What Happened in Galveston?

I just got back from Galveston.  Yes, I did swim in the ocean, but that's not why I went.  No, I didn't get any donuts this time.  I was there for business, business I tell you!  REALTORS® from across Texas went to Galveston for this year's Texas REALTORS® Convention and Trade Expo.  I represent TAR Region 2 as Regional Vice President for the area which includes Abilene, San Angelo, Sweetwater, Brownwood, Stephenville, and Wichita Falls. The event featured dozens of education sessions, social events, networking opportunities, and fun. My friend, Dwight Hale of San Antonio was sworn in as the 2011 Texas Association of REALTORS chairman of the board. Our area's Norman Dierschke of San Angelo was presented with the Distinguished Service Award at the Board of Directors Meeting. This award is given annually to Texas REALTORS® who have made significant industry contributions throughout their careers and have also been active in community organizations.

At the Governmental Affairs Forum, state Rep. Larry Taylor spoke about the three main issues that lawmakers will face during the 82nd Texas Legislature: budget shortfalls and redistricting. Pollster James Henson then discussed the governor's race and the mood of the state's voters heading into the November elections.  Realtors are involved in politics because one of our goals is to fight for private property rights.  If we don't fight for the homeowners of Texas and the United States, who will?   With the coming budget shortfall, Real Estate is going to be at the forefront.  We would rather see Texas property owners have a seat at the table than be on the menu.  We're planning a trip to storm the Capitol in April.  I mean "storm" in a nice way.  Not in the "board up your windows way".  Here's a web site for you to check out what's really going on with Texas real estate.  www.texasrealestate.com .  Let me know what you think!    By the way, I'm taking questions for my blog, or video blog (that's v-blog if your cool).  Send me a question and I'll do my best to answer it.  Now, excuse me while I try to get the sand out of my suitcase.

Steve Stovall

Stovall Realtors