Robin Scott - Broker CRS ABR SRS Austin Texas REALTOR®

Homeowners insurance is required by the lender when you are buying a home. If you are paying cash, it's still advisable to protect you investment with insurance. There are things you should know about the policy you acquire.

1. Ask about the exclusions. Most insurance policies don't cover flood or earthquake damage and require additional coverage. Check with your insurance agent so you will be understand the policy and be prepared.

2. Understand the dollar limitations. You may be covered for a risk but different aspects of the policy may have dollar amount limitations of coverage. Be sure you understand if and what they are.

3. Make sure your replacement costs are sufficient.When you purchase a home the policy is usually written for replacement based on the purchase amount. Especially in this market of foreclosures and short-sales, make sure the amount of coverage is sufficient to replace/rebuild in the event of destruction.

4. Find out about the actual cash value. Your replacement costs less depreciation is the actual cash value that you will receive less the deductible.

5. Be aware of the liability limits.Usually your homeowner's policy will cover the liability of injury of others on your property but they do have limitations so make sure it's sufficient to cover your assets.

Robin Scott, Broker. Certified Residential Specialist, Accredited Buyer's Representative, Seller's Representative Specialist.

You have hired a REALTOR to sell your home so you are on the right track but she can't do it without your help and cooperation. Your REALTORis there to advise you on how to make your home desirable to a buyer, on pricing, on negotiating an offer, to market your home and represent you but there are things you must do for the success of a sale.

Please listen to your REALTORS advice on repairs and staging your home. A home that is clean, repaired, clutter-free and well arranged sells much faster than one that is not. There are many cost free or inexpensive things you can do to make your home more appealing if you don't have the budget for needed repairs.

And provide your REALTOR with the documentation they request such as the disclosure, a survey, perhaps builder plans or utility charges. These are things that enhance the value and/or provide needed information for the buyer to make a decision to make an offer.

Robin Scott, Broker. Certified Residential Specialist, Accredited Buyer's Representative, Seller's Representative Specialist.

When we changed all our light bulbs to CFL we got a great surprise. The bulbs did last much longer and our electric bill was significantly reduced. Now, LED is the new wave but if you are still using incandescent bulbs, take a look at the figures:

Incandescent bulbs at 15 watt have a color pleasing value of of 100 and 1,000 hours of life.

CFL bulbs at 80 watt have a color pleasing value of of 70 and 10,000 hours of life.

LED bulbs at 100 watt have a color pleasing value of of 92 and 50,000 hours of life.

Make the switch to CFL or LED and cut your electricity costs as well as your energy usage. Long term it's a great return.

This information is from Today's Buyer's Rep, a publication of the Real Estate Buyer's Council.

Robin Scott, Broker. Certified Residential Specialist, Accredited Buyer's Representative, Seller's Representative Specialist.

AUSTIN, TEXAS

If you are looking for something fun to do with the kids during the holiday break from school, The Blanton Museum of Art has prepared some programs for kids and families which are included in the admission. Hot Art Hip Kids includes art workshops, gallery activities, storytelling and more.

December 26, 27, 28, Friday - Sunday 1:30 - 2:30, Storytime Tours

Free parking at the Brazos garage Dec. 23 - Jan 2.

Free admission to members, UT students/faculty/staff and children under 12

Youth/college ( 13-21) $3

Adults $7

Seniors 65+ $5

Robin Scott, Broker. Certified Residential Specialist, Accredited Buyer's Representative, Seller's Representative Specialist.

For the first time in decades the Austin area Parade of Homes builder showcase will take place in Central Austin at Mueller. The showcase will feature five $1 million or higher homes built in the development site of the old Mueller airport. The homes, which will be built by local builders will carry the 5 star rating from Austin Energy's green building program.

Mueller is a mixed-use, redevelopment program at the site Robert Mueller Municipal airport covering 709 acres and which includes a range of housing including but not limited to low-income housing, businesses, shopping and parks.

The Parade of Homes is sponsored by the Home Builders Association of Greater Austin. May 23 - June 7.

Robin Scott, Broker. Certified Residential Specialist, Accredited Buyer's Representative, Seller's Representative Specialist.