Heather Hudson presents

Breathtaking views from every room in the home and guest house! The custom negative edge pool and hot tub create an oasis of their own! This 1.24-acre property boasts panoramic views over Lake Travis while remaining private and nondescript from the street. This privacy wall creates the perfect lock-and-leave scenario for someone interested in having a second home in Austin, Texas. With a total of 4 bedrooms and 4 full baths over 3287 square feet, this property is big enough for everyone to have their own space while being the perfect size for minimal maintenance.

Address: 12500 Lyndon Drive, Austin, TX 78732

Price: $2,275,000

Photo credit: Twist Tours

For more information, please contact Heather Hudson at 512-431-2120 or heather.hudson@compass.com

Heather Hudson is the exclusive agent representing the West Lake Hills, TX real estate market as a member of the Haute Residence Real Estate Network. View all of her listings here.

The post Heather Hudson Presents A Breathtaking Home In Austin appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Heather Hudson presents

Stunning New England-style home in desirable Lost Creek neighborhood in Westlake and Eanes ISD. This 4 bedroom home has it all for a large family needing space. With almost 3500 square feet and five different living areas (in addition to the formal dining and breakfast room), everyone has a unique space. From sipping tea in the sunlit breakfast room overlooking the beautiful oversized yard, curling up to read a good book in the library, or getting your workout in before the workday in your personal home gym, this home offers so much. Unique features like reclaimed interior brick, cantilevered shelves, a custom coffee bar nook under the stairs, and designer wall coverings and light fixtures give this Lost Creek home its charm. The media room is a great place for the family to congregate and watch a movie or the hottest TV shows together. Once you take a step into the backyard you are welcomed by an oversized deck with three different sitting areas. The home comes with a large 8-seat iron table, a chicken coop, and one of the most beautiful trees in all of Lost Creek! Lost Creek features a community park, hiking trails, a dog park, and community-organized events from a 4th of July Parade to a Lost Creek Dad's Chili Cook-off! Lost Creek Country Club is minutes away and features top-notch golf, tennis, swimming, and recreational and lap pools. Come join the fun in Lost Creek and see what everyone is talking about!

Address: 2103 Doral Drive, Austin, TX 78746

Price: $1,745,000

Photo credit: Twist Tours

For more information, please contact Heather Hudson at 512-431-2120 or heather.hudson@compass.com

Heather Hudson is the exclusive agent representing the West Lake Hills, TX real estate market as a member of the Haute Residence Real Estate Network. View all of her listings here.

The post Heather Hudson Presents A Stunning New England-Style Home In Austin appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Barbara Van Dyke present

Home on a 1-acre lot with low tax rate and Texas Hill Country views

Conveniently located between Austin and Dripping Springs, this charming country home on a 1-acre lot, harkens back to a simpler time when relaxing on the front porch was the perfect way to end a day. The spacious, natural-light-filled home offers plenty of space for living, working, and enjoying life. Features include an oversized primary bedroom, two additional bedrooms, three full bathrooms, a separate office, two living and two dining areas, plus an open loft area upstairs with endless Hill Country views.

Throughout the interior, thoughtful updates, including new paint, flooring, and updated bathrooms, make the home feel fresh without feeling fussy or overdone. Outside, a stone wall encircled courtyard sits just off the kitchen, under a canopy of tall oak trees, making it perfect for backyard barbeques or just enjoying the fire pit.

Located in the sought-after Southwest Hills neighborhood with convenient access to 290 and all that Austin has to offer. The home offers a low 1.77 tax rate and low utilities thanks to solar panels that convey. The roof and both HVAC systems were replaced in 2021.

Address: 9508 Derecho Bend, Austin, TX 78737

For more information, please contact Barbara Van Dyke at 512-431-2552 or barbara.vandyke@compass.com

Barbara Van Dyke is the exclusive agent representing the Austin, Texas real estate market as a member of the Haute Residence Real Estate Network. View all of her listings here.

The post Sold ! Barbara Van Dyke Presents A Charming Country Home In Austin appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Photo Credit: Shutterstock

One of Compass Real Estate’s Core Principles is “Learning From Realty.”  While this is a rule the company uses in listening to us, as agents, it’s also a good rule of thumb for agents. After losing a number of multiple-offer bids, here is what I have learned while representing buyers in the most competitive market in the US.

With the stiff, almost cutthroat, competition we are seeing in Austin's housing market, here is a list of best practices that we will use to ensure you have the best chance of actually winning the house of your dreams.

1) Be prepared to offer well over asking.  Since January 2021, I have been seeing homes selling for 10 to 25 percent or more over the list price. That may mean we need to search for homes that are priced significantly below your approved budget in order to even have a shot at winning.

2) Waive your right to terminate if the property doesn’t appraise. The truth is, with prices escalating so quickly, homes will not appraise.  Why? Because coms are lagging indicators. Appraisers use SOLD comparables when determining appraised value and they look back six months.  That means the houses selling today are outpacing the comps. It will take several months—at least—for comps to catch up. But, if you want to win, you must be ok with waiving an appraisal.  NO ONE is accepting offers that are not using the appraisal waiver.

3) Make sure you have the cash to make up the difference between the appraised value and the contract price.  Sellers will require you to show proof that you have that cash on hand—called proof of funds. Typically, this means showing the seller a copy of your bank statement with a cash balance that is in excess of the cash down payment PLUS an amount sufficient to cover the appraisal gap.  Without this, the seller will reject your offer.

4) Waive buyer’s approval. Whoa! What? If you are not paying all cash for your new home, you should have gone through underwriting with your lender so that you are FULLY approved and ready to go. Sellers want guarantees that you are able to complete the transaction and will not terminate because you can’t get approved for the loan. This is RISKY, but as long as you feel secure in your ability to complete the transaction and you have that discussion with your lender, making a contract NOT subject to you being approved will give you a competitive edge. As a reminder, a pre-approval letter from your lender MUST be submitted with your offer. Using a trusted local lender is critical and can be the difference between winning and losing the bid.

5) Pay for all the “seller” expenses. This is a big one. In a normal market, it is common to write a contract with the seller paying for the owner’s title policy, a new survey if needed, a home warranty, HOA documents and transfer fees. Forget about that in this competitive environment. Those expenses have always been negotiable, but today, I recommend all buyers offer to pay these expenses. Remember, the goal is to make your offer most attractive to the seller.

6) Increase your earnest money to at least 2 percent if not more. If the contract terminates, the earnest money is returned to the buyer in most circumstances, so it’s a fairly low-risk strategy. To the seller, it shows you have more “skin in the game” and can be a competitive edge in helping you win. Remember, if the deal does go through, this money is credited to your purchase price and closing costs.

7) Offer a VERY large option fee for as few days as is reasonable. I have seen some contracts waive their option period. I DO NOT recommend this unless you are a builder, an experienced remodeler, or perhaps if you are buying new construction or are going into a home that you know you plan to totally remodel. Otherwise, I can’t, in all good conscience, recommend this. Instead, offering a very large option fee ($5,000, $10,000, etc.) for a few days is a good strategy.  The key is to have an inspector lined up and ready to go the minute the contract is executed and knowing, what, if anything, would cause you to walk away.

8) Get creative. Some buyers in today’s market have even offered to pay the agents’ commissions and the sellers’ moving expenses just to win the deal. What extra things can you throw in to the offer?

9) At the end of the day, cash is king.  Paying all cash for your home is one of the best competitive strategies available. Not everyone can do this of course, but if you are in a position to do that, do it and be prepared to show proof of funds.

10) Pray. It can’t hurt!

For more information, please contact Barbara Van Dyke at 512-431-2552 or barbara.vandyke@compass.com

Barbara Van Dyke is the exclusive agent representing the Austin, Texas real estate market as a member of the Haute Residence Real Estate Network. View all of her listings here.

The post Barbara Van Dyke On Winning Competitive Offers In A Seller’s Market appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Barbara Van Dyke represented the sale of this beautifully remodeled home in Lakeway, TX.

This beautifully remodeled, move-in-ready home has an updated, contemporary feel. Hardwood flooring throughout the home with no carpet in sight. Updated appliances, fixtures and great flat backyard with room for a pool. Master plus second bedroom/office on first floor. Located on a quiet cul-de-sac in the coveted Flintrock Falls gated community within close proximity to amazing Lake Travis ISD schools. A great lock-and-leave.

Address: 111 Reflection Bay Court, Lakeway, TX 78738

Price: $635,000

For more information, please contact Barbara Van Dyke at 512-431-2552 or barbara.vandyke@compass.com

Barbara Van Dyke is the exclusive agent representing the Austin, Texas real estate market as a member of the Haute Residence Real Estate Network. View all of her listings here.

Photo Credit: Shutterbug Studios

Photo Credit: Shutterbug Studios

Photo Credit: Shutterbug Studios

Photo Credit: Shutterbug Studios

Photo Credit: Shutterbug Studios

Photo Credit: Shutterbug Studios

Photo Credit: Shutterbug Studios

Photo Credit: Shutterbug Studios

Photo Credit: Shutterbug Studios

Photo Credit: Shutterbug Studios

The post SOLD! Barbara Van Dyke Sells Beautiful Lakeway Home appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Photo Credit: Shutterstock

"The better question to ask may be why wouldn’t you?. In today’s ever more complex sale process, the correct advice from a trusted real estate agent is now even more valuable than going it alone." - Cristal Clarke, Montecito, CA.

"A homeowner who decides to sell without the assistance of a professional realtor takes on a great deal of liability. The risk outweighs the benefit." - Tim Fenton, Costa Rica.

"As part of our licensing process, we have a duty to stay up with and ahead of all of the new legislation that is passed every year. It’s imperative for a seller to be aware of what they’re liable for in a sale, and realtors are a key component to making that process seamless." - David Gemme, Tahoe City, CA.

"The reason to list with an agent is to achieve the goal of maximizing property exposure through many different avenues not available to the homeowner that will ultimately get the highest possible sales price." - Debra Johnston, Atlanta, GA.

"As they say in the legal world, ''only a fool represents themselves'... Plus a good agent can more than make the commission up in proper marketing and proper negotiating through the sale process and protect the seller with disclosures...  It is always wise to have a good agent.  They do much more than just ''sell' a property!" - Carey Kendall, Santa Ynez Valley, CA.

"In the process of selling a home, resourcing to a real estate expert is the smart thing to do. We have the tools and experience to price and market properties accordingly. We also possess a strong network of brokers and buyers, which often shortens the sales cycle. And time is money!" - Claudia Llanes, Edgewater, FL.

"Many people see the agent as an unnecessary expense, especially in a strong sellers’ market.   The reality is a great agent not only knows how to best price and position a home in the market so it brings the most money, he or she will also negotiate repairs, manage the transaction from start to close, and help keep the seller out of legal trouble by properly advising them on necessary disclosures." - Barbara Van Dyke, Austin, TX.

For more articles featuring the top real estate agents in luxury markets, visit dev.hauteresidence.com.

The post Why Having A Real Estate Agent Is Better Than Having A Home Listed “For Sale By Owner” appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Photo Credit: Studio Vos Photography

"We can expect the sharp economic rebound in the Houston housing market to spread well into the 1^st half of 2021 (not sure how long it will last). One thing for sure, I strongly urge both buyers and sellers to take advantage of the economic swing as it is a win-win for both sides." - Elisa Linton, Humble/Kingwood, Houston, TX, metropolitan area.

Photo Credit: Shoot 2 Sell

“The San Antonio market is one of the most desirable in the country with warm weather, outdoor spaces and high quality of life.  Texas continues to show positive job growth as new businesses are relocating to Texas every day.  San Antonio has some of the most affordable housing in the state and with inventory hovering around a 2-month supply and cost of funds convincing buyers there has never been a better time to upgrade.” - Jennifer Shemwell, President, Phyllis Browning Company, San Antonio, TX.

Photo Credit: Shutterbug Studios

"Austin real estate is poised for another record-breaking year in 2021. The number of companies relocating to Austin and the jobs they are bringing, combined with the incredibly low interest rates are driving tremendous demand from buyers in our market.  The largest challenge we are facing is the lack of inventory." - Barbara Van Dyke, Austin, TX.

The post Texas Real Estate Expectations For 2021 appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Haute Residence member Barbara Van Dyke represented the sale of this gorgeous home in Johnson City, TX.

Whether you are looking for a primary home or a weekend escape from the city, this gorgeous Hill Country home has it all. Conveniently located between Austin and Fredericksburg, this 12-acre property is fully fenced and gated for privacy and security. The home was extensively remodeled in 2017 and is now complete with a large gourmet eat-in kitchen with custom cabinetry, center island, a secondary scullery/prep kitchen and formal dining room. The wine room and bar area are tucked just off the kitchen. The spacious, open living room leads out to an oversized, covered patio and pool for seamless indoor-outdoor entertaining. The spacious owner's suite features a spa-like bath where one can imagine soaking stress away while taking in the spectacular views. Three large additional bedrooms provide plenty of space for family or guests. The current owners also built a separate, 500 sf +/- conditioned space above the garage that is currently used as an art studio and is not counted in the square footage of the home.

Address: 2601 Ranch Road 1323, Johnson City, TX 78636

Price: $1,200,000

For more information, please contact Barbara Van Dyke at 512-431-2552 or barbara.vandyke@compass.com

Barbara Van Dyke is the exclusive agent representing the Austin, Texas real estate market as a member of the Haute Residence Real Estate Network. View all of her listings here.

Photo Credit: Shutterbug Studios

Photo Credit: Shutterbug Studios

Photo Credit: Shutterbug Studios

Photo Credit: Shutterbug Studios

Photo Credit: Shutterbug Studios

Photo Credit: Shutterbug Studios

Photo Credit: Shutterbug Studios

Photo Credit: Shutterbug Studios

Photo Credit: Shutterbug Studios

Photo Credit: Shutterbug Studios

The post SOLD! Barbara Van Dyke Represented This Gorgeous Johnson City Home appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Barbara Van Dyke presents

Whether you are looking for a primary home or a weekend escape from the city, this gorgeous Hill Country home has it all. Conveniently located between Austin and Fredericksburg, this 12-acre property is fully fenced and gated for privacy and security. The home was extensively remodeled in 2017 and is now complete with a large gourmet eat-in kitchen with custom cabinetry, center island, a secondary scullery/prep kitchen and formal dining room. The wine room and bar area are tucked just off the kitchen. The spacious, open living room leads out to an oversized, covered patio and pool for seamless indoor-outdoor entertaining.

The spacious owner's suite features a spa-like bath where one can imagine soaking stress away while taking in the spectacular views. Three large additional bedrooms provide plenty of space for family or guests.

The current owners also built a separate, 500 sq. ft. +/- conditioned space above the garage that is currently used as an art studio and is not counted in the square footage of the home.

Address: 22601 Ranch Road 1323, Johnson City, TX 78636

Price: $1,200,000

For more information, please contact Barbara Van Dyke at 512-431-2552 or barbara.vandyke@compass.com

Barbara Van Dyke is the exclusive agent representing the Austin, Texas real estate market as a member of the Haute Residence Real Estate Network. View all of her listings here.

Photo Credit: Shutterbug Studios Photo Credit: Shutterbug Studios Photo Credit: Shutterbug Studios Photo Credit: Shutterbug Studios Photo Credit: Shutterbug Studios Photo Credit: Shutterbug Studios Photo Credit: Shutterbug Studios

The post A 12-Acre Property In Johnson City By Barbara Van Dyke appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Renowned Ames Design Build and architect, Jay Corder, have set the bar with this show-stopping modern masterpiece in Spanish Oaks. This two-story four-bedroom, four full and two half bathroom home is situated on a gently sloping lot with prime north-facing views of the fairway and natural landscape of Spanish Oaks. Vaulted ceilings and walls of windows encourage natural light throughout the home and the open floor plan lends itself to entertaining on the many covered terraces and patios. The large sky tower covered patio off the kitchen is perfect for al fresco dining while enjoying the breathtaking golf course view and negative edge pool & spa. From the custom Western Pivot front door, eco-friendly Italian FENIX cabinetry, and Gaggenau appliance package to the wide oak floors, Paragon kitchen countertops, Carrara marble, and Ann Sacks tile selections, this home has many upgrades both in finish out and quality of construction that take it to the next level of luxury.  Available now!

Address: 12625 Maidenhair Lane, #30, Austin, TX 78738

Price: $2,700,000

For more information, please contact Jennifer Welch at 512-431-3110 or jennifer@gottesmanresidential.com

Jennifer Welch is the exclusive agent representing the Austin real estate market as a member of the Haute Residence Real Estate Network. View all of her listings here.

Photo Credit: Gottesman Residential Photo Credit: Gottesman Residential Photo Credit: Gottesman Residential

The post Jennifer Welch Presents A Modern Austin Home appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Nestled beneath towering Live Oak trees on 0.46 acres, this beautiful central Austin estate exudes the charm of the 1940s with the sophisticated ease of modern-day design. The home has been recently updated with the highest level of craftsmanship and attention to detail. The floor plan includes gracious formal spaces as well as comfortable, casual spaces including a family room opens to the kitchen, library and theater room. The master suite and a secondary bedroom are located on the main level with four additional bedrooms upstairs. In addition, there is a guest apartment with a bedroom and full bath located above the garage with a private entrance. A vine-covered stone wall surrounds the property providing privacy and the ability to enjoy the sprawling lawn, sport court, pool, and multiple patio areas.

Address: Austin, TX

Price: $4,950,000

For more information, please contact Jennifer Welch at 512-431-3110 or jennifer@gottesmanresidential.com

Jennifer Welch is the exclusive agent representing the Austin real estate market as a member of the Haute Residence Real Estate Network. View all of her listings here.

Photos courtesy of Jennifer Welch

The post A Beautiful Central Austin Estate appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

One of the most treasured estates in Tarrytown, this unique residence is situated on 1.67 stunning acres. In a compound type setting, the five bedroom main house, the four car garage and guest house and the yoga studio embellish the spectacular grounds and gardens. The balance of world class architecture, exquisite materials and skillful execution come together to create a masterpiece like no other.

Address: Austin, TX

Price: $8,500,000

For more information, please contact Jennifer Welch at 512-431-3110 or jennifer@gottesmanresidential.com

Jennifer Welch is the exclusive agent representing the Austin real estate market as a member of the Haute Residence Real Estate Network. View all of her listings here.

Photos courtesy of Jennifer Welch

The post A Central Austin Masterpiece appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Located in the heart of Shoalmont just north of 45th, this Central Austin jewel box won't last long. The relaxed elegance of this modern home creates a warm and friendly environment. This property has an open 3 bedroom/2 bathroom floorplan in the main house with a gourmet kitchen and lots of natural light. A detached structure with full bath makes it perfect for entertaining the occasional guest. Open the glass sliding doors and enjoy grilling on the back patio during those wonderful Austin evenings.

Address: 4503 Oakmont Blvd., Austin, TX 78731

Price: $889,000

For more information, please contact Jennifer Welch at 512-431-3110 or jennifer@gottesmanresidential.com

Jennifer Welch is the exclusive agent representing the Austin real estate market as a member of the Haute Residence Real Estate Network. View all of her listings here.

Photos courtesy of Jennifer Welch

The post This Modern Austin Home Creates A Warm Environment appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

The legendary Medway Ranch is one of the most coveted lakefront properties in Austin. The iconic compound encompasses 67 acres with 1,370 feet of Lake Austin frontage, two live creeks, and is nestled within approximately 2,300 acres of high fenced nature preserve. The property includes a spectacular grand estate, 7 stall horse barn with apartment above, waterfront guest cottage, 2 additional guest homes, and 2 bunkhouses. The exquisite and serene grounds feature a resort sized pool, indoor/outdoor cabana house, sport court, boat docks, and party decks. The breathtaking nature views include open meadows, beautiful rocky hillsides, and expansive nature trails. From water sports to horseback riding, hunting or merely enjoying the mesmerizing scenery, The Medway Ranch offers a unique opportunity to savor the very best of Austin.

Address: 13500 Pecan Dr, Austin, TX 78734

Price: Upon Request

For more information, please contact Jennifer Welch at 512-431-3110 or jennifer@gottesmanresidential.com

Jennifer Welch is the exclusive agent representing the Austin real estate market as a member of the Haute Residence Real Estate Network. View all of her listings here.

Photos  courtesy of Jennifer Welch

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