Category: Homeowner Tips

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Blog Homeowner Tips Lifestyle Outdoor Living Tips

Revamp Your Outdoor Space: Landscaping Ideas to Welcome Warmer Weather

 

Spring has arrived, and with it comes the perfect opportunity to breathe new life into your outdoor space! As the weather warms up, you’ll likely be spending more time outside, whether it’s in your backyard, on your patio, or enjoying the green spaces around your home in Crosswinds. A fresh and inviting landscape not only enhances curb appeal but also creates a relaxing retreat for you and your family to enjoy. If you’re ready to give your outdoor space a seasonal refresh, here are some simple and effective ways to spruce things up for spring and summer.

1. Clean Up & Declutter Your Yard

Before diving into new projects, start by tidying up your outdoor space. Winter can leave behind fallen leaves, broken branches, and other debris that make your yard look untidy.

To-Do List:

  • Rake up leaves and twigs.
  • Trim back overgrown bushes and trees.
  • Remove any weeds from garden beds and pathways.
  • Clean off patios, decks, and outdoor furniture.

A clean slate will make it easier to plan and implement fresh landscaping ideas!

2. Refresh Your Lawn

A lush, green lawn sets the tone for a beautiful outdoor space. After winter, your grass may need a little TLC to bring it back to life.

Lawn Care Tips:

  • Aerate the soil to help water and nutrients reach the roots.
  • Reseed any bare patches and apply fertilizer.
  • Mow regularly but avoid cutting grass too short to maintain healthy growth.
  • Water deeply and consistently, especially in warmer months.

A well-maintained lawn is the foundation of a great outdoor space!

3. Plant Seasonal Flowers & Greenery

Adding vibrant flowers and fresh greenery is a simple way to enhance the beauty of your yard. Choose plants that thrive in the Texas heat to keep your garden looking great all season long.

Best Spring & Summer Plants for Texas:

  • Colorful Flowers: Lantana, petunias, marigolds, and zinnias.
  • Drought-Resistant Plants: Succulents, agave, and yucca.
  • Shade-Providing Trees: Crepe myrtles and live oaks.
  • Herbs & Veggies: Basil, rosemary, tomatoes, and peppers.

A mix of flowers, shrubs, and edible plants will make your outdoor space both beautiful and functional.

4. Update Outdoor Furniture & Decor

Your outdoor space should feel just as inviting as the inside of your home. Freshening up your patio or backyard with new furniture and decor can make a huge difference.

Easy Upgrades:

  • Clean or repaint outdoor furniture for a fresh look.
  • Add new cushions and outdoor rugs in bright, summery colors.
  • String up fairy lights or lanterns for cozy evening ambiance.
  • Incorporate decorative planters, bird feeders, or wind chimes for extra charm.

Small changes can make your space feel brand new!

5. Mulch & Redefine Garden Beds

A fresh layer of mulch not only enhances the look of your garden but also helps retain moisture and keep weeds at bay.

Steps to Refresh Your Garden Beds:

  • Pull out any weeds or dead plants.
  • Edge around the beds to create defined borders.
  • Apply a new layer of mulch (2-3 inches thick) in natural or colored varieties.
  • Arrange plants in layers for a visually appealing effect.

Mulching instantly makes garden beds look polished while keeping plants healthy.

6. Install a Water Feature or Fire Pit

For a major upgrade, consider adding a focal point like a water feature or fire pit to your outdoor space.

Benefits:

  • A water fountain or small pond adds a peaceful, soothing element to your yard.
  • A fire pit creates a cozy gathering space for summer nights and roasting marshmallows.
  • Both features can boost curb appeal and property value!

Choose a feature that suits your space and lifestyle to create a relaxing retreat.

7. Set Up a Functional Outdoor Living Area

Turn your backyard into an extension of your home by creating designated areas for dining, relaxing, and playing.

Ideas to Try:

  • A shaded dining area with an umbrella or pergola.
  • A comfortable lounge space with weatherproof seating.
  • A kid-friendly play area with a sandbox or swing set.
  • A garden nook with benches for reading or unwinding.

A well-planned outdoor space makes it easy to enjoy your home all season long!

8. Add Pathways & Lighting

Pathways and lighting not only improve safety but also enhance the look of your outdoor space.

Simple Enhancements:

  • Use stone, gravel, or stepping stones to create garden paths.
  • Add solar-powered lights along walkways for soft evening illumination.
  • Use LED string lights or lanterns for a warm, inviting glow.

These touches make your yard more accessible and enjoyable after sunset.

Welcome Spring & Summer with a Beautiful Outdoor Space!

There’s no better time than now to freshen up your landscape and create an outdoor space you’ll love spending time in. Whether it’s planting new flowers, updating patio furniture, or adding cozy lighting, these simple improvements will make your home feel refreshed and inviting.

Here at Crosswinds, we love seeing neighbors enjoy their beautiful outdoor spaces, whether it’s in their backyards, on their patios, or in the scenic community parks. So grab your gardening gloves, fire up the grill, and enjoy all that spring and summer have to offer in your revitalized outdoor oasis!

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Blog Family Fun Homeowner Tips Lifestyle Tips

Fun & Festive Spring Craft Ideas for the Whole Family

 

Spring is in full bloom, and there’s no better time to get creative with your little ones! As the days grow longer and the flowers start to blossom, it’s the perfect season to bring a little color and joy into your home with fun, easy craft projects. Whether you’re looking for a rainy-day activity or a way to enjoy the sunshine together, these spring-inspired crafts are sure to keep your kids entertained while making wonderful memories. Let’s dive into some creative projects you can do right in your Crosswinds home!

1. Handprint Flower Bouquet

Handprint crafts are always a hit with kids, and this one makes for a beautiful keepsake!

What You Need:

  • Colored construction paper
  • Scissors
  • Glue
  • Green pipe cleaners
  • Paint (washable, kid-friendly)
  • Paintbrush

How to Make It:

Have your child dip their hand in paint and press it onto the paper to create flower shapes.

Cut out the handprint flowers once they dry.
Attach green pipe cleaners as stems using glue.

Arrange them in a “bouquet” and place them in a paper vase (you can fold and decorate a small piece of cardstock for this).

This craft is not only fun but also a great way to capture your child’s little hands as a special springtime memory!

2. Egg Carton Caterpillars

Transform an old egg carton into an adorable caterpillar with this simple craft.

What You Need:

  • Egg carton (cut into strips of 4-5 cups)
  • Paint and paintbrushes
  • Googly eyes
  • Pipe cleaners
  • Glue

How to Make It:

Cut an egg carton into a strip of connected cups to form the caterpillar’s body.

Let your child paint each section in bright, fun colors.
Once dry, glue on googly eyes and poke pipe cleaner “antennae” into the first cup.

Draw on a smile with a marker, and your caterpillar is ready to wiggle!

3. DIY Bird Feeders

Springtime brings chirping birds to the neighborhood, so why not make a feeder to welcome them?

What You Need:

  • Toilet paper rolls or pinecones
  • Peanut butter (or sun butter for allergies)
  • Birdseed
  • String or twine

How to Make It:

Spread peanut butter all over the toilet paper roll or pinecone.
Roll it in birdseed until fully coated.

Attach a piece of string so you can hang it outside on a tree or fence.

This is a great way to teach kids about nature while encouraging them to observe the birds in their own backyard.

4. Paper Plate Butterflies

Bring a touch of spring indoors with these colorful butterfly crafts.

What You Need:

  • Paper plates
  • Paint or markers
  • Pipe cleaners
  • Scissors
  • Glue

How to Make It:

Cut a paper plate in half to create butterfly wings.
Let your child paint and decorate each side.

Once dry, glue the two halves together at an angle to form butterfly wings.

Use a pipe cleaner as the body, twisting the ends for antennae.

These bright butterflies can be used as decorations for your home or even turned into a mobile to hang from the ceiling!

5. Spring-Themed Suncatchers

These beautiful suncatchers will brighten up any window in your home!

What You Need:

  • Contact paper
  • Tissue paper (various colors)
  • Scissors
  • Paper frames (cut into shapes like flowers, butterflies, or raindrops)

How to Make It:

Cut out a frame from construction paper (such as a flower or a butterfly outline).

Cut a piece of contact paper and stick it behind the frame.

Let your child place small pieces of colored tissue paper inside the frame to create a stained-glass effect.

Once complete, press another piece of contact paper over it to seal everything in place.

Stick it to a sunny window and watch the colors shine!

Enjoy a Craft-Filled Spring at Crosswinds!

Spring is a season full of life, and there’s no better way to celebrate than by making something creative with your kids. Whether you’re painting, gluing, or getting a little messy, these crafts bring fun and laughter into your home. Plus, they’re a great way to spend quality time together while adding some seasonal charm to your space.

Here at Crosswinds, we know how important family time is, and with so many beautiful outdoor spaces and cozy homes, it’s the perfect community to enjoy spring activities. So grab some craft supplies and start creating—happy crafting! Contact us today to learn more about life at Crosswinds!

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Blog Homeowner Tips Kyle Kyle Texas Lifestyle TX

Breathe New Life Into Your Home: Spring Cleaning for Crosswinds Families

 

As March wraps up and April ushers in the promise of warmer days and blooming landscapes, it’s the perfect time to embrace the age-old tradition of spring cleaning. For families settling into their new homes in the Crosswinds community in Kyle, Texas, this season presents a fantastic opportunity to start fresh, create lasting memories, and breathe new life into your space. With its lush green spaces, walking trails, and family-friendly amenities, Crosswinds is an inspiring backdrop for your springtime renewal.

To help you prepare your home for the season ahead, we’ve compiled practical spring cleaning tips designed to refresh your living space and enhance your comfort. These steps will keep your home sparkling and ensure it’s ready for the joyful gatherings and outdoor adventures that spring brings.

1. Declutter for a Clean Slate

Before diving into scrubbing and polishing, begin by decluttering each room. Moving into a new home often involves bringing items you may no longer need. Use this opportunity to:

  • Sort and Donate: Go through closets, drawers, and storage spaces. Donate gently used clothing, toys, and household items to local charities in Kyle.
  • Purge Expired Goods: Check your pantry, medicine cabinet, and cleaning supplies for expired products. Properly dispose of these items to free up space.
  • Create Organization Systems: Invest in storage bins, drawer dividers, and labels to keep your belongings tidy and easily accessible.

2. Refresh Your Walls and Surfaces

New homes often come with pristine walls, but adding a touch of maintenance can keep them looking fresh for years to come:

  • Dust and Wash Walls: Use a microfiber cloth or a gentle cleaning solution to remove dust and smudges from walls and baseboards.
  • Polish Fixtures: Clean and polish light switches, door handles, and cabinet hardware to restore their shine.
  • Touch-Up Paint: Use leftover paint to make touch-ups for minor scuffs or marks. This keeps your home looking as beautiful as the day you moved in.

3. Deep Clean Carpets and Floors

Floors endure a lot of wear and tear, especially with the excitement of moving in and settling down. Ensure they’re ready for the season:

  • Vacuum Thoroughly: Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter to capture allergens and dust.
  • Steam Clean Carpets: Renting a steam cleaner or hiring a professional can eliminate deep-set dirt and odors.
  • Polish Hard Floors: Use appropriate cleaners to bring back their luster and protect the finish for hardwood or tile.

4. Revitalize Your Kitchen

As the heart of your home, the kitchen deserves extra attention during your spring cleaning:

  • Clean Appliances: Wipe down your refrigerator, oven, microwave, and dishwasher. If possible, clean behind and beneath these appliances.
  • Organize Cabinets: Arrange pantry items, spices, and cookware for easy access. Consider adding shelf liners for added protection.
  • Sanitize Surfaces: Disinfect countertops, sinks, and cutting boards to maintain a hygienic cooking environment.

5. Refresh Bedrooms and Bathrooms

Create relaxing and rejuvenating spaces by giving bedrooms and bathrooms a springtime makeover:

  • Wash Bedding: Launder duvets, comforters, and mattress protectors. Rotate or flip mattresses for even wear.
  • Deep Clean Bathrooms: Scrub tile grout, clean shower heads, and replace old shower curtains or liners.
  • Declutter Vanity Spaces: Organize cosmetics, toiletries, and medicine cabinets. Dispose of expired products and streamline your essentials.

6. Tend to Your Outdoor Spaces

One of the joys of living in Crosswinds is the opportunity to enjoy outdoor living. Prepare your yard and patio for spring:

  • Clean Patio Furniture: Wash outdoor furniture and cushions to remove dust and mildew.
  • Inspect Your Landscape: Trim bushes, mow the lawn, and plant seasonal flowers to enhance curb appeal.
  • Check Outdoor Fixtures: Ensure your sprinkler system, outdoor lights, and grill work well.

Celebrate the Season at Crosswinds

With its vibrant community atmosphere and thoughtfully designed homes, Crosswinds provides the ideal setting for families to thrive. By dedicating time to spring cleaning, you’ll create a welcoming and serene environment where you can fully embrace all this season offers. From hosting neighbors for a barbecue to exploring the nearby trails with your family, a clean and organized home sets the stage for making cherished memories.

So roll up your sleeves, let the sunshine in, and enjoy the fresh start that spring promises. Welcome home to Crosswinds—where new beginnings bloom every day.

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Blog Homebuilder Homeowner Tips Kyle Texas

New Year, New Home: Benefits of Buying in the New Year

The warm and sunny weather compounded with the end of a school year tends to make summer the busiest season for potential home buyers – but don’t discount buying a home in the winter. Buying a home at the start of the new year can have major advantages. 

 

Less Buyer Competition

 

While fewer homes hit the sales market in the winter season, the competition for those homes is significantly less than in the summer. There are a few reasons for this. Many families don’t want to uproot their children from their schools mid-year. People also tend to stay inside more and don’t want the hassle of moving during the coldest months of the year. 

 

This can work to a buyer’s advantage as it means less possibility of a bidding war. With fewer home buyers, sellers may also be more inclined to take a lower offer in order to finalize the sale of a home. 

 

Better Prices

 

Oftentimes, sellers who list their homes during the winter months rather than during the busier summer season are very motivated to sell. Whether the listing is due to a job change or financial reasons, this can work to the buyer’s advantage as the seller may be more flexible on the price because of the smaller buyer market. 

 

Similarly, if a home that was on the market during the summer or fall months still hasn’t sold by the time winter rolls around, it’s very likely the sellers will be highly motivated to sell and drop the price.

 

Realistic Conditions

 

Winter weather elements can be especially harsh on homes. This can work to a buyer’s advantage, however, as it allows them to put a potential home through its paces and see how it handles cold and wet winter weather conditions.

 

Drafty windows and doors will give themselves away during winter months, whereas during the spring and summer, this will be less apparent. If, during a January home visit, the potential home is warm, toasty, and dry, then you can bet it will stay cool during the hot summer months as well. 

 

Faster Closing Times

 

With fewer transactions taking place during the winter months, mortgage companies have lighter workloads. This means that you’re getting packed up, and moved into your new home that much faster. A quicker closing time will make moving less stressful, particularly if you have children who are in school. 

 

Crosswinds Homes at a Glance

 

If you’re looking to move into a new home this winter, then consider Crosswinds. It was thoughtfully designed to offer homeowners all the benefits of a master-planned community, such as extensive amenities, a convenient location in the Texas Hill Country, and a range of home designs, sizes, and price points. 

All of the homes within Crosswinds were constructed by the industry’s leading home builders, using the best building materials and construction practices. If you’re looking to kick off 2025 with a new home, reach out to us today.

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Blog Homeowner Tips Tips

Tidy Up After the Holidays: Tips For Holiday Storage

With the holiday season and another year in the rearview, you might find yourself looking around the house and feeling that some decluttering is needed. Hey, no shame here! It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of the season, only to find yourself knee-deep in shipping boxes, decorations, and general wintertime clutter come January. 

 

Here are a few tips to help you tidy up after the holidays and get your home back in order. 

 

Wrap Up Your Christmas Tree

 

Decorating the Christmas tree is a lot of fun and often a memorable way for families to come together. When it comes to undecorating it though, don’t be surprised if there’s a lack of zeal among your household. 

 

A super simple way to make putting the Christmas tree away a breeze is to just wrap it up. Christmas tree covers allow you to simply throw a specially fitted tarp over your tree, lights and all and put it away for storage. An even cheaper way that reportedly works just as well is wrapping it in saran wrap. If you have fragile ornaments, it’s advised to first remove those. 

 

Smart Storage

 

When it comes to storing holiday decorations, how you go about it makes all the difference. Fragile tree ornaments can be especially tricky to store. A great way to keep them safe is to buy a large plastic storage bin and store each ornament in its own plastic cup or container for extra protection. Just be sure not to overpack the bin. 

 

Nobody likes untangling a ball of Christmas lights that were haphazardly put away the previous year, so store them smartly. Wrap the smaller lights around tightly rolled-up newspapers, and for the larger jumbo lights, take a few stiff pieces of cardboard and cut out a slot on each end to make a spool. 

 

Combine and Reorganize

 

If you are the sort of person who likes to have certain decorations in the same spot year after year, then this is one tip you’ll certainly want to utilize. Consider grouping your decorations by room. 

 

What we mean by that is when you put each of your decorations away in storage, don’t simply label the box “Xmas lights” or “holiday table runners”; also label them by room. “Christmas knick-knacks – living room” or “holiday towels, upstairs guest bath” will help make things easy to find and streamline putting those decorations back on display when the holiday season rolls around again. 

 

Declutter

 

Some holiday decorations are treasured keepsakes that get passed down through generations. Others, however, are lucky if they survive two Christmases. Doing a little bit of decluttering as you put away the decorations will help free up storage space and… (bonus) give you a reason to buy new decorations next year!

 

Assess each decoration for what you want to keep, what is trash, and what is still in decent condition, but you’d rather not hold onto it and donate instead. 

Celebrating the holidays in a home you love makes the season and new year all the more special. If you’re looking to find a new home you can make your own, reach out to the Crosswinds team today.

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Blog Design Homeowner Tips

Transform Your Space: Bold Accent Wall Ideas

Accent walls are a creative way to give a room a unique vibe that makes a bold statement. Here are a few ways to turn a not-so-impressive wall into a centerpiece that grabs the attention of the entire room. 

 

Pops of Color – The idea behind any good accent wall is to act as the room’s focal point, and nothing draws the eye away from three bland walls like a wall that has a pop of color. 

 

When deciding on the accent wall, pick a wall with purpose. The eye should be drawn to it as soon as you enter the room. Choose your color carefully, too, as the color in space impacts mood. If the other three walls are a darker color, then go for a lighter accent wall, and choose a darker color if the other walls are on the lighter side. 

 

Create a Gallery Wall – The art gallery is a classic accent wall idea and functions as the perfect showcase for a person’s personality and creativity. Before you start hammering nails into the wall, consider these tips to create a gallery wall that is cohesive. 

 

  • Begin with a large piece of art to act as an anchor for the wall.
  • Aim for a mix of horizontal and vertical frames to keep things interesting.
  • Mix up your frame colors and styles.
  • Don’t be afraid to blend art styles. An oil landscape painting can live harmoniously beside a framed drawing from your kid.

 

Create a Photo Album Wall – Family photo walls are a great way to display family moments and add a personal touch to the home. Similar to an art gallery wall, a mix of picture sizes and frame styles can work incredibly well, yet photo album walls are a bit more forgiving if you do want all your frames to be the same size and style. 

 

Black and white photo album walls add a classic touch, but color photos are equally as appealing. Even something as simple as draping a ribbon across a wall and using clothespins to hang polaroids can create a playful photo wall with minimal cost. 

 

Wallpaper – Wallpaper trends come and go (which can be frustrating if you’ve ever tried to remove it), but if you’re curious about it and don’t want to commit to a full room, an accent wall is a perfect compromise. 

 

Using wallpaper for an accent wall creates a striking focal point that adds depth, personality, and visual interest to any room. Peel and stick versions of wallpaper are available in thousands of styles and are easy to apply. 

 

Shelving and Lighting – If space is a commodity, then creating an accent wall with shelving is a great way to kill two birds with one stone. Floating shelves create visual appeal and add an element of storage space to a room. They can also be a fun way to showcase anything from art to family photos, memorabilia, or house plants. 

 

Similarly, wall lights are a wonderful way to completely transform a room and compliment the space’s design or furnishings. 

 

A home should be more than just a place where you live, but is an expression of who you are.

If you’re in search of your dream home, contact the Crosswinds team today.

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Blog Homeowner Tips

Autumn Essentials: Leaf Maintenance Tips

As the leaves begin to fall from the trees, it’s important for homeowners to spend some time cleaning up for a healthy yard come spring. 

 

Here are a few autumn essentials when it comes to keeping your yard looking good. 

 

The Right Tools for the Job

 

Whether it’s spring clean-up, summer maintenance, or fall prep, having the right yard tools for the job makes all the difference. When it comes to fall yard work, there’s one tool that is an absolute must – a rake. In regards to rakes, the old adage “bigger is better” applies. A rake with a larger spread will allow you to grab more leaves with each stroke. Chances are that your local hardware store will have a variety to choose from. 

 

Another popular fall yard tool is the leaf blower. Leaf blowers tend to come in both electrical, battery-operated, and gas-powered varieties. Because they can be loud and kick up a lot of dust, it’s a good idea to wear both ear protection and a dust respirator to guard your ears and lungs. 

 

Rake Like a Pro

 

If you have a lot of trees on your property then you’re going to want to use some strategy with your leaf raking. Rather than filling up 20 or 30 giant garbage bags with leaves, consider using a Bagster or a large tarp. This will allow you to easily drag the leaves to the curb or your compost pile for fresh garden compost in the spring. Work smarter, not harder, as the saying goes. 

 

The Final Mow

 

Before you retire your mower to the shed for the winter, be sure to give your lawn one final mow. You’ll want to wait until nearly all of the leaves have fallen off the trees, you’re finished raking, and your grass goes dormant. This typically happens around late November or early December. 

 

Set your mower height a bit lower than you normally would in the summer – around 2.5–3 inches. This height won’t weaken the root system and will help the nutrients from leaf decomposition better get into the soil. 

 

Don’t Neglect the Roof

 

It’s not just the lawn that needs some leaf maintenance in the fall; your gutters and roof will probably need some attention, too. Leaves that remain on a roof can trap water and contribute to ice that leads to roof deterioration. It’s a good idea to blow the leaves off the roof (or hire somebody if you don’t like heights) once they’ve fallen from the trees. 

 

The same goes for gutters, too. They should be cleaned out of leaves and twigs to allow the water to flow out of the gutters without blockage during winter months. 

 

Prune and Trim

 

Last but not least, you may want to prune any out-of-control or dead tree branches once the leaves have fallen off. Especially if they hang over your house. Fallen tree branches due to strong storm winds can do serious damage to a roof, and the best defense against costly roof repairs is a good offense. 

A good-looking yard can make a beautiful home look that much better. If you’re in the market for a new home, reach out to us to learn more about the master-planned Crosswinds community.

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Design Homeowner Tips Lifestyle

Small Details, Stunning Spaces: Easy Ways to Revamp Your Home

Revamping your living space or even a single room can be a great way to refresh the interior of your home. If you’re not sure where to start, here are a few ideas that will never go out of style. 

 

Get Green

 

There’s a certain something that is naturally rejuvenating about having plants and flowers in your home (even the fake ones). Plants can fit any room, big or small, but choosing the right plant for the right part of the room makes all the difference. For example, a potted tree can work great in a large living area but would likely be out of place in a small home office. 

 

Play around with different heights and sizes of the plants you’re considering, and try arranging them in different clusters for balance. 

 

If you’re apprehensive about having to remember to water a plant long-term, consider the occasional bouquet of flowers. The Kyle Flower Shop offers a range of floral bouquets that will add a splash of color to any room. 

 

Get Artsy

 

Every home should have art in it. Art makes for a unique talking point with guests and provides you, the homeowner, a way to express yourself. 

 

If you’re unsure how to go about finding what you like, consider visiting a few local art galleries to get an idea of what grabs your attention. The Inspired Minds Art Center in Buda is a great place to start, as it has rotating exhibits, community art events, and even classes if you’d prefer to make your own artwork!

 

By checking out different art galleries and festivals, you’ll discover an endless world of painting styles, unique sculptures, glasswork, and art mediums that defy convention. Who knows, you may just find that perfect painting from a local artist that gives your space a whole new vibe. 

 

What’s Old Becomes New

 

If you’re looking to give your space a new look, why not consider something old? Antiques have been having a moment for about the last 50 years, and that popularity doesn’t appear to be fading anytime soon. 

 

Of course, a common misconception is that antiques can’t be mixed with modern style. That’s not true; it’s all about finding a balance. Check out the Kyle Flea Market on a Saturday or Sunday, and you’re bound to see numerous antiques that have been refurbished and repurposed with new upholstery, paint, or stain to give them a look that’s both vintage and fresh. 

 

Candles

 

A good candle can find a home in just about any room. Whether you opt for small or large, single candles or a grouping, scented or unscented, the warm glow of candles adds an extra bit of coziness to any interior space.

 

If you’re looking for that next perfect candle for your home or to give as a gift, consider checking out local candle shop Ava & Addi for a selection of premium hand-poured soy wax candles. 

 

Show Off the Family

 

A wall dedicated to photos of loved ones and family memories is a wonderful way to make use of hallways and stairwells inside the home. A large family portrait can also make for a striking visual centerpiece for living rooms and dining rooms. 

 

If you’re looking for a professional-quality portrait of your family, consider contacting local photographer Amanda Lynn, who specializes in family photos of all types. 

The homes within the Crosswinds community were designed with comfort and style in mind, making the interiors the perfect palette for each homeowner’s unique style. Contact our team to learn more.

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Blog Homeowner Tips Lifestyle

Summer Survival Guide: Hacks to Stay Chill and Save Energy

We’re nearing the dog days of summer, which means it’s hot out. Not that it hasn’t been hot for the past six weeks already, but at this point, Central Texas might as well be on the sun. 

 

Don’t sweat it, though; finding ways to keep cool without adding zeros to the energy bill just takes a little strategy. 

 

Thermostat and Energy Efficiency

 

There’s no getting around not using your air conditioner in Texas, but aim to set it as high as you can and still feel relatively comfortable during the hottest hours of the day (2 to 5 PM). Increasing the inside temperature of your home by just 1oF in the summer months can lower your energy bill by as much as 10 percent. 

 

Another thing to consider if you’re in the market for a new appliance in the summer is buying one with a good energy star rating. This will also help lower your summer utility bills.

 

Garage Hacks

 

Garages can trap a lot of heat during the summer. One way of removing some of that heat is installing some ventilation in your garage’s ceiling (remember, hot air rises). If your garage has windows, consider adding a reflective material to help radiate the sun’s rays outward rather than inward. 

 

Another simple trick is to wait a few hours before putting your car back in the garage after returning home. A car’s engine can hold onto heat for a long time, and taking your vehicle straight into the garage will only bring that heat with it. 

 

Outdoors and Watering

 

If you spend any time at all out on the porch or deck during the summer and it’s not covered, buying an umbrella for shade is paramount. 

 

And when it comes to watering your grass or flower beds, do this either in the morning or in the evening just before sunset. This will help to reduce the amount of water that is evaporated by the hot sun. It’s also a good idea to water plants at the base, rather than watering them directly on their leaves or flowers. 

 

Keep Things Cool Inside

 

One of the biggest challenges is keeping the inside of the home cool, but there are lots of small things homeowners can do that make a big difference. 

 

  • Close your blinds on the side of the house that gets the most sunlight
  • Adjust ceiling fans to ensure they are pushing cool air downward (counter-clockwise)
  • Close doors of rooms that aren’t in use. This helps trap cool air in the room
  • If you’re still using incandescent light bulbs, switch to LED, as they give off less heat
  • Buy a cooling pillow or mattress topper
  • Seal off any window cracks that might be letting cool air out and hot air in

 

One of the best things about the homes within the Crosswinds community is that they were all constructed by the industry’s leading home builders, using the best building materials and construction practices. This means a cooler home in the summer and a warmer home in the winter. 

If you’d like to find your dream home in the Crosswinds community, reach out to us today.

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Refresh and Renew: Spring Cleaning Tips for Your Home

The flowers are blooming, leaves are covering tree branches once again, and your home… well, it could probably use a little spring cleaning. After months of winter hibernation, putting a springtime sheen on your home can feel a bit overwhelming. 

 

Thankfully, spring cleaning doesn’t have to be a chore that devours your entire weekend. Here are some tips to make spring cleaning your Crosswinds home easy and painless.

 

Declutter First

 

Before you pull out the mop and furniture polish, work on getting rid of all that “stuff” that’s been piling up since last December. This will help you to see better those neglected areas that really need a thorough cleaning, and it will also help to free up storage space. 

 

Separate stuff into three piles: keep, donate, and trash. Don’t be afraid to be honest with yourself. If it’s something that you haven’t used in years, then pass it on to somebody else in the donate pile or chuck it in the garbage if it’s not worth salvaging. 

 

Get the Kids Involved

 

If you have kids in the house, then you know they’re responsible for their share of the dirt and grime that finds its way into your home. Bring the kids in on the cleaning action – just be sure that you assign them tasks that they’re capable of handling. 

 

Small kids often enjoy helping and are great with sorting old clothes and toys or wiping down tables and chairs. If you have older children, you may want to assign them a certain room to clean and incentivize them with a trip to the ice cream parlor after the chores are finished. 

 

Work Room to Room

 

There are two ways of looking at how to organize the spring cleaning – prioritize the rooms that get the most use, or prioritize those rooms that are the messiest. Whichever way you choose, tackling one room at a time will help with efficiency. 

 

If you aim for those rooms that get a lot of use (the bedrooms, bathrooms, living room), then start with things like washing the linens and blankets or scrubbing the toilet before moving on to areas like cleaning the baseboards or tub. 

 

If your goal is to finally tackle those messy areas like a cluttered garage or attic in chaos, then reread the declutter section above and good luck!

 

Don’t Forget the Little Stuff

 

Spring cleaning is the perfect time to focus on those areas of the home that may not get cleaned as often as other spots. A few tasks that you may want to prioritize include: 

 

  • Dusting ceiling fans
  • Shampoo rugs
  • Reseal grout lines in tubs or countertops
  • Spot clean upholstered furnishings
  • Polish wooden furniture like bookshelves and dining tables
  • Wash window screens
  • Dust light fixtures
  • Defrost the freezer

 

Keep Everything Organized

 

Once you’ve checked off everything on your spring cleaning list, some simple organization will help keep clutter down and make routine cleaning that much easier. Utilizing hooks, baskets, and containers can tame even the most out-of-control pantry, and flat storage bins that can slide under beds will free up closet space. 

If at the top of your spring to-do list is to find your dream home, then check out the available inventory of homes in the master-planned Crosswinds community and reach out to us today.