Rising Above the Competition in the Austin, TX Market

[Andrew Hackemack]

Hello to all my fellow BP members and followers! I want to reach out and open a discussion regarding the current market trends of REI in Austin, TX. For those veterans of Central Texas real estate, my question centers on the topic : how to combat both the over-valuation of Austin-area properties and saturation of "weekend warrior" investors who simply overpay for distressed homes.

Obviously, we are working in a market with high-demand -- due to the 100+ new residents we gain on a daily basis -- and short-supply. Keep Austin Weird -- or "Keep Austin Small" as it used to be -- is no longer sustainable. What investment strategies do you use to overcome the risks involved in such a market?

 -- e.g. off-market campaigns, short-term rental followed by comprehensive remodel and resale, owner-financing, etc. -- What strategies give you or your offer the edge?

One last question to end on : What do you see on the five-year horizon for the Austin REI market -- i.e. small corrections to pricing trends, large pricing crises, or continued rise in value?

(This is a very open discussion about the "investor's perspective" in and around Austin. Responses need not be singularly related to the proposed questions. Any input or further inquiries will be of value. Thanks in advance for your time!)

[Marian Smith]

I rented a house in 24 hours...took it off zillow in less than 24.  Wilco.  Some apts are advertising that rents are reduced but reduced is relative.  I honestly feel bad renting at market rates.  But higher sales orices fuel higher property taxes fuels higher rents.  We need a breather...maybe a less expensive Sun City towards Manor or Taylor or Jonestown to draw the retirees out and  let workers find housing.