by Sonia Guardado | May 14, 2024 | Texas Residential Real Estate Council
The Greater Austin area is kicking off its spring selling season with a record number of homes on the market. With such a crowded field, how can your listings stand out? Canva Pro could be your secret weapon. Think of Canva Pro as your personal design assistant, available to help at a moment’s notice. It offers a wide range of templates, from eye-catching property flyers to engaging social media posts. What’s more, you can personalize each template to reflect your unique style.
But Canva Pro is about more than just attractive designs. Its multimedia capabilities allow you to transform photos into stunning slideshows and virtual tours that impress potential buyers. For those working in teams, Canva Pro’s collaborative features make it easy to share and comment on projects, helping you craft marketing materials that get noticed.
Ready to enhance your real estate marketing? Try adding Canva Pro to your toolkit. It’s like a magic touch that will make you wonder how you ever got by without it. If you’re unsure how to get started, the Texas RRC is here to help.
Join us for our Summer Sizzler Series, held monthly from June through August. This series includes three dynamic sessions designed to boost your business using Canva Pro, along with the latest in AI technology, video templates, and strategic social media planning. The first session, focusing on cutting-edge photo and video editing, will be conducted via Zoom on Thursday, June 13, at 2 p.m. Register at Texas.CRS.com to reserve your place in this free series. I look forward to welcoming you!
by Delaine McMurry | May 14, 2024 | Women's Council of REALTORS
As we gear up for an exciting season filled with engaging activities and opportunities for growth, WCR Austin Chapter is thrilled to announce a lineup of events that promise to bring both fun and valuable networking experiences to our community.
Come celebrate at our special event hosted by Austin’s Women’s Council of REALTORS, dedicated to showing appreciation for the influential women in your life. Treat yourself and your loved ones to pedicures, Prosecco, and BINGO! Whether it’s your mom, a mother figure, a valued client, or a cherished friend, all are welcome to join in the festivities this “Mother’s Day” season. While we adore our dog moms, this event is exclusively for the human variety. Let’s come together to honor our esteemed members and the women who have played pivotal roles in shaping their journey towards becoming the strong, empowered individuals they are today!
Our eagerly anticipated Virtual Networking Event, which will be held from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, June 13. This event hosted by the collaborative efforts of the Austin, Brazos Valley, and Hill Country networks. Pour yourself your favorite glass of wine or cocktail while mingling from the coziness of your own home! Here’s what awaits you: acquaint yourself with fellow Texas WCR members and their unique specialties and niches, expand your referral network, gain insights into entering specific niche markets, and educate yourself on the art of successful networking. Secure your spot by registering now! Don’t let this amazing opportunity to connect and learn slip away. We look forward to seeing you on Zoom! Contact Laura Finkenbinder at 512-745-0061 or laura@homeconnectpathway.com or Renee Damron at 512-786-1817.
Our second annual and highly popular Purse Bingo event will be held on Wednesday, July 31. The event is scheduled from 6 to 9 p.m. and a north Austin location will be announce soon. Join us for an evening of excitement and camaraderie as we come together to play for fabulous prizes.
Additionally, we are excited to announce the upcoming elections for our 2025 board. This is an excellent opportunity for dedicated individuals to step up and take on leadership roles within our organization. Tanya Chappell will automatically assume the role of President next year, and we are now seeking passionate individuals to join her in shaping the future of our network. Positions available include President Elect, First Vice President, Treasurer, Membership, and Events. If you have a drive to make a difference and are eager to contribute your skills and expertise, we encourage you to consider applying for one of these pivotal roles. Candidate applications open on Wednesday, May 15.
For updates and information on our events, be sure to check out our Facebook page. We look forward to seeing you there!
by Kim Dale | May 14, 2024 | Five Points Board of REALTORS
When it comes to buying or selling a home, one of the most critical factors in ensuring a successful transaction is having a REALTOR® with strong geographic competency. This expertise goes beyond simply knowing the layout of streets and neighborhoods; it encompasses a deep understanding of the local real estate market, community dynamics, zoning regulations, and more. Williamson County continues to be a thriving hub of economic growth, natural beauty, and vibrant communities. As one of the fastest-growing counties in the nation, Williamson County offers an abundance of opportunities for homebuyers, sellers, and investors alike.
The fusion of a proficient REALTOR® and a deep understanding of local geography is an unbeatable force. With their expertise in the market, insights into neighborhoods, adept navigation of each community’s nuances, utilization of local networks and resources, customized marketing tactics, and active community involvement combined with personalized attention, achieving geographic competence guarantees an exceptional home buying or selling journey for clients.
Central Texas/Williamson County’s real estate market is characterized by rapid growth and diverse neighborhoods. A REALTOR® with geographic competency possesses in-depth knowledge of local market trends, property values, and neighborhood dynamics. From historic homes in Georgetown to modern developments in Round Rock and Cedar Park, they understand the unique features and amenities that distinguish each community, allowing them to match clients with properties that align with their preferences and lifestyle.
Buying or selling a home involves navigating a maze of complexities, from zoning regulations to legal requirements. A REALTOR® with geographic competency understands the intricacies of Williamson County’s zoning laws, land use regulations, and permitting processes. They can guide clients through these complexities, ensuring compliance and minimizing potential issues that may arise during the transaction.
REALTORS® with geographic competency have extensive networks of local professionals, including lenders, inspectors, contractors, and attorneys. These connections are invaluable resources for clients, providing access to trusted service providers who understand the nuances of the Williamson County market. Whether it’s securing financing or coordinating inspections, these local resources streamline the transaction process and enhance the overall client experience.
Geographic competency enables REALTORS® to develop targeted marketing strategies that highlight the unique characteristics of Williamson County’s communities. They understand what makes each neighborhood desirable to potential buyers and can tailor their marketing efforts accordingly. Whether it’s showcasing nearby parks and recreational facilities or highlighting top-rated schools, these targeted strategies attract the right buyers and maximize property exposure.
REALTORS® with geographic competency are deeply engaged in the Williamson County community. They participate in local events, volunteer activities, and neighborhood associations, building strong connections and trust within the community. This grassroots involvement not only enhances their credibility as real estate professionals but also gives them insight into local developments and concerns that may impact the real estate market. Additionally, their personalized service ensures that clients receive tailored guidance and support throughout the transaction process, from the initial consultation to closing.
To become a geographically competent REALTOR®, one must immerse themselves in the intricacies of their local market, diligently studying trends and developments. Continuous education and professional development are essential to staying updated on changes in regulations, zoning laws, and emerging market opportunities. Luckily, you do not have to go on this endeavor alone; your local associations are here to help guide you through your journey to be geographically competent. From city updates to our award-winning Selling the Suburbs WCSpecialist Certification, WCREALTORS is committed to building strong geographic competency for our members and Central Texas.
by Kent Redding | May 14, 2024 | Austin Board of REALTORS
The next few months are a critical period for your business and our marketplace. NAR has set a deadline of August 17, 2024, for the settlement-required MLS rules and broker business practice changes to take effect locally.
My brokerage is preparing by updating our business practices and forms to align with the required changes and building in time to train our agents. By the time you read this, Unlock MLS will have released a wave of events, resources, and education tracks to help everyone navigate this transition. It’s both encouraging and empowering to know that my association and MLS are providing the support I need to confidently and smoothly navigate this important transition.
It’s also reassuring to know that I have what I need to keep my business running strong during this period. Your ABoR and Unlock MLS Boards of Directors have been hard at work this year to roll out many FREE benefits and discounts to enhance your business, save time, and ultimately sell more homes in 2024.
ABoR & Unlock MLS Benefits Released Since January
You can learn more about all these benefits, including how to sign up, from the ABoR.com homepage.
January: Key Reciprocity
Your MLS provides automatic access to Supra lockboxes in the San Antonio and Houston MLS areas. You can access and show properties from Uvalde to Galveston, covering nearly 70 percent of the Texas housing market. That’s an expansion of almost 50,000 active properties. Wow!
February: Forewarn
I love this app! Forewarn allows users to access vital insights on prospective clients in seconds using either a phone number or name. You can verify details such as identity, phone numbers, address history, financial indicators, property records, and nationwide criminal history.
March: Matrix 11.2.3 & New Search
The recent update to Matrix 11.2.3 brought a much cleaner design and a greatly improved search module. I will admit, it took me a minute (yes, your president!) to get used to these changes, and I was tempted to stay in “classic mode.” But it’s important to lean into change to keep your competitive edge sharp. I encourage you to block some time this month to get to know the new search—perhaps by signing up for a free MLS training on ABoR.com/Take-A-Class.
April: CubiCasa CubiCasa CubiCasa!
Unlock MLS subscribers have FREE access to CubiCasa to create accurate 2D and 3D listing floorplans in minutes, straight from their phones! Leverage the Cubicasa app to create more powerful listings, impress your clients, and sell homes faster. Add Those to the Amazing Benefits We Already Offer!
Economic Data & Research Reports
Our most recent report, “The Impact of Minimum Lot Size on Housing,” examines the impact of minimum lot size on Austin’s housing supply and affordability and focuses on the potential effects that reducing Austin’s minimum lot size can have on housing affordability.
You can expect more research releases throughout the year from ABoR and Unlock MLS Housing Economist Dr. Clare Knapp, including weekly episodes of the Driving It Home podcast! View research reports at ABoR.com/Research and tune into the podcast weekly at ABoR.com/DrivingItHome.
Free Inman Select and Austin Business Journal Access
As you know, the industry is experiencing some changes. Thankfully, we’ve got ways to stay connected with the latest developments in our marketplace and our industry. ABoR members have free access to both Inman Select and the Austin Business Journal! Don’t miss out on the next breaking news in the industry by activating your free accounts at ABoR.com/Benefits.
Apply for the 2025 Board of Directors
One of the most overlooked, yet most powerful, ABoR benefits is the career-building leadership opportunities that being a member of our community provides. Are you ready to go big? Applications to serve on the 2025 ABoR & Unlock MLS Boards of Directors are open until Friday, May 31.
I cannot speak highly enough about the positive experiences, growth opportunities, and connections I’ve made throughout my time on the Board. It’s single-handedly the best way to stay connected in our industry. Join me in serving and step into leadership with YOUR Association and MLS by applying at ABoR.com/Leadership.
