by Tawanna Verock | Aug 14, 2025 | Editor's Choice
The real estate industry has long faced its share of risks — from physical safety concerns during showings to wire fraud attempts during closings. In recent years, a new and highly sophisticated danger has emerged: “pig butchering” cryptocurrency scams. These schemes have already cost real estate professionals more than $15 million, exploiting their trust, high-value transactions, and limited familiarity with cryptocurrency.
The name “pig butchering” comes from the way scammers operate: they “fatten up” their victims by gaining trust over weeks or months, gradually convincing them to invest more money into fraudulent cryptocurrency schemes. The scammers showcase fake profits to make the investment seem safe, then abruptly disappear with the funds once the victim is heavily invested.
According to the U.S. Secret Service, more than 60 agents nationwide have already been swindled out of a combined $15 million. These scams don’t just empty bank accounts—they exploit trust and damage reputations. Fraudsters often pose as luxury cash buyers or high-net-worth investors, targeting agents through MLS listings, professional websites, or social media. Once a relationship is established, they use a blend of technology, psychological manipulation, and fake financial tools to execute their plan.
This guide will help you recognize the warning signs, understand the tactics scammers use, and implement proactive measures to protect yourself, your clients, and your business.
How Pig Butchering Scams Target Real Estate Agents
Scammers rarely rush. They often start with casual, professional contact—an inquiry about a listing, a social media connection request, or even a “wrong number” text. They present themselves as knowledgeable in both real estate and cryptocurrency, building credibility over time. Early conversations may seem harmless, but they slowly introduce the idea of cryptocurrency investment. They may offer to share “insider opportunities” or boast about past returns, showing fabricated screenshots of accounts growing in value.
Because real estate deals involve large sums of money, scammers can integrate their fraud into what seems like a legitimate transaction. They may suggest that part of the payment be made in cryptocurrency for tax purposes or to speed up international transfers. Some use property transactions to launder illicit funds, quickly moving cryptocurrency through decentralized finance platforms, privacy coins, and mixers to erase the trail.
A common tactic is to direct victims to a fraudulent trading platform. These sites are designed to look legitimate, complete with realistic dashboards and transaction histories. Victims see their “investments” grow and may even be able to withdraw small amounts early on. But when they try to take out larger sums, they face endless excuses, hidden fees, or outright refusal.
Scammers often enlist intermediaries, or “money mules,” to transfer stolen funds. These individuals may be unwitting participants recruited through fake job ads or may knowingly aid the operation. By passing money through multiple accounts, scammers make it harder for law enforcement to track.
High-pressure sales tactics are common. Scammers may create a sense of urgency, insisting that the opportunity will disappear if the agent doesn’t act quickly. They might appeal to emotions, friendship, or fear of missing out. In extreme cases, victims have been persuaded to liquidate retirement accounts or take on debt to invest.
Recognizing Red Flags
Understanding the warning signs can stop a scam before it starts. One of the most common is an unsolicited investment offer, especially one involving cryptocurrency. Another is a request to complete all or part of a real estate transaction in cryptocurrency, which is still rare in most markets. Sudden high-value transactions that don’t match a client’s prior behavior should raise concerns, as should refusals to provide documentation or vague answers about the source of funds. Any transaction involving privacy coins or mixers—tools used to conceal the flow of funds—should also be treated with extreme caution.
Agents should approach any of these signs with skepticism and conduct thorough due diligence before moving forward.
Building Your Defenses
A strong defense begins with good digital hygiene. Real estate professionals should use unique, complex passwords for all accounts and enable multi-factor authentication to add another layer of security. Devices and software should be kept up-to-date to close vulnerabilities that scammers might exploit. Sensitive work should never be conducted over public Wi-Fi unless connected through a virtual private network. Encrypting files and communications further protects them from interception.
Vetting clients and opportunities is just as critical. Before engaging in significant transactions, agents should verify identities and conduct background checks. They should be cautious of unsolicited investment pitches, research any recommended cryptocurrency platforms for legitimacy, and request proof of funds along with supporting documentation. Many scammers count on agents skipping these verification steps.
Strong internal safeguards also play a role in prevention. Every brokerage should have a written cybersecurity policy outlining best practices for handling sensitive data and responding to suspicious activity. Regular training keeps scam awareness fresh, and simulated phishing or social engineering tests can reinforce the lessons. Transaction monitoring tools can help detect unusual activity, such as sudden requests for cryptocurrency transfers. And when something does go wrong, a clear incident response plan ensures affected systems are isolated, stakeholders are notified, and the matter is reported to authorities quickly.
Leveraging technology can further strengthen protection. AI-powered tools can detect suspicious patterns in communications or transactions, and blockchain verification services can confirm the authenticity of cryptocurrency activity. Secure, encrypted communication platforms help safeguard sensitive conversations, while biometric identity verification adds another layer of security for system access or transaction approvals.
Finally, collaboration and reporting are essential. Maintaining relationships with local law enforcement and cybercrime units ensures agents can access support and guidance when needed. Participating in professional networks and industry forums helps agents stay informed about new scam tactics. Prompt reporting of suspicious activity increases the likelihood of recovery, and supporting industry-wide efforts to strengthen regulations helps make the market safer for everyone.
If You’ve Been Targeted or Victimized
Even with strong safeguards, no one is immune. If you suspect you’ve been targeted or have already sent funds, speed is critical. File a complaint with the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center and contact your local U.S. Secret Service field office. Work with your bank or payment processor to submit a suspicious activity report, and notify your state’s financial or securities regulator.
Recovery can be challenging, but there are options. An attorney who specializes in cryptocurrency fraud can help navigate legal remedies, and blockchain analysis services may trace stolen funds. Some professional liability policies offer cybercrime coverage, and in rare cases, law enforcement agencies recover stolen funds and create victim compensation programs.
It’s equally important to address the emotional impact. Scams can cause significant stress, guilt, or embarrassment. Confidential counseling, peer support groups, and victim advocacy organizations can help restore confidence and provide practical resources for moving forward.
Key Takeaways for Prevention
The most effective protection against pig butchering scams comes from vigilance and deliberate action. Never rush into cryptocurrency transactions, no matter how legitimate they appear. Always verify identities using independent methods, and document every step of the process, from proof of funds to signed agreements. Stay informed about emerging scam tactics, and report suspicious activity promptly to help protect others in the industry.
Pig butchering cryptocurrency scams represent one of the fastest-growing threats to real estate professionals. They are sophisticated, patient, and tailored to exploit the trust that agents often extend to new clients. The stakes are high—not just financially, but professionally and emotionally. A single scam can drain an agent’s resources, damage their reputation, and erode client confidence.
However, with awareness, strong cybersecurity measures, and a commitment to thorough verification, agents can significantly reduce their vulnerability. Staying informed, using the right tools, and collaborating within the real estate community can protect both professionals and clients. The key is to remain alert, trust your instincts, and never let the lure of quick returns override the need for careful due diligence.
by Tawanna Verock | Jul 14, 2025 | Editor's Choice
Home design in 2025 is taking a meaningful turn. It’s no longer just about what looks good—it’s about how spaces support everyday life. Homeowners are getting more intentional, shaping environments that reflect their personalities, habits and values. Whether it’s bold paint colors, eco-friendly furniture or a quiet corner carved out for meditation, the goal is the same: to create a space that feels like home in every sense of the word.
REALTORS® and designers are noticing the change. Buyers are thinking beyond square footage and countertops. They’re drawn to homes that feel personal, comfortable and built to last. According to the National Association of REALTORS®, design is playing a bigger role than ever in the decision-making process—especially in competitive markets where a well-styled, functional space can really stand out.
So what’s defining home design in 2025? Think timeless charm paired with fresh, inspired ideas that embrace how we actually live now.
A Richer Take on Color and Materials
Gone are the days of beige-on-beige. This year, bold, moody tones are having a moment. Think forest green, deep navy, and wine-soaked burgundy showing up on walls, ceilings, cabinets—even furniture. These dramatic hues bring a sense of depth and coziness, and homeowners are embracing them with confidence.
Small spaces like powder rooms and reading nooks are getting in on the action, proving you don’t need a massive room to make a bold design move.
Another standout trend: *material drenching*. This approach uses one material—such as wood, velvet or marble—throughout an entire space to create a sense of cohesion and luxury. It’s not about contrast anymore—it’s about texture, tone and subtle layers that make a room feel intentional and immersive.
Tactile design is also taking center stage. Grasscloth wallpaper, limewash finishes, reclaimed wood and even decorative ceiling treatments are adding dimension in surprising ways. The goal? Make every surface feel like it matters.
Sustainable, Comfortable, and Full of Character
Furniture is getting a rethink, too. Shoppers are steering away from mass-produced, short-lived pieces and leaning into quality items that are made to last. Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a guiding principle. More homeowners are choosing furniture made from reclaimed wood, responsibly sourced materials or vintage finds that come with a story.
Curves are everywhere in 2025. Sofas with soft edges, rounded tables, scalloped headboards and arched doorways are giving homes a more relaxed and organic flow. This softer aesthetic brings a sense of ease and comfort to everyday living.
Interestingly, the blending of old and new is also on the rise. Think antique-inspired furniture mixed with sleek, modern fixtures or historic moldings paired with contemporary art. The result? A lived-in, collected look that feels warm, layered and personal—never cookie-cutter.
Wellness Is at the Heart of Every Room
Design in 2025 goes beyond beauty—it’s about feeling good in your space. That’s why wellness continues to be a major design influence. From serene color palettes to biophilic touches, homes are being shaped to support both mental and physical health.
Dedicated wellness spaces are becoming more common, from entire meditation rooms to simple nooks with a cozy chair and soft lighting. Whether it’s a place to stretch, read, journal or just breathe, homeowners are carving out areas that encourage rest and restoration.
Natural materials like cork, bamboo and stone help ground a space, while plants, calming scents and fresh air improve the environment. Lighting is also being prioritized. Sunlight, skylights and warm-toned fixtures are helping people stay in sync with natural rhythms and boost overall well-being.
In Texas especially, indoor-outdoor living continues to thrive. Thanks to a favorable climate, outdoor areas are becoming true extensions of the home. Retractable walls, oversized sliding doors, and open-air kitchens make it easy to blur the lines between inside and out.
And these outdoor spaces are being thoughtfully designed—complete with lounge areas, dining zones, stylish lighting and plush furniture that invites you to stay awhile.
Design That Feels Like You
If there’s one philosophy shaping design in 2025, it’s this: Homes should feel like the people who live in them. That means saying goodbye to sterile, overly curated spaces and hello to rooms that feel joyful, lived-in and uniquely personal.
A playful spirit is emerging in the form of fringe, embroidery, colorful ceramics and vintage finds that bring a little spark to everyday corners. Maybe it’s a bright rug in an otherwise neutral hallway or a quirky lamp beside a classic armchair—those unexpected touches are what make a house feel like home.
While open floor plans are still popular, homeowners are rethinking how these spaces function. Flexibility is key. A dining area that doubles as a home office or a guest room that moonlights as a hobby studio? That’s the new normal. Today’s layouts are designed to adapt as life changes—not the other way around.
It’s not just about making things look good. It’s about building a space that supports everything you do—from working and relaxing to entertaining and unwinding.
REALTORS® and Design: A Growing Collaboration
Design has always played a role in selling homes, but in 2025, it’s become a major selling point. REALTORS® are working more closely with designers, stagers and builders to highlight a home’s potential—and help sellers make smart updates that resonate with today’s buyers.
It doesn’t take a full remodel to make an impact. Even simple changes—like a fresh coat of paint in a trending shade, updated light fixtures, or a thoughtfully styled wellness corner—can elevate the feel of a space and leave a lasting impression.
In markets like Austin and surrounding areas, where design-savvy buyers are everywhere, these touches can make or break a deal. Being able to visualize a lifestyle—not just a layout—helps buyers connect emotionally with a property.
New construction homes are getting on board, too. Builders are offering more customizable design packages, allowing buyers to choose finishes and features that suit their personal style right from the start.
Feel at Home—Truly
The common thread through all these trends? Humanity. The homes of 2025 are built around how people want to “feel”: comfortable, connected, relaxed and inspired.
Homeowners are asking more from their spaces. They want beauty, yes—but also purpose, meaning and adaptability. They want homes that work with them, not against them. Spaces that feel just right for quiet mornings, lively dinners, work-from-home days and everything in between.
So whether you’re buying, building or simply refreshing your space, remember: design isn’t about perfection. It’s about creating a home that welcomes you exactly as you are. And in 2025, that’s the most stylish thing of all.
by Tawanna Verock | May 27, 2025 | Uncategorized
by Tawanna Verock | Mar 14, 2025 | Editor's Choice
Austin’s housing market reflects many of the same trends seen nationally, with buyers placing high value on certain amenities and home features. Recent research from REALTOR® organizations and local Austin brokers highlights a shift in buyer preferences toward energy efficiency, smart home technology, enhanced outdoor living, and flexible spaces for work and leisure. Below is an overview of common amenities in listings, emerging trends, and key shifts in what Austin homebuyers are looking for, supported by data and statistics.
Common Amenities in Listings
Core features – Many staple amenities appear in most single-family home listings. National surveys show buyers prioritize quality and functionality over sheer size. In fact, as the average new home size has slightly decreased (2,479 square feet in 2023, the lowest in 13 years), buyers are willing to sacrifice square footage if it means getting the features they want. According to the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), 80% or more of home shoppers rate the following amenities as “essential” or “desirable”:
• Laundry room – A dedicated space for a washer and dryer (a top-requested feature).
• Patio or deck – Outdoor area for entertaining and relaxation.
• Energy-efficient windows – Energy Star-rated windows for better insulation.
• Exterior lighting and ceiling fans – Adequate outdoor lighting and ceiling fans, important for comfort, especially in warm climates.
• Storage space – Garage storage and walk-in pantries to accommodate family needs.
• Front porch and landscaping – Welcoming front porches and well-maintained yards for curb appeal.
• Main-floor bathroom – A full bathroom on the main level for convenience.
These basic features are extremely common in Austin listings. Air conditioning, in particular, is virtually a given in Texas and has become the single most important home feature for buyers nationwide—83% of buyers say A/C is “very important,” ranking it above any other home characteristic, even higher than staying within budget. Modern kitchens with islands and updated bathrooms also remain strong selling points, but increasingly, buyers expect homes to come with added touches and technology that enhance comfort and efficiency. This has led sellers and builders to highlight new types of amenities in their listings.
Energy-Efficient and Sustainable Features
Green upgrades are in high demand as Austin buyers grow more eco-conscious and mindful of energy costs. Energy-efficient improvements not only appeal to environmentally minded buyers but also promise lower utility bills, a big plus in the Texas heat. About 33% of recent homebuyers say heating and cooling costs are a “very important” factor in their purchase, the top-rated environmental consideration, and 31% say the same about energy-efficient windows, doors, and siding. In Texas, builders have taken note: Many new developments focus on sustainable construction and energy-efficient homes to cater to eco-conscious buyers. Common green features now touted in listings include high-performance insulation, Low-E windows, and Energy Star-rated appliances, all of which ranked among the top amenities desired by more than 80% of buyers in the NAHB survey.
Austin’s abundant sunshine is also driving interest in solar power. What used to be a niche upgrade is becoming mainstream; local Austin brokers report that solar panels are increasingly expected rather than optional. Homes with solar energy systems not only reduce monthly energy bills but signal a commitment to sustainability that resonates with today’s buyers. While only about 5% of buyers nationally considered solar panels a “very important” home feature as of 2022, this share may grow as solar technology becomes more affordable and Texas homeowners recall power grid challenges from recent years. Overall, investing in green amenities can pay off. One analysis found that energy-saving and smart home improvements can boost a home’s value by 3% to 5% on resale, underscoring how sought-after these features have become.
Smart Home Technology
High-tech amenities have moved from luxury to must-have for a growing segment of homebuyers. Austin’s tech-savvy population and the prevalence of remote work mean smart home technology is often expected in mid- to high-end listings. A recent National Association of REALTORS® study noted that 40% of homebuyers now actively look for smart home features during their search, and this demand is even higher in tech hubs like Austin. Buyers are looking for homes that can keep up with a modern, connected lifestyle. Popular smart amenities include:
• Smart thermostats – Programmable thermostats, often smartphone-controlled, to optimize comfort and energy use during Texas’ sweltering summers.
• Advanced security systems – Wi-Fi-enabled security cameras, video doorbells, and smart locks for peace of mind. Security cameras and video doorbells are among the fastest-growing home features over the past decade.
• Voice-activated controls – Voice assistants like Alexa and Google Home integrated to manage lighting, speakers, and appliances hands-free.
• Whole-home automation – Central hubs that connect lighting, HVAC, and even smart irrigation systems, allowing homeowners to monitor and control their property remotely.
Buyers see these technologies as adding both convenience and resale value. REALTORS® report that many clients aren’t just willing to invest in smart home tech—they expect it. Homes with extensive smart features can command a price premium. For example, smart security and climate control features help a home stand out; one survey of REALTORS® found that more than 40% had clients specifically interested in smart devices such as locks, lights, and thermostats as part of their home search. In Texas, where managing heat and storms is part of life, buyers appreciate tech like multi-zone HVAC systems and energy management systems that keep the home comfortable efficiently.
Outdoor Living Spaces
Outdoor amenities have taken on new importance, especially after the pandemic reinforced the value of having private outdoor space. In Austin’s mild winter and hot summer climate, features that enhance outdoor enjoyment are big selling points. Spacious yards, decks and patios, swimming pools, and outdoor kitchens are commonly highlighted in listings to entice buyers seeking an indoor-outdoor lifestyle. Zillow research confirms that buyers are willing to pay a premium for well-appointed outdoor spaces—homes advertising features like an outdoor kitchen, built-in grill, or pizza oven fetched about 2% more than otherwise similar homes.
Local market insights show that after 2020, Austin homebuyers increasingly prioritized space and fresh air. Properties with larger yards, pools, or proximity to parks saw heightened demand as remote workers sought more breathing room. Today, it’s common for listings to highlight decks, outdoor kitchens, and even sustainable landscaping with drought-resistant plants, allowing homeowners to maximize outdoor living while minimizing maintenance. In Central Texas, a pool can be a major attraction, especially if paired with energy-efficient pumps or solar heaters to keep operating costs down.
Home Offices and Flexible Spaces
The rise of remote and hybrid work has made home office space one of the most sought-after amenities in recent years. Austin’s large tech and professional workforce amplifies this trend. Many buyers now insist on a dedicated, productive workspace at home. A National Association of Home Builders survey found that nearly one in four buyers called a home office essential. Real estate data showed that homes advertising a defined office sold for about 3.4% more on average—over $12,000 on a median-priced home—and about nine days faster than comparable homes without one.
Austin’s single-family home listings are evolving to meet modern preferences. Buyers want efficiency, connectivity, and lifestyle flexibility, and homes that check these boxes are in the highest demand.
by Tawanna Verock | Jan 16, 2025 | Editor's Choice
The landscape of housing in Texas has undergone a significant transformation in recent years, marking a pivotal shift in the state’s real estate dynamics. Once lauded for its affordability and accessibility, Texas is now grappling with rising costs that have made both buying and renting homes increasingly challenging for many residents. The economic prosperity that has characterized Texas, fueled by a booming job market and an influx of new residents, has inadvertently contributed to this issue. With housing prices surging across the state, many families find themselves struggling to keep up with escalating expenses, raising concerns about the long-term sustainability of the housing market.
The Current Housing Crisis
Recent data highlights a staggering deficit in the housing market, with an estimated need for an additional 320,000 homes in Texas. This shortfall, as identified by the housing policy group Up for Growth, is a key driver behind the escalating home prices and rental rates affecting communities statewide. Despite Texas leading the nation in new home construction, the overwhelming demand, combined with a limited supply of available properties, has sent housing costs soaring to unprecedented levels. As a result, many residents are being pushed into less desirable living conditions or are forced to relocate to areas farther from their workplaces, exacerbating the challenges of commuting and quality of life.
Legislative Responses on the Horizon
As Texas lawmakers prepare to convene in Austin for the upcoming legislative session, addressing the housing crisis is likely to be a top priority. Experts in real estate, urban planning, and housing advocacy are urging legislators to take decisive action to remedy the shortage and stabilize rising costs. The pressure to find workable solutions is mounting as community leaders and residents alike recognize the urgency of the situation.
Scott Norman, CEO of the Texas Association of Builders, emphasizes the critical nature of addressing this housing deficit, stating: “Our population is going to continue to increase in the next 30, 40 years. All of those people have to live somewhere.” This forward-looking perspective underscores the importance of proactive measures to ensure that Texas remains a viable option for future generations.
Revisiting Zoning Regulations
One significant avenue for reform lies in zoning regulations. Cities currently impose strict rules governing what types of homes can be built and where, often stifling development and innovation in housing solutions. Research suggests that easing these regulations could lead to a substantial boost in housing supply and help contain costs, making homes more accessible to a wider range of buyers and renters.
In 2023, lawmakers attempted to address this issue but faced setbacks due to pushback from various stakeholders. However, there is cautious optimism that proposals to revisit zoning laws will re-emerge in legislative discussions. State Sen. Paul Bettencourt highlights the need to eliminate regulatory hurdles, stating: “The starting point is to make sure that we don’t have obstacles like regulatory issues and local government that are making things worse.” By streamlining the approval processes and encouraging more flexible zoning practices, Texas could pave the way for a more vibrant and diverse housing market.
Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)
Another proposal that may be revived involves accessory dwelling units (ADUs), often referred to as granny flats or mother-in-law suites. These smaller, typically less expensive housing options could provide much-needed relief for homeowners looking to maximize their properties while also contributing to the overall housing supply. Despite previous attempts to pass legislation supporting the development of ADUs facing defeat, lawmakers such as State Sens. Bryan Hughes and Cody Vasut are reintroducing similar measures with renewed determination. The potential benefits of ADUs include not only increased housing availability but also enhanced intergenerational living arrangements, which can foster community cohesion.
Land Use and Lot Size Adjustments
State lawmakers are also considering modifying minimum lot-size requirements that currently dictate the amount of land necessary for single-family homes. These regulations can inflate housing costs by limiting the number of homes that can be developed in a given area. Vasut’s proposal aims to reduce the minimum lot sizes to 2,500 square feet, but only in larger cities, potentially fostering greater development flexibility and enabling more compact, affordable housing options.
The Debate Over Neighborhood Character
As discussions progress, a contentious issue arises regarding whether to apply these housing reforms in predominantly single-family neighborhoods. While many Texas cities favor standalone homes, there is resistance to introducing denser housing options, such as townhomes or duplexes, which could alleviate some of the pressure on the housing market. Proposals to allow alternative housing types in these areas often face opposition from existing homeowners, who express concerns over neighborhood character, property values, and the potential for increased traffic and congestion.
State Rep. Carl Tepper’s bill aims to protect single-family zones from such changes, reflecting the ongoing struggle between local control and the necessity for increased housing density. This debate encapsulates broader societal tensions regarding growth, community identity, and economic equity, emphasizing the complexity of the housing dilemma in Texas.
Broader Housing Strategies
Beyond zoning adjustments, lawmakers are exploring additional strategies to alleviate the housing crunch. The Texas Legislature is likely to consider a range of proposals aimed at addressing the multifaceted challenges of the housing market, including:
– Speeding up building permits to expedite housing development and reduce the time it takes to bring new homes to market.
– Addressing the impact of institutional investors on the housing market, as concerns rise over their influence on affordability and access to homes for average families.
– Initiatives focused on increasing housing availability for low-income families, a pressing need that has historically been overlooked but is now gaining traction in legislative discussions.
State Sens. Nathan Johnson and Royce West have introduced bills targeting the construction of affordable housing, signaling a push toward inclusivity in housing development. These efforts aim to ensure that a diverse range of housing options is available to all Texans, regardless of income level, and to promote equitable access to housing.
As Texas navigates its housing crisis, the upcoming legislative session presents both challenges and opportunities for meaningful change. The need for innovative solutions is urgent as the state’s economic growth continues to attract new residents seeking better opportunities. Balancing the interests of current homeowners with the pressing need for diverse housing options will be crucial in shaping a sustainable future for Texas’s housing market. The outcome of these discussions will likely have lasting implications for the state’s affordability, livability, and overall quality of life in the years to come. As stakeholders from various sectors come together to address this critical issue, the hope is that Texas can emerge with a housing strategy that meets the needs of its diverse population while preserving the unique character and charm that make the state so appealing.
