Outlaw Realty

Fredericksburg is worth a try Feeling antsy after so much sheltering at home?

Tue, 01 Dec 2020 12:00:00 -0600

Feeling antsy after so much sheltering at home? Maybe Fredericksburg is worth a try. This austin360 piece has great visit ideas from peaching to wine-tasting. History buffs can check out historic sites and foodies can do some local wining and dining.

https://tinyurl.com/y2odwegj

Is your real estate investment holding up? A lot of people have reached out to us in recent months asking this question.

Mon, 30 Nov 2020 12:00:00 -0600

A lot of people have reached out to us in recent months, wondering how the value of their real estate investments is holding up. Well, according to the most recent MLS statistics, last month the median home price in Austin was $419,714 (9.9% higher than in June 2019). On average homes are also sold 9.7% faster than they were the previous year. They were typically on the market for only three and a half weeks. There are lots of ways to think about the value of your home, but these are two great indicators that value is still on the rise!

Austin homes are among the fastest selling in the country The Austin housing market is very competitive, with a decrease in sellers and increase in buyers.

Sun, 29 Nov 2020 12:00:00 -0600

Demand is so high that Austin homes have come to be some of the fastest-selling nationwide. To read more about what’s behind this particular market trend, check this out.

Austin homes are among the fastest selling in the country

Real Estate Market Statistics October 2016

Fri, 18 Nov 2016 12:00:00 -0600

Single-family home sales rise in the city of Austin, decline across Central Texas region in October

Austin Board of REALTORS® releases October 2016 Central Texas Housing Market Report

AUSTIN, Texas – Nov. 17, 2016 – Single-family home sales jumped within the city of Austin but declined across the Austin-Round Rock Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) in October, according to the October 2016 Central Texas Housing Market Report released today by the Austin Board of REALTORS®.

Aaron Farmer, 2016 President of the Austin Board of REALTORS® said, “Home sales typically slow down in the fall, so it’s encouraging to see a surge of sales within Austin’s city limits last month. Much of this growth is being driven by new home sales in the city, which are up nearly 38 percent year to date. Homes within Austin’s city limits continue to be in strong demand, despite having a significantly higher price point than housing stock in surrounding areas.”

After relatively flat growth throughout much of the year, single-family home sales in the city of Austin jumped 7.5 percent year-over-year to 703 home sales in October 2016. Median price increased 6.5 percent year-over-year to $332,250, while housing inventory increased 0.2 months to 2.2 months. Active listings increased 11.3 percent year-over-year to 1,667 listings during the same time frame, while homes spent slightly more time on the market, or an average of 42 days.

Conversely, single-family home sales fell across the Austin-Round Rock MSA in October 2016, declining 3.1 percent year-over-year to 2,219 home sales. Median price rose 9.3 percent from October 2015 to $279,000, while housing inventory edged up 0.1 months year-over-year to 2.6 months of inventory. Single-family homes spent an average of 51 days on the market in October 2016, two days more than October 2015.

Single-family home sales in Hays County were flat in October 2016, increasing 0.8 percent year-over-year to 258 home sales. The median price for single-family homes in Hays County jumped 17.5 percent to $249,945 in October 2016. Largely in part to active ongoing housing development throughout the area, housing inventory increased 0.4 months to 3.1 months of inventory in October 2016, while active listings for single-family homes jumped 17.6 percent year-over-year to 874 active listings.

The largest annual decline in home sales in October 2016 was in Williamson County, where single-family home sales fell 12.2 percent year-over-year to 744 home sales. The median price for single-family homes in Williamson County increased 7.1 percent year-over-year to $255,000, while housing inventory fell 0.1 months from October 2015 to 2.2 months of inventory. Active listings for single-family homes in Williamson County remained flat in October 2016 at 1,859 active listings, an increase of 0.5 percent from October 2015.

“Williamson County’s unprecedented housing demand continues to keep housing inventory at record low levels, despite having one of the strongest housing development activities in the region,” added Farmer.

Vaike O’Grady, Austin Regional Director for Metrostudy, agreed: “An extraordinary number of homes are under construction in Williamson County, but nearly everything that’s going on the ground is being sold. In the city of Austin, single-family housing growth is concentrated in a few subdivisions, such as the Mueller community.”

Metrostudy’s recent 3Q16 survey of the Austin housing market showed that housing starts and closing throughout the Austin area are at their highest level since 2006. Builders are attempting to fill the growing affordability gap by offering smaller floor plans and fewer features as well as a greater number of condominiums and townhomes, but primarily only in areas outside the city.

“Austin homes command a premium, so you don’t see a lot of lower-priced housing options within the city. Most new single-family homes being offered in the city of Austin are priced at $400,000 or higher,” added O’Grady.

“Housing development is at the center of solving Austin’s growing affordability crisis, but it has to be the right kind of housing being developed – a variety of housing stock at all price points and where it’s needed most,” concluded Farmer. “This can only happen once a new Land Development Code is put in place. The Austin Board of REALTORS® urges our city’s leaders to make reworking Austin’s Land Development Code their top priority.”

For additional housing market statistics and infographics for the Central Texas region; Austin-Round Rock MSA; Hays, Travis and Williamson counties; and the City of Austin, please visit ABoR.com/StatsOct16.

Graphs

Austin Area Single Family Home Sales: October 2006 - 2016

Austin Area Single Family Home Listings: October 2006 - 2016

Austin Area Months of Inventory for Single Family Homes: October 2006 - 2016

Austin Area Median Values for Single Family Homes: October 2006 - 2016

Austin Area Annual Family Home Sales 2005 - 2015

Austin-Round Rock home sales on pace to surpass 2015 record levels amidst affordability crisis

Fri, 22 Jul 2016 12:00:00 -0500

Austin Board of REALTORS® releases real estate statistics for June 2016

AUSTIN, Texas – Single-family home sales and prices experienced strong gains throughout the Central Texas region in the first half of 2016, according to the June & Mid-Year 2016 Central Texas Housing Market Report released today by the Austin Board of REALTORS®.

“Despite the ongoing housing shortage and affordability challenges impacting our region, population growth and housing demand continue to drive home sales upward,” said Aaron Farmer, 2016 President of the Austin Board of REALTORS®. “The Austin-Round Rock housing market is on track to outpace 2015 market levels, which was a record-breaking year for home sales.”

Austin-Round Rock Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA)

Single-family home sales in the five-county Austin-Round Rock MSA rose 6.1 percent year-over-year to 14,482 home sales in the first half of 2016, while median price rose seven percent year-over-year to $282,000. Home listings also experienced gains in the first half of the year, with active listings increasing 6.6 percent to 5,290 listings, new listings rising 5.7 percent to 20,060 listings, and pending sales rising 7.2 percent to 15,909 sales.

Rising home sales and home prices means a greater impact on the region’s economy as well. Sales dollar volume in the Austin-Round Rock area was $5,073,874,678, an 11.5 percent increase from the first six months of 2015.

Single-family housing market activity continued to be strong in June 2016, with home sales jumping to 3,219 sales, an 8.5 percent increase compared to June 2015. Median price rose 8.2 percent to $295,500 during the same time frame. Monthly housing inventory remained unchanged at 2.5 months, which is less than half of the Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University’s benchmark of 6.5 months as a balanced housing market.

City of Austin

Despite ongoing housing affordability challenges, single-family home sales in the City of Austin increased 3.4 percent to 4,465 home sales in the first half of 2016. Of the 21,036 single-family homes sold in the 18-county Central Texas region in the first half of 2016, approximately only one in five (21 percent) were sold within the Austin city limits. Median price increased 5.6 percent to $339,652 in the first half of the year, while active listings jumped 20.1 percent to 1,298 listings during the same time frame.

In June 2016, Austin home sales increased 2.6 percent to 975 home sales, while median price increased only 2.9 percent to $350,000. Monthly housing inventory increased 0.3 months to 2.1 months, while homes spent a little more than one month (32 days) on the market on average, an increase of two days from June 2015.

“The Central Texas housing market is performing very well, but extreme housing shortages across the region continue to be a challenge,” said Jim Gaines, Chief Economist at the Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University. “Homes under $300,000 have less than two months of inventory in the Austin-Round Rock MSA, which means that housing at these price ranges is essentially nonexistent. The growing “donut effect” of homes sales activity as homebuyers move outside Austin city limits in search of more affordable housing is on pace to continue in the near future."

Travis County

In the first half of 2016, Travis County single-family home sales increased 4.9 percent year-over-year to 7,203 home sales–nearly half of all single-family homes sold in the five-county MSA during the same time frame. In the meantime, median price increased 7.8 percent year-over-year to $330,000. In June 2016, single-family home sales increased 5.2 percent to 1,567 home sales, median price rose 10 percent to $357,500. However, monthly housing inventory stayed steady at 2.6 months.

Williamson County

Williamson County single-family home sales jumped 11.9 percent year-over-year to 1,140 home sales in June 2016, while median price rose 8.7 percent to $269,500 during the same time frame. Housing inventory dropped 0.2 months to 2.1 months of inventory in June 2016, making the housing shortage in Williamson County equally as critical as in the City of Austin.

In the first half of 2016, single-family home sales jumped 7.2 percent to 4,966 home sales, while median price rose 6.3 percent to $260,000. More homes were sold in Williamson County in the first half of the year than in the City of Austin (4,465 home sales year to date), despite having a population half the size of the City of Austin’s.

Hays County

In the first half of 2016, Hays County single-family home sales rose 5.1 percent year-over-year to 1,677 home sales, while median price increased 4.7 percent year-over-year to $243,000. As a result of strong housing development and sales activity throughout the county, new listings increased 12.2 percent year-over-year to 2,332 listings and active listings jumped 17.3 percent year-over-year to 732 listings in the first half of the year. In June 2016, single-family home sales increased 5.8 percent year-over-year to 366 home sales, while median price crept up 2.3 percent to $249,950 during the same time frame.

“It’s important that we think of the growing housing affordability crisis not just as an Austin issue, but also as a regional challenge,” concluded Farmer. “Housing supply shortages have reached critical levels throughout the region and areas with affordably priced homes are becoming smaller and father away from jobs. Some homebuyers are now looking at homes an hour or more outside of Austin to find a home that they can afford. City of Austin leaders as well of those of surrounding cities must come together to solve our region’s challenges in housing supply, affordability and infrastructure.”

For additional housing market statistics and infographics for the Austin-Round Rock MSA; Central Texas; Hays, Travis and Williamson counties; and the City of Austin, please visit ABoR.com/StatsJun16.

Graphs

Austin Area Single Family Home Sales: June 2011 - 2016

Austin Area Single Family Home Listings: June 2011 - 2016

Austin Area Months of Inventory for Single Family Homes: June 2011 - 2016

Austin Area Median Values for Single Family Homes: June 2011 - 2016

Austin Area Annual Family Home Sales 2005 - 2015

Home sales jump in Williamson County, across Austin-Round Rock Metropolitan Area in May 2016

Tue, 21 Jun 2016 12:00:00 -0500

Austin Board of REALTORS® releases real estate statistics for May 2016

AUSTIN, Texas – June 21, 2016 – Single-family home sales jumped in Williamson County and across the Austin-Round Rock Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) in May 2016, according to the May 2016 Central Texas Housing Market Report released today by the Austin Board of REALTORS®.

“Housing demand continues to be at an all-time high in the Central Texas region, with properties priced under $500,000 selling rapidly,” said Aaron Farmer, 2016 President of the Austin Board of REALTORS®. “Williamson County homes are among the most popular in the region due to the county’s highly-rated school districts, access to major thoroughfares and proximity to major employment hubs in Austin.”

Williamson County’s population is less than half that of Travis County, yet only 424 more single-family homes were sold in Travis County than Williamson County in May 2016. Williamson County home sales surged 19.5 percent year-over-year in May to 1,028 single-family home sales.

Single-family home sales also increased by double-digit margins across the Central Texas region, rising 13.2 percent annually to 4,297 home sales in May 2016. In the five-county MSA, single-family home sales rose 9.9 percent year-over-year to 2,909 home sales during the same time frame.

“Austin-Round Rock unemployment recently hit a 16-year low, largely thanks to Austin’s booming tech sector,” said Eldon Rude, principal at 360 Real Estate Analytics. "Tech companies such as Apple Computer continue to fuel employment growth in Northwest Austin and in turn, are driving home sales growth in southeast Williamson County where homes are less expensive and new home development continues to be strong.”

High home prices and critically low inventory levels continued to stifle home sales within the City of Austin, as more homebuyers look outside of Austin’s city limits for affordably priced housing. In May 2016, Austin single-family home sales remained statistically unchanged at 884 home sales.

Home prices throughout the Central Texas region continued to increase in May 2016, but at a slower pace. In the five-county MSA, median price rose 4.8 percent year-over-year to $288,085. In Williamson County, median price rose 5.2 percent annually to $261,822. The median price within Austin’s city limits was $355,000 in May 2016, a 1.6 percent increase from the year prior.

Monthly housing inventory within the Austin-Round Rock MSA was 2.4 months in May 2016, statistically unchanged from the year prior. Housing inventory within the City of Austin rose 0.2 months year-over-year to 1.9 months of inventory, while inventory within Williamson County fell 0.3 months annually to 1.9 months during the same time frame.

Housing inventory levels lower than 2.0 months are considered an extremely tight market by the Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University, which cites an inventory level of 6.5 months as a market in which the supply and demand for homes in balanced.

In the Austin-Round Rock MSA, pending sales jumped 21.1 percent to 3,297 pending sales in May 2016. Double-digit gains in pending sales were also evident across the 18-county Central Texas region, within the City of Austin and in Travis and Williamson counties.

“Strong gains in both pending sales and active listings both in Austin and regionally indicate a strong summer selling season could be ahead,” concluded Farmer. “A Central Texas REALTOR® can provide in-depth market expertise to help homebuyers and sellers navigate competitive housing market conditions.”

For additional housing market statistics and infographics for the Austin-Round Rock MSA; Central Texas; Hays, Travis and Williamson counties; and the City of Austin, please visit ABoR.com/StatsMay16.

* The inventory of homes for a market can be measured in months, which is defined as the number of active listings divided by the average sales per month of the prior 12 months. The Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University cites that 6.5 months of inventory represents a market in which supply and demand for homes is balanced.

Graphs

Austin Area Single Family Home Sales: May 2011 - 2016

Austin Area Single Family Home Listings: May 2011 - 2016

Austin Area Months of Inventory for Single Family Homes: May 2011 - 2016

Austin Area Median Values for Single Family Homes: May 2011 - 2016

Austin Area Annual Family Home Sales 2005 - 2015

Notoriously Awesome Area Events - May 2016

Fri, 06 May 2016 12:00:00 -0500

April is Latino Music Month in Austin! There are plenty of events to keep you and the entire family busy as the weather gets warmer, so check out these notoriously awesome activities:

Pecan Street Arts Festival, May 7 - 8, East Sixth Street
Free, family-friendly, and outdoors is the bill of the day. Enjoy food, music, arts, and crafts in this annual Austin tradition.

Lifetime Triathalon CapTex, May 30, Lady Bird Lake
A triathalon for all levels of ability, from beginners to seasoned pros. Includes sprint and international distances.

Our Global Kitchen, This Month, Bullock Texas State History Museum
Witness a multimedia spectacular celebrating food and people throughout the world.

ZACH Theater presents: Ann, May 8 - 15
See the late former governor of Texas, in all her blue and brassy glory. Tickets are on sale now!

Farmgrass Fest, May 14 - 15
Family fun, music, and of course food will be celebrated with gusto at Farmgrass Fest.

Call or email your Outlaw Realty agent if we can advise, coach, or educate you on any real estate related questions.

If you want to suggest an event for the Notoriously Awesome monthly events listing, please send your Outlaw Realty agent an emailed suggestion.

ABoR calls attention to housing diversity issues in Central Texas amidst rising home prices

Wed, 27 Apr 2016 12:00:00 -0500

Austin Board of REALTORS® releases real estate statistics for February 2016

Aaron Farmer, 2016 President of the Austin Board of REALTORS®, explained, “The challenges facing our region’s infrastructure are approaching critical mass. Austin-area residents are relocating farther and farther outside of Austin due to affordability issues and yet are spending more and more time stuck in traffic each year. With the rate our region’s population is growing, this is simply not sustainable.”

ABoR’s Transportation Policy Team monitors city and regional transportation plans and projects and engages in transportation policy issues to ensure Central Texas residents have a variety of reliable and efficient modes of transportation.

“We stay on top of the main mobility initiatives in Central Texas, such as the MoPac Improvement Project, and get involved as projects are planned and developed,” said David Hood, ABoR Transportation Policy Team Chair. “ABoR represents a diverse group of Realtors and homeowners across Central Texas, so we look at how a transportation project or proposal will impact these unique populations and the entire region in the long term.”

As the market remains competitive, Austin-area monthly housing inventory was 2.1 months in February 2016, an increase of 0.1 months from February 2015. This figure is still well below the 6.5 month level the Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University estimates as a balanced housing market. Homes spent 62 days on market in February 2016, three days more than the year prior.

New listings increased by 11.1 percent to 2,793 listings in February 2016 and active listings increased by 10 percent year-over-year reaching 4,871 listings. Additionally, pending sales increased by 12.3 percent at 2,346 sales.

Farmer concluded: “The Austin Board of REALTORS® is glad to see Mayor Adler’s regional approach to solving the Austin area’s growing transportation challenges through the Mobility 20/20 Solution. Our region needs a variety of multi-modal transit solutions for our infrastructure to sustain future growth and it’s going to take collaboration between Austin leadership and surrounding cities to make that a reality.”

February 2016 Statistics

1,783 – Single-family homes sold, 2.9 percent more than February 2015.
$269,900 – Median price for single-family homes, 8.0 percent more than February 2015.
$333,011 – Average price for single-family homes, 7.6 percent more than February 2015.
62 – Average number of days single-family homes spent on the market, three days more than February 2015.
2,793 – New single-family home listings on the market, 11.1 percent more than February 2015.
4,871 – Active single-family home listings on the market, 10 percent more than February 2015.
2,346 – Pending sales for single-family homes, 12.3 percent more than February 2015.
2.1 – Months of inventory* of single-family homes, 0.1 months more than February 2015.
$593,758,953– Total dollar volume of single-family properties sold, 10.7 percent more than February 2015.

The Austin Board of REALTORS® (ABoR) builds connections through the use of technology, education and advocacy to strengthen the careers of its 11,000 members and improve the lives of Central Texas families. We empower Austin REALTORS® to connect their clients to the region’s most complete, accurate and up-to-date listings data. For more, contact the ABoR Department of Public Affairs at marketing@abor.com or 512-454-7636. For the latest local housing market listings, visit AustinHomeSearch.com.

* The inventory of homes for a market can be measured in months, which is defined as the number of active listings divided by the average sales per month of the prior 12 months. The Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University cites that 6.5 months of inventory represents a market in which supply and demand for homes is balanced.

Graphs

Austin Area Single Family Home Sales: February 2011 - 2016

Austin Area Single Family Home Listings: February 2011 - 2016

Austin Area Months of Inventory for Single Family Homes: February 2011 - 2016

Austin Area Median Values for Single Family Homes: February 2011 - 2016

Austin Area Annual Family Home Sales 2005 - 2015

Notoriously Awesome Area Events - April 2016

Wed, 06 Apr 2016 12:00:00 -0500

April is all about giving in Austin. Great news! Crawfish & Croquet 2016 is on Sunday, April 24! Get your fill of crawfish, pulled pork, Saint Arnold’s beer, and fun at Fiesta Gardens, benefiting Mobile Loaves & Fishes. Of course, you probably need other things to do around Austin until then, so here’s what you can expect in the month to come:

Austin International Poetry Festival, April 7 - 10
Across the city, people are getting together to witness some of the best poetry Austin has to offer. Taking place in several venues at different times, come out to see the power of words take form.

Austin Reggae Fest, April 15 - 17, Auditorium Shores
Raising money for Capital Area Food Bank for over a decade, Austin Reggae Fest is taking over Auditorium Shores. Pre-order tickets now and save on door prices.

Eeyore’s Birthday, April 30, Pease District Park
Local beer, live music, and an eclectic mix of costumes mark the birthday of a beloved children’s book character. This annual event benefits several local charities and nonprofits.

Capital 10K, April 10, Congress Avenue
This 10K has grown a lot from its roots back in 1978 with 3,400 participants. Now, more than 18,000 will make the trek in an annual Austin tradition.

Austin Food + Wine Festival, April 24 - 26, Auditorium Shores
Good food, good wine, Auditorium Shores. Need we say more?

APA! Soiree, April 21, L’estelle House
Sign up to attend a dog-friendly party benefiting Austin Pets Alive! Bring items to donate, as well as an appetite. This event is outdoor, so dress casual and be ready to have some fun with Fido.

Call or email your Outlaw Realty agent if we can advise, coach, or educate you on any real estate related questions.

If you want to suggest an event for the Notoriously Awesome monthly events listing, please send your Outlaw Realty agent an emailed suggestion.

ABoR hones in on region’s mobility issues as Central Texas continues to grow

Wed, 23 Mar 2016 12:00:00 -0500

Austin Board of REALTORS® releases real estate statistics for February 2016

February 2016 Statistics

1,783 – Single-family homes sold, 2.9 percent more than February 2015.
$269,900 – Median price for single-family homes, 8.0 percent more than February 2015.
$333,011 – Average price for single-family homes, 7.6 percent more than February 2015.
62 – Average number of days single-family homes spent on the market, three days more than February 2015.
2,793 – New single-family home listings on the market, 11.1 percent more than February 2015.
4,871 – Active single-family home listings on the market, 10 percent more than February 2015.
2,346 – Pending sales for single-family homes, 12.3 percent more than February 2015.
2.1 – Months of inventory* of single-family homes, 0.1 months more than February 2015.
$593,758,953– Total dollar volume of single-family properties sold, 10.7 percent more than February 2015.

Graphs

Austin Area Single Family Home Sales: February 2011 - 2016

Austin Area Months of Inventory for Single Family Homes: February 2011 - 2016

Austin Area Median Values for Single Family Homes: February 2011 - 2016

Austin Area Annual Family Home Sales 2005 - 2015

March Home Maintenance: Brace Yourself, Summer is Coming

Thu, 03 Mar 2016 12:00:00 -0600

Owning a home is one of the best ways to invest your time and money. No one wants to sink their hard-earned cash into costly repairs, though. It’s worth it to take a little time each month for home maintenance that could save you a ton of hassle and money in the long run.

March is usually mild in our area, but you don’t want to wait until July to check up on your HVAC system. This month, we’ll be looking at your heating and cooling systems, as well as checking on ventilation around the house.

Have HVAC cleaned and serviced

Overheating is one of the major reasons HVAC systems go on the fritz during the summer months. With days that are somewhat cool, turning off your AC to have it cleaned has less of an impact on your daily life today than it will in July. Luckily, by maintaining your unit little by little, you’re less likely to have to spend money on an expensive fix.

First, check your unit’s manufacturing instructions for cleaning directions. Then, find and disconnect the power. Hose off any looks debris with a water hose. With an air conditioner cleaning agent, gently spray the cooling coils and let it sit for 10-15 minutes. Spray the cleaner off, and you’re done!

Check attic for leaks, proper ventilation and critters

Whether your attic is finished or not, it has the potential to let in all of summer’s fury if there’s even a tiny crack, costing you on your energy bill. Here’s a few things to look for specifically:

Droppings: If there’s an animal living upstairs, you’d better bet they’re leaving something behind. Attics can smell musty (that’s usually dust) but if you smell ammonia, there’s a good chance that you have rodents. If you can’t find the source of the smell, call an exterminator. They’re trained in getting the creature out safely and humanely.
Gaps: If you can see any light in your attic walls or ceiling where there shouldn’t be, those are places for heat to get in. Based on your insulation needs, most hardware stores carry a variety of products to seal those up.
Blocked vents: On the other hand, make sure that any vents that should be open are free of debris and properly framed. Completely dead air can be a hazard, so make sure that everything’s clean.

Remove lint from dryer exhaust vent with a long, flexible brush

There are a lot of tools out there for removing dryer lint. Most consist of a brush and electric mechanism that pull out accumulated lint. If your dryer isn’t drying completely, or your laundry room gets very hot when the dryer is running, check out this video to see what might be getting in the way.

February Home Maintenance: It’s a dirty job, but someone’s got to love it.

Tue, 02 Feb 2016 12:00:00 -0600

Owning a home is one of the best ways to invest your time and money. No one wants to sink their hard-earned cash into costly repairs, though. It’s worth it to take a little time each month for home maintenance that could save you a ton of hassle and money in the long run.

February is often the coldest month of the year in Texas. Getting outside to handle big repairs can sometimes wait for warmer days, so why not tackle some indoor jobs?

These tasks are easily forgotten, but really do contribute to a well-kept home. This month, we’ll be tackling a few kitchen maintenance jobs, as well as one in the garage.

Remove and clean your kitchen exhaust fan filter

Unfortunately, when it comes to cleaning this grease magnet, you’re in a for a dirty job. There are some market cleaners that work well, but if you’re looking to go old-fashioned, you get to pick one: quick or gentle

Quick: trisodium phosphate (wear gloves!)

Advantages: Cuts through the grease without much fuss
Disadvantages: Harsh chemical, could stain some metals, potentially difficult to dispose of since it can cause environmental problems

Gentle: ¼ cup ammonia, 2 tablespoons baking soda, and 1 quart warm water

Advantages: Much more gentle on metal or skin, though gloves are still recommended
Disadvantages: Requires a lot more elbow grease

Whatever you pick, make sure to open the windows for ventilation. You’re going to want to get the hood, fan blades, and even the metal grates. Putting smaller pieces into the dishwasher can sometimes help.

Clean refrigerator drain pan and coils

Your refrigerator might as well be the heart of your home, since it’s likely got much of your food in it. Cleaning it will extend its life and keep you from having to purchase a new one before you’re ready for it.

If your coils are on the back of the refrigerator, gently pull it away from the wall until you can unplug it. Make sure you also disconnect any water lines running to it. Then, use an (aptly named) refrigerator coil cleaning brush, which you can find at most hardware stores, and go at it. Bringing a vacuum cleaner with the brush attachment can also help a lot. Since you’ve got it out, go ahead and vacuum up any dust that might have collected behind the refrigerator, too.

Next, look for the drip pan at the bottom of your fridge. Most manufacturers use a simple black plastic tray that can be removed easily. Simply running over it with a shop vac or scrubbing it in the sink can keep the tray from overflowing or developing any bad smells.

Clean and defrost the refrigerator, if necessary

Most modern refrigerators come with a defrosting mechanism, but your freezer might still need an occasional defrost. This is probably the easiest job on our list, though potentially messy if you’re not careful.

First, remove everything from the machine. Put food in a cooler with ice and take the shelves out. Unplug the machine from the wall, and open the doors. Get every old towel in the house (more is better) and pile them in a heap at the base of the fridge, and let it all melt. The towels should keep you from having an enormous puddle on the floor.

Once all the ice is melted, use soap and warm water and scrub the interior walls of the fridge. Once everything’s dry, plug it back in and replace your food.

Lubricate garage door and check mechanism for free travel

Whether you’ve got an automatic door or a manual, your garage door is a major part of your home’s curb appeal. If it’s having trouble closing, now is a good time to give it a little TLC.

We’ll let the guys over at Precision Garage Door take it from here:

Notoriously Awesome Area Events - February 2016

Thu, 28 Jan 2016 12:00:00 -0600

Groundhog Day is almost upon us! Get ready to Pennsylvania Polka and plan for that other holiday that happens later (something to do with heart-shaped candies and expensive dinners, we think). Here’s what you can expect in the month to come in Austin:

February Cooking Class: Solyanka - February 1 - 6:30 PM - Russian House
Learn to make an awesome traditional soup at the Russian House downtown. Apparently, there’s some speculation that it started out as a hangover food. Tickets are $11.54 online.

Emma, a Mixed-media Art Collection by Ash Almonte - February 2 - 27 - 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM - Russell Collection Fine Art Gallery
Combining the feelings of motherhood with raw emotion on canvas, Ash Almonte brings her collection to Austin, named after her daughter Emma. There will be a reception with the artist open to the public on Saturday, February 6. Remember to RSVP if you plan to attend!

ATX Youth Summit 2016 - Monday, February 15 - 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM - George Washington Carver Museum and Cultural Center
The Women in Jazz Association is bringing an artistic learning experience to the youth of Austin. This event will include workshops on vocal performance, dance, and fitness. The event is free to the public, designed for ages 8 - 18.

Austin Marathon and Half-Marathon - Sunday, February 14 - 7:00 AM - Downtown Austin
It’s been a year already! The Austin Marathon is back, this time on Valentine’s Day. It’s a great way to work up an appetite for a carb-heavy romantic dinner. Registration is open until February 8.

Austin’s No-Kill Anniversary Party - Saturday, February 20 - 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM - 1409 W. 3rd St.
We’ve been a no-kill city for five years now! Austin Pets Alive will be celebrating this milestone with a party, complete with raffles, an open air photo booth, and an Airstream trailer for a VIP reception. This is a people-only event, so pets should stay at home.

Outdoor Kids 2016 - Saturday, February 27 - 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM - El Buen Samaritano
Interested in some free rock-climbing, archery, and outdoor activities? El Buen Samaritano would like to encourage Austin area families to get outside and enjoy physical activity with this event. There’s even Zumba!

Call or email your Outlaw Realty agent if we can advise, coach, or educate you on any real estate related questions.

If you want to suggest an event for the Notoriously Awesome monthly events listing, please send your Outlaw Realty agent an emailed suggestion.

2015 sets all-time high for Austin-area home sales volume, prices

Fri, 22 Jan 2016 12:00:00 -0600

Austin Board of REALTORS® releases real estate statistics for December 2015 and 2015 Year-End Totals

AUSTIN, Texas – Jan. 21, 2016 – Austin-area single-family home sales and prices set all-time records in 2015, as well as records for the month of December 2015, according to the December 2015 and Year-End 2015 Multiple Listing Service (MLS) report released today by the Austin Board of REALTORS®.

Aaron Farmer, 2016 President of the Austin Board of REALTORS®, explained, “Demand for Austin-area real estate was stronger than ever in 2015, primarily due to our region’s job and ongoing population growth. However, low housing inventory levels, rising home prices and high housing development costs have brought Austin’s housing affordability issues to critical levels. Median price for single-family homes in the Austin area increased nearly $30,000 in the last year alone.”

According to the report, 29,068 single-family homes were sold in the Austin area in 2015, a five percent increase from 2014 and an all-time high for Austin-area home sales. Single-family home sales for the Austin area also set a monthly record in December 2015, increasing five percent year-over-year to 2,390 home sales.

Over the course of 2015, median price for Austin-area single-family homes increased nine percent from 2014 to $263,900. In December 2015, the median price for Austin-area homes was $270,000, 10 percent higher than December 2014. As a result, the total sales dollar volume for single-family homes in 2015 topped $9.6 billion, an increase of more than $1 billion from 2014.

Farmer continued, “The Austin Board of REALTORS® plans to build upon the past year’s efforts to advocate for a more affordable Austin, which included supporting Mayor Adler’s Housing Our Heroes initiative and advocating for permanent tax relief for Austin homeowners at the polls last November. It’s crucial that Austin continues to make strides with pivotal policy issues in 2016 to improve the land development code through CodeNEXT and take next steps to achieve more stringent code enforcement.”

The Austin area’s housing affordability challenges were intensified by a continued shortage of housing inventory in 2015. Monthly housing inventory in December 2015 remained unchanged from 2014 at 2.2 months, less than half of what the Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University considers a balanced housing inventory level of approximately 6.5 months.

Austin-area homes spent two more days on the market in 2015 as the year prior, or an average of 49 days. In December 2015, the average amount of time homes spent on the market was 57 days, one day more than December 2014. Pending sales for single-family homes decreased one percent year-over-year to 1,601 pending sales, but pending sales for all of 2015 rose five percent from 2014 to 29,839 pending sales.

Active listings in December 2015 rose three percent year-over-year to 5,214 listings, while new listings increased six percent to 1,646 new listings from December 2014. Throughout the year, active listings rose five percent in 2015 to 6,044 listings and new listings increased four percent to 36,810 listings.

“There are many opportunities, as well as many challenges, ahead in 2016,” Farmer concluded. “Austin residents can count on the Austin Board of REALTORS® to continue to work with the community and city leaders to advocate for policies that ensure everyone in Austin’s communities have a safe, affordable place to live.”

December 2015 Statistics

2,390 – Single-family homes sold, five percent more than December 2014.
$270,000 – Median price for single-family homes, 10 percent more than December 2014.
$348,904 – Average price for single-family homes, 13 percent more than December 2014.
57 – Average number of days single-family homes spent on the market, one day more than December 2014.
1,646 – New single-family home listings on the market, six percent more than December 2014.
5,214 – Active single-family home listings on the market, three percent more than December 2014.
1,601 – Pending sales for single-family homes, one percent less than December 2014.
2.2 – Months of inventory* of single-family homes, unchanged compared to December 2014.
$833,880,560 – Total dollar volume of single-family properties sold, 19 percent more than December 2014.

2015 Year-End Totals

29,068 – Single-family homes sold, five percent more than 2014.
$263,900 – Median price for single-family homes, nine percent more than 2014.
$333,558 – Average price for single-family homes, eight percent more than 2014.
49 – Average number of days that single-family homes spent on the market, two days more than 2014.
36,810 – New single-family home listings on the market, four percent more than 2014.
6,044 – Active single-family home listings on the market, five percent more than 2014.
29,839 – Pending sales for single-family homes, five percent more than 2014.
$9,695,852,178 – Total dollar volume of single-family properties sold, 13 percent more than 2014.

The following sections describe trends in other sectors of the Austin-area real estate market.

Townhouses & Condominiums

The number of townhouses and condominiums (condos) sold in the Austin area in December 2015 was 230 properties, unchanged from December 2014. The median price for condos was $250,000, which is eight percent more than the same month of the prior year. These properties spent an average of 46 days on market, 10 days fewer than in December 2014.

In 2015, Austin-area condo sales dipped three percent from the year prior to 3,057 condo sales. Median price for Austin-area condos was $227,700, a six percent increase from 2014. Condos spent the same amount of time on the market in 2015 as 2014, or an average of 43 days.

Leasing

In December 2015, a total of 1,153 properties were leased in Austin, which is three percent less than December 2014. Properties spent an average of 47 days available for lease, or two fewer days than December 2014. The median rent for property leases was $1,500 per month, a three percent increase from December 2014. Active property listings increased three percent from December 2014 to 1,630 properties. In all of 2015, a total of 17,875 properties were leased in Austin, which is five percent more than 2014, and the median rent was $1,540 per month, or four percent more than 2014.

Graphs

January Home Maintenance: Water, water, everywhere…please just stay in the sink!

Mon, 04 Jan 2016 12:00:00 -0600

Texas winters can be brutal or mild, sometimes with no in between. January is a great time to check the pipes and fixtures around your home for two big reasons: contraction, and February.

Cold temperatures make most things contract, and the metal in your water pipes may be pulling apart slightly at the joints due to the cold. Also, February tends to be the bitterest month as far as weather goes, so it’s a good idea to take care of any potential issues now before one of the rare hard freezes has a chance to happen.

Check interior and exterior faucets for leaks

Your faucet may have been just fine in October, but now it’s developed an annoying little drip. If you think the noise is irritating, wait until you get your water bill. You could call a plumber, but fixing one yourself is pretty easy, according to PopularMechanics.com.

Clean aerators

The aerator is the little mesh insert that fits on the end of your faucet. You might not have one in every sink, but most kitchen faucets do. Dummies.com has a great step-by-step tutorial for how to clean your aerator frustration-free. Make sure you take their advice and and plug the sink so no parts fall into it!

Inspect visible pipes for leaks

Pipes might be visible in your garage, basement, or attic. Puddles or moist drywall are dead giveaways for a leaky pipe. Beware of condensation on pipes, as this can also cause moisture and can be a much more complicated problem.

Check under and around bath and kitchen cabinets for leaks

Some leaks happen underneath the sink where you can’t see them, and loose or warped flooring may be the first thing you notice. If your refrigerator has a water line hooked up to it, remember to check around it, too.

Check toilets for stability and leaks

Take a clean, dry paper towel and run it all the way around the base of your toilet. If there’s moisture on the towel, your commode may not be sitting level with the floor, or there may a leak in the pipes. Also, sit on the seat and rock around in a circle. If the toilet moves, the bolts on the seat or on the base may need to be tightened.

Check area around water heater for leaks

Your water heater is your best friend in the winter. Look for puddles or moisture around the base, and check for mold if your heater is in a closet. If you seem to be running out of hot water quickly, consider how hard your water is. Calcium and lime can build up in the tank and warp the heating element.

Notoriously Awesome Area Events - January 2016

Tue, 29 Dec 2015 12:00:00 -0600

Goodbye 2015, hello opportunity! We’re almost upon the new year, so now’s a great time to get out there and try something new. There’s a ton of things going on, so let’s get started!

Paralellogramophonograph - Fridays in January - 10:00 PM - The Hideout Theater
This winner in a “Best of Austin” critic’s award brings improv theater to new heights. PGraph (as they’re also known) has been improvising full length plays in a wide range of tones for nine years now. Each week they will split the bill with one of their favorite acts. Check out their Facebook page for more details about their show.

Dance U2 - Saturdays - 8:00 PM - 9:00 PM - Dance Across Texas
Who says you can’t dance? FREE country dance lessons from the experts at Dance U2 are offered on Central Texas’s biggest dancefloor at Dance Across Texas.

FREE First Sunday at the Bullock - Sunday, January 3 - 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM - Bullock Texas State History Museum
Every first Sunday the Bullock opens its doors for free. January’s exhibits focus on the importance of ranching in Texas. Family-friendly activities include exploring elements of the chuck wagon, trying your hand with a lasso, and designing your own brands.

Harlem Globetrotters 90th Anniversary World Tour - January 28 - 29 - 7:00 PM - Frank Erwin Center
For almost a century, the Harlem Globetrotters have been fascinating crowds with their basketball skills and ball tricks. Now’s your chance to see them live, right here in Austin! Tickets start at $17.

Poochinis and Pedicures - Thursday, January 7 - 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM - Mud Puppies
The good people at Tito’s Vodka are pairing up with Lofty Dog to offer (humans) martinis to benefit Austin area pet charities. You can swing by this month and every month on the first Thursday.

Bavarian Nights - Tuesdays in January - 5:00 PM - 12:00 PM - Hotel San Jose
Explore your German side every Tuesday in January! Pretzels, sausage, specialty beer, and polka music abound at Hotel San Jose courtyard.

Call or email your Outlaw Realty agent if we can advise, coach, or educate you on any real estate related questions.

If you want to suggest an event for the Notoriously Awesome monthly events listing, please send your Outlaw Realty agent an emailed suggestion.

Austin-area home sales volume decreases in November while prices set record

Mon, 21 Dec 2015 12:00:00 -0600

Outlaw Realty's Monthly Market Statistics Charts -

Data Source: Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University and ABoR

Austin Board of REALTORS® releases real estate statistics for November 2015

AUSTIN, Texas – Dec. 21, 2015 – After increasing for five consecutive months, Austin-area home sales dipped four percent in November 2015 compared to the same month of the prior year, according to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) report released today by the Austin Board of REALTORS® (ABoR). This is only the second decrease in home sales volume for 2015 to date, with the first decrease occurring in May 2015.

Barb Cooper, 2015 President of the Austin Board of REALTORS¬®, explained, “While November single family home sales volume decreased slightly compared to last year, year-to-date home sales volume continues to outpace 2014. With the Austin-area population exceeding two million over the summer, growth in Central Texas is showing no signs of slowing.”

According to the report, the median price for Austin-area single-family homes increased 10 percent year-over-year to $270,000 in November 2015, setting a record for the month of November. Also setting a record for November, average price increased 12 percent to $347,292 during the same timeframe.

New listings increased by one percent and active listings increased by three percent year-over-year. Additionally, pending sales increased by four percent. Homes remained on the market for an average of 54 days in November 2015, one day less than November 2014.

Monthly housing inventory remained unchanged year-over-year at 2.4 months. Housing inventory remains at less than half of what the Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University considers a balanced housing inventory level of approximately 6.5 months.

“The Federal Reserve’s recent decision to raise interest rates is a sign of a healthy economy, and we’re fortunate that Austin has one of the strongest economies and housing markets in the nation,” said Mark Sprague, State Director of Information Capital at Independence Title Company. “Millennials—a large portion of Austin’s population—have never seen interest rates go above 10 percent, so some might be concerned about the impact higher interest rates will have on Austin’s housing market and economy. Even with this increase, however, interest rates are still among the lowest they have ever been, and we do not anticipate a significant impact on the Austin-area housing market.”

Cooper concluded, “It’s encouraging to see an uptick in pending sales, active listings and new listings as a sign of more homes entering the market. Sellers are taking advantage of competitive market conditions and if active listings continue to increase year-over-year, it could lead to a much-needed increase in the Austin-area’s housing inventory level.”

November 2015 Statistics

1,814 – Single-family homes sold, four percent less than November 2014.
$270,000 – Median price for single-family homes, 10 percent more than November 2014.
$347,292 – Average price for single-family homes, 12 percent more than November 2014.
54 – Average number of days single-family homes spent on the market, one day less than November 2014.
2,095 – New single-family home listings on the market, one percent more than November 2014.
5,703 – Active single-family home listings on the market, three percent more than November 2014.
1,965 – Pending sales for single-family homes, four percent more than November 2014.
2.4 – Months of inventory* of single-family homes, unchanged compared to November 2014.
$629,987,688 – Total dollar volume of single-family properties sold, eight percent more than November 2014.

The following sections describe trends in other sectors of the Austin-area real estate market.

Townhouses & Condominiums

The number of townhouses and condominiums (condos) sold in the Austin area in November 2015 was 180, a 10 percent increase from November 2014. The median price for condos was $216,750, which is one percent less than the same month of the prior year. These properties spent an average of 43 days on market, six days less than in November 2014.

Leasing
In November 2015, a total of 1,205 properties were leased in Austin, which is five percent more than November 2014. Properties spent an average of 42 days on the market, or four fewer days than in November 2014. The median price for property leases was $1,550 per month, a nine percent increase from November 2014. Active property listings increased by one percent compared to November 2014, reaching 1,726 listings.

Graphs

Notoriously Awesome Area Events - December 2015

Tue, 01 Dec 2015 12:00:00 -0600

The holiday season is in full swing. We’re celebrating over at Outlaw Realty. Our decorated tree* off Highway 360 might just make your rush hour commute a little more sparkly. If you want to suggest an event for the Notoriously Awesome monthly events listing, please send your Outlaw Realty agent an emailed suggestion. Enjoy!

Mueller Tower Lighting - Tuesday, December 1 - 6:00 PM - Mueller Austin
This may only be the 10th year of lighting the tower itself, but it honors a tradition dating back to the 1960s. Free hot beverages, activities for kids, and appearances by Reagan High School’s marching band and the Houston-Tillotson jazz band will make this an awesome treat to kick off the holidays.

A Christmas Carol - November 25 - December 27 - 12:00 PM - 7:30 PM - Zach Theatre
A holiday classic adapted from Charles Dickens’ original work, this musical features new and old songs with a joyful twist. Tickets start at $25.

Laugh Your Tail Off Cap Comedy Event - Thursday, December 3 - 7:00 PM - Captiol City Comedy Club
Check out this comedy show to benefit Austin-area pets! This is the fourth year for this event, and should prove to be supremely funny. Tickets are $12 per person, or $22 for two, and benefit Love-a-Bull.

Ice Skating on the Plaza - November 29 - January 9 - 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM - Whole Foods (6th Street and Lamar)
Who says it’s too warm to ice skate in Texas? Holiday hours apply. Your $10 entry fee pays for your skate rental.

Austin Jingle Bell 5k - Sunday, December 13 - 8:30 AM - Camp Mabry
Austin’s original festive race is a family-friendly event for run/walkers of all ages. Kids will receive a finisher’s medal, and all age groups will receive a newly-designed event t-shirt. Registration is open until December 10. Remember to bring a valid driver’s license to use Camp Mabry’s facilities.

Retro Style New Years Eve Party - Thursday, December 31 - 9:30 PM - Russian House Austin
Fine dining, or standing room only, this event is sure to ring in the new year in style .With live music, a retro discoteka, and a midnight toast, celebrate new beginnings with some high quality drinks. Tickets start at $65.

Have a notoriously joyous holiday season! Call or email your Outlaw Realty agent if we can advise, coach, or educate you on any real estate related questions.

*We fully intend on cleaning up after ourselves. Watch our Facebook profile for photographic evidence!

Austin-area home sales remain high, could signal record year for Central Texas real estate

Mon, 23 Nov 2015 12:00:00 -0600

Austin Board of REALTORS® releases real estate statistics for October 2015.

Outlaw Realty's Monthly Market Statistics Charts -

Data Source: Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University and ABoR

Austin Board of REALTORS® releases real estate statistics for October 2015.

AUSTIN, Texas – Nov. 19, 2015 – Austin-area single-family home sales increased year-over-year for the fifth consecutive month in October 2015, according to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) report released today by the Austin Board of REALTORS® (ABoR). Austin-area single-family home sales increased by two percent year-over-year to 2,378 home sales and median price increased five percent by the same measure to $252,790 in October 2015.

Barb Cooper, 2015 President of the Austin Board of REALTORS®, explained, “We’re on pace for another record year and while home sales typically slow each fall, housing demand has remained strong far past the typical peak selling season. This demand stems from strong employment and our area’s high growth rate—factors that help create a stable housing market.”

In a recent Freddie Mac report, Austin was ranked the second-most stable housing market in the U.S. The report ranked Austin’s housing market as “improving,” with positive gains in employment and mortgages in good standing.

“A stable housing market bodes well for Central Texas,” added Cooper. “But we need to find ways to give more Austin-area homeowners access to that stability by increasing our density, preserving our existing housing stock through stronger code enforcement and creating more affordable housing options.”

New listings remained unchanged year-over-year at 2,847 listings and active listings increased by three percent compared to October 2014 to 6,342 listings. In addition, pending sales increased four percent to 2,339 single-family home sales. Homes remained on the market for an average of 50 days in October 2015, one day fewer compared to October 2014.

Monthly housing inventory decreased by 0.1 months year-over-year to 2.6 months. Housing inventory remains at less than half of what the Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University considers a balanced housing inventory level of approximately 6.5 months.

October 2015 Statistics

2,378 – Single-family homes sold, two percent more than October 2014.
$252,790 – Median price for single-family homes, five percent more than October 2014.
$333,452 – Average price for single-family homes, seven percent more than October 2014.
50 – Average number of days single-family homes spent on the market, one day fewer than October 2014.
2,847 – New single-family home listings on the market, statistically unchanged compared to October 2014.
6,342 – Active single-family home listings on the market, three percent more than October 2014.
2,339 – Pending sales for single-family homes, four percent more than October 2014.
2.6 – Months of inventory* of single-family homes, 0.1 months less than October 2014.
$792,948,856 – Total dollar volume of single-family properties sold, 10 percent more than October 2014.

The following sections describe trends in other sectors of the Austin-area real estate market.

Townhouses & Condominiums

The number of townhouses and condominiums (condos) sold in the Austin area in October 2015 was 230, a 15 percent decrease from October 2014. The median price for condos was $234,680, which is four percent more than the same month of the prior year. These properties spent an average of 48 days on market, unchanged from October 2014.

Leasing

In October 2015, a total of 1,384 properties were leased in Austin, which is one percent more than October 2014. Properties spent an average of 41 days on the market, or two fewer days than in October 2014. Active property listings increased by five percent compared to October 2014, reaching 1,891 listings.

Graphs

Outlaw Realty is Proud to Introduce Tyson Wynia

Mon, 02 Nov 2015 12:00:00 -0600

Austin, Texas - Outlaw Realty is proud to welcome Tyson Wynia as their newest associates!

Tyson was born in Denver Colorado however has lived in the north Austin area since the age of 8. As they say, “I was not born in Texas but I got as fast as I could”. Tyson has found Austin to be the perfect place to call home. Outside of work Tyson enjoys camping and spending time with his wife, 2 girls, family and friends. Tyson continuously challenges himself physically though mountain biking endurance races.

Tyson realized his passion for real estate while studying property management for personal investments. In 2013 he decided to take the leap from a successful career in the high tech industry as a quality systems engineer of 15 years to a full time REALTOR. His early real-estate success has come from focusing on personal client services and putting hard work into every real estate transaction. Tyson uses his past technical and quality experience to initiate communication in every detail of the transaction providing a smooth process for his clients.

When looking at brokerages, Tyson took many things into consideration. Regarding Outlaw Realty, he put it this way: “My very first transaction was with Outlaw Realty. As a new agent at that time, I was impressed with the branding, the name, the marketing, the professionalism and the contract to close service. Everything was very nicely modeled. I almost thought this was the standard in the industry. Quickly found out it’s not.” He joined Outlaw Realty to be part of their solid model and offer only the best service to his clients.

We at Outlaw Realty look forward to providing him a new standard of support and service to help him reach his goals in business and life.

Notoriously Awesome Area Events - November 2015

Wed, 28 Oct 2015 12:00:00 -0500

Happy cooler weather, Austin! We’re certainly thankful for the respite at Outlaw Realty. As we enter the season of gratitude, we hope you’ll indulge in some events right here in Austin. If you want to suggest an event for the Notoriously Awesome monthly events listing, please send your Outlaw Realty agent an emailed suggestion. Enjoy!

Fun Fun Fun Fest - Friday, November 6 - Sunday, November 8 - Auditorium Shores
With a cross section of the progressive and underground music section, FFFX brings all sorts to Austin. Pre-order for tickets is already over, but you can still make the festival on “Will call” status on festival days.

Austin Celtic Festival - Saturday, November 7 - Sunday, November 8 12:00 PM - 7:30 PM - Fiesta Gardens
Celebrate Celtic ancestry with music, dancing, history and sport. This festival was even nominated in 2012 by Austin Chronicle as Best in Austin. Click on the link above to purchase tickets before October 31.

Snout by Snoutwest - Sunday, November 8 - 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM - Jewish Community Center Soccer Fields
Doggie pools, pet photos, and obedience demonstrations round out this dog-friendly event. Barkitecture also makes an appearance, showing off some truly outrageous dog houses. Tickets and Doggie Derby registration sales benefit Hounds for Heroes.

25th Annual Fossil Fest - Saturday, November 14 - Sunday, November 15 - Old Settler’s Heritage Association (Round Rock)
This low cost, kid-friendly event is a great way to earn some extra credit in school or just check out some local fossils. Head out to Round Rock, TX across the street from Dell Diamond to see the real Jurassic World.

Last Comic Standing - Friday, November 20 - 9:30 PM - One World Theatre
Your favorite new comics from July’s Last Comic Standing are challenged to make America laugh on tour. Previous alums Kathleen Maddigan, Ralphie May, and Josh Blue are scheduled to make an appearance. Booking is available until opening night.

Turkey Trot - Thursday, November 26 - The Long Center
Thundercloud Subs, in addition to making sandwiches so good you’ll bolt them down (heh), has been supporting Caritas of Austin for 25 years now with this Thanksgiving Day run. Registration is open until the day of the race if you want to participate. Of course, spectators are always welcome. There WILL be road closures for this event, so keep an eye out!

Have a notoriously excellent/thankful November! Call or email your Outlaw Realty agent if we can advise, coach, or educate you on any real estate related questions.

Austin-area home sales up for another month in September, Central Texas REALTORS® urge homebuyers t

Thu, 22 Oct 2015 12:00:00 -0500

Austin Board of REALTORS® releases real estate statistics for September 2015.

Outlaw Realty's Monthly Market Statistics Charts -

Data Source: Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University and ABoR

AUSTIN, Texas – October 22, 2015 – According to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) report released today by the Austin Board of REALTORS® (ABoR), Austin-area single-family home sales and prices hit an all-time high for the month of September. Home sales increased by seven percent year-over-year to 2,603 home sales and median price increased eight percent year-over-year, reaching $258,000 in September 2015.

Barb Cooper, 2015 President of the Austin Board of REALTORS¬®, explained, “While current demand bodes well for home sales throughout the rest of year, affordability issues continue to impact Austin-area homebuyers. Fortunately, we have two strong solutions on the November ballot to help increase housing affordability and support Central Texas infrastructure growth.”

On next month’s ballot, Proposition 1 would permanently lower the cost of home ownership in Texas by raising the homestead exemption from $15,000 to $25,000 for most homeowners and from $25,000 to $35,000 for homeowners who are disabled or over the age of 65. That change would mean a permanent property tax reduction of $125 per year for the average Texas homeowner. Additionally, Proposition 1 would create a permanent ban on real estate transfer tax, protecting Texas’ housing affordability in the future.

The Austin Board of REALTORS® also supports Proposition 7, which will bring increased funding for Texas transportation projects and ensure future sustainability of the state’s infrastructure by closing the gap on the $5 billion in transportation needs that go unmet each year.

“We need a combination of property tax relief, broader development of medium-density housing options, and funding for transportation projects to have a lasting impact on Central Texas affordability and infrastructure,” added Cooper. “Central Texas REALTORS® urge Austin-area voters to vote ‘yes’ on November 3 for both Proposition 1 and Proposition 7 to help ensure Texas is an affordable place to live and work in the future.”

According to September’s MLS report, the average price for Austin-area single-family homes increased five percent to $324,150 in September 2015.

New listings increased 11 percent to 2,860 listings and active listings increased by four percent year-over-year to 6,759 listings. In addition, pending sales increased nine percent to 2,391 single-family home sales. Homes remained on the market for an average of 47 days in September 2015, three more days than September 2014.

Monthly housing inventory remained unchanged compared to September 2014, staying flat at 2.8 months. Housing inventory remains at less than half of what the Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University considers a balanced housing inventory level of approximately 6.5 months.

September 2015 Statistics

2,603 – Single-family homes sold, seven percent more than September 2014.
$258,000 – Median price for single-family homes, eight percent more than September 2014.
$324,150 – Average price for single-family homes, five percent more than September 2014.
47 – Average number of days single-family homes spent on the market, three more days than September 2014.
2,860 – New single-family home listings on the market, 11 percent more than September 2014.
6,759 – Active single-family home listings on the market, four percent more than September 2014.
2,391 – Pending sales for single-family homes, nine percent more than September 2014.
2.8 – Months of inventory* of single-family homes, unchanged from September 2014.
$843,762,450 – Total dollar volume of single-family properties sold, 13 percent more than September 2014.

The following sections describe trends in other sectors of the Austin-area real estate market.

Townhouses & Condominiums

The number of townhouses and condominiums (condos) sold in the Austin area in September 2015 was 269, an 11 percent increase from September 2014. The median price for condos was $220,250, which is eight percent more than the same month of the prior year. These properties spent an average of 40 days on market, unchanged from September 2014.

Leasing

In September 2015, a total of 1,593 properties were leased in Austin, which is 15 percent more than September 2014. Properties spent an average of 38 days on the market, or two fewer days than in September 2014. Active property listings increased by four percent compared to September 2014, reaching 1,937 listings.

For more, contact the ABoR Department of Public Affairs at marketing@abor.com or 512-454-7636. For the latest local housing market listings, visit AustinHomeSearch.com.

Notoriously Awesome Area Events - October 2015

Wed, 30 Sep 2015 12:00:00 -0500

October is festival season in Austin! Festival tickets can be hard to come by, so here are some events that don’t require quite as much advance planning. If you want to suggest an event for the Notoriously Awesome monthly events listing, please send your Outlaw Realty agent an emailed suggestion. Enjoy!

THRILLER Zombie Dance Workshop - Thursdays starting October 1, 8:30 - 9:30 PM, Ballet Austin
Learn to dance the iconic steps from Michael Jackson’s Thriller music video, and participate in a flash mob on October 27.

Giant Chess - Saturdays, 12:30 - 3:30 PM, Woolridge Square Park
Bend your mind for FREE and play some chess with these huge pieces. Volunteers are on hand to help beginners. This event is kid-friendly.

Texas Book Festival - Saturday, October 17 - Sunday, October 18, Downtown
This FREE event is bigger and better than ever, with over 300 authors scheduled to attend and activities for all ages. This year is also the Festival’s 20th anniversary.

Austoberfest - Saturday, October 17, Scholz Garden
Break out your lederhosen for Austin’s annual Oktoberfest. Enjoy fresh meats and sausages, a bowling alley, and German bier tastings. Purchase your ticket ahead of time and arrive early. Dog lovers should check out Dogtoberfest below, since no pets are allowed at this event.

Dogtoberfest - Saturday, October 17, The Domain
Sign-in for the DogtoberTROT starts at 8:00 AM, with other events such as a costume contest, wiener dog races, and raffles going on throughout the day.

Camp Halloweekend - Friday, October 31 - Sunday, November 1, Lake Travis
Visit this summer camp for grownups and watch classic camp and Halloween favorites, see live music, and enjoy all the classic camp trappings. Tickets are going fast!

Have a notoriously excellent/spooky October! Call or email your Outlaw Realty agent if we can advise, coach, or educate you on any real estate related questions.

Austin-area home prices set August record, outpace household income growth in August 2015

Tue, 22 Sep 2015 12:00:00 -0500

Austin Board of REALTORS® releases real estate statistics for August 2015

Outlaw Realty's Monthly Market Statistics Charts -
Data Source: Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University and ABoR

AUSTIN, Texas – September 22, 2015 – According to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) report released today by the Austin Board of REALTORS® (ABoR), Austin-area single-family home sales remained high in August, increasing eight percent to 2,943 home sales compared to August 2014. Austin-area single-family median home prices, for both sales and leasing, set a record for the month of August. Median home sales prices increased by eight percent year-over-year to $265,000, while median home lease payments increased by seven percent to $1,600.

Barb Cooper, 2015 President of the Austin Board of REALTORS¬®, explained, “As Austin REALTORS®, we’ve seen our city expand in ways we never could have imagined, but household incomes have not been expanding at the same rate as the cost of living in Austin. We will continue working with our city’s leaders to find a solution to the complex affordability issues, with the end of goal of providing affordable and diverse housing stock for our growing population that aligns with the actual incomes of Central Texas residents.”

Recent data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that approximately 65 percent of Austin-area professionals made less than $50,000 in 2014. Additionally, the City of Austin’s 2014 Comprehensive Housing Market Analysis cited that affordable housing costs should be less than 30 percent of gross monthly income.

That means for residents making $50,000 per year, a mortgage payment translates to $1,250 per month and would fall in a home sales price range of $200,000–$215,000. To compare, the August 2015 median home price was $265,000 and the median lease payment in Central Texas was $1,600.

Simultaneously, median home prices continue to rise and have increased by more than 30 percent from August 2010 to August 2015, a $65,000 difference over the last five years.

Average home price increased six percent compared to August 2014 to $329,620. Total dollar volume continued to rise year-over-year to $970,071,660, increasing by 15 percent.

Monthly housing inventory decreased by 0.1 months compared to August 2014, remaining flat at 2.9 months. This number is still well below the Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University’s balanced housing inventory level of 6.5 months.

New listings increased two percent to 3,364 listings and active listings increased by four percent year-over-year to 6,979 listings. In addition, pending sales increased 11 percent to 2,686 single-family home sales. Homes remained on the market for 42 days in August 2015, the same length of time as in August 2014.

Cooper concluded, “This new report from the Bureau of Labor Statistics provides further evidence of the affordability issue in Central Texas. The growing disparity between rising home prices and what Austin residents can afford, combined with low inventory levels, will continue to drive residents outside of Austin’s city limits to buy a home, putting further strain on our region’s infrastructure and resources.”

August 2015 Statistics

2943 – Single-family homes sold, eight percent more than August 2014.
$265,000 – Median price for single-family homes, eight percent more than August 2014.
$329,620 – Average price for single-family homes, six percent more than August 2014.
42 – Average number of days single-family homes spent on the market, unchanged from August 2014.
3,364 – New single-family home listings on the market, two percent more than August 2014.
6,979 – Active single-family home listings on the market, four percent more than August 2014.
2,686 – Pending sales for single-family homes, 11 percent more than August 2014.
2.9 – Months of inventory* of single-family homes, 0.1 months less than August 2014.
$970,071,660 – Total dollar volume of single-family properties sold, 15 percent more than August 2014.

The following sections describe trends in other sectors of the Austin-area real estate market.

Townhouses & Condominiums

The volume of townhouses and condominiums (condos) purchased in the Austin area in August 2015 was 305, a one percent increase from August 2014. The median price for condos was $225,500, which is five percent more than the same month of the prior year. These properties spent 37 days on market, or three more days than August 2014.

Leasing

In August 2015, a total of 2,080 properties were leased in Austin, which is three percent more than August 2014. Properties spent an average of 36 days on the market, or four fewer days than in August 2014. Active property listings increased by eight percent compared to August 2014, reaching 1,986.

Employment Opportunity with Outlaw Realty - Real Estate Office Assistant

Wed, 02 Sep 2015 12:00:00 -0500

Employment Opportunity with Outlaw Realty

Real Estate Office Assistant

Outlaw Realty is looking for someone who is eager to learn. The ideal candidate has a positive attitude, takes pride in their work, is supportive in a team environment and enjoys serving their community. They are also disciplined enough to work from home and motivated to succeed.

Please provide your resume to Kevin@OutlawRealty.com to apply.

Job Title: Real Estate Office Assistant

Part-time position (10-15 hours per week) while training, transitioning into 25-30+ hour position in Spring 2016
Work-From-Home
Autonomous work environment with monthly business casual meetings
Real estate experience strongly encouraged
Experience with Google Drive/Calendars and Microsoft Word & Excel
Ability to effectively prioritize, complete multiple tasks and change work priorities to meet unexpected deadlines, including working flexible and varying hours, when needed
Strong customer service focus, highly organized, responsible, and detailed oriented
High level of professionalism and confidentiality
Innovative spirit with the desire to take ownership of assignments, find solutions and improve the company
Employee providers own computer, internet access & cell phone
Reliable transportation needed, for attendance of monthly roundtable and periodic meetings
Monday – Friday availability, checking into the “office” each day

Job Requirements (In the order they will be trained):

Coordinate and compile the team monthly Client Appreciation Program Mailer (CAP) and E-newsletter (ECAP)
Assist with the management of the office’s google forms and systems
Social media outreach

Assist with coordination of printing, assembling and shipping client packages and listing flyers/notebooks, when needed
Assist with posting news items, promo pieces and original blog content to the Outlaw Realty blog
Assist with updating of the team’s Recommended Service Provider List
Assist with the organization and marketing of two yearly client parties (A+ & Community Benefit Party)
Refine and utilize strategy, scripts, and systems checklists for contract to close and listing launch
Train on Outlaw Realty “Listing Launch” and “Contract to Close” systems to be able to perform a full launch or contract to close transaction by Spring 2016

Assist all support staff with their duties if need arises (listings and contract to close)
Customer service to all Outlaw Realty clients, when needed

Maintain property status sheet and listing status sheet (along with ALL staff )
Maintain company link and passwords (along with ALL staff and agents)
Assisting with maintaining the integrity of the office’s online files in Google Drive
Attend monthly roundtable and take notes for action and implementation

Compensation and Structure:

TBD – Hourly/nonexempt to begin, with timesheet required, bonuses for Listing Launch and CTC once trained on those services
Flexible hours between 7AM-6PM
Work from home with employee providing own computer, cell phone & internet access

Outlaw Realty provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, Outlaw Realty complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.

Outlaw Realty expressly prohibits any form of workplace harassment based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status.

Notoriously Awesome Area Events - September 2015

Mon, 31 Aug 2015 12:00:00 -0500

Hand selected events for the ultimate fun factor. If you want to suggest an event for the Notoriously Awesome monthly events listing, please send your Outlaw Realty agent an emailed suggestion. Enjoy!

Austin's Free Day of Yoga! Monday, September 7th - FREE! Various Times All Across Austin - FREE - All day long, participating studios across the Austin area offer free classes as an opportunity for every age and fitness level.

Strut Your Mutt - Saturday, Sep 19 9a to 2p - Mueller Lake Park - Austinites two-legged and four who want to “walk the walk” for homeless pets! A leisurely fundraising dog walk followed by a doggie-themed festival that includes pet contests, photos, treats for your dogs, fun activities, refreshments and more.

Texas Craft Brewers Festival - Saturday, Sep 19 @ Fiesta Gardens - Featuring over 100 different brews from over 60 Texas craft brewers, this event is a must-attend for craft beer fans and members of the Texas craft beer community.

Austin Museum Day - Sunday, Sep 20 - FREE! Since 1998, the Austin Museum Partnership has hosted Austin Museum Day – a free, city-wide rediscovery of Austin museums.

Sustainable Food Center Classes! - Planning a Successful Fall Garden, Building Healthy Soil, School Garden Leadership Training, and many more opportunities to learn and meet folks at this beautiful facility.

Texas Mamma Jamma Ride - Saturday, Sep 26 - 7:30a - 5p - Start from the charming community of Martindale, located on the banks of the San Marcos River & ride your bike through the beautiful Texas countryside to help Central Texans facing breast cancer. After the ride there will be a huge street party with live music, food trucks, a bike rodeo for kids, a Frankenbike Swap, a Zumba dance-along, a helmet decorating contest with prizes, a bike raffle and more!

Have a notoriously excellent September! Call or email your Outlaw Realty agent if we can advise, coach, or educate you on any real estate related questions.

Austin-area home sales hit all-time high, inventory levels rising in July 2015

Fri, 21 Aug 2015 12:00:00 -0500

Austin Board of REALTORS® releases real estate statistics for July 2015

Outlaw Realty's Monthly Market Statistics Charts -
Data Source: Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University and ABoR

AUSTIN, Texas – August 20, 2015 – According to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) report released today by the Austin Board of REALTORS® (ABoR), Austin-area home sales hit an all-time high, increasing 12 percent year-over-year to 3,149 sales for the month of July.

Barb Cooper, 2015 President of the Austin Board of REALTORS¬®, explained, “We’re in the midst of one of the most active summer selling seasons to-date, with more single-family home sales than ever before. Home prices remain high, but inventory levels have increased steadily throughout 2015, perhaps taking a step toward a more balanced housing market.”

According to the report, the median price for Austin-area single-family homes increased eight percent year-over-year to $269,500 in July 2015, while average price increased six percent to $338,452 during the same time frame.

In July 2015, less than 30 percent of single-family homes sold in Central Texas were priced below $200,000, outside of an affordable range for many Austin-area homebuyers. The majority of pending sales and active listings fall outside of Austin’s city limits in surrounding areas like Cedar Park, Leander, Hays County, Round Rock and Pflugerville, showing that Central Texas residents are continuing to prioritize affordability.

Once again, total dollar volume topped $1 billion, reaching $1,065,785,348 and increasing 19 percent compared to July 2014.

New listings increased nine percent to 4,133 listings and active listings increased by five percent year-over-year to 7,174 listings, driving inventory levels up to three months for the first time since July 2014. However, Austin-area housing inventory is still well below the 6.5 month level, which the Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University cites as a balanced market.

Pending sales rose eight percent year-over-year to 2,873 listings and homes remained on the market for an average of 41 days, or two days more than July 2014.

Cooper concluded, “Mayor Adler recently called for 100,000 new housing units to be built by 2025 as a first step to untangling the city of Austin’s complicated permit review process and alleviating affordability issues in Austin. The Austin Board of REALTORS® sees this initiative as progress toward a more sustainable Central Texas housing market and will continue to work with city leaders to make Austin an affordable place to call home for all residents.”

July 2015 Statistics

3,149 – Single-family homes sold, 12 percent more than July 2014.
$269,500 – Median price for single-family homes, eight percent more than July 2014.
$338,452 – Average price for single-family homes, six percent more than July 2014.
41 – Average number of days single-family homes spent on the market, two days more than July 2014.
4,133 – New single-family home listings on the market, nine percent more than July 2014.
7,174 – Active single-family home listings on the market, five percent more than July 2014.
2,873 – Pending sales for single-family homes, eight percent more than July 2014.
3.0 – Months of inventory* of single-family homes, unchanged compared to July 2014.
$1,065,785,348 – Total dollar volume of single-family properties sold, 19 percent more than July 2014.

The following sections describe trends in other sectors of the Austin-area real estate market.

Townhouses & Condominiums

The volume of townhouses and condominiums (condos) purchased in the Austin area in July 2015 was 317, a four percent decrease from July 2014. The median price for condos was $224,850, which is 10 percent more than the same month of the prior year. When compared to July 2014, these properties spent 42 days on market, or five more days than July 2014.

Leasing

In July 2015, a total of 2,187 properties were leased in Austin, which is nine percent more than July 2014. The median price for Austin-area home leases was $1,550, three percent higher than in July 2014.

Notoriously Awesome Area Events - August 2015

Wed, 29 Jul 2015 12:00:00 -0500

Movie in the Park Night - Pflugerville - Mary Poppins Sing Along - Friday, August 7th @ 8:30pm - FREE! Come ready to sing about “a spoonful of sugar” and practice your “supercalifragilisticexpialidocious”!

Ice Cream Festival! - Fiesta Gardens - Saturday. August 8th - 10a-7p -Bring yourself, your friends, your family and even your dog! This event will include lots of games, activities, contests and live entertainment as well as what we all scream for ICE CREAM!

Toughest Monster Truck Tour - Cedar Park Center - August 14th & 15th - Six monster trucks will compete including Bigfoot, who is celebrating 40 years since the creation of the original monster truck!

Red Yarn’s Deep Woods Revival - Scottish Rite Theater - Saturday August 15,– 4:00 PM - Deep Woods Revival is a lush and lively folk-rock song cycle about childhood freedom and discovery in the wilderness.

Family Yoga in the Park - Sunday, August 16th @ 9:30a - FREE! Family classes are led by certified instructors from The Little Yoga House. Bring your own yoga mat to class.

11th Annual Bat Fest – Saturday, August 22nd - 1.5 million Mexican free-tailed bats emerging from under the bridge at dusk, 3 stages with live music, more than 75 arts & crafts vendors, delicious food and drinks, fun children’s activities, a bat costume contest and other bat activities.

Hot Sauce Festival - Sunday, August 23 - The event is a favorite among hot and spicy food lovers from all over the country. The Hot Sauce Festival also serves as a major fundraiser for the Capital Area Food Bank of Texas. Last year's Festival raised over 45,300 meals for the Austin area in a six hour period!

Free Composting Class - Texas Farmers Market at Mueller - Sunday, August 23 - 10:30 - 11:30a - The Home Composting Rebate Program supports Austin’s Zero Waste goal by educating residents about how to keep food scraps, yard trimmings and food-soiled paper out of the landfill.

Paddle for Puppies Benefiting Austin's Pets Alive - Saturday, August 23rd - Advanced Registration Required!

Ballet Austin's Free Day of Dance - Butler Dance Education Center - Sunday, August 30th - FREE! Whether you have danced before or never danced a step in your life, Come Dance is your day to get your groove on! Everyone can dance! Come try as many of the fun dance styles as you can!

Have a notoriously excellent August! Call or email your Outlaw Realty agent if we can advise, coach, or educate you on any real estate related questions.

Austin-area home sales top 3,000, $1 billion in volume in June 2015, prices remain high; Mid-year re

Wed, 22 Jul 2015 12:00:00 -0500

Austin Board of REALTORS® releases real estate statistics for June 2015

Outlaw Realty's Monthly Market Statistics Charts -
Data Source: Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University and ABoR

AUSTIN, Texas – July 21, 2015 – According to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) report released today by the Austin Board of REALTORS® (ABoR), Austin-area home sales topped 3,000 sales for the first time since July 2013, increasing five percent year-over-year to 3,051 sales for the month of June. Mid-year statistics show that Austin-area home sales increased an average of four percent year-over-year to 13,917, putting 2015 on pace to potentially exceed 2014’s historical high in sales volume.

In June 2015, total dollar volume reached $1,018,625,166 and increased by eight percent compared to June 2014. Additionally, the total dollar volume of single-family properties sold in the first half of 2015 was $4,617,178,959, a year-over-year increase of 12 percent.

Barb Cooper, 2015 President of the Austin Board of REALTORS¬®, explained, “June’s increased home sales, combined with total dollar volume exceeding $1 billion for the first time ever, shows the amazing equity Austin homeowners have in the market and the powerful impact of real estate in Central Texas. However, this increase heightens the need to replenish and expand housing stock to help achieve sustainable growth.”

According to the report, the median price for Austin-area single-family homes increased eight percent year-over-year to $272,250 in June 2015, while average price increased two percent to $333,866 during the same time frame. Keeping with the upward trend over the last several months, less than three in 10 single-family homes sold in the Austin area were priced below $200,000.

Price increases are similar for the first half of 2015, with median price increasing 10 percent to $263,000 and average price increasing eight percent to $331,765. At the same time, homes spent an average of 50 days on the market, three more days than the same time last year.

“If this growth continues, 2015 could become another historical year for Austin-area home sales. Both homebuyers and sellers can expect a strong, competitive market for the rest of the summer selling season,” said Cooper.

Active listings increased by four percent year-over-year to 6,701 listings in June 2015 and pending sales increased by eight percent to 3,023 compared to June 2014.

While new listings increased by three percent to 3,812 for June 2015, inventory held steady at 2.8 months, remaining well below the 6.5 month level the Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University estimates as a balanced housing market.

Cooper concluded, “While growth shows positive momentum for our city, ABoR supports solutions that serve the entire community, accommodate new populations and help residents find the homes they want. To help achieve these goals, ABoR and Austin REALTORS® recently met with members of the Austin City Council and Mayor Adler to discuss big picture issues affecting Central Texas residents and with a strong focus on sustainable and managed growth. We’re pleased to see the steps city leaders are taking toward a more affordable Austin.”

June 2015 Statistics

3,051 – Single-family homes sold, five percent more than June 2014.
$272,250 – Median price for single-family homes, eight percent more than June 2014.
$333,866 – Average price for single-family homes, two percent more than June 2014.
42 – Average number of days single-family homes spent on the market, three days more than June 2014.
3,812 – New single-family home listings on the market, three percent more than June 2014.
6,701 – Active single-family home listings on the market, four percent more than June 2014.
3,023 – Pending sales for single-family homes, eight percent more than June 2014.
2.8 – Months of inventory* of single-family homes, unchanged compared to June 2014.
$1,018,625,166 – Total dollar volume of single-family properties sold, eight percent more than June 2014.
2015 Mid-Year Statistics
13,917 – Single-family homes sold, four percent more than the first half of 2014.
$263,000 – Median price for single-family homes, 10 percent more than the first half of 2014.
$331,765 – Average price for single-family homes, eight percent more than the first half of 2014.
50 – Average number of days single-family homes spent on the market, three days more than the first half of 2014.
19,865 – New single-family home listings on the market, three percent more than the first half of 2014.
5,727 – Active single-family home listings on the market, eight percent more than the first half of 2014.
15,984 – Pending sales for single-family homes, five percent more than the first half of 2014.
$4,617,178,959 – Total dollar volume of single-family properties sold, 12 percent more than the first half of 2014.

The following sections describe trends in other sectors of the Austin-area real estate market.

Townhouses & Condominiums

The volume of townhouses and condominiums (condos) purchased in the Austin area in June 2015 was 331, a 12 percent increase from June 2014. The median price for condos was $234,500, which is eleven percent more than the same month of the prior year. When compared to June 2014, these properties spent 8 more days on the market, or an average of 39 days.

For the first half of 2015, 1,510 Austin condos were sold, which is seven percent less than this time last year, while the median price was $226,250, or six percent more than the first half of 2014. Condos spent an average of 43 days on the market, one day fewer than the first half of 2014.

Leasing

In June 2015, a total of 1,861 properties were leased in Austin, which is fourteen percent more than June 2014. The median price for Austin-area home leases was $1,600, seven percent higher than in June 2014. In the first half of 2015, a total of 8,525 properties were leased in Austin, which is eight percent more than 2014, and the median lease price was $1,520, a five percent increase from the first half of 2014.

Notoriously Awesome Area Events - July 2015

Mon, 06 Jul 2015 12:00:00 -0500

Amy’s Ice Cream – Mooovie Monday’s – Burnet Location Only - Every Monday at Dusk - FREE!

Happily Ever After - The Hideout Theater - July 11th, 18th & 25th - $12 - Magic, princesses, heroes, villains and mood-enhancing musical fish all come to life in this completely off the cuff performance.

Austin's Brew Bus! - West Austin brewery Tour on July 18th & an North Austin brewery tour on July 25th! Get your tickets ahead of time! Visit multiple breweries and brew-pubs, Sample great local beers, Get a behind the scenes look at the brewing process, Enjoy the company of other beer enthusiasts, Entertaining and educational guides, Everything Included!

Blues on the Green –Zilker Park - Bob Schneider w/ Walker Luken - July 22nd - 7p - FREE!

Texas Roller Girls Bouts - The Parmer Event Center – 6pm! Tickets required! Roller derby is equal parts sport and entertainment, with a dash of sass.

Round Rock Express' Season is ending soon! Get out there before the summer is over.

Alamo Kids Camp Movies – Multiple locations - Charlotte's Web, Chick Run, How to Train Your Dragon II and many more!! Small donation gets you and your kiddos a ton of move fun!

Have a notoriously excellent July! Call or email your Outlaw Realty agent if we can advise, coach, or educate you on any real estate related questions.

Austin-area home prices remain high, home sales decrease in May 2015

Fri, 26 Jun 2015 12:00:00 -0500

Austin Board of REALTORS® releases real estate statistics for May 2015

Outlaw Realty's Monthly Market Statistics Charts -
Data Source: Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University and ABoR

AUSTIN, Texas – June 19, 2015 – After setting a record in April, single-family home sales dipped two percent to 2,767 home sales in May, according to the May 2015 Multiple Listing Service (MLS) report released today by the Austin Board of REALTORS®.

Single-family home prices remained high, both setting a record for the month of May and increasing at a rapid rate that is outpacing historical appreciation, which is typically four percent annually according to the Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University. The majority of homes entering the market continue to be priced outside of an affordable price range for many residents, with only 25 percent of single family housing options in Central Texas below $200,000.

Barb Cooper, 2015 President of the Austin Board of REALTORS¬®, explained, “Affordability remains an issue across the region, identifying a need for Central Texas to address the “missing middle” with an influx of diverse housing stock.”

According to the report, the median price for Austin-area single-family homes increased nine percent year-over-year to $271,000 in May 2015, while average price increased seven percent to $348,201 during the same time frame.

New listings for single-family homes decreased three percent year-over-year to 3,865 listings, while active listings increased by six percent to 6,323 listings in May 2015. Pending sales remained unchanged at 2,936 pending sales compared to the same time frame last year.

A combination of a slight decrease in home sales and an increase in active listings caused inventory levels to rise in May 2015. Austin-area housing inventory increased 0.1 months year-over-year to 2.7 months in May 2015, a figure still well below the 6.5 month level the Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University estimates as a balanced housing market.

“Unfortunately, the majority of single-family homes can no longer be developed within the region in an affordable price range for most homebuyers. Creating conditions that allow for housing options for all of our residents, such as medium-scale housing options, will help increase housing affordability, improve the tax base and potentially provide income for homeowners,” said Cooper. “Equally important, this type of housing stock allows for greater density and helps residents to live close to where they work and go to school.”

May 2015 Statistics

2,767 – Single-family homes sold, two percent less than May 2014.
$271,000 – Median price for single-family homes, nine percent more than May 2014.
$348,201 – Average price for single-family homes, seven percent more than May 2014.
42 – Average number of days single-family homes spent on the market, two days more than May 2014.
3,865 – New single-family home listings on the market, three percent less than May 2014.
6,323 – Active single-family home listings on the market, six percent more than May 2014.
2,936 – Pending sales for single-family homes, unchanged from May 2014.
2.7 – Months of inventory* of single-family homes, 0.1 months more than May 2014.
$963,472,167 – Total dollar volume of single-family properties sold, five percent more than May 2014.

The following sections describe trends in other sectors of the Austin-area real estate market.

Townhouses & Condominiums

The volume of townhouses and condominiums (condos) purchased in the Austin area in May 2015 was 299, a 15 percent decrease from May 2014. The median price for condos was $231,000, which is eight percent more than the same month of the prior year. When compared to May 2014, these properties spent approximately the same amount of time on market, or an average of 41 days.

Leasing

In May 2015, a total of 1,569 properties were leased in Austin, which is seven percent more than May 2014. The median price for Austin-area home leases was $1,600, seven percent higher than in May 2014.

Notoriously Awesome Area Events - June 2015

Thu, 28 May 2015 12:00:00 -0500

Hand selected events for the ultimate fun factor! If you want to suggest an event for the Notoriously Awesome monthly events listing, please send your Outlaw Realty agent an emailed suggestion. Enjoy!

KGSR Unplugged at the Grove - Now - Sept. 17th - 8p - FREE - Every Thursday at the iconic Shady Grove on Barton Springs Road for one of Austin's longest running free concert series. There’s still no cover charge, $3.50 ZiegenBock Drafts, and the best music, food, and fun you’ll experience under the clear, warm skies of Austin, Texas! The live music begins at 8pm.

Blues on the Green - June 3rd & 24th - 7p - FREE

DO512 & ALAMO DRAFTHOUSE PRESENT: SOUND & CINEMA - Music, movies and a little summer evening magic.

Georgetown, Texas - Music on the Square Summer Concerts - 6:30 – 8:30p on Fridays in June, July, and August Enjoy live music on the Courthouse Square each Friday night in the Music on the Square Summer Concert Series.
June Line Up:
June 5 – Roland Waits and The Wayward Travelers playing Classic Country
June 12 – Georgetown Fire Department Pipes and Drums Band playing Bagpipe Music
June 19 – Xander playing Classic and Oldies Rock and RollJune 26 – Woundloose Band playing Rock, Country and Electric Blues

Bubblepalozza - FREE - Saturday, June 6 - 8a - Music, chalk art, water fun and, most importantly, BUBBLES!

Bricks & Blocks Bonanza Family Night - Friday, June 12 - 6:30-8:30p - Snap it! Design it! Build it! The Thinkery’s Bricks & Blocks Bonanza Family Night is designed for brick building enthusiasts. Join us for a fun evening of creating with LEGO®, Duplo® and other blocks. Tickets Required!

Taste of North Austin @ The Domain - Saturday, June 13 11a-4p - Domain II - between Dick's Sporting Goods & Dillard's - Sample a delicious array of food from North Austin’s favorite restaurants. Enjoy live music, children’s entertainment, prize giveaways and more! Wristbands available at Simon Guest Services at The Domain beginning June 1st, 10 tastes for $20. Get VIP access for just $15 more.

Celebrando Salsa & Travador Festival - Saturday, June 21 7:30-11:30p - Join Puerto Rican Folkloric Dance as we celebrate our rich culture with our annual Salsa & Heritage Festival. Bring your dancing shoes and join us in a Bombazo (Bomba Dance)! The festival will also feature the hottest Salsa in Central Texas with Orquesta Trabuko, performances by PRFDance performing arts students, handcraft artisans, and comida criolla (food for sale) by Chago's Caribbean Cuisine.

Keep Austin Weird 5K - Saturday, June 27 - Keep Austin Weird is one blowout party full of music, family activities and local vendors eager to reflect the creative nature of Austin. Think of this festival as the ultimate toast to Austin, a toast to hospitality, fun and a sense of community. No need to hide your kids or hide your wives (or husbands) as there are plenty of fun shenanigans for any Austinite in attendance.

Alamo Kids Camp Movies - All Summer long! Choose your own ticket price - $1-$3 and buy your tickets online to reserve your seats in advance. 100% of ticket sales are donated to local nonprofits working to make our community a better place. Kids Camp screenings are available for guests ages 3 and up.

Have a notoriously excellent June! Call or email your Outlaw Realty agent if we can advise, coach, or educate you on any real estate related questions.

Austin-area home prices reach all-time high, home sales set record for April 2015

Tue, 26 May 2015 12:00:00 -0500

Austin Board of REALTORS® releases real estate statistics for April 2015

Outlaw Realty's Monthly Market Statistics Charts -
Data Source: Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University and ABoR

AUSTIN, Texas – May 21, 2015 – Austin-area single-family home prices once again hit an all-time high, while single-family home sales volume set a record for the month of April, according to the April 2015 Multiple Listing Service (MLS) report released today by the Austin Board of REALTORS®. This marks the eighth-straight month of annual home sale increases, as housing affordability continues to be a challenge in the Austin market.

Barb Cooper, 2015 President of the Austin Board of REALTORS®, explained, “The summer selling season doesn’t usually start in April, but it arrived early this year with significant increases in single-family home sales and prices for April 2015. Showing the impact of these increases, it cost nearly $20,000 more to buy a home in April 2015 than in March 2015 – one of the largest jumps in median home price that we’ve seen in years.”

According to the report, the median price for Austin-area single-family homes increased 14 percent year-over-year to $274,000 in April 2015, while average price increased 11 percent to $341,054 during the same time frame. Once again, less than three in 10 single-family homes sold in the Austin area were priced below $200,000.

New listings for single-family homes increased nine percent year-over-year to 3,807 and active listings increased by 11 percent to 5,915 in April 2015. Pending sales also rose during the same time frame, increasing four percent year-over-year to 2,909 in April 2015.

More listings entering the market caused inventory levels to spike in April 2015, with Austin-area housing inventory reaching 2.5 months in April 2015, 0.2 months higher than April 2014, but a figure still well below the 6.5 month level the Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University estimates as a balanced housing market.

“While this influx of housing stock is badly needed, unfortunately the majority of homes entering the market continue to be priced outside of an affordable range for many Austin residents, driving home buyers to look to surrounding markets outside of Austin,” added Cooper. “More than half of Austin-area homebuyers continue to purchase homes outside of Austin’s city limits in areas like Kyle, Pflugerville, and Georgetown.”

Single-family home sales volume also set a record for the month of April, increasing eight percent year-over-year to 2,568 home sales in April 2015.

Cooper concluded, “The Austin Board of REALTORS® is pleased to see that city leaders are taking Austin's need for affordability relief seriously with the establishment of the City of Austin Regional Affordability Committee. We expect lasting, impactful affordability solutions to come out of this committee and encourage Austin residents to get involved and voice the affordability challenges in their community. The Austin Board of REALTORS® looks forward to working alongside committee members and the community to find a long-term solution.”

April 2015 Statistics

2,568 – Single-family homes sold, eight percent more than April 2014.
$274,000 – Median price for single-family homes, 14 percent more than April 2014.
$341,054 – Average price for single-family homes, 11 percent more than April 2014.
46 – Average number of days single-family homes spent on the market, one day more than April 2014.
3,807 – New single-family home listings on the market, nine percent more than April 2014.
5,915 – Active single-family home listings on the market, 11 percent more than April 2014.
2,909 – Pending sales for single-family homes, four percent more than April 2014.
2.5 – Months of inventory* of single-family homes, 0.2 increase from April 2014.
$875,826,672 – Total dollar volume of single-family properties sold, 19 percent more than April 2014.

The following sections describe trends in other sectors of the Austin-area real estate market.

Townhouses & Condominiums

The volume of townhouses and condominiums (condos) purchased in the Austin area in April 2015 was 284, an eight percent decrease from April 2014. The median price for condos was $230,000, which is seven percent more than the same month of the prior year. When compared to April 2014, these properties spent eight fewer days on the market, or an average of 34 days.

Leasing

In April 2015, a total of 1,437 properties were leased in Austin, which is 18 percent more than April 2014. The median price for Austin-area home leases was $1,550, which is three percent more than the same month of the prior year.

The Austin Board of REALTORS® (ABoR) builds connections through the use of technology, education and advocacy to strengthen the careers of its 11,000 members and improve the lives of Central Texas families. We empower Austin REALTORS® to connect their clients to the region’s most complete, accurate and up-to-date listings data. For more, contact the ABoR Department of Public Affairs atmarketing@abor.com or 512-454-7636. For the latest local housing market listings, visit AustinHomeSearch.com.

Notoriously Awesome Area Events - May 2015

Tue, 05 May 2015 12:00:00 -0500

Shakespeare in Zilker Park -- Taming of the Shrew - Now – May 24 - FREE - Zilker Hillside Theater - From the battle of the sexes to the marriage of true minds, Austin Shakespeare transports The Taming of the Shrew to the Austin of the 1890's, where city folk and cowboys collide. Bring a picnic and a blanket and enjoy Shakespeare under the beautiful evening skies across from Barton Springs Pool.

Austin Aztex Soccer - Home Games - May 9 & 20 at 8p - House Park

Sustainable Food Center's Farm To Plate- Tuesday, May 14 - 6:30 -9:30p - Barr Mansion - The evening will include live music, presentation of the Sustainable Food Changemakers award, a brief program, and delicious local food and beverages.

Round Rock Express Home Games - Featuring daily themes and specials such as Friday Fireworks and 1/2 Priced Tuesdays!

Panchanga Latino Music Festival - May 14-16th - Fiesta Gardens- Pachanga is a Latin-themed music, cultural arts and food festival dedicated to showcasing the vibrant blend of Latino-created music and art and the impact it has on American culture today. The Pachanga lineup includes rock, alternative, tejano, mariachi, cumbia, salsa, electronic, funk, hip-hop and indie rock with one singular theme, the sound is brown.

Freedom Fest 5k Fun Run - Sat May 23rd - Round Rock - Start the day with a 5k run, jog or walk! Its family friendly and welcoming to all ages and all levels of athleticism! There will also be a 1k obstacle course, and a kids obstacle course for them to play on!

Have a notoriously excellent May! Call or email your Outlaw Realty agent if we can advise, coach, or educate you on any real estate related questions.

Austin-area home prices reach all-time high, home sales set record for March 2015

Tue, 21 Apr 2015 12:00:00 -0500

Austin Board of REALTORS® releases real estate statistics for March 2015

Outlaw Realty's Monthly Market Statistics Charts -
Data Source: Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University and ABoR

AUSTIN, Texas – April 21, 2015 – Austin-area single-family home prices hit an all-time high, while single-family home sales volume set a record for the month of March according to the March 2015 Multiple Listing Service (MLS) report released today by the Austin Board of REALTORS®.

Barb Cooper, 2015 President of the Austin Board of REALTORS¬®, explained, “The Austin-area housing market is the least affordable it has ever been. Solving Austin’s affordability issues is not only dependent upon generating new, affordably-priced housing stock, but also preserving and maintaining Austin’s existing housing stock. The recent Zucker Report is yet more evidence that Austin’s city leadership needs to take significant steps to ensure that all of Austin’s residents live in safe, code-compliant homes and are able to quickly and easily make improvements to those homes.”

According to the report, the median price for Austin-area single-family homes increased 10 percent year-over-year to $255,000 in March 2015, while average price increased 13 percent to $334,758 during the same time frame. This is the highest Austin-area home prices have ever been. Only three in ten single-family homes sold in the Austin area in March 2015 were priced less than $200,000.

Single-family home sales increased 13 percent year-over-year to 2,440 home sales in March 2015, a new record for March single-family home sales volume. In March, more than half of the homes sold in the Austin area were outside of Austin’s city limits, with a majority of sales occurring in Round Rock, Pflugerville, Georgetown, the Cedar Park/Leander area and the Kyle/Buda area.

Austin-area monthly housing inventory was statistically unchanged from March 2014 at 2.2 months, a figure still well below the 6.5 month level the Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University estimates as a balanced housing market. Homes continued to spend more time on the market in March 2015, increasing four days year-over-year to an average of 55 days.

New and active listings for single-family homes both increased six percent year-over-year to 3,402 new listings and 5,274 active listings in March 2015. Pending sales also rose during the same time frame, increasing five percent year-over-year to 2,812 pending sales in March 2015.

Cooper concluded, “It’s encouraging to see how seriously Austin’s City Council is taking the findings of the Zucker Report. Now that Mayor Adler and Austin’s new City Council members are past their first 100 days in office, the Austin Board of REALTORS® expects quick and decisive action on policies that will put a stop to Austin’s growing housing affordability issues. We’re looking forward to working with city leaders on finding these solutions.”

March 2015 Statistics

2,440 – Single-family homes sold, 13 percent more than March 2014.
$255,000 – Median price for single-family homes, 10 percent more than March 2014.
$334,758 – Average price for single-family homes, 13 percent more than March 2014.
55 – Average number of days single-family homes spent on the market, four days more than March 2014.
3,402 – New single-family home listings on the market, six percent more than March 2014.
5,274 – Active single-family home listings on the market, six percent more than March 2014.
2,812 – Pending sales for single-family homes, five percent more than March 2014.
2.2 – Months of inventory* of single-family homes, statistically unchanged from March 2014.
$816,809,520 – Total dollar volume of single-family properties sold, 28 percent more than March 2014.

The following sections describe trends in other sectors of the Austin-area real estate market.

Townhouses & Condominiums

The volume of townhouses and condominiums (condos) purchased in the Austin area in March 2015 was 263, a three percent decrease from March 2014. The median price for condos was $226,500, which is one percent more than the same month of the prior year. When compared to March 2014, these properties spent 10 fewer days on the market, or an average of 43 days.

Leasing

In March 2015, a total of 1,348 properties were leased in Austin, which is 12 percent more than March 2014. The median price for Austin-area home leases was $1,500, which is three percent more than the same month of the prior year.

The Growth of a Giant

Mon, 13 Apr 2015 12:00:00 -0500

At the same time our national economy placed its wearied legs on the rocky trail ascending from the cold and shaded ground of the valley floor, a group of individuals were making a monumental decision that would culminate with the creation of a unique and needed real estate brokerage. The dawn of Outlaw Realty was upon us.

In 2011, what is now “Outlaw Realty” was “Outlaw Real Estate Group”; a band of Realtors led and owned by the consummate Blake Outlaw, and part of Private Label Realty. Blake originally formed the group within Keller Williams in 2004, and in 2008 decided to “take their talents” to the newly formed brokerage of PLR. OREG flourished within PLR, winning numerous awards for both production and referrals. In 2010, after deliberation, Blake changed the business model from an individually owned entity to a true partnership, equally owned by each member. Internally, OREG was made up of a very diverse and talented set of individuals, each serving clients at a high level. The foundational system for service and referrals, first drafted by Blake and later expanded on and honed by the rest of the partners, was the essence of excellence and the base of OREG’s perception; in the eye of both consumer and colleague. However, another basis for excellence, quality of life, community outreach and freedom was just beginning to materialize. Outlaw’s family culture was being defined.

In September of 2011, an opportunity arose for Blake. With opportunity comes change. In order to pursue this new venture with fullness of energy, Blake would need to relinquish his ownership within Outlaw Real Estate Group. During this transitional period, Outlaw Realty would be formed.

Outlaw Realty became an independent brokerage in December of 2014. We have a winning formula and a scalable vision to enhance the lives of our colleagues and clients. Our systems and culture are ready to be shared with our industry. Next steps are coming. Next steps are soon. If you’re a fellow Realtor or a cherished future client, pay attention. We’re growing.

For more information or to schedule an interview, contact us by emailing info@outlawrealty.com.

By Kevin Hutchison, REALTOR & Broker - Outlaw Realty

Notoriously Awesome Area Events - April 2015

Tue, 31 Mar 2015 12:00:00 -0500

Hand selected events for the ultimate fun factor. If you want to suggest an event for our monthly events listing, please send your Outlaw Realty agent an emailed suggestion. Enjoy!

Alice in Wonderland at the Harry Ransom Center - FREE - Going on Now - July 6th - The Ransom Center celebrates 150 years of Alice's Adventures in Wonderland with an exhibition for the curious and curiouser of all ages.

Austin Funky Chicken Coop Tour - Saturday, April 4 - The Funky Chicken Coop Tour is an annual self-guided tour held each spring in Austin, Texas.

KGSR's Unplugged at the Grove - Join KGSR every Thursday for 24 consecutive weeks starting Thursday, April 9th at the iconic Shady Grove on Barton Springs Road for one of Austin's longest running free concert series. There’s still no cover charge, $3.50 ZiegenBock Drafts, and the best music, food, and fun you’ll experience under the clear, warm skies of Austin, Texas! The live music begins at 8pm.

Earth Day Festival - Saturday, April 18 - FREE - Browning Hangar at Mueller!

Moontower Comedy & Oddity Fest -April 22-25 - A marathon of side-splitting nights throughout the city is slated to bring over 100 comedians doing everything from stand-up and sketch to improv and musical comedy.

Austin Food & Wine Festival - April 24-26 - All weekend long, indulge in artisanal food, wine, beer, and spirits from hundreds of purveyors.

Art City Austin - Get ready for Austin’s iconic arts festival that transforms the streets of downtown. The celebration of art, culture and creativity will take place April 25 & 26.

Crawfish & Croquet Benefit Party - Saturday, April, 25 - 2:30-6:30 - Fiesta Gardens at Festival Beach - Tickets must be purchased in advance! Cajun style crawfish boil with Kiolbassa sausage, croquet, many fun lawn games, music and bounce houses for the kids! That’s right, All-You-Can-Eat crawfish, corn, potatoes and Kiolbassa sausage boiled on site by Lousiana Wild Crawfish and they’ll be just the right level of spicy for plenty of tail pinchin’!

Have a notoriously excellent April and call or email your Outlaw Realty agent if we can advise, coach, or educate you on any real estate related questions.

Austin-area home sales, prices hit monthly records in February 2015

Fri, 20 Mar 2015 12:00:00 -0500

Austin Board of REALTORS® releases real estate statistics for February 2015

Outlaw Realty's Monthly Market Statistics Charts -

Data Source: Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University and ABoR

AUSTIN, Texas – March 20, 2015 – Austin-area single-family home sales and home prices hit an all-time high for the month of February according to the February 2015 Multiple Listing Service (MLS) report released today by the Austin Board of REALTORS®.

Barb Cooper, 2015 President of the Austin Board of REALTORS®, explained, “The first two months of 2015 have broken monthly records for single-family home sales, yet nearly half of the homes sold in the Austin area in February 2015 were purchased outside of Austin’s city limits. This growing urban sprawl has put a strain on our region’s infrastructure. Long-term and sustainable solutions for statewide transportation funding in addition to policies that allow more affordable housing options inside Austin’s city limits will be critical to making Austin an affordable place to live for all residents.”

According to the report, 1,775 single-family homes were sold in the Austin area in February 2015, a year-over-year increase of five percent and the highest number of homes sold for the month of February. In February 2015, 69 percent of single-family homes sold in the Austin area were priced $200,000 or higher, outside of an affordable price range for many Austin homebuyers.

Home prices also set new records for the month of February. The median price for Austin-area homes in February increased eight percent year-over-year to $248,640 and the average price rose five percent to $307,928 during the same time period. While less than the double-digit price increases seen in previous months, the pace of home price appreciation in February 2015 remains higher than the historical norm of around four-and-a-half percent.

Austin-area monthly housing inventory ended February 2015 at 2.2 months, an increase of 0.2 months from the same time period last year but still only one-third of the 6.5 months inventory level the Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University says equals a balanced housing market. Homes spent more time on the market in February 2015, increasing three days year-over-year to an average of 58 days.

Active listings in February 2015 rose nine percent year-over-year to 5,142 listings, while new listings increased three percent to 2,619 listings from the same time frame last year. Pending sales in the Austin area increased eight percent to 2,278 sales.

Cooper concluded, “The Austin area continues to see more homes on the market, rising housing inventory and homes spending more time on the market. While these trends would typically create more favorable market conditions for buyers, most all of the available housing stock within Austin proper continues to be unaffordable for the typical homebuyer. The Austin Board of REALTORS® urges statewide and city leaders to enact solutions now that will ensure the long-term sustainability of our region’s housing market and economy.”

February 2015 Statistics

1,775 – Single-family homes sold, five percent more than February 2014.
$248,640 – Median price for single-family homes, eight percent more than February 2014.
$307,928 – Average price for single-family homes, five percent more than February 2014.
58 – Average number of days single-family homes spent on the market, three days more than February 2014.
2,619 – New single-family home listings on the market, three percent more than February 2014.
5,142 – Active single-family home listings on the market, nine percent more than February 2014.
2,278 – Pending sales for single-family homes, eight percent more than February 2014.
2.2 – Months of inventory* of single-family homes, 0.2 months more than February 2014.
$546,572,200 – Total dollar volume of single-family properties sold, 10 percent more than February 2014.

The following sections describe trends in other sectors of the Austin real estate market.

Townhouses & Condominiums

The volume of townhouses and condominiums (condos) purchased in the Austin area in February 2015 was 201, a four percent decrease from February 2014. The median price for condos was $196,580, which is five percent less than the same month of the prior year. When compared to February 2014, these properties spent the same amount of time on the market, or an average of 50 days.

Leasing

In February 2015, a total of 1,265 properties were leased in Austin, which is 10 percent more than February 2014. The median price for Austin-area home leases was $1,450, which is four percent more than the same month of the prior year.

Outlaw Realty - Our Story - Video

Fri, 13 Mar 2015 12:00:00 -0500

At Outlaw Realty, we work hard at being different. That’s because we believe, and our past clients have confirmed, that the status quo in real estate today is not good enough.

If you have a friend, family member or co-worker that needs advice to execute a successful and low stress real estate investment goals? Please refer them to us! We appreciate your referrals. Check out and then forward them our new intro video!

Outlaw Realty: Notoriously Excellent Real Estate.

For more information or to get in contact with one of our agents go to our Why Outlaw Realty - The Outlaw Realty Story page.

Crawfish & Croquet Benefit Party - April, 25 2015

Wed, 11 Mar 2015 12:00:00 -0500

Saturday, April 25, 2015 - 2:30-6:30pm

The 7th Annual Crawfish & Croquet Benefit Party

for Mobile Loaves & Fishes!
Presented by Outlaw Realty

SOLD OUT! Contact your Outlaw Realty agent with questions. Thank you!!

What - Cajun style crawfish boil with Kiolbassa sausage, croquet, many fun lawn games, music and bounce houses for the kids! That’s right, All-You-Can-Eat crawfish, corn, potatoes and Kiolbassa sausage boiled on site by Lousiana Wild Crawfish and they’ll be just the right level of spicy for plenty of tail pinchin’! Kiddie food will also be available. No pets allowed at venue. Rain or Shine event.

When - Saturday, April 25th from 2:30 – 6:30 pm – First Batch of Crawfish Served at 2:45 pm

Cost - $25 (12+ years old), $5 (5+ years old)

The tickets you purchase are "Will Call" and your name plus the number of tickets you purchased, will be on a list when you check in at the door. No hard tickets will be mailed to you. You'll get an email the week before the event with a reminder about the event!

Adult Entry Voucher (12+ years of age) - SOLD OUT

Kiddo Entry (5 years old -11 years old) - SOLD OUT

SPECIAL NOTE ABOUT BUYING TICKETS VIA PAYPAL:

If you want to order several tickets, you can do so when purchasing, but be sure to enter the quanity and then hit the "update" selection for the quanity and price to update, before you pay. Also, you do NOT need to have a paypal account to buy tickets, click on "Pay with Debit or Credit Card" and tell paypal no when it suggest you start a paypal account.

Where – Fiesta Gardens at Festival Beach - 2101 Jesse E. Segovia Street, Austin 78702

Location Details - A beautiful central Austin location overlooking the quiet lagoon of Lady Bird Lake. A large area for games of croquet, volleyball, horseshoes and games.

Detailed Directions - Take Lambie, Holly or Cesar Chavez Streets east to Waller Street. Turn and travel south on Waller Street to Nash Hernandez Sr. Road. Turn east (left) on Nash Hernandez and travel to Chicon Street. Turn north (left) on Chicon Street and travel to Jesse Segovia Street. Turn east (right) on Jesse Segovia Street. Fiesta Gardens will be on your right, just past the fenced West End facility. Parking is available in 2 lots, both on the North side of the street, 1 West and 1 East of the building. In addition, users may park in the lot adjacent to the Fiesta Gardens West End property. Carpooling encouraged but plenty of street parking available around the venue.

Why – HOMELESSNESS. The event’s beneficiary, Mobile Loaves & Fishes, is a social outreach ministry that empowers communities into a lifestyle of service with the homeless. Their mission is to provide food and clothing and promote dignity to our homeless brothers and sisters. Their core programs are: Community First! ROADS Micro-Enterprise and Truck Communities. Notably, the Community First! Village, a 27 acre master-planned community, will provide affordable, sustainable housing and a supportive community for the disabled, chronically homeless in Central Texas. The Community First! Village will radically transform and renew our community as men and women living on the streets are lifted up into community and home. The Crawfish & Croquet Benefit party has pledged $10,000 to help them with this community! http://mlf.org/community-first/

If you can’t make it to the party but want to donate to Mobile Loaves & Fishes? PLEASE Visit their website and donate now!

Links to Event Sponsors - Working to Earn Your Referrals & Business!

Kiolbassa Sausage www.kiolbassa.com	St. Arnold Brewing Company www.saintarnold.com
The Michael Nasserfar & Michael Task Team – Oak Mortgage Group www.michaelloan.com	Reliant Title www.relianttitleusa.com
Mission Mortgage www.missionmortgage.com	AmeriFirst Insurance www.amerifirstinsurance.com
Louisiana Wild Crawfish Company www.louisianawild.com	PostNet - Far West www.postnet.com/austin-tx157
Taylor Morrison Homes www.taylormorrison.com	QLS Quality Living Services – Air Conditioning, Heating, Duct Cleaning www.qualitylivingservices.com
Masters Touch Custom Homes www.masterstch.com	Ted H. Heaton III - State Farm Austin & Round Rock www.TedRocks.net & www.TedRocksRR.com
APH Event Center - Austin Party Hoppers www.apheventcenter.com	Home Warranty of America www.hwahomewarranty.com
Barfield Home Inspection Services www.abhomeinspect.com	AmeriPro Funding Corporate Branch - Bret Williams, Joe Thweatt & Rasty Goodwin bwilliams.ameriprofunding.com & http://jthweatt.ameriprofunding.com/a/homeagent.aspx
Chad Mullenix - Branch Manager LeaderOne Financial Corp. www.leader1mortgage.com/chad

Questions or Comments: Contact Leah Schimberg - 512-614-0057

Notoriously Awesome Area Events - March 2015

Fri, 06 Mar 2015 12:00:00 -0600

Hand selected events for the ultimate fun factor. If you want to suggest an event for our monthly events listing, please send your Outlaw Realty agent an emailed suggestion. Enjoy!

Explore UT - Saturday, March 7 - 11a-5p - There is something for everyone at Explore UT. Young children participate in fun, educational and engaging activities; middle school students explore their favorite subjects and learn about future career opportunities; high school students meet with UT Austin admissions counselors, advisers, faculty members and current students; parents and educators enjoy a variety of cultural events, inspiring lectures, performances and exhibits; and alumni reconnect with campus and share memories with family and friends.

Sunshine Community Garden Plant Sale - Saturday. March 7 - 9a– Austin’s most loved, locally raised heirloom veggies and herbs make their big debut 9 A.M. at Sunshine Community Gardens (SCG) 4814 Sunshine Dr, Austin, Tx 78756 . The sale is the largest Certified Organic Non-Profit Plant event in Texas. Over 150 Tomato varieties, 72 Wicked Hot and Sweet Bell Pepper varieties, 15 kinds of Eggplants, 5000 thousand herbs and other plants ready for spring planting.

Experience the Most Colorful Festival of India - Holi! - Saturday, March 7, 2-8p - Radha Madhav Dham Hindu Temple -Radha Madhav Dham is pleased to present “Holi Hai”, an exuberant and interactive celebration of the Indian festival of color.

Big Band Bash - Monday, March 9, 7:30p - Lakeway Activity Center - Put on your dancing shoes and bring your own beverages and snacks. Enjoy big band music from the 17-piece Republic of Texas Big Band, featuring David Cummings and Lisa Clark on vocals. This event is free and open to all ages. The band accepts donations after the show. Sponsored by the Lakeway Arts Committee.

SXSW Festival - Friday, March 13 - Sunday, March 22 - Interactive, Film and sooooooo much! Enjoy your favorite part(s)!

Star of Texas Fair and Rodeo - March 14-28 - Travis County Expo Center - Rodeo Austin is a 16-day family event including performances, concerts, livestock show and auctions, shopping, food and more!

TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TURTLES PIZZA PARTY -Saturday March 21 - Noon - They're the world's most fearsome fighting team; they're heroes in a half-shell, and they're assembling for an ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT PIZZA PARTY!

HONK!TX - Friday - Sunday, March 27-29 - Free - A nonprofit, community-driven festival that brings brass bands from around the country to perform absolutely free in the public spaces of Austin, TX.

Austin Urban Music Festival - 10 Year Anniversary - March 27 & 28 - Auditorium Shores -Celebrate this year's Annual local urban music scene, aimed at enhancing and sustaining the Afro-Centric experience musically, culturally, and economically. This year's theme "The Music Speaks" helps enhance music as a universal language.

56th Annual Zilker Garden Festival - Saturday, March 28-29 - 10a-5pm - For over 50 years, the annual Zilker Garden Festival has been a one-stop, garden shopping destination when spring arrives in Austin and Central Texas. A family-friendly event, the garden festival offers something for everyone.

And Beyond.....

Austin Funky Chicken Coop Tour - Saturday, April 4 - The Funky Chicken Coop Tour is an annual self-guided tour held each spring in Austin, Texas.

Have a notoriously excellent March and call or email your Outlaw Realty agent if we can advise, coach, or educate you on any real estate related questions.

Austin-area home prices hit all-time high for January, home sales rise in January 2015

Fri, 20 Feb 2015 12:00:00 -0600

Austin Board of REALTORS® releases real estate statistics for January 2015

Outlaw Realty's Monthly Market Statistics Charts - Data Source: Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University and ABoR

AUSTIN, Texas – February 20, 2015 – The Austin-area housing market started the year strong in January 2015, with single-family home prices reaching all-time highs for the month of January and home sales posting double-digit increases according to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) report released today by the Austin Board of REALTORS®. This marks the fifth-straight month of annual home sales increases and the fourth-straight month of double-digit gains in home prices, as housing affordability continues to be a challenge in the Austin market.

Barb Cooper, 2015 President of the Austin Board of REALTORS®, explained, “With housing affordability already a challenge for many Austin residents, this increasing pace of home price growth is concerning. More than half of the homes sold in the Austin-area are now priced out of an affordable range for much of Austin’s workforce.”

In January 2015, the median price for Austin-area homes increased 13 percent year-over-year to $240,000 and the average price jumped 14 percent to $310,187 during the same time frame. January 2015 marks the highest year-over-year home price increase since September 2013 and all-time high for home prices in the month of January.

According to the report, 1,547 single-family homes were sold in the Austin area in January 2015, an 11 percent increase compared to January 2014. However, 54 percent of the homes sold during this time frame were in the $200,000-$500,000 price range, whereas only 35 percent sold for less than $200,000 – the typical price range for first-time and low-income homebuyers.

“Housing inventory is rising, but the current pace is not enough to alleviate Austin’s affordability challenges,” added Cooper. “Furthermore, more homes on the market will not increase housing affordability if those homes are all priced for move-up homebuyers. Austin needs a regulatory environment that will ensure development of all housing types, priced in an affordable range for all Austin residents.”

Austin-area monthly housing inventory was 2.2 months in January 2015, 0.2 months higher than January 2014 but still well below the 6.5-month inventory level the Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University cites as a balanced housing market.

Active listings in January 2015 rose nine percent year-over-year to 5,005 listings, while new listings increased one percent to 2,360 listings from January 2014. Austin-area homes spent the same time on the market as January 2014, or an average of 63 days, and pending sales increased four percent to 2,026 sales during the same time frame.

Cooper concluded, “While single-family homes will always be a part of Austin’s fabric, Austin’s city leaders should consider housing types that cost less to develop and can allow for a greater range of affordable infill options, such duplexes and small apartment buildings, in neighborhoods where they are needed most. The Austin Board of REALTORS® is hopeful that the Austin City Council will embrace changes to the land development code and permitting process to allow for an abundance of housing in all neighborhoods.”

January 2015 Statistics

1,547 – Single-family homes sold, 11 percent more than January 2014.
$240,000 – Median price for single-family homes, 13 percent more than January 2014.
$310,187 – Average price for single-family homes, 14 percent more than January 2014.
63 – Average number of days single-family homes spent on the market, unchanged from January 2014.
2,360 – New single-family home listings on the market, one percent more than January 2014.
5,005 – Active single-family home listings on the market, nine percent more than January 2014.
2,026 – Pending sales for single-family homes, four percent more than January 2014.
2.2 – Months of inventory* of single-family homes, 0.2 months more than January 2014.
$479,859,289 – Total dollar volume of single-family properties sold, 27 percent more than January 2014.

The following sections describe trends in other sectors of the Austin real estate market.

Townhouses & Condominiums

The volume of townhouses and condominiums (condos) purchased in the Austin area in January 2015 was 135, which is 30 percent less than January 2014. In the same time period, the median price for condos was $218,250, which is four percent more than the same month of the prior year. When compared to January 2014, these properties spent five fewer days on the market, or an average of 48 days.

Leasing

In January 2015, a total of 1,279 properties were leased in Austin, which is two percent more than January 2014. The median price for Austin-area home leases was $1,430, which is four percent more than the same month of the prior year.

####
The Austin Board of REALTORS® (ABoR) builds connections through the use of technology, education and advocacy to strengthen the careers of its 11,000 members and improve the lives of Central Texas families. We empower Austin REALTORS® to connect their clients to the region’s most complete, accurate and up-to-date listings data. For more, contact the ABoR Marketing Department at marketing@abor.com or 512-454-7636. For the latest local housing market listings, visit AustinHomeSearch.com.

Outlaw Realty is now performing brokerage services - Delivering the next level of notorious excellen

Mon, 09 Feb 2015 12:00:00 -0600

Austin, Texas - Outlaw Realty is pleased to announce its recent status as an independent brokerage committed to further simplifying the real estate process and advising the community through successful and low stress pursuits of their real estate investment goals.

The community, clients, and other real estate industry professionals can continue to expect the same high level of service and expertise from Outlaw Realty. “As a dedicated team of professional real estate agents who believe that being an Outlaw means refusing to conform to traditional molds, we are different. We work tirelessly to explain the real estate process, meet the outstanding needs, and serve the community well,” said Johnny Henion, president and co-owner of Outlaw Realty.

The team of 9 real estate consultants and 3 customer service support staff express that: “The choice to become an independent brokerage was driven by our desire to serve the community at a higher level. We wanted to expand upon being a team that our past clients describe as a “breath of fresh air” when compared to previous real estate companies. We pursue passionate excellence in everything we do – whether it be our annual “Crawfish & Croquet” fundraiser or our next client consultation. Whether our payday is a year ahead, or a year ago, clients and the community are our first priority. They (you) are our greatest advocates. We get nearly 100% of our business from referrals. We’re not just here to make a deal; we’re here to build a relationship.”

At Outlaw Realty, we are “Notorious for Excellence.” Passionate and authentic. Our superior level of service has won us a place on the Austin Business Journal’s “Residential Real Estate Top Producers’ List” as well as allowing a number of our real estate consultants’ finalist positions in the “Platinum Top 50” awards that recognize them for their community service and experience. Outlaw Realty is growing and looking to be even more impactful in the community. We are proud to serve the Central Texas community members and their real estate needs.

For more information about Outlaw Realty please visit OutlawRealty.com

Media Contact:
Johnny Henion
Phone: 512-791-4404

Notoriously Awesome Area Events - February 2015

Fri, 30 Jan 2015 12:00:00 -0600

Hand selected events for the ultimate fun factor. If you want to suggest an event for our monthly events listing, please send your Outlaw Realty agent an emailed suggestion. Enjoy!

SPONGEBOB SQUAREPANTS BEACH PARTY - Saturday, February 7th 8:30am (party starts) & 9:30am (movie starts) - To celebrate the new SpongeBob adventure, Alamo Drafthouse - Slaughter Lane is throwing a big beach party! The event starts in the lobby an hour before the movie starts, with games for kids and parents, a crafts station, and underwater photo booth. Every guest will receive props to play along during the film. A special Krusty Krab menu will be available for purchase along with our regular menu. Put on your best pirate or beach wear and enjoy!

Austin Aztex's ATX Pro Challenge - February 13 - 15, Various Times - Four-team MLS preseason tournament hosted by the Austin Aztex at UT's Mike Myers Stadium.

5TH ANNUAL AUSTIN ROLLER DISCO - Saturday, Feb 14, 11p - The 5th installment of Austin's greatest Disco, Dance, and Rollerskating is here. An all night event on Valentines Day coined the Roller Disco of Love. Music and performances by some of Austin finest DJ's and Musicians.

VALENTINE’S SINGLES BASH - BENEFITING THE BLOOD AND TISSUE CENTER OF CENTRAL TEXAS - Saturday, February 14, 8p - Benji's Cantina is hosting a Valentine's Singles Bash to benefit The Blood and Tissue Center of Central Texas. To celebrate being single in our great city, we will be putting on a live charity date auction. The proceeds will be donated to The Blood and Tissue Center so we are auctioning off 10 of Austin's finest and most eligible.

Austin Institute of Architects 2015 Luncheon Speaker Series at Green Pastures - Tuesday, Feb. 17, 11:30a-1p - Featured speaker, Alan Graham, president, CEO and founder of Mobile Loaves & Fishes - To Understand Homelessness We Must First Understand What Home Is

Austin Lamb Jam - Sunday, February 22, 3p-6p - The American Lamb Jam is an epic tasting event and competition that brings together 16 talented local chefs to compete for your vote and the honor of Best Lamb Dish in Austin. Joining the chefs will be local breweries, winemakers and other local food artisans serving up tasty treats. Between bites, attendees can watch butcher demos, play in the interactive photo booth, meet local shepherds and concoct their very own lamb spice rub. Proceeds from Austin Lamb Jam will benefit our friends at The Austin Food & Wine Alliance.

And Beyond.....

Zilker Kite Festival - Sunday, March 1, 10a - Zilker Metropolitan Park - The nation’s oldest kite festival will include kite flying, contests, food, games, and more. Attendance is free.

Have a notoriously excellent February and call or email your Outlaw Realty agent if we can advise, coach, or educate you on any real estate related questions.

Austin-area home sales set records for the month of December, annual home sales volume in 2014

Mon, 26 Jan 2015 12:00:00 -0600

Austin Board of REALTORS® releases real estate statistics for December 2014
For More Information and further analysis of the Austin market statistics visit:
https://www.abor.com/news_media/press_releases/2014/p16_14.cfm

Outlaw Realty's Monthly Market Statistics Charts - Data Source: Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University and ABoR

AUSTIN, Texas – January 21, 2014 – According to the December 2014 and Year-End 2014 Multiple Listing Service (MLS) report released today by the Austin Board of REALTORS®, the Austin-area housing market set a record for single-family home sales volume for the month of December, as well as a record for annual home sales volume in 2014. This marked the fourth-straight year of annual home sales increases.

Barb Cooper, 2015 President of the Austin Board of REALTORS®, explained, “The Austin area experienced a strong, stable housing market in 2014, with year-end 2014 showing similar market conditions to those one year ago. Last month, the U.S. Census Bureau named Austin the third-fastest growing big city in America since 2000. That steady job and population growth has continued to drive increases in home sales volume and, combined with low housing inventory levels, home prices as well.”

According to the report, 2,283 single-family homes were sold in the Austin area in December 2014, a 14 percent increase compared to December 2013 and an all-time high for Austin-area home sales in the month of December. In 2014, home sales volume slightly exceeded 2013 levels to set a new record for the number of Austin-area homes sold in a year with 27,768 homes sold, a two percent increase from 2013.

Over the course of 2014, median price increased eight percent over 2013 to $242,500. In December 2014, the median price for Austin-area homes was $246,530, 10 percent higher than December 2013. As a result, the total sales dollar volume for single-family homes in 2014 topped $8.6 billion, an increase of more than $673 million from 2013.

Housing inventory levels remained low in 2014, despite breaking an 18-month trend of monthly decreases in the second quarter of 2014. In December, Austin-area monthly housing inventory was 2.2 months, 0.2 months higher than December 2013 but still well below the 6.5-month inventory level the Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University cites as a balanced housing market.

This slow rise in housing inventory was driven by an influx of listings throughout the last half of 2014. Active listings in December 2014 jumped 12 percent year-over-year to 5,077 listings, while new listings rose 10 percent to 1,546 new listings from December 2013. Throughout the year, new and active listings each rose four percent in 2014 to 35,423 and 5,734 listings, respectively.

In 2014, homes spent an average of 47 days on the market, or three days fewer than homes sold in 2013, while pending sales increased one percent from 2013 to 28,325 sales. Homes sold in December 2014 spent three more days on the market than December 2013, or an average of 55 days, and pending sales increased 18 percent to 1,623 sales during the same time frame.

Cooper concluded, “The Austin-area housing market is consistent, but so are its challenges. More homes on the market, at all price ranges and throughout all areas of Austin, will be crucial to maintaining Austin’s affordability in 2015. As one of the fastest growing metropolitan areas in the U.S. we must look to our new city council for a regulatory environment that stimulates and grows housing stock in a healthy, sustainable way.”

December 2014 Statistics

2,283 – Single-family homes sold, 14 percent more than December 2013.
$246,530 – Median price for single-family homes, 10 percent more than December 2013.
$311,082 – Average price for single-family homes, six percent more than December 2013.
55 – Average number of days single-family homes spent on the market, three days more than December 2013.
1,546 – New single-family home listings on the market, 10 percent more than December 2013.
5,077 – Active single-family home listings on the market, 12 percent more than December 2013.
1,623 – Pending sales for single-family homes, 18 percent more than December 2013.
2.2 – Months of inventory* of single-family homes, 0.2 month more than December 2013.
$710,200,206 – Total dollar volume of single-family properties sold, 21 percent more than December 2013.

2014 Year-End Totals

27,768 – Single-family homes sold, two percent more than 2013.
$242,500 – Median price for single-family homes, eight percent more than 2013.
$309,975 – Average price for single-family homes, seven percent more than 2013.
47 – Average number of days that single-family homes spent on the market, three days fewer than 2013.
35,423 – New single-family home listings on the market, four percent more than 2013.
5,734 – Active single-family home listings on the market, four percent more than 2013.
28,325 – Pending sales for single-family homes, one percent more than 2013.
$8,607,385,376 – Total dollar volume of single-family properties sold, nine percent more than 2013.

The following sections describe trends in other sectors of the Austin real estate market.

Townhouses & Condominiums

The volume of townhouses and condominiums (condos) purchased in the Austin area in December 2014 was 222, which is six percent more than December 2013. In the same time period, the median price for condos was $229,750, which is five percent more than the same month of the prior year. When compared to December 2013, these properties spent five additional days on the market, or an average of 55 days.

Over the course of 2014, 3,150 Austin condos were sold, which is statistically unchanged compared to 2013; the median price was $215,000, or 10 percent more than 2013; and condos spent an average of 43 days on the market, nine days fewer than 2013.

Leasing

In December 2014, a total of 1,214 properties were leased in Austin, which is 17 percent more than December 2013. The median price for Austin-area leases was $1,450, which is five percent more than the same month of the prior year. In all of 2014, a total of 16,960 properties were leased in Austin, which is four percent more than 2013, and the median lease price was $1,480, or six percent more than 2013.

Notoriously Awesome Area Events - January 2015

Wed, 07 Jan 2015 12:00:00 -0600

Happy 2015! It is truly winter in Austin with icy weather expected this weekend! Your Outlaw Realty team has compiled a number of fun January events to do INSIDE (mostly) so we can ride out this odd thing called winter, together, and with our sanity. Enjoy!

City Running Tours!? Discover or rediscover Austin and get your fitness on. Some of the running tours even include a Pubcrawl element.

Brunch at the Brewery - Rogness Brewing Company, Sunday, January 18, 11a - 3p - It’s time again for another Sunday brunch at the brewery. This event is inspired by Yogi being mentioned in a Bon Appétit article featuring 12 different breakfast beers from across the nation.

Martin Luther King Celebration - The Annual event celebrates Dr. Martin Luther King’s legacy while uplifting diversity and multi-culturalism in our city.

Theater! Zach Theater is presenting Peter and the Starcatcher and The Six Season starting in January!

Calling all Foodies! The Substainable Food Center has a number of great classes this month! GET GROWING: SOIL HEALTH, ESSENTIAL KNIFE SKILLS, SECRET OF SAUCES ! And more.

Austin Family Magazine's 17th Annual Summer Camp Fair - Saturday, Jan 24, 11a - 4p - Palmer Events Center

Alamo Drafthouse Events - There are a number of quirky opportunities for fun: girlie nights, quote-alongs, free screenings, and the pleasure of the Alamo experience for a new cinematic release! Be warm and entertained!

Have a notoriously excellent 2015 and call or email your Outlaw Realty agent if we can advise, coach, or educate you on real estate related questions. We'll see you around Austin and the surrounding areas as we all enjoy!

Austin-area home sales, median price break records for third straight month in November

Mon, 22 Dec 2014 12:00:00 -0600

Austin Board of REALTORS® releases real estate statistics for November 2014
For More Information and further analysis of the Austin market statistics visit:

https://www.abor.com/news_media/press_releases/2014/p15_14.cfm

Outlaw Realty's Monthly Market Statistics Charts - Data Source: Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University and ABoR

AUSTIN, Texas – December 19, 2014 – The Austin-area continued to break records in home sales and median price for single-family homes last month, according to the November 2014 Multiple Listing Service (MLS) report released today by the Austin Board of REALTORS® (ABoR). In November, home sales and median price were the highest ever recorded in the month of November for the Austin area. During the month, single-family home sales increased six percent over the prior year to 1,934 homes sold and the median price for Austin-area homes was $245,000, an 11 percent increase from November 2013.

Additionally, Austin-area housing inventory was 2.4 months in November 2014, a small increase of 0.1 months compared to the prior year. Housing inventory remains consistently tight despite an increase in new listings of five percent over the prior year and an increase in active listings of nine percent compared to November 2013. Housing inventory in Austin has remained below 6.5 months of inventory for more than three years, which is the inventory figure cited by the Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University as a market in which supply is balanced with demand. In November 2014, homes spent an average of 54 days on the market, three days longer than the same month of the prior year.

Bill Evans, 2014 President of the Austin Board of REALTORS¬®, explained, “As the new year approaches, demand for Austin-area homes remains strong. Fortunately, listings are up year-over-year to meet some of that need, but demand continues to outpace supply, placing a continued strain on housing inventory and pushing up home values. That’s great news for Austin homeowners looking to sell, but as we’ve discussed all year, it continues to present challenges for affordability in our market. With the newly elected Austin Mayor and City Council, ABoR looks forward to continuing to advocate for the interests of all homeowners, ensuring our market can meet the needs of our residents and Austinites can continue to afford property in this great city.”

November 2014 Statistics

1,934 – Single-family homes sold, six percent more than November 2013.
$245,000 – Median price for single-family homes, 11 percent more than November 2013.
$311,222 – Average price for single-family homes, six percent more than November 2013.
54 – Average number of days single-family homes spent on the market, three days longer than November 2013.
2,067 – New single-family home listings on the market, five percent more than November 2013.
5,561 – Active single-family home listings on the market, nine percent more than November 2013.
1,893 – Pending sales for single-family homes, eight percent more than November 2013.
2.4 – Months of inventory* of single-family homes, 0.1 months more than November 2013.
$601,903,348 – Total dollar volume of single-family properties sold, 12 percent more than November 2013.
The following sections describe trends in other sectors of the Austin-area real estate market.

Townhouses & Condominiums

The volume of townhouses and condominiums (condos) purchased in the Austin area in November 2014 was 162, which is 24 percent less than November 2013. In the same time period, the median price for condos was $221,000, which is 13 percent more than the same month last year. These properties spent an average of 49 days on the market, five days less than November 2013.

Leasing

In November 2014, a total of 1,175 properties were leased in Austin, which is six percent more than November 2013. The median price for Austin-area leases was $1,420, which is two percent more than the same month last year.

* The inventory of homes for a market is measured in months, which is defined as the number of active listings divided by the average sales per month of the prior 12 months. The Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University cites that 6.5 months of inventory represents a market in which supply and demand for homes is balanced.

Austin-area home sales, prices set record for month of October

Mon, 24 Nov 2014 12:00:00 -0600

Austin Board of REALTORS® releases real estate statistics for October 2014
For More Information and further analysis of the Austin market statistics visit: https://www.abor.com/news_media/press_releases/2014/p14_14.cfm

Outlaw Realty's Monthly Market Statistics Charts - Data Source: Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University and ABoR

AUSTIN, Texas – November 20, 2014 – According to the October 2014 Multiple Listing Service (MLS) report released today by the Austin Board of REALTORS® (ABoR), Austin-area home sales soared 16 percent year-over year to 2,403 single-family home sales, the largest year-over-year increase in home sales to date this year and an all-time high for the month of October. Single-family home prices for the Austin area also set a record for the month of October.

Bill Evans, 2014 President of the Austin Board of REALTORS¬®, explained, “It’s always exciting to see a record-breaking month in real estate, but let’s remember that high demand often leads to high prices. For example, this month’s results show that it costs a typical homeowner $23,000 more to buy a home than one year ago. For some Austinites, that kind of price increase could mean looking at homes smaller in size, further outside the Austin area, or not being able to afford to buy a home at all. This just underscores the importance of housing affordability as a key issue going into 2015.”

Austin-area home prices for single-family homes returned to double-digit increases in October 2014. Both median and average price increased 11 percent year-over-year to $240,000 and $311,028, respectively – the highest figures ever recorded for the month of October.

In October 2014, active listings increased 11 percent year-over-year to 6,170 listings and new listings jumped 11 percent during the same time frame to 2,850 listings. Continued gains in single-family home listings over the last few months are having a positive effect on pending sales, which jumped nine percent year-over-year in October 2014 to 2,255 pending single-family home sales. Monthly housing inventory in the Austin area also continued to benefit from more listings entering the market, increasing 0.2 months year-over-year to 2.7 months in October 2014. This is still well below the Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University’s balanced housing inventory level of 6.5 months.

Evans added, “This additional housing inventory is encouraging, but we’ve got a long way to go before homeownership options and availability meet demand in our city. To get us there, we need a regulatory environment that supports all types of affordable housing options.”

While Austin-area homes continue to sell quickly, the average number of days single-family homes spent on the market increased year-over-year for the first time since August 2011. Homes spent an additional two days on the market in October 2014 compared to October 2013, or an average of 50 days.

Evans concluded, “Many of Austin’s City Council positions, including mayor, are yet to be decided. This is Austin’s last opportunity to choose a City Council that will ensure that Austinites can afford to buy a home in the neighborhoods where they live. ABoR urges Austinites to vote early December 1 through 12 or on Dec. 16 for City Council candidates who will prioritize housing development and affordability issues in 2015.”

October 2014 Statistics

2,403 – Single-family homes sold, 16 percent more than October 2013.
$240,000 – Median price for single-family homes, 11 percent more than October 2013.
$311,028 – Average price for single-family homes, 11 percent more than October 2013.
50 – Average number of days single-family homes spent on the market, two days longer than October 2013.
2,850 – New single-family home listings on the market, 11 percent more than October 2013.
6,170 – Active single-family home listings on the market, 11 percent more than October 2013.
2,255 – Pending sales for single-family homes, nine percent more than October 2013.
2.7 – Months of inventory* of single-family homes, 0.2 months more than October 2013.
$747,400,284 – Total dollar volume of single-family properties sold, 29 percent more than October 2013.
The following sections describe trends in other sectors of the Austin-area real estate market.

Townhouses & Condominiums

The volume of townhouses and condominiums (condos) purchased in the Austin area in October 2014 was 272, which is three percent less than October 2013. In the same time period, the median price for condos was $225,000, which is eight percent more than the same month last year. These properties spent an average of 47 days on the market, which is unchanged from October 2013.

Leasing

In October 2014, a total of 1,416 properties were leased in Austin, which is 17 percent more than October 2013. The median price for Austin-area leases was $1,450, which is five percent more than the same month last year.

The Austin Board of REALTORS® (ABoR) is a non-profit, voluntary organization dedicated to educating and supporting Central Texas REALTORS®. ABoR proudly serves more than 10,000 members, promotes private property rights and provides accurate, comprehensive property listing information for the Greater Austin area. Home sales statistics are released by ABoR on a monthly basis. For more information, please contact the ABoR Marketing Department at marketing@abor.com or 512-454-7636. Visit AustinHomeSearch.com, a public resource on Austin real estate, for the latest news on the local housing market.

* The inventory of homes for a market is measured in months, which is defined as the number of active listings divided by the average sales per month of the prior 12 months. The Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University cites that 6.5 months of inventory represents a market in which supply and demand for homes is balanced.

Everyone Deserves a Safe Place! An Outlaw Realty Community Holiday Project

Fri, 21 Nov 2014 12:00:00 -0600

Everyone Deserves a Safe Place!

This holiday season Outlaw Realty will be working to support SafePlace, whose mission is to end sexual and domestic violence through safety, healing, prevention and social change. We are asking our clients and the service people we work with to help us make this holiday project a huge success.

Check out the items SafePlace can use:

Shop from the Shelter's holiday list
Recycle your old electronics & support SafePlace via Electronics Recycling
Donate to their every day "Wish List"

Put aside any gifts, electronic recycling or donations and let your Outlaw Realty agent know that you'll need a pick up. They will then stop by your home or work to pick the items up (between 12/1-12/15).

Your Outlaw Realty team will then deliver it all to SafePlace on your behalf.

SafePlace can even mail you a tax deductible receipt! Simply include a list of the items you are donating, with your donation bag, along with your address, and they will mail your receipt. We look forward to giving back alongside such awesome clients and community participants.

Notoriously Awesome Area Events - November 2014

Tue, 04 Nov 2014 12:00:00 -0600

Free To Be.... You and Me - November - 7th -15th - Various Times - The Biscuit Brothers Fine Arts Farm

23rd Annual Austin Powwow & American Indian Heritage Festival - Saturday, November 8th - 10a-10p - FREE

Pflugerville Craft Show - Saturday, November 15th - 9a-4p - FREE

Austin Fermentation Festival - Saturday, November 15th - 11a-4p - FREE

East Austin Studio Tours - Saturday and Sunday 15-16 & 22-23 - various times and events!

Chuy's Children Giving to Children Parade - Saturday, November 29th - 11a - FREE - Downtown - Bring a unwrapped toy! Benefits Operation Blue Santa.

Texas Renaissance Festival - Now - November 30 - Weekends - 9a-8p- The Texas Renaissance Festival is an interactive theme park that embraces different eras, including the 16th century and beyond. The 55-acre theater is filled with live entertainment, food, fun and professional actors who stay true to character for eight themed weekends in October and November.

Have a notoriously excellent November! Call or email your Outlaw Realty agent if we can advise, coach, or educate you on any real estate related questions.

Austin-area home prices set record for September, home sales rebound in September 2014

Tue, 21 Oct 2014 12:00:00 -0500

Austin Board of REALTORS® releases real estate statistics for September 2014

For More Information and further analysis of the Austin market statistics visit: https://www.abor.com/news_media/press_releases/2014/p13_14.cfm

Outlaw Realty's Monthly Market Statistics Charts - Data Source: Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University and ABoR

AUSTIN, Texas – October 21, 2014 – According to the September 2014 Multiple Listing Service (MLS) report released today by the Austin Board of REALTORS® (ABoR), Austin-area single-family home prices set a record for the month of September. At the same time, Austin-area single-family home sales rebounded from the last two months of home sales declines, increasing 10 percent from September 2013 to 2,524 home sales.

Bill Evans, 2014 President of the Austin Board of REALTORS®, explained, “September’s 10 percent increase in home sales, despite ongoing issues in housing affordability, is a testament to the strong population and job growth that the Austin area and its economy continue to enjoy. However, these records in home prices also show that area homes continue to become more and more unaffordable for Austin homebuyers. ABoR encourages Austinites to take action on Nov. 4 by voting for City Council candidates who will prioritize housing development and affordability issues in 2015.”

Median price for Austin-area single-family homes increased eight percent year-over-year to $240,000 and average price rose seven percent year-over-year to $308,514 in September 2014. These are the highest figures recorded for both median and average price for the month of September.

At the same time, Austin-area monthly housing inventory slipped back to 2.8 months, despite a year-over-year increase of 0.1 months from September 2013. This is still well below the Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University’s balanced housing inventory level of 6.5 months.

While Austin-area homes continue to sell quickly, the average number of days single-family homes spent on the market remained unchanged from September 2013 at 44 days. This is the first time that the average number of days spent on the market remained statistically unchanged year-over-year since September 2011.v In September 2014, active listings increased eight percent year-over-year to 6,469 listings and new listings rose four percent during the same time frame to 2,586 listings. Continued gains in single-family home listings over the last few months are having a positive effect on pending sales, which jumped 11 percent year-over-year in September 2014 to 2,201 pending single-family home sales.

Evans concluded, “Recent reports from a national real estate advertising company have claimed that the Austin-area housing market is overvalued, but local economic experts continue to point to our region’s strong economic and population growth as foundations of a healthy market and indicators that those claims are not true. The 110 people who the City of Austin says move to Austin every day need homes to live in, and the real issue at hand is whether those people can afford those homes.”

September 2014 Statistics

2,524 – Single-family homes sold, 10 percent more than September 2013.
$240,000 – Median price for single-family homes, eight percent more than September 2013.
$308,514 – Average price for single-family homes, seven percent more than September 2013.
44 – Average number of days single-family homes spent on the market, unchanged from September 2013.
2,586 – New single-family home listings on the market, four percent more than September 2013.
6,469 – Active single-family home listings on the market, eight percent more than September 2013.
2,201 – Pending sales for single-family homes, 11 percent more than September 2013.
2.8 – Months of inventory* of single-family homes, 0.1 months more than September 2013.
$778,689,336 – Total dollar volume of single-family properties sold, 18 percent more than September 2013.
The following sections describe trends in other sectors of the Austin-area real estate market.

Townhouses & Condominiums

The volume of townhouses and condominiums (condos) purchased in the Austin area in September 2014 was 245, which is four percent less than September 2013. In the same time period, the median price for condos was $205,500, which is one percent more than the same month last year. These properties spent an average of 41 days on the market, two days fewer than September 2013.

Leasing

In September 2014, a total of 1,444 properties were leased in Austin, which is eight percent more than September 2013. The median price for Austin-area leases was $1,480, which is 10 percent more than the same month last year.

####
The Austin Board of REALTORS® (ABoR) is a non-profit, voluntary organization dedicated to educating and supporting Central Texas REALTORS®. ABoR proudly serves more than 10,000 members, promotes private property rights and provides accurate, comprehensive property listing information for the Greater Austin area. Home sales statistics are released by ABoR on a monthly basis. For more information, please contact the ABoR Marketing Department at marketing@abor.com or 512-454-7636. Visit AustinHomeSearch.com, a public resource on Austin real estate, for the latest news on the local housing market.

Community Pumpkin Carving Contest - 2014

Mon, 29 Sep 2014 12:00:00 -0500

Welcome to our virtual event! The Community Pumpkin Carving Contest. Below are the instructions on how to participate. Good luck!

1. Carve your pumpkin!

2. Post your pumpkin's photo on the Outlaw Realty Facebook wall by midnight on Oct. 30th! (make sure your picture privacy is marked as "Public" when you post it!) Make sure to specify if it is an adult entry or kid entry!

3. Winners announced on Halloween Day!

4. Six chances to win with adults & kids categories with 1st-3rd place prizes! (Prizes include gift cards to Uchiko, Cover 3, The Goodnight, and Terra Toys)

Adult Prizes: (13 years old or older)
1st Place - Uchiko Gift Card - $125
2nd Place - The Goodnight Gift Card - $75
3rd Place - Cover 3 Gift Card - $50

Kid Prizes: (12 years old or younger)
1st Place - Gift Certificate to Terra Toys - $40
2nd Place - Gift Certificate to Terra Toys - $35
3rd Place - Gift Certificate to Terra Toys - $25

LINK TO WINNERS Photos!

Ideas and places to print free stencils:

http://www.bhg.com/halloween/pumpkin-carving/printable-pumpkin-stencils/
http://www.pumpkinpile.com/

And remember, we are always ready to “carve” out time to serve you and your referrals!

Prize Eligibility
Only persons residing in United States who are at least 18 years of age can enter. Children's pumpkin entries must be submitted by the child's legal guardian. One entry per person.

Contest Starts
September 29, 2014 @ 08:00 am (CDT)

Contest Ends
October 30, 2014 @ 11:59 pm (CDT)

Need more details?
Contact Leah Schimberg, Office Manager, Outlaw Realty - 512-614-0057

Notoriously Awesome Area Events - October 2014

Mon, 29 Sep 2014 12:00:00 -0500

Outlaw Realty's Community Pumpkin Carving Contest - Now - October 30th - Spook-tacular Prizes! Check it out and join the fun. Prizes include gift cards to Uchiko, Cover 3, The Goodnight, and Terra Toys!

Oktoberfest - German Texas Heritage Society - Saturday, October 18 - 11a - 7p - German Free School of Austin

Bunniula - Scottish Rite Theater - October 5 - November 1 - Various Times! Bunnicula looks like a typical cuddly rabbit, but he’s the spookiest bunny around! Kids will howl with laughter as Chester the cat and Harold the dog unravel the mystery. Live music and a stellar cast round out this Scottish Rite Halloween treat.

Austin Celtic Festival - October 18-19 - 12p-7:30p - Fiesta Gardens in Downtown Austin - Internationally acclaimed as one of the few remaining festivals that celebrate the authentic music honed by the Celtic people. It's a great time! Celtic History, Animals, Dance, Music and Sports!

Texas Book Fair - October 18 & 25-26th - Various times and events!

AIDS Walk -Sunday, October 19 - 11:30a-5p - The money goes to AIDS Services of Austin and the fundraising teams of Austin's other outstanding AIDS service and education providers! Of every dollar donated to ASA, 87% goes directly to services.

Green Corn Project Fall Festival & Fundraiser - Sunday, October 26 at Boggy Creek Farm - 12 - 3p - Tickets are $35 in advance, $40 at the door (children under 12 free) -Amazing cast of local restaurants and beverage vendors! Live music will be a delight to your ears while you eat your way around the farm, peruse the silent auction, and learn some new cooking skills at the chef demos.

AIA Home Tour - Satuday & Sunday, October 25-26 - Self lead tour. Experience Austin's finest residential architecture! Get your tickets!

Movies in the Park - Beetlejuice -Wednesday, October 29 at 7p, Wooldridge Square Park

Texas Renissance Festival - October 11- November 30 - Weekends - 9a-8p- The Texas Renaissance Festival is an interactive theme park that embraces different eras, including the 16th century and beyond. The 55-acre theater is filled with live entertainment, food, fun and professional actors who stay true to character for eight themed weekends in October and November.

Have a notoriously excellent October! Call or email your Outlaw Realty agent if we can advise, coach, or educate you on any real estate related questions.

October- Home Maintenance Reminders

Mon, 29 Sep 2014 12:00:00 -0500

These key tasks are easily forgotten but very important when it comes to taking care of your home. If you're not careful, these simple home maintenance items can be skipped or put off and you can end up having that house in the neighborhood with a list of expensive, but possibly could-have-been-prevented repairs. Paste the list into your calendar each month for easy reference!

October Home Maintenance Reminders

* Check under and around bath and kitchen cabinets for leaks.
* Check smoke detectors and install new batteries.
* Check roof for leaks, damaged or missing shingles.
* Check roof vents and louvers for critter entry or nests.
* Check flashing around roof vents and stacks.

Austin-area home sales dip for second consecutive month in August 2014

Fri, 19 Sep 2014 12:00:00 -0500

Austin Board of REALTORS® releases real estate statistics for August 2014

For More Information and further analysis of the Austin market statistics visit: https://www.abor.com/news_media/press_releases/2014/p12_14.cfm

Outlaw Realty's Monthly Market Statistics Charts - Data Source: Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University and ABoR

AUSTIN, Texas – September 18, 2014 – Austin-area home sales declined for the second consecutive month in August 2014 as rising home prices and housing affordability issues continue to affect the Austin-area housing market. According to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) report released today by the Austin Board of REALTORS® (ABoR), Austin-area home sales decreased four percent year-over-year to 2,835 single-family home sales in August 2014.

Bill Evans, 2014 President of the Austin Board of REALTORS¬®, explained, “A majority of Austin-area homes are now priced out of an affordable range for first-time and first-time move up homebuyers, where a significant portion of home sales volume occurs. We need a regulatory environment that supports the development of affordable housing stock for the future stability of our Austin housing market. As we prepare for the new districted Austin City Council this November, ABoR encourages voters to seek leaders that will address our housing and development challenges. The Austin Land Development Code basically needs to be overhauled.”

According to the report, median price for single-family homes jumped 11 percent year-over-year to $247,500 and average price rose nine percent year-over-year to $311,414. Single-family homes continued to sell quickly as they spent an average 42 days on the market, one day fewer than August 2013.

Monthly housing inventory continued to increase in August 2014, rising 0.2 months from the year prior to 3.0 months. While still well below the Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University’s balanced housing inventory level of 6.5 months, Austin-area housing inventory levels could continue to rise as much-needed listings enter the market.

In August 2014, active listings jumped 10 percent year-over-year to 6,707 listings and new listings rose four percent during the same time frame to 3,310. In addition, pending sales increased one percent to 2,430 single-family home sales.

Evans concluded, “An increase in new and active listings is giving the market some much needed breathing room, but Austin’s housing inventory is still very low and has few affordable options. The new Land Development Code will be a crucial catalyst to sustainable market growth in 2015 and years to come, but it must be heavily revised in order to create housing options throughout the city that are affordable for all of Austin’s homebuyers.”

August 2014 Statistics

2,835 – Single-family homes sold, four percent less than August 2013.
$247,500 – Median price for single-family homes, 11 percent more than August 2013.
$311,414 – Average price for single-family homes, nine percent more than August 2013.
42 – Average number of days single-family homes spent on the market, one day fewer than August 2013.
3,310 – New single-family home listings on the market, four percent more than August 2013.
6,707 – Active single-family home listings on the market, 10 percent more than August 2013.
2,430 – Pending sales for single-family homes, one percent more than August 2013.
3.0 – Months of inventory* of single-family homes, 0.2 months more than August 2013.
$882,858,690 – Total dollar volume of single-family properties sold, four percent more than August 2013.

The following sections describe trends in other sectors of the Austin-area real estate market.

Townhouses & Condominiums

The volume of townhouses and condominiums (condos) purchased in the Austin area in August 2014 was 308, which is 13 percent less than August 2013. In the same time period, the median price for condos was $212,000, which is nine percent more than the same month of the prior year. These properties spent an average of 34 days on the market, six days fewer than August 2013.

Leasing

In August 2014, a total of 2,109 properties were leased in Austin, which is three percent more than August 2013. The median price for Austin-area leases was $1,500, which is seven percent more than the same month last year.

Notoriously Awesome Area Events - September 2014

Tue, 02 Sep 2014 12:00:00 -0500

Communities In Schools' Food for Thought Benefit - Thursday, Sept 4 - 6p to 9p - Join Food for Thought, Communities In Schools’ signature tasting event featuring mouth-watering dishes from the most exclusive restaurants in Austin.

Unplugged at the Grove - Shady Grove - All Summer Long! Wednesdays, 8p - FREE

Sept 4 - RAY WYLIE HUBBARD
Sept 11 - THE WARREN HOOD BAND
Sept 18 - JONATHAN TYLER

Hill Country Galleria Saturday Night Concerts - FREE - Saturdays - Sep 6, 7-9p Join Hill Country Galleria for the upcoming Saturday Night Concert Series. Enjoy free, live music in the outdoor amphitheater.

Sept 6 - Vallejo
Sept 13 – Amanda Pearcy
Sept 20 - Kendall Beard
Sept 27 – Meagan Tubb & Hannah Williams

Strut Your Mutt - Saturday, Sept 13 8a to 1p - Mueller Lake Park - Austinites two-legged and four who want to “walk the walk” for homeless pets! A leisurely fundraising dog walk followed by a doggie-themed festival that includes pet contests, photos, treats for your dogs, fun activities, refreshments and more.

Austin Museum Day - FREE - Sunday, Sept 21 - Since 1998, the Austin Museum Partnership has hosted Austin Museum Day – a free, city-wide rediscovery of Austin museums.

Whiskey Shivers - Self Titled CD Release Party - Scoot Inn - Friday, Sept 26 - 7:30p - Upright bass, fiddle, washboard, banjo and guitar; a traditional arrangement for some not so traditional music. Whether it's a foot-stompin hootenanny you're after, or nice two-step or even music to lose consciousness to, they've got it covered!

Texas Craft Brewers Festival - Saturday, Sep 27 - Featuring over 100 different brews from over 40 Texas craft brewers, this event is a must-attend for craft beer fans and members of the Texas craft beer community.

Have a notoriously excellent September! Call or email your Outlaw Realty agent if we can advise, coach, or educate you on any real estate related questions.

September - Home Maintenance Reminders

Tue, 02 Sep 2014 12:00:00 -0500

September Home Maintenance Reminders

* Have HVAC cleaned and serviced.
* Remove debris from around HVAC and clean with garden hose.
* Check attic for leaks, proper ventilation and critters.
* Check insulation and add as necessary.
* Check chimney flue and clean if necessary.
* Check chimney for deteriorating bricks and mortar.

Austin-area home sales dip, year-over-year housing inventory rises for first time in three years

Wed, 27 Aug 2014 12:00:00 -0500

Austin Board of REALTORS® releases real estate statistics for July 2014

For More Information and further analysis of the Austin market statistics visit: https://www.abor.com/news_media/press_releases/2014/p11_14.cfm

Outlaw Realty's Monthly Market Statistics Charts - Data Source: Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University and ABoR

AUSTIN, Texas – August 21, 2014 – After a double-digit surge in home sales last month, Austin-area home sales dipped three percent to 2,944 single-family home sales in July 2014, according to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) report released today by the Austin Board of REALTORS® (ABoR). This is the first decrease in home sales since May 2011. At the same time, monthly housing inventory increased on a year-over-year basis for the first time in three years as more listings entered the market.

Bill Evans, 2014 President of the Austin Board of REALTORS®, explained, “July 2013 had the highest monthly home sales volume in Austin’s history, so we knew it was going to be a tough month to beat. However, there’s no denying that the Austin-area housing market has been impacted by issues in inventory and affordability. With such high demand, the Austin-area housing market cannot grow without an increasing, continually replenished housing stock, but that housing stock must also be affordable and attainable for Austin homebuyers.”

Austin-area monthly housing inventory rose to 3.0 months in July 2014, an increase of 0.2 months from the year prior and the first annual increase in inventory levels since May 2011. This was driven by an increase in available listings, as active listings jumped 12 percent year-over-year to 6,859 listings and new listings rose eight percent during the same time frame to 3,788 listings. However, Austin-area housing inventory is still well below six months, which the Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University cites as a balanced market.

In addition, Austin-area home prices continued to climb with median price increasing nine percent year-over-year to $250,000 and average price rising seven percent to $318,854 in July 2014.

Evans continued, “Now, more than ever, managed growth and planned development are important for ongoing affordability and livability in Austin. As the City of Austin overhauls the Land Development Code that will dictate what development and housing is allowed as we continue to grow, we have to ask ourselves, ‘Is this the right kind of home for Austin’s housing market and do our regulations allow for it?’”

Despite higher home prices, Austin-area homes continued to sell at a faster pace. In July 2014, single-family homes spent an average 39 days on the market, two fewer days compared to July 2013. In addition, pending sales decreased four percent to 2,660 single-family home sales.

Evans concluded, “Amid questions about the direction of Austin’s market, we don’t believe this small decrease in home sales is indicative of a negative trend. The high demand for Austin real estate over the last few years continues to be fueled by strong job and economic growth in the Austin area. The issue we’re facing now is not whether Austin-area property values will fall, but whether future housing market growth in the Austin area will be stifled by a lack of affordable housing options for Austin-area homebuyers.”

July 2014 Statistics

2,944 – Single-family homes sold, three percent less than July 2013.
$250,000 – Median price for single-family homes, nine percent more than July 2013.
$318,854 – Average price for single-family homes, seven percent more than July 2013.
39 – Average number of days single-family homes spent on the market, two days fewer than July 2013.
3,788 – New single-family home listings on the market, eight percent more than July 2013.
6,859 – Active single-family home listings on the market, 12 percent more than July 2013.
2,660 – Pending sales for single-family homes, four percent less than July 2013.
3.0 – Months of inventory* of single-family homes, 0.2 months more than July 2013.
$938,706,176 – Total dollar volume of single-family properties sold, four percent more than July 2013.

The following sections describe trends in other sectors of the Austin-area real estate market.

Townhouses & Condominiums

The volume of townhouses and condominiums (condos) purchased in the Austin area in July 2014 was 336, which is four percent less than July 2013. In the same time period, the median price for condos was $204,000, which is 12 percent more than the same month of the prior year. These properties spent an average of 37 days on the market, 10 days fewer than July 2013.

Leasing

In July 2014, a total of 2,110 properties were leased in Austin, which is five percent more than July 2013. The median price for Austin-area leases was $1,500, which is seven percent more than the same month last year.

####
The Austin Board of REALTORS® (ABoR) is a non-profit, voluntary organization dedicated to educating and supporting Central Texas REALTORS®. ABoR proudly serves more than 9,000 members, promotes private property rights and provides accurate, comprehensive property listing information for the Greater Austin area. Home sales statistics are released by ABoR on a monthly basis. For more information, please contact the ABoR Marketing Department at marketing@abor.com or 512-454-7636. VisitAustinHomeSearch.com, a public resource on Austin real estate, for the latest news on the local housing market

August - Home Maintenance Reminders

Wed, 06 Aug 2014 12:00:00 -0500

August Home Maintenance Reminders

* Remove and clean your kitchen exhaust fan filter.
* Lubricate garage door and check mechanism for free travel.
* Check weather stripping and caulking around windows and doors.
* Clean gutters and downspouts.
* Check gutters and downspouts for leaks, misalignment or damage.

Notoriously Awesome Area Events - August 2014

Tue, 05 Aug 2014 12:00:00 -0500

Barton Springs Fest - Saturday, August 9, 8a-7p, Free Cold Watermelon, Live Music, Eco Tours and much more!

The Pirates of Hideout Cove - The Hideout Theater - $5 - Sundays through August 31 - Pirate games and tales that includes the kids and parents. Don't forget your pirate costume!

Amy’s Ice Cream – Mooovie Monday’s – Burnet Location Only - August 11 & 18 - Dusk - FREE

Blues on the Green –Zilker Park - Last Chance! Wednesday, August 13 - 7p - FREE

Unplugged at the Grove - Shady Grove - All Summer Long! Wednesdays, 8p - FREE

Texas Roller Girls Bouts - #2 In the World – Saturday, August 16 - Double – Header – 4p

Classic Game Fest - Parmer Event Center - August 16 & 17 - $10 for the weekend, kids under 12 are free

Sound & Cinema - The Long Cender - August 13 - Dusk - Raiders of the Lost Ark, with The Golden Dawn Arkestra & August 20th - Close Encounters of the Third Kind, with The Octopus Project - Free! The Long Center

A Midsummer Night's Dream - Scottish Rite Theater - August 8-23

Round Rock Express' Season is ending soon! Get out there before the summer is over.

Have a notoriously excellent August! Call or email your Outlaw Realty agent if we can advise, coach, or educate you on any real estate related questions.

Austin-area home sales reach all-time high for June as listings increase; Mid-year results show 201

Wed, 23 Jul 2014 12:00:00 -0500

For More Information and further analysis of the Austin market statistics visit: https://www.abor.com/news_media/press_releases/2014/p9_14.cfm

Outlaw Realty's Monthly Market Statistics Charts - Data Source: Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University and ABoR

AUSTIN, Texas – July 21, 2014– According to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) report released today by the Austin Board of REALTORS® (ABoR), Austin-area home sales reached an all-time high for the month of June, increasing 13 percent year-over-year to 2,997 single family home sales in June 2014. Mid-year statistics show Austin-area home sales increased three percent year-over-year to 13,426 homes sold, putting 2014 on pace to potentially exceed 2013’s all-time high in sales volume.

Bill Evans, 2014 President of the Austin Board of REALTORS®, explained, “The 2014 summer selling season in Austin was expected to be strong, and June 2014’s home sales activity did not disappoint. Austin’s housing stock is rising to meet the area’s continually strong housing demand, and as a result Austin saw a sharp rise in home sales in June 2014.”

The rise in housing stock has led to positive figures in both monthly housing inventory and home listings. In June 2014, the monthly housing inventory was 2.8 months, the highest level of inventory seen since August 2013. New and active listings also showed positive results in June 2014, with new listings increasing two percent year-over-year to 3,701 listings and active listings increasing six percent year-over-year to 6,246 listings.

Year-to-date, the monthly housing inventory has increased by almost a full month since the beginning of the year as home sales have remained strong. This is notably different from 2013, which showed consistently lower inventory figures throughout the year. In addition, new listings increased one percent, active listings decreased two percent and pending sales decreased three percent from the first six months of 2013.

Housing development has also been a driving factor in the housing stock increase. The final Q2-2014 data from Metrostudy shows that home starts in the Austin area have increased eight percent year-over-year to 9,782 homes, as well as 6,007 vacant developed lots that have been delivered to date in 2014. In addition, the number of new homes on the market has increased by more than 500 new homes year-over-year to 4,941 homes, with new homes under construction comprising about 80 percent of that figure.

Madison Inselmann, Regional Director of Metrostudy’s Austin market, commented, “For the first half of 2014, the shortage in Austin-area housing supply prevented the market from being able to grow. Developers are making great strides in both new home development and lot delivery to catch up with the area’s strong housing demand and are set to surpass last year’s development numbers.”

Evans continued, “Despite the steady increase in home prices, demand had not been affected. Homes are selling as soon as they hit the market, and if Austin continues to see increases in housing inventory, we could see corresponding increases in home sales activity.”

In June 2014, the median price for Austin-area single-family homes increased seven percent year-over-year to $252,520, whereas average price increased eight percent to $326,998. Single-family homes spent an average of 39 days on the market, a decrease of four days compared to June 2013. This the fastest homes have ever sold in the Austin-area housing market since 2001.

Price increases are similar for the first half of 2014, with median price increasing seven percent to $239,900 and average price increasing six percent to $308,298. At the same time, homes spent an average of 47 days on the market, seven fewer days than the same time last year.

Additionally, the total dollar volume of single-family properties sold was $980,013,006 in June 2014, a year-over-year increase of 21 percent. June 2014’s total dollar volume comprised nearly one-fourth of the total dollar volume for mid-year 2014, which increased eight percent year-over-year to $4,139,209,987.

Evans concluded, “2014 could very well turn out to be another ‘best year ever’ for Austin-area home sales, but it’s important that Austin continue to replenish and expand its housing stock so these strong figures can continue. In the meantime, both homebuyers and sellers can expect the rest of the summer selling season to be highly competitive.”

June 2014 Statistics

2,997 – Single-family homes sold, 13 percent more than June 2013.
$252,520 – Median price for single-family homes, seven percent more than June 2013.
$326,998 – Average price for single-family homes, eight percent more than June 2013
39 – Average number of days single-family homes spent on the market, four days fewer than June 2013.
3,701 – New single-family home listings on the market, two percent more than June 2013.
6,426 – Active single-family home listings on the market, six percent more than June 2013.
2,797 – Pending sales for single-family homes, one percent fewer than June 2013.
2.8 – Months of inventory* of single-family homes, 0.1 months less than June 2013.
$980,013,006 – Total dollar volume of single-family properties sold, 21 percent more than June 2013.

2014 Mid-Year Statistics
13,426 – Single-family homes sold, three percent more than the first half of 2013.
$239,900 – Median price for single-family homes, seven percent more than the first half of 2013.
$308,298 – Average price for single-family homes, six percent more than the first half of 2013.
47 – Average number of days single-family homes spent on the market, seven days fewer than the first half of 2013.
19,276 – New single-family home listings on the market, one percent more than the first half of 2013.
5,327 – Active single-family home listings on the market, two percent fewer than the first half of 2013.
15,263 – Pending sales for single-family homes, three percent fewer than the first half of 2013.
$4,139,209,987 – Total dollar volume of single-family properties sold, eight percent more than the first half of 2013.

The following sections describe trends in other sectors of the Austin real estate market.

Townhouses & Condominiums

The volume of townhouses and condominiums (condos) purchased in the Austin area in June 2014 was 308, which is one percent fewer than June 2013. In the same time period, the median price for condos was $209,000, which is eight percent more than the same month of the prior year. These properties spent an average of 31 days on the market, 10 days fewer than June 2013.

For the first half of 2014, 1,641 Austin condos were sold, which is 10 percent more than this time last year, while the median price was $213,500, or 10 percent more than the first half of 2013. Condos spent an average of 44 days on the market, 13 fewer days than the first half of 2013.

Leasing

In June 2014, a total of 1,712 properties were leased in Austin, which is 14 percent more than June 2013. The median price for Austin-area leases was $1,500, which is three percent more than the same month last year. In the first half of 2014, a total of 7,967 properties were leased in Austin, which is five percent more than 2013, and the median lease price was $1,450, a four percent increase from the first half of 2013.

The Austin Board of REALTORS® (ABoR) is a non-profit, voluntary organization dedicated to educating and supporting Central Texas REALTORS®. ABoR proudly serves more than 9,000 members, promotes private property rights and provides accurate, comprehensive property listing information for the Greater Austin area. Home sales statistics are released by ABoR on a monthly basis. For more information, please contact the ABoR Marketing Department at marketing@abor.com or 512-454-7636. Visit AustinHomeSearch.com, a public resource on Austin real estate, for the latest news on the local housing market

* The inventory of homes for a market is measured in months, which is defined as the number of active listings divided by the average sales per month of the prior 12 months. The Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University cites that 6.5 months of inventory represents a market in which supply and demand for homes is balanced.

Notoriously Awesome Area Events - July 2014

Sun, 06 Jul 2014 12:00:00 -0500

Amy’s Ice Cream – Mooovie Monday’s – Burnet Location Only - Dusk - FREE

Blues on the Green –Zilker Park - July 9,16,23 - 7p - FREE

Unplugged at the Grove - All Summer Long! 8p - FREE

Alamo Kids Camp Movies – FREE! Various times and locations

Substainable Food Center Class - Break it Down: Cutting up a Whole Chicken (featuring grill-ready recipes) - Thursday, July 10 - 6:30p - $40 - Each participant will cut up a pasture-raised chicken from the SFC Farmers’ Market and pack the pieces to take home as well as make rubs, marinades and sauces for grilling and review basic grilling and stock-making techniques.

Texas Roller Girls Bouts - #2 In the World – Sunday, July 13 Double – Header – 4p

Have a notoriously excellent July! Call or email your Outlaw Realty agent if we can advise, coach, or educate you on any real estate related questions.

July - Home Maintenance Reminders

Sun, 06 Jul 2014 12:00:00 -0500

July Home Maintenance Reminders

* Check interior and exterior faucets for leaks.
* Clean aerators.
* Replace washers if necessary.
* Inspect visible pipes for leaks.
* Check under and around bath and kitchen cabinets for leaks.
* Check toilets for stability and leaks.
* Check area around water heater for leaks.
* Check plumbing shut off valves for proper operation.
* Drain water heater.

Austin-area home sales maintain last year’s pace, listings increase for first time in three years

Mon, 23 Jun 2014 12:00:00 -0500

For More Information and further analysis of the Austin market statistics visit: https://www.abor.com/news_media/press_releases/2014/p8_14.cfm

Outlaw Realty's Monthly Market Statistics Charts - Data Source: Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University and ABoR

AUSTIN, Texas – June 20, 2014– According to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) report released today by the Austin Board of REALTORS®, Austin-area home sales continued last year’s competitive pace in May 2014 while prices increased. Also, for the first time in more than three years, the number of active listings on the market grew compared to the prior year.

Bill Evans, 2014 President of the Austin Board of REALTORS¬®, explained, “The Austin market has been in need of housing stock for some time now, so it’s encouraging to see an increase in listings over last year. With sales volumes remaining strong, the market is still competitive, but the options for buyers are beginning to increase.”

The total inventory* of Austin-area homes in May 2014 was 2.6 months, the highest rate of inventory seen in Austin since last September but still a slight decrease of 0.1 months from May 2013. Measured in months, Austin’s monthly housing inventory is the result of the current number of active listings divided by the average home sales per month of the prior 12 months.

Evans explained, “The May 2014 increase in active listings was not quite enough to offset Austin’s continual year-over-year decrease in housing inventory, which looks at homes sales over a 12-month period. However, if active listings continue to increase on a monthly basis, we will eventually see an increase in Austin’s housing inventory level.”

Active listings increased by four percent and new listings increased by seven percent in May 2014 compared to the prior year. Homes also continued to sell quickly, spending an average of 40 days on the market, which is four days less than one year prior.

In terms of sales volume, 2,943 homes were sold in the Austin area in May 2014, which is three percent more than the same month last year. In the same time period, the median price for single-family homes rose eight percent, to $249,000.The Austin market has featured year-over-year increases in median price every month for almost two-and-a-half years.

Evans concluded, “While more properties are beginning to come on the market, the price appreciation we’ve seen in recent years is continuing as well, so buyers and sellers should both expect a busy summer selling season.”

May 2014 Statistics

2,943–Single-family homes sold, three percent more than May 2013.
$249,000– Median price for single-family homes, eight percent more than May 2013.
$325,926–Average price for single-family homes, eight percent more than May 2013.
40–Average number of days single-family homes spent on the market, four days fewer than May 2013.
4,002–New single-family home listings on the market, seven percent more than May 2013.
5,949–Active single-family home listings on the market, four percent more than May 2013.
2,928 –Pending sales for single-family homes, two percent more than May 2013.
2.6 –Months of inventory of single-family homes, 0.1 months less than May 2013.
$959,200,218–Total dollar volume of single-family properties sold, 11 percent more than May 2013.

The following sections describe trends in other sectors of the Austin real estate market.

Townhouses & Condominiums

The number of townhouses and condominiums (condos) purchased in the Austin area in May 2014 was 368, which is 14 percent more than May 2013. In the same time period, the median price for condos and townhomes was $214,900, which is 11 percent more than the same month of the prior year. These properties spent an average of 41 days on the market, nine days fewer than May 2013.

Leasing

In May 2014, a total of 1,540 properties were leased in the Austin area, which is six percent more than May 2013. The median price for Austin-area leases was $1,500, which is seven percent more than the same month of the prior year.

####
The Austin Board of REALTORS® (ABoR) is a non-profit, voluntary organization dedicated to educating and supporting Central Texas REALTORS®. ABoR proudly serves more than 9,000 members, promotes private property rights and provides accurate, comprehensive property listing information for the Greater Austin area. Home sales statistics are released by ABoR on a monthly basis. For more information, please contact the ABoR Marketing Department at marketing@abor.com or 512-454-7636. Visit AustinHomeSearch.com, a public resource on Austin real estate, for the latest news on the local housing market.

Notoriously Awesome Area Events - June 2014

Tue, 03 Jun 2014 12:00:00 -0500

Summer Movie Series - June 2 - August 22, 2014 - 10a - Monday- Thursday- $1 - Southwest Theaters Lake Creek 7 (the former home of Alamo Lake Creek in North Austin)

Blues on the Green - June 4th, 11 & 25 - 7p - FREE

Romeo & Juliet - June 5 - June 28 - Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 8p - FREE - Round Rock Amphitheater

Unplugged at the Grove - All Summer Long! 8p - FREE

Bubblepalozza - FREE - Saturday, June 14 - 8a - Music, chalk art, water fun and, most importantly, BUBBLES!

Sustainable Food Center's- "Just Seeds" Summer Documentary Series - Seeds of Freedom - Thursday, June 19 - 6:30p - FREE

7th Annual Bug Eating Fest - Saturday, June 21 - 7p - Insect cooking demonstrations! Edible insects treats from local bakers! Locally made meal with edible insects from Nimble Foods!

Edible Austin Sipping Social - Benefiting Austin Food for Life - Saturday, June 21 - 7p - While tasting handcrafted drinks from our curated beverage artisans, guests will enjoy local food tastings, live jazz music from Cats & the Canary, dance lessons from GoDance and a sprinkling of surprises.

Keep Austin Weird 5K - Saturday June 28 - Keep Austin Weird is one blowout party full of music, family activities and local vendors eager to reflect the creative nature of Austin. Think of this festival as the ultimate toast to Austin, a toast to hospitality, fun and a sense of community. No need to hide your kids or hide your wives (or husbands) as there are plenty of fun shenanigans for any Austinite in attendance.

Alamo Kids Camp Movies - FREE

Have a notoriously excellent June! Call or email your Outlaw Realty agent if we can advise, coach, or educate you on any real estate related questions.

June - Home Maintenance Reminders

Tue, 03 Jun 2014 12:00:00 -0500

June Home Maintenance Reminders

* Test GFCI outlets
* Check outlets and switches for wear and damage.
* Walk around house and check exterior walls for deteriorating bricks & mortar, siding for rot or damage, and painted surfaces for flaking.
* Trim shubbery at least 3" away from walls.

Austin-area home prices hit all-time high, consistent demand indicates strong summer selling season

Wed, 28 May 2014 12:00:00 -0500

For More Information and further analysis of the Austin market statistics visit: https://www.abor.com/news_media/press_releases/2014/p7_14.cfm

Outlaw Realty's Monthly Market Statistics Charts - Data Source: Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University and ABoR

AUSTIN, Texas – May 21, 2014 – According to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) report released today by the Austin Board of REALTORS®, Austin-area home prices hit an all-time high in April 2014 while home sales trends continue to keep pace with last year’s.

The median price for single-family homes rose six percent year-over-year to $239,900, and average price, while statistically unchanged from April 2013, rose slightly higher to $308,752. Austin-area home sales increased one percent to 2,479 single-family home sales in April 2014.

Bill Evans, 2014 President of the Austin Board of REALTORS®, explained, “Austin-area home prices are rising as the strong demand of the market continues. We continue to see multiple offers on listings, often above listing price. This increasing valuation of Austin-area homes could encourage more listings to enter the market, indicating a strong summer selling season ahead.”

According to the report, Austin-area homes continued to sell at an accelerated rate, decreasing the average days on market by five days year-over-year, down to 45 days in April 2014. At the same time, monthly housing inventory decreased 0.4 months year-over-year to 2.3 months. The market also featured two percent fewer new listings, three percent fewer active listings and six percent fewer pending sales in April 2014 compared to the same month of the prior year.

“It can be tempting to think a market with high demand and rising prices is an ‘easy’ market, but that’s simply not true. Every market can be challenging and a ‘hot’ market like this one is no different,” Evans concluded. “Sellers need the best property information available to determine accurate valuations and counsel for handling complicated situations, like multiple offers. Buyers need to know immediately when new properties come on the market, so they can act fast and make informed decisions about offers. Austin REALTORS® are skilled in all of these areas and can help homeowners navigate these complicated situations.”

April 2014 Statistics

2,479 – Single-family homes sold, one percent more than April 2013.
$239,900 – Median price for single-family homes, six percent more than April 2013.
$308,752 – Average price for single-family homes, statistically unchanged since April 2013.
45 – Average number of days single-family homes spent on the market, five days fewer than April 2013.
3,481 – New single-family home listings on the market, two percent fewer than April 2013.
5,305 – Active single-family home listings on the market, three percent fewer than April 2013.
2,805 – Pending sales for single-family homes, six percent fewer than April 2013.
2.3 – Months of inventory* of single-family homes, 0.4 months less than April 2013.
$765,396,208 – Total dollar volume of single-family properties sold, one percent more than April 2013.
The following sections describe trends in other sectors of the Austin real estate market.

Townhouses & Condominiums

The number of townhouses and condominiums (condos) purchased in the Austin area in April 2014 was 322, which is 32 percent more than April 2013. In the same time period, the median price for condos and townhomes was $215,000, which is seven percent more than the same month of the prior year. These properties spent an average of 42 days on the market, the same number of days spent on the market in April 2013.

Leasing

In April 2014, a total of 1,264 properties were leased in Austin, which is five percent more than April 2013. The median price for Austin-area leases was $1,500, which is seven percent more than the same month of the prior year.

####
The Austin Board of REALTORS® (ABoR) is a non-profit, voluntary organization dedicated to educating and supporting Central Texas REALTORS®. ABoR proudly serves more than 9,000 members, promotes private property rights and provides accurate, comprehensive property listing information for the Greater Austin area. Home sales statistics are released by ABoR on a monthly basis. For more information, please contact the ABoR Marketing Department at marketing@abor.com or 512-454-7636. Visit AustinHomeSearch.com, a public resource on Austin real estate, for the latest news on the local housing market.

Notoriously Awesome Area Events - May 2014

Mon, 05 May 2014 12:00:00 -0500

Freewheelin' at the Thinkery - Thursday, May 8 - 7 to 9p - 21+ event - Celebrate National Bike Month with Thinkery21 series!

Austin Aztex Soccer - Home Games - Saturday May 10 & 14 at 7:30p

Gardens on Tour 2014 – A Mother’s Day Weekend Tradition - Saturday, May 10 - 9a - 5p. Five inspirational private native plant gardens and those at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.

Sustainable Food Center's Spring Local Food Potluck - Tuesday, May 13 - 6 -8:30p

Outlaw Realty's 6th Annual Crawfish & Croquet Benefit Party for Mobile Loaves & Fishes - Saturday May 17th - 2:30-7:30p - Family-friendly fun, crawfish and all the fixins', music, lawn games, pool, photobooth, and much more!

Round Rock Express Home Games - Featuring daily themes and specials such as Friday Fireworks and 1/2 Priced Tuesdays!

Trailer Food Tuesday at the Long Center - Tuesday, May 27th - 5 -9p

Shakespeare in the Park - May 1 – 25 - Free - Zilker Park - Austin Shakespeare celebrates its 30th Anniversary of Free Shakespeare in Zilker Park with the romantic comedy, As You Like It.

Have a notoriously excellent May! Call or email your Outlaw Realty agent if we can advise, coach, or educate you on any real estate related questions.

May - Home Maintenance Reminders

Mon, 05 May 2014 12:00:00 -0500

May Home Maintenance Reminders

* Remove and clean your kitchen exhaust fan filter.
* Inspect countertops, sinks and backspashes for separations. Recaulk where necessary.
* Inspect shower doors and tubs for fit and leaks. Recaulk where necessary.
* Inspect tiled areas for missing grout or caulking. Regrout or recaulk where necessary.
* Touch up peeling or damaged exterior paint.

Austin-area home sales volume hits seven-year high for March

Tue, 22 Apr 2014 12:00:00 -0500

For More Information and further analysis of the Austin market statistics visit: https://www.abor.com/news_media/press_releases/2014/p5_14.cfm

Outlaw Realty's Monthly Market Statistics Charts - Data Source: Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University and ABoR

AUSTIN, Texas – April 21, 2014 – According to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) report released today by the Austin Board of REALTORS®, Austin-area home sales volume hit a seven-year high in March 2014, rising seven percent year-over-year to 2,262 single-family homes sold.

Bill Evans, 2014 President of the Austin Board of REALTORS®, explained, “The Austin-area housing market continues its aggressive pace as housing demand continues to accelerate and outstrip supply. Austinites wanting to buy or sell a home this summer should start the planning process with their REALTOR® now.”

According to the report, monthly housing inventory decreased 0.4 months year-over-year to 2.2 months in March 2014. Austin-area homes also continued to sell at an accelerated rate, spending an average 51 days on the market and 13 days fewer than in March 2013.

The median price for single-family homes was $231,750 in March 2014, a six percent increase from the same month last year, whereas average price increased five percent to $296,640. The total dollar volume of single-family homes sold was $670,999,680, a 12 percent increase from March 2013.

In addition, the market featured two percent fewer new listings, five percent fewer active listings and three percent fewer pending sales in March 2014 compared to the prior year.

Evans concluded, “Housing development is up compared with the same period in 2013, but current trends indicate that the upcoming summer selling season could bring one of the most competitive markets Austin has seen. Austin must enforce housing development policies that allow for a healthy supply of housing options that are readily available and affordable for all members of our community.”

March 2014 Statistics

2,262 – Single-family homes sold, seven percent more than March 2013.
$231,750 – Median price for single-family homes, six percent more than March 2013.
$296,640 – Average price for single-family homes, five percent more than March 2013.
51 – Average number of days single-family homes spent on the market, 13 days fewer than March 2013.
3,211 – New single-family home listings on the market, two percent fewer than March 2013.
4,964 – Active single-family home listings on the market, five percent fewer than March 2013.
2,669 – Pending sales for single-family homes, three percent fewer than March 2013.
2.2 – Months of inventory* of single-family homes, 0.4 months less than March 2013.
$670,999,680 – Total dollar volume of single-family properties sold, 12 percent more than March 2013.
The following sections describe trends in other sectors of the Austin real estate market.

Townhouses & Condominiums

The number of townhouses and condominiums (condos) purchased in the Austin area in March 2014 was 281, which is five percent more than March 2013. In the same time period, the median price for condos and townhomes was $225,000, which is 24 percent more than the same month of the prior year. When compared to March 2013, these properties spent 38 percent less time on the market at an average of 53 days.

Leasing

In March 2014, a total of 1,262 properties were leased in Austin, which is 10 percent more than March 2013. The median price for Austin-area leases was $1,450, which is five percent more than the same month of the prior year.

The Austin Board of REALTORS® (ABoR) is a non-profit, voluntary organization dedicated to educating and supporting Central Texas REALTORS®. ABoR proudly serves more than 9,000 members, promotes private property rights and provides accurate, comprehensive property listing information for the Greater Austin area. Home sales statistics are released by ABoR on a monthly basis. For more information, please contact the ABoR Marketing Department at marketing@abor.com or 512-454-7636. Visit AustinHomeSearch.com, a public resource on Austin real estate, for the latest news on the local housing market.

* The inventory of homes for a market is measured in months, which is defined as the number of active listings divided by the average sales per month of the prior 12 months. The Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University cites that 6.5 months of inventory represents a market in which supply and demand for homes is balanced.

Crawfish & Croquet Benefit Party - May 17th, 2014

Wed, 09 Apr 2014 12:00:00 -0500

SOLD OUT!!!

PLEASE CONTACT YOUR AGENT FOR MORE INFO!

The 6th Annual Crawfish & Croquet Benefit Party
for Mobile Loaves & Fishes!
Presented by Outlaw Realty of Private Label Realty

What - Cajun style crawfish boil with Kiolbassa sausage, croquet, horseshoes, music, a photo booth, pool with lifeguards, and a bounce house for the kids! St. Arnold's Beer for 21+! That’s right, All-You-Can-Eat crawfish, corn, potatoes and Kiolbassa sausage boiled on site by Drouin’s Crazy Cajun Crawfish and they’ll be just the right level of spicy for plenty of tail pinchin’! Kiddie food will also be available. No pets allowed at venue. Rain or Shine event.

When - Saturday, May 17th from 2:30 – 7:30 pm – First Batch of Crawfish Served at 3:00 pm

Cost - $25 (12+ years old), $5 (5+ years old) benefiting Mobile Loaves & Fishes
Advanced Purchase Only! SOLD OUT!

Where – Ranch House at Commons Ford Ranch Park - 614 Commons Ford Rd., Austin 78733

Location Details - Formerly a working ranch, the park's primary feature is a beautiful and expansive ranch property with two patios and a swimming pool. A large picnic area is also available, as well as accessories for games of volleyball, horseshoes or croquet. No Pets. Handicap Accessible.

Detailed Directions - From MoPac in Austin, head west on FM 2244. Continue west on FM 2244 through the intersection with Capital of Texas Highway. Approximately 3.5 miles after that intersection turn right on Cuernavaca Drive and then turn left on Commons Ford Road. Continue down this road and look for the entrance to the park on the left.

Why – HOMELESSNESS. The event’s beneficiary, Mobile Loaves & Fishes, is a social outreach ministry that empowers communities into a lifestyle of service with the homeless. Their mission is to provide food and clothing and promote dignity to our homeless brothers and sisters. Their core programs are: Community First! ROADS Micro-Enterprise and Truck Communities. Notably, the Community First! Village, a 27 acre master-planned community, will provide affordable, sustainable housing and a supportive community for the disabled, chronically homeless in Central Texas. The Community First! Village will radically transform and renew our community as men and women living on the streets are lifted up into community and home. The Crawfish & Croquet Benefit party has pledged $10,000 to help them towards this community! http://mlf.org/community-first/

Please Note: This is a family-friendly event. Kids 4 and under are free and there will be kiddy food (sausage, fruit, chips, juice/water.) No dogs or pets, please (per venue.) The venue has a chlorinated pool and we’ll have two lifeguards on duty. Please feel free to wear your suit and bring a few favorite pool toys and sunscreen. This is a rain or shine event and we’ll have a covered patio and indoor ranch house if we get a sprinkle or two.

If you can’t make it to the party but want to donate to Mobile Loaves & Fishes? PLEASE Visit their website and donate now!

Links to Event Sponsors - Working to Earn Your Referrals & Business!

Kiolbassa Sausage www.kiolbassa.com	St. Arnold Brewing Company www.saintarnold.com
AmeriPro Funding: The Michael Nasserfar & Michael Task Team www.MichaelNasserfar.com	Reliant Title www.relianttitleusa.com
Triton Custom Homes www.tritonaustin.com	AmeriFirst Insurance www.amerifirstinsurance.com
Juany Cleaning Service www.juanycleaningservice.com	PostNet - Far West www.postnet.com/austin-tx157
Taylor Morrison Homes www.taylormorrison.com	QLS Quality Living Services – Air Conditioning, Heating, Duct Cleaning www.qualitylivingservices.com
Masters Touch Custom Homes www.masterstch.com	Chaparral Moving www.chaparralmoving.com
Drouins Crazy Cajun Crawfish www.thecrawfishman.com	Home Warranty of America www.hwahomewarranty.com
Paul Miller - PK Renovations www.pkrenovationsaustin.com	Best Austin Handyman & Remodeling www.bestaustinhandyman.com
Barfield Home Inspection Services www.abhomeinspect.com	AmeriPro Funding Corporate Branch - Bret Williams, Joe Thweatt & Rasty Goodwin bwilliams.ameriprofunding.com & http://jthweatt.ameriprofunding.com/a/homeagent.aspx
State Farm - Ted H. Heaton III www.statefarm.com/agent/US/TX/Austin/Ted-Heaton	Heaton Bennett Insurance insureaustin.com
Private Label Realty www.privatelabelrealty.com	Chad Mullenix - Branch Manager LeaderOne Financial Corp. www.leader1mortgage.com/chad
6th Street Photo Booths 6thstreetphotobooths.com

Questions or Comments: Contact Leah Schimberg - 512-614-0057

Notoriously Awesome Area Events - April 2014

Mon, 07 Apr 2014 12:00:00 -0500

Hand selected events for the ultimate fun factor. If you want to suggest an event for our monthly events listing, please send your Outlaw Realty agent an emailed suggestion. Enjoy!

For Fear the Glass May Shatter - Now- April 18 - 8p - The Vortex

Austin Fine Art Festival - April 12 & 13 - Get ready for Austin’s iconic arts festival that transforms the streets of downtown. The celebration of art, culture and creativity will take place April 12 & 13, 2014 along Austin’s Cesar Chavez Street and 2ND Street District with art of all kinds.

6th Annual Austin Funky Chicken Coop Tour - Saturday, April 19 - Get ready, chicken fans!

Moontower Comedy & Oddity Fest - April 23-26 - A marathon of side-splitting nights throughout the city is slated to bring over 100 comedians doing everything from stand-up and sketch to improv and musical comedy.

Austin Food & Wine Festival - April 25-27 - Taste Passes still available!

Earth Day Festival - Saturday, April 26 - FREE - Browning Hangar at Mueller!

Have a notoriously excellent April and call or email your Outlaw Realty agent if we can advise, coach, or educate you on any real estate related questions.

April - Home Maintenance Reminders

Mon, 07 Apr 2014 12:00:00 -0500

April Home Maintenance Reminders

* Check under and around bath and kitchen cabinets for leaks.
* Check smoke detectors and install new batteries.
* Have windows cleaned.
* Check roof for leaks, damaged or missing shingles.
* Check roof vents and louvers for critter entry or nests.
* Check flashing around roof vents and stacks.

Austin-area home sales, prices hit record high for the month of February

Fri, 21 Mar 2014 12:00:00 -0500

For More Information and further analysis of the Austin market statistics visit: https://www.abor.com/news_media/press_releases/2014/p4_14.cfm

Outlaw Realty's Monthly Market Statistics Charts - Data Source: Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University and ABoR

AUSTIN, Texas – March 20, 2014 – Austin-area home sales and home prices hit an all-time high in February, according to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) report released today by the Austin Board of REALTORS®. In February 2014, 1,761 single-family homes were sold in the Austin area, which is nine percent more than one year prior, and the median price for Austin-area homes was $230,530, an 11 percent gain from February 2013.

Bill Evans, 2014 President of the Austin Board of REALTORS®, explained, “The Austin-area housing market continues to be strong and home buyers remain aggressive. Sales are increasing year-over-year and rising home starts have begun to offset Austin’s shrinking housing inventory. These factors taken together make it look like we will have a great real estate year in 2014.”

A recent report from Metrostudy showed that Austin-area home starts hit a six-year high in 2013 and are on pace to exceed 2013 levels this year, which could replenish Austin’s housing stock with much-needed new homes. In February 2014, inventory remained at a historically low level of 2.0 months, compared to 2.6 months of inventory in February 2013.

Austin-area homes also continued to sell at an accelerated rate, spending an average of 55 days on the market in February 2014 and 16 days fewer than in 2013. The market also featured one percent fewer new listings, eight percent fewer active listings and five percent fewer pending sales in February 2014 compared to the prior year.

As Austin-area inventory remained unchanged and new and active listings decreased, home prices continued to rise. Average price also saw a double-digit increase, increasing 12 percent from February 2013 to $293,746. The total dollar volume in February 2014 was $517,286,706, a 21 percent increase from February 2013.

Evans concluded, “Austin needs to be aggressive in the promotion of housing development policies that contribute to a consistent, healthy increase of housing stock for all members of our community. Home starts are strong and the outlook for Austin-area home sales continues to be positive, and we need to provide safe, affordable housing options quickly in order to keep up with Austin’s continuing demand.”

February 2014 Statistics

1,761 – Single-family homes sold, nine percent more than February 2013.
$230,530 – Median price for single-family homes, 11 percent more than February 2013.
$293,746 – Average price for single-family homes, 12 percent more than February 2013.
55 – Average number of days single-family homes spent on the market, 16 days fewer than February 2013.
2,544 – New single-family home listings on the market, one percent fewer than February 2013.
4,724 – Active single-family home listings on the market, eight percent fewer than February 2013.
2,118 – Pending sales for single-family homes, five percent fewer than February 2013.
2.0 – Months of inventory* of single-family homes, 0.6 months less than February 2013.
$517,286,706 – Total dollar volume of single-family properties sold, 21 percent more than February 2013.
The following sections describe trends in other sectors of the Austin real estate market.

Townhouses & Condominiums

The number of townhouses and condominiums (condos) purchased in the Austin area in February 2014 was 217, which is 26 percent more than February 2013. In the same time period, the median price for condos and townhomes was $207,000, which is 11 percent more than the same month of the prior year. When compared to February 2013, these properties spent 26 percent less time on the market at an average of 50 days.

Leasing

In February 2014, a total of 1,206 properties were leased in Austin, which is five percent more than February 2013. The median price for Austin-area leases was $1,400, which is six percent more than the same month of the prior year.

Notoriously Awesome Area Events - March 2014

Tue, 25 Feb 2014 12:00:00 -0600

Hand selected events for the ultimate fun factor. If you want to suggest an event for our monthly events listing, please send your Outlaw Realty agent an emailed suggestion. Enjoy!

Star of Texas Fair and Rodeo - Now - Sunday, March 16 - Travis County Expo Center - Rodeo Austin is a 16-day family event including performances, concerts, livestock show and auctions, shopping, food and more!

SXSW Festival - Friday, March 7 - Sunday, March 16 - Music, Film, Interactive! And Sooooo much of it!

Flix, Round Rock, Pajama Party - Saturday, March 8, 10:30a - Weekend breakfast menu - great for kids and adults. Tickets are just $5. For February, they are showing the original Shrek.

Funkytonk Farmers' Market - Every Saturday from 9am to 1pm - 6701 Burnet Rd., Austin 78757 - A community small boutique farmers’ market to shop for local produce and listen to live music. We have a small vintage and collectible market too just across the lot.

Big Band Bash - Monday, March 10, 7:30p - Lakeway Activity Center - Put on your dancing shoes and bring your own beverages and snacks. Enjoy big band music from the 17-piece Republic of Texas Big Band, featuring David Cummings and Lisa Clark on vocals. This event is free and open to all ages. The band accepts donations after the show. Sponsored by the Lakeway Arts Committee.

Experience the Most Colorful Festival of India - Holi! - Saturday, Mar 15, 2-8p - Radha Madhav Dham Hindu Temple -Radha Madhav Dham is pleased to present “Holi Hai”, an exuberant and interactive celebration of the Indian festival of color.

HONK!TX - Friday - Sunday, March 21-23 - Free - A nonprofit, community-driven festival that brings brass bands from around the country to perform absolutely free in the public spaces of Austin, TX.

56th Annual Zilker Garden Festival - Saturday, March 29th-30th - 10a-5pm

And Beyond.....

6th Annual Austin Funky Chicken Coop Tour - Saturday, April 19 - Get ready, chicken fans we’ve made big changes this year and we think this year’s tour will be better than ever.

Have a notoriously excellent March and call or email your Outlaw Realty agent if we can advise, coach, or educate you on any real estate related questions.

March - Home Maintenance Reminders

Tue, 25 Feb 2014 12:00:00 -0600

March Home Maintenance Reminders

*Have HVAC cleaned and serviced
*Remove debris from around HVAC and clean with garden hose
*Check attic for leaks, proper ventilation and critters
*Check insulation and add as necessary
*Remove lint from dryer exhaust vent with a long, flexible brush

Solid start to Austin-area home sales in 2014 with increases in volume, price

Mon, 24 Feb 2014 12:00:00 -0600

For More Information and further analysis of the Austin market statistics visit: https://www.abor.com/news_media/press_releases/2014/p3_14.cfm

Outlaw Realty's Monthly Market Statistics Charts - Data Source: Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University and ABoR

AUSTIN, Texas – Feb. 21, 2014 – The Austin real estate market showed a solid start to 2014, according to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) report released today by the Austin Board of REALTORS® (ABoR). In January 2014, 1,449 single-family homes were sold in the Austin area, which is four percent more than January 2013, and the median price for Austin-area homes was $211,800, which is seven percent more than the same month in 2013.

Bill Evans, 2014 President of the Austin Board of REALTORS®, explained, “The Austin real estate market was strong in 2013 and showed steady growth in sales volume and price. We expected to see that trend continue at the start of 2014 and are encouraged to see stable growth for the Austin area in the first month of the year.”

This month, Forbes magazine cited Austin as the fastest growing city in the country for the fourth year in a row. That growth has driven demand for housing in Austin and contributed to decreasing housing inventory. In January 2014, the Austin market featured 2.0 months of inventory, compared to 2.5 months of inventory in January 2013. In contrast, the Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University cites 6.5 months of inventory as a market in which supply is balanced with demand, meaning demand for Austin homes continues to significantly outstrip demand.

Evans continued, “Indications are Austin’s growth will not slow anytime soon, so we must support housing development policies that ensure Austinites have supply of safe, affordable places to live. We should exercise caution in considering any policies that restrict housing availability, such as decreasing occupancy limits, without also committing to solid plans for how to replace that housing stock.”

Austin homes also continued to sell faster than in years past, spending an average of 63 days on the market in January 2014, which is a decrease of 9 days from one year prior. The market also featured four percent more new listings, seven percent fewer active listings and five percent fewer pending sales in January 2014 compared to the prior year.

January 2014 Statistics

1,449 – Single-family homes sold, four percent more than January 2013.
$211,800 – Median price for single-family homes, seven percent more than January 2013.
63 – Average number of days single-family homes spent on the market, nine days fewer than January 2013.
2,337 – New single-family home listings on the market, four percent more than January 2013.
4,591 – Active single-family home listings on the market, seven percent fewer than January 2013.
1,946 – Pending sales for single-family homes, five percent fewer than January 2013.
2.0 – Months of inventory* of single-family homes, 0.5 months less than January 2013.
$393,536,808 – Total dollar volume of single-family properties sold, eight percent more than January 2013.

The following sections describe trends in other sectors of the Austin real estate market.

Townhouses & Condominiums

The number of townhouses and condominiums (condos) purchased in the Austin area in January 2014 was 198, which is 13 percent more than January 2013. In the same time period, the median price for condos and townhomes was $210,570, which is seven percent more than the same month of the prior year. These properties spend an average of 53 days on the market, or 20 less time, than in January 2013.

Leasing

In January 2014, a total of 1,317 properties were leased in Austin, which is 15 percent more than January 2013. The median price for Austin-area leases was $1,370, which is seven percent more than the same month of the prior year.

Notoriously Awesome Area Events - February 2014

Mon, 03 Feb 2014 12:00:00 -0600

Hand selected events for the ultimate fun factor. If you want to suggest an event for our monthly events listing, please send your Outlaw Realty agent an emailed suggestion. Enjoy!

Live Music Yoga at Wanderlust - Friday, Feb 7, 7p - Vinyasa-style flow set to a live musical performance by William Robert Empire, with all proceeds benefiting The Flatwater Foundation.

Flix, Round Rock, Pajama Party - Saturday, Feb 8, 10:30a - Weekend breakfast menu - great for kids and adults. Tickets are just $5. For February, they are showing the 1986 cult classic, Labyrinth.

P.S. I Love You" Painting class - Pinot's Palette - Saturday, Feb 15, 7p - Bring your friends, open your favorite bottle of wine and get ready to be inspired by our local artists who will guide you step-by-step through a featured painting. At the end of the night...leave with your own masterpiece.

Central Texas Medical Orchestra Valentine's Concert - Saturday, Feb 15, 7:30p - Life Austin Church - The Central Texas Medical Orchestra Valentine’s Concert Benefiting American Heart Association.

Saint Arnold Bishops Barrel Tasting and Chocolate Pairing - Wednesday, Feb 26, 7:00p - Banger's Sausage House & Beer Garden

And Beyond.....

86th Annual Zilker Kite Festival - Sunday, Mar 2, 10a - Zilker Metropolitan Park - The nation’s oldest kite festival will include kite flying, contests, food, games, and more. Attendance is free.

Have a notoriously excellent February and call or email your Outlaw Realty agent if we can advise, coach, or educate you on any real estate related questions.

February - Home Maintenance Reminders

Mon, 03 Feb 2014 12:00:00 -0600

February Home Maintenance Reminders

Remove and clean your kitchen exhaust fan filter
Lubricate garage door and check mechanism for free travel
Clean refrigerator drain pan and coils
Clean and defrost refrigerator if necessary

Buying in a Seller's Market

Fri, 31 Jan 2014 12:00:00 -0600

The market these days is an exciting one. Homes are moving fast, values are going up, and interest rates are still at all time lows. However, if you are looking to buy a home in this market it can be a frustrating process if you don't have the right strategy going in. Buying in a Seller's market takes being prepared, speed, and information.

Being prepared means having all of your financing in place before you go looking for a home. The landscape for getting a loan changes constantly with new regulations and new rates. Therefore it is important to be pre-approved and understand exactly how to structure a contract based off of your financing situation. By having this all in line first you will not waist any time when you do find the right home. You can immediately submit an offer and your agent can paint a clear picture to the sellers about your ability to close on time.

Speed is another critical piece to working in a seller's market. Homes are coming on and off the market in a matter of hours not days. Working with an agent that is responsive and has a team to help him gives you a big leg up on the competition. The days of waiting and putting together a list of 5 homes to see are gone. You have to go see the homes as soon as they come up. Sometimes that means allowing your agent to go see them while you are at work. Then they can let you know if it is worth coming to see. Speed also means making fast decisions. No one likes to be rushed through the process of buying a home but those who know what they want in a home and can identify it quickly; will beat those who decided to sleep on it.

Lastly, information is key. Have accurate searches that are up to date with what you want in a home. Know what homes should sell for in areas so you can spot a good and bad deal as soon as it comes on the market. Information makes being prepared and moving with speed that much easier. Having a Realtor that has access to this information and can get it for you immediately, puts you way ahead of those who don't. In todays market if you are trying to buy a home without a Realtor you are putting yourself at a huge disadvantage. As a buyer it cost you nothing to use a buyers agent and you gain years of experience and information.

With these tips you should be able to tackle this seller's market and find that dream home.

Johnny Henion, Real Estate Consultant & Partner
Outlaw Realty - a Private Label Realty group
Direct - 512-791-4404

Austin-area home sales set new record for December

Mon, 20 Jan 2014 12:00:00 -0600

Austin-area home sales set new record for December,
inventory reaches all-time low;
2013 ends with increased sales volume, home prices and demand
Austin Board of REALTORS® releases real estate statistics for December 2013 and 2013 year-end totals

For More Information and further analysis of the Austin market statistics visit: https://www.abor.com/news_media/press_releases/2014/p2_14.cfm

Outlaw Realty's Monthly Market Statistics Charts - Data Source: Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University and ABoR

AUSTIN, Texas – January 17, 2014– According to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) report released today by the Austin Board of REALTORS®, Austin-area home sales reached a historic high for December while housing inventory dropped to an all-time low, and 2013 year-end figures show momentum in Austin real estate coursing steadily into the new year.

According to the report, 2,080 single-family homes were sold in the Austin area in December 2013, which is 14 percent more than December 2012. The market featured 2.0 months of inventory in December 2013, which is 0.7 months less than December 2012 and a new historical low for Austin housing inventory.

Bill Evans, 2014 President of the Austin Board of REALTORS®, explained, “2013 was one of the strongest years for the Austin housing market that REALTORS® had ever seen."

In December 2013, the median price for Austin-area homes was $226,000, which is eight percent more than the same month in 2012. Additionally, homes spent an average of 52 days on the market, which is a decrease of 19 days from one year prior.

The total dollar volume of single-family properties sold was $610,579,840 or 19 percent more than the same month last year. The market also featured three percent more new listings, 11 percent fewer active listings and nine percent fewer pending sales in December 2013 compared to the prior year.

President Evans continued, “Population and economic growth in the Austin area show no signs of slowing down this year; neither does Austin’s increasingly competitive housing market. In 2014, Austin homebuyers and sellers can expect home prices to continue to rise across all segments of the market. Multiple offers on home listings will be commonplace and many homes will sell within days of hitting the market.”

The report also included figures for all of 2013, during which 27,298 Austin-area single-family homes were sold, which is 19 percent more than 2012. Over the course of the year, the median price of homes in the Austin area increased nine percent to $223,890 and homes spent an average of 50 days on the market, 19 days fewer than 2012. At the same time, the 2013 Austin real estate market featured nine percent more new listings, 20 percent fewer active listings and 12 percent more pending sales than 2012.

President Evans concluded, “The key to continued success for the Austin housing market is maintaining market stability in 2014. We need a steady flow of new inventory hitting the market, and the city must work to create a regulatory environment that allows developers to keep up with growing housing demand, which in turn will help keep Austin’s housing inventory stable and its homes affordable.”

December 2013 Statistics

2,080 – Single-family homes sold, 14 percent more than December 2012.
$226,000 – Median price for single-family homes, eight percent more than December 2012.
52 – Average number of days single-family homes spent on the market, 19 days fewer than December 2012.
1,404 – New single-family home listings on the market, three percent more than December 2012.
4,545 – Active single-family home listings on the market, 11 percent fewer than December 2012.
1,375 – Pending sales for single-family homes, nine percent fewer than December 2012.
2.0 – Months of inventory* of single-family homes, 0.7 months less than December 2012.
$610,579,840 – Total dollar volume of single-family properties sold, 19 percent more than December 2012.

2013 Year-End Totals

27,298 – Single-family homes sold, 19 percent more than 2012.
$223,890 – Median price for single-family homes, nine percent more than 2012.
50 – Average number of days that single-family homes spent on the market, 19 days fewer than 2012.
34,132 – New single-family home listings on the market, nine percent more than 2012.
5,492 – Active single-family home listings on the market, 20 percent fewer than 2012.
28,017 – Pending sales for single-family homes, 12 percent more than 2012.
$7,933,813,683 – Total dollar volume of single-family properties sold, 28 percent more than 2012.
The following sections describe trends in other sectors of the Austin real estate market.

Townhouses & Condominiums

The volume of townhouses and condominiums (condos) purchased in the Austin area in December 2013 was 217, which is 11 percent more than December 2012. In the same time period, the median price for condos was $221,000, which is five percent more than the same month of the prior year. When compared to December 2012, these properties spent 32 percent less time on the market, or an average of 50 days.

Over the course of 2013, 3,162 Austin condos were sold, which is 24 percent more than 2012; the median price was $195,840, or eight percent more than 2012; and condos spent an average of 52 days on the market, 22 days fewer than 2012.

Leasing

In December 2013, a total of 1,086 properties were leased in Austin, which is 12 percent more than December 2012. The median price for Austin-area leases was $1,380, which is six percent more than the same month of the prior year. In all of 2013, a total of 16,371 properties were leased in Austin, which is three percent more than 2012, and the median lease price was $1,400, or six percent more than 2012.

2014 in Austin - Market Update from Tom Sunstrom

Fri, 10 Jan 2014 12:00:00 -0600

You don't even need to be in the market to buy or sell a home to have heard that there is an extreme shortage of homes for sale in the Austin area. We, (Austin) find ourselves in this situation for many different reasons. Here are the most prominent five:

1. More people are moving here than leaving ! The word is out, and has been out for a LONG time. Austin is a great place to live. In the last 4 years we have been voted: "#1 city to ride out the recession", "#1 city to raise a family", "1 city for singles," and the list goes on.

2. Shortage of new construction. Builders lost a lot of money and contract labor when the recession hit. Now that the economy is growing builders are building again but it will take time for them to catch up with demand in the Austin area.

3. "Boomerang" buyers are re-entering the market. A Boomerang Buyer is a buyer that had lost or short-sold a home in the recession causing their credit to be effected. Those buyers credit has now healed and they are able to re-enter the housing market.

4. "Eco-Boomer's" are entering the market. These are the children of the Baby-Boomers. They are between 18-31 years old and they out number the Baby-Boomers !!!! That is A LOT of people.

5. We are living longer. Thanks to modern medicine we are living much longer than we used too.

So, we find ourselves in a pretty strong sellers market right now. This means that if you are either buying or selling, you need a professional negotiator to represent you and lead you through the process. Most importantly you need someone that cares about YOU. That is Outlaw Realty and you can count on us every step of the way.

Tom Sunstrom, Real Estate Consultant & Co-Owner
Outlaw Realty - a Private Label Realty group
Direct - 512-923-4905

Notorious for Awesomeness! Austin Area Events - January 2014

Mon, 06 Jan 2014 12:00:00 -0600

Happy 2014! It is truly winter in Austin with highs today in the 30s! Since we all know cold just isn't our "thing", your Outlaw Realty team has compiled a number of fun January events to do INSIDE (mostly) so we can ride out this odd thing called winter, together, and with our sanity. Enjoy!

City Running Tours!? Discover or rediscover Austin and get your fitness on. Some of the running tours even include a Pubcrawl element.

The Dinner Detective Austin - Saturday, Jan 4, 6:15p + additional dates - Award-winning, interactive, murder-mystery dinner show. Includes a four-course meal, dinner show, prizes and more!

The Madhatter’s Faery Tea Party- Saturday, Jan 11, 5p - The Butterfly Bar - The Madhatter’s Faery Tea Party takes over The Butterfly Bar—for children of all ages. Wear your maddest hat or faery wings. We really love of all of the children of The VORTEX, and hope to see a lot of proud parents in hats too.

"Beetlejuice" Pub Run & Screening - Tuesday, Jan 14 - Pub Run - 6p | Film - 7:30p - Stateside at the Paramount & Texas State Cemetery

Whole Foods Domain - Grand Opening - Wednesday, Jan 15, the store will host opening activities starting at 7:30am, and for the first five days that the store is open. Foodie Zombies (one right here!) are headed up there just as soon as the highs get in the 50s!

Salsa Dance - FREE dancing workshop - Saturday, Jan 18 + additional dates - Mexican American Cultural Center

Voting Rights Debate at the 2014 Texas Leadership Forum -Thursday, Jan 23, 7p -AT&T Executive Education & Conference Center

Trivia Night at Rogness Brewing, Friday, Jan 24, 7p - 9p - Compete in a night of trivia to win prizes and drink Rogness beers, including a few found only at the brewery.

Russian-New Orleans Cultural Fusion Dinner - Monday, Jan 27, 6:30p - Chef Vladimir Gribkov of Russian House Restaurant of Austin and his staff will team up with Chef Henri Alciatore from the famous Antoine's Restaurant family of New Orleans to bring you another unique dining experience.

Austin Family Magazine's 16th Annual Summer Camp Fair - Sunday, Jan 26, 12 - 4p - Palmer Events Center

Have a notoriously excellent 2014 and call or email your Outlaw Realty agent if we can advise, coach, or educate you on real estate related questions. We'll see you around Austin and the surrounding areas as we all enjoy!

January - Home Maintenance Reminders

Mon, 06 Jan 2014 12:00:00 -0600

January Home Maintenance Reminders

* Check interior and exterior faucets for leaks
* Clean aerators
* Replace faucet washers if necessary
* Inspect visible pipes for leaks
* Check under and around bath and kitchen cabinets for leaks
* Check toilets for stability and leaks
* Check area around water heater for leaks

Austin-area home sales rise 14 percent, hit seven-year high for November

Mon, 23 Dec 2013 12:00:00 -0600

Austin Board of REALTORS® Releases Real Estate Statistics for November 2013

For More Information and further analysis of the Austin market statistics visit: https://www.abor.com/news_media/press_releases/2013/p26_13.cfm

Outlaw Realty's Monthly Market Statistics Charts - Data Source: Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University and ABoR

AUSTIN, Texas – Dec. 19, 2013 – According to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) report released today by the Austin Board of REALTORS® (ABoR), the volume of home sales continues to rise as November became the 30th straight month of sales volume increases and the most home sales in November since 2006.

According to the report, 1,899 single-family homes were sold in the Austin area, which is 14 percent more than November 2012. The median price for Austin-area homes was $219,530, which is 10 percent more than the same month in 2012.

Cathy Coneway, 2013 President of the Austin Board of REALTORS®, explained, “With strong activity across all segments of the market, the Austin-area housing market has been full steam ahead through the holidays and the rest of the year, Our city’s population and job growth show no signs of slowing down, so 2014 will likely be another competitive year for Austin real estate.”

In November 2013, inventory remained at a historically low level of 2.3 months, which is more than half of a month less than November 2012. Additionally, homes spent an average of 51 days on the market, which is a decrease of 16 days from one year prior.

The total dollar volume of single-family properties sold was $555,757,542 or 24 percent higher than the same month last year. The market also featured the same amount of new listings, 11 percent fewer active listings and two percent more pending sales in November 2013 compared to the prior year.

November 2013 Statistics

1,899 – Single-family homes sold, 14 percent more than November 2012.
$219,530 – Median price for single-family homes, 10 percent more than November 2012.
51 – Average number of days single-family homes spent on the market, 16 days fewer than November 2012.
1,967 – New single-family home listings on the market, statistically unchanged from November 2012.
5,119 – Active single-family home listings on the market, 11 percent fewer than November 2012.
1,756 – Pending sales for single-family homes, two percent more than November 2012.
2.3 – Months of inventory* of single-family homes, more than half of a month less than November 2012.
$555,757,542 – Total dollar volume of single-family properties sold, 24 percent more than November 2012.
The following sections describe trends in other sectors of the Austin real estate market.

Townhouses & Condominiums

The number of townhouses and condominiums (condos) purchased in the Austin area in November 2013 was 223, which is 35 percent more than November 2012. In the same time period, the median price for condos was $195,200, which is eight percent more than the same month of the prior year. When compared to November 2012, these properties spent an average of 55 days on the market, or 38 percent less time.

Leasing

In November 2013, a total of 1,162 properties were leased in Austin, which is six percent more than November 2012. The median price for Austin-area leases was $1,390, which is seven percent more than the same month of the prior year.

The Austin Board of REALTORS® (ABoR) is a non-profit, voluntary organization dedicated to educating and supporting Central Texas REALTORS®. ABoR proudly serves more than 9,000 members, promotes private property rights, and provides accurate, comprehensive property listing information for the Greater Austin area. Home sales statistics are released by ABoR on a monthly basis. For more information, please contact the ABoR Marketing Department at marketing@abor.com or 512-454-7636. Visit AustinHomeSearch.com, a public resource on Austin real estate, for the latest news on the local housing market.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
* The inventory of homes for a market is measured in months, which is defined as the number of active listings divided by the average sales per month of the prior 12 months. The Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University cites that 6.5 months of inventory represents a market in which supply and demand for homes is balanced.

It's a Team Approach! Listing Your Home with Outlaw Realty

Thu, 12 Dec 2013 12:00:00 -0600

In our December Outlaw E-Newsletter, we covered some of the top reasons why now is the time to sell your home and some tips on how. So if you are considering listing your home, you are already off to a great start by picking an Outlaw Agent to represent you! Now let me tell you a little about what you can expect.

Once you' ve decided to list your home, your agent will contact me (your lovely Client Care Coordinator) to get the ball rolling. We will get you all of the pertinent documents needed to list your home on the market. Listing your home on the market is an important decision and involves a significant amount of paperwork and disclosures. But we have streamlined this process to make it as stress-less as possible! Your agent and I will be available to assist with any questions you may have along the way.

At Outlaw, we know that first impressions are lasting impressions. I will arrange for you to meet with our phenomenal stager so we can highlight the strengths in your home. Then our professional photography company will do a full photo shoot of your home that will include an interactive virtual tour and professional flyer.

Within 48 hours of having all completed paperwork and pictures, we will get your house on the market! We will market your home across a variety of websites, order your listing Home Warranty and set up a neighborhood comparable search. We will also arrange for you to get feedback on the showings of your home! I will send you reports biweekly to keep you up to date on the feedback report, showing report and virtual tour traffic that your home is receiving. Your Outlaw Realty agent will be monitoring and marketing your home via numerous outlets, as well.

Once your home is under contract, you will work closely with one of our experienced Contract to Close Coordinators. Learn more about what they do here.

If you'd like to join our online conversation and get real estate market updates, news and take part in our notorious online community contests, give us the thumbs up on facebook.

The Outlaw Realty team of professionals look forward to helping you achieve your goals via a successful and low stress home listing and home sale.

Jax Finkel, Outlaw Realty's Client Care Coordinator & Listing Launch professional

Notorious for Awesomeness! Austin Area Events - December 2013

Wed, 04 Dec 2013 12:00:00 -0600

Hand selected events for the ultimate fun factor! If you want to suggest an event for our monthly Awesome Austin (and surrounding areas) Events listing, please send your agent an emailed suggestion!

Blue Genie Art Bazaar - Now - Dec 24th - - Marchesa Hall & Theatre

Under $100 Holiday Art Show - Thursday, Dec 12 - Austin Art Garage

13th Annual Austin Children's Nutcracker - Fri, Dec 13th - Sun, Dec 22nd - Dougherty Arts Theater

Austin Trail of Lights - Sun, Dec 8th through Sun, Dec 22nd - Ziker Park

Have a notoriously excellent December and call or email your Outlaw Realty agent if we can advise, coach, or educate you on real estate related questions. We'll see you around Austin and the surrounding areas as we all enjoy!

December - Home Maintenance Reminders

Mon, 02 Dec 2013 12:00:00 -0600

December Home Maintenance Reminders

* Test GFCI outlets
* Check outlets and switches for wear and damage
* Check your gas-fired furnance to be sure a bright blue flame is visible along the entire length of burning pipes. Yellow flame or excessive rust should be looked at by a professional.

Austin Home Sales & Statistics - Prices Up Nine Percent - October 2013

Fri, 22 Nov 2013 12:00:00 -0600

Austin-area Home Sales, Prices up Nine Percent in October

Austin Board of REALTORS® Releases Real Estate Statistics for September 2013

For More Information and further analysis of the Austin market statistics visit: https://www.abor.com/news_media/press_releases/2013/p24_13.cfm

Outlaw Realty's Monthly Market Statistics Charts - Data Source: Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University and ABoR

AUSTIN, Texas – Nov. 21, 2013 – According to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) report released today by the Austin Board of REALTORS® (ABoR), Austin-area home sales and prices increased nine percent in October.

According to the report, 2,145 single-family homes were sold in the Austin area, which is nine percent more than October 2012. The median price for Austin-area homes was $217,000, which is nine percent more than the same month in 2012.

Cathy Coneway, 2013 President of the Austin Board of REALTORS¬® explained, “Given the last year of steady sales volume and home price increases, many have begun to wonder if Austin is in a housing bubble. This is not the case. Industry experts say the growth of Austin’s housing market has been fueled by true demand, not speculation. Our city’s high growth rate – currently estimated at 150 people per day – is a primary reason why we continue to see increases in home sales and prices.”

In October 2013, inventory dropped back to a historically low level of 2.5 months, which was first reached in January this year and is approximately one month less than October 2012. Additionally, homes spent an average of 48 days on the market, which is a decrease of 20 days from one year prior.

The total dollar volume of single-family properties sold was $600,548,520 or 11 percent higher than the same month last year. The market also featured 14 percent more new listings, 12 percent fewer active listings and eight percent more pending sales in October 2013 compared to the prior year.

October 2013 Statistics
2,145 – Single-family homes sold, nine percent more than October 2012.

$217,000 – Median price for single-family homes, nine percent more than October 2012.

48 – Average number of days single-family homes spent on the market, 20 days fewer than October 2012.

2,559 – New single-family home listings on the market, 14 percent more than October 2012.

5,540 – Active single-family home listings on the market, 12 percent fewer than October 2012.

2,069 – Pending sales for single-family homes, eight percent more than October 2012.

2.5 – Months of inventory* of single-family homes, about one month less than October 2012.

$600,548,520 – Total dollar volume of single-family properties sold, 11 percent more than October 2012.
The following sections describe trends in other sectors of the Austin real estate market.

Townhouses & Condominiums
The number of townhouses and condominiums (condos) purchased in the Austin area in October 2013 was 288, which is 40 percent more than October 2012. In the same time period, the median price for condos was $209,000, which is 14 percent more than the same month of the prior year. These properties spent an average of 47 days on the market, or 27 percent less time compared to October 2012.

Leasing
In October 2013, a total of 1,281 properties were leased in Austin, which is eight percent more than October 2012. The median price for Austin-area leases was $1,400, which is eight percent more than the same month of the prior year.

The Austin Board of REALTORS® (ABoR) is a non-profit, voluntary organization dedicated to educating and supporting Central Texas REALTORS®. ABoR proudly serves more than 9,000 members, promotes private property rights, and provides accurate, comprehensive property listing information for the Greater Austin area. Home sales statistics are released by ABoR on a monthly basis. For more information, please contact the ABoR Marketing Department at marketing@abor.com or 512-454-7636. Visit AustinHomeSearch.com, a public resource on Austin real estate, for the latest news on the local housing market.
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* The inventory of homes for a market is measured in months, which is defined as the number of active listings divided by the average sales per month of the prior 12 months. The Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University cites that 6.5 months of inventory represents a market in which supply and demand for homes is balanced.

Contract to Close Services! Getting the Next Level of Service

Wed, 13 Nov 2013 12:00:00 -0600

At Outlaw Realty, we pride ourselves in helping to coordinate the details of a transaction in the smoothest way possible. This is why all our clients get the services of a contract to close coordinator who works alongside their agent, once they have a home under contract.

A Contract to Close Coordinator is a transaction manager who helps the client, agents, title company and lender as a communications liaison to streamline and monitor transaction paperwork and guide the clients with timely reminders about what to do and how to avoid transaction pitfalls. Outlaw Realty has devoted, internal staff members who are trained using our high standards of service. Having a devoted transaction assistant whose strengths are document management and customer service, is the next level of exceptional service for our clients.

At Outlaw Realty we take transaction management seriously. We have innovated our systems from working with experts in the field of transaction management and added on our personalized service touches to fit with the way we do business for our clients (by working by referral, not "leads", and gaining referrals via providing our current clients with a real estate experience that is outside the norm and notorious for excellence.)

The advantage of having an experienced set of Contract to Close Coordinator eyes with the experience of hundreds of transactions is a strong advantage to Outlaw Realty clients! Thanks for your time and for reviewing our News Blog regarding Contract to Close Services and Getting the Next Level of Service.

Outlaw Realty Contract to Close Coordinators-

Leah Schimberg & Paula Wisdom

Notorious for Awesomeness! Austin Area Events - November 2013

Mon, 04 Nov 2013 12:00:00 -0600

Hand selected events for the ultimate fun factor! If you want to suggest an event for our monthly Awesome Austin (and surrounding areas) Events listing, please send your agent an emailed suggestion!

No Kid Hungry Pop-Up Dinner - Wednesday, Nov 6 - 7p - 11p - The Austonian
**Wow! Sounds like it will make your tummy and your heart happy.**

Art From the Streets - Nov 9-10 - 12 – 5p - Austin Convention Center
**Again...Awesome!**

East Austin Studio Tours - Nov 16-17 + 23-24 - 11a - 6p
**Tour your town! Know and buy art from from YOUR artists!**

Pfall Pfest Craft Show - Saturday, Nov 16 - 9a - 5p
**Did someone say shopping local and keeping more $$ in your community?! Bring holiday cheer to everyone!**

Bastrop Harvest Art Fest - Nov 29-30 - 10a - 5:30p
**Bastrop is beautiful and their Harvest Fest sounds superb!**

Georgetown Christmas Stroll- Saturday Dec 5 - 5p -10p + Dec 7, 9a – 8p
**Early holiday fun!**

25th Annual Chuy's Children Giving to Children Parade - Sat, Nov 30 11a to 12:30p
**A true Austin experience. Family fun while still keeping it weird and generous!**

Have a notoriously excellent November and call or email your Outlaw Realty agent if we can advise, coach, or educate you on real estate related questions. We'll see you around Austin and the surrounding areas as we all enjoy!

November - Home Maintenance Reminders

Mon, 04 Nov 2013 12:00:00 -0600

We are happy to bring you a NEW section of your Outlaw Realty blog. We hope it helps to remind you of the key tasks easily forgotten but very important when it comes to taking care of your home. If you're not careful, these simple home maintenance items can be skipped or put off and you can end up having that house in the neighborhood with a list of expensive, but possibly could-have-been-prevented repairs. Paste the list into your calendar each month for easy reference.

November Home Maintenance Reminders

* Remove and clean your kitchen exhaust fan filter.
* Trim shrubbery at least 3" away from walls.
* Trim trees at least 3' away from roof and house.
* Check yard for proper drainage and adjust grading if necessary.
* Inspect counter tops for separations from sinks and back splash. Re-caulk where necessary.
* Inspect shower doors and tubs for fit and leaks. Re-caulk where necessary.
* Inspect tiled areas for missing grout or caulking. Re-grout or re-caulk where necessary.

How's the Market? A Update from Tom Sunstrom, Real Estate Consultant

Thu, 31 Oct 2013 12:00:00 -0500

The Austin market is still finding itself low on inventory. We are seeing homes going under contract in less than a week in some areas. Low inventory creates a strong sellers market, and with interests as low as they are, I can't remember a healthier environment to move up (sell your current home and buy your next home) or to simply sell. I believe we will continue to see low inventory for the next year. The interest rates are much more difficult to predict but, considering we have seen them on a slow and steady rise for many months now, its safe to assume we will see very little, if any, decreases in rates as we move forward.

Real estate markets are different all over the country. Looking at them, we all need to be grateful we live in Austin, Texas.

Tom Sunstrom, Real Estate Consultant & Co-Owner
Outlaw Realty - a Private Label Realty group
Direct - 512-923-4905

Market Stats - Austin - September 2013

Mon, 21 Oct 2013 12:00:00 -0500

Austin-area home sales up 34 percent; most home sales for September since 2005

Austin Board of REALTORS® Releases Real Estate Statistics for September 2013

For More Information and further analysis of the Austin market statistics visit: https://www.abor.com/news_media/press_releases/2013/p22_13.cfm

Outlaw Realty's Monthly Market Statistics Charts - Data Source: Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University and ABoR

AUSTIN, Texas – Oct. 21, 2013 – According to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) report released today by the Austin Board of REALTORS® (ABoR), the volume of Austin-area home sales continued to rise in September and had the most single-family home sales for the month since 2005.

According to the report, 2,391 single-family homes were sold in the Austin area, which is 34 percent more than September 2012. On average, homes spent 44 days on the market, which is a decrease of 22 days from one year prior.

Cathy Coneway, 2013 President of the Austin Board of REALTORS® explained, “With such explosive growth in the Austin housing market, we have to plan for our community’s future needs. Proposition 1’s funding of affordable housing in Austin and Proposition 6’s funding of the state water plan are critical to maintaining the success of Austin’s housing market and our economy.”

The total dollar volume of single-family properties sold was $688,347,381, or 47 percent higher than the same month last year. The market also featured 17 percent more new listings, 12 percent fewer active listings and six percent more pending sales in September 2013 compared to the prior year.

In September 2013, the median price for Austin-area homes increased to $223,000, which is 13 percent more than the same month in 2012. Additionally, the market featured 2.7 months of inventory in September 2013, which is about 1 month less than September 2012.

Coneway concluded, “Every member of our community plays a part in ensuring the continued growth of our great city. We encourage you to go out and vote during the early voting period or on November 5 for Austin’s Proposition 1 and Texas’ Proposition 6.”

September 2013 Statistics

2,391 – Single-family homes sold, 34 percent more than September 2012.
$223,000 – Median price for single-family homes, 13 percent more than September 2012.
44 – Average number of days single-family homes spent on the market, 22 days fewer than September 2012.
2,487– New single-family home listings on the market, 17 percent more than September 2012.
5,965 – Active single-family home listings on the market, 12 percent fewer than September 2012.
1,978 – Pending sales for single-family homes, six percent more than September 2012.
2.7 – Months of inventory* of single-family homes, 1 month less than September 2012.
$688,347,381 – Total dollar volume of single-family properties sold, 47 percent more than September 2012.

The following sections describe trends in other sectors of the Austin real estate market.

Townhouses & Condominiums

The number of townhouses and condominiums (condos) purchased in the Austin area in September 2013 was 261, which is 25 percent more than September 2012. In the same time period, the median price for condos was $202,000, which is 13 percent more than the same month of the prior year. When compared to September 2012, these properties spent 37 percent less time on the market, or an average of 43 days.

Leasing
In September 2013, a total of 1,409 properties were leased in Austin, which is 10 percent more than September 2012. The median price for Austin-area leases was $1,350, which is two percent more than the same month of the prior year.

The Austin Board of REALTORS® (ABoR) is a non-profit, voluntary organization dedicated to educating and supporting Central Texas REALTORS®. ABoR proudly serves more than 9,000 members, promotes private property rights, and provides accurate, comprehensive property listing information for the Greater Austin area. Home sales statistics are released by ABoR on a monthly basis. For more information, please contact the ABoR Marketing Department at marketing@abor.com or 512-454-7636. Visit AustinHomeSearch.com, a public resource on Austin real estate, for the latest news on the local housing market.

Outlaw Realty is Proud to Introduce Monica Poss

Thu, 17 Oct 2013 12:00:00 -0500

Austin, Texas - Outlaw Realty is proud to announce the addition of Monica Poss, Real Estate Consultant, to our team of real estate professionals. A former homebuilder, general contractor, and developer, Monica Poss brings her unique perspective to bear on every real estate transaction. In addition to her background in real estate development, Monica holds an MBA from Stanford, giving her expertise in financial analysis, negotiation and marketing – all skills that give her clients the competitive edge they need to navigate the often tumultuous waters of real estate negotiations. To show her gratitude to her clients and the larger community of Austin, Monica gives back by donating 10% of each commission to her client’s charity of choice.

When not out showing houses or having coffee with friends and clients, you’ll find Monica at home in Rosedale with her husband, two kids and a passel of fluffy animals. She is an active member of the Smith College and Stanford Graduate School of Business clubs in Austin and a frequent volunteer at her kids’ schools.

At Outlaw Realty, we work hard at being different. That’s because we believe, and our past clients have confirmed, that the status quo in real estate today is not good enough. Monica exemplifies the Authenticity, Passion, Investment, Freedom and Community Service that sets Outlaw Realty apart. We are excited to have Monica as a part of the team. For more information about Monica Poss and Outlaw Realty team that supports her and her clients please visit www.OutlawRealty.com. Outlaw Realty is a Private Label Realty group.

Notorious for Awesomeness! Austin Area Events - October 2013

Mon, 07 Oct 2013 12:00:00 -0500

Hill Country Galleria Saturday Night Concerts - FREE - Saturdays - Oct 12 - October 26 - Join Hill Country Galleria for the upcoming Saturday Night Concert Series. Enjoy free, live music in the outdoor amphitheater, from 7 - 9 pm

The schedule:

October 12, 2013 - Will Taylor & Strings
October 19, 2013 - Reed Turner
October 26, 2013 - The Loose Wheels

Austin City Limits Music Festival - ONE MORE WEEKEND OF AWESOME! Friday-Sunday October 11-13 - Amazing lineup of musicians from around the world and homegrown! Delicious food, shopping, and people watching! An amazing experience and renowned Austin end of summer showcase!

German-Texan Heritage Society's Annual Oktoberfest - Saturday, Oct 19 11:00am to 7:00pm - Come enjoy an authentic German Oktoberfest-Texas-Style! Serving: Hofbrau Oktoberfest, Dunkel, Lager & Stiegl Radler. German Food: Pfeifer's Bakery, Naegelin's & Best Wurst. Traditional Music: The Polkadillos, Joe Klaus, Shirley Johnson, The Siekers, Roland Revering & The Austin Saengerrunde. Kinder-Fun: Peter The Magician, Face-painting, Balloons & Games.

AIDS Walk Austin - AIDS Walk Austin Party in the Park- Sunday, Oct 20 11:30am to 5:00pm - Republic Square Park, Austin, TX- The Party in the Park takes place at Republic Square Park from 11:30 am until 5:00 pm with live music on The Arise AMC Stage from Reed Turner, Language Room, and Deuce Coupe. Also food trucks from Whole Foods, Blue Basil, Guac N Roll, and Bahama Breeze will keep you fed and hydrated. The DOG FRIENDLY walk begins at 2pm.

Movies in the Park - Ghostbusters - Thursday, October 24 @ 7:30pm - FREE - Moves in the Park is a series of free films brought to you by the Austin Parks Foundation, and presented by the #1 movie theater in America, the Alamo Drafthouse. Each year, APF and the Drafthouse bring you totally free movies right in downtown Austin at Republic Square Park. Austin residents and visitors bring their blanket or lawn chairs (and often a picnic dinner!) for a fun and relaxing evening under the beautiful Austin night sky.

Dogs, picnics, and lawn chairs are welcome. Alcoholic beverages, glass and styrofoam are not permitted in the park. We do provide recycling bins, but ask that you help us out by packing out all of your own trash. Smoking is also prohibited in the park, per city law.

Texas Book Festival - Sunday, Oct 27 11:00am to 5:00pm + more times - The Texas Book Festival is free and open to the public and takes place in Austin, Texas at the State Capitol and surrounding grounds. This exciting annual literary event features more than 250 authors, live music, cooking demonstrations, children's activities, the return of the popular Lit Crawl Austin event, concessions, and more.

And Beyond......

AIA Homes Tour - The weekend of November 2-3, 2013, AIA Austin is holding its 27th annual Homes Tour, which showcases 11 new and newly-renovated homes from across the Austin area. The two-day self-guided tour celebrates the diverse and stunning design talent of Austin’s local architects, with both traditional and contemporary designs that span from modest to means. The 27th Annual AIA Homes Tour is a showcase of great design by Central Texas architects. The homes range in style from traditional to contemporary, all with innovative design elements to delight and inspire tour attendees. Tickets go on sale October 1st and are $35 in advance and $40 the weekend of the tour.

The Texas Renaissance Festival - Weekends - October 12-December 1 - An interactive theme park that embraces different eras, including the 16th century and beyond. The 55-acre theater is filled with live entertainment, food, fun and professional actors who stay true to character for eight themed weekends in October and November.

Have a notoriously excellent October and call or email your Outlaw Realty agent if we can advise, coach, or educate you on real estate related questions. We'll see you around Austin and the surrounding areas as we all enjoy!

Market Stats - Austin - August 2013

Fri, 20 Sep 2013 12:00:00 -0500

Austin Market Statistics - August 2013 - Data from Real Estate Center of Texas A&M & the Austin Board of Realtors

Austin-area Home Sales Rise 30 percent in August; Market Doubles in Size Since 2010
Austin Board of REALTORS® Releases Real Estate Statistics for August 2013

For More Information and further analysis of the Austin market statistics visit: https://www.abor.com/news_media/press_releases/2013/p19_13.cfm

AUSTIN, Texas – September 19, 2013 – According to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) report released today by the Austin Board of REALTORS® (ABoR), the Austin housing market in August experienced the most home sales to date for the month of August and sales volume is now twice the size it was in August 2010.

According to the report, 3,082 single-family homes were sold in the Austin area, which is 30 percent more than August 2012. This is more than double the home sales figures in 2010, during which only 1,490 homes sold in August that year.

Cathy Coneway, 2013 President of the Austin Board of REALTORS® said, “It’s not surprising that the Austin-area housing market has doubled in size in only three years. As our city continues to grow at an accelerating pace, it’s vital that our community and business leaders work together to address key issues that will continue Austin’s success and sustain our quality of life.”

On average, homes spent 43 days on the market, which is a decrease of 19 days from one year prior. Additionally, the market featured 2.8 months of inventory in August 2013, which is 1.2 months less than August 2012.

In August 2013, the median price for Austin-area homes increased to $224,000, which is six percent more than the same month in 2012. The total dollar volume of single-family properties sold was $883,147,100, or 36 percent higher than the same month last year.

The market also featured 16 percent more new listings, 16 percent fewer active listings and 9 percent more pending sales in August 2013 compared to the prior year.

“The continued growth of the Austin housing market is phenomenal, but we must ensure that all members our community can benefit from that growth,” Coneway said. “Components such as housing affordability, a healthy housing supply and strict property code enforcement will bring a continued success to our community in which all Austinites can take part.”

August 2013 Statistics

3,082 – Single-family homes sold, 30 percent more than August 2012.
$224,000 – Median price for single-family homes, six percent more than August 2012.
43 – Average number of days single-family homes spent on the market, 19 days fewer than August 2012.
3,174 – New single-family home listings on the market, 16 percent more than August 2012.
6,075 – Active single-family home listings on the market, 16 percent fewer than August 2012.
2,399 – Pending sales for single-family homes, nine percent more than August 2012.
2.8 – Months of inventory* of single-family homes, 1.2 months less than August 2012.
$883,147,100 – Total dollar volume of single-family properties sold, 36 percent more than August 2012.

The following sections describe trends in other sectors of the Austin real estate market.

Townhouses & Condominiums
The number of townhouses and condominiums (condos) purchased in the Austin area in August 2013 was 361, which is 32 percent more than August 2012. In the same time period, the median price for condos was $193,700, which is 14 percent more than the same month of the prior year. When compared to August 2012, these properties spent 37 percent less time on the market, or an average of 40 days.

Leasing
In August 2013, a total of 2,149 properties were leased in Austin, which is 10 percent more than August 2012. The median price for Austin-area leases was $1,400, which is four percent more than the same month of the prior year.

The Austin Board of REALTORS® (ABoR) is a non-profit, voluntary organization dedicated to educating and supporting Central Texas REALTORS®. ABoR proudly serves more than 9,000 members, promotes private property rights, and provides accurate, comprehensive property listing information for the Greater Austin area.

Notorious for Awesomeness! Austin Area Events - September 2013

Mon, 09 Sep 2013 12:00:00 -0500

Hill Country Galleria Saturday Night Concerts - FREE - Saturdays - Sep 14th - October 26th - Join Hill Country Galleria for the upcoming Saturday Night Concert Series. Enjoy free, live music in the outdoor amphitheater, from 7 - 9 pm

The schedule:

September 14, 2013 - The Nightowls
September 21, 2013 - K. Phillips & The Concho Pearls
September 28, 2013 - Hot Texas Swing Band
October 5, 2013 - Sherah & The Fine Souls
October 12, 2013 - Will Taylor & Strings
October 19, 2013 - Reed Turner
October 26, 2013 - The Loose Wheels

Communities In Schools' Food for Thought Benefit - Thursday, Sep 12 6:00pm to 9:00pm - Join Food for Thought, Communities In Schools’ signature tasting event featuring mouth-watering dishes from the most exclusive restaurants in Austin. Congressman Michael McCaul, Linda McCaul and Tyson Tuttle, CEO of Silicon Labs, are chairing the event. The event raises funds for Communities In Schools programs and services, which surrounds students with a community of support and empowers them to stay in school and achieve in life. Come enjoy delicious cuisine to keep kids in school!

Austin Museum Day - FREE - Sunday, Sep 22 -Since 1998, the Austin Museum Partnership has hosted Austin Museum Day – a free, city-wide rediscovery of Austin museums. Austin Museum Day, held on the penultimate Saturday of the month of September, is AMP’s premier event and represents a critical part of the vibrant cultural history of Central Texas. It provides families with a unique opportunity to access the dynamic museum community including local exhibits and activities at over 40 participating institutions at no charge!

Texas Craft Brewers Festival - Saturday, Sep 28 - Featuring over 100 different brews from over 40 Texas craft brewers, this event is a must-attend for craft beer fans and members of the Texas craft beer community. Join fellow brew lovers at Fiesta Gardens for the original Texas craft beer festival featuring TX brewers and benefiting the Young Men's Business League and Austin Sunshine Camps.

Strut Your Mutt - Saturday, Sep 28 8:00am to 12:00pm - Mueller Lake Park - Austinites two-legged and four who want to “walk the walk” for homeless pets! A leisurely fundraising dog walk followed by a doggie-themed festival that includes pet contests, photos, treats for your dogs, fun activities, refreshments and more.

And Beyond......

Austin City Limits Music Festival - Friday-Sunday October 4th-6th & Friday- Sunday October 11th-13th - Amazing lineup of musicians from around the world and homegrown! Delicious food, shopping, and people watching! An amazing experience and renowned Austin end of summer showcase!

The Texas Renaissance Festival - Weekends - October 12-December 1 - An interactive theme park that embraces different eras, including the 16th century and beyond. The 55-acre theater is filled with live entertainment, food, fun and professional actors who stay true to character for eight themed weekends in October and November.

Have a notoriously excellent September and call or email your Outlaw Realty agent if we can advise, coach, or educate you on real estate related questions. We'll see you around Austin and the surrounding areas as we all enjoy!

Market Stats - Austin - July 2013

Wed, 21 Aug 2013 12:00:00 -0500

Austin-area home sales up 35 percent, most home sales on record

Austin Board of REALTORS® releases real estate statistics for July 2013

For More Information and futher analysis of the Austin market statistics visit: https://www.abor.com/news_media/press_releases/2013/p14_13.cfm

AUSTIN, Texas – August 20, 2013 – According to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) report released today by the Austin Board of REALTORS® (ABoR), the Austin housing market experienced its highest-performing month to date in terms of home sales.

According to the report, 3,135 single-family homes were sold in the Austin area, which is 35 percent more than July 2012. On average, homes spent 41 days on the market, which is a decrease of 23 days from one year prior.

Cathy Coneway, 2013 Chairman of the Austin Board of REALTORS®, explained, “The record number of sales in July can be traced back to Austin’s job growth and strong economy. The expected rise in mortgage rates may have also encouraged buyers to act now. As home builder’s work to meet demand we can expect home prices to steadily increase, which could price many out of the area.”

In July 2013, the median price for Austin-area homes increased to $228,250, which is eight percent more than the same month in 2012. Additionally, the market featured 2.8 months of inventory in July 2013, which is 1.5 months less than July 2012.

The total dollar volume of single-family properties sold was $933,242,475, or 43 percent higher than the same month last year. The market also featured 22 percent more new listings, 20 percent fewer active listings and 20 percent more pending sales in July 2013 compared to the prior year.

Coneway concluded, “The housing affordability bond package, up for vote in November, is a key component to maintaining a healthy housing supply and ensuring future economic growth for Austin. Our community is at its strongest when there is a steady supply of affordable housing for everyone who calls Austin home.”

July 2013 Statistics

3,135 – Single-family homes sold, 35 percent more than July 2012.
$228,250 – Median price for single-family homes, eight percent more than July 2012.
41 – Average number of days single-family homes spent on the market, 23 days fewer than July 2012.
3,523 – New single-family home listings on the market, 22 percent more than July 2012.
6,104 – Active single-family home listings on the market, 20 percent fewer than July 2012.
2,773 – Pending sales for single-family homes, 20 percent more than July 2012.
2.8 – Months of inventory* of single-family homes, 1.5 months less than July 2012.
$933,242,475 – Total dollar volume of single-family properties sold, 43 percent more than July 2012.

The following sections describe trends in other sectors of the Austin real estate market.

Townhouses & Condominiums
The volume of townhouses and condominiums (condos) purchased in the Austin area in July 2013 was 361, which is 31 percent more than July 2012. In the same time period, the median price for condos was $180,000, which is four percent less than the same month of the prior year. When compared to July 2012, these properties spent 20 percent less time on the market, or an average of 47 days.

Leasing
In July 2013, a total of 2,103 properties were leased in Austin, which is nine percent more than July 2012. The median price for Austin-area leases was $1,400, which is four percent more than the same month of the prior year.

The Austin Board of REALTORS® (ABoR) is a non-profit, voluntary organization dedicated to educating and supporting Central Texas REALTORS®. ABoR proudly serves more than 9,000 members, promotes private property rights, and provides accurate, comprehensive property listing information for the Greater Austin area.

Home sales statistics are released by ABoR on a monthly basis. For more information, please contact the ABoR Marketing Department at marketing@abor.com or 512-454-7636. Visit AustinHomeSearch.com, a public resource on Austin real estate, for the latest news on the local housing market.

Notorious for Awesomeness! Austin Area Events - August 2013

Thu, 01 Aug 2013 12:00:00 -0500

KGSR Blues On The Green

The final show for Summer 2013! - Free - Music starts at 7pm. Arrive early for easy parking. Bike or carpool if you can. You may bring your own snacks and beverages in an ice chest. Bring a blanket, chair, maybe a fun flag, and a little cash if you want to try some of the local food vendors.

August Show:

August 7 - White Denim

Sound & Cinema at the Long Center

Wed. Aug 14: Flash Gordon featuring live music with MAGNIFICO, the greatest Queen cover band you’ll ever experience
Weds, Aug 21: Jurassic Park featuring live music withCHALI 2NA (of Jurassic 5)
Wed. August 28: Back to the Future featuring live music by HELLO WHEELS, playing hits from both the 1950s and 1980s before everyone’s favorite time-traveling feature.

In addition to the featured entertainment, visitors can enjoy dining from Food Truck favorites including Frank, Blue Ox BBQ, Whole Foods, and more, all of which will be set up on the Terrace. Beer, wine, cocktails, and non-alcoholic beverages will be available for sale by the Long Center. Guests are also welcome to bring their own non-alcoholic drinks or food to picnic on the lawn.

The Food Trailers will be open by 7pm, and the sunset concerts will begin at 8pm each evening. The movie will immediately follow (after it gets dark).
What you CAN bring: Folding chairs, blankets, personal coolers (non-alcoholic beverages only), food, friends
What you CANNOT bring: Alcoholic beverages, drugs, weapons or anything illegal, dogs or other animals

Free car2go valet parking! Please consider reducing traffic congestion by taking a car2go, biking, walking, or ride-sharing to the event. car2go parking will be available for all events at Long Center main entrance on Riverside.Additional parking available in the Long Center garage.

AUSTIN SOUND & CINEMA is a co-production of Do512 and the Alamo Drafthouse, and is brought to you with the generous support of our 2013 sponsors: Aquasana, Car2Go,AutoNation Toyota, Deep Eddy Vodka, and The Long Center.

Barton Springs Fest - 2013

Plan to spend Saturday, August 10, 2013 on the south hill of Barton Springs Pool, and outside the back gate, for a full day of fun, outdoor and adventure learning, food, drink, and live music.

Barton Springs Fest will include:

Hike and Snorkel Eco-tours, from 8 - 10 a.m. Tours last 45 minutes. To sign up contact sosinfo@sosalliance.org. Space is limited.
Diving Competition from 9 to 10:30 a.m.
Barton Springs University from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Speakers and workshops along the south fence under the trees.
Live music from 4 - 7 p.m.
Free watermelon

For more information, visit the S.O.S. Alliance website.

Have a notoriously excellent August and call or email your Outlaw Realty agent if we can advise, coach, or educate you on real estate related questions. We'll see you around Austin and the surrounding areas as we all enjoy!

Rock Out at the Austin City Limits Music Festival 2013 Courtesy of Outlaw Realty!

Wed, 31 Jul 2013 12:00:00 -0500

You and a friend could be Rockin' Out at the Austin City Limits Music Festival 2013 courtesy of Outlaw Realty!

Johnny Henion, Tom Sunstrom, Kevin Hutchison, Charlie Pitkin, Grant Whittenberger, Blake Outlaw, Joe Honegger and Matthew Layman are excited to be offering the Outlaw Community the chance to win one pair of 3-Day Passes to the Sold Out weekend of October 4th, 5th & 6th! Muse, Queens of the Stone Age, Kings of Leon, Atoms of Peace, and Lionel Richie just to name a few!!

How do you enter to win? Simply "Like" our Facebook Page - Outlaw Realty Austin - by midnight on Wednesday, September 18th to enter. If you want to pass this contest along to your friends, please share the event page as much as you want!

We appreciate you sharing and even plugging in a short shout out to Outlaw Realty if you are a past client! Outlaw Realty is passionate about community and notoriously excellent real estate advice and we sincerely thank you for your support and your referrals!

All current fans of the Outlaw Realty Austin Facebook page are already entered to win! Share the event with your friends!

See below for the legalities and further details.

Outlaw Realty is a Private Label Realty group

Content Rules

NO PURCHASE OR PAYMENT IS REQUIRED TO ENTER OR WIN. A PURCHASE WILL NOT INCREASE YOUR CHANCES OF WINNING.

1. ENTRY PROCESS - To enter the Sweepstakes, you ("You" or the "Entrant") must go to https://www.facebook.com/OutlawRealtyAustin and like the Outlaw Realty Facebook business page. Outlaw Realty is a Private Label Realty group. Byliking the Outlaw Realty Facebook page You confirm that You understand and accept these Official Rules. Also, by liking the Outlaw Realty Facebook page You are submitting an entry and You expressly agree to be bound by the terms and conditions contained in these Official Rules. In addition, by submitting an entry, You expressly grant authority to Outlaw Realty, its affiliates and related companies (“Sponsor”) and all of their respective past, present, and future parents, subsidiaries, divisions, affiliates, predecessors, successors, transferees, and assigns, to use Your name, likeness, and/or voice or statement in any manner and in any and all media now or hereafter known throughout the world in perpetuity without further approval by, or notification or compensation to You. The Sponsor is not responsible for lost, late, illegible, incomplete, stolen, or misdirected entries.

2. ELIGIBILITY FOR ENTRY - To enter the Sweepstakes, You must be a resident of the United States. You must also be eighteen (18) years of age or older at the time of entry. Employees of the Sponsor and their immediate family members and persons living in their household are not eligible to enter the Sweepstakes or win a prize. This offer is void where prohibited by law. All federal, state, provincial, and local laws and regulations apply.

3. DURATION OF THE SWEEPSTAKES - The Sweepstakes shall begin at 12:01am (CST) on July 9th, 2013 and end at 11:59pm (CST) on September 18, 2013 (the "Sweepstakes Period").

4. SELECTION OF WINNER(S)/ RANDOM DRAWING - Winner(s) will be selected by a random drawing and will be selected from the current list of people who like the Outlaw Realty Facebook page. The random drawing will be on or around September 19, 2013 from among all eligible entries and will be announced via the Outlaw Realty Austin Facebook business page on September 20, 2013. The odds of winning each prize will depend upon the number of eligible entries received. The Sponsor will notify the winner(s) by facebook message shortly after the judges’ selections are made. In the event that a winner does not respond to the Sponsors notification within two (2) business days after notification is sent, the Sponsors reserve the right to select an alternate winner.

5. PRIZE(S) - There will be one (1) Sweepstakes winner in total: One (1) winner will receive two three-day wristbands for Austin City Limits Music Festival for the weekend of October 4, 2013 - October 6, 2013.(Approximate Retail Value: USD $450.00.) Please see Section 4 above for odds of winning. A prize is not transferable. There shall be no cash or other goods and services substitutions for a prize. Only the advertised number of prize(s) will be awarded. Each prize consists only of those items expressly listed above as part of the prize. By accepting a prize, You expressly grant authority to the Sponsor and all of their respective past, present, and future parents, subsidiaries, divisions, affiliates, predecessors, successors, transferees, and assigns, to use Your name, likeness, and/ or voice or statement in any manner and in any and all media now or hereafter known throughout the world in perpetuity without further approval by, or notification or compensation to, You.

6. DISQUALIFICATION - The Sponsor reserves the right to reject any entry for any reason. All decisions regarding the eligibility of an entry are final. Sponsor, in their sole discretion, reserve the right to disqualify any person suspected of tampering with the entry process or the operation of the Sweepstakes website, or otherwise violating the Official Rules. Use of bots or any other type of automated process to enter is prohibited and will result in disqualification.

7. RIGHT TO CANCEL/TERMINATE/MODIFY - Sponsor reserves the right to cancel, terminate, or modify the Sweepstakes if they are not capable of completing the Sweepstakes as planned, whether due to infection by computer virus, computer bugs, tampering, unauthorized intervention, force majeure, or technical failures of any sort.

8. WAIVER OF LIABILITY - ENTRANT AGREES THAT SPONSOR SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR ANY AND ALL DAMAGES (AS WELL AS COSTS AND EXPENSES RELATED THERETO, INCLUDING ALL ATTORNEYS' FEES AND COSTS) THAT ENTRANT MIGHT INCUR RELATED OR CONNECTED IN ANY WAY TO THE SWEEPSTAKES. THIS WAIVER OF LIABILITY IS AN EXPRESS CONDITION FOR THE ENTRANT TO BE ELIGIBLE TO ENTER THE SWEEPSTAKES. IN NO EVENT SHALL SPONSOR BE LIABLE TO ENTRANT OR TO ANY THIRD-PARTY FOR ANY INDIRECT, SPECIAL, EXEMPLARY, CONSEQUENTIAL, OR PUNITIVE DAMAGES RELATED IN ANY WAY TO THE SWEEPSTAKES, WHETHER OR NOT SPONSOR WAS ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGE.

9. ANY ATTEMPT BY AN INDIVIDUAL TO DELIBERATELY DAMAGE ANY WEB SITE OR UNDERMINE THE LEGITIMATE OPERATION OF THIS PROMOTION IS A VIOLATION OF CRIMINAL AND CIVIL LAWS, AND SPONSOR RESERVES THE RIGHT TO SEEK DAMAGES FROM ANY SUCH INDIVIDUAL AND PROSECUTE SAME TO THE FULLEST EXTENT PERMITTED BY LAW. Sponsor assumes no responsibility for undeliverable e-mails/Facebook messages resulting from any form of active or passive e-mail filtering by a user’s Internet service provider and/or e-mail client, or for insufficient space in user’s e-mail account.

10. APPLICABLE LAW - The Sweepstakes, and all disputes arising between Entrant and the Sponsor, shall be governed, construed, and enforced in accordance with the laws of the State of Texas, without regard to choice of law provisions. Entrant irrevocably consents to the exclusive jurisdiction of the federal and state courts in Travis County, Texas with respect to any matter relating hereto, and hereby waives the defense of forum non conveniens to any such action.

11. SEVERABILITY - Each of these Official Rules shall be severable, and if any one of them is held invalid or unenforceable for any reason, such rule(s) shall be adjusted to the minimum extent necessary to cure such validity; the remaining rules shall continue in full force and effect to the fullest extent permitted by law. The invalidity or unenforceability of one or more of the rules shall not affect any other rule. Further, the invalidity or unenforceability of any rule hereof in any particular jurisdiction shall not affect the validity or enforceability of such rule in any other jurisdiction.

12. NO WAIVER - Any delay or forbearance by Sponsor in exercising any right under these Official Rules shall not be deemed a waiver of that right.

13. HEADINGS - The section headings used in these Official Rules are for reference purposes only and shall not in any way affect the meaning or interpretation of the Official Rules.

14. SPONSOR INFORMATION - This Sweepstakes is sponsored by Outlaw Realty a Private Label Realty group, 8300 North Mopac Expwy., #110, Austin TX 78759

Market Stats - Austin - June 2013

Mon, 22 Jul 2013 12:00:00 -0500

Austin Market Statistics - June 2013 - Data from Real Estate Center of Texas A&M & the Austin Board of Realtors

Austin-area housing inventory drops to 2.9 months in June

Mid-year results show increase in sales, drop in days on market

Austin Board of REALTORS® releases real estate statistics for June 2013 and mid-year 2013

For More Information and futher analysis of the Austin market statistics visit: https://www.abor.com/news_media/press_releases/2013/p14_13.cfm

AUSTIN, Texas – July 22, 2013 – According to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) report released today by the Austin Board of REALTORS® (ABoR), Austin-area year-over-year housing inventory fell to 2.9 months in June, a decrease of 1.5 months from June 2012. Mid-year statistics for 2013 reinforced a strong demand for the market, including a 19 percent increase in home sales and 25 percent less days on the market compared to the first six months of 2012.

Cathy Coneway, 2013 Chairman of the Austin Board of REALTORS®, explained, “While the Austin-area real estate market is strong, Austin’s housing inventory has reached a critical level. If the cost of development in the area does not decrease, Austin residents will not have enough housing options and availability necessary to meet growing demand.”

According to the report, homes spent 43 days on the market, which is a decrease of 16 days from one year prior. The market featured eight percent more new listings, 22 percent fewer active listings and 16 percent more pending sales in June 2013 compared to the prior year. This is on par with mid-year results, which show a five percent increase in new listings, 25 percent fewer active listings and 17 percent more pending sales than the first six months of 2012.

The total dollar volume of single-family properties sold was $841,090,524, or 15 percent higher than the same month last year. Year to date, total dollar volume increased by 31 percent, totaling $3,838,604,341 for the first half of 2013. This is already 62 percent of the total dollar volume of home sales for all of 2012.

In June 2013, 2,767 single-family homes were sold in the Austin area, which is eight percent more than June 2012 and the most home sales in June since 2007. The median price for Austin-area homes increased to $235,000, which is eight percent more than the same month in 2012. Year to date, median price is $224,000 or nine percent more than the first six months of 2012.

Coneway added, “While it seems like home sales slowed in June compared to earlier in the year, this month marks the highest level of home sales for June in the last six years. That combined with the fast pace of home sales in the area means buyers will greatly benefit from using a REALTOR® who has access to the most up-to-date information in the MLS, and sellers will gain maximum exposure for their listing with it in the MLS."

Notorious for Awesomeness! Austin Area Events - July 2013

Mon, 08 Jul 2013 12:00:00 -0500

KGSR Blues On The Green - Every other Wednesday thru August 7 - Free - Music starts at 7pm. Arrive early for easy parking. Bike or carpool if you can. You may bring your own snacks and beverages in an ice chest. Bring a blanket, chair, maybe a fun flag, and a little cash if you want to try some of the local food vendors.

July Shows:
July 10 - Bob Schneider with Max Frost
July 24 - The Gourds with Shakey Graves

Sound & Cinema at the Long Center - Wednesday, July 17: Back to the Future featuring live music by HELLO WHEELS, playing hits from both the 1950s and 1980s before everyone’s favorite time-traveling feature. In addition to the featured entertainment, visitors can enjoy dining from Food Truck favorites including Frank, Blue Ox BBQ, Whole Foods, and more, all of which will be set up on the Terrace. Beer, wine, cocktails, and non-alcoholic beverages will be available for sale by the Long Center. Guests are also welcome to bring their own non-alcoholic drinks or food to picnic on the lawn.

The Food Trailers will be open by 7pm, and the sunset concerts will begin at 8pm each evening. The movie will immediately follow (after it gets dark).
What you CAN bring: Folding chairs, blankets, personal coolers (non-alcoholic beverages only), food, friends
What you CANNOT bring: Alcoholic beverages, drugs, weapons or anything illegal, dogs or other animals

Music Under the Star - Free Concert Series - Friday, Jul 19 & 26 - 6pm to 9pm at Bullock Texas State History Museum
The Bullock Museum is proud to celebrate its 10th season of the free summer concert series, Music Under the Star. Every Friday in July, bring camp chairs and blankets (no coolers, please) and dance the evening away to the hottest sounds in Austin. The museum's exhibits will be open and free to the public during the concerts. The Bullock Texas State History Museum is proud to celebrate its tenth season of outstanding Texas music with the annual free summer concert series, Music Under the Star. Every Friday in July, bring your camp chairs and blankets (but no coolers, please) and dance the evening away to the hottest sounds in Austin. This free concert series features a fantastic line-up of Texas musicians who will play from 6 to 9 pm on the Bullock Museum's Lone Star Plaza. In between sets, cool off with a trip through the exhibits, which will be free and open to the public during the concerts. The Story of Texas Cafe will be serving a limited menu on the plaza and RK will have beer and wine for sale. Sponsors: Frost Bank, KUT/X, and The Austin Chronicle

Performers
July 12 - Elana James with special guest Katie Holmes Project
July 19 - Grupo Fantasma with special guest La Guerrilla
July 26 - Guy Forsyth with special guest Jean Synodinos

Family Activities
July 5 - Natural Ear Music School will be showcasing their instruments and students, they will have some instruments for the public to try out as well.
July 12 - Kids will decorate wooden star cutouts and turn them into wearable art: pins, necklaces, bolo ties and more!
July 19 - TBA
July 26 - Using original stencils and artwork, families will create vintage-style postcards that share what Texas, Texas music and the Bullock Museum mean to them. Then, we'll drop 'em in the mail!

Alamo Drafthouse Summer Kids Camp - Tickets to all of the Summer Kids Camp movies are free, but will be available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Reserved seating is not available for these showtimes. A ticket must be picked up at the Box Office before entering the theater. Customers are encouraged to arrive early to snag tickets and then head into the theater for custom family-friendly pre-show entertainment appropriate for all ages. Summer Kids Camp screenings are open to audience members age 3 and up. Infants may only attend Baby Day screenings (on Tuesdays). All children must be accompanied by an adult.

Have a notoriously excellent July and call or email your Outlaw Realty agent if we can advise, coach, or educate you on real estate related questions. We'll see you around Austin and the surrounding areas as we all enjoy!

Interest Rate Rock Bottom Is Here

Thu, 27 Jun 2013 12:00:00 -0500

The Austin Market has had a record setting year so far! Median home prices are at an all time high; inventory is at an all time low; and homes are selling in a matter of days and some times hours. It has truly been a breath of fresh air for those looking to sell their home as compared to the last few years.

With the change in the market though comes changes in interest rates. When the market took the downturn in 2007 home prices went with it. Close behind were interest rates. The FED, in an attempt, to stimulate the housing market has kept interest rates low. They have also kept them steady as a way to instill confidence back into the housing market and get the engine running again. Now that the economy is making the turn and house prices are jumping up, interest rates will be soon to follow. In the past week we have already seen signs of this as rates went up to 4.25-4.5%. As a homeowner what this means is right now is a great time to sell your home. Get top dollar and a great interest rate on the house you are looking to buy. As a first time home buyer it means you can still get more home at a lower monthly payment than you could back before 2007. However, this will not last forever and interest rates will be looking to rise. Interest rates moving just 1% can cost you 10's of thousands in buying power. Suddenly that home you want in the neighborhood you have always wanted is no longer an option.

We have hit the interest rate rock bottom. Now is the time to jump on the home of your dreams at the rate of your dreams.

By Johnny Henion, REALTOR & Partner - Outlaw Realty of Private Label Realty

Notorious for Awesomeness! Austin Area Events - June 2013

Fri, 31 May 2013 12:00:00 -0500

KGSR Blues On The Green - Every other Wednesday thru August 7 - Free - Music starts at 7pm. Arrive early for easy parking. Bike or carpool if you can. You may bring your own snacks and beverages in an ice chest. Bring a blanket, chair, maybe a fun flag, and a little cash if you want to try some of the local food vendors.

June Shows:

June 12 - Wheeler Brothers with The Whiskey Sisters
June 26 - Black Joe Lewis & The Honeybears with Dupree

Republic of Texas Rally Motorcycle Parade & Concert - Friday, June 14 10:00am - Start your engines! It's the Annual Republic of Texas Motorcycle Rally Parade & Concert on Congress Avenue! Get up close and personal with 1000's of motorcycles! Dance to live music! Shop the street vendors! Parade starts about 8pm, Concert about 8:45 - midnight. Free! Note: This listing is for the Congress Avenue Parade & Free Concert only. Please visit rotrally. com for other Rot Rally info.

11th Annual Keep Austin Weird Festival & 5K - Saturday, Jun 22 2:00pm to 10:00pm - It’s time to celebrate the great city of Austin at the 11th annual Keep Austin Weird Festival & 5K! Come check out the one-of-a-kind weirdness of Texas’ capital city, ranging from psychedelic music to local artisans and even a 5K race that will be sure to leave you wondering why it’s even been called a race. Bands will be rockin’ out, putting out the groovy vibes at the festival and vendors will be serving up tasty bites while we have the privilege of soaking it all in.

Alamo Drafthouse Summer Kids Camp - Starting Friday, June 7th - Tickets to all of the Summer Kids Camp movies are free, but will be available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Reserved seating is not available for these showtimes. A ticket must be picked up at the Box Office before entering the theater. Customers are encouraged to arrive early to snag tickets and then head into the theater for custom family-friendly pre-show entertainment appropriate for all ages. Summer Kids Camp screenings are open to audience members age 3 and up. Infants may only attend Baby Day screenings (on Tuesdays). All children must be accompanied by an adult.

Have a notoriously excellent June and call or email your Outlaw Realty agent if we can advise, coach, or educate you on real estate related questions. We'll see you around Austin and the surrounding areas as we all enjoy!

Saturday June 1st - Austinites Must Dial Area Code First for All Calls!

Wed, 29 May 2013 12:00:00 -0500

ALL CUSTOMERS WITH A TEXAS 512 AREA CODE MUST DIAL AREA CODE + TELEPHONE NUMBER FOR ALL LOCAL CALLS BEGINNING June 1, 2013

What is the New Dialing Procedure?

To complete local calls, the new dialing procedure requires callers to dial area code + telephone number. This means that all local calls in the 512 area code that are currently dialed with seven digits will need to be dialed using area code + telephone number.

When Will the Change be Mandatory?

Beginning June 1, 2013, you must use the new dialing procedure for all local calls. If you do not use the new dialing procedure, your call will not be completed, and a recording will instruct you to hang up and dial again.

However, all customers should begin using the new dialing procedure before June 1, 2013.

Why is the Change Necessary?

To ensure a continuing supply of telephone numbers, the 737 area code is being added to the area served by the 512 area code. Since two area codes will now serve the same geographic region, the area code must be used when dialing any telephone number—including calls within the same area code.

Beginning July 1, 2013, new telephone lines or services may be assigned numbers with the new 737 area code. Callers must use the new dialing procedure for local calls in the new 737 area code.

What Will You Need to Do?

In addition to changing your dialing procedure, all services, automatic dialing equipment, or other types of equipment that are programmed with a 7-digit telephone number will need to be reprogrammed to use the new dialing procedure. Some examples are life safety systems, fax machines, Internet dial-up numbers, alarm and security systems, gates, speed dialers, mobile phone contact lists, call forwarding settings, voicemail services, and similar functions. Be sure to check your website, business stationery, advertising materials, personal checks, contact information, and your personal or pet ID tags to ensure the area code is included.

What will remain the same?

• Your telephone number, including current area code, will not change.

• The price of a call, coverage area, or other rates and services will not change due to the overlay.

• What is a local call now will remain a local call regardless of the number of digits dialed.

• You can still dial just three digits to reach 911.

• If 211, 311, 411, 511, 611, 711 and 811 are currently available in your community; you will still dial them with just three digits.

Who may you contact with questions?

If you have any questions regarding information provided in this notice, please call (service provider’s name and number) or access the following websites for more information: (service provider’s website) or the PUCT’s website

Crawfish & Croquet Benefit Party - 2013

Tue, 23 Apr 2013 12:00:00 -0500

The 5th Annual Crawfish & Croquet Benefit Party for the Capital Area Food Bank of Texas was a HUGE success!

Thanks for telling your friends about us and the event, thanks for coming out to enjoy it, and a big 'ole Outlaw thanks to the event sponsors! The benefit raised $3,300+ for the Capital Area Food Bank!

Check out the pics here!

The 5th Annual Crawfish & Croquet Party

Benefit for The Capital Area Food Bank

Presented by Outlaw Realty of Private Label Realty

What - Cajun Style Crawfish Boil & Fundraiser for the Capital Area Food Bank, Croquet, Music, Pool with Lifeguards, Bounce House for Kids, Lawn Games, and St. Arnold's Beer for the Adults! All-You-Can-Eat, Best Cajun Style Crawfish & Fixins' (corn and potatoes on the side of for our vegetarians!)

When - Saturday, May 18th, 2013 – 3-8 pm – First Batch of Crawfish Served at 3:30 pm

Where – NEW LOCATION! Commons Ford Ranch Park - Ranch House - 614 Commons Ford Rd., Austin 78733

Location Details: Formerly a working ranch, the park's primary feature is a 2,500-square foot unfurnished ranch house with two patios and a swimming pool. A large picnic area is also available, as well as accessories for games of volleyball, horseshoes or croquet. No Pets. Handicap Accessible.

Detailed Directions: From MoPac in Austin, head west on FM 2244. Continue west on FM 2244 through the intersection with Capital of Texas Highway. Approximately 3.5 miles after that intersection turn right on Cuernavaca Drive and then turn left on Commons Ford Road. Continue down this road and look for the entrance to the park on the left.

Why – HUNGER. It reaches into every part of our community. 48,000 of our central Texas neighbors look to the Capital Area Food Bank of Texas as their hunger safety net - 20,000 of them are children. In 2010, CAFB distributed more than 24 million pounds of food through CAFB Partner Agencies which assist the poor, ill, homeless, victims of crisis, children, and the elderly, as well as families impacted by recent economic hardship. The CAFB was awarded Charity Navigator’s highest possible rating for financial excellence; 96% of your gift goes directly to support the programs serving your neighbors in need. Learn More! http://www.austinfoodbank.org/

Cost: $25 per ticket/person - All proceeds from ticket sales are donated to the Capital Area Food Bank of Texas

Advanced Tickets Only ~ Tickets Must Be Purchased ONLINE by Friday, May 17^th (because of catering involved and venue rules.) No tickets can be sold day of or at the door of the event. Purchase your tickets now because space is limited!

Ticket Purchase Button: SOLD OUT!

You do not have to have a paypal account to purchase tickets. You click on the Buy Now button, select how many tickets you want, and then click on the "Don't have a Paypal account?" link and you will be given the option to pay with any major credit/debit card.

Please Note: This is a family-friendly event. Kids 10 and under are free and there will be kiddy hot dogs and chips. No dogs or pets, please (per venue.) The venue has a chlorinated pool and we’ll have lifeguards on duty, please feel free to wear your suit and bring a few favorite pool toys. This is a rain or shine event and we’ll have a covered patio and indoor ranch house if we get a sprinkle or two.

If you can’t make it to the party but want to donate to the Capital Area Food Bank of Texas? PLEASE Visit their website and donate now! http://www.austinfoodbank.org/

Links to Event Sponsors - Working to Earn Your Referrals & Business!

Taylor Morrison Homes www.taylormorrison.com	St. Arnold Brewing Company www.saintarnold.com
Ameripro Funding: The Michael Nasserfar & Michael Task Team www.MichaelNasserfar.com	Reliant Title www.relianttitleusa.com
Triton Custom Homes www.tritonaustin.com	Amerifirst Insurance www.amerifirstinsurance.com
Juany Cleaning Service www.juanycleaningservice.com	Postnet - Far West Blvd www.postnet.com/austin-tx157
Two Guys Moving Company www.twoguysmovingaustin.com	Wellspring Landscape Services www.wellspringlandscapes.com
Bounce Around Austin www.bouncearoundaustin.com	MileStone Community Builders www.mymilestone.com
Drouins Crazy Cajun Crawfish www.thecrawfishman.com	Outlaw Investments - Blake Outlaw - 512.431.3476
Perfect Phones – Phone System Installation & Repair - Making Business Easier & More Profitable www.perfectphones.net	Equitable Green Group – Green Building, Rainwater Collection, Passive House www.egreengroup.com
Triaz Digital – If You Think It, We Can Ink It www.triazdigital.com	MacPlus – Installation, Consultation, Integration & Setup www.mymacplus.com
Brenda Wendel Insurance Agency www.farmersagent.com/bwendel	Home Warranty of America www.hwahomewarranty.com
Masters Touch Custom Homes www.masterstch.com	QLS Quality Living Services – Air Conditioning, Heating, Duct Cleaning www.qualitylivingservices.com
A-Tex Roofing www.atexroof.com	Donna LiAne & Ashley – Color and Extensions www.Donnalianescolorextensions.biz

Questions or Comments: Contact Leah Schimberg - 512-614-0057