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Category: Lifestyle

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Area Attractions Lifestyle

New Businesses Adding Jobs and Generating Tax Revenue for Kyle

Many people move to Kyle for the small-town lifestyle that puts them close enough to Austin and its resources. Residents will now have the opportunity to find work right in their own backyards.

NorthPoint Development Project Begins

Kyle Economic Development and the NorthPoint Development recently held a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate new businesses setting up shop at the Plum Creek Industrial Center on 19200 Marketplace Ave. in Kyle.

The new businesses that will open in this center include the following:

  • American HVAC Metals Supply Inc.
  • Lanter Delivery Systems
  • Outer Aisle Gourmet
  • Plastikon
  • Viking Supply Net
  • And a to be named business

The development is on 935,000 sq. ft. of land and expects to create 1,000 new jobs and generate more than $800,000 of annual tax revenue for the city of Kyle. This location is one minute from I-35 Frontage Road.

Austin Is Tops in the Best Place in the World to Relocate

It’s not an exaggeration to say the Austin market is hot. An international relocation report from Money in the U.K. has named Austin the best place on the planet to relocate. The researchers looked at everything from the cost of living to housing prices and average internet speeds and life expectancy.

Other factors they looked at include the following:

  • Average annual temperatures
  • Average property price
  • Number of restaurants
  • Number of green spaces

Yes, Austin is No. 1 in the world, ranking ahead of Tokyo, Paris, and Rome. It’s also the only place in Texas to make the list containing 84 international locations. It turns out Austin has the third-best internet speed out of all the cities in the ranking. The Live Music Capital also scored high on average temperature and average monthly salaries.

Not only that but also Austin is emerging to be the tech hub of America. More jobs, affordable living, a small-town lifestyle. You can get all this and more right here in Kyle.

To stay on top of great resources from Kyle and nearby, connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. Looking to move? Meet the Kyle home builders or contact our Crosswinds team.

Categories
Area Attractions Lifestyle

Texas Makes the List of Hardest Working States in America

Personal finance website WalletHub has published a new study that puts Texas at No. 5 among the hardest-working states. The other four states are Alaska, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Nebraska. Texas definitely has the warmest temperatures out of this group!

How WalletHub Did the Math

How did WalletHub come up with ranks? The website compared the 50 states on 10 key indicators. These include the number of hours worked in a week, the number of workers with multiple jobs, and the yearly number of volunteer hours per resident.

Texas’s average number of workweek hours puts it in fourth. Texas also ranks high in the number of engaged workers (No. 5) and the number of workers who don’t use their vacation time (No. 11). Texas ranks 14th for commute time and 26th for unemployment.

The study looks at two key dimensions: “Direct work factors” and “indirect work factors.” Direct factors include average workweek hours, employment rate, the share of households where the adults don’t work, unused vacation time, engaged workers, and idle youth.

Indirect factors include commute time, number of works with more than one job, yearly volunteer hours, and leisure time spent each day.

Governor Praises Texas Job Surge

Texas Governor Greg Abbott has issued a statement about Texas’s job growth.

“The Texas economy is booming. Businesses are investing in the Lone Star State at a record pace because we’ve built a framework that allows free enterprise to flourish and hardworking Texans to prosper,” says Governor Abbott.

“The June jobs report shows that our young, growing, and skilled workforce has forged a diversified and resilient economy, with Texas employers adding back more than 1.1 million jobs since the end of April 2020, the peak pandemic impact on jobs. That surge in hiring continues today with as many jobs posted on TWC’s job sites as Texans looking for work. I encourage every Texan looking for new or better employment to use the free job matching resources available to them from TWC, because Texas works when Texans work.”

To stay on top of great resources from Kyle and nearby, connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. Looking to move? Contact our Crosswinds team.

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Area Attractions Homebuilder Lifestyle

The Austin Housing Market Is Hot

Exciting news! A WalletHub study has ranked Austin in the top 10 in multiple categories. One of those is the No. 2 spot on WalletHub’s Best Places to Buy a House list. And Austin takes the top spot for large cities with hot real estate markets. This hot market extends beyond Austin city limits as the housing market data in the region also shows demand is soaring.

Central Texas Market Is Hopping

The Austin Board of Realtors’ Market Statistics report shows the volume of homes sold in June has set records. Part of this stems from the pandemic changing buyer preferences. With more people working from home, buyers want reliable broadband access, a home office, and flexible working and living spaces. Because of their staying home more, they’re looking to suburban areas to find homes with more square footage and outdoor space.

A Community Impact article states that the Central Texas market has been flying since the middle of 2020 according to realtors and economists. It also credits telework with the boom as remote workers move away from expensive cities where they no longer have a commute.

New Homes in Kyle, Texas

Are you in the market for a new home with easy access to Austin in a quiet place? Come check out Kyle, a small town just 20 miles from downtown Austin and 15 miles from shoppers’ paradise in San Marcos. Be warned that the new home inventory in Kyle’s Crosswinds community goes fast.

CoreLogic states the Austin housing prices have surged almost 33 percent from August 2020. As of October, the median price of a new home is $408,350 in Kyle. This is cheaper than Austin’s median sales price of $470,000. A new home only lasts 25 days on the market before it’s bought, so anyone interested in Kyle, TX homes will want to move fast.

The new homes in Crosswinds range from 1,500 sq. ft. to 2,250 sq. ft. Residents will be able to play, swim, and enjoy the trails at the Windy Point amenity center. The trails connect to the amenity center and pool, a kids’ playscape, and an open playfield. The community dog park also gives fur babies a place to run around and play.

Many places are located within 30 minutes from Kyle. And anytime you’re ready to travel a little further, Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (ABIA) is an easy drive from Kyle.

Residents choose Kyle for the small-town lifestyle while being close enough to Austin to take advantage of its offerings. Even businesses know the value of living in Kyle as Lowe’s, Amazon, Tesla, and others have or plan to move to Kyle and the Austin area.

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Amenities Area Attractions Events Family Fun Lifestyle

Celebrate Halloween 2021 in Kyle

Halloween | Crosswinds | Kyle, Texas

One of the most fun days of the year is coming! Who doesn’t love a good Halloween with costumes and candy galore? The City of Kyle has scared up a few family-friendly October Festivities you’ll want to check out!

October Contests

The City of Kyle has multiple contests happening throughout October. Be aware that none of the contests give a deadline. They do list the dates the winner will receive a notification. The contest information section has a contact person you can reach out to confirm the deadlines.

The next contest coming up is the pumpkin carving and decorating contest. You’ll submit a photo of the completed pumpkin. Yard decorating and costume contests are also available.

Halloween Movie at the Lake

This free event takes place tomorrow, October 15 at Lake Kyle (700 Lehman Rd., Kyle, TX 78640). At sundown, they will show “The Addams Family.”

Center Street Trick or Treat

On Saturday, October 23 from 9 am to 12 pm, the businesses on Center St. invite you and your family to trick-or-treat. These local businesses and organizations will have tents and tables at City “Scare” Park aka Mary Kyle Hartson City Square Park at 101 S. Burleson Rd. It’ll be a fun afternoon of treats with a costume contest.

The costume contest judging takes place at 10 am and the pumpkin decorating contest judging is at 11:30 am. They’ll have 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place for three different age groups.

Most businesses will hand out candy and host activities. Food and drink vendors will be on site and some will sell children’s items.

We hope you have a “bootiful” Halloween!

To stay on top of great resources from Kyle and nearby, connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. Looking to move? Explore more at Crosswinds, take a look at the amenities! or contact our Crosswinds team.

 

 

Categories
Area Attractions Homebuilder Lifestyle

Here are 4 Reasons to Buy a New Home in Kyle, Texas

Looking for a new home near Austin, but in a quieter place with all the charms of small-town living? Come check out Kyle, Texas. You’ll find everything you need to love living and playing in this town is just 20 miles from downtown Austin.

Here are the top four reasons to buy a new home in Kyle, TX.

  1. Live in a Home Built by Carefully-Selected Homebuilders

Selecting Kyle homebuilders to build the homes in Crosswind’s community was the most important thing our team did. We wanted every single resident to get the high-quality home they wanted. Another factor we took in consideration is that everyone has their own tastes and styles. In choosing these builders, we ensured that they specialize in the style you want for yours. Whichever builder you choose, you can count on them to construct a home for you as if it was their own.

Our builders have experience in designing homes for the Texas Hill Country. Designing a home in East Texas requires a different approach than one in the Texas Hill Country. The elements, the environment, and the land are different. These builders architect homes designed to work with what nature offers.

  1. Enjoy Amenities Right Inside the Community

The most important community amenity is one that no builder can buy or build. That’s the natural beauty of the Texas prairies that attract the area’s first explorers and citizens. Crosswinds’ landscape architects worked with the land to bring out its best features while creating a community for families that brings everyone and the outdoors together.

The best amenities are all about the outdoors. The Cove, the community pool complex, is shaded by the live oak trees. The little ones can splash around the wading pool. And adults will relish the peacefulness of sitting by the pool covered by shade. The community intersects with an extensive trail system that allows you to walk along Onion Creek under the live oaks.

The community also features a hall that’s great for gatherings, play dates, or toasting your neighbors. And finally, residents can enjoy a fresh cup of gourmet coffee or tea by stopping at Le Muse Coffee. They also have amazing tacos and a porch with seating.

  1. Gain the Best of Both Worlds Location-wise

Austin is a fun city with so many things to experience. Still, some people would rather live in a quieter place that’s close enough to Austin for an easy trip. Kyle offers the best of both worlds. You gain everything you’ve wanted that comes with living in a smaller town and yet you have easy access to Austin.

  1. Be the First to Live in the New Home

You won’t have to worry about damage from previous ownership. You’re the first one to live in the home. It’ll be in great shape. Most homes tend to be under warranty. The length depends on the builder.

These four reasons are the biggest reasons residents buy a new home in Kyle. Of course, there’s more. Browse this blog to discover all Kyle has to offer!

If you’d like to learn more about new homes in Kyle, please contact our Crosswinds team. To stay on top of great resources from Kyle and nearby, connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

 

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Education Homebuilder Lifestyle

5 Top Tax Benefits of Buying a New Home You Need to Know About

Searching for a new home in Kyle is a wonderful adventure. That ideal home and all its possibilities await you out there somewhere. Buying a new home, no doubt, is one of the most memorable times in a person’s life. And it will increase your net worth for all its worth and other advantages.

Here are the top tax benefits of owning a home.

  1. Deduct Interest on Your Mortgage

Homeowners will be able to deduct the interest they pay on their mortgage. Be aware that this applies to home financing that’s under $750k. if you’re shopping for a home in Kyle, Texas, you’re most likely to gain the full benefit of this. One of the reasons people love living in Kyle is for its affordability.

Any interest you pay as part of the closing costs associated with the purchase will be deductible. You can usually find this information on the settlement sheet. Prior to tax time, your lender will send IRS Form 1098 to you. This shows all the money you’ve paid in interest on your loan for the past year.

  1. Deduct Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI)

Private mortgage insurance is often required for buyers who put down less than 20 percent of the value of their home. Its purpose is to protect the mortgage lender in the event the buyer quits making payments toward the loan.

Just like the ability to deduct interest that you pay on a mortgage, you can also deduct the amount you pay for private mortgage insurance. It can slightly reduce the financial burden for those who can’t put down 20 percent.

  1. Deduct Property Taxes

Homeowners can deduct up to $10k per year on property taxes. You may pay property taxes either through your lender or municipality. In both cases, it’s critical to keep financial records of the amounts you paid for the year. You can save thousands of dollars when deducting property taxes.

  1. Deduct Home Office Space

With many people getting to switch to remote working thanks to the pandemic, this will be a new benefit. People who work from home can deduct the square footage of the space used as an office. You can also deduct resources you use to conduct business such as computers, printer toner, and webcams.

To prevent the abuse of this deduction, the IRS caps this to 300 sq. ft. This is one where a tax professional is your best bet to ensure you optimize this deduction while following the rules.

  1. Deductions for First-Time Buyers

Homebuyers sometimes take out money from their IRA to put toward their down payment. However, the IRS often imposes a 10 percent penalty for withdrawing from an IRA before 59-and-a-half years old. The good news is that anyone who has never owned a principal residence in the past year may be able to withdraw up to $10k without penalty, or $20k for married couples.

You can use this method when buying a home for a family member. Be aware that any funds you withdraw from your IRA need to be used within four months of the withdrawal.

Don’t let the homebuying process daunt you. There are people who can help you. Ask them about these tax benefits. Good luck with your home search.

To stay on top of great resources from Kyle and nearby, connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. Looking to move? Explore the inventory of new homes in Kyle or contact our Crosswinds team.

 

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Amenities Area Attractions Events Family Fun Lifestyle

Why Is Buying a New Home in Kyle Better Than in Austin?

Austin is one of the coolest and quirkiest cities in the U.S. People love it for its music venues, booming tech scene, diversity of entertainment, some of the best BBQ in the U.S., and Bat City. “Keep Austin weird” is a celebrated moniker and for good reason.

And of course, when you stroll along Sixth Street, you’ll encounter a lot of college students from the University of Texas at Austin and other colleges.

Here are the reasons why buying a new home in Kyle may be a better option than in Austin.

  1. Affordability

In the last decade, Austin has grown massively popular. Along with that comes soaring median housing prices. Many area real estate agents say happy homeowners love the affordable homes and lifestyle in Kyle. You can find a brand new house in the Crosswinds community in Kyle starting in the mid-$200s.

Property taxes are another advantage of living in Kyle. The city has recently reduced the property tax rate by 4 percent as Fox 7 Austin reports.

  1. Quieter Small-Town Lifestyle

With Austin being a quick trek away, Kyle residents relish the small-town lifestyle. They can go to Austin anytime they want to take advantage of its many offerings. Besides, more businesses have moved close to Kyle, some of which are big wigs like Lowe’s Kyle, Amazon’s Kyle facility, Tesla, and ENF Technology U.S. headquarters.

  1. Location

Kyle is located only 20 miles from downtown Austin. Additionally, many of the places you want to visit are located within 30 minutes from Kyle. And you can fly to many places, even international destination, from Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (ABIA).

Kyle citizens love to visit Austin and find a happy medium by living on the outskirts of Austin. They’re close enough to take advantage of Austin’s incredible resources and entertainment.

These are not the only reasons, but they’re the biggest reasons Kyle residents share. Browse this blog and you’ll see all that Kyle has to offer! Besides, you cannot find a community like Crosswinds in Austin.

The landscape architects of Crosswinds worked to preserve the natural beauty of the Texas prairies that captivated the area’s first explorers. At the same time, the landscape architects wanted to design a community for families that brings everyone and the outdoors together.

To stay on top of great resources from Kyle, connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. Looking to move? Explore the inventory of new homes in Kyle or contact our Crosswinds team.

 

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Area Attractions Lifestyle

Kyle, Texas Real Estate Market Heats up in 2021

The Austin Board of Realtors (ABoR) has released its Central Texas Housing Market Report. It provides an overview of the housing market data in the region for the Austin-Round Rock Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA). This area includes Austin, and the counties of Bastrop, Caldwell, Hays, Travis, and Williamson. Kyle is in Hays county and part of the hot San Marcos-Buda-Kyle market.

The latest edition from December 2020 indicates Austin-Round Rock MSA has closed 2020 with a record-breaking $17 billion housing market. Housing demand has soared to an all-time high in Central Texas. In December, residential home sales rocketed more than 16 percent year-over-year.

Why Central Texas Real Estate Is Heating up

According to Susan Horton, 2021 ABoR president, it’s an unprecedented time for the housing market. It turns out the pandemic increased demand for all housing in the region that inventory is near-zero. “That said, if you are ready to buy a home, now is the time to take advantage of low interest rates that boost your buying power and plant roots in Central Texas,” Horton says.

What could be driving the demand for housing in Austin-Round Rock MSA? Former Chief Economist for the Texas Real Estate Research Center Dr. James Gaines believes the demand is a combination of economic growth and higher consumer buying power. It’s also driven by population growth, employment gains, lifestyle changes, and low-interest rates.

“The pandemic fostered an environment where many families increased personal savings helping some transition from renting to ownership while others needed to ‘move up’ for more space while working from home,” Gaines says.

What Hays County Data Reveals

At close to 24 percent, the San Marcos-Buda-Kyle market is showing a stronger year-over-year growth than the average for all of Austin-Round Rock MSA. Why is it hot? Many new businesses are moving into new commercial developments that have sprung up in Kyle. The city is more affordable than Austin and still within an easy drive. Those that are flocking south of Austin tend to be of a younger demographic seeking affordability without sacrificing lifestyle and activities nearby. Numerous new eateries, local shopping and wineries have popped-up in the Kyle and Buda area—making it the next place to be.

The average day on the market for a home in Hays County is 40 days. The number of active listings has dropped but the number of new listings has gone up a little bit. If you’re shopping for a home in Kyle, Texas, be sure to visit the community’s website often for new listings.

To stay on top of great resources from Kyle, connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. Looking to move? Explore the inventory of new homes in Kyle or contact our Crosswinds team

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Amenities Design Lifestyle

What Real Estate Agents Say About This Kyle Community

Searching for a master-planned community near Austin that’s amazing, affordable, and filled with amenities? Discover Crosswinds and its idyllic setting near major thoroughfares. When you live in Crosswinds, you’re just 20 miles from Austin City Limits.

This exciting Kyle community showcases master-planned amenities including the Windy Point Amenity Center, which features a resort-style pool and splash pad, shading with seating, gathering area around the fireplace, BBQ grills and picnic benches, and playground equipment.

Outdoor lovers and exercisers will have access to many community trails and sidewalks. The area contains plenty of open spaces for flying kites and playing soccer. A dog park and playing fields are in the works.

We admit it. We’re a tad biased. So, check out what real estate agents say about Crosswinds in Kyle, Texas.

Atoosa Ponsford, RE/MAX Posh Properties

Atoosa learned about Crosswinds from friends and families. She checked out the community and the first thing people talk about are the affordable homes. “Anyone we talk to in Crosswinds, they are always so cheerful, so happy, they just love the community, so that makes my clients feel like this can be their future home,” she says.

Linda Villanueva, Coldwell Banker Realty

According to Linda, Kyle is a growing community, which makes it a valuable investment for first-home and move-up buyers. When she thinks of the high quality of homes and value for your investment, Crosswinds is one of the first communities that comes to her mind.

Briana Farris, Keller Williams Realty

Briana’s favorite thing about the beautiful Crosswinds community is the amenities it offers. This includes the Windy Point Amenity Center with a pool and splash area as well as park areas and nature trails. Moreover, the community features three award-winning builders with a variety of floorplans.

Brittney Heffernan, David Brodsky Properties

The location, the layout of the community, the builder selection, and community events makes Crosswinds one of Brittney’s favorite communities in the Kyle and Buda area. The location makes it easy to access the different areas of Austin. She also says Crosswinds’ builder and developer partnership is perfect.

Crosswinds in Kyle offers easy access to employment and endless getaway possibilities around the Texas Hill Country. “So, if you’re looking for a place to call home, make it Crosswinds,” says Brandon Holley, a real estate agent with Superior Town and Country Realty. “The decision should be easy as pie.”

Connect with our Crosswinds community team on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter or browse the inventory of new homes in Kyle.

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Area Attractions Lifestyle Uncategorized

Things to Do That Are Social Distance-Friendly and Support Kyle Businesses

Texas is slowly reopening businesses but still asks everyone to do our part to stop the spread by staying home, keeping our distance, and wear masks. Even with these restrictions, you can still support local Kyle businesses during this time. Here’s a list of things you can do that are social distance-friendly and support Kyle businesses.

 

Stay Healthy and Strong

Many local gyms have switched to online workouts and coaching. CrossFit Hays has been posting workouts and motivation on its Facebook page. They’ve been scheduling live workouts on Zoom and Twitch. Orangetheory Fitness Kyle has live sessions with their coaches and they’ve been posting at-home workouts.

Soul Yoga PC is holding online yoga classes. They suggest a donation of $5 to $10 for class. They’re also sharing links to yoga videos. TAG’s World Gymnastics has inspirational posts and videos of incredible gymnastic performances. They’re offering private sessions for $10 for a 30-minute conditioning lesson. Want healthy meals? Weusi Wellness has free curbside pickups. Their Facebook page lists the current menu.

 

Order a Delicious Meal

Per Gov. Abbott’s Phase One to Open Texas protocols, restaurants can open at 25 percent capacity starting on May 1. You can continue ordering curbside pickup and delivery from many local restaurants. Even EVO Entertainment is serving up food and cocktails like the Fiesta Boozy Magonada. Craving pies and casseroles? The Texas Pie Company is your go-to source.

Yearning for Texas food? Get your Tex-Mex fix at Garcia’s Restaurant. For BBQ, call Milt’s Pit BBQ or order online. Be sure to visit their Facebook page to verify they haven’t sold out for the day. Vietnamese restaurant Pho Thaison offers online ordering, curbside pick-up, and delivery.

Are you in need of grocery items? Ilario’s has four DIY hearty home packages. You can order the basics or an Italian kit. Want a home meal replacement that you can heat at home? Hays City Store can help. Or you can order from the menu. While the theater’s reopening is up in the air, you can enjoy food from Sylver Spoon by ordering takeout or delivery.

 

Play Old-Fashioned Board and Card Games

Many families are taking a break from electronics by playing board and card games or doing jigsaw puzzles. You can order games online or from Kyle Walmart and Target for pick up.

 

Get Fresh Air at the City Park

Kyle city parks are open. Although city crews regularly sanitize amenities, they encourage visitors to bring their own hand sanitizer and practice social distancing. 

 

Take Online Classes

Is there something you’ve been wanting to learn? Perhaps, how to bake and decorate a cake? A new programming language? Maybe earn professional certification in your field or a new field. You can find a wealth of free classes online. 

Don’t forget Kyle Public Library. They have ebooks and audiobooks that you can download. You can explore your family history, learn a foreign language through Duolingo, and read accurate resources related to history and science. Many of these resources require a login to access. It’s free for Kyle residents.

 

Go Golfing

Yes, there’s something you can do outside of your home. Plum Creek Golf Course is open. You can schedule your tee time online. The golf course is following CDC social distancing guidelines. 

Unless you live with your playing partner, they ask everyone to ride their golf carts alone. All carts are disinfected before and after each use. On the putting green. the cup has a spacer to prevent the ball from going into the hole. It allows you to pick up the ball without touching anything.

For more ideas, connect with our Crosswinds community team on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. Want to look at new homes in Kyle? You can safely tour the homes virtually on the Crosswinds website. 

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