Looking for a cycling buyer client

Ever since the buzz about green living came about, I’ve had this idea that I wanted to work with a buyer client who loves to cycle.  With decent bike lanes, a healthy lifestyle, urban living choices, and our beloved town lake (Lady Bird Lake), Austin is a great city to find a home that meets the needs of a cycling enthusiast.

My wife and I live a stone’s throw from Town Lake, near mile marker 5 1/2.  It would be so great if I could find a client, preferably someone who rents near downtown, that would be interested in finding a home near town lake so that they can enjoy Austin’s outdoors and urban lifestyle.  As part of our buyer representation agreement, we would agree that 100% of our real estate purchase process would employ bicycle transportation.  What a great way to see if prospective houses and neighborhoods are truly bike-friendly!

We would tour homes on our bicycles, check out different neighborhoods and business hotspots, and ride by the schools and other points of interest until we found the perfect home (with a good place to park the bikes of course!).  Once we were under contract, we would do any inspections, appraisals, contractor meetings, and subsequent visits on our bicycles.  Then, the morning of our closing, we would meetup at Mellow Johnny’s and get some coffee, ride to the title company, and seal the deal!

After my client is all settled in, we could have a big housewarming party and have all the guests come over on their bikes.  The cake would have a big bicycle on it.

The whole process would truly be a “green experience”.  Zero emissions.  Good for the environment.  And a salute to Austin’s healthy lifestyle.

Any takers???

Comments on Perryman Forecast

I did not attend the Perryman economic forecast yesterday, but I do have some thoughts on aspects of the forecast reported on KXAN.

1)  “Area’s economy will get worse before it gets better.”  I agree generally.  I talk to business owners around town all the time.  Times are pretty tough, and lower revenues lead to lower profits lead to lower spending which is a negative cycle.  People are tight with their money right now.  I think once it is clear that the investment markets globally have carved out a bottom, the collective psyche will start to change.  Austin will bounce back alot faster than other places, I think.  Buying local keeps money home, which should exponentially speed recovery.

2)  By 2013, Perryman “expects to see improvements in the housing market.”  Are you crazy???  I don’t think it will take that long.  We have seen a considerable drop in transactions in Q4 and a slight softness in pricing values; however, talk to any experienced Realtor, lender or title company and they will all tell you that the new year has brought a renewed level of activity in the real estate business.  Homes that have sat for almost a year are starting to sell, and others are getting showings and interest.  The pent-up demand buyers that are waiting for a bottom might miss out because history tells us when markets turn, they turn fast.

3)  “Austin’s personality is key to its growth and economic potential”.  100% agree.  That’s why I stay here.  Austin is one-of-a-kind.  People are still moving here every day.  I meet 10X the number of people moving in as moving out.  The real estate business is in the forefront of those trends.  Just like the UHaul companies.  The successful home sellers in this market are also realizing this truth.  Their home and neighborhood’s personality is key to maximizing their sales price (and chances of getting sold).

House matching in the new year

Happy New Year friends!  It is so exciting and refreshing to start anew each year.  Each year brings the possibilities of hope and promise, and it is a great time to think of change for the better.

I often advise clients on house matching, or finding the best house for their personal situation at that point in their life.  Many people will buy a house based on previous needs or perceived future needs, and will live for years in a suboptimal comfort because they didn’t think things through on what they really need.  They may be living in a house that is too small for a growing family, or a house thats too big for a small family or single person (have you ever met someone who has an upstairs that they haven’t entered in months?).  Now may be the time for you to consider if your house matches your situation.  With most of Austin moving toward a buyer’s market, it might make sense to snag a good deal on a home that is a good match!

Here are some questions to ask:

1)  Do I use all the space I have right now or do I find myself shopping for furniture and decorations just to fill it?

2)  Do I have to drive long distances to visit the stores and other venues I frequent?

3)  Is there too much for me to maintain in my current home?

4)  Do I enjoy the social fabric of my local neighborhood or do I find that I am somewhat of a misfit?

A home that is a good match helps eliminate stress, provide enjoyment, more time, and efficient use of money and resources.  I wish you the best in 2009!