6 ways to give your Keller home a breath of fresh air

Spring is in the air, and that means tackling home improvement projects you've been putting off all winter long. As you plan for these projects over the warmer months, include steps to improve your Keller home's environment, both inside and outside. Your house will be a better, more comfortable place to live.

Conserve water. Help preserve this precious resource by replacing any leaky indoor faucets in your kitchen, laundry and bathroom. For outdoors, check the watering hose faucet for leaks and replace it if needed. And when mowing the lawn, try setting the blades 2 to 3 inches high because the longer grass shades the soil, improving moisture retention and helping the grass survive drought and tolerate insect damage.

Reduce indoor pollutants. Improve your home's indoor air quality. EPA studies indicate indoor air may be 25 times, and occasionally more than 100 times, more polluted than outdoor air. A whole-house air cleaner can remove up to 99.98 percent of airborne particles and allergens from the filtered air, such as dust, pollen, bacteria, pet dander, mold spores and smoke.

Seal air leaks. Keep cool air in and hot air out by sealing leaks and adding insulation. Areas to check for repairs include the attic, garage and unfinished basement. Throughout the house, ensure that all cooling and heating vents and registers meet the floors, walls and ceilings and are well sealed.

Keep cool more efficiently. Upgrading your cooling system to a more efficient one can save home energy consumption, helping to save you money. Air conditioners like TruComfort allows the compressor, outdoor fan and indoor fan to vary operating speed as the temperature outside changes, slowing down or speeding up in small increments rather than turning completely off and on.

Shield windows from the hot sun. Seasonal heat comes indoors from windows, too, so close draperies and shades, or install them in rooms that don't already have them. Outside, create some natural shade near the windows by planting a tree, tall bushes or adding awnings on the sunniest side of the house
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Control indoor temperatures. Ensure a more comfortable environment for your Keller home by adding a programmable HVAC control. Programmable smart controls are easy to use and, when paired with a smart home system, let you remotely monitor and control indoor temperatures, so you can adjust your system to be more efficient based on your family's schedule.

 

Whether it's selling your home or finding a new one, we have designed this site so that you can quickly and easily locate the information you are looking for. The Grove Team's client-centered approach results in the best possible outcome for you. Please contact us now to begin the process of achieving your dreams in home ownership

5 real estate season tips for Keller homeowners

Spring is here! This season of new beginnings also marks the start of the year’s busiest real estate period. According to the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation, the housing market in 2016 is set to be quite active with a 3 percent increase in total home sales compared to the previous year. If you’re planning to enter the housing market in Keller this year, buying or selling a home is a big decision and you can count on plenty of competition. To ensure you make the correct home buying or selling decisions, it’s important to do your research and arm yourself with valuable information.

Buying or selling a home is one of the most important transactions most consumers will make in their life. A home warranty not only helps protect a home's systems while it’s on the market, but also helps provide buyers with additional confidence in their purchase. For an already financially stretched homebuyer, it’s important to know that a home warranty covers what homeowners insurance doesn’t – the repair/replacement of home system appliances
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To help you make the most of the spring home season review these tips.

Sellers: improve curb appeal. First impressions matter. Take your home’s exterior from drab to fab. Trim shrubs, mow the lawn and remove all dirt/debris from around the outside. Make sure the house numbers, mailbox and lighting fixtures near the front door look inviting. Add plants and comfy furniture to the porch for a welcoming touch.

Sellers: optimize the space. Add the illusion of extra square footage by using the same paint in a lighter shade across rooms to create a seamless transition. Remove family photos and any customized decorations so the buyer can picture living in the home. Be sure to keep the master bedroom gender neutral. Lastly, have a professional cleaner shine the home, especially often-neglected areas like carpets, ceiling fans and baseboards to make a bigger impact.

Buyers: do your homework. Narrow your home search to particular areas and neighborhoods that appeal to you with regard to housing prices, school districts and work commuting times (i.e. Keller, Keller ISD). Determine your budget and stick to it. Familiarize yourself with the real estate market and your rights as a homebuyer. Know your credit score and take steps to improve it, if necessary.

Buyers: ask the right questions. Don’t be afraid to directly ask the seller “what’s wrong with the house?” Ask to see disclosure forms around any issues with the house and check the age/condition of major home systems, like heating, plumbing, electrical and air conditioning — this can cut your costs in the long run.  Additionally, an independent professional home inspection is highly recommended. This is an investment that can pay for itself many times over, especially if hidden defects are found.

 

Whether it's selling your home or finding a new one, we have designed this site so that you can quickly and easily locate the information you are looking for. The Grove Team's client-centered approach results in the best possible outcome for you. Please contact us now to begin the process of achieving your dreams in home ownership

5 things you can do to improve your Keller home's lawn

You've waited all winter for the chance to transform your lawn into the lush, green oasis you know it can be. But this transformation doesn't happen overnight, and you can't expect Mother Nature to take care of everything herself. Getting your dream yard is going to require a little work on your part, but the rewards are worth the efforts and as you'll see, even the smallest changes can have a big impact.

Follow each of the five simple tips below and you'll be enjoying your Keller home's yard all season long.

Water more heavily, less often. When it comes to watering your lawn, less is more, provided you're talking about watering frequency and not water amount. Instead of several light sprinklings, give your lawn one thorough watering (about an inch a week) and you'll ensure more of the water is absorbed by your lawn instead of being lost to evaporation.

Cut right, cut smart. When it comes to lawn care, having the right mower makes all the difference. Husqvarna lawn mowers with high performance cutting decks will give superior cut quality and performance and most are capable of bagging, mulching or straight discharge. If your lawn is rough or hilly, a self-propelled drive system can take the work out of mowing. Some models now even have capability of four-wheel drive to further reduce effort.

Trim back overgrown trees and bushes. The most beautiful yard in the world can be quickly overshadowed - literally and figuratively - by unkempt trees and bushes. How far you trim back your trees and bushes is a matter of preference, but any dead branches should be removed. After that, make sure you trim uniformly and clean up when you're done to finish that polished look.

Take the time to aerate. One of the most effective ways to support new grass growth is to aerate your lawn. Using a mechanical or manual aerator, you can punch small holes in the soil, allowing much-needed water, air and nutrients to make it down to the root structure, supporting future grass development and long-term yard health.

Get motivated to mulch. Regular mulching reduces weeds while promoting the health and growth of your lawn by returning needed nutrients back to the soil. In addition, because mulch clippings are comprised of 85 percent water and just 5 percent nitrogen, leaving them on your lawn can satisfy as much as 25 percent of your fertilizer needs. So the next time you feel the need to bag, opt to mulch instead.

As warmer weather approaches, you're ready to relax on your beautiful green lawn once again, and getting there is easier than you think. Apply the tips above and you'll be able to create the yard that's perfect for everything you have planned for your Keller home.

  

Whether it's selling your home or finding a new one, we have designed this site so that you can quickly and easily locate the information you are looking for. The Grove Team's client-centered approach results in the best possible outcome for you. Please contact us now to begin the process of achieving your dreams in home ownership

16340 Severn Lane Fort Worth, TX 76247

Property Tour: http://tour.circlepix.com/home/A5LACH

THE PERFECT PACKAGE...with all the extras included! This 3 bedroom, 2 bath Gehan home in River's Edge features natural stone, island kitchen, granite surfaces and stainless steel appliances. The 42 inch cabinets and taller vanities provide an abundance of storage. Retreat to the master suite and relax in the spa-like bath. Spacious secondary bedrooms and; study with French doors offer a place for everyone. Awesome yard allows plenty of room for entertaining.

Bedrooms: 3

Bathrooms: 2.00

Square feet: 2,027

Price: $195,000

For more information about this property, please contact Diane M. Grove at 817-337-0000 or info@groveteam.com. You can also text 3449689 to 67299.

See more listings at: http://www.groveteam.com

MLS ID: 13341221

13421 Prairie Chapel Trail Justin, TX 76247

Property Tour: http://tour.circlepix.com/home/AYC4YN

Elegant 4 bedroom, 3 bath custom home with luxury finish out and attention to detail in every room! Chef's kitchen complete with double oven, island and granite counter tops. Luxury master suite, large secondary bedrooms, office and gameroom offer a place for everyone. Hand scraped wood floors, conditioned attic storage,hot water circulating system, 16 SEER HVAC and Argon gas filled windows. Guaranteed to average less than $89mo. to heat and cool.

Bedrooms: 4

Bathrooms: 3.00

Square feet: 3,300

Price: $450,000

For more information about this property, please contact Diane M. Grove at 817-337-0000 or info@groveteam.com. You can also text 3406388 to 67299.

See more listings at: http://www.groveteam.com

MLS ID: 13336720

9925 Bend Court Fort Worth, TX 76177

Property Tour: http://tour.circlepix.com/home/P4NTEC

This delightful 3 bedroom, 2 bath, one-story Tehama Ridge home is full of character and situated on a quiet cul-de-sac. Spacious family room with fireplace, light, bright kitchen boasts island, breakfast bar, ample storage and skylight. Escape to the large master suite and relax in the garden tub. Enjoy the arched entryways, large secondary bedrooms plus a study. Awesome yard allows plenty of room for family fun and entertaining. Close to shopping and; highways.

Bedrooms: 3

Bathrooms: 2.00

Square feet: 1,904

Price: $200,000

For more information about this property, please contact Diane M. Grove at 817-337-0000 or info@groveteam.com. You can also text 3403883 to 67299.

See more listings at: http://www.groveteam.com

MLS ID: 13335622

6 spring repair ideas for Keller homeowners

Spring is one of the most popular times of year to clean up your home inside and out, make renovations and take steps to ensure it operates efficiently for the rest of the year. But after the long winter months, the list of projects can pile up. This year, focus on six key areas to repair, replace and refresh around your Keller home now - to avoid spending more time and money later.

1. Repair your roof and gutters. Inspect the roof to check for loose or cracked shingles. Also, be sure to look at indoor ceilings for any signs of water leakage and get started on repairs before more damage occurs. Take a look at the gutters to see if there are areas in need of repair as well, and tackle them now before there's too much rain.

2. Repair and reseal your deck. Remove debris and sweep the deck clean. Fix broken or bent boards and pushed up nails. Choose a cleanser formulated for your deck surface - whether for wood or composite - and apply a new coat of sealer and stain. A local home improvement center can advise you on formulations for your particular needs. Check out this post for more deck ideas.

3. Replace your furnace. As you make home upgrades, this is also a good time to upgrade your furnace for greater home comfort and lower energy bills. For example, efficient furnaces will provide heat in your home while operating quietly. Many models are compact enough to fit in tight spaces, like a closet or basement. A premium gas efficiency (AFUE) rating, is a plus.

4. Replace windows and doors. Older windows can let unwanted air and moisture into your home. Installing newer, more efficient models will not only save money on cooling in summer and heating in winter, but they can bring the look of your home up to date. Replacing your front door in a great color and style can also add to your Keller home's efficiency and instantly add curb appeal.

5. Refresh with paint. There's nothing like a new coat of paint to transform and update the look of a home. It's also one of the easiest and most economical home improvement projects you can undertake. Check out your local paint store for ideas and suggestions to help you visualize your home in fresh new colors.

6. Refresh your indoor air. The spring and fall months can trigger allergies, so consider adding an indoor air cleaner. An American Standard AccuClean whole-home system, for instance, can remove up to 99.98 percent of airborne particles and allergens such as pollen, dust mites, mildew, pet hair and dander and fungus and bacteria, so everyone in your home can breathe easier.

Lastly, renew your commitment to home maintenance by creating a yearly schedule of home projects. Mark your calendar with target dates to remind yourself to complete key tasks - including what to focus on for the next season, before the colder months arrive.

 

Whether it's selling your home or finding a new one, we have designed this site so that you can quickly and easily locate the information you are looking for. The Grove Team's client-centered approach results in the best possible outcome for you. Please contact us now to begin the process of achieving your dreams in home ownership

Deck-building tips for Keller homeowners

Communing with the bounty of nature in your own backyard is one of the many advantages of having a deck. Not only does it boost your Keller home's value, a deck gives you a comfortable venue for enjoying the outdoors - and what could be more environmentally friendly than spending some time with Mother Nature? But is your deck really as "green" as it could be?

Some decks are simply greener than others by virtue of the materials used in their construction. If you'll be adding a new deck to your outdoor environment this year, or refurbishing or replacing an old one, keep these eco-friendly deck-building tips in mind:

Deck board options
Wood and composites are the two primary types of boarding used for decks. Wood is a renewable resource; more trees can grow to replace the ones harvested for your deck boards, and when your deck's usable life ends, you can recycle the wood it was made of. However, pressure-treated lumber is not recyclable. While the preservatives it's treated with make pressure-treated lumber last longer than many types of untreated wood, it's less eco-friendly in the long run because it must be disposed of instead of reused.

Composite boards can also be greener. Many are made from recycled materials such as reused plastic and reclaimed or recycled wood. Composites tend to be more long-lasting than wood, and require no special treatment like staining or sealing. Their longevity can make them a greener choice, but be aware composites can't be recycled.

Greener railings
Just as wood and composites are the primary materials for deck floors, they're also commonly used for railings. However, given the railing's exposure to the elements and its importance in the safety and beauty of a deck, it's worth exploring other green alternatives.

Stainless steel cable railing, not only provides unobscured views from your deck and a sleek, attractive look, it's also 100 percent recyclable. What's more, Ultra-Tec railings are made from recycled stainless steel, meaning fabrication requires less consumption of resources like fossil fuels, less consumption of minerals through mining, and a reduced environmental impact.

Greener railings can also save you some green; you can easily install stainless steel railing yourself on a new or existing wood or composite deck.

Maintenance
If you choose to construct your deck of composites - and add a stainless steel railing - it will require little maintenance. Stainless steel is inherently weather-resistant and will stay shiny and beautiful for years without you having to do anything to it.

If you opt to build your deck with wood, some types will require regular maintenance like sealing and staining. Rot and pest-resistant woods may not need to be sealed, but will weather to a silver-gray color unless you stain them every year. Many stains contain a blend of agents meant to inhibit the growth of fungus or deter pest infestations, and may also contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Look for stains and sealers that rely on natural ingredients, such as hemp oil, beeswax, carnauba wax and water.

Icing on the cake
Of course, adding life to your deck is one of the greenest things you can do. It's easy to add built-in planters as you're constructing a new deck or retrofitting an existing one. Or, you can simply place flowers, vegetables and herbs in containers on the deck. Be sure to protect wood decks with a tray placed under containers to catch water runoff.

Lighting is also a great way to boost the visual appeal and usability of a deck. You can enjoy mood-making light that's also eco-friendly by using solar lights, rather than electrical ones, throughout your deck. A variety of solar deck lights are available online and in home improvement stores. You can even find solar-powered decorative post caps for deck railings.

Choosing greener deck options can help ensure you enjoy your outdoor environment throughout the yea, while adding value to your Keller home.

Whether it's selling your home or finding a new one, we have designed this site so that you can quickly and easily locate the information you are looking for. The Grove Team's client-centered approach results in the best possible outcome for you. Please contact us now to begin the process of achieving your dreams in home ownership

Five market trends for Keller home buyers

If you're in the market for a Keller home this year, the spring house-hunting season may actually be closer than you think. That means now is the perfect time to start your planning. Space requirements such as bedrooms, bathrooms and square footage are essential, but a house is more than just shelter, it's your home, and the great ones not only have everything you need, but everything you want.

Although every home buyer's needs are unique, the market is often dictated by common trends. To better understand your own buying preferences and to see if you're aligned with others in the real estate marketplace, take a look at these five home-buying trends.

1. Function over aesthetics. When you think kitchen trends, you probably think of design features like granite countertops and stainless steel appliances. While both these options remain popular and are common in new construction, surveys by the National Association of Realtors and the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) found that buyers were extremely interested in functional attributes like new appliances, eat-in layouts, walk-in pantries and double sinks.

2. Living rooms are no longer a must. Given today's diverse home-buying population, the formal living room is becoming less prevalent. Many buyers are choosing to use the space in a different way. Families may choose to use the space as an office or game room.

3. New is number one. According to the NAHB, more than half of surveyed buyers want to purchase a new home. It can be a challenge for buyers to find everything they desire in a resale home, and because renovations are often costly and time consuming, it's hard to deny the appeal of purchasing a brand-new home that is move-in ready.

4. Let there be (energy-efficient) light. Home buyers have coveted homes that make good use of natural light for years and that trend is continuing in 2016. In addition to large windows, NAHB research shows homeowners are putting an increased emphasis on the energy savings that accompany the installation of high-performance windows.

5. Make it your own. Personalizing a new home is easier and more affordable than ever before, thanks to offerings like Beazer's Choice Plans, which are flexible floorplans that allow you to personalize the most lived-in spaces in your home at no additional cost. Whether you want a kitchen for entertaining or a breakfast nook for family dining, an office space instead of an extra bedroom, the choice is yours.

Start your preparation today
It's never too early to start preparing for shopping for a new home. The more work you do ahead of time, the more time you can spend exploring the market. So start your research now and you'll be moved into the Keller home of your dreams before you know it.

Whether it's selling your home or finding a new one, we have designed this site so that you can quickly and easily locate the information you are looking for. The Grove Team's client-centered approach results in the best possible outcome for you. Please contact us now to begin the process of achieving your dreams in home ownership

Selling your Keller home? 3 quick tips for a succesful sale.

No wonder you're thinking of selling your Keller home - it's a seller's market right now. The housing supply has dwindled, creating more demand for fewer homes.

Here are three  tips to set your home apart from other sellers.

1. Dirt's a deal-breaker: Make a clean sweep 

Most buyers prefer to see a clean home and the first thing to deal with is stained carpets and ceilings.
Stained carpets should be cleaned or replaced. Stained ceilings deserve your attention, too. They can scare off prospective buyers who fear that ceiling imperfections might be a sign of bigger problems. Even professionals find it difficult to match the original finish and color.

In addition, flocked or heavily textured ceilings are best replaced because they look so outdated. Instead, consider installing ceiling tiles or panels directly over the offending ceiling, using a simple DIY track-and-clip system.

2. Declutter the house

Buyers can't picture themselves in your home if they can't see past your piles of stuff. Pull together different items - like pottery or framed photography - using a common design element like color, similar patterns, texture or materials. Ideally, you will have your home professionally staged to create an exemplary presentation of your home.

It's OK to keep some areas empty, and to create a display of personal items in an attractive, organized manner in other areas. Consult with your real estate agent for the best combination.

3. Spark design interest  

So you've cleaned and decluttered, but now what? Nothing enlivens a space like a splash of color. Toss some bright new pillows on the sofa or add tasteful artwork or accessories to complement your color scheme. Paint adds personality, too, but choose your colors carefully so your wall palette flows naturally from room to room. Don't forget to add texture, whether with a woven area rug or sculptural wire baskets.

With a bit of primping, your Keller home can win the ultimate beauty contest and attract a buyer who's willing to meet your price, or even pay a premium to call it their own.

Whether it's selling your home or finding a new one, we have designed this site so that you can quickly and easily locate the information you are looking for. The Grove Team's client-centered approach results in the best possible outcome for you. Please contact us now to begin the process of achieving your dreams in home ownership