The Women’s Council of REALTORS® Austin recently hosted one of its most highly anticipated events of the year — the annual Purse Bingo fundraiser — and it was a tremendous success! The sold-out event brought together real estate professionals, community members and local supporters for an evening full of excitement, networking and giving back.
From the moment doors opened, the energy in the room reflected the camaraderie and generosity that have come to define Women’s Council gatherings. Guests enjoyed multiple rounds of bingo while competing for stunning designer purses and prizes throughout the night. The mix of friendly competition, lively conversation and shared purpose made the evening one to remember for everyone
in attendance.
More importantly, the event also served a meaningful purpose by supporting Hope Alliance, the evening’s featured charity. Attendees helped raise awareness and support for the organization’s mission of assisting individuals and families impacted by domestic violence and sexual assault. Hope Alliance has long served as a vital resource in Central Texas, providing emergency shelter, counseling and advocacy for survivors who turn to the organization in their most difficult moments. Partnering with a charity of this caliber underscored the Women’s Council’s commitment to using its platform to drive real impact beyond the real estate industry.
WCR Austin continues its mission of empowering and elevating professionals within the real estate industry through education, leadership development and strong community connections. From continuing education classes and expert panels to networking opportunities and community outreach events, the organization remains focused on helping industry professionals grow both personally and professionally. Members regularly point to the value of the relationships they build through the council — connections that translate into referrals, mentorships and lifelong friendships across the Austin real estate community.
The Austin chapter has built a reputation for programming that blends substance with experience. Whether members are gathering for a charitable evening like Purse Bingo, attending a market update from a respected economist or sharpening their professional skills in a designation course, the council consistently delivers events worth showing up for. That reputation has helped the chapter draw both seasoned REALTORS and newer agents looking to invest in their careers.
The next event will take place on June 2 at Corridor Title. Attendees will have the opportunity to hear from Carl Pikus with IPX 1031 Exchange as he presents an informative class covering all things related to 1031 exchanges. This educational event is designed to provide valuable insights for real estate professionals looking to better serve their clients and expand their industry knowledge.
For those unfamiliar, a 1031 exchange is a tax-deferral strategy that allows investors to sell one investment property and reinvest the proceeds into another like-kind property without immediately paying capital gains taxes. Understanding the timelines, identification rules and qualifying properties involved in a 1031 exchange can be the difference between a smooth transaction and a costly misstep for clients. Pikus’s session will give REALTORS the working knowledge they need to recognize when an exchange may benefit a client
and to confidently coordinate with a
qualified intermediary.
The program is especially timely given current market conditions in Texas, where investor activity continues to play a meaningful role in both residential and small commercial transactions. Agents who understand 1031 exchanges position themselves as more valuable advisors and often unlock repeat business from investor clients who appreciate working with someone fluent in the strategy.
The Austin chapter’s calendar continues throughout the year with a steady mix of educational programming, community service and signature social events. Members and prospective members are encouraged to watch for upcoming announcements, as several additional offerings are already in development for the second half of 2026. New faces are welcome at every event, and the council prides itself on creating an environment where first-time attendees feel just as connected as
longtime members.
If you would like to learn more about the WCR Austin, upcoming events or membership opportunities, reach out to Sherri Monroe, 2026 president of the WCR Austin Chapter, and be sure to follow the organization on social media for the latest updates.
