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???

Daisy Run 5K showcases Holly St hood

Austin Runners Club’s Daisy Run (map) took runners through the up and coming Holly St neighborhood this morning.  Runners enjoyed beautiful weather on the short course from Rogue Equipment down to Town Lake and back.  It was great for me and our dog, Noodles.  We watched the runners go by near the Mile 2 marker.

The Holly St area has recently been undergoing some major change, sparked in part by the closing of the Holly St. Power Plant.  Graced by some of the prettiest parts of the Town Lake Trail, the Holly St. area features a mix of humble fixer-uppers, renovated bungalows, new construction, and plenty of parkland along the trail.  Varying lot sizes and home styles give the area an eclectic feel, while maintaining the cultural heritage of the neighborhood.

Many runners, triathletes, and town lake enthusiasts have begun to move into the Holly St and surrounding areas to take advantage of the location and neighborhood vibe.  Two years ago, Karen and I bought a house here as a renovation investment opportunity.  We loved the area so much, we decided to move here.

As of this morning, there are 47 properties on the market in the area bounded by I-35, Cesar Chavez, Pleasant Valley Rd, and Town Lake.  Prices range from just under 200K to 675K.  Further north of Cesar Chavez and East of Pleasant Valley there are many more options available.

town lake living

Every night at dinner, my wife and I have conversations about Austin’s active lifestyle and how town lake (now “Lady Bird Lake”) represents the heart and soul of this existence.  As Realtors, we appreciate the idea that your home’s location, features, and neighborhood amenities play a big role in what lifestyle you enjoy.  With that in mind, I start this blog, from our remodeled home on the eastside, where we enjoy great access to the city center, walking distance to our beloved town lake trail, and the diversity and liveliness that many parts of greater Central Austin enjoy.

This blog is intended to provide Austin’s active community with my thoughts on how smart real estate choices can help you live a happier active lifestyle.  Whether you are already live in our wonderful city, or are just exploring a possible visit or relocation, I welcome your thoughts as well.