This year because ACL is celebrating ten years of cultivating some amazing talent and and heavy attendance. The organizers haven’t once, so far, figured out the following: The tickets sell out faster than they can be printed (45 minutes according to some sources) and there is no exception for locals – even though ACL has a vast international following.

Whoever decides how many porta-potties are to be ordered, fire them, and order twice as many. For planning purposes, do not wait until you have to go to get in line. Seriously, just get in line at some point when you’re walking about. Trust me you’ll be way more comfortable with this strategy in the long run.

Even though there is an asphalt ocean of parking at the festival site – there might as well be no parking – it’s prohibited. Odd. However, Capital Metro does provide a shuttle from Republic Square Park. But you have to pay around $20 to park privately near Republic Square Park. Then you wait in line for around 45 minutes to get on one of the buses.

Whoever organizes the food stalls – hire them to run the entire country. The food stalls are numerous and well presented. They also offer exceptionally reasonable prices – allowing essentially every foodie to try a little of everything. I doff my Longhorns hat to you folks.

So, to this Austinite, ACL has come to represent two things – either I am going to attend and have an okay time – it’s not so dissimilar to a thrill ride that you partly enjoy, partly fear for your life, and then have stomach issues for the rest of the day regardless. Or, I’m not going to attend but will do some people watching. The unofficial Austin motto is Keep Austin Weird. ACL abides. That brings me to thoughts about residing downtown.

There are around eight fantastic condominium developments within three blocks of Republic Square Park. The Austonian is right there and it’s the tallest building in the city. Even if you’re on the third floor, you can look down upon the lunacy unfolding below and take a sip from your champagne cocktail and play Stevie Wonder on your Bose surround sound stereo. Stevie Wonder is headlining this year – so you just had a little, personal ACL moment without ever leaving your home. Or, leave your home, go to the park and hop on a bus. You saved $20 on parking because you live so close that it is easy to be part of the action. Although, if you dwell in the Austonian, you probably have a neighbor who lights contraband Cuban cigars with denominations of bill greater than twenty, so more then likely you don’t much care about spending $20 on parking.

When you live in this part of Austin, you are in a special place – geographically and philosophically. You can, with such ease, participate in, at least, a big monthly event in what is arguably America’s most year-round-celebratory city. Or, you can just watch it unfold. It’s like owning one of those second floor patios on Bourbon Street in New Orleans, or one of those houses that look down onto Wrigley Field in Chicago. You’re an automatic VIP, one with the keys to the luxury suite at the big game so to speak. The big difference is that Mardi Gras only happens once a year and the Cubs are a lousy team. In Austin it’s a happening party every month of the year.

To find out more about living in Austin enter your information into the box on your right and a rock star real estate agent will get in touch with you to tell you everything you wanted to know about this awesome city!

Photo Credits: beatcrave.com

Some consider Brazos Lofts the only ‘real’ warehouse lofts in Austin. Well I can say that judging from both the inside and outside, it feels that way.

Each Brazos Lofts home is separated by a brick wall. I’m not sure if the bricks used on the parting walls are original to the building, but they are a good match and are aged appropriately. Select units feature narrow-plank hardwood floors and comfortable, yet chic appointments.

True to its character, the Brazos Lofts is only three stories and is only two stories throughout  most of the building. It features only 39 condos.

The small, low rise complex features brick walls, hardwood or stained concrete flooring, exposed wood beamed ceilings and walls of windows. Kitchens and bathrooms are the ultimate with granite counters, stainless appliances and elegant travertine baths. The Brazos is very near to Sixth Street, the Four Seasons and Driskill Hotel (I absolutely love this place).

Brazos Lofts has earned a distinction as the only loft-warehouse in the face of Downtown Austin with a stylish architecture that resembles the typical New York style Loft.

Brazos Lofts are a perfect fit for artists, urban dwellers, students, professionals, bachelors and anyone interested in living near the buzz of Austin. Brazos Lofts prices range from $250,000 to $700,000. One- and two-bedroom units are available and offer spacious floor plans.

Purchase one of these awesome lofts today and you’ll get back 20% of our commission in cash! To schedule a viewing call us at 877-852-6636.

Enjoy a luxurious urban lifestyle at this historic landmark, constructed in 1938 by the celebrated entrepreneur Herman Brown (co-founder of Brown & Root and builder of one of the first offshore oil platforms). This place was once known as the “Wall Street” of Austin (thankfully it’s nothing like the real Wall Street! Sorry Gecko fans.)

Brown employed the leading Austin architect of his day, Charles Henry Page, to design the building to the highest standards. Located in the heart of Austin’s fashionable Art District, each of the 90 lofts within the Brown Building articulates charm and opulence. This is true downtown living.

Offering 1 and 2 Bedroom floor plans from 637 to 1287 square feet, the high ceilings and large spaces offer a variety of options to suite individual tastes.

With desirable features such as high ceilings, European cabinetry, and advanced communication systems, the Brown Building provides the luxury of a world-class residence at the heart of downtown. From the rooftop sun deck, you’re definitely going to appreciate the sweeping panoramic views of downtown and it’s lively and entertaining districts.

The Brown Building features open warehouse-style Austin lofts, with high ceilings, terazzo floors and large windows.  This building also has a roof-top deck for all residents to use, as well as a fitness center. There is also a four-level parking garage, as well as reserved parking and controlled-access elevators.

Brown Building boasts a prime location with a 100 Walk Score (this helps all you gas-savers out there), and buyers appreciate the Historic Building Tax Abatement, which reduces residents annual property taxes.  In addition to this ownership benefit, buy with us and you’ll get back 20% of our commission in cash.

Located in the heart of downtown, entertainment is close at hand. Here you will enjoy the awesome skyline views from the rooftop sun deck, dine in style at Gumbo’s on the ground floor, or just chill with some friends at the Brown Bar. If you are interested in a loft home that’s spacious, charming and boasts historic character, check out the Brown Building Lofts today. To schedule a viewing call us at 877-852-6636.

Part of the exciting new mixed-use developments at 1400 South Congress, 04 Lofts represent the totally awesome new residential developments going on in South Central Austin. As a matter of fact, the 04 Lofts are a new construction condominium development in the exciting area of South Congress.

04 Lofts feature amenities that truly rock and range from the smallest interior details to the overall design created by the legendary Austin design firm, Dick Clark Architects.

The 04 Lofts mixes numerous natural materials (shout out to all the environmentalists out there!), provided by local vendors/contractors. These materials include local brick, concrete, glass tiles, granite, and terra cotta for a sophisticated modern look. Ladies and gents, you have got to see this. At night, the building seems to glow from within, and looks like a big pumpkin, thanks to translucent glass rails and the numerous windows. I love the natural wood finishes and the lofts’ natural wood ceilings boast a glow inside with a unique contrast of neo-modern and traditional, sophisticated architecture techniques.

Prices for these dazzling loft homes start at around $300,000. Buy with us and you’ll get back 20% of our commission in cash. Comfort and cash…what’s cooler than that?

In the mix of Austin’s eclectic scene, the 04 Lofts are situated in this upbeat and “happening” SoCo district.

The upbeat vibes are at your doorstep. Don’t feel like cooking? Head on over to great local eateries and renown dives. All of Austin is in walking distance, helping you to save on gas!

These super-cool lofts also feature must-haves for urban dwellers that include a rooftop terrace, tranquil courtyard, individual balconies and acoustic ambiance. Can it get any better than that? Nope.

My dear buyers. Do you want an ultra-cool, well-built, well-appointed condo close to everything and don’t want to spend a fortune? Look no further than the 04 Lofts. To schedule a viewing call us at 877-852-6636.

In 2007, the 1305 Lofts were completed and sold out in a short amount of time. In addition, they are typically snapped up even faster whenever any unit becomes available. We all know that a home this sought-after is a must-have!

1305 Lofts is an architecturally unique collection of lofts, considered by many to be the first of its kind in the eastern vicinity of Downtown Austin. 1305 Lofts boast incredible, local artist-made hardwood floors, unique design, multi-level, and a spacious design. These awesome lofts boast a number of top-of-the line appointments that you will need or expect, such as big windows, skylights, and hardwood floors.

It’s easy to see that there was quite a bit of time and expense incurred while developing these spaces.

It gets even better. What’s even cooler than the 1305 Lofts’ awesome design is that these lofts offer living on Austin’s famous Sixth Street. These lofts are located far enough from the night crowds, and bar noise (which there is plenty, especially on the weekends), so you can have peace and quiet, whenever when you want it.

1305 Lofts is close enough to all that makes Austin great and offers all the convenience of downtown Austin. Including great dining at local eateries, cool art galleries, soothing cafes, eccentric museums and more.

Residents do not need a car (this is good news for gas-savers!) as everything is within walking distance. You can also take advantage of the light-rail and the Dillo. The Dillo (short for armadillo) is a fun and neat way to travel downtown. The Dillo hits most of the downtown Austin hot spots and attractions, in a quick and efficient manner.

Interested in finding an available east Austin loft home at the 1305 Lofts today? Let us help you, and get back 20% of our commission in cash. To schedule a viewing call us today at 877-852-6636.

One of the best places to invest in real estate property is in Austin, Texas. Austin has experienced incredible job growth and very stable home prices despite the nationwide economic downturn. In the greater Austin area, the population and jobs continue to grow– a factor for keeping inventory low and prices stable. There are also several other benefits of investing in rental property in the greater Austin area.

Rental properties offer investors the opportunity for an income stream while also allowing them to leverage their assets with a down payment and a loan secured by the property. Additionally, rental properties offer tax benefits and deductions for landlords (Always check with a tax consultant to determine real estate tax implications). Purchase rental and investment properties here and you’ll get back 20% of the commission in cash.

Owning a rental property entitles you to special tax benefits. Often, what you spend on repairs and upkeep for a rental property is tax deductible. You may also get a tax break for depreciation, an allowance for the wear and tear over time on your property. However, most rental property investors do not rely on tax breaks to make a profit. You should look for property that will rent for more than the monthly mortgage payment, insurance, property taxes, maintenance, and repairs.

Most of the real work of real estate investing is done in the beginning when doing research and property selection. Once you have selected a neighborhood and purchased a property, you simply need to maintain communication with your property management company.

There are some great real estate professionals around Austin who have done your research and homework for you and can help you find the real estate property to invest in. These customer-service oriented professionals assist you in all your real estate/rental property needs and provide real estate services for multiple markets and other surrounding communities in Capital City.

At other downtown condos, you’re always reminded you’re in the urban jungle: the concrete, the construction, the streetlights, the garbage trucks, music from the bars, even the grackles at night that require you to cover your head on a short walk. No worries like that at the Milago.

The price per square foot and HOA dues are very reasonable. There are 240 residences in the 13 story building ranging in size from 750 to 2421 square feet. Choose from one to three bedroom units with up to three bathrooms. Prices range from $200K to over $1 million for penthouse suites. Buy with us and you’ll get back 20% of the commission in cash.

The Milago offers all the modern conveniences and finishes the particular buyer wants. Open floor plans and large windows make the Milago a dream home.

Milago condos have everything you need for an active lifestyle in the city, with luxury touches that turn laid back style into everyday elegance. The kitchens in every unit of the Milago are designed for both utility and creativity with stainless steel appliances and granite slab counters, helping you to unlock you inner chef.

Other quality appointments included are hardwood and stone tiled floors, walk-in closets, tall cottage windows, stainless appliances, track lighting and private balconies.

Residents of the Milago relax in the wi-fi lounge for a coffee break or for an entire afternoon. The lounge exits directly to the hike and bike trails on Lady Bird Lake, the perfect jumpstart to your morning exercise routine.

The Milago is right on the hike-and-bike trail and Lady Bird Lake where there is always something going on, like regattas and riverboats rides, just to name a few.

You are literally just steps away from the trail and lake, which makes it hard to slack off from doing that walk, run, bike or canoe ride to keep you healthy. You’ll have all the motivation you’ll need!

With the development of the Austin Waterfront District, the desirability of living at the Milago is sincere and will continue to grow for years to come. To schedule a viewing call us at 877-852-6636.

The unique loft residences of Moon Unit Condos are an eclectic blend of artists’ lofts and residential homes. Clean, modern lines and eco-friendly building materials have made the Moon Unit Condos a popular choice in downtown Austin living.

All Moon Unit condominium homes are environmentally friendly, allowing you to truly customize your space according to your lifestyle needs. The energy efficient appliances and heating/cooling units help save money on bills and help keep Austin green. Extensive windows, Energy Star-rated appliances and natural and recycled materials combine to make the Moon Units an environmentally friendly community with attitude.

This 10 Condo unit development has been re-zoned by the city of Austin to allow a mix of small businesses and residences to be combined in a hybrid format that is fairly new to Austin, but is well established in other parts of the United States and Europe.

Moon Units wants to ensure that your new home accurately represents you, and offers you a choice among numerous, spacious floor plans. These homes are considered Artist lofts and live/work spaces and are available starting from the $200s. Buy with us and you’ll get back 20% of our commission in cash.

These open spaces take in natural light and offer sweeping views of downtown from the roof top deck or from your private balcony.

Moon Units Condos can be best described as eco-friendly, modern, edgy, loft living space in the middle of hip south Austin and are figuratively just a stone’s throw from Downtown and SoCo off of South 1st Street.

The Moon Units Condos are situated close to Freddie’s Place, Taqueria Arandas Mexican Restaurant, Salon Sovay, and other South 1st Street shops and coffee houses. To schedule a viewing call us at 877-852-6636.

The Triangle is located two miles north of the state capitol and blocks from the University of Texas in one of Austin’s “Smart Growth Corridors”. Just a quick bus-ride away from UT campus, the Triangle is especially attractive to students who want it all; an urban lifestyle and everything you need to thrive and have fun right at your doorstep.

The Triangle is a new shape of luxury for Austin urbanites as it boasts a unique mix of perfectly designed flats, lofts and townhomes. Buy with us and you’ll get back 20% of the buyer’s commission in cash.

The Triangle’s flats have all the comfortable look and feel of a traditional apartment.  But these are far better than your usual apartment home. And with The Triangle’s flexible floorplans, you are offered the size and convenience that suits your living style. The flats feature bamboo flooring throughout, ceramic tile bathrooms, upgraded fixtures and appliances as well as numerous other designer features.

The lofts here provide the design aesthetic that is so appealing to savvy urban dwellers. The Triangle’s lofts were created with the comfort of a traditional flat and touches of an urban loft as these homes were designed to appeal to the whimsical and energetic in us all. Interior appliances, lighting and renewable resource flooring were all carefully implemented.

The Triangle’s townhome interiors reflect the rich textures of a fine uptown residence, are spacious and perfect for entertaining. The kitchens and baths have many designer features and material finishes that convey the essence of luxurious living.

The Triangle is located in the historic Hyde Park district of Austin. Restaurants, banking, shops, entertainment, a three-acre lake, an outdoor park with theater pavilion and the university are all within walking distance.

Live outside of the box – move into The Triangle! To schedule a viewing call us at 877-852-6636.

The Nokonah could be described as a spectacular, upscale, mixed-use complex and the crowned winner of the Downtown Austin Alliance IMPACT award in 2003. The 11-story tower (yeah, he’s a short fella) is situated in the new Market District, home of the Whole Foods supermarket world headquarters.

At one point, the Nokonah was the most expensive condominium tower ever built in Austin. San Antonio firm Lake/Flato was involved with the design initially, until the developer insisted on costly build-outs (such as wraparound balconies) —a deal-breaker that caused the firm to bow out respectfully, leaving Austin architects Graeber, Simmons & Cowan to finish the job.

Your life here will offer convenience and urban excitement you’ve never experienced before. What’s even better is that The Nokonah offers city living in a park setting. Not only is the Nokonah steps away from every major urban luxury, its situated on a greenbelt for easy access to outdoor fun (Frisbee anyone?).

A quietly handsome tower, the Nokonah sits on the corner of Ninth and Lamar Streets in downtown Austin.

The Nokonah’s comfy loft homes, ranging in size from 700 to over 5,000 square feet, make it unique in Austin’s condominium market. Buy with us and you’ll get back 20% of the commission in cash.

By its location alone, the Nokonah offers residents a healthier (but not boring),  more efficient lifestyle. Want to leave your car parked and circumvent the stress of city traffic? Enjoy swift and cost-efficient travel by transit via Capital Metro and Dillo.

The Nokonah is situated in a charming, yet off-beat community, Austin’s West End district.

Check out the Nokonah today! To schedule a viewing call us at 877-852-6636.

The residents of The Pedernales Lofts are committed to living as a true community. Young professionals, artists, business people, academics, athletes, designers, students, musicians and more believe that the Pedernales Lofts represent energy and ingenuity.

At the Pedernales Lofts, “green philosophy” has taken hold. Environmental responsibility and conservation is a focus of Pedernales Lofts residents.

The Pedernales Lofts are a mixed use work/live community in east Austin. There are 14 ground floor storefronts and studios and 91 upper floor residential lofts in this S.M.A.R.T (Safe, Mixed-Income, Accessible, Reasonably-priced and Transit-oriented) Community.

The floor plans range from small 700 square foot studios to large 1200 square foot one bedroom units, across three stories and divided between six separate free-standing buildings. Buy with us and you’ll get back 20% of the commission in cash.

Interior amenities include stained concrete floors, exposed ductwork, very high ceilings on all three floors, live/work units offering private baths and Sixth Street frontage, Energy Star appliance packages, huge walk-in closets, ceiling fans, commercial doors and windows.

All units have 12-foot ceilings, modern island kitchens as well as washers & dryers. Pedernales Lofts are the total loft-style package in trendy east Austin.

The Pedernales Lofts are located at 6th and Pedernales, just east of the Lance Armstrong Foundation headquarters and in very close proximity to the new MetroRail station connecting Leander to Downtown.

The lofts are situated on 3.2 acres of green space with the Saltillo Plaza light rail station, Hot Mamma’s espresso bar and the Peacock nearby.

Residents of the Pedernales Lofts believe in supporting each other and the surrounding neighborhoods in East Austin. At the Pedernales Lofts, support for creativity, festivity and entertainment boosts the in-house artists and as well as affiliations with local Austin talent.

To check out these super-cool East Austin lofts, call us at 877-852-6636.

Caswell Lofts are a smart choice for those looking to be close to UT in a quieter more upscale and refined west campus location. Only minutes from the University of Texas and downtown Austin, Caswell Lofts are nestled in the trees overlooking Shoal Creek.

Caswell Lofts are comfortable havens of gracious living right in the middle of the bustling capital city of Austin. You can feel the peace and tranquility in these trendy, contemporary one- and two-story loft homes. Beautiful landscaping throughout contributes to the natural feel with a “hillside” streetscape in the elegant courtyard and low limestone walls running along Lamar Blvd.

There are only 42 units and prices start in the $200s. Buy with us and you’ll get back 20% of our commission in cash.

Select lofts are two-stories and boast graceful 22-foot ceilings that soar over fashionable metal stairs. The intimacy with nature is mirrored in the stylish interior design. Walk through a natural wood door into a world of real wood custom cabinets, unique tongue and groove wood ceilings, and natural stone countertops. Expansive windows and skylights allow plentiful natural light. Sink into a warm bath surrounded by elegant Italian fixtures, natural stone countertops, and ceramic tiles.

All of these steel frame homes are packed with energy-efficient features such as double glazed Solexia glass in anodized frames and high efficiency Aqua-therm heating and cooling systems. To meet the requirements of today’s “wired” generation, high-speed wiring for phone, cable, and Internet connections are included.

With its central location at Caswell Lofts you can have the best of both worlds with the city and nature on your doorstep. The lofts are situated less than a mile from the State Capitol, a mile from Whole Foods at 6th and Lamar and the University of Texas Campus, and 2 miles from  the Warehouse District and 6th Street District. The lofts look over Central Austin’s beautiful Pease Park and the Shoal Creek Greenbelt: hike, bike and walk to work! Walk across the street to play Frisbee, golf, walk Fido or play tennis.

Everything required for the comfortable, contemporary life style is here at Caswell Lofts. To schedule a viewing call us at 877-852-6636.