Happy New Year! I hope that your holidays were fun and restful, and that you spent them surrounded by the people you hold dear.
As is always the case this time of year, I’ve been reflecting on 2019 as well as looking ahead. One thing that’s been on my mind is how quickly things are changing today—in the world, in the industry, and on a personal level.
For starters, real estate rules and guidelines are constantly evolving to keep pace with growth and innovation. Land development codes are being proposed to help manage the ever-increasing demand for housing. And technology is changing the way we do business. Amid all these changes, my team and I remain steadfastly committed to helping clients make the best decisions about their real estate investments. That means staying ahead of whatever comes our way—and always putting the client first. Relationships are everything to us, and there is no greater vote of confidence than getting new business from client referrals. So thank you, and please keep them coming!
The Blairfield Realty family has grown, too. Last year, I was thrilled to welcome my dear friend and real estate agent, Michele Roi, to the team. She brings a love of homes and architectural design and a passion for super-serving her clients. I look forward to working with her and supporting her as she grows her real estate career in 2020 and beyond.
I also enjoyed flexing my creative muscle once again on an exciting project at 2400 Deerfoot in Barton Hills. Recently completed and on the market now, this 3,000-square-foot, high-end home truly represents my creative vision and gives consumers what they’ve told me they want: a single-story residence on a large lot with new construction and mid-century modern design. If you haven’t checked it out, I urge you to do so.
When I’m not involved in the real estate world, I’ve been focused on giving back to our community through philanthropy and volunteer efforts. One example that I’m particularly proud of happened in November. My partner and the VP of Blairfield Realty, Tamara Carlisle, serves on the board at a fantastic organization called Central Texas Table of Grace (CTTG), a non-profit that provides emergency shelter services to children and youth in the foster care system. We organized and hosted a very successful event to raise money for the next phase of CTTG’s vision: a village of “tiny homes” that will provide individuals who have aged out of the foster system with housing, a gathering place, and a success plan as they transition to self-sufficiency. Tamara and I would be delighted to share details about the important work they do.
I’ve also been thrilled to support the artist community with the opening of The Commerce Gallery, located on the historic town square in downtown Lockhart. In a world that’s increasingly divided, I believe that art has the power to bring people together and help them find common ground. The gallery—and the artists and art lovers I’ve met along the way—bring me much joy. The next time you’re in Lockhart, be sure to stop by and say hello.
Speaking of Lockhart, I continue to be taken by the town’s charms and dedicated to preserving its history. To that end, Tamara and I recently purchased an 1895 home that we plan to refurbish and open as a guest house later this year. Called The Carlisle, it will have an old-meets-new vibe that maintains the home’s original style while bringing in modern updates and amenities. We’re already looking forward to hosting a friend’s wedding there in the fall.
I could go on and on, but that’s 2019 in a nutshell. As for 2020? That’s simple. I’m ready to seize on the energy of the new year and focus on continuing to do our best for you, our valued clients.
Thanks for your continued support. I wish you a healthy and happy year ahead.