AUSTIN REAL ESTATE NEWS from ROBIN SCOTT

Having Lunch with Clients is a Great Way to Market Yourself and Have Fun

Thu, 20 Nov 2008 16:48:11 -0600

Marketing can be divided into may facets and today I covered many of them - I blogged on AR, called a few people in my database, launched a new Web site and had lunch with a couple of clients. I paired up two buyers who relocated with their husbands from the northeast to the same area in greater Austin. Both are retired women who didn't know anyone here and had a lot in common. They developed a friendship and have included me. Isn't that great. And today they invited me to lunch with them. We had a great time and strengthened our relationship.

Building relationships and being a connector are important to successful marketing. We can't click with al clients but I'm glad to have found two that click, click.

The Pros and Cons of Purchasing a Condo

Thu, 20 Nov 2008 16:14:20 -0600

Condominiums can provide a low maintenance lifestyle and there are pros and cons to any property purchase decision. Below are some things to consider.

CONS:

Reserve funds and association fees - There are usually homeowners association fees associated with a condo that must be considered when a budget for the monthly mortgage payment is determined. The condo association takes responsibility for maintenance of the common grounds, area amenities and exterior maintenance like roofs, exterior doors and siding. Some times a special assessment must be levied because of an unexpected expense that the available funds wouldn't cover.

Condo rules - When you purchase a condo you are purchasing a share in a corporation providing you with a vote but you must comply with the condo rules. Be sure you understand the covenants, restrictions and bylaws. They will restrict your neighbors from participating in behavior you find unacceptable but those same rules will apply to you as well.

Resale - In a condo community, your resale value is more closely tied to that of the neighborhood. The number of investment properties, the condition of the grounds and the reserve of funds available in the association coffers can effect your ability to sell your condo. You don't have complete control over the situation so time and value can be effected.

Neighbors - You are in close proximity to your neighbors so your lifestyle will have a stronger effect on them and theirs on you

PROS:

Amenities - Many condos have amenities like a pool or fitness center. It eliminates the need for outside memberships and provides a convenience of ease.

Maintenance - Most condos cover maintenance in common areas like the grounds, pool and usually the exterior maintenance of the unit like roofs, siding, doors, etc. These are items that make living in a condo more care-free.

Condo rules - These regulations help to keep the area more agreeable to everyone. Remember, you are entitled to a vote so you may want to attend the association meetings.

Neighbors - The proximity provides an opportunity to get to know your neighbors, develop friendships and provide the security that neighbors provide.

Robin Scott, Broker. Certified Residential Specialist, Accredited Buyer's Representative, Seller's Representative Specialist.

The Advantage of Owning Real Estate

Wed, 19 Nov 2008 21:54:51 -0600

is that over time it appreciates in value. So when my daughters husband asked for a divorce I insisted she ask for the house. Everyone told me that since it was his house before they married, she couldn't have it. Why not. Just ask. Or just insist. After all, he wanted the divorce and he gave her the house.

Now the sweet part is that it's right next door to me. OK, I know that sounds too close but we never interfered in their lives and after the divorce she moved on with her life. It's been about 5 years, she has had it leased and she recently married again and lives across town with her new husband. She still owns the house which is developing into a great nest egg for her future. It may provide business opportunities, college for the future kids or fund retirement.

Here's another advantage: My elderly mother is moving into it. Now my mother can be close enough for me to be of assistance, but not so close she's living with me and my daughter has a tenant she can count on to pay the rent and take care of the property. OK, my husband and I will take care of the property. Anyway, it's working out to be an advantage to everyone.

Robin Scott, Broker. Certified Residential Specialist, Accredited Buyer's Representative, Seller's Representative Specialist.

Dear Seller, A professional REALTOR® is a Better Judge of Your Homes Market Value than You

Wed, 19 Nov 2008 21:38:18 -0600

If you want to sell your home, listen to your REALTOR®. You hired a REALTOR® because she is a professional who works in the real estate market every day and probably for years and therefore has more insight into a homes value and how to sell it than you. Don't tell your REALTOR® what your home is worth. Ask. Your REALTOR® can provide you with comparative market sales and information about what is happening in the market, what prospective buyers who tour your property will want and think. You may want more for your home than the REALTOR® suggests as a price but if you do want to sell then listen to the professional. Just because you want more doesn't give the buyer any reason to pay more.

Statistics show that over pricing your home will not bring better offers. It will not put you in a better negotiating position. It will just put you in the position of having to lower your price because you aren't getting any viewers. The statistics that the National Association of REALTORs® provides show that homes that are priced right are more likely to get full-price or competing offers. LISTEN TO YOUR REALTOR®.

Robin Scott, Broker. Certified Residential Specialist, Accredited Buyer's Representative, Seller's Representative Specialist.

Clients Who Appreciate the Value You Bring Are to Be Appreciated in Return

Wed, 19 Nov 2008 08:32:22 -0600

Often we encounter those who don't recognize the value a professional Realtor brings like the for-sale-by-owner I dropped in on yesterday. But, I have a buyer client who appreciates my value so much that she checks with me about all decisions and where some new home buyers don't even let me know when there is a final walk-thru of the property, this client wants to make sure I can be there. Through my professional abilities and experience I was able to negotiate a favorable price for the house, support the buyer in upgrade and design decisions, explain the credits and debits and find and have corrected an error on the part of the builder, provide vendor information and connect the buyer with others in her community. It's great to be appreciated and that's what will bring referrals.

I appreciate my client too and the value she brings to me. Tomorrow I'm taking her to lunch.

Robin Scott, Broker. Certified Residential Specialist, Accredited Buyer's Representative, Seller's Representative Specialist

Real Estate Agents Make a Difference When You Are Buying or Selling a House.

Mon, 17 Nov 2008 09:09:02 -0600

According to a new survey by Consumer Reports, most buyers and sellers were satisfied with the service they received from a real estate agent.

71% of sellers say they were very or completely satisfied with their real estate agent.

86% of home sellers who had their homes listed with an agent did sell their homes.

90% of listed homes that sold, the days on market were 6 months or less.

66% of buyer's had a real estate agent and on average paid less than asking price.

I'm an agent that would like to make a positive difference for you. If you are planning to buy or sell a home in the greater Austin area, please call me at 512.589.7988.

Robin Scott, Broker. Certified Residential Specialist, Accredited Buyer's Representative, Seller's Representative Specialist.

AUSTIN AREA MARKET STATISTICS SIMPLIFIED- SEPTEMBER

Sat, 15 Nov 2008 18:18:41 -0600

AUSTIN AREA MARKET STATISTIC SIMPLIFIED.

Statistics from SEPTEMBER 2008 Compared to SEPTEMBER 2007

Homes Sold 1,670 - down 8%

Median Sales Price $182,600 - unchanged

Active Listings 10,217 - up 2%

Average Days on Market 71 - up 18%

source: Austin Board of Realtors

Robin Scott, Broker. Certified Residential Specialist, Accredited Buyer's Representative, Seller's Representative Specialist.

It Was Windy and Cold and I didn't Get Photos but We Had a Great Time

Sat, 15 Nov 2008 18:00:52 -0600

This morning was the STEPOUT WALK TO FIGHT DIABETES for the American Diabetes Association and my client and now friend Maureen wanted to volunteer because there is diabetes in her family so I offered to volunteer with her. I've been too busy to read the volunteer information so I waited until yesterday to find out that we had to be across town by 6am. Plus a cold front came in last night with high winds.

At 4:30 I was up and getting ready to go. Maureen and I met in a parking lot at 5:30 and we made it to Fiesta Gardens in southeast Austin by 6am. I had never been to that park before and it was a wonderful park on Lady Bird Lake.

When we got there it was dark and colder than we expected or were dressed for. Much colder. I'm guessing with the blustery winds the chill factor may have been in the high 30's which is really cold for Austin. We had so much fun. Hundreds of people turned out for the walk and other festivities which included bands, games for kids, a silent auction and off course the 5k walk.

We helped to bring the event together which benefited the association who brings awareness about diabetes to the public and the best part was that I made another friend.

Robin Scott, Broker. Certified Residential Specialist, Accredited Buyer's Representative, Sellers"s Representative Specialist.

ANOTHER SUCCESSFUL LEASE - WOODHOLLOW

Sat, 15 Nov 2008 17:44:05 -0600

LEASED! Cute and clean 2-story condo in a gated community with easy access to shopping, medical, employers, on the UT shuttle route and only 15 minutes to downtown Austin. Downstairs is a large living/dining area open to the kitchen which includes refrigerator and full-size washer & dryer. plus a private patio. Upstairs is a loft bedroom, bath and walk-in closet. Private patio and community pool. Owner/agent.

Robin Scott, Broker. Certified Residential Specialist, Accredited Buyer's Representative, Sellers"s Representative Specialist.

Austin Adopts an Energy Efficiency Ordinance

Wed, 12 Nov 2008 08:12:04 -0600

In an effort to make city housing green, the city of Austin attempted to pass an ordinance that would require homes to meet specific energy efficiency guidelines such as energy efficient windows and pass an inspected by the city prior to be sold. The concern was that would be a financial drain on the homeowner and make it more difficult to sell a home.

Instead a volunteer approach was adopted and the Energy Efficiency Ordinance will require some Austin homeowners to conduct energy audits of homes prior to the sale so that buyers can be better informed about the home they are purchasing.

The ordinance is expected to go into effect June 1, 2009.

Robin Scott, Broker. Certified Residential Specialist, Accredited Buyer's Representative and Seller's Representative Specialist

Buyers - 3 Important Tips When Buying New Construction

Mon, 10 Nov 2008 09:10:00 -0600

Whenever you are buying a new construction home that is being built it's always a good idea to remember these 2 tips:

First, you should check on the construction frequently. The house is built by different contractors and mistakes are made. Most reputable homebuilders will fix anything that's wrong if they can. If you wait until it's too late . . .

Recently, I visited the home site of a client of mine and when I walked in I realized the tile had not been laid in all the places my buyer wanted. The buyer's had paid to have the tile extended from the foyer to include the entire hallway, formal dining and familyroom. It had been installed in the foyer, kitchen and breakfast which was standard. The problem was that after that had been done, you can't go back and add more tile because the grout lines will not line up correctly and the grout may not match. Hence, the tile must be ripped out and redone. I'm glad I cought it before the carpet was installed. the builder said it would be taken care of but followup is going to be important.

Second, you should get an independent home inspection. The builder will provide you with a walk-thru where a foreman will put blue tape on any visible imperfection like places that need to be painted or light bulbs burned out. an inspector does so much more and will find errors that were made in building.

One example that comes to mind was a GFCI plug installed where the refrigerator goes. That's a no-no because if the electricity goes out, the plug shuts off and your refrigerator is without electricity until you notice. I've not had any problems with builders repairing things on the inspectors list.

Third, you should go to the builder with representation. Hire a REALTOR®. Remember, the nice person in the sales office represents the builder, not you. In Austin, the builders are happy to pay your REALTORS® commission but you must bring them with you the first time you look. A REALTOR® can help you negotiate with the builder, advise you of your rights and represent you through the purchase.

Robin Scott, Broker. Certified Residential Specialist, Accredited Buyer's Representative, Seller's Representative Specialist.

Successfully Leased in Milwood

Mon, 10 Nov 2008 08:25:29 -0600

This adorable 2-story, 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath home also has 2 living areas, 1 dining and a 2-car garage. Special features include tile in wet areas, laminate in livingroom, a fireplace, garden tub, separate shower, covered patio plus it backs to a greenbelt with access to the neighborhood hike & bike. This home is in a wonderful neighborhood with park, playground, pool, tennis and more with easy access to major employers and shopping, 20 minutes to downtown and in the acclaimed Round Rock School District. $1350. LEASED.

Robin Scott, Broker. Certified Residential Specialist, Accredited Buyer's Representative, Seller's Representative Specialist.

Tips for Sellers on Negotiating

Fri, 07 Nov 2008 19:41:31 -0600

My transaction just fell through and I was representing the buyer. Here is one of the things I think went wrong: The seller accepted the offer without negotiating. True, it's a buyers market and the buyer didn't offer full price but when the seller accepted without any kind of fight, the buyer decided his offer was too high. It wasn't. It was just right and it didn't matter what kind of comparatives I showed he had decided he wasn't comfortable with the situation any long.

So sellers, it's great that you would accept the offer and I know you want to sell but give them something to work with so they will feel they have got a good deal.

Robin Scott, Broker. Certified Residential Specialist, Accredited Buyer's Representative, Seller's Representative Specialist.

Pflugerville Home for Sale - Photos Added

Fri, 07 Nov 2008 19:22:07 -0600

This charming cul-de-sac home has 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, 2-car garage, 2 living and 2 dining. All bedrooms and the utility room are upstairs. Special features include, fireplace, separate shower and security system. 2102 sq.ft. Pulte home built in 2001. $154,900.

Robin Scott, Broker. Certified Residential Specialist, Accredited Buyer's Representative, Seller's Representative Specialist.

10 Myths From First-time Homebuyers

Thu, 06 Nov 2008 18:50:49 -0600

This is a list intended to set first-time homebuyers straight about myths circulating about the real estate industry.

Myth 1. All real estate agents are the same. Of course not. Some agents have more experience than others and some are Accredited Buyer's Representatives who have demonstrated a special interest in helping buyer's through increased buyer education and experience to achieve this designation.

Myth 2. The agent on the for sale sign can help. The agent on the for sale sign is representing the seller. Not you. The seller pays a buyer's agents commission so take advantage of the opportunity to have representation.

Myth 3. I can find properties for sale on my own. The internet has made it possible for the consumer to search for properties but the consumer information on public search sites is not as complete or up to date as what is available to a Realtor.

Myth 4. If I keep looking, I'll find the perfect house. There is no perfect home. The best way to proceed is to prioritize a list of thimgs you want and pick the house that most closely matches your list.

Myth 5. I can work with more than one agent to find a home. All agents have access to the same information. If you work with more than one agent you will become frustrated by duplicated information. Get a commitment from an agent with whom you have confidence to represent you.

Myth 6. to buy a house you simply agree on a price and sign some papers. It actually involves a number of processes and negotiations on everything from price to when you get the key. A professional can guide you through the process and negotiate on your behalf for the best results.

Myth 7. Foreclosures are a good deal. Don't even get me started. Briefly, foreclosures are priced at market value less the cost of needed repairs. So in the end, you'll pay about the same to purchase and repair as you would a move- in condition home.

Myth 8. Getting a mortgage should be easy. Lenders need particular information so they can be assured of a buyer's credit worthiness before they will lend the money.

Myth 9. All mortgages are the same. There are many different kinds of loan programs and a mortgage broker should be able to assist the buyer in choosing the one that best suits their needs.

Myth 10. A house must pass an inspection or the seller must repair all that is wrong. There is no pass or fail with a home inspection. The inspector will provide a report of what is not working in the house or in need of repair and the buyer may negotiate with the seller as to which repairs the seller will make.

Hopefully this information will get you started out right as you become a first-time homebuyer.

Robin Scott, Broker. Certified Residential Specialist, Accredited Buyer's Representative

TIPS FOR FINDING THE RIGHT HOME

Wed, 05 Nov 2008 08:56:33 -0600

House hunting can be a big project so here are some tips to make it easier:

1. Get pre-approved through a lender. This will enable you to search for a home and neighborhood within your financial means. You don't need to commit to a lender at this point but it's helpful to know what you can afford, what your out-of-pocket expenses will be and what kind of monthly payment you may expect

2. Make some decisions before you start. Determine what features you want in a home, ie 1 or 2 story, master up or down, number of bedrooms, square footage. Drive neighborhoods to figure out which ones you like and don't like.

3. Consider your home ownership timeline. If you are expecting your life situation to change in 2-5 years or if you are expecting to settle in for 10-20 your need may be different so take that into account when making a decision about what's right for you.

4. Be realistic. There’s no such thing as a perfect home. Make a list of your priorities and look for a home that comes closest to matching the list.

4. Consult with a limited number of people. When you announce you are going to buy a home, everyone you know will offer advice and much of it will conflict so limit your consultations to a few that are in a position to provide worthwhile advice.

7. Get a home inspection. Have a professional inspect your home and ask the seller to provide you with a one year home warranty.

8. Hire a REALTOR®. A REALTOR® will be a great asset. She can advise you on processes, prices, negotiate on your behalf, guide you through the processes and represent you throughout the purchase process. Look for an Accredited Buyer's Representative. The buyer's agents commission is paid through the seller.

Robin Scott, Broker. Certified Residential Specialist, Accredited Buyer's Representative, Seller's Represnetative Specialist.

$4,900 away and they couldn't make it work. Advice to buyers and sellers.

Mon, 03 Nov 2008 21:09:20 -0600

Recently my seller was presented with an offer that was negotiable but the buyer and the seller couldn't come to an agreement over a $4,900 dollars difference. Is that reasonable? So close. Sometimes it's hard to talk to your buyer or seller because they think they are being completely reasonable but they aren't. Here is what they didn't consider:

From the buyer - He wanted the house. To split the difference would have required him to increase his offer $2,500. That would have made a difference of only $250 in his downpayment and about $25 a month more in his mortgage payment. He could have had the house he wanted and at a very good price too.

From the seller - This house was listed for 6 months before it was relisted with me. In the first 2 weeks I brought a buyer from the marketing to my database. The seller is sitting on a vacant home and said "no" to a buyer who would have relieved her of the responsibility of continuing to pay the mortgage. In three months, if we don't get another buyer, the seller will have paid more than $2,500 and will probably have to reduce the price of the home further.

Is it ego? I don't know but this could have been a done deal and both parties would have been winners.

Robin Scott, Broker. Certified Residential Specialist, Accredited Buyer's Representative, Seller's Representative Specialist.

Feng Shui Ideas for Faster Home Sales

Fri, 31 Oct 2008 10:14:08 -0500

Feng Shui is an ancient Chinese concept of balance in the environment which has been available to westerners for many years and most of us are aware of the idea that following some of these ideas present a better package when trying to sell a house. Below are a few ideas to help you prepare your home for sale.

1. The front door is of special interest. In Feng Shui it is considered the "mouth of chi" through which abundance, blessings and good fortune enter your home. Along the same lines, it's what the buyer sees first and that which begins the "first impression" of the home. This is why it's important for the front doorway area to be clean and if the front door is freshly painted with polished or new door hardware, perhaps adorned with a door wreath or enhanced with a blooming potted plant on the porch even better Often I see homes where the front door is dirty, there are old leaves, spider webs or bird droppings on the porch. As a buyer, how would you respond? You'd probably not be interested or expect the seller to lower the price. But if it was attractive, you'd see value in a home that appeared well-cared for.

2. In Feng Shui, it is believed that positive energy "Chi" can be flushed away so it is important to keep toilet seats closed. along the same line, who wants to be looking into a toilet. When a buyer steps into a bathroom, he/she wants to feel this would be a welcome place to bath and dress. No one wants their attention drawn to a toilet. Keep it clean and keep the lid down.

3. The master bed is a place that should promote protection and honor. The best placement of the bed is on the wall opposite the doorway and soft colors should be used for peacefulness and romance. I often see beds in the wrong location. What makes the location wrong? It blocks access to the room or through the room to the bathroom. On the fartherest wall it is most out of the way and the room will appear larger.

4. In Feng Shui, the dinningroom symbolizes togetherness and abundance. Keep the tabletop free of clutter and enhance with an attractive centerpiece. A mirror placed in the diningroom reflects the food and multiplies the concept of prosperity. Too often I see dining tables stacked with books, magazine, mail and more. The message that sends is that there isn't enough room in the house for these things to be better placed. Make your diningroom an inviting place for the buyers to entertain when they own the home.

5. As the windows are considered the eyes of the home, it's important that they be clean and in addition open blinds will let in the light making the rooms appear more friendly and airy. sometimes I go into homes and find the blinds closed and the curtains drawn. This gives the home a dreary and dark feeling. buyers say to me that the rooms are to dark or small. Sellers suggest they open the curtains and blinds when they come in but by then it's to late. The buyer has already formed a negative impression. So, clean the windows and open the blinds.

Following these simple principles will enhance your homes Feng Shui image and increase the buyers positive response to the home making it a more desirable option for purchase.

Robin Scott, Broker. Certified Residential Specialist, Accredited Buyer's Representative, Seller's Representative Specialist.

City of Austin Lowers Property Tax Rate

Wed, 29 Oct 2008 08:06:24 -0500

The City of Austin has approved the most conservative budget in 5 years bringing the tax rate lower than other major Texas cities. This decision was based on evidence that the local economy will continue to grow during the current fiscal year. A $2,8 billion budget was approved by the Austin City Council for the 2009 fiscal year that began Oct. 1.

Deputy budget Officer Marisa Cortinas says the city will maintain the current level of services but must find ways to cutback. For example, the public library will close one day a week which will save $420,000 for the fiscal year.

TAX RATES IN MAJOR TEXAS CITIES FOR 2009
Austin - $0.4012
San Antoinio - $0.5671
Houston - $0.615
El Paso - $0.633
Dallas - $0.747
Fort Worth - $0.855

GENERAL FUND REVENUE 2009
33.7% Property Taxes
25.9% Sales Taxes
19.6% Utility transfers
20.8% Other

GENERAL FUND EXPENDITURES 2009
37.6% Police
19.5% Fire
17.8% Transfer and other
7.1% EMS
6.4% Public health
5.7%Parks and recreation
4% Library
1.9% Municipal Court

Robin Scott, Broker. Certifies Residential Specialist, Accredited Buyer's Representative, Seller's Representative Specialist.

Halloween Events in Austin

Mon, 27 Oct 2008 12:15:53 -0500

Hope you have a fun and safe Halloween. Here is a list of some things to do around Austin

Barton Springs" Haunted Cave - 10 am - 5 pm Tuesday - Saturday and Noon to 5pm Sundays though Nov.
A spooky twist on the Edward's Aquifer. Free. 2201 Barton Springs.

Boo at the Zoo - 6:30-9pm Thursday & Friday, October 30 & 31. Experience the zoo at night. Wear costumes, bring picnic and flashlight. $10. 10807 Rawhide Trail.

House of Torment - 7pm - midnight until Nov. 2. Haunted house with 2 attractions. $14.99 per attraction or $19.99 plus tax for both. 523 Highland Mall Blvd.

Horror Haunted House - 7pm-1am Thursday - Saturday with 2 attractions. $13 for each or $18 for both. Not recommended for younger children. Lakeline Village Shopping Center.

Mansion of Terror - 7pm - midnight most nights through Nov. 2, except 7 - 11pm Sundays and Thursdays and 7pm - 2 am Friday with 2 attractions. $15 each or $19.50 for both. 2000 S. I-35 Round Rock.

More Than 800 People Dressed as Zombies and Danced to Thriller to Break the Guinness World Record

Mon, 27 Oct 2008 11:57:22 -0500

If you live in Austin, you won't be surprised to find out that even Mayor Will Wynn participated in the "Thriller" event last Saturday outside the Long Center for the Performing Arts. Over 800 people of all ages showed up to dance in unison to Michael Jackson's "Thriller" and attempt to break a world record for the largest simultaneous dance. This event was also scheduled to take place in 92 other cities in 12 other countries who were competing for the same honor. Perhaps your city participated as well. It will take about a month before Austin will find out if they broke the record. Results to follow.

Do You wonder why You would Need a Realtor When You Are Purchasing New Construction?

Sat, 25 Oct 2008 18:06:59 -0500

Oh, let me count the ways.

First of all, it's important to remember that the friendly salesman in the model home represents the builder not YOU.

Then, perhaps you think that the builder will give you a better deal if they don't have to pay the Realtors commission but did it ever occur to you that an experienced Realtor may be able to get you a better deal with the builder than you could get on your own without your agent.

And most important is having someone available who can separate the inaccuracies, misunderstandings and incorrect information.

Here are some examples:

When the salesperson adds up the figures incorrectly and asks for more in a deposit than you should pay.

When the salesperson neglects to tell you significant information about their neighborhood.

When the salesperson tells you false or misleading information. Not intentionally of course.

This morning, a salesperson told my buyer's that their neighborhood was protected against homeowners leasing their homes, short sales and and foreclosures. What! Perhaps the salesperson didn't understand about what had been explained to him. It's not uncommon in our area for the builder to have restrictions against the builder selling to investors but it's unlikey in an average neighborhood to have an HOA prevent someone from leasing their home after occupying as an owner and you can't prevent a homeowner from selling their home in a short-sale or to an investor who will lease or being foreclosed on by the bank.

You may have known these simple truths but having a professional, someone who buys and sells property day in and day out backing you up is a worthwhile investment.

Robin Scott, Broker. Certified Residential Specialist, Accredited Buyer's Representative, Seller's RepresentativeSpecialist.

Balcones Woods News

Sat, 25 Oct 2008 17:43:41 -0500

A survey taken of Balcones Woods residents showed that 63% were in favor of building a new amenity center so the Balcones woods Club board of directors is moving forward with the project which is expected to cost about $579,000 and the Building Committee determined it could be built without charging the residents a special assessment fee. the building will be paid for by homeowners fees and other usage fees but dues are expected to increase by 5% per year over the next few years.

Board of Directors meeting November 11, at Seton NW Room 3A, at 7pm

Robin Scott, Broker. Certified Residential Specialist, Accredited Buyer's Representative, Seller's Representative Specialist.

Which Home Did They Pick? Home #4

Sat, 25 Oct 2008 17:20:12 -0500

Yes, they first picted home #2 but it had gone under contract the evening before we called, then to home #3 but the builder wouldn't negotiate with us (can you believe it?) so we found house #4.

House #4, built by Gehan, a local builder, who met all of our requests and my buyer's should be in their new home by November 20. The buyer's are happy, the Gehan representative is happy and I'm happy.

Robin Scott, Broker. Certified Residential Specialist, Accredited Buyer's Representative, Seller's Representative Specialist.

House Hunters in Austin - Which One Will They Pick . . .

Fri, 24 Oct 2008 20:27:32 -0500

House # 1. The new, large but affordable home in Hutto's Emory Fields.

House # 2. The new dream home that was pushing the price limit in Star Ranch.

House # 3. or the new, smaller but affordable home in Pflugerville's Avalon.

No this isn't the HGTV show. It's just your usual day in real estate. Well may not usual because this buyer is motivated and has made a decision. First they picked house number 2 but what do you know. . . between 3 PM when we looked at the house and 10 AM this morning, the salesman received two, yes two, offers on this home. So my buyers went with house number 3. It looks pretty good huh?

House #3 is a 2961 sq.ft. home with 3 living areas, 2 dining, 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths and a 2-car garage. It has all the buzzes like granite, stainless, covered patio and is the Standard Pacific Birmingham plan. The asking price is $235,395 and tomorrow we negotiate an offer.

Robin Scott, Broker. Certified Residential Specialist, Accredited Buyer's Representative.