrigerator and built in microwave. Stackable washer and dryer in the hall - no need to lug your laundry to an laundromat. Condo feels airy and bright. Great location within unit - on third floor so no one above you - but from the parking lot it's a half flight up to this section so it doesn't quite feel like the third floor. This complex feels like Melrose Place meets South Austin - so many unique and fun features throughout. Additional storage assigned to units. Gated community. Back part of complex exits to a fantastic neighborhood.   see additional photos below RENTAL FEATURES - Air conditioning - Central heat - Tile floor - Living room - Breakfast nook - Dishwasher - Refrigerator - Stove/Oven - Microwave - Granite countertop - Stainless steel appliances - Washer - Dryer - Laundry area - inside   COMMUNITY FEATURES - Covered parking - Storage space(s) - Swimming pool(s) - Gated property - Secured entry     LEASE TERMS No pets, no smoking. Application must be approved by owner. $35 app fee per person Background check includes: credit, criminal and past rental history.   ADDITIONAL PHOTOS Photo 1 Bath Living Bedroom Additional Storage Common Areas Contact info:   Malita Jones Sky Realty, Inc. malita@skyrealtyaustin.com (512) 497-6442 Equal Opportunity Housing Posted: Sep 9, 2009, 9:26am PDT

Fully furnished, fully stocked studio for lease. Austin's Historic Brown Building, Downtown Living at it's best!

LEASED - October 2009

Malita Jones | Sky Realty, Inc. | malita@skyrealtyaustin.com | (512) 497-6442 710 Colorado, Austin, TX Fully furnished, fully stocked studio apartment in the Historic Brown Building - Downtown Austin. Furnished Studio/1BA Condo   LEASED Bedrooms Studio Bathrooms 1 full, 0 partial Sq Footage 638 Parking 1 dedicated Pet Policy No pets Deposit $2,500 DESCRIPTION The historic Brown Building dates back to 1938 and has become one of Austin's most coveted living spots. Completely private access including a private rooftop with table and lounge chairs - talk about downtown views, you can see for miles. Low maintenance studio apartment that is so organized it lives large! The studio condo is fully furnished and fully stocked. The new tenants will enjoy new linens and towels, an office space complete with internet access, HP printer, office supplies and a desk overlooking the city. Kitchen is complete with gourmet coffee bar, flat wear, dinnerware and more. Front load, large capacity LG washer and dryer with all the laundry basics included. The entertainment center is complete with HD TV, cable including HBO, Ipod docking station and DVD. This is a complete "turn key" property, new tenant need only unpack and shop for groceries to make their home complete.   see additional photos below RENTAL FEATURES - Air conditioning - Central heat - Loft layout - Dishwasher - Refrigerator - Stove/Oven - Microwave - Granite countertop - Washer - Dryer - Laundry area - inside - Cable-ready - High-speed internet     COMMUNITY FEATURES - Garage parking - Fitness center - Secured entry - Elevator - Vintage building     LEASE TERMS No smoking, no pets. Application must be approved by owner. Minimum of 6 months maximum of 24 months. Rent includes - HOA fees, cable, internet, parking, water, garbage. Electric paid to owner.   ADDITIONAL PHOTOS View from roof top Photo 1 Photo 2 Photo 3 View from office/bedroom Private Roof Top Hangout Contact info:   Malita Jones Sky Realty, Inc. malita@skyrealtyaustin.com (512) 497-6442 Equal Opportunity Housing Posted: Sep 8, 2009, 8:18am PDT

Home in Milwood North Austin

LEASED October 2009

Malita Jones | Sky Realty, Inc. | malita@skyrealtyaustin.com | (512) 497-6442 12813 Modena Trl, Austin, TX Updated One Story in Popular Milwood- North Austin 3BR/2BA Single Family House   LEASED Bedrooms 3 Bathrooms 2 full, 0 partial Sq Footage 3,381,257 Parking 2 dedicated Pet Policy Dogs (any) Deposit $1,150 DESCRIPTION One story with living area seperating master bed/bath from secondary bed/bath. Fireplace in living area. Updated interior paint and stained concrete flooring. Creates a cozy and comfortable living experience. Home is stones throw to elementary school and convenient to Hwy 183, Toll Roads and Arboretum/Domain. Pets allowed but no aggressive breeds.   see additional photos below RENTAL FEATURES - Air conditioning - Central heat - Fireplace - Walk-in closet - Family room - Breakfast nook - Dishwasher - Refrigerator - Stove/Oven - Microwave - Laundry area - garage - Balcony, Deck, or Patio - Yard - Cable-ready   COMMUNITY FEATURES - Swimming pool(s)       LEASE TERMS Available beginning of October with a minimum of 12 months and a max of 12 months. $150 pet deposit on animals less than 10 lbs and $300 for those over 10lbs. Animals over $100 accepted on a case by case basis with additional fees. $150 for each additional pet. Tenant must maintain yard, owner will maintain certain upkeep features such as AC filters.   ADDITIONAL PHOTOS front Photo 2 Photo 3 Photo 4 Photo 5 Photo 6 Contact info:   Malita Jones Sky Realty, Inc. malita@skyrealtyaustin.com (512) 497-6442 Equal Opportunity Housing Posted: Sep 6, 2009, 10:13am PDT

Pier 1 Imports Closing it's doors by December 2009?

Sad but true, this rumor has been floating around for a bit now - and many sources say that indeed Pier One is closing many of it's stores by December of 09. However, their are also sources that say it's a rumor.

If this is true, what this means to you though - is SALE SALE SALE!!! Stagers, home owners, decorate it yourselfers? Go stock up now. Find out if any of your local stores are closing and when. Their close date will determine the amount you can save.

Maybe that rug imported from India shouldn't have been priced quite so high. I've often liked the Pier 1 style, but their price tags are a bit on the high side. With this economy these are the types of stores that are in trouble. Stores like Target and even Wal-mart have made a wise choice in replicating the Pottery Barn/Pier One look at a much lower cost to buyers. I think we'll be seeing more stores in the near future not able to keep up with the economic crunch.

And along that line of thought I found a retail traffic site that is following this topic along with what other stores are closing some or all of its doors.

13th Annual Grape Stomp at Becker Vineyards

Everyone remembers I Love Lucy, stomping the grapes - right? It's created an iconic image in American minds. Capitalizing on that image, Becker Vineyards has incorporated the I Love Lucy costume contest.

In previous years I have attended grape stomping events and they are always a great opportunity to get messy and learn about the wine making industry, which I find very interesting.

One of my favorite vineyards in Central Texas is Beckar Vineyards. Each year the Vineyard creates a double header event, celebrating the art and fun of the grape stomp and one celebrating the iconic image of Lucy and the Italian woman.

13th Annual Grape Stomp
August 29, 30, September 5, 6, 2009
Time: Saturdays 10 a.m. -- 6 p.m. Sundays Noon--6 p.m.
Fee: Complimentary

Catering will provide sandwiches for visitors to the vineyard.

6th Annual "Lucy & The Italian Woman" Costume Contest

September 6, 2009 Time: 3 p.m.

Fee: Complimentary

Contestants will be judged on their stomping ability, costume and of course enthusiasm!

Whether you attend this event or others I highly recommend putting Becker Vineyards on your list for an outing - home of the lavender fields and one of the absolutely few if any Central Texas wine cellars.

Ausitn area agents - this is a great opportunity to tune up those technology skills and learn about some new outlets!