The Central Texas Real Estate Specialist

ADV: Just Listed! First Time Home Buyer or Investors HOT BUY! $124,500

Thu, 03 Sep 2009 18:26:08 -0500

Open House Sunday September 6th 2009 from 1pm to 4pm! Don't miss this fantastic home at only $124,500 in Cedar Park. Homes in area rent between 900/mo and 1000/mo. No HOA, Boats ok.

Terrific Price on Well Maintained, Carriage Hills Home in Cedar Park!

Sat, 15 Aug 2009 18:13:12 -0500

Don't miss this excellent opportunity to buy! This well maintained home is on a great lot with large trees in the back yard. Great price on a good sized home for the area! Great for first time home owner or investor!

Here and Now -Facts about Home Ownership in Texas

Fri, 19 Jun 2009 15:35:23 -0500

Saturday, June 27 • 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Doubletree Hotel Austin • 6505 North I-35

FREE EVENT

Whether you're a first-time homebuyer or current homeowner, you don't want to miss this event. With national media reporting distressing news about the housing and financial markets, it's difficult to remember that real estate is local. "Here & Now" is a free, strictly educational event that will offer Austin-area residents an opportunity to hear from objective real estate experts. For directions to the Doubletree Hotel, click here.

EVENT PRESENTATIONS INCLUDE:

"Central Texas Real Estate Economic Outlook"
Jim Gaines, economist at the Texas A&M Real Estate Center, will provide an update on the local economy and what it means for those looking to buy or sell real estate in the current market.

"Current State of Mortgage Banking in Texas"
Scott Norman, Vice President of the Texas Mortgage Bankers Association, will explain the changes experienced within our state's mortgage industry and offer advice on how to choose the right lender.

"Taking Advantage of Energy Upgrade Incentives"
Ed Clark, Austin Energy Communications Director, will share information on green energy rebate programs, Federal tax incentives, and what types of financial savings energy efficient upgrades can bring.

"Building Wealth through Homeownership"
Kendra Todd, real estate expert and host of HGTV's My House is Worth What?, will discuss upgrades homeowners can make to increase home value and offer tips on how to make home improvements without breaking the bank.

Austin Single Family Home Statistics -April 2009

Wed, 20 May 2009 14:58:12 -0500

Austin real estate holds steady into summer buying season

Austin Board of REALTORS® releases April 2009 real estate statistics

May 20, 2009 - According to the latest Multiple Listing Service report by the Austin Board of REALTORS®, the volume of single-family home sales in April 2009 was 1,601, down 18 percent from April 2008, and the median price was $189,000, up one percent over the same time period.

Jay Gohil, Chairman of the Austin Board of REALTORS®, explained, "Since the beginning of the year, sales have grown. While we are still down compared to last year, with each month the gap in sales volume from 2008 to 2009 is closing. This sales momentum, coupled with a steady stream of new listings on the market, puts Central Texas in a good position for summer's real estate season."

Chairman Gohil also explained why taking a closer look at April 2009 sales volume could be good news for both buyers and sellers: "Right now we have a very healthy supply of housing inventory, which is perhaps the most reliable indicator of future home price trends in Central Texas. The ‘months of inventory' in a market is determined by dividing the number of homes for sale by the average sales over the past 12 months."

Economists at the Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University predict that about 6.5 months of inventory is a balanced market, where homes are being sold and prices continue to increase at a moderate pace. In April 2009, the Central Texas market held 6.4 months of single family housing inventory, where the national average is 10 months.

April 2009 Statistics:

$372,077,203 was the dollar volume of single-family properties sold
$189,000 was the median price, a one percent increase from April 2008
1,601 was the number of homes sold, an 18 percent decrease compared to April 2008

Mayfield Ranch 3 Car Garage with Extended Driveway, Greenbelt Lot $244,500

Mon, 04 May 2009 21:33:33 -0500

Terrific value! Call to schedule an appointment and view virtual tour at www.3709Lagoona.info

Central Texas Vote 2009

Mon, 27 Apr 2009 14:46:33 -0500

Central Texas voters can find superb information on one site... http://impactnews.com/vote09 Complete with candidate information, voter links and details on the council members -this is a terrific site for the consumer and property owner to get educated!

I just wanted to share with you all a website that Community Impact News has put together. It has some great resources for the voters including where to go to vote, when, mayoral candidates, city council candidates, etc. They cover areas such as Austin, Georgetown, Round Rock, Cedar Park, Leander,Pflugerville, Hutto, and Taylor. FINALLY a website that you can really use to do your local election research!!! Thank you Community Impact!!!

Some of the links provided for city council members in the various cities, also include the candidates personal website -if available. Perhaps taking a page from the successful social media campaign used for President Obama. Sort of a "get to know" candidate x and what he/she will bring to the table if elected.

I hope everyone will take the time to vote at their local levels -it starts here at home!! Now get out and vote in your Mayoral and City Council races!!

Source: Impact News

Austin MLS Single Family Statistics for March 2009.

Sun, 26 Apr 2009 15:49:06 -0500

MARCH	2008	2009	Change		2008	2009	Change
*Listings*	9,638	9,704	1%	▲	*Median price*	$188,000	$180,160	-4.2%	▼
*Pendings*	1,349	1,846	37%	▲	*Average price*	$239,777	$230,893	-3.7%	▼
*Sales*	1,829	1,421	-22%	▼	*Days on Market*	73	88	20.5%	▲
Inventory *	5.3	6.8	30%	▲
* Months of inventory	= ratio of Listings/Sales

Source: Austin Board of Realtors

According to the March 2009 Multiple Listing Service report by the Austin Board of REALTORS®, the volume of single-family home sales in March 2009 was 1,421, down 22 percent from March 2008, and the median price was $180,160, down 4 percent over the same time period.

Jay Gohil, Chairman of the Austin Board of REALTORS®, provided some insight, “Sales volumes in March are still down compared to a year ago, but we’re beginning to see the gap in volume close.”

For example, in January 2009, sales volume was down 36 percent compared to January 2008. In February 2009, sales volume was down 28 percent compared to February 2008. In March 2009, the 22 percent decrease in volume compared to March 2008 shows the Austin real estate market is gaining momentum.

Chairman Gohil continued, “Looking at the first quarter of 2009, we’re seeing sales volumes improve and home values remain steady – that’s good news for Austin homeowners. Those factors, combined with Austin’s strong economic fundamentals, bode well for our market heading toward the summer buying season.”

One of the most important economic fundamentals driving the real estate market is job growth, for which Austin was fortunate in 2008. Looking ahead, a recent study based on data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics cited Austin among the top 10 metropolitan areas in the country with the highest potential for job growth in 2009.

March 2009 Statistics

$328,098,953 was the total dollar volume of single-family properties sold
$180,160 was the median price, a four percent decrease from one year ago
1,421 was the number of homes sold, a 22 percent decrease compared to March 2008

Source: Austin Board of Realtors, Actris MLS -All information deemed reliable and accurate but not gauranteed.

For statistical data in your neighborhood contact me at www.CentralTexasAgent.com

Williamson County Weekly Home Sales Stats for March 2009

Sun, 12 Apr 2009 13:48:35 -0500

Week of:	3/29/2009
# Homes Sold		SqFt	$/SF	List Price	Sold Price	% Difference	Days on Market
88	Average	2316	$91	$222,443	$212,763	95.65%	123
Median	2192	$88	$189,900	$186,250	98.08%	79
New Listings	Removed Listings	High	4656	$162	$599,900	$575,000	95.85%	688
234	96	Low	720	$51	$45,999	$42,500	92.39%	0
$ Volume				$18,723,131
	X, W
Week of:	3/22/2009
# Homes Sold		SqFt	$/SF	List Price	Sold Price	% Difference	Days on Market
103	Average	2241	$87	$200,990	$193,128	96.09%	99
Median	2092	$86	$180,000	$173,500	96.39%	67
New Listings	Removed Listings	High	4398	$133	$549,000	$489,000	89.07%	519
197	43	Low	844	$26	$41,900	$38,298	91.40%	0
$ Volume				$19,892,135
	X, W
Week of:	3/15/2009
# Homes Sold		SqFt	$/SF	List Price	Sold Price	% Difference	Days on Market
83	Average	2240	$90	$216,269	$205,687	95.11%	107
Median	2114	$90	$189,900	$185,500	97.68%	70
New Listings	Removed Listings	High	4276	$156	$495,500	$465,000	93.84%	506
176	58	Low	892	$17	$34,900	$30,650	87.82%	0
$ Volume				$17,072,060
	X, W
Week of:	3/8/2009
# Homes Sold		SqFt	$/SF	List Price	Sold Price	% Difference	Days on Market
80	Average	2346	$86	$208,284	$202,023	96.99%	123
Median	2228	$86	$180,450	$177,500	98.37%	107
New Listings	Removed Listings	High	5047	$126	$525,000	$490,000	93.33%	467
185	63	Low	1000	$49	$75,000	$65,000	86.67%	4
$ Volume				$15,353,768
	X, W
Week of:	3/1/2009
# Homes Sold		SqFt	$/SF	List Price	Sold Price	% Difference	Days on Market
76	Average	2140	$89	$197,150	$188,811	95.77%	102
Median	2020	$90	$173,450	$169,950	97.98%	80
New Listings	Removed Listings	High	3891	$159	$539,000	$499,000	92.58%	439
211	95	Low	704	$33	$68,400	$60,350	88.23%	2
$ Volume				$13,216,787
	X, W
Week of:	2/22/2009
# Homes Sold		SqFt	$/SF	List Price	Sold Price	% Difference	Days on Market
136	Average	2260	$85	$201,779	$191,899	95.10%	110
Median	2135	$86	$174,950	$172,500	98.60%	91
New Listings	Removed Listings	High	4487	$151	$585,000	$535,500	91.54%	443
202	74	Low	1175	$34	$65,900	$63,100	95.75%	2
$ Volume				$26,098,283
	X, W
Week of:	2/15/2009
# Homes Sold		SqFt	$/SF	List Price	Sold Price	% Difference	Days on Market
70	Average	2289	$89	$210,964	$203,785	96.60%	105
Median	2181	$89	$189,000	$180,000	95.24%	71
New Listings	Removed Listings	High	4100	$153	$650,000	$620,000	95.38%	541
185	49	Low	1258	$17	$69,000	$50,000	72.46%	0
$ Volume				$14,264,963
	X, W
Week of:	2/8/2009
# Homes Sold		SqFt	$/SF	List Price	Sold Price	% Difference	Days on Market
52	Average	2159	$90	$202,455	$195,250	96.44%	123
Median	2059	$86	$179,250	$177,550	99.05%	84
New Listings	Removed Listings	High	3763	$150	$439,900	$420,000	95.48%	489
161	57	Low	1008	$32	$49,000	$45,000	91.84%	0
$ Volume				$10,152,999
	X, W

Austin Childrens Museum offers Free Tickets in April and May!

Sun, 12 Apr 2009 13:01:42 -0500

During the months of April and May, members of the local community can bring certain new or recycled materials to the Austin Children's Museum, 201 Colorado St., and get a free pass into the museum.

Bring 20 plastic bottle caps, or 20 plastic round lids (from yogurt, cottage cheese, sour cream cups, etc.), or 2 yards of fabric at least 8 inches wide. The free pass can then be used immediately or saved for another visit. There is a limit of two per family and is not valid on school tours.

The promotion will help the Austin Children's Museum gather materials to build the summer feature exhibit, MakerKids, an exhibit "sure to inspire the do-it-yourself spirit in everyone from the littlest to biggest makers," according to the museum. The event will feature more than 20 guided activities in fiber arts, printmaking, sculpture, light play, paper play, cardboard creations and more. The exhibit opens June 6.

For more information visit www.austinkids.org or call 512-472-2499.

Austin Single Family Home Statistics -February 2009 Show Home Sale Prices have Modest Increase

Thu, 19 Mar 2009 15:33:43 -0500

March 19, 2009 -According to the February 2009 Multiple Listing Service report by the Austin Board of REALTORS® (ABoR), the Austin-area home sales volume remains down year-over-year, but home prices have risen compared to February 2008.

The median price of a single-family home in Central Texas was $189,900, up five percent from February 2008. There were 1,116 single-family homes sold in February 2009, a 28 percent decrease as compared to one year ago. Collectively, sales in February 2009 contributed $271,048,500 to the local economy.

"These statistics demonstrate how Austin-area home prices have held steady and continue to appreciate, despite volatile credit markets and difficult conditions in other states," explained ABoR Chairman Jay Gohil. "Compared to last month, we're seeing the year-over-year gap begin to close on sales volume and hope consumer confidence will continue to rise to further spur the market."

He added, "With unprecedented incentives available to home buyers, such as an $8,000 first-time home buyer tax credit and some of the lowest mortgage interest rates in history, we believe many Central Texans will recognize this spring as a great time to build wealth through Austin real estate."

February 2009 - Single Family Homes

$271,048,500 was the total dollar volume of homes sold
$189,900 was the median price, a five percent increase from February 2008
1,116 was the number of homes sold, a 28 percent decrease from one year ago

Source: Austin Board of Realtors -information deemed reliable and accurate but not guaranteed.

The Austin Board of REALTORS® is a non-profit, voluntary organization representing more than 8,000 licensed REALTORS® in Central Texas. For more, please contact Angela Brutsché at 512/454-7636, ext. 1300.

Austin Single Family Home Statistics -December 2008 and 2008 Year in review

Wed, 04 Feb 2009 19:48:09 -0600

Austin area real estate volume down, prices remain stable

Austin Board of REALTORS® releases December 2008 real estate statistics

January 20, 2009 - According to the December 2008 Multiple Listing Service report by the Austin Board of REALTORS® (ABoR), the volume of single-family home sales was down last month 21 percent compared to December 2007. However, prices in Central Texas remain stable, with the median price down by only four percent compared to December 2007, underscoring the long-term strength of Austin's real estate market.

According to ABoR Chairman Jay Gohil, "Austin is feeling the effects of the economic downturn in our sales volume, but our price stability shows the long-term health of our market."

He continued, "In Austin, we never saw the dramatic price run-ups like other parts of the country. Now, our homes are retaining their value, even in the midst of market fluctuations. Combine that fact with projections that Austin's population will continue to grow and our economy will continue adding jobs in 2009 and it becomes clear Austin is a good place to invest in real estate."

Year-end real estate totals for 2008 mirrored similar trends. The median price for 2008 was $189,500, a 2 percent increase from 2007, and the volume of single family homes sales was down 20 percent to 20,199.

Chairman Gohil summarized the results this way, "These real estate statistics are important to understand the Austin market at large. However, they don't reveal whether this is a good time to buy or sell for you. The best way to do that is to talk to your Austin REALTOR® and get the facts about your personal situation and make the decision that's right for you."

December 2008 - Single Family Homes

1,299 was the number of homes sold, a 21 percent decrease as compared to December 2007
$182,000 was the median price, a 4 percent decrease from December 2007
$320,542,539 was the total dollar volume of properties sold, a 22 percent decrease from December 2007

2008 Year-End Totals

$5,004,647,938 was the total dollar volume of single-family properties sold, a 21 percent decrease from 2007
$189,500 was the median price, a 2 percent increase from 2007
20,199 single-family homes were sold, a 20 percent decrease from 2007

Source :The Austin Board of REALTORS® -all information is deemed reliable and accurate but not gauranteed.

Williamson County Residential Sales Weekly update through Jan 2009

Fri, 23 Jan 2009 13:01:10 -0600

Here are some of the latest stats as provided by Williamson County Association of Realtors Mark Burton and Austin Board of Realtors MLS -all information is believed to be accurate but not gauranteed.

Week of:	1/11/2009
# Homes Sold		SqFt	$/SF	List Price	Sold Price	% Difference	Days on Market
32	Average	2181	$83	$189,825	$182,481	96.13%	111
Median	1953	$83	$154,900	$154,050	99.45%	90
New Listings	Removed Listings	High	5542	$141	$568,000	$507,500	89.35%	461
193	72	Low	780	$30	$24,900	$23,500	94.38%	7
$ Volume				$5,839,384
	X, W
Week of:	1/4/2009
# Homes Sold		SqFt	$/SF	List Price	Sold Price	% Difference	Days on Market
46	Average	2146	$85	$186,080	$181,062	97.30%	97
Median	1936	$85	$149,900	$146,500	97.73%	80
New Listings	Removed Listings	High	4491	$143	$494,900	$461,475	93.25%	383
177	77	Low	1212	$44	$84,900	$84,900	100.00%	7
$ Volume				$8,328,834
	X, W
Week of:	12/28/2008
# Homes Sold		SqFt	$/SF	List Price	Sold Price	% Difference	Days on Market
96	Average	2170	$86	$199,389	$188,230	94.40%	108
Median	2022	$84	$174,450	$166,000	95.16%	67
New Listings	Removed Listings	High	4573	$218	$715,000	$699,000	97.76%	424
108	177	Low	1047	$40	$62,900	$50,000	79.49%	3
$ Volume				$18,070,046
	X, W
Week of:	12/21/2008
# Homes Sold		SqFt	$/SF	List Price	Sold Price	% Difference	Days on Market
51	Average	2040	$88	$186,196	$177,217	95.18%	84
Median	1778	$86	$164,999	$159,900	96.91%	60
New Listings	Removed Listings	High	4252	$144	$489,900	$399,800	81.61%	623
58	52	Low	1129	$42	$73,500	$60,000	81.63%	0
$ Volume				$9,038,064
	X, W
Week of:	12/14/2008
# Homes Sold		SqFt	$/SF	List Price	Sold Price	% Difference	Days on Market
100	Average	2139	$93	$209,985	$201,579	96.00%	119
Median	1973	$89	$175,325	$169,950	96.93%	106
New Listings	Removed Listings	High	5694	$226	$895,000	$870,000	97.21%	626
106	76	Low	948	$49	$91,900	$88,000	95.76%	0
$ Volume				$20,157,927
	X, W
Week of:	12/7/2008
# Homes Sold		SqFt	$/SF	List Price	Sold Price	% Difference	Days on Market
65	Average	2160	$92	$201,440	$194,758	96.68%	88
Median	1957	$89	$170,000	$168,000	98.82%	73
New Listings	Removed Listings	High	4488	$190	$439,000	$434,000	98.86%	272
138	80	Low	980	$45	$104,900	$105,200	100.29%	0
$ Volume				$12,659,292
	X, W
Week of:	11/30/2008
# Homes Sold		SqFt	$/SF	List Price	Sold Price	% Difference	Days on Market
56	Average	2054	$90	$194,560	$188,039	96.65%	105
Median	1889	$87	$167,373	$168,360	100.59%	62
New Listings	Removed Listings	High	3525	$170	$638,000	$599,000	93.89%	519
157	165	Low	960	$26	$32,000	$31,000	96.88%	0
$ Volume				$10,530,177
	X, W
Week of:	11/23/2008
# Homes Sold		SqFt	$/SF	List Price	Sold Price	% Difference	Days on Market
79	Average	2141	$87	$194,897	$186,412	95.65%	100
Median	1995	$87	$179,900	$171,000	95.05%	71
New Listings	Removed Listings	High	4281	$149	$514,950	$475,000	92.24%	498
104	74	Low	1016	$50	$82,000	$82,000	100.00%	3
$ Volume				$14,726,527
	X, W

Huge Price Reduction -Round Rock Schools!

Mon, 12 Jan 2009 13:09:01 -0600

November 2008 Market Statistics from Austin Board of Realtors

Thu, 18 Dec 2008 19:31:26 -0600

Austin Area Feels Effects of National Housing Slowdown

Austin Board of REALTORS® releases November 2008 real estate statistics, proposes solutions

December 18, 2008 - In November 2008, the Austin real estate market showed signs of slowdowns seen in other parts of the country. According to the November 2008 Multiple Listing Service report published by the Austin Board of REALTORS® (ABoR), single-family home sales dipped 40 percent from November 2007, which represents a 20 percent decrease year-to-date.

The median price for a single-family home was $180,000, a three percent decrease from November 2007. In total, single family home sales in November 2008 contributed $231,014,520 to the local economy, not including approximately 1,147 pending home sales.

In light of the results, ABoR is calling upon the federal government to adopt a four-point solution proposed by the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) to stimulate the real estate market and enable Austinites to take advantage of the benefits of homeownership.

"There is no denying the Austin market has begun to slow," said ABoR Chairman Jay Gohil. "However, we still enjoy strong statewide job growth and low unemployment, two factors missing in other, more challenged parts of the country. These sound fundamentals, combined with capital that should flow more freely to homeowners from the recent federal bailout, will put Austin in good stead as the market begins to recover."

NAR has proposed a four-point plan to stimulate the housing market, which ABoR supports. It includes proposals to make the $7,500 first-time homebuyer tax credit available to all buyers and eliminate the repayment requirements; to make the higher loan limits approved earlier this year for the Federal Housing Administration, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac loan limit permanent; and to direct more funds from the Emergency Treasury bank relief program to mortgage relief and foreclosure prevention.

November 2008 - Single Family Homes

990 was the number of homes sold, down 40 percent from November 2007
$180,000 was the median price, down 3 percent from one year ago
$231,014,520 was the total dollar volume of homes sold, down 44 percent from last November

The Austin Board of REALTORS® is a non-profit, voluntary organization representing more than 9,000 licensed REALTORS® in Central Texas. For further information, please contact Angela Brutsché at 512/454-7636, ext. 1300.

Source: MLXChange and Abor, Source is deemed reliable but not gauranteed.

FHA vs USDA a Loan Comparison.

Wed, 10 Dec 2008 13:55:01 -0600

With all the changes out there its good for Realtors to know about the benefits of alternative financing. Since 100% financing went away with some of the lenders -USDA has been a popular choice amongst some buyers. I've found VA and Texas Vet both viable options for many of my buyers recently. Its great to have options! Here are some main points of each FHA and USDA. To consider.

FHA

* Allows 3% Gift Money for Down Payment

* Allows up to 6% Seller Concessions

* Rates as Low at 5.375% / 5.638 APR - Depending on Fico and Loan Amount

* 24 Hour Underwriting/24 hour Conditions/24 hour docs - Close in 7 days

* Allows Double Wide Manufactured homes 50k minimum Loan Amount

* Monthly and Financed MI

* 2 years after BK 7 Discharge - OK

FHA HUD Purchase

* $100. Down Payment

* Allows up to $5K For Repairs with Escrow hold back

* Borrower can do repairs

* Allows up to 6% Seller Concessions (Must be negotiated on the contract)

* Down to 580 Middle Score

USDA

* 100% Financing - Requires no Down Payment

* No limit on seller Contributions

* 2% Funding Fee may also be financed (max 102% LTV)

* No Monthly MI

* 3 Years required from BK 7 Discharge

* Single Family Homes, town houses and approved Condo's in eligible rural areas

* No Manufactured Homes Allowed

* Down to 580 Middle Score

* Call for Property Address and Income Eligibility

If you are a buyer interested in buying real estate in Central Texas -feel free to call or email me at any time! I provide my clients with up to date, useful information and you get a skilled negotiator working for you! www.CentralTexasAgent.com

jjmorrison@kw.com

Central Texas December events 2008

Wed, 03 Dec 2008 19:41:43 -0600

Don't miss out on these fun activities in and around Austin!

Photo by Victor Ovalle.

Photo to the right by Jacci Howard Bear

Parade of Lights at Zilker Park 2008 Trail of Lights: Mark your calendar for December 14-23. The Trail of Lights Festival Grand Opening and Parade begins at 6pm on the 14th, followed by the opening of the trail at 7:00pm. The Trail of Lights is open from 7-10pm nightly.

Austin Symphony --Sing-a-Long December 18, 2008
8:00 p.m.
A holiday tradition for more than two decades, families gather to get into the spirit of the season by joyfully singing along with the Austin Symphony and chorus. It's a free evening of fun for everyone in the family.
www.AustinSymphony.org

City of Burnett Bethlehem Ancient Bethlehem comes alive in Burnet as townspeople and street vendors recreate the time of the birth of Jesus. First Baptist Church 512-756-4481

Houses/Street of Lights downtown Austin Starting point for the lights is 37th St and Guadalupe St
Austin, TX 78705 Click Here for more info.

Williamson County Home Sale Statistics

Sat, 22 Nov 2008 20:07:08 -0600

Week of:	11/9/2008
# Homes Sold 46			SqFt	$/SF	List Price	Sold Price	% Difference	Days on Market
		Average	2080	$98	$213,358	$205,068	96.11%	121
		Median	1878	$93	$179,450	$171,250	95.43%	92
New Listings	Removed Listings	High	4269	$160	$699,900	$679,900	97.14%	820
174	81	Low	1157	$60	$89,500	$87,500	97.77%	1
174	81	$ Volume				$9,433,136
	X, W
Week of:	11/2/2008
# Homes Sold 68			SqFt	$/SF	List Price	Sold Price	% Difference	Days on Market
		Average	2242	$90	$211,123	$204,697	96.96%	113
		Median	2048	$88	$173,738	$171,000	98.42%	72
New Listings	Removed Listings	High	4400	$210	$599,900	$599,000	99.85%	448
160	103	Low	1036	$47	$59,900	$56,000	93.49%	0
160	103	$ Volume				$13,919,387
	X, W
Week of:	10/26/2008
# Homes Sold 85			SqFt	$/SF	List Price	Sold Price	% Difference	Days on Market
		Average	2307	$88	$212,370	$203,666	95.90%	90
		Median	2225	$88	$198,500	$187,175	94.29%	81
New Listings	Removed Listings	High	4671	$227	$899,900	$840,000	93.34%	355
163	134	Low	931	$42	$63,400	$58,000	91.48%	0
163	134	$ Volume				$17,311,569
	X, W
Week of:	10/19/2008
# Homes Sold 91			SqFt	$/SF	List Price	Sold Price	% Difference	Days on Market
		Average	2184	$92	$212,678	$202,729	95.32%	87
		Median	1958	$92	$179,990	$180,000	100.01%	56
New Listings	Removed Listings	High	4723	$157	$749,900	$740,000	98.68%	569
149	89	Low	961	$46	$74,900	$75,000	100.13%	0
149	89	$ Volume				$18,448,359
	X, W
Week of:	10/12/2008
# Homes Sold 81			SqFt	$/SF	List Price	Sold Price	% Difference	Days on Market
		Average	2117	$95	$207,829	$201,601	97.00%	96
		Median	1877	$93	$179,900	$177,000	98.39%	64
New Listings	Removed Listings	High	4176	$179	$795,000	$735,000	92.45%	480
179	111	Low	1026	$44	$89,999	$92,420	102.69%	0
179	111	$ Volume				$15,523,249
	X, W
Week of:	10/5/2008
# Homes Sold			SqFt	$/SF	List Price	Sold Price	% Difference	Days on Market
75		Average	2249	$96	$226,492	$218,303	96.38%	91
75		Median	2184	$90	$189,900	$180,000	94.79%	59
New Listings	Removed Listings	High	4899	$191	$675,000	$675,000	100.00%	446
169	111	Low	1073	$59	$105,000	$103,000	98.10%	2
169	111	$ Volume				$16,372,688
	X, W
Week of:	9/28/2008
# Homes Sold 159			SqFt	$/SF	List Price	Sold Price	% Difference	Days on Market
		Average	2160	$91	$199,592	$194,191	97.29%	85
		Median	1968	$89	$174,033	$170,000	97.68%	62
New Listings	Removed Listings	High	4713	$143	$528,900	$435,000	82.25%	429
180	156	Low	1079	$38	$80,900	$82,000	101.36%	2
180	156	$ Volume				$28,546,147
	X, W
Week of:	9/21/2008
# Homes Sold 135			SqFt	$/SF	List Price	Sold Price	% Difference	Days on Market
		Average	2119	$91	$200,700	$192,228	95.78%	91
		Median	1991	$90	$174,900	$169,414	96.86%	69
New Listings	Removed Listings	High	4394	$146	$519,900	$450,000	86.56%	453
158	83	Low	828	$43	$62,900	$64,000	101.75%	0
158	83	$ Volume				$23,644,014
	X, W

Although the number (quantity of homes sold) has decreased since last year, the median sales price of homes has rose from ~170k in October 2007 to ~178k in October of 2008 -a 4.7% increase over last year.

Source -Williamson county Association of Realtors and Austin MLS. Information believed to be accurate but not gauranteed. Many thanks to Mike Burton of WCAOR for gathering the data for members.

Austin Area Home Sales Statistics October 2008

Sat, 22 Nov 2008 19:53:58 -0600

October Report Shows Rise in Value of Austin Area Properties

November 20, 2008 - Despite national economic pressures, Austin area homes remain a sound investment option, according to the latest Multiple Listing Service (MLS) report from the Austin Board of REALTORS®. In October 2008, the median home price ticked up seven percentage points from October 2007 to $192,520, a record for the month.

The leasing sector experienced a 26 percent upswing, with 1,082 properties leased in October. Meanwhile, single family home sales fell 25 percent in October from one year ago to 1,331.

October's 9,944 active listings rose five percent from one year ago, contributing to a very healthy housing inventory level of 5.6 months. The average number of days a single family home sat on the market increased by seven percent from last October to 75 days.

Pending sales and new listings both experienced drops from October 2007, with pending sales slipping 37 percent to 1,234 and new listings falling 14 percent to 2,713. Single family homes sales contributed $324,312,791 to the Austin economy in October, down 24 percent from last year.

"The most recent report from the Austin Board of REALTORS® reflects the impact of the national economic upheaval on the local market," says ABoR Chairman Socar Chatmon-Thomas. "However, Austin is still enjoying home price appreciation and has an excellent growth record for population, employment and income."

While housing market sales cooled, October saw a jump in Austin's leasing sector. Leases contributed $1,379,550 to the local economy in October 2008, a 31 percent increase from one year ago. The median price of lease properties was $1,150, down three percent from last October.

October 2008 - Single Family Homes

1,331 was the number of homes sold, down 25 percent from October 2007
$192,520 was the median price, up seven percent from one year ago and a record for the month
$324,312,791 was the total dollar volume of homes sold, down 24 percent from last October

The Austin Board of REALTORS® is a non-profit, voluntary organization representing more than 9,000

Source: ABOR, MLS -All data is beleived to be accurate but not guaranteed.

Williamson County Home Sale Stats by Week.

Mon, 06 Oct 2008 13:07:07 -0500

Week of:	9/28/2008
# Homes Sold			SqFt	$/SF	List Price	Sold Price	% Difference	Days on Market
123		Average	2129	$91	$197,090	$191,945	97.39%	86
123		Median	1938	$89	$168,900	$165,700	98.11%	62
New Listings	Removed Listings	High	4713	$143	$528,900	$435,000	82.25%	429
173	156	Low	1079	$38	$80,900	$82,000	101.36%	2
173	156	$ Volume				$23,609,195
	X, W
Week of:	9/21/2008
# Homes Sold			SqFt	$/SF	List Price	Sold Price	% Difference	Days on Market
123		Average	2119	$91	$200,700	$192,228	95.78%	91
123		Median	1991	$90	$174,900	$169,414	96.86%	69
New Listings	Removed Listings	High	4394	$146	$519,900	$450,000	86.56%	453
158	83	Low	828	$43	$62,900	$64,000	101.75%	0
158	83	$ Volume				$23,644,014
	X, W
Week of:	9/14/2008
# Homes Sold			SqFt	$/SF	List Price	Sold Price	% Difference	Days on Market
125		Average	2111	$92	$201,167	$193,922	96.40%	90
125		Median	2015	$91	$179,850	$175,000	97.30%	57
New Listings	Removed Listings	High	5041	$233	$799,000	$750,000	93.87%	395
157	104	Low	795	$25	$39,900	$33,000	82.71%	1
157	104	$ Volume				$23,464,606
	X, W
Week of:	9/7/2008
# Homes Sold			SqFt	$/SF	List Price	Sold Price	% Difference	Days on Market
88		Average	2178	$93	$213,201	$207,040	97.11%	85
88		Median	1943	$94	$174,500	$171,500	98.28%	46
New Listings	Removed Listings	High	4800	$144	$614,990	$633,000	102.93%	418
190	86	Low	1104	$56	$58,000	$61,500	106.03%	0
190	86	$ Volume				$15,320,965
	X, W
Week of:	8/31/2008
# Homes Sold			SqFt	$/SF	List Price	Sold Price	% Difference	Days on Market
95		Average	2104	$90	$198,789	$191,861	96.51%	90
95		Median	1963	$93	$172,400	$166,520	96.59%	71
New Listings	Removed Listings	High	4270	$216	$795,000	$713,000	89.69%	570
168	165	Low	800	$33	$29,900	$26,100	87.29%	1
168	165	$ Volume				$17,267,452
	X, W
Week of:	8/24/2008
# Homes Sold			SqFt	$/SF	List Price	Sold Price	% Difference	Days on Market
217		Average	2188	$93	$209,219	$202,661	96.87%	90
217		Median	2085	$91	$195,200	$190,000	97.34%	59
New Listings	Removed Listings	High	4916	$181	$592,780	$548,350	92.50%	2973
177	85	Low	0	$34	$67,000	$68,265	101.89%	1
177	85	$ Volume				$40,126,794
	X, W
Week of:	8/17/2008
# Homes Sold			SqFt	$/SF	List Price	Sold Price	% Difference	Days on Market
137		Average	2175	$92	$208,657	$201,472	96.56%	83
137		Median	2022	$90	$186,736	$186,000	99.61%	54
New Listings	Removed Listings	High	4858	$156	$650,000	$651,000	100.15%	610
190	80	Low	1153	$33	$49,900	$45,500	91.18%	0
190	80	$ Volume				$26,997,234
	X, W
Week of:	8/10/2008
# Homes Sold			SqFt	$/SF	List Price	Sold Price	% Difference	Days on Market
130		Average	2269	$95	$231,853	$222,243	95.85%	93.09244
130		Median	2058	$90	$192,500	$186,000	96.62%	62
New Listings	Removed Listings	High	5762	$314	$1,550,000	$1,350,000	87.10%	421
189	79	Low	1022	$59	$79,000	$78,000	98.73%	0
189	79	$ Volume				$26,446,884
	X, W
Week of:	8/3/2008
# Homes Sold			SqFt	$/SF	List Price	Sold Price	% Difference	Days on Market
114		Average	2218	$94	$216,537	$207,422	95.79%	85
114		Median	2072	$94	$183,311	$179,500	97.92%	40
New Listings	Removed Listings	High	4290	$175	$529,000	$520,000	98.30%	437
262	107	Low	1008	$41	$65,000	$67,000	103.08%	0
262	107	$ Volume				$22,194,178
	X, W

The amount of homes selling the past few weeks has increased. The median sales price has been affected by the number of homes over 200+ selling in recent weeks.

SOURCE: ABOR -MLS and Williamson County Association of Realtors. Information deemed reliable and accurate but not gauranteed.

ADV: Just Reduced in Crystal Falls! Only $229,000!

Sat, 04 Oct 2008 17:21:06 -0500

New Listing in Leander. Great for First Time Home Buyers or Investors! Offered at $129,000!!

Thu, 02 Oct 2008 10:21:40 -0500

Cheif Economist from Texas A&M Real Estate Center Weighs In on Bailout!

Mon, 29 Sep 2008 13:22:45 -0500

As negotiations continue over the proposed $700 billion bailout of the nation's financial system, Dr. Mark Dotzour, chief economist for the Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University, offers his perspective:

"It's a sad day in America when the federal government (the American taxpayer) has to bail out homeowners who purchased homes they couldn't possibly afford. It's sad because of the vast majority of Americans who live within their means and pay their mortgages on time are now being asked to pay for other people's mistakes.

"It's a sad day in America when we have to spend billions to bail out financial institutions that made loans to those people, then sold those loans to pension funds and endowment associations that had no idea of the risk they were taking when they bought the ‘complex and sophisticated' bonds. ‘Complex and sophisticated' is just a euphemism for ‘I have no earthly idea what I'm buying.'

"Now for the pragmatism. If we don't bail out the banks, the American economy grinds to a halt. Many U.S. businesses are financed with short-term notes that mature in 90 to 180 days. This is called commercial paper. What happens when your 90-day note matures, and nobody will refinance it? Just ask Fannie and Freddie, who had $225 billion in short-term notes mature and nobody would refinance them. Hasta la vista. The commercial paper market is virtually frozen, and many businesses are in the same boat as Frannie was.

"The smartest people working in the global financial system say that this $700 billion is a good first step, that it might help to thaw the frozen credit markets but that the devil is in the details. Some say it might take another $500 billion later.

"The fact is that there is a market for these bad loans. It's about 22 cents on the dollar. The problem is that nobody wants to sell for that price as long as the taxpayers will pay a higher price. So the federal government will buy these assets for a higher price, and it's possible that they can sell them later and make a profit. It's possible that the net cost to the taxpayer will be very little. The bottom line is that we are in uncharted waters, and this $700 billion plan is the best plan that seems to have some hope of temporarily solving the problem.

"The long-term problem is still on the table, and that is the simple fact that the U.S. government can't keep spending more money than it has. Even governments can go bankrupt. The long-term solution for the U.S. government and every American household is to live within their means.

"Who is going to want to invest in mortgage bonds in the future if the federal government can freeze the interest rates below what was promised? Who is going to want to invest in mortgage bonds if the government can cram down the principal on the bonds you bought? Until the federal government can restore some confidence in the global investment community that if you buy a mortgage bond you have a reasonable certainty of getting your principal and the promised interest, the problems will linger.

"The bailout is inevitable and has to happen. Expect more to come. These are just bandages on a gaping wound. Hopefully lessons will be learned, and we will begin to address the illness and not just put on more bandages."

SOURCE: RECON (Real Estate Center On line News -Texas A&M)

Just Listed in Mayfield Ranch-Round Rock! Cul-de-sac location!

Fri, 26 Sep 2008 13:11:40 -0500

Great value!! On the Round Rock ISD side in Mayfield Ranch. Exemplary Cactus Ranch Elementary and Walsh Middle school.

Round Rock ISD Bond Election 2008 -Get out and VOTE!!!

Fri, 26 Sep 2008 13:01:23 -0500

During a Called Meeting on August 7, 2008, the Round Rock ISD Board of Trustees called for a bond election to be held on Nov. 4, 2008, to ask voters to approve funding for capital improvement projects totaling $293.9 million. Two propositions that will appear on the ballot include:

Proposition 1 addresses district growth.

three new elementary schools in the Stone Oak, Paloma Lake and Parmer corridor areas
new buses
five additional land sites for a future high school, a school of choice high school, a middle school and two elementary school sites
technology to refresh, replace, upgrade and support existing computers
network infrastructure upgrades and replacement of existing central computer systems
a transportation facility on the west side of the district.
The total estimated cost for the proposition is $156,565,000.

Proposition 2 addresses additions, renovations, and safety and security improvements to existing facilities.

funding for phase 2 of the master plan additions and renovations at Round Rock High School and Westwood High School
safety and security improvements to entrances at secondary and selected elementary schools
science room additions at Chisholm Trail Middle School
fine arts addition at Deerpark Middle School
removal of remaining carpeted elementary school gym floors and gym additions at Ridgeview and Cedar Valley middle schools
weight room additions at Stony Point High School, McNeil High School and Cedar Valley Middle School
district-wide infrastructure projects including plumbing, electrical, air conditioning/heating, roofing, flooring and fire alarm systems
new buses
digital projectors for all classrooms that do not yet have them
The total estimated cost for the proposition is $137,375,000.

A total of 99 people signed up to serve on the Citizens Bond Committee to study the district's projected needs for the next two to three years. The Board of Trustees directed the 2008 Citizens Bond Committee to concentrate on only the most critical needs in the areas of district growth, safety and health, curriculum and technology and infrastructure. Of the 99 volunteers, a total of 55 served through the end of the process. The group presented its recommendation to the board on June 5.

In order to reduce the tax impact, the Board also approved the usage of a portion of its debt service fund balance to buy down the tax rate to $.34 through 2011. The average value home in RRISD is valued at approximately $200,000. The debt tax rate for the 2008-09 tax year is projected to be $.31. Based on a $.34 tax rate, the total monthly increase on the average homeowner in the district is estimated to be $3.83 per month. If approved, the bonds will be sold incrementally to fund projects as needed.

The most recent bond election voters approved for the district was held in November of 2006. Voters approved four propositions totaling more than $267 million. Projects funded by the 2006 bond include the opening of three new elementary schools and one new middle school this fall. The district's fifth high school, Cedar Ridge High School, will open for the 2010-11 school year.

SOURCE: RRISD

New FHA and HUD Guidelines Affect Sellers Looking to Lease Instead of Sell

Thu, 25 Sep 2008 12:11:23 -0500

The latest word on the mortgage changes and their effective dates are the following:

The new down payment of 3.5% will be effective January 1, 2009.
As of September 19, 2008 (last Friday) HUD has updated their guidelines regarding the purchase of a new home and renting out their current home. HUD now requires a 75% equity position (i.e. at least 25% in equity and 75% or less in loan) in a buyers current home to be able to use rental income for qualification.

Like the Fannie/Freddie changes that occurred a few months ago, the HUD requirements have come out of a time where there needed to be mortgage change. The HUD changes are intended to eliminate the "buy and bail" strategy sellers were using to purchase a new home (with a new loan using the rental income from their current home) and then "bail" on their current home which they were upside down on or unable to sell.

The unfortunate thing is that for many honest and hard working individuals whose credit is the first priority -will not be able to benifit from this form of financing a new home. -For relocation, moving up to create net worth or any other purposes.