Add living space to your Keller home with an easy patio makeover

Keller homeowners are looking forward to a shift into summer mode, with its sun-soaked days, flower-scented breezes and velvety nights under the stars.

Now's the time to take advantage of a golden opportunity right outside your door. Celebrate summer and all it offers by recreating your outdoor space. Whether it’s a balcony, a patio or a deck, a few touches are all you need to turn it into a highly functional living space.

When done right, a patio makeover is like a boost to your Keller home's square footage of living space without straining your wallet. Think of the patio as a summer room, and the possibilities really open up.

One approach to making your summer room perfect is to start by thinking of your needs and what you love to do. If you could add any room to your home, what would it be, and what would you use it for? Then, turn to a resource like Big Lots, which offers everything you need to build that summer room, while keeping you within budget.

Your summer living room
Transform any outdoor space into a relaxing oasis that’s perfect for unwinding and summer daydreams. Your key piece is a comfortable outdoor couch you can really sink into.

It's always best to start with a neutral-colored cushion, then work the accessories and accent pieces, including side tables, brightly colored throw pillows and outdoor lanterns to make the space feel extra homey and just like an authentic living room. These decor pieces can be easily and affordably switched out year-over-year to make your outdoor space feel fresh and new.

With an easy assembly gazebo, you can also keep the space cool and comfortable in the heat of the day.

Finally, if your patio faces an open or public area, a row of evergreens planted in large colorful pots will transform it into an intimate space with a perfect touch of nature.

Your summer party room
With the right pieces, you can set the scene for any gathering of friends and family. Start with ample seating. Add to the traditional living room setup with an outdoor cushioned bench, and position some accent chairs and tables in a nook or two for conversation clusters. A patterned outdoor rug also helps to delineate spaces on a large patio or deck.

A fire pit always creates a natural centerpiece and gathering spot. Some designs take this up a notch and incorporate the soft glow of fire right into a tabletop, making it easy to talk long into the summer night. As a finishing touch, be sure to have a wireless speaker and playlist ready to set the mood with music.

Your summer kitchen
The downside of summer living is building up unwanted heat in the kitchen from cooking dinner. The best solution is to take it outside. Don’t limit the grill to weekends and burgers and brats. Explore the many grilling recipes out there to expand your repertoire. While you're doing this, set up your patio as an outdoor cooking station that’s ready to go whenever you’re ready to start cooking.

Set up a sturdy table for prepping veggies and meats and a selection of lightweight, outdoor serving dishes. The variety of colors and designs are endless and add to the space aesthetic. (Just as you would indoors, make sure the surface is clean before you get started.) Use colorful crates to keep grilling tools, potholders and outdoor dishes and glassware organized and handy.

Finally, pick up some bright-colored pots that match your decor style and plant rosemary, parsley, basil and other herbs so they’re within easy reach to add fresh flavors to your grilled fish and chicken, as well as those tasty summer veggies. These potted plants also make for beautiful, easy centerpieces.

Your summer dining room
Dining outside is a fun and relaxing way to enjoy food as well as the company of your family and friends. When you choose a patio table, choose one with ample seating, and keep things comfortable and colorful with waterproof cushions.

Umbrellas can throw shade on a sun-drenched deck or patio, making daytime dining (or your morning coffee time) more pleasant and easy on the eyes. If you’re looking for something different, a patio umbrella outfitted with lights on the underside will let you linger over dinner longer.

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 renovation resolutions for your Keller home this year

It's no secret that springtime is synonymous with spruce-ups. But, as is often the case, Keller homeowners hone in on prettying-up patios and backyards with fresh florals and new outdoor furniture, leaving the inside of the home as "same old, same old." This spring, resolve to reinvent your home from the inside out with stylish decor sure to add the wow-factor it deserves.

The five refreshing projects below will to help create a beautiful setting worthy of the new season - and beyond.

Address those kitchen cabinets. The cabinets are a major focal point in a kitchen, and even the smallest changes can have a major impact on its look and feel. Start with a subtle, functional update by replacing old hardware with modern metal accents. And, for a slightly bolder change, consider a fresh coat of paint to infuse a new design persona throughout the space.

Set the perfect scene. Take advantage of the spring weather and longer days with perfect natural lighting. With smart technology, you can start by creating scenes - different combinations of shade positions in one room or throughout the house - to achieve perfect room lighting, window privacy and energy-efficiency. Then, schedule the scenes to activate at the times you choose, like opening to greet each morning's sunrise, closing mid-day to deflect the heat of the afternoon sun, and closing each night to protect your privacy. PowerView motorized shades also seamlessly integrates with other sophisticated whole-home automation systems to add another level of convenience to everyday living and greater connectivity to your smart home.

Add comfort and style to hardwood floors. Hardwood floors are a popular style for any home, and adding comfort to the chic-but sometimes unforgiving-look is easy with the right accessories. Place comfortable, eye-catching rugs in key areas throughout the home, including the foyer or beneath the kitchen and dining room tables. These subtle accents will create a striking contrast, soften acoustics and add stylish comfort for your feet.

Keep cool as the weather warms. Window treatments can serve as great accessory or accent, and the right window dressings will provide beauty and function in one. Sophisticated fabric choices add a modern touch to any space, while unique cell-within-a-cell designs can significantly reduce the amount of solar heat transferred through windows to keep you cooler as the summer heat kicks in. This smart upgrade lends an elegant touch to kick off air conditioning season.

Build the bathroom of your dreams. The bathroom is supposed to be an oasis, and if it's lacking in spa-like comforts, now is the perfect time to whip it into shape. Enjoy a luxurious massage without stepping out of your Keller home by swapping out outdated shower heads with high-pressured and multi-setting ones that transform water into soft mists, relaxing pulses, or powerful cascade indoors.

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.

For Keller homeowners, hardworking kitchens can still have style

Years ago, the kitchen served a very utilitarian function — a place to prepare food and clean the dishes. Today, it's truly the nerve center of the house where people eat meals, discuss the day's events, plan calendars, do homework, check e-mail and entertain guests.

With that increased demand on the kitchen, and the trend towards creating flexible living spaces, Keller homeowners are seeking ways to maximize their overall layout and make their kitchens work harder.

Expanded work surfaces, smart appliances and carefully thought-through floor plans are just a few elements that have recently emerged in kitchen trends. But one of the most noticeable differences in today's kitchen is the demand for multiple sinks and various water sources.

Many homeowners are using multiple sink areas to increase efficiency and literally spread out the work. However, they don't want to sacrifice the ability to showcase their personal tastes and eye for design.

If you're looking for ideas on how to make your kitchen more functional and stylish, consider integrating these options into your kitchen remodeling plan:

Main sink
An all-purpose station primarily used for clean-up duty, the main sink often features a deeper, single basin to handle dishes and oversized pots and pans. Consider pairing these sinks with a pre-rinse faucet. These faucets improve functionality of the sink area by allowing users to literally "take the water to the work," but are noticeably fashionable.

In addition to the primary functional faucet, many kitchens feature a water filtration faucet or tap as part of their main sink configuration.

Second sink
Often located in a center island, this sink helps avoid congestion at the main sink and is a great way to increase a kitchen's workflow. Many refer to this sink as a prep sink, which quite literally is one of its primary uses. Keller homeowners commonly use this extra workspace for cutting vegetables, chilling wine or washing hands before a meal. Choosing a faucet style and finish that complements the room's decor can add an eye-catching decorative piece to an otherwise "ho-hum" island.

Bar sink
Sometimes referred to as a convenience sink or a beverage center, this area is traditionally used for entertaining purposes. It's occasionally located on the center island, but is often placed on a separate countertop in the kitchen or adjacent room (if space allows). Make sure to choose a faucet that matches the other kitchen faucets.

Looking for another water source without a full sink? Try incorporating a pot filler faucet at your stovetop. These faucets provide a convenient, safe way to add more water to boiling pots or saute pans.

As you plan your kitchen remodel or look for ways to maximize your work areas, don't be shy about making your sinks, work surfaces and water sources work hard for you. However, since this space serves as the epicenter of most homes, be sure to also use the room as a way to express your unique style.

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.

8636 Boswell Meadows Drive Fort Worth, TX 76179

Property Tour: http://tour.circlepix.com/home/65RK28/8636-Boswell-Meadows-Drive-Fort-Worth-TX-13578432

Precious memories begin here in this beautiful one story, three bedroom, two bath home . The open concept and abundance of natural light evoke a relaxing lifestyle. Spacious kitchen offers plenty of space for meal prep with dining area overlooking back yard. Entertain family and friends in the sizable family room featuring brick fireplace and new wood floors. Retreat to the Master suite for private time. Large secondary bedrooms with new carpet and patio complete this package. Easy access to shopping & highways. Please pardon our dust, Bailey Boswell Road is currently under construction at entry to Boswell Meadows...it will be well worth it! All offers will be presented to the seller on Monday 4.17.17 at 6 p.m.

Bedrooms: 3

Bathrooms: 2

Square feet: 1,665

Price: $170,000

For more information about this property, please contact Diane M. Grove at 817-337-0000 or info@groveteam.com. You can also text 4275179 to 67299.

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

MLS ID: 13578432

Keller Homeowners: Getting smarter about temperature control

The key to reducing your home's energy bills could literally be at your fingertips, hanging on the wall of your Keller home. Multiple studies have shown the connection between lower energy bills and thermostat settings. In fact, reducing thermostat settings just seven to 10 degrees for eight hours per day can reduce heating and cooling use by 10 percent, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.

Smarter thermostats, greater efficiency
With smart home automation, homeowners can use a home comfort system to actively manage their comfort and energy usage. This greater ability to match the system performance to individual lifestyles puts the homeowner in a position of power when it comes to managing their energy usage. And in terms of home comfort, that control typically starts with the thermostat.
Thermostats often serve as the touchpoint that integrates with the larger system to provide the simplest, most user-friendly interface for the homeowner. So, it's important for homeowners to understand the different types of thermostats available to them and how they can improve comfort and efficiency:

•  A conventional thermostat lets the homeowner adjust the temperature using a traditional dial or control panel.
• Smart thermostats monitor user behavior and dynamically adjust system performance for consistent comfort and maximized efficiency.
• Connected thermostats bridge the gap between the two, offering remote operation, but still rely on the user for direction.

Smart thermostats manage automation by communicating wirelessly with home heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems to maximize efficiency. Smart thermostats learn better than humans, and can automatically adjust temperature programming to match your lifestyle while maximizing efficiency and savings. As part of a complete system, the Wi-Fi-enabled Momentum thermostat allows users to monitor and control systems remotely with an app from any internet-enabled mobile device, and can even notify homeowners of developing problems.

Looking beyond the thermostat
The number of connected households that have smart thermostats more than doubled in the past two years, according to market research firm Parks Associates. With 36 percent of broadband-using households interested in a system that manages and monitors their home energy use, Parks Associates predict that half of all American homes will be smart homes by 2020.

Energy consumption starts with the overall heating and cooling equipment; thermostat watts are just a small portion of energy consumption. Purchasing home automation products designed and manufactured to work with the homeowner's specific comfort system is the best way to maximize performance and energy savings. And, Keller homeowners should start with buying energy-efficient equipment.

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.

157 Private Road 3710 Paradise, TX 76073

Property Tour: http://tour.circlepix.com/home/V22VJD/157-Private-Road-3710-Paradise-TX-13574047

Simplistic charm evokes relaxed lifestyle. Lovely 3 bedroom 2 bath home on 32 acres acres of rolling hills, mature trees, seasonal creek and GREAT vistas! Wonderful open floor plan featuring large living area with master down, jetted tub and separate shower. Spacious bedrooms with adjoining decks for your viewing pleasure. Porch and decks are perfect for watching sunsets, children at play and animals. This home is a great get-away from the hustle and bustle of the Metroplex. Peaceful, beautiful trees and pastures. Country living with shopping and dining in nearby Decatur. Amazing 30 x 50 workshop wired for 220 VAC offering two roll up doors and a walk-out with access to water complete this fabulous package.

Bedrooms: 3

Bathrooms: 2

Square feet: 1,742

Price: $435,000

For more information about this property, please contact Diane M. Grove at 817-337-0000 or info@groveteam.com. You can also text 4261277 to 67299.

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

MLS ID: 13574047

721 Bandit Trail Keller, TX 76248

Property Tour: http://tour.circlepix.com/home/45B6MY/721-Bandit-Trail-Keller-TX-13566790

PARK-LIKE SETTING. If you desire graceful living among beautiful surroundings you must see this three bedroom, two bath updated home with one bedroom, one bath guest house. The main home - 2498 sq ft- features open concept, perfect for entertaining with updates galore. Huge, L shaped kitchen offers everything a cook could want and more. Retreat to the master suite and relax in the spa-like bath. Spacious living-dining and secondary bedrooms. The guest house -1197 sq ft - features large-open living area, kitchen, fabulous screened-in porch and Second garage with attached shop. Enormous, shaded back yard with outdoor kitchen and vegetable garden. Close to shopping, quiet neighborhood, Keller ISD. 3695 Total Sq ft.

Bedrooms: 4

Bathrooms: 3

Square feet: 2,498

Price: $575,000

For more information about this property, please contact Diane M. Grove at 817-337-0000 or info@groveteam.com. You can also text 4250882 to 67299.

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

MLS ID: 13566790

317 Paloverde Lane Fort Worth, TX 76112

Property Tour: http://tour.circlepix.com/home/5MWTXC/317-Paloverde-Lane-Fort-Worth-TX-13561745

Precious memories begin here! This updated three bed, two bath, two story home is tucked away in a quiet, established neighborhood close to restaurants, shopping and highways. Enter into the light and bright open floor plan with spacious family room, large dining room and wet bar. Retreat to the private master and relax in the spa like bath or enjoy the cool breeze on the deck overlooking pool. Sizable secondary bedrooms, flex room, covered patio and awesome yard complete this package.

Bedrooms: 3

Bathrooms: 2

Square feet: 3,037

Price: $250,000

For more information about this property, please contact Diane M. Grove at 817-337-0000 or info@groveteam.com. You can also text 4250880 to 67299.

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

MLS ID: 13561745

5 projects to recreate your Keller home's backyard

Your focus changes during the warm weather months. Your backyard becomes your new living room and the most memorable evenings are spent outdoors with friends and loved ones.

This is provided, of course, that you have the perfect space for such gatherings. If you don't, not to worry, the right project can get you there. DIY was made for goals such as this, and a simple weekend project can recreate your backyard space into the outdoor oasis you've always wanted.

Below are five projects you could tackle in a single weekend to recreate your Keller home's backyard space. Review each to see which inspires you.

A bar for the deck. A deck bar is an easy weekend project to house your cooler and act as a serving station for weekend events. Start this project by laminating four two-by-sixes together to form the top. Cut notches from four four-by-fours to build the legs for the bar and add the adjoining pieces to build the outside of the frame. Then add your cooler and connect your top to the frame with a hinge for a finished look.

A bench for sitting or storage. A beautiful bench that's perfect for sitting or storing comes together in three simple steps. Build the frame from notched pieces of cedar wood, before filling the back with narrow strips of wood to form the back rest. Finally, build the bench and attach it to the frame
with a series of hinges, ensuring the door can be opened whenever a little storage space is needed.

A dog crate. If you're looking for a safe place for your pooch, one where they can rest on their bed without fear of being trampled, a decorative crate delivers. Crates are available in different sizes based on the size of your dog and project plans for smaller dogs even include stairs. You can find free, downloadable building plans for each at www.realcedar.com.

Time to dine on your new table. Great memories are built around the dining room table, so when you want to spend more time outdoors, don't be afraid to take the table with you. Building a stylish table is easier than you think, and the matching benches make for a cozy gathering spot perfect for a collection of family and friends. Follow simple building plans and remember if you choose to finish your table, you should coat all six sides before installation.

Modern privacy right in your garden. Your garden is where you spend hours doing hard work, so why not make it a relaxing destination as well? A garden privacy nook can turn your favorite destination into a peaceful oasis with just a few rim joists, carriage bolts and two-by-fours.

Warmer weather is here but the season only lasts so long, so make the most of it while you can. Bring any of these five projects into your backyard and your favorite warm weather hangout space will be a spot Keller homeowners can enjoy all season long.

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.