Ask people what they love most about living in the Austin area, and you'll find as many answers as stars in the big Texas sky. For some, it's the Hill Country, with its gentle rolling slopes and beautiful vistas. For others, it's the lakes, the creeks, and the swimming holes that offer a delicious escape from the work-a-day world. Others claim that the real reason to live here is the culture, the arts, the laidback attitude. Remember this is Austin after all, "The Live Music Capital of the World." What most agree about is a love of the "Austintatious Lifestyle." Whether you are an Austin native or a recent transplant, Austin is a city of contrasts and tolerance where people feel welcome.

Finding a place to live is one of the most exciting experiences a newcomer to the Austin area can have. With the help of a trained real estate professional, those new to the area can be assured of making an informed decision about one of the most important investments ever made in their lives - the purchase of a home. Agents can be found through recommendations from friends, co-workers, family, or by contacting the local board of realtors to find a real estate professional in the area. Finding an agent and becoming educated about the Austin area and the amenities offered in the different neighborhoods being considered will go a long way toward making the house-hunting experience an enjoyable one.

"You want someone who knows all the neighborhoods, the schools, the extracurricular activities, and the tax bases of different school districts," says Calvin Chamness, real estate agent, developer and builder. "I'd like to think I'm an expert in most areas of the city because when it comes down to it, I know these neighborhoods like the back of my hand - I live in them, work in them, and drive through them every day. I'm a part of the community I serve."

Chamness says a knowledgeable agent can help homebuyers make an intelligent choice about that all-important subject - "location, location, location" - and select a community that will best suit the buyer's work needs and lifestyle. "With all of the new public transit routes and the new toll road expansions, it's very important to know how those transportation options are going to benefit you and your family," says Chamness. "Capital Metro's expanded service into new areas gives some terrific commuting options to those who want quiet suburban living but work in downtown Austin, while the new toll roads can help cut your drive time."

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