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        <title>JBGoodwin REALTORS® - Austin &amp; San Antonio Real Estate Blog</title>
        <link>https://www.jbgoodwin.com/blog/2016-01/</link>
        <description>Stay up to date on the latest Austin, San Antonio, and Central Texas real estate trends with JBGoodwin's real estate blog.</description>
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    <guid>https://www.jbgoodwin.com/blog/austin-sold-stats-2015-year-end.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.jbgoodwin.com/blog/austin-sold-stats-2015-year-end.html</link>
        <author>macastro@jbgoodwin.com (Mary Ann Castro)</author>
        <title>Austin Sold Stats - 2015 Year End</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[  ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Fri, 29 Jan 2016 13:20:00 -0600</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.jbgoodwin.com/blog/must-see-shows-of-the-2016-rodeo-austin.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.jbgoodwin.com/blog/must-see-shows-of-the-2016-rodeo-austin.html</link>
        <author>macastro@jbgoodwin.com (Mary Ann Castro)</author>
        <title>Must See Shows of the 2016 Rodeo Austin</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
Date: March 12-16, 2016


It’s high time you booked your tickets for Rodeo Austin With the full lineup released, this year’s musical entertainment is sure to get your toes tappin’—and who knows how long seats will last.


Alongside a stacked musical lineup and the classic rodeo, Rodeo Austin will host their annual fair, stock show, and other events from March 12-26. Come out early to catch the qualifying rounds, getting a glimpse at the top barrel racers and bronc riders in the nation. Playoffs highlight only the best, and take place from March 22-25.


Each night, concert go-ers will be broken in with a show from the ProRodeo, followed by their act of choice. First to grace the stage will be country music legend Willie Nelson &amp; Family, on March 12.




Rodeo Austin 2016 Lineup




Willie Nelson &amp; Family


The Mavericks


Grouplove


Gary Allan


Andy Grammer


Josh Abbott Band


Turnpike Troubadours


Cam


Pam &amp; Mel Tillis


Diamond Rio


Smokey Robinson


Brett Eldredge


Eli Young Band


Josh Turner


Kevin Fowler






Buy Tickets Here


Rodeo Austin Highlights


Wind up for the rodeo festivities with a meal or two at this years’ cowboy breakfast or BBQ event, where you can two-step with your sweetheart or tuck into a smoked brisket. The cowboy breakfast takes place March 4 and the BBQ Cook-Off will open its doors from March 4-5.


During the Rodeo’s regular hours, head over to Chow Town when you’re ready for a bite to eat.


Take in the glorious long horns at the Open Livestock Show, or watch a newly hatched chick over at the Avenue of Breeds. There are a few varieties of stock shows during Rodeo Austin, including the Junior show, where 4-H and FFA members compete for their place in the Youth Auction.


Rodeo Austin's History


Since its inaugural stock show in 1938, the Rodeo Austin has grown into an outdoor show unlike any other. Music, food, events, and community are combined to celebrate the western heritage of Texas, and every year it keeps going strong.


Enjoy the show, where weird meets western
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Wed, 27 Jan 2016 16:06:00 -0600</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.jbgoodwin.com/blog/how-to-buy-your-first-austin-home-in-an-expensive-market.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.jbgoodwin.com/blog/how-to-buy-your-first-austin-home-in-an-expensive-market.html</link>
        <author>macastro@jbgoodwin.com (Mary Ann Castro)</author>
        <title>How To Buy Your First Austin Home In An Expensive Market</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
It's no secret that the real estate market is skyrocketing. Austinites are looking at a market that’s growing across the board. From the median house price to the inventory, the increases have been staggering year after year. Our city has become a permanent home to many new residents, and for those who want to put down roots, this can mean buying their very first home with a few more challenges than normal.


On top of learning about the real estate investment process and making the biggest purchase of their lives, first-time buyers now need to be savvy enough to compete in one of the nation’s hottest markets. How do you buy a home for the first time in a market that’s constantly growing in price? Read up, get a helping hand, and stick to your guns.


1. Arm yourself with knowledge


Whether it’s the ins and outs of financing or what to look for in a home inspection, the more you know the better. This insight into each stakeholder’s role during the process prepares you for what to expect, and most importantly, what questions need to be asked. Ask to setup an education meeting with your agent, who can give you an overview and let you know where you stand in the current market.


2. Set your goals


Just like any big project, you should set out a roadmap for success. Start mulling over what it is you want out of your home, or better yet, make a list of what you don’t like about your current living situation. Not only will this help your agent find the right listings for you, but it will give you a checklist for when you’re house hunting. There’s a lot to look at when viewing potential houses


3. Stay positive


It may be a tougher market for the first-time home buyer, but it’s well worth the extra effort. Certainly don’t settle for anything less than thrilling; a great agent will help you find a home that you’re excited to invest in and live in for years to come.


What else can you do to beat out the competition? When it comes time to get approval, have a larger down payment and secure employment. Take stock of who you’re up against when the bidding wars start and consider ways to make yourself more appealing. Pre-approval and flexibility can go a long way




Check out more blog posts on real estate advice




When you’re ready to get the ball rolling on your own real estate adventure, give us a call.
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Mon, 25 Jan 2016 11:46:00 -0600</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.jbgoodwin.com/blog/5-great-reasons-to-consider-david-weekley-homes.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.jbgoodwin.com/blog/5-great-reasons-to-consider-david-weekley-homes.html</link>
        <author>macastro@jbgoodwin.com (Mary Ann Castro)</author>
        <title>5 Great Reasons to Consider David Weekley Homes</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 



Looking for the perfect new home in Austin, TX? Here are 5 great reasons to consider David Weekley Homes as your builder of choice 


1. Gorgeous Real Estate Options


The most important thing about David Weekley Homes is the gorgeous, high quality homes that they create. But don't take our word for it Explore current David Weekley Homes for sale to see what's available in Austin TX:


2. The David Weekley Difference


When our clients work with David Weekley Homes, they experience &quot;The David Weekley Difference&quot;. This initiative puts people at the forefront of every home that's built, from happy team members to thrilled clients. The David Weekley people love what they do and our clients get to reap the rewards of this positive culture.


3. EnergySaver Homes


An EnergySaverSM Home is about more than helping out the planet—it also puts money back in your pocket Energy efficient homes simply make sense, as lower energy usage means lower utility costs.


4. Warranty Program


One of the best things about buying a new home from David Weekley Homes is peace of mind. Every new house comes with three levels of warranty:




Level 1 - In addition to appliance warranties through individual manufacturers, every new home is backed by David Weekley's own limited one-year warranty.


Level 2 - Each home comes with a two-year mechanical systems warranty, so you can rest assured that your electrical, plumbing, central heating and air conditioning systems are covered.


Level 3 - All major structural defects are covered under warranty for the home's first ten years




5. Large, Flexible Living Spaces


From start to finish, David Weekley homes have been built with great design in mind. Known as LifeDesignSM, each home's form and function preparation carefully considers room placement, Traffic Patterns, Windows &amp; Lighting and Sight Lines.


David Weekley Homes has also developed a solution for the constant changes we experience in life: rooms that change to These extra rooms, called FlexSpacesSM, are built to be versatile and adaptable, so you can easily transform your space as your life also evolves.





Click here to view more David Weekley Homes for sale
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    <pubDate>Mon, 25 Jan 2016 07:47:00 -0600</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.jbgoodwin.com/blog/a-new-record-set-for-the-austin-real-estate-market.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.jbgoodwin.com/blog/a-new-record-set-for-the-austin-real-estate-market.html</link>
        <author>macastro@jbgoodwin.com (Mary Ann Castro)</author>
        <title>A New Record Set for the Austin Real Estate Market</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
2015 marks a record year for the Austin real estate market, according the latest reports released from the Austin Board of Realtors. The year-end report confirmed what industry professionals were experiencing day to day: an increase in demand and a climbing market that’s a direct result of a robust economy.


Numbers on the Rise


Totaling in at 5 consecutive record breaking years, the Austin market saw 29,068 single family residences sold. Over all, the market has been growing at an astonishing rate. December was a particularly remarkable month, given that it’s typically a slower time of the year, with the total numbers inching up to 2,390 homes sold—a five percent increase from 2014.


More homes sold at higher prices than ever last year, and experts are projecting that this wave will continue into 2016.


House Hunting


The skyrocketing home demand goes hand in hand with population growth and increasing job opportunities, and the newest Austinites are eager to find their abode within the city limits. While inventory remains on the low side, this need could bring about initiatives to boost new construction efforts in the city. As well, there tends to be a fresh set of listings hitting the market daily that will keep home hunters busy


Overall, it’s an exciting time to move to the city and invest in the Austin lifestyle. If you’re first time home buyer or looking to sell your home, let us know
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    <pubDate>Fri, 22 Jan 2016 14:04:00 -0600</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.jbgoodwin.com/blog/austins-red-hot-real-estate-market-is-projected-to-continue-into-2016.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.jbgoodwin.com/blog/austins-red-hot-real-estate-market-is-projected-to-continue-into-2016.html</link>
        <author>macastro@jbgoodwin.com (Mary Ann Castro)</author>
        <title>Austin's Red Hot Real Estate Market Is Projected To Continue Into 2016</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
It was an exciting year to be a part of Austin's flourishing real estate market. In one year, there were increases in the median price, housing inventory, and the total number of units sold over the previous year. These impressive trends show no sign of slowing down as we kick-off 2016. A growing demand for homes means that Austinites are now paying some of the highest prices in the state on average to buy and rent in the area, but that hasn’t seemed to hinder the market here whatsoever. The median value of a home in Austin right now is $241,200 and rents are averaging around $1,683 per month for a single-family home. Now more than ever, it could be better to buy a home instead of renting in this robust and exciting real estate market. 


What’s Driving Austin’s Real Estate Markets?




Low unemployment


High development


Population growth




Commercial real estate also saw a considerable increase in 2015, as more high-profile companies look to Austin to expand their operations. With a growing number of diverse employment opportunities, the unemployment rate has dropped nearly 40 in the last two years alone, and people from all ages are looking to relocate to Austin from across the country to reap the rewards of its strong economy.


What Does This Mean For Austin Homebuyers In 2016?


It’s an exciting time to be thinking about buying a home in Austin. There is a tremendous amount of development and new-construction homes happening throughout the Texas capital region, which has helped to create a very robust marketplace for nearly every homebuyer. There is roughly 2.5 months of inventory, resulting in slightly fewer options for buyers to choose from than there have been in previous years, but so much turnover means that the market will always have something new.


There are a few mixed opinions in the industry about how millennials (those who are 25-34 years old) will influence the real estate market this year. While it’s thought that the average age of first-time homebuyers will likely increase throughout the country, that statement might not hold true in areas like Austin where there’s such a strong economy, and especially jobs for young adults and recent graduates. According to Realtor.com, millenials will account for an astounding amount of home purchases in 2016 thanks in large part to the high employment rates and relatively affordable housing options. 


Are you thinking about buying a home in Austin this year? Don’t wait—register for an account with us today and have listings that match your preferences sent straight to your inbox the moment they become available. Thinking about selling your home? Call us at 512-502-7804 or send us a message and we'd be happy to arrange a time where we could sit down and chat about your options.
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    <pubDate>Mon, 18 Jan 2016 16:21:00 -0600</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.jbgoodwin.com/blog/spotlight-on-featured-builder-highland-homes.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.jbgoodwin.com/blog/spotlight-on-featured-builder-highland-homes.html</link>
        <author>macastro@jbgoodwin.com (Mary Ann Castro)</author>
        <title>Spotlight on Featured Builder Highland Homes</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
Highland Homes often comes to mind when our clients are on the hunt for a high-quality distinguished home in the Austin area. For that reason and more, we’re pleased to highlight this local company as our featured builder of the week Why choose Highland Homes? Read on to find out.


Local Roots


A homegrown Texas firm that started with a brother-sister duo, Highland Homes has maintained that same familial bond throughout its 30 year history, making it not only a quality-driven firm, but also one of the best employers in the state. They ranked 6 by Texas Monthly’s 50 Best Companies to Work for in Texas, and that’s just one award among many.


Measured Success


Time and time again, the numbers back up Highland Home’s commitment to excellence. They continue to build a remarkable amount of homes across the state every year, and their 30 years in home building translates into an unparalleled industry expertise.


At about 2800 homes built a year, there’s a larger number of satisfied new homeowners who can vet the final product. In fact, their year-over-year wins for People’s Choice Builder of the Year from the Dallas Builders Association speaks for itself.


Innovation


Austin, Lago Vista, Georgetown, Round Rock, you name it—Highland Homes has made their mark on the new home market. They continue to build in new areas, innovate new designs, and cater to their clients' needs. At the cornerstone of their mission is provide homes that help each client meet their dreams, no matter what that looks like. Take your pick between move-in ready homes and a fully custom build, and Highland Homes will be there along the way.


Take a look below to see current Highland Homes for sale, or get in touch with us to learn more

 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Fri, 15 Jan 2016 13:51:00 -0600</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.jbgoodwin.com/blog/austin-leasing-rental-stats-january-2016.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.jbgoodwin.com/blog/austin-leasing-rental-stats-january-2016.html</link>
        <author>macastro@jbgoodwin.com (Mary Ann Castro)</author>
        <title>Austin Leasing And Rental Stats - January 2016</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[  ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Thu, 14 Jan 2016 10:43:00 -0600</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.jbgoodwin.com/blog/eanes-isd-ranks-second-in-nation.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.jbgoodwin.com/blog/eanes-isd-ranks-second-in-nation.html</link>
        <author>macastro@jbgoodwin.com (Mary Ann Castro)</author>
        <title>Eanes ISD Ranks Second in Nation</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
It’s no wonder this area is a real estate hot spot. Time and time again we receive requests for homes for sale in the Eanes ISD, and recent rankings back up the popularity of this renowned school district. Out of more than 10,000 districts across the nation, Eanes Independent School District ranked an impressive second place.


The Rankings


Eanes ISD took home top accolades in heavy hitter categories, with an A+ for academics, teachers, and educational outcomes. The 11 schools in the district also made waves in the areas of Sports &amp; Fitness and Health &amp; Safety. Student reviews that helped boost the district’s ranking include notes on a strong academic foundation, engaging teachers, and a well-rounded sports program.


Niche, the platform behind the rankings, examines schools across the country. They gather data under Niche K-12, where parents and students can rate various aspects of the districts and leave reviews. In addition to a user based source of information, Niche also compiles data from the U.S. Department of Education and other national sources, so you’re always left with a comprehensive view.


Eanes ISD Communities


National recognition of this sort offers a great starting place for new families moving to the Austin area, who may be unfamiliar with our school districts. Not only does this particular community excel when it comes time to hit the books, but it has an impressive real estate market.


Kick off your real estate search with the following Eanes ISD homes for sale or let us know if you’d like a hand with your real estate search.

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    <pubDate>Wed, 13 Jan 2016 17:12:00 -0600</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.jbgoodwin.com/blog/austin-area-rents-will-continue-to-rise-in-2016.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.jbgoodwin.com/blog/austin-area-rents-will-continue-to-rise-in-2016.html</link>
        <author>macastro@jbgoodwin.com (Mary Ann Castro)</author>
        <title>Austin Area Rents Will Continue To Rise In 2016</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
As we enter a brand new year, it comes as little surprise that Austin area rents are expected to continue to rise throughout 2016.


The rental prices of apartments in particular are expected to increase, where demand continues to outweigh supply.


Recent market reports by Capitol Market Research indicate that apartments of all sizes have an average rental cost of $1,190 per month, which is the highest figure our region has ever seen. This is an increase of 7.5 when compared to 2014's rental average of $1,107.


A total of 9,554 units were built in the Austin area last year, while 9,346 new apartments were leased. Having such a small gap between new units and new leases indicates a healthy market, with very strong interest and competition.


What does it all mean? In a nutshell, these trends indicate things aren't going to get any easier for renters. Rental prices are going to continue to rise, while rental homes will remain tough to find.


There's nothing in the stats to suggest competition will slow down any time soon, and it's little wonder why so many buyers are jumping into the real estate market for the first time


Tired of renting? Contact us today to find out how we can get you into your first home
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Thu, 07 Jan 2016 13:46:00 -0600</pubDate>
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