How to Find the Best Moving Company for Your Move

Anyone who’s moved before will tell you it’s a hassle. The boxes, the loading, the unloading, all of it is very stressful. One way to take some of the load off yourself during the process is to hire a professional moving company. With professional movers, all you have to worry about is the packing and unpacking. That sounds a lot less stressful than doing everything yourself, doesn’t it? Before hiring a moving company, it’s important to know what to look for, and what to run from. Here are a few tips to help you make sure the moving company you choose is the best one for the job.

Experience is Key

When you’re hiring someone to move all of your things, you need to be able to trust their ability to do the job. Ask about the experience level of the company and the movers they employ. Don’t be afraid to call references and check reviews online before hiring a company. You need to be able to trust the company you hire and that means hiring someone with plenty of experience.

What if Something Goes Wrong? 

Before hiring a company, take a look at what type of liability coverage they offer you in case of a mistake or accident that results in your property being damaged. Accidents and damage to property shouldn’t happen, but it could, you need to know you’re covered if it does. Some companies will cover the full cost of a damaged item during a move, while others may only cover part of the cost. Finding a company that offers the best coverage possible will put your mind at ease on the big moving day.

Think About What You’re Moving

Before hiring a company, ask them if there’s any items they don’t move. Some companies may not carry TV’s or other specialty items and if that’s the case you’ll need to plan accordingly. If you find a company you like, but they don’t move certain items, decide if that’s something you can handle moving yourself.

If you’re moving into an area with steep stairs or tight spaces be sure to tell the company that upfront so they can be prepared. There should be no surprises or miscommunication on the moving day so make sure they know and understand what you’re moving and where you’re moving it.

Talk to the Competition

Although the first company you talk to might seem like the perfect one, take some time to keep looking before you hire them. Talking to the competition and other moving companies in the area will give you a better idea of pricing, liability coverage, and time frames to be expected before settling on any one company. While the first company you talked to may end up being the best choice, at least you’ll have the peace of mind knowing that you checked all the options. A great company should be able to tell you what sets them apart from the competition. 

3 Tips to Make the Most of Your Kitchen Remodel

If you’re looking to renovate an area of your home, the kitchen is a great place to start. For many families, the kitchen is the heart of the home. The kitchen is not just a place to cook meals and pack lunches, it’s a family gathering spot for every occasion. A kitchen remodel can seem like an intimidating project to start, but it doesn’t need to be! Follow these 3 tips to make the most out of your kitchen remodel.

Make it Functional 

When it comes time to plan out the design for your kitchen remodel, don’t forget to focus on functionality. This may seem obvious, but it’s often overlooked. After your remodel you should love the look of your kitchen, but you should also have a new-found appreciation for cooking and being in the space.

Consider what your family needs are before beginning the remodel. Do you what a breakfast nook for the kids to sit at and work on homework while you prepare meals? Are you constantly running out of cabinet or counter space? Make a list of the things that don’t function well in your current kitchen and share that list with your contractor. You’ll be amazed at the way a good contractor can transform a space to make it not only look better, but work better as well.

Use Versatile Materials and Colors

One of the biggest trends in kitchen remodels right now is a modern and neutral look. This trend is not only beautiful, it’s also very versatile. Remodels are expensive, but choosing materials and colors that can work for you in the future as your style and tastes change can be a big money saver down the road. This doesn’t mean your entire kitchen needs to be white and gray, but choosing flooring and cabinets that will easily compliment other design choices is a good idea. Changing paint color or décor in the future will give your kitchen a whole new look and feel without having to redo the cabinets and flooring if you follow this advice. If you’re going to be selling your home in the future, this tip is a great way to ensure any and every type of buyer will love the look of the kitchen.

Be Open to Suggestions

While you’re meeting with and getting a quote from different contractors, listen to what they have to say about your plans and ideas. Some ideas you have in your mind may not look the same once completed and the contractor may even have better ideas you hadn’t thought of yet! You want to be sure you love the outcome of your remodel, so don’t be afraid to ask questions and bounce different ideas around before you settle on a plan. The last thing you want is to think of things you wish you had done differently after the remodel is completed, take your time planning with your contractor to make sure you love the final result.

How to Make a Small Kitchen Work

You found a home that’s almost perfect. It has as many bedrooms as you need with an extra for a guest room. It’s in your favorite neighborhood. Your whole family loves it. There’s only one problem. The kitchen is a bit cramped.

A small kitchen probably isn’t a reason to say no to your dream house, but it can be a frustrating thing to live with. However, by optimizing your space, you can fit everything into your kitchen and still have room to breathe. Here are a few ways to make a small kitchen livable, especially if you cook regularly.

Drawers

If you want to make your small kitchen more workable and spacious, don’t rely on cabinets, cupboards and pantries. Instead, make the most use of drawers — and if you don’t have enough drawers, maybe that can be your first remodeling project. Because drawers stay flat against the cabinet, they give you more space to move around the room. Because drawers are lower, they’re easier to reach without having to stretch. It also helps your kitchen to look neater overall.

Vertical Storage

Vertical storage will quickly become your best friend when you need to make the most of a small kitchen. It takes up less space and may even help the room to feel taller. Add a few floating shelves over the kitchen sink or buy a narrow but tall cabinet that can be pressed against the wall between other appliances.

Backsplash

Your kitchen backsplash is an excellent aesthetic feature that protects the wall from spills and splashes, but it can do more than that. Consider a magnetic backplash or a stainless steel pegboard. Through this, you can hang spoons, knives, and other utensils on the backsplash, saving you on storage space, and even adding a cozy charm to your backsplash.

Kitchen Table Alternatives

Maybe you don’t have room for a kitchen table or an island, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have any dining space. Consider turning a small portion of the counter into a mini bar with a couple of stools set up there. Another option that’s growing in popularity is folding tables. These tables are built against the wall, and when you’re finished eating, they can fold flat against the wall. They’re handy for the chef, as well, because folding tables can double as counter space. You may also be able to add a pull-out addition to your countertop for a little extra counter and dining space.

Magnetic Spice Tins

Magnetic spice containers are a great option for someone who needs to save space in their small kitchen. Not only are they adorable, round with glass tops to show the spice itself, but they open up a world of spice rack alternatives. Maybe you can stick them to your refrigerator, or to your stainless steel backsplash. You can hang a magnetic chalkboard to the side of your cabinets and label the name of each spice below the tin in chalk.

Don’t let a small kitchen hold you back from the house of your dreams. If you use your space wisely, the kitchen may become as beloved to you as the rest of the house. And if you’re still looking for your dream home, talk to an experienced College Station realtor about the best finds in the neighborhoods you love.

House for Sale in College Station

Sarah Miller, your RE/MAX realtor bryan-college station can help you discover a lot of great tips for making a profitable sale of your home. Call Sarah Miller at 979-255-1904 for your real estate needs in Bryan-College Station and the entire Brazos Valley! Sarah Miller, Associate RE/MAX BRYAN COLLEGE STATION 3030 University Dr East Ste 100, College Station, TX 77845 License #: 500065

Benefits of New Construction

There’s something appealing about buying an entirely new home. No one else has lived there before, which allows you and your family to put your own stamp on it. While a great existing home can be found if you don’t have time to wait for a new construction, sometimes the best way to find your dream home is to have it built for you and your family from the beginning. Here are just a few of the many benefits of moving into a new construction home.

Customization

Perhaps the favorite benefit for homeowners considering new construction is that you don’t have to worry about compromising with a new construction. The builder will take your specifications as to what the home should look like. That means all your kitchen and bathroom needs, your color palette, and any other customization options will be entirely up to you. When you walk into your new home for the first time, it should be everything you hoped because it was designed with you in mind.

Everything is Up to Date

Often when searching for existing homes, you’ll have to contend with out of date appliances or layouts. The house itself may be less expensive than a new construction, but you may need to pay for updates in order to make it comfortable for your family. New constructions, however, tend to use new appliances and open layouts that are much more on trend and easier to move around. New construction homes also tend to use more energy efficient technology, so you’ll be able to save on the cost of energy bills.

Warranty

All new homes come with a warranty, which allows you some peace of mind as to the construction of the home. This warranty may come through the builder or through an independent company that works for the builder. There are different types of warranties available, and before making your decision you should find out what kind of warranty is available to you in purchasing a particular new home.

Fire Safety

The more we learn and the more technology advances, the more fire safety features become available. Just like your new construction home is likely to be more energy efficient with up-to-date appliances, it’s also likely to be more fire safe. There may be fire retardant in the carpeting or insulation or hardwired smoke detectors with back-up batteries in case the power goes out as opposed to standard battery operated smoke detectors. The newer the home is, the more likely it will be to protect you and your family from fires.

There’s nothing a place feel quite like home as knowing that your family is the first to ever live there. New construction homes may not be an option for everyone depending on your budget and your timeframe, but if you have time for a new construction, it’s certainly worth the wait. If that sounds right for you, talk to an experienced realtor in Brazos Valley about new construction options and how to start the process of building your dream home.

Home For Sale in College Station

Sarah Miller, your RE/MAX realtor bryan-college station can help you discover a lot of great tips for making a profitable sale of your home. Call Sarah Miller at 979-255-1904 for your real estate needs in Bryan-College Station and the entire Brazos Valley! Sarah Miller, Associate RE/MAX BRYAN COLLEGE STATION 3030 University Dr East Ste 100, College Station, TX 77845 License #: 500065

4th of July in Brazos Valley

Summer is here, and before you know it, 4rth of July will be here as well. That means it’s time for barbecue, hanging out on the lawn with friends and family, and of course, fireworks. Although residential fireworks aren’t legal within Bryan-College Station city limits, you can stop by the George Bush Presidential Library and Museum for the big firework show. And fireworks aren’t the only thing to enjoy on 4th of July in Brazos Valley. Here are a few of the events you can enjoy for the big day next month.

“I Love America” Celebration

Every July 4th at the George Bush Presidential Library and Museum, you can gather in the lawn for the 4th of July “I Love America.” Celebration Concert and firework show. Starting that morning, the museum opens with free admission. In the evening, concession stands gather and bounce houses and games show up for the kids’ amusement. At 8:35, the Brazos Valley Symphony Orchestra begins the concert, followed by a firework show at 9:30. Of all the firework events in College Station, this is the big one to see.

Old-Fashioned 4th of July Celebration

For over 30 years, the Brazos Heritage Society has put on a 4th of July celebration that evokes the past. There’s a flag raising, patriotic readings, a children’s parade, live music, and plenty of refreshments. It’s located right in the middle of the Eastside Historical District of Bryan, at 30th and Hutchins. This is a festival for early bird celebrators, and those who like to remember the history of their 4th of July celebrations.

Fireworks On the Brazos

Another fireworks festival occurs at Washington on the Brazos and runs from 10am to 10pm. There’s fireworks at 9:30pm, but it’s so much more than that. Throughout the day, you can enjoy free ice cream from Blue Bell, live music from country music artists, and enjoy plenty of food and craft vendors. There’s even a shuttle running starting in the afternoon to take people to and from the park.

Patriotic Picnic

Maybe for you, 4th of July is less about the fireworks and more about the fireworks and more about the food. If that’s the case, the patriotic picnic at First Baptist in Bryan might be for you. The picnic starts at 5:30pm and includes a concert for the community’s entertainment. Like the other events, this is free and open to the public.

If you’re new to Brazos Valley, attending one of the many 4th of July festivals throughout the area can be a great way to get to know the area. Even if you’re just visiting and looking for a place to possibly live later, celebrating the 4th of July with us will help you to see what this area truly has to offer. Here, you’ll find a friendly, enthusiastic community, great food and music, and a day of fun for the family. If you’re here looking for a new home, or just moving in, around 4th of July, ask your realtor what 4th of July celebrations are going on near you.

House for Sale in College Station

Sarah Miller, your RE/MAX realtor bryan-college station can help you discover a lot of great tips for making a profitable sale of your home. Call Sarah Miller at 979-255-1904 for your real estate needs in Bryan-College Station and the entire Brazos Valley! Sarah Miller, Associate RE/MAX BRYAN COLLEGE STATION 3030 University Dr East Ste 100, College Station, TX 77845 License #: 500065

Is Remodeling Worth the Cost?

Photo by Carlos Porto

If you want to increase your home value before you sell, make sure the projects you choose are worth the money you spend on them. You’re looking for the highest return on investment. It may be better not to do any remodeling at all, depending on your situation.

You probably won’t get all of your money back

Investopedia says that you’re unlikely to get back the amount you spend on a remodel dollar for dollar. However, in a slow market, a remodel could bring in buyers that would have otherwise passed on your home.

You need a realtor

This is where an experienced realtor can help you. She can give you an idea of what the market is like and what remodels pay off in your area. When it comes to real estate, it’s all about the local housing market. In Brazos Valley, call realtor Sarah Miller for help selling your home.

Think about where you are

If your house is already one of the more expensive ones in the neighborhood, further improvements may scare away buyers. One of the things buyers consider is neighborhood.  Part of the reason they may be drawn to your neighborhood is the price. Make sure you don’t improve your home well beyond what can be found in the same neighborhood or you could be looking at more of a loss. People looking for more expensive houses are likely looking in another neighborhood.

However, if you have one of the lower end houses in the neighborhood, fixing it up might bring in more money.  It can be worth it to do a little bit of work to bring your house up to the average of the neighborhood.

Also, think of geography. Do swimming pools increase home values in Bryan-College Station, Texas?  Since this is a warmer climate it could be worth it, but your realtor will let you know about the current market.

Location is everything in real estate.  Before you invest in a remodel, ask your realtor if it’s worth it for your location.

Look at Data Online

A site that may help you make your decision is Remodeling.net. They give the average increase in value to your home based on your region and type of remodel. The amount you get back from your investment varies. Most of the time, you get less than you spent.

Smaller upgrades to your home will likely have a better return on investment than a large remodel. A fresh coat of paint and a good cleaning will help improve the value of your home with less expense. The real reason to do a remodel is for you to enjoy the home. If you’re selling the home, it may not be worth it.

Ask your realtor if there are upgrades that you can make to make your home more appealing to buyers in your area. Your realtor will have the latest numbers about the market and will have experience with what local homebuyers are looking for. Call a local realtor in Brazos Valley, Texas to help you sell your home.

Brand New Texans

If you’re moving to Central Texas from another state, then let me say welcome new Texan! Our state has a lot to offer.  Whether you’re moving to the Bryan-College Station metro area anywhere in Brazos Valley, we’re happy to have you as our neighbor. Let me take you through some things that will make it a little easier to settle into your new home in the Brazos Valley and the State of Texas.

How do I find the right home?

Call a realtor in Brazos Valley. It’s hard to know what the right area is or what the commute times will be if you aren’t familiar with the community. Realtors have that information. If you have a realtor working on your side, you’ll find what you need.

How do I file for homestead exemption?

Texas has no state property tax. However, there are local property taxes. The state comptroller’s office explains this in detail and provides links to how to file for any property tax exemptions that may be applicable to your situation.

Where do I go about my license plates and driver license?

First, you need the license plates.  TxDMV explains how to do that.  The requirements for new Texans to get new plates are found here. TxDPS has the information you need about your driver license. It has a section specifically for people moving to Texas and includes information for teens with learner licenses.

Where do I register to vote?

There are a few ways to do it, but to find out the easiest way go to VoteTexas.gov.  You’ll find a form you can download and mail in or locations where you can show up to fill out the form in person. It’s the go-to site for questions about voting including how to find your nearest polling place.

What is there to do around here?

It depends on what you want to do today.  If you want to go shopping, Downtown Bryan might be the place to go.  On the other hand, if taking in some culture sounds better, there are museums. What about sports? You’re in luck, we’ve got the Aggies.  There are even wineries to visit.  The Visitors Bureau can get you up to speed on everything happening around town and the best places to go.

Moving to Texas was a big decision. There are a lot of state and local agencies with websites that can help you make your transition to being a Texan. Your realtor will be a big help in the process. Brazos Valley is a beautiful place to live and a great choice for anyone to invest in their future.

Buying real estate in Brazos County is a lot easier with a realtor by your side. If you need any help finding the right property, call a realtor that knows the Brazos Valley.  You can find a lot of help online, but nothing beats having a local there to help you find the right place at the right price. Call Sarah the Realtor when you’re ready to buy or sell property in Brazos Valley.

Do You Want An HOA?

When considering buying a home one of the thing you run into is the homeowner’s association. Not only does it include additional fees, it includes amenities and rules that may protect the value of your home.  What fits your personality best? 

How do you feel about your neighbor’s lawn?

Are you the live and let live type or do you want your neighbor to keep their lawn as nice as yours? Is it ok if they have a car parked on their lawn for a little while? 

If you are particular about how lawns are kept, an HOA might be a safe-haven for you. Some of us just like having a lot of neat lawns around us.

If you don’t care what the neighbors do as long as they aren’t bothering you, then you may not need an HOA.  If you work long hours and get behind on your lawn maintenance, an HOA may be bad for you unless you can hire someone to do the work for you.

Do you want to make unusual landscaping or architectural changes?

If the answer is yes, then you don’t want an HOA. HOAs are unlikely to allow you to make drastically visible changes to your home.  Also, they may have restrictions on when work can be done that go above and beyond what the city allows. After you finally get approval for your work, you will have to work within the time that the HOA allows.

If you don’t want to make unusual changes and you don’t want to live near strange looking houses, an HOA may be right for you.  As stated, some even have rules to prevent work crews from working at unpleasant hours of the day that the city may allow.

Are you ok with submitting a request before making changes to your house?

You’ve read the rules, you know what you want to do is going to be ok, but the change will be visible.  Are you willing to go through the process of making a request to the Architectural Review Committee before you do your work? It may take them a couple of weeks to get back to you because they are just unpaid volunteers that live in your community.

If not, then maybe an HOA isn’t right for you. However, if you can manage to be patient enough to wait for the response then the HOA could be right for you. No one likes waiting before painting their front door or replacing their fence. In this case, it’s a matter of how patient you can be with your neighbors while you wait for them to approve your application.  

Not all HOAs are the same

Drive around the neighborhood and you can see signs of the performance of the HOA. Look for occupied homes with tall grass and look at how well the common areas are kept. If you’re observant, you’ll have a better idea of the kind of neighborhood you’re buying into. Your realtor may also be able to give you some details as well.

There is no right or wrong answer to the HOA question. It is a personal decision. It’s not one that should be overlooked in the buying process, though. 

Bryan-College Station is Where You Want to Raise Your Kids

If you’ve been considering purchasing a home in Bryan-College Station, your kids are likely your top priority. With a major university nearby, you may be able to keep them close to home through their college years. How will they feel ab

Children’s Museum

There are amenities here in Bryan-College Station that are specifically good for kids. One of them is our amazing Children’s Museum of the Brazos Valley. Not only is it conveniently located, it also has exhibits that kids of all ages can interact with. Even adults can get involved.

Good Education

We have good reason to be proud of our local University. Texas A&M has 400 degree programs and it’s the oldest public university in the state. If you want your child to go to a high-quality university close to home, this is the place to be. With so many degree programs to choose from your child won’t feel hemmed in.

It’s not just the university. College Station has wonderful public schools, so your child will get a top-notch education from start to finish.

Small Town Feel with Big City Amenities

There’s always the draw to raise your children in a small town where it’s safe and you feel like you know people. That’s the feel you get in Bryan-College Station. You have everything you need close by, but it still doesn’t feel like a big city.

Growing up in a big city has its advantages like public transportation, a wide variety of stores and restaurants, and even a variety of people you can meet from different backgrounds. The downside is that it can feel crowded and impersonal. Bryan-College Station has a perfect balance. There’s public transportation and recycling so it’s easy to stay green, but there’s also a small-town feel.  You have the variety of people because students from all over come to Texas A&M, and you even get to see some cowboys around because you’re close to a rural area.

A Town with Pride

Living in a town you can be proud of is a way to be sure that your kids will be wanting to come back for Christmas every year when they grow up. When you’re proud of your town you have a fondness for it. What do we have to be proud of?  We have the Aggies, the George Bush Presidential Library and Museum, and an amazing metro area with everything from fine dining to Texas BBQ.

Bryan-College Station is an amazing metro area in the heart of Brazos County, Texas.  The twin cities are an ideal place to raise a family and so is the entire Brazos Valley. If you want to move somewhere more rural, then you can buy a home outside of the city.  It’s a wonderful place to call home.

If you want to buy or sell a home in Brazos Valley, choose a realtor that knows and loves this area. Call Sarah the Realtor. 

Important Services Checklist For Your Next Move

Photo by stockimages

As you move into your new home in the College Station area, you'll have plenty of things to remember. You'll need to pack up all of your belongings, hire a reputable moving company and figure out how you are going to get all of your things into your new home. Along the way, you'll have to sort items carefully and mark them so that they don't get lost. Making detailed checklists is a great way to keep track of which items belong where.

While you're sorting things out and making your lists, you'll want to take careful notes about home services and utilities that you'll need to take care of when you move. If you forget some of these things,you could add a lot of stress and frustration to your move. Here are some of the services you should add to your checklist when you find a new home with the help of your realtor in College Station, TX.

Power and Electricity

This is one of the most important utilities to turn on in your new home but you might be surprised at how often people forget about this. If you're moving a short distance, you may be able to simply switch over your electricity service from your current provider to your new address. However, if you're moving to a different county or state, you might have to sign up with a brand new provider.

Talk to your College Station realtor to find out which companies provide power service in the area to which you are moving.

Internet and Wi-Fi

A reliable Internet connection is almost a necessity these days. Without a Wi-Fi hotspot, you won't be able to keep up with email and social media in your new home. If you don't get this service activation scheduled right away when you move, you could be without Internet for days or over a week. This can affect your social life as well as your work responsibilities.

There are usually only one or two Internet service providers in any given area but you can still do some comparison shopping. Check out ISPs in your area to get the best deal and schedule service activation on the day of your move.

Water and Utilities

If you're moving into a pre-owned home, it is probably already set up for water service. However, you may still have to call the local utility company to have a new account set up or to have the account transferred to your name.

This can take several days or over a week so it's best to add it to your checklist to get it scheduled ahead of time. If possible, talk to the previous owners about their water usage and the price of their monthly bills to avoid sticker shock when you move in.

No one can remember all of the things that are necessary to finish when you are moving into a new home. Make it easy on yourself and go over this checklist with the realtor in College Station, TX so that you don't forget these important items. 

3 Reasons Your New Home Should Be Near A Park

Photo by galzpaka

When you imagine your perfect new home, what do you picture? Maybe you have your hopes set on a two-story home with plenty of room for your growing family. Perhaps you would prefer a smaller, cozy home where you could enjoy your retirement years. No matter what type of home you have in mind, there are a few things that you would likely enjoy having nearby your home.

This might include shops, restaurants and entertainment venues that are conveniently close to your home. After all, even the home of your dreams won't be quite right if you are far away from work, your favorite restaurants and place where you can spend a fun evening out.

One of the most important locations that you'll want to live close to in your new home is a local park or walking trail. Many people might overlook this details but here are three reasons why you'll want to ask your realtor in College Station, TX if that new home is a short distance from a park.

1. Better Health and Easy Exercise

These days, it seems like everyone is making a commitment to getting fit. If you use social media, you've probably seen posts from friends and family members who are hitting the gym and becoming more active. Whether you're starting a family or easing into retirement, you can improve your health by exercising at your local park.

You don't have to pay expensive gym fees to have a more active lifestyle. A local park or a walking trail can help you get in extra cardiovascular exercise every single day. If you have kids, they'll love these trips to your park and going for walks is a great way to keep in touch with your exercise buddies.

2. Free Entertainment

If you've been wondering about how to find inexpensive ways to to keep your kids entertained, take the to the local park. These parks often have playground equipment, from swings to jungle gyms and see-saws. Your kids can get in plenty of playtime while you relax on a bench or join in the fun.

This free playtime will help you stay on a budget for your entertainment, which is especially helpful if you've just moved into a new home. Everyone knows that purchasing a new home and hiring movers can be quite expensive so you'll appreciate any chance to save some money.

3. Convenient Gathering Space

If your new home is a bit lacking in spare space, your local park can be a lifesaver. Planning a family cookout? Many city parks come equipped with grills and covered seating areas, so you only need to bring charcoal and food to cook. Also, the playground equipment makes local parks and ideal setting for children's birthday parties and class get-togethers. You can have more fun than you imagined by hosting a gathering at your nearby park.

When you're looking for a new home in College Station, make sure to let your College Station realtor know that you're looking for a home with easy access to a local park or walking trail. 

10 Surprises When Moving to College Station or Bryan, Texas

Image courtesy:stockimages@FreeDigitalPhotos.net

The Bryan and College Station area is friendly, fun and quintessentially Texas. The two cities blend together into one cohesive place that the locals just call BCS. Although it is undeniably a great place to live, work and raise a family, some people moving in from other parts of the country might experience a bit of culture shock.

10 Surprises When Moving to College Station or Bryan, TX:

1 – It's hot and humid, but sometimes not.

Because these Texas cities are farther south and west, they do experience plenty of heat and humidity. People moving from the north or east who expect everywhere in Texas to be a sauna 365 days of the year will be surprised to need winter coats and rain boots.

2 – People are incredibly friendly.

Don't be shocked to get a "Howdy" from perfect strangers on the street. Good manners and an open smile are the way of life around there.

3 – Texas is really, really big.

There is still a lot of open land in Texas and the cities and towns may be more spread out than in other, smaller states. Driving across the whole state is a road trip in itself.

4 – Most people are conservative.

With Texas A&M topping the "Most Conservative Schools" list from Princeton University, it's no wonder the surrounding area would be the same. Many people conservative politically, socially and religiously. Patriotism and Christianity are omnipresent.

5 – Texas pride is a powerful force.

People who live here are proud to be Texans and display this pride with flags, home decoration and on their clothes and vehicles as well.

6 – High school and college sports are popular.

People in this region feel a strong sense of pride for their high school and college sports. Football is huge around here and the crowds can grow to legendary proportions. During a home game at Kyle Field, every part of town will know when the home team scores from the roar of the crowd.

7 – Things center on Texas A&M University.

In autumn, winter and spring, the shops, restaurants and bars are filled with the students from the University and other nearby colleges. Traffic is nearly impossible on game days or during a special event on or off campus. Things quiet down some in the summertime.

8 – Quintessential "cowboy stuff" exists.

Cowboy boots, cowboy hats, lucky horseshoes and cattle horns on the front of big pickup trucks. These things are more than just movie props or costumes for some people in this Texas region.

9 – Barbecue, Tex-Mex and beer are food groups

Texans are serious about the barbecue, especially lots of steaks and other meat, genuine Tex-Mex food and beer. There are plenty of unique craft beers being produced in the region. Local wines are another favorite taste sensation.

10 – The spirit of Aggieland is all about tradition.

Texans are proud to be from Texas, the United States in general and be a part of the Aggieland tradition. Texas A&M University leads much of the tradition around College Station and Bryan with the Silver Taps and Muster calls daily.

Featured Home for Rent in College Station, TX

Sarah Miller, your RE/MAX realtor Bryan-College Station can help you discover a lot of great tips for making a profitable and fast sell on your house. She is one of the RE/MAX Bryan-College Station Realtor that has a long list of the finest homes in College Station, Call her today at 979-255-1904

Ideas for Summer Vacation in Texas

Image courtesy of arztsamui at FreeDigitalPhotos.net

There are endless thing you can do in Texas during the summer. The state is full of wonder and adventure or rest and relaxation. Now that you are all moved and settled into your new home in CentralTexas, you deserve to take some time off. What better time than summer to get to know your state and all it has to offer. Below are a few of the more popular destinations and some ideas of what to do when you get there.

Location #1 – San Marcos

The San Marcos area offers a lot of family-friendly activities, as well as adult fun. Visitors of all ages flock here for one main attraction – tubing. You can hop on an inner tube and enjoy the day floating down the Guadalupe, Blanco, and San Marcos Rivers. There is also the Aquarena Center and stunning cave tours at the Wonder World Park.

Location #2 – New Braunfels

Just a short drive away from San Marcus, is New Braunfels. Here you will find great places to go camping, ride your days away on the rapids, and play in the cool waters at Schlitterbahn Waterpark. If camping is not your style, then you can book a comfy resort room that will have you as comfortable as your bedroom in your Brazos Valley home.

3 – South Padre Island

South Padre Island is more geared towards adults during summer. Crowds of people flock to the hot beaches to party the day and night away. You will be able to rent jet skis, people watch, and enjoy the hopping nightlife. The city is also home to several great resorts.

4 – Galveston

If you are looking for a more family-friendly beach locale, than Galveston is your answer. There are miles of beaches, a ferry, an island, and tons of beach houses for rent. There are many beach front hotels and resorts as well. You will enjoy strolling along the Sea Wall, Walking out on the piers, and shopping in the many little shops. In addition, there is the Moody Gardens that will surely enchant you and your family with its beauty.

5 – San Antonio

Not far from Bryan-College Station is San Antonio. This lovely city is home to an important piece of Texas history – The Alamo. Here you will also find the famous River Walk and all the delicious restaurants, resorts, and shops it has to offer. Also, you can take a river tour on a tour boat for a small fee (completely worth it). Close by is the Ripley's Believe it Or Not Wax Museum that is a riot. Plus, there is the Natural Bridge Caverns, which will leave you amazed.

As you can see, there is no shortage to the things you can do in the summer here in Texas. These are only four possibilities out of hundreds. So, start planning and get to moving your tail for fun in the sun or relaxing in a resort or sunning yourself on a beach. You will be thankful you did. 

Featured Home for Sale in College Station, TX

Sarah Miller, your RE/MAX realtor Bryan-College Station can help you discover a lot of great tips for making a profitable and fast sell on your house. She is one of the RE/MAX Bryan-College Station Realtor that has a long list of the finest homes in College Station, Call her today at 979-255-1904

The Best DIY Spring Cleaners

Image courtesy of artur84
@FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Spring has always been the best time to do a top-to-bottom cleaning of your home - better known as Spring Cleaning. There are many cleaners you can buy at the store, but this can get a bit costly, as well as the harmful chemicals. Therefore, if you want to go a safer and more budget-friendly route, below are several Spring Cleaning essentials that will last through the year.

Laundry Soap
With a little elbow grease, you can make a super-sized container of laundry soap that will last for months. Most of the online recipes you will find use three main ingredients. They are graded bar soap, Borax, and washing soda. However, some add oxy boosters and even essential oils. The great thing about this DIY laundry soap is that it takes very little and stores quite well.

Window Cleaner
This usually takes 3-4 ingredients as well, such as vinegar, essential oils, rubbing alcohol, and water. The ingredients alone are inexpensive allowing you to make up a large batch to last a long time. Many of the recipes work on glass and mirrors as well.

Orange De-Greaser
This usually calls for either orange oil or to soak orange peels for an allotted amount of time. You will also use dish washing liquid and water. There are many recipes floating around online.

Heavy-Duty Rust Remover Scrub
If you have been battling rust stains on your enameled tub or porcelain sink, all you need are two ingredients. They are a lemon and Borax. You would simple dip a cut lemon in the laundry booster then rub on the rust. Then ta-da!, no more rust.

Water Ring Remover
If you have wooden side tables or nightstands, you are well aware the notorious white ring. There is a very simple solution. All you need is toothpaste (not the gel type), baking soda, and a little light buffing. Polish and your ring is gone forever.

As you can see, there are many DIY solutions to your Spring Cleaning needs. You will have plenty of left over cleaners to last for months afterwards. Also, you will cut the number of chemicals floating around in your home. These DIY cleaners are a win-win.

Featured Home for Rent in College Station, TX

Sarah Miller, your RE/MAX realtor bryan-college station can help you discover a lot of great tips for making a profitable and fast sell on your house. She is one of the RE/MAX Bryan-College Station Realtor that has a long list of the finest homes in College Station, Call her today at 979-255-1904

Making the Most of your Offer

Image credit

Finding and falling in love with your dream home is the easy part. Making an offer and waiting can be a bit stressful though. Take some time to talk to your Realtor when considering your offer, they are an excellent source for information you need. Here is a quick checklist of actions you might want to take to ensure that your offer is fair.

•  Research the neighborhood online. (Skip this step if you already live in the area, since your will know this info.) 

• Check the crime reports and rate.

• Seek out local amenities. If public pools, parks and tennis/golf courts are important to you, you’ll want to know how far these facilities are going to be from you.

• Test your commute. Unless you are extremely close to your job, you’ll want to check to see what your commute will be like to see if you’ll need to adjust your routines.

• Schedule an inspection. Your offer should include a home inspection. You will want to know upfront if there are any necessary repairs and how much they are going to cost as you’ll want these taken care of right away.

• Ask about taxes, homeowner association fees, homeowners insurance and general utility costs. Most of this information can be found with quick online research or by asking your realtor.

• Talk to the sellers. They have lived in the home and know its quirks as well as the neighbors and community. Never discount this wealth of information.

Spend a little time, do a bit of research and take the stress out of making the offer that will turn your dream home into your reality.

Featured Home for Rent in College Station, TX

Sarah Miller, your RE/MAX realtor bryan-college station can help you discover a lot of great tips for making a profitable and fast sell on your house. She is one of the RE/MAX Bryan-College Station Realtor that has a long list of the finest homes in College Station, Call her today at 979-255-1904

Tips and Tricks for Beautiful Lawns

Image credit

It’s never too early to plan out how to keep your lawn lush and beautiful. Keeping in mind the following three essentials will help you keep your lawn the envy of the neighborhood:

1. Watering. Many lawns suffer from over-watering. Most times the weather provides plenty of moisture for your grass. Keep in mind that lawns generally only need to be watered in extremely dry conditions. Also when you need to water just remember that sandy soils need watering twice a week while clay or loamy soils only need to drink about once a week.

2. Feeding. Healthy lawns need three essential minerals. These are nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium. Nitrogen is responsible for healthy green growth, phosphorus promotes root health and potassium helps to strengthen the grass making it disease, drought and temperature resistant. Check your fertilizer or liquid feed to ensure that your lawn is getting all it needs to thrive.

3. Top Dressing. This is often the overlooked step to an envious lawn. Employing a top dressing will help even out your lawn, fill in holes and level out bumps and/or dips. You can pick up a ready-made mix or easily make your own with loam, sand and organic matter. Ideally lawns should receive topdressing once a year in the fall.

Featured Home for Rent in College Station, TX

Sarah Miller, your RE/MAX realtor bryan-college station can help you discover a lot of great tips for making a profitable and fast sell on your house. She is one of the RE/MAX Bryan-College Station Realtor that has a long list of the finest homes in College Station, Call her today at 979-255-1904

Moving in July

Image credit

So, you decided to move out of your house and you can’t find one friend or family member to answer their phone and help you. It’s not a coincidence; they know you’re moving in and that you chose to do it in the hot month of July in Central Texas. Therefore, the chances of them being available to help you load a rental truck any time before September, are slim.  Do not panic though; there are creative ways of getting this daunting task done on your own if needed.

Being ahead of the game and getting things in order before the big day can be a plus for you and for anyone you are planning to have help you. If you know you are moving July 10th, start packing around June 10th. Give yourself time to get all the little things packed and organized as much as possible before the move date. This strategy will make it easier to convince potential moving help that they are not walking into a disaster zone. In addition, if you hire a Brazos Valley moving company, you will have everything organized for them cutting down the man-hours.

Besides the unforgiving Bryan College Station heat you’ll find in July, you will also have to be mindful of chance the for rain and thunderstorms. Heat is one thing, but having all your things drenched because you were not aware of the rain coming, is something different all together. Stay informed on the weather in your area for your moving day. Being one-step ahead will keep the possibility of a surprise springing up on you.

Having to move is usually unpleasant for anyone, but you can make this periodic experience as painless as possible if you just apply some common sense to your move. Your preparedness and the willingness to get organized will allow you to focus less on the physical act of moving and more on the great adventure ahead of your in your new home. 

Featured Home for Rent in College Station, TX 

 

Sarah Miller, your RE/MAX realtor bryan-college station can help you discover a lot of great tips for making a profitable and fast sell on your house. She is one of the RE/MAX Bryan-College Station Realtor that has a long list of the finest homes for rent in Bryan/College Station, Call her today at 979-255-1904

Tips for Having a Safe 4th of July Celebration

Image credit

 It’s that time of year when the swimming pools are full,  the barbeque pit is hot, and most outside activities are  fair game. During this season, we also celebrate one  of the most important holidays for our country’s history,  our Independence Day. While paying your respects to  those that made our freedom and independence  possible, the last thing you want is for unsafe behavior  to turn the celebration into an unfortunate tragedy.  Therefore, here are some basic tips to ensure you and  those around you have a problem free time this 4th of  July.

 One thing to remember if your celebration is going to  involve children is, they do not have the ability to see  things like fireworks and an uncovered pool as  potential hazards. If setting fireworks off is legal in your  area, always remember the children must be  supervised if handling them and they must be old  enough to ignite them safely. When it comes to pools,  never leave the underage kids out back with an uncovered pool while the adults head inside. These two basic precautions, when overlooked are responsible for countless accidents and in many cases fatalities.

Another thing to keep in mind during you 4th of July celebration is that this holiday has been shown to have a large number of impaired drivers on the road. If you are planning to take the family to a fireworks display or anywhere for that matter, remember to observe the vehicles around you to ensure they are not driving erratically or showing signs of being driven by an intoxicated driver.

Sometimes we get so caught up in taking precautions for ourselves that we forget about our four legged family members that could be hurt in an unsafe 4th of July celebration. Just remember, if you pets are not familiar with the loud sounds of fireworks going off, they could get startled and do something out of character, like run from the loud noise toward the street. Also, remember not to let the animal help themselves to the food you might be having. Many foods we enjoy are poisons to dogs and cats. Remembering these few simple tips will keep your Independence Day celebration accident and disaster free.

Featured Home for Rent in College Station, TX 

 

Sarah Miller, your RE/MAX realtor bryan-college station can help you discover a lot of great tips for making a profitable and fast sell on your house. She is one of the RE/MAX Bryan-College Station Realtor that has a long list of the finest homes for rent in Bryan/College Station, Call her today at 979-255-1904