About Me

Julio’s exciting real estate career began in 2005 after graduating from the University of Texas at Austin. His first stop was the beautiful, historic city of San Miguel de Allende, nestled in the Sierra Madre Mountains in Mexico. As a native of Mexico, Julio was drawn to the lovely state of Guanajuato where his ancestors have lived for hundreds of years.He immediately started working in new home development and became familiar with San Miguel and its outlying communities. Julio began carving out a niche in San Miguel with builders and home buyers alike. He later successfully transitioned into the resale market and has assisted clients from all over the world in buying and selling properties.

Now, back in Austin, Julio is diving into the leasing business. With access to over ninety percent of the apartment communities in the Austin Metro Area he can guide his clients to the right property in a single day. His number one goal is to make sure his customers get the property that fits them perfectly and that they are completely satisfied.Julio’s formula for success in both San Miguel and in Austin is a combination of hard work and the privilege of working closely with veterans of both the business and real estate worlds. His ability to relate and connect on a personal and professional basis with people from all walks of life has only furthered his success and built the trust he has earned with his clients.

Julio was recently chosen to be a 2009 Ambassador for the Greater Austin Hispanic Chamber of Commerce where he will serve closely with the leaders of the chamber to reach their goals, serve the Hispanic community, and be part of a mentoring program at a local high school.With frequent trips back to Mexico, Julio and his team are available to help you with your real estate needs in Austin and in San Miguel.

Julio is completely bilingual in English and in Spanish and offers his full service in the language that makes the client feel most comfortable.Julio is available around the clock and is eager to get to working with you!

Renting vs. Buying

Are You Just Throwing Money Away by Renting?

As a real estate agent I'm reguarly asked if I think it is better to rent or buy especially by potential first time home buyers. Honestly, the answer to that question is a bit complicated. I believe there are several factors including your current financial situation, the economy, housing market which determine the best answer for you.

What I do know is that there are super affordable rent prices in Austin right now! Many top notch complexes are offering their lowest rent prices ever. And these complexes aren't short on the amenities - personal trainers, conceirge services, resort style pools, 24 hour fitness centers, and tanning beds. Check out some of these great complexes here.

Compare renting vs buying here.

Read this great article to help you determine whether you should be renting or buying.

And if it is renting - email me!

The Number TWO Rule of Real Estate

Referrals, Referrals, Referrals!

I'll give YOU a $50 American Express Gift Card for every leased referral you send me! I would love to help you friends, family members, and coworkers find their new apartment!

View several great apartment listings here.

Is it Safe to Travel to Mexico?

No need to skip your summer vacation to Mexico this year!

Ever since the Department of State upgraded its security clearance for Mexico earlier this year many people have been concerned about travel to Mexico. It would be foolish for one to claim that there hasn't been an increase in violence in Mexico there has but that doesn't mean you will be a victim.

The Mexican Border towns of Nuevo Laredo, Tijuana, and Ciudad Juarez are experiencing increased violence and crime mostly in part to the Mexican Drug Wars. Mexican President Calderon, U.S. President Barack Obama, and Secretary of State Hillary Clinton are working hard to end the violence in Mexico. Recently, one of Mexico's top drug lords was captured after a huge reward was offered for information.

So, what does this mean to the you? Be safe, be cautious, but know it is okay to travel. Just like your mom told you when you were a kid remember travel with groups, don't carry large amounts of cash, don't wander the streets or alleys after dark, carry a cell phone, learn Spanish emergency vocabulary, and relax!

Travels to the interior of Mexico should pose little if any harm and once you get to your Mexican destination your sure to feel right at home.

Energy Efficient Apartments

How To Make Your Old Apartment Energy Efficient

The news, advertising, magazines, and even the President of the United States tells us we should make our homes more energy efficient – but what about those of us who live in apartments. Well, we may not be able to replace our windows or add insulation to the attic but we can do a few small things that will add up big time.

1. If your apartment doesn’t have an programmable thermostat ask your complex manager if they would be willing to install one. A lot of complexes are willing to do this for you but you have to ask. If they won’t – do it yourself. They are pretty simple to install and will help you save on your electric bill. For more information click here.

2. Not only will using energy efficient lightbulbs save you money – they are also safer for you too. These lightbulbs produce about seventy five less heat (therefore making them safer) and they cut the energy cost of cooling an apartment especially in the hot Austin summers. These lightbulbs come in all shapes and sizes now so you shouldn’t have a problem finding ones to fit your fixtures.

3. Before you move in ask if you can get a unit that is in a more wooded or well landscaped area. Try this trick especially if the landscaping is planted on the West side. According to the greenhomeguide.com this helps you because “In summer, the foliage blocks infrared radiation that would warm the house, while in winter the bare branches let this radiation come through”.
4. If your apartment doesn’t come with washer & dryer and you plan on renting or buying a set don’t go used. Go new! Newer appliances are more energy efficient. Read these tips for buying energy efficient appliances. And remember this: about ninety percent of the energy consumed in washing machines is for heating hot water so switch to washing in cold water.

5. Another tip for conserving energy is to install power strips that can be turned off when electronics are not being used. Although this may seem to be a very minor piece of the puzzle it will add up in the big picture.

While a lot of times it seems frivilous to invest money in an apartment doing these small tricks will save you money in the long run on your energy costs. (And it helps the environment, too!) You say you can’t afford to invest in an apartment – we say you can’t afford not too.

For more energy saving ideas click here.