Matt Layman
Austin a Top Real Estate Investment Market – Matthew Layman Austin Realtor ®
Austin a Top Real Estate Investment Market – Matthew Layman Austin Realtor ®
More “POSITIVE PRESS” for Austin, TX when it comes to Real Estate….
A recent article in the Austin Business Journal by Vicky Garza states:
“Austin is the second-best investment market in the United States, according to Realtor.com
According to data from the National Association of Realtors website, Austin is the 27th most searched market in the nation and homes in the area are selling for more than two times the national rate.
Additionally, Austin’s potential for prize growth is one of the best in the nation and the median list price of $229,500 is about 12 percent higher than a year ago.
Realtor.com ranked 146 markets nationwide”
The top 10 investment markets are listed below:
1. Tucson, Ariz.
2. Austin
3. Kansas City, Mo.
4. Baltimore
5. Fort Worth, Texas
6. Salt Lake City
7. San Jose, Calif.
8. Raleigh, N.C.
9. Milwaukee
10. St. Louis
To go to the article directly visit here: http://bit.ly/GUzgFa
If your thinking about visiting Austin since the city boasts the #2 rank in the country when it comes to Real Estate Investment Opportunities by Realtor.com – I encourage you to reach out to me and give me a ring: 512.771.0754 or drop me an email: mlatxrealestate@gmail.com
It would be my pleasure being your personal Tour Guide & Ambassador to this great place we call Austin, Texas. I’m here to serve and answer any questions that you might have.
Matthew Layman Austin’s Rock’in REALTOR® – Real Estate Investing Expert – List your home for sale or lease with Matthew Layman. When you select your REALTOR® make sure you pick the best and an EXPERT in the local real estate market. You deserve to work with an expert in Lake Austin and Downtown Austin Real Estate markets - Austins Rock’in Real Estate Expert and REALTOR® Matthew Layman with Austin Texas Homes, LLC. I’m never too busy for you or your referrals. I’m looking forward to serving you and your real estate needs. Feel free to email me any questions, or to schedule a showing call now: 512.771.0754
Keep Austin Rockin’
Matthew C. Layman
Austin’s Rock’in REALTOR®
Austin Texas Homes, LLC.
Cell: 512-771-0754
mlatxrealestate@gmail.com
http://austinsrockinrealestateblog.com/
https://twitter.com/matthewclayman
My areas of specialty: Lake Austin, West Lake Hills, Tarrytown, Travis Heights, SoCo, Harris Branch, Steiner Ranch, Downtown and Urban markets
Buying a Home in Austin, Texas – Step One: Get Pre-Approved for Mortgage Financing
Buying a Home in Austin, Texas – Step One:
Get Pre-Approved for Mortgage Financing
This is the first post in a series designed to get you prepared for what to expect when you are considering buying a home in the Austin area. I intend to link to the other parts as soon as they have been written.
When you are ready to begin shopping for a home to buy, it is best to start by determining how much you can afford, so that you don’t waste time with properties that are out of your price range. I realize that this is not the glamorous or exciting part to buying a home in Austin, but it is a necessity and not as painful as you may think.
Mortgage
But how do you begin?
Our team works with a trusted network of mortgage professionals who can assist you in getting pre-approved for a loan so that you can comfortably begin looking at homes with the assurance that you can obtain the proper financing. Give us a call anytime and we can provide some names to get you started. But the fact of the matter is I have ONE trusted mortgage professional that I send all of my business to because I have complete trust and confidence in his services. He has proven himself to be on top of the ball, detailed, operates out of honesty and integrity, under promises and over delivers, and always beats deadlines. His name is: Chad Mullenix an Executive Mortgage banker with LeaderOne Financial.
Chad Mullenix’s Contact Information:
Mobile: 512.657.8017
Office: 512.356.9436
Email: Chadmullenix@leader1.com
Feel free to speak to any mortgage professional that you would like to – I just happen to recommend Chad since he does such an outstanding job and operates out of the same motto as me: Service based! Like I said I have a network of trusted mortgage professionals if you desire to compare apples to oranges in regards to the fees.
Pre-Approval vs. Pre-Qualification
Generally, our mortgage contacts can help you with a pre-qualification by getting some basic information (address, social security numbers, etc.) over the phone or internet. This only takes a few minutes, including pulling your credit report.
In order to get fully pre-approved, you will be required to provide all of the normal documentation required, which would include:
* Full loan application
* 2 years of tax returns, W-2 forms
* Year-to-date pay stubs
* A couple of months’ worth of bank statements
* List of monthly debt, account numbers, minimum payments, and balance
* Address of mortgage company or landlord for past 2 years
* Driver’s license
* If VA financing is wanted, you will need your VA Certificate of Eligibility (DD214)
In Austin, most lenders will require you to pay for your credit report and property appraisal upfront. This would run $400 or thereabouts. The appraisal is a third-party assessment of the value of the home you choose.
Comparing Lenders
If you choose to purchase a new home, many builders have mortgage companies that will offer large incentives to use them. Sometimes, the offer is too good to pass up. We can help you to compare “apples to apples” by looking at the estimates provided by lenders that you speak with. A GFE (good faith estimate) is the only way to easily compare quotes. Sometimes, you might get a lower interest rate from one place, but they charge exorbitant fees. We can help you to avoid potential pitfalls.
I always require that my clients begin the loan process before we begin looking actively at homes together, in order to best spend my time and yours. Believe me, it is much more productive this way. As I have said many times to potential buyers, you would hate to find “the perfect home”, only to later realize that you won’t be able to get a mortgage for it.
If you have any questions at all, please feel free to call me anytime at 512-771-0754 (cell) or email: mlatxrealestate@gmail.com
Next step – Selecting an Area of Town, including factors to consider – post coming soon!
Keep Austin Rockin’
Matthew C. Layman
Austin’s Rock’in REALTOR®
Austin Texas Homes, LLC.
Cell: 512-771-0754
mlatxrealestate@gmail.com
http://austinsrockinrealestateblog.com/
https://twitter.com/matthewclayman
Some positive News for Austin & Texas: Texas Poised to Outpace Nation (Again)
Some POSITIVE “News” for Austin and Texas in the article below. Basically the outlook is positive based on several key factors:
- Texas is a business friendly state with tax friendly policies and incentives which are enticing nation wide companies to relocate to Austin as well as the rest of Texas
- Low cost of living for the employees of the companies that are relocating to Texas
- Job growth in several key sectors in Texas
I’m so lucky to live in Texas and especially Austin. If you don’t live in Texas you should 
TEXAS POSTED TO OUTPACE NATION (AGAIN)
COLLEGE STATION (Real Estate Center) – Texas’ economic outlook for 2012 is positive. Job growth is occurring in several sectors, and a low cost of living is enticing businesses to move to the Lone Star State.
It will be tougher going for the nation, however, because of several factors. The housing market needs to clear a high number of foreclosures. Consumers need to pay off their debt. The banking system needs to write off bad debt. Small businesses need to start hiring again.
Writing for the January issue of Tierra Grande magazine, Real Estate Center Chief Economist Dr. Mark Dotzour says, “Fortunately, Texas is poised to outperform the U.S. averages. Home sales volume in Texas should show modest improvement over 2011, and prices should be stable throughout 2012.” Dotzour’s economic outlook is titled “Texas Sails On: Nation Battles Headwinds.”
If your thinking about visiting Austin and taking a closer look into to the local real estate market and considering a move I encourage you to reach out to me and give me a ring: 512.771.0754 or drop me an email: mlatxrealestate@gmail.com
It would be my pleasure being your personal Tour Guide & Ambassador to this great place we call Austin, Texas.
The only way to get a closer look is to come visit and explore this Rock ‘in town we call Austin. The term that I’m sure you have heard: “Keep Austin Weird” is a marketing slogan but it’s also who we are – were weird because we are special and different. Unlike any other city in the world. Trust me but don’t take my word for it.. come explore and find out for yourself. That’s what I did back in 1999…. I came down for a long three day weekend and three months later my bags were packed and I was officially moved in just in time to celebrate New Years in my new city! Now that I’ve lived in Austin for over 12 years I get to claim the title Austinite – it’s a title I wear proudly and so can you …. so let me help.
It would be my pleasure to serve you and your real estate needs regardless of if you are all ready living in Austin or considering the move.
I look forward to hearing from you.
Keep Austin Rock’in,
Matthew C. Layman
Austin’s Rock’in Realtor®
http://austinsrockinrealestateblog.com/
cell: 512.771.0754
https://twitter.com/#!/matthewclayman
Harris Branch & Belhaven Real Estate Market Update
Harris Branch & Belhaven Real Estate Market Update: January 2012
Theirs no need to cloud the truth or fudge the numbers. Harris Branch and Belhaven has been hit with a wave of bank foreclosures. The reality of the situation is this is great news if your a buyer in Harris Branch or Belhaven but no so much good news if your a seller. This news hits close to home because not only am I Harris Branch and Belhaven’s neighborhood Real Estate expert which effects my business but I’m also your neighbor which effects my own home value. I’ve owned a house for the last four years on Cromarty Cove with my adorable puppy Maximus.
If your not in a hurry to sell your home or not in a desperate situation now is not the time. I would encourage you to hold off, hunker down, or look to rent out your property if you have to. But if you are left with no other options and you must list your home because your moving out of state then that’s a different story.
If you are currently living in Harris Branch or Belhaven and or thinking about moving into the neighborhood I would encourage you to like the Harris Branch Neighborhood fan page: http://www.facebook.com/Harrisbranch to keep up with all the local news and what’s happening in your neighborhood! It’s a great way to keep up with your neighbors and form better relationships.
Harris Branch and Belhaven is a beautiful master-planned community in northeast Austin just off of Highway 290 and Parmer Lane. This little sleepy community features over 2,000+ homes, and has over eight subdivisions.
* Recreational facilities
* basketball and tennis courts
* Junior Olympics-sized pool
* Jogging trails
* On-site daycare
* Lots of beautiful small lakes and ponds dot the landscape
Tech-industry workers living in Harris Branch and Belhaven can look forward to easy commutes, thanks to tech industry giants like Dell, Samsung, Applied Materials, and others. You are only 11 miles away from the University of Texas campus and Texas Memorial Stadium which is home to the UT longhorns football team. Being so close to the university makes it an attractive community to call home for the University of Texas professors, students, and alumni. Also an easy drive south in little over 12.7 miles you will be enjoying all of downtown Austin’s favorite attractions such as live music, entertainment, delicious food, and all of Austins’ famous culture and nightlife.
Now to the Numbers:
Sold during the last 120 days in Harris Branch and Belhaven (Sept, Oct, Nov, & Dec) 2011:
- 5 homes sold between Sept 1st and Dec 31st
- Median sold price: $138,000
- Median days on the market: 113 days
- Most expensive home sold: $152,000
- Median Sold $ / Sq Ft price: $67 per sq ft.
Foreclosed during the last 120 days in Harris Branch and Belhaven (Sept, Oct, Nov, & Dec) 2011:
- 6 homes sold between Sept 1st and Dec 31st
- Median sold price: $115,000
- Median days on the market: 74 days
- Most expensive home sold: $145,000
- Median Sold $ / Sq Ft price: $60 per sq ft.
Active Listings in Harris Branch and Belhaven:
- Currently active listings: 13 homes
(inventory levels favor the buyer currently)
- Median home list price: $166,630
- Median home features: 2,752 sq ft, 4 beds, 2 bath
- Median days on the market for active homes: 90 days
- Foreclosed/REO homes on the market: 2 homes
Note: Having a Buyers Market does not mean that Buyers can have their way with making super low ball offers, but it does mean sellers are going to have to be realistic and not over price their home from the start. The key to selling your home for top dollar is setting a realistic list price from day 1 by not getting greedy and over pricing your home for the first 6o-90 days and then having to drastically lower the price of your home by 10-20% after 90 days. The good news for the sellers of Harris Branch and Belhaven is typically you have two types of buyers: A) Those wanting a home that’s not bank owned (foreclosure) and B) Those wanting a bank owned property. Typically bank owned properties are in bad shape, foundations need repair, and left in bad shape, not always but typically many bank owned properties will require a lot of fixing up to bring up to a liveable standard.
If you are considering buying a home in Harris Branch or Belhaven or thinking of selling your home in Harris Branch or Belhaven – please do give me a call so we can discuss your Real Estate needs and goals. I’ve sold over 40+ homes in this neighborhood alone the last 5 years and also call this subdivision home. So not only would I be your Realtor but also your neighbor. You most likely found my blog via google search – I’m the highest rank website when you use Harris Branch and Belhaven search terms – so if your a home owner thinking of selling your home wouldn’t it make since to work the top Harris Branch Neighborhood Expert who’s ranked the highest on google and other search engines? Working with a realtor who has the highest Neighborhood search terms will mean your home will have the most amount of online visibility and by more buyers, which turns into more showing, then more offers, and finally an executed contract! You deserve to work with the best – call me today to discuss your Real Estate needs…
For more information on real estate in Harris Branch and other popular Austin subdivisions
contact Harris Branch #1 Neighborhood Expert,
Matthew C. Layman
Cell: 512-771-0754
Email: mlatxrealestate@gmail.com
http://austinsrockinrealestateblog.com/
http://www.facebook.com/Harrisbranch
The Changing Face of Austin Demographics
Top Demographic Trends for Austin, TX
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Total growth and population increase during the decade:
Austin’s total growth increased incrementally over the past 50 years. During the 1960s, the total growth in Austin totaled 90,000. The numbers rose to 190,000 during the 70s and 250,000 in the 80s. By the 90s, the total growth number was almost 400,000 and in 2010, hit 466,000. The total population for the Austin-Metropolitan Area was 1,720,000 in 2010. The metropolitan area is often referred to as the Austin MSA, or the Metropolitan Statistical Area. The Austin MSA ranked third in a list of top 30 metropolitan areas ranked by percentage growth. In 2010, the City of Austin ranked 14th, just under San Francisco, for Top 30 largest cities in the country.
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A decidedly suburban tilt to the decade’s population growth:
From 2000-2010, almost 72 percent of all population growth came from the suburbs. This is a significant shift from the 1990s when the growth coming from the suburbs was only 52 percent.
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A lumpy landscape of population growth and decline within the central city:
There are various attributions to these changes, including many middle-class families fleeing from the central city to the suburbs; a big overall drop in household size; a steep increase in the cost of central-city housing, large-scale changes in the racial and ethnic makeup of many central neighborhoods; and unequal tear-downs and rebuilds in terms of total units.
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Deep urban pooling and suburban sprawling of working-class households:
The total population growth of whites was 176,000 compared to almost 200,000 Hispanics from 2000-2010.
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Significant suburbanization of African-American households:
From 2000-2010, Austin was one of the top cities where African-Americans moved to its suburbs. Other cities that made the list include Atlanta, New York, Dallas, Denver, San Jose, and Los Angeles.
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Substantial increase in international immigration:
Immigrants played a part in population growth, with 65 percent domestic migration, 28 percent natural immigration and eight percent international immigration. The domestic percentage slowed to 41 percent domestic migration, growing to 36 percent for natural immigration and 23 percent for international immigration.
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New growth numbers for the very young, baby boomers and seniors:
In 2010, the under-five age group was 122,000; there were 60,000 boomers and 19,000 seniors. Austin was one of the metro areas with the fastest growing pre-senior (age 55-64) and senior (65 and older) population from 2000-2010. Other cities on the list are Raleigh, Madison, Salt Lake City and Portland.
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The Asian boom:
From 1970 to 2010, the total Asian population grew to 82,000. Asians make up over six percent of the total Austin population, with Houston’s Asian population at 5.8 percent. The total Asian population includes 29.9 percent Indian; 23.1 percent Chinese, 15.2 percent Vietnamese, 13.0 percent other, 11.0 percent Korean, 5.4 percent Filipino; and 2.4 percent Japanese.
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Hispanics now dominating the younger cohorts:
Compared to other races under age 18, Hispanics make up 50 percent; Anglos are 31.8 percent; African-Americans are 8.3 percent; Asians 5.7 percent; and 3.3 percent are other.
Austin and its suburban cities continue to boom, with an increase in African-Americans, Hispanics, Asians, as well as the baby-boomers and seniors. It will be interesting to see how Central Texas and its populations evolve over the next decade.
This data came from City of Austin Demographer Ryan Robinson, who studies data mapping and interpretation, population change, and the rise of socioeconomic inequality.
If your thinking about visiting Austin because you are attracted to one of the many different reasons people fall in LOVE with AUSTIN - and interested in getting a closer look at the local real estate market because you seriously considering a move or relocating- I would love to be your Tour Guide & Ambassador to this special place on earth we call Austin!
The only way to get a closer look is to come visit and explore this Rock ‘in town we call Austin. The term that I’m sure you have heard: “Keep Austin Weird” is a marketing slogan but it’s also who we are – were weird because we are special and different. Unlike any other city in the world. Trust me but don’t take my word for it.. come explore and find out for yourself. That’s what I did back in 1999 I came down for a long three day weekend and three months later my bags were packed and I was officially moved in just in time to celebrate New Years in my new city! Now that I’ve lived in Austin for over 10 years I get to claim the title Austinite – it’s a title I wear proudly and so can you …. so let me help.
Just call me Cell: (512) 771.0754 or email: mlatxrealestate@gmail.com Come plant your roots in Austin …we would love to have you!
If you are all ready living in this Rock ‘in town we call Austin and looking to move-up or become a first time home buyer please give me a call. I enjoy working with locals as much as I do new folks relocating to our beloved city. I would love to assist in helping you find your next dream home or condo.
Keep Austin Rock ‘in,
Matthew C. Layman
Austin’s Rock ‘in Realtor®
http://austinsrockinrealestateblog.com/
cell: 512.771.0754
https://twitter.com/#!/matthewclayman
12612 Tierra Grande
12612 TIERRA GRANDE TRL, AUSTIN, TX 78732
MLS #: 5296150
$319,900 – Active – 18 Days on Market
House for Sale in River Dance Ph 04, Steiner Ranch, in Austin, Texas
Bedrooms:3Bathrooms:2Square Ft:2045Acres:0.203Garages:2Year Built:2009
For a more detailed listing of this property, please visit:
http://www.realtyaustin.com/idx/homes/texas/austin/78732/12612-tierra-grande-trl/5296150.html
6213 TASAJILLO TRAIL AUSTIN, TX 78739
$279,900 – Active – 62 Days on Market
House for Sale in Park West At Circle C Ph 01, in Austin, Texas
Bedrooms:3Bathrooms:2Square Ft:1985Acres:0.157Garages:2Year Built:1999
MLS #: 5879047
Extraordinary & Exquisite! Most “Distinct” home in ParkWest. UPGRADES GALORE $89k Worth, Beautiful Brazilian Hard Wood Floors throughout including Master, beds: 2 & 3, upgraded Travertin Tile Kitchen & wet areas, Gorgeous Granite Countertops, Tile backsplash, Under Cabinet Windows kitchen, Recessed Lights, Custom Built out Fireplace w/ Stone, Custom Stone Bar in kitchen, NEW water heater, Gated Community, Covered porch w/ tile. Minutes to pool school & shopping. Looking in Circle C Best Buy under $300k!
Attention Sellers! Buyers Bypass ‘Fixer-Upper,’ Want Move-in Ready
Attention Sellers!!
Please read this article below that I found on Realtor.Org. It’s so important to follow these basic guidelines. A lot of times the selling of your home happens to be your largest asset or at least one of the top three if you have built up enough equity. I’m first going to share my “thoughts and feelings” on this subject and share a list of important bullet points to review before the article so enjoy
Warning: Do NOT be penny smart and dollar stupid!
Example: If your selling a $200,000k house and you don’t spend $500 to $2,000 to fix up your home you are doing just that. In this “buyers” market you must make your home stand out. You can’t ignore cosmetic or structural issues or it will cost you buyers and good offers. If you are selling your house for $200,000k and let’s say you owe $140,000. Note: Make sure you get some HUD estimates from a title company before you list your home so you know how much you will “net” on your house when you go to sell it. So you decide to spend some money to get your house “Move-In Ready” you are then dollar smart! Congratulations your putting yourself and your listing in a #winning position. In this current market a house in Austin or surrounding areas that’s in great shape, move-in/show ready, and priced right will most likely receive offers and a contract within 5 to 10% below list price. That’s a conservative number … if your in a rock ‘in neighborhood in central Austin or south central Austin like Tarrytown, Travis Heights, So-Co, Hyde Park, and other hot trendy neighborhoods you might receive full-list offers. The further out you live typically those numbers begin to change and against you. Back to my story so you list your house for $200k, you owe $140k, it’s “Move-In” ready so you receive an offer in the $180’s and you finally reach an agreement at $190,000. So sales price of: $190,000 – (minus) closing costs of 7.5% $14,250 will = (equals) $175,750 — So $175,750 – (minus) $140,000 (remaining debt balance from what you owe the bank) = (equals) $35,750. Id say your #winning Keep in mind “closing costs” will very from listing contract to listing contract… sometimes its 6.5% sometimes it could be high as 8% or more… a number of scenarios and situations come in play.
Example #2: Let’s say you decided to be “Penny Smart and Dollar Stupid” (sorry if this isn’t politically correct – I’m very Open & Direct and you deserve a Realtor ® who will be – the last thing you need is a shy, timid Realtor ® who is afraid to really tell you like it is) and you don’t fix up your house. You don’t take care of the list of items below and your house goes on the market “just as” …. your house will most likely sit for longer than 120-150 days, you will receive little showings, little interest, and most likely LOW Ball offers!! #losing Because you decided against spending $500 to $1,000/$2,000 in fixing up your place. It now cost you $10,000, $20,000, $30,000k or more in losses!!! That could have been money that went in your pocket on the back end but you were to cheap to on the front end. Yes I just said it cheap. I hope I made you smile and laugh during this process…. I’ve injected my personality and humor into this so please loosen up if you were offended.
Note: Lot’s of different scenarios come into play when selling your home like Location, Age, Unique Features, Size, School Districts, Neighborhood, Amenities, and most importantly PRICE! At the end of the day – Price will be your best friend or worst enemy. A market will not lie, if your “priced right” in any market your home will sell. But that will also depend on how much equity you have in your home and the other scenarios involved like are you moving-up, cashing out, etc.
When getting your house ready to put on the market here is your To Do List:
- Painting: Either touch-up or repainting of the walls
- De-Clutter: If you don’t use it every single day it’s got to go. Put it in storage or throw it away.
- If your house is several years old the outside might be in need of a power washing to remove water stains, mud daubers, bee hives, mold and mildew, the driveway to remove oil and gas stains, decks and patios to give it a fresh new look. I would recommend 512 Power Washing for professional service and affordable pricing: http://www.facebook.com/512powerwashingandhomeservices or 512powerwashing@gmail.com (mention this blog and my name to receive a 15% discount off services, I know the owners and will hook you up!)
- fix any holes, scrapes or damaged walls
- make sure all your windows and doors work correctly, open and close smoothly
- clean your windows
- If your front door looks weathered – paint or reseal it
- Fix any leaking toilets
- Replace all your burnt out light bulbs
- Replace any cracked or broken windows
- Seal all counter-tops, shower windows, doors, etc.
- Remove any mold or mildew in the bathrooms and showers
- Fix any uneven surfaces or counter-tops
- If your dog, cat, mountain lion, or cougar ate, ripped, or destroyed something – fix it.
- Don’t forget curb appeal – clean your landscape beds, pull weeds, remove leaves, trim bushes, edge your beds, trim your trees, put down fresh mulch, plant some flowers, water your grass – make sure it’s green, if your house doesn’t win “Best in Show” on the outside against all the other homes in the neighborhood … make it because your turning away potential buyers
- Hire a licensed Inspector and get your home Pre-Inspected! This is a 50/50% option half of my sellers take advantage of. It’s an added expense, because typically this is a buyers expense that they incur during the ‘option-period’ but having your home pre-inspected and having all those small or big items addressed will give you an upper hand and a marketing advantage. I use and recommend to all my clients: Austin Home Inspection Team – ask for Michael 512.773.2773 or Michael@austinhomeinspectionteam.com
In this market you need every “advantage” you can get …… remember even the littlest of things can scare away buyers like bugs… spiders, ants, scorpions, dead or alive this will scare away potential buyers. Also make sure your home stays clean and show ready at all times. Hire a professional maid service once or twice a month to make sure your home shows the best if you and or your partner can’t manage the upkeep.
One sellers tip I like to give is make sure your house “sounds and smells” nice … if you happen to be home and you get a call from a Realtor ® who wants to show your property make sure you turn on the radio or house music system before you….. something soft and relaxing. No heavy metal or rap now…. haha cause then you might scare them away. But music can be a powerful advantage to selling your home along with nice warm inviting smells. Candles and air fresheners work wonders. But nothing over the top – a simple inviting smell like lavender, lemons, or cinnamon should do the trick. Also take down those family photos and religious symbols as you want your client “envisioning” themselves living inside your home … not pushing them away. Family Photos and religious symbols might detour your potential buyer.
Last but not least…. a home staging company might be what the Doctor ordered. Sometimes that’s the missing piece or element – call The Stage Coach 512.670.8295 or online at www.stagecoachtexas.com “Austin’s Home Staging Handyman!”
Here is the article from Realtor.Org
Buyers Bypass ‘Fixer-Upper,’ Want Move-in Ready
“More buyers are shunning “as-is” properties in favor of homes that are in move-in condition, according to real estate professionals and recent surveys.
For example, a Coldwell Banker survey recently found that 87 percent of first-time buyers say they desire a “move-in” ready home.
“This is absolutely the story of this market. It seems buyers will pay a premium, engage in a bidding war, and even overpay just to avoid buying a ‘project’ house,” says Beth Freed of Terrie O’Connor REALTORS® in Ridgewood, N.J.
As such, real estate pros are advising their sellers to fix up their homes for quicker sales. “There is no question homes that have been spruced up for the market sell quicker,” says Kate Conover with RE/MAX in Saddle River, N.J.
That doesn’t mean major, costly renovations that sellers won’t likely get back on the sale price either, she says. Instead of a major kitchen or bath renovation, just repainting the home or removing the clutter can go a long way in freshening up a home. Also, don’t forget about curb appeal: Freshen up the flowerpots, trim the bushes, and paint the front door, if it’s starting to show wear and tear.
Also with buyers wanting “move-in” ready homes, real estate pros say it’s crucial that sellers address any major maintenance and safety issues—such as leaky roofs—before the home even goes on the market.” —- End of Article —-
Right now it’s a “buyers” market even in Austin which has one of the strongest markets in the country. Attention Buyers: Depending on the area, the neighborhood, the size of square feet, and condition of the home will depend on the percentage discount you will receive off the list price. Each neighborhood in Austin is different. Give me a call let me do some searches and run some comps (Competitive Market Analysis) to see what the prices are going for with the homes and neighborhoods that catch your attention. If you are living in Austin and looking to either purchase as a first time home buyer or looking to move-up give me a call at 512.771.0754. I would love to help you find your next dream home. And as a seasoned negotiating expert I have the background, experience, and skill level to deliver you the best sales price possible. In this market you can’t have a timid Realtor or you will get crushed and pay way too much … you need a seasoned expert that can put the hammer down!
Have a Rock ‘in Day,
Matthew C. Layman
Austins Rock ‘in Realtor ®
Cell: 512.771.0754
http://austinsrockinrealestateblog.com/
https://twitter.com/#!/matthewclayman
Austin Texas Homes, LLC
What makes Austin ….. Austin?!?!
Have you ever wondered what makes Austin……. Austin?!?! I have! So what is Austin’s unique equation? This is (distilled!) result of over a year’s worth of conversations and research distilled into a simple expression: Experience + Community = Scene.
Cities that have what I call Unique Ambition are:
- Boston: be smart
- Silicon Valley: be powerful
- Berkeley: live well
- NYC: be rich
- LA: be famous
- DC: be an insider
- Austin?
We have all heard Austin, TX described as: Keep Austin Weird, Live Music Capital of the World, an Open City …….
What makes Austin, TX uniquely Austin is it’s powerful social exchange!!! The scenes that make Austin are….
- Music
- Film
- Leadership
- Spirituality
- Entrepreneurship
- Fitness
- Sustainability
- Interactive
- Social Innovation
- and much more
what does all this add up to? Austin is the BE YOURSELF CITY!!! I can attest to that. When I started to follow my heart & passion a few years ago and “jump” head first into real-estate I told myself I wouldn’t be that average boring square pants Realtor ®. I would be ME!!! I’m Passionate, Unique, Driven, I’m part businessman, part nature boy …. I love music, art, fashion … I like to dress the way I want to dress! Some days I’ll throw on a suit and wear my favorite pair of chucks (converse shoes) or other days I will be wearing a comfortable pair of linen shorts or pants and a golf shirt!
I would fully commit to the person that I am and step into my Destiny …. just being me and allowing Austin to except me for me… nothing more … nothing less …. I am a faithful friend, Austin’s rock’in realtor, energetic entrepreneur, marketing maverick, passionate person, fitness fanatic, lover of life … and overall cool dude! The beauty of that experience is the city accepted me for who I am …. for what I am. And Austin will accept you for who you are …. if you want to have a tattoo, rock a mo-hawk, dye your hair pink, or wear a business suit …. Austin and it’s citizens will accept you for you … as we are the BE YOURSELF CITY!!! No judgment just acceptance!
People from all over the world are drawn and attracted to Austin because of it’s high quality of life but people also come because on a subconscious level they know they can just BE! How refreshing and empowering is that!!!
Austin is that city where your DREAMS come to LIFE! Where you truly live your dream life and career! You get to help people, make a good living, follow your passions and interests, give back to your community, and you are allowed to be yourself all at the same time without ever having to SELL out!
Watch this awesome video called: The Austin Equation by Bijoy Goswami
If your thinking about visiting Austin because you are attracted to this uplifting city motto: BE YOURSELF CITY - and interested in getting a closer look at the local real estate market because you seriously considering a move or relocating- I would love to be your Tour Guide & Ambassador to this special place on earth so please give me a call to set up an appointment to tour this wonderful place we call heaven cell: (512) 771.0754 or email: mlatxrealestate@gmail.com Come plant your roots in Austin …we would love to have you!
If you are all ready living in this Rock ‘in town we call Austin and looking to become a first time home buyer or looking to move up give me a call. I would love to assist in helping you find your next dream home.
Keep Austin Rock’in,
Matthew C. Layman
Austin’s Rock ‘in Realtor
http://austinsrockinrealestateblog.com/
cell: 512.771.0754
The quality of life is what attracts new-comers to Austin
The quality of life is what attracts new-comers to Austin, TX
A cool map of Austin, TX
Music: No matter how many things you’ve heard about the music scene in Austin, you can’t visualize its full depth and breadth. More than 150 venues offer regular musical sets. At any given time, more than 3,000 musical acts navigate this maze, and public places are a magnet for live music. Almost across the board it’s a consistently high level of musicianship that twice a year peaks in mammoth festivals: South by Southwest (SXSW) in the spring and Austin City Limits Music Festival in the fall. The SXSW Conference & Festival offer the unique convergence of original music, independent films, and emerging technologies. It’s a unique environment and experience and could only happen in Austin. You have a chance to discovery the hottest up and coming bands and artists that are coming out of the music world, you also get to gaze your eyes on some killer independent films that are on display, and take a bath in the latest innovative technologies where the brightest minds in emerging media and industry leaders share visions of the future through the latest digital tools and platforms. The SXSW is dated for March 11-20, 2011. Austin City Limits Music Festival know as ACL is a three day, eight stage event that happens in Austin every fall that will feature over 130 of the hottest and most popular bands and artists from around the world. This year the event will be held on September 16-18th 2011. If you love live music – Austin, TX is for you!
Arts: Second only to music, the arts are ubiquitous in Central Texas. In a select group of cities with professional symphony, opera, ballet, and theater companies, Austin also has benefited as those offerings improved exponentially during the past decades. There’s only one large art museum – the Blanton Museum of Art – but plenty of high-quality galleries and smaller museums. Comedy is red-hot in Austin, with dozens of transient sketch , improv and hybrid comedy troupes winning international fame.
Movies: Austin has been a movie mecca, more or less, for about 20 years. Besides giants like Robert Rodriguez, Mike Judge, Richard Linklater and Elizabeth Avellan, other directors, actors, designers and technicians wander our streets every day. Austin has been nicknamed Hollywood’s third coast and is rumored to be second in movie film and production only to Hollywood. And Austin was also featured #5 out of 10 best cities in the US to live, work, and make movies in 2010. The Alamo Drafthouse phenomenon started here and if you haven’t experienced a movie at the Alamo Drafthouse you must on your next visit. Not only do you get to have the opportunity to view old movie classics but you get to eat, drink and be merry while taking in your favorite cinema. Depend on the good folks with the Austin Film Society, Austin Film Festival, SXSW film festival and other hyperactive groups to keep this city cranking out the films. The most recent box office hits: Machete and Predators were both filmed in surrounding Austin area, Bastrop, and film/edited at Robert Rodriguez studio named Troublemaker Studios located in the Mueller master plan community of Austin which is located right off I-35 five minutes from downtown Austin.
Alamo Draft House
Nightlife: As money poured into Austin during the past two or three booms, club scenesters multiplied the “going out” options. Ultra-lounges were all the rage a couple of years ago. Now the night tribes follow celebrity party planners, social media mavens, and mixologists sparking the next cocktail revolution. Newer entertainment districts include West Sixth Street, East E. Sixth Street and Rainey Street. If your looking for a point in the right direction I would be glad to share with you some of my favorite nightlife spots from pure clubs, to outside roof top bars, to lounges, to old gutted houses turned into a chill scene to meet friends for drinks after a long day of work.
West 6th Street - visit Dogwood & Molotov I know the owners!
Sports: In Austin, sports count as entertainment. Especially the University of Texas Longhorns on any field of action. They’ve been joined recently by superior minor-league teams, such as the Round Rock Express, Austin Toros, Texas Stars and the amazing freshman Austin Aztex. The University of Texas has an impressive winning record when it comes to Football, Basketball, & Baseball. The teams each respectively are always in the top 5 or 10 in the nation year in and year out. Which is very impressive considering it’s tough to keep that level of consistency going in a college program. Add to that fast-expanding local sports bar phenoms, such as Third Base, Bikinis, Cover 3, and Cuatros.
Sytle: Not long ago, the only fashion show in town was staged annually by the UT design program. Now it seems models walk the runway every night of the week. The presence of powerful national stores (Neiman Marcus, Saks, etc.) helps, but more influential are the masses of designers and boutiques that make up the backbone of the Austin fashion scene. If you are in Austin on a first Thursday – take in the sights and sounds of south Congress as all the local boutiques open up for extended hours to show off their latest fashion forward designs, sales, along with offering up cool music by some of the hottest Austin DJ’s, and delicious food and drinks.
Food: When asked what they do for entertainment, Austintes often say: “Eat out.” As you will soon discover, dining in Austin often comes with a dash of design, music, comedy, or film. Austin is home to the most restaurants and bars per capita than any other American city! So take it all in!
If your thinking about visiting Austin because you are attracted to the quality of life that this city offers - and interested in getting a closer look at the local real estate market because you seriously considering a move or relocating- please give me a call to set up an appointment to tour this wonderful place we call heaven cell: (512) 771.0754 or email: mlatxrealestate@gmail.com If you are all ready living in this Rock ‘in town we call Austin and looking to become a first time home buyer or looking to move up give me a call I would love to assist you find your next dream home.
Keep Austin Rock’in,
Matthew C. Layman
Austin’s Rock ‘in Realtor
http://austinsrockinrealestateblog.com/
cell: 512.771.0754
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