by Brandy Wuensch | Aug 14, 2025 | Austin Board of REALTORS
If you’re in the real estate industry or simply want to understand the forces shaping Central Texas’ housing market, I hope you’ll make plans to join me at the Central Texas Housing Summit on Sept. 10 at the Austin Board of REALTORS® (ABoR) headquarters.
Hosted by Unlock MLS and ABoR, the Central Texas Housing Summit will be a high-impact morning packed with insights, stats, networking and announcements. Whether you are an agent, broker, investor or housing advocate, you’ll walk away with timely data, expert perspectives and plenty of tools you can use right away to elevate your business. This event is open to both ABoR members and nonmembers.
What to Expect at the Summit
This year’s event will feature a powerful lineup of speakers and panels providing insights into the region’s housing market and beyond. Doors will open at 9 a.m. with breakfast and networking to connect with peers, industry leaders and community partners. Here are some programming highlights to look forward to:
• Kicking off the main program at 9:30 a.m., you’ll hear from Danielle Hale, chief economist at Realtor.com, who will provide a national economic outlook that zooms in on what buyers and sellers can expect in the months ahead.
• Unlock MLS market research advisor Vaike O’Grady will provide an in-depth, hyperlocal look at the Central Texas housing market. She will dive into what’s shifting, what’s holding and what it all means for your clients.
• Next up will be a dynamic panel discussion on city trends and their impact on real estate. This session will bring together key voices to discuss everything from infrastructure and zoning to affordability and development.
• Attendees will also get a first look at the latest Unlock MLS Research Buy vs. Rent Index Report and have the opportunity to learn about a new and exciting ABoR member benefit.
• After the main programming ends, stick around for smaller breakout sessions with panelists and staff. This is your chance to ask questions and dive deeper into topics that interest you.
I hope to see you there! For more information or to register, visit unlockmls.com/housingsummit.
Last Chance to Reset & Rise – Summer Series
Ends Sept. 8!
Our Reset & Rise Summer Series is coming to an end soon, but we still have three opportunities for you to step into fall with a refreshed mindset and tools to succeed!
Sept. 3 | Mindset-Reset
This course empowers real estate professionals to master a success-driven mindset through practical strategies, resilience-building and personal development techniques. In today’s ever-changing market, having a strong, resilient mindset is essential for navigating uncertainty, maintaining confidence and achieving long-term growth.
Sept. 5 | MLS Open Lab
Your Unlock MLS subscription provides you access to many amazing MLS products such as Matrix, Omni MLS and Transaction Desk. Need some hands-on help navigating these tools? Join us for this informal, workshop-style training session. Bring any and all MLS questions—this Open Lab will cover what you and other attendees want to learn.
Sept. 8 | Psychology of Sales and Negotiation
This course provides a powerful, easy-to-follow model for building strong, efficient and lasting client relationships. You’ll gain essential skills for negotiating and selling to various personality types, whether you’re working with clients or fellow agents. It’s everything you need to stand out, close more deals and grow your business with confidence.
Attend Three Sessions for a Chance to Win
By attending three or more Reset & Rise Summer Series sessions, you’re eligible to enter a giveaway for a \$250 Amazon gift card! If you haven’t attended a session, this is your last chance. Register now for these sessions at unlockmls.com/SummerSeries!
by Brandy Wuensch | Jul 11, 2025 | Austin Board of REALTORS
As REALTORS®, we are not only market experts, but also community advocates committed to making homeownership more accessible and sustainable. In 2025, our advocacy efforts have taken center stage, driving policies that address housing shortages, affordability barriers, and property tax relief—at every level of government.
That’s why I am proud that REALTORS® and our national, state, and local Advocacy teams are working hard with elected officials at all levels of government to increase housing inventory, improve access to affordable homeownership, and address overall housing costs. Here’s a recap of the progress we’ve seen at the federal, state, and local level in 2025.
Federal Advocacy: REALTOR® Impact in Washington, D.C.
In June, ABoR members joined thousands of REALTORS® at NAR’s 2025 Legislative Meetings to advocate for key housing legislation, including:
• More Homes on the Market Act (H.R. 1340): Incentivizes long-term homeowners to sell, increasing housing inventory.
• Housing Supply Framework Act (H.R. 2840/S. 1299): Reduces development barriers nationwide.
• Revitalizing Downtowns and Main Streets Act (H.R. 2410): Encourages residential use of underutilized commercial spaces.
• Uplifting First-Time Homebuyers Act (H.R. 3526): Expands IRA withdrawal options for first-time homebuyers.
• Fair and Equal Housing Act: Codifies protections for LGBTQ+ individuals in housing.
State Advocacy: REALTOR® Wins at the Texas Capitol
The 89th Texas Legislature delivered major wins with 60 REALTOR®-supported bills signed into law. In March, over 150 ABoR members joined 3,000 REALTORS® statewide for REALTOR® Day at the Capitol, advocating for tax relief and housing affordability.
Key legislative victories include:
Property Tax Relief:
• SB 4: Raises the Homestead Exemption from $100K to $140K (Proposition 13).
• SB 23: Increases the senior/disabled exemption from $10K to $60K (Proposition 11).
• HB 9: Boosts the business personal property exemption from $2,500 to $125,000 (Proposition 9).
Housing Affordability:
• SB 15: Limits large cities from requiring residential lot sizes above 3,000 sq. ft.
• SB 840: Allows residential and mixed-use development “by-right” on commercial land in large cities.
• HB 24: Streamlines zoning change processes, enabling more housing options.
Local Advocacy: ABoR in Action Across
Central Texas
REALTOR® Advocacy happens daily—not just at the Capitol, but in City Halls and County Courts. ABoR remains a strong voice for local policies that promote housing affordability and growth.
This spring, ABoR supported a successful initiative by the Austin City Council to streamline site plan reviews for “missing middle” housing (5–16 units), easing costly drainage requirements and accelerating housing production.
We also empowered homeowners by hosting four free property tax protest workshops and launched our Property Protest Hub (UnlockMLS.com/PropertyProtest), helping hundreds of residents in person and more than 570 online navigate their appraisals and appeals.
Moving Forward Together
Our mission is clear: Increase housing supply, support existing homeowners, and make sure everyone has a fair shot at the American Dream. That includes ensuring fixed-income residents can stay in their homes and that families of all income levels can buy into the Central Texas market.
We’ve made tremendous progress—but the work isn’t done. Our advocacy is only as strong as our members’ participation. Whether you’re meeting with lawmakers, sharing your story, or volunteering your time, your voice matters.
Want to join me and get involved? Contact ABoR’s Advocacy team at advocacy@abor.com or visit UnlockMLS.com/Advocacy. Together, we can shape policies that protect homeownership and create opportunities for generations to come.
by Brandy Wuensch | Mar 14, 2025 | Austin Board of REALTORS
The real estate industry is more than just transactions—it’s about relationships, advocacy, education, and continuous growth. That’s why this month’s column focuses on ABoR Communities and how you can get involved.
Being active in ABoR Communities has been one of the best career moves I’ve made. It has helped me expand my network, develop leadership skills, and make a lasting impact. I encourage every ABoR member to explore how these communities can help shape their careers—and to actively participate in the conversations that strengthen our association and profession.
Curious about which community might be the best fit for you? Here’s a look at each of our communities and their work:
Global
In today’s market, real estate has no borders. The ABoR Global community connects agents with international opportunities, education, and networking to help navigate the complexities of global transactions. From cross-border investments to cultural training, ABoR Global broadens your scope beyond local markets. Learn more at UnlockMLS.com/Global.
Upcoming event: Join ABoR Global on March 27 for Choose Your Brew with Ireland, a dynamic event aimed at fostering global connections and celebrating the strong partnership between Ireland and the United States. Register at UnlockMLS.com/Classes-and-Events.
Foundation
The ABoR Foundation supports REALTORS® and the community through scholarships, disaster relief, and service initiatives. Getting involved strengthens local communities and connects you with a network of service-driven professionals. Learn more at UnlockMLS.com/Foundation.
Advocacy and Government Affairs
A thriving real estate industry relies on strong policy and representation. ABoR’s advocacy initiatives keep you informed about legislative changes, connect you with policymakers, and empower you to be a voice for homeownership and property rights. Whether through TREPAC or grassroots efforts, this community ensures REALTORS® remain at the forefront of industry advocacy. Learn more at UnlockMLS.com/Advocacy.
Upcoming event: REALTORS® from across Texas will gather at the Capitol on March 26 for REALTOR® Day at the Capitol. Register now at UnlockMLS.com/RealtorDay to see advocacy in action firsthand.
Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging
Real estate is for everyone. ABoR’s Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging initiatives foster an industry that reflects and serves the entire community. From fair housing education to leadership programs, this community is dedicated to equity, accessibility, and ensuring every agent has the opportunity to succeed. Learn more at UnlockMLS.com/Belonging.
ABoR Young Professionals Network (YPN)
Looking to accelerate your career and build meaningful connections? ABoR YPN is the place to be. Designed for up-and-coming REALTORS®, YPN provides mentorship, networking, and educational events tailored for those early in their careers. But don’t let the name fool you—this community is open to professionals of all experience levels.
Upcoming event: Join ABoR YPN on March 31 for a conversation with top influencers and social media professionals. Get tips and tricks from local experts to build your social media brand. Register at UnlockMLS.com/Classes-and-Events.
ABoR Strategic Partners
Success in real estate is about more than skills—it’s also about who you know. ABoR collaborates with local chapters of real estate organizations to offer professional development, networking, and advocacy opportunities. Each strategic partner holds a seat on the Diversity Committee, helping create initiatives that advance diversity, equity, and inclusion in our association, community, and industry. Learn more at UnlockMLS.com/StrategicPartners.
Invest in Yourself and Your Career: Get Involved!
Joining an ABoR Community is more than an investment in your career—it’s a commitment to lifelong learning, industry excellence, and making an impact. No matter your experience level, there’s an ABoR Community for you. To get involved, visit UnlockMLS.com/Volunteer. Volunteer applications open Sept. 1.
Looking for another great way to network? Join us at the 2024 ABoR Industry Awards Gala on Friday, May 2. This spectacular event is a perfect opportunity to celebrate our colleagues and profession. To learn more or purchase tickets, visit UnlockMLS.com/Celebrate.
by Brandy Wuensch | Jan 16, 2025 | Austin Board of REALTORS
Every year is a new chapter, and I’m excited to begin this one with all of you as the new Unlock MLS and Austin Board of REALTORS® president. This year will be a year of change and growth—but above all, it will be what I am calling the “Year of Opportunity.”
Opportunity begins with ideas and vision, and as we step boldly into 2025, I’m eager to share some of the new innovations and initiatives that will shape the real estate landscape in our marketplace this year. At Unlock MLS and ABoR, we are redefining how REALTORS® conduct business and elevate their value to clients. Here’s a look at what you can expect this year.
Embracing Opportunities for All
My vision for 2025 is the “Year of Opportunity.” Merriam-Webster defines opportunity as “a set of circumstances that makes it possible to do something.” My mission is to create an environment where every member and subscriber feels empowered to explore new possibilities, grow their business, and contribute to our thriving community.
From professional development to advocacy efforts, every program Unlock MLS and ABoR offers should serve as a gateway for members to connect, learn, and succeed. Together, we can create a culture where disengagement is replaced with empowerment, unlocking the potential of those who may have felt overlooked or disconnected in the past.
Harnessing Innovation and Unlocking Opportunity
Opportunity starts with innovation, and I’m excited to share that a supercharged MLS is coming soon for Unlock MLS subscribers. On Feb. 25, Unlock MLS will become the first MLS in the country to offer an AI-powered listing entry and management system, a powerful new client portal, and a new CMA tool—all within the Matrix platform our subscribers trust and depend on. These enhancements will offer exclusive, powerful new technology, including:
Listing Manager: The first AI-powered Add/Edit module in Matrix streamlines listing creation with mobile functionality, automated data entry, and compliance checks—saving agents time and enhancing client interactions. Plus, subscribers will gain access to an entirely new, robust CMA tool.
OneHome: A sleek, agent-branded client portal that personalizes the home search experience with AI-powered property matches, real-time collaboration, and in-depth neighborhood insights. Together, these tools simplify workflows and elevate service.
This is a big change and an even bigger opportunity for your business. We want you to feel prepared and confident when these changes launch. You can learn more and access resources to prepare for these updates by visiting our Unlock Opportunity Resource Hub at UnlockMLS.com/Opportunity.
Building Opportunities for Connection and Collaboration
During my tenure as the leader of the Diversity Committee, we prioritized making every member feel welcome and valued. This experience underscored the importance of fostering meaningful connections and open communication. I believe that by offering more chances for connection—through networking events, educational programming, and volunteer opportunities—we can bridge gaps and build a stronger, more inclusive organization. By fostering collaboration and connection, we can generate creative solutions and uncover new opportunities that will drive our association, and our businesses, forward.
Looking Ahead
I believe 2025 will be a year filled with promise, and I’m confident that together we’ll seize every opportunity to grow and succeed. I encourage you to stay engaged in our profession, embrace the challenges ahead, inspire one another, and make this new chapter truly remarkable for all Unlock MLS subscribers and ABoR members.
Here’s to a successful, collaborative, and opportunity-filled year!
