Melissa Stout:

Your Balcones Neighborhood Expert and Longtime Resident Realtor

As a longtime resident of the Balcones neighborhood, I have the unique privilege of living in the
same community where I grew up. My journey here began in 1981 when my parents decided to
make this beautiful area our home. Our first home was on Vista View before we moved over to
the top of the hill on Spicewood Parkway, close to the castle house, which wasn’t a castle house then.
This neighborhood isn't just a place on the map for me; it's a living tapestry of my childhood. Growing up, I had countless adventures that etched unforgettable memories in my heart. I
remember cutting across the golf course to get to my friend's houses, dodging golfers
along the way. Riding my bike up to Balcones Country Club (BCC) was a regular pastime, and
cruising the streets in the golf cart was pure freedom. We played outside all day and came home for dinner. If only I had a step counter back, then.
I went to Grisham Middle School because Canyon Vista wasn’t built yet…now you’re figuring
out my age!  After graduating from Westwood, I headed downtown to the 40 acres. I thought I was so far away. My husband, Russell, and I met at the University of Texas and are big
Longhorn fans. We love attending all sport events and rarely miss a home football game. After
college we chose to raise our family here, in Balcones, ensuring our three (now grown) children
could experience the same sense of belonging and adventure.
Our three children have ventured out into the world, each carving their path. Two of our
children have embraced the excitement of New York City, following their dreams and thriving in
the energy of a big city. Meanwhile, our son has chosen to stay closer to home in Austin and is
preparing for an exciting new chapter as he will be married next spring. Watching them grow,
explore, and succeed has been one of the greatest joys of our lives.

Real Estate: A Family Legacy
Real estate has always been a significant part of my life... and seems to be a family tradition. My parents were both in real estate and from an early age, my brother and I were involved in their business. I have vivid memories of doing tasks such as addressing, sealing, and stamping
marketing mail—small but vital components of their hard work. These early experiences taught
me the value of dedication, attention to detail, and personalized service.
Before embarking on my own real estate career, I spent several years as an elementary school
teacher. Working with children provided me with invaluable skills in communication, patience,
and organization. These skills seamlessly transitioned into my real estate career, allowing me to guide my clients through the buying and selling process with care and clarity.
Having mentors has played an invaluable role in my journey into real estate. My
mother and brother have given me unwavering support. 
The most important thing I’ve
learned is the importance of a personal touch, the value of hard work, and the
necessity of building strong relationships with clients. Their guidance has been
instrumental in shaping my career, and I strive every day to live up to the high standards
they each set. My mother is still an active agent today and my brother is a broker who
mostly works in the midtown area.
What sets my business apart is my unwavering commitment to excellence. I understand
that buying or selling a home is one of the most significant decisions in a person’s life,
and I strive to make the experience as smooth and positive as possible. My dedication
to excellence is reflected in my thorough approach, meticulous attention to detail, and
strong negotiation skills. I aim to exceed my clients' expectations and provide a level of
service that truly stands out.
My husband also shares a deep connection to the real estate world. He began his
career as a realtor, working alongside me for about ten years. He then transitioned into
lending and has been a successful mortgage broker for many years now. His expertise
in both real estate and mortgage lending has been a tremendous asset and has allowed
us to offer a comprehensive range of services to our clients.
Given my professional expertise and experiences, I’m pleased to share some advice for our
wonderful Balcones residents:

1. Stay Informed About the Market
The real estate market is always changing. Stay updated on local trends and property values,
even if you're not planning to buy or sell immediately. This knowledge can help you make
informed decisions when the time comes.
2. Maintain Your Property
Regular maintenance and small improvements can significantly increase the value of your home.  Simple tasks like landscaping, painting, and keeping up with repairs not only make your home more enjoyable to live in but also more attractive to potential buyers.
3. Get to Know Your Neighbors
Building strong relationships with your neighbors creates a supportive and friendly community.
Whether it’s through neighborhood events, local clubs, or simple gestures like greeting each
other, fostering these connections can make our community even more vibrant.
4. Invest in Local Schools
As a former elementary school teacher, I can't stress enough the importance of supporting our
local schools. Great schools not only benefit our children but also enhance property values. Get
involved by attending school events, volunteering, or contributing to school fundraisers.
5. Work with Trusted Professionals
Whether you're buying, selling, or just seeking advice, working with trusted real estate
professionals can make a world of difference. We have the expertise and local knowledge to
guide you through the process smoothly and efficiently.
6. Plan for the Future
Even if you're content in your current home, it's wise to think ahead. Consider your long-term
needs and how your living situation might change. Planning for the future can help you make
decisions that will benefit you and your family in the long run.

Living in Balcones is truly special, and I’m here to help you make the most of it. Whether you’re
looking to buy, sell, or simply need some advice, don’t hesitate to reach out. Our community is
stronger when we support each other, and I'm always here to lend a helping hand.
Balcones has been a constant in my life, shaping my career and personal journey. With a
background steeped in real estate from my parents, I have seen this community evolve while retaining its unique charm and warmth.
I am honored to be a part of this wonderful community and to continue contributing to its growth
and development. Here's to many more years of memories, both old and new, in this wonderful
neighborhood!