Articles Tagged "Dallas"

The California Governor and his party are pushing legislation that would impose higher taxes on the state's more affluent residents, and this tax would carry with them if they moved to Texas.  Dozens of lawsuits will be filed if this legislation passes.   The proposed bill would begin January 2024, hence a considerable move this year to Texas from some of California's more affluent residents.  Other states that are losing so many people to Texas are looking at this wealth tax proposal for their state.  These states include Washington, New York, Minnesota, Illinois, Connecticut and Maryland.

- Fox News, January 24, 2023

The national negative news about real estate does not apply to the Dallas-Fort Worth area. The market remains relatively strong!

You've undoubtedly heard a lot of grumbling about the real estate market lately. Yes, it's a fact that mortgage rates have risen and housing inventory is tight, but we have to remember the Dallas luxury real estate market is a unicorn. All we have to do is look at some statistics from 2022. What you hear on the national news simply does not apply to our market.  Five of the top 10 largest-gaining counties in 2021 were in Texas. Collin, Fort Bend, Williamson, Denton, and Montgomery counties gained a combined 145,663 residents.  Texas was home to four of the top 10 largest-gaining metro areas.  During the peak months of the COVID-19 pandemic, no metro area's population grew more than Dallas-Fort Worth.  The largest group of people from out-of-state taking up residence in Texas's largest metropolitan area, Dallas-Ft. Worth came from California's largest city. Between July 2019 and July 2022, 1.6% of new Dallas County residents relocating from within the United States arrived from Los Angeles County.

• Candy's Dirt, January 2, 2023

Move over Collin and Denton Counties; Kaufman County has arrived!

The city of Kaufman's slogan — "We're Growing Places" — rings true, according to newly released population estimates that show its county booming.  Kaufman County is growing faster than any other county in the nation, according to one-year estimates from the U.S. Census Bureau.  "We're seeing tremendous growth in all of the counties surrounding Dallas," Lloyd Potter, director of the Texas Demographic Center said. "These counties are largely growing because there's economic opportunity, meaning that we're growing jobs in Texas."   While newly released census data showed positive growth across North Texas, Kaufman County, saw an 18% population boost between 2019 and 2021, the most of seven Dallas-Forth Worth area counties. Not only has the county grown by over 21,000 residents in those two years according to Census estimates, but it has also seen its diversity soar.  From 2016-2021, Kaufman's population grew from 118,350 residents to 140,145. These estimates don't reflect the tremendous growth from 2022.    The 800-square-mile county is seeing more than 30,000 new homes being built or in early development stages in its six biggest cities. Calculating for 4 people per household, the county is preparing for a population increase of about 120,000 more people in the next 18 months.

• Dallas Morning News, December 28, 2022

Art lovers such as our real estate agents feel right at home in the Dallas-Fort Worth area since Dallas has the largest Arts District in the United States. Discover DFW's rich cultural community by participating in Go to an Art Museum Day on Wednesday, November 9.

• Dallas Museum of Art - 1717 N. Harwood, Dallas, TX 75201
  For more than 100 years, the Dallas Museum of Art has been the flagship attraction in the downtown Arts District. As one of the 10 largest art museums in the country, the DMA draws upwards of 650,000 visitors each year. Their permanent collection includes more than 25,000 pieces representing 5,000 years of art across all cultures, while they also offer a full calendar of family-friendly classes and workshops so visitors can explore their own creativity. General admission is free but does require an entry ticket that can be obtained online. The DMA is open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday except for Friday, with extended hours until 9 p.m.
  
  
• Nasher Sculpture Center - 2001 Flora St., Dallas, TX 75201
  As passionate collectors of sculpture, the late Raymond and Patsy Nasher wanted to share their interests with others around Dallas homes for sale. That dream was fulfilled in 2003 with the opening of the Nasher Sculpture Center. The building itself, designed by noted architect Renzo Piano, almost qualifies as a larger-than-life sculpture. Inside the center, more than 300 works represent legendary sculptors such as Calder, Rodin, Miró, and Picasso. Many exhibits feature pieces from the Nasher family collection. Admission is $10 for adults, $5 for students with ID, and free for kids under 12. Hours are 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday.
  
  
• The Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth - 3200 Darnell St., Fort Worth, TX 76107
  Despite its name, The Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth is the oldest museum in Texas, dating back to 1892. Over time, the mission of The Modern has evolved, and today, they aim to showcase "the most compelling art and ideas of our time." Located in the Cultural District, just minutes from Fort Worth homes for sale, The Modern's collection of paintings, photos, and sculptures includes artists such as Francis Bacon, Jackson Pollock, and Henry Moore. Admission is $16 for adults, $10 for students, and free for kids under 18. Hours are 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday except for Friday, when closing time is 8 p.m.
  
  
• Amon Carter Museum of American Art - 3501 Camp Bowie Blvd., Fort Worth, TX 76107
  The Amon Carter Museum of Modern Art celebrates the incredible artistic legacy of our own country. View stunning works from artists such as Frederic Remington, Georgia O'Keefe, and Louise Nevelson. Admission is free. The Carter is open 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday, 10 a.m. - 8 p.m. Thursday, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and noon- 5 p.m. Sunday.

There are many museums and galleries to explore when you call the Dallas-Fort Worth area home. Are you ready to buy or sell a home in this area? Contact us at RE/MAX DFW Associates to get started.

After a busy day, our real estate agents want a satisfying home-cooked meal with someone else doing the work. When these moods strike, they head for the retro charms of these delightful diners around the Dallas-Fort Worth area. 

• Mama's Daughters' Diner - 2412 W. Shady Grove Rd., Irving, TX 75060
  As the owners of Mama's Daughters' Diner proudly proclaim, "the only thing you'll find instant here is our service." Mama Norma, along with her daughters and granddaughters, turns out a menu of scratch-made comfort food favorites, such as meatloaf, chicken-fried steak, and biscuits & gravy. Daily specials offer your choice of entree with three sides for only $10.99. Save room for freshly-baked pie or cobbler. Stop in for lunch on a day of viewing Irving homes for sale. Hours are 7 a.m. - 8 p.m. on weekdays and 7 a.m. - 3 p.m. on weekends.
  
  
• Norma's Cafe - 605 W. 15th St., Plano, TX 75075
  While the diner's namesake is no longer involved, the owners of Norma's Cafe carry on the proud tradition she started back in 1956. Norma's is probably best known for their generous breakfasts, which include Mexican-style dishes. The menu also features nostalgic blue-plate specials with vegetables, homemade rolls, and cornbread. Satisfy your sweet tooth with a slice of their famous Mile-High Pies™ in five different flavors, or get one to go after touring Plano homes for sale. Norma's is open seven days a week from 7 a.m. - 8 p.m.
  
  
• Lucky's Cafe - 3531 Oak Lawn Ave., Dallas, TX 75219
  From the pastel neon sign out front to the old-school kitchen pass-through, Lucky's Cafe provides a comfortingly retro ambiance just minutes from Dallas homes for sale. But the food gets a modern update with farm-to-table dishes made with locally-sourced ingredients. Due to popular demand, Lucky's began serving their breakfast menu all day, so you can enjoy decadent banana cognac pancakes or hearty pot roast hash anytime. Vegans and vegetarians may be delightfully surprised to find several meatless options, such as sweet potato hash and veggie enchiladas. Lucky's is open every day from 7 a.m. - 9 p.m.
  
  
• Local Diner - 477 W. Bethel Rd., Coppell, TX 75019
  Local Diner, right down the street from Coppell homes for sale, may have been founded in 1989, but they have the classic food and friendly customer service down pat. "Breakfast by the Number" is scaled-down portions of their full-size meals, with budget-friendly prices that start at just $3.25. Each month, the spotlight is on a new special such as September's Fair Food Feast of lemonade, corn dog, and funnel cake fries. Become an insider when you join the E-Club. Members receive a 10 percent discount daily, along with a birthday gift and other special offers. Hours are 6:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. daily. 
  
  
• Spiral Diner & Bakery - 1314 W. Magnolia Ave., Fort Worth, TX 76104
  Beef is king around Forth Worth homes for sale, yet Spiral Diner & Bakery defied expectations by opening a successful restaurant featuring a completely plant-based menu. Burgers come in a choice of cashew-quinoa, veggie, or "beyond" patties, while Mexican dishes are topped with their signature cashew-based nacho cheese. Cakes and cookies baked on-site are vegan, dairy-free, and egg-free. Hours are 10 a.m. - 10 p.m. daily.

For a real treat, get your diner meal to go and gather around the dining table in your Dallas-Fort Worth home. Contact us at RE/MAX DFW Associates for experienced help with all your real estate needs. 

With more than 7.6 million residents in total, the DFW area is consistently one of America's fastest-growing and most attractive urban areas. In 2022, it crossed the threshold to become the #3 largest metroplex in the United States, and it continues to entice newcomers from far and wide.

Our real estate agents are always glad to welcome anyone who is considering becoming a part of the unfolding DFW story. There are homes to meet every taste, need, and budget throughout the DFW's many colorful and historic communities. And you're sure to love meeting the many small businesses.

Let's drop in on some of the best places to enjoy a coffee in Dallas-Fort Worth:

• Pax and Beneficia – 3550 Grapevine Mills Boulevard North, Suite 100, Grapevine TX, 76051
  Pax and Beneficia has locations near Grapevine homes for sale and Irving homes for sale to suit your needs no matter where you are. Prizing people and coffee in equal measure, it prides itself on being a place that strengthens the local sense of community. The spirit of hospitality is alive and well alongside artisan coffees from local producers and international fair trade brands alike.
  
  
• Houndstooth Coffee – 1878 Sylvan Avenue E150, Dallas, TX 75208
  With eight locations, including several throughout Austin and Dallas, Houndstooth Coffee has the potential to become one of your favorite places if you choose Dallas homes for sale. It is one of the region's top success stories, getting started right in the area and bouncing back after tough years in 2020 and 2021. This is one place where you can truly become a regular right in Dallas-Fort Worth.
  
  
• Staycation – 201 South Texas Street, Richardson, TX 75081
  Staycation is the place to visit near Richardson homes for sale if you want a fun and memorable way to get your morning coffee fix. Situated in "a little house on the corner of Polk and Texas Street," it's not quite like any other cafe on this list. The simple yet delicious menu is full of flavorful coffees, teas, and pastries baked by local pastry artisans. The coffee is exclusively Tweed brand, a Texas favorite.
  
  
• Peaberry Coffee to Go – 2446 West Kiest Boulevard, Dallas, TX 75233
  Peaberry Coffee to Go bills itself as "The home of Kiestwood Iced Coffee." Its elite Kiestwood Reserve 004, sourced from Kenya, has a distinctive floral aroma with blueberry notes. You'll find all kinds of creative and funky concoctions at Peaberry, including such unusual sights as the breakfast taco, the ceremonial matcha, and the churro latte. Remember: It's pickup and curbside only, no delivery.
  
  
• Crude Coffee Bar – 804 South Main Street Suite #120, Fort Worth, TX 76104
  Looking for a "pick me up" near Fort Worth homes for sale? If so, you're in luck. Crude Coffee Bar has been serving up a unique blend of barista-style craft coffees and handmade, small-batch desserts in a warm and friendly environment since getting its start as a family-side business back in 2008. A range of exciting seasonal selections awaits you any time of the year at this classic cafe.

Contact us to find out more about homes and amenities in Dallas-Fort Worth.

Want to add more curb appeal to your home? Interested in getting your home ready to add to the inventory of Dallas homes for sale?

Refreshing the look and functionality of your front yard is an effective way to boost the curb appeal and overall appearance of your home. Our real estate agents recommend the following options to quickly refresh your front yard. 

1. Clean Up Your Outside Areas
   Nearly every home has items scattered in the front yard. Maybe your kids have left their toys out, or perhaps you haven't been vigilant about putting up your garden tools. Cleaning up these items is a fast, easy way to instantly improve the appearance of your home's exterior. If you're lacking storage for your outside items, invest in an outside cabinet, storage shed, or storage chest. 
   
   
2. Lay a Fresh Layer of Mulch
   The vibrant color of new mulch looks fantastic against your garden, lawn, and home. An added benefit of laying mulch is that it will help control weeds around your trees and bushes and in your flower gardens. To provide your plants with additional nutrients, lay a layer of compost before you put down the fresh mulch. When your plans include adding your home to the list of Fort Worth homes for sale, small additions, like fresh mulch, instantly make your home more attractive to potential buyers. 
   
   
3. Add a Walkway
   Stone pavers are a fantastic option for creating a walkway; you can customize the color, size, and layout of the pavers to better complement your home's exterior style. 
   
   
4. Incorporate Features That Invite Wildlife Into Your Yard
   Pollinators, like butterflies, bees, and birds, are beneficial to your yard and to the environment. Pollinators are essential for ensuring that plants remain genetically diverse and assisting flowers and crops with dispersing their seeds. Daylilies, sunflowers, and verbena are all lovely additions to your yard that attract bees and butterflies. A water feature, like a fountain or pond, often attracts birds, including water-loving hummingbirds. 
   
   
5. Replace Worn Out Items
   If the stones used to line your garden or the gravel in your driveway are looking old, dingy, or damaged, consider replacing them. Outdoor materials are made to be durable, but they don't last forever and will eventually start to deteriorate. Replacing these items as they wear out helps you minimize the work and cost of keeping your yard looking its best. 
   
   
6. Add Landscape Lighting
   Not only does landscape lighting provide much-needed light at night, but it ensures your walkways are safe and accessible. Solar lights are a terrific, eco-friendly option, or you might choose smart landscaping lights that you can operate and put on a timer with your smartphone. 

By making a few small changes or additions to your yard, you can give it the refresh it needs to enhance your home's curb appeal.

Want a home with more outside space? Contact us today to put your home on the market!

The North Texas housing market is downshifting quickly, with Dallas-Fort Worth being the only U.S. market to see a decrease in home sale prices last month, according to a report released today.  DFW home prices are down 1.9% year over year in July, according to the latest Re/Max National Housing Report.

And what a difference a month makes.  Last month, DFW led the U.S. for home price increases, with June prices up 29.3% over the previous year.   In hard numbers, home sales prices in DFW fell to $413,900 in July from $422,000 in July 2021.   Homes in DFW spend an average of 23 days on the market before selling.

Higher interest rates and inflation, as well as record home prices, triggered a sharp drop in demand for housing, said Todd Luong, a realtor with Re/Max DFW Associates:  "Here at our Re/Max office in Dallas-Fort Worth, our listings are currently getting on average 2.7 showings per week," Luong said. "Last year, at this same time, our listings were earning on average 5.9 showings per week. That is a huge drop in buyer demand compared to the previous year. Record home prices and higher mortgage rates have forced many potential buyers out of the market, especially first-time homebuyers."

While the latest trends may disappoint some sellers, buyers now have more choices and better opportunities for good deals, Luong said.   Luong said that the DFW housing market has been challenged with low inventory for years and reached an all-time low earlier this year, with only a two-week supply. Now, however, inventory is increasing.  "Although buyers have more choices now, it is still not a balanced market as we only have about a two-month housing supply," Luong said. "In a normal market, you have about a five to six-month supply of housing."

A new report from Zillow also found falling home values, although the numbers didn't match Re/Max's precisely because of different study methods and different geographic definitions of DFW as a metro area, among other reasons.  According to Zillow's findings, the Dallas-Fort Worth metro area's typical home value is $396,904, down 1.1% since June, the first month of decline. Values are up 55.4% since July 2019.

Zillow also reported that the mortgage payment on a typical home in DFW is $2,633 a month, including taxes and insurance. That's up 77.4% compared to July 2019.

According to Zillow, inventory in DFW has risen 10.2% since June, and the share of listings with a price cut in July was 22%, compared to 15.6% in June.  Nationwide, after two years of unprecedented growth, home values fell for the first time since 2012 as competition for houses eased, according to Zillow's July market report.

The slowdown is being driven by decreased competition among buyers. Zillow's analysis says that affordability pressures have pushed many to the sidelines, and buyers are waiting in the wings to resume their search if and when prices relax a bit.  Skylar Olsen, Zillow's chief economist, called the flattening of home values "a badly needed rebalancing.  This slowdown is about discouraged buyers pulling back after the affordability shock from higher rates," Olsen said. "As prices soften, many will renew their interest, and we will continue our progress back to 'normal.'"

Luong said he sees positive signs in the market.  The interest rate for a 30-year fixed mortgage dropped below 5% after peaking in June. More than 290,000 new jobs were added in Dallas-Fort Worth last year, so North Texas has one of the strongest labor markets in the country.   "Reasonably priced homes that are in good condition and move-in ready are still selling very fast," he said. "However, the bidding wars have subsided considerably across the board."

• Dallas Business Journal, August 19, 2022

Want to remove pesky odors from your home and improve the quality of your indoor air? Our real estate agents suggest buying an air purifier.

An air purifier removes pathogens from your air, like pet dander, dust, and other allergens, that can affect your health. If you also work from home and spend a lot of time in your home office, an air purifier ensures that you have clean, healthy air in your workspace, helping you feel your best and boosting your productivity. 

Here are a few tips to follow when buying an air purifier. 

• Look at the Specs for the Air Purifier
  If you're considering a specific air purifier, there are two specs you need to look at: the room size it's designed to cover and the CADR rating. The air purifier's room size lets you know how large of a space, in square feet, the air purifier works best in. For example, if an air purifier covers 300 square feet and your living space is 500 square feet, you'll want an air purifier with better capabilities. CADR stands for clean air delivery rate. This figure tells you how much clean air the air purifier produces and will help you figure out how quickly the unit filters the air in your home. When choosing an air purifier, look for a unit with a CADR spec that's at least two times the highest fan speed. 

• Select a Device That Uses a HEPA Air Filter
  A HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) filter removes 99.9 percent of the particles that pass through it. This includes particulates like viruses, bacteria, dust, and chemical compounds. Air purifiers that use a HEPA filter are effective at reducing the particles that can cause asthma and respiratory problems. If you're adding your home to the inventory of Dallas homes for sale, a HEPA air purifier will help freshen your home's air so that it feels clean and inviting to potential buyers. 

• Consider the Unit's Sound Levels
  An air purifier will make noise when it runs. To minimize the background noise in your home, look for an air purifier with a decibel level of 32 or lower. Many air purifiers operate at 36 decibels. For comparison, a vacuum cleaner is 80 decibels, a normal conversation is 60 decibels, and a whispered conversation is 20 decibels. Some people don't mind background noise, while others prefer to minimize any source of noise pollution. If you're sensitive to noise or just want to minimize unnecessary sound, look for a unit that's as quiet as possible. 

• Invest in an Air Purifier That's Designed for Your Primary Needs
  Your air purifier should suit your family's desired function. Perhaps you're adding your home to the list of Fort Worth homes for sale and want to remove any evidence of your pets. If so, look for an air purifier that specializes in removing pet dander. Or, maybe you have allergies and want to minimize your allergy symptoms. Search for a unit that removes the allergens that you find most problematic. 

An air purifier creates clean, odor-free air, making it an excellent addition to any home. Ready to put your home on the market? Contact us to get started!

When our real estate agents are asked why they recommend moving to the Dallas-Fort Worth area, they often mention the region's outdoor amenities. The DFW has so many lovely natural areas where you can enjoy wildlife and beautiful plants. One of the best ways to enjoy these natural areas is by riding a bike. Whether you're a casual bike rider or a more serious cyclist, here are some of the top DFW bike trails to visit.

• Katy Trail: 3505 Maple Ave., Dallas, TX 75219
  The Katy Trail runs north from Reverchon Park on Maple Avenue to Knox Street. You can park either in Reverchon Park or in the smaller lot on Knox Street, just after the intersection with Travis Street. 
  
  This trail is paved, smooth, and well-maintained. At 3.5 miles long, it's suitable for casual bike rides and walks. Motorized vehicles are not permitted, and pets must be leashed. The Katy Trail was built on an abandoned railroad bed. You'll pass through wooded areas, meadows, and even a few neighborhoods.
  
  
• Santa Fe Trail: 302 S. Glasgow Dr., Dallas, TX 75219
  The Santa Fe Trail is another wide, paved bike path built on an old railroad bed. You can park in the lot at the Glasgow Dr. address listed above. The trail stretches about 4.2 miles from S. Hill Ave. to Winstead Dr.
  
  The Santa Fe Trail stretches mostly through rural areas, making it a good choice if you need a break from looking at Dallas homes for sale. You'll pass White Rock Lake, where you can see water birds and often frogs. There are a few small hills along the trail, but it's mostly flat.
  
  
• Gateway Park: 1701 N. Beach Street, Fort Worth, TX 76111-5943
  Gateway Park is the perfect place to stop for a bike ride while looking at Fort Worth homes for sale. This 1,000-acre park has a series of mountain biking trails running through it. The Trinity Trail, which is a 100-mile trail system, also stretches through the park.
  
  Beginner mountain bikers may want to try the trails on the west side of they park. This trail is 3.5 miles long and is relatively flat. More advanced mountain bikers may enjoy the east side trails, which are longer and hillier. 
  
  
• Trinity River Audubon Center: 6500 Great Trinity Forest Way, Dallas, TX 75217
  The Great Trinity Forest is one of the most beautiful forests in the DFW area. One of the best ways to see it is to ride the trails at the Trinity River Audubon Center. These trails run for miles through the 6,000-acre forest, offering stunning views of the river and trees.
  
  There is a small admission charge to access these trails. The funds are used to maintain the Audubon center, trails, bathrooms, and other facilities.  
  
  
• Harry Moss Park: 7601 Greenville Ave., Dallas, TX 75231
  Harry Moss Park contains a 5.6-mile mountain bike trail that stretches along White Rock Creek. This is a great trail to ride on hot days as the water keeps temperatures a bit cooler. There are a few hilly sections, but the trail is beginner-friendly overall. You'll ride over a few small bridges.
  
  The Harry Moss Park trail does welcome walkers and hikers, too. So if you want to see the scenery but don't have your bike with you, just go for a walk.

Don't hesitate to contact us if you're still looking for a home to buy. We'd love to help guide your search. 

No matter whether you prefer Dallas homes for sale or Fort Worth homes for sale, the Dallas-Fort Worth area is full of fun and surprises for the whole family. Local businesses bring lots of character to the DFW, and markets – from swap meets to farmers markets – go on every day of the week.

You'll never have to go far to have an exciting time looking for unique treasures. From the big cities to the small suburbs, communities make plenty of space for local markets. In fact, there are so many options you may not even know where to start.

Let's visit just a few of the DFW's fascinating markets perfect for shopping local:

• Third Friday Market at The Sound – 3111 Olympus Boulevard, Dallas, TX 75019
  Third Friday Market at The Sound takes place monthly on the 1st between April 1 and October 1. With a beautiful lakeside view from The Sound at Cypress Waters, you can browse local vendor stalls or enjoy live music out under the stars. When shopping is done, take a leisurely stroll and explore the six dynamic restaurants, lakeside amphitheater, spacious dog park, and the carefully kept jogging trails.
  
  
• Hop & Sting Art Market – 906 Jean Street, Grapevine, TX 76051
  Sponsored by Hop & Sting Brewery, Hop & Sting Art Market attracts about 50 vendors, including artists, artisans, local food trucks, and many more. Friendly for the whole family, including your four-legged companions, the action takes place between noon and 6 p.m. on August 20. Homemade and vintage items will be available, with vendors receiving 100% of their sales and all fees going to a nonprofit.
  
  
• Dallas Farmers Market – 920 South Harwood, Dallas, TX 75201
  Dallas Farmers Market is lively and energetic – no matter how many times you've been there, there's always something new to discover. That could be live music, demonstrations from leading local chefs, and much more. Two special event venues are on call for you to rent at The Shed and Market. And you can take advantage of happy hour specials from more than a dozen local restaurants that share the space.
  
  
• North Richland Hills Farmers Market – 7700 Davis Boulevard, North Richland Hills, TX 76180
  For an authentic farmers market experience not far from North Richland homes for sale, you can't go wrong with North Richland Hills Farmers Market. Here, the customer comes first. Visitors and vendors alike work together to celebrate the fresh, bountiful produce directly from the surroundings of North Richland Hills. Purchasing local helps support businesses and families from right in the area.
  
  
• Grand Prairie Farmers Market – 120 West Main Street, Grand Prairie, TX 75050
  Grand Prairie Farmers Market has a little bit of everything for fresh produce aficionados, farm store fans, and the whole family. Just down the street from some of the most desirable Grand Prairie homes for sale, you will find an active and growing farmers market. The GPFM is lauded for having new events almost every week, such as the delicious annual Ice Cream Challenge for Charity.

Our real estate agents know there are plenty of places in the area for local shopping. It's one of the many perks of living in the area! 

Contact us to find out more about Dallas-Fort Worth today.

Dallas is a city with many different sides. It's a tech hub, a foodie paradise, and a gateway to the Wild West. It's also one of the great cultural cities in Texas, and our real estate agents never cease to be amazed by Dallas' vibrant art scene. 

The Dallas Arts District is at the heart of that scene. Located in Downtown Dallas, it's the largest arts district in the United States. From museums and art galleries to world-class restaurants and live music venues, there's always something fresh waiting to be discovered. Be sure to check out these attractions in the Dallas Arts District!

1. Dallas Museum of Art - 1717 N Harwood St, Dallas, TX 75201
   What better way to begin your exploration of the Dallas Arts District than by paying a visit to the Dallas Museum of Art? The museum houses more than 25,000 works of art that span 5,000 years of human history, making it one of the largest art museums in the nation. In addition to ever-changing exhibitions, the Dallas Art Museum's permanent collection includes artifacts from ancient Greece, a vast collection of Texas art, and works by artists like Claude Monet, Jackson Pollack, and Georgia O'Keeffe. It's also located just minutes from many Dallas homes for sale.
   
   
2. Sammons Park - Historic District, 2403 Flora St, Dallas, TX 75021
   Sammons Park opened to the public in 2009 as part of the newly-built AT&T Performing Arts Center. This beautiful public park serves as a community gathering place and a performance space for local artists, in addition to being an extension of AT&T's venues. In a sense, the landscape of Sammons Park is a work of art. Highlights include beautifully-manicured gardens, reflecting pools, and a network of walkways and promenades.
   
   
3. Winspear Opera House - 2403 Flora St, Dallas, TX 75201
   A 2,200-seat theater built in the traditional horseshoe-shaped configuration, the Winspear Opera House has been called America's finest opera house. The opera house is located footsteps away from Sammons Park, and its instantly-recognizable 60-foot glass facade creates a sense of transparency between the interior of the theater and the world outside. It's a remarkable structure that hosts an ever-changing lineup of events year-round. 
   
   
4. HALL Park Sculpture Walk - 6801 Gaylord Pkwy Ste 100, Frisco, TX 75034
   Appreciating art can be as simple as taking a walk in the park. HALL Park, which spans 126 acres, is a mixed-use area of residential, recreational, and commercial space that includes a world-class art collection. A real highlight of HALL Park is the Texas Sculpture Walk, a unique urban green space where more than 200 works of art have been integrated into the landscape. 
   
   
5. Crow Museum of Asian Art - 2010 Flora St, Dallas, TX 75201
   The Dallas Arts District is home to several fantastic museums, perfect for spending an afternoon. The Crow Museum of Asian Art is free to the public and celebrates art from various eras throughout Asia. Take in the ancient artwork in a serene setting when you stop at this museum.

Contact us today to learn more about living, working, and playing in Dallas, Texas. It's a unique art and cultural hub in the Lone Star State, and our real estate agents are dedicated to helping you find your dream home in Dallas and the surrounding areas. 

Summer in Texas brings a bounty of fresh fruits and vegetables. Our real estate agents love the healthy, seasonal dishes at these wonderful farm-to-table restaurants around Dallas homes for sale. 

• Garden Cafe - 5310 Junius Ave., Dallas, TX 75214
  At Garden Cafe, many of the fresh ingredients used in their dishes are literally just steps away. Out back is a stunning garden where a number of herbs and vegetables are grown on-site. The garden also makes a beautiful backdrop for their patio seating. Garden Cafe's Southern-influenced menu includes favorites such as Cajun shrimp & cheddar grits, Nana's chicken and dumplings, and collard greens. Save room for the legendary lavender creme brulee. Hours are 10 a.m. - 10 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, with brunch served Sunday from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.
  
  
• Fount - 2414 Routh St., Dallas, TX 75201
  Fount wants to take farm-to-table dining a step further by providing "edible experiences." They use local produce and edible flowers to create dishes such as garden sandwiches, breakfast tacos, and kale Caesar salads that are as nice to look at as they are to eat. Planning a picnic or special occasion? Fount's signature grazing boards, featuring cheese, charcuterie, and gourmet foods, are available in sizes from grab-and-go to x-large that serve up to 20 people. Hours are Sunday through Tuesday from 7 a.m. - 5 p.m. and Wednesday through Saturday from 7 a.m. - 7 p.m.
  
  
• Patina Green Home and Market - 116 N. Tennessee, Suite 102, McKinney, TX 75069
  Patina Green Home and Market believes that good food stands on its own. Their menu is seasonally driven, featuring dishes made from locally sourced ingredients with minimal processing. A typical offering may include Greek chicken salad, roasted cauliflower with green tomato relish, and jalapeno grilled cheese on sourdough. Create your own farm-to-table dishes at home with items from the on-site home goods and artisanal gift shop. Stop in for a break while viewing McKinney homes for sale. Patina Green is open for lunch from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, while the shop remains open until 5 p.m.
  
  
• Texas Spice - Omni Dallas Hotel, 555 Lamar St., Dallas, TX 75202
  Get your day off to a great start with a delicious breakfast at Texas Spice. Red brick walls, garage door-style entrances, and wood detailing create a rustic ambiance that complements dishes like huevos rancheros, avocado toast, and Texas-shaped waffles. Texas Spice maintains its own vegetable and herb garden, while all other ingredients are sourced from providers less than 300 miles away. Hours are 6:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. on weekdays, with weekend brunch served from 6:30 a.m. - 2 p.m.
  
  
• Celebration - 4503 W. Lovers Ln., Dallas, TX 75209
  Founder Ed Lowe was well ahead of the curve when he opened Celebration in 1971. Decades before farm-to-table became an established dining trend, Ed formed a partnership with local farmers. As a result, the freshest ingredients go into preparing a menu based on dishes Ed's mom served at the family table. Get second helpings of comfort-food favorites, such as pot roast, meatloaf, and fried catfish, for only $3.95. Entrees include homemade bread and three vegetables served family-style. Celebration is open 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. daily except Friday and Saturday when hours are extended to 9:30 p.m.

The DFW is a delightful blend of urban amenities and country flavor. Contact us at RE/MAX DFW Associates for help with all your real estate needs.

Finding the perfect home is a challenging endeavor under normal circumstances, but searching for a home in a different city or state might seem impossible. Coordinating the purchase of a lifetime from several hundred miles away can seem like a daunting task.

While long-distance house hunting can pose challenges, our real estate agents want you to know that it's not as difficult as it seems. In today's world, with easily accessible online listings and the ability to conduct virtual tours, it's actually never been easier. Here are some tips on how to make your long-distance home search a success:

• Visit Your New Neighborhood
  When starting a long-distance home search, it always helps to visit the new town to get a sense of the neighborhood, community, and amenities. A basic familiarity with the area allows you to choose the right location, envision your new life, and plan ahead. Take a trip or two to your new hometown and drive around, visit local businesses, and explore the area. When clients travel into town to look at Dallas homes for sale, we always encourage them to spend a day or two exploring our great city.
  
  
• Choose A Reputable Local Agent
  When long-distance house hunting, working with an agent you can trust is more important than ever. Your agent can provide valuable local information, find listings that meet your criteria and negotiate the terms of your home sale. They can also help coordinate virtual listing tours. Choosing an agent that knows the area and has a strong reputation can really help make long-distance house hunting a success.
  
  
• Include Travel Expenses In Your Budget
  Chances are you're going to want to make a trip to your new hometown at some point, whether it's during the house-hunting process or after your new home is under contract. Travel expenses can quickly eat into your funds, so make sure to factor travel expenses such as airfare, rental cars, gas, and hotel into your home-shopping budget.
  
  
• Determine What You're Looking For
  Because your ability to tour homes in person may be limited, your buying decision will be naturally influenced by logic rather than emotion. Therefore, start by clearly defining your price range, and then create a list of the top 5 things you can't live without. Whether it's a specific location, a home office, or two full baths -- determine your non-negotiables and use them to narrow down your choices.
  
  
• Don't Waive Your Inspection Contingencies
  Making an offer on a home sight unseen can be nerve-wracking, to say the least. If you aren't able to see the home in person, you can at least rely on your inspection contingencies to uncover any red flags. Be sure to consider the standard home inspection, pest inspection, radon, and sewer. These inspections give you the ability to back out of the deal without any penalty if problems arise and you can't come to terms on how to resolve them. Make sure to talk to your agent about what to expect with inspections.

Buying a home in a new city comes with its challenges, but it's actually never been easier than it is today. Contact us today to check out some great home listings in the Dallas area.

A beautiful, functional kitchen is one of the home's greatest assets. If you love cooking or wining and dining company on the weekends, investing in the kitchen is a great way to wow your guests.

Cooking just happens to be one of our favorite hobbies, and our real estate agents are always investing in the latest and greatest kitchen gadgets. But what kitchen gadgets will you actually utilize, and which ones will just collect dust? If you're looking to enhance your cooking skills or just make things more convenient, here are some of the best gadgets to add to your kitchen:

• An Air Fryer
  Love the taste of crispy, deep-fried cuisine, but don't love the calories? An air fryer might be a great option for you. You can air-fry almost any type of food, and the entire process is quick and easy. This gadget makes cooking a delicious dinner a breeze.
   
• An Immersion Blender
  If you're looking for a quick and easy way to blend smoothies, soups, and stews, invest in a good immersion blender. Traditional blenders can take up a ton of counter space, but immersion blenders are small and easy to store. 
  
  
• A Waffle Maker
  Waffles are the staple of any brunch, and a nice waffle iron makes them super easy. Use it to serve up some fresh, tasty waffles to your friends on the weekends. Waffle irons can take up some storage space, so if your cabinets are too small, it might be time to upgrade to one of these Dallas homes for sale.
  
  
• A Manual Food Chopper
  Looking to break up ground beef in the frying pan? Lose the spatula and invest in a manual food chopper instead. These gadgets make it simple to separate meat, and the best part is -- they don't damage your cookware. 
  
  
• A Spiralizer
  Spiralizers have traditionally been used to thinly cut pasta, but now they're the go-to item for creating your own zucchini noodles, sweet potato noodles, or even creating thinly sliced potatoes. This gadget makes it super easy to prepare healthy meals.
  
  
• An Electric Kettle
  If you drink a lot of tea or enjoy pour-over coffee, an electric kettle will change your life. Just fill it up with water, plug it in, and press the button, and you have boiling water in just a couple of minutes.
  
  
• An Electric Can Opener
  Sometimes a manual can opener can be tricky to use and can occasionally get stuck. An electric can opener takes away the unpredictability of opening a can by making the process quick and easy.
  
  
• The Traditional Toaster Oven
  The basic toaster is limited in its functionality, so it might be time to upgrade to the toaster oven. These small, compact appliances fit nicely on the counter and can not only make toast but can also be great for heating up any leftovers.
  
  
• The Instant Pot
  You're sure to find Instant Pots in the kitchens of many of these Fort Worth homes for sale. So many people swear by The Instant Pot -- it makes cooking super easy. This revolutionary kitchen appliance is a pressure cooker, slow cooker, and food warmer all in one. You can put almost anything in The Instant Pot.

Cooking is fun and easy when your kitchen is equipped with the best gadgets and appliances. For more tips on how to make the most out of your kitchen, contact us today.

The Dallas-Fort Worth area is fun in every season, but during the summer months, the area is filled with summer events and activities to keep your family's calendar full! Our real estate agents love to spend their off-time at these entertaining places.

• Shakespeare in the Park - Samuell-Grand Park, 6200 E. Grand Ave., Dallas, TX 75201
  Celebrate 50 years of incredible theater productions at Shakespeare in the Park, held right down the street from Dallas homes for sale. In 1972, Shakespeare Dallas began with Bob Glenn's one-man production of Hamlet. Today, the organization offers summer camps, a book club and podcast, and seasonal outdoor stagings of Shakespeare's classics. This summer's schedule features A Midsummer Night's Dream and The Tempest, running from mid-June through late July. Visit the website for dates, times, and prices.
  
  
• Fort Worth Nature Center & Refuge - 9601 Fossil Ridge Rd., Fort Worth, TX 76135
  Just minutes from Fort Worth homes for sale, experience Texas as it was over a century ago. Fort Worth Nature Center & Refuge spans more than 3,500 acres of forests, prairies, and wetlands that remain unchanged. More than 20 miles of trails provide a wonderful opportunity to view the varied landscape, along with birds and wildlife that live on the grounds. The pet-friendly center also has a canoe launch, so you can explore Lake Worth. Admission is $6 for adults, $2 for ages 3-12, and $1 for leashed dogs. Hours are 7 a.m. - 5 p.m. daily.
  
  
• Trinity River National Water Trail - Moore Park, 1900 E. 8th St., Dallas, TX 75203
  Want an eco-friendly way to tour the DFW metroplex? Despite its 130-mile length, traveling through nine cities and three counties, the Trinity River National Water Trail is considered a hidden natural gem. Canoe, kayak, or paddleboard along waterways. The trail is flanked by hiking/biking trails and offers access to five learning centers and more than 50 parks and nature preserves. With 21 launch sites, it's easy to enter the trail no matter which direction you come from.
  
  
• NRH2O - 9001 Blvd. 26, North Richland Hills, TX 76180
  NRH2O, the first municipal water park in Texas, is still going strong after more than 25 years near North Richland Hills homes for sale. First and foremost among the 23 attractions is the Green Extreme, the country's longest uphill water roller coaster at a thrilling 1,100 feet. Chill out lying on the white sand beach of Beachside Bay or floating along the Endless River. Several food stands throughout the park offer classic summertime fare, from hot dogs and cheeseburgers to funnel cakes and Dippin' Dots. Visit the website for schedule and prices.
  
  
• Frisco RoughRiders - Riders Field, 7300 Roughriders Trl., Frisco, TX 75034
  The Frisco RoughRiders is a Double-A affiliate of MLB's Texas Rangers and is one of the hottest teams in the Texas League, currently leading the South division. In addition to great baseball, RoughRider games feature family-friendly promotions such as Kids Sunday Funday, Texas Baseball Legends Wednesday, and Fireworks Friday. Why not catch a game after a day of viewing Frisco homes for sale? Tickets range from $11-$21. Visit the website for the schedule. 

Fun is in season all year long. For friendly and experienced help buying or selling a home, contact us at RE/MAX DFW Associates.

Catching a baseball game is a fun family summer evening activity, and Frisco just happens to be home to one of the best ballparks in Minor League Baseball.

Head on over to Riders Park where you can watch the Frisco RoughRiders, a double-A affiliate of the Texas Rangers, compete in the Texas League. Our real estate agents love heading out to the park, grabbing some peanuts, and relaxing on a warm summer night. It's super easy to do because the park is just a short drive from some beautiful Dallas homes for sale.

About Riders Park
Riders Park is a beautiful ballpark equipped with plenty of seating, luxury suites, fun activities, and great food. Concession options include Rojo's, Frisco Smoque BBQ, Frank's Hot Dogs, Coop & Kennel, Fairlane's Hot Dogs, and Ono Pacific Grill where you can grab a delicious cheesesteak. There are also six bars throughout the park where you can enjoy beer, wine, mixed drinks, or frozen margaritas. The park makes for a great community asset that is conveniently located just a short distance from these Fort Worth homes for sale.

The park is surrounded by 5 parking lots, all of which open 2 hours before the game.

Upcoming Games and Promotions
The RoughRiders have several home games between now and September 11, with many taking place throughout the week. Below are some highlights from the upcoming schedule along with some great promotions:

• Saturday, June 18 vs. Midland RockHounds at 6:05 pm
  Sky-Lit Saturday -- watch a spectacular fireworks display after the game, weather permitting. It's also Scout Night and Whataburger Food Bank Night.
  
  
• Sunday, June 19 vs. Midland RockHounds at 6:05 pm
  Celebrate Father's Day at the ballpark with Kids Sunday Funday. The park will host numerous fun activities for the kids.
  
  
• Tuesday, June 28 vs. Corpus Christi Hooks at 7:05 pm
  Silver Slugger Tuesday -- fans 65 years old and up can grab a $10 ticket when showing their ID at the box office.
  
  
• Wednesday, June 29 vs. Corpus Christi Hooks at 7:05 pm
  Texas Rangers baseball legend Mark McLemore, also known as the "Dr of Defense" will be on hand for a meet and greet.
  
  
• Thursday, June 30 vs. Corpus Christi Hooks at 7:05 pm
  Come on out to the park for Thirsty Thursday and enjoy a variety of drink specials including $2 drafts. It's also Singles Night and Ivan Hall from Season 16 of the Bachelorette will be in attendance for a meet and greet.
  
  
• Friday, July 15 vs. Midland RockHounds at 7:05 pm
  Celebrate Christmas in July at the ballpark and also take home a free Teddy Leg Lamp bobblehead. 
  
  
• Sunday, July 17 vs. Midland RockHounds at 6:05 pm
  Kids Sunday Funday plus Marvel Super Hero Night makes this game a great family event.
  
  
• Sunday, August 7 vs. Sod Poodles at 6:05 pm
  Celebrate back to school night with a lunch box giveaway.

Make sure to buy your tickets in advance for a fun summer evening with the whole family. View the full game schedule here. We love showing our support for our local sports teams, and a trip to Riders Park gives you the opportunity to enjoy America's favorite pastime. Contact us today for more information about local events.

What could be better than a meal with a view? Some of the area's best, trendiest restaurants offer rooftop dining experiences that you won't want to miss, with fantastic views of the city skylines and outstanding food to match. All that's left is to pick your destination and make a reservation. Our real estate agents have the delicious details on some of the best places throughout the DFW for rooftop dining.

• The Henry – 2301 Akard St., Ste. 250, Dallas, TX 75201
  With a well-earned great reputation for its casual vibes, chic décor, and eclectic menu, The Henry offers everything that you need to enjoy a rooftop meal in downtown Dallas. Rooftop dining here is available for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with a convenient location near Dallas homes for sale.
  
  
• Gallery Rooftop Lounge – 1325 Botham Jean Blvd., Dallas, TX 75215
  Ever wish you could enjoy a swim while savoring unique views of the Dallas skyline? Gallery Rooftop Lounge, which features a large infinity pool overlooking Dallas, allows you to do just that on the rooftop of the Canvas Hotel. The menu here is packed with delicious small plates and craft cocktails, perfect for an evening out with friends.
  
  
• Terilli's – 2815 Greenville Ave., Dallas, TX 75206
  A menu highlighted by fresh spins on classic, authentic Italian cuisine is just the start of what you'll enjoy when you visit Terilli's, which has been a local favorite since it first opened its doors in 1985. The rooftop dining area is decorated like an Italian terrace, with fantastic views of downtown Dallas. Stop by on the weekend to enjoy some live jazz and a craft martini along with your meal.
  
  
• HG Sply Co. – 2008 Greenville Ave., Dallas, TX 75206
  One of the most popular restaurants in Lower Greenville, HG Sply Co. has earned a strong reputation, thanks in part to its outstanding rooftop dining area. The menu here features a variety of vegan and paleo-friendly options, perfect for accommodating groups with diverse tastes. Enjoy some great apps and drinks on the rooftop patio, then head inside for a delicious entree.
  
  
• Free Play Ft. Worth – 1311 Lipscomb St., Fort Worth, TX 76104
  Retro gamers and arcade aficionados alike will love visiting Free Play Ft. Worth, which features scenic rooftop dining near Fort Worth homes for sale along with its vast collection of free-to-play (with admission) arcade games. Grab a table on the rooftop patio, order some delicious bar bites, then journey downstairs to the retro arcade after your meal.
  
  
• Reata Restaurant – 310 Houston St., Sundance Square, Fort Worth, TX 76102
  Known for its legendary lineup of perfectly prepared steaks and a rooftop dining area that's full of atmosphere, Reata Restaurant has been a local favorite for more than two decades. The rooftop features multiple dining areas, including a large, enclosed igloo and fantastic views of Sundance Square below.
  
  
• Branch & Bird – 640 Taylor St., 12th Floor, Fort Worth, TX 76102
  Towering above Fort Worth on the 12th floor of the Frost Tower, Branch & Bird is the perfect place to visit when you're in the mood for a cocktail with your rooftop meal. The views here are tough to top, while the wine list, craft cocktails, creative cuisine, and frequent live music are sure to keep you coming back for more.

Ready to buy or sell your next home close to all of the delicious dining options? Our team is here to help. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Dallas-Fort Worth area.

DFW is known for serving up some of the best barbecue in the entire country, and May is the perfect time to explore what local restaurants have to offer. That's because May is National Barbecue Month, a celebration of all things smoked, grilled, or covered in barbecue sauce. So why not sample some brisket, DFW-style, in honor of National Barbecue Month? Our real estate agents have the details on some of the best restaurants for brisket and barbecue.

• One90 Smoked Meats – 10240 E. Northwest Hwy., Dallas, TX 75238
  Whether you're in the mood for a quick brisket sandwich near Dallas homes for sale or a full brisket to smoke in your own backyard, the team at One90 Smoked Meats has you covered. If you're spending time away from DFW, One90 Smoked meats will even ship their brisket anywhere in the country.
  
  
• Heim Barbecue & Catering – 1109 W. Magnolia Ave., Fort Worth, TX 76104
  A local favorite near Fort Worth homes for sale known for its smoked meats and bacon burnt ends, Heim Barbecue & Catering offers everything you need to celebrate National Barbecue Month. Stop by the riverfront location in Fort Worth to enjoy some fantastic views of the city while you dine.
  
  
• Goldee's Barbecue – 4645 Dick Price Rd., Fort Worth, TX 76140
  Best known for its brisket and pulled pork, Goldee's Barbecue also serves up some of the best barbecue side dishes in all of DFW. The dessert menu here is also packed with Southern favorites, so be sure to leave room for something sweet after you polish off your plate of barbecue.
  
  
• Off the Bone Barbeque – 1734 Botham Jean Blvd., Dallas, TX 75215
  As the name suggests, Off the Bone Barbeque serves some truly mouthwatering smoked meats, including brisket that is perfectly smoked over pecan wood. Mix in imaginative takes on some of your favorite classic barbecue sides, and it's easy to see why Off the Bone Barbeque has earned a great reputation around Dallas.
  
  
• Pecan Lodge – 2702 Main St., Dallas, TX 75226
  One of the most famous barbecue spots in Dallas, the Pecan Lodge will not disappoint with its lineup of brisket, ribs, fried chicken, and outstanding sides. The popularity of this restaurant means that there will often be a line when you visit, but the barbecue here is more than worth the wait.
  
  
• The Slow Bone – 2234 Irving Blvd., Dallas, TX 75207
  Why order just one type of meat when you can have two? The Slow Bone is famed for its two-meat plates, which allow you to combine brisket, pulled pork, smoked ribs, and other favorites, along with some distinctive sides. If you're just in the mood for a quicker bite, the open-faced sandwiches here are also tough to beat.
  
  
• Cattleack Barbeque – 13628 Gamma Rd., Dallas, TX 75244
  Unlike other entries on our list, Cattleack Barbeque is only open two days per week – for lunch every Thursday and Friday. But it's well worth setting aside some time at the end of your workweek to enjoy some delicious barbecue here. Order a regular brisket sandwich, or go big with the Toddfather, which combines brisket, sausage, pulled pork, and coleslaw to create a meal that can truly satisfy any appetite.

When you're ready to buy or sell your next home in DFW, our team is here to help with all of your real estate needs. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Dallas-Fort Worth area.

Do you love baking but wish your kitchen was more functional for your culinary needs? Or, do you want to create a space that makes it easier for you to bake your favorite dishes?

By making a few simple changes to your kitchen, you can improve the functionality and efficiency of your kitchen. Our real estate agents know that many of these projects will make your home more appealing to potential buyers.

Here are some features and additions that we recommend to make your kitchen more baking-friendly. 

1. Add Storage Accessories to Your Cabinets for Your Sheet Pans and Baking Equipment
   If you have to dig through your cabinets to find a specific piece of baking equipment, outfit your cabinets with pullout shelves or drawers. This makes it easy for you to find the pan or baking sheet you're looking for without having to pull every single item out. Pullout shelves also work well for housing heavy appliances, like your stand mixer or bread machine, when they aren't in use, so you have more counter space. 

2. Integrate Open Shelving into Your Kitchen Design
   Open shelving is an excellent way to store and display items that you frequently use when baking, like measuring cups and mixing bowls. If you have any bakeware with a gorgeous design that can also function as decor (like ceramic pieces in a vibrant color or print or items in a seasonal holiday print), open shelves are a terrific option to show them off. Or, perhaps you have cookbooks or family recipes that you utilize during your baking sessions. Open shelves work well for housing cookbooks or even displaying a written family recipe as a decorative piece. Many buyers find open shelving appealing, making this a smart addition before you add your home to the inventory of Fort Worth homes for sale. 

3. Opt for Pull-Out Cabinets to Store Baking Ingredients
   If you're willing to consider more dramatic upgrades, pullout cabinets are a versatile addition that enables you to set up a more functional baking station. While pullout cabinets are frequently used for trashcans, another idea is to use them to house baking supplies that you might purchase in large quantities, like different types of flour and sugar. The design of a pullout cabinet is perfect for housing containers to store your baking ingredients. Another benefit of adding pullout cabinets is that they're a buyer-friendly upgrade when you add your home to the list of Dallas homes for sale. 

4. Set Up a Kitchen Island
   A kitchen island is an excellent alternative for expanding your counter space so that you have more room for preparing your recipes, decorating cakes and cookies, and sampling your finished product. While you can install a kitchen island that utilizes your current cabinets and counters, this isn't your only option. Many furniture retailers sell rolling kitchen islands that add extra prep space and allow you to move the island according to your culinary needs. 

Want a home with a larger kitchen so that you have additional space for baking? Contact us today to get started!

Will April showers be bringing May flowers to your yard? Our real estate agents may not have green thumbs, but they have beautiful lawns and gardens thanks to help from these great gardening stores and greenhouses around Dallas homes for sale.

• Brumley Gardens - 10540 Church Rd., Dallas, TX 75238
  Hot Texas summers can be tough on plants and greenery. Brumley Gardens specializes in succulents and other drought-tolerant plants that can handle dry conditions. Add whimsy to your garden or yard with their selection of signs and decorations. Be sure to stop by their gift shop to see the assortment of decor items, including their own line of candles. Hours are 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Sunday.
  
  
• Jacksons Home & Garden - 6950 Lemmon Ave., Dallas, TX 75209 
  Founded in 1983, Jacksons Home & Garden grew from a modest pottery shop into a major DFW shopping destination. As a family-owned (and pet-friendly) business, Jacksons takes pride in offering an elite level of customer service. In addition to what is now the largest selection of pottery in the Southwest, Jacksons has a full line of garden supplies and outdoor living products, from grills to patio furniture. Dress up the inside of your home with their beautiful, maintenance-free faux flowers and greens. Jacksons is open 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. Saturday, and noon - 5 p.m. Sunday.
  
  
• North Haven Gardens - 7700 Northaven Rd., Dallas, TX 75230
  Whether you're a newbie or an experienced gardener, you're bound to have questions. Since 1951, North Haven Gardens has built a reputation as a source for qualified advice and education. Schedule a consultation with one of their Garden Advisors or use their landscape concierge service for major projects. These features, along with a first-rate inventory of plants and supplies, earned North Haven Gardens the 2021 People's Choice Gold Award of "Best in DFW" from the Dallas Morning News. Store hours are 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. daily.
  
  
• Redenta's Garden - 2001 Skillman St., Dallas, TX 75206
  Owner Ruth Kinler named Redenta's Garden after her aunt, who was a nun in Siena, Italy. The name reflects the European influences that shaped Ruth's love of gardening and inspired her to share her passion with others. Redenta's focuses on a sustainable approach to gardening that is 100 percent organic. Get ideas for your own garden from Redenta's 50, a curated list of plants for any type of situation. Ruth's son Michael and his wife Lorie keep it all in the family by running Redenta's Landscape Design, not far from Fort Worth homes for sale. Redenta's is open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Spring Gardening Tips

Now that you've acquired your gardening supplies, how do you turn your garden into something truly marvelous? Follow these tips in your Texas garden.

• Are your perennials getting enough water? Use a rain gauge to determine the weekly average. If it's less than half an inch, they need more.
  
  
• Apply a layer of compost and mulch to annuals and perennials for improved drought tolerance as warmer weather approaches.
  
  
• Wait for spring-blooming plants to die completely before pruning.
  
  
• Avoid the use of "weed and feed" products on your lawn. Runoff pollution during rains results in damage to the ecosystem. 
  
  
• Planning a fruit and vegetable garden? Good foods to plant in April and May include corn, cucumber, peppers, tomatoes, cantaloupe, summer squash, and herbs such as basil, dill, fennel, and thyme. 

Looking for a new home with enough space for a garden? Contact us at RE/MAX DFW Associates for help with all your real estate needs. 

Want to plan some outings that you and your kids can both enjoy? The DFW is full of family-friendly activities that are entertaining and educational. Our real estate agents love spending quality time with their families at these great spots around the Dallas-Fort Worth area.

• Museum of the American Railroad - 8004 N. Dallas Pkwy., Frisco, TX 75034
  Trains, both real and model versions, have long captivated the imagination of "kids" of all ages. In 1962, the Museum of the American Railroad was founded to preserve this important legacy in our country's history. TrainTopia is an incredibly detailed miniature railroad exhibit that includes a real movie playing at the famous Palo Duro drive-in theater. See pieces of the museum's rolling stock collection during guided tours, which are offered at specific times as the museum conducts its move to the new location near Frisco homes for sale. Hours are 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday and 1 p.m. - 5 p.m. Sunday. Admission starts at $10 for adults and $5 for ages 3-12.
  
  
• Yogi Kids - Fit Family, 3051 Churchill Dr., Suite 250, Flower Mound, TX 75022
  Yogi Kids incorporates fun activities such as yoga, Pilates, and dance to help your young ones get active and burn some energy. Fit Family also offers preschool play and after-school programs at schools not far from Flower Mound homes for sale. Mom and Dad can join the fun with yoga classes for adults. Visit the website for information about schedules and prices. 
  
  
• ArtCentre of Plano - 902 E. 16th St., Plano, TX 75074
  In 2021, the ArtCentre of Plano celebrated 40 years of supporting and promoting creativity in the local community. Located in historic Saigling House, just down the street from Plano homes for sale, the ArtCentre hosts exhibitions showcasing the works of a diverse range of artists. Don't miss the stunning Sculpture Garden, which includes a series of mosaic tiles honoring various donors to the ArtCentre. Hours are 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. 
  
  
• The Dallas Firefighters Museum - 3801 Parry Ave., Dallas, TX 75226
  At one time or another, nearly every kid dreams of becoming a firefighter. Learn more about the contributions of these heroic men and women at the Dallas Firefighters Museum. The historic fire station at Fair Park, only minutes from Dallas homes for sale, has served as the site of the museum since 1975. Exhibits include a steam engine dating back to 1884 along with authentic helmets, uniforms, and equipment from past years. The museum is open Wednesday through Saturday from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Tickets are $6 for adults and $4 for children.
  
  
• Cowtown Cattlepen Maze - Fort Worth Stockyards, 145 E. Exchange Ave., Fort Worth, TX 76164
  How well does your family work together? Sharpen your communication and cooperation skills at the Cowtown Cattlepen Maze, near Fort Worth homes for sale. Wooden pathways wind around a span of 5,400 square feet, posing an exciting challenge to everyone's sense of direction and deduction. Scope out the grounds from the spacious second-story observation deck. Hours are 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. daily and admission is $6.

Contact us RE/MAX DFW Associates for help with any of your real estate needs.

St. Patrick's Day is coming right up on March 17. It's a holiday that brings a wealth of enjoyable annual events to the Dallas-Fort Worth area. 

If you're looking for a way to have fun and get your blood pumping this March, be sure to check out one of these great St. Patrick's Day festivals, 5ks, races, and runs in DFW!

• Dallas Mavs St. Patrick's Day Parade & Festival - Dallas, TX 75206
  The annual Dallas Mavs St. Patrick's Day Parade & Festival is one of the most anticipated events of spring. The parade kicks off down Blackwell Street at 11 am on March 12 (the Saturday before St. Patrick's Day), and the festival stretches from 9 am until 3 pm. There will be an abundance of food, drink, fun and games just minutes from these Dallas homes for sale. Be sure to also check out the block party and concert at Energy Square. 
  
  
• St. Paddy's Day Dash Down Greenville 5K - Dallas, TX 75206
  Lace up your running shoes for the 2022 Dash Down Greenville! This annual 5k run/walk takes place on Saturday, March 12, in Dallas, right before the parade. Registration is open through February 26, so you still have time to join the festivities. After the 5k, there will be a post-race party that includes beer, food, music, and cash prizes for the winners.
  
  
• St. Patrick's Day Sprint Tri - Keller, TX 76248
  If you really want to get moving on the Saturday before St. Patrick's Day, then the St. Patrick's Day Sprint Tri in Keller, TX, might just be the event for you. Participants in this triathlon event must endure a 300-meter pool swim, 12.6-mile bike ride, and 3.1-mile run before reaching the finish line. The Sprint Tri begins at the Keller Natatorium, not far from these Keller homes for sale.
  
  
• Irving St. Patrick's 5k - Irving, TX 75039
  You can always count on the Irving St. Patrick's Day 5k for some good exercise and a good time. The USATF certified course takes participants on a scenic path through downtown Irving-Las Colinas, a stone's throw from some beautiful Irving homes for sale. Awards are given for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place in various age groups, and race day perks include live entertainment, race swag, free pancakes, and two free beers for each participant over 21 years of age. 
  
  
• McKinney St. Patrick's Day Shamrock Run 5k - McKinney, TX 75069
  The city of McKinney knows how to throw a St. Patrick's Day Party. The annual McKinney St. Patrick's Day Shamrock Run 5k kicks off at 9 am on March 12 at TUPPS Brewery and takes a scenic course past McKinney homes for sale. It's followed by the St. Patrick's Day Beer Walk, which is essentially a leisurely stroll and craft beer tasting through Downtown McKinney. 
  
  
• 2022 Saint Patrick's Day Run - 2401 University Dr, Fort Worth, TX 76107
  Get up bright and early for the Fort Worth Saint Patrick's Day Run on March 12! Check-in and packet pickup is at 6 am, followed by a 10k at 7:45, 1-Mile Fun Run at 7:50, and 5k run/walk at 8:00. It's a great way to start your day. The event begins at Trinity Park Pavilion #3, and the course includes a chance to see some amazing Fort Worth homes for sale.

There's always something fun and exciting happening in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Contact us today to learn more about life in DFW and talk to our real estate agents about finding your dream home in Dallas, Fort Worth, and the surrounding areas. 

Limited on yard space? Consider building your garden "up" instead of "out" this spring.

Vertical gardens are a beautiful touch to any home, and they're very much in style this year. Vertical gardens consist of greenery suspended to a vertical wall, frame, or panel. Think of an ivy wall but with a wide assortment of plants. There are also super easy to build and maintain and can give your exterior a unique appeal. Some of our favorite Dallas homes for sale have had well-maintained vertical gardens that really impressed buyers.

Our real estate agents love exterior design trends that include vertical gardens, so they offered to pull together some tips to help you with yours this spring:

1. Choose The Right Location
   Location is everything when it comes to a vertical garden. You'll want to choose a wall that is not only accessible but also receives a significant amount of sunlight. If you have a wall that could use a makeover, a vertical garden could also be a good way to conceal blemishes.
    
2. Create A Sturdy Frame
   Your vertical garden needs to consist of a strong frame that can support pots, planters, or other soil containers. However, your garden is only as durable as the frame you select. Use thick, strong wood or even PVC pipe. Flimsy, thin pieces of wood or loose wire can lead to chaos when strong winds or storms roll in. Your structure also needs to be strong enough to support the weight of your plants.
   
   
3. Protect Your Wall And Foundation
   Your vertical garden is going to need to be watered frequently, so it's important to take the necessary steps to protect your outer wall. Attaching a protective backing layer allows you to protect your building from any damage caused by ongoing water exposure. Also, consider adding a pooling tray to the bottom of your vertical garden. This will prevent water from pooling near the foundation of your home.
   
   
4. Choose The Right Plants
   Not all plants are suited for a vertical garden. Since you're building up, you'll be limited on soil depth. Consequently, you'll need to choose plants with shallow roots. Aim for plants with roots that don't exceed 6 inches beneath the surface. Leafy vegetables and most popular flowers will work well.
   
   
5. Give Your Plants Support
   Many plants don't grow vertically on their own, so they'll need a bit of extra support. Use fasteners, clips, and stakes to help keep your plants growing upward. This will be critical to keeping your plants healthy and your garden looking good.
   
   
6. Choose The Right Watering System
   Watering a vertical garden can be a bit difficult, as gravity pulls water to the ground before it has a chance to soak into the roots. Consequently, you may need to water your vertical garden more frequently. Using a hose or a sprinkler system will work; however, a drip irrigation system will help evenly distribute water across the soil and provide the water a better chance of soaking into the soil.
   
   
7. Prune Often
   Like any garden, your plants are going to need regular maintenance and upkeep. Vertical gardens often don't receive the same amount of sunlight as a horizontal garden, so it's important to keep adequate space between your plants and prune and trim regularly.

If you're looking to make your home stand out among these beautiful Fort Worth homes for sale, a vertical garden is a great addition to your exterior. For more landscaping tips, contact us today.

When it comes to long-distance travel, airplanes have replaced trains in convenience and popularity. Fortunately, many of the former train routes have been repurposed as these great hiking and biking rail trails around the DFW, and our real estate agents love to explore them. Take in the beautiful Texas scenery when you plan a hike on these Dallas-Fort Worth rail trails.

• Katy Trail
  While the Katy Trail spans just 3.5 miles near Dallas homes for sale, its beauty and proximity draws more than 1.5 million visits each year. Established in 2000, the trail traces the line once used by the Missouri-Kansas-Texas Railroad, commonly referred to as the K-T. More than 125 acres of local parks can be accessed using the pet-friendly trail, which is also the site of an annual 5K race. The Katy Trail Art initiative recently completed its first installation, a series of five sculptures suspended from trees. Hours are 5 a.m. - midnight daily.
  
  
• Santa Fe Trail
  Echoes of the Wild West past of Texas can be heard in the name of the Santa Fe Trail. The 4.3-mile route uses a corridor once belonging to the railroad of the same name. Bring Fido along to catch waterfront views of White Rock Lake at one end, with the vibrant neighborhoods of Deep Ellum and Fair Park at the other end. The Santa Fe also makes up part of the route for the Dallas Marathon, regarded as one of the top long-distance races in the country. Friends of Santa Fe Trail is a non-profit group that supports the trail through fundraising, enhancements, and maintenance. 
  
  
• Chaparral Rail Trail
  History is embedded in the 35-mile span of the Chaparral Rail Trail. Starting in the quaintly-named town of Farmersville, the trailhead is named for Audie Murphy, the iconic WWII hero who once made his home here. Nearby is the Historic Onion Shed, a restored building dating back to the 1930s. The path is a mix of pavement and gravel, and the trail is a favorite spot for geocaching. Outside the city, there are many stretches of undeveloped land, creating a lovely background that makes this trail a favorite. 
  
  
• A-train Rail Trail
  In a twist on rail trails, rails-with-trails are active railroad corridors with adjacent paths for hiking and biking. The 19-mile A-train Rail Trail connects the Dallas suburbs of Denton and Lewisville with a commuter line as well as a multipurpose path for non-motorized travel. Spend a day with the family hiking the trail and visiting Lewisville's Railroad Park, which includes three man-made lakes, an off-leash dog park, and outdoor fitness equipment.

When you live in the DFW, every day can be an adventure. Thinking about moving to the area and starting your own new adventure? If you're looking at Fort Worth homes for sale, contact us at RE/MAX DFW Associates for friendly and knowledgeable help.

If you feel like you've done it all, our real estate agents have a new date night suggestion for you: Cooking classes!

Cooking classes are both fun and functional. You'll learn to create wholesome, satisfying meals that can save you plenty of money. At the same time, you'll share a unique experience that might just give you a new favorite thing to do together. Maybe your next date includes cooking the dinner of your dreams!

No matter whether you're looking at Dallas homes for sale or down the road at Fort Worth homes for sale, there are plenty of cooking classes to browse. Virtual or in-person options are both available, so you can choose to have date night in the comfort of your own kitchen if you prefer.

Here's a taste of some of the leading local brands for local cooking classes:

• The Village Culinary Lab – 6130 Greenville Avenue Suite #102, Dallas, TX 75206
  The Village Culinary Lab is one of the first and most beloved places for cooking classes in Dallas. It always has a range of classes for both beginner and intermediate chefs, including seasonal events such as "Holly Jolly Cooking." The roster of classes changes every three months, so there is always something new to try.
  
  
• Dallas Chocolate Classes – 1626 Banbury Lane, Carrollton, TX 75006
  Dallas Chocolate Classes gives you a whole new way to appreciate one of the most popular candy and dessert foods in the world. Private couples classes are available both online and in-person, and you have the opportunity to learn chocolate and dessert-making by exploring classic European recipes. All this and more can be found near Carrollton homes for sale.
  
  
• The Cookery – 710 South Main Street #130, Fort Worth, TX 76104
  Billing itself as "cooking classes meet dinner party," The Cookery features both public classes and private events that can be customized to suit your interests. "Can't-miss" classes include how to host a cocktail party, the secret to perfect homemade pasta, and the "Elegant Dinner Party" evening where students learn a bevy of rich and comforting dishes. Locations in both Houston and Dallas are coming soon!
  
  
• Cooking the Details – 1414 South Broadway Street #3107, Carrollton, TX 75006
  Cooking the Details is headed by chef and NASM Certified Nutrition Coach Dazore, a local success story who took a chance on her dream of a cooking business in May 2019. She believes the difference between good and great food is "all in the details," and you'll learn your favorite foodstuffs inside and out as you opt for one-hour or 2.5-hour themed cooking classes.
  
  
• The Table Market – 120 St. Louis Avenue, Suite 103B, Fort Worth, TX 76104
  The Table Market makes the most of its core values of "Fitness, Farmers, and Fort Worth" by offering cooking classes at all levels and a full commercial kitchen for entrepreneurs to use. There's a monthly cookbook club and a variety of workshops that will make your meals even better, from tablescape to food photography. Classes have an international flair, with offerings like "Dumpling Party" and "Indian Curry Feast" topping the list.

Contact us to learn more about real estate in Dallas-Fort Worth.

Dallas is an amazing place to call home for anyone who loves architecture, with a diverse mix of historic buildings and the latest, ultra-modern designs. Around nearly every corner, you will find something interesting to see, whether you explore on your own or take a guided tour. Our real estate agents know a thing or two about Dallas architecture and recommend these stops on the Dallas Architecture Tour to see the many unique structures all around the city.

• Nasher Sculpture Center – 2001 Flora St., Dallas, TX 75201
  The sculptures aren't the only works of art at the Nasher Sculpture Center because the building is quite the masterpiece, as well! With a convenient location near Dallas homes for sale, the Nasher Sculpture Center is the perfect place to start your architectural tour. Come to see the exquisite, modern design of the building, and stick around to explore some of the most exceptional sculptures that you'll find anywhere.
  
  
• AT&T Stadium – One AT&T Way, Arlington, TX 76011
  The home of the Dallas Cowboys also happens to be one of the most striking pieces of architecture that the Dallas area has to offer. So why not head over to AT&T Stadium in Arlington, and take a guided tour? Try an educational tour, art tour, or go for the full experience with a VIP tour that will take you to every corner of the modern, luxurious stadium.
  
  
• Old Red Museum – 100 S. Houston St., Dallas, TX 75202
  Once a courthouse, the Old Red Museum is a fascinating brick building with a long, interesting history. In the coming years, this Dallas landmark will be returning to its original purpose and serving as a courthouse once again.
  
  
• Perot Museum of Nature & Science – 2201 N. Field St., Dallas, TX 75201
  You'll notice a trend during your architectural tours – many of the most stunning buildings in Dallas also happen to be amazing museums. The Perot Museum of Nature & Science is certainly no exception, with a glass-enclosed, 150-foot escalator that runs along the outside of the building. Bringing the kids on your tour? They will also love exploring the inside of the building, which is packed with fun, educational exhibits on science and nature.
  
  
• Reunion Tower – 300 Reunion Blvd. E., Dallas, TX 75207
  For a truly spectacular view from above, try a trip to the GeO-Deck at Reunion Tower. Perched more than 470 feet above the city, the GeO-Deck provides unmatched panoramic views of Dallas and is quite the architectural marvel on its own. There are also some fun special events at the tower, like yoga classes and painting parties with 360-degree views of the Dallas skyline as your backdrop.
  
  
• Walking Tours by AD EX – 325 N. St. Paul St., Ste. 150, Dallas, TX 75201
  Self-guided tours are fun, but what about when you want to learn straight from the experts? With Walking Tours by AD EX, you can explore the architecture in some of the most famous districts in Dallas, including the Arts District, Main Street District, and West End District. Every tour is directed by an expert from the Dallas Center for Architecture, and you can expect to spend about 90 minutes to two hours exploring, depending on which tour you choose.

Are you ready to find a piece of Dallas architecture to call your own? Our team is here to help you find your next home. Contact us to buy and sell homes in the Dallas, TX area.

Like the rest of you, our real estate agents eagerly anticipate new and exciting culinary trends. Unsurprisingly, the DFW is on point with restaurants featuring Filipino cuisine, popcorn, robot service, and other 2022 trends predicted by The Takeout. 

• Inihaw Avenue - 4835 N. O'Connor Rd., Suite 106, Irving, TX 75062
  Inihaw Avenue takes its name from the Filipino term for grilling and barbecue, which is a cooking method near and dear to the hearts of people around Irving homes for sale. Signature dishes, such as grilled lemongrass chicken and crispy pork belly with shrimp paste, are cooked to order for maximum flavor and freshness. Save room for halo halo, the traditional Filipino dessert with crushed ice, fruit, flan, and ice cream. Hours are 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 11 a.m. - 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday.
  
  
• Kabayan Filipino Store & Cafe - 2305 S. State Hwy. 121, Lewisville, TX 75067
  Perhaps anticipating the interest in Filipino cuisine around Lewisville homes for sale, the Villaneuvas opened Kabayan Filipino Store & Cafe just over five years ago. The popular spot includes a cafeteria-style dining area, along with a market where you can pick up Filipino packaged food, frozen dishes, and meats by the pound to enjoy at home. Weekends feature karaoke and live music. Kabayan is open 10 a.m. - 7 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Sunday.
  
  
• Doc Popcorn - Dallas Farmers Market, 920 S. Harwood St. #179, Dallas, TX 75201
  Healthy popcorn? Yes, it's possible. Doc Popcorn is made with non-GMO kernels and popped with 100 percent pure corn oil. Everything is natural, with no artificial coloring, flavors, or sweeteners. Choose from sweet or savory flavors such as pizza, caramel apple, and cookies 'n' cream. Can't decide? Go for a combo like the Denver mix, with triple white cheddar and caramel bliss. Hours are 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. daily except Wednesday and Friday when hours are extended to 8 p.m.
  
  
• The Poppin Shop - 900 S. Main St. #335, Keller, TX 76248
  You might think that 30+ flavors of gourmet popcorn would be enough to satisfy anyone's snack craving. But The Poppin Shop, located just minutes from Keller homes for sale, ups the ante with a wide assortment of fudge and candy to indulge your sweet tooth. Popcorn sizes run from the single-serving goodie bag to the 20-gallon bag that holds 100 servings. The shop also offers a variety of colorful tins, from one gallon to 6.5 gallons, for convenient gift-giving. Hours are 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. weekdays, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Saturday, and 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Sunday.
  
  
• Starship Deliveries - University of Texas at Dallas, 800 W. Campbell Rd., Richardson, TX 75080
  If your family has a student at UT Dallas, right down the street from Richardson homes for sale, chances are they've had coffee or sandwiches delivered by a robot. Starship Deliveries has a "staff" of 30 robots that travel 4 MPH and carry up to 20 pounds. Orders are placed through the service's mobile app, which accepts payment by credit or debit cards. Vendors currently participating include Papa John's, Panda Express, and Einstein Bros. Bagels. 

We may like food, but we love Dallas homes for sale even more. Whether you're buying or selling, contact us at RE/MAX DFW Associates to learn more.

Having a well-appointed kitchen is a must, especially if you plan on selling your house in the near future. Kitchen updates hold their value when you resell, plus it's just nice to enjoy cooking in a clean, modern kitchen with new appliances. Here are five updates our real estate agents promise you'll enjoy, and the boost in your home's appeal to buyers won't hurt either.

• Smart Fridge
  You may have seen smart kitchen appliances before in Dallas homes for sale or glimpsed refrigerators with big screens on the front of them while shopping. While it may seem like overkill, it makes total sense for our kitchens to use the same smart technology that we use in the rest of our lives. For instance, a smart fridge can display a calendar on that screen with the entire family's schedules, or it can let you know when you're running low on something. It can even add to your shopping list! A smart fridge can also act as the communication hub in your upgraded kitchen and control other smart appliances. For instance, from an app on your phone, you could direct the smart fridge to start the dishwasher.
  
  
• Smart Oven
  After the fridge, the next appliance that can benefit from a "smart" upgrade is your oven. With a smart oven, you never have to worry about having left it on, as you can check that from an app, even after you've left the house. Plus, you can preheat the oven or even start cooking remotely using the app.
  
  
• Induction Stove
  Speaking of cooking, if you haven't cooked on an induction stove yet, you don't know what you're missing. An induction stove is the best of both worlds, electric versus gas. You get the easy-to-clean smooth service of a glass-top electric stove, but with a heat source that is as fast as gas, if not faster. Plus, since induction stoves use magnetic fields to generate heat, the stove's surfaces don't get hot, making this top-of-the-line type of stove a preferred option for professional-level chefs and parents alike.
  
  
• Refrigerated Drawer
  A popular trend in kitchens is to install drawers instead of cabinets for easier access. Drawers aren't just for pots, pans, and pantries, either. A refrigerated drawer under the counter puts what you're looking for right at your fingertips. For instance, a drawer instead of a more traditional wine fridge makes it easier to see all of your options at once. Likewise, a produce drawer makes it easier to eat healthy, whether you're preparing dinner or grabbing a snack.
  
  
• Second Sink
  While it's not strictly a kitchen appliance, having a prep sink or a butler's pantry with its own sink should be high on your list of kitchen upgrades. Having a second sink enables you to get more done in the kitchen when prepping for big meals, or even just a separate sink for the family to use for hand washing while you're cooking.

Just think, with a few carefully chosen kitchen upgrades in 2022, by this time next year, you'll be cooking for the holidays in a much different kitchen... or perhaps in an entirely different home if you're planning a move in 2022! If you're ready to start the search for your dream home or just want to get some information about upgrading your current home to sell, contact us today.

December 18th is Bake Cookies Day. This is a great opportunity to dig in and enjoy some holiday baking. But don't worry — if you're too busy to fit cookie baking into your schedule, there are some excellent DFW bakeries selling holiday cookies that your whole family will love. Here are some of the top bakeries our real estate agents recommend visiting in honor of Bake Cookies Day.

• JD's Chippery: 6601 Hillcrest Ave., Suite A, Dallas, TX 75205
  JD's Chippery is a cookie-focused bakery located near many Dallas homes for sale. Opened in 1983, the business is still family-owned with an emphasis on high-quality ingredients and from-scratch baking. These cookies taste like they're homemade, and in the very best way.
  
  JD's Chippery always features some special cookies for the holidays. But you can't go wrong with their classic standbys, either. The oatmeal chocolate are tender with just the right level of sweetness. The white chocolate cookies are another fan favorite on the menu and are a perfect holiday choice.
  
  
• Haute Sweets Patisserie: 6959 Arapaho Rd., Suite 106, Dallas, TX 75248
  Haute Sweets Patisserie is a French-style bakery in North Dallas. While they may be best known for their macarons and beignets, they create some fabulous cookies, too. They'll have macarons decorated in red and green for the holiday season. The chocolate cream pies and s'mores cookies are also incredible.
  
  If you're in a hurry, you can pre-order cookies for pickup on the Haute Sweets website. They also partner with delivery companies including Uber Eats and Door Dash, so you can have cookies delivered right to your door.
  
  
• Grandma's Bakery: 17997 Preston Rd., Dallas, TX 75252
  For cookies like your grandma used to make, you need to stop by Grandma's Bakery. This cozy little bakery is a lovely place to sit with friends, munch on cookies, and sip a nice coffee or hot chocolate. They have rice cookies, walnut cookies, coconut cookies, butter cookies, and even baklava.
  
  In addition to cookies, Grandma's Bakery carries fresh pastries including Napoleons, cream puffs, and fruit cream rolls. Treat yourself, and then bring another treat home for the family.
  
  
• Kessler Baking Studio: 1129 North Beckley Ave., Dallas, TX 75203
  Kessler Baking Studio is a Dallas bakery that's now so popular that they ship their cookies across the country. They always have some classic cookies on their menu. The biscotti are incredible, sold in 12 different flavors. The giant oatmeal cream pies are a full 9 inches across and enough to share with a few friends. You also can't go wrong with the chocolate chip pecan or the oatmeal chocolate toffee cookies.
  
  While you're in Kessler Baking Studio, make sure you also buy some Texas-shaped shortbread cookies to celebrate your state!
  
  
• Unrefined Bakery: 2222 McKinney Ave. #180, Dallas, TX 75201
  If you follow a gluten-free diet, then Unrefined Bakery is the place to visit on Bake Cookies Day. This is a 100% gluten-free bakery and is a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
  
  There are plenty of cookies on the menu at Unrefined Bakery. They sell decorated cookies for the holiday season. They also have keto whoopie pies, cookie sammies, confetti cookies, and more. If you're having guests over, then the keto stacked cookie cake is the perfect treat to share.

Whether you love chocolate, lemon, peanut butter, or all of the above, these Dallas bakeries have delectable options for your sweet tooth. Make sure you take the time to celebrate Bake Cookies Day. And don't hesitate to contact us if you're looking for a real estate agent to guide you through finding a new home with a perfect kitchen for baking.

It may not be the horse-drawn sleigh of old, but your car serves as a perfect vehicle for seasonal adventures. Our real estate agents can't wait to take in these holiday light displays that are just minutes from Dallas homes for sale.

• Candy Cane Lane - American Airlines Center, 2500 Victory Ave., Dallas, TX 75219
  What "kid" of any age could resist a magical place called Candy Cane Lane? The multi-level display includes lights, lantern characters, and other holiday surprises. Don't forget to get a family photo with Santa Claus. Candy Cane Lane runs through December 26. Visit the website for times. Admission is $35-$50 per vehicle.
  
  
• Dallas Zoo Lights - Dallas Zoo, 650 S.R.L. Thornton Fwy., Dallas, TX 75203
  A beloved holiday tradition takes on a new form at Dallas Zoo Lights. Enjoy the one million lights, 3-D sculptures, and video projection vignettes along the one-mile course from the comfort of your car. Dallas Zoo Lights will be shining through January 2. Visit the website for the full schedule. Admission is $65 per car, $50 for Zoo members, and must be purchased in advance.
  
  
• Radiance! - Riders Field, 7300 Roughriders Trail, Frisco, TX 75034
  Theme parks aren't just for summer. This year's version of Radiance!, a popular holiday attraction down the street from Frisco homes for sale, includes "Frozen in Frisco," a winter carnival with tubing, ice skating, snowball fights, and even a Ferris wheel. Sit back on the Holly Jolly Trolley for a show featuring three million glittering, dancing lights. Tickets range from $19.99-$39.99 per person. Radiance! is open through January 1. Visit the website for dates and times.
  
  
• Interlochen Christmas Lights - Westwood Dr., Arlington, TX 76012
  For more than 40 years, Lake Interlochen has provided the backdrop for a cherished holiday tradition. Interlochen Christmas Lights was the brainchild of community developer Bob Findlay, and today upwards of 200 neighbors deck their homes with spectacular lights and decorations. View the impressive display near Arlington homes for sale from 7 p.m. - 11 p.m. nightly. 
  
  
• Historic Grapevine Christmas Spectacular - Town Square Gazebo, 325 Main St., Grapevine, TX 76051
  Find something old and something new at this year's Historic Grapevine Christmas Spectacular. It's only fitting that the "Christmas Capital of Texas" would offer a stunning display full of lights, life-sized Christmas cards, and an animated snowman. 2021 marks the debut of the outsized Main Street Toyland. Stop by after a day of viewing Grapevine homes for sale. Hours are 9 a.m. - 10 p.m. daily through January 10, and admission is free.
  
  
• Santa House - 3373 Spruce Ln., Grapevine, TX 76051
  Share in the giving spirit of the holidays when you visit Santa House. The Murillo family fills their yard with more than 1,000 brilliantly lit retro Santa figures to create a whimsical display of any child's dreams. Their ultimate goal is raising awareness of and funds for the Christmas Cottage, an organization providing holiday gifts for kids in need. Hours are 5 p.m. - 10 p.m. every day through December 25.
  
  
• Lights on the Farm - Heritage Farmstead Museum, 1900 W. 15th St., Plano, TX 75075
  Experience the charm of an old-fashioned holiday that runs through Lights on the Farm, not far from Plano homes for sale. Walk the quarter-mile trail through trees and displays covered with more than one million lights. Visit Santa's Workshop, where kids can write letters and get their pictures. Lights on the Farm is open beginning at 6 p.m. weekends through December 26. Tickets are $10 for adults and $7 for kids.

Have your own festive light display in your new DFW home. Contact us at RE/MAX DFW Associates to learn more.

When our real estate agents heard that National French Toast Day was coming up on November 28th, they got super excited! There are some great breakfast and brunch places in the Dallas–Fort Worth area, and this gave them a reason to try some of them out. 

Start your morning out right with French toast from these local restaurants. 

• Maple Leaf Diner: 12817 Preston Rd., Suite 129, Dallas, TX 75230
  If you're in the area looking at Dallas homes for sale, you'll want to pay a visit to the Maple Leaf Diner. This family-owned restaurant has been a favorite in Dallas since 2015. While many people opt for the traditional Canadian dishes on the menu, their French toast is pretty great too. Order it as a main dish with strawberries and cream puffs, as a "trio" with meat and eggs, or as a side item with one of their other amazing breakfast items. 

• Yolk: 305 Main St., Fort Worth, TX 76102
  Any time they're nearby showing Fort Worth homes for sale, our agents love visiting Yolk. This popular restaurant is known for making fun and creative breakfast dishes, offering specialty juices, and having their own private-label coffee. Their traditional French toast is served dusted with powdered sugar, or you can upgrade to 100% real maple syrup. We recommend adding fresh fruit, cinnamon apples, nuts, raisins, or chocolate chips. There are so many options, you could eat them every time you visit. Want something even more decadent? Try their Red Velvet French Toast - it's truly amazing! 

• Bread Winners Bakery & Bistro: 4021 Preston Rd., Plano, TX 75093
  If you're ready to try something new, you'll want to pay a visit to Bread Winners Bakery & Bistro. They have a Banana Bread French Toast that's topped with fresh bananas and whipped cream. If you're thinking about buying one of the beautiful Plano homes for sale, you're sure to become a regular here! Their weekend brunch is one of the best in the area.

• Cafe De France Bakery & Bistro: 17370 Preston Rd., Dallas, TX 75252
  When you're looking for great French toast, you really can't go wrong with a classic French restaurant. Cafe De France Bakery & Bistro has been a Dallas favorite since 1982. They make their French toast the traditional way - with Texas toast soaked in a special egg mix and served with warm syrup. When you finish your amazing breakfast, be sure to stop by the bakery for some truffles, homemade scones, or other tasty treats. Trust us - you'll be glad you did!

• Cindi's NY Delicatessen: 11111 N. Central Expwy, Suite G, Dallas, TX 75243
  With five locations throughout the Dallas area, Cindi's NY Delicatessen offers a truly unique dining experience. She makes amazing latkes, cheese blitzes, pecan pancakes, and, of course, incredible French toast. Her version is made with fresh Challah bread and served with a sprinkle of powdered sugar. For an extra treat, order it topped with fresh blueberries, strawberries, or bananas. 

If you're ready to enjoy amazing dining options like this all the time, we can help you find the perfect home in the Dallas–Fort Worth area. Contact us today to discuss your goals and start exploring your options. 

As the largest state in the lower 48, Texas has no shortage of highways and byways passing through its diverse landscapes. Whether you go by car or motorcycle, hit the open road this fall on one of these entertaining drives recommended by our real estate agents.

• Texas Lakes Trail
  The unique heritage of North Central Texas was shaped by both the Old South and the Wild West. Explore the remarkable history of this region with a trip along the Texas Lakes Trail. Spanning 1,008 miles and 31 counties, the trail accommodates day drives and lengthier road trips. Start your journey just minutes from Dallas homes for sale and take in sights such as Granbury's Victorian town square and Hillsboro's Hill County Courthouse, with its 70-foot clock tower.
  
  
• Red River Roadway
  Long celebrated in song and movies, the Red River runs through the stunning Hill Country of Texas. Experience their beauty firsthand with a trip along the Red River Roadway. Pick up FM 2164 in Denton, then head north to FM Route 455 for impressive views of the river valley. Get some local flavor, literally and figuratively, with a lunch stop in one of the charming small towns along the way.
  
  
• Trail of the Dinosaurs
  What kid isn't fascinated by dinosaurs? Take the family for a glimpse of prehistoric times along Trail of the Dinosaurs, just an hour's drive from Fort Worth homes for sale. Follow US 67 along through gently rolling hills until you reach Dinosaur Valley State Park. Millions of years ago, this land sat on the edge of an ancient ocean, and you can still see dinosaur footprints fossilized along the Paluxy River. Keep your eyes open for sightings of contemporary wildlife such as deer, bobcats, and armadillos. Park hours are 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. daily. Admission is $7 per person, with no charge for kids aged 12 and under.
  
  
• Texas Forts Trail
  As part of America's Western frontier, Texas was the site of many historic battles. The 650-mile Texas Forts Trail provides a step back in time to view several military outposts and settlements that offer a glimpse into life in that long-ago era. Highlights include Fort Belknap, Fort Griffin, Buffalo Gap Historic Village, and Paint Rock, with preserved cave paintings dating back to the time of Native Americans. 
  
  
• I-30 East
  Savor the lush greenery and tree-lined roads on the three-hour drive along I-30 East from Dallas to Texarkana, which straddles the Texas-Arkansas border. The city's name is a combination of Texas, Arkansas, and Louisiana, which is only 35 miles south. Attractions on both sides of the line include a series of colorful murals and the Ace of Clubs House, an architectural marvel which has been named a Texas Historical Landmark. Nature lovers can venture just a bit further into Arkansas to visit Millwood State Park and Historic Washington State Park.

No matter where you travel, all roads lead back to your dream home in DFW. Contact us at RE/MAX DFW Associates for cheerful and experienced help with all your real estate needs. 

DFW might be a thriving urban metropolis, but the area retains a number of places where nature takes center stage. Our real estate agents refresh body, mind, and spirit with visits to these beautiful nature centers throughout the area. 

• Cedar Ridge Preserve - 7171 Mountain Creek Pkwy., Dallas, TX 75249
  Perched at an elevation of 755 feet, Cedar Ridge Preserve is considered a "little slice of hill country" overlooking the city. The Preserve is maintained by Audubon Dallas, the local chapter of the National Audubon Society, the iconic organization dedicated to promoting conservation. Enchanting names like Cattail Pond, Little Bluestem, and Red Oak identify the Preserve's 13 trails. Hours are 6:30 a.m. - dusk Tuesday through Sunday and a minimum donation of $3 is requested for admission.
  
  
• Twelve Hills Nature Center - 817 Mary Cliff Rd., Dallas, TX 75208
  Despite its bucolic sound, the name of Twelve Hills Nature Center is a reference to the apartment buildings that once stood on its grounds. In 2005, volunteers began this unique project to reclaim the land as a prairie oasis in the midst of Dallas homes for sale. A butterfly garden greets visitors at the entrance while dog-friendly trails wind through flowering plants and shrubs along the five-acre property. Twelve Hills is open daily from dawn to dusk, and admission is free, though donations are welcome.
  
  
• Bob Jones Nature Center & Preserve - 355 E. Bob Jones Rd., Southlake, TX 76092
  Bob Jones Nature Center & Preserve is rich in both natural resources and historical relevance to the area around Southlake homes for sale. The land where the nature center sits once belonged to Bob Jones, a former slave who went on to become a successful rancher and farmer. With more than 20 miles of hiking trails that span 700 acres, the Preserve offers a fascinating look at the Cross Timbers ecosystem along with frequent glimpses of birds and wildlife. Hours are 7 a.m. - 8 p.m. daily, with closing time at 5 p.m. during winter. Admission is free.
  
  
• Elm Fork Nature Preserve - 2335 Sandy Lake Rd., Carrollton, TX 75006
  The origins of Elm Fork Nature Preserve date back to 1861 when the Bramblitt family purchased the property as a wood right, not far from where Carrollton homes for sale now stand. But no clear-cutting ever took place, and in 1986, 40 acres were donated to the city of Carrollton to remain a self-contained ecosystem. While walking the trails, which pass through woodlands and past a pond, visitors are often treated to the sight of armadillos, eastern cottontails, great horned owls, snowy egrets, and many other birds and animals. Hours are dawn to dusk, and admission is free.
  
  
• Fort Worth Nature Center & Refuge - 9601 Fossil Ridge Rd., Fort Worth, TX 76135
  Take a step back in time just minutes from Fort Worth homes for sale at Fort Worth Nature Center & Refuge. The 3,621 acres are filled with dog-friendly trails winding through forests, prairies, and wetlands that retain the look of the local landscape back in the early 20th century. As one of the largest city-owned nature centers in the country, it was deemed a National Natural Landmark in 1980. Open daily from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m., with early entry at 7 a.m. May through August. Admission is $6 for adults and $2 for ages 3-12.

Ready to learn more about what life in Texas has to offer? Contact us at RE/MAX DFW Associates to learn more.

After weeks or months of browsing Dallas homes for sale, visiting open houses, negotiating with sellers, and dealing with the exhausting relocation tasks, you're finally in your new home. It's time to make your new place feel like home and settle into your new surroundings. For some people, this could fall into place when your new neighbors see your moving truck, but in most cases, you have to put in work to get acquainted with your new surroundings. All it takes is a positive attitude and willingness to make it work out. Here is our real estate agent's list of 5 top strategies to help you get familiar with your new neighborhood.

1. Introduce Yourself to Your Neighbors
   Getting to know the people who live around you can help you feel settled in your new environment and your new routine. Within the first days of your move, it's a good idea to introduce yourself to the people next door. Tell them you are a newcomer and ask questions about your new neighborhood. You'd be surprised at how friendly your neighbors are. Be polite and keep your first interaction short. If you need recommendations or useful information about your new area, approach your neighbors again, offer some homemade cookies, and start a friendly conversation. 
   
   
2. Take Frequent Walks
   The most straightforward piece of advice is sometimes one of the most effective. If you want to get to know your neighborhood, go see it for yourself. Taking frequent walks is an excellent de-stressor during or after the unpacking process, and it will also give you a chance to observe daily life in the community. Take your children to the nearest playground or go to the nearest gym to meet other parents or fitness enthusiasts. If you have a dog, take them for a walk in the nearest park.
   
   
3. Join a Local Club or Community Organization
   One of the best ways to settle into your new neighborhood is to immerse yourself in the community. You can join local clubs, charities, and other community organizations, depending on your values, interests, and skills. This is a great way to meet like-minded people from the neighborhood and make friends. A polite introduction is all that's needed. Volunteering is also a great way to take an active part in bettering the neighborhood and learn about some of the issues that shape the community.
   
   
4. Find the Locals' Favorites Spots
   Dining and entertainment hangouts can be a key to the true neighborhood vibe. Thanks to online resources such as Google and Yelp, it's easier than ever to find the best restaurants, bars, local attractions, museums, recreation centers, entertainment venues, and more. This will help you meet people from the neighborhood and feel like one of them.
   
   
5. Shop Locally
   You can definitely find a box store in the area or buy your things online, but that little corner shop is something you'll find right in the neighborhood. So, whether you need to make a quick trip to the local café for a much-needed caffeine hit or a visit to the hardware for a few nails, you'll need to know where all the stores are. Shopping locally helps you engage with your new neighborhood while bolstering it at the same time.

As stressful as moving can be, getting to know your new neighborhood is an amazing opportunity to welcome new friends, find new passions, and explore the world with a fresh set of eyes. Still looking at Fort Worth homes for sale and aren't sure if you've found your dream spot? Our team can help. Contact us today for more information.

Shopping at local arts and crafts shows is a fun way to spend a few hours while picking up some unique handmade items for yourself or to give as a gift. Whether you're shopping for paintings, jewelry, apparel, or something different, you're like to find some treasures to take home.
  
Our real estate agents suggest visiting some of the following arts and crafts shows:

1. Etsy Dallas Jingle Bash - Nov. 13 - Gilley's Dallas Event Venues, 1135 Botham Jean Blvd., Dallas, TX 75215  
   Etsy is a well-known online site for buying and selling every type of handmade item you can imagine. The Etsy Dallas Jingle Bash lets you enjoy that experience and selection in person, where you can see items close up. Artists, crafters, and designers have been handpicked to showcase their wares, so you'll be able to find unique items in a one-stop shopping experience. And if you're one of the first 50 shoppers, you'll score a Bash Bag filled with swag from different vendors. Visit a make-and-take table to learn how to create crafts that you can take home. And to keep your energy up, stop by the food trucks. Finally, remember your visit with a souvenir from fun photo booths.
   
   
2. The Other Art Fair - Oct. 21-24, 2021 - Dallas Market Hall, 2200 N. Stemmons Freeway, Dallas, TX 75207
   The Other Art Fair, held near Dallas homes for sale, is a great way to get into buying art since it has pieces that can be worked into almost any budget. For as little as $100, you can start your collection, or if you already have pieces, add to them. Available pieces are carefully curated, and you'll also have the chance to meet the artists and find out more about their works. Over 140 emergent, independent artists will have work available at the show. 
   
   
3. Sky Dancers Craft Show - Oct. 30, 2021 - Timber Creek High School, 12350 Timberland Blvd., Fort Worth, TX 76244
   Treat yourself to handmade products at the Sky Dancers Craft Show, and you'll also be helping drill team members at Timber Creek High School, located just around the corner from Fort Worth homes for sale. Vendors will sell art, jewelry, edible treats, and more. And if you have kids, bring them along in their costumes so they can trick-or-treat at vendor booths and decorate pumpkins while they're at the craft show.
   
   
4. Happily Ever Sip & Shop Craft Fair - Oct. 17 - Rahr and Sons Brewing, 701 Galveston Ave., Fort Worth, TX 76104  
   Visit the Happily Ever Sip & Shop Craft Fair to shop for one-of-a-kind works from approximately 50 different artisans. This family-friendly event features fun for everyone. And if you'd like to take a brewery tour while you're there, set aside a little time to check out their offerings and see how they're made.
   
   
5. Downtown Mesquite Farmers Market - every Saturday from April-November - Front Street Station, 100 W. Front St., Mesquite, TX 75149  
   Like many farmers markets these days, the Downtown Mesquite Farmers Market offers a lot more than produce. Sure, you'll still find delicious local crops, but you'll also be able to shop for handmade goods from different artisans. In addition, musical acts sometimes perform to add to the festive atmosphere. And while you're at Front Street Station, which is conveniently located near Mesquite homes for sale, walk around to enjoy viewing eight public art pieces placed throughout the area.  

Contact us if you'd like to buy a home or sell yours in the Dallas-Fort Worth-Mesquite area. Our agents will help every step of the way. 

Pet ownership in the U.S. has never been so high, with 48 million dog-owning households and 32 million cat-owning households, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association. But if you're one of them, and you're getting ready to list your home among Fort Worth homes for sale or Dallas homes for sale, it's important to remember that not everyone loves pets -- particularly when they're trying to look at a home and envision themselves in that setting. Someone else's pet can be a considerable distraction, whether it's the pet itself or just evidence that a pet is in residence.

Keep these seven tips in mind when getting your home ready for the market.

1. Plan for Showings
   If possible, make sure your pet is gone when a potential buyer is being shown your home. Make arrangements with friends or relatives to keep your pet during showings, or arrange to board your animals. That goes for any kind of pet -- birds, hamsters, rabbits, or snakes in an aquarium. Some people have allergies to animals, so it's best they and your pets don't meet. Avoid sequestering pets in a closet, a room, the basement, or a kennel.
   
   
2. Remove the Evidence
   Yes, it's a hassle every time your house is shown to have to remove all evidence of your pet, but for the sake of a potential sale, do so. Pick up bowls, toys, beds, kennels, cat climbing trees, etc. 
   
   
3. Schedule a Deep Cleaning
   Not all pets are equal when it comes to the kind of mess they make. Some shed mighty amounts of hair or feathers, while others leave scarcely a trace. Regardless, you will want to schedule a professional cleaning to make sure rugs and carpets, flooring, baseboards, and upholstery are all spic and span before potential buyers arrive.
   
   
4. Don't Try to Mask Odors
   Scented candles, incense, and chemical deodorizers won't mask urine, or other pet smells. What's more, some potential buyers won't care for fragrances from these sources.
   
   
5. Keep Marketing Photographs Pet-Free
   When the photographer comes to take pictures of your home for marketing purposes, make sure you've removed all traces of pet toys, beds, litter boxes, and dishes. Evidence of pets won't enhance your chances of attracting a buyer.
   
   
6. Repair Damages
   Go around your home and assess damages from pets, from urine spots on the carpet, furniture, or baseboards, to scratches on door frames and floors. Fix what you can with putty and paint; replace carpets if need be. You may have to cover up the scratched-up hardwood floors with laminate.
   
   
7. Clean up the Yard
   Go over the backyard and make sure it's clear of any pet mess. Fill in Fido's prized holes that he's been digging in the yard. Repair any damage to the fencing and make sure to pick up any outdoor toys.

Are you and your pets ready for a new home in the DFW? Our real estate agents can advise pet owners on prepping a home for viewing and on how to find the perfect home your whole family will love. Contact us today. 

September 25 is National Comic Book Day, and in honor of the occasion, we highly recommend paying your local comic book store a visit. We're lucky to have some really great comic shops here in Dallas, Fort Worth, and the surrounding areas.

Of course, we know you don't need a holiday just to raid the bins at your favorite comic book store! If you're wondering where you can always find the latest issue of your favorite comics in the DFW, our real estate agents know just where to go. 

• Cosmic Comics & Cards - 728 E Marshall Dr, Grand Prairie, TX 75051
  Cosmic Comics & Cards is a cozy shop offering an eclectic selection of comic books, games, sports, and non-sports trading cards, action figures, and other collectibles. Located conveniently to many Grand Prairie homes for sale, the shop also has friendly staff to help you find anything you need. Comic fans will find a great selection of new titles as well as thousands of back issues. 
  
  
• Twenty Eleven Comics - 2230 Morriss Rd, Flower Mound, TX 75028
  You can always count on discovering some unique treasures at Twenty Eleven Comics, a family-owned shop whose proprietors have an obvious affection for all things comic-related. Twenty Eleven Comics has tens of thousands of back issues in stock. They're also known for hosting events, including Dungeons and Dragons campaigns and Magic the Gathering tournaments.
  
  
• Red Pegasus Comics - 319 N Bishop Ave, Dallas, TX 75208
  Nestled in the quirky Bishop Arts District of Dallas, Red Pegasus Comics is a great place to discover new comics. Though a relatively small space, the shop is packed with comic books new and old, and they carry all the latest titles from D.C. and Marvel as well as a cool selection of indie comics. Walkable from many Dallas homes for sale, Red Pegasus is definitely a shop that requires return visits. 
  
  
• Zeus Comics and Collectibles - 1334 Inwood Rd, Dallas, TX 75247
  Offering a huge selection of comics, graphic novels, trade paperbacks, and Manga, Zeus Comics and Collectibles is a staple of the Dallas comic book community. They've worked hard to create an inclusive space that's open to all, and the shop was named Dallas' "best pop culture experience" by the Dallas Observer in 2018. They have a vast and well-organized selection of comics in every genre and from every era. 
  
  
• Urban Legends Comic Shop - 3501 Gus Thomasson Rd, Mesquite, TX 75150
  You can browse games, puzzles, and an incredible array of comic books at Urban Legends Comic Shop. The store opened its doors in 2013 and quickly earned a reputation as one of the best places to shop for comics near these Mesquite homes for sale. Urban Legends Comic Shop is especially great for fans of independent comics that are a bit less mainstream than your typical superhero fare, but they carry a bit of everything. 
  
  
• Y2Komics - 5276 Trail Lake Dr, Fort Worth, TX 76133
  Y2Komics has been open for more than 20 years, which makes it the longest-standing comic book shop in Fort Worth. It's also one of the largest, and its shelves and bins are packed with a tremendous variety of comic books. Just minutes from these Fort Worth homes for sale, Y2Komics is a great place to find silver age classics as well as hot new issues, and they also carry games, toys, and all kinds of collectibles. 

Great comic book shops are just the beginning of what the area has to offer. Contact us today to learn more about life in Dallas, Fort Worth, and the surrounding areas!

It's a well-known fact that curb appeal makes a huge difference in Dallas homes for sale. Whether you're planning on listing your home soon or not for a little while yet, here are a few outdoor walkway ideas our real estate agents recommend for a quick way to boost curb appeal.

• Stepping Stones 
  Stepping stones are an inexpensive way to put walking paths anywhere you want, plus they blend in nicely with a well-landscaped yard. You can find stepping stones in a variety of colors, sizes, and styles, so head over to the home improvement or garden store and spend some time browsing and comparing prices before you decide what you want.
  
  
• Gravel
  Another inexpensive, easy to work with, and good DIY choice is gravel. Gravel can be used to surround stepping stones or large pavers, as a border along a concrete or brick path, or as a path itself. You will need to provide some kind of a border to keep the gravel in and remember that gravel can also travel and requires some maintenance to continue looking nice.
  
  
• Brick
  Brick is a great option with a lot of opportunities for variety. If you choose someone experienced to do the job for you, they'll not just level the path to making sure you don't end up with any bricks sticking up, they can also lay the bricks in intricate and pleasing designs. Brick tends to look both traditional and upscale in Fort Worth homes for sale.
  
  
• Pavers
  Pavers are a more expensive alternative to brick, stepping stones, or flagstone, but they come in a wider variety of sizes and colors and textures and can be used to create many pleasing patterns. You could also consider laying the pavers with a narrow space in between where moss or ground cover could grow, tying your walkway into your landscaping.
  
  
• Wood
  Wooden walkways can lend an interesting rustic or beachy vibe, depending on the look you're going for. You could lay circular slices of trunk-like they were pavers or stepping stones, for instance, or build a walkway like an extension of your deck. For zero-footprint ideas, consider using reclaimed wood, such as the wood from a broken-down pallet.
  
  
• Texture or Stenciling
  Is your original walkway still perfectly serviceable, but you're looking for a way to update it? Fortunately, there are many affordable ways to do so. You can have a concrete walkway sprayed and textured with a roller, or you can paint existing pavers using stencils. Upgrading your existing walkway provides immediate curb appeal without breaking the bank.
  
  
• Landscaping
  Don't forget that the walkway is only a small part of your curb appeal, so take some time to make sure the landscaping around it is up to par, too. Consider a nice border of shrubbery or flowers or with the installation of little path lights.

Whether it's for your own enjoyment or you're ready to sell your house, you'll be amazed at the difference a newly designed outdoor walkway will make in your home's curb appeal. For more tips on boosting curb appeal or to chat with an agent about selling your home, contact us today.

Dallas, Fort Worth, and the many wonderful smaller cities in North Texas are home to some of the state's best, most acclaimed wineries. In addition to producing award-winning wines, these wineries often host special events where you can enjoy great food, camaraderie, live entertainment, and unique, behind-the-scenes tours. Many of the area's most popular wineries work together to create wine trails, with coordinated events that make it easy to explore all that various local wineries have to offer. Our real estate agents have the delicious details on 4 North Texas wine trails that you will love to explore this summer.

Dallas Town and Country Wine Trail

The Dallas Town and Country Wine Trail is the perfect option for anyone who wants to visit some amazing wineries close to Dallas homes for sale. There are six great wineries to visit on this trail, including Carmela Winery, Eden Hill Winery and Vineyard, Caudalie Crest, Lone Star Wine Cellars, Landon Winery, and Grayson Hill Winery. Many of these wineries are located in quaint, historic town squares in smaller communities just outside of Dallas. Taste some award-winning local wines, enjoy scenic countryside drives between each winery, and learn more from the experts about how some of the best wines around Dallas are produced.

North Texas Wine Country Trail

Looking for a single wine trail that can keep you busy with new places to explore all summer long? The North Texas Wine Country Trail includes wineries in 22 counties, starting with the DFW region and spreading out through a diverse selection of North Texas communities. There's a winery for every taste on this trail, from urban wineries in DFW to sprawling, countryside vineyards located far from the hustle and bustle of the big cities. There's a ton to explore throughout the summer, and the fun continues well into the fall. Keep an eye out for big events like the Downtown Wine Walks of North Texas Wine Country and the Windsong Wine & Music Festival.

Grapevine Wine Trail

Located just a short drive from the big cities, the Grapevine Wine Trail showcases five of the best wineries in downtown Grapevine. Most of the wineries on this trail are within walking distance so that you can enjoy a leisurely walk through Grapevine's historic downtown between each stop. During coordinated events on the Grapevine Wine Trail, one ticket will give you access to three tastings with food pairings at each winery on the trail, along with a commemorative wine glass from each winery that you visit. Check the website regularly for scheduled events, and plan ahead for transportation if you'd rather not walk between wineries.

Vine & Wine Tours of North Texas

While most wine trails are self-guided, Vine & Wine Tours of North Texas offers a guided, all-inclusive tour of three of the most popular wineries located near Fort Worth homes for sale. These tours will take you to some of the oldest wineries in DFW, with the opportunity to tour production facilities, ask questions to expert winemakers, stroll through the vineyards, and of course, taste some incredible wines. During your five-plus-hour tour, you will be guided by a former winery owner who is happy to tell you more about the industry and the history of wine in North Texas.

Fine wine and great times are never far from your front door when you live in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, and our team is here to help you find your next home in your favorite city. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the DFW region.

Everything's bigger in Texas, but it looks smaller when seen from the treetops. Ziplining is just one of the outdoor activities that make the Dallas-Fort Worth area such a great place to live. Our real estate agents recommend getting your adrenaline pumping at these exciting parks around the DFW.

1. Trinity Forest Adventure Park - 1820 Dowdy Ferry Rd., Dallas, TX 75217
   How high can you go? At Trinity Forest Adventure Park, not far from Dallas homes for sale, three different levels of elevation take you as far as 50 feet off the ground. Each course, ranked by a ski slope-style color-coded system, features obstacles such as wobble bridges, ladders, and free falls. The staff-led school lets you practice on the ground, then proceed at your own pace. Admission for a three-hour session ranges from $44.95-$54.95, with a minimum age of 6. Receive a $5 discount when you reserve online. Trinity Forest is open on weekends from 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.
   
   
2. Go Ape Adventure Park - Oak Point Park & Nature Preserve, 5901 Los Rios Blvd., Plano, TX 75074
   The signature jungle call is optional, but you'll certainly feel like Tarzan swinging through the trees at Go Ape Adventure Park. Located in the largest park near Plano homes for sale, Go Ape offers more than eight miles of trails and ziplines. Enjoy a thrilling two- to three-hour trip, passing over Rowlett Creek and above the trees and greenery of the surrounding area. Admission is $54.95 for ages 10-15 and $64.95 for ages 16 and up. Visit the website to view the schedule.
   
   
3. Urban Air Adventure Park - 9157 Harmon Rd., Fort Worth, TX 76177
   What goes up must come down at Urban Air Adventure Park. Soar above it all on Sky Rider, then take the plunge with Indoor Skydiving. With heart-pumping adventures such as climbing walls, rope courses, performance trampolines, and a flying trapeze, it's no surprise Urban Air was named "Best Gym in America for Kids" by Shape magazine. Keep your energy up with a tasty snack and refreshing beverage at the onsite cafe. All this fun is just minutes from Fort Worth homes for sale. Combo packages are available at prices ranging from $19.99-$34.99. Hours are 4 p.m. - 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 4 p.m. - 9 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m. - 10 p.m. Saturday, and 11 a.m. - 8 p.m. Sunday.
   
   
4. DFW Adventure Park - 13055 Cleveland Gibbs Rd., Northlake, TX 76262
   Put that controller down and take part in some real-world gaming action at DFW Adventure Park. Join family and friends for a lively game of paintball that challenges your body and mind. Low impact, with a .50 caliber paintball for reduced impact, is perfect for beginners. The park also offers Splat Master, a variation for younger players. All-day play is $25, or $20 if you bring your own equipment. Hours are 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Sunday.
   
   
5. Widowmaker Trail Rides - 904 Quail Creek Ct., Southlake, TX 76092
   Get a taste of the old cowboy days right down the street from Southlake homes for sale with Widowmaker Trail Rides. Enjoy a two-hour ride around scenic Lake Grapevine, accompanied by an experienced guide who will help you get the most out of your experience. Rides are $100 per person and are scheduled by appointment only. 

After a day outdoors, there's nothing better than heading back to your own DFW home. Contact us at RE/MAX DFW Associates for friendly and experienced real estate help.

Bubble tea—also known as boba tea—has taken America by storm in the last 10 years. This sweet tea-based drink with chewy tapioca balls originated in Taiwan back in the 1980s, but these days it's everywhere. 

Case in point: we have some truly great bubble tea joints here in the DFW. Whether you're looking for a new place to get your boba fix, or you're just getting ready to try it for the first time, our real estate agents recommend these awesome bubble tea shops in Dallas, Fort Worth, and the surrounding areas! 

1. Fat Straws Bubble Tea - 1251 W Campbell Rd, Richardson, TX 75080
   Fat Straws is a local bubble tea chain that has exploded in popularity since it got started in 2002. They've grown to include locations all over the DFW area, but you should really check out their largest shop in Richardson. Not only is it convenient to these Richardson homes for sale, but it's the only Fat Straws Bubble Tea location that makes their signature matcha donuts. They're incredibly tasty and are the perfect accompaniment to any of Fat Straws' tasty bubble tea drinks.
   
   
2. Bobadiction - 3014 Main St, Dallas, TX 75226
   Family-owned and operated since 2012, Bobadiction is one of the best places in Dallas to grab a bubble tea or smoothie while you're on the go. Not only are their drinks delicious, but they're made using only real cane sugar—never high fructose corn syrup. Their original flagship location is in Deep Ellum, the oldest neighborhood in Dallas is just minutes from many Dallas homes for sale. They also have a second location in North Richland Hills, and you never know where the Bobadiction food truck might turn up!
   
   
3. Boba Tea & Treats - 4135 Belt Line Rd, Addison, TX 75001
   Offering a seemingly infinite drink menu and a fun, funky atmosphere, Boba Tea & Treats is a great place to visit if you've never tried bubble tea before. The combinations of flavors and toppings are almost endless, but the folks at Boba Tea & Treats also have a well-curated menu of signature favorites that practically beg to be sampled. They're also just a short drive from these Addison homes for sale.
   
   
4. Fruitealicious - 3043 Greene Ave, Fort Worth, TX 76109
   You'll find an incredible variety of boba teas, smoothies, and other treats at Fruitealicious, along with iced coffee, lemonade, and tea. Each of their drinks comes with numerous options to make it your own, including the ability to choose your preferred sweetness level. That's great news for anyone who likes bubble tea but can sometimes find it too sweet. Fruitealicious has a handful of locations in and around the DFW area, but we're partial to the Fort Worth spot. It's just around the corner from Fort Worth homes for sale.
   
   
5. Craft Boba Tea - 6105 Greenville Ave, Dallas, TX 75206
   There's a lot to love about Craft Boba Tea. This Dallas bubble tea mainstay has two locations, both with a charming mom-and-pop-store vibe, but each offering something a little different. The Greenville Avenue location, which is operated in conjunction with an awesome Thai eatery, offers tasty smoothies and fresh-pressed juices as part of their menu. The Bishop Avenue location, on the other hand, has unique boba tea-flavored frozen yogurt. Which is better? Who's to say. We highly recommend checking out both. 

Contact us today to learn more about life in the Dallas/Fort Worth area. 

Looking for a new place to eat in the DFW area? You're in luck. This area is home to a thriving community of eateries that has something to offer for every hungry would-be diner. Our real estate agents can help you find a home close to countless new DFW restaurants, including the five listed below.

1. Bonchon - 4980 Belt Line Rd, Suite 140, Addison, TX 75254
   Bonchon, also known as Bonchon Chicken, is a Korean fried chicken franchise with over 340 locations worldwide. This chain is known for its authentic Korean-style chicken wings; these delectable morsels impressed Business Insider so much that the publication named them the "gold standard for fried chicken" in 2019. The new restaurant is located close to Addison homes for sale, making it easy for residents to sample some of this internationally beloved fare. 
   
   
2. Encina - 614 W Davis, Suite 100, Dallas, TX 75208
   Encina was born of a shared vision between experienced restauranteurs Matt Balke and Corey McCombs. Their establishment uses fresh, seasonal ingredients to create luxury dishes like their Berkshire Pork Chop and English Pea Risotto. They also pride themselves on keeping a well-stocked bar with a wide selection of signature mixed drinks. DFW residents looking for a new happy hour spot should be sure to pop in for a visit sometime. 
   
   
3. The Neighborhood Grill - 821 NE Green Oaks Blvd., Arlington, TX 76006
   Fine dining is an incredible experience, but sometimes all you want is some good old-fashioned comfort food. The Neighborhood Grill in North Arlington is located near Arlington homes for sale and serves generous portions of hearty diner fare, including burgers, cheesesteaks, and fried chicken. You can even get a funnel cake or a serving of tiramisu for dessert. This food is affordable, delicious, and extremely crowd-friendly - what's not to love?
   
   
4. Elm & Good - 2551 Elm St, Dallas, TX 75226
   Elm & Good is an up-and-coming restaurant is located inside the Kimpton Pittman Hotel in Dallas, close to many Dallas homes for sale. The restaurant's website describes the food served here as "upscale American farmhouse fare." From the popular Grab N' Go Breakfast (perfect for hotel guests looking for a quick, high-quality meal to take with them on the road) to dinner staples like the 44 Farms Ribeye Steak and the Saffron Campanelle Pasta, there is something for everyone at this comfortable yet classy eatery.  
   
   
5. ZAAP Kitchen - 1152 N. Buckner Blvd., Casa Linda, Dallas, TX 7521
   ZAAP Kitchen is on a mission to bring a greater variety of Asian food to the DFW area. They serve street food with a particular focus on Laotian cuisine, which they feel is underrepresented in the local food scene. Some of their most popular dishes include their Lao Style Papaya Salad, their assortment of curry and noodle dishes, and their authentic sticky rice side dishes. It should also be noted that although the Casa Linda location is the most prominent of the bunch, there are three more ZAAP Kitchen sister locations operating in Fitzhugh, Greenville, and West Bend. 

With all of these options to choose from, you'll always have a great place to enjoy a meal in the DFW area. Contact us today for help finding the perfect DFW home for you. 

Mother's Day is fast approaching, and there's no better way to appreciate your mom than treating her to a delicious meal. Start Mother's Day with a memorable brunch at a fantastic local restaurant. Our real estate agents have rounded up some of the most exquisite DFW restaurants where you'll find a delicious treat that your mother will thoroughly enjoy: 

1. Reata Forth Worth—310 Houston Street, Sundance Square, Fort Worth, TX 76102
   Located close to Fort Worth homes for sale, this restaurant is renowned for its sophisticated cowboy cooking and exclusive wine list. Reata Fort Worth offers both private dining and family meals and is a great spot for Texans who are hankering for some mouth-watering food. If your mom is a lover of classic cuisine, she'll undoubtedly enjoy the restaurant's specialty items such as the Tenderloin Tamales or the Pan Seared Pepper Crusted Tenderloin. 
    
2. Pinstripes—5001 Trailhead Bend Way, Fort Worth, TX 76109
   Is there a better way to celebrate your mom than reserving her a spot at Pinstripes on Mother's Day? Pinstripes recently opened patio seating just in time for May 9th. Savor a world-class brunch with mom, washed down with discounted handcrafted cocktails. You can also win a brunch for your mom and the entire family by entering Pinstripes' Mother's Day competition. All you have to do is send a snap of your mom with a short description of what makes her special.
   
   
3. Snooze Eatery—3211 Oak Lawn Ave, Dallas, TX 75219
   This spot prides itself on being the number one breakfast and brunch restaurant near our Dallas homes for sale. Your mom will undoubtedly love Snooze Eatery's laidback attitude, tasty meals, and cozy ambiance. Start with green eggs and ham followed by a special Mother's Day soup or the restaurant's renowned hot and cold sandwiches. If your mom is a wine lover, she'll love the extensive wine list offered at Snooze Eatery. Takeaway services are available on request.
   
   
4. Yolk—8315 Westchester Drive, Dallas, TX 75225
   Treat your mom like the queen she is by reserving her a brunch at Yolk. The restaurant is renowned for its fantastic fusion breakfasts that your mom won't forget. The fresh approach to brunch is what makes the Yolk restaurants stand out. All foods are made from quality ingredients and are incredibly affordable. Thus, you can give your mom a treat without breaking the bank. Special discounts will be offered on Mother's Day, so you should be on the lookout for them.
   
   
5. Del Frisco's Grille—7200 Bishop Road, Suite D9, Plano, TX 75024
   Take a trip to Spain when you treat your mom to a Spanish brunch at Del Frisco's Grille. Here, you'll find seasoned, polished Spanish country cooking that has stood the test of time. Del Frisco's Grille is a favorite brunch spot for many Texans, thanks to its tasty foods, fine wines, and convenient location near Plano homes for sale. The welcoming ambiance at the restaurant allows you to eat, drink, and talk all day.

Do not hesitate to contact our real estate agents to see what we have on offer.

Avid golfers have multiple places throughout the DFW area perfect for working on your golf game. Our real estate agents can't wait to get in the swing of spring at these great driving ranges around DFW. 

1. Marsh Lane Golf Center - 2308 Marsh Ln., Carrollton, TX 75006
   Just a chip shot away from Carrollton homes for sale sits Marsh Lane Golf Center, which proudly boasts "the best balls, grass, and prices in town." Get some swing time in on your lunch break between 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. weekdays, when 50 balls are only $6 and 100 balls are $10. Purchase a discount card and receive 12 jumbo buckets of balls for $10 each, which is $7 off each bucket. Instructors are available. Marsh Lane is open daily from 9 a.m. - 9 p.m., with extended summer hours from 8 a.m. - 10 p.m.
   
   
2. Tenison Park Golf Course - 3501 Samuell Blvd., Dallas, TX 75223
   Tenison Park Golf Course holds the honor of being the site of the first municipally owned golf course around Dallas homes for sale. Their high standards carry through to the adjacent state-of-the-art driving range, which includes 41 practice stations and seven target greens in a fairway setting. Debit cards, sold in amounts ranging from $50 to $200, offer a generous discount of 30-50 percent off the price of range balls. Hours vary, so call ahead to check the schedule.
   
   
3. Stevens Park Golf Course - 1005 N. Montclair Ave., Dallas, TX 75208
   Success at golf requires both strength and precision. Refine your putting skills in the short game area located at Stevens Park Golf Course. The section includes a 90-yard landing area, two practice greens, and a practice bunker so you can get experience with a variety of scenarios. Stevens Park also features an impressive indoor practice facility equipped with slow-motion video and staffed with PGA professionals who lead group and private lessons. Hours are 7 a.m. - sundown, seven days a week.
   
   
4. The Golf Ranch - 3570 Waterview, Richardson, TX, 75080
   Grade-A golfers are bred at The Golf Ranch, a first-class practice facility just minutes from Richardson homes for sale. Their all-turf range and covered hitting bays are lighted so you can keep swinging even after the sun goes down. With a recently added putting green, both parts of your game get a good workout. Test your improved skills at their new nine-hole practice course, with no tee times required. Follow The Golf Ranch on Facebook for information about specials, such as 50 percent off greens fees or buckets of driving range balls. Hours are 9 a.m. - 9 p.m. daily.
   
   
5. Waterview Golf Club - 9509 Waterview Pkwy., Rowlett, TX 75089
   With lush grounds dotted by 15 acres of lakes and 1,500 trees, Waterview Golf Club is like a beautiful vacation resort. You'll hardly believe you're just down the street from Rowlett homes for sale. Sharpen your golf game from start to finish with their 30-stall driving range, putting and chipping greens, and three-hole practice course. Private and group programs are available for all levels of experience. Waterview Golf Club is open daily from 6:45 a.m. - 8:30 p.m.

Whether you're buying or selling a home in DFW, you'll score an ace every time with the help of our dedicated real estate agents. Contact us at RE/MAX DFW Associates to get started.

If you're a homeowner, you know that spring cleaning is essential to a clutter-free home. When winter cold fades away, and spring sunshine appears, it's time to roll up your sleeves and tackle some of those indoor and outdoor chores around the house. Our real estate agents know that buyers pay attention to small details that reflect an organized, well-maintained home. Tackle every spot in your home, even the ones that are commonly overlooked, with these helpful tips. 

Kitchen Appliances

In a busy household, cleaning the refrigerator, stove, microwave, and dishwasher are chores that often get pushed aside. Although they take time and energy, they're essential to prevent a buildup of spills and food residue, rodents, and potential fire hazards in the kitchen. When spring cleaning:

• Sweep and mop under large appliances

• Get rid of old food in the fridge

• Clean the stovetop and oven with a degreaser

• Remove spills and food residue from the microwave

• Remove food debris and any broken glass from the dishwasher

• Clean coffee makers, toasters, and can openers to remove bacteria

Kitchen Pantry

Spring cleaning provides the perfect time to check the expiration dates on food, get rid of old or unwanted items, and organize your kitchen pantry. For faster cleaning, remove items shelf by shelf, starting with the top shelf. Place items on your kitchen countertops while cleaning pantry shelves with warm soap and water or a spray cleaner that removes grime and stains. If you want to label or reorganize food items, this is the perfect opportunity.

Cabinets, Closets, and Draws

Cabinets and drawers can quickly become filled with clutter and unused items, especially after living in a home for a while. Buyers interested in Dallas homes for sale don't want to see clutter overflowing in cabinets,  drawers, and closets. Spring cleaning provides the perfect opportunity to get rid of unwanted items, old clothes, and expired medications, so your home doesn't look neglected.

Under Kitchen and Bathroom Sinks

Areas under kitchen and bathroom sinks are commonly used to store cleaning products and household essentials. These areas are often neglected and subject to a buildup of clutter, moisture, leaky pipes, and mold. If garbage disposals are not cleaned regularly with disinfectant, they can build up bacteria from food debris and unpleasant odors. Potential home buyers often check under kitchen and bathroom sinks to look for signs of rotten wood, mold or mildew or standing water that signal potential plumbing problems.

Ceiling Fans. Chandeliers, Lamps, and Sconces

When it comes to cleaning, indoor and outdoor lighting fixtures are often overlooked. For many homeowners, indoor ceiling fans, chandeliers and sconces, lamps and lampshades, and outdoor lighting fixtures don't get cleaned on a regular basis. Unfortunately, the grime, dirt, and dust that builds up and blocks light makes indoor spaces look dark and dingy, and outdoor spaces unappealing to potential buyers looking for Fort Worth homes for sale.

Air Ducts and Vents

Dirt and debris that builds up in air ducts and vents can cause excessive dust in your home and respiratory problems for your family. To remove dust buildup from vents, remove them and wash them with hot soapy water. To clean your air ducts, you need to schedule a cleaning with a local professional HAVC technician who has the proper equipment.

Take the time for spring cleaning to ensure a well-organized, healthy home. If you're interested in buying or selling a home, contact us to find out how we can help with your real estate needs.

Our real estate agents love having an excuse to enjoy a sweet treat. March 14th is affectionately known as "Pi Day" -- and we think that's close enough!

There are so many great bakeries in the DFW area, you might want to start visiting them now, so you're prepared when the big day rolls around. Here are a few of our favorites. 

1. Buttermilk Sky Pie Shop: 1707 North Collins Street, Ste. 115, Arlington, TX 76011
   Any time we're in the area showing Arlington homes for sale, we love stopping by Buttermilk Sky Pie Shop to check out their selection of goodies. Every day, they have nine different pie flavors in three different sizes, making it easy to find something you'll love each time you visit. Some of our favorite flavors are Peanut Butter Cream, Chewy Chocolate Chip, and Nanny's Pecan.
   
   
2. Emporium Pies: 107 S. Tennessee St., McKinney, TX 75069
   Specialty shop Emporium Pies is known for fine pies that are handmade with quality ingredients. Their offerings change with the seasons, so you can visit again and again and never get bored. We love the "Drunken Nut," a bourbon pecan pie with a shortbread crust, and the "Smooth Operator," a French silk chocolate pie with a pretzel crust. They also make homemade vanilla ice cream, which is the ideal complement to their delicious desserts. Whether you live in the area or you're looking at McKinney homes for sale, chances are you'll want to return to this great bakery again and again. 
   
   
3. JudyPie: 520 S. Main St., #200, Grapevine, TX 76051
   Affectionately known as "The cutest vintage pie shop in Texas," JudyPie makes fresh pies from scratch every day in their on-site kitchen. We love this shop, in part because they'll happily make a smaller six-inch version of any of their standard 10-inch pies. This makes it easy to enjoy a few different flavors each time we visit! If you're in the area exploring Grapevine homes for sale, we recommend stopping here. From classics like Salted Caramel Apple Pie to decadent creations like the "Memphis Mafia" (a combination of peanut butter truffle and banana pudding pies), you're always guaranteed to find something the whole family will love! 
   
   
4. Batch Bakery: 5355 Dallas Pkwy., Ste 610 Frisco, TX 75034
   Batch Bakery is one of the area's most popular pie shops. They offer nine-inch and four-inch pies and "Batch Bites," a selection of a dozen mini-pies in assorted flavors. This is a great way to enjoy a variety of their creations in one sitting! They have all the classics, like Apple, Key Lime, Coconut Cream, and Peanut Butter. You might also want to try our favorite, Chocolate Chess. It's a gooey fudge brownie baked in a shortbread crust! After you pick up your pie, we recommend taking a short drive around. Some of the best Frisco homes for sale are located nearby.  
   
   
5. Miz. G's House of Pies: 2315 Sutter St., Dallas, TX 75216
   If you've been looking at Dallas homes for sale, you can expect to pay plenty of visits to Miz. G's House of Pies. They've been pleasing customers since 2010 with delicious family recipes baked from scratch. We love that they'll happily make pies that are gluten-free, sugar-free, and dairy-free so that everyone can enjoy them! Some of our favorite flavors are the German Chocolate, Old Fashion Apple, and their signature Sweet Potato Pie made with Texas-grown sweet potatoes.

Are you looking for a "sweet" deal on a new home? Our agents would love to show you some of the area's best neighborhoods! Contact us today to discuss your goals and get started.

The parks and trails of the DFW area have so much to offer, and now is the perfect time for an outdoor adventure with your furry friend. Many of the best DFW trails are dog-friendly, with beautiful green spaces to explore and plenty of opportunities for your pup to play with new friends. There are trails located in popular parks and nature preserves and trails that connect multiple local outdoor attractions. Our real estate agents have all of the details, with our guide to 6 trails that you and your dog will love in DFW.

1. Cedar Ridge Preserve – 7171 Mountain Creek Pkwy, Dallas, TX 75249
   The Cedar Ridge Preserve is a nature preserve located close to Dallas homes for sale, with various trails to explore. It's a popular spot for bird-watching, with wooded trails that are also ideal for adventures with your pet. There are a total of 13 short trails winding throughout this outdoor space, all maintained beautifully by a dedicated team of conservationists.

2. Tails 'N Trails Dog Park – 950 SE Green Oaks Blvd., Arlington, TX 76018
   Ideal for dogs who love to socialize, the Tails 'N Trails Dog Park is easy to reach from Arlington homes for sale. This space includes an expansive off-leash dog park that's perfect for playtime, along with trails to traverse. You will frequently find plenty of other dogs here for your pet to play with, especially if you visit on weekends.

3. Northshore Park Trail – 2908 N Park Dr., Flower Mound, TX 75022
   You'll find tons of great trails to explore near Flower Mound homes for sale, including the popular, multi-use Northshore Park Trail. This trail, which is part of Northshore Park, is used by mountain bikers, hikers, and pet owners from throughout Flower Mound. When you're looking for a quiet, secluded spot for a walk, try visiting in the morning or early evening.

4. Preston Ridge Trail – 6994 Belt Line Rd., Dallas, TX 75254
   Looking to explore multiple parks on the same day with your pup? The Preston Ridge Trail connects a variety of parks within Dallas and can even take you all the way to Plano. You can pick up the trail at Fretz Park, then follow it for more than 6 miles as you visit Salado Park, Campbell Green Park, and points beyond.

5. Trinity Forest Trails – 4750 Great Trinity Forest Way, Dallas, TX 75216
   If you're searching for a trail system that offers long, scenic walks, the Trinity Forest Trails are sure to catch your eye. This trail loop runs for more than 10 miles, connecting an eclectic collection of outdoor attractions that include Trinity Forest Golf Course, the Texas Horse Park, and the Trinity River Audubon Center. This trail is twelve feet wide and fully paved, so there's plenty of room for outdoor fun, even when the trail gets busy.

6. Tandy Hills Natural Area – 3400 View St., Fort Worth, TX 76103
   There are plenty of gorgeous outdoor spaces to explore near Fort Worth homes for sale, starting with the 160-acre Tandy Hills Natural Area. This conservation area provides a window into the past of DFW in a classic Fort Worth prairie environment. The land has never been developed and is especially beautiful in the spring when prairie flowers are in full bloom.

Ready to find a Texas home that both you and your favorite pet will love? We can help. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the DFW area.

The Central Flyway is one of America's most highly trafficked bird migration routes, and the Dallas-Fort Worth metro area is smack-dab underneath it. That makes this one of the best areas in the country for birdwatching. 

One of the things our real estate agents love most about life in the DFW is its abundance of outdoor recreation. That includes incredible birding opportunities. Be sure to check out one of these top birding sites in Dallas, Fort Worth, and the surrounding areas. 

1. The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden - 8525 Garland Rd, Dallas, TX 75218
   A spectacular landscape of vibrant plants and flowers in the heart of the city, the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden is also a premier bird-watching location thanks to its diverse plant life. Located just minutes from many Dallas homes for sale, the arboretum is a seasonal stopover for multiple hummingbird species, and you can see several unique wading birds in summer, including white ibis and spoonbill. 
   
   
2. Trinity River Audubon Center - 6500 S Great Trinity Forest Way, Dallas, TX 75217
   Nestled in the heart of Great Trinity Forest, a vast urban open-space park in Southeast Dallas, Trinity River Audubon Center offers birding trails and observation platforms, with access to an amazing natural landscape of hardwood forests, marshy wetlands, and meadows. It's possible to spot more than 50 species in a single day when conditions are right. 
   
   
3. Fort Worth Nature Center & Refuge - 9601 Fossil Ridge Rd, Fort Worth, TX 76135
   Fort Worth Nature Center & Refuge encompasses more than 3,600 acres of woods and wetlands around the shores of Lake Worth. The refuge is a short drive from these Fort Worth homes for sale and offers 20 miles of trails with some of the best birding opportunities in the DFW. Watch for herons and egrets wading along the margins of the lakeside wetlands, and keep an eye overhead for osprey and bald eagles. During the colder months, winter birds like goldfinch and juncos are common.
   
   
4. Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary - 1 Nature Pl, McKinney, TX 75069
   The 289-acre wildlife sanctuary operated by the Heard Natural Science Museum is an amazing resource for birding enthusiasts. With a mixed landscape of blackland prairies and bottomland hardwood forest plus a great wetland boardwalk area, you can see a wide range of different bird species here in every season. Wood ducks and great blue herons are common in the wetlands area. 
   
   
5. Clear Creek Natural Heritage Center - 3310 Collins Rd, Denton, TX 76208
   Spanning 2,900 acres, Clear Creek Natural Heritage Center is one of the greatest bird-watching sites in the DFW area. Located in the small city of Denton, less than 40 minutes from Dallas, the heritage center encompasses a diverse habitat of bottomland hardwood forests, upland prairies, and marshlands. More than 10 miles of trails offer a chance to spot dozens of bird species.  
   
   
6. Cedar Ridge Preserve - 7171 Mountain Creek Pkwy, Dallas, TX 75249
   One of the great birding destinations in the region, Cedar Ridge Preserve is managed by Audubon Dallas, the local chapter of the National Audubon Society. Cedar Ridge Preserve stretches over 600 acres, with 9 miles of trails that explore a wide range of prime bird habitat. Guided birding trips and nature programs are commonly held here, and the preserve offers a bird blind and butterfly garden as well. 

Contact us to learn more about life in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. The DFW is a hub for business and culture that also happens to offer incredible opportunities for outdoor adventure.

When winter arrives, nothing beats a tasty mug of hot chocolate. There's never a bad time to enjoy this sweet treat, but just in case you needed a reason to celebrate, you'll be glad to know that National Hot Chocolate Day is right around the corner! 

When you're ready to warm up, we suggest heading out and paying a visit to one (or more!) of these locations. 

1. Neuhaus Cafe & Chocolate Boutique: 5959 Royal Ln., Suite 626, Dallas, TX 75230
   ​​​​​​​When you're ready to take a break from exploring Dallas homes for sale, head over to Neuhaus Cafe & Chocolate Boutique. This popular cafe has a relaxing atmosphere that's perfect for taking a break and enjoying a sweet treat. Not only do they have an extensive lunch and dinner menu, but they also have some of the world's best chocolates. As you might expect, they make their hot chocolate from scratch using their own recipe. We're not sure what the secret ingredient is, but it's delicious! If you really want to enjoy yourself, we recommend pairing your drink with one of their decadent desserts and taking some candy home for later.
    
2. Magnolias Sous Le Pont: 2727 N. Harwood St., Dallas, 75201
   A charming coffee house located in the Harwood District, Magnolias: Sous Le Pont has a French-inspired menu and a hip, arty ambiance. It's the perfect escape when you need a break from your busy day. You'll love the friendly baristas and delicious hot drinks. While you're there, be sure to ask about the daily cookies or grab a cinnamon roll or chocolate croissant.
    
3. Vaquero Coffee Co.: 109 Houston St., Fort Worth, TX 76102
   Located in downtown Fort Worth, Vaquero Coffee Co. has been pleasing locals since 2018. They pride themselves in crafting each drink they serve, so you're always guaranteed a perfect cup. Here you'll find delicious chocolate-themed drinks like mocha, white mocha, and even peppermint mocha. Pair your treat with one of their great CranWalnut muffins or a cookie from the renowned Great One Cookie Company of Dallas, TX. When you're done, take a drive around the area so you can get a look at some of the beautiful Fort Worth homes for sale.
    
4. Pax & Beneficia Coffee: 5244 N. O'Connor, Suite 150, Irving, TX 75023
   Pax & Beneficia Coffee was created based on three core principles: crafting, camaraderie, and contribution. They carefully craft every cup of coffee they serve, encourage camaraderie among all of their patrons, and contribute to local and global nonprofit organizations. If you've been thinking about buying one of the beautiful Irving homes for sale, you'll definitely want to get to know this great cafe. Not only do they have excellent hot chocolate, but they also make an incredible mocha coffee. Both pair perfectly with their Nutella & Fruit Toast!
     
5. Bread Winners Bakery Bistro: 3301 McKinney Ave., Dallas, TX 75204
   Want to quench your hot chocolate craving with something a bit different? Head over to Bread Winners Bakery Bistro and order a Mexican Hot Chocolate (made with cacao nibs, sugar, and cinnamon) or a cafe mocha. Pair them with a signature cupcake, cake balls, or homemade cookies. Bread Winners Bakery also has an excellent brunch and dinner menu and plenty of dessert options like cheesecakes, tortes, and homemade pies with fresh-made whipped cream, so come hungry and plan to indulge! 

Contact us today to get started.  

Have you thought about jumping on the bandwagon and making your home smarter in 2021? If not, maybe you should. There are so many ways smart features increase your home's comfort, security, and efficiency that a smart system bears looking at. What's more, if you're listing your home among Dallas homes for sale or Plano homes for sale, you might include the smart system and appliances as a selling point.

In case you're not familiar with all the features you could have with a smart system, let's look at a rundown.

1. Smart Home Assistant
   The smart home assistant is the foundation for any smart system. There are two that dominate the market: Amazon Echo with Alexa and Google Home with smart speakers. Similar to the way they work, these devices control all the other smart devices in your home, from lights and doorbells to security alarms and cameras.
   
   
2. Smart Hub
   If you go with a smart speaker without a built-in hub, you'll need a smart hub for automating all the smart devices in your home through only one app. A couple of the best are the Smart Things Hub and the Hubitat Elevation Home Automation Hub.
   
   
3. Lighting
   No need to get up. Add smart bulbs and control the lights through your phone, either by voice or touch. Still at the office? Turn on some light for the dog remotely. Change the mood by changing the color of the light if you opt for RGB lighting.

4. HVAC Thermostat
   Manage your home's environment from near or far with a smart thermostat. Use an app on your smartphone or tablet to control the temperature; depending on if you have an in-house humidifier, you might even be able to raise or lower humidity. Some systems can sense your approach and raise or lower the temperature for your comfort. Need an analysis of your energy usage? A smart thermostat can do that as well.

5. Carbon Monoxide and Smoke Detectors
   Smart smoke detectors not only detect smoke but send a message to your phone that there's a problem.
   
   
6. Garage Door Opener
   Let workers in your garage when you're away with an app on your phone. Did you forget to close the garage door? No problem. You can close it remotely as long as you can access Wi-fi.
   
   
7. Smart Security Features
   A complete smart security system should include indoor and outdoor cameras, door locks, lighting, and even the doorbell. Here's how these features play into your overall security strategy:

• • Indoor camera -- There are many reasons to monitor what's going on inside your home, from watching a babysitter or cleaning employee to monitoring your pets' activities to recording a break-in.
  • Outdoor camera -- Again, you want to be able to record who comes up to your front door and what they do. The Nest outdoor security camera comes with night vision and has a built-in microphone and speaker; plus, you can use the app for the Nest to view live footage on your smartphone.
  • Door lock -- These devices do away with the need for keys; you can unlock them via your smartphone or with a fingerprint or a pin.
  • Doorbell -- These come with a camera that lets you see who's ringing the bell and communicate with them through your phone. Some devices have the ability to recognize your visitors.

Our real estate agents can help you upgrade your home and appliances to create a more convenient, efficient, and secure smart system. Contact us today. 

Whether you're trying to find the ideal gift for someone who already has everything or a small, thoughtful stocking stuffer for someone with a sweet tooth, the gift of a sweet treat never goes out of style. Lucky for you, the DFW area is filled with candy shops that offer something to satisfy every taste! From traditional candy made from decades-old family recipes to zany, new candy creations, you can find it all close to home in DFW. Our real estate agents have all the delicious details on 6 great candy shops where you can find your stocking stuffers this year.

1. Blooms Candy & Soda Pop Shop – 1106 W Main St., Carrollton, TX 75006

   Starting as a small flower shop before blossoming into one of the area's best retro candy shops, Blooms Candy & Soda Pop Shop prides itself on serving up candy varieties that you don't see every day. There are more than 800 types of candy available in the store, with unique treats that are a delight for kids young and old.

2. Fort Worth Fudge and Toffee – 324 N Jim Wright Fwy, Fort Worth, TX 76108

   You won't have to travel far from Fort Worth homes for sale to find sweet stocking stuffers, thanks to legendary local candy shops like Fort Worth Fudge and Toffee. Naturally, the fudge is the main attraction, and there are more than 15 types of fudge available to satisfy any sweet tooth. While the shop is not currently open for regular hours, you can still call ahead, make an appointment to visit, and shop to your heart's content.

3. Kate Weiser Chocolate – 3011 Gulden Ln., Suite 115, Dallas, TX 75212

   Searching for sweet, satisfying chocolate near Dallas homes for sale? Make the trip to Kate Weiser Chocolate, where gourmet, hand-crafted treats are always on the menu. If you believe chocolate is an art form, this is a great place to shop. Each piece has been designed to look just as great as it tastes, with expert guidance from lead chocolatier Kate Weiser. No detail is too small for this team, and the results are delicious.

4. Natalie's Candy Jar – DFW International Airport, Terminal B, DFW Airport, TX 75261

   Will your journeys be taking you to the DFW International Airport at any point during the holiday shopping season? Then be sure to check out Natalie's Candy Jar, which has multiple locations throughout the airport where you can shop for sweet gifts. Natalie's Candy Jar is a gourmet, self-serve candy shop with more than 400 varieties available.

5. Dylan's Candy Bar – 2400 Aviation Dr., Terminal D, DFW Airport, TX 75261

   Also located at DFW International Airport, you will find Dylan's Candy Bar, a fun, colorful candy shop that's perfect for finding all of the stocking stuffers you need for the younger members of your holiday shopping list. If you're looking for a larger gift, Dylan's Candy Bar also offers a diverse selection of holiday gift baskets and packages.

6. CocoAndre Chocolatier – 508 W 7th St., Dallas, TX 75208

   Operated by Andrea Pedraza, who has more than 30 years of experience creating world-class candy, chocolate, and truffles, CocoAndre Chocolatier features high-end candy that will look great in any stocking. Go with a classic chocolate or truffle, but don't forget to try unique, delicious treats like the pistachio bark.

Searching for the perfect home where you can share holiday memories with your favorite people for years to come? We can help. Contact us today.

The holiday season ushers in excitement, but for thousands of men, women, and children in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, this time of the year is especially difficult. Some of our family members, friend, neighbors, and coworkers struggle to make ends meet or receive the care that they need. Our real estate agents understand that this time of the year is busy, but we shouldn't let shopping and festivities distract us from the reason for the season. Above all, these next few days give us the opportunity to share our kindness, spread joy, and brighten the lives of whomever we can. We encourage you to give back to the DFW this holiday season through one of these compassionate acts.

1. Adopt a Family
   Our society is accustomed to giving and receiving gifts this time of the year. This custom makes it exceptionally difficult for those under financial stress to stay in high spirits. Thankfully, you can make sure that everyone has a gift to open during the season by adopting a family. Many organizations provide wish-lists for families or children in need, such as these DFW charities:

• • Toys For Tots — 1331 West Wall St., Grapevine, TX 76051
  • Salvation Army — P.O. Box 2333, Fort Worth, TX 76113

2. Volunteer at a Shelter
   The gift of your time is often much more valuable and personal than any physical gift that you can give. Multiple charities throughout the DFW need various forms of in-person assistance. For instance, some food banks need help sorting donations, while others need help serving food to those in need. Consider signing up to volunteer at some of these local organizations:

• • Ronald McDonald House — 4707 Bengal St., Dallas, TX 75235
  • SPCA of Texas — 2400 Lone Star Dr., Dallas, TX 75212

3. Donate Vital Items
   If you're unable to volunteer at a local shelter or food bank, you can still donate items to ensure that their pantries are fully stocked. It may not seem like much, but a few cans of vegetables and toiletries can make a world of difference in the lives of those in need. Help a family receive the nourishment and self-care that they need by donating food or goods to these charities:

• • North Texas Food Bank — 3677 Mapleshade Ln., Plano, TX 75075
  • The Stewpot — 1822 Young St., Dallas, TX 75201

4. Shop Small
   While we admire anyone who makes an effort to give back to our communities directly, we also understand that it's an afterthought if you aren't used to donating. Thankfully, many of our local businesses are committed to giving back throughout the year. They donate proceeds from their sales to organizations that keep our community strong. Ask your favorite shops if they're supporting local charities this holiday season and shop small as much as possible to keep our economy and community healthy.

We hope that you take any opportunity to help those in our communities who need it most this holiday season. As always, if you would like assistance with your search for Dallas homes for sale and Fort Worth homes for sale, please don't hesitate to reach out. Contact us today to find your dream home in the Lone Star State.

As the holidays draw near, it seems like all of the Dallas homes for sale we see are decorated both inside and outside. Fill your home with holiday cheer, and the fresh smell of pine when you opt for a real Christmas tree. If it's your first year selecting a fresh tree, follow these helpful tips from our real estate agents to find the perfect one for your home. 

1. Choose the spot.
   To minimize mistakes, choose where you're going to put your tree before you bring it home. If you'll need to rearrange furniture to make room for the tree, do that early so you can figure out where everything will go and make sure it won't look too cramped.
   
   
2. Measure everything!
   Once you know where your tree will go, measure the space you have available for it. It's important to know the ceiling's height, minus the height of the stand and your tree topper, so that you don't inadvertently try to fit a tree that's too tall. Don't forget to measure the width and depth you have available, as a tree that looks nice and full on the lot may turn out to be too big around once you get it into your house.
   
   
3. Look for trees that will look good when decorated.
   Once you're on the tree lot, it's time to get down to the business of choosing a good tree. There are many different kinds of evergreen trees, but not all of the ones you'll find will actually make good Christmas trees. One mistake people make is to pick out the fullest, lushest tree they can find, but these actually make very poor trees for decorating. A good Christmas tree has short needles that make it easier to hang ornaments. Avoid those with long, full needles, as you'll have a difficult time hanging anything on them. And you'll actually want to look for a tree that is less full, with space between the branches so that the ornaments have a place to hang.
   
   
4. Check that the tree is fresh.
   Once you've found a tree you like the look of and that fits your size requirements, the next step is to make sure it's going to last the entire Christmas season. Shedding needles is a red flag that the tree was cut too long ago and might not make it through the holidays. One trick for testing this is to bounce the branches lightly and make sure needles don't fall off. Another way you can check is to pinch a branch and gently pull it towards you. A fresh, healthy tree won't shed its needles when you pull, but if the tree is older, the motion will strip the needles right off.

Once you've found the ideal Christmas tree, it's time to take it home to set it up. Make sure you give your new tree plenty of water, especially at first. If you're listing your home over the holidays, make sure you talk to an agent about decorating Fort Worth homes for sale without putting off potential buyers. Contact us today for staging tips and more!

The crisp air of late fall makes this a particularly good time to go for a bike ride in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. And with Go For a Ride Day coming right up on Sunday, November 22, our real estate agents are excited to share some of our favorite bike trails in the DFW.

• Oak Cliff Nature Preserve - 2875 Pierce St, Dallas, TX 75233
  A 121-acre oasis of shady woodlands and rolling wildflower meadows, Oak Cliff Nature Preserve is a great resource for Dallas mountain bikers. Located just minutes from these Dallas homes for sale, the preserve includes 8 miles of multi-use hike and bike trails arranged in six loops. There are many twists and turns, but the terrain is mostly flat and not too challenging.
  
  
• North Shore Trail - 2908 N Park Dr, Flower Mound, TX 75022
  Easily one of the more popular hiking and biking routes in the DFW area, the North Shore Trail follows Lake Grapevine's shoreline and offers some splendid scenery along the way. The trail is made up of two loops totaling 22 miles. The 12.5-mile eastern loop is flat and suitable for beginners, while the western loop is more rugged. Trailheads are located in Twin Coves Park, Rockledge Park, and Murrell Park, a short ride from these Flower Mound homes for sale.
  
  
• Trinity Trails - 3301 Trinity Park Dr, Fort Worth, TX 76107
  Trinity Trails is a 40-mile network of trails in the heart of Fort Worth, mostly near the banks of the Trinity River. Popular among joggers, dog-walkers, and cyclists alike, the trails are mostly paved, meandering through riverfront parks and gardens with some great views of the Fort Worth skyline. The main trailhead in Trinity Park is a stone's throw from many Fort Worth homes for sale. 
  
  
• Big Cedar Wilderness Trails - 8991-8999 Isom Ln, Dallas, TX 75249
  With a mix of single track loops and fire roads totaling about 8 miles, Big Cedar Wilderness Trails offer a great landscape for mountain bikers to explore. Big Cedar Wilderness is a rugged landscape of hardwood forests, cactus-filled valleys, and Dallas's highest point. The trails are maintained by the Dallas Off-Road Bicycle Association (DORBA) and open to the public Tuesday through Saturday from dawn until dusk. 
  
  
• Denton Katy Trail - 604 E Hickory St, Denton, TX 76205
  An urban bike trail that runs parallel to the DCTA commuter rail line in Denton County, the Denton Katy Trail offers a great opportunity to explore some of the other communities north of Dallas. Passing through urban centers, residential neighborhoods, and industrial areas, the trail is popular among families, recreational cyclists, and even commuters looking for an alternate route to work. The trail begins at the Denton Downtown Transit Center near these Denton homes for sale, and runs 16 miles south to Lake Dallas.
  
  
• Marion Sansom Park - 2501 Roberts Cut Off Rd, Fort Worth, TX 76114
  With shady woods, picturesque waterfalls and views across the glassy surface of Lake Worth, Marion Sansom Park is one of the best places in Fort Worth for hiking and mountain baking. This urban oasis offers several mountain bike loops ranging in difficulty from beginner to advanced. In total, about 11 miles of trails are open to cyclists, and the park offers a great opportunity to hit the trail without leaving the city. 

Contact us today to learn more about life in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. From wide-open spaces to vibrant cities and towns, it's an incredible place to live, and our  team is always ready to help you find your dream home. 

Whatever else is going on in our lives, Thanksgiving is a constant, providing us with a comforting sense of gratitude. Celebrate in style with a fine-dining feast from one of these upscale restaurants around DFW recommended by our real estate agents. 

• Mignon - 4005 Preston Rd., Suite 518, Plano, TX 75093
  With its intimate booths, Mondrian-style abstract artwork and elegant wood surfaces, dining at Mignon, just minutes from Plano homes for sale, feels like being in a scene from a 1960s French film. The three-course, $54 prix-fixe Thanksgiving menu begins with soup or salad, followed by turkey breast with stuffing, sweet potatoes, green beans, and cranberry relish. For dessert, choose between apple pie and pumpkin cheesecake. Substitute filet mignon or Chilean sea bass for an additional charge. Two private dining rooms for each seating time allow safe social distancing. Hours are 8:45 a.m. - 5 p.m. with a two-hour limit.
  
  
• Fearing's Restaurant - 2121 McKinney Ave., Dallas, TX 75201
  Located in the iconic Ritz-Carlton Hotel, Fearing's Restaurant was recently named #1 among the "Top Dallas Restaurants for Celebrating Special Occasions." The elegant Thanksgiving menu is in keeping with the restaurant's high standards and sense of style. Start with a choice of four appetizers before moving on to the main course of turkey, halibut, beef tenderloin, or lamb osso buco, finishing with one of three different desserts. Price is $125 per person. Hours are 10:30 a.m. - 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. - 8 p.m.
  
  
• Hotel Crescent Court - 400 Crescent Court, Dallas, TX 75201
  Turn your home into the most exclusive dining room around Dallas homes for sale. Thanksgiving To-Go from Hotel Crescent Court does all the work while you get all the credit. The holiday feast includes a whole turkey, salad, bread and dinner rolls, and assortment of classic side dishes along with a pumpkin pie and apple pie, enough to feed 8-10 people. Price is $275 plus tax and a 10 percent service charge. Visit the website to order by 2:30 p.m. on Monday, November 23. Orders may be picked up Wednesday, November 25 between 5 - 7 p.m. and Thursday, November 26 between 8 a.m. - 2 p.m. 
  
  
• Perry's Steakhouse & Grill - 2440 Parkwood Blvd., Frisco, TX 75034
  Whether you prefer dining out or enjoying Thanksgiving in the comfort of your own home, Perry's Steakhouse & Grill has got you covered. Dine-in guests at the popular restaurant near Frisco homes for sale may order from the special Thanksgiving Day $45 prix-fixe menu or the regular dinner menu. For your convenience, the holiday meal can be ordered for curbside pickup at the same price plus a 15 percent handling fee. Kids' meals for ages 12 and under are available for $15, both dine-in and carryout. Hours are 11 a.m. - 9 p.m.
  
  
• Bacchus Kitchen + Bar - 215 E. Dallas Rd., Grapevine, TX 76051
  Named after the Roman god of wine, Bacchus Kitchen + Bar, not far from Grapevine homes for sale, is all about that ancient civilization's tradition of celebratory feasts. The daily menu highlights contemporary cuisine made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, and the same holds true for the special Thanksgiving Day menu. Enjoy a family-style meal featuring cider-brined turkey or bourbon maple-glazed ham accompanied by gourmet sides, including jalapeño corn bread stuffing and roasted garlic and crème fraiche whipped potatoes. Price is $75 for adults and $30 for kids over age 5. Hours are 6:30 a.m. - 10 p.m.

In 2021, will you be giving thanks for a new home in Dallas or Fort Worth? Contact us at RE/MAX DFW Associates for help with all your real estate questions. 

As culinary icon Julia Child so aptly stated, "A party without a cake is just a meeting." Our real estate agents happily agree that any occasion becomes even more special with a tasty, beautifully-made cake. Add the icing on top of your next event when you order a custom cake from one of these top bakeries around the DFW. 

• CC's Cupcake Heaven - West Fort Worth, TX
  Whether you're hosting a formal party or an intimate family gathering, CC's Cupcake Heaven has you covered. Full-size cakes may be customized to make your personal vision a reality. Cupcakes and mini-cupcakes come in dozens of mouthwatering flavors, such as Coffee Caramel Crunch, Kit-Kat Creation, and Raspberry Lemonade. Bite-sized cake pops serve double duty as edible decorations or favors. Order by phone, text, or website for pickup only minutes from Fort Worth homes for sale.
  
  
• Delicious Cakes - 14819 Inwood Rd., Addison, TX 75001
  The name says it all. For more than 25 years, founders Butch and Ruthie Stivers and their family have been serving Delicious Cakes to the area near Addison homes for sale. In addition to classic layer cakes, the bakery offers full-size, mini, and loaf Bundt cakes in several fun flavors, including Bourbon & Pecans and Kahlua-Mocha.  Need a last-minute cake? Check out the selection in the pastry case. Delicious Cakes opens at 9 a.m. Monday through Saturday.
  
  
• Cake-aholics - 4201 W. Green Oaks Blvd., Suite 416, Arlington, TX 76016
  Satisfy your most extreme cake dreams at Cake-aholics, a bakery close to Arlington homes for sale, where art and taste receive equal priority. Owner Matthew Wohlkinger, a native of South Africa, is a formally-trained pastry chef who took home $10,000 for his creative birthday cake on Food Network's WINNER CAKE ALL. While Cake-aholics offers an extensive menu of cake and filling flavors, everything is scratch-made, so they're happy to accommodate your requests. Craving variety? Ask about their selections of cheesecakes, tarts, cream puffs, and other specialty desserts. Hours are 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday.
  
  
• Rum Cakes Factory - 1628 W. Hebron Pkwy., Suite 112, Carrollton, TX 75010
  Rum cakes are a traditional holiday treat, but once you taste the delicious products of Rum Cakes Factory, you'll want them any time of the year. While rum cakes are generally vanilla- or chocolate-flavored, owner Jorge Saab infuses the popular liquor in red velvet, lemon, coconut, carrot, and just about any cake flavor you can think of. Alcohol content is less than 0.5 percent, but those who prefer to abstain can choose from tres leches cake, tiramisu, and other alcohol-free options. In August, Jorge opened a second location by Plano homes for sale. The original bakery, just down the street from Carrollton homes for sale, opens at noon Sunday through Thursday and 11 a.m. Friday and Saturday.
  
  
• Daisy Cakes - 5200 Lemmon Ave., Suite 101, Dallas TX 75209
  On its own, Daisy Cakes is a charming name for a bakery. It also has a special meaning for owner Michele Dowdy, who chose it to honor her mother. Daisy Cakes' motto is, "Baking Special Memories," and that's been true for the many customers around Dallas homes for sale who rave about the extraordinary service that goes along with the remarkable cakes. Dozens of available cake flavors include hummingbird, a banana-pineapple spice cake that's a Southern favorite. Hours are 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Saturday.

What cake will you choose to celebrate your new home in the DFW? Contact us for help with all your local real estate needs.

NTREIS reports 8% Down Across North Texas

While our NTREIS MLS system reports an 8% decrease in listings in April across the over 40 counties in North Texas, the popular northern suburbs of Dallas report a much higher decrease.   And it is that significant decrease in listings that is causing some panic buying with buyers trying to find a home.  Multiple offers in the northern suburbs are common.   Not at all common in other parts of the DFW area.

Below is the actual decrease in listings in April from one year prior for each suburb:

• • • 37.8% decrease – Corinth
    • 37.7% decrease – Highland Village
    • 36.1% decrease – Coppell
    • 33.6% decrease – McKinney
    • 32.9% decrease – The Colony
    • 32.2% decrease – Plano
    • 31.8% decrease – Double Oak
    • 31.1% decrease – Richardson
    • 30.6% decrease – Frisco
    • 27.6% decrease – Prosper
    • 25.7% decrease – Carrollton
    • 25.7% decrease – Lantana
    • 18.2% decrease – Denton
    • 17.8% decrease – Grapevine
    • 15.7% decrease – Lewisville
    • 9.7% decrease – Flower Mound
    • 1.3% increase – Little Elm

• NTREIS Stats, April 2020

Dallas is one of the U.S. metro areas where rising home prices have hurt homeownership the most. Dallas, Denver and Houston were identified as the markets where there is the most downward pressure on homeownership, according to a new report by Florida Atlantic University and Florida International University faculty. The study ranked areas where the markets have tilted in favor of renting over buying homes. Researchers traced housing conditions in 23 markets for the report. Dallas was the most unfavorable for homeownership among the cities surveyed. "Of the metros in our index, Dallas is the highest and exhibiting the greatest downward pressure on the demand for homeownership," said Ken Johnson, real estate economist in FAU's College of Business. "The extraordinary appreciation in the area is a major driver of this score."  Dallas' housing market has taken off since the Great Recession, with soaring prices.

• Dallas Morning News, March 20, 2019

DFW Area Unemployment Rate Now 3.3%, Population 7.7 Million

The Texas economy saw another month of low unemployment in December, a historic 43-year low that has continued since October, according to the Texas Workforce Commission. The DFW area unemployment rate dropped to 3.3%, with 127,000 net gain in jobs in the Dallas area for 2018. Texas has a net gain of 391,800 jobs, leading the nation in job gain.The demand is there for more job positions, but with the area tight labor market some jobs remain unfilled. 

• Dallas Morning News, January 18, 2019

No Real Estate Transfer Tax

Texas is one of a handful of states that does not have a transfer tax when a seller sells their home. Dallas is one of the few cities in the nation that does not have a city transfer tax. Several years ago the voters in the state of Texas passed a constitutional amendment that disallowed any such taxes in the future. So not only do some 40 states have a transfer tax, the cities as well have an additional transfer tax. Another reason so many are moving to Texas. See below the city and state transfer tax on a home sale of $500,000 in selected northern cities.

2019 - Real Estate Transfer Tax

Based on a $500,000 Sales Price

It's no secret that Dallas' home market has a winter chill.Home sales have slowed, along with the rate of home price increase in North Texas.The market changes have put Dallas on Realtor.com's list of the 10 cities hit hardest by a housing slowdown."In the last few months, the real estate market has actually begun slowing down. including in some of the big cities that have been leading the go-go post-recession housing boom," according to a report on the website. "To be clear, prices aren't always dropping in these places, which are predominantly located on the West Coast."Mostly, they're decelerating, coming back down to earth."

Realtor.com based its rankings on a year-over-year rise in home price markdowns, increases in listings and changes in overall list prices."There's a rebalancing that needs to happen," Len Kiefer, deputy chief economist at Freddie Mac, told Realtor.com. "Prices have risen so high in some of these markets that it's very tough from an affordability perspective [for buyers]. ... It's not surprising to me that we're seeing a little bit of a leveling off."

Median home prices in North Texas are still up about 5 percent compared with 2017 levels. But that's a much smaller number than the double-digit annual gains seen in recent years. Home list prices in the Dallas area are down 1.4 percent from a year ago, and the number of listings has grown 15 percent year over year, according to Realtor.com

• Dallas Morning News, December 11, 2018

Not so fast with the gloomy forecasts for Dallas' housing economy. Yes, the local home market appears to be cooling after years of scorching hot sales. And some analysts have suggested there's a Dallas home price bubble getting ready to burst.  But a new forecast by Zillow says the market is likely to outperform the rest of the country in 2019 when it comes to home price gains and housing market health.

Zillow surveyed more than 100 real estate economists and investment experts for their take on the U.S. housing market and future home value growth.  According to Zillow's research, markets in Denver; Washington, D.C.; Atlanta; Dallas; Las Vegas; Phoenix; and San Jose, Calif., are likely to outperform the rest of America in 2019.  The economists on Zillow's panel said they expected U.S. home value to grow an average of 3.8 percent in 2019.

North Texas home prices are about 5 percent higher in 2018 after several years of double-digit annual appreciation. D-FW home prices were forecast to grow 4.3 percent next year in a recent Realtor.com report. Local analysts don't expect declines in home values in 2019. Instead, they say the rate of home price gains and overall home sales are likely to moderate.

• Dallas Morning News, December 7, 2018

Dallas-area home prices grew less than 5 percent in August from a year earlier, according to the latest nationwide comparison.  It was the first time in almost six years that Dallas-area home appreciation has been at such a low level in the closely-watched Standard & Poor's Case-Shiller Home Price Index.  "Following reports that home sales are flat to down, price gains are beginning to moderate," S&P's David M. Blitzer said in the report. "The seasonally adjusted monthly data show that 10 cities experienced declining prices.  Other housing data tell a similar story: prices and sales of new single family homes are weakening, housing starts are mixed and residential fixed investment is down in the last three quarters."

Home prices in North Texas have cooled in 2018 after years of double-digit percentage annual gains. Still, Dallas-area prices are about 45 percent higher than a decade ago, before the economic downturn and housing crash.  "There are no signs that the current weakness will become a repeat of the crisis," Blitzer said. "Without a collapse in housing finance like the one seen 12 years ago, a crash in home prices is unlikely." 

The slowdown in home price growth may be good news for potential buyers who have struggled to find homes they can afford.  "It's more welcome news for would-be homebuyers, who must be breathing a collective sigh of relief that home price growth finally has slowed," Skylar Olsen, Zillow's director of economic research, said in a statement. "Softening appreciation after the rapid growth of just a few months earlier is a sign that fierce competition is dying down.  Potential buyers who were intimidated during the heat of the market may find the breathing space now to make a calm, considered decision about whether to lock in a mortgage before rates rise further."

• Dallas Morning News October 31, 2018

Texas has been one of the fastest growing housing markets in the country in the last few years. The state has led the nation in homebuilding and Texas' major metros - Houston, Dallas-Fort Worth, San Antonio, Austin - have had big increases in the number of preowned home sales. But the latest snapshot of the Lone Star State's hot housing market is a mixed bag. While statewide home sales rose almost 3 percent in the second quarter from 2017 levels, sales in the D-FW area slowed for the first time in years.  And sales barely rose in the Austin area, according to the latest data from the Texas Association of Realtors.

"The demand for housing remains at an all-time high, but statewide we're seeing a slower rate of increase in sales compared to previous quarters due to the lack of inventory of properties for sale," Dr. James Gaines, chief economist with the Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University said. Rising prices and higher mortgage rates have also dampened buying in some neighborhoods. Even with the dip in sales, the D-FW led the state in second quarter home sales by real estate agents with 28,934 properties changing hands.

D-FW home sales were 0.8 percent lower than in second quarter 2017. Statewide median home sales prices rose by 4.4 percent in the period ending with June. D-FW had the biggest jump in the number of homes for sale in the second quarter of any major Texas metro area. The number of homes on the market in North Texas grew by 14 percent, according to the Realtors.

• Dallas Morning News, September 13, 2018 (online)

One of the best things about living in the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex is the weather, which makes it possible to grow an amazing number of flowers, some which will bloom all year long. One of the best places to see the beauty of the horticulture of our area is the Dallas Arboretum, located at 8525 Garland Road, on the shores of White Rock Lake. 

More than a million visitors walk through the gates of the Dallas Arboretum each year to enjoy quiet strolls through the themed gardens and to participate in educational events and activities that celebrate the art and science of southwest horticulture.

The Rory Meyers Children's Adventure Garden, one of the best family-friendly activities in Dallas, was designed with kids, their teachers, and families in mind.  It gives the Garden's visitors the opportunity to experience life and earth science firsthand with over 150 activities focusing on nature.

The Arboretum hosts a calendar of events and entertainment each year, not only focused on flowers and trees but also including live music and arts. It's this combination of beauty and fun things to see and do that make this one of the most popular spots in the area for residents and tourists alike.

If you ask one of our agents at RE/MAX DFW Associates about the Arboretum, they'll likely tell you they love this place because of the creative ideas it provides for putting your personal stamp on a new home. And when you are viewing Dallas homes for sale, it's fun to imagine all of the different ways you can add color and beauty to the landscape to make a new property uniquely your own.

People who relocate to North Texas from other parts of the country often marvel at the large variety of colorful flowers, flowering trees, bushes and shrubs that thrive in our climate. By planning carefully, you can create gardens and landscapes that bloom all year. 

The Dallas Arboretum is a great place to learn about the specific flowers and shrubbery that will keep your yard looking great, so be sure to make a trip there this spring to enjoy the blooms of our North Texas environment and to get tips for making the landscape at your new home a colorful oasis.

To begin your search for homes for sale in the Dallas/Fort Worth area, contact RE/MAX DFW Associates.

Dallas Counts Down to 2018

Are you ready to close out 2017 in style, with an unforgettable night of fun in your favorite city? New Year's Eve in Dallas is always a big deal, and the schedule of special events in the city is a mile long. Whether you're looking for a night of great music, a glamorous party, or a fun event that the whole family can enjoy, you'll find it in Dallas on New Year's Eve. Our real estate agents are looking forward to the city-wide celebrations, and we have the details on some great New Year's Eve events in Dallas this year.

Our 6 Favorite Spots in Dallas for New Year's Eve Celebrations

1. AT&T Streaming Lights at Reunion Tower
   Looking for an exciting New Year's Eve event that the whole family can enjoy? The AT&T Streaming Lights at Reunion Tower celebration is back for another year, with a spectacular fireworks and pyrotechnic display that can be seen from anywhere in the city. The best views are to be found around Reunion Tower itself, where you'll be able to witness a panoramic display of fireworks across the city skyline. The show starts at 11:59 pm, but it's always a good idea to stake out a spot early.
   
   
2. Dallas NYE Ball
   Can't decide just what sort of music you'd like to dance the night away on New Year's Eve? The Dallas NYE Ball has you covered! Centered in the Crowne Plaza Hotel, the Dallas NYE Ball offers three floors of fun parties, with a different type of music available on each floor. Enjoy a nightclub-themed experience on the second floor, throwback music and dancing on the third floor, and a fun, open space with the latest pop hits on the first floor.
   
   
3. Brew Year's Eve
   Enjoy a night of food, drinks, and great music at the Noble Rey Brewing Company in Dallas with Brew Year's Eve 2017. This year's event will feature live music indoors, a heated tent with a DJ outdoors, and your favorite local brews around every corner. There's also plenty of fantastic food to enjoy, after you work up an appetite on the dance floor.
   
   
4. Charley Crockett Concert (Free!)
   Spend an evening with local blues sensation Charley Crockett at The Rustic, and ring in 2018 with the sweet sounds of the blues. This event is free if you RSVP ahead of time, and features loads of other great performances throughout the night, including more sets from local artists. After the live performances, DJ Christy Ray will be keeping the party going well past midnight.
   
   
5. New Year's Eve with the Dallas Symphony Orchestra
   Looking for a classical spin on the Dallas New Year's Eve experience? Listening to the Dallas Symphony Orchestra is always a great way to spend New Year's Eve, and this year's show is sure to continue that tradition. This annual event is packed with great music, and features a champagne toast at midnight.
   
   
6. 80's Rockin' New Year's Eve
   Break out a bottle of hairspray and your favorite spandex, because it's time to party like it's the 1980s for New Year's Eve in Dallas! Enjoy a night of 80s music, grab a great meal before the show, and dance the night away. It all takes place at the House of Blues, and the fun continues long after the clock strikes midnight.

Are you searching for the best Dallas homes for sale, and the real estate team who will help you find your perfect match in the city? Contact RE/MAX DFW Associates to buy and sell homes in the Dallas-Fort Worth, TX area.

Since the Christmas holidays come only once a year, families with homes in the Dallas-Fort Worth area spend time planning for this most special of seasons. Family dinners, secret gift-wrapping sessions, Christmas card lists, (and most importantly) picking and decoration of the Christmas tree are all part of the holiday season. 

The Christmas tree with its unique collection of ornaments and lights has a tradition that goes back hundreds of years. They are a fun and cheery part of the holiday celebration and picking out the perfect Christmas tree for your Arlington home is an exciting event for the whole family. Here are tips to find the healthiest and freshest trees for your new home in the Dallas-Fort Worth area.

• Measure
  Before families leave their Plano homes to search for a tree lot or farm, they should be mindful of the dimensions of the living space. To determine the tree size that will fit into your home, you must measure the height of the ceiling as well as the width of the area you want to site the tree. You should also subtract the height of the tree stand as well as the topper you intend putting on the tree. Ensure that the tree stand is sufficient to contain the tree you plan on buying.
  
  
• Find a Tree Farm
  Families relocating to Colleyville homes may not be familiar with the tree farms or lots in the neighborhood. Our real estate agents know a lot about local businesses and can help you find a tree farm closest to your home or visit the Texas Christmas Tree Growers Association for various tree farms near you. Once you arrive at the tree farm, ask the staff for information about the kinds of trees they have. Or better still, you can call ahead to ensure that they have the kind of trees you prefer.
  
  
• Know Your Christmas Trees
  Due to the variety of Christmas trees available, families with Irving homes may find it difficult to pick the right one for their living space. Here is a list of popular varieties growing on Texas tree farms.
  
  - Eastern Red Cedar
  Known for its excellent aroma and dense branches, the Eastern cedar tree is a good choice for a Christmas tree. However, it has sticky needles and a short house life.
  
  - Virginia Pine
  This is a short-needled pine with stout branches and the characteristic pine fragrance. It is the most common type of farm tree in the South.
  
  - Leyland Cypress
  The Leyland cypress is a hybrid tree with little aroma and dark green foliage. It is ideal for people with tree allergies and can outlast other kinds of cut trees.
  
  
• Caring for the Christmas Tree
  Most importantly, you must know how to keep the tree fresh throughout the Christmas holidays to prevent it from dying off. Once the tree has been transported to your Flower Mound home, you must immediately place its trunk in water. Position the tree away from fireplaces and heating systems and ensure that you check its water reservoir daily.

Contact RE/MAX DFW Associates when you're searching for Dallas homes for sale. Our real estate professionals live and work in our communities and have first-hand knowledge about our local areas.

Families with homes in Fort Worth have their choice of Halloween thrills and chills. Your whole family can walk the neighborhood in quirky disguises. You can fill your days and nights with planned events and whimsical, scary adventures. But not too scary!

When the smallest goblins take part in family Halloween fun, it's important to steer clear of super scary events. Traditional haunting venues may frighten young children a bit too much. They may cause little people nightmares that keep the whole family up late at night.

Our real estate agents know a lot about local businesses, attractions, and family-friendly events. We draw on that knowledge to recommend a list of Halloween events that promise fun for the entire family.

• First United Methodist Church Halloween Carnival
  October 22, 2017 3:00 to 5:00 PM
  Admission: free with canned goods donations
  
  Bring your little ones to FUMC in Fort Worth for the annual fun-filled Halloween Carnival. Little ones can wear their costumes. They'll enjoy bounce house fun and pony rides. You'll have a ball watching your children smile as they enjoy kid-friendly games, crafts, prizes, and a live animal petting zoo.
  
  
• Boo at The Zoo - October 27, 28, and 20, 2017
  10:00 am to 5:00 PM
  Admission: Free with a zoo admission
  
  Boo at The Zoo is a family favorite for many of our real estate agents. The Fort Worth Zoo's annual daytime, scare-free Halloween event is three full days of activities for the entire family. Children will enjoy treat stations, carnival games, and a full schedule of animal entertainment.
  
  
• Treat Street 2017 at Fort Worth Stockyards Historic District
  October 31, 2017 - 5:00 to 7:00 PM
  Admission: Free
  
  Your entire family is invited to an evening of fun at the Fort Worth Stockyards Station Mall. Family-friendly activities include a pumpkin decorating contest, fun games, hayrides, and more. Children under 12-years-old in costumes can trick-or-treat at participating shops.
  
  
• Boo Bash at Old Town, Burleson, TX
  6:00 to 8:00 PM
  Admission: free
  
  The City of Burleson invites local kids 12 and under to a night of Halloween fun at the Boo Bash. Children are encouraged to wear costumes. They can play in bounce houses, decorate a free pumpkin, listen to storytellers, and march in a Halloween parade.

When you need reliable information about Fort Worth or Dallas homes for sale, our DFW real estate professionals can help. Contact RE/MAX DFW Associates when you're buying or selling your home in Texas.

When you enter the Dallas Historic West End District, you still see evidence of its industrial past. The brick buildings that give the area a throwback feel once housed manufacturers and warehouses.

Rehabbing and redecorating gave those buildings a new life as trendy restaurants, shops, museums, and entertainment venues. It's a great area for dining, exploring, or celebrating special events.

Our Dallas REALTORS® live and work in the area. We enjoy the West End District's entertainment venues. Whether you're new to the area or you're a longtime Dallas homes resident, we want to help you discover the benefits of this exciting shopping, dining, and entertainment district.

Here's just a sample of what you'll find.

Living in the District 

Walkability, shopping, restaurants, entertainment, low crime, and a reasonable cost of living give the West End District a high livability rating. You'll find your spacious condo or apartment home in one of the district's vintage industrial buildings.

Shop the the Boutiques

You'll find the unique goods and services you can't find anywhere else.

• Wild Bill's Western Wear - Boots, hats, and accessories for the cowboy or cowgirl at heart
• Kiss Bartique - A great resource for bold and trendy clothing, jewelry, and accessories
• Kokopelli Candy - Treat your sweet tooth to ice cream, cookies, and candy
• 1001 Wine and Spirits - Wide selection of alcoholic beverages, cigars, and gifts

Walk or Ride Through the District

Walkability is one of the West End District's key features. If walking isn't your thing, you have a few alternatives.

Take a romantic carriage ride

• Northstar Carriage
• Circle G Carriages

Glide through town on a Segway

• Dallas Segway Tours - A 1.5 hour Segway tour through the area.

Learn Something New at a Museum

Local museums entertain and educate. They offer activities, programs, and entertainment for the whole family.

• The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza, (Texas School Book Depository) - Showcases the history and the legacy of President John F Kennedy. Just outside the building, you can visit the grassy knoll where President Kennedy was shot.
• The Dallas Holocaust Museum - Learn the art of being an "Upstander." Hear shared survivor stories.
• The Dallas World Aquarium - Visit aquatic habitats as they would exist in Mundo Maya, Orinoco, South Africa and Borneo.
• Old Red - Dallas History Museum Collections and exhibits.
• The Perot Museum of Nature and Science

Make Dining Delicious and Fun

The West End Historic District offers restaurants for a fun family occasion or a night on the town. Here are few favorites.

• Ellens - Brunch is all they do, because "it's always brunch o'clock somewhere." Southern recipes from scratch. Eggs Benedict, the Big 'Ol Breakfast and more.
• House of Blues - Serving chicken, jambalaya, ribs and "Food that feeds the soul." Live Blues, R&B, Gospel, Jazz, and Roots-based Rock & Roll. Kids eat free.
• Gators - Family friendly restaurant. Homemade Cajun, Tex-Mex, Seafood, and live crawfish dishes. Karaoke Thursday through Sunday

Get to Know the Dallas Community

We believe it's important to know your community. Our real estate professionals are happy to help. Contact RE/MAX DFW Associates for information about buying or selling your home or if you simply want to learn more about the activities in your community.

Are you a first-time homebuyer searching for the perfect spot in Dallas to call your own? Our city has seen a big influx of new residents in recent years and helping new homebuyers is one of the most rewarding aspects of our work at RE/MAX DFW Associates. The real estate market in Dallas is hot with homes of every variety and neighborhoods to suit every taste. So we've assembled our best tips for first-time homebuyers in Dallas to help you find a home you'll love with plenty left in your budget to explore all that this great city has to offer.  

Dreaming of Dallas: The Rookie's Guide to Buying a House in the City

• Research Neighborhoods – Dallas is a big city in terms of both population size and area, so narrowing down the neighborhoods where you want to shop will help you focus your effort more efficiently. Hands-on research is the best way to learn before buying a house, and you're sure to have some fun in the process. If you currently live too far from Dallas to research in person, there are plenty of good resources online to help you learn about popular Dallas neighborhoods from afar.
• Know Your Budget – Homes in Dallas come in all shapes and sizes, so it's wise to have a firm idea of how much you're prepared to spend before hitting the market. When you have a strong idea of your preferred neighborhoods, the type of home you want, and how much you have to spend, it's easier to identify a home that fits your needs. Just as importantly, it will help you avoid investing significant energy in homes that don't fully fit your needs.
• Know Your Real Estate Agent – You may be buying a home for the first time, but your real estate agent has done this dance many times before. Choosing an agent who you trust and enjoy working with will make life much easier when buying a house. Our REALTORS® in Dallas love helping first-time buyers learn about the city, study the market, and land the right home for their needs.
• Hiring a Home Inspector – No matter which home in the city catches your eye, it's a good idea to have a thorough home inspection before getting serious about making a purchase. Look for an inspector with good attention to detail, and a willingness to answer your questions throughout the process. An inspection may reveal major issues that make you think twice about making an offer, while repairs for minor issues that pop up during inspection can be negotiated as part of the purchase of the home.
• Connect with TDHCA – The Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA) is an organization that exists to help first-time homebuyers throughout the state, including in Dallas. The organization provides free educational resources geared toward first-time buyers, along with special loan programs.
• Check the Suburbs – Dallas is surrounded by smaller cities and suburbs that each have something unique to offer, so it's also worth looking beyond the borders of the city to see if anything catches your eye. Some of the best school districts in Texas are located in Dallas suburbs, making those communities very popular among families.

Looking for more help navigating the Dallas real estate market for the first time? Our experienced team at RE/MAX DFW Associates is here for you. Contact us to learn everything you need to buy your first home in Dallas.