Home + Design

Investing in home and community

How McWalters Collaborative is transforming Austin homes Article by Julie Royce | Photography by Andrea Calo In Austin’s rapidly evolving real estate market, home renovation is more than a means of updating aesthetics — it’s a strategic investment in property value, sustainability and neighborhood preservation.  With demand for character-rich housing soaring and historic homes facing redevelopment pressures, thoughtful renovations offer a way to enhance functionality while maintaining a...

Real Estate

Real estate investment 101

E-Lit Realty empowers homeowners through education Article by Julie Royce In the local real estate landscape, E-Lit Realty has emerged as a full-service firm dedicated to serving clients from various socioeconomic backgrounds.  In 2016, at the age of 21, Karina Muñoz wanted to buy a home but wasn’t quite sure how she would afford it. She had the good fortune of knowing E-Lit CEO and Founder Julie Galarraga, who encouraged her to buy rather than rent. “She walked me through the whole...

Food + Beverage

Sipping, socializing & storytelling

House Wine has a new location in South Austin Article by Julie Royce | Photography by Casey Cunningham House Wine fits right into the eclectic Bouldin Creek neighborhood off South First Street in South Austin. With its brightly painted walls and lush floral decor, this cozy wine bar has been a staple in the community since opening its doors in 2008.  Over the years, guests have celebrated birthdays, engagements and anniversaries while sipping perfectly curated glasses of wine on the patio and...

Finance + Legal Services

Where there’s a will, there’s a way

Robbins Estate Law Firm provides select pro bono services Article by Julie Royce Estate planning is often overlooked, leaving many families vulnerable when tragedy strikes. Sixty percent of Americans lack a will or estate planning documents, exposing their loved ones to prolonged and costly legal battles, according to a 2017 AARP survey. Kyle Robbins, founder of Austin-based Robbins Estate Law, is working to change that, especially for families facing sudden loss. Since founding his firm in...