Downsize and minimize
Most homeowners accumulate a surprising amount of clutter over the years, keeping a wide array of items that are never used. By reducing the amount of unused items in your home, you can more easily keep it clean and organized, allowing your spring cleaning process to go more smoothly next year. It’s important to be realistic. If you’ve only used your elaborate espresso machine twice since you bought it, chances are you don’t really need it after all. By clearing out unused items, you can save on space and minimize your cleaning time considerably.

Don’t toss it, donate it
Used items in good repair are always in demand by various charities. Thrift stores and local organizations often derive a significant portion of their income from these donations. Depending on the specific charity, you may be able to donate:

• Clothing
• Books
• Furniture
• Automobiles
• Large and small appliances
• Tableware and silverware
• Toys
• Home décor

Best of all, you can often deduct the fair market value of donated items on next year’s tax return, making it a win-win situation for everyone involved.

Avoid harsh chemical cleaners
A number of green cleansers are available on the market; alternatively, you can make your own with borax, baking soda, vinegar, and other natural substances. These are gentler on the environment and easier on your wallet as well. To avoid pests, use natural repellents like cedar wood, garlic, and various essential oils and herbs. Mice hate the smell of peppermint oil, for instance; sprinkling a few drops on a piece of cloth will help keep them out of your closet or kitchen.

Recycle
For items that can’t be reused or donated due to damage or wear, recycling is the next best thing. Used computer equipment, appliances, cell phones, plastics, glass, and paper can all be recycled through various companies and organizations. By minimizing the amount of trash that goes to landfills, you can help to keep the environment safe and minimize your environmental footprint.

By incorporating environmentally friendly methods into your spring cleaning routine, you can ensure that your home is a healthier, safer place to live both inside and out.

Austin has long been considered one of the high-tech centers in the region, and the addition of a national Facebook office would add to the city’s well-deserved reputation. Chief Operating Officer of Facebook Sheryl Sandberg indicated that Austin was under serious consideration as a potential site for the office, stating “Austin, with its deep talent pool, would allow us to hire the high-caliber employees we need to properly serve the people, advertisers and developers that rely on our service.” Facebook currently has over 400 million active users, so its presence in Austin would be a high-profile addition to the city’s already vibrant high-tech industry scene.

This is not the first time a major online company has chosen Austin as a site for expansion; Google opened an office in Austin in 2008, but closed it along with several other offices worldwide soon after due to financial cutbacks throughout the company. While only twenty jobs were lost due to the closing, the Austin community felt the blow to its reputation as a high-tech hub. If Austin is able to snag the Facebook office, the effects will be felt not only economically but also psychologically throughout the region.

Facebook’s interest in opening an Austin office follows on the heels of recent announcements by LegalZoom and Pioneer Surgical Technology to open offices in Austin; LegalZoom’s new expansion is expected to bring around 600 jobs to Austin in the next few years, while Pioneer Surgical’s new office will employ around 30 people when it opens in the second quarter of this year. These acquisitions are expected to boost the local economy still further in the latter part of 2010.

Ok, so I’m like a kid on Christmas morning and would love to have more to post now, but I’ve got to grab a glass of wine, sit by the fire (it’s snowing today in Austin), and crank through this baby!

And to RPR, thanks for ruining my funny use of this clip. :-P

It would have been something like, How RPR Responds to questions…

NAR makes it rain to the tune of $20MM for the boys at RPR!

I’ll be the first to say that technology can be sexy. Especially, when it’s technology that you wished you had. That kind of thinking makes me wonder if NAR didn’t fall in love with the idea of the REALTOR Property Resource and make a mistake by funding it completely alone.

A luxury once tasted, becomes a necessity. Not sure who coined that, but it’s very true. Use the new iPhone and it’s the next item on the shopping list; buy a GPS and it’s hard to imagine getting around without it. Now put yourself in NAR’s position. There are some awfully talented guys who used to run Cyberhomes. They have been with Fidelity, have been with LPS, and they’re used to selling to REALTORS with sexy looking technology. (LPS is a MLS provider.) Now take these Cyberhomes guys, put them in a room with some REALTORS who run the Association, and the Association’s big fat checkbook and what do you think the outcome will be???

I’m thinking a $20MM company replete with Cyberhomes guys and paid for by Joe and Jane REALTOR. Note that the CEO and a VP are actually brokers, which makes me feel a lot better. Of course, the details are not there for us to see. I mean, sure, there are a few extremely vague agreement drafts floating around there, there are likely some coders integrating data, maybe a few social media evangelists (we met Reggie of RPR in a previous post), and other than that, a whole lot of sealed lips.You can get some great info over at MLS Tesseract if you want to bone up on the current state of RPR. The lack of communication and attempt to get buy in is for some other posts so back to the main thought of this post.

Did NAR fall in love and blow $20 large on RPR? I think they might have.

But why do you think this Joe? Aside from the obvious reasons that we all sell locally (so why do we need a national system) and the fact that the resources they are aggregating are already out there, FOR FREE; Well, I was reading press releases and news stories about the past wonderful experiences that NAR and business partner/related tech companies have had and a few things popped up.

Remember HomeStore.com? Remember the CEO of HomeStore.com who was sentenced to 15 years in a Federal facility for defrauding investors. The outcome, just a little loss of $100 Million dollars to investors and stockholders. No biggie there. I mean it wasn’t Enron and at least NAR wasn’t the sole owner of that baby, who by the way is now called Move.com. Just for your reference that Move stock is now trading at about $1.30 per share down from it’s all time high of something like $102. (Note that Move.com is currently worth less than 70% of LoopNet and less than 50% of CoStar.)

So then I decided to check out what NAR had said about Realtor.com. How was this such a success when HomeStore and Move were disasters less than ideal engagements. Here is what I found interesting that either NAR has forgotten or the fun bunch from Cyberhomes helped them over look. My commentary in blue.

Directly from the Press Release

…
History of REALTOR.com
In November 1996, the Board of Directors of the National Association of REALTORS® approved an agreement between the REALTORS® Information Network (RIN)—NAR’s wholly-owned subsidiary–and RealSelect, Inc. to take over the operations of NAR’s official Internet site, REALTOR.com. At the time, many business models were considered to finance the development of REALTOR.com.

NAR’s Leadership Team decided against using dues dollars or asking for a special assessment of the membership to fund REALTOR.com. While Homestore and its investors have spent hundreds of millions of dollars to build and operate REALTOR.com, no NAR funds or NAR member dues dollars have ever been used for the creation or operation of the site.

Remember the fraud guy and the hundreds of millions of dollars. Seemed like a good idea then. With the current load of fraud ala Madoff, Standford, and the list continues, it SEEMS LIKE A BETTER IDEA NOW.

…

Key Provisions in the Operating Agreement
The operating agreement negotiated more than eight years ago contained a number of important provisions ensuring NAR’s control over the content and operations of the site. Those provisions remain in full force today and continue to guide the relationship between NAR and Homestore (NASDAQ: HOMS), which owns RealSelect.

Homestore operates REALTOR.com as a business. Its separation from NAR allows the company to make decisions that could potentially pose difficult problems for a trade association on business terms. These include the pricing of REALTOR.com products and services to REALTORS® and the development and marketing of new products and services.

Ok. Why has this changed? I mean, I love technology as much as the next guy, but if there aren’t private investors out there willing to provide funding then maybe the NAR shouldn’t step in an fund this start up with member dollars. Are any of the NAR board members technology incubator guys? What about venture capital guys with experience in taking a technology startup from soup to nuts??? I’m sure the guys from Cyberhomes are stoked. “Hey check this Bobby, we got an angel investor and get to play start-up now with other people’s money.” Also, since the exact product offerings are not set in stone, nor are any pricing models for members, what’s the deal here? Before owning the whole enchilada posed difficult problems, now, now sweat.

Outlook for the Future
Homestore has survived the shake-out among dot com start-up companies and complete turnover in its management team. It has undergone major cost-cutting and restructuring to adjust to changing business realities. Certainly, its relationship with NAR has helped see it through challenging times and REALTOR.com has never lost its lead in the real estate space.

The two organizations have continued their relationship essentially unchanged because they both benefit. Homestore has access to the best brand in real estate and NAR has a vehicle to provide its members a strong presence on the Internet without incurring the cost or risk of operating REALTOR.com itself. Time and trials have tested the formula, and now it’s poised for new growth, profitability and service to REALTORS®, shareholders and consumers alike.

…

Um. yeah. If I hadn’t sworn off the blink tag long ago, the middle sentence above would be blinking like John McCain at a presidential debate. Why has the time tested formula been changed? Remember what happened when Coke tried that??

So now you see why I think NAR fell in love with RPR and wrote a fat $20MM check. The past taught us as an association what works, why it works, and leave it to NAR to forget the history only 10-15 years in the rear view. As a NAR member, it saddens me. As a technology guy, it frightens me.

I’d love to hear from other agents, brokers, MLS folks, even some of those tight-lipped RPR people are welcome here. Maybe if we knew more about what was going on some of the skepticism would melt away. That remains to be seen.

St. David’s currently has twenty-four sites throughout Austin and the surrounding area, making it one of the largest healthcare organizations in Texas. It was the fifth largest employer in Austin before this acquisition, and is expected to move up in rank when the transfer becomes complete sometime later this year. The two companies are awaiting final regulatory commission approval for the acquisition.

St. David’s HealthCare has achieved high marks for employee satisfaction, ranking number one in the 2007, 2008, and 2009 Austin Business Journal’s list of “Best Places to Work” in Austin. It encompasses six of the metropolitan area’s major hospitals and has been awarded the Texas Award for Performance Excellence for its outstanding patient care and quality medical services. The addition of Heart Hospital will allow St. David’s to further solidify its position as the leading healthcare provider in the Austin area; the Heart Hospital of Austin was recently named by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services as the best place in the country to be treated for a heart attack.

For Austin residents, this acquisition is expected to further cement Austin’s position as the leading healthcare industry center in the state of Texas and to provide additional employment opportunities in the area. Austin’s already high quality of life is also expected to improve as a result of the St. David’s HealthCare expansion and acquisition. Since the Heart Hospital of Austin will now be under local administration and ownership, the Austin economy is expected to see benefits from the acquisition as well; the streamlining of services and procedures will further improve the quality of patient care in the area and should serve as an additional attraction for businesses looking to relocate to the Austin area.

[UPDATE] Geek Estate Blog confirmed that my comment in question of the RPR was not deleted, but instead went to spam. My apologies to GeekEstateBlog and Reggie Nicolay.

Back to the actual RPR itself. According to NAR and the folks hired to run the RPR, it will be the panacea for all our woes. The press release below is typical of the media surrounding NAR’s new national property database. You can read the full release here: http://www.realtor.org/press_room/news_releases/2009/11/tech_property

My comments are RED and inline in the press release below.

NAR Tech Acquisition Will Create National Property Database
Washington, November 09, 2009

The National Association of Realtors® has acquired technology to create a database of all properties in the U.S. so Realtors® can better assist consumers in a high-tech, fast-paced business world.

Guess what? Agents don’t sell in Austin Texas on Monday morning, then board a jet and sell in Salt Lake City Tuesday. Real estate is a local business for the vast majority of practitioners. Yeah, if you work at a REIT you may be jet setting and buying across the nation for pension funds, but you make plenty of money and have better data than will any national database created for REALTORS.

The technology acquisition includes licensed data and secured data aggregation services from LPS Real Estate Group, a wholly owned subsidiary of Lender Processing Services Inc. (NYSE:LPS), a leader in real estate technology. NAR will use the assets to develop the Realtors® Property ResourceTM, a parcel-centric information database covering all of the more than 147 million property parcels in the country as a resource for NAR members. NAR is planning to launch RPRTM in the second quarter 2010.

This paragraph is particularly useful when you hear from an RPR evangelist that it’s not going to cost you anything. Of course, NAR used NAR funds to buy these assets. So my question is, if it’s not the member’s money, whose money is it? Did NAR get a grant from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation? I don’t think so.

“Realtors® are the first, best source for real estate information, and the RPR™ is another emphatic feature to that resource. RPR™ will give Realtors® nationwide data on all properties at their fingertips so they can respond quickly to consumers interested in residential and commercial real estate. This is exciting news and a terrific NAR member benefit. NAR is committed to keep Realtors® central to the transaction and to the buying and selling experience with their clients and customers,” said NAR President Charles McMillan, broker with Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate in Dallas-Fort Worth.

Again, we are local in real estate. I don’t care about property in Paducah and likely never will. So that we’re not beating a dead horse, let’s add another aspect to the commentary on this paragraph. We already have all this data! What?!?!? We already have all this data! Yes. It’s true. We get tax information from the central appraisal district where the property resides. We obtain legal filings at the court house or online if the matter is federal. We can get flood plain data from any one of several GIS (Geographic Information Systems) in this or surrounding counties. So why spend all this money, time, and effort creating an RPR? I have yet to hear a good answer, although I have some cynical thoughts as to why.

…

RPR™ is not a national MLS, and will carry no offers of cooperation and compensation, Stinton added. “It is a private, NAR members-only benefit. The assets acquired by NAR will be directed through a wholly owned subsidiary corporation, Realtors® Property Resource, LLC,” Stinton said.

The management team of RPR™ includes CEO Dale Ross, co-founder of the Metropolitan Regional Information System, the country’s largest regional MLS; President Marty Frame, former General Manager of Cyberhomes; Senior Vice President of Industry Relations Mona Steen, former SVP with Cyberhomes; and Jeff Young, NAR director of the Realtors® Property Resource™ and 2008 president of the Michigan Association of Realtors®.

Seems like another Realtor.com deal to me. NAR has an essentially captive audience of consumers, read members, and partners with a technology provider to use our data to resell us a product. I’m not sure if you’re aware, but that $50 per listing per year that you pay to Realtor.com to have your listings on there is exactly what I describe above. Just for a little kicker, throw in the fact that the reason people come to realtor.com is that they publish data on listings that you take and you’ll really feel the love.

RPR™ will provide nationwide access to public record information such as tax and assessment data, liens, zoning, permits, environmental information, and information on neighborhoods, school district and community demographics, along with advanced search features for property searchers, as well as market-to-market comparisons and referral opportunities not currently available.

Yep. So we already covered the fact that you can get all this data locally as paid for by your taxes or fees. Now I see this as potentially poking the bear (DoJ). The public and DoJ LOVE NAR. I mean, the DoJ loves to make sure that NAR isn’t a monopoly or engaging in anti-trust practices. That said, WHY create a GIANT target for the public and DoJ to use for the next round of anti-real estate association sentiment? Could it be that there are other, more lucrative plans for the RPR?? Maybe there is a large market out there for this and all NAR needs is to create it on the backs of it’s members, wait for the DoJ to complain, and then voila, sorry Realtor members, but now we have to open this system up to any paying entity, BY COURT ORDER. Ok, I know this could be construed as a little Alex Jones and all, but based on the last 7 years of NARs technology direction, I have no doubt that the individual member’s interest are subordinate to making money.

…

RPR™ will develop business strategies to make it affordable and feasible for NAR members, and will complement, not compete with, MLSs and CIEs.While many MLS and CIE systems provide a range of services, no two are alike. Brokers are looking for tools that support their agents across multiple markets with similar service levels and access to robust and valuable data. RPR™ is designed to support local MLS and CIE models to create a common experience for agents and brokerages.
…

For more information on the Realtors® Property Resource™, visit www.realtor.org/about_nar/realtors_property_resource.

Check out the latest from Inman on RPR.  I doubt my comments will be there long given the pro-RPR sentiment there, but you can always try and see.

Of course, the folks at RPR are busily spinning this beast as fast as she will go and only time will tell what’s to come. Would love to hear other REALTOR’s feedback!

Nothing like trying to get the real down low on our own association’s doings. It’s like trying to figure out what our local MLS is doing. Makes you recognize the clip below!

Click here to view the embedded video.

You've not had chili until you've had it Texas style!

Most Austin chili purists insist that true Texas-style chili con carne should contain no beans. This also makes it much more versatile as a side dish or accompaniment to tamales, nachos, hot dogs, and hamburgers. At a minimum, most chili recipes include chili peppers, garlic, onions, and cumin; most contain chicken, venison, pork or beef. Some chili recipes include tomatoes, but historically they have no place in a classic Texas chili pot. While some vegetarian chili recipes exist and may be quite popular, most chili experts do not class them as true Texas chili. Meat is the main ingredient in Texas chili, and the second most prominent ingredient is the chili peppers themselves, making this a spicy warm-up on cold winter evenings.

Austin boasts some outstanding chili restaurants, from the ubiquitous Chuy’s to the Saturday night Firehouse Chili special at Houston’s. Many Austin residents swear by the chili served at the Waterloo Ice House locations; what it lacks in spice, it makes up for in outstanding ingredients and a first-rate recipe. The Alamo Draft House offers a unique movie-going experience along with a sirloin-based cup of moderately spicy chili to keep you warm while you watch. Perhaps the most famous chili parlor in all of Austin, however, is the Texas Chili Parlor; a favorite among locals, the restaurant itself is something of a dive, but is so well known it was used as a setting by Quentin Tarantino in the movie “Death Proof,” which starred Kurt Russell. A down-home beer joint, the Texas Chili Parlor serves up bowls of chili ranging from the single X mild to the famed XXX, which is rumored to require a release form before it can be served to customers. Vegetarian and black bean chili dishes are also on the menu at this Austin landmark. Whichever establishment you prefer, Austin has something to please the palate of even the most particular chili lover.

The Austin Marathon has grown every year since it's inception. Expect the trend to continue as central Texans stay healthy.

Long-distance runners in training for the Boston Marathon are eagerly awaiting Valentine’s Day, February 14, 2010, when the AT&T Austin Marathon will be held. Runners will traverse a scenic course along the Colorado River and the Town Lake area, and will spend a portion of their time in the beautiful rolling trails of Austin Hill Country. The full marathon course is the regulation 26.2 miles, but a half-marathon spanning 13.1 miles is also available for less experienced runners. Congress Avenue Bridge marks the starting line for this popular event, which is scheduled to start at 7:00 and is expected to last for about seven hours; the finish line at 4th and Congress Avenue is expected to draw especially large numbers of sightseers and well-wishers on race day.

The Austin Marathon has been named the Greenest Race in North America by Runners World magazine, and is considered the fastest course in the state of Texas; additionally, the course is arranged in a loop to allow easy access to the start and finish lines from a number of local hotels. Because the Austin Marathon is a qualifying race for the Boston Marathon, it attracts participants from all over the country. Since about 80% of runners come from outside the Austin area, local hotels are expected to be booked to near capacity for the Valentine’s Day weekend.

The Austin Marathon and Half-Marathon festivities will include almost 40 Austin bands playing at the Paramount Theater to entertain spectators at this popular race. Twenty-six rest stations offering water and Powerade will be strategically placed along the route, along with medical personnel from Seton Health Care who will monitor the condition of runners as they progress through the course. The water stops will be hosted by 26 Miles for 26 Charities as in years past; this organization allows charities to raise public awareness and funds by showcasing local agencies including the Austin Children’s Shelter, Blue Dog Rescue, Colin’s Hope, the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, and St. Jude Heroes among many others.

For runners who are not ready to take on the Austin Marathon or Half-Marathon, the Paramount 5K run offers a lower level of challenge along with food, drinks, and merriment after the race. On the Friday and Saturday before, the Austin Marathon and Half-Marathon Health & Fitness Expo will be held at the Palmer Events Center; vendors from throughout the area will be on hand to demonstrate and display their merchandise for runners and visitors. A large turnout is expected for these events, so spectators are advised to arrive early to claim the best observation spots along the route.

Very modern look, very modern technology!

Austin residents may soon get their first look at the ZeroHouse, a high-tech solution to the energy crisis that offers off-grid self-sufficiency for homeowners. Plans for the prototype include water conservation technology, a sizable composting unit, and two large solar energy panels; these features are intended to produce all the energy and water needed by residents within the house. Designed by Austin architects Scott Specht and Louise Harpman, the ZeroHouse requires no outside power or water supply and is designed to sit on four stainless-steel pillars; thus, it requires a minimal environmental footprint and is prefabricated for easy construction.

Specht and Harpman are seeking an investor to finance the building of the prototype, which is expected to cost between $300,000 and $350,000. The ZeroHouse will provide 650 square feet of interior living space and covered exterior decking that adds 250 more square feet outside; the architects are looking for someone to finance and live in the home, which they hope to construct in the Austin area. The prototype plans are optimized to provide the maximum amount of livable space for residents, and incorporates highly energy-efficient appliances and electronics in order to use the smallest amount of resources possible, making this home an environmentally sound choice for consumers.

The ZeroHouse is the latest addition to the class of net-zero houses, which boast that they are completely self-sustaining and have a net energy cost of zero, since they produce as much energy as they require. The ZeroHouse produces power through two sizable solar panels and collects and filters rainwater for household use; waste processing and disposal is accomplished by the automated composting system located under the house. This allows it to function off-grid, or without accessing the local electric company’s supply; in practice, these houses are generally hooked up to the local system and are compensated for the energy they supply to companies like AustinEnergy.

Austin is a leader in the green technology industrial market; this makes it a logical choice for Specht and Harpman’s project. City leaders have agreed to require that all new residential construction must be net-zero capable beginning in 2015; while this will not always be immediately possible due to differences in ground cover and lot placement, the goal is expected to spur even more green construction in Austin. The ZeroHouse is not for everyone; its high cost of construction and avant-garde styling may not suit all buyers. The lessons learned and the techniques used in its construction, however, are expected to carry over into traditional home building practices and reduce overall energy costs in Austin over the long run.

Employers finding the lure of the Central Texas hill country are moving to Austin in droves!

Austin officials recently announced a proposed $500,000 package of incentives for the Hanger Orthopedic Group to facilitate its planned relocation to Austin. The proposal is expected to provide $50,000 per year for ten years providing that Hanger meets certain stipulations. Hanger is an industry leader in medical equipment, prostheses, and orthotics and is relocating to Austin from Bethesda, Maryland. While current employees of the Hanger headquarters in Maryland will be given the opportunity to relocate, the company is expected to provide as many as 100 jobs for the local employment market.

Austin has participated in such agreements with other companies, most notably the 62.9 million dollar tax incentive package offered to Samsung Austin Semiconductor for the construction of a second plant that is expected to provide 500 jobs to Austin residents upon completion. Other significant incentive packages were provided to the television show “Friday Night Lights” and $37 million over 20 years to The Domain multi-use commercial and residential development in North Austin, slated to create 1,100 jobs. The latest set of incentives continues Austin’s tradition of proactive recruitment of jobs for its economy.

Hanger chose Austin as the site for its new headquarters in part because it already had a major subsidiary located here; Innovative Neurotronics manufactures the WalkAide system, a neuromuscular stimulating device that provides additional mobility to spinal cord patients and those living with multiple sclerosis. Austin also provides significant benefits to high-tech employers like Hanger, with a highly-educated workforce and respected institutions of higher education nearby. Company officials also cited the high quality of life available in the Austin area as a factor in their decision; Austin is widely regarded as one of the best places to live in the entire U.S. A large part of the decision, however, is due to Austin’s business-friendly policies, which are designed to attract and retain employers for the area. Austin’s central location will assist Hanger in communications with its subsidiaries throughout the country, and is expected to help the company improve its financial bottom line performance.

Austin has weathered the recent economic downturn better than most other cities in large part due to active recruitment of new employers and businesses to the area. Austin and Texas government officials have been aggressive and proactive in offering incentives for investment in the region, ensuring that the vibrant Austin economy continues to grow. The addition of the Hanger headquarters is expected to make Austin even more desirable as a location for new business, especially in the medical and pharmaceutical fields.

Austin's drawing new solar technolgy jobs and expertise to the area.

Austin is slated to receive $4.8 million in funding for job education and training in the high-demand field of solar technology through the U.S. Department of Labor. The program, administered by the Electrical Joint Apprenticeship Training Program, is expected to provide training for approximately 1,000 workers in the Austin area, preparing them for crucial positions in solar power plants throughout the region and as far afield as Kansas, New Mexico and Arizona. The Electrical Joint Apprenticeship Training Program is sponsored by a number of national and Austin-based groups, including the Austin Workforce Investment Board, the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, the National Electrical Contractors Association, and ImagineSolar.

Part of the economic stimulus package passed by Congress, the initiative is one aspect of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. It is intended to provide employment opportunities for veterans, women, and minorities as well as offering unemployed individuals the chance to learn a new set of job skills. Austin’s highly-trained workforce and commitment to green technology played a significant part in its selection; it is one of only 25 sites to receive similar funding. The initiative is slated to distribute $100 million in funds over the next year; grants available through the stimulus program range between $1.4 million and $5 million, making the Austin grant one of the largest distributed to local programs.

This news comes on the heels of an initial report by the Cleantech Group and Deloitte showing a 33% decline in venture capital investment in the green technology sector in 2009. While at first glance these figures seem to spell bad news for the overall clean and green technology industries, the overall picture for venture capital investment was far worse. In relative terms, green technologies still attract investors and funds at a higher rate than most other sectors of the investment economy. Solar technology still leads the pack, with about 21% of all green technology investment in this area.

Texas ranks third in green technology investment in the nation, with only California and Massachusetts investing more in this area. Austin is especially proactive in the area of green technology, with many homes and businesses incorporating solar collection and energy efficient design in their initial construction. The additional funding provided through the Electrical Joint Apprenticeship Training Program will help Austin remain on the cutting edge of clean, green energy sources and ensure a brighter economic outlook for the entire area.

Industrial real estate properties were hardest hit, with a 400 percent increase in foreclosures over 2008. Retail shopping centers and vacant land also experienced a less dramatic rise in foreclosure rates. Some economic analysts see this as an opportunity for businesses to acquire additional space at bargain prices; with real estate prices in some areas at near-record lows, many companies that are currently renting space may be able to purchase property instead. This may actually spur an increase in commercial real estate sales during 2010 as businesses take advantage of the opportunity to expand their holdings at discount prices.

Commercial foreclosures represented about seven percent of foreclosures in the Austin area. One bright spot in the economic outlook for these properties is the increase in companies looking to expand into the Austin business market. Austin is an attractive location for commercial relocation due to its highly-trained labor force and resilient economic base. Most analysts in the area expect that corporate relocations and expansions will continue to increase in Austin, spurred in part by the lower cost of commercial real estate in the overall market.

Some analysts are worried about the increase in short sales.

A recent deluge of short sales is creating difficulties for home sellers and buyers alike according to most real estate analysts. Lenders are overwhelmed by the number of short sales requests and are taking far longer to process offers from willing buyers. This delay often causes buyers to withdraw their offers and contracts to fall through, necessitating the relisting of the home and further delays for anxious sellers. Banks and mortgage providers simply don’t have the staff in place to handle the increased volume of short sales, and further delays result when lenders must request necessary paperwork from investors and secondary lienholders.

Short sales occur when lenders agree to discount the remainder of a mortgage balance rather than foreclose on the property; the lending institution then puts the home on the market, and the bank collects the proceeds of the sale as payment in full for the outstanding debt. Because of recent market conditions, many homeowners have found themselves in serious financial difficulty; their home’s value has dipped, sometimes to less than the remaining mortgage debt. Typically the bank is willing to take the current appraised value of the home as full payment, even when this does not cover the entire amount of the mortgage. In some cases, however, lenders have been known to cancel contracts and raise the price of the property, sometimes to an unrealistic level. This is due in part to changes in the appraisal process, which have also led to serious underappraisals of properties in cities like Austin. The use of foreclosures as comparables is only one of the many deficiencies in the current system; in short sales especially, it can be difficult for lenders to obtain an accurate appraisal of the property’s true worth.

While Austin has seen fewer short sales than many other metropolitan areas, the continuing rise in short sales volume has some real estate experts worried. Short sales are expected to increase still more in response to the November 30, 2009 announcement of a federal program that provides financial incentives to sellers and lenders who avoid foreclosure through short sales. These transactions place an additional burden on all parties. Sellers must provide proof of economic hardship before their request for a short sale will be approved. Lenders must assume responsibility for paperwork relating to the sale of the home; buyers and real estate agents must be prepared for lengthy delays in processing and accepting offers and closing on the short sale property. The entire process takes much longer than traditional home sales, and can be further delayed if banks and buyers cannot agree on a mutually acceptable price.  While Austin’s real estate market remains comparatively stable, analysts are watching the situation closely to ensure that short sales do not drive down home prices in our area.

Austin uses single stream recycling.

Austin has earned a reputation as one of the most environmentally conscious cities in the nation, but this reputation has not come without cost. Austin’s current single-stream recycling program, which was instituted in October 2008, has cost the city over $2 million since it began. Single-stream recycling allows consumers to commingle all recyclable materials, including paper, glass, aluminum, and plastic, in one container. It is considered more convenient than recycling methods that require that individuals separate out the different types of recyclables into different bins.

The City of Austin has a contract with Greenstar to separate and accept the recyclable materials. The cost of the contract, however, has far exceeded initial estimates due to a sharp increase in recycling on the part of Austin’s residents. The ease of single-stream recycling is credited in part for this increase; another factor is the heightened awareness of environmental issues on the part of Austin residents. Regardless of the causes, Austin city residents have more than doubled their recycling volume since the implementation of single-stream recycling, and the figures continue to rise each month, creating an unexpected expense for the city and requiring a reevaluation of the recycling contract with Greenstar. The contract is currently under review by the city council to determine if it will be extended beyond its scheduled expiration in 2010 or if the cost of recycling materials can be reduced to a more affordable level by negotiating with the company for a longer-term contract.

Greenstar, based in San Antonio, has offered a number of alternatives that could bring prices down significantly. Austin city officials, however, have suggested a plan that would allow Austin to construct its own single-stream recycling facility and avoid the expense of outsourcing this activity to an outside vendor. Most independent analysts believe that the greatest savings over the long run would be achieved by this plan, which would require only a short-term extension of the Greenstar contract and allow the city of Austin to realize approximately $400,000 in savings over the duration of the extended contract term.

A decision on extending the contract is expected soon; city council members are considering three options, including one that will reduce Greenstar’s processing fees by approximately $20 per ton in return for an extension through 2013. If a new single-stream recycling facility is the chosen option, the resulting construction project is expected to provide employment for a number of commercial builders and environmental consultants who will be hired for the project. By constructing a single-stream recycling plant, Austin can continue to demonstrate its commitment to environmental responsibility and green-friendly living while saving taxpayer money into the bargain.

Inventory down, foreclosures down

Austin’s inventory of unsold homes decreased by about 20% over the last year, according to real estate analysts ZipRealty Inc. This is in contrast to several other housing markets, which are still seeing increases due to foreclosure and voluntary surrender of homes by financially insolvent owners. Austin joins cities like San Diego, Los Angeles, Las Vegas and Phoenix in reduction of outstanding home inventories over the last year. This shift may indicate the end of the buyer’s market that has been prevalent throughout the United States; while some urban areas will be slower to recover from the housing market downturn, the reduced inventory of homes will help drive up home values and increase the likelihood that homes already on the market will sell more quickly.

This news comes on the heels of RealtyTrac’s announcement that foreclosure filings are continuing to decrease. November 2009 marked the fourth straight month of lessened foreclosure activity throughout the United States; recent federal initiatives including the Home Affordable Modification Program and other Fannie Mae programs are credited with a large portion of the decrease in foreclosures and defaults. Much improvement is still needed, since it’s estimated that one out of every 417 homes is currently in some phase of default or foreclosure, presenting an overwhelming burden on the housing market during a crucial stage of its recovery. Nevada, Florida, and California have the dubious honor of holding down the top three spots in foreclosure proceedings compared with number of homes.

The reduction in unsold homes in Austin is expected to drive home prices higher and result in increased competition for available homes. The buyer’s market in Austin may be coming to an end, making this the best possible time to investigating home buying options before the prices return to their pre-slump values. Bargains are still available, but it’s necessary to act quickly before the home of your dreams is off the market for good.

As a participant in the U.S. Green Building Council’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) for Neighborhood Development program, the development requires that all residential construction in Mueller qualify for Austin Energy’s three-star energy-efficiency rating. In addition, commercial buildings within the development must meet LEED certification standards; this ensures that they will provide healthy and energy-efficient environments. The Dell Children’s Medical Center of Central Texas is the first hospital ever to achieve LEED platinum certification and set the standard for new construction in Mueller. It is joined by the platinum-certified Ronald McDonald House and the silver-rated Dell Pediatric Research Institute; Mueller’s strict environmental standards ensure the highest level of green-friendly building possible.

Mueller already boasts over 200 three-star rated homes; the community is eventually slated to provide 4,600 residential units, of which one-fourth will be devoted to low and middle-income housing. Entry-level homes are designed to provide a point of access to the housing market for younger buyers, while a senior living community is expected to provide affordable housing for older residents. Ultimately it is planned that 10,000 residents will be served by the Mueller development. Green space and parks comprise twenty percent of the development and occupy 140 acres, providing families with safe places to relax and play together.

Mueller is the result of a partnership between Austin and Catellus Development and is centrally located to allow easy access to major employers within the metropolitan area. Situated just two miles from the University of Texas campus and three miles from downtown businesses, Mueller earns high marks for its pedestrian-friendly design and well-planned transportation routes. The development will eventually include over four million square feet of retail and employment opportunities, allowing many residents to live and work in the same area and eliminating lengthy commutes. Austin Energy’s on-site power plant is environmentally advanced and provides green energy for the development.

Mueller offers unique advantages to residents and businesses; as a result, it has gained local support and is considered one of the most innovative and green-friendly projects of its kind anywhere in the United States. Recreational, retail, employment, and residential areas coexist harmoniously and provide a cohesive and sustainable community in the heart of Austin.

If you’re a fan of being close to shopping, main arteries, and still love living in the away from the hustle and bustle of the city, 3210 Mocha Trail could be the perfect house for you. Willow Run at Wells Branch is a starter home community with a wide variety of homes from 150k to 225k where homes range from small basically outfitted single stories to larger two story homes complete with extravagant landscaping and hardwood floors. 3210 Mocha Trail is one of those drop-dead gorgeous homes. With hardwood floors throughout the first floor, lush, mature landscaping, a large deck, hot tub, and a dog run. Just seconds from I35, mopac, 1325 toll road, 183, and 45 toll road, this house will let you enjoy a quick ride home while everyone else battles traffic. Take a look and I think you’ll agree this home could just be the best thing out there under $200k.

You can view a panoramic virtual tour with more images at Realtour

For a private showing or more information contact REMAX Capital City at 512-795-4532.

House is the mirror of this floor plan.

The Month In Review

Preliminary October 2009 Data: Units for Sale: (compared to October 2008) New listings are down 7.39%. Pendings are up 37.78%. Solds increased by 29.37% As for Average Prices: The “New Listings” average list price is down 15.68% to $276,975.  In October 2008 the average list price was $328,479. Sold average sales prices decreased 2.04% to $234,521.  For October 2008 it was $239,401.

Did You Know…?

That we had 11,377 active listings during the same week in 2008? Today there is 10,234 active listings! That is 10.05% decrease from last year.

Information provided courtesy of Alamo Title.

Austin’s low rate of state tax and continuing commitment to corporate investment is credited with a large part of its economic stability and potential for growth. Its position as the capital of Texas provides robust support for its local economy, while its highly desirable residential environment has helped to keep housing prices stable during recent housing industry downturns. Austin’s high-tech industrial base also contributes to the overall real estate market stability, ensuring high demand for commercial and residential real estate continues well into the future.

The study also outlines some strategies for commercial real estate investors throughout the U.S. market. One of the most crucial is, of course, to invest in high-growth areas like Austin; this ensures the ability to attract and retain high-quality tenants for commercial properties. Additionally, investors should be highly selective in their choice of properties. Class A properties offer higher quality in materials and manufacture, and therefore represent a better long-term investment than other buildings. Location remains a key element to return on investment; cities like Austin offer investors a much better chance for a high rate of return on their initial investments. The study also recommends sticking to a cash basis for all real estate transactions; this will allow investors to take advantage of exceptional opportunities as they arise. Finally, the Urban Land Institute study recommends patience; by remaining steadfast and purchasing wisely, investors will be set to reap the profits when the commercial real estate rebounds over the coming years.

Austin’s real estate market offers unique advantages to investors and homebuyers. The commercial real estate picture in Austin is already showing signs of recovery, making this an optimal time for investors to jump into the market and take advantage of current low prices. Austin’s combination of desirable residential areas and robust economic growth makes it the perfect arena for commercial real estate investment in today’s market.

Home refinance cash

When the real estate market is down, you should always try to refinance your mortgage. If you’re facing problems with your adjustable rate, higher mortgage payments, reduced equity or lower income, then home refinance is a useful means to get rid of your anxieties. When property values are going down and lenders are making stricter guidelines, it becomes more difficult to take out a new loan. Hence, if you get the chance to refinance even in this market condition, you must not lose it by any means.

What is home refinance?

When you go for refinancing, your existing mortgage is substituted by another mortgage with more affordable loan terms. Since you’re taking out a new loan, you normally have to pay the following fees:

• Escrow fees
• Title insurance
• Points (optional)
• Lender fees
• Credit reporting fees
• Appraisal fees
• Any amount necessary to get your tax and insurance obligations current

What the importance of home refinance is in today’s real estate market?

Homeowners resort to refinancing for various reasons, but following are some of the most familiar ones why refinancing is important in the present day real estate market:

Refinancing helps you save money by reducing your interest rate

If the interest rate of your existing mortgage is more than the prevailing market rate, you would save by refinancing.

Refinancing can reduce monthly payments

Even though the interest rates do not go down, home refinance can reduce your monthly payments by beginning a new loan term. For instance, if you obtained a 30-year FRM for $300,000 10 years back, you might just owe around $250,000 at present. However, if you refinance it to another 30-year FRM for $250,000, then you have a complete 30 years to pay it back. It signifies that your monthly payment would be lower. Had you retained your previous loan, you would have paid it off in 20 years. The drawback of reducing your monthly payments is that you would end up paying more on interest.

Refinancing lets you switch loan types

If you have an ARM Adjustable Rate Mortgage, your monthly payment might go up when the rate is adjusted. You might need to shift to a fixed rate mortgage that has a steady payment.

Home refinance helps you receive cash

When you go for a cash-out refinance, you obtain a new mortgage for an amount which is higher than you owe on your existing mortgage. Subsequently, you walk off by taking the difference. A cash-out refinance is quite hard to obtain in recent times though several homeowners opted for cash-out refinancing to fund home improvements in the last one or two years. For getting a cash-out refinance, you should have substantial equity in your home since it is likely the bank wouldn’t lend you an amount which is higher than your home value.

Though most borrowers have a tendency towards keeping their existing mortgages, refinancing in a tough real estate market can better your financial condition in various ways.

Thanks to guest blogger: Peter Gomes!

Click here to view the embedded video.

Summary of Tax Credit Details:
The homebuyer tax credit expansion measure includes these provisions:
• Extends the $8,000 first time Homebuyers Tax Credit and creates a new $6,500 tax credit for homeowners buying a new home by July 1, 2010.
• Homebuyers with contracts as of April 30 qualify for the credit so long as they close the transaction within 60 days.
• The full credit is available to homebuyers with incomes of up to $125,000 for a single return or $225,000 for a joint return.
• Not available for homes costing over $800,000.
• Homebuyers who already own a home are only eligible if the home they are leaving has been used as a principal residence for five consecutive years in the last eight.
• Provides authority to the IRS to provide greater oversight while processing the return and requires that the taxpayer claiming the credit be 18 or older.
• Members of the military, military intelligence and foreign service who are on qualified extended official duty are not subject to the recapture fee and individuals who have been deployed overseas for 90 days or more in 2008 or 2009 can claim the credit through April 30, 2011.

If you want more information you can contact us or check out the Federal Housing Tax Credit website.

** based on Freddie Mac weekly average survey **
30-yr Fixed – Slightly Lower
This Week:  4.91%
Last Week:  4.98%
1yr Ago:  6.14%

15-yr Fixed – Slightly Lower
This Week:  4.36%
Last Week:  4.40%
1yr Ago:  5.81%

Jumbo Fixed (Average 30-yr Fixed)
Last Week:  5.75%
Previous Week:  5.895%

Highlight of This Week’s Major Economic Reports

Trading activity in the bonds market, as well as the release of new economic data, was light during this holiday-shortened week.  One bright note, however, was that the government reported the latest unemployment benefit claims dropped by 12,000 last week, which conveys (in the past four weeks) the emergence of a slight improvement in the job market.  Of course, we’re still far from a full recovery in the labor sector, but we’ll take any good news we can get.

Additionally, the Fed just hit the $1 trillion milestone for its purchase of mortgage-backed securities.  This program has kept mortgage rates remarkably low throughout the year, and the Fed is committed to spending the full $1.25 trillion through the end of March 2010.  Once this program ends, all expectations are that mortgage rates will start to climb to more closely align with yields on US Treasuries.

What to Look for Next Week

Inflation and housing take center stage next week.  The latest Retail Sales figures are also due out, and it’s expected to post a slight gain from the previous month.

Short-Term Rate Outlook
Relatively Unchanged

Stay Informed:  What’s in the News

“Texas Cities Dominate List of Top Performers” from Milken Institute via Texas A&M RECON

Texas metros, led by number one Austin–Round Rock, claimed four of the top five spots and nine of the top 16 in the 2009 Milken Institute/Greenstreet Real Estate Partners Best-Performing Cities Index.

Also making the list were Killeen–Temple–Fort Hood (2), McAllen-Edinburg-Mission (4), Houston–Sugar Land–Baytown (5), San Antonio (11), Fort Worth–Arlington (12), Dallas-Plano-Irving (13), El Paso (14) and Corpus Christi (16).

Austin–Round Rock was the first metro to ever be ranked number one twice on the index, the last time being in 2000.

But it doesn’t stop there. Nine other Texas metros made the top 25 out of the 124 smallest metros that were studied.

Those were Midland (1), Longview (2), Tyler (4), Odessa (5), College Station–Bryan (14), Texarkana (17), Waco (18), Laredo (20) and Abilene (21).

Leaders in this year’s index, which ranks U.S. metros based on their ability to create and sustain jobs, are all metros that succeeded in avoiding the worst of economic declines driven by falling housing markets and job losses in manufacturing and global trade.

Regional economic factors also strongly influenced the rankings this year, with the oil and gas sector, technology and alternative energy providing stability among metros in Texas, North Carolina, Washington and Louisiana.

Another factor helping Texas metros move up in the rankings is the state’s favorable business climate and its ability to attract jobs and corporations away from higher-cost states.

“Economists See Fed Raising Rates Near Midterm Election” from The Wall Street Journal

Economists in the latest Wall Street Journal survey, on average, expect the Federal Reserve to raise interest rates around September 2010, a politically sensitive time considering midterm elections will be right around the corner and unemployment is forecast to still be over 9.5%.  The 52 surveyed economists—not all of whom answer every question—on average expect the unemployment rate to rise to 10.3% by the end of this year from its current 10.2%, and they expect it to stay above 9.5% through 2010. The respondents expect job growth to return over the next 12 months, but the forecast calls for an average of about 50,000 jobs to be added per month over that period. The economy needs to add about 100,000 jobs a month just to keep up with new entrants to the labor force.

“Foreclosures: ‘Tide may be turning’” from CNNMoney.com

Could the foreclosure plague be ending? Foreclosure filings were down 3% in October, the third consecutive month-over-month dip, according to RealtyTrac, the online seller of foreclosed homes. To be sure, foreclosure rates are still elevated from a year ago: They’re up 18% compared with October 2008. But the month-over-month decrease followed a 4% drop in filings during September and a 1% fall in August.

“5% of Americans Plan to Buy a Home Next Year” from CNBC.com

Just one in twenty Americans say they plan to buy a home within the next year, and they’re most likely to be 34 years old or younger and living in the South or West, according to a survey released Wednesday. Roughly a quarter of potential buyers said the No. 1 reason they would buy now is because prices have bottomed out. That reason topped bargain-priced foreclosures, worries about rising interest rates and a wide selection of homes.

“The Recession’s Over, but Not the Layoffs” from The New York Times

The Great Recession is over — not officially, but by popular acclaim — and in this accepted fact we are invited to take comfort, even as the unemployment rate last week rose into double digits for the first time in a quarter-century.  Experts have long assured us that economic life is governed by the business cycle, a repeating loop of downturn followed by expansion, as reliable as the seasons. In this context, worsening joblessness is like a punishing blizzard in April: Misery notwithstanding, the calendar promises spring.

“Texas Employment Feeling Pinch” from Texas A&M Real Estate Center

The Texas economy lost 292,700 nonfarm jobs from September 2008 to September 2009, an annual job loss of 2.8 percent.

Over the same period, the U.S. economy lost more than 5.7 million jobs, or 4.2 percent of its total nonfarm jobs.

The state’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate rose from 5.1 percent in September 2008 to 8.2 percent in September 2009, while the U.S. rate rose from 6.2 percent to 9.8 percent during the same period.

Only three Texas industries (education and health services, other services, financial activities) and the government sector had more jobs in September 2009 than in September 2008. Eight other industries experienced net job losses over the same period.

Only one Texas metro area, McAllen-Edinburg-Mission, posted a positive employment growth rate from September 2008 to September 2009. Twenty-five metro areas had net job losses.

The state’s actual unemployment rate in September 2009 was 8.3 percent. Lubbock had the lowest unemployment rate followed by Amarillo, Midland, Abilene and College Station–Bryan.

Marie Funston | Sr. Mortgage Advisor | (512) 750-7270
9442 N Capital of Texas Hwy., Suite 1-600
Austin, TX 78759
Fax:  (512) 343-1224
Marie@austinmortgageadvisor.com

Choose Austin for college and your piggy banks will be happy

A recent survey has good news for those living in college towns like Austin. The annual Coldwell Banker College Home Price Comparison Index listed Austin as the 59th most affordable college market in the United States, making it even more desirable for home buyers and investors. Real estate professionals have long been aware of the advantages of buying in a college town; typically, these markets offer long-term stability, high demand, and a wider range of services and local businesses than other comparable metropolitan communities.

College towns in the Midwest offered the best bargains with average home prices starting at $121,885, while the West Coast was priced out of reach for most with the highest average prices topping out at $1,489,726. Austin is competitive with a 2009 average price of $226,642, making it a very affordable real estate market for first-time buyers and investors alike. In comparison to other U.S. cities, Austin has escaped the brunt of the recent housing industry problems, making it even more desirable to real estate buyers.

Those of us who already live in Austin are well aware of the benefits this college town provides to its residents. Beautiful views, an extensive park system, world-class dining and down-home barbecue are only a few of the unique advantages of living in Austin. Because Austin is the capital city of Texas as well as the home of the University of Texas at Austin, the presence of both the government and higher education sector provides additional services and benefits to residents that might not exist without their support. Austin adds to these advantages a vibrant, growing local economy that has its roots in the high tech and medical sectors, ensuring its residents have access to cutting-edge health care services and the latest advances in medicine and technology.

Austin’s college town status and stable economic conditions have made it a desirable location for real estate investment; homes in Austin have retained their value remarkably well during the recent housing industry slump. Demand remains high, spurred in part by the constant need of college students for housing and the overall desirability of Austin communities. Austin’s position as one of the greenest cities in America also attracts buyers and investors, ensuring the housing market has a stable base and that home values remain high. As the national economic situation continues to improve, it seems likely that Austin will continue to reap the benefits of its status not only as a college town, but as one of the best places to live in all of the United States.

30-yr Fixed – Slightly Higher
This Week:  4.92%
Last Week:  4.87%
1yr Ago:  6.46%

15-yr Fixed – Slightly Higher
This Week:  4.37%
Last Week:  4.33%
1yr Ago:  6.14%

Jumbo Fixed
Average 30-yr Fixed:  5.895%

Mortgage Market Update

Highlight of This Week’s Major Economic Reports

Who would’ve thought a few months ago that we’d see the Dow top 10,000 again this year, but here we are at the beginning of the 4th quarter, and the stock market seems to be on a relentless drive, further fueling what is now the expectation of economic growth before the end of the year.  And, while money was being poured into the stock market, they were pulled out of the safe haven of US Treasuries, which has consequently caused the spike in interest rates.

Furthermore, recent readings on local market conditions across the country have revealed growing stability – and even some consistent improvement – the likes of which we haven’t seen in two years.  This supports the consensus that a technical end to the recession is looming near.  However, with unemployment still problematic and the issue of health care still unresolved, consumers aren’t feeling as upbeat as the numbers may convey.  As a result, consumer spending is still lagging with Retail Sales reporting a 1.5% slide last month.

What to Look for Next Week

More inflation reports and an updated peak at the housing market will headline next week’s economic calendar.  Inflation is expected to remain tame, while home sales are expected to post positive results, as first-time buyers flock to take advantage of the tax credit.

Short-Term Rate Outlook

Relatively Unchanged

Stay Informed:  What’s in the News
“When Will Recession End?” from Texas A&M Real Estate Center
Three things have to happen before the current recession can be declared ended. One is underway, said Dr. Mark Dotzour, chief economist for the Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University.

“I think the economy will begin to turn for the better once the health care and cap-and-trade issues are settled. Those two political debates are creating substantial uncertainty for business owners and investors,” he said.

The personal savings rate is the second trend to watch, said Dotzour.

“Over 70 percent of the U.S. economy is consumer spending,” he said. “When the savings rate finally levels out, consumer spending will start to increase again.”

Increased corporate profits are the third trend that must occur to bring the recession to an end. There is some indication that has already begun. The last three data points were all up. Rising profits lessen the urge for companies to lay off workers.

Research Economist Dr. Jim Gaines added that the increased corporate profits have come from reduced costs, not the kind that leads to expansion.

“Keep your eye on these three issues,” Dotzour said. “When they are resolved, the economy will begin to turn the corner.”

“Texas Cities Labor Away” from Texas A&M Real Estate Center
Four of the five best labor markets in the country are in Texas, according to a new study compiled by Portfolio.com.

Austin leads the way, followed by San Antonio. Houston ranks fourth and Dallas–Fort Worth fifth.

Landing at third is Baton Rouge.

All 100 metropolitan areas in the study, including those in Texas, have seen employment decline since last year. However, while 5 percent of the nation’s private-sector jobs have disappeared since June 2008, the collective decline for the ‘Texas Four’ has been 2.6 percent.

The Texas markets still have 589,500 more jobs than they did five years ago.

Portfolio.com used a nine-part formula to analyze employment trends in the nation’s 100 largest labor markets. The formula used midyear U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data for 2004–09, including unemployment rates and trends, and raw and percentage changes in private-sector employment.

A condominium you own the four walls around you, from front door to back bedroom. Often in a similar layout as would be an apartment complex. You hold tax and title responsibilities, and like a house, when you buy it you are responsible for everything inside. All repairs, appliances and possible concerns are your concern, an obscure corporate entity. The benefit is that you are building equity and own a solid location for you and your budget.

A Co-Op option is a multi-family dwelling. Instead of owning the living space, you would have a share in the entire community project. This makes your position a vested one in the corporation organizing the community. The monthly fee assessed to each member covers the utilities, grounds care, as well as a handy man who can tend to all of the items in your home and outside associated with the co-op. All taxes are also covered by the monthly fee, making it simple to plan for.

Either option comes with benefits and limitations. Take a moment to discuss your needs with your real estate expert and you will find direction toward the best fit for your needs.

Old time asset protection

When you begin your investigation into asset protection you will need to investigate all possible options. Once you have reviewed the benefits of each option and settled on a plan there will be an assessment done on your home. The insurance company will also asses the demographics of your area. From there they will combine the results and provide an estimate of how much protection is available to you and your home. The agent will take the time to explain the programs they have available and how to select one. Discuss this with your real estate attorney prior to signing the documents.

The final protection will be defined by the state and counties laws in the area. Typically, retirement and disability benefits are not included as part of the protection, however in very unique circumstances it could be made possible. Personal items, such as jewelry, clothing and furniture are also not covered as part of this umbrella; however some states allow a percentage of these assets to be covered.

To assure what you own receives the best coverage when it is needed most, then your hunt for real estate shouldn’t include just loan and house hunting. The search needs to also include your asset protection evaluation. Protect what you have and you will find it is there for years to come.

The best lessons are learned from experience. Thus your more valuable ally is an experienced real estate broker who can show you their success record. This is the cornerstone for a successful real estate sale. It is this experience that will set a real estate agent apart from the crowd. In Austin, there are a plethora of realtors who have been working in real estate for 3 or more years, part time, and only a few who have been successfully working and selling homes full time. Obviously the person with the full time record will have the success rate you are looking for.

The next crucial fact is that your agent or broker should also be communicative. If you encounter a situation that requires attention you should feel comfortable calling them. There should be no reason for a lack of communication, even when standard office hours have passed. Having a person you can develop a solid and open basis of communication will enable you to understand every step of the home selling or buying process.

Your best solution would be to contact someone like Affinity Properties to represent you and aid you to your success.

There are many ways the local and federal government has established to prevent real estate fraud. None matter if you don’t know what the indicators are, or report it when and if you cross it. Here are the four most common forms of mortgage fraud to watch for:

• Appraisal Fraud: when a property value is misrepresented to achieve an inappropriate result.

• Flipping or double flip: This is when a home is purchased at value or under and rapidly resold to a new buyer, generally within 30 days or less, for a significant price hike. This can be as low as 30 percent and up to 50 more than they originally paid. When this is done, the first loan is generally concealed from the final buyer. That first loan generally defaults.

• Identity Theft: This can be as obvious as taking someone’s identification and applying for and getting a loan as that alias to something simple as an appraiser using the name of another person to add or alter value to a home. Typically this kind of fraud is not discovered until long after the loan paper has been finalized.

• Straw Buyers or Faux Buyers: This one is perplexing. A person or company offers an incentive to another person to purchase a home using their information to obtain the mortgage, however they title the mortgage and home title to a third party or themselves. In the end, the loan is written for one person, but held by another.

In a real estate climate of plummeting housing prices and the rising number of foreclosures, individuals with a good line of credit, a little bit of cash, a discerning eye, and nerves of steel, can start a new life and their own business.

Now is the time to invest, and Austin is the place to invest in.

Opening any business in a normal economy is a very risky business in itself, and the odds of surviving in business within the first five years are precarious at best. But consider the current climate where you have the most valued “tools” and the prices of your product can shake out “diamonds in the ruff” are at rock bottom prices. This would probably make the chances of surviving your first five years a little better. Also consider that most people entering the Real Estate market now have only one way to go, up! There is also the possibility of finding and purchasing the home of your dreams, over and over again. These are the positives of this Real Estate climate.

However, plunging head first into Real Estate, or any business, is not advisable. Even if you have all of the most valued tools available to you, it is always a good idea to work with a trustworthy, knowledgeable realtor, banker, and home inspectors. Contacting and depending on your qualified real estate agent will enable you to find the best prices and the best houses for your investment.

Austin’s local Preserve District Council has advanced some constructive thoughts together with proposals to save a minimum part of Downtown Austin. The proposal prepared by the ROMA Design Group and HR & A advisers has created a momentous and lively debate among property owners and local organizations such as the Downtown Austin New Alliance and the Heritage Society of Austin. Also voicing their opinion actively is the Downtown Austin Neighborhood Association, the city of Austin’s design and planning commissions and Central Texas Chapter of the Congress for the New Urbanism. ROMA’s suggestions were presented in public on July 23. Thus far, this issue is actively debated, as many of the supporters of the concept do not care for specific ideas. Those specific items can be found here: www.cityofaustin.org/downtown . Members will supply guidelines and direction. A vote may occur directing a draft of the density bonus and all applicable ordinances including specific warehouse district rules.

There will be a great deal of deliberation regarding how to balance historic conservation at the same permitting needed development. Before the council votes on the proposal, and prior to determining exactly what will be required, the neighborhood will call for their own view on the issue to be heard.

The Federal Housing Administration revealed their plan to amend credit policy to guard taxpayers and manage risk. The FHA will set precedence by employing a Chief Risk Officer. According to Commissioner Dave Stevens, the position will fulfill the critical task of relieving taxpayers of mortgage liability. Mortgage Brokers will address changes in appraisal requirements, underscore independent appraisers, and encourage geographic competency.

Homeowners’ continue to carry the financial burden in the current climate of a weak real-estate market. Mortgage Lenders offer a variety of products but have not been able to prevent homeowners from being forced into a mortgage that is now underwater. Contrary to most Mortgage Lenders, the Federal Housing Administration has remained in the black, and has maintained capital. The FHA has weathered the storm and elevated financial options for consumers.

Lantana is a wonderful trailing flowering plant for central Texas.

Texas has endured both a drought and flood, so the right planets can make a big difference. The succulence that most people think about are cactus, however they are not the only plants that require less water. There are some beautiful flowering options that will thrive in your Austin, Texas landscape.

One good flowering option is the Snap Dragon, a simply beautiful cluster of color and life for any Texas home.  The Snap Dragon does not require excessive amounts of water and it survives in both heat and cold well. Agave plant is another nice, decorative plant that fairs well in drought and can add beauty to your home. Placed well, the Agave can complement the entire property. There is also the common Cactus plants that grow throughout the western part of the United States, Texas included.

With mortgage rates at historic lows and the $8000 federal tax credit for first-time home buyers, the inventory of homes available is declining. Even as builders have picked up the pace of new developments, they still lag 2008 by about 35%.

A little more than half of the homes constructed in 2006 were built in 2008, about 50% more than the estimate for 2009. Even as home builders look to gear up for a recovering economy, tighter credit and the up to two years it can take get a new development approved point to builders not being able to meet the demand when the economy does turn around and the housing market rebounds.

Sprague pointed out that the market appears to be stabilizing and now is a good time to get prepared for the turnaround. It would appear there is a high demand for houses in the under $200,000 price range. At the same time the luxury market will lag behind the overall market with starts of homes priced over $300,000 off 50% from a year ago. Although the annual pace of home starts is down in all price ranges, the most significant declines continue to be at the higher price points.

After review this year, the EPA has determined that Texas does not reach the predetermined goals, making numerous violations. The worst offenders are Dallas and Houston which have never fallen within clean air standards. Currently Austin metro area is teetering on the edge of those standards. By regulating vehicle emissions in Travis and Williamson counties, Austin was able to avoid federal clean air management. This year it does not look good, as the requirements have become more stringent. This just means that Texas needs to clear the air on what can and can’t be done to keep it clean.

Currently as a result of this year’s evaluations, Texas officials are working with the EPA to ascertain how to approach this situation and how to maximize efforts to minimize noxious gases in the air. In this effort more than 30 new proposals have been made for the management of emissions from cars and vehicles to businesses and energy factories.

Starting in May of 2009 the Office of Federal Housing Enterprise Oversight (OFHEO) began to announce a steady increase in home prices over the previous month. It started with .09% and has continued to grow from there. One of the hardest declines was felt along the pacific coast, and recently they registered on the index with an increase of 2.7%.

An added benefit to the additional home sales is the improved price. At this point, reflecting on data released by the Department of Housing and Urban Development and the US Census Bureau, the increase is only 3.6% as of June 2009. These same resources have also identified an increase of new home sales by 11% the same month. This shows the foundation to a successful recovery period, which the United States housing market, is finally reaching.

Before contracts are signed, and a home is purchased the home inspector will review the house and clearly identify any issues big or small that can cause trouble down the road. This arms you with knowledge at the bargaining table. If you find that you are going to repair part of the roof after you move in, you can negotiate that into the purchase of the home. This also allows you to know if your investment is worth what the appraiser anticipates it to be at.

Most agents have an inspector they will contract with, however you are not limited to their inspector. You can take the time needed to find someone who can and will contract with you to inspect your home, or home choices. You need to be assured your home inspector is looking out for you, so selecting your own will empower this for both you and the inspector. This avoids any potential surprises or undesirable replacements after move in.

Working with your home inspector is an essential aspect of buying your new home. They help in defining the home’s quality, and assuring you are getting the best deal in the end. Prior to signing your contract, make sure that each person on your home buying team, including your home inspector, has had the opportunity to review the documents. This will help to make your new home a wonderful experience.

You may cross into the home and find it has great personality, but you won’t see the person. It enables the person viewing the home to picture themselves in it, instead of the current owner. This is crucial in selling your home. You are enabling your potential buyers ideal setting, their home.

How do you make your home anonymous?

The easiest way is to take the family pictures off the wall, remove your personal trophies and collectibles. Secure them safely in a box and put them away. It can be on the shelf in a closet outside the home, or better yet put it in a storage room or shed. It will open the house up to the imagination of the home buyers.

Once that is done, remove the clutter so as to keep it all to a minimum. The less clutter the more space the home buyer will see.

There are a lot of decisions that must be made when investing in Real Estate properties. Each property Investment will have its own unique requirements and conditions. Therefore, strategic planning is of the utmost importance.

Some of the issues you will have to consider before planning are your budget, and financing. Knowing what your budget will allow will guide you to the kinds of investment options that will qualify as a viable plan.

There are two initial investments in which you will have to decide. The investment is to either go with commercial properties, or to go with residential properties. Each property investment, whether commercial or residential, will have a unique subset of requirements, regulations, zoning laws, tax requirements, and the list goes on.

Residential real estate properties offer two choices in the type of residential investment property you choose to make: single family dwellings or multi-family dwellings. The single family dwelling is a detached home zoned for a single family to occupy. Another single family investment dwelling is a townhouse which is defined as, a luxurious house in a large city occupied entirely by one family, or one of a row of houses joined by common sidewalls. They are subject to the occupant board to address common living areas and subject to maintenance costs.

Multi-family dwellings range from a duplex to condominiums. The duplex is defined as a house having separate apartments for two families. An example of this is a two-story house having a complete apartment on each floor and two separate entrances.

Condominiums can be either commercial or residential properties and are defined as: an apartment house, office building, or other multiple-unit complex, the units of which are individually owned, each owner receiving a recordable deed to the individual unit purchased, including the right to sell, mortgage, etc., that unit and sharing in joint ownership of any common grounds, and passageways. They are subject to the occupant board to address common living areas and subject to maintenance costs.

Commercial Real Estate properties can be designed to be whatever the renter/leaser requires. Wikipedia defines Commercial property as including office buildings, industrial property, medical centers, hotels, malls, retail stores, shopping centers, farm land, multifamily housing buildings, warehouses, garages, and industrial properties.

Whatever investment you decide to go with it is always a good idea to check with a professional opinion from an industry specialist such as Joe Cline, real estate agent.

There are some items you should also know about your water consumption to help fight dehydration. The first is that if you plan to spend any time outside you need to maintain enough water. The simplest way to know how much is enough is to take your weight and divide by two. This will give you how many ounces of water you need to consume daily as your minimum to remain hydrated. This number should increase on hotter days. When you drink your water you will need to keep in mind the water consumption will only affect you 6 hours after you have ingested it. If you drink an 8oz glass of water at noon, it will become a hydrating factor at 6 pm. So if you have errands to run in the heat you will need to combat it by drinking significant percentages of your recommended daily intake before you consider getting ready for the day.

The heat of the day typically refers to the time between 10 am and 3 pm when the sun is at the highest point in the sky. Doing errands around this time frame will mean less time in the heat and more time in a healthy cool environment. Too much time in unbelievable heat will mean that your body will be working harder to maintain basic body function. This is what leads to stroke and other heat related health issues.
To keep it simple, drink water 6 hours before you walk out the door into the heat, and limit your time in the heat significantly.

Human Water Consumption Calculate

This is the only composting toilet that I was aware of... until now.

This design uses the alchemy brought by bacteria to transform the human waste into the rich resource rich soil. Some who specialize in this field are referring to it as humanure. This particular design and approval is hailed as the common sense environmental alternative. This mode of waste disposal uses saw dust to flush the waste instead of water. This step saves on or extends the drinking water quality liquid available for washing and drinking. This design also saves on the power required to pump the water, filter, treat and clean the water once it has been used.

As you can see, Austin is stepping up once again as the top green city. Moving toward lowering overall carbon foot print, Austin is enabling home builders and owners to select this new option. As with all forms of sewage facilities, it is regulated by your local city and must be approved on that level. Be sure you check with your local officials regarding regulations.

Brookings Institute in Washington, DC conducts their ‘MetroMonitor’ survey every quarter. They released their comparison research for the last quarter of 2008 to the first quarter of 2009. The top 5 cities are all in the South West Region. Naturally, Austin has ranked among the top 5, which also include San Antonio, Houston, and Dallas in Texas and Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.

The Metro Monitor survey reviews several aspects of a city to narrow the field. They choices include unemployment vs employment opportunities, average wages in the metropolitan area, and housing costs. After receiving Forbes recognition it was obvious that Austin would rank high on all of those criteria.

Austin’s results on the Brookings MetroMonitor were as follows:

Unemployment: remained steady

Job Opportunities: down .05%

Average Wages: Up 1.4%

Housing Costs: Increased 2.4 %

The state of Texas has many cities with positive opportunities, but Austin ranks at the top. Once again, it is obvious to see why Austin is doing so well while so many others are not. This is the place to raise a family, own a busienss, and develop your real estate investment network.

According to Forbes the top 4 criteria include: housing opportunities (homes available for rent or sale), unemployment, average salary, cost of living. Of all of them, Austin rated in the top 25. In the area of unemployment Austin came in as number 1. For housing opportunities they rated as 24, the lowest of the 4 options for Austin. Regarding cost of living, of the 50 cities reviewed, Austin landed at 3 with average salary coming in at 20. This creates a wonderful picture of the grandeur of ‘the weird city’ of Austin, Texas.

As often as Forbes does their surveys, Austin continues to surprise them by topping the lists. From green recognition to best bang for your buck, this is the place to live. Moving to Austin is easier than ever, with the right Realtor. When are ready to move, contact the team here to find your place to live in this wonderful city we call Austin.

The significant job increases for 2009 have been in the industries related to Restaurants, Retail, and Hospitality. These services are provided direct to the public and even through a recession they are seeing modest growth opportunities. Direct impact on Austin’s job market, goods producing industries and technology based industries are down across the region. The jobs in the direct to consumer industries mentioned above, compensate significantly for those jobs lost.

The lowest unemployment rates in Texas are Austin with 5.8 percent and San Antonio with 5.4 percent. After that the next closest job healthy cities are Huston at 6.3 percent and Dallas-Fort Worth with 6.6 percent. Both are still below the national average, as are many smaller metro area’s who are reported at 8 percent and above unemployment. This proves the value that the Austin Metropolitan area offers to their residents and new home owners.

There are many certified building specialists who concentrate on improving home floor plans, and creating options that will allow people to stay in those homes, or age in place, beyond that some might otherwise expect. Some simple modifications include lifts, wider doorways, ramps, wider more accommodating showers, lower kitchen counters and appliances for wheelchair access when needed. The final goal of any project like this is to enable independence to the home owner.

This kind of project is always a custom project. It requires a builder to inspect the property and meet with the client about their needs. During the building and remodeling process each item will be reviewed prior to installation, this means that there is no set rate or pricing schedule. Each set up and each home will be laid out as needed and prices will be per project. Don’t forget to ask about green upgrades that can be completed and designed to assist the homeowner with rising expenses related to the home.

Several states have already implemented this program on one level or another. Some are allowing for a tax cushion but it will still permit first time home buyers to purchase a home, using less of their own money at closing. This will free up the costs for closing to be used to furnish the home with needed appliances and furniture. This aspect of the economic stimulus will actually stimulate the economy, and with the active help of HUD it will do so faster than it was originally written to.

HUD has long been known to facilitate productive assistance to home buyers and mortgage assistance to anyone who qualifies. With that in mind there is no doubt that across the country and right here in Austin, new home buyers will be able to facilitate the best possible use of their 8 thousand dollar new home credit very soon.

The National Association of Realtors (NAR) released a report that showed vacation home sales dropped a whopping 30 plus percent in 2008. It appears to have parallel reasons compared to the primary residence market. The sales came within the deeply distressed, deeply discounted home market. The median price of a vacation home fell as far down at 150 thousand dollars across the country. Of those who did settle on the second home purchase, the vast majority planned to use the second home for themselves. This means that people are still looking for second homes and are financing them.

Even with the declining numbers, there are significant pluses to this. The housing market is poised for growth again, especially in the Austin area. This also means as people are looking to sell their home, they have two potential markets to target. Growth options continue to be opened, making the housing market more viable.
Now is the time to buy, and sellers are getting more attention.

This program is targeted to the low and moderate income range, and is designed to improve the energy efficiency of the living space. This of course improves the energy costs of the home and enhances the comfort level and lifestyle.

If they need to, Austin Energy will provide and install the needed materials for attic insulation, duct repair and or sealing, plumbing caulking as needed. If need be they will even take time to update the weather stripping around the doors and install solar screens. With these minor changes a home’s energy value can increase dramatically. With Austin Energy’s program, anyone who qualifies can see the benefits rapidly in their bill.

Visit: Austin Energy to see if you qualify.

1 – Paint outside and inside.

Over time the color of paint loses it luster and vibrancy. A simple re-coat can significantly brighten a home, and clean away any wear and tear that might be visible. Along with the time it takes to lose it color, the color choices may have fallen ‘out of style’ and thus may lessen the value of your home. By reviewing you color selection and updating as needed, you are able to maintain or improve your home’s overall value.

2 – Tile your home

Tile is both durable and easy to maintain. This couple will enable your home to be the best and most comfortable possible for all who will visit, and perhaps to new home buyers. Carpet wears over time, and can diminish a home’s appearance significantly. The change from one to the other can be done easily and far more inexpensively than most people may anticipate. Often it costs the same as or less than laying down new carpet.

3 – Install exterior shutters around the windows.

Although this is a purely cosmetic appeal, it significantly improves your home’s look and feel. Numerous surveys and studies have been done and something as simple as wooden shutters make a home feel more cozy and comfortable, which would make the home both more appealing to new buyers and easy to transition into.

These are only 3 of the most basic options available to you. They can be done with little extra expense. If you would like to improve for a more lasting and complete package, hiring a home inspector would be the best next step. He or she would be able to give you a complete picture and guide you to the best points to focus on. You can check the cost vs value report to see how much you will expect to see back for each remodel.

To help in the process, take a few moments to review these 3 tips:

First things first, determine what it is about the home you’re in that is making you want to move. This will help you in your search. You will know what you are looking for so you can identify it clearly to your Realtor.

Finding the best Realtor who can accommodate your needs is the next tip. You will need to do some research, as there are multiple thousands of registered Realtor in the area. You will want a dedicated Realtor, much like you find with the award winning Affinity Properties Team. A dedicated Realtor will search for a home that fits your description, not just what they have on the market in the office. They will put your needs and desires first and foremost. This means you get what you want, need and can grow with.

The last tip relates to your budget and financing. Evaluate what you have to spend on the process, closing budget, down payment etc., and take that to your finance company of choice. Have a pre-qualification letter in hand before you start searching. It will help guide you toward your budgeted home of choice. If you have a home to sell, you can have a contingency clause written into any sales agreement, and financing agreement.

By using these great tips together you will be on the best track to find your new home.

Here are some simple and quick tips for preparing for the home sale that will open the way to your new home purchase.

First things first, find the right Realtor. There are nearly 8 thousand licensed real estate agents and brokers in the Austin real estate arena. Many chose to do this part time, while working another job. This means they may have less experience than you expect they may. When you are looking for your agent, look for experience, and a company that has a proven track record. This is essential especially in this buyers market. Affinity Properties can certainly prove success, even now.

Prepare from the moment you consider listing. That means make sure your house is clean, in good repair and staged. Doing this work in advance will help you and your Realtor, determine what needs to be done for you and for the top dollar sale of your home. When possible have the home inspected before you place it on the market. This will give you an accurate understanding of what your home needs, or doesn’t while determining the asking price.

Listen to your Realtor, if you’ve taken the time to research a little bit you know that your Realtor will be able to tell you when the market is ready for your home. By timing the release to the market to the flow of your area you will be able to sell your home in the briefest time possible. Summer is the busiest time to sell your home, don’t be caught unprepared.

With this combination you will be able to get the best price, in a brisk summer market You will be able to combine these tips for the greatest success.

Don’t forget the home buyers side of this 2 part – it is the next article.

The job market will directly affect the real estate market. While Austin has not seen the type of bubble burst that other cities have, there has been a significant slowdown over the past several years. Since Texas as a whole did not fully fall in to the no money down, less than perfect credit lending practices that so many states did, there are far fewer homes here in foreclosure. Homes have sat longer on the market, but average home prices have remained fairly stable throughout the market decline. Add to that, downtown Austin is in high demand and the city is doing its best to provide easy access. Mixed use properties and transportation are high on the list of improvements the city intends to make. Businesses are still moving to Austin, and employment will remain high in the area.

Austin is expected to come out on top at the end of this recession. Everything points to a great recovery for the area. More people are moving to Austin to take advantage of the great economy and growth is expected to continue. Austin is not just pretty views; it’s a place where you can find a job and a home.

The job market will generally direct both the economy and the real estate market. If the jobs aren’t there, or are being taken away, consumers will continue to stay away from frivolous expenditures. With the economy as it is, more people are realizing it may be safer to rent than purchase a home. Those with excellent credit scores can benefit right now with low rates, but many are nervous about their own job situation. Until the economy is on more solid ground, foreclosures of both residential and commercial properties are expected to continue to rise.

Austin has been striving throughout the recession, even before it became official, to create an environment that invites both businesses and employees to transition to the area. This area is expected to see a dramatic increase in population within the next several years. To accommodate these potential home buyers and business investors, many mixed used properties are being built downtown. Forbes.com has recently placed Austin at #8 on its list for best places for business and job growth. This is a huge jump from the city’s position at number 47 just last year. Forbes.com has projected that Austin’s annual job growth will be about 2.3%, making it number five in the country.

Austin has been known for a long time as a business friendly city. This is obviously still the goal. Austin will of course be affected by the recession, but most experts agree that this area will come out of it stronger than other local economies of comparable cities.

Relocation.com analyzed the migration into and out of Austin during the time from 2007 to 2009 and has reported that interstate moves to Austin were at 62%, while moves away were less than 40%. This influx is due to the job market and more stable real estate market of Austin and the surrounding areas. There has been astonishing job loss statistics since January, and many people have learned to find a job, it may be necessary to relocate. Austin offers everything that not only employees, but employers need as well. The population is expected to continue its growth. As more educated workers move into the area, more businesses will be inclined to move here as well.

Austin offers a little of everything for everyone. Many cities are being affected so strongly by the recession that it may take years for them to recover. While Austin is not going to be completely unscathed during these trying times, the city is certainly doing much better than others of comparable size.

There are many factors that create a decent housing market. Austin has them all. While the nation is struggling with astounding job loss and a skyrocketing unemployment rate, the city of Austin has maintained an almost nonexistent unemployment rate. Jobs are still available here, drawing more buyers to the area. Home appreciation rates here are above 5%, according to the report, putting Austin in the lead nationally for this. Interest rates on loans are at their lowest right now, making it easy for a credit approved buyer to purchase a home.

Even before the recession was formally recognized, Austin was seen as having one of the strongest local economies in the country. While there is expected to be a slowdown in job growth in 2009, Austin is still expected to fare much better overall. Home values and prices will remain decent in this area.

While this slowdown shows promise, experts refuse to get excited quite yet. With unemployment reaching higher levels, and not expected to jump up throughout this year, the real estate market will not really have a significant chance to rebound yet. Real estate analyst Mike Larson of Weiss Research states “it’s just a moderation in the monthly declines and it fits in with the pattern we’re seeing of things getting less bad.” There has been some slowing previously, but it had not led to any real stabilization. Most experts feel we are closing in on the bottom of the weak market, so this trend may be coming at a better time than the last.

Consumer confidence has also seemed to grow in the last couple of months. More people are looking into buying to take advantage of the great rates this recession and weak market has created. The ongoing credit crunch continues to inhibit many potential buyers from securing a loan, but that is not necessarily a bad thing. One of the largest factors in the real estate bubble burst was the non-traditional financing that allowed those with less than perfect credit to buy a home. When the payments increased, many were simply unable to keep up. Now, with more traditional lending practices back in full swing, those who purchase a home are more than likely able to afford it.

A developer creates an HOA before he sells any unit in a new development. With the HOA, he is able to formulate a list of covenants, conditions and restrictions (CC&Rs). These rules are written into the deed, so no homeowner can contest them after moving in. More often than not, the CC&Rs deal with maintenance, exterior upkeep and community behavior.

There are many benefits of HOAs. For example, an HOA often creates a degree of conformity. For someone looking for a community in which certain values and terms are upheld, an HOA thus fosters an ideal situation. However, there are also a number of perceived disadvantages to living in an HOA-governed community. Many believe that an HOA is undemocratic and that it takes away the rights of the individual by forcing him or her to adhere to the community’s CC&Rs. An HOA can also lead to higher taxes and financial risk if the developer is less than forthright.

If you are buying a home, you should be aware before you sign any papers of whether your new house is in an HOA community. If it is, you should research it, so as to best understand if this HOA is serving the homeowners well. In Texas, you have many resources at your fingertips. There are a number of organizations, such as the Texas Homeowners for HOA Reform, Inc, working to ensure you are not hoodwinked by an HOA. Take advantage of them. Learn before you sign, and you’ll be certain to enter a community with the individual’s rights in mind.

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From the National Association of REALTORS

Promoting Energy Efficiency in the Nation’s Buildings

The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 does much to promote energy efficiency in the nation’s buildings. And tax incentives are among the engines driving the shift. That’s great news for you and your clients.

Here is a sampling of the new federal incentives as reported by the Tax Incentives Assistance Project.

Residential Buildings

• Energy efficiency incentives for upgrades to existing homes, which cover improvements to building envelope and heating, cooling and water heating equipment, are now available through 2010. The cap has increased to $1,500.

• The existing home incentives are now calculated at 30% of the cost of installation, up to the $1,500 cap. Until further clarification on the legislation, it appears that labor is not included.

• On-site renewable energy systems, including solar photovoltaic and hot water systems, small wind systems and geothermal heat pumps, are eligible for a tax incentive worth 30% of the total cost of the system. There is no cap on the amount.

Commercial Buildings

• A tax deduction of up to $1.80 per square foot is available to owners or tenants of new or existing commercial buildings that are built or reconstructed to save at least 50% of the heating, cooling, ventilation, water heating and interior lighting energy cost of a building that meets ASHRAE Standard 90.1-2001. (The standard provides minimum requirements for the energy-efficient design of buildings).

• Partial deductions of $.60 per square foot are available for improvements to one of three building systems – building envelope, lighting or heating and cooling – that reduces total heating, cooling, ventilation, water heating and interior lighting energy use by 16 2/3% (totaling 50% when applied to all three systems).

• Buildings placed in service between January 1, 2006 and December 31, 2013, and covered by the scope of ASHRAE Standard 90.1-2001 are eligible.

Learn more about the incentives stemming from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 and download a matrix of energy efficiency incentives.

Individual states offer additional energy efficiency and renewable energy tax incentives. The Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency is a central clearinghouse for them.

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Green Statistics from Mcgraw Hill

Global: Early adopters are deeply involved in green, with 30% building green on over 60% of their projects in 2008. Over the next five years, more than half (53%) expect to reach this level of involvement.

Nonresidential Building: Industry Players in commercial and institutional buildings are getting increasingly active in green building, with those largely dedicated to green building (30% or more of their projects built green) reporting a 50% increase(10 percentage points) from 20% in 2008 to 30% in 2009.

Residential Home Builder: Builders heavily involved in green building (60% or more projects green) is expected to also increase from 26% in 2008 to 36% in 2009.

Statistics taken from McGraw – Hill Construction’s Green Outlook 2009

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While I don’t see the downturn the way the folks who sell papers need to see it, I’m all for presenting both sides of the story.

From the Austin American Statesman

RECESSION SLAMS INTO TEXAS

AUSTIN  – The recession has finally slammed into Texas after keeping away during most of 2008, says a new report from the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas, and Austin and Dallas could feel the brunt of it.

Austin and Dallas were cited as being especially vulnerable because they have more exposure than other large Texas cities to cyclical industries, such as construction and financial services.

Statewide, employers could cut 296,000 jobs this year, sending the unemployment rate to roughly 8 percent, according to Fed economists Keith Phillips and Jesus Cañas, who co-authored the article in the Fed’s quarterly publication on the region’s economy.

In January, almost 120,000 Texans applied for unemployment benefits, 85 percent more than in January 2008.

You can check out the rest of the story at Austin American-Statesman.

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From The Austin Chamber of Commerce

Red Oxygen Chooses Austin for American Headquarters
The Austin Chamber and Opportunity Austin recently announced that Red Oxygen, one of the world’s leading developers and distributors of Enterprise Text messaging software applications and services, has made plans to open their American Headquarters in Austin, Texas.

“Red Oxygen’s highly efficient and innovative SMS platform is a perfect complement to Austin’s expanding mobile services and software industry,” said Gary Farmer, 2009 Opportunity Austin Chair and President Heritage Title of Austin. “The city welcomes Red Oxygen and hopes that the announcement will not only encourage other tech-based companies to consider relocating to Central Texas, but that it will also reinforce the fact that Austin is one of America’s most talented and qualified cities for an array of industries.”

In the process of launching their new 2,000 square-foot facility near downtown, Red Oxygen plans to create 10 to 12 new high-paying jobs for Austinites. The average office salary of $50,000 will provide excellent employment opportunities and take-home pay for Central Texans. Not only will the headquarters create new corporate jobs, but the move will also open new avenues and opportunities for local Austin engineers, sales associates and college graduates.

…

Finish reading the story at The Austin Chamber of Commerce

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Apartment REIT Stocks Fall to Five-Year Lows
Industry is hurting, but not as badly as other commercial sectors.
The stock market is falling to levels not seen since 1997-and apartment REITs are not immune. A number of leading firms-BRE Properties in San Francisco, Chicago-based Equity Residential, Apartment Investment and Management Co. in Denver, Essex Property Trust in Palo Alto, Calif., and AvalonBay Communities in Alexandria, Va.-have all seen their stock values plummet to five-year lows.

Read the full story at Multifamily Executive.

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UL begins certification of green products
January 14, 2009
Building Design and Construction
Underwriters Laboratories, the 114-year-old organization known for consumer product safety testing, has begin offering assessment and certification of environmental product claims.

UL’s two new programs launched in January 2009.

“The question of what’s green and what’s not green is being asked more and more,” Christopher R. Nelson, UL’s director for corporate development, said at Greenbuild in Boston.

“UL consumers really have been asking us how do you fit into this space, they look to UL for credibility, and retailers have been asking us (the same questions) as well.”

Get the complete details from Building Design and Construction.

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You must then find a piece of property with resale value. It cannot simply seem like a place you would live in or appear to have multitudes of potential. It has to have potential. It has to be able to appeal to others, and others aren’t you. Therefore, don’t get caught up in the perks that you fall for, such as views or quaint external decorations. Focus on what will truly sell:

•Landscape – A house’s appeal doesn’t exist solely in the house. The yard is important, too. It should be of a decent size and normal shape with, if not actual, the possibility of gardens, playgrounds and other valuable additions.
•Size – You do not want a house six times bigger than its neighbors or ten times smaller either. You want one that although not an exact replica of the ones around it, fits in with the aesthetics of the area.
•Rooms – The number of bedrooms and bathrooms, and the size of the kitchen, as well as the closet space, garage area and appliances in a house will affect the sale. Talk to a real estate agent to determine what is the most popular in the market, and then look for it.

You may be buying right now, but soon you’ll be selling. Talk to your real estate agent, and think like a buyer and a seller. In the end you’ll have success . . . and profit.

In today’s economy, you don’t want to waste money on an extensive remodel. Chances are it will only cost you in the long run thousands of dollars, dollars you won’t gain back in the sale. Construction prices have risen, even as housing prices have fallen, and buyers are wary of homes priced higher than those around them. Further, lenders won’t go near the more expensive homes, meaning prospective homeowners won’t be able to secure a mortgage, and few out there can purchase a home without one. In short, you’ll be left with a beautiful kitchen, basement or garage, but no sale.

If you are looking to give your home a face lift, focus on outside touch ups. Fix the trim, the windows, the shutters. Invest money in what the homeowners will see from the street, so that by the time they walk in, they are already sold. If you can’t afford to install new windows, as your budget is only capable of small adjustments, don’t bother. Cheap fixes are more noticeable than grand refinishes or grand errors. You will have to accept that your house is going to be sold as is and hope there is a buyer who can buy it.

You can obtain a reverse mortgage.

A reverse mortgage is exactly what it sounds like. Rather than putting money into the equity of your home, you take it out of your home. You get a loan based on the property’s worth, and then you get an income based on that. Should the value of your house fall below the value of the loan, you don’t have to worry. You can’t be evicted or forced to sell. The house is yours until you decide to leave. Once you do leave, payments on the loan will begin – either by you or by your heirs. However, any extra funds will be left to your heirs making the payments not too difficult.

To qualify for a reverse mortgage, you and any co-borrowers must be at least 62 years of age. The current mortgage must either have a very low balance or be paid off entirely. And you must live on the property. A reverse mortgage only applies to an owner-occupied house, be it a traditional single family home, an FHA approved condo or a two-four unit dwelling. The equity will be determined again by age, the value of your home and the loan limit for your county.

A reverse mortgage is an excellent possibility as something that could supplement your Social Security income or retirement savings. If you’re in need of a little extra funding, talk to a broker about going backwards with a mortgage.

But how do you know if refinancing is the right choice?
You do the math. There’s no quick way to assess a situation and determine if refinancing will benefit it. You can’t choose an interest rate and decide that when the rates hit that number you’ll refinance. It simply won’t work, because refinancing is a complicated situation that depends the length of time you’ve had the current mortgage, how long you plan to have the new one and what other cost-cutting opportunities are available.

To determine whether or not you should refinance, first talk to some lenders. Get their numbers and details, so you know what you’re working with as you proceed. Then, find some way to calculate those numbers. Real Estate sites, such as thefool.com, offer calculators that tell you what to plug in where and give you real answers to your unique questions. Your main goal is to find out what the closing costs will be and how much you’ll save once you refinance. If the numbers work out in your favor, by all means, refinance. If they don’t, they don’t, and you can be relieved that you didn’t make a mistake based on a falling interest rate.

Yes! Pre-approval exists in the lending world and is a smart way to make sure your dream deal becomes a reality. It allows the lender to look at your credit and assess whether you are eligible for a loan or not. If yes, you are given a pre-approval/pre-qualification letter, which automatically makes you more appealing to the seller and gives you the upper hand.

When vying for the letter, know that there are two types of pre-approval: pre-qualification and pre-approval itself. Pre-qualification means you have established an informal agreement between the lender and yourself. Rather than conducting background checks, the bank bases its opinion – namely that you are eligible for a mortgage – on how you describe yourself. If you inaccurately portray your situation, the positive opinion will be reneged.

Pre-approval is more formal. In this case, the bank checks your credit, previous and present employment, assets and liabilities. There may be a fee for this, but if you get pre-approval you are guaranteed the loan, and that, if your future house is on the line, is well worth a nominal fee.

If you want to be sure that the deal on your house doesn’t fall through for lack of funding, consider pre-qualification or pre-approval. It will give you peace of mind and a loan to boot.

On May 22 2008, the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) reported it had investigated 1,204 mortgage fraud cases in the last fiscal year, which ended September 30, 2007. Through these pursuits, the Bureau was able to incur 321 indictments and $595.5 million in restitution, and recover $22 million. Those numbers will likely go up, as many investigations are still under way.

It is nice to imagine that when a country, an economy and a market experience a down time, so does everyone else. But that’s not the case for scam artists. They take advantage of the hard times, playing on prospective patsies’ desperation and need. They find victims easily as everyone, including you, likes to believe no deal is too good to be true and is quickly taken.

You must be on the lookout for fraud in your real estate dealings. Watch for misrepresentation of income/assets, forged documents, inflated appraisals and misrepresentation of a borrower’s assets. Don’t allow the frequency of fraud to rise yet again in 2009. Go to the respectable lenders and real estate professionals. They are just as if not more plentiful than the con artists waiting to disappear with your savings. They will help you complete your transaction, whether its securing a mortgage on your new home in Lost Creek or listing your property in Westfield so as to move downtown, legally, safely and smartly. You can find the best real estate agents right here, to help you wade through the muck left by the scammers.

A modular home is delivered to the site approximately 90 percent assembled, saving the owner a considerable amount of time, money and frustration. Built to the same standards as a regular family home, it now garners the same respect. Awards are given for the best ones on the market – 2008’s winner was Genesis Homes‘ Bunbury, the company’s newest urban in-fill.

The beauty of the Bunbury is the combination of flexibility and aesthetics. The home is designed to fit into the typical urban lot, making it perfect for urban fill projects. It can be built with a variety of exteriors and in a variety of styles to match the environment, and a garage can easily be added into the home. Similarly, the Homestead, built by Building Systems Network, is well designed and built to last. It appeals to the buyer with its impressive use of modern construction methods and forward-thinking amenities.

Modular housing used to be a rare occurrence, but today may be a wise choice. With well-built, beautiful homes that can squeeze into even the most restricted areas, it can be the perfect solution to a difficult problem. If you’re not sure which way to go, consider a house already built and waiting for an address.

At of the beginning of the month, Fannie and Freddie adjusted to the use of a uniform down payment nationwide, meaning each region will see the same rate regardless of whether it is declining or not. All applicants approved online will qualify for a 3 percent down payment program, and those who require manual approval will be applicable for a 5 percent plan. Mortgage payments continue to be determined by the borrower’s capacity and locale.

This is a definite move in the right direction for Fannie and Freddie, but it may be too little, too late. Private mortgage insurers will remain keenly aware of the areas previously marked as depressed and will refuse to touch those loans. Through the last year since this was put into place, the market has improved some, in different area’s, but not all. The hardest hit area’s still have problems with lenders accepting those loans.

So while Fannie and Freddie get an A for effort, they fail to help all area’s. The real estate world needs a nationwide plan everyone can agree to, so that currently dwindling markets have the opportunity to come back to life. After all, not every city is Austin. Not every city can succeed without the economy’s help. Sometimes, they need a little push.

To begin with, the move, which should have paved the way for lower prices on larger loans, created more of a price gap, rather than less of one. Interest rates on jumbo loans were almost immediately a point to a point and a half higher than those on conforming loans, automatically making them more expensive. Secondary market buyers were wary to purchase the jumbo loans, and so prices remained high.

Moreover, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac treat jumbo loans differently, because they are different. They come with their own risk factors, their own geographic limitations and their own types of homeowners. They can’t be lumped into the same category as conforming loans. That will only cause problems in both sectors. So what is to be done?

It’s too soon to tell. However, legislators met on May 22 to discuss the problem and many pointed out that the higher prices, which seemed monumental at the start of last year, are disappearing. Benefits are starting to appear. Adjustments to the legislation need to be considered in order for the new laws to work, but it may just be a matter of time before the small changes grow to meet the size of the loans they are stemming from.

HyoJung Kim and husband Seth Garland of New York both thought they could easily renovate their home, making it green for as little as $70,000. What they found instead was that going green was putting them in the red. Units that were energy efficient and moderately priced were costing them thousands of extra dollars to install. Architectural designs that would save money in the future were causing complications and costing money they didn’t have in the present. And the falling real estate market was only adding to the real estate debt they had already accumulated. To make ends meet, they had to forgo many of their plans, sell their mortgaged condo and attempt to make the house, rather than a green place to live, a livable place to live.

Before you wind up in the same situation as Kim and Garland, assess your finances. Whatever you imagine it will cost to make all of the renovations you are envisioning, add a little more. And then, find ways to go green that you can afford. You don’t have to knock down walls, build roof gardens or use only plastic plumbing to help the Earth. There are other things you can do, less costly things that will keep the world and you in the green.

If you find that a mistake has been made, appeal your bill. But when you do, be prepared for a long journey. It’s going to take a lot of time and energy to guarantee the adjustment you deem warranted. To begin with, you will have to find three or more homes in your neighborhood with lower assessments. The more you get and the lower they are the better. However, this doesn’t mean you should randomly select houses just to build a case. The properties should be similar to yours in layout, size, age and improvements. Hiring a professional, such as an appraiser or real estate agent, can make this step less difficult, but it will cost money.

Once you’ve prepared your case and issued the appeal, should you lose, you can appeal to a higher authority, but before you do, make sure that it’s worth it. If you are doing this to prove a point rather than receive something you justly deserve, stop now. You won’t triumph in the end, and you will have wasted much time if not money. However, if you have examined the situation rationally and objectively and know that the adjustment is necessary, don’t give up. Keep appealing and right the wrong.

First, create an environment conducive to clean indoor air, i.e. enable ventilation. Add some window fans that blow air out, open your windows when the weather allows for it and use exhaust fans in the bathroom and kitchen. Don’t be afraid to let the fans run for a while; they not only get rid of moisture but a lot of pollutants as well. If you are installing flooring, think wood. It’s the easiest to breathe with, although tile and linoleum are safe bets, too. Make sure that all of your appliances are properly installed and functioning, and that there’s no opportunity for something like carbon monoxide to leak into your home. And finally, maintain a relative humidity level higher than 50 percent. This will cut down on mold and dust (and bugs!).

Once you’ve created the proper environment, keep it that way. Clean! Regularly dust surfaces using a damp cloth or a damp mop. Select cleansers with a minimal amount of lung irritants and toxic chemicals. Purchase either a central vacuum cleaner that vents to the outdoors or one with a micro filter bag. Keep everything as dust and allergen-free as possible to guarantee that, when you’re indoors at least, you’ll breathe easy.

To motivate our future engineers, architects, researchers, and homeowners to connect with nature’s natural resources, namely solar energy, the DOE challenged college student to design, build, and operate an energy efficient solar powered house. The expectation of the award winning model is to inspire consumers, builders, and end users to incorporate an innovative way of building or redesigning homes that reduce the carbon footprint to the environment.

That avant-garde by the DOE and EERE gave rise to the introduction of the Solar Decathlon event. The competition began in 2001 when organizers selected14 teams from colleges or university students. The event took place at the “Solar Village” on the grounds of the National Mall in Washington D.C. In the fall of 2002, the University of Colorado was the overall winner.

The judges for this competition were selected from the top professionals from their fields of expertise that would address each category of the competition.

The ten categories of the 2002 competition were:
• Design and Livability
• Presentation and Simulation
• Graphics and Communication
• Comfort Zone
• Refrigeration
• Hot Water
• Energy Balance
• Lighting
• Home Business
• Getting Around

The Solar Decathlon is gearing up for its third event and 20 teams have been selected to compete for the $100,000 award. This decathlon will be an international collegiate competition that will incorporate integrated photovoltaic (BIPV). The event is scheduled to take place at the National Mall in Washington D.C., in the fall of 2009.

The categories for the 2009 contest are:
• Architecture – 200 points
• Engineering – 150 points
• Marketing Viability – 150 points
• Communications – 100 points
• Comfort Zone – 100 points
• Appliances – 100 points
• Hot Water – 100 points
• Energy Balance- 100 points
• Getting Around – 100 points

For more information visit: www.solardecathlon.org/contests_scoring.html

Today we live in a time where we must become more aware of the impact we make within our own lives that effect the environment and the world which belongs to our children and grandchildren.

Let’s examine what it would take to create a living or green roof system. There are four basic components: a waterproofing layer, a drainage layer, a growing medium, and vegetation. There are other elements that can be added by are not necessary are root retention and irrigation systems. We are going to stick with the basics.

Now we will list the benefits.
• Reduces heating and cooling
• Reduces heat requirements during cold months
• Reduces ambient temperature of the roofs surface
• Reduces cooling costs
• Reduce Storm water drainage
• Protects from extreme temperatures and harsh weather conditions.
• Filters pollutants and carbon dioxide
• They increase insulation to the roof
• Creates a bird and wild life habitat

A green roof is not for everyone. For those who choose to explore this energy efficient option, there are many resources available. There are nurseries that specialize in growing specific plants will thrive in that environment.

Explore this option, it might be fun!

We are adopting a more responsible way preserving our world for future generations. In doing so, we begin to read labels and seek out products, services and companies that give us assurances that they are environmentally safe and eco-friendly. But, how can we be certain that what they are telling us about their product or service is not a perception designed to sell product?

There is a new word that has been adopted in this return to green era. “Greenwashing” is a term used to describe products and practices falsely advertised to be environmentally or eco-friendly or sound.

One good example of a product marketed as a “biodegradable” product and an eco-friendly product is the great Hefty trash bag deception. Mobil Chemical designed a trash bag where they added starch to the plastic. With the addition of the starch, that was in fact degradable. But was the plastic biodegrade? If left out in the sun, the plastic would not degrade, but it would eventually break up into smaller pieces. Imagine how many Hefty bags were sold to households trying to be more aware about making the right choice of trash bags. The advertising led us to believe that we would make a difference by choosing products responsibly?

This is just a heads up. There are products and companies that are coming out of the woodwork (pardon the pun) who will profess to understand the critical need for all of us to do our parts and save our natural resources. They claim that they have developed a product or service that can assist us with making the right choice. However it is up to us to find out if that product is truly in our environments best interest, or is it just another Hefty choice?

The Energy Smart Home Scale (E-Scale) provides home buyers with the crucial information regarding home energy efficiency through comparison against previously built homes. The DOE will be using this and the Home Energy Rating System (HERS) to evaluate the energy qualifications for the challenge. The HERS System was devised by the Residential Energy Services Network (RESNET) who govern, inform and certify the builders regarding energy efficiency. RESNET is recognized as the industry standard by the US Mortgage Industry and the Federal Government.

Equally up to the challenge of saving our planet from suffering the effects of global warming is the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB). The launched a program to bolster energy efficiency last February. This program is known as the “National Green Building Program”. It provides an opportunity for green builders to earn their certification by accumulate points in seven different categories for efficiency, and three levels of certification based upon points acquired by inspections verified by green experts.

The seven categories of expertise require to evaluate a builders certification levels of either bronze, silver or gold are; water, energy, global impact, resource efficiency, lot and site development, indoor environmental quality and homeowner education. For more information on this program visit
NAHB press release and the NAHB National Green Building Program Web site.

One of the most useful products found to assist in accomplishing this mission is in the use and practical applications of Photovoltaic (PV). PV create provides decentralized supplies of energy. Decentralized energy supplies such expand the sphere for the nation’s electricity portfolio. PV also improves the reliability of the electrical grid and can reduce the impact of a failure of the U.S. centralized electrical infrastructure grid. The Solar America Initiative has produced momentous results in conservation with incentives that and reduced water consumption by evading the use of fossil fuel, and the generation natural gas.

SAI has been promoting the use of PV and maintains a list of objectives for the use of photovoltaic. They maintain that by 2015 the objectives listed below will be accomplished:
• Provide 5-10 giga watts of new electric capacity (enough to power 1-2 million homes) to the U.S. grid
• Avoid 10 million metric tons per year of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions
• Employ 30,000 new workers in the PV industry.

It is obvious that anyone can see where a mission like this works well for Austin and other green aspiring cities, neighborhoods, and companies. The goals here are  what many people want to see from a renewable energy company. As you can tell, they have a solid plan and method to achieving those goals. Before the downturn, they had been striving to reach for a solution to many issues, energy and finance because as this industry continues to develop, and more companies like SAI emerge, so will jobs, and that will encourage the economy. Nothing could be better for Austin or the US.

For more information, see the Solar America Initiative Posture Plan and the fact sheet About the Solar America Initiative. You can find it on their site: http://www1.eere.energy.gov/solar/solar_america/

The most recent ratings for the Round Rock Independent School District (RRISD) show that the district as a whole received an acceptable rating from the Texas Education Agency. Twelve elementary schools received an exemplary rating, and not one in the district was deemed unacceptable. The reason for such success is not only following state criteria and educational guidelines, but by collecting data from every step in the education process. RRISD has an Assessment and Audit Department which collects data on every aspect, including safety, employment satisfaction and turnover rates, and operational efficiency. The reason for this department is to analyze and objectively focus on areas in need of improvement.

Round Rock schools have been recognized for multiple state awards. Several have been named National Blue Ribbon Schools of Excellence. As the city continues to grow, the district will continue to strive for excellence. Round Rock has made education one of the most important focuses of the city, and it is certainly worth it.

The UTCPE formed in 2002 and since then has streamlined the Baldrige criteria into separate levels of achievement. Level 1 is first step, which the Canyon Vista Middle School has earned. The school is recognized as “beginning to adopt performance excellence principles.” Round Rock’s Independent School District Department of Continuing Education and the Department of Library Services also received Level 1 honors. The city’s Purchasing Department received Level 2 honors for “demonstrating the serious use and routine use and practice of performance excellence principals.” The highest achievement is Level 3, which means the organization has reached the full Baldrige criteria. The purpose of these criteria is to encourage improvement in educational standards.

The Texas Education Agency is responsible for rating school performance within the state. Several of Round Rock’s schools have received exemplary accountability standards. The district overall has received an acceptable rating for the most recent school year. The recognition by the UTCPE will help to encourage the district’s other schools to meet the same criteria. With the standards laid out, it is much easier for schools to create the means by which to reach improvement goals.

On their website, Green Builders states “heating and cooling account for more than 50% of the average American household’s energy consumption.” With the energy audit, a homeowner is provided information that may surprise them. For example, even some newer homes do not have proper attic ventilation and a lot of comfortable air can escape, causing the heating or cooling unit to work harder. Eco-friendly spray foam insulation can reduce the amount of energy used dramatically. This helps both the environment and the homeowner’s wallet. This audit will cost the homeowner $300, but pays for itself very quickly in money saved from finding and fixing air leaks in the home.

There are several builders in Austin that are starting to offer remodeling options for current homeowners. As residents become more environmentally conscious, many are looking for ways to reduce their carbon footprint. Local businesses are meeting this demand by educating themselves of green techniques and technologies. The City of Austin does offer rebates for some eco-friendly changes, which also encourages homeowner’s to loom into remodeling their home.

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In the last several years, any malls that have been built are leaning more toward open air models of old time downtown cities. These have been built closer to residential living areas and are called “lifestyle centers,” as they are designed with a more welcoming style. Many boast restaurants, movie theaters, etc. in an attempt to bring more people there for a lazy Saturday. More recently, as many investors are realizing how much space can be utilized, developers are looking for ways to bring housing right into the mall. In Colorado, this has already been successfully achieved. In 2003, a mall was created with 1300 apartments, 200 condos, and single family housing attached to a 106 acre lifestyle center. This is similar to the mixed use properties currently being built in Austin and has had great occupancy rates.

Many developers are seeing now that the potential for housing is a tremendous gain. Building vertically to accommodate living or office space helps the environment as well. It seems when the mall was first created in the mind of Victor Gruen, he envisioned such a place. He saw a small town that was free from cars, but offered a small town feel with day cares, shopping, and eating all right there. Who wouldn’t want to live there?

The weakening economy has caused many local investors to place retail opening on hold for now. Endeavor Real Estate in Austin has pushed back plans for its retail development called the Domain by a year. Retailers nationwide are doing the same. Many have already had to close down stores locally. Wal-Mart has done well during this crisis, reporting an increase of 3.4% in stores that have been open for at least a year. Due to this, many are happy to invite the store to the area. Sales tax revenue showed a decline in the last few months and is expected to continue to decline through 2009 in Austin. This new Wal-Mart will not only employ 250 to 350 people, it will also serve to create more revenue for the city to use in its budgeting.

Austin is not expected to be as affected by the economic downturn as severely as other cities. Despite many retailers holding off on new projects, there are still several who are forging ahead. Other local businesses are expanding as new mixed use developments are created downtown. Though tax revenue projections are not yet complete, Austin is hopeful the new Wal-Mart will further strengthen the local economy.

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Martinez has been working for two years on having Newning Avenue in Travis Heights declared a historic landmark. She initiated this fight because she was upset by many new construction sites that began with the destruction of this Victorian-era neighborhood. Martinez, along with several neighbors and other preservationists has been engaged in a two-pronged struggle for awhile. The group is seeking both a nomination for the National Register of Historic Places and for a local historic district nod for both Travis Heights and Fairview Park. The cost of this is $50,000 and the group has held several fundraisers to meet this goal. So far, they have collected around $20,000. Martinez owns two historic homes in the area, but did not realize how long it would take or how much money it would cost to have an 1100 home district deemed worthy of historic preservation.

There are no plans to stop trying. Now that the law is there to meet this demand, Martinez plans to keep working at it until the goal is met. “I had no idea going into it, but I didn’t see any other way to try to prevent losing more historic houses.”

Austin is in need of ideas on how to deal with the ever growing population in regard to transportation, water distribution, land use, etc. To decide a specific focus for these areas, city leaders are looking at the 1979 Austin Tomorrow Plan, a 176 page document that took almost a decade to write. Current leaders plan to have the new plan drawn up in no more than two years and have budgeted $1.5 million to an outside consultant for assistance. There have been 16 responses to Austin’s request so far. Residents are expected to be able to voice their opinions as well through focus groups and workshops. Online polls are also expected to be used.

The new plan will give Austin a more certain development plan to match with a growing population. The city must plan now for the increased usage of land and water. A consensus will allow leaders, residents, and outside sources to all collectively agree on what is best for the city.

One of the most obvious contributors to air pollution is cars. The ozone layer is being depleted due to the damaging pollutants made by automobiles. The easiest solution for this is to car pool when available or walk whenever possible. Reducing energy is another easy step to take when going green. Change light bulbs in your home to compact fluorescent bulbs and save energy. Use trees if possible to shade your home or place overhangs above windows. Cross ventilate and use ceiling fans instead of running the air conditioner. If you must use the air conditioner, turn it up by two degrees. You really won’t feel a difference, but you will be using a lot less energy. Look at how you use the appliances in your home and see if there are any changes that can be made. Make sure the washing machine or dishwasher is full before running. Try not to open the oven door as often, as this makes the oven work harder.

There are so many small steps that everyone can take to help the environment. It is not absolutely necessary to change your entire way of living to have an impact. Of course, the more we all do for the environment, the better the planet will be, and the safer and healthier our homes will be.

Many homeowners today are leaning toward an environmentally friendly home. If it is time to remodel your floors, you may be happy to know that there are several eco-friendly options to choose from. Floors designed with the environment in mind not only last as long as traditional floors, but also offer a whole new variety of eye catching choices.

One of the most popular green flooring options is bamboo. This is a fast-growing renewable resource that can be made into sturdy flooring similar to hardwood floors. This flooring has a unique look that many homeowners are looking for. Since it is a grass, not actual wood of any kind, it can be harder to find variety. It will last as long as wood, but with less cost to the environment. Cork flooring has also recently gained popularity. This material offers another unique style and a new texture to a home. Cork is pulled from the trunk of a cork oak tree, without harming the tree itself. It helps to insulate the home as well as absorbs sound. Reclaimed hardwood floors give us yet another green flooring option. These are real wood floors made from recycled planks. Many come from older structures built with stronger wood, so they will last longer than floors made today.

There are so many ways to build or remodel a home without damaging the environment as much as before. We continue to look for ways to decrease waste and energy usage. These flooring options will save thousands of trees while giving a home a unique look, making these floors even more beautiful.

The technology for recycling has changed drastically since it began. Previously, residents have had to separate all items to recycle. Now, an automated system can separate at the recycling center, so residents are able to place all recyclables in one container. Austin officials hope this will encourage more people to recycle. The items now considered recyclable has increased as well. More plastics are now accepted, as is cardboard, glass, and aluminum. Information on exact pick up days and materials that can be recycled has been sent to residents.

Austin has been at the forefront of green living since before it became popular. Everyone here has been trying to go green in some way. The city offers rebates for many eco-friendly upgrades or additions to homes, even while still under construction. There are so many benefits to recycling. Not only are we helping the environment, we are also reducing energy and cutting back on deforestation. It is so important to our planet that more people jump on board. The United States makes up 5% of the world’s population, but we create 40% of the world’s trash. Austin is doing what it can to reduce those numbers.

First, look at your water heater. If it is older than 2004, it has no insulation. By wrapping the tank in an insulating fireproof blanket, you can reduce your annual water heating bill by up to 10%. You can also insulate your hot water pipes using the same method. Fix any leaky faucets in the house. About 2700 gallons of water is lost every year from dripping faucets. It is a small fix that can have a huge impact. You can also check your toilet for leaks by dropping a small amount of food coloring into the water. If it disappears, there is a leak. Fixing this leak can save you about 200 gallons a day. Reduce the flow you use to wash your dishes to about the width of a straw and save a gallon of water per minute. Have your furnace serviced at least every two years to reduce carbon dioxide release. Use less energy when washing clothes by using cold water and the regular cycle as opposed to permanent press.

There are so many little things that we can all do that will decrease the amount of energy used and water loss. If everyone took these steps, the impacts would be almost immeasurable. The most important factor is that these suggestions are all low to no cost and can reduce your annual bills while helping the environment.

Joe

These days the environment is at the forefront of everyone’s mind. Homeowners are looking for ways to reduce energy usage and water waste. Saving energy also saves money. Many people think that going green can be expensive and this can cause less people to go eco-friendly. The good news is that there are many small changes that can make a big difference.

The best way to keep cool in the summer is by using the shade of a nearby tree. Shaded homes can be up to 10 degrees cooler than one in direct sunlight. If you don’t have a tree in your yard, plant one. Trees naturally recycle water as well as provide much needed protection from the sun. It is also a good idea to turn the thermostat down by two degrees. This can reduce your energy bill significantly. Cross ventilation of opposing windows can also decrease your need for air conditioning. Open windows that are across from each other to cool a room and run ceiling fans to circulate the air. Fans use much less energy than an air conditioner.

Reduce water waste by fixing any leaks in your home. Make sure that laundry loads match the water setting on the machine. Only use a dishwasher when it is full and let the dishes air dry when complete. Use the energy saving options on appliances as often as possible. It also takes less energy to use a cold water wash than warm. Use a clothesline to dry clothes or be careful not to over dry. These small changes can help the environment at the same time it reduces your bills.

The national economy has slowed down spending significantly, and many cities are concerned they will not meet their budgets. It has been suggested that Austin slow down hiring and city spending where possible to offset the revenue losses. The last fiscal year, ending in September showed a tax revenue increase of only 1% in Austin, which is the lowest it has been since 2003. Many Austin residents are hopeful that since the city has been doing well overall, the economic slowdown will be short-lived here. Most experts agree that the city will definitely see more declines before the economy picks back up.  The city is trying to cut about $15 million from the budget for 2009.

Suburbs of Austin, such as the City of Bee Cave, rely a lot on retail sales to meet budget requirements. The state continues to look for ways to decrease spending without losing necessary funding. Austin is still a city that entices business growth and unemployment is still very low here. With proper budgeting and less spending, Austin will see better days, sooner rather than later.

The online study included 1600 bicyclists who ride for any number of reasons. The study showed that only about 0.9% used their bikes to commute to and from work. The respondents stated that the installation of more biker friendly roadways would encourage more people to pedal instead of drive. The study also showed that men are more likely to ride bikes, whether to commute or for pleasure. The majority were young, environmentally conscious men. The average commute for a cyclist is about 6.5 miles. Men preferred bicycle facilities over the fewer women that responded, and suggested slanted parking over parallel parking whenever possible to increase sight while riding.

The study showed that as much as 70% of cyclists are more concerned about getting into an accident than any crime regarding the bike. Austin cyclists overall reported they are happy with current facilities, but hope for more employers to set a safe place for the bikes during working hours. This may be encouraged due to the Bicycle Commuter Act, which was passed in October and will give employers a tax credit of up to $20 per employee who rides to work.

The Building Program bases its suggestions on Austin’s specific climate. Recommendations for heating and cooling the home are made based on the area’s relative humidity, annual rainfall rates, and winds. After studying all of these factors, the Program is able to advise builder how best to use natural resources. For example, it is recommended to build the home with the broad side facing north or south to avoid overheating during sunrise or sunset. Skylight use should also be limited for the same reason. Too much heat absorbed by the home will increase the need for an air conditioner. It is also recommended to use vents and reflective heat barriers on the roof to keep an attic cooler. Lighter color shingles will also keep the home cooler.

There are many more suggestions from Austin’s Green Building Program, for any part of new home construction. Since renewable resources are so necessary, many recommendations will offer a rebate or other benefit for using green planning. Be sure to look into how much building green can save you right now, and in the future.

The most important factor in selecting an AC unit is to ensure it is the right size for your home. A large unit will cool a room faster, but uses much more energy and runs longer than a smaller unit. A correctly sized air conditioner will remove excess humidity from the air and will run for shorter lengths, reducing energy usage. It is also very important to service the air conditioner as often as possible to reduce energy usage. Check the ducts and around windows and doors for any possible leaks. Maintain any caulk or tape joints to prevent leaks. Select a system with a programmable thermostat also meets the minimum standard of SEER-13. Use Pleated-Media Filters in the duct grill and make sure to replace or clean them often. Another option is to use a heat pump that performs the same way as an air conditioner, but uses less energy to do so.

The less energy a home uses, the less of an impact it will have on the environment. Many steps can be taken to reduce energy output that are both environmentally friendly and money saving.

Basically, the group suggests using native plants in a landscaping plan. Trees and plants that are made for this environment will provide long term beauty. There are numerous public parks around Austin where you can get some ideas. It is also a good idea to speak with local gardeners and landscapers. When creating your dream lawn, remember to keep watering in mind. Conservation is important, and making a lawn that needs too much water will not help the environment or your wallet. Use a catchment system that will bring rainwater to your plants. Use pervious materials like crushed granite or open blocks that allow water to move freely throughout the yard. Again, the public parks are there for ideas, as the city becomes more eco-friendly.

A beautifully landscaped yard can be quite welcoming. Working with the natural surroundings and climate of Austin will help to keep the lawn looking pristine. Using energy efficient watering options will also decrease usage and save money. Nature is meant to take care of itself; we may just need to send it flowing in the right direction.

The same company stated that Texas should hold out better than other states like Florida and California. The state has done well overall during this most recent economic crisis, which has enticed outside buyers to invest in hotels and other commercial properties. PKF suggests that once the credit crunch clears up, investors will continue to see a strong Texas economy. There is expected to be some decline here for occupancy, though not as severe as other states. Researchers believe that while 2009 may be a tough year for Texas, 2010 will start a turnaround for the state. Many hotels are owned locally and these are what researchers expect to feel the brunt of the decline. Of course, hotel chains will have more ability to reduce prices or offer amenities than smaller hotels.

There are many economic studies that are predicting a tough 2009 for the country. Hotel revenue losses are just another example of this. Most such studies do project some steadier times in 2010. As the economy struggles, hotels and other businesses will as well.

Real estate agents are getting into the green scene now, with a recent seminar held by the MetroTex Association of Realtors. The seminar focused on educating the agents about specializing in green home sales. A few years ago, some agents chose this focus as a means to stand out in the industry. These days it has become almost a necessity to possess the knowledge of a home’s carbon footprint. Previously built homes can be evaluated for its energy usage. Many homeowners looking to sell have stated they are willing to spend the money on making their house greener. With the increased demand for eco-friendly homes, it is no wonder that more and more agents are looking for specialization in this field. Real estate agents are encouraging sellers to update their homes to make it more sellable. In the current depressed market, anything that brings better attention to a home helps.

In such a rough real estate market, agents have taken the steps to increase their selling potential. Austin has taken great strides the last few years in green building. Local agents have recognized this and are educating themselves to meet the demand.

Forbes.com has included Austin in several top ten lists. Based on the city’s low unemployment rate, cost of living, and median house price, it was number 3 on the “Top 10 Cities for Jobs” list in January of this year. In February, Forbes.com again listed Austin on its “America’s Fastest Growing Metros” list, with an estimated 32% growth from 2007 to 2012. The website also ranked Austin number 5 on its list for “best Cities for Couples” in February. Forbes Magazine has also created lists which include Austin throughout this year. Austin was ranked number 4 on the “Top 10 Cities for Home Sellers” based on home affordability and the nation’s top city for job growth. Austin was ranked number 2 in July for the magazines “Top 10 Cities to Buy a Home” based again on the home prices and incentives to buy over renting. Austin has also ranked on the magazine’s lists for “Best Cities for Recent College Graduates” and “Best Cities for Young Professionals”.

Austin has also been placed third on the “Top 10 Recession Proof Cities” list, some great news considering the country’s current economic state. It is a combination of many things that keeps Austin at the top of many lists. With no real decline in sight for the city, it will continue to be a wonderful place to live, no matter what stage of life.

Many building owners are looking to receive approval from the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, which sets the standard for green building design. A trip to the janitorial closet can easily prove to an owner whether the services are fully green. The chemicals should be green seal approved. The equipment, such as vacuums, should be CRI (Carpet and Rug Institute) approved for minimum environmental impact. Microfiber cloths should be used for light daily cleaning. More allergens are captured this way, leaving the indoor environment cleaner. The cleaning service should be able to easily provide documentation of green cleaning education. It is important to be sure that the building will pass evaluation for LEED standards. Continuing education on new products and services is an important factor in achieving this goal.

Green cleaning is a great way of keeping an indoor environment hygienic while caring for Mother Nature. The services and the education is there, it takes only the will to make it happen. Tenants will have a more sanitary environment, and damage is minimal. The air is much cleaner when you are green.

This checklist can be used to look at everything from water efficiency to indoor air quality. Specific improvements are outlined to assist a builder or homeowner in selecting the greenest options. The recent trend of building bigger homes for smaller families has had an impact. More energy is used to heat and cool a home where not all space is being used efficiently. Using energy efficient appliances is an obvious way of going green, but utilizing natural resources can decrease energy output even more. For example, when building a home, keep the roof clear of trees for solar paneling. Green builders also have knowledge on how to use advanced building techniques to optimize the home’s efficiency. The less energy necessary to create a pleasant home environment, the less energy is seeped from Mother Nature.

There is no end in sight for the focus on green homes. Sellers are willing to upgrade so that environment conscious buyers will look at their home first. Many green ideas also save money in the long run since they are designed to use less energy.