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Austin, TX Real Estate News

By Julie Nelson, Smart real estate.
(eXp Realty)
Austin Condo Review:  360 Condos Snapshot & Observations   360 3rd & Nueces 44 stories First move-in 6/08; resale opens 11/28/08 General:  Largest residential tower in downtown, loft style, open floor plan, concrete ceiling Pricing:  $250k - $550k 1 bedrooms are 796-1507 sqft (incl exterior sqft) 2 bedrooms are 1062-1308 sqft (incl exterior sqft) Waiting list:  well, there was one but there doesn't seem to really be one anymore with 17 listed in the MLS today (12.3.08). Pos:  walk to Whole Foods, entertainment district, it's on the hike & bike trail Neg:  elevators can be slow, if you commute leaving downtown then can have some traffic issues getting out of downtown or the parking garage, could be storage issues, noise levels could be an issue due to entertainment district (floor specif...
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By Dorie Dillard Austin TX, NW Austin ~ Canyon Creek and Spicewood/Balcones
(Coldwell Banker Realty ~ 512.750.6899)
Due to a combination of factors the Lower Colorado River Authority (LCRA) did implement a half-cent increase per kilowatt-hour to its customers on Oct.25, 2008.  LCRA gave a credit of $6million to PEC who uses LCRA as its wholesale provider.  Therefore PEC was able to use the LCRA credit to defer passing on an increase to its customers.  The LCRA gave PEC a refund after determining it had additional revenue after meeting its debt service coverage goal.
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By Robin Scott, Broker, REALTOR® - Austin Texas
(Robin Scott, REALTOR®)
1. State of Texas including The University of Texas at Austin and Texas State University in San Marcos      Government and higher education       employs 81,3652. Dell, Inc including Dell financial Services      Technology and financing related services for the computer maker      employs 18,1003. City of Austin including Austin Energy      Government and electric utility      employs 13,6004. Austin Independent School District      Public Education      employs 10,6105. Federal Government including the IRS      Government      employs 14,9056. HEB Grocery Store      Grocery      employs 6,7467. Seton Healthcare Network      Healthcare      employs 6,7008.   IBM Corp.      Computer Systems      employs6,2399. St. David's HealthCare Partnership      Healthcare      employs 6.21910. Round...
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By Betina Foreman, Realtor, C.N.E., with WJK REALTY
(WJK Realty)
Do you want to start saving money today? Call MTH GreenHomes to receive a comprehensive energy audit so they can help you achieve a more green and efficient home. They can show you how to improve your quality of life and save money and energy. MTH GreenHomes will test a number of things on your home with a Comprehensive Energy Audit. 1.Electrical Appliance Energy Usage 2.Gas Inspection 3.Infra-red Thermography "State of the Art Technology" 4.Door Blower Test- Place a vacuum on the house and check for total air leakage. 5. Evaluate natural radiant barriers such as trees and various vegetation. 6. Alignment of property and home with sun and prevailing winds. 7. Topographic data. You may reach them at 512-284-9045 or check out their website: www.MTHGreenHomes.com   If you are in the market...
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By Jeff Kessler, Broker,CLHMS,GRI
(Austin Homes, Realtors www.OwnAustin.com)
A small history about Austin Texas For hundreds of years, nomadic tribes of Lipan, Apaches, Tonkawas, and Comanches lived and thrived along the rivers of the Austin area.  In the late 1700s the Spanish missionaries set up in the area.   By the 1830s the first Anglo settlers name this area Waterloo. In the year of 1837 Waterloo was named the capital of the new Republic of Texas.  By 1839 the town was named after Stephen F. Austin "the father of Texas" In 1888 the Capitol building was completed boosting that it was the "7th largest building in the world". In 1839 The Great Granite dam was built to help supply the growing city with more electricity.    This was the beginning of the new Austin.  Austin continued to grow after the depression and was well on its way to becoming a player in th...
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Hi All, I'm curious to hear everyone's opinion about the value of joining a social club for real estate networking.  Though I live and work here in Austin, I'm a member of the Petroleum Club of Houston www.pcoh.com (I'm happy to talk to anybody about the Petroleum Club, or membership if you're interested).  I decided this week to check out the reciprocal club here in Austin, the Austin Club.  So on Friday I'm going to lunch, and will see how things are there.  I was browsing their newsletter and saw a list of some new members, it definitely seems like a breeding ground of contacts that may be interested in tenant or buyer representation services.  I imagine the same is true for residential brokers.  Any thoughts or comments would be greatly appreciated.  
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By Les Sherman, ABR, CRS, CNE
(Re/Max Austin Associates)
As I was driving to work yesterday, I exited off MoPac onto Bee Cave/2244 and as I looked to my right, there were 4 LIVE camels standing on the corner! Needless to say, I had to take a second glance, it isn't everyday you see camels on the side of the road in Austin, Texas. There was a sign advertising a Live Nativity Scene this Dec. 6-7th and it got me to thinking about other fun family Christmas activities our great city was offering us this year. Here are a few I found that are coming up for your enjoyment: 1 Mueller Holiday Tower Lighting @ 6PM 12/3 At Mueller's Lake Park, the Catellus Development is kicking off the holiday season with Christmas carols and the relighting of the Noel sign that is on top of the former airport's control tower. 2. Querencia at Barton Creek @ 1-4PM 12/4 ...
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By South Austin Real Estate Blog
(Sky Realty South Austin)
According to the latest information from RECON, the Real Estate Center Online News published by Texas A&M University.. the Austin market is still strong and going upward, while the number of sales were down over the record setting 2008 the numbers are not at all bad.  Here is a brief recap. 1,464 units sold..  down 23.4% over 2007 ... Median price was $189,000.. up 4% from 2007 .. 5.4months of inventory. The months of inventory show we are definitely entering a BUYERS MARKET.  What all this means to the consumer: this is a good time to buy because the interest for a mortgage is at an extremely low point, mortgage money is available and sellers are willing to help pay closing costs in many cases. Your choices of resale homes are at a very high percentage now and the buys are out there.  ...
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By Julie Nelson, Smart real estate.
(eXp Realty)
Austin Condo Review:  The Shore Snapshot & Observations   The Shore Condos Austin, TX 603 Davis Historic Rainey neighborhood downtown 192 units 20-some stories   Sales status 11/08 - abt 60% closed, 40% set to close by yr end ... but some of the 40% will not close (financing, market etc) so some will come back on the market; 12/08 update:  no new listings in the MLS, guessing we may see more come back on the market this month Cannot resale until 98% are closed (or 1 yr from your closing) 1/1's are generally all on the east side 2/2's are generally all on the west side Units on north end (2/2's primarily) have a great view to the west and north and a little to the east) with a large rounded balcony Features:  all SS appliances, fitness, 24-hr on-site mgmt, covered parking (1 per BR), tra...
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By Julie Nelson, Smart real estate.
(eXp Realty)
Speaking of return on investment, landscape sells. From personal and professional experience, if the house is average but the landscape is fabulous, the house will be a hot ticket on the market. A Clemson University study found landscaping can result in more than a 100% return on investment. The report concluded that "Homeowners wanting to increase the value of their property will do well to consider the cost-effective, return potential of quality landscaping, and to safeguard their investments by hiring licensed, professional landscape contractors to perform the work." Check this article from Landscape-America: http://www.landscape-america.com/landscapes/value.html Kitchens pay, baths pay, fresh paint and new flooring pays but a fabulous landscape will knock the socks off the competiti...
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By Mary "B" Battaglia, GRI, CRS - Austin Real Estate - Austin Texas Real Estate agent
(Coldwell Banker United (referrals welcome!))
So far this year, 9 properties have sold in Windridge Subdivision.  The sales ranged from $320,000 to $525,000 with the average being $385,067 $145.62 per sq. ft.  Currently, there is one home on the market for $335,000. This time last year 6 properties had sold for an average price of $369,500 which is $149.34 per sq. ft. The time to sell has increased from 38 days on the market last year to 62 days this year, which is still below the average for the Austin area.  Being a area resident, it is good to see this activity and that the prices are holding strong.  This is both a reflection of the strength of the Austin real estate market in general and how desireable this area is, being close in and a part of the Round Rock ISD as well. Mary "B" - Austin Real Estate Referrals Appreciated! ww...
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By Mary "B" Battaglia, GRI, CRS - Austin Real Estate - Austin Texas Real Estate agent
(Coldwell Banker United (referrals welcome!))
So far this year, 3 properties have sold in Balcones Oaks Subdivision.  The sales ranged from $275,000 to $305,000 with the average being $293,333or $145.33 per sq. ft.  Currently, there are no homes on the market. This time last year 5 properties had sold for an average price of $296,680 which is $125.66 per sq. ft. The time to sell has decreased from 41 days on the market last year to 12 days this year.  Being a resident, it is good to see that although activity is reduced, the prices and marketing times are holding strong.  This is both a reflection of the strength of the Austin real estate market in general and how desireable this area is, being close in and a part of the Round Rock ISD as well. Mary "B" - Austin Real Estate Referrals Appreciated! www.maryb.com
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By Mary "B" Battaglia, GRI, CRS - Austin Real Estate - Austin Texas Real Estate agent
(Coldwell Banker United (referrals welcome!))
So far this year, 23 properties have sold in Barrington Oaks Subdivision.  The sales ranged from $186,000 to $290,000 with the average being $221,989 or $127.51 per sq. ft.  Currently, there are 7 homes on the market for an average price of $217,400 which is $123.64 per sq. ft. This time last year 32 properties had sold for an average price of $215,342 which is $117.79 per sq. ft. The time to sell has increased slightly from 28 days on the market last year to 33 days this year.  Being a area resident, it is good to see that although activity is reduced, the prices and marketing times are holding strong.  This is both a reflection of the strength of the Austin real estate market in general and how desireable this area is, being close in and a part of the Round Rock ISD as well. Mary "B" ...
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By Mary "B" Battaglia, GRI, CRS - Austin Real Estate - Austin Texas Real Estate agent
(Coldwell Banker United (referrals welcome!))
So far this year, 23 properties have sold in Oak Forest Subdivision.  The sales ranged from $212,000 to $355,000 with the average being $266,335 or $138 per sq. ft.  Currently, there are 7 homes on the market for an average price of $278,457 which is $142.08 per sq. ft. This time last year 45 properties had sold for an average price of $262,563 which is $134.13 per sq. ft. The time to sell has increased slightly from 41 days on the market last year to 45 days this year.  Being a resident, it is good to see that although activity is reduced, the prices and marketing times are holding strong.  This is both a reflection of the strength of the Austin real estate market in general and how desireable this area is, being close in and a part of the Round Rock ISD as well. Mary "B" - Austin Real...
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By Jude Galligan
(Downtown Austin Blog)
While West 6th became restaurant row, the building located at 609 w 6th, 78701 has been siting idle for the past few years.  Recently activity has been buzzing. wine and beer only We’ve seen a construction crew slowly converting this old building into something new.  I’ve heard that the building is owned by Sandra Bullock.  This would make sense considering her successful Bess restaurant is just down the street.  Traviscad lists the property is owned by “PIETANZO VITO TRUSTEE OF THE B” and has it appraised at $624,082.  What’s more interesting to me is what will be opening. It appears that Downtown Austin is getting a new Walton’s Fancy & Staple.  According to their website… “Walton’s downtown will include a traditional delicatessen & bakery (for folks on the go), & sidewalk café seati...
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Below is a non-exhaustive list of office subleases in the Austin area. For additional information on these space, please call Patrick today at 832.659.5076.I'd also like to mention that the amount of subleases available in the Austin commercial market have exploded over the past few months. There are truly some great deals out there for tenants looking to lease space.
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By Julie Nelson, Smart real estate.
(eXp Realty)
A gaggle of teenagers strutted into a convenience store in South Austin yesterday sporting various t-shirts...the tag line on the back of one boy left me silently applauding..."Old Austin hasn't died.  It just moved South."  Kudo's to the unknown author-s/he is definitely a keen supporter of the philosophy that makes Austin so appealing: Keep Austin Weird. When relocating from Vermont to Austin in 2000, the idea of living in a city that prided itself on being weird wasn't on my list of criteria for a good match.  However, having lived here for the past eight years I've come to understand, totally support and am completely hooked on the notion of Austin's "weirdness" and can't imagine living anywhere else. Weirdness in Austin means freedom to wear flipflops on Christmas Eve and not feel ...
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By Dorie Dillard Austin TX, NW Austin ~ Canyon Creek and Spicewood/Balcones
(Coldwell Banker Realty ~ 512.750.6899)
  If you haven't stopped at the Sweet Charity gift shop located across the street from Seton Medical Center Austin on 38th Street in the 26 Doors Shopping Center, you must make this a priority!  It's an award winning boutique and has been featured in national magazines such as Southern Living.  If you are looking for that perfect one-of-a-kind gift, card or home accessory go browse through this gingerbread like house.  Meander and feast your eyes on all the precious treasures each room holds. Sweet Charity is a project of Seton Fund Volunteers.  It is staffed by volunteers and all proceeds support patients in need at Seton.  If you'd like to join in the fun and volunteer call 512-324-3399. There are many upcoming special events planned: December 1 - Hand painted aprons by Charlotte Dec...
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By Dorie Dillard Austin TX, NW Austin ~ Canyon Creek and Spicewood/Balcones
(Coldwell Banker Realty ~ 512.750.6899)
If you haven't found "Teo Caffee" in the 26 Doors Shopping Center on 38th St., then you need to put it on your "bucket" list.  Right next door to Sweet Charity, you will find a wonderful place to try world-class espresso, unforgettable gelato and imported fine chocolates in an ambiance reminiscent of old world Italy Austin style! In 2006, Austin voters in the Restaurant Poll named Teo the best local coffeeshop, best gelato, espresso and affogato! They pledge to use the freshest, most natural ingredients available. You should visit on line at http://caffeteo.com/ and clip a coupon for "buy a gelato" and get one free or "buy a cappuccino" and get one free!
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By Dorie Dillard Austin TX, NW Austin ~ Canyon Creek and Spicewood/Balcones
(Coldwell Banker Realty ~ 512.750.6899)
Owner, operator Margo of "The Hair's Lair" knows how to create a fun time for kids, toddlers and pre-teens when getting their hair cut.  She gives quality cuts & styles in her quaint shop in the 26 Doors Shopping Center located across the street from Seton Hospital on 38th Street, and right next door to "Sweet Charity". Her cuts for kids were voted the best in Austin by Austin Monthly Magazine.  Another locally owned & operated enterpeneur creating a successful venture in Austin, TX! You can reach Margo to schedule an appointment at 512-374-1700.
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