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Travis County, TX Real Estate News

By Dorie Dillard Austin TX, NW Austin ~ Canyon Creek and Spicewood/Balcones
(Coldwell Banker Realty ~ 512.750.6899)
This is my second entry for the ActiveRain November 2025 Challenge on expressing thankfulness, and today, my heart is overflowing!Earlier this week, I read Lew Corcoran post about getting a home ready for market, and it immediately made me think of a very special seller of mine. She was moving to Florida in 2020 to care for her mother, a huge transition filled with emotion, logistics, and… home renovations.I sold her the home originally, and when it was time to sell, she trusted me to guide her. With moving chaos and updates needed (paint, flooring, the works!), she felt overwhelmed, so I rolled up my sleeves and said, “Don’t worry, I’ll quarterback the process with the vendors you choose.”I reminded her that preparing a home for market is like getting a model runway-ready: polish, styl...
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By Dorie Dillard Austin TX, NW Austin ~ Canyon Creek and Spicewood/Balcones
(Coldwell Banker Realty ~ 512.750.6899)
El Arroyo stands as an iconic Austin gem, renowned for crafting the finest hand-squeezed margaritas and serving up delectable Black Angus beef tacos, among a plethora of other Tex-Mex delights, since 1975!Situated at the corner of West 5th and Campbell, this local favorite boasts a quirky marquee that captures attention. Daily, the billboard transforms with a fresh pun, spanning the spectrum of wit and humor, making it a delightful fixture at the heart of Austin's culinary scene. The laughter doesn't stop there—they share these puns on Instagram, drawing in admirers like our very own Kathy Streib, and Debe Maxwell, CRS, is also in on the fun. In a world where a daily chuckle is a necessity, following El Arroyo's Instagram for the latest pun is a shared joy.Wishing you endless smiles! Ha...
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By Dorie Dillard Austin TX, NW Austin ~ Canyon Creek and Spicewood/Balcones
(Coldwell Banker Realty ~ 512.750.6899)
What you need to know…As we welcome November, Canyon Creek continues to show steady real estate activity. October closed with three home sales (one was my listing), surpassing last year’s October pace by 50%. Even more encouraging? Six homes were under contract by month’s end, signaling buyers stepped back into the market and November is shaping up to be a strong closing month.Every year I say it, and it remains true: Q4 is the secret season. While many hit pause for the holidays, savvy buyers and sellers lean in. Opportunities are here for those who stay active and prepared. What it means for you…Homes that sold in October averaged just 29 days on market and achieved 98.8% of last list price. Well-presented, well-priced homes are still winning, with buyers rewarding quality and value. ...
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By Dorie Dillard Austin TX, NW Austin ~ Canyon Creek and Spicewood/Balcones
(Coldwell Banker Realty ~ 512.750.6899)
Warning: these disappear faster than you can say “pass the platter!”If you're looking for an easy, crowd-pleasing appetizer that always gets rave reviews, this one has been a family favorite for years. It’s simple, crunchy, garlicky goodness, and trust me, once you make them, you’ll be in the “just one more” club too!Ingredients & Steps: Slice fresh green zucchini into rounds, not too thin, not too thick (Goldilocks style!)• Crack several eggs into a bowl, add a splash of milk, and whisk like you mean it• Crush saltine crackers into crumbs (a rolling pin works wonders!) and season generously with garlic salt and pepper• Dip zucchini slices into the egg mixture, then coat in the cracker crumbs• Layer them on a pan and pop into the fridge for a couple of hours, or prep in the morning and ...
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By Dorie Dillard Austin TX, NW Austin ~ Canyon Creek and Spicewood/Balcones
(Coldwell Banker Realty ~ 512.750.6899)
Every once in a while, a real estate experience comes along that reminds you exactly why you do what you do.This year, I received a call from a wonderful couple originally from France who purchased one of my listings back in 2015. They were ready to retire and move back to the French Riviera, truly living the dream! Over the last five years, they reached out periodically as they weighed timing and logistics, so when they called this time, I knew the moment had arrived.They were doing their due diligence and interviewing several agents (I never shy away from competition!). We had a lovely meeting, and as they walked me to the door, I mentioned how the previous seller and I have since become friends, we meet monthly to catch up with each other, laugh and enjoy time together.They smiled po...
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By Dorie Dillard Austin TX, NW Austin ~ Canyon Creek and Spicewood/Balcones
(Coldwell Banker Realty ~ 512.750.6899)
Wishing all my wonderful friends, clients, and neighbors a boo-tiful Halloween filled with giggles, good company, and plenty of sweet treats! May your night be filled with glowing pumpkins, magical moments, and just the right amount of spooky charm.As Robert Brault so perfectly said, "There is a child in every one of us who is still a trick-or-treater looking for a brightly-lit front porch."May that inner child shine tonight as porches glow, costumes dazzle, and joy fills the crisp autumn air. Whether you're handing out candy, strolling with little ghosts and goblins, or simply enjoying the festive spirit, I hope your evening is safe, memorable, and full of Halloween cheer. And if you’re thinking about making a move in Canyon Creek, I’d love to help you find the perfect place to call ho...
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By Dorie Dillard Austin TX, NW Austin ~ Canyon Creek and Spicewood/Balcones
(Coldwell Banker Realty ~ 512.750.6899)
El Arroyo stands as an iconic Austin gem, renowned for crafting the finest hand-squeezed margaritas and serving up delectable Black Angus beef tacos, among a plethora of other Tex-Mex delights, since 1975!Situated at the corner of West 5th and Campbell, this local favorite boasts a quirky marquee that captures attention. Daily, the billboard transforms with a fresh pun, spanning the spectrum of wit and humor, making it a delightful fixture at the heart of Austin's culinary scene. The laughter doesn't stop there—they share these puns on Instagram, drawing in admirers like our very own Kathy Streib, and Debe Maxwell, CRS, is also in on the fun. In a world where a daily chuckle is a necessity, following El Arroyo's Instagram for the latest pun is a shared joy.Wishing you endless smiles! Ha...
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By Dorie Dillard Austin TX, NW Austin ~ Canyon Creek and Spicewood/Balcones
(Coldwell Banker Realty ~ 512.750.6899)
Seventeen years! It’s hard to believe how quickly the time has passed since I first clicked “submit” on my very first ActiveRain post back on October 31, 2008. What began as a way to pivot my business during the uncertainty of the 2008 financial crisis has become one of the most rewarding and consistent parts of my real estate journey.Back then, I knew I needed a fresh way to connect, share, and stay visible in a shifting market. My son, John Dunham, and my dear friend and marketing rep from Austin Title, Roxanne Ford, gave me the encouragement I needed to jump in. Roxanne sat with me, helping fill out my profile and guiding me through those first nervous steps into the world of blogging. I still remember that Halloween day when I posted my first three blogs, full of excitement and nerv...
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By Dorie Dillard Austin TX, NW Austin ~ Canyon Creek and Spicewood/Balcones
(Coldwell Banker Realty ~ 512.750.6899)
My grandson’s mother-in-law is an incredible cook, author, she even spins her own yarn and fabrics, and she’s also a government judge! When I was sick, she filled my freezer with some of her favorite homemade dishes. Cooking and sharing food is truly her love language, and I’m so grateful to have been on the receiving end of her kindness.Yesterday was a hard day… my brother passed away after a brave fight with cancer. After many tears, I decided some comfort food was in order. I reached into my freezer for her turkey pot pie mixture, perfectly portioned and ready to bake. I tucked it into two store-bought crusts, popped it in the oven, and before long the house smelled like warmth and love.It was just what the doctor ordered. I thought I’d share her wonderful turkey pot pie recipe in ca...
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By Dorie Dillard Austin TX, NW Austin ~ Canyon Creek and Spicewood/Balcones
(Coldwell Banker Realty ~ 512.750.6899)
When my Geno passed, one of the things I made sure to do was take back all of his unused medications. It gave me peace knowing they wouldn’t end up in the wrong hands or cause harm. Many of us have old prescription bottles sitting in drawers or medicine cabinets, and National Prescription Drug Take Back Day is the perfect reminder to clear them out safely.This Saturday, October 25, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., law enforcement and healthcare partners across the Austin area, including Travis County and St. David’s HealthCare, will host free, anonymous collection events.Why It MattersMost people don’t realize that many abused prescription drugs come from friends or family, often right from home medicine cabinets. Disposing of medications properly helps keep them out of the wrong hands and...
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By Dorie Dillard Austin TX, NW Austin ~ Canyon Creek and Spicewood/Balcones
(Coldwell Banker Realty ~ 512.750.6899)
El Arroyo stands as an iconic Austin gem, renowned for crafting the finest hand-squeezed margaritas and serving up delectable Black Angus beef tacos, among a plethora of other Tex-Mex delights, since 1975!Situated at the corner of West 5th and Campbell, this local favorite boasts a quirky marquee that captures attention. Daily, the billboard transforms with a fresh pun, spanning the spectrum of wit and humor, making it a delightful fixture at the heart of Austin's culinary scene. The laughter doesn't stop there—they share these puns on Instagram, drawing in admirers like our very own Kathy Streib, and Debe Maxwell, CRS, is also in on the fun. In a world where a daily chuckle is a necessity, following El Arroyo's Instagram for the latest pun is a shared joy.Wishing you endless smiles! Ha...
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By Dorie Dillard Austin TX, NW Austin ~ Canyon Creek and Spicewood/Balcones
(Coldwell Banker Realty ~ 512.750.6899)
t’s that time of year again, our Canyon Creek Fall Festival is happening this Saturday, October 25th from 3–5 PM at the Pool and Activity Center (11401 Boulder Lane)! This is one of my favorite neighborhood traditions, and the Canyon Creek HOA always does such a wonderful job bringing everyone together to celebrate the season. Come enjoy an afternoon filled with laughter, treats, and plenty of fall fun!Here’s just a little of what’s waiting for you:🎃 Pumpkin painting & trick-or-treating fun🐐 An adorable petting zoo🎨 Craft stations for kids of all ages🍪 Yummy eats and sweet treats🏰 A bouncy house for the little ones🐴 Pony rides that always bring big smilesWhether you’ve just moved in or have been here for years, it’s the perfect time to catch up with neighbors, make new friends, and soa...
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By Dorie Dillard Austin TX, NW Austin ~ Canyon Creek and Spicewood/Balcones
(Coldwell Banker Realty ~ 512.750.6899)
You know those days when your schedule takes an unexpected turn? Today was one of them! I had to shuffle appointments around and ended up missing our Zoom meeting (and I was so looking forward to hearing Debe Maxwell, CRS share all about her beautiful State of North Carolina, (grrrr!).But life has a funny way of balancing things out. When I got back to the office, an email popped up from my past clients who recently moved back to France after 20 wonderful years in the U.S. I had the pleasure of helping them list and sell their Austin home before they began their new chapter abroad.They shared that life had been so hectic after the move that they completely forgot to send me a testimonial, but now that things have settled down, they wanted to make sure I received it.Here’s what they shar...
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By Dorie Dillard Austin TX, NW Austin ~ Canyon Creek and Spicewood/Balcones
(Coldwell Banker Realty ~ 512.750.6899)
It’s Formula 1 race weekend, that thrilling time of year when Austin roars to life as tens of thousands of fans pour in to cheer on some of the world’s best racecar drivers!But here’s the thing, you don’t have to snag a ticket or brave the crowds at Circuit of the Americas to feel the excitement. The city is full of watch parties and celebrations where you can soak up the high-octane energy, enjoy great food and drinks, and cheer on your favorite drivers surrounded by fellow fans.Here are a few fun ways to catch the action on Sunday, October 19, no trackside pass required:♦ Chivas x Codependent F1 Watch Party | 12–4 p.m.Race into Codependent Cocktails + Coffee for an unforgettable afternoon featuring an ice luge, champagne tower, and signature Chivas Scotch cocktails. Try your hand at t...
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By Dorie Dillard Austin TX, NW Austin ~ Canyon Creek and Spicewood/Balcones
(Coldwell Banker Realty ~ 512.750.6899)
I’m delighted to share that this stately two-story brick home at 10605 Marbury Court has officially SOLD!After going under contract in just 3 days, this beautiful home found its perfect match, a wonderful family who had been renting right here in Canyon Creek and knew immediately that this was “the one.”From Melissa’s well-attended Open House that drew in multiple interested buyers, to a smooth contract and seamless closing, everything fell into place perfectly for both parties. A big shout out to the Buyer’s Agent, Agustina Rios with Team Price Real Estate who was a pleasure to work with!This home’s peaceful cul-de-sac location, versatile 5-bedroom, 4-bath layout, and tranquil backyard retreat truly made it stand out.Congratulations to my sellers and to this sweet family as they begin ...
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By Dorie Dillard Austin TX, NW Austin ~ Canyon Creek and Spicewood/Balcones
(Coldwell Banker Realty ~ 512.750.6899)
I absolutely loved this week’s ActiveRain Zoom session with John Henry, Florida Architect on the Mediterranean Diet! His passion for the lifestyle and his upbringing in a culture that naturally embraced healthy, joyful eating really struck a chord with me.As I sit here enjoying my lunch, a couple slices of apple, a handful of pistachios, some yogurt, and half a banana, I’m smiling at how much I’ve already started to tweak my habits!John reminded me of my travels with my late husband, Geno, through Turkey, Greece, and other beautiful Mediterranean countries. We soaked up the culture, the seaside meals, and the long, laughter-filled lunches shared with friends and locals. It wasn’t just about the food, it was about connection, conversation, and slowing down to savor life. The energy was c...
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By Dorie Dillard Austin TX, NW Austin ~ Canyon Creek and Spicewood/Balcones
(Coldwell Banker Realty ~ 512.750.6899)
El Arroyo stands as an iconic Austin gem, renowned for crafting the finest hand-squeezed margaritas and serving up delectable Black Angus beef tacos, among a plethora of other Tex-Mex delights, since 1975!Situated at the corner of West 5th and Campbell, this local favorite boasts a quirky marquee that captures attention. Daily, the billboard transforms with a fresh pun, spanning the spectrum of wit and humor, making it a delightful fixture at the heart of Austin's culinary scene. The laughter doesn't stop there—they share these puns on Instagram, drawing in admirers like our very own Kathy Streib, and Debe Maxwell, CRS, is also in on the fun. In a world where a daily chuckle is a necessity, following El Arroyo's Instagram for the latest pun is a shared joy.Wishing you endless smiles! Ha...
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By Dorie Dillard Austin TX, NW Austin ~ Canyon Creek and Spicewood/Balcones
(Coldwell Banker Realty ~ 512.750.6899)
Scary season is upon us, and no one does Halloween quite like Austin! From haunted houses to pumpkin wonderlands, the Capital City knows how to bring the chills, thrills, and just the right amount of weird. (It’s no surprise Austin was named one of the most haunted cities in the U.S. last year!)So, if you’re brave enough to embrace the spooky spirit, here are some of Austin’s best Halloween haunts and happenings you won’t want to miss, that is, if you’re not a scaredy-cat…Pumpkin NightsNow–Sunday, Nov. 2 | Times vary | Pioneer Farms | $22+Step into a glowing world of over 7,500 hand-carved pumpkins! Wander through a half-mile trail of dazzling sculptures and whimsical displays that bring fall to life. It’s family-friendly, photo-worthy, and full of pumpkin spice magic.Uhland Fall FestNo...
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By Dorie Dillard Austin TX, NW Austin ~ Canyon Creek and Spicewood/Balcones
(Coldwell Banker Realty ~ 512.750.6899)
During our ActiveRain Zoom meeting this week, the assignment was to describe our dream listing and share five things we’d do to get it sold in a down market.Well… I decided to take a slightly different approach.You see, after 33 years in real estate, I’ve had many dream listings, and my goal is to make every listing a dream listing!Whether it’s a high-end luxury home, a cozy condo, or a first-time seller’s beloved starter home, each one deserves to be packaged, presented, and marketed like the one-of-a-kind product it is.Listing homes has always been my passion. I love helping sellers see their property through a buyer’s eyes, uncovering its best features, and developing a strategy to make it stand out.One of my favorite “dream listings” was a stunning home in Canyon Creek back in late ...
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By Dorie Dillard Austin TX, NW Austin ~ Canyon Creek and Spicewood/Balcones
(Coldwell Banker Realty ~ 512.750.6899)
September may have cooled off the summer heat, but our Coldwell Banker NW Austin office stayed red hot! I’m excited to share that I’ve once again earned a spot in the Million Dollar Club for the month of September 2025!This month, 19 talented agents reached or surpassed the million-dollar mark in listings, sales, or closings, a true testament to our commitment, teamwork, and adaptability in a market that continues to keep us on our toes.Yes, homes are selling, and strategy matters more than ever! The market may move at a different pace, but with the right pricing, presentation, and negotiation, success stories continue to unfold. Our office thrives on collaboration, staying informed through weekly market huddles, and anticipating what today’s buyers and sellers truly need.While the days...
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