Austin Is The Place To Live- Peace & Quiet Showcase
October 31, 2007 | 2 Comments
According to Travel & Leisure’s “America’s Favorite Cities 2007,” Austin made out like a bandit! One of the most important categories to me personally is the peace and quiet showcase. With so many parks, running trails, private hill top homes and a small town feel, Austin is one of the most peaceful places you can find. What’s different about Austin than most of the other cities listed is that even in our downtown areas we enjoy a peaceful environment, not just in our parks or suburbs. How did we rank nationally?
1. Santa Fe, NM
2. Portland, OR
3. Charleston, SC
4. St. Paul, MN
5. Seattle, WA
6. Austin, TX
7. Denver, CO
8. San Diego, CA
9. Honolulu, HI
10. San Antonio, TX
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Check out other reasons why Austin is THE place to live:
Affordability
Top Notch Food
Hot Night Life
Environmental Awareness
And don’t miss out on more to come…
Investing Austin Real Estate- Investing In Yourself
October 31, 2007 | Leave a Comment
Real Estate Investing in Austin is one of the smartest moves you’ll ever make. So how could you possibly top a move like that? You top it by investing for your retirement- your future.
No matter your age, investing in Austin Real Estate can move you vertically in so many ways, but often our clients come to us unsure if they’re investing or just throwing darts at the wind. I would venture to say if you’ve simply called a real estate guy and said “buy me a house”- you’re probably a professional dart thrower.
Now, if you’ve taken the time, as our clients have, ask these questions:
- Will it cash flow?
- What is the potential for growth?
- Will I retire with enough money to take care of myself and my loved ones?
You may be doing ok if the answers are:
- Absolutely
- GREAT
- BIG Time
If you’re not able to really answer those questions in a way that makes you feel warm & fuzzy, never fear, we’re about to change all of that. Single Pointe is proud to announce that we’re bringing Jeff Brown of Brown & Brown to town for two Austin investment seminars, only.
Who is Jeff Brown? Jeff Brown is well known in many states across the country. With over 38 years of residential real estate investment experience in his pocket, you had better believe his experience has put millions into his clients’ wallets. Brown & Brown is no joke and neither are your retirement goals- but that doesn’t mean Jeff (the “bawld guy” pictured above) is some stiff suit, in fact, he’s a great friend to us Single Pointe.
One thing we can honestly say about Jeff is that he is down to earth, approachable, and his advice just makes sense- even to those who’ve never even considered investing in Austin Real Estate. Anyone can grow their wealth through real estate investments, especially with Jeff leading the way.
Remember those times you kicked yourself for mising opportunities? Well, opportunity is beating down your door… call 512-879-3741 Seats are limited for this event and we are taking advanced reservations- attendance is absolutely free. Simply give us a call and get on Jeff’s short list… or check out Jeff’s site here
Austin Real Estate News- Labor Market is Hot
October 30, 2007 | Leave a Comment
According to the Texas Workforce Commission and Bureau of Labor Statistics, Austin’s labor stats are outperforming the Texas averages, and nearly allother major metropolitan areas. Read until the end to find out WHY this is real estate news…
***Ranking SECOND in Texas only to the McAllen area, Austin’s EMPLOYMENT GROWTH RATE is at an impressive 3.5% while overall, Texas experienced 2% growth rate over the last 12 months. The misconception of big city equals big employment is simply false and as Austin job creation numbers consistently rise, chances are you’ll be here soon if you’re not already! Other metropolitan areas that had impressive numbers were Houston and Dallas, both at 2.6% growth, Waco at 2.4% and Midland at 2.5% employment growth rates.
***Austin’s UNEMPLOYMENT RATE is also declining. Raking FOURTH in Texas after Midland-Odessa (3.25% unemployment), Lubbock (3.5%), and Amarillo (3.5%), Austin has only a 3.7% unemployment rate which is very impressive considering the state unemployment rate is 4.4% while the nation experiences 4.7% unemployment.
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I know, I know- you’re asking how this is real estate news. It is- these numbers are taken into account by three different groups that are important to you whether you are buying or selling property in Austin:
INVESTORS: when scouting new locations, investors look not only at unemployment rates and employment growth rates but at job diversity to support meaning we can lose more than one industry and our economy still hums right along. Austin is the nation’s second silicon valley (Dallas being the silicone valley!) but is also supported by an increasingly strong retail market, health industry, and banking sectors.
EMPLOYERS: numerous companies are packing up their California plants or headquarters and heading for Austin which is a much less expensive location to operate in yet still offers a similarly beautiful landscape with endless entertainment and venues that are attractive to employees.
REGULAR JOES: the job growth rate is an indicator of the strength of the Austin housing market. When our city has attractive numbers, it creates a vibrant relocation market which in turn creates a demand for housing which is good news for sellers. For buyers looking at Austin and comparing it to other cities that they are considering relocating to (including many of our readers, hint hint), these numbers are a major draw for Austin.
So great news Austin- we’re hot!
Fiore- Austin’s Eco-Friendly Green Community
October 30, 2007 | Leave a Comment
Austin’s green building firm, Nine Sixty Nine recently announced their newest project, fiore which will be the nation’s first five star Green community. The site will be located near MLK Blvd and Hwy 183 which is just east of Austin.
The fiore website boasts their design will work in sync with natur, not destroy it. The architectural design will be contemporary modern and is actually be affordable- what a shocker! With Austin’s environmental awareness, it’s no surprise that we are home to the nation’s first five-star eco-friendly community designed around sustainable green development that will invite residents to settle in within the year.
According to the press release, “fiore represents the prototype of how to develop design-driven, sustainable, eco-friendly communities which funciton as alternatives to suburban sprawl.” Fiore will harness the energy of the popularity of the outdoor-type lifestyle in Austin in the setup of this project. So what exactly is unique about this ground-breaking community that may serve as a prototype for future Green communities?
*A communal 40-foot-wide, pedestrian lane and park around which all of the homes have been designed. The park features a community garden, playground, hike and bike trails and a hammock court.
*Six different design choices and in sizes ranging from 1,400 to 2,400 square feet with single and double story homes.
*The property’s hillside elevation allows for breathtaking views of the downtown Austin skyline.
*The result is a holistically designed, carefully orchestrated grouping of homes allowing for maximum green space, outdoor living and community interaction.
*Climate integration, with homes oriented for proper solar shading, maximum natural light, deep overhangs, outdoor fireplaces and shaded patios
*Garage outlets to accommodate PHEVs (plug-in hybrids) and other green vehicles
sources: fioregreen.com, CSRwire
Austin Is The Place To Live- Environmental Awareness
October 30, 2007 | 1 Comment
Austin is in the Top 5 cities that are environmentally aware, according to travel magazine Travel & Leisure’s “America’s Favorite Cities 2007? survey. How did Austin achieve this title? Laws regarding mandated green spaces, tax breaks for green building, pristine park preservation, water conservation practices city wide and more. Where does Austin rank as environmentally aware?
1. Portland, OR
2. Seattle, WA
3. San Francisco, CA
4. Austin, TX
5. Denver, CO
Congrats to all of those in Austin that focus on keeping our city beautiful. For those of you not yet here, come see why we rank so highly!
Austin Is The Place To Live- Night Life Showcase
October 29, 2007 | Leave a Comment
According to travel magazine Travel & Leisure’s “America’s Favorite Cities 2007″ survey, Austin is the hottest place for the Night Life scene. With new downtown condo projects like The Austonian and The 360 Condominiums, the ability to walk downstairs and plop onto 6th street or the warehouse district, Austin night life is only going to get hotter. You already know that Austin is the Live Music Capital, home of a hot singles scene, great clubs and lounges and endless night time fun. But did you know that the rest of the nation is learning about our coolness? Check out the rankings:
Night Life Greatness:
1. New Orleans, LA
2. Las Vegas, NV
3. Austin, TX
4. New York, NY
5. Miami, FL
Clubbing Scene:
1. Miami, FL
2. Las Vegas, NV
3. New York, NY
4. New Orleans, LA
5. Austin, TX
Singles Scene:
1. Austin, TX
2. Las Vegas, NV
3. New Orleans, LA
4. Miami, FL
5. New York, NY
Cocktail Hour:
1. New Orleans, LA
2. Las Vegas, NV
3. New York, NY
4. Miami, FL
5. Austin, TX
So, whether happy hour or an all night dance-a-thon is your pace, Austin has the nation’s greatest night life! CHEERS!
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Other Austin Spotlights:
AFFORDABILITY
GREAT FOOD
Austin Is The Place To Live- Affordability Showcase
October 24, 2007 | 2 Comments
Austin is the place to live and if you aren’t here yet, we’ll give you yet ANOTHER reason to move- affordability! Because of the gorgeous landscape and endless lakes, much of our entertainment is free (can you say hiking, biking, swimming?).
But who are we kidding- the best deal in Austin is housing! Last year, the national median home price was $221,900 while Austin’s median price was only $173,700! While prices have increased (congratulations home sellers!) since last year, Austin will forever be less expensive than real estate on the east or west coast and the landscape is just as beautiful!
Where does Austin rank nationally? According to Travel & Leisure magazine, here are the national affordability rankings:
1. San Antonio, TX
2. Nashville, TN
3. New Orleans, LA
4. Minneapolis/St. Paul, MN
5. Austin, TX
6. Portland, OR
7. Philadelphia, PA
8. Charleston, SC
9. Denver, CO
10. Dallas/Fort Worth, TX
Austin Is The Place To Live- Food Showcase
October 24, 2007 | Leave a Comment
According to travel magazine Travel & Leisure’s “America’s Favorite Cities 2007″ survey, Austin is apparently the best place to live if you eat. I mean it. Check out how we rank!
Overall Food/Dining
1. Chicago, IL
2. New Orleans, LA
3. Austin, TX
4. New York, NY
5. Philadelphia, PA
What does all that mean? Let’s see where we rank according to food type in case you are still dubious:
Barbeque
1. Austin, TX
2. San Antonio, TX
3. Nashville, TN
4. Dallas, TX
5. Charleston, SC
And you thought Kansas had the best barbeque? They don’t have Uncle Billy’s, Salt Lick or Green Mesquite to brag about (and you know we aren’t shy about bragging). Speaking of bragging, how about affordable dining?
Cheap Eats
1. New Orleans, LA
2. Austin, TX
3. Philadelphia, PA
4. San Antonio, TX
5. Chicago, IL
For cheap eats, we recommend most anything Tex-Mex, we love Rudy’s and the Magnolia Cafe. But what about after you’re stuffed and you just need a coffee nightcap?
Coffee
1. Seattle, WA (duh)
2. Portland, OR
3. New Orleans, LA
4. San Francisco, CA
5. New York, NY
6. Austin, TX
Not only do we have a Starbucks on every corner, we promote our independent coffee houses such as Austin Java Company, Mozart’s on Lake Austin and (my personal fave) Spider House. What about if you’re vegan or are trying to focus on eating healthy foods?
Organic Food Consumption
1. San Francisco, CA
2. Seattle, WA
3. Portland, OR
4. Washington, D.C.
5. San Diego, CA
6. Austin, TX
This one makes sense since Whole Foods is headquartered here, our city is centered around a hike and bike trail and fitness is the center of many people’s attention not for reasons of vanity but for health (think of celebrities in Austin like Lance Armstrong, Andy Roddick and the like).
For those of you who live here, you already know that Austin is the crown jewel of places to live, especially if you like consuming food! Austin ranks in the top of most surveys regarding types of food not only for the quality of the food, the great service, the laid back atmosphere and gorgeous hill country surroundings. If you haven’t been to Austin yet and you plan on relocating or investing in our fine city, bring an empty stomach!
Austin Investment Gem- The Metropolitan
October 15, 2007 | Leave a Comment
Austin is prime for living, relocation and investments, and The Metropolitan is sure to please all. This $50 million, 8 story, 96 foot tall project has a prestigious adress across the street from our State Capitol. Located on Trinity and 11th Street, this spot is quite attractive- not only will downtown views be a drawing factor, but residents may even be able to see the Governor’s Mansion from their living room!
The Metropolitan will have 84 luxury units on the upper floors, a six floor subterranean parking garage, valet service, and will offer street-level retail and dining. We are unsure of the amenities as all of the details have yet to be outlines, but we’re excited that The Metropolitan will feature a private club called The Fountainhead which we suspect will be where people will rub elbows with politicians and lobbyists.
Reports conflict regarding the completion date, but is projected to be between August 2008 and early 2009. Units will range in size from 900 sf to 1,900 sf one, two and three bedroom condos with pricing starting at $300,000 all the way up to the penthouses with private rooftop gardens going for a cool $1 million.
The Mote Group is The Metropolitan’s developer and we are proud that they are headquartered in Austin at the Littlefield Building, blocks away from The Metropolitan- proximity and an understanding of the area are distinct advantages they have, most likely making this a very successful project.
There are numerous condo developments underway in Austin right now, some of which have yet to even break ground and others requiring appointments- if you’re interested in further details, we can help.
Austin can beat up YOUR city
October 14, 2007 | Leave a Comment
CNN.com wrote a glowing review of Austin, highlighting all of the amazing things that we love (and already knew) about Austin (health food, Mexican food, parks, bars, etc). If you’re new to Austin, considering moving or investing in Austin, take it from someone at CNN who must have caught the cheap flight to town, had a lot of margaritas, ran it off on the trails in the morning and jumped back on SWA to Florida.
I’m a native Austinite (I know it’s rare, hold your applause), and I was asked by a Californian what makes Austin different than Dallas- they are after all, both in Texas. I could only explain that Dallas is a bustling metroplex and they love that hustle, but Austin refuses to believe it’s a real city and we are all still on small town vacation time. If you haven’t been converted yet, just take a weekend trip and see for yourself- Austin is the best place on earth!
Although we’re friendly about most anything, theft of this personal photo will be prosecuted, y’all!
The Austonian- Crazy Luxury Condo Highrise
October 10, 2007 | 2 Comments
Insane luxury has broken ground in Austin! If you need marble walls or Italian wood, this is your cup of tea! This project broke ground this fall and will suit the ultra swanky Austinites. With condos starting at $550k all the way up to nearly $4 million, you’re sure to see Hollywood stars, politicians, musicians and others that will leave you starstruck signing on the dotted line!
According to the Statesman- The Austonian, the swanky 55-story condo tower planned for Second Street and Congress Avenue, is pulling out the stops on amenities. The bathrooms will have marble walls; the kitchens will have Italian cabinets and built-in cappuccino machines, and 54th floor lounge will have a catering kitchen. A 10th floor “urban garden” will include a lap pool, billiard room and outdoor movie screen. It also will have a dog park with a scented, self-cleaning doggie toilet — just the thing for pampered high-rise pooches. Prices will range from $550,000 to $3.8 million and higher than that for buyers who create a custom unit on the three highest floors. “We knew what the standard was, and we wanted to blow it out of the water,” said Laura Gottesman, whose firm, Gottesman Windham Real Estate, is marketing the units.
Located at 200 Congress Ave, The Austonian will be 55 Stories tall, comprised of 195 Units and 700 feet tall! While it is still in the design phase, the completion date is targeted for 2009- our skyline will soon be changed!
Of course the Austonian will have a concierge, an amazing pool, a fitness center, meeting rooms, party rooms, a dog park for plush puppies, a garden deck, game room, housekeeping and valet. Oooh la la! The Austonian has a $200 Million budget and plans on being over half a million square feet! The developer is Second Congress Ltd. which is affiliated with Benchmark Development out of Austin.
If you’re ready to open up your big heavy wallet but don’t want to live in the suburbs, the Austonian is Austin’s answer to those seeking the luxury living lifestyle downtown. The sales center is open and is by appointment only- call us at 512.879.3741 to get started!
Cardboard Cops Take Over Traffic in Pflugerville- Seriously
October 9, 2007 | 1 Comment
Look up that hill- it’s a cop, it’s a cop with a radar… no, it’s a cardboard cut out of a cop with a radar!!! This is no joke, y’all- in Pflugerville, it has been reported that the police department has implemented cardboard cutouts of officers pointing radars at traffic to slow things down.
This has to be the most hilarious thing ever- we know that empty police cars parked on roadsides slow things down, but a cardboard cutout? I bet that countless UT dorm rooms will soon be decorated with stolen cutouts- this is hilarious! Great thinking, Pflugerville.
I just hope that when we drive through and see your fake officers that we don’t swerve dangerously like we did last time we saw a cop standing away from his car with a radar and mistook him for a darkly dressed person with a gun attempting to shoot and kill drivers.
Not only does it seem to be an unnecessary distraction, I think too many kids will be stealing them. The solution seems to remain the empty patrol car or an officer inside a vehicle. That said, we commend Pflugerville for attempting to control traffic in an effort to minimize danger. Thanks for protecting us but no thanks to crazy cardboard cutouts- maybe international crime fighter Austin Powers can monitor traffic?
Austin Loves Beer
October 8, 2007 | Leave a Comment
Although I enjoy a Corona Light with lime over a sophisticated beer with legs that is thick like steak, most people come to Austin with a thirst for the finest beer offered- and they are never let down. If you’re looking to sit outside and eat BBQ at a brewery or host a fancy wine tasting party, here are the places you’ll need to familiarize yourself with:
LOCAL BREWERIES:
Copper Tank Brewing
504 Trinity St., Austin, Texas
(512) 478-8444
Draught House Pub and Brewery
4112 Medical Parkway, Austin, Texas
(512) 452-6258
Independence Brewing Co.
3913 Todd Lane #607, Austin, Texas
(512) 707-0099
Live Oak Brewing Company
3301-B East Fifth Street, Austin, Texas
(512) 385-2299
Lovejoys Tap Room & Brewery
604 Neches Street, Austin, Texas
(512) 477-1268
North by Northwest (NXNW)
10010 Capital of TX Hwy N, Austin, Texas
(512) 467-6969
Shiner Beer Spoetzl Brewery
603 E Brewery St. , Shiner, Texas
(512) 594-3852
Uncle Billy’s Brew & Que
1530 Barton Springs Rd., Austin, Texas
(512) 476-0100
LOCAL BARS/PUBS SERVING SPECIALTY BEERS:
Alamo Drafthouse Cinema
409 Colorado St., Austin, Texas
(512) 867-1839
BB Rover’s cafe & Pub
12636 Research Blvd., Austin, Texas
(512) 335-9504
B.D. Riley’s Irish Pub
204 East 6th St., Austin, Texas
(512) 494-1335
Beerland
711 1/2 Red River St., Austin, Texas
(512) 479-7625
Crown & Anchor Pub
2911 San Jacinto, Austin, Texas
(512) 322-9168
Dog & Duck Pub
406 W. 17th St., Austin, Texas
(512) 479-0598
Fado Irish Pubs
214 W. Fourth St., Austin, Texas
(512) 457-0172
Ginger Man Pub
304 W. Fourth, Austin, Texas
(512) 473-8801
L’Estro Armonico: The Belgium
3520 Bee Cave Road, Austin, Texas
(512) 328-0580
Little Woodrow’s
520 W. Sixth St., Austin, Texas
(512) 477-2337
Maggie Mae’s
323 E. Sixth St., Austin, Texas
(512) 478-8541
Opal Divine’s Freehouse
700 W. 6th. Street, Austin, Texas
(512) 477-3308
Scholz Garten
1607 San Jacinto, Austin, Texas
(512) 477-4171
Shakespeare’s Pub
314 E. 6th St., Austin, Texas
(512) 472-1666
The Elephant Room
315 Congress Ave., Austin, Texas
(512) 473-2279
Trudy’s Texas Star
409 W. 30th St., Austin, Texas
(512) 477-2935
SPECIALTY BEER STORES:
Grapevine Market
4477 S. Lamar Blvd., Austin, Texas
(512) 899-4300
Grapevine Market
7938 Great Northern Blvd., Austin, Texas
(512) 323-5900
Heb Central Market
4001 N. Lamar, Austin, Texas
(512) 206-1000
Whip In
1950 S. Interstate 35, Austin , Texas
(512) 442-5337
Whole Foods Market
601 N. Lamar, Austin, Texas
(512) 476-1206
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Who’d we miss? Leave it in the comments!
It’s Bigger in Texas (Even Austin’s Housing Market)
October 2, 2007 | Leave a Comment
This is an articlethat was somehow missed back in August- which is unfortunate because we are constantly telling our home buyers and sellers the state of Austin housing market is great. Normally, an eyebrow rises and a curious look appears on the buyer or seller’s face, but darnit, it’s the truth. Here are some quotes:
Texas is at the forefront of emerging markets and industries. It’s no longer just about cotton, cattle, and crude—it’s about technology and communications, manufacturing, and international trade, too.
The governor’s quote is backed by hard economic statistics as well. In fact, if Texas were its own nation (once more, that is), it would represent the world’s eighth largest economy.
Texas recently surpassed California as the largest exporter in the nation; it’s the gateway to trade with Latin America, with 75% of America’s commerce with Mexico traveling through the Lone Star State. Texas is the headquarters for 45 Fortune 500 companies, is home to 14 of the 100 Fastest Growing Businesses in America (as rated by Fortune Small Business)
Additionally, Texas employment growth exceeded national employment growth rates in 2005; December 2005 marked 16 consecutive months. Texas employment gained 153,500 non-agricultural jobs in 2005 for an annual growth rate of 1.6% of state non-agricultural job growth.
Hutto TX - “Fastest Growing Community in America.” “Center of the Universe.” “Hippo Capital of Texas.” From 1995 to 2005, the population in Hutto increased an astounding 866%—20 times the increase in the “high-tech Mecca” of Austin during the same period.
Just what does all this mean to the Austin housing market? Everything. Our market is being bogged down by the national idiots like Cramer from CNBC who yell that it’s a horrible time to buy. I could have agreed with Cramer had he specifically named a city on the East or West Coast, but you know what? He didn’t. Like I said, national idiots who could care less about their negative impact on citites that are just fine.
Our advice is continue to vet information, continue to be diligent in your Austin home buying and selling endeavors, and further- buy low and sell high. It is a buyer’s market in some areas of Austin, and a Seller’s market in others- Single Pointe is doing all it can to clear the muck for our Austin buyers & sellers and will continue to be responsible in reporting the absolute facts.
Austin Consignment Stores: It Wouldn’t Be Austin w/o Them
October 1, 2007 | Leave a Comment
While I’m not quite brave enough to dig through groovy vintage gear to get that
perfect outfit that will wow those more trendy than myself, I present to you Austin’s
consignment scene. Some of these are ultra hip while others will still accept your
1992 Gap sweater with those purple horizontal stripes (you know it doesn’t fit any more!).
If your favorite consignment store isn’t listed, let us know in the comments!
A Time or Two Boutique
452.6992
Austin Furniture Consignment
218.1888
Austin Home Collection
377.5000
Baubles & Beads
912.0204
Between Friends
795.1866
Buffalo Exchange
480.9922
Cathy’s Consignment Furniture
371.8801
Cream Vintage
474.8787
Design It With Consignment
301.9800
Designer Exchange
452.0606
Furniture Brokers of Westlake
329.8421
It’s New To Me
451.0388
Just Between US
250.0746
Kelly’s Closet
263.0916
Kid’s Korner
260.1380
Polka Dot Pony
335.4221
Prototype Vintage Design
447.7686
Pumpkin Patch Children’s Store
804.1940
Restyle
407.8861
Rock-A-Bye Baby Kids
231.0166
Second Blessing Marketplace
374.9393
Second Hand
302.1198
Second Looks Men’s Resale
345.5222
Second Time Around
451.6845
Thrift Town
442.7200
Top Drawer Thrift Shop
454.5161
West End Consignment
478.2398






