Grove Team Keller Williams: April 2016

Friday, April 29, 2016

10 moving mistakes to avoid for Keller homeowners

For many in DFW, the turn of seasons means it's time to tackle the big move. Whether you've purchased a new home or are changing apartments, moving is a lot of work - both physically and mentally. By planning ahead, packing smart and moving safely, you can avoid some of the most notorious moving day mistakes.

Professional movers can expedite the process with heavy furniture. However some people prefer to save money by carrying other items themselves. To streamline your moving day, avoid these top mistakes and feel great about entering your new Keller home.

Mistake: Renting the wrong size truck
In general, allow 150 cubic feet of truck space for each fully furnished room. For example, a 12-foot truck offers 450 cubic feet while a 26-foot truck offers 1,400 cubic feet for your items.

Mistake: Packing items too early or too late
Begin with out-of-season and non-essential items several weeks prior to move day. Donate or sell anything you won't use at your new home. Pack essentials like personal necessities and basic cookware the day before or morning of moving day.

Mistake: Damaging breakable items
Poor packing can cause items to break during the move. Plan ahead and have plenty of paper and bubble wrap on hand. Towels, socks and other soft materials are great for packing breakables as well.

Mistake: Reserving a rental truck too late
Wait too long and you might not get the truck you need. Reserve a truck at least two weeks prior to the move. Access PenskeTruckRental.com or other apps from your smartphone and in a few clicks you'll reserve the perfect moving truck for your moving day, saving you time and headaches.

Mistake: Poorly labeled boxes
Where did you put those tools you now so desperately need? Always remember to label boxes clearly. Note the boxes' contents and what room it belongs in.

Mistake: Not having enough hands on deck
Now is the time to cash in some favors and elicit friends and family to help on moving day. Hiring professional movers is also a good option. Either way you should use your truck rental time efficiently while ensuring you're not too sore from doing it all yourself.

Mistake: Not utilizing truck space efficiently
Put the biggest items in the truck first followed by heavy boxes. Then stack with lighter boxes and other items to fill in the remaining space.

Mistake: Lifting incorrectly
When loading and unloading, be sure to bend your knees and lift with your legs, not your back. Work diligently, but be sure to take breaks and stay hydrated.

Mistake: Driving at peak times
Leave early in the morning. You'll run into less traffic and you'll leave yourself extra time to unload at your destination. Take turns driving and take breaks once every two to three hours.

Mistake: Unsafe driving practices
If you are personally transporting items in a rental truck, make sure you get familiarized with your vehicle, verify the best driving directions to your new Keller home, check the upcoming weather to avoid rain and/or thunderstorms.

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

Tuesday, April 26, 2016

Choosing the right insulation for your Keller home

With cooler weather now seeming like a distant memory, you might not be thinking about your home's insulation, but the warm months are the ideal time for some simple DIY insulation projects with huge paybacks. Proper insulation - from roof to foundation - helps keep your home cool in the summer (and warm in winter).

In fact, 90 percent of U.S. homes are under-insulated, according to analysis by the North American Insulation Manufacturers Association (NAIMA). Adding insulation to your home is an easy way to save yourself hundreds of dollars per year in both heating and cooling costs, while helping to make your home more comfortable year around.

A trip to your local home improvement store to choose insulation can be overwhelming, though, given the dozens of options. Many people will gravitate toward fiberglass insulation, as it is likely what they have in their homes and is familiar.

Fiberglass insulation
Advantages of fiberglass batts and rolls include they are relatively inexpensive and fit the stud and joist spacing in most homes. While fiberglass insulation installs quickly, it can be challenging for the average homeowner to get it done right. There tends to be a lack of coverage in many cases. Keller homeowners should consider that fiberglass batt insulation does not continuously cover spaces, but fits between studs. The insulation may also slump and lose its insulating value over time, creating more energy-wasting gaps.

Rigid foam insulation
Another DIY insulation option available at home improvement stores is rigid foam insulation. Of the several rigid foams available, expanded polystyrene (EPS) can be used throughout the home, including walls, floors, ceilings and foundation walls. They are considered extremely user friendly and provide lasting coverage for homes.

Location, location, location
When planning where to add insulation, one area that Keller homeowners should pay attention to is "knee walls," which are short walls with attic space directly behind them. Such walls commonly lack insulation, but are a prime source for heat loss. "Although it can be difficult to access attic spaces behind knee walls, readily available "fanfold" EPS insulation fits through many attic access doors and hatches, and easily unfolds to cover up to 100 square feet.

Garage doors also many times are un-insulated. To fix this common area of heat gain and heat loss, some EPS manufacturers offer garage door insulation kits designed to fit easily into the door's segments, allowing the job to be completed in less than one hour.

Friday, April 22, 2016

7 lawn prep suggestions for Keller homeowners

Most Keller homeowners believe it's important to have a well-maintained yard. If you are one of them, you and your backyard will appreciate these seven simple steps for tending to your natural turf lawn with minimal effort.

According to Grass Seed USA, a coalition of American grass seed farmers and academics, investing a little repair time in early spring and a small amount of maintenance time in summer will pay off with a lush lawn ready for all your summer activities.

1. Test your soil. Good soil is one of the essentials of a healthy lawn. A soil test is simple, inexpensive and provides valuable information about current pH levels. Simple amendments like lime or sulfur can be added to neutralize overly acidic or alkaline soil and help grass thrive. Find a soil test kit at a local garden store or make your own using common household items.

2. Aerate. Older or heavily trafficked lawns can suffer from soil compaction. A core aerator with hollow tines will pull small plugs of soil out of the ground, allowing increased movement of water, nutrients and oxygen. Aeration can also increase the soil contact with new seeds and promote new growth. You can rent an aerator or hire a professional to do the work for you.

3. Seed. The ideal lawn planting season is April through the mid-to-end of October. Turf specialists at a garden store or local university extension office can help select the right seed for your area and usage, pointing you toward the seed closest to existing grass or suggesting alternatives for problem areas. After seeding, water lightly but regularly, keeping the reseeded areas damp until the new grass grows in.

4. Control weeds. Healthy lawns essentially control weeds by squeezing them out. However, if crabgrass or dandelions invade, herbicides may help. Consult a garden specialist about which herbicide is right for your lawn and how to use it. Applying a pre-emergent herbicide in the spring before weed grass emerges can reduce problems down the line. If you've applied seed, keep in mind herbicides can kill it, so use a product that will not affect new growth. For dandelions, digging them up is often effective, but a broadleaf herbicide may be applied.

5. Water as needed. On average, a lawn needs about 1 inch of water per week, from rainfall or irrigation. Letting the lawn dry out completely between waterings will encourage the grass to grow stronger, deeper roots as it searches for water deeper in the soil. Put a rain gauge on your porch to measure rainfall; skip the watering and save your irrigation money if you receive 1 inch of rain in a week.

6. Fertilize naturally. Don't break your back trying to bag lawn clippings. If you mow frequently (about once a week during the growing season) and don't remove too much height (only one-third of the blade), you can leave the grass clippings on the lawn. They contain the same nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium as commercial fertilizer - and they're free.

7. Mow to the right height. Wait until your grass is 3 inches tall before mowing and then cut it to 2 inches in height. By only trimming one-third of the blade length, you will avoid stressing the grass while leaving enough leaf to protect the roots from the sun - helping you create a low-maintenance, drought-tolerant lawn.

A lawn doesn't need constant pampering. Ongoing lawn maintenance can be quick and easy, and the reward is a beautiful, environmentally-friendly setting for outdoor activities of many kinds. So Keller homeowners, fire up the grill, hang up the hammock and get busy enjoying your personal great, grassy outdoors.

Tuesday, April 19, 2016

5 home improvement projects for Keller homeowners

The arrival of spring means new beginnings and a fresh chance to tackle those home improvement projects you've been putting off for the last several months. Get your Keller home ready for summer and make it more beautiful, efficient and functional than ever with these five seasonal projects.

Keep, donate or trash.
Your first step is to declutter the home. Separate items into three categories: keep, donate or trash. Here's a tip: if you haven't used something in the last year, chances are you can get rid of it. Items such as unwanted electronics, housewares and gently used clothing can be donated to charity. For everything else, check with your local recycling program before putting anything in the garbage.

Get serious about spring cleaning.
Give your home a fresh start by wiping down windows, countertops, electronics, appliances, doorknobs, furniture, light fixtures and ceiling fans. Also, be sure to mop floors and vacuum carpet. Unsure where to start with window cleaning? Check out these tips from Pella.

Bring your deck back to life.
Winter can be hard on our decks with cold temperatures and occasional hail. Take a close look at your deck and check for warped, loose or splintered boards. Sweep away anything that may have fallen between the cracks, make any needed repairs, scrub or power wash, and restain if necessary.

Do a color refresh.
Whether you're adding a fresh coat of paint to your interior or exterior walls, or completely changing the colors of your home, spring is the perfect time to renew your home's look. One 2016 trend so far is bold entry doors

Bloom where you are planted.
Whether you are a Keller homeowner, renter or sublessee, celebrate the new season by creating spaces for bright flowers and making the most of your garden. You can also bring the outdoors in with hanging baskets and potted plants.

Friday, April 8, 2016

1604 Chase Oaks Drive Keller, TX 76248

Property Tour: http://tour.circlepix.com/home/Q9VDKG

Curtain Rising! Don't miss this newly remodeled 4 bedroom, 2 bath home in sought after neighborhood of Chase Oaks. Spacious kitchen features island, granite surfaces and stainless appliances. Retreat to the master suite and relax in the updated spa-like bath. New AC, flooring, fixtures and back splash. Large secondary bedrooms, green spaces, park, paths and Keller ISD complete this amazing package. Close to shopping and restaurants.

Bedrooms: 4

Bathrooms: 2.00

Square feet: 2,533

Price: $290,000

For more information about this property, please contact Diane M. Grove at 817-337-0000 or info@groveteam.com. You can also text 3499275 to 67299.

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

MLS ID: 13348276

1805 Kittredge Way Fort Worth, TX 76247

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

THE PERFECT PACKAGE! You will love this 4 bed, 2.5 bath home in the established Harriet Creek neighborhood. A warm and welcoming family room to entertain your guests while cooking a feast in the well designed kitchen with ample storage and counter space. Retreat to the private master suite. The combined formal dining and living area were created for congeniality. Many updates include Elfa designed master closet, AC, insulated garage door, etc. Northwest ISD!

Bedrooms: 4

Bathrooms: 2.00

Square feet: 2,916

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 3499185 to 67299.

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

MLS ID: 13352310

7 steps to patio perfection for Keller homeowners

Flowers bloom brightly by the back door, temperatures are balmy, cookout season is on the horizon and you’re ready to give your outdoor living space a breath of fresh air. Great patios and decks enhance your enjoyment of spring and summer, and boost home value, so it’s well worth the investment to update and upgrade your Keller home’s exterior living space.

Patio (or deck) perfection can be within your reach this season. Simply follow these seven steps to create an outdoor environment where you’ll be proud to entertain all summer long.

1. Update your patio furniture.
Whether your current patio set is worn out, you need more seating or are just in the mood for a whole new look, new patio furniture can change the way you feel about your outdoor environment — and how much time you spend there! Whether you want traditional wicker, durable metals or exotic woods like Eucalyptus, you can find the right dining set, settee, chaise lounge, glider, ottoman, coffee table, rocker or swing on the marketplace.

2. Replace cushions on your current set.
If your current patio furniture is in good shape but just in need of some freshening, it’s easy enough to give it new life with small tweaks like updated patio cushions. Cushions are the crowning touch to catch the eye on patio furniture, and you can find hundreds of patterns, shapes and styles of patio pillows and cushions in retail stores or at websites like At Home.

3. Add a water feature
One of the best ways to create your own oasis can be with a water feature. Easy to find and simple to set up accessories like a fountain can bring the harmony of water to your outdoor environment. For example, those with a waterfall feature immediately create a feeling of Zen and help drown out the noise of everyday life.

4. Make some shade.
When you need a break from the sun, but aren’t ready to head indoors, shade can help you stay outside so you can enjoy the fresh air longer. You can add shade in many ways, from installing a retractable awning over the deck or patio to strategically planting trees or climbing vines on a trellis. And of course, the simplest way to add shade is to use patio umbrellas, which are available in a wide range of hues, patterns and styles.

5. Heat up your grilling station.
What outdoor environment would be complete without a great grill? Accessories make grilling fun and easy, and ensure you’ll look and operate like a pro when whipping up summer fare. From grilling mitts to barbecue tool sets, burger and kabob grilling baskets, grill toppers and even taco shell baskets, you can outfit your grill station with everything you need for a great grilling experience.

6. Lighten up.
When you’re having a great time outdoors, who wants to go inside just because it’s dark? Add some lighting to your outdoor living space to create ambiance and allow you to enjoy your patio long after the sun goes down. You can invest in hard-wired patio or deck lights, go eco-friendly and easy with solar lights, or choose from an array of battery-powered or candle-fired lanterns.

7. Use decor to create a theme.
Just as your home’s interior has a design theme, choosing a theme for your patio or deck can pull the look together. Whether your taste is Boho Chic, Tribal or Weekend Getaway, you can find decor items that underscore the theme. Wall decorations, outdoor rugs, decorative planters and flower pots, wind chimes and statuary all work together to create a look you’ll love throughout the spring and summer.

The perfect patio — and hours of outdoor enjoyment — is within reach for Keller homeowners this spring and summer.

Tuesday, April 5, 2016

Is your mower ready for the season? 5 steps for Keller homeowners

For Keller homeowners, it's time to head to the lake, spend time on the deck and take your kids to the park. Yes, you're ready for the season - but is your lawn mower?

One of the season's most important tools has been hibernating through the winter, and it will need a helping hand to get ready. So before you fire it up for the first cuts of the season, make sure you follow these important mower maintenance tips.

1. Replace any existing gas. Did you run your mower out of gas or add fuel stabilizer last fall? If you didn't, stored fuel is likely to break down over the winter months and can go bad in as little as 30 days - making your mower hard or impossible to start in the spring. To protect your mower, make sure you fill it with fresh fuel from the gas station. And make sure it doesn't have too much ethanol, as most mowers can only accept up to a 10 percent ethanol blend (E10).

2. Monitor the oil levels. It's a new season and your mower deserves new oil. Check the engine's existing oil level, you'll likely find it's low. If it is, add oil as appropriate. Operating a mower with too little oil can burn out your engine. At the same time however, you want to avoid overfilling the oil level. Consult your owner's manual for the right oil type and amount for your engine. And as your changing the oil, this is also a great time to inspect and possibly replace your oil filter.

3. Focus on the spark plug. Inspect the area around your mower's spark plug to make sure no dirt or other debris will enter the cylinder once the plug is removed. Once you're satisfied the area is clean, use a socket wrench to remove the plug and inspect it for any damage or carbon deposits. These deposits will appear as a black coating. If the plug appears to be worn, or has been used for several mowing seasons, replace it.

4. Clean the air filter. A mower's air filter collects a significant amount of dirt, dust and other debris over a typical cutting season, so it's good to start the year with a clean one. Consult your owner's manual to determine which filter is right for your mower and to learn how to make this simple replacement properly.

5. Adjust the blade. When performing your spring maintenance, this is also a good opportunity to inspect your mower's blade. Look for cracks, nicks, bends or any other signs of damage. If you find these, replace the blade. Also, if the edge is dull, the blade should be sharpened. If you feel uncomfortable sharpening the blade yourself, take it to your local hardware store or small engine shop. For safety, always unplug the spark plug when inspecting the blade.

Considering a replacement?
If you've applied the seasonal maintenance tips above and it's obvious your old mower just isn't cutting it anymore, you'll need to shop for a new one. Start your search by focusing on the mower's most essential component, the engine. Look for an engine that offers minimal maintenance, like the Kohler XTX Series, which never requires an oil change over its lifetime. Simply check the oil level before each use and you're good to go. Maintaining a freshly mowed lawn this season may be just the thing your Keller home needs.