Texico Real Estate Services

We've Moved!

2009-11-05T09:44:00.001-06:00

Check out my new blog: www.austinapartmentlocator.wordpress.com

Apartment & Real Estate Updates

Plus, all things Austin!

Monday Moving Tip!

2009-11-02T07:43:00.003-06:00

Preparing For Your Move

1. Seal the tops & bottoms of your boxes with 2" tape.

2. Use package paper, air bubbles, or peanuts in packing fragile items.

3. Don't have items packed in open crates or baskets. This will avoid breakage.

For all of your Austin moving needs call M&M Movers Today!

Monday Moving Tip!

2009-10-26T12:49:00.002-06:00

Monday Moving Tip!

For all your Austin Moving Needs visit

www.mmmoving.com

Referral Contest Winner!!! 1st Place

2009-10-23T16:18:00.003-05:00

Congrats to Prashant for winning my Alamo Drafthouse referral contest!

Thanks for the referrals!

November contest details coming soon!

Send me the referrals & when they lease YOU get a $50 American Express gift card!

Help Me Reach My Goal!

2009-10-21T08:42:00.003-05:00

Raising Money all month for Susan G. Komen! Just by sending me referrals!
$50 gift card to all leased referrals!

Monday Moving Tip!

2009-10-19T16:53:00.003-05:00

For tons of ideas to make your move smoother visit:

www.mmmoving.com

New & Improved Website!

2009-10-16T09:57:00.002-05:00

Check out A+ Apartments updated website here!

Referrals! Referrals! Referrals! Referrals! Referrals!

2009-10-14T14:31:00.002-05:00

Don't forget - Donations to Susan G. Komen all month for referrals!

Monday Moving Tip: The Easiest One!

2009-10-12T15:38:00.002-05:00

This may seem like a no brainer but it is often forgotten & neglected and ends up making moving even harder.

LABEL YOUR BOXES!!!

Congrats to our Referral Contest Winner!

2009-10-07T08:43:00.002-05:00

Congrats to Jonathan!

2nd Place Winner of the Referral Contest!

$50 Gift Card to Alamo Drafthouse!

I LOVE Refferals!

Monday Moving Tip!

2009-10-05T11:52:00.001-05:00

Purge Items You Don't Need! Have a garage sale or donate items to charity! This can save you time & money on your moving bill!

For more moving tips visit M&M Moving!

Tomorrow Starts Breast Cancer Awareness Month!

2009-09-30T10:59:00.002-05:00

Tomorrow I will kick off a month long campaign entitled 'Locating For The Cure'! I will be raising money all month for the Susan G. Komen Affiliate in Austin! This is a great cause and am looking forward to all the fun this month will bring! I've set up an additional blog that you can visit at www.locatingforthecure.blogspot.com & follow me as I raise fun, share personal stories, and provide breast cancer facts!

Monday Moving Tip from M&M Movers!

2009-09-28T09:01:00.003-05:00

Monday Moving Tip!

Make Use of Luggage Items

Do you have a lot of suitcases in your house?

If so, you can make good use of them during your move. Instead of leaving your suitcases empty, pack them with as many clothes as possible.

This is an excellent way to transport the items you need to keep separate.

Click here for more moving tips - M&M Movers Austin!

Need an Apartment for You & Your German Shepherd?

2009-09-25T11:01:00.005-05:00

Have a BIG DOG? Have a German Shepherd? Give me a call & I will show you what apartments in Austin that will accept your pet. I work with tons of pet friendly complexes! Save yourself time & money! Call me today!

Julio C. Olvera

A+ Apartment Locators

512-909-9968

2009-09-23T12:54:00.001-05:00

2009-09-18T18:36:00.001-05:00

Referral Contest ends September 30th!

Send me referrals & you could win $100 Gift Card to Alamo Drafthouse!

Call TODAY!

Julio C. Olvera

512-909-9968

Relocating to Austin?

2009-09-16T17:39:00.002-05:00

Relocating to Austin?

Call to receive your FREE Welcome Packet!

Packet includes tons of great Austin Info!

Julio C. Olvera

A+ Apartment Locators

512-909-9968

julio@aplusapartments.com

September Specials!

2009-09-14T14:21:00.001-05:00

Call TODAY for the best rates of the SEASON!

Super Low Prices! Affordable Move In Rates!

September Savings!

2009-09-09T11:27:00.002-05:00

Fall Into Savings!

Call today about GREAT September Savings!

Cheap Move In's Available!

Call Julio C. Olvera

512-909-9968

1/1's from $499!

A+ Apartment Locators

2009-09-01T13:23:00.002-05:00

Moving?

Lease with me &

get $50 toward your moving fees!

Call today for information!

Julio 512-909-9968

Yelp! CitySearch!

2009-08-27T11:33:00.002-05:00

Note to Previous Clients: Please review my service on either Yelp or City Search! I'd really appreciate it! Email me the link when you are done & I'll send you a $5 Starbucks Gift Card!

See what one previous client had to say!

Follow Me On Twitter!

2009-08-18T15:40:00.002-05:00

Follow me on Twitter!

@juliocolvera

Cities of the Future

2009-08-06T12:20:00.002-05:00

Austin made the list of Top Ten Cities of the Future. Click here to read the article.

2009-08-04T11:15:00.001-05:00

2009-07-17T16:27:00.001-05:00

2009-07-13T22:03:00.001-05:00

About Me

2009-07-06T16:46:00.002-05:00

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!

2009-07-01T16:55:00.001-05:00

HOT Specials!

2009-06-17T09:25:00.002-05:00

Call Me about HOT Summer Specials! 1 bedrooms starting at only $499/month! Cheap move in's - call me today about $99 TOTAL move in!

Hurry these prices won't last long!

2009-06-12T08:49:00.001-05:00

2009-06-10T17:22:00.001-05:00

American Express Gift Card

2009-06-08T17:30:00.001-05:00

I pay a $50 American Express Gift Card for every leased referral! Send me your referrals today!

Austin Apartments

2009-06-03T15:51:00.001-05:00

Check out my website for great Austin Apartments!

2009-06-01T13:09:00.001-05:00

2009-05-29T16:54:00.001-05:00

2009-05-27T13:48:00.001-05:00

The 2nd Most Popular Place to Relocate To: Austin, TX

2009-05-22T16:11:00.004-05:00

Relocating to Austin? Give me a call!

I can help you with your search & make it super easy for you!

Check out great apartment complexes in Austin here!

About Me

2009-05-18T14:55:00.002-05:00

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!

Creative Ways To Make The Rent

2009-05-12T08:34:00.003-05:00

Check out this video from Good Morning America on Rent Parties.

What creative ways are you using to make the rent?

Apartments with Fitness Centers

2009-05-08T16:48:00.002-05:00

Who needs a gym? Most complexes these days have great fitness centers with cardio machines, weights, personal trainers, & classes.

Ask me about complexes with top notch (and 24 hour) fitness centers!

2009-05-06T17:31:00.001-05:00

2009-05-04T17:26:00.001-05:00

Decorating Your Apartment

2009-05-01T11:22:00.004-05:00

Need some decorating tips for your new apartment?

Check out HGTV's Top Ten Don'ts for decorating your new apartment.

Thinking Big? Click here for some small space secrets.

Recent Merger? Then figure out how to make it really His & Hers.

2009-04-29T13:12:00.001-05:00

About Me

2009-04-27T11:52:00.002-05:00

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!

2009-04-25T15:29:00.001-05:00

Renting vs. Buying

2009-04-23T12:03:00.004-05:00

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

2009-04-21T11:11:00.005-05:00

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.

2009-04-16T16:09:00.000-05:00

2009-04-13T18:57:00.001-05:00

Is it Safe to Travel to Mexico?

2009-04-10T14:58:00.004-05:00

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.

2009-04-07T14:25:00.001-05:00

Energy Efficient Apartments

2009-04-04T14:28:00.002-06:00

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.

Talking About Apartments on the Today Show

2009-03-27T12:41:00.000-06:00

San Miguel Walking Tour

2009-03-25T09:42:00.004-06:00

On my recent trip to San Miguel de Allende I participated in the Patrono Pro Niños walking tour. Our very knowledgeable guide, Bob Graham, showed us around the jardin, into the churches, and shared years of San Miguel History with us. Although I am very familiar with SMA it was very enlightening to take the tour. I not only learned some history - I learned some Latin too!

Best of all the cost of the tour ($10 USD or $150 MNP) benefits children in rural SMA with little or no access to medical or dental care. They are currently working on several projects to expand their non-profit and help more children. If you can't make the tour now you can click here for information on how you can still support them financially.

The tour, roughly 2.5 hours, is a great way to learn a little bit of history, see a beautiful city, network, and help others!

Westlake Apartments

2009-03-23T09:46:00.001-06:00

San Miguel de Allende

2009-03-21T11:51:00.001-06:00

About Me

2009-03-09T07:42:00.002-06:00

2009-03-05T10:33:00.001-06:00

Relocating to Mexico? You have to read this book!

2009-03-04T08:52:00.003-06:00

Check out Julia Taylor's Mexico: The Trick is Living Here for a great guide on living in Mexico. Visit her website here. This is an excellent website and resource for people relocating to Mexico.

Safety First!

2009-03-01T11:09:00.002-06:00

I've had several of my girl friends tell me that they chose not to work with locators due to safety concerns of meeting up with a locator. Safety is always a top priority and it is a good idea to be cautious. Below are some keys to ensuring your safety when working with a locator.

1. You should only agree to meet with a locator at one of two places. Either at their office or at an apartment complex. All reputable locators have offices.

2. Only agree to meet a locator between 9 and 5. The rule of thumb is that apartment complexes don't even show apartments after dark so there is no need to meet after business hours. Most apartment complexes are open on the weekends so it is perfectly safe to go out on a Saturday or Sunday with a locator.

3. Don't feel obligated to ride in the car with the agent. If you meet at the apartment locators office and then plan on going to look at properties simply follow the agent instead of riding with him. If he stops somewhere that is not an apartment complex like the woods I suggest you don't stop but keep on going.

4. Find out the name of the company the agent works for and a simple google search will let you know if it exists or not. You can always go the extra step by checking out the business with the BBB, CitySearch or Yelp. Another great way is make sure you are working with a 'real' agent is to use someone that friends or a family member refers.

Taste of San Miguel - You Tube Video

2009-02-26T12:48:00.000-06:00

Lessons Learned About Leasing

2009-02-24T11:58:00.003-06:00

I'm constantly surprised by the binds my clients get themselves into because of a lack of understanding about pretty basic things. Not having the proper knowledge about leases, tenant rights, and real estate in general can cause very costly mistakes. I’ve put together a list of things that every renter should fully comprehend and make note of when looking for an apartment complex.

1. Notice to Vacate: If you are currently leasing (especially from a corporation) you are more than likely required to give at least a 30 day notice to vacate and in some cases 60 days are required. You are required to provide this even if your lease is expiring or you are on a month-to-month basis. You must provide this notice in writing. I suggest hand delivering your notice and receiving a receipt from the complex manager or mailing it thru the USPS and paying the extra sixty cents for delivery confirmation. Click here for an example of a notice to vacate letter.

2. Pets: Before you go out and shell out hundreds of dollars on a new puppy it is a good idea to check with your apartment manager to see if they accept them. You should also be prepared to pay a pretty hefty pet deposit and in some cases pet rent every month. Most complexes in Austin will not accept Pit Bulls and only 2 pets per apartment. Some apartments don't accept pets at all and most have weight limits (around 75 combined pounds) and have some breed restrictions.

3. Roommates: Especially in these turbulent economic times having a roommate is a good idea...or is it? It is a great way to lower your monthly expenses and save on rent but if they bail on you it might mean you are in hot water. Even if both parties sign the lease you will (in most cases) be responsible for the entire rent if they run off to Japan. It is hard to determine a good roommate because sometimes even close friends and family members will put you in a bind but it is good to know the consequences before you sign on the dotted line. My suggestion: If you aren't sure if you can trust a roommate - go for an efficiency or super inexpensive 1 bedroom like the one here.

4. Your Past: If you've ever broken a lease or owe money to a collections agency it pays to take care of those outstanding debts ASAP! You will end up living somewhere less than ideal OR paying a much higher security deposit. If you've found yourself in either one of these predicaments there is good news: you can do something about it. Contact the management company for the apartment and find out how much you owe. If you are lucky you can make payment arrangements if not you will need to make a single payment to take care of it. Make sure you keep receipts of your payment and receive a confirmation from the management company as well. As far as leasing goes it is super beneficial if you don't owe outstanding debt to any utility companies. Once again, call them and find out how much you owe and start paying it off. Be sure to keep copies of all payments and conduct all agreements in writing. It wouldn't hurt to ask for a pay-to-delete from your credit bureau file. Here's an example of a pay-to-delete letter. In the end it will cost you for your past mistakes but it will save you lots of money in the long run if you take care of these items now.

5. Know Your Rights - Chances are you don't know your rights when you are leasing; most people don't. It may seem that the apartment complex has all the power and they will if you don't educate yourself. If you ever find yourself in a bind or feel as if there is something fishy going on at your complex check out the Austin's Tenant Council. They are on your side and will guide you with educational resources and proper knowledge of the situation.

In conclusion: know what you are signing before you sign it, get agreements in writing, and always know your rights. Need more information about leasing? Email me at julio@aplusapartments.com

Beautiful San Miguel Home!

2009-02-22T16:17:00.001-06:00

Beautiful Hill Country Apartments!

2009-02-19T09:17:00.001-06:00

San Miguel de Allende - Personal Restaurant Guide

2009-02-17T21:34:00.006-06:00

Anytime I strike up a conversation with someone in Austin about San Miguel I inevitably become their personal travel agent; providing them with the must sees, best restaurants, and all the things one must do while visiting San Miguel. And I love every minute of it! I thought I'd pass along some of things that make San Miguel so utterly fabulous to me - starting with the restaurants! This list is ever expanding and this is just the tip of the iceberg. (For a more detailed list of all things San Miguel check out the Insider's Guide)

One of my favorite restaurants in SMA is Romano's. It is a quaint place that has some of the best Tomato Soup in the world. Don't take my word for it - try it yourself. Check out the Frommer's review from the NY Times.

Hecho En Mexico is a great place for lunch. Its menu offers a variety of foods that you'll recognize including some really juicy quesadillas and a to-die-for brownie. Convieniently located on Ancha de San Antonio close to the Instituo Allende and across from Domino's Pizza.

For authentic Mexican cuisine visit Rincon de Don Tomas. It is right on the square in the jardin. Enjoy your meal on the patio right on the main plaza.

The only place I must eat at when I'm in San Miguel is a tiny restaurant called Tres Burritos. It is excruciatingly warm in there and you'll be packed in with many other burrito lovers but it is well worth it. Located on Mesones Street between Hidalgo and Relox. Lunch hours only!

There are definitely plenty of great places to eat in San Miguel and I'll share more of those in a future post.

Downtown Gem

2009-02-12T17:25:00.001-06:00

San Miguel de Allende

2009-02-10T19:18:00.001-06:00

Nestled in the mountains of Mexico, lies the picturesque town of San Miguel de Allende. People travel here from every corner of the World for the opportunity to stroll along the cobblestone streets, cat nap in the shade of a blooming Jacaranda tree, or simply say a prayer in the 17th century Parroquia.

Although the clock ticks at a slower pace in San Miguel you’ll never be bored. Countless activities abound for the tourist or the retiree. Discover a new passion whether it be studying Spanish at the Instituto Allende, taking art classes at the Bellas Artes, or volunteering at an orphanage.

Your senses will be overwhelmed by its mystique and charm. And you’ll definitely leave San Miguel enchanted, that is if you even leave at all.

Beautiful Town Lake Apartments

2009-02-05T13:54:00.001-06:00

Julio C. Olvera - About Me

2009-02-05T13:40:00.000-06:00

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!