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November 2007
A mainstay of Austin culture and art since 1916, and in its present location since 1996, the Austin Museum of Art has provided the community with accessible artwork to enlighten and educate its citizens. Echoing the words of museum patron Clara Driscoll, the museum is a place that "brings pleasure in the appreciation of art to the people of Texas."
Today, the Austin Museum of Art-Downtown continues to educate a broad audience on 20th century and contemporary art, with a world-class gallery, continually changing exhibits and even an Art School. For you and your family, it's a place to appreciate loveliness and creativity in many forms, as well as release your inner artist. You will find that the museum is centrally located downtown and housed in a contemporary-style building, perfectly reflecting the modern art inside. Each exhibition at this Austin, Texas museum is generally paired up with listening or reading stations, interpretive programming and museum guides who can reveal the unique and important impact that the visual arts create. Past exhibits have included everything from photography, sculpture, paintings, charcoal drawings and pottery collections.
The downtown location is a permanent expansion from the original museum, and provides a broad range of community-oriented features. The Community Room can be rented or reserved for activities or private functions as needed. The Art School holds classes in many different mediums for all ages. Try a beginner's class in watercolors, or enroll your child in the 3-D Art class designed for kids. The museum store is also located on-site and provides art-related gifts, books, toys and jewelry. It's perfect when you need a gift for the person who has everything or simply for browsing after an afternoon of viewing the latest exhibits in town.
The Austin Museum of Art is also dedicated to education enhancement, in the form of teacher seminars, adult education, group tours and family programs. It's a way for Austin, Texas residents to connect with the arts on a personal level and walk away with an increased understanding of their world. With an active volunteer program that enables Austin, TX citizens to act as museum docents, it's easy for just about anyone to get involved.
The museum is open from Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday hours are from noon to 5:00 p.m, and closed Mondays and holidays. Located at 823 Congress Avenue at 9th Street, the museum is adjacent to a convenient parking garage at 9th and Brazos. Admission is $5 for adults, $4 for seniors and students and free for children 12 and under. Eric Bramlett is the broker & co-owner of One Source Realty in Austin, Texas. Eric currently manages his downtown Austin condos Guide, his downtown Austin company's website, & his Austin TX Welder website.
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If you are a water-lover, but afraid that a move to Austin, Texas means the end of lake sports, you obviously haven't heard about the three most popular lakes in the Austin, TX area. Lady Bird Lake, Lake Austin and Lake Travis are full of recreational opportunities to suit every level of play, from swimming and boating to jet skiing and lake cruises.
Lady Bird Lake is a calm and peaceful lake in the city of Austin, Texas, and it's just right for canoeing or kayaking. You can rent canoes or paddle boats at the Rowing Dock for a moderate fee. At six miles long, this lake runs between Riverside Drive and 1st street, making it a restful oasis in the urban downtown area. Take advantage of the walking trails that circle the lake and enjoy a stroll or a jog among the beautiful scenery. You can enjoy a boat tour of Lady Bird Lake, including dinner cruises for special events or group outings and get a glimpse of Austin, TX as you've never seen it before-from the water. Swimming, motor boating and jet skiing are prohibited at Lady Bird Lake.
Lake Austin is one of the most popular lakes in the area, and was created by Mansfield Dam and Tom Miller Dam on the Colorado River. Boating enthusiasts will really enjoy Lake Austin, with its high cliffs and lush shorelines. There are several launch sites where you can put your own boat in, or contact any of the rental boat services to get out on the water as soon as possible. There are several charter boat services that can take individual passengers or even large groups for scenic tours of the lovely Lake Austin. Imagine riding an old-fashioned riverboat around and learning more about the sites and stories that occurred on or near the lake.
Lake Travis, the longest lake in the region at more than 60 miles long, lies northwest of Austin, TX. Perfect for all kinds of boating, such as motor boating or sail boating, the lake features several boat docks, boat rental companies and even personal watercraft rentals. Several small communities encircle Lake Travis, and there are dozens of boat rental or boat storage facilities in each one.
Lake Travis is also the hub for a variety of other recreational activities. Fishing and swimming are always popular, as well as canoeing, kayaking and jet skiing. Check out the Volente Beach and Waterpark, a fun place for exciting water rides. The rolling hills of Texas Hill Country are wonderful for golf, and there are several resorts and clubs lakeside. It's a true resort atmosphere at Lake Travis, just 40 minutes from Austin, Texas.
These are just a few of the lakes and waterways that surround Austin, Texas. Take some time to get familiar with area lakes and the unique outdoor adventures that each one has to offer. Whether you own a boat or just like to play on one, Austin-area lake cruises and boat rentals can make it happen for Austin, TX residents. Eric Bramlett is the broker & co-owner of One Source Realty in Austin, Texas. Eric currently manages his Lake Austin Guide, his Lake Austin real estate company's website, & his Austin Lake real estate website.
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Now in its 97th year, the Austin Symphony is the pinnacle of cultural events in the Austin, TX area and the beginning of the live music scene that dominates the modern entertainment culture of this vibrant Texas city. Showcasing classical music that spans continents, genres and generations, the Austin Symphony brings together almost 100 musicians who work together to create memorable music.
Even if you've never attended a symphony before, you can appreciate the Austin Symphony. With a quick introduction to the strings, woodwinds, brass and percussion and a little insight into the pieces that will be played, you can enjoy just about any presentation. Simply let your mind follow the highs and lows of the piece and feel the music as it wraps around your emotions and feelings.
The Austin Symphony presents a wide variety of music from many different composers. In one season, you might have the choice between Beethoven, Strauss and Handel as well as a "Simply Sinatra" concert, a string quartet or a guitar quartet. The diversity means that everyone will be able to find some kind of music that appeals to them. Tickets are easy to purchase online or at the ticket office for the Austin Symphony.
It's easy to find out what's in store as far as concerts from the Austin Symphony-their easy to use website shows the season calendars and the events and featured artists that are coming up. Generally, the Austin Symphony performs eight classical concerts, four pops concerts and two family concerts. Elsewhere in the community, the Austin Symphony performs at such exiting venues such as during the city's Fourth of July events and the free concerts in the park during the summers. The symphony also performs holiday concerts for the residents of Austin, Texas to enhance the holiday atmosphere.
The Austin Symphony even holds concerts that are appropriate for children, presenting some of the more classic works in a friendly and shortened concert. There is also a chance for children to learn more about the different instruments, meet the conductor and learn more about the composers of whose work is being played. The Children's Day Art Park is a fine place to see the musicians up close and listen to new music from the Austin Symphony.
Several award-winning education programs are organized through the Austin Symphony. These programs allow for musicians to visit classrooms in the Austin, TX area, provide study guides for music teachers, bring students for field trips to the concert hall and allow young musicians the chance to play with a real orchestra. Designed to enhance art appreciation in youngsters, the Austin Symphony has been recognized by the National Endowment for the Arts and the American Symphony Orchestra League. Eric Bramlett is the broker & co-owner of One Source Realty in Austin, Texas. Eric currently manages his Austin TX Real Estate Guide, his Austin real estate company's website, & his Austin Welder website.
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Touted as the "Live Music Capital of the World," the city of Austin, Texas, has a rhythm of its own. With more live music venues per capita than any other music center in the world, Austin, TX dominates over other places known for music such as Nashville, Los Angeles or Las Vegas. The city of Austin, Texas offers several programs to assist musicians and to promote their music in a variety of genres, from country to blues.
Whether you are just arriving in Austin, Texas for the first time or you are a local coming home, you will be greeted at the airport with live music at three different airport venues. The Austin-Bergstrom International Airport is just the first reminder that you've entered the "Live Music Capital" of Austin, TX.
The Plaza at the Austin City Hall puts on a music showcase with different scopes that highlight different musicians and their music. Free concerts are given between April and October at The Plaza, making the music series "Live From The Plaza" one of the more popular music venues around. The Parks and Recreation Department also highlights musical performances, with summer concerts in various locations, such as the Zilker Hillside Theater.
Many private organizations have emerged as a result of the hot music scene in Austin, TX. The city's famous Sixth Street is the heart of the live music scene, with more than 50 nightclubs, restaurants, bistros and dance clubs showcasing the latest musicians in a variety of music styles. West of the business district lies what is known as Austin's Warehouse District, fast emerging as another neighborhood devoted to live music. With edgier restaurants and clubs renovated from old warehouses, the Warehouse District features trendy bars, restaurants and amazing concert halls.
There are several theaters in Austin, Texas that spotlight more live music, such as Esther's Follies. Located on Sixth Street, Esther's Follies has featured live acts of magic, comedy, music and sketch comedy for more than two decades. The Frank Erwin Center hosts many concerts and other musical events from its Red River Street location. The Zachary Scott Theater is another place to enjoy a wide variety of live entertainment, from seasonal plays to old-fashioned music concerts. Austin, Texas has many other theaters located throughout the city that are just waiting to be discovered by eager residents.
Of course, the "Live Music Capital of the World" wouldn't be complete with out music festivals, and Austin, TX hosts several noteworthy ones. Try out the Austin City Limits Music Festival, a 3-day celebration of Austin's music. The Southwest Music, Film and Interactive Festival highlights worldwide talents in each category. The Urban Music Festival and the Old Settler's Music Festival are two more popular events just right for the whole family. Eric Bramlett is the broker & co-owner of One Source Realty in Austin, Texas. Eric currently manages his Austin TX Real Estate Guide, his Austin real estate company's website, & his Austin Welder website.
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the Realtor have agreed on a price on the home, making this deposit secures your offer and effectively locks it into place.
Depending upon the state in which you live, you or your Realtor will also acquire the services of other professionals for assistance with the closing process. The professional may be a closing attorney, a title company, or a closing agent. Regardless of the title or specific profession, this person's job is to handle the closing process. Nonetheless, this does not mean that your Realtor is now out of the question. Rather, you can still ask your Realtor questions and use that person as a resource throughout the entire closing process.
Taking Care of Legal Issues
After you have made your earnest money deposit, the person in charge of the closing procedure will then make sure a number of legal issues are tended to. For example, this person will obtain a preliminary title report that will confirm that the person selling the home is the legal owner of the property. The report will also tell if there are any unsettled claims or liens against the property that need to be addressed before finalizing the sale.
Checking Out the House One Last Time - And Keeping it Protected
Although you have already looked at the house and have fallen in love with it, you will also need to work with your Realtor in order to make sure all of the proper inspections, disclosures, and contingencies have been addressed. The seller is obligated to disclose material facts about the property, including any defects the property may have and an lawsuits involving the property. Nonetheless, you are responsible for making arrangements to have the property inspected. With the assistance of your Realtor, you can find reputable companies to handle these inspections for you.
Since you will likely be taking out a loan in order to purchase your property, you will also need to obtain homeowner's insurance before the deal is closed. This is because lenders require this to be in place before they will finalize the loan process. Although you will need to compare insurance policies on your own, your Realtor can assist you with finding companies and with providing you with the information you will need to give to the insurance company in order to obtain coverage.
Taking Care of Finances
Before your loan amount can be finalized, the lender will want to have the property appraised. This appraisal will provide the lender with a determination of the property's value as well as a description of its physical characteristics. It will also provide a comparison of the property you are purchasing against other similar properties in the area. If your loan is then approved, the lender will send a notice to the title company so the proper documents can be signed at the closing.
Once all of the preparations have taken place, the actual closing appointment typically takes anywhere from one to two hours. You will need to bring a cashier's check with you in the amount that is due upon closing and you will have to sign and complete a number of different documents. Once this step is complete, you will be handed the keys and the home will officially be yours. Eric Bramlett is the broker & co-owner of One Source Realty in Austin, Texas. Eric currently manages his Austin Realtor Guide, his San Antonio real estate company's website, & his East Austin real estate Guide.
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When you rent an apartment, you will most likely be asked to pay a security deposit. In many cases, the security deposit is equivalent to one month's worth of rent, though it might be more. Your landlord is within his or her rights to request that you pay a security deposit, but there are several things you should know about the security deposit before you sign a lease agreement and move into your apartment.
What is the Security Deposit For?
When you rent an apartment, you will likely be asked to pay a security deposit in order to protect the landlord. If you fail to make your monthly payment or if you break your lease, the landlord may be able to keep your security deposit in order to recoup the loses he or she experiences. Similarly, if you cause damage to the apartment before moving out, your landlord can keep the money or a portion of the money in order to make repairs to the apartment.
If the landlord does keep all or a portion of your security deposit when you move out, he or she must provide you with a detailed account of why the money was retained. For example, if you caused damage to the apartment, the landlord must detail that expense and demonstrate why the money was retained.
What is a Security Deposit NOT For?
Some unscrupulous landlords will attempt to keep a security deposit when a person moves out of the apartment, and some get away with it because their former tenants simply do not know their rights.
One thing that a security deposit is not for is wear and tear. If the dishwasher in the apartment needs to be replaced because it has worn out or the walls need to be repainted because the paint is getting dull or discolored, you are not expected to pay for these expenses.
In most states, landlords are required to return a security deposit within 30 days after the tenant moves out of the apartment. It is a good idea to check with your state if you are uncertain about the timeframe your landlord has.
Preparing for Disputes
If your 30 days has come and gone since you moved out of the apartment and your landlord still has not returned your security deposit, it may be time to file a claim in small claims court. In order to prepare for this possibility, you should always document the condition of the apartment before you move in as well as at the time you move out. Taking photographs is also a good idea as this will give the judge a visual idea of the condition of the apartment both before you moved in and after you moved out.
Although no one anticipates having difficult with getting their security deposit back when moving out of an apartment, it is always a good idea to plan for the worse situation. That way, you will be protected regardless of the situation. Eric Bramlett is the broker & co-owner of One Source Realty in Austin, Texas. Eric currently manages his Austin Apartment Locator Guide, his Southwest Austin Apartments company's website, & his Austin rental agent Guide.
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When you decide to buy a piece of real estate in order to pursue a business as a landlord, you are making an exciting and potentially financially-freeing decision. After all, simply owning real estate is an excellent investment. In addition, taking this real estate and turning it into an apartment or other form of rental property can provide for a steady flow of income. Nonetheless, there are several things you should know before you buy that first piece of real estate and enter into the world of renting.
Consider the Maintenance
One of the first considerations you need to make when you buy real estate and decide to become a landlord is the cost of maintenance and upkeep. Remember, you still own the real estate and, as the landlord, you are responsible for maintaining the property. If you are not a handy person or if you simply do not have the time it takes to complete repairs and perform maintenance on the real estate you buy, you will need to hire someone to do this for you. This might mean hiring a property manager, which will cost you about 5% of the gross income you earn from your rentals.
Learn the Law
The laws affecting real estate and rentals will vary from state to state. Therefore, you need to make sure you are aware of the laws affecting you in your state. Although there are some variances in these laws, the basics are essentially the same - your tenant has all of the same rights of ownership except for the right to sell the real estate. In addition, as long as the tenant pays rent, he or she has the right to live on the property. At the same time, they do not have the right to damage the property in any way.
The law requires that you keep the real estate in a "habitable condition." Although there is a bit of gray where this is concerned, the law is understood to mean that the real estate must have working locks on its doors and windows, the heat must work, and the roof cannot leak.
Know How to Find Tenants
Before you sink your money into a piece of real estate that you plan to rent out, make sure you have a good idea as to how you will get tenants. In addition, be sure you are clear on the laws when it comes to interviewing and screening tenants. There are several discrimination laws in place that limit the types of questions you can ask a potential renter.
Before you purchase that real estate, set your standards so you know what you will and will not accept from a tenant - and make sure your standards are all legal. Some areas to consider include:
• The price of rent
• Whether or not you will accept pets
• The number of allowable occupants
• The amount of your security deposit
• Whether or not utilities are included in the rent
• Any minimum income requirements you expect from your tenants
• Whether or not you will accept HUD Section 9 participants
Make sure your standards are clear to all potential tenants before you even begin the interview process.
By carefully considering each of these factors before you make a real estate purchase, you will be better able to determine whether or not being a landlord is the right step for you. Eric Bramlett is the broker & co-owner of One Source Realty in Austin, Texas. Eric currently manages his Northwest Austin Real Estate Guide, his Lakeway real estate company's website, & his Steiner Ranch real estate Guide.
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Subletting your apartment can be a great option if you need to move out of an apartment before your lease is up. By doing so, you can avoid having to pay the fees associated with breaking your lease and, depending on the arrangements you made with the person you sublet to, you can effectively hold your spot in that apartment if you plan to return later. Nonetheless, there are several things you should keep in mind when deciding to sublet your apartment.
Keeping it Legal
Before you start showing people your apartment, you first need to check with your lease to make sure you are allowed to sublet the apartment. Some leases strictly forbid subletting and, therefore, you would be in direct violation of your lease if you attempt to sublet your apartment. Violation of your contract can result in legal issues as well as fines, so, if you are unsure, discuss it with your landlord before following through with subletting. Furthermore, you can only sublet for as long as you legally have the apartment. Therefore, if you have a one year lease, you can only sublet the apartment for that one year.
Finding a Suitable Tenant
Subletting an apartment is a relatively simple process once you have approval from your landlord. All you really need to do is post ads in various places, such as newspaper classifieds, message boards, or other places. Be sure to specify in your ad when you will need the person to move in and move out as well as the amount of the rent and a way that you can be reached for more information. More than likely, it won't take long for you to start receiving phone calls from people that are interested in subletting your apartment.
Drawing Up Your Agreement
After you select a tenant to sublet your apartment to, keep in mind that this person will be entering into an agreement with you. You are still the one that is legally bound to the lease with the landlord and, as such, you are still responsible for the apartment. As such, your written agreement will be between you and the subtenant.
The lease that you create with the subtenant must include a provision that the subtenant will follow the same rules of the lease while he or she lives in your apartment. If the subtenant fails to follow the written agreement and your lease is violated in any way, you will be responsible to the landlord and the subtenant is responsible to you. In other words, if a violation occurs that results in a fee or a fine, you will need to pay the landlord and then you will need to pursue the subtenant in order to regain the money that you lost.
Remember that you are the one that is still responsible to the landlord. Therefore, the subtenant will send you the rent for the apartment and you will be responsible for sending rent to the landlord. If the subtenant fails to pay the rent to you, you are still responsible for making the payment. Eric Bramlett is the broker & co-owner of One Source Realty in Austin, Texas. Eric currently manages his Austin TX Apartment Guide, his Austin Leasing Agent company's website, & his Austin Apartment Locator Guide.
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Purchasing real estate with the intent of turning it into an apartment or a house for rent can be an excellent financial decision. When you buy a property with the intent of renting it, however, there are several factors you should take into consideration in order to guarantee the best chance of successfully finding a tenant and making money from your investment.
Assessing Your Goals Before Buying
Before you buy real estate with the intent of renting it out, you need to determine what your goals will be. For example, do you want to create a steady source of income for many years to come or are you looking to sell the real estate for a profit later? If you are looking for a property that you can sell for a profit later, you will want to purchase something that is inexpensive that you can fix up and sell later.
Determining If Your Real Estate Will Be Your Home As Well
When you get into the rental business, you will also need to decide whether or not you will live in the apartment building or housing unit that you purchase. If you do decide to live on that piece of real estate, you will probably be able to get your entire mortgage paid off by your tenants. As such, you will basically be living in your home for free. At the same time, you might prefer to distance yourself from your tenants. In this case, living in the same apartment building or housing unit may not be so desirable.
Choosing the Type of Real Estate You Will Buy
When deciding on the type of real estate you are going to buy, you will need to take some factors into consideration. For example, single-family houses are usually less expensive than apartment complexes since they are so much smaller. At the same time, a house will bring in less income than an apartment complex. Keep in mind that an apartment complex will often require more upkeep than a house as well. Take all of these factors into consideration when deciding on the type of real estate you plan to invest in.
Picking the Right Location for Your Investment
Obviously, when you buy real estate with the intention of renting it out, you want to find property that is desirable. Otherwise, you will have a difficult time finding someone willing to rent it out from you. Therefore, you should select real estate that is in an area where people want to live.
In order to determine if the property is in a good area, consider the available shopping and activities that are near to the property. You should also consider the schools and the crime rate as well as the general attractiveness of the neighborhood.
Unless you are looking for a fixer-upper and you have the time to fix up the home or apartment, you should look for a place that is in good shape. By purchasing a well maintained piece of property in a good location and within your budget, you will be certain to start a solid career as a landlord. Eric Bramlett is the broker & co-owner of One Source Realty in Austin, Texas. Eric currently manages his Lake Austin Real Estate Guide, his Austin real estate company's website, & his Austin Condos Guide.
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When you meet with the real estate agent for the first time, there are several questions you should ask in order to determine if you are good match. These questions include:
• How long have you been in this business?
• What is your list-price-to-sales-price ratio?
• What is your marketing plan?
• What are your references?
• What separates you from the competition?
• What do you charge?
• What type of guarantees do you offer?
Although it is possible to get good service from a real estate agent that hasn't been in the business for a long time, you are better off dealing with a real estate agent with experience in the business. If you are considering working with a newer real estate agent, find out more about that agent's mentor or supervising broker in order to see if he or she has someone with experience to help with the process.
The average list-price-to-sales-price ratio is also an important consideration because you want to choose a real estate agent that will be realistic about the asking price and that will work hard to get you the amount you are asking for. Similarly, you want to learn more about the real estate agent's marketing plan, such as where and how he or she advertises.
The real estate agent should also be able to provide you with references, and you should be sure to follow up with those references and to ask them questions as well. In addition, the real estate agent should be able to clearly explain to you what he or she can offer that the competition cannot. Finally, the real estate agent should charge a reasonable fee while also providing guarantees, such as allowing you to cancel your contract if you are unhappy with the agent's services.
Questions Your Real Estate Agent Will Ask You
In order to best serve your needs, your real estate agent should ask you several questions as well. For example, the real estate agent will want to know whether are not the real estate you are trying to sell is currently occupied. If so, the real estate agent will need to make special arrangements when showing the house to prospective buyers.
The real estate agent will also want to know if there is anything special about the property that you think should be highlighted while showing it to potential buyers or if there are any problems with the home that need to be repaired. Similarly, the real estate agent might want to know if you are willing to spend any extra money in order to make improvements on the home in order to improve the chances of making a sale.
In all, you should expect your real estate agent to communicate with you effectively and to make an effort to make the entire process as convenient and as profitable for you as possible. Eric Bramlett is the broker & co-owner of One Source Realty in Austin, Texas. Eric currently manages his Austin Real Estate Guide, his South Austin real estate company's website, & his Austin real estate Guide.
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A growing number of people in the real estate market are looking to buy a condo rather than to purchase a home or to rent an apartment. But, why are condos so hot in the real estate world? Here are the top five reasons why so many are looking to buy condos rather than other forms of real estate.
Reason #1: Condos Do Not Require Upkeep
One of the biggest reasons that so many people are looking to buy a condo is the fact that they do not require the same type of upkeep as owning a house. For those that hate mowing the lawn, pulling weeds, repainting the house, or doing other chores associated with homeownership, it simply makes more sense to buy a condo. In addition, many people simply do not have the time to maintain a home because of their careers. Therefore, a condo provides a practical solution.
Reason #2: A Condo is an Investment
Of course, those that don't want the upkeep headaches associated with a house could always rent an apartment. The problem with an apartment is that it often feels like money is being "thrown away" as you pay your rent and effectively help your landlord buy a piece of real estate. With a condo, you can still buy the place in which you live while still enjoying the same conveniences offered by an apartment.
Reason #3: You Can Take Advantage of the Amenities
When you buy a condo, you also buy rights to a number of amenities. Since all of the money put into the condo is shared by those living in the building, it is possible to afford many of lives little luxuries that are difficult to afford on your own. For example, when you buy a condo, you might gain instant access to a pool, an on-grounds gym, and more. Even better, you don't have to worry about the upkeep for these little perks either.
Reason #4: You Can Get More Space
Often, buying a condo is a good alternative for those looking for a large piece of real estate but that do not have the funds. If you want to buy a 3,000 square foot home, you may not have the funds for it. On the other hand, it might be within your budget to buy a condo that provides 3,000 square feet of space. In fact, there are some pretty good deals going on in the condo aspect of the real estate market right now that some savvy shoppers are happily taking advantage of.
Reason #5: You Want to Socialize
If you do not have a large circle of friends and you are looking to socialize more, a condo can help make this happen. When you buy a condo, you also buy into a community. Therefore, purchasing a condo can easily and quickly provide you with a whole new group of friends that you can get to know and enjoy.
There are many reasons to buy a condo rather than other forms of real estate or rather than renting an apartment. At the same time, a condo is not the right answer for everyone. Therefore, you should weigh the pros and cons of all of your options in order to find the right place for you.
Eric Bramlett is the broker & co-owner of One Source Realty in Austin, Texas. Eric currently manages his Downtown Austin Condo Guide, his Austin Condos company's website, & his Central Austin Condo Guide.
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When you make the decision to sell your home, you are under no obligation to hire a real estate agent or broker to help you with the sale. Nonetheless, most people prefer to hire a real estate agent in order to better protect themselves and in order to put themselves in a better position to successfully sell the home in a short amount of time.
When you hire a real estate agent, you gain access to a wealth of knowledge that will help keep you out of trouble and will help provide for a smooth transaction. Here are just a few things that your real estate agent knows that you probably do not.
The Federal Fair Housing Act
According to the Federal Fair Housing Act, you cannot discriminate against someone when selling a home. The act defines seven different classes that are protected against discrimination, these include:
• Race
• Color
• National origin
• Sex
• Religion
• Handicap
• Familial status
If you do not enlist in the help of a real estate agent, you put yourself at risk of violating this act if you refuse to sell your home to an interested buyer. In addition, you might even accidentally violate these laws without realizing it. For example, there are certain words that cannot be included in your advertisements for your home because they are in violation of the Fair Housing Laws. Some of these words include:
• Bachelor apartment
• Children welcome
• Couples
• Gentleman's Farm
• Golden Agers
• Handicapped
• Integrated
• Married
• Mature
• Mother-in-Law quarters
• Professional
• Section 8
• Seniors
• Singles only
• Sports-minded
As you can see, some of these terms seem perfectly innocent. Therefore, it is a good idea to get the help of a real estate agent so you can tap into his or her knowledge and experience in order to stay out of trouble.
State Real Estate Laws
Although there are similarities in real estate laws from one state to the next, each state has its own set of rules that must be followed. If you do not understand these laws or are unaware of these laws, you can inadvertently break the law when selling your home. In addition, by not being fully aware of your seller's rights, you might actually lose out on money during the transaction.
Taking Advantage of Connections
Aside from legal matters, a real estate agent simply has a vast number of connections that makes it possible to sell a home more quickly and for a higher asking price. Similarly, since people come to real estate agents when searching for homes, you are able to tap into a much larger market of interested buyers when you get the help of a real estate agent.
Since a real estate agent has experience with selling homes, he or she can also provide you with tips to help increase the market value of your home and to make the process go by more quickly. For example, small things such as painting a room a different color can go a long way when it comes to increasing the appeal of the home. By taking advantage of the realtor's expertise, you just might have a much more profitable selling experience.
Eric Bramlett is the broker & co-owner of One Source Realty in Austin, Texas. Eric currently manages his Austin Real Estate Guide, his Northwest Austin real estate company's website, & his Steiner Ranch real estate Guide.
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Making the decision to finally purchase a home is one of the most exciting moments in your life. At the same time, it can be quite confusing and even overwhelming as you try to make the best decisions for your financial future. One way to make the process go much smoother and to alleviate your fears is to hire a real estate agent that is on the same page as you and that knows what you are looking for.
In order to make sure you are on the same page as your real estate agent, communication is key. After all, you cannot expect the real estate agent to simply know what type of home you are looking for or to understand your needs. Therefore, before you enter into any agreements or begin the house hunting process, there are several things you should tell your real estate agent.
Consider Your Long Term Plans
When making your home purchase, you should have some kind of idea of your long term plans. Of course, life doesn't always happen the way we expect and these plans might change, but you still want to make a real estate purchase that is in line with your current goals. For example, if you will only be living in the home for five years and are hoping to sell it for a substantial profit when you are ready to move, you might want to look at different real estate than what you would look at if you are planning to live in the home until after your young children have graduated from high school.
Express Your Needs
When discussing your ideal home with your real estate agent, you need to take care to thoroughly express your needs. For example, if you currently have kids or are planning to have children in the near future, you will likely want to purchase a home that is in a good school district. On the other hand, if you are a retired couple that enjoys taking walks in the park, you should communicate this to your real estate agent so he or she can look for homes that are near to community parks.
The more you communicate about your family, your lifestyle, and your hobbies, the better your real estate agent will be capable of finding a home that is well suited to you. Although your real estate agent is not a mind reader, many are quite good at understanding the needs of their clients based on this type of information. In fact, your real estate agent may be able to make some suggestions that you hadn't even considered while dreaming of your future home.
The more you communicate to your real estate agent, the better he or she will be able to pick out properties that will be suited to your needs. At the same time, if you notice that your agent is selecting homes that are nothing like what you are looking for, be sure to communicate this to your agent as well. Similarly, as you walk through homes with the agent, be certain to point out the features that you like and do not like. These little "hints" will help the agent get better in tune with what you are looking for in your dream home.
Eric Bramlett is the broker & co-owner of One Source Realty in Austin, Texas. Eric currently manages his Austin Realtor Guide, his Austin real estate company's website, & his Steiner Ranch real estate Guide.
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Many people mistakenly believe that a real estate agent and a real estate broker are the same, but this is actually untrue. While both a real estate agent and a real estate broker must undergo schooling and must pass a state real estate exam, there are some very significant differences between the two.
Considering Licensing
From a technical standpoint, the difference between a real estate agent and a real estate broker is the fact that they hold different licenses. In order to obtain the different licensing, a real estate broker must actually complete additional coursework beyond what a real estate agent must complete.
Although many people use the terms real estate agent and real estate broker interchangeably, a broker actually has more schooling and bears more responsibilities throughout the transaction.
Since a broker has more education and experience, real estate agents actually work beneath the broker. Therefore, a person that works as an independent realtor must be a broker as well. A real estate agency with multiple employees, however, may have only one licensed broker and several agents. While the agents will perform many of the same functions as the broker, the broker is the one that is ultimately responsible for ensuring the transaction is completed properly. In exchange for taking on this added responsibility, the broker receives a percentage of the commission the agent earns when selling a home.
The Personal Touch
When it comes to working with a real estate broker versus a real estate agent, you will probably notice little difference if you notice a difference at all. This is because agents are licensed and capable of performing the basic tasks that most buyers and sellers are interested in having completed for them. For example, if you are looking for a home, an agent can easily take you to see a variety of homes and can help you reach a deal with the seller. Similarly, if you are selling a home, a real estate agent will have access to all of the same connections as the broker he or she works for.
If you are working with an agent rather than directly with the broker, you should expect to receive the same level of service you would receive from the broker. If you are unhappy with the agent's service, however, you can contact the broker and request that another agent be assigned to you. Similarly, if you have any questions or concerns that your agent cannot seem to address, you should contact the broker in order to make sure you are on the right track with the selling or purchase of your home.
The fact that every real estate agent is backed up by a broker is somewhat of a safety net for you as a consumer. In fact, if a crisis situation arises, the success of your transaction may come down to the abilities of the broker. Therefore, when hiring an agent, be sure you are comfortable with both the agent and the broker if they are not the same person. That way, you will be guaranteed the best experience possible.
Eric Bramlett is the broker & co-owner of One Source Realty in Austin, Texas. Eric currently manages his Northwest Austin Real Estate Guide, his Austin real estate company's website, & his Austin Condominium Guide.
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A mistake that many people make when working with a real estate agent is the belief that they need to stick with the agent once they have contacted them. While it can be more difficult to get out of a contract with a real estate agent that is helping you sell your home, you are under no obligation to work with just one real estate agent when you are looking for a home to purchase. In fact, unless you have hired a buyer's agent to help you find your home, you are perfectly within your rights to contact multiple real estate agents in order to find one that suits your needs and that you feel comfortable with.
If you have hired the agent to help you sell your home or if you have entered into a buyer's agreement, getting out of your agreement can be a bit trickier. Nonetheless, it is possible.
Signs that You Should Part Ways With Your Real Estate Agent
Sometimes, you simply won't see eye to eye with your real estate agent. If this is the case, you might need to part ways. Aside from small differences in views, you might find that you and the real estate agent simply cannot get on the same page at all. This can be a very frustrating and time-consuming experience - and it is completely unnecessary. More than likely, there is a real estate agent out there that will understand your needs and that will be more than happy to help you find what you are looking for.
If you find that you are raising your voice when talking to your real estate agent, you are probably in a bad situation. If you find yourself calling your agent bad names when you refer to him or her or if you are experiencing negative thoughts about your agent, it is time to start looking for a new agent. Similarly, if you find yourself avoiding your agent's calls or if your agent is not calling you back, you likely have a bad relationship and it would be better for both of you to part ways.
Getting Out of Your Agreements
If you have entered into a contract with your real estate agent, you should try to end the contract based on mutual consent. If the agent refuses to bow out gracefully, you might need to request the help of a lawyer. Ideally, before you ever signed the contract, you should have checked on the agent's policies for canceling the contract. Most reputable real estate agents will allow you to end the contract if you are unhappy with their services.
If you have entered into a listing agreement, you can ask the real estate agent to cancel the listing. If he or she refuses, contact the grocer and request a cancellation. If the broker will not cancel the listing, you can at least ask for a different agent. In most cases, however, the broker will allow you to get out of the listing because refusal to do so can scar his or her reputation. If the broker continues to refuse, let him or her know that you will be contacting a real estate lawyer for termination assistance. In many cases, just the threat of a lawyer is enough to get the broker to back down.
Eric Bramlett is the broker & co-owner of One Source Realty in Austin, Texas. Eric currently manages his Northwest Austin Real Estate Guide, his Austin real estate company's website, & his Austin Condominium Guide.
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If you hope to have a smooth experience that results in the real estate purchase you are looking for, it is important to take the time to select the best real estate agent for your needs. Although all real estate agents are capable of helping you complete your real estate purchase, there are certain agents that are better suited for certain types of purchases. Similarly, there are a few signs to watch for that will indicate whether or not you have a quality real estate agent at your side.
Consider Your Purpose
When selecting the real estate agent for you, it is important to consider the type of real estate you intend to purchase. For example, if you are interested in purchasing an apartment complex as an investment purchase, it is generally better to work with a real estate agent that specializes in selling these types of properties. Of course, you can use a real estate agent that deals mostly with selling homes, but one that specializes in the type of property you are looking for is more likely to have the types of connections you need to purchase the type of property you are looking for.
Consider Qualifications
While it is fine to work with a real estate agent, you should look for someone that is a real estate broker or a licensed realtor. An agent that is a member of the National Association of Realtors will have a displayed REALTORS® logo that will let you know that he or she has achieved this licensure. It is important to look for someone that is certified by the National Association of Realtors because this means the agent has pledged to follow a Code of Ethics that holds them to a higher standard than what is required by law.
Consider Referrals
Of course, it doesn't matter how many great qualifications the real estate agent has if he or she does not work hard for clients. Therefore, it is always a good idea to listen to referrals from other people. If someone you know had a good experience with a particular real estate agent, the chances are pretty good that you will have a good experience with that agent as well. Remember, good real estate agents stay in business because they have satisfied clients - give your business to someone with a proven track record.
Do Your Research
If you don't know someone that can refer a great real estate agent to you, you are going to have to do a bit of research. A good place to start your research is on the Internet. Visit the web sites of various real estate agents and get an idea of the types of services they provide. Look up the profiles of the real estate agents in order to get a better idea of their qualifications and experience. A site that contains customer testimonials is a good start as well - read the testimonials in order to get an idea of what other people are saying about the agent before making your final decision.
Eric Bramlett is the broker & co-owner of One Source Realty in Austin, Texas. Eric currently manages his Austin Texas Real Estate Guide, his Southwest Austin real estate company's website, & his Central Austin real estate Guide.
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Renting an apartment can be a good financial decision. If you do not plan to stay in the area or a long period of time or if you simply don't want to deal with the costs of upkeep associated with homeownership, renting an apartment just might be right for you. At the same time, many apartment renters find it difficult to make an apartment feel like "home." This is particularly true if your landlord is very strict about the type of decorating you can do within your apartment. With these simple tips, however, you will get your apartment feeling like home in no time.
Creating New Rooms In Your Apartment
One way to personalize an apartment and to alter its appearance is to find ways to divide larger rooms into smaller ones. This can be easily accomplished with folding screens, which are available in a wide variety of colors and designs. Not only can you create more rooms when you buy these dividers, you can also choose one that suits your personal style. If you are feeling creative, you can even buy old doors at a flea market and then decorate them yourself with wallpaper, fabric, or paint.
If doors aren't your thing, you can separate a large room with a sofa as well. With this trick, you can create a dining area and a sitting area all within one room while still making them appear separate from one another.
Having Fun with Cabinets
You can also add a personal touch to your apartment by turning your attention to your cabinets. The cabinets in your apartment will likely have plain and basic knobs, but you can easily change these out with something a bit more decorative and suiting to your personal style. Just make sure to hang onto the original knobs so you can replace them when you move to a new apartment.
You can even remove the cabinet doors and buy something more suiting to your style. Again, these can be easily replaced when you move out of the apartment. So, even if your landlord is a bit strict when it comes to redecorating, this little trick should still be perfectly acceptable.
Making Changes to Floors and Walls
Although you may not be able to tear out the carpet or repaint the walls in your apartment, you can still make some changes to the way these parts of your apartment look. For example, you can attach flat sheets to your wall with Velcro or you can even make wall forms that fit snuggly against your walls. For your floors, area rugs can make a big difference or you can simply make your own rug with carpet samples in order to create a new look.
It's the Little Things That Make All of the Difference
There are many little things you can do in your apartment to help make it more personalized. Attaching a stylized fabric skirt around your wall-mounted bathroom sink, for example, will add storage space as well as help you create a new look in your bathroom.
Artwork and plants can also go a long way toward personalizing an apartment. You can hang pictures in your apartment without putting holes in the wall by hanging lightweight art from fishing lines that are tacked into crown molding. Or, you can display your art on easels or on shelves and consoles. The same is true of plants, which can add variety to your apartment while also helping to keep the air clean.
With a little imagination and creativity, you can make your apartment more personal while creating a look that is truly unique and special to you and your taste.
Eric Bramlett is the broker & co-owner of One Source Realty in Austin, Texas. Eric currently manages his Austin Leasing Agent Guide, his Austin Apartment company's website, & his Austin Apartment Locator Guide.
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If you are interested in a career in real estate, the steps you will need to take are relatively straightforward. Nonetheless, it doesn't mean that it is easy to become a real estate agent. If you hope to launch a career in this field, you will need to dedicated a great deal of time and effort to your studies.
Taking Real Estate Classes
The first step to becoming a real estate agent is to take the proper classes. Often, you can take real estate classes at a local community college or other facility that provides continuing education classes. Before signing up for real estate classes, however, make sure the courses are approved by your state.
In order to become a real estate agent, you must first complete schooling through an approved real estate program. If the program is not approved by the state, you will not be allowed to complete the examination that is necessary for obtaining your real estate license.
Taking the Real Estate Exam
By completing your real estate coursework, you should be well prepared for the real estate examination. Nonetheless, it is essential to study for the examination before taking the test, as it can be a bit trickier than you might think. For example, some of the questions on the exam ask you to apply the concepts you have learned in your real estate classes, which means successfully passing the examination requires more than just memorizing information.
Some people do pass the test the first time they take it, but be prepared to take the test multiple times in order to finally pass it. Once you do pass the test, you will finally be able to work as a real estate agent.
Building a Reputation
Of course, launching a career in real estate requires more than just taking the proper courses and completing an examination. If you hope to build a client base and to be successful in the field, you need to establish a reputation and build up a base of contacts.
In order to get your foot in the door in the real estate world, you will need to lean the tricks of trade from other professional in the field. One great place to start is at your local real estate agents' association, which can be found in most large cities. These groups and clubs meet on a regular basis in order to exchange information, which is very helpful for a real estate agent that is just getting started in the field.
Continuing Your Education
After you have completed the coursework and passed the real estate examination, you will have to take additional classes in order to maintain your licensing. Therefore, you will need to be prepared to continue taking real estate classes even after you have successfully launched your career.
By taking these continuing education classes, you will also stay up to date in the latest changes in the field. This will ensure that you are capable of serving your clients to the best of your abilities, which will further help with building your reputation and solidifying your career in real estate.
Eric Bramlett is the broker & co-owner of One Source Realty in Austin, Texas. Eric currently manages his West Lake Real Estate Guide, his Austin TX Realtor company's website, & his Steiner Ranch real estate Guide.
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When you decide to build a home rather than to buy a home or when you make the decision to remodel the home that you already have, you most likely intend to get the job done with the help of contractor. Unfortunately, contractors have earned a somewhat bad reputation as some have failed to live up to their contracts or provide the quality of work homeowners expect when they buy their services. In order to keep yourself from being disappointed by your contractor, it is important that you follow these simple tips.
Tip #1: Ask Your Friends and Family
The single best way to select a contractor is to ask around. If your friends or family members have worked with a contractor that did a good job for them, you should put that contractor high on your list. The more recently the friend or family member hired a contract to work on their real estate the better. After all, if a contractor just did a great job a few months ago, he or she is likely to still be able to provide the same level of service.
Tip #2: Check References
Of course, you may not know anyone that has recently purchased real estate or that did any remodeling to their homes. If this is the case, you won't have much of a starting point when choosing a contractor. Therefore, it is essential that you check the references provided by the contractor. Ideally, you should check into references for jobs that are completed as well as for jobs that are in progress. This way, you can check out the real estate in varying levels of completion in order to determine the quality of the work.
Before you buy the services of a contractor, you should also talk with some of the references. Ask the references important questions, such as:
• How well did the contractor stay on schedule?
• How happy were you with your real estate when the job was completed?
• Did you feel as if the contractor listened to you when you ran into a problem?
• Were your concerns easily resolved?
Talking with past clients is an excellent way to get an idea of the type of work the contractor does as well as his level of commitment to customer satisfaction.
Tip #3: Check the Contractor's License
If you are going to buy the services of a contractor, you certainly want someone that is properly educated in the craft. Before you sign a contract and buy the materials for the job, check with your Contractors State License Board in your state. By checking with the board, you can confirm that the contractor is licensed and you can also find out the areas of specialty in which the contractor is licensed.
When checking on licensing, ask the contractor for his or her pocket license as well as another form of identification. Then, check the license against the other form of identification in order to make sure the names match up. Since it is illegal for a contractor to use another contractor's license, a reputable contractor will have matching identification.
Tip #4: Make Sure the Contractor is Insured
As the buyer, you shouldn't be expected to buy insurance to cover the job. Rather, the contractor should have insurance in place. Check to make sure the contractor is insured against property damage, worker's compensation, and personal liability. Ask for a copy of the certificate of insurance to verify coverage as this will protect you if something goes wrong while on the job.
Deciding to buy real estate in order to build your own home or to remodel your current home is an exciting time in your life. Make sure you do your homework before selecting a contractor in order to prevent your dream from turning into a nightmare.
Eric Bramlett is the broker & co-owner of One Source Realty in Austin, Texas. Eric currently manages his Austin Real Estate Guide, his Westlake Real Estate company's website, & his Lakeway Real Estate Guide.
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The Internet has quickly become a valuable resource in a variety of ways, and apartment searching is no exception. In fact, using the Internet can be the ideal method for apartment hunting, particularly if you are interested in moving to a new area that is quite a distance away from where you are currently located.
Of course, searching for an apartment online is not without its risks. Therefore, there are a few things you should keep in mind when searching for an apartment through the Internet that will help guarantee a pleasant experience resulting in an apartment you love.
Use Many Sources
One of the biggest mistakes that apartment hunters make is using just one resource when searching for an apartment online. Keep in mind that different web sites will have different listings. Therefore, in order to achieve the most comprehensive look at the available apartments, you will need to check with many different sites.
When looking for sites with apartment listings, you should also utilize different search engines. Since each search engine has its on method of bring back search results, using more than one search engine may help bring back some different results. At a minimum, you should use the major search engines, including Yahoo, Google, MSN, and Ask.
Perform Searches
In many cases, you can get feedback from current and former residents of apartments by conducting a search of the apartment name. When doing a search of the name, it might bring up review sites or simply websites that that current or former residents may have set up. Read this feedback in order to give you a better idea of whether or not the apartment complex is a good fit for you. A nice perk to reading this type of feedback is the fact that it can give you an idea of the type of people that live in the apartment as well. On the same note, do some research into the area where the apartment is located in order to determine its level of crime and how close it is to the conveniences you desire, such as the proximity of the apartment to public transportation.
Look Before You Lease
No matter how perfect the apartment might look on the Internet, it is essential that you take a look at it before you enter into any type of leasing agreement. In order to make things easier on you, you should thoroughly research all of the available apartments and then narrow your choices down to less than ten apartments. Then, contact those landlords and arrange to see all of the apartments on the same day or within a couple day time period. This way, you can arrange for a trip to see all of the apartments in order to make your final decision.
If it is impossible for you to arrange a trip to see the apartments, ask someone you trust that lives in the area to look at the apartments for you. If this is not possible, make arrangements with the landlord to sign a lease that allows you to break the lease within a certain number of days without repercussions if the apartment fails to meet your expectations. Eric Bramlett is the broker & co-owner of One Source Realty in Austin, Texas.
Eric currently manages his Austin apartment Guide, his Austin leasing agent website, & his Austin apartment Guide. Eric is committed to offering premium real estate services.
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