New home construction sales are up this year compared to years past which bodes well for the real estate market. If you’re thinking of building a home, there are a few new trends that you may want to consider.

Check them out here

Great news! The Texas State Affordable Housing Corporation’s first-time homebuying program now includes grants to assist buyers with their down payment and closing costs.

There are three groups in particular that can qualify for the grants. The TSAHC’s Professional Educators and Texas Heroes or Home Sweet Texas Home. The grant is 5% of the loan amount which can be a significant amount of money.

Note, those who qualify for one of the programs, must also... Full Story

Everyone has a hidden talent, but do you think yours can get you a spot on America’s Got Talent? The tv show is holding auditions this weekend, January 14th and 15th, at the Austin Convention Center. Doors open at 8am and close at 7pm on both days.

http://launch787.com/home/americas-got-talent-auditions-in-austin/

Pssst, pre-register here to get a leg up on the competition: http://americasgottalentauditions.com/

Like the Olympics?... Full Story

Happy New Year!!! One of my new year’s resolutions is to blog more and I’m planning to stick with it!

I’m not sure about you, but any exercise regime/diets were thrown out the window for the holidays. Well this weekend is the perfect time to jump back on the health wagon and get moving.

If you want to give your abs a good workout check out “The D-List” star, Kathy Griffin at the Long Center.... Full Story

Just one more reason to move to Austin if you don’t already live here. Austin was recently ranked as one of the top five cities with the hottest locals. Yup, that’s right, it’s official! Now step away from the mirror and go out and enjoy our beautiful “winter” weather!

http://www.hlntv.com/article/2011/12/14/cities-most-attractive-people-travel-leisure?hpt=hp_t2

If you’ve driven down Mopac where it intersects with Slaughter you’ll notice some pretty big changes that are taking place, namely a new shopping center anchored by one of my all time favorites, Alamo Drafthouse. Drive a little farther south down Mopac and you will run into what will become the Greyrock Ridge subdivision. 386 homesites are set for this master planned community, but as with most major developments, this one comes with a bit... Full Story

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas, well kind of. There isn’t any snow on the ground, but at least we get to break out our winter coats! Below is a list of fun things to do inside and out. Enjoy!

The Nutcracker’? Sweet!: You know those sugarplums that dance in your head this time of year? They actually appear on stage, too, along with mice, snowflakes and local celebs as Mother Ginger, all... Full Story

I always love when Kiplinger puts together slideshows of different properties for sale around the world. The latest is one of the more affordable variety “Homes for $300,000 around the world”.

Enjoy:)

$300k gets you what?

If you have purchased a home in the last year or plan on doing so in the future, this information is definitely important.

A new state law that took effect on September 1st of this year made changes to proof of residency requirements for homeowners who are applying for the property tax homestead exemption.

In order to obtain an application for residential homestead exemption, visit the website of the county appraisal district you live in... Full Story

There are eight, yes eight events going on downtown this weekend. And that’s just downtown! The forecast is calling for gorgeous weather so put on your fall best and get out there!!

It’s October and you know what that means, there’s an Oktoberfest going on somewhere:) This Saturday from 11:30 am – 11:00 pm and Sunday from 11:30 am – 8:00 pm, North by Northwest will be celebrating their 10th Oktoberfest. Authentic German food &... Full Story