Articles Tagged "Dallas"

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.

Click Here to Read More...

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!

Click Here to Read More...

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. 

Click Here to Read More...

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:

Click Here to Read More...

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:

Click Here to Read More...

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.

Click Here to Read More...

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.

Click Here to Read More...

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.

Click Here to Read More...

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.

Click Here to Read More...

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.

Click Here to Read More...

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.

Click Here to Read More...

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!

Click Here to Read More...

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.

Click Here to Read More...

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. 

Click Here to Read 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.

Click Here to Read More...

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.

Click Here to Read More...

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. 

Click Here to Read More...

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.

Click Here to Read More...

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. 

Click Here to Read 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:

Click Here to Read More...

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.

Click Here to Read More...

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. 

Click Here to Read More...

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.

Click Here to Read More...

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.

Click Here to Read More...

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.

Click Here to Read More...

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! 

Click Here to Read More...

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.

Click Here to Read More...

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. 

Click Here to Read More...

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

Click Here to Read More...

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. 

Click Here to Read More...

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.

Click Here to Read More...

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. 

Click Here to Read More...

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. 

Click Here to Read More...

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.

Click Here to Read More...

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.

Click Here to Read More...

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. 

Click Here to Read 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.

  Click Here to Read More...

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.

  Click Here to Read More...

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.

  Click Here to Read More...

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. 

Click Here to Read More...

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.

Click Here to Read More...

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.

Click Here to Read More...

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.

Click Here to Read More...

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.  

Click Here to Read More...