Austin Trail of Lights

Austin Trail of Lights 

If you haven't realized, the Trail of Lights has made a return to Austin this year!  And it's a wonderful sight to see.  The Trail will be open through Sunday, December 23rd, between 6:30pm and 10pm, at Zilker Park.  Admission is free, thanks to the generous support of corporate sponsors and individual donors.

Check out the great array of vendors this year at the Trail:

Marketplace #1

Food Vendors:

• Cazamance – Soups, Hot Chocolate, Hot Cider
• Pizza Hut - Personal pan pizza’s, stuffed pizza rollers
• DU Developments – Turkey Legs, Sausage

Merchandise Vendors:

• Inca Wasi – Arts & Crafts – ceramics, nativities, stone/wood sculptures, jewelery, handbags, clothes etc.
• Performance Marketing Co. – Light up toys
• Google+ Local – Product Demonstrations, Google branded merchandise giveaways
• Fashion Extensions – Hats and scarves
• Isis Mobile Wallet – Product Demonstrations
• Seton Health Plan – CHIP & STAR (medicaid) low to no coast insurance information
• Texas Stars Hockey - Team merchandise, ticket information
• The First Tee of Greater Austin – Discount golf booklets, light up yo-yos
• Trail of Lights – Official Merchandise and Programs
• Samaritan Center – Key chain flashlights
• Liberty Mutual Insurance – Insurance information
• Cheyanna Foundation for Children – Popcorn, cookies, jewelery
• Kris Keyz Productions- “Austin Christmas” CD – featuring all local musicians
• My Healing Place – Tote bags, stuffed ears, Santa hats
• Cap City Kids – T-shirts, filled backpacks for homeless youth
• Active Life – Decorate-your-own ornament, elf hat, coffee mug
• RunTex Foundation - Trail of Lights Merchandise

Marketplace #2

Food Vendors:

• Chi’Lantro BBQ – Tacos, Kimichi Fries, Spicy Fries, Korean Burger, Rice Bowl, Burrito, Quesadilla
  
• 57 Scotsman/Snowie  – Funnel Cakes, Soups, Stuffed Waffles, shaved ice
  
• As Good As It Gets Concessions - Kettle Corn
• Hill & Hill Catering – Turkey Legs, Sausage, Funnel Cakes, Cotton candy
• Taylor Seafood & Concession – Calamari, fried fish, shrimp, chicken strips, brats & sausage, fries, onion rings, nachos
  
• Ministry of Challenge – BBQ…brisket, chicken, turkey, hamburgers
• Heros Gyros
• Pamela Jane’s Lobster Rolls

Merchandise Vendors:

• Trail of Lights  - Official Merchandise: T-shirts, Travel Mugs, Ornaments, Fleece Blankets, Event Programs, Giving Fund Gift Cards
• WMI, Inc – Light up toys and novelties

Marketplace #3

Food Vendors:

• Austin’s Pizza – Pizza
• Crepe Crazy – Variety of sweet and savory crepes
• Funtastic Funnel Cakes – Funnel Cakes with various toppings, foot long corn dogs
  
• La Fantabulous Taqueria – Tamales, Mexican hot chocolate
• Mellizoz Tacos – Tamales, tacos, soups & quesadillas
• Hill Country Kettle Korn - Kettle Korn, Iced Tea, Strawberry Lemonade
  
• Be More Pacific – Longanisa Pork Slider, Adobo Chicken Slider, Pancit Noodles, Bacon Fried Rice
  
• Colibri Cuisine – Mexican Food
  
• Kebabalicious - Beef/Lamb, Chicken, Falafel kebabs, humus and pita

For more information, visit the official site - http://austintrailoflights.org/

Visiting the State Capitol Building in Austin

VISITING THE STATE CAPITOL BUILDING IN AUSTIN

Whether you live in Austin or are just visiting, everyone should try to visit the State Capitol Building.  We love the Texas State Capitol in the Lone Star State and once you visit the building and grounds, you will see why.  Located on 11^th Street between Lavaca and San Jacinto, the State Capitol is taller than the U.S. Capitol and has the largest gross square footage than all the state capitols.

According to the official website, “The Texas Capitol is an extraordinary example of late 19th century public architecture and is widely recognized as one of the nation’s most distinguished state capitols. It was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1970 and designated a National Historic Landmark in 1986 for its ‘significant contribution to American history.’”

Situated on one of Austin’s highest points, the Capitol has panoramic views towards the Colorado River from the south.  The structure’s exterior is made from “sunset red” granite and its foundation is composed of limestone.  Built in 1888, an extensive interior and exterior restoration was completed in the 1990s.

The Texas State Capitol serves as the offices for the Governor, Secretary of State, and legislators.  It also houses a library, bookstore and cafeteria.  When you enter the Capitol rotunda you can view portraits of every person who has served as President of the Republic of Texas or Governor of the State of Texas.

Free 45-minutes tours are offered at the Capitol.  The tour features the Capitol, Texas history and the Texas legislature.  The Texas State Capitol building and grounds are absolutely beautiful to visit year round – and we aren’t just saying that because we are from Texas!  It’s a great place to visit in Austin to learn more about the Lone Star State’s rich history.  This should definitely be a stop for all tourists and Texans alike.

If you are curious about other things to do in Austin, visit Texas Capital Properties.  We are your online source for Austin real estate and homes for sale.

Mortgage Rates Remain Near Record Lows

MORTGAGE RATES REMAIN LOW AFTER HOLIDAY

Mortgage rates remain low after the Thanksgiving holiday according to Bankrate.com’s national survey of large lenders.  The benchmark 30-year fixed-rate mortgage fell to 3.52 percent from 3.53 percent.   One year ago, the mortgage index stood at 4.25 percent; four weeks ago, it was 3.57 percent.

The benchmark 15-year fixed-rate mortgage was 2.86 percent, the same as last week. The benchmark 5/1 adjustable-rate mortgage rose to 2.74 percent from 2.7 percent.

Freddie Mac’s results of its Primary Mortgage Market Survey® also found mortgage rates virtually unchanged and remaining near record lows.  Their survey found the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage has averaged below 4.00 percent all but one week in 2012, while the 15-year fixed-rate mortgage has averaged below 3.00 percent since the last week in May.

Weekly National Mortgage Survey

Results of Bankrate.com’s Nov. 28, 2012, weekly national survey of large lenders and the effect on monthly payments for a $165,000 loan:

	30-year fixed	15-year fixed	5-year ARM
This week’s rate:	3.52%	2.86%	2.74%
Change from last week:	-0.01	N/C	+0.04
Monthly payment:	$742.77	$1,128.38	$672.72
Change from last week:	-$0.92	N/C	+$3.48

Formula 1 Events in Austin

FORMULA 1 EVENTS IN AUSTIN 

It’s finally here – Formula 1 racing begins this weekend in Austin, Texas!  We will join the ranks of 19 other cities around the world that host this phenomenal international auto racing sport.  So much is going on around town to celebrate this momentous event.    What would else would the “Live Music Capital of the World” do except kick things off with The Austin Fan Fest.

The 3-day festival will celebrate the inaugural 2012 Formula 1 United States Grand Prix.  Numerous activities will take place in the heart of beautiful downtown Austin, from the shores of Lady Bird Lake to the Capitol.  Friday features headliners Aerosmith with Cheap Trick at the Frank Irwin Center.  Flo Rida will take the stage at the Austin Convention Center on Saturday and Enrique Iglesias on Sunday.  The festival will also include performances from various musical acts on multiple stages, F1 simulators, F1 show cars, bars, parties, a family fun zone, and plus much more!

Formula One coming back to America really is a big deal.  The Circuit of the Americas track is expected to generate an annual economic impact of $400 million to $500 million for the area and attract as many as 300,000 people.  For the ultra upscale European experience, My Yacht™ Group will host a three-day VIP nightclub event during F1 weekend.  The celebrity-studded My Yacht™ F1 Club party will be at the Ballet Austin complex in the heart of downtown Austin.

Of course, race events will also take place all weekend at the Circuit of Americas track.  Practice sessions will begin Friday, November 16 at 9am.  Sunday will feature the Grand Prix race at 1pm.  You can visit the official Circuit of the Americas website for a complete schedule of races and events.

With excitement also comes headaches for some.  Although we are used to major events around town like the widely popular South by Southwest® festival every spring, the world renowned Austin City Limits Musical festival, and of course, record breaking attendance at The University of Texas Longhorn football home games, no one knows what this inaugural weekend will bring in terms of traffic.  Be prepared, especially if you live or plan to travel downtown this weekend.  Here are the downtown road closures that may cause delays getting around.

Closed from 6 a.m. Wednesday to 11:59 p.m. Monday:

• West 3rd Street and West 4th Street between Congress and Colorado

Closed from 6 a.m. Thursday to 6 p.m. Monday:

• West 3rd Street and West 4th Street between Colorado and Lavaca
• East 3rd Street and East 4th Street between Congress and Brazos
• Colorado Street between West 2nd Street and West 5th Street

Closed from 7 p.m. Thursday to 6 a.m. Monday:

• Southbound lanes of Congress Avenue between 5th Street and 2nd Street

Closed from 6 p.m. Friday to 6 a.m. Monday:

• Northbound lanes of Congress Avenue between 5th Street and 2nd Street
• Southbound lanes of Congress Avenue between 2nd Street and Cesar Chavez (2nd Street will be open)

Closed from 6 a.m. Friday to 11:59 p.m. Sunday:

• One lane of Trinity Street between East 12th Street and East 15th Street
• One westbound lane of East 12th Street between Red River and Trinity Streets

The good news is that Capital Metro is expanding their service during Formula 1 weekend.  They are offering a free downtown bus route that will run every 15 minutes from 7am to 2:30am.  Capital Metro will also offer a $1 bus ride to and from downtown Austin and the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport.

FORMULA 1 TEAMS ARE EXCITED ABOUT ALL THINGS TEXAS AND AUSTIN VIDEO

Vote in Texas 2012

VOTE in Texas 2012

It will be interesting to see who wins the most expensive presidential race in history.  No matter who you vote for in tomorrow's Presidential Election 2012, the most important thing you can do is VOTE!

Travis County Voters

Find out if you are registered to vote in Travis County.  Polling locations are open from 7am to 7pm.  You will need to vote on Election Day at your precinct.  Visit the Travis County website for your precinct number and polling location.

Williamson County Voters

You must vote in your assigned precinct on Election Day.  Polling locations are open from 7am to 7pm.  Visit the Williamson County website for your precinct number and polling location.

Austin Housing Market 2012

Find out what is happening in the local Austin Housing Market and Real Estate News in 2012.

Austin home values continue to rise.  According to the Austin Board of REALTORS®, the volume of homes sales rose and home prices of Austin homes continued to rise to the 15th straight month of increases.

August 2012 Statistics

• 2,397 – Single-family homes sold, 21 percent more than August 2011.
• $212,000 – Median price for single-family homes, six percent more than August 2011.
• 61 – Average number of days that single-family homes spent on the market, 18 days less than August 2011.
• 2,740 – New single-family home listings on the market, 15 percent more than August 2011.
• 7,262 – Active single-family home listings on the market, 17 percent less than August 2011.
• 2,207 – Pending sales for single-family homes, 23 percent more than August 2011.
• 4.0 – Months of inventory* of single-family homes, 1.7 months less than August 2011.
• $663,700,536 – Total dollar volume of single-family properties sold, 30 percent more than August 2011.

Career in Real Estate

Are you interested in a Career in Real Estate?

Real Estate is a challenging but rewarding field.  You’ll enjoy flexibility and the freedom to work your own hours.  There is also no limit on your potential income.  It will all depend upon your own efforts.  A real estate career will also allow you independence on choosing what type of environment you want to work in.

You will want to visit the Texas Real Estate Commission website for more information about becoming a licensed salesperson.  The following education is required:

1. Principles of Real Estate core real estate course (60 classroom hours)
2. Law of Agency core real estate course (30 classroom hours)
3. Law of Contracts core real estate course (30 classroom hours)
4. An additional core real estate course (30 classroom hours)
5. Another four semester (60 classroom) hours in core courses or in related courses acceptable to the Commission. A bachelor's degree or higher from an accredited college or university satisfies all of the "related" education requirements for a salespersons license.     NOTE: Effective September 1, 2012, Pre-license education requirements for a salesperson license will change from 210 total hours to 180 core hours. Core hours must consist of Principles of Real Estate (60 classroom hours); Law of Agency (30 classroom hours); Law of Contracts (30 classroom hours); Promulgated Contracts (30 classroom hours); and Real Estate Finance (30 classroom hours). Related course credit may no longer be used to meet education requirements for a salespersons license).

Search for a local real estate school classroom near you.

Once you complete your pre-license education, you can submit your application to TREC as long as you are at least 18 years of age and a legal resident of Texas.  You will also need to pass the real estate salesperson's license exam.  Find out more about the steps to becoming a licensed Texas real estate salesperson.

Kid-Friendly Outdoor Projects

Kid-Friendly Outdoor Projects

Make Stepping Stones

We did this project a few years ago and the stones have moved around with our family.  You can buy pre-made stepping stone kits or do it yourself with a 40-lb bag of ready-mix concrete or mortar.  One bag should make 3 to 5 stones.  You can use wood, old pans or cake pans to create 2-inch thick stones.  While the concrete is still wet, add decorative items like beads, marbles, and tiles.  You can also write your kid's name and date on the stone.  Wait at least 48 hours for the concrete to dry before you remove it from the form.

Decorate Your Mailbox

Not all homes have individual mailboxes anymore, but if you do live in an area with your very own mailbox, you may consider painting or decorating it with the kids.  Once you demount the mailbox, clean and dry it completely.  Place a coat of metal primer on it and then let your kid's imagination take over.  You can use craft stencils, decorative paint and designs to make it unique.  Don't forget to include your house numbers as well.

Make a Stacked Plant Tower

Kids will love this outdoor project since it plays on optical illusion.  Stick a ½-inch diameter wooden dowel or piece of copper pipe firmly into the ground or a big pot. Put clay pots of various sizes onto the pipe, threading the pipe through the drain holes. Fill the pots with soil and tilt them at crazy angles.  The rods should hold up all the pots upright.

Green Kitchen Remodeling Tips

Green Kitchen Remodeling Tips

Are you looking to do a Green Kitchen Remodel?  If so, check out these eco-friendly and green kitchen remodeling tips for your next project!

1) Look for Eco-Friendly Countertops

The greenest countertops will be made of recycled material.  Consider countertops from IceStone - made from 100 percent recycled glass and cement. PaperStone® is another brand that is known as a sustainable countertop material.  Whatever you choose, using environmental products can be cost-effective, eco-friendly and beautiful.

2) Ditch Your Old Fridge

The refrigerator is second among home appliances in energy consumption – next only to air-conditioners – so if your model is 10 years or older, it’s about time for a replacement.  Look for models with Energy Star logos that will help you maximize your energy and dollar savings without compromising refrigeration.

3) Opt for Energy-Efficient Lighting

Fluorescent and compact fluorescent lamps use up to 75% less energy than  comparable incandescent lamps. In fact, according to EnergyStar.gov, a single  CFL bulb will save $30 to $40 during its expected lifespan of 10,000 hours.

4) Make Recycling a Part of Life

Make it easier for yourself to incorporate recycling as a part of daily life.  Most cabinet manufacturers offer options for lower cabinets that include  pull-out recycling bins to keep contents organized and out of sight. You can  even get surface-mounted bins to go underneath holes in countertops. Then you can just sweep food and trash right in.