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Family Fun Lifestyle

Louie’s BBQ in Buda Relocated from Downtown Austin

In Texas, we take our barbecue very seriously, and we’re so excited to announce that a South Congress barbecue hot spot has made its way south of Austin. Louie’s BBQ in Buda opened in early 2019 near our master-planned community in Kyle. Here’s a bit more information on Louie’s and why we think it might be the best-kept barbecue secret in Austin.

 louie's bbq in buda, crosswinds, kyle, tx, south austin, master-planned community in kyle
(Image via Facebook.com)

About Louie’s BBQ

Run by husband and wife, Luis and Amy Vasquez, Louie’s BBQ in Buda was born out of a love for cooking and entertaining. Luis Vasquez was an insurance adjuster for more than 16 years before discovering his passion for food. After seven years of cooking for family and friends and two years of catering, Luis was able to purchase his trailer and open the BBQ joint to the public in 2017.

Moving to Buda, TX

The barbecue spot first opened at a place on South Congress Avenue, but in late 2018 Louie’s BBQ decided it was time to head south, to Buda, TX. Luis Vasquez felt the Austin trailer and barbecue scene were getting a bit saturated, and Saint Elmo Public Market is set to open at the same South Congress address in October. The owners were proactive about moving and saw an opportunity to help get Buda on the barbecue map.

 Mexican-BBQ Fusion

Louie’s BBQ in Buda has coined the phrase “Mexican-BBQ fusion,” and the menu is full of unique combinations coupled with traditional barbecue favorites. From the seasoned brisket coated in Louie’s signature rub to the tasty tacos and fresh street corn, each menu item is packed full of mouthwatering goodness. If they’re still available, Louie’s sensational stuffed potatoes are a crowd favorite, topped with signature brisket or pulled pork straight from the custom-built BBQ pit. If you love Louie’s BBQ and want it at your next event, you’re in luck because they cater.

Is your mouth watering yet? Louie’s BBQ in Buda is open Tuesday – Saturday from 11am until they sell out for the day. We recommend going early and coming hungry! You can stay up to date with daily availability and truck by following Louie’s on Facebook. You can also connect with our master-planned community in Kyle on FacebookInstagram and Twitter. If you’d like to learn more about our new homes in Kyle, TX, contact Crosswinds today.

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Homebuilder

Fall in Love with a New Home at Crosswinds this February

Are you and your family looking to fall in love with a new home at Crosswinds this February? Crosswinds has new homes now available from three remarkable homebuilders! Here are a few of the available homes that are sure to make you fall in love.

Highland Homes

Highland Homes offers the perfect foundation for your growing family, featuring new homes across both our 50’ and 60’ lots. In a new home from Highland Homes at Crosswinds, the focus is on fostering an environment that encourages your family to connect with the outdoors and engage with your community. As of February 14, Highland Homes has 10 homes that are move-in ready.

128 Headwind Way

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  • Available now
  • Glenhurst Plan
  • 1,849 square feet
  • 3 bedrooms
  • 2 bathrooms
  • $286,866

Meritage Homes

With Meritage Homes, not only do you get a beautiful new home, but you also get energy-efficient features and home automation! Every new home from Meritage Homes offers the M-Connected Home Automation Suite, which means you can control everything from the thermostat to the lock on the front door, entirely from your phone. New Meritage homes are going quickly at Crosswinds! As of February 14, there are only two available for move-in.

762 Nautical Loop

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  • Available now
  • Palermo floorplan
  • 2,452 square feet
  • 4 bedrooms
  • 5 bathrooms
  • $259,990

Pacesetter Homes

Our third and final builder, Pacesetter Homes, creates unique homes suitable for a variety of lifestyles. With Pacesetter Homes at Crosswinds, you and your family will find versatile floorplans crafted with close attention to detail. As of February 14, Pacesetter Homes has 10 available new homes at Crosswinds.

375 Tailwind Drive

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  • Available now
  • Chandler floorplan
  • 1,705 square feet
  • 3 bedrooms
  • 2 bathrooms
  • $264,900

Have you fallen in love with one of these new homes at Crosswinds yet? To get more information on available homes, visit our community in Kyle, TX or contact us today! You can also visit our inventory page, which lists the beautiful homes currently available at our master-planned community. You can stay up to date with all things Crosswinds by connecting with us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Crosswinds is a master-planned community in Kyle, Texas located just 20 miles south of Austin right off I-35 that offers homes from the $200s.

Categories
Family Fun Lifestyle

Valentine’s Day Gift Ideas for Your Special Someone

Feeling a little stressed about what to get your significant other for Valentine’s Day? You can do so much better than a card this year with these Valentine’s Day gift ideas for him and her, for best friends and even for family. There’s something for everyone in Crosswinds’ Valentine’s Day gift guide. 

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Valentine’s Day Gift Ideas for Her

This Valentine’s Day, don’t just say it, say it in morse code! Gift your valentine with a customizable morse code necklace and she’ll always carry you with her. If your valentine prefers plants over jewelry, add some life to her office space with one of these chic planters. Another romantic gift idea for your favorite female is a personalized wine bottle. You can choose from mini or standard size bottles and either simply personalize the label or engrave the bottle.

Valentine’s Day Gift Ideas for Him

Do you know what time it is? Time to get the man in your life a handsome box to organize and store his treasured timepieces. Watch him fall in love the moment he opens this gift! Is your valentine less of a watch guy and more of a beer connoisseur? Allow him to experiment and make his own beer right from home with a beermaking kit, like this Everyday IPA kit from UncommonGoods. If your Valentine has been droning on about how cool he thinks drones are, we can help! Check out this mini quadcopter version, the perfect option for beginners.

Valentine’s Day Gift Ideas for the Family

Who said Valentine’s Day is just about giving gifts to your significant other? This year enjoy the holiday as a family with these fun gift ideas. A subscription box is a gift that keeps on giving well beyond the holiday. Graze boxes deliver an assortment of yummy, nutritious snacks straight to your front door, making it perfect for those busy days. If your family enjoys spending time together in the kitchen, give the family the gift of a “Baked with Love” personalized pie plate! It’ll be sure to inspire an abundance of family time in the kitchen.

Make this Valentine’s Day one they won’t forget and give your valentine a gift from the heart! If you’re in the market for a new home this Valentine’s Day, fall in love with our master-planned community in Kyle, TX. Contact Crosswinds today to learn about our new homes. You can also connect with our master-planned community on FacebookInstagram, and Twitter.

Image via GettyImages. Creative number 909486494.

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Area Attractions Lifestyle

Roughhouse Brewing in San Marcos Now Open Near Crosswinds

Attention all beer lovers! We’re excited to announce that yet another brewery has just opened near our master-planned community in Kyle. While Crosswinds is in Kyle, TX, Roughhouse Brewing in San Marcos is just a quick drive from our new homes near Austin. Here’s a little more information about this new brewery and their great beer.

roughhouse brewing san marcos, crosswinds, kyle, tx, things to do near kyle, master-planned community in kyle
(Image via Facebook.com)

About Roughhouse Brewing in San Marcos

Located on 5 acres of a family ranch in San Marcos, this family-owned brewery serves refreshing, farmhouse-style beer. Founders Alex and Davy Pasternak appreciate the hard-working and straightforward way of life and have strived to create a beer that speaks to that lifestyle. Alex, who works on the sales and marketing side of the business, is captivated by a weathered and woody aesthetic and is working to make Roughhouse Brewing the rustic beer brand she has always envisioned. The brewery, complete with a tasting room inside a rustic barn, opened its doors in December 2018 and serves up cold brews Wednesdays from 12pm – 2pm, Thursdays & Fridays from 4pm – 9pm, Saturdays from 12pm – 9pm and Sundays from 12pm – 5pm.

The Cold Brews

The cold beer from Roughhouse Brewing in San Marcos is a perfect compliment to the Texas backdrop – dry, oaky and earthy. The farmhouse ales are brewed using traditional techniques supported by modern equipment. Currently, the brewery is serving up four distinct brews, including a low-alcohol everyday ale, a rustic and hoppy IPA, a farmhouse amber and a dark saison. The farmhouse amber, called “ONA”, is named after Great Grandma Mary Pasternak and features hints of cherry – a nod to those that Mary used to grow in her garden. Already love the beer and looking for other places you can find it? Check out Roughhouse Brewing’s ‘Where-to-Buy’ guide.

Beyond the Brews

Unique beer and beautiful views aren’t the only things showcased at Roughhouse Brewing in San Marcos. An onsite restaurant, S. Baker Kitchen, provides a tasty selection of smoked meats and shareable snacks. All the food offered at Roughhouse is distinctive and easy to share, making it a great compliment to the beer.  

Stay up to date with all things Roughhouse Brewing by following them on Facebook. You can also connect with our master-planned community in Kyle on FacebookInstagram, and Twitter to learn about other things to do near Kyle.

Categories
Education Lifestyle

5 Ways to Save Money on Your Winter Electricity Bill

From rainy days spent curled up near the fire to sparkling snowbanks, winter is a magical time of year. However, some of this magic diminishes when you receive your winter electricity bill in the mail.  This season, make sure your home is ready to combat the big chill without breaking the bank by following these energy-saving tips.

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1. Switch your ceiling fan’s rotation

Have you ever looked at which direction your ceiling fan is spinning? If not, take some time to do so now because the blades’ rotation can actually help you save on heating costs. Ensure that your fan’s blades are rotating clockwise because this direction will push the warmer air down.

2. Upgrade your wood-burning fireplace

There’s nothing quite like curling up next to a crackling wood-burning fireplace on a chilly day, but this could be contributing to your high winter electricity bill. If you’re looking to save some money, consider upgrading your fireplace to an EPA certified-model or energy efficient insert. 

3. Let the sunshine in

During the day, take advantage of as much sunlight as possible. Open the blinds and curtains on south-facing windows to naturally heat your home. This not only eliminates the need for the heater during the day, it also opens your home up to a beautiful winter backdrop. 

4. Switch to LED light bulbs

If you’re still using incandescent bulbs, making the switch to LED bulbs could reduce your electricity bill tremendously, even after the winter months are long gone. LED lights use about 75% less energy than traditional bulbs and have a longer life span. 

5. Invest in a smart thermostat

Saving energy is a beautiful thing and smart thermostats can help you do just that. Smart thermostats allow you to select a comfortable temperature for when you get up in the morning and after you head out the door, you can lower the temperature right from your phone. Smart thermostats can adjust to your lifestyle and help you eliminate unnecessary electricity usage.

You don’t have to sacrifice your home’s comfort to keep your winter electricity bill low. Following these homeowner tips will help you save big on your electricity bill long after the winter chill is gone. Save even more on your winter electricity bill when you move into a brand new home at Crosswinds, complete with the latest energy-efficient home technology which will keep electricity costs down throughout the year. Contact Crosswinds today to stay up-to-date on other homeowner tips and to learn more about our master-planned community in Kyle, TX. You can also connect with Crosswinds on FacebookInstagram, and Twitter.

Image via Getty Images. Creative number 962705200.

Categories
Homebuilder

Discover New Homes in Kyle, TX Available Now at Crosswinds

If your new year’s resolution is to purchase the home of your dreams, Crosswinds can help. We have new homes in Kyle, TX available now from three remarkable homebuilders that are just waiting for you and your family to move in! Here are a few of the homes currently available.

Highland Homes

Building on both our 50’ and 60’ lots, Highland Homes has built a reputation for creating spectacular homes that seamlessly fit into any family’s lifestyle. With Highland Homes, you and your family will have plenty of options. As of January 17, Highland Homes has 9 homes that are move-in ready.

200 Nautical Loop

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  • Available now
  • Napier floorplan
  • 2,406 square feet
  • 4 bedrooms
  • 3 bathrooms
  • $332,281

Meritage Homes

On top of beautiful floorplans and top-notch energy efficiency, Meritage Homes has made great strides towards home automation with the M. Connected Home™ Automation Suite, available in every new Crosswinds home they build. Homes from Meritage are going fast at Crosswinds and as of January 17, only two homes remain, so act quickly!

818 Nautical Loop

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  • Available now
  • Hudson floorplan
  • 2,155 square feet
  • 4 bedrooms
  • 2 bathrooms
  • $259,990

Pacesetter Homes

Pacesetter Homes has a reputation for creating amazing homes that are built to fit into every homeowner’s lifestyle seamlessly, and at Crosswinds that is no exception. Showcasing exceptional craftsmanship and unique floorplans, these homes offer the perfect fit for your family. As of January 17, Pacesetter Homes has 13 available new homes at Crosswinds.

506 Nautical Loop

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  • Available now
  • Naples floorplan
  • 1,218 square feet
  • 2 bedrooms
  • 2 bathrooms
  • $218,500

If any of these new homes at Crosswinds seem like the perfect fit for you and your family, visit our community in Kyle or contact us today! Our inventory page also lists other beautiful homes we have available. Stay up to date with all things Crosswinds by connecting with us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Crosswinds is a master-planned community in Kyle, Texas located just 20 miles south of Austin right off I-35 that offers homes from the $200s.

Categories
Area Attractions Family Fun Lifestyle

Your Ultimate Guide to Public Parks in Kyle

It may not feel like it right now, but Spring is just a few short months away and with that comes longer days and warmer weather. Make plans to visit some of the public parks in Kyle and enjoy the changing seasons. Have a fun family day in the great outdoors at one of our favorite local parks. Here is a complete breakdown of parks near our master-planned community.

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1. Lake Kyle Park

Located at 700 Lehman Road, Lake Kyle Park is just five miles from our master-planned community. It has everything you could want from a park, including community events! Grab your friends and family, blankets and snacks and catch a kid-friendly movie at the park. Movies in the Park begin 30 minutes after sunset and the event is free to the public.

2. Mary Kyle Hartson City Square Park

Visit Mary Kyle Hartson City Square Park, packed full of fascinating city history, to enjoy an afternoon picnic or local event. Established in the early 1900’s when Kyle’s Historic City Hall was built, this park includes benches, a gazebo and the information marquee. Many community events take place at City Square Park, like Kyle Market Days, Santa’s Arrival and Lion’s Club Fajita Fiesta.

3. Gregg-Clarke Park

Anchored by the Kyle Pool, Gregg-Clarke Park serves as a recreational activity and local event hub in the city of Kyle. Amenities available at this park include well-lit basketball and tennis courts, a covered pavilion, covered playscapes, walking trails and open green spaces. From soccer, tennis and kickball to kite flying and swimming, this park is sure to offer something for everyone.

4. Steeplechase Park

Looking to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life? Stop by peaceful Steeplechase Park and unwind with a light jog or brisk walk along picturesque Plum Creek. Sitting on 31 beautiful acres, the park also offers visitors playscapes, recreation fields and a championship disc golf course. The expansive park can be accessed easily from the north and south of Plum Creek.

5. Steeplechase Dog Park

Is your furry friend itching to get out of the house and run around? Regardless of size, the newest public park in Kyle, Steeplechase Dog Park, can accommodate your mutts. Included are fenced in large and small dog sections, as well as an enclosed transition zone between the leashed and off-leash areas of the park. Don’t worry about bringing water for your pup because the park includes drinking fountains and plenty of shade.

6. Waterleaf Park

Now if you’re looking for a park that will allow you to truly get lost in the beauty of nature, Waterleaf Park is the one visit! Seventy of the parks ninety-two acres are untouched and remain in their natural state. Whether you want to hike, bike, or just explore, you’ll surely love this great park.

These public parks in Kyle are the perfect places to take the family for a fun-filled day. If you’d like to learn more about Kyle, Texas and our master-planned community, contact Crosswinds today. In the meantime, connecting with Crosswinds on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to learn more about things to do in Kyle.

Image from Getty Images. Creative number: 906399448

Categories
Homebuilder

Kyle, TX Housing Market – What to Expect in 2019

If you’ve been looking at new homes in Kyle and have been waiting for the right time to buy, then you’ll certainly want to know what’s to be expected for the Kyle, TX housing market, as well as the housing market in general, for 2019.

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More Homebuying Competition with Continued Population Growth

As more and more people move to the Kyle area, the homebuying market is becoming more and more competitive. With the rise in potential homebuyers, and not a proportionate increase in available homes, you can expect to see housing prices increase. You may also have to do a bit of negotiating and counter offering if you find your must-have home because there will likely be others wanting it as well.

Homes Will Spend Less Time on the Market

With the increase in competition, that also means that available homes are expected to spend much less time on the market. So, if you find a home at Crosswinds that you love, you’ll want to come to our master-planned community and jump on it before someone else does!

Mortgage Interest Rates are Likely Going to Increase

Aside from the Kyle, TX housing market, one thing you can expect to see for the general housing market in 2019 is a hike in mortgage interest rates. While interest rates may not increase at the very start of the new year, it’s best to keep your eye on the market and be ready to act as soon as possible to avoid the expected 5% mortgage interest rate coming in 2019.

While the Kyle, TX housing market is expected to go through some changes in 2019, it’s important to note that these types of changes in the market have been going in this same direction for the past several years. So, don’t let any of that deter you from buying a new home in Kyle in 2019. Come by Crosswinds and take a tour of our master-planned community in Kyle. We’d love to show you around and help you find the perfect home from one of our homebuilders. In the meantime, get to know us by connecting with Crosswinds on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Image from Getty Images. Creative number: 1078470198.

Categories
Family Fun

Three DIY Projects to Celebrate the Holidays in Kyle

Do you like to go overboard during the holidays? If cooking dinner and cleaning up are not enough for the ever-festive go-getter in you, then try making your own winter decorations to make your home feel ready for the holidays in Kyle. There are lots of fun ways to personalize your home in Kyle this holiday. Crosswinds has a list of the three fun DIY projects to help decorate the house. Try this collection of fun and original DIY tips for projects to make your home feel amazing this season.

Sweater Snowmen

Holidays in Kyle, DIY Winter in Kyle, Tx, DIY Tips, master-planned community, Crosswinds
These cute sweater snowmen are the perfect fit for any mantle or display case this holiday season. Use something you never wear anymore or you can visit thrift a thrift store. Thrift stores are always stocked full of knit material of almost any color you could think off. Follow these easy steps to bring some cheer to your holiday decorations.

Paper Star Ornaments

Holidays in Kyle, DIY Winter in Kyle, Tx, DIY Tips, master-planned community, Crosswinds
These budget-friendly holiday crafts are elegant and will make any tree stand out. All while having fun crafting them. You can use almost any kind of paper too. The sky is the limit. You can use pretty scrapbook paper, pages from a book, sheet music or just plain white computer paper.

DIY Felt Pine Trees

Holidays in Kyle, DIY Winter in Kyle, Tx, DIY Tips, master-planned community, Crosswinds
Another fun and easy idea to take your house from cheerful all the way to festive. These cute little rustic trees are elementary to create, all while being easy on the wallet. You can find felt at Walmart or any craft store. The wood elements will accent any of your decorations perfectly and will help bring a bit of the outdoors inside without the hassle of taking care of an actual live tree.

Contact Crosswinds today to stay up-to-date on other DIY tips and for more information on things happening for the holidays in Kyle and in our master-planned community. You can also connect with Crosswinds on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

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Area Attractions Events

5 Things To Do Near Kyle This December

December is right around the corner, and we can’t wait to for all the fun things to do near Kyle this month! From a Christmas market to a jingle bell fun run and holiday trail rides, there are plenty of events to enjoy for every member of your family near Crosswinds’ master-planned community.

Buda Fest

Image of buda fest

(image via budafest.org)

When: Saturday, December 1st and Sunday, December 2nd,

Where: 303 Main Street, Buda TX 78610

What Time: 12:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Saturday and 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Sunday

Held annually in the heart of Buda for the last 39 years, Buda Fest is one of the most fun things to do near Kyle this winter season. Two full days of winter fun done in proper Texas fashion. There will be food and craft vendors, rides, photos with Santa, two different parades, real snow for the kids to play in and tons more. There will be so much to do you’ll wish there was a third day to take it all in.

Jingle Bell Run

(image via tousanmarcos.com)

When: Saturday, December 8, 2018

Where: San Marcos Plaza Park 206 North CM Allen Parkway San Marcos, TX 78666

What Time: 9 a.m. start time

If you are in the mood for both winter cheer and some exercise, then sign up with your family and friends to race through historic downtown San Marcos. Enjoy holiday music and the sound of jingle bells along the 5k course. The holiday fun is approved for all ages. The race will begin and finish at San Marcos Plaza Park. Chip timing will be used, and the top finishers will be honored at a ceremony after the race.

Christmas Gift and Craft Market

Christmas Gift and Craft Market

(picture via Kyle United Methodist Church Facebook)

When: Saturday, December 8th

Where: Kyle United Methodist Church 408 W Lockhart St, Kyle, Texas 78640

What Time: 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Join Kyle United Methodist Church for their 2nd Annual Christmas Gift and Craft Market. They will have over 30 local vendors selling amazingly unique items just in time to help you fill out your Christmas List. There will also be baked goods and tons of BBQ. Sign up at the door for a chance to win items from one of the vendors. Drop the kids off at the “drop-while-you-shop” Kid’s Corner. Your little ones can enjoy snacks, a playground, movies and Christmas crafts for just $2/hr per kid.

 Merry at the Meadows Boat Ride

Merry at the Meadows Boat Ride

(Photo via toursanmarcos.com)

When: December 8th and 9th

Where: The Meadows Center Glass Bottom Boat Tours 201 San Marcos Springs Dr. San Marcos, TX 78666

What Time: 4:30 p.m.

The Meadows Center Glass-Bottom Boat Tours is ready again to offer its Merry at the Meadows Boat rides.

Experience this beautiful nature park while enjoying the sights and sounds of winter on this sunset 45-minute holiday themed boat ride.  $14 per person. Children 3 and under free. Cookies and a hot beverage provided. 

Austin Trail of Lights at Zilker Park

Austin Trail of Lights

( Photo via Austin Trail of Lights)

When: December 10th -23rd

Where: Zilker Park 2100 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78704

What Time: 7: p.m. to 10:00 p.m. nightly

The Austin Trail of Lights began in 1965 and was known as the “Yule Fest.” What began as a gift to the city of Austin from the Parks and Recreation Department, has now grown into an awe-inspiring community-wide celebration of the spirit and people of central Texas. Some nights even have free general admission with other nights tickets starting at just $3.00.

Come down to Zilker Park this December to behold more than 40 displays, 2 million lights, Austin’s famous food trucks, holiday activities, and live entertainment are sure to create life-long memories for you and your family.

Are you ready for all of these fun holiday things to do near Kyle this December? Contact Crosswinds today to stay up-to-date with all the fun things to do near Kyle, and for more information on things happening in our master-planned community. You can also connect with Crosswinds on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.