Friday, January 28, 2011
What is Oak Wilt?
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Schools for the Rosedale Neighborhood in Austin
The Rosedale School (2117 West 49th Street), which is part of AISD, is a multi-level school designed for children with special needs.
Private Schools near the Rosedale neighborhood include All Austin Cooperative nursery school (2301 Hancock Dr.), The Children's School Montessori preschool (2825 Hancock Dr.), and St. Andrew Episcopal Elementary (1112 West 31st Street).
RelocateAmerica.com ranked Austin Ranked Among Best Cities to Relocate
“Austin was ranked the third best city to move to in the United States, according to a RelocateAmerica.com report. The relocating resources website listed Austin just behind Huntsville, Ala. and Washington D.C. for overall best place to move.” - Austin American-Statesman
If you are interested in finding out more about Austin, living in Austin, real estate or buying or selling a home in Austin, I want to be your REALTOR. And I appreciate your referrals as well. Call or email to find out how I can help you. 512.589.7988 or robin @robinscottrealtor.com
Austin, Texas. Robin Scott, BROKER. Certified Residential Specialist, Accredited Buyer's Representative, Seller's Representative Specialist. 512.589.7988.
Search for homes through Austin MLS
Find your home's value
Buying or selling? Hire an experienced professional. Call Robin Scott, Broker at 512.589.7988.
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Friday, January 21, 2011
Remodling/Home Improvement - 2011 Cost vs. Value
First impressions are so important when you are trying to sell a house and below are the top 5 improvements that make the biggest difference.
1. Replacement of the front door. The very first impression. Make sure it suits the style of the house and is an improvement in design and function. A 20-gauge steel door with a dual-pane glass window may cost about $1,218 and according to the report recouped 102.1% of your investment.
2. Replacement of garage door. An uninsulated, embossed steel door with a 10-year warranty may cost about $1,291 and according to the report recouped 83.9%.
3. Siding replacement. The new fiber-cement siding on a 1,250 sq.ft. of exterior may cost about $13,382 and according to the report recouped 80.%
4. A Minor Kitchen remodel. Many buyers consider this the most important room in the house. Buyers like fresh paint, quartz or granite countertops, stainless appliances and tile or wood floors. The cost may be about $21,698 and according to the report recouped 72.8%.
5. Addition of a deck. This is a really "Wow!" to buyers. A 16' x 20' deck may cost about $10,973 and according to the report recouped 72.8%.
RelocateAmerica.com ranked Austin Ranked Among Best Cities to Relocate
“Austin was ranked the third best city to move to in the United States, according to a RelocateAmerica.com report. The relocating resources website listed Austin just behind Huntsville, Ala. and Washington D.C. for overall best place to move.” - Austin American-Statesman
If you are interested in finding out more about Austin, living in Austin, real estate or buying or selling a home in Austin, I want to be your REALTOR. And I appreciate your referrals as well. Call or email to find out how I can help you. 512.589.7988 or robin @robinscottrealtor.com
Austin, Texas. Robin Scott, BROKER. Certified Residential Specialist, Accredited Buyer's Representative, Seller's Representative Specialist. 512.589.7988.
Search for homes through Austin MLS
Find your home's value
Buying or selling? Hire an experienced professional. Call Robin Scott, Broker at 512.589.7988.
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Thursday, January 20, 2011
Get statistics on Clarksville at http://www.city-data.com/neighborhood/Clarksville-Austin-TX.html
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Friday, January 14, 2011
Austin's Energy Conservation Audit Disclosure Ordinance (ECAD)
Energy Efficiency Ordinance Overview
With the passage of the Climate Protection Plan in February 2007, the City of Austin and Austin Energy began addressing issues involving energy efficiency. To alleviate the pressure of growing demand from Austin Energy’s service area, the City of Austin intended to mandate energy efficiency upgrades at the time a home was sold. In response, the Austin Board of REALTORS® worked to address private property rights and homeowner affordability issues surrounding proposed mandates at the point of sale. The timeline on the following page documents the series of events leading to the 2009 Energy Efficiency Ordinance.
Quick Facts on the Energy Efficiency Ordinance
What is required under the new ordinance?
Homeowners selling their homes in Austin will be required to obtain an energy audit and to disclose the findings of that audit as part of their regular seller’s disclosure notice.
Who does this affect?
Homeowners with properties that lie within the Austin city limits and are serviced by Austin Energy are affected by the ordinance.
Who will conduct the audits?
Energy audits will be conducted by professionals who have been certified by either the Residential Energy Services Network (RESNET) or the Building Performance Institute and who are registered with Austin Energy as approved con- tractors for this program. We anticipate that a list of registered professionals will be posted on the Austin Energy Web site, www.austinenergy.com, by mid-April.
When does the audit need to be completed?
The energy audit is required as a part of the seller’s disclosure, so it must be completed before the home sale closes. Austin Energy and ABoR encourage homeowners seeking to increase their energy efficiency and save money on the high cost of utility bills to have an energy efficiency audit conducted before thinking of selling their homes. Early audits may help homeowners identify possible areas of improvement and could help prevent last minute scrambles should a homeowner decide to sell his property at a later date.
How long do the audits last?
Each energy efficiency audit will be good for 10 years under the current ordinance rule.
Are there any exemptions?
Yes, several. Properties in foreclosure or pre-foreclosure, properties subject to eminent domain, transactions between family members and properties under court order, in probate proceedings or under decree of legal separation or dissolution of marriage are all exempt. In addition, properties that are fewer than 10 years old, manufactured homes designed for use without a permanent foundation and properties owned by participants in designated Austin Energy Electric Utility pro- grams or buyers who agree in writing to participate in these programs within six months are also exempt.
RelocateAmerica.com ranked Austin Ranked Among Best Cities to Relocate
“Austin was ranked the third best city to move to in the United States, according to a RelocateAmerica.com report. The relocating resources website listed Austin just behind Huntsville, Ala. and Washington D.C. for overall best place to move.” - Austin American-Statesman
If you are interested in finding out more about Austin, living in Austin, real estate or buying or selling a home in Austin, I want to be your REALTOR. And I appreciate your referrals as well. Call or email to find out how I can help you. 512.589.7988 or robin @robinscottrealtor.com
Austin, Texas. Robin Scott, BROKER. Certified Residential Specialist, Accredited Buyer's Representative, Seller's Representative Specialist. 512.589.7988.
Search for homes through Austin MLS
Find your home's value
Buying or selling? Hire an experienced professional. Call Robin Scott, Broker at 512.589.7988.
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Austin Resident since 1987 - Living in the Capitol City
In 1987 my family moved to Austin ( the capitol of Texas) because it was conveniently located halfway between my family and my husbands family. We have seen a lot of changes in the 20 plus years we have lived in Austin and it has been a great place to live and raise a family.
My blog is full of information about Austin activities, sports, entertainment and neighborhoods. If there is something you want to know and don't see here, contact me and I will provide that information to you. robin@robinscottrealtor.com or 512.589.7988.
RelocateAmerica.com ranked Austin Ranked Among Best Cities to Relocate
“Austin was ranked the third best city to move to in the United States, according to a RelocateAmerica.com report. The relocating resources website listed Austin just behind Huntsville, Ala. and Washington D.C. for overall best place to move.” - Austin American-Statesman
If you are interested in finding out more about Austin, living in Austin, real estate or buying or selling a home in Austin, I want to be your REALTOR. And I appreciate your referrals as well. Call or email to find out how I can help you. 512.589.7988 or robin @robinscottrealtor.com
Austin, Texas. Robin Scott, BROKER. Certified Residential Specialist, Accredited Buyer's Representative, Seller's Representative Specialist. 512.589.7988.
Search for homes through Austin MLS
Find your home's value
Buying or selling? Hire an experienced professional. Call Robin Scott, Broker at 512.589.7988.
Like us on facebook!
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
Central Austin Sights
The central Austin has access to many fun and interesting things to do and below are some of them.
Central Park is a 10 acre park is located at the NW corner of Guadalupe and 38th St. and southeast of the shopping center that contains Central Market. The park includes a hike and bike trail, picnic areas, and a series of three beautifully landscaped ponds.
Mayfield Park at 3505 W. 35th St. is park and preserve located on the Barrow Brook Cove of Lake Austin. The grounds include a series of five ponds and a turn of the century house where peacocks and hens wander freely throughout the yard. Beyond the fenced grounds is a wooded nature preserve with a variety of trails.
Also on 35th Street, is Laguna Gloria , a part of the Austin Art Museum. Several trails extend across the grounds, and the museum houses various collections and exhibits.
The Elisabet Ney Museum, at 304 E. 44th St., is housed in the former studio of the 19th century German-Texas sculptor, Elisabet Ney (1833-1907). On display are Ney's sculptures of 19th-century European and Texas notables and memorabilia from the artist's life.
Mt. Bonnell, at 3800 Mt. Bonnell Rd. is the summit of Austin's highest point where hikers enjoy breathtaking views of downtown Austin and Lake Austin. You can access the summit by the staircase of over 100 steps, or by a sloping trail from the north.
RelocateAmerica.com ranked Austin Ranked Among Best Cities to Relocate
“Austin was ranked the third best city to move to in the United States, according to a RelocateAmerica.com report. The relocating resources website listed Austin just behind Huntsville, Ala. and Washington D.C. for overall best place to move.”Austin American-Statesman
If you are interested in finding out more about Austin, living in Austin, real estate or buying or selling a home, I want to be your REALTOR. And I appreciate your referrals as well. Call or email to find out how I can help you. 512.589.7988 or robin @robinscottrealtor.com
Austin, Texas. Robin Scott, BROKER. Certified Residential Specialist, Accredited Buyer's Representative, Seller's Representative Specialist. 512.589.7988.
Search for homes through Austin MLS
Find your home's value
Buying or selling? Hire an experienced professional. Call Robin Scott, Broker at 512.589.7988.
Like us on facebook!
Monday, January 10, 2011
Austin is a Great Place to Live
We in Austin think it's a great place to live and others agree. Read below what others think of our community.
December 2010, Forbes .com ranked Austin Best City for Young Adults
“The central-Texas metro, known both for a bustling tech community and a trendsetting music scene, ranks first on our list of America’s Best Cities for Young Adults.”
December 2010, The Atlantic ranked Austin Among 30 Most Dynamic Cities in the World
“There’s only one American city on this list, and you shouldn’t be surprised it’s in Texas. Austin has benefited from a shallow recession and quick recovery throughout the Lone Star State, in addition to steady state money…”
November 2010, Newsweek ranked Austin Among Cities Best Situated for Recovery
“Austin boasted the strongest job growth in NEWSWEEK’s Top 10, both last year and over the decade. Home to the state capital and the ever-expanding University of Texas, the city is arguably the best-positioned of the nation’s emerging tech centers.”
November 2010, Travel + Leisure ranked Austin Ranked Among America’s Favorite Cities
“The 2010 results are in! This summer, you ranked 35 U.S. cities on their culture, shopping, restaurants, nightlife, and more. See which urban destinations fared best with visitors and residents.”
October 2010, Forbes.com ranked Austin Among America’s Most Affordable Cities
“Texas cities take three spots, with San Antonio coming in at No. 6, Houston at No. 7 and Austin claiming the final spot. The Lone Star State has long enjoyed the benefits of a business-friendly tax climate, rich natural resources and a stable housing economy.”
June 2010, CNNMoney.com ranked Austin Among America’s Most Recession-Proof Cities
“The “Keep Austin Weird” campaign must have worked, because the Texas capital is among the country’s oddball cities that bucked the downturn. In fact, Texas cities starred on the new list of recession-proof metro areas, with six of 21 spots, according to MetroMonitor, a quarterly report released by Brookings Institute’s Metropolitan Policy Program.”
July 2010, Kiplinger ranked Austin Ranked #1 Best City for the Next Decade
“Everything may be bigger in Texas, but Austin’s genius is nurturing the power of small. Just ask Rob Neville, who wants to develop his biotech firm, Savara Pharmaceuticals, into a major player in the field of inhaled-drug therapy. The firm started in Kansas, but Neville transplanted it to Austin because the city is arguably the country’s best crucible for small business.”
RelocateAmerica.com ranked Austin Ranked Among Best Cities to Relocate. “Austin was ranked the third best city to move to in the United States, according to a RelocateAmerica.com report. The relocating resources website listed Austin just behind Huntsville, Ala. and Washington D.C. for overall best place to move.”Austin American-Statesman
If you are interested in finding out more about Austin, living in Austin, real estate or buying or selling a home, I want to be your REALTOR. And I appreciate your referrals as well. Call or email to find out how I can help you. 512.589.7988 or robin @robinscottrealtor.com
Austin, Texas. Robin Scott, BROKER. Certified Residential Specialist, Accredited Buyer's Representative, Seller's Representative Specialist. 512.589.7988.
Search for homes through Austin MLS
Find your home's value
Buying or selling? Hire an experienced professional. Call Robin Scott, Broker at 512.589.7988.
Like us on facebook!
Friday, January 7, 2011
Rosedale Businesses - Walkability
The popular Rosedale Neighborhood has many businesses in close proximity. To see just how close, visit http://www.walkscore.com.
Rosedale is home to several popular restaurants. Among the highest rated are Uchiko on North Lamar, a new upscale sushi bar, and the raved about food stand, Sushi A-Go-Go on Medical Pkwy. Both Torchy's Tacos on Burnet Road and Tacodeli on Lamar are great places to get quick Mexican food, while La Cocina de Consuelo on Burnet, and Fonda San Miquel on North Loop, are both sit-down Mexican restaurants that boast of their breakfast and brunch menus. Other favorite Rosedale eateries include Austin Greek Deli on Hancock Drive, Billy's on Burnet, and Sarah's Mediterranean Grill & Market on Burnet Rd.
Three of Austin's favorite bakeries reside on Burnet in Rosedale: The Upper Crust Bakery, the Middle Eastern Phoenicia Bakery, and the Mexican Mi Victoria Bakery.
The nightlife scene in Rosedale tends to be more sophisticated than what one finds downtown. Favorite neighborhood spots include the Draught House Pub and Brewery, Apothecary Cafe & Wine Bar, and Simplicity Wine & Eats, all located along Burnet.
There are many home and garden shops in Rosedale along Burnet, including Miquel's Imports, Texas Hydroponics & Organics, the Futon Furniture Store, Feats of Clay, and Gypsies Antiques. Clothing stores include Top Drawer vintage store, Envie Boutique, and Sue Patrick.
Discover more Rosedale businesses on Yelp Austin.
If you are interested in finding out more about Austin, living in Austin, real estate or buying or selling a home, I want to be your REALTOR. And I appreciate your referrals as well. Call or email to find out how I can help you. 512.589.7988 or robin @robinscottrealtor.com
Austin, Texas. Robin Scott, BROKER. Certified Residential Specialist, Accredited Buyer's Representative, Seller's Representative Specialist. 512.589.7988.
Search for homes through Austin MLS
Find your home's value
Buying or selling? Hire an experienced professional. Call Robin Scott, Broker at 512.589.7988.
Like us on facebook!
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
Northwest Austin Home for Lease
HOME FOR LEASE IN NORTHWEST AUSTIN - $975/mo.
This is a 2 bedroom, 2 bath, 1 car garage home of about 1025 sq.ft. in the northwest Austin community of Milwood Gardens. It's located in a neighborhood of garden homes within a few blocks of a shopping center that includes grocery, banks, restaurants, gas station, Starbucks and more. Easy access to Highway 183 and only 20-30 minutes to downtown - close to the Parmer/McNeil intersection. It has a walking path and is close to major employers including Freescale and Apple. The living/dining area has a high ceiling and lots of light, the kitchen comes with a refrigerator and recent stove, there are washer/dryer connections in the garage and a small yard with low maintenance. Perfect for you.
To view this home call or email Robin at 512-589-7988 or robin@robinscottrealtor.com
If you are interested in finding out more about Austin, living in Austin, real estate or buying or selling a home, I want to be your REALTOR. And I appreciate your referrals as well. Call or email to find out how I can help you. 512.589.7988 or robin @robinscottrealtor.com
Austin, Texas Homes for Sale. Robin Scott, BROKER Certified Residential Specialist, Accredited Buyer's Representative, Seller's Representative Specialist. 512.589.7988.