Real Estate Investment is the financing, evaluating, and managing real estate investment. Emphasis on real estate investment characteristics, investment analysis techniques, time-valued money, discounted investment criteria, leverage, and applications to property tax implications of owning real estate.  Skills: R (Course Type W.)

This course will provide a better understanding of the real estate investment analysis process. The course will use case studies and a review of the theory of real estate investment. The course will use case studies and a review of the theory of real estate investment. It should be a good course for first-time investors as well as veterans

If you prefer a physical or electronic copy of the book, please follow the instructions below:

Essentials of Real Estate Investment, 12th edition by David Sirota, (ISBN 9781475485417) Please buy the textbook and have it in your possession by the first week of class.

Student Options for Purchasing Publisher’s Web Site is: https://www.dearborn.com

Bookstore: You can purchase your text in the bookstore.

The ACC bookstore online is at https://austin.bncollege.com/  I would suggest ordering your book early to have it in time for the first class.

Unit 1  (Real Estate Investment Characteristics)
Unit 2  (Purpose and Function of Real Estate Investment)
Unit 3  (Leverage)
Unit 4  (Ownership Interests in Real Property)
Unit 5  (Techniques of Investment Analysis)
Unit 6  (Tax Characteristics and Strategies)
Unit 7  (Time Value of Money)
Unit 8  (Discounted and Nondiscounted Investment Criteria)
Unit 9  (Applications to Property Tax)
Unit 10 (Financing for Real Estate Investments)
Unit 11 (Residential, Land, and Commercial Investments)
Unit 12 (Managing the Investment Property)
Unit 13 (The Transaction: Contract to Closing)
 

Common Course Learning Objectives/Outcomes

1. Understand real estate investment decisions
2. Understand real estate investment mathematics
3. Review the market environment
4. Understand ownership and business organization alternatives
5. Review commercial investment financing
6. Review investment tax considerations
7. Understand operating decisions and financial leverage
8. Understand investment analysis
9. Analyze risk
10. Look at the future of real estate investments
11. Chapter objectives that appear in the textbook

SYLLABUS

SECTION SPECIFIC INFORMATION

Real Estate Investment

RELE-1307-96490-001

Spring, 2025, 16-Week Online Course

Course Dates: January 21, 2025 – May 18, 2025

Online accessible through Blackboard

Mandatory Online Orientation due in Blackboard by Friday, January 24, 2025

This class is online only and will not have scheduled class sessions. Students will need a computer, laptop, or tablet, reliable internet access, and a mic or camera. This class requires students to take online proctored exams. Blackboard may be accessed at https://acconline.austincc.edu/

INSTRUCTOR SPECIFIC INFORMATION

• Job Hammond: Professor of Real Estate and Finance
• Cypress Creek Campus, Office 2204.8
• 1555 Cypress Creek Road
• Cedar Park, Texas 78613
• Phone: (512) 223-1790 x22421 (M-F 9:00 to 6:00 PM – calls returned within 24-48 hours.)
• Office Hours: By Appointment either in person, phone call, or Zoom meeting.
• Email:  job.hammond@austincc.edu  - replies within 24 hrs. (This is the instructor’s preferred communication method)
• Departmental Web Site: https://sites.austincc.edu/rele/
• Departmental Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/RELEatACC 

COURSE DESCRIPTION

• Credit Hours: 3
• Classroom Contact Hours per week: 3
• Classroom Contact Hours per semester: 32 (based on a 16-week semester format)

Real Estate Investment is the financing, evaluating, and managing real estate investment. Emphasis on real estate investment characteristics, investment analysis techniques, time-valued money, discounted investment criteria, leverage, and applications to property tax implications of owning real estate.  Skills: R (Course Type W.)

Transferability of workforce courses varies. Students interested in transferring courses to another college should speak with their Area of Study (AoS) advisor, Department Chair, and/or Program Director.

COURSE RATIONALE

This course will provide a better understanding of the real estate investment analysis process. The course will use case studies as well as a review of the theory of real estate investment. The course will use case studies as well as a review of the theory of real estate investment. It should be a good course for first-time investors as well as veterans.

PREREQUISITES

RELE 1406 

STUDENT LEARNING OUTCOMES & GENERAL EDUCATION COMPETENCIES

Common Course Learning Objectives/Outcomes

1. Understand real estate investment decisions
2. Understand real estate investment mathematics
3. Review the market environment
4. Understand ownership and business organization alternatives
5. Review commercial investment financing
6. Review investment tax considerations
7. Understand operating decisions and financial leverage
8. Understand investment analysis
9. Analyze risk
10. Look at the future of real estate investments
11. Chapter objectives that appear in the textbook

SCANS (Secretary’s Commission on Achieving Necessary Skills)

Course SCANS Competencies for RELE 1307

Please go to http://irt.austincc.edu/ids/curriculum/scans.php for a complete definition and explanation of SCANS.  This list summarizes the SCANS competencies addressed in this particular course.

Resources

1.1 Manages Time

Interpersonal

2.1 Participates as a Member of a Team

2.2 Teaches Others

2.4 Exercises Leadership

2.5 Negotiates to Arrive at a Decision

Information 

3.1 Acquires and Evaluates Information

3.2 Organizes and Maintains Information

3.3 Interprets and Communicates Information

3.4 Uses Computers to Process Information

Basic Skills

6.1 Reading

6.2 Writing

6.3 Arithmetic

6.5 Listening

6.6 Speaking

Thinking Skills

7.1 Creative Thinking

7.2 Decision Making

7.3 Problem Solving

7.4 Mental Visualization

7.5 Knowing How to Learn

7.6 Reasoning

Personal Qualities

8.1 Responsibility

8.2 Self-Esteem

8.3 Sociability

8.4 Self-Management

8.5 Integrity/Honesty

REQUIRED TEXTS/MATERIALS/SOFTWARE

Essentials of Real Estate Investment, 12th edition by David Sirota, (ISBN 9781475485417) Please buy the textbook and have it in your possession by the first week of class.

Student Options for Purchasing Publisher’s Web Site is: https://www.dearborn.com

Bookstore: You can purchase your text in the bookstore.

The ACC bookstore online is at https://austin.bncollege.com/  I would suggest ordering your book early to have it in time for the first class.

INSTRUCTIONAL METHODOLOGY

This course is an Internet Distance Learning (DIL) course presented over a 16-week period.

RELE 1307 is an interactive training system that combines electronic learning materials with instructor guidance and expertise.  It is accessed via the Internet from the student's home or work computer or any ACC lab at any time. Principles and concepts are presented through the textbook, the instructor’s and publisher’s websites, and Blackboard.

DISTANCE EDUCATION  

Students will use the Blackboard learning management system for assignment instructions, submitting assignments, and collaboration. You must have access to the Internet and an email account. The primary framework for instruction is the Internet. The Interactive capabilities such as email and discussion boards, access to the library online, and office hours enhance and facilitate student-to-instructor communication 24/7.

You need to familiarize yourself with ACC's Blackboard page. This is the place you will go to watch the broadcasts, view Syllabus, grades, online discussion boards, announcements and assignments and other course requirements.   You will view web pages, send and receive email, take exams, download files, and upload files you have created using ACC’s Blackboard system. If you do not have an ACCeID you will need to activate it by going to the “First-time login” link at http://www.austincc.edu/acceid/step1.htm.  Go to http://acconline.austincc.edu/ for student entry into Blackboard.  You will need your student ID and password to log into Blackboard.  Blackboard access is available the first day of the semester.   We have a wonderful Blackboard staff always available to assist you with any problems or concerns.

We will communicate using Blackboard, e-mail and phone conversations.  You must be able to communicate with the instructor by email.  Because there is a significant amount of email traffic, please make sure that EVERY EMAIL you send me includes your first and last name and the term “RELE 1307” on the subject line. You need an individual account, which is not shared with anyone else.  In EVERY email message you send me, the subject line must include RELE 1307.  The instructor will only respond to messages from your ACC e-mail account.

Tests will be taken directly within Blackboard.  Quizzes will not require proctoring; however, Exams will use Respondus LockDown Browser which will be best taken using devices running Windows 10 or Mac OS X or later. Additional information will be available in Blackboard.

As your instructor, I will monitor your progress and advise you as appropriate via email, telephone, or chat room discussions. You will be evaluated by means of tests, assignments, and projects.   Grades will be posted on Blackboard.

STUDENT TECHNOLOGY SUPPORT

Austin Community College provides free, secure drive-up WiFi to students and employees in the parking lots of all campus locations. WiFi can be accessed seven days a week, 7 am to 11 pm. Additional details are available at https://www.austincc.edu/sts.

Students who do not have the necessary technology to complete their ACC courses can request to borrow devices from Student Technology Services. Available devices include iPads, webcams, headsets, calculators, etc. Students must be registered for a credit course, Adult Education, or Continuing Education course to be eligible. For more information, including how to request a device, visit http://www.austincc.edu/sts.

Student Technology Services offers phone, live-chat, and email-based technical support for students and can provide support on topics such as password resets, accessing or using Blackboard, access to technology, etc. To view hours of operation and ways to request support, visit http://www.austincc.edu/sts.

GRADING SYSTEM

Grades will be based on the following areas of performance.   Students are required to take three exams.  Each exam may contain up to 50 multiple-choice and/or true and false questions.  Each exam will cover the chapters assigned below plus any assignments, board discussions, and material distributed during the specific period.  Please note that each exam question has the same value.

GRADE DISTRIBUTION

A=900-1000 points// B=880-899 points// C=700-799 points// D=600-699 points// F= 599 Points and Below.

All test grades will be posted to your Blackboard online grade book within 48 hours of the assignment’s due date.

EXTRA CREDIT:

You may submit up to three extra credit assignments in this class.  Locate an article concerning Real Estate Investment that relates to the topics provided in the book.  Provide a 1-page summary of the article, which one of the 13 book chapters it relates to, and your analysis on the topic.  You will find suitable articles on Web sites related to Real Estate. A good place to find articles is to simply Google the Chapter name from the textbook and a large number of periodicals will be presented for your perusal. Find one that is relevant to our chapter discussions.

COURSE POLICIES

Incomplete Policy:  An incomplete (I) will be granted to a student in rare circumstances.  Generally, to receive a grade of I, a student must have completed all examinations and assignments to date, be passing, and have personal circumstances that prevent course completion that occur after the deadline to withdraw with a grade of W.

Attendance Policy:  All students are expected to attend classes.  Non-attendance will have an impact on the student’s grade.

Attendance/Class Participation

Regular and timely participation in discussions and completion of work is expected of all students.  If attendance or compliance with other course policies is unsatisfactory, the instructor may withdraw students from the class. The instructor may provide advance notice of class cancelation due to weather, pandemic, or other emergencies.  The student is responsible for communicating with their professor during the closure and completing any assignments or other activities designated by their professor.

Withdrawal Policy

It is the responsibility of each student to ensure that his or her name is removed from the rolls should they decide to withdraw from the class.  The instructor does, however, reserve the right to drop a student should he or she feel it is necessary.  If a student decides to withdraw, he or she should also verify that the withdrawal is recorded before the Final Withdrawal Date.  The Final Withdrawal Date for this semester is Monday, April 28, 2025.  The student is also strongly encouraged to keep any paperwork if a problem arises.

Students are responsible for understanding the impact that withdrawal from a course may have on their financial aid, veterans’ benefits, and international student status.  Per state law, students enrolling for the first time in Fall 2007 or later at any public Texas college or university may not withdraw (receive a “W”) from more than six courses during their undergraduate college education. Some exemptions for good cause could allow a student to withdraw from a course without having it count toward this limit. Students are strongly encouraged to meet with an advisor when making decisions about course selection, course loads, and course withdrawals.

Missed Exam and Late Work Policies

Recognizing that a large part of professional life is meeting deadlines, it is necessary to develop time management and organizational skills. Failure to meet the course deadlines may result in penalties. Remember that all deadlines are set using Central Standard Time (CST).

Due to the requirements of the Texas Real Estate Commission, it is essential that students:

(1) actively participate in at least 90% of the assignments

(2) take the required quizzes and exams

Understanding that life sometimes does take over, the instructor will allow the student to turn in exams with the associated penalty/timeline parameters based on course duration:

 5-Week Courses

• A test may be taken as much as 1 days late with a penalty of 10% of the grade.  (Example: If the grade would have been 70 if taken on time, then the penalty is 10% of 70, which is 7 points.)
• A test may be taken as much as 2 days late with a penalty of 20% of the grade. 

10 or 12-Week Courses

• A test may be taken as much as 3 days late with a penalty of 10% of the grade.  (Example: If the grade would have been 70 if taken on time, then the penalty is 10% of 70, which is 7 points.)
• A test may be taken as much as 6 days late with a penalty of 20% of the grade. 

16-Week Courses

• A test may be taken as much as 4 days late with a penalty of 10% of the grade.  (Example: If the grade would have been 70 if taken on time, then the penalty is 10% of 70, which is 7 points.)
• A test may be taken as much as 8 days late with a penalty of 20% of the grade. 

Regardless of the previous two items, a test which is the last test of the semester must be taken by the last class day of the session. 

Incomplete Policy

An incomplete (I) will only be granted to a student in rare circumstances.

Generally, to receive a grade of I, a student must have completed all examinations and assignments to date, be passing, and have personal circumstances that prevent course completion that occur after the deadline to withdraw with a grade of W. A grade of I also requires approval by the Department Chair and completion and submission of the Incomplete Grade form signed by the faculty member (and student if possible.)

If a grade of I is given, the remaining coursework must be completed by a date set by the student and professor. This date may not be later than the last day to withdraw from a course in the next semester, which is around three or four weeks from the end of that semester.

As soon as possible after the “personal circumstances that prevent course completion” occur, the student shall contact the instructor in writing explaining the situation.  The instructor or the student may request a meeting (which may be done virtually or in person) if desired to clarify the situation and the proposed plan to complete the course. All of this MUST be completed before the official end of classes for the semester. 

1. The instructor will report to the department chair the circumstances and the proposed plan to complete the work. This must be done no more than one day after the official end of the semester.   After discussion as needed, the Department Chair will inform the faculty member by email whether it is approved or not. The faculty member is responsible for retaining this email message.  
2. After receiving approval from the department chair, the faculty member will submit the grade of I at the time needed to ensure that class grades are submitted on time.  
3. The faculty member will complete the form, including all requirements to complete the course and the due date, sign (by typing in name) and then email it to the student.  The student will then complete his/her section, sign (by typing in name), and return the completed form to the faculty member to complete the agreement.  A copy of the fully completed form can then be emailed by the faculty member to the student and the department chair for each grade of Incomplete that the faculty member submits at the end of the semester.
4. The student must complete all remaining work by the date specified on the form above.  This date is determined by the instructor in collaboration with the student, but it may not be later than the final withdrawal deadline in the subsequent long semester.  
5. Students will retain access to the course Blackboard page through the subsequent semester in order to submit work and complete the course. Students will be able to log on to Blackboard and have access to the course section materials, assignments, and grades from the course and semester in which the Incomplete was awarded.  
6. When the student completes the required work by the Incomplete deadline, the instructor will submit an electronic Grade Change Form to change the student’s performance grade from an “I” to the earned grade of A, B, C, D, or F. 

If an Incomplete is not resolved by the deadline, the grade automatically converts to an “F.”  Approval to carry an Incomplete for longer than the following semester or session deadline must be approved at several levels, including the Department Chair and others.  This is seldom granted.

COURSE OUTLINE/CALENDAR

This class schedule is strongly suggested as this class moves very quickly so adherence to this schedule is very important for your success. Please note that schedule changes may occur during the semester.  Any changes will be announced in class and posted as a Blackboard Announcement.

COLLEGE POLICIES

Health & Safety Protocols

Operational areas of ACC campuses and centers are fully open and accessible through all public entrances.  The college encourages its staff, faculty, and students to be mindful of the well-being of all individuals on campus.  If you feel sick, feverish, or unwell, please do not come to campus.

Some important things to remember:

• If you have not done so, ACC encourages all students, faculty, and staff to get vaccinated. COVID-19 vaccines are now widely available throughout the community. Visit www.vaccines.gov/ to find a vaccine location near you.

• Campuses are open to faculty, staff, and students.  The college and its departments and offices may invite internal and external guests to their events and activities, though access is still restricted for external parties seeking to host activities at ACC.  The college’s Appian Health Screening App remains available to everyone who visits campus. This continues to be a good way to check your own health before coming to class or work. 
• If you are experiencing COVID-19-related symptoms, please get a COVID-19 test as soon as possible before returning to an ACC facility.  Testing is now widely available.  To find testing locations near you, click this link.

• If you test positive, please report it on the ACC self-reporting tool located here.

• ACC continues to welcome face masks on campus.  Per CDC guidelines, face masks remain a good way to protect yourself from COVID-19. 
   
• The college asks that we all continue to respect the personal space of others. We are encouraging 3 feet of social distancing.
   
• Please be sure to carry your student, faculty, or staff ID badge at all times while on campus.
   

Because of the everchanging situation, please go to ACC’s Covid website at https://www.austincc.edu/coronavirus?ref=audiencemenu for the latest updates and guidance.

Statement on Academic Integrity

Austin Community College values academic integrity in the educational process.  Acts of academic dishonesty/misconduct undermine the learning process, present a disadvantage to students who earn credit honestly, and subvert the academic mission of the institution. The potential consequences of fraudulent credentials raise additional concerns for individuals and communities beyond campus who rely on institutions of higher learning to certify students' academic achievements and expect to benefit from the claimed knowledge and skills of their graduates. Students must follow all instructions given by faculty or designated college representatives when taking examinations, placement assessments, tests, quizzes, and evaluations.  Actions constituting scholastic dishonesty include, but are not limited to, plagiarism, cheating, fabrication, collusion, falsifying documents, or the inappropriate use of the college’s information technology resources.  Further information is available at https://www.austincc.edu/about-acc/academic-integrity-and-disciplinary-process

Student Rights & Responsibilities

Students at ACC have the same rights and protections under the Constitution of the United States. These rights include freedom of speech, peaceful assembly, petition and association. As members of the community, students have the right to express their own views, but must also take responsibility for according the same rights to others and not interfere or disrupt the learning environment. Students are entitled to fair treatment, are expected to act consistently with the values of the college, and obey local, state, and federal laws. www.austincc.edu/srr

As a student of Austin Community College you are expected to abide by the Student Standards of Conduct. https://www.austincc.edu/students/students-rights-and-responsibilities/student-standards-of-conduct 

Senate Bill 212 and Title IX Reporting Requirements 

Under Senate Bill 212 (SB 212), the faculty and all College employees are required to report any information concerning incidents of sexual harassment, sexual assault, dating violence, and stalking committed by or against an ACC student or employee. Federal Title IX law and College policy also require reporting incidents of sex- and gender-based discrimination and sexual misconduct. This means faculty and non-clinical counseling staff cannot keep confidential information about any such incidents that you share with them.

If you would like to talk with someone confidentiality, please contact the District Clinical Counseling Team who can connect you with a clinical counselor on any ACC campus:  (512) 223-2616, or to schedule online:  https://www.austincc.edu/students/counseling . 

While students are not required to report, they are encouraged to contact the Compliance Office for resources and options:  Charlene Buckley, District Title IX Officer, (512) 223-7964;  compliance@austincc.edu .

If a student makes a report to a faculty member, the faculty member will contact the District Title IX Officer for follow-up.

Student Complaints

A defined process applies to complaints about an instructor or other college employee. You are encouraged to discuss concerns and complaints with college personnel and should expect a timely and appropriate response. When possible, students should first address their concerns through informal conferences with those immediately involved; formal due process is available when informal resolution cannot be achieved.

Student complaints may include (but are not limited to) issues regarding classroom instruction, college services and offices on the basis of actual or perceived race, color, national origin, religion, age, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, political affiliation, or disability.

Further information about the complaints process, including the form used to submit complaints, is available at: http://www.austincc.edu/students/students-rights-and-responsibilities/student-complaint-procedures

Statement on Privacy

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) protects confidentiality of students’ educational records. Grades cannot be provided by faculty over the phone, by e-mail, or to a fellow student. Grades may be reviewed within Blackboard.

Recording Policy

To ensure compliance with the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), student recording of class lectures or other activities is generally prohibited without the explicit written permission of the instructor and notification of other students enrolled in the class section.  Exceptions are made for approved accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act. 

Recording of lectures and other class activities may be made by faculty to facilitate instruction, especially for classes taught remotely through Blackboard Collaborate or another platform.  Participation in such activities implies consent for the student to be recorded during the instructional activity.  Such recordings are intended for educational and academic purposes only.

Safety Statement

Health and safety are of paramount importance in classrooms, laboratories, and field activities. Students are expected to learn and comply with ACC environmental, health and safety procedures and agree to follow ACC safety policies.  Emergency Procedures posters and Campus Safety Plans are posted in each classroom and should be reviewed at the beginning of each semester.  All incidents (injuries/illness/fire/property damage/near miss) should be immediately reported to the course instructor. Additional information about safety procedures and how to sign up to be notified in case of an emergency can be found at http://www.austincc.edu/emergency

Everyone is expected to conduct themselves professionally with respect and courtesy to all. Anyone who thoughtlessly or intentionally jeopardizes the health or safety of another individual may be immediately dismissed from the day’s activity and will be referred to the Dean of Student Services for disciplinary action.

In the event of disruption of normal classroom activities due to an emergency situation or an outbreak of illness, the format for this course may be modified to enable completion of the course. In that event, students will be provided an addendum to the class syllabus that will supersede the original version.

Smoke, Vaping, & Tobacco-Free Environment

ACC provides a smoke/vape- and tobacco-free environment for all College vehicles, facilities and all campuses. The College prohibits the use, distribution, and/or sale of tobacco, smoke, and nicotine vapor products and devices by any person on all premises owned, rented, leased or supervised by the College, including all College facilities, buildings, grounds, and vehicles. This prohibition applies to property owned by others that the College uses by agreement, and further applies to all College and personal vehicles on ACC District property.  Campus Managers and Campus Coordinators are required to inform anyone on their campus or in their center who are violating this rule that they are doing so and, if the violator is a student, the Dean of Student Affairs must initiate disciplinary procedures.

Campus Carry

The Austin Community College District concealed handgun policy ensures compliance with Section 411.2031 of the Texas Government Code (also known as the Campus Carry Law), while maintaining ACC’s commitment to provide a safe environment for its students, faculty, staff, and visitors.  Beginning August 1, 2017, individuals who are licensed to carry (LTC) may do so on campus premises except in locations and at activities prohibited by state or federal law, or the college’s concealed handgun policy. 

It is the responsibility of license holders to conceal their handguns at all times.  Persons who see a handgun on campus are asked to contact the ACC Police Department by dialing 512-223-1231.   Please refer to the concealed handgun policy online at http://austincc.edu/campuscarry

Discrimination Prohibited

The College seeks to maintain an educational environment free from any form of discrimination or harassment including but not limited to discrimination or harassment on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, age, sex, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, or disability.

Faculty at the College are required to report concerns regarding sexual misconduct (including all forms of sexual harassment and sex and gender-based discrimination) to the Manager of Title IX/Title VI/ADA Compliance.  Licensed clinical counselors are available across the District and serve as confidential resources for students.

Additional information about Title VI, Title IX, and ADA compliance can be found in the ACC Compliance Resource Guide available at:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1xfmZHOPD_H1wgGKq1N7Irv6gvXxOXzbZ/view

Use of ACC email

All College e-mail communication to students will be sent solely to the student’s ACCmail account, with the expectation that such communications will be read in a timely fashion. ACC will send important information and will notify students of any college- related emergencies using this account. Students should only expect to receive email communication from their instructor using this account.  Likewise, students should use their ACCmail account when communicating with instructors and staff.  Information about ACC email accounts, including instructions for accessing it, are available at:  http://www.austincc.edu/help/accmail/questions-and-answers

Use of the Testing Center

The Testing Centers will allow only limited in person testing and testing time will be limited to the standard class time, typically one and one-half hours.  Specifically, only the following will be allowed in the Testing Centers:

• Student Accessibility Services (SAS) Testing: All approved SAS testing
• Assessments Tests: Institutionally approved assessment tests (e.g., TSIA or TABE)
• Placement Tests: Placement tests (e.g., ALEKS)
• Make-Up Exams (for students who missed the original test): Make-up testing is available for all lecture courses but will be limited to no more than 25% of students enrolled in each section for each of four tests

• Programs incorporating industry certification exams: Such programs (e.g., Microsoft, Adobe, etc.) may utilize the ACC Business Assessment Center for the industry certification exams (BACT) at HLC or RRC

All course exams will be completed through Blackboard.

STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES

The success of our students is paramount, and ACC offers a variety of support services to help, as well as providing numerous opportunities for community engagement and personal growth.

Student Support

ACC strives to provide exemplary support to its students and offers a broad variety of opportunities and services.  Information on these campus services and resources is available at  http://www.austincc.edu/students.  A comprehensive array of student support services is available online at:

https://www.austincc.edu/coronavirus/remote-student-support 

Student Accessibility Services

Austin Community College (ACC) is committed to providing a supportive, accessible, and inclusive learning environment for all students.  Each campus offers support services for students with documented disabilities. Students with disabilities who need classroom, academic or other accommodations must request them through Student Accessibility Services (SAS).

Students are encouraged to request accommodations prior to the beginning of the semester, otherwise the provision of accommodations may be delayed.  Students who have received accommodations from SAS for this course will provide the instructor with the legal document titled “Faculty Notification Letter” (FNL) through the Accessible Information Management (AIM) portal.

Until the instructor receives the FNL, accommodations should not be provided.  Once the FNL is received, accommodations must be provided.  Accommodations are not retroactive, so it is in the student’s best interest to request their accommodations as soon as possible prior to the beginning of the semester.

Please contact SAS@austincc.edu for more information.

Academic Support

ACC offers academic support services on all of its campuses. These services, which include online tutoring, academic coaching, and supplemental instruction, are free to enrolled ACC students. Tutors are available in a variety of subjects ranging from accounting to pharmacology. Students may receive these services on both a drop-in and referral basis. 

An online tutor request can be made here:

https://de.austincc.edu/bbsupport/online-tutoring-request/

Additional tutoring information can be found here:

austincc.edu/onlinetutoring

Library Services

ACC Library Services offers both in-person and extensive online services, with research and assignment assistance available in-person during limited hours of service. Although all college services are subject to change, plans include ACC students signing up for study space and use of computers at open libraries, extensive online instruction in classes, online reference assistance 24/7 and reference with ACC faculty librarians. In addition, currently enrolled students, faculty and staff can access Library Services online (also 24/7) via the ACC Library website and by using their ACCeID to access all online materials (ebooks, articles from library databases, and streaming videos). ACC Libraries offer these services in numerous ways such as: "Get Help from a Faculty Librarian: the 24/7 Ask a Librarian chat service," an online form for in-depth research Q and A sessions, one-on-one video appointments, email, and phone (voicemail is monitored regularly).

• Library Website: http://library.austincc.edu
• Library Information & Services during COVID-19: https://researchguides.austincc.edu/LSinfoCOVID19
• Ask a Librarian 24/7 chat and form: https://library.austincc.edu/help/ask.php
• Library Hours of Operation by Location: https://library.austincc.edu/loc/
• Email: library@austincc.edu

Parent and Family Engagement Services

ACC understands how important parent and family support is to every student's college journey. From parents and siblings to stepparents, grandparents, partners, and loved ones, the Parent and Family Engagement Office at ACC is committed to empowering families to support student success. The office provides a family orientation to ACC, free workshops explaining the world of higher education (financial aid, student resources, career and transfer services, etc.), a monthly newsletter full of student success tips, and a website designed to answer family members' frequently asked questions. All students, especially first-generation students, are encouraged to share these resources with their families and invite them to be part of the Riverbat experience. Contact familyengagement@austincc.edu or visit the Parent & Family Engagement website for more information.

Student Organizations

ACC has over seventy student organizations, offering a variety of cultural, academic, vocational, and social opportunities.  They provide a chance to meet with other students who have the same interests, engage in service-learning, participate in intramural sports, gain valuable field experience related to career goals, and much else.  Student Life coordinates many of these activities, and additional information is available at http://sites.austincc.edu/sl/.

Personal Support

Resources to support students are available at every campus. To learn more, ask your professor or visit the campus Support Center. All resources and services are free and confidential. Some examples include, among others:

• Food resources including community pantries and bank drives can be found here:

https://www.centraltexasfoodbank.org/food-assistance/get-food-now

• Assistance with childcare or utility bills is available at any campus Support Center: http://www.austincc.edu/students/support-center.
• The Student Emergency Fund can help with unexpected expenses that may cause you to withdraw from one or more classes: http://www.austincc.edu/SEF.
• Help with budgeting for college and family life is available through the Student Money Management Office: http://sites.austincc.edu/money/.  
• A full listing of services for student parents is available at: https://www.austincc.edu/students/child-care

• The CARES Act Student Aid will help eligible students pay expenses related to COVID-19: 

https://www.austincc.edu/coronavirus/cares-act-student-aid.   

Mental health counseling services are available throughout the ACC Student Services District to address personal and or mental health concerns: http://www.austincc.edu/students/counseling .

If you are struggling with a mental health or personal crisis, call one of the following numbers to connect with resources for help.  However, if you are afraid that you might hurt yourself or someone else, call 911 immediately.

Free Crisis Hotline Numbers:

• Austin / Travis County 24-hour Crisis & Suicide hotline: 512-472-HELP (4357)
• The Williamson County 24-hour Crisis hotline: 1-800-841-1255
• Bastrop County Family Crisis Center hotline: 1-888-311-7755
• Hays County 24 Hour Crisis Hotline: 1-877-466-0660
• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988 or 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
• Crisis Text Line: Text “home” to 741741
• Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline:   1-800-662-HELP (4357)
• National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Helpline:1-800-950-NAMI (6264)

ACC Real Estate Program Information

What is the first step toward your career in selling real estate?

For a student who is prepared for and committed to doing the work, our 18-credit-hour certificate is a fast way to prepare to obtain a Texas license to become a Real Estate    When you obtain that license, you can apply to start a career as a professional advisor to potential buyers making one of the largest financial decisions of their lives. As an agent for your clients, you must be very well-prepared to guide people away from the various pitfalls that can occur.   Please take every part of this education seriously.

What is the second step toward this career?

Real Estate Agents must work under the supervision of a Real Estate Broker.  The brokers who are hiring agents will be looking for applicants who are well-educated, very thorough, and careful in their work.  Every professional interaction you have will have some impact on your own professional reputation and the reputation of your Real Estate Broker.

What are the components of ACC’s Real Estate Certificate Level 1 program?

The components are (1) the five specific courses needed to apply for the licensing exam and (2) two additional courses from a wide list of useful things for Real Estate Agents to know.

1. The five specific courses

    RELE 1406 Real Estate Principles                                  4 credits
            RELE 1201 and RELE 1238 may be substituted for RELE 1406

    RELE 2201 Law of Agency                                             2 credits

    RELE 1211 Law of Contracts                                           2 credits

    RELE 1200 Real Estate Contract Forms and Addenda          2 credits

    RELE 1219 Real Estate Finance                                       2 credits

1. To complete this certificate program, choose two courses from this list of appropriate supporting courses to provide you with additional useful expertise. We highly suggest you choose RELE 2331 Real Estate Brokerage and other Real Estate Courses with a RELE prefix to complete your certificate. Three-unit RELE classes count towards your Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC) Sales Apprentice Education (SAE) requirements for your first Sales Agent License renewal.  As of October 1, 2023, Real Estate Brokerage must be one of the courses you take for the first renewal of your TREC license.

Find the titles and descriptions of these courses from the ACC Catalog. Start with this page:
 https://catalog.austincc.edu/course-descriptions/cross-reference-by-course-rubric/
 

• Real Estate courses RELE 1303, RELE 1307, RELE 1309, RELE 1311, RELE 1315, RELE 1319, RELE 1321, RELE 1325, RELE 1327, RELE 1333, RELE 1391, RELE 2301, RELE 2331, RELE 2367.
• Finance courses BUSA 1313, BUSG 1303, BUSG 1304, BUSG 1341, RELE 1324
• Marketing courses BMGT 1347, BUSI 1311, COMM 2327, MRKG 1301, MRKG 1302, MRKG 1311, MRKG 1313, MRKG 1391, MRKG 2312, MRKG 2333, MRKG 2348, MRKG 2349, MRKG 2371, MRKG 2375, MRKG 2388

What is the next step?

If you have not already done so, thoroughly review the material from the Texas Real Estate Commission about the requirements to become a Real Estate Agent.  https://www.trec.texas.gov/become-licensed/sales-agent.   Note that, as part of the application process (“Submit Your Qualifying Education”) you must request that ACC send your official transcript to TREC.

Most students in Texas find that they need extra study before the TREC exam.   For students currently enrolled in our Real Estate program, ACC offers a free exam preparation session. 

With the solid foundation of:

• good understanding of the five required courses to take the licensing exam
• excellent background knowledge of business, finance, or additional real estate courses 
• structured exam preparation such as that of our ACC exam prep session

passing rates for ACC students’ first attempt of taking the TREC exam are higher than for most providers of Real Estate education in Texas. 

Texas House Bill HB 1508

For students in this Real Estate course who may have a criminal background, please be advised that the background could keep you from being licensed by the State of Texas. If you have a question about your background and licensure, please speak with your faculty member or the department chair. You also have the right to request a criminal history evaluation letter from the applicable licensing agency.

Qualifications to Become a Texas Real Estate Sales Agent

• Citizen of the United States or lawfully admitted alien. A DACA recipient does not qualify as a lawfully admitted alien. https://www.trec.texas.gov/does-deferred-action-childhood-arrivals-daca-status-qualify-lawfully-admitted-alien
• 18 years of age or older
• Meet TREC’s qualifications for honesty, trustworthiness, and integrity.  Consider requesting a Fitness Determination before applying for the license https://www.trec.texas.gov/forms/fitness-determination