A new year brings about resolutions for a better future. Whether that is through the betterment of the body, or of the mind, it is essential to promise yourself to follow through on these improvements. So why not make resolutions in regards to the well-being of your house? Here are four resolutions to maintain your house to be in its best shape:
- Cleaning Schedule
Cleaning your house is usually no one’s favorite task, but it is important to do. The longer dirt and grime stay on floors, walls and ceilings, the harder it is to restore to pristine condition. That is why you should consider a cleaning schedule, to do a deep clean in certain rooms every once in a while. Try to deep clean a vital room and a bathroom every month. Start with the kitchen or the master bedroom and work your way through the rooms throughout the year. Maintaining this schedule also reduces stress levels during the holidays and other times you need a clean house for guests. - Purge the Clutter
While you are cleaning your house every month, you will more than likely come across items you do not need. This is the perfect time to declutter your room of unnecessary items. How do you decide if you need the item? Here are a couple tips: one – does it bring you joy?; and two – does it serve a purpose currently? If the answer is no to both of these questions, consider whether or not it is an item you should retain. Purging the clutter will not only ease the strain on your cleaning activities, but it will also make for an easier time moving in the future if you so choose. - Switch to LED Light Bulbs
Incandescent light bulbs are probably what you have always bought, and would probably prefer to keep buying. However, did you know that they don’t last as long, and cost more money to operate than LED bulbs? Understandably, the LED bulbs have a shocking price tag, starting at eight dollars in comparison to the dollar incandescent light bulb. While that seems like a lot of money, the money you save by buying only one light bulb every twenty years rather than twenty lightbulbs every twenty years makes a difference. Finally, incandescent light bulbs will no longer be sold after 2020…If the switch is imminent, why not improve your house today? - Clean out the Dryer Vent
Always clean out your dryer vent. Numerous house fires occur due to the negligence of the owner forgetting to clean out the dryer vent. This task takes about a minute to do and can save your house and your appliances many years. Be safe, be cautious and always check your dryer vents.
With these resolutions in mind, we hope you have a wonderful start to the new year. If you need further tips, tricks or help buying and selling homes, contact us as your trusted advisor. Happy New Year!
The holidays are here and the new year is about to begin! In addition to welcoming in a new year, we too are welcoming new businesses to the Georgetown community. What can you expect in our area over the next year? Read on for a list of businesses announced or rumored to show up to Georgetown in the near future:
Tiff’s Treats
With plans to open a location at the Wolf Crossing development off West University Avenue to the east of Wolf Ranch Town Center, warm and delicious cookies are making their way to Georgetown! The new Tiff’s Treats will open in 2019 and offer the same cookies and delivery service as all other shops – warm cookies delivered right to your door with either milk or ice cream!
The Well
Expected to open in January, this new food, wine and whiskey establishment is a rocking spot for a night on the town. The Well’s atmosphere is similar to that of a “speakeasy” with furniture lined with leather, iron and wood enhancing the industrial essence of the property.
The Summit at Rivery Park
This high-end mixed-use development, located next to the Sheraton Georgetown Hotel and Convention Center is an exciting addition to our town. With new restaurants, office space and living accommodations, this place is promising to be the Domain of Georgetown, or even better!
Natural Grocers
Are you in need of a new organic grocer? Rumored to open soon, the Natural Grocers is located on University Avenue, just west of Wolf Ranch. Now you can get all of your favorite organic foods in a convenient location!
Fortune Garden Chinese – Vietnamese Restaurant
Does this restaurant sound familiar? Fortune Garden has a location in Round Rock and is set to open a new location in the Wolf Ranch Town Center this upcoming January. This Vietnamese-Chinese restaurant is sure to satisfy your Asian food cravings.
Arby’s
Finally, we can expect an Arby’s to open its doors off of I-35 between the Discount Tire and the Wendy’s. There is no planned opening date as of yet. But, stay tuned! Your roast beef sandwich will soon be a reality.
That’s the latest news of what’s coming to Georgetown!
Do you have any questions about the Georgetown community? Contact us anytime. We would be happy to provide guidance.
Resource:
https://hellogeorgetown.com/coming-soon- georgetown-texas/
While there are always countless events to enjoy within the greater Austin area, there are also some great options just a short drive away. Head out for a day trip, or spend the whole weekend, at one of these six Hill Country holiday events:
Hill Country Holiday Events
Marble Falls’ Walkway of Lights
November 17 to January 1
Located just a short drive from Georgetown is Marble Falls’ Walkway of Lights. Gaze upon more than two million dazzling lights at Lakeside Park on the Colorado River. At the conclusion of the 30-minute, on average, trail, visitors can snap pictures with Santa. However, be aware Santa is only available on weekends and holidays.
Johnson City’s Lights Spectacular
November 24 to January 1
Head out to the home of president LBJ and enjoy a dazzling light display of more than one million LED lights adorning the local landmarks. But, that’s not it. Each weekend also offers other holiday fun – chuck wagon food court, living nativity performances and carriage rides.
Wimberley’s Holiday Trail of Lights
November 25 to December 28
Spanning eight acres, Wimberley’s Trail of Lights is truly a light display to behold. Enjoy more than 100 light displays, holiday concessions and quality time with the family at this free event (donations appreciated).
Boerne’s Christmas Light Fest
Thanksgiving to New Year’s Eve
View the lights of the season from the comfort of your car at Boerne’s drive-thru Christmas Light Fest. Cost of admission is $27 per vehicle. Holiday festivities continue at Santa’s Village, with holiday refreshments, and $15 hayrides, cruising through two miles of more than two million lights.
Burnet’s Main Street Bethlehem
December 1-3 & 8-10
Travel back in time to the ancient city of Bethlehem at Burnet’s Annual Main Street Bethlehem event. At this old-time holiday affair, you’ll wander along the narrow streets of Bethlehem and experience a busy marketplace, Roman soldiers, beggars, livestock and the cave where Mary and Joseph have taken shelter.
New Braunfels’ Wassailfest
December 7
Toast to the holiday season with a glass of wassail, hot mulled cider, at New Braunfels’ Wassailfest. On Thursday, December 7 from 6 to 9 p.m. you and your loved ones can enjoy free samples of the event’s namesake, wassail, plus food, music, shopping and holiday lights. Sip on one of the signature drinks of the season while shopping for this year’s holiday gifts.
Grab your family or significant other and enjoy all the season has to offer at these Hill Country holiday events!
Do you have any questions about the Central Texas area? Give us a call. We love our community and would be honored to answer any questions you may have.
As November passes, so do numerous fun events. But have no fear, there are plenty left this month to enjoy right here in Georgetown! Check out this list with your family to enjoy a fun-filled holiday season:
Annie at the Palace
Now – November 26th
A classic, Annie is a must-see for children of any age! Have your children had the privilege of seeing this great film? If not, you’re in luck! Annie is performing at the Palace for various dates until November 26. Buy your tickets today and try not to get “It’s a hard-knock life” stuck in your head. Warning, your children will sing that song for days, if not weeks, following the show.
Santa Shuffle
November 16th
From 5 to 9 p.m., enjoy the Santa Shuffle dressed in your most festive wear to get your glass filled by various vendors. Beverages, both alcoholic and otherwise, are provided with your $15 Santa glass that you will treasure for time to come. Not sold yet? Santa will be there, too! Purchase your tickets today to not miss out on this great event.
Pistons on the Square
November 18th
Come out to the square from 8 to 10 a.m. to see muscle, sport and antique cars along with various motorcycles on display. Bring an unwrapped toy for Operation Blue Santa and get a free cup of coffee from JeSuis Coffee. Have a blast while helping out a great cause.
5th Annual Turkey Trot
November 23rd
Looking for a workout before Thanksgiving dinner? Head out to this year’s Turkey Trot which starts and finishes in downtown Georgetown. There will be both a five-mile untimed run and a one-mile walk along paths fit for strollers so that the whole family can join.
Lighting of the Square
November 24th
The must-attend event of the season is nearly upon us, the lighting of Georgetown’s town square the Friday after Thanksgiving. This free, fun and festive event is enjoyable for everyone. Stop by around 5:30 p.m. and join in the countdown, enjoy Santa and then proceed to the Williamson Museum to have your children make a free craft. They can even get a picture with Santa for a small fee benefitting the Brown Santa program.
Small Business Saturday
November 25th
What could be better than helping out Georgetown’s local small businesses? How about making an event of it! Receive a free map of all the participating shops and discover the secret word that enters you into the raffle for a Texas-sized basket of Shop Georgetown, Shop Small Fun! Curious what’s in the basket? Go check out the event to find out!
If you are looking for a place in Georgetown to be closer to all of these fun events, contact us today!
We bet a hot cup of coffee, tea or hot chocolate is even more appealing as the weather in the Central Texas area begins to cool off! In our hometown of Georgetown, a big community with a small-town feel, there is not a shortage of local spots to grab a cup to kick-start your morning or boost your energy in the middle of the afternoon. Here are some of the best Georgetown coffee shops to grab your drink of choice:
Georgetown Coffee Shops
The BiG Café
Hours: Monday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. (full service) and 2:30 to 5 p.m. (self-serve coffee)
Location: 905 N. Church Street, Georgetown
Grab a cup of coffee at the BiG Café and support a great cause! BiG in Brookwood was created with a mission to provide an educational environment to further the lives of adults with disabilities.
Cianfrani Coffee Co.
Hours: Monday through Saturday from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sunday from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Location: 109 W 7th Street, Suite #105, Georgetown
Coffee is the real star at this premium roastery. Grab great tasting coffee at Cianfrani’s spacious coffeehouse and enjoy the free Wi-Fi.
Red Poppy Coffee Co.
Hours: Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., Friday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 12 to 5 p.m.
Location: 402 W 8th Street, Georgetown
Located in the Georgetown Public Library, the Red Poppy Coffee Co. is the ideal location to grab a cup of coffee while reading a book or grabbing a bite to eat for breakfast, lunch or dinner.
Galaxy Bakery and Coffee House
Hours: Tuesday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., Friday from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Closed on Sunday and Monday.
Location: 107 E 7th Street, Georgetown
Nothing goes better than coffee and pastries! A family-run spot for sweet treats, like cupcakes and custom cakes, and other baked goods, like bread and quiche, this location is the ideal spot to grab your hot drink of the day and a delicious treat to pair with!
Laurie’s Café
Hours: Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Closed on Sunday.
Location: 612 S Main Street, Georgetown
Lunch and an afternoon coffee never tasted so good at this quaint café offering amazing lunchtime fare. Made “from scratch,” stop in to enjoy the quiche of the day and more at this dining spot the locals love!
A hot cup of coffee, tea or hot chocolate is just the thing to enjoy in Central Texas this fall and winter.
Do you have any questions about the Georgetown community? We love it here and would be happy to answer any questions you have.
In a fickle market, selling your home can be frustrating! How do you guarantee a return worthy of listing your home, staging it to sell, accommodating countless showings and more? You remodel! While remodeling is a great way to differentiate your home from the rest, it is time-consuming and doesn’t always yield the results you expect. However, when done strategically, it can be a great investment. Which remodels yield the most significant return on investment? We’ve got the answers! According to the National Association of REALTORS® 2017 Remodeling Impact Report, these 12 home remodeling projects, in order of most to least appealing, are among the best to add value to your home at resale.
Complete kitchen renovation
Cost estimate: $65,000
Return estimate: $40,000
Return on investment: 62%
Kitchen upgrade
Cost estimate: $35,000
Return estimate: $20,000
Return on investment: 57%
Bathroom renovation
Cost estimate: $30,000
Return estimate: $15,000
Return on investment: 50%
New wood flooring
Cost estimate: $5,500
Return estimate: $5,000
Return on investment: 91%
Add new bathroom
Cost estimate: $59,000
Return estimate: $29,750
Return on investment: 50%
Hardwood flooring refinish
Cost estimate: $3,000
Return estimate: $3,000
Return on investment: 100%
New master suite
Cost estimate: $125,000
Return estimate: $65,000
Return on investment: 52%
New HVAC unit
Cost estimate: $7,475
Return estimate: $5,000
Return on investment: 67%
Basement conversion
Cost estimate: $40,000
Return estimate: $25,000
Return on investment: 63%
Closet renovation
Cost estimate: $3,750
Return estimate: $2,000
Return on investment: 53%
Insulation upgrade
Cost estimate: $2,100
Return estimate: $1,600
Return on investment: 76%
Attic conversion
Cost estimate: $75,000
Return estimate: $40,000
Return on investment: 53%
These home remodeling projects will guarantee you the most significant return on investment when it comes time to sell your home! Plus, in the meantime, you’ll get to enjoy the newly renovated space.
Do you have any questions about any of these renovations? Or, are you looking for a list of maintenance vendors in the area to help with the project? We’re here to help in any way we can! Give us a call today!
With its small-town atmosphere, beautiful town square and extensive shopping and dining destinations, it is no wonder why so many people fall in LOVE with Georgetown, TX. Just around the town square, Georgetown residents have the opportunity to enjoy and explore many different cuisines and restaurants. But, do all these options make it hard to choose where to enjoy dinner on a night out? Whether you are planning dinner out with the family or a night out with your significant other, these are some of downtown Georgetown’s best restaurants to enjoy a delicious meal:
Photo Courtesy: 600 Degrees Pizzeria and Drafthouse Facebook
Georgetown’s Best Restaurants
600 Degrees Pizzeria & Drafthouse
Hours: Open 7 days a week. Monday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 12 a.m. and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
124 E 8th Street, Georgetown, TX
The 600 Degrees Pizzeria and Drafthouse happens to be one of the most popular dining destinations in Georgetown, attracting residents and students alike. Enjoy everything from handmade pizzas to salads to chicken wings and delectable desserts like New York style cheesecake and tiramisu at this Georgetown eating establishment. On the drafthouse side, the eatery boasts 55 draft beers with seasonal and rotating taps. Keep in mind; the kitchen closes one hour before closing.
Hours: Daily from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.
500 S Austin Avenue, Georgetown, TX
Established in 1995, the Monument Café serves up Homestyle cooking options made from fresh, organic vegetables and all natural meats. The Café is open for breakfast and lunch every day with tasty menu items like omelets, pancakes, fried chicken and the 1940’s classic, liver and onions. For local products to take home with you, visit the Monument Market. The market is open daily and offers local produce, meats and dairy products.
Hours: Monday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Tuesday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., Friday from 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., Saturday from 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. and Sunday from 12 to 4 p.m.
119 W. 7th Street, Georgetown, TX
For fun food in a friendly, college-themed environment, head to Burger University. Serving up fresh, never frozen beef, fresh cut fries and hand-battered chicken tenders and onion rings, every meal is made from scratch! View the menu here.
Hours: Monday through Saturday from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Sunday from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.
1104 S Main Street, Georgetown, TX
In a name befitting of the restaurant, Dos Salsas serves up two salsas at every table and offers some best Tex-Mex fare in Georgetown. Menu items include seafood, fajitas, steaks, salads and a large appetizer selection, along with a full-service bar offering margaritas, wine, beer and other traditional Mexican cocktails. Happy hour runs all day Monday through Tuesday and 3 to 7 p.m. Wednesday through Friday.
Regular Hours: Sunday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Quick Service Lunch Hours: Monday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
205 W 2nd Street, Georgetown, TX
With a high-end environment and views of the San Gabriel River, El Monumento offers fantastic Mexican dishes and a large selection of wines, beers, margaritas, Mexican martinis and more. Must-try menu items include the Carne Tampiquena with Chimichurri, mesquite-grilled beef tenderloin with potato rajas, cheese enchilada and mole sauce and Shrimp Relleno with roasted poblano.
For more dining options around the Georgetown area, click here. This link provides you with all of the dining options, broken down by cuisine, available to you around Georgetown.
Do you have any other questions about the Georgetown community? Give us a call; we would be happy to share any information you may want around the Georgetown area.
Is a home renovation project on the books this coming year? Turns out; you’re not the only one considering renovating your home! According to a recent survey by Houzz, homeowners are investing more money than ever to remodel their houses. Last year, the report shows that first-time homebuyers spent an average of $33,800 on renovations – up 22 percent from the year before. The study also found that Millennials invested an average of $26,200 in upgrading their home and Baby Boomers spent around three times more than Millennials. The amount spent on home renovations is truly staggering – and, on top of that, Houzz predicts those numbers will keep increasing. Why are homeowners spending more on repairs? As it turns out, Houzz found that young owners are buying fixer-uppers to keep their mortgage payments low! As more people buy fixer-uppers, there is an increased demand for renovations. From remodeling the entire living room to adding smart features to the home, the following projects are the 2016-17 home renovation trends, according to Houzz’s 2017 Overview of U.S. Renovation in 2016 and 2017:
- Homeowners invested 11 percent more, on average, on remodeling interior rooms of the home – excluding kitchens and bathrooms.
- Laundry room spending increased by 24 percent.
- Customization is a main focus. In 2016, many new homeowners decided to completely gut the interior or renovate nearly all of the rooms – all at once.
- According to the survey, more than a quarter of homeowners added smart technology to their homes during renovations.
- Seasoned homebuyers focused on home exterior – paint, windows, doors, decks and more.
- New outdoor lighting is a must for those buying a new home – as one in five homeowners prioritized outdoor lighting.
- Decks and garden beds or borders are the most common outdoor projects.
- Money spent on a smaller master bathroom remodel increased by 10 percent while a larger master bathroom remodel decreased year-over-year. A major remodel is defined by replacing at least the cabinetry/vanity, countertops and toilet.
- Money spent on a major remodel, defined by replacement of at least cabinets and appliances, increased by six percent for smaller kitchens (less than 200 square feet) and declined by six percent for larger kitchens (greater than 200 square feet).
- The master bedroom is key for first-time homebuyers, as it is their third-most-frequent renovation and they are twice as likely to tackle a master bedroom renovation than long-term owners.
- Greater demand for home automation and security upgrades. In general, repeat homebuyers were twice as likely to install home automation and security than long-term owners.
- First-time homebuyers are hiring a lot of specialty contractors, like painters, electricians and plumbers.
- Homeowners with more experience are relying on design/build professionals who offer full-service project management.
Did these renovations inspire you? We would be happy to help you locate home renovation professionals around the greater Austin area to help you implement any and all changes you would like – give us a call today!
As the Central Texas region transitions to fall, the change of season brings cooling temperatures, changing leaves, pumpkin patches, autumn-themed events and festivals, football and more. Are you ready for the upcoming season? For those of you looking for something to add to your calendar this fall, here’s a look at some Central Texas fall events and festivals happening this season:
September
1-3
Central Texas State Fair
Belton, TX
23 – 24
Old Pecan Street Festival
Sixth Street Austin
30
AustOberfest
Austin Saengerrunde
30
Texas Craft Brewers Festival
Fiesta Gardens
30
Georgetown Wine and Music Festival
Georgetown Town Square
October
6-15
Austin City Limits Music Festival
Zilker Park
13-14 & 27-28
Ghosts of the Georgetown Square Tours
Georgetown Town Square
14
Oktoberfest
German Free School
26
Halloween Festival
Georgetown Community Center
28
Cedar Park Arts and Crafts Festival
Recreation Center
28
Round Rock Dia de los Muertos Procession and Festival
Centennial Plaza
28
Cedar Park’s Fable Fest
Elizabeth Milburn Park
29
Boo Bash
Georgetown Town Square
TBD
The Great Pumpkin Festival
St. Richards Episcopal Church, Round Rock
31
Trunk-or-Treat
Parking Lot between Lowe’s and Kohl’s in Leander
31
Halloween in the Hall
Cedar Park City Hall
TBD
Fall Fun Festival
Old Settlers Park
November
3-12
Wurstfest
Landa Park, New Braunfels
4-5
Austin Celtic Festival
Fiesta Gardens
5
Texas Monthly BBQ Festival
City Terrace at The Long Center
6 – 8
Fun Fun Fun Fest
Auditorium Shores
10 – 12
Sound on Sound Festival
Sherwood Forest
11
Veterans Memorial Parade and Ceremony
Veterans Memorial Park
23
Turkey Trot
The Long Center
24
Lighting the Square
Georgetown Town Square
Click here for a printable PDF.
Have a festive and fun fall season at these Central Texas fall events and festivals.
Do you have any questions about the greater Austin area or beyond? We specialize in the Williamson County communities and would be honored to help you in any way we can.
What’s in and what’s out in kitchen design? There’s no need to worry about that anymore. Even though new trends are emerging every year, there are some here to stay for the long haul! Take a look at these nine timeless kitchen design trends:
Quartz countertops
While granite has lost some of its appeal, it doesn’t look like quartz countertops will. Quartz countertops require less maintenance than granite, and their shimmering surface offers an everlasting appeal.
Open concept floor plan
Does your home feel compartmentalized? While this was once popular, it has officially lost its appeal. Tear down your walls and open up your kitchen to the rest of your house – open concept floor plans are here to stay!
Induction cooktop
Not only does induction cooking cut down on heat, but they are also safe to the touch – which is perfect if you have children! As they produce little heat, these cooktops remove the need for a range hood, opening up your kitchen design to endless possibilities.
Large center islands
A large center island adds valuable countertop space for prep work, while also increasing the functionality and appeal of the kitchen as a whole.
LED lighting
LED lighting is here for the long haul. These bulbs are not only more efficient and longer-lasting than other options, but they also add a brighter light to your kitchen’s work surface.
Deep drawers
Deep kitchen drawers enhance the functionality and organization of your kitchen by increasing its storage space. Want to take it up a notch? Add pegboards!
Open shelving
Add a fresh look to your kitchen by opening up your cabinets. Made popular by the farmhouse design trend, open shelving increases your kitchen’s visual appeal.
Wood flooring
Hardwood floors are gorgeous! But, in the kitchen? Real wood may not be the best idea…But, lucky for you, they now have tile that looks exactly like hardwood flooring. It’s visually appealing and easier to maintain.
Big sinks
Bigger is better! A larger sink increases your kitchen’s functionality by containing splashes and accommodating for larger pots and pans.
Consider these timeless kitchen design trends during your renovation to ensure your home never goes out of style again!
Have questions? Reach out anytime.