Brian's Blog

social network joke.

Brian Eddins (Don Cies and 512 Realty) — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 12:55:32 -0500

I can't remember where I heard this but I thought it was pretty good.

I recently heard that myspace, twitter, and facebook are going to merge together and create one huge social networking site. They are still brainstorming name ideas, But last I heard they were going to go with "my-twitt-face"

Just a little joke to keep friday moving in the right direction.

Oklahoma City one of the strongest housing markets

Brian Eddins (Don Cies and 512 Realty) — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 12:36:42 -0500

Healthiest Housing Markets 2009: Fall Update

This is very interesting. When this artical first came out Oklahoma wasn't even on the map. The Fall update shows Oklahoma City and the surrounding areas as number 5 of the healthiest housing markets in the US.

Here is the list and an explanation of why each market made the list. For more info and to read the article in full click here.

#20 Killeen-Temple-Fort Hood, Texas

Home building in Killeen, home to Fort Hood, is down, to be sure. In fact, the central Texas metro area experienced a 33% decline in building permit activity during the first half of the year. With an unemployment rate hovering around 7.2%, Killeen has fared better than most markets around the country. Employment has helped prop up median home prices, which have barely fallen with just a 2.2% decline in the last year. They don't have far to go, since the median price of a home here is an ultra-affordable $89,450. Killeen's relative health has single-family builders betting conditions will improve. They pulled 12% more permits in the second quarter of the year, compared to a year earlier, though multifamily permit activity plummeted.

#19 Raleigh-Cary, N.C.

Though unemployment woes have arrived in Raleigh, home prices have held steady during the last year, dropping a mere 1.6%, in part because the city has added so much population in recent years (roughly 5% growth annually). Builders in Raleigh, which is home to the Research Triangle, multiple universities, and the state capital, have successfully pushed entry-level housing this year, taking advantage of the $8,000 federal tax credit. Raleigh added more households on a percentage basis than any other top 20 city on the list in the last year. Existing home sales in August were running only 1% below levels of a year earlier. As a result of the market's relative strength, median home prices--$218,000 in August-were holding up well compared to other parts of the country.

Busiest builders: Pulte Homes, KB Home, Centex Homes, Atreus Homes & Communities, Standard Pacific Homes.
Courtesy: Hanley Wood Market Intelligence.

#18 Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers, Ark./Mo.

During the first eight months of the year, the economic recession finally caught up with Fayetteville, which dropped several notches in our rankings. Located in the foothills of the Ozarks and within an easy drive of Wal-Mart's Bentonville, Ark., corporate headquarters, this metro has recently been named one of the best places to live (by Kiplinger) and to do business (by Inc.). During the first nine months of the year, employment declined just 1.1% and median household income slipped only 2.3% compared to the same period a year earlier. Unemployment here (6.4%) is still well below the national average, and median home prices are a very affordable $106,000. Bentonville, which accounts for about half the activity in the MSA, is also the hottest part of the market, thanks to a flurry of multifamily activity.

#17 Provo-Orem, Utah

Home to Brigham Young University and great skiing, fundamentals in Provo have held up better than most during the housing recession, due in part to strong in-migration to this metro during most of the decade. Even so, with Moody's Economy.com expecting less than a thousand permits to be pulled here this year, Provo is operating at about 20% of the production it maintained in the 2005-2007 period. Housing prices in Provo, which seemed to escape deflation during much of 2007 and 2008, finally fell 18.4% during the first nine months of 2009. Foreclosures are certainly a factor; Provo has the highest foreclosure rate in Utah, which itself has one of the higher foreclosure rates in the country.

#16 Little Rock-North Little Rock-Conway, Ark.

Little Rock is rockin' the recovery. Moody's Investor Services recently announced this Arkansas city has the second most diverse economy in the nation. An Associated Press report in August named Little Rock as a "resurgent" Southern market, thanks to a 5% increase in existing home sales in July, data that came from the Arkansas Realtors Association. The next month the group reported that existing home prices rose 8%. Job losses haven't increased much during the year in Fayetteville, which also benefits from a very affordable median existing home price of $126,000. Still not convinced? Try this: Little Rock was ranked by the Brookings Institute as the seventh-best metro economy in the country this year, with the second-best overall growth from 2008 to 2009.

#15 Charleston-North Charleston-Summerville, S.C.

The recession settled into Charleston this year, as unemployment nearly doubled to 11%. This happened even as the attractive port city continued to add population at a 2% annual rate. Home prices, which held pretty steady in 2008, took a tumble this year, falling 10.9% during the first nine months of 2009. At $180,000, the median price of an existing home is now below 2004 levels. Rising joblessness has led to a 33% decline in permit activity through June of this year. Even so, the city's long-term prospects have to be considered good. Two of the four biggest employers here are military bases, and the health sector accounts for the other two.

Busiest builders: Centex Homes, KB Home, The Ryland Group, Beazer Homes USA, Lennar Corp.

Courtesy: Hanley Wood Market Intelligence.

#14 Omaha-Council Bluffs, Neb./Iowa

While other housing markets have swung to extremes in recent years, a strong and diversified economy has helped Omaha remain steady during the last nine months. Median home prices remained in the mid-$130,000s in the 2nd quarter of 2009, not far from where they stood during the housing "boom." One of the biggest beneficiaries of Omaha's stability has been its biggest builder, HearthStone Homes, which hopes to equal in 2009 the 882 single family closings it achieved in 2008. The company has benefited from a four-year contract (which ends next year) to build homes at Offutt Air Force Base. With about 11,000 employees, Offutt qualifies as the single biggest employer in Omaha. The most famous firm with an Omaha office? Warren Buffett's Berkshire Hathaway holding company, which owns Johns Mansville and Shaw Industries, among others.

Busiest Builders: HearthStone Homes, Celebrity Homes, Charleston Homes, Lane Building Corp., Barr Homes.
Courtesy: Hanley Wood Market Intelligence.

#13 Denver-Aurora-Broomfield, Colo.

People are still moving to Denver, which remains a place where many people would like to live. The city's popularity has helped keep median home prices at a rather lofty $179,850, which is still down 15% in the last year. Jobs certainly aren't the main draw; unemployment in the Denver metro area stands at 9.4%. Such trends have forced builders to respond with new product offerings. While Arcadia Properties has seen success with an infill project, most of the leading builders in Denver have introduced smaller, more affordable homes to compete with foreclosures, which have steadily declined during the last year.

Busiest builders: Richmond American Homes, D.R. Horton, Oakwood Homes, KB Home, Century Communities.
Courtesy: Hanley Wood Market Intelligence.

#12 Des Moines-West Des Moines, Iowa

With many economists suggesting that unemployment will continue to rise into 2010, Des Moines boasts an unemployment rate of 5.5%, half the national number and the lowest among its fellow 20 healthiest housing markets. The top two employers here are financial institutions Wells Fargo and Principal Financial Group, and this sector of the economy contributes about a quarter of the region's income. With a median existing-home price of about $140,000, prices are still running at 2004 levels after hitting a high-water mark of $152,000 last year. Des Moines had the best growth rate among all metropolitan economies during 2008-2009, according to The Brookings Institution. But that didn't stop building permit levels from dropping 42% during the first half of the year.

#11 Madison, Wis.

Madison is another one of those markets lucky to be the state capital and have a major university, the University of Wisconsin. Together, these businesses have helped keep unemployment at a low 7.4% through August 2009. One of the fastest growing portions of Wisconsin, the Madison MSA had an estimated population of 562,000 in 2008. It also has one of the most educated workforces in the nation, and consistently ranks among the best places to live and work in the country. Even so, 2009 permit levels in Madison are running at half of 2008 rates, thanks to a big slide in multifamily activity. The median home price, which dropped 5.9% in the first nine months of the year, currently stands at $211,000.

#10 Olympia, Wash.

With a population of nearly a quarter million, Olympia is one of the smallest of the top 100 markets. But the state capital, located about 60 miles from Seattle, is also among the strongest. Olympia's housing correction has been a mild one; at $184,000, existing home prices remain above 2004 levels. Even so, a state government hiring freeze, enacted in 2008, has curtailed employment here, and the unemployment rate is now running at 9.9%. Though new households are still forming, median income levels have fallen 8.5% during the last year. Olympia also happens to be the home of Scott Homes, named Builder of the Year by the NAHB Research Center for its work building energy-efficient homes.

# 9 Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington, Texas

Though Dallas is now shedding jobs-it managed to increase them last year because of its attractiveness as a business center-home prices here have held steady; they are down less than 6% year-over-year. Because builders have refrained from building speculative inventory, local housing forecasters believe the housing market seems to have reached bottom. With the median price of a home holding at $135,000, Mark Dotzour, chief economist at the Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University, believes that there isn't much risk of further price decline. David Brown, of housing analysis firm Metrostudy, added that there's only a three months' supply of new homes left in this major housing market.

Busiest builders: D.R. Horton, Highland Homes, Centex Homes, David Weekley Homes, Meritage Homes.
Courtesy: Hanley Wood Market Intelligence.

#8 Salt Lake City, Utah

With a relatively low unemployment rate of 6.3%, resilient resale pricing, and strong population growth, Salt Lake City hasn't felt the same pain as other markets. Even so, Salt Lake, which is home to the University of Utah, has lost some jobs during the last nine months, mostly in construction. Existing home prices, which were $212,000 in September, didn't decline much during the downturn; they still run above 2006 levels, propped up by strong household formation. Interestingly, 75% of the permit activity during the first half of the year in Salt Lake has been in multifamily, reversing a four-year trend in this past Olympic host city.

Busiest builders: Ivory Homes, Richmond American Homes, Woodside Homes, Garbett Homes, Trophy Homes.
Courtesy: Hanley Wood Market Intelligence.

#7 Tulsa, Okla.

Though Tulsa largely avoided the housing bubble, this Great Plains market has not escaped the recession. As Tulsa lost jobs in manufacturing, energy, and other sectors, new-home construction slowed. Construction starts were off 29% during the first eight months of the year compared to a year earlier, according to local reports. But with unemployment a low 7.2%, and housing prices a very affordable $128,000 (down only 3% in the last year), Tulsa appears poised to recover before many other markets.

#6 Baton Rouge, La.

For a short time following Hurricane Katrina, Baton Rouge became the largest city in Louisiana. Since then, many of those temporary residents have moved back to New Orleans, but the metro area's housing market has remained in decent shape. A port city that is home to the second largest oil refinery in the country, Baton Rouge is also the state capital and home of Louisiana State University (LSU). Its strong and diversified employment base has contributed to a jobless rate of only 6.7%. It is one of only three top 100 markets to have added jobs during the first nine months of the year. Permits, though, are off 46% during the first six months, with most of the decline in multifamily.

#5 Oklahoma City, Okla.

In Oklahoma City, another oil patch market that never hit pay dirt in housing, the median price of an existing home is $126,000, the lowest of the top 10 markets on this list. Home prices in Oklahoma City, which is situated in the middle of an oil field, have barely budged in the last year. The city has even seen the development of loft and condominium projects. Though Oklahoma City, which houses both the University of Oklahoma and Tinker Air Force Base, has shed some jobs in the last nine months, its unemployment rate, 6.45%, stands well below the national average. Finally, foreclosures haven't been the problem in Oklahoma City that they have been in other markets.

Busiest builders: Ideal Homes of Norman, Home Creations, D.R. Horton, Rausch Coleman Homes, Sooner Traditions.

Courtesy: Hanley Wood Market Intelligence.

#4 Houston-Sugar Land-Baytown, Texas

Inexpensive labor and land costs have always made Houston an extremely affordable housing market. Even so, softness in the energy sector put a dent in Oiler country this year. The city lost 2.6% of its jobs in the first nine months of the year, compared to a similar period last year, though its unemployment rate, 7.8%, remains below the national average. Though building permits are running 46% below last year's levels through June, activity picked up in August compared to the prior year, according to David Jarvis, director of Metrostudy's Houston region. At a recent housing forecast conference, Jarvis predicted that permits would be up in the second half of the year on a year-over-year basis.

Busiest builders: Lennar Homes, Perry Homes, Long Lake, Ltd., MHI/McGuyer Homebuilders, and David Weekley Homes.
Courtesy: Hanley Wood Market Intelligence.

#3 Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, D.C./Va./Md./W.Va.

Washington, D.C., is one of the few major markets to actually record an increase in new home sales this year; sales were up 17% through June, according to Hanley Wood Market Intelligence, though the market slowed in September. The federal government appears to be living up to its reputation as a counter-cyclical buffer, though many of the jobs in the nation's capital are now in the tech sector. Home prices in this high-priced region seemed to correct early. Median home prices fell 20% in 2008 and have fallen another 21% through September of this year. But in a research note, market researcher Dan Fulton recently asserted that home prices probably won't decline further. In his opinion, Northern Virginia doesn't have enough housing, while Maryland's Prince George's and Charles counties continue to suffer from oversupply. Washington qualifies as one of the most affluent markets in the country with a median income of $83,500.

Busiest builders: Ryan Homes, Centex Homes, K. Hovnanian Homes, Beazer Homes, The Ryland Group.
Courtesy: Hanley Wood Market Intelligence.

#2 San Antonio, Texas

The recession arrived in San Antonio earlier this year, when employment finally turned negative due to weakness in the manufacturing sector. But with military bases as three of its top four employers, this Texas city may see better employment numbers next year, potentially fueling housing growth. Housing here remains affordable at a median of $148,000, with prices declining a mere 1.6% during 2009. In addition, San Antonio routinely ranks among the best cities for relocation, and has been gaining population at a rate of 2.8% annually, a trend that continued even this year. Despite favorable trends, though, San Antonio housing permits have fallen 54% so far this year, and comparisons may wind up even lower before the year is over. A full 72% of the action is in single-family rather than multifamily permits.

Busiest builders: D.R. Horton, Centex Homes, KB Home, Fieldstone Communities, Pulte Homes.
Courtesy: Hanley Wood Market Intelligence.

#1 Austin

Even though it took a step backward during the last six months, Austin happens to be the only market on our list that is genuinely close to healthy. Home prices, which rose in 2008, finally declined this year-they are down 4.6% through September-as this Texas metro ended a long run of employment growth and lost some jobs. But its population has expanded by 4.3% during the first half of 2009, which should add housing demand and help firm up home pricing. It was the same story with Austin-area employment numbers, which remained in positive territory until mid-2009, when its manufacturing segment began losing jobs. Still, unemployment in this progressive city runs only about 7%, significantly below the national average. Dell Computer is Austin's largest employer, with about 17,000 jobs. Austin continues to draw population, especially retirees, with its low cost of living, inexpensive housing, and warm-weather climate. The city had the third highest household growth rate in percentage terms among the top 100 market. Even so, permit activity fell by 38% during the first half of the year.

Busiest builders: D.R. Horton, Centex Homes, Pulte Homes, Lennar Homes, KB Home.

Short Sale acceptance anyone???

Brian Eddins (Don Cies and 512 Realty) — Sat, 10 Oct 2009 14:39:06 -0500

Has anyone had any experience working with Short Sale Acceptance? They are based out of Austin and they buy short sales. They negotiate with the lenders and then put the home on the market to sell. They only close once a new buyer is lined up to guarantee their profit. I have been working with these guys on a listing I have for over 6 months now. It was really our only option as the seller and I were getting no where with his bank. I am just curious if anyone else out there has had any positive experiences. You can learn more about them at http://www.shortsaleacceptance.com/

Thanks so much!

Amazing Brookhaven home for only $139,900

Brian Eddins (Don Cies and 512 Realty) — Sat, 10 Oct 2009 14:14:43 -0500

Check out this Amazing Brookhaven home for only $139,900. 3825 Bristol is a great little 3-2 home with 1507sqft. The home is in the first phase of brookhaven built in 1968. This home is a bit dated but priced accordingly. This is a fantastic opportunity for someone to live in Brookhaven for under $180K. Just a little work will turn this gem into a show stopper. Let me know if you have any questions. www.brianeddins.com

Great Hyde Park condos for sale

Brian Eddins (Don Cies and 512 Realty) — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 14:07:27 -0500

Avenel At Hyde Park

I am selling some great hyde park condos. I have quite a few 2-1 850sqft units priced from $157K. they are not FHA approved so you are looking at 20% down. However we have been able to put owner occupants in with 10% down. Here are some pictures of the project. Help me sell these things. if you have a client looking in this price point, you wont find a better deal in the north campus area. our model units are 206 and 204. you can also show unit 208,305, and 308. feel free to contact me with any questions. www.brianeddins.com. Thanks for looking.

How you can help extend the $8000 tax credit for first time home buyers!

Brian Eddins (Don Cies and 512 Realty) — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 19:15:56 -0500

Click here to learn how you can help extend the tax credit through 2010. Its easy!

It is important that we all work together to extend this tax credit for our first time home buyers. It has been a great sucess and has helped thousands of Realtors all over the country sell homes this year. Lets get these home buyers off the fence in 2010.

11 mistakes sellers typically make

Brian Eddins (Don Cies and 512 Realty) — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 17:42:46 -0500

Avoid 11 Mistakes

1. Refusing to Make Profit Inducing Repairs - It always costs you more money to sell "as is" that to make repairs that will increase the value of your home. Often even minor improvements will yield as much as three to five times the repair cost at the time of sale. Your agent will be able to point out what repairs will significantly increase the value of your home. Seemingly small fix up jobs can have quite an impact.

2. Not Considering Other Financing Terms - Cash is always the most advantageous transaction. Income level, tax benefits and current legislation are all critical factors when considering purchase terms. Professional real estate agents are experts at home transactions and can lead you down the path that will give you the highest yield.

3. Provide Easy Access for Showings - Accessibility is a major key to profitability. Appointment only showings are the most restrictive, while a lock box is the least. However there are certain considerations to take into account . . . your lifestyle, time frame for the desired sale and the relationship with your agent. The more accessible your home, the better the odds of finding a person willing to pay your asking price. You never know if the one that couldn't get a viewing was the one that got away. By developing a trusting relationship with your agent, he or she will show the home with your best interests in mind.

4. Priced Too Low/Priced Too High - One critical reason to find the right professional is to make sure the property is priced appropriately for a timely and profitable sale. If the property is priced too high it will sit and develop the identity of a problem property. If it's priced too low it could cost you considerable profits. The real estate market has subtle nuances and market changes that should be evaluated by your agent every 10-14 days to help you maximize your return.

5. Relying Solely on Traditional Methods To Sell Your Home - The agent who is innovative and willing to offer new strategies of attracting home buyers will always outperform agents who rely on traditional methods. Demand around the clock advertising exposure, innovative lead generation methods lead accountability and cutting edge Internet strategies. These services exist and should be offered on your home sale.

6. Market Timing/Seasonal Selling - Just as a broker who continually follows the trends of a stock, your professional agent continually follows trends of your home market. They will know if the market cycle is poised to net you the most money. Disregard believing property sales are seasonal . . . sells better in spring than winter . . . property is always selling.

7. Refusing to Make Cosmetic Changes - The prospective home buyer's first impression is the most important. An unbelievable amount of homes sales have been lost to unkempt lawns, cluttered rooms, bad stains, unpleasant odors . . . all the seemingly little things

Imagine you were the home buyer and cleaned your placed from top to bottom . . . military style.

8. Wasting Time With An Unqualified Prospect - Your agent's responsibility is to screen a prospect's qualification before valuable time is lost. Be sure to align yourself with the right professional and eliminate negotiating with unqualified prospects.

9. Don't Test The Market - Never put your property on line to sell unless you are serious. The right professional will find you buyers and if you are harboring indecision . . . you will slow the sale.

10. Believing You are Powerless to Make a Difference - Be part of the team! Take an active role with your agent to see what you can do to facilitate your sale. Networking with professional peers and personal friends often results in the sale of a home. It's surprising how many homes are sold this way.

11. Believing All Realtors® are the Same - with all the intricate details and critical decisions to be made concerning your home sale, should you rely on anyone but a top producing professional? Many friends and family members have been estranged as a result of failing to meet expectations. Your home sale is a time consuming, effort related, difficult task. Maximize your profit by utilizing a professional.

Real estate joke

Brian Eddins (Don Cies and 512 Realty) — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 16:51:20 -0500

I thought this joke was worth sharing. Enjoy!

A real estate agent had just closed his first deal, only to discover that the piece of land he had sold was completely under water.

"That customer's going to come back here pretty mad," he said to his boss. "Should I give him his money back?"

"Money back?" roared the boss. "What kind of salesman are you? Get out there and sell him a houseboat."

Yearbook yourself!

Brian Eddins (Don Cies and 512 Realty) — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 15:44:17 -0500

I thought this was a pretty cool website. goto www.yearbookyourself.com and kill some time today. Its a fun way to make fun of yourself. Here are some of my yearbook pictures from different decades. I look like Zack Morris in my 1996 picture. Enjoy!

Me in 1952 Me in 1954

me in 1958 Me in 1966

Me in 1986 Me in 1996

Great Avery Ranch 3-3 townhome. 4% BAC!

Brian Eddins (Don Cies and 512 Realty) — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 14:00:15 -0500

I have a Beautiful three bedroom townhome in very desireable avery ranch location $214,900. Barely lived in and in amazing shape. granite counter tops, large private patio, a 2 car attached garage, and 2 large living areas. WOW! Dont miss this great opportunity. Paying buyers agent 4% MLS #4267753.

Great Price on Hyde Park Condos.

Brian Eddins (Don Cies and 512 Realty) — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 13:43:02 -0500

Avenel At Hyde Park

I am selling some great condos in Hyde park. I have quite a few 2-1 850sqft units priced from $157K. they are not FHA approved so you are looking at 20% down. However we have been able to put owner occupants in with 10% down. check em out at www.ownhydepark.com Here are some pictures of the project. Help me sell these things. if you have a client looking in this price point, you wont find a better deal in the north campus area. our model units are 206 and 204. you can also show unit 208,305, and 308. feel free to contact me with any questions. www.brianeddins.com. Thanks for looking.

Exclusive downtown 1530sqft 2-2 loft

Brian Eddins (Don Cies and 512 Realty) — Tue, 10 Mar 2009 18:22:55 -0500

Just listed Beautiful 1537sqft 2-2 at the Austin City Lofts. 2 premium parking spaces, great 9th floor views of austin skyline, granite counters, stainless appliances, large soaking tub in master, sealed concrete floors, and much more. List price is $585,000. Bring the picky downtown buyers. www.brianeddins.com. Please let me know if you have any questions at all. Shows Very Well.

Amazing hyde park condos

Brian Eddins (Don Cies and 512 Realty) — Tue, 10 Mar 2009 17:39:04 -0500

I am selling some great condos in Hyde park. I have a 1-1 650sqft for $117,420. and quite a few 2-1 850sqft units priced from $150K. they are not FHA approved so you are looking at 20% down. check em out at www.ownhydepark.com Here are some pictures of the project. Help me sell these things. if you have a client looking in this price point, you wont find a better deal in the north campus area. feel free to contact me with any questions. www.brianeddins.com. Thanks for looking.

Z57 anyone???

Brian Eddins (Don Cies and 512 Realty) — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 16:14:29 -0600

I am Creating my own website. I am going through Z57 solutions. Is there anyone out there who could give me some feedback on them??? It seems like a great deal for what you get. I am paying a $500 start up fee and its only $100 per month and you can search my local mls on my site too, so it would be a great way to get leads. I know i could have a really cool custom site that i create myself, but it would cost thousands to get it done. any positive or negative feedback would be appreciated. you can check out their website at www.z57.com.

Dealing with bi polar clients.

Brian Eddins (Don Cies and 512 Realty) — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 14:32:29 -0600

Ok, so this never happens to me. I have been in the business for 5 years now and every once in a while you deal with grumpy clients. I have been dealing with an out of state client for about a two weeks now. He is looking for a specific school district and wants at least 2 acres. He is trying to decide if he wants to build on a lot or buy a home already built. The problem with the lot is he wants to put a mobile home on the property while he builds. I told him that it wouldnt be a problem. we would just have to find a lot with no restrictions. of course the lots that would allow this are in neighborhoods surrounded by other mobile homes. He didnt like that too much. so our other option would be to rent and build, or buy a home completed. ok, we are all on the same page. I email him some homes already built in the school district he likes. this is what he said

Brian,

Looks like there are a couple in here worth looking at. The ones with a house, on property and near 200K might a lot of sense. That would save us the work and expense of improving the property and we could move in right away. More of these would be a great supplement to the raw land options. But only in the Dripping Springs area. Seems like we are getting to a point where we have some options to consider, maybe enough to fill up a day. Is that about right?

I thought that was great. that was the point of sending him the list of properties. this way he can see that since the lot situation isnt looking promising there were still some great options for him. The homes i emailed him werent as nice as he could get across town in the same city but different school district. I emailed him a list of four homes, three of which were in dripping springs which he wanted, but different schools. I told him that these were great options because they were considerably nicer homes and he could transfer his kid to his preferred school district. which many of my clients have done with no problem. you just have to make sure they have transportation. I also sent him a few homes at a higher price range to show him what he gets if he goes up in price. I always try and give my clients as many options as possible, especially when they are out of state so they can make an informed decision on what to pursue. ok, so sent the email i just explained within 5 minutes of getting above email response. this is what he emailed me back. it blew me away. keep in mind that these two emails he sent me were within 10 minutes from each other.

Brian,

You can't just transfer kids to other schools without extraordinary effort. It seems you have very little idea of the realities of buying real estate - I basically had to ask you to look into the manufactured home issue because you kept telling me it would be no problem. Now you are sending me properties that I have no interest in. If we are going to move our family and spend hundreds of thousands of dollars, it will be done our way and with the help of someone who can put our interests above their own. Please take us off your schedule and email list. We will be working with another agent.

I really couldnt believe it. I have never put my interests before my clients. How could he comleatly change his tune that quickly. Is he crazy? I usually dont let stuff like this get to me but for some reason it really hurt my feelings. I feel personally and profesionally attacked. Below is my response. Please let me know if you think it was appropriate.

I am sorry that my last email offended you. I only sent you those homes so you could see what you could get in areas near dripping springs. I know you are trying to decide if you want to build or buy a home already established on a couple of acres. By sending you that email I was hoping it would help you with your decision on which way to go. I know they were a little higher priced, but that way you could see that going up a little in price doesn't make that much difference. You would need to go up considerably to make a difference. I like to provide my clients with as many options as possible. And with my experience it is no trouble at all transferring to other schools. You would just have to make sure they have transportation to and from. I have had many clients in the past who have had no problem doing this. I have been in real estate for many years now, and am very aware of the realities of buying and selling real estate. And it is no problem to put a manufactured home on lots while you build, but to get a lot with out restrictions in a nice area is where the challenge comes in. I do have about 5 lots to show you two of which I think might be great options, but the other three are in a neighborhood of mostly mobile homes. If that is ok with you then they could be possibilities. I really don't understand how you think I would be putting my interests above yours. Could you explain that to me? I will work just as hard for you whether you are buying a $50,000 lot or a $300,000 home. It makes no difference to me. I simply want you to have as much info on homes and land in the area as possible to make an informed decision on what to pursue. I think there has to be a misunderstanding here. I have put a lot of time into your needs, and to be honest I am a little offended that you would think I don't have your best interests in mind. I would love to continue working with you. I am dedicated to finding the perfect place for you and your family. I look forward to hearing back from you.

Brian

I probably wont be hearing back from him, which stinks because I have been working really hard for him this last week or so. He was supposed to be coming into town on the 8th to look at properties with me. Oh well. I guess I will aim my attention to my clients that value the hard work to do for them. thanks for listening. feel free to comment with your opinions.

Artists for austin tonight. if your in the austin area stop by.

Brian Eddins (Don Cies and 512 Realty) — Wed, 24 Oct 2007 13:39:52 -0500

Ok, so there is a great event tonight at the canvas bar and gallery on 5th street. Tons of Artists have donated work to the cause. there will be silent auctions on the work. everything is donated to Keep Austin beautiful. Which is a great cause. there will be food, drinks and live entertainment. $7 at the door. hope to see you there. if you see me and recognize me from active rain please come introduce yourself. for more info go to www.artistsforaustin.org

Artists for austin tonight.

Brian Eddins (Don Cies and 512 Realty) — Wed, 24 Oct 2007 13:29:37 -0500

sorry for the last minute notice. but there is a great event tonight at the canvas bar and gallery on 5th tonight. there will be live entertainment and food and drink. many artists have donated their work and there will be a silent auction on the works. everything goes to the keep austin beautiful charity. $7 at the door. tons of fun. hope to see you there. go to www.artistsforaustin.org for more info.

New group for Austin

Brian Eddins (Don Cies and 512 Realty) — Mon, 08 Oct 2007 19:23:40 -0500

I just started a new group for the Austin Area. check it out here.

http://activerain.com/groups/whatsupaustin

just a place where you can post about any and all activites in or around the austin area.

of course it doesn't have to be real estate related. just anything thats seems worth knowing about. i hope you join.

Brian

P.S KEEP AUSTIN WEIRD!

New Group

Brian Eddins (Don Cies and 512 Realty) — Mon, 08 Oct 2007 19:13:27 -0500

lets get this new group underway.

Austin Texas Realtor.

Brian Eddins (Don Cies and 512 Realty) — Fri, 05 Oct 2007 18:08:20 -0500

Just wanted to say hello. if anyone needs assistance with Austin relocations i can certainly help. Austin is Booming and seems untouched from the national downfall. if anyone has and austin related questions, bring them my way.

Sunset Valley Homes

Brian Eddins (Don Cies and 512 Realty) — Fri, 05 Oct 2007 14:56:23 -0500

Beautiful Homes for sale in Sunset Valley. just 10 min south of downtown Austin.

http://sunsetvalley.org

The pictures above are of a 3372sqft 3-2.5 home priced at $391,990.

There are other floorplans to choose from. starting at 2650sqft and $350,000 all the way up to 3570sqft and $490,000.

Sunset valley has its own police department and firedepartment separate from Austin. LOW TAXES! Dont miss this opportunity to live in very desirable sunset valley.

call me at 512-947-0517 for more info. or email me at brian@austintexashomes.com

a few reasons why agents are great assets.

Brian Eddins (Don Cies and 512 Realty) — Fri, 05 Oct 2007 12:35:40 -0500

I found this online and I thought it was very interesting.

1. Education & Experience

You don't need to know everything about buying and selling real estate if you hire a real estate professional who does. Henry Ford once said that when you hire people who are smarter than you are, it proves you are smarter than they are. The trick is to find the right agent for you. For the most part, they all cost about the same. Why not hire a person with more education and experience than you? We're all looking for more precious time in our lives, and hiring pros gives us that time.

2. Agents are Buffers

Agents take the spam out of your property showings and visits. If you're a buyer of new homes, your agent will whip out her sword and keep the builder's agents at bay, preventing them from biting or nipping at your heels. If you're a seller, your agent will filter all those phone calls that lead to nowhere from lookie loos and try to induce serious buyers to immediately write an offer.

3. Neighborhood Knowledge

Agents either possess intimate knowledge or they know where to find the industry buzz about your neighborhood. They can identify comparable sales and hand these facts to you, in addition to pointing you in the direction where you can find more data on schools, crime or demographics. For example, you may know that a home down the street was on the market for $350,000, but an agent will know it had upgrades and sold at $285,000 after 65 days on the market and after twice falling out of escrow.

4. Price Guidance

Contrary to what some people believe, agents do not select prices for sellers or buyers. However, an agent will help to guid a client to make the right choices for themselves. If a listing is at 7%, for example, an agent has a 7% vested interest in the sale, but the client has a 93% interest. Selling agents will ask buyers to weigh all the data supplied to them and to choose a price. Then based on market supply, demand and the conditions, the agent will devise a negotiation strategy.

5. Market Conditions Information

Real estate agents can disclose market conditions, which will govern your selling or buying process. Many factors determine how you will proceed. Data such as the average per square foot cost of similar homes, median and average sales prices, average days on market and ratios of list-to-sold prices, among other criteria, will have a huge bearing on what you ultimately decide to do.

6. Professional Networking

Real estate agents network with other professionals, many of whom provide services that you will need to buy or sell. Due to legal liability, many agents will hesitate to recommend a certain individual or company over another, but they do know which vendors have a reputation for efficiency, competency and competitive pricing. Agents can, however, give you a list of references with whom they have worked and provide background information to help you make a wise selection.

7. Negotiation Skills & Confidentiality

Top producing agents negotiate well because, unlike most buyers and sellers, they can remove themselves from the emotional aspects of the transaction and because they are skilled. It's part of their job description. Good agents are not messengers, delivering buyer's offers to sellers and vice versa. They are professionals who are trained to present their client's case in the best light and agree to hold client information confidential from competing interests.

8. Handling Volumes of Paperwork

One-page deposit receipts were prevalent in the early 1970s. Today's run 10 pages or more. That does not include the federal- and state-mandated disclosures nor disclosures dictated by local custom. Most real estate files average thicknesses from one to three inches of paper. One tiny mistake or omission could land you in court or cost you thousands. In some states, lawyers handle the disclosures, thank goodness!

9. Answer Questions After Closing

Even the smoothest transactions that close without complications can come back to haunt. For example, taxing authorities that collect property tax assessments, doc stamps or transfer tax can fall months behind and mix up invoices, but one call to your agent can straighten out the confusion. Many questions can pop up that were overlooked in the excitement of closing. Good agents stand by ready to assist. Worthy and honest agents don't leave you in the dust to fend for yourself.

10. Develop Relationships for Future Business

The basis for an agent's success and continued career in real estate is referrals. Few agents would survive if their livelihood was dependent on consistently drumming up new business. This emphasis gives agents strong incentives to make certain clients are happy and satisfied. It also means that an agent who stays in the business will be there for you when you need to hire an agent again. Many will periodically mail market updates to you to keep you informed and to stay in touch.

Just wanted to introduce myself.

Brian Eddins (Don Cies and 512 Realty) — Thu, 04 Oct 2007 15:57:50 -0500

My name is Brian Eddins. I'm a realtor here in Austin Tx. I am new to active rain and i have heard great things about it. I look forward to making some great contacts out there. If you think we could do business together sometime please contact me. thanks so much.

Brian.