Plantation Homes News Feed

Maintenance Tips to Keep Your Lawn in Tip Top Shape

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

This month, prepare to keep your lawn in mint condition for spring. Prepare the lawn mower by cleaning dirt and grass clippings from the exterior. Prevent gummed-up engines by draining the tank into a gas can, which can prevent corrosion. Also, adding a fuel stabilizer will help to prevent rust.

Wash the exterior of the house, including windows, to showcase your well-maintained lawn. Washing will also prevent the growth of mold and mildew. Renting a pressure washer will make the task a cinch.

Clear the lawn of any debris like logs, toys, or gardening equipment. These objects can smother and damage grass, leaving it more vulnerable to diseases. A good aeration, along with a round of fertilization, will set the stage for bountiful spring growth.

Take the time to check out some books from your local library or buy them at the local bookstore. Use the winter to learn and plan for a beautiful lawn this spring!

Success in the Lone Star State, Why Texas Cities are Booming

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

For the past few years Texas has become an epicenter of migration for Americans of all economic classes. The hotly debated east versus west rivalry of New York and California has been split by a huge influx in relocation to the Lone Star state. This influx has lead to a swell in economic and social prosperity that makes Texas an ideal destination for Americans looking to pack up and seek a new frontier.

Growth
Texas is booming. There is no better way to describe it. In Forbes’ 2009 list of best cities for relocation, no less than 8 out of the 25 top cities were Texan cities, all ranking higher than average for the rest of the country in regards to amount of population with degrees, income, and home value. Texas is growing while much of the country remains stagnant, and both workers and businesses are realizing it. This year’s Forbes list of fastest growing cities has Texas claiming 4 out of 10 positions, including Austin, Dallas-Fort Worth, Houston and San Antonio. Austin nabbed the coveted #1 spot with a projected 3% employment growth in the next four years, and a 6.6% economic growth by 2013. This growth comes from an already safe 6.8% unemployment, far below the nation’s struggling 9% unemployment rate.

Taxes
Whatever your stance on how the money is spent, the truth is that a Texan takes home a larger portion of their paycheck than much of the rest of the country. Why is this? No state income tax. Citizen of high taxed, and mismanaged states like New York and California may see their citizens taking home 9%-11% more of their paychecks, simply by moving to Texas.

Housing
As well as a large market of moderately priced homes for sale, energy conscious new home developments are growing all over Texas. With the economic and population swells, many home builders are taking advantage of the climate to build exceptional developments. These growing communities feature new, green homes that are far more energy efficient than older models. Also these new homes are more personalized in that the contractors are seeking buyers’ input in the designs. Also, these new models come with lengthy warranties for everything from the individual appliances to the very foundation of the home. This all makes building a new home in a growing Texas development cheaper in the long term than buying or renting elsewhere.

Education
Education has for a long time been considered one of the Lone Star state’s shortcomings. The growing demand for an educated workforce, as well as the aforementioned developing communities, has called for a huge overhaul of Texas’ public education system. Annually, Texas now spends the 3rd most out of all states in the US on education. The demand for improved education has also led to the creation of the STAAR tests (State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness), a standardized testing system that focuses on college readiness, and preparing the student for a career rather than attaining a minimum skill set as tests have in the past.

Recreation
Texas can’t be beat when it comes to recreation and attractions. Eight major professional sports teams (in the NBA, NFL, NHL, and MLB) are from cities in Texas, as well as many of the greatest collegiate athletics programs in the country and an enormous base of amateur athletics leagues. Every city has a thriving night life, and the South by Southwest festival has turned Austin into a thriving center of contemporary arts and culture. All of this in conjunction with the state’s beautiful rocky vistas, beaches, and grasslands means that there is always something to do or explore in the Lone Star state.
Texas has seen unparalleled growth in the past several years and will continue to see more in the future. The information above is just what has been recorded so far. With educated youth flocking to cities like Dallas and Fort Worth, city officials are planning huge downtown rejuvenation programs featuring overhauled public transportation and housing options. Texas is the place to be for the future of this economy, will you be part of that growth?

Tips for the Best Super Bowl Party of the Year

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Step up your game on game day and host a Super Bowl party that the neighbors will talk about all year! It's more than a game, it's a time for friends and family to spend time together.

To get the party kicked off right, start with some football themed decorations. The local party supply store should have plenty of decorations such as mini footballs, mini helmets, and other paraphernalia. Adding a football themed menu will complete the setting for the party. Serve foods like "Extra Point Popcorn", "Time Out Pizza", and "Football Brownies".

These tips will help everyone have a Super Bowl party to remember. These and much more can be found on the Better Homes and Gardens website.

Five Tips to Stick with New Years Resolutions

Fri, 27 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT

According to experts every new year forty percent of Americans relapse on their resolutions before the end of January. Here are five tips to help increase the success rate.

Be specific. Instead of resolving to be more organized, resolve to pick up and declutter one room every day for fifteen minute. Another example, instead of resolving to be healthy, commit to not eating a late night snack.
Make a list. For each resolution make a list of pros and cons; if the cons out weigh the pros then wait until there is more pros because it will increase the chances of success. James Prochaska, Ph.D., professor of clinical health psychology at the University of Rhode Island says, If you’ve got a whole string of pros, you’ll be much more likely to stick with it.
Motivation. Reward good behavior that builds toward the resolution. Kept with the workout plan all week long; reward yourself with some new songs for the ipod. Negative reinforcement can serve as motivation too. Failed this week? Donate hard earned money to charity or arrange to give it to a friend or neighbor.
Peer Pressure. Research proves that people who make healthy changes together are more likely to succeed, says Miriam E. Nelson, Ph.D., coauthor of The Social Network Diet and a professor of nutrition at Tufts University.
Don’t Give Up. Slip ups and set backs happen to everyone, so plan ahead. Missed a day at the gym? Make sure it’s just that day, don’t use the slip up as an excuse to quit all together.

For more inspiration and tips visit Shape Magazine’s homepage.

New Year, New You: Helping Kids Eat Healthy Too

Fri, 20 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT

As Americans pursue their New Year resolutions, make helping kids eat healthy a family resolution. All parents have experienced a child's fussiness at one point or another usually involving a flying carrot or two.

According to Kerry Neville, a registered dietitian and spokeswoman for the American Dietetic Association says, "Modeling is so important, A diet-soda drinking parent who asks a child to fill his or her glass with milk, for example, will meet resistance". She also recommends that parents stock the house with healthy choices and make them visible, which may seem intuitive but is an often overlooked step.

Here are the top four tips to help kids eat healthfully:

Respect Likes and Dislikes
Appeal to Their Interests
Talk About Nutrition
Be Mindful of Hidden Calories

For a nutritious and tasty recipe that the whole family can help with check out Elmo's Chicken Pot Pie!

Make New Years Resolutions a Reality in Only Ten Minutes a Day

Fri, 13 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT

It's given that New Year resolutions are made to be broken. Year after year Americans make the same resolutions without enduring success. Here are some effective tips that can help build a new habit, allowing the success of those New Year resolutions.

Doctor Maxwell Maltz wrote in his bestseller Psycho-Cybernetics that brain circuits take engrams, memory traces, and produce new pathways only after 21 days without missing a day. By focusing on the new habit for 10 minutes a day for 30 days the resolution will be able to stick because the brain will have built a new pathway.

Share with friends and family the resolution and get them to join in the chosen activity. The more social involvement and public commitment, the higher the chances of success increase. Be reasonable with goal setting, creating a system of small goals to step up to the big goal. For example, if the resolution is to lose 20lbs, set goals in increments of 5lbs. Identifying triggers and stumbling blocks will aid in reaching the New Year resolution.

Stay focused for the month until the resolution becomes a habit. Once one small new habit is established it can be expanded upon.

A New Year, A New You: Smart Ways to Get Organized

Fri, 06 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The new year is here! Along with parties, noise makers, and champagne toasts came new year's resolutions. Making them is easy, keeping up with them takes effort! Make it easy in 2012 to get organized.

Being organized saves time, money, and effort that can be directed to other priorities. Hear are some ideas that will carry organization through out the year. To start, keep the end in mind. Keep Christmas lights neat and orderly as they get taken down and stored for next season. Wind each strand of lights around a piece of cardboard that is cut to lay flat inside which ever size storage bin is being used.

Remember, keeping the spaces in the home that are used for storage organized will keep order in the rest of the home. There are clever and stylish ways to conceal electronics without resorting to stuffing them away in some inaccessible closet or drawer. Make a daily and weekly action plans to layout projects that need to be done around the home. This will allow the whole family to participate and make time for activities everyone enjoys.

Another important thing to get organized is the trunk of the family vehicle. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Make sure to include a compact shovel, ice scraper, flashlight, sand or cat litter, flares, a heavy blanket, warm clothing, snacks and bottled water.

The ultimate tip this year is organize first, measure next, and buy last.

Enjoy Safe, Happy Holidays with these Fireplace Safety Tips

Thu, 22 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Tis' the season for fires in the fireplace! As family and friends gather in your home over the holidays, many will gather around the fireplace to chat, listen to the sounds of the season, and admire the decorations on the mantel. Here are the top ten tips from the Chimney Safety Institute of America.

Get an annual chimney check. Have chimneys inspected annually, and cleaned as necessary, by a qualified professional chimney service technician. This reduces the risk of fires and carbon monoxide poisonings due to creosote buildup or obstructions in the chimneys.
Keep it clear. Keep tree branches and leaves at least 15 feet away from the top of the chimney.
Install a chimney cap to keep debris and animals out of the chimney.
Choose the right fuel. For burning firewood in wood stoves or fireplaces, choose well seasoned wood that has been split for a minimum of six months - one year and stored in a covered and elevated location. Never burn Christmas trees or treated wood in your fireplace or wood stove.
Build it right. Place firewood or fire-logs at the rear of the fireplace on a supporting grate. To start the fire, use kindling or a commercial firefighter. Never use flammable liquids.
Keep the hearth area clear. Combustible material too close to the fireplace, or to a wood stove, could easily catch fire. Keep furniture at least 36" away from the hearth.
Use a fireplace screen. Use metal mesh or a screen in front of the fireplace to catch flying sparks that could ignite or burn holes in the carpet or flooring.
Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Place detectors throughout the house and check batteries in the spring and fall. When you change your clocks for Daylight Savings Time, remember to check your batteries.
Never leave a fire unattended. Before turning in for the evening, be sure that the fire is fully extinguished. Supervise children and pets closely around wood stoves and fireplaces.
The CSIA recommends annual inspections performed by CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps. These chimney sweeps have earned the industry's most respected credential by passing an intensive examination based on fire codes, clearances and standards for the construction and maintenance of chimney and venting systems. The National Fire Protection Association also recommends that all chimneys are inspected on an annual basis.

The tips will keep loved ones happy, and safe during the holiday season. For more information on on fireplace safety visit the Chimney Safety Institute of America website.

Holiday How-To's and Tricks for a Happy Holiday Season

Fri, 16 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT

The Holidays are here! It may catch many off guard with the whirlwind of events that lead up to New Year’s Eve! The best way to handle holidays is to break down what makes them so special. The tree, the cards, the cookies, and of course, the presents!

In order get the best tree for the season, head to a farm. It may take some planning, but having the perfect tree will set the mood for the season. It will also give an excuse to get the whole family involved and participating in the quest for the tree.

Get crafty with all those Christmas cards! This is the perfect opportunity to re-purpose all the lovely thoughts and wishes people send each year. Making a holiday banner from the favorite cards to be displayed each season will allow more to be added each year. Other ideas include varies tags for packages and ornaments for the perfect tree the family picked out.

Christmas and cookies go hand in hand, along with presents, so combined the two for a sweet gift. Slip a homemade gingerbread person into a new CD envelope, seal it & tie it with a festive ribbon for a simple, homemade gift.

For these and more Holiday ideas visit the Better Homes & Gardens Homepage.

Weekend Decorating: Create a Dream Bedroom

Mon, 18 Jul 2011 00:00:00 GMT

The master bedroom is the most significant room in the house, albeit the most private room. Devoting time and energy towards making the master bedroom a place to be enjoyed; a place to reconnect and retreat at the end of every day. It is essential to have a place to escape from the world. The bedroom should be where one can experience a sense of peace and calm. It is the room where one rests and recharges, a place for reconnecting and dreaming.

The most unique aspect of bedroom decorating is everyone has a different concept of what a retreat looks like. There is no one style of decorating for a bedroom. The important thing is that it is a comfortable escape from the hard work and harsh realities of life.

No matter if your style is Classic or Contemporary here are some bedroom essentials:

Window Covers: Framing the windows with beautiful curtains or a valence will transform the room
Area Rug: A plush area rug can anchor the room and add a sense of luxury
Linens
Bed Skirts can provide an opportunity to make a vivacious point in. Highlight a favorite fabric, color, or give your bed a tailored foundation.
Duvet Covers are where comfort lives. The can also transform a bed in one fell swoop.
Headboards accent the bed as well as the room itself.
Wall Paper & Paint can give the bedroom a fresh start.

These seven things will help any home owner in creating a dream bedroom this weekend. For more ideas and inspiration visit a Plantation Homes Model any where in town.

Garage Organization 101

Tue, 03 May 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Do you have everything but your car parked in your new garage? Then it’s time for a crash course in reorganization – Garage Upkeep 101.

Chances are that the garage of your new home has become the dumping ground for anything that didn’t immediately find a spot in your new home. As a result, one of the features that drove your purchase – an oversized garage that both of your vehicles can fit in – has become just another closet!

Strategy No. 1: Divide and Conquer

Divide the garage into conquerable territories and quarantine its prisoners to a long narrow wall or single bay. One way to do this is by creating a “his and hers” closet space. There is no reason why the garden enthusiast’s tools can’t be stashed with the handyman’s drills and hammers.

In “his” closet, a wall-mounted organizer displays tools at eye level, and a shelf doubles as a light-duty workbench. Now his tools are easily accessible and he doesn’t have to remember to tuck them into a drawer or closet when he is done.

In “her” closet, neatly stow all of the gardening implements on a three tier shelving system, by simply adding a fourth tier, lined with clear plastic shoe boxes, she can also store her craft supplies.

Repeat the closet concept for each additional territory you may need such as “indoors and outdoors” to organize items from unused photo frames to holiday yard décor.

Strategy No. 2: Take it Up the Wall

Using wall-mounted track organizers with hooks, shelves, and baskets allows you to designate a special place for many bulky items than can take up valuable floor space such as bicycles, ladders, and garden tools.

Strategy No. 3: Toss Out While Cleaning Up

Most people have many things stored in their garage that were put there because they no longer had a use in the house. So as you are organizing and compartmentalizing, make two piles of these no longer useful items.

One pile is for tossing to the curb on garbage day and the other should consist of items that are still useful, just not to you. Items in good condition are always welcomed by local charities such as Goodwill, and in some cases they will even come to pick the items up at your house.

Now that your garage is neat and tidy – and possibly even the new home for your car – vow to keep it this way. You are likely to be the envy of your neighbors the next time your garage door goes up and you pull right on inside!

Create Longer Lasting Spring Bouquets

Thu, 28 Apr 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Welcome spring into your new home with the aromatic cheer of freshly cut seasonal flower bouquets displayed in unexpected yet charming containers.

Although traditional bud vases can work, incorporating surprising household containers like cordial glasses, tall espresso mugs or glass lemonade pitchers look beautiful and create great conversation pieces when you have guests.

For a simple, classic statement, try a single arrangement of three or four stems on the kitchen table or night stand. For a one-two punch, place a thick cluster of a single bloom (such as Lily of the Valley) in mismatched containers and group them on a mantel or a side table.

How will you make your floral masterpieces last? Follow these tips from the floral pros to extend the aromatic enjoyment:

Cut flowers are much like ice cream - don't buy them unless you're heading straight home.
Use clean, well rinsed, vases and tools. Mold speeds up the flowers decay process in flowers and soap will change the pH of your water.
Use a small hammer to smash the woody stems of flowers such as hydrangeas and lilacs so they can easily absorb water.
Flowers from bulbs do better in cold water.
Force unopened flowers to bloom in minutes by putting them in very warm tap water.
Wilted flowers, especially roses, can be revived by submerging them in cool water for a few hours.
Flowers will look fresher longer if they're kept off TVs, appliances, and heating or cooling units, which give off heat that wilts them. Also keep them out of direct sunlight and away from hot or cold drafts.

With these quick tips and tricks your home is sure to be in full bloom for the rest of the season!

2011 Flooring Trends

Sat, 23 Apr 2011 00:00:00 GMT

2011 is all about the natural look of wood beneath your feet. There is something very classy about a hardwood floor and Plantation Homes now offers more options than ever before, from exotic woods to floors that look like wood, but aren't wood at all. With so many choices in a wide range of prices it can be difficult to choose the wood flooring that's right for you. Here are some of the current trends to help you decide what will best suit your family's style.

A solid strip hardwood floor uses strips of wood about 3/4-inch thick, 2-1/4-inch wide and anywhere from 12 to 84 inches long. Real hardwood floors come either unfinished or pre-finished. North American hardwoods like red oak, maple and walnut are time-honored, reasonably priced favorites, but currently there is a trend to use more exotic and hand scraped woods – which also come with a higher price tag.

Believe it or not - you can get the look of the high-end floors with engineered wood flooring, which is a veneer of hardwood in the species of your choice, layered on top of three to five thin sheets of wood. Whereas solid wood will expand or contract with heat and moisture, engineered wood flooring doesn't do that as much, so there won't be as many cracks between the strips, which makes it particularly good for bathrooms and kitchens in Texas' humid tropical climate. Solid wood flooring will last until someone removes it and can be refinished as many as 5 times. Engineered wood flooring will last from 10 to 20 years, depending on the level of traffic and layers.

Not your parent’s laminate! Today’s plastic laminate floors, although not a wood product at all, can mimic the look of many high-end classic and exotic species of wood floors, at a fraction of the price. The plastic layer on top is attached to particle board, is extremely durable and now lasts for 10 to 15 years.

No matter which trend in flooring you choose to follow, the three things you should consider when choosing a new wood floor are budget, the application (how much traffic is going to be on the floor and where it will go) and the lifecycle of the floor (how long you want it to last). Unlike carpet, a well chosen wood floor will be with your family and your Plantation Home for many years to come!

Love Your New Kitchen

Wed, 30 Mar 2011 00:00:00 GMT

The key to creating a kitchen you will love for years is to know your personal style. Whether you cook everyday or just occasionally, buy fresh or frozen foods, cook meals for one or a large family, your appliances need to be as unique as your needs.

Your kitchen can be the perfect place for preparing a fabulous meal, or just relaxing with friends and family if the tools are right, so consider these latest-and-greatest appliances when designing your new space.

Consider built-in ovens and microwaves as they will save valuable countertop real estate.

The restaurant-quality appearance and functionality of stainless steel refrigerators, ovens, dishwashers and microwaves can transform your kitchen into a comfortable destination the entire family will enjoy - whether you are buying a new home or remodeling an existing space. They can also offer an updated appearance without the expense and inconvenience of full-blown renovation.

Match your food buying habits (the amount of fresh and frozen foods you purchase) with your new refrigerator. If you generally buy in bulk to feed a large family, consider a refrigerator with a large freezer capacity, or a separate side by side upright freezer. If you buy more fresh foods, look for a refrigerator with a large fresh food capacity and programmable drawers. Some brands even offer refrigerators with an advanced food preservation system that keeps foods fresh longer than traditional evaporator models.

Dishwashers now come with as many options as refrigerators and ovens, so make sure to choose one with options that fit your needs. Many offer “silent” cycles as well as sterilization settings and water saver features. Consider the size of plates and cups you will be using on a daily basis and make sure the top and bottom racks are appropriate for those items. Remember, if you mount your dishwasher higher in the cabinet, it will be at a more convenient height when you load and unload.

Visit your local home and garden super centers where there are many options available for you to touch-and-test in one place. Consider being creative in your shopping; even take your favorite cup so you can check for a fit on the refrigerator water dispensers and dishwasher racks. By insuring that the items fit you perfectly, you are sure to enjoy a streamlined cooking experience in your newly outfitted kitchen!

Plantation Homes offers a great foundation for your dream kitchen, providing name brand appliances in its homes.

Increase Your Square Footage with an Outdoor Room

Mon, 21 Mar 2011 00:00:00 GMT

When it comes to outdoor space, size really doesn’t matter! It’s the quality and creativity that you put into the area that counts.

According to Miami-based interior designer/decorator, Elyse Santoro, "it doesn't have to happen all at once, and it doesn't have to be overwhelming or cost a fortune."

The first step in creating an outdoor room is deciding where to place it. Start by looking out a window and visualizing the most appealing area – one that gives you the feeling that you just extended a room out of your back door or bay windows is ideal.

Your outdoor room can be created with anything from an attached porch, gazebo or even just a landscaped area with an intimate seating space. Make sure to have a clearly designated passageway with foliage, stepping stones or a sidewalk to visually connect it to the house. "You want to erase the fact that you've gone outside," says Atlanta-based landscape designer Patricia Thernell.

Once the location is chosen, begin to define your outdoor space and give it a clear purpose. Do you want to be able to dine with friends, or just cozy up to a fire with a good book? Even postage-stamp sized front lawn or narrow side yards can be turned into cozy spaces with wall or fence foliage and a dripping water or fire feature. HGTV’s host of The Outdoor Room, Jamie Durie often creates “living walls” with clever hanging plant sacks on walls and fences to increase floor space in small, suburban yards.

Water is one of the most important elements in an outdoor room because the serene sound of water can set the mood for your space. Even if the purpose of your new space is to entertaining and dine, guest will always enjoy the soft splashing of water as they sit around your table. If you are short on space, sit a water pot in your garden or opt for a tabletop fountain.

Continue to add potted plants over time. They are easy to maintain, don’t require a large investment and can easily be replanted with seasonal flowers. Much like a beautiful flower arrangement on your coffee table indoors, color and fragrance are essential elements in creating the perfect outdoor room. If you don’t have a green thumb, ask a friendly garden specialist to help you pick out plants at your local home and garden store.

Start increasing your home's square footage today with these pocketbook-friendly outdoor room tips and you are sure to feel like you’ve added a whole new room to your home in no time! Plantation Homes offers many options for outdoor patios and outdoor kitchens with its award-winning designs.

Creating the Ultimate Master Retreat

Mon, 07 Mar 2011 00:00:00 GMT

With long work days and hectic lifestyles becoming evermore common, homeowners are looking to their master bedrooms to provide a peaceful escape. In response, a clean, tailored and uncluttered look is becoming increasingly popular.

Although color can be exciting, it’s not necessarily what you want in the bedroom. A bedroom should be quiet and serene and void of any visual chaos. Here are a few professional tips to turn your master bedroom into a restful sanctuary:

Choose a calm color. The overall palette should be a soothing soft taupe or gray and the linens and other accents should mimic the wall color.
Mirrored or metallic bedside tables can add a hint of shimmer to the muted tones. In addition, your bedside tables should have closed drawers and doors. Nearly everyone has clutter next to the bed, so invest in a good nightstand to store these items neatly.
Accent the walls with minimal art. A few oversized canvas family photos, nature inspired artwork or a large floor-length mirror will do the job.

By choosing neutral paints in pale grays or whisper blues, replacing excess throw pillows with just two sets of head pillows and a bolster or square cushion and replacing tired bedspreads with modern, monochromatic linens, you will be on your way to creating a more tranquil atmosphere in your own home.

Valuable Home Improvements for Less than $100

Thu, 24 Feb 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Wondering if you should remodel your home in 2011? Even though styles change every year, you don't need to spend a lot on a major remodeling project to get a big bang for your buck. Just follow these 3 simple tips and you are sure to see valuable financial returns on your investment:

Get a Pro’s Opinion.

Ask a Realtor®, interior designer or local model home decorator over to give you a “first impression” of your home. Many Realtors® will do this as a courtesy, but you will probably have to pay a consultation fee to a designer or decorator. A standard hourly fee is normally less than $100, but their tips and tricks for moving furniture and accessories around can be invaluable and offer you lots of ideas for needed improvements. Even small suggestions, such as paint colors or areas you can de-clutter, are likely to make a big impact.

Looking for an even cheaper alternative to an in-home consultation? Spend an afternoon at your local book store and pour over as many remodeling and decorating magazines and books you can find while enjoying your favorite cup of coffee. Make notes of the reoccurring trends and color palettes you like and take home a few of your favorite publications for future reference.

Get Busy Painting.

There is no simpler, more cost-effective improvement you can make to your home than a fresh coat of paint – in a trendy neutral color of course! Freshly painted rooms look clean and updated and give the appearance of a well maintained house - and that spells value. On average, a quality gallon of paint will run about $35. Even after purchasing rollers, tape, drop cloths and brushes you will spend well under $100 to finish a room.

Reduce Your Energy Costs.

Start by annually comparing energy costs from your local providers and choose to lock in the lowest 12-month rate. Many energy providers offer free energy audits of their customers' homes and will show you how to maximize the energy efficiency of your home as well as point out any leaks or problems you should address. An energy efficient home will not only help you to conserve money, but will be more valuable at the time of resale, too!

Low-cost, simple updates can be overlooked by many homeowners with limited free time. However, these money-saving and value-building updates can be done in just one weekend. With spring approaching and beautiful weather on the horizon, it’s time to take advantage of your newfound knowledge and get to work on a few of these simple home improvements!

Buy! Don’t Rent, in Houston

Thu, 17 Feb 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Forbes magazine has broken down the best cities in which to either rent or buy a home and Houston has been ranked one of the top six cities where it pays to buy, not rent.

The magazine used information from Zillow.com and Trulia.com as well as its own housing data to establish which cities offered renters or buyers the better deal. The "Six Best Cities to Buy a Home" include Miami, Jacksonville, Phoenix, Atlanta, Nashville and Houston and are unanimously agreed upon by all three sources.

According to Forbes, Houston's price-to-rent ratio is between nine and 15 times annual rent, meaning that “buying a home in Houston means paying between nine and 15 times what you would pay to rent it for a year”. In comparison, in San Francisco - named one of the best cities to rent versus buy - the price of purchasing a home is 20 to 30 times what it would cost to rent.

Forbes goes on to explain that in many cities, nervous buyers are crowding into the rental market, drastically escalating rent prices due to supply and demand.

All good news for Houstonians who may be on the fence about buying a new home!

Katy Ranked No. 1 Highest Growth Area in U.S.

Thu, 10 Feb 2011 00:00:00 GMT

The Gadberry Group recently published a report listing the 10 most high-growth areas in the U.S. and Katy, Texas was ranked as No. 1!

Largely unscathed by the economic downturn that has wreaked havoc on other parts of the nation, Katy has maintained growth and development, reporting an 8.71 percent increase from 2009 to 2010. Having added more than 17,000 households, Katy has also enjoyed a staggering 267 percent growth rate since 2000, has earned a top 25 suburb ranking in 2008 and taken the number five position in 2009.

"Katy is fortunate to be in the perfect storm of growth," Christi Borden, seasoned Realtor with Prudential Gary Greene, explains. "Close proximity to major employers, highly ranked schools, low cost of living, many neighborhoods including Cinco Ranch, recently named the No. 1 selling master-planned community in the U.S., ever growing retail, dining and entertainment opportunities, easy commute to work, family-oriented atmosphere and now the proud new home of the Medical Center West Campus makes this area a popular job relocation destination."

With popular employers in the area such as Exxon, BP and Conoco, it is no surprise that Katy’s household income has grown over 20 percent since 2000 and ended at $85,810 in Dec of 2010.

According to their report, the Gadberry Group uses their own statistical ranking system, which takes into account ethnicity, household income, net worth, economic stability, length of residence and age to calculate their rankings.

Check out Plantation Homes in Firethorne, one of Katy’s finest master-planned communities.

Tips for Moving in 2011

Wed, 12 Jan 2011 00:00:00 GMT

You may feel like your impending move in 2011 may require moving mountains, but with a little planning and organization, these tips can help make moving day a little more stress-free.

Starting as early as two months before moving day:

Start the sort and purge process. Go through every room of your house and decide what you’d like to keep and what you can part with.
Start investigating moving company options and never rely on a quote over the phone; request an on-site, written estimate from each company.

As early as six weeks before:

Order boxes and other supplies such as tape, Bubble Wrap, and permanent markers. Don’t forget to order specialty containers, such as dish barrels or wardrobe boxes.
Start using up things that you don’t want to move, like frozen or perishable foods and cleaning supplies.
Check room dimensions at your new home, if possible, and make sure larger pieces of furniture will fit through the door.

As early as one month before:

Choose your mover and confirm the arrangements. Select a company and get written confirmation of your moving date, costs, and other details.
Start packing the things that you use most infrequently, such as the waffle iron and croquet set. While packing, note items of special value that might require additional insurance from your moving company.
Clearly label and number each box with its contents and the room it’s destined for. This will help you to keep an inventory of your belongings. Pack and label “essentials” boxes of items you’ll need right away.

The week before moving day:

Reconfirm all of the arrangements with movers, friends and Realtors®.
Pack suitcases for everyone in the family with enough clothes to wear for a few days.
If your refrigerator is moving with you, make sure to empty, clean, and defrost it at least 24 hours before moving day.
Reconfirm the moving company’s arrival time and other specifics and make sure you have prepared exact, written directions to your new home for the staff.
If you haven’t already arranged to pay your mover with a credit card, get a money order, cashier’s check, or cash for payment and tip.

If the staff has done a good job, a 10 to 15 percent tip is customary. If your move was especially difficult, you might tip each mover up to $100. Don’t forget that refreshments are always appreciated! Before the movers leave, sign the bill and inventory list and keep a copy.

Paint Trends for 2011

Wed, 05 Jan 2011 00:00:00 GMT

It is amazing how quickly the year 2010 flew by! With the New Year rolling in, many homeowners will find that it’s time to add a fresh new coat of paint to at least one room of their home. Before throwing up the same old colors, check out the latest color trends for 2011.

The biggest paint trend in the coming year will revolve around colors that project natural, earthy surroundings. Earth, water, and sky will be the new color themes of many homes in 2011. You can expect to see local paint stores, including Pittsburgh Paints and local home improvement stores sporting earth and water tones, but the the biggest trend by far will be to use the colors of the sky.

There are many sites where you can view these color trends and even find your favorites before ever venturing out to the stores. Visit sites such as PPGPittsburghPaints.com and HouseBeautiful.com.

Don’t hesitate to ask for help from a color specialist in-store either, as they are trained in the most current color trends and can help you choose colors that blend seamlessly from room to room throughout your home!

Art Trifecta: 2011 Texas Biennial Expands from Austin to Houston and San Antonio

Wed, 29 Dec 2010 00:00:00 GMT

CultureMap Houston recently covered the exciting news of the expansion of the Texas Biennial from Austin to now include both San Antonio and Houston.

"Texas is one of the few states that can truly support a Biennial, based on the work and energy not only of artists but of all others - curators, critics, gallerists, collectors - who contribute to this vibrant arts culture." - Virginia Rutledge, Art Historian and Art Lawyer

To read about the entire event and its expansion, visit CultureMap.

Paint Trends for 2011

Caulking Tips to Prepare Your Home for Cold Weather

Mon, 27 Dec 2010 00:00:00 GMT

As winter approaches, homeowners flock to their local home improvement stores in search of energy saving ideas. One of the simplest ways to improve your efficiency and eliminate drafts is to simply refresh the caulking around windows and doors. Luckily, you don't have to be handy when it comes to caulking; you simply need a few tools and a little patience.

Start by examining your windows and doors – both inside and outside - for cracks in the panels and gaps behind the frames. If you find old, cracked caulk, it must be replaced.

An easy way to check for a draft is through the “incense test”: with a smoldering incense stick, move toward the edges of windows and doors. A draft will blow the smoke horizontally. If there is no draft, the smoke will rise as normal.

Take note of the number of problem areas you find. As a rule of thumb, you should buy one tube of caulk for every two windows or doors that need sealing.

Make sure you choose the right caulk. Latex can be painted and can be perfect for interior rooms and areas where you'll want windows to look their best. Silicone caulk is mildew-resistant and much more flexible than latex, so it will expand and contract when temperatures fluctuate – a much better application for use outdoors.

Next, you will need a caulk gun. The Black & Decker 2-Speed Power Caulk Gun was recently voted “most efficient and the easiest to use” in a consumer comparison test and is great for larger jobs. For a cheaper alternative capable of handling small touch-up jobs, consider the Newborn Brothers Co. Drip-Free, which also works well, though it doesn't have the comfortable grip or speed of its high-tech competitor.

To start, clean all areas with soap and water. For really tough spots, use rubbing alcohol. Chip away any old caulk and paint with a putty knife. Then cut the cone-shaped tip of your caulk tube; the narrower the spout, the thinner the line.

Finally, load your gun, do a few practice rounds on a piece of cardboard, and start caulking. To smooth and straighten lines, try the tri-head bead finisher. The tool works well and keeps your fingers clean!

Hanging a Piece of Art

Thu, 09 Dec 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Hanging art may not be an actual science, but for a novice it can often feel that way! Here is a quick and easy guide to help make your projects a little easier:

A general rule of thumb is that most art pieces should be hung 65 inches from the floor to the center of the art. Additionally, your line of sight should roughly be in the center of the piece. If your piece will be hanging on a blank wall, such as an entryway, you will probably want it a little higher, and if hanging over a sofa or headboard it should be between 6 and 12 inches above the back. It’s always helpful to have an extra set of hands to hold the artwork in the spot you are planning to hang the piece so you can make sure you are happy with the location before you begin putting holes in the wall.
The above instructions will work well for a medium to large piece of art, but if you are hanging a small piece, you will want to consider a grouping of similar objects (mirrors or framed collections) or find a smaller, narrow wall so the piece is proportionate to its space. A group of 3 to 5 small paintings hung vertically or horizontally on a wall can add modern appeal.
If you are hanging artwork alone, you should consider cutting a paper template the size of each piece to be hung and attach the paper cutouts to the wall with painter's tape using the above guidelines. This will give you the opportunity to step back and view the artwork as it relates to your room and your furniture. Move the template around until you find the perfect spot prior to hanging the picture. Once you are ready to hang, simply nail your hanger or hook through the paper for the most precise placement.

Now you can sit back and enjoy your favorite, professionally hung masterpieces!

Prep Your House for Holiday Guests in Three Easy Steps

Thu, 02 Dec 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Part of being a great host or hostess is having a clean house for guests to stay in. If you’ve been putting off the big, deep clean, impending house guests can be a great motivator! With this easy guide in hand, you can tackle the mess systematically: remove clutter, clean, and prep for guests. When you are finished, you will be as happy with the results as your guests!

Remove Clutter
“The first - and sometimes hardest - part of cleaning is the purge,” says Essie, the owner of an Atlanta cleaning company. Go room-by-room and toss out, recycle, or donate unused items and then put away things that don’t belong in view, including magazines, toys and knick-knacks.

Clean
Plan two 2-hour cleaning sessions the week your guests will arrive, one for the living areas and one for the bedrooms. Clean windows, vacuum mattresses, wash every washable linen in sight (don’t forget to use a light fabric softener). If time is short or you work long hours, consider investing in a local maid service, which usually runs between $70 and $130. Having others clean your house is a special kind of heaven!

Guest Prep
Organize the linens (sheets, towels, washcloths) for each guest and make sure there are enough towels for each guest during their stay. Refresh scented plug-ins or candles so the room smells fresh, but not overwhelmingly so! Make sure the room is quiet, dark and has an alarm clock.

Now that the floors are sparkling and the scene is set, you are ready to welcome friends and family – and you can actually spend more time enjoying their visit!

Energy Saving Myths and Tips

Fri, 05 Nov 2010 00:00:00 GMT

It won’t be much longer before Texans are turning to their heaters to take the chill out of cooler fall nights! To accompany the changing season, homeowners are likely to see articles filled with energy saving urban legends.

A classic example of this seasonal misinformation includes advising homeowners to use duct tape for sealing air conditioning and heating ducts in attics – but resist the urge to apply this tacky tape and use fiberglass mesh and mastic instead for a better seal!

Below you will find a few additional energy-saving myths - and their proper resolutions - debunked by the U.S. Department of Energy:

Myth: Dimming my incandescent lights by 50 percent will cut lighting bills in half.
Reality: The relationship between dimming and energy use isn't a linear one. Your savings will be much less than expected. If you are looking for real savings, consider switching your inefficient incandescent bulbs for CFL or LED bulbs!

Myth: Buying efficient air conditioners or furnaces will automatically reduce energy bills.
Reality: While savings are possible with efficient upgrades, these savings are not automatic. Choosing an appropriately sized unit and insuring proper installation are crucial. Improperly installed systems can waste one-third or more of the energy used by the air conditioner, so make sure and talk to the pro’s for guidance.

As homeowners become more aware and interested in reducing their eco-footprints, it is always important to remember to consult with an expert. Visit a local home improvement store or www.energy.gov for the latest, proven products and energy saving tips!

Source: U.S. Department of Energy