Sarah Luebcke

Formerly known as Turnback Ranch off of 1431 on the northside of Lake Travis, the Tharaldson family of companies recently obtained this property for an undisclosed amount. Purchased from Winston Capital Corporation who is already developing the Waterford on Lake Travis and Waterstone, this 242-acre site is expected to become a resort-style residential community.

Soon to be renamed Mahogany A Lake Resort, Colorado-based Equilibrium Resorts will manage the operation of this 11,000 linear feet of lake frontage. From a Mediterranean-style village to a resort hotel and estate-size lakefront homesites, the current plan includes around 700 residential opportunities.

Stay tuned for updates on development and pre-sales opportunities.

What used to seem like "South Dallas" has now become an Austin destination in, and of, itself. As the #1 ranked selling subdivision in Austin, Avery Ranch, is uniquely positioned in the path of expansion and the current area of preferred development. Because of the growth in Avery Ranch and the northwest Austin area in general, retailers, medical offices and restaurateurs alike cannot resist.

Local Favorites Move In

The over 2,200 homeowners that enjoy life in Avery Ranch can now delight in some of their favorite Austin establishments too. Austin's original Z'Tejas will be adding some spice to the neighborhood when their eleventh location is completed this Fall 2007. The southwestern grill featuring patio spaces, an open dining room, and fireplaces is sure to be a hit with their northern contingency. The seventh Waterloo Ice House also joined the ranks in early 2007 and now remains busy for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

With everything from a New York style pizzeria to Chinese cuisine, neighbors enjoy the conveniences and variety provided by the retail centers located on either side of Parmer Lane. In addition to great eats, locals can also find their choice of banks, drug stores, medical professionals, day spas, a dry cleaner, and a fitness center.

Get Moving

With five community centers interspersed throughout the neighborhood, residents appreciate over 17 acres of recreational fun including tennis courts, basketball courts, sand volleyball, pools, cabana areas, playgrounds, hike & bike trails, and more. The outdoor amphitheater is an added bonus boasting plays for special occasions put on by local schools and civic organizations.

Avery Ranch also touts a championship golf course that has been home to Dennis Quaid's annual golf charity. Austin's premier daily-fee course has been ranked as #1 for Best Course Conditions, Best Clubhouse, Best Dining Area, and Best Innovative Design by Avid Golfer Magazine.

When Can I Move?

Homes in Avery Ranch start from the $150's, and max out in the $800's. Ranging from the low-maintenance townhome lifestyle to quaint ranch-style homes to grand custom homes with gorgeous views, there's a little something for everyone. And now, this community is even better-connected to downtown Austin as the west end of Avery Ranch Boulevard adjoins to the 183-A toll road.

So, whether you choose to enjoy the 1,800 acres of beautiful hill country from the course or your back porch...check out what Avery Ranch has to offer your family today!

Sources: http://www.averyranch.com/, http://www.averyranchgolf.com/, Community Impact, February 2007, Austin Business Journal, October 2006

With so many news stories regarding the downturn in the real estate market, wouldn't you like to hear a little good news for a change?

Well, if you're already living in Texas, then you're ahead of the rest as Texas is growing at a rate of 12.7%, twice what the rest of the nation is experiencing. At this rate, another 4 million Texans could be added to the total population by 2010 - all of which will be finding new homes and continuing to fuel the real estate flame.

Have you made it to Austin yet? Those already living in Austin have experienced even more phenomenal growth! In fact, Austin was the 6^th fastest growing city in the entire country in 2006. And, counties in the greater Austin area, such as Williamson, which currently ranks as the 66^th fastest growing county in the country, continues to help central Texas shine on the real estate map.

With only a two month supply of inventory homes, experts around the country have started to take note of Austin's tight supply and increasing demands. And as the relatively inexpensive real estate continues to lure businesses to relocate to Austin, the trend should continue.

Amidst the national media campaigns spreading discouraging stories of real estate bubbles that have been burst, Austin consumers can rest assured that with continued population growth comes a thriving real estate market.

Sources: U.S. Census Bureau, Residential Strategies, Inc.

Between our recent ranking as the #1 City to Live & Make Movies by MovieMaker Magazine and the upcoming ground-breaking of Villa Muse, a studio-focused development, Austin is moving into the big leagues in the entertainment industry. While we've always had a plethora of creative talent, Austin has taken the back seat to industry capitals like New York, LA, and Nashville. But now, world-class studios, production facilities, and the infrastructure to support the business of becoming a star are headed to town.

In fact, Austin has ranked among the top three cities on MovieMaker Magazine's list in the last seven years. Rebates for filming in Texas and Austin Film Commission's discount program for cast and crew at local businesses have helped secure Austin's position on the top of the rankings. Our progressive culture, hip reputation and collabrative community are going to keep us there.

An upcoming benefit to the east side of Austin is Villa Muse, scheduled to break ground in 2008 and be completed in late 2009. This community will include a 200-acre studio complex, 9,000 home master-planned residential community and other commercial opportunities. The unique design focused on interconnectivity will allow artists to complete one project in several different medium in one sitting. The Villa Muse development is projected to have a $6 billion impact on the economy during construction and at least that after it's built.

Overall, the influx of industry professionals will only continue to help keep Austin real estate hot. And, being a Red Carpet fanatic myself - I can't wait for more starlets to head to Austin, TX!

Sources: Austin Business Journal, MovieMaker, www.villamuse.com