Together We Thrive - Texas Real Estate BlogRecently posted or modified blog posts in the category - Everyday Livinghttps://www.thriverealty.com/blog/Copyright ThriveRealty.com2022-09-20T10:33:23-07:00tag:thriverealty.com,2012-09-20:14685Top Pumpkin Patches in Central Texas<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1370/image/andrea/0922_Top_Pumpkin_Patches_BLOG.jpg" width="1920" height="1080" alt="Top Pumpkin Patches Central Texas" title="Top Pumpkin Patches Central Texas" />
Fall is finally here! It’s time to find the perfect pumpkin to paint, carve, or use for decoration. There are many pumpkin patches in the Austin area, so we’ve rounded up a few of our favorites in Leander, Cedar Park, Liberty Hill, Burnet, Marble Falls, and Georgetown. Grab the family and enjoy a great day at one of these top pumpkin patches in Central Texas.<br /><br />To save any frustration, before heading out to any of these locations, we recommend verifying that they are operating under normal hours.<br /><br />Sweet Berry Farm - Marble Falls<br />One of the biggest and most popular pumpkin patches, <a href="https://sweetberryfarm.com/index.html">Sweet Berry Farm</a> has much to do for the entire family. Race through the corn maze, treat yourself to homemade ice cream made with ingredients from the farm, or stuff your own scarecrow. Kids will enjoy the mini maze, face painting, horse rides, sand art, and pumpkin painting. Of course, there are pumpkins as far as the eye can see!<br /><br />Address: 1801 FM 1980, ?Marble Falls, Texas 78654
Nomad Ranch - Bertram<br /><a href="https://www.nomadranchllc.com/">NOMAD RANCH</a> is a 138 acre family-owned ranch in Bertram, Texas. They have an annual pumpkin patch, straw or hay bale maze, tractor rides, farm market, face painting, farm animals, and picnic area (bring your own food). They also sell grass-fed beef, produce, jams, and hay that are produced there. <br /><br />Address: 1306 County Road 258, Bertram, TX 78605
Sweet Eats Fruit Farm<a href="https://www.pumpkinpatchesandmore.org/Halloween2022.php?PAGGE=/TXpaustin.php&NAME=Sweet%20Eats%20Fruit%20Farm&URL=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sweeteats.com"></a> - Georgetown<br />According to the website, <a href="https://www.pumpkinpatchesandmore.org/Halloween2022.php?PAGGE=/TXpaustin.php&NAME=Sweet%20Eats%20Fruit%20Farm&URL=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sweeteats.com">Sweet Eats Fruit Farm</a> holds an annual Fall Festival that features 4.5 acres of safari themed corn maze paired with a GIANT 2 acre Texas sized pumpkin patch filled with over 40 different varieties of pumpkins. They also have fireworks (Fri & Sat nights in October), pig races, petting zoo, pony rides, wagon rides, apple cannons, food trucks, live music, and over 30 activities that are included with a general admission ticket.<br /><br />Address: 14400 E. State Highway 29, Georgetown, TX 78626
Texas Pumpkin Fest - Leander<br />Open October 8-October 30, the <a href="https://texaspumpkinfest.com/">Texas Pumpkin Fest</a> is fun for the entire family! This Texas-sized pumpkin fest features 750,000 pounds of pumpkins and gourds. Visitors will enjoy a variety of rides and games, get spooked in the Tent of Terror, race down a 65’ super slide, get lost in a hay maze (or not), and more. Food trucks will be on site serving a variety of foods. Check <a href="https://texaspumpkinfest.com/">the website</a> for updated schedules and events.<br /><br />Address: 8760 FM 2243, Leander TX 78641<br /><br />These are just a few of the larger pumpkin patches in the Central Texas area. Of course, there may be a smaller pumpkin patch closer to home that you want to check out. Let us know if we should add it to the list next year.<br /><br />If you are considering moving to the area this fall, we'd love to help you find the perfect home for your family! Feel free to use the chat function on our website or <a href="https://www.thriverealty.com/contact/">contact us here</a>.2022-09-21T05:00:00-07:002022-09-20T10:33:23-07:00Andrea Schulletag:thriverealty.com,2012-09-20:14378How to Make Your Home Feel More Like Fall<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1370/image/andrea/0922_How_to_Make_Your_Home_Feel_Like_Fall_BLOG.png" width="1920" height="1080" />
Whether you're about to list your home or just want to make your home feel more like fall, this list will help spark ideas for you!
Apples are the new pumpkin<br />Pumpkins and mums are great fall decor options but don't underestimate the power of a bowl of fruit. Apples, pears, and artichokes are all great alternatives!
All the fall smells<br />Even cleaning can be fun when you use fall-scented cleaning products! Don’t forget to change out your hand soaps, candles, and home fragrances to help make your home feel more like fall.
Update your floral arrangements<br />One way to do this on the cheap is to clip your favorite flowers or leaves from your backyard and bring the outdoors in! If you don’t have a green thumb, then using store-bought flowers or faux flowers is a great option.
Change out your welcome mat<br />There are so many great options today - especially at Target! Don’t be afraid to let your welcome mat reflect your personality.
It's fire pit season<br />Clean out your fire pit, wash off the outdoor furniture, and get the s’mores makings ready. Don’t forget to add some string lights in the trees for added ambiance.
We know changing your decor can be daunting. Just take it one step at a time. And remember, when in doubt, add a plaid throw, a rust-colored pillow, or a few pumpkins, and your home will effortlessly feel more like fall!
Need help staging or selling your home this fall? We'd love to chat! Feel free to use the chat function on our website or <a href="https://www.thriverealty.com/contact/">contact us here</a>.2022-09-08T05:00:00-07:002022-09-08T06:24:24-07:00Andrea Schulletag:thriverealty.com,2012-09-20:80405 Simple Ways to Spruce Up Your Guest Room<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1370/image/Copy_of_DECEMBER_CONTENT_8.png" width="487" height="487" alt="Nightstand next to a guest bed" />
Hosting for the holidays and want to provide top level hospitality? Or maybe you want to transform your current guest room into more of a retreat in preparation to put your house on the market. Either way, follow these 5 tips for sprucing up your guest room:
1. Let them set the temp: Provide multiple blanket options so they can be as warm or cool as they like. Also include a fan in the room to accommodate fan sleepers!
2. Add a spot for your guests to put their things. This could be a bench, a drawer, a good spot to keep their suitcase, etc. Just create some room!
3. Leave a snack and some water bottles on the dresser or nightstand. If you're sprucing up to stage, replace bottled water with a beautiful carafe instead.
4. Include little extras: This might be a vase of fresh flowers or greenery, a wreath hung above the bed, an extra lamp on the nightstand for reading and a stack of books to choose from.
5. Give your guest bath a hotel vibe: Get toiletry sized shampoos, conditioners, lotions and maybe even an extra toothbrush or 2.
It'll feel like they're at "HOTEL MONICA"! But in that case you better have some freshly baked chocolate chip cookies ready upon their arrival!2020-12-16T21:57:00-07:002022-06-18T12:07:04-07:00Katie Hannertag:thriverealty.com,2012-09-20:6447Gifts and Gadgets for Every Room in the House<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1370/image/December_2019_-_MVP_-_Social_Media_Image.jpg" width="2400" height="1260" alt="Gifts and Gadgets for Every Room in the House" /><br /><br />Are you searching for new and innovative gift ideas this holiday season? If so, check out our list of the hottest home technology offerings. We’ve selected a few of our favorites for every room in the house.
These smart systems and devices add comfort, convenience, and a “cool factor” that will delight your friends and family. So think about who you know that loves the latest gadgets … or add a few of these to your own wish list!
ENTRYWAY
Ensure the safety of your loved ones with these smart security upgrades.
Smart Lighting
Ring, a company best known for its video doorbells, has added smart lights to its series of integrated devices. The <a href="https://shop.ring.com/pages/smart-lighting">Ring Smart Light System</a> includes motion sensors, pathlights, spotlights, and even step lights, which can be turned on and off using voice commands when paired with an Amazon Alexa device. Users may opt to receive a notification when motion is detected on the premises, and—if integrated with Ring security cameras—access a live video stream for an added layer of security. Systems start at $69.99.
Video Doorbell
Video doorbells have become an increasingly popular security enhancement for homes, and for a good reason. Homeowners can detect activity at their front door while away, view visitors via video stream, and communicate without opening the door. Since Ring released its first smart doorbell in 2013, a number of competitors have entered the market. The <a href="https://store.google.com/product/nest_hello_doorbell">Nest Hello Video Doorbell</a> has some unique features—like facial recognition, package detection, and pre-recorded quick responses—that place it near the top of the pack. Retails for $229.
Smart Lock
Smart locks are a great way to ensure your friends and family are never left out in the cold, and the <a href="https://august.com/products/august-smart-lock-pro-connect">August Smart Lock Pro+ Connect</a> is among the most highly rated. It’s one of the easiest models to install because it pairs with an existing deadbolt. The Smart Lock Pro enables a user to lock and unlock their door remotely with an app on their phone. And with the auto-lock/unlock feature, it can be set to open automatically upon approach and relock after entry. Retails for $279.
LIVING ROOM
These fun and functional gifts are perfect for anyone who is big on style—but short on time.
<br />Automated Planter
Caring for household plants is easier than ever with the latest advancements in technology. Perfect for frequent travelers or forgetful friends, the <a href="https://dewplanter.com/">Dewplanter</a> uses moisture in the air to water plants without manual intervention. Now nature lovers can enjoy the beauty and health benefits of houseplants without the hassle. Plus, for each unit sold, the company pledges to plant a tree somewhere it’s needed. Retails for $69.50.
Smart Art
Instead of buying your favorite art lover a single painting, why not give him or her 30,000? With the <a href="https://meural.netgear.com/">Meural Canvas,</a> you can access an extensive collection of artwork from around the world to display digitally in your own home. Meural utilizes proprietary technology to deliver an anti-glare matte display that automatically adjusts to the lighting in the room. Personal artwork and photographs can be showcased, as well. Retails for $445 with annual membership.
<br />Motorized Shades
Motorized window coverings aren’t new, but a lower price point and enhanced features have helped to boost their popularity. The latest <a href="https://www.somfysystems.com/en-us/products/shades-blinds-curtains/motorized-shades">Motorized Shades from Somfy</a> can be preprogrammed to raise or lower at certain times of day or controlled on-demand via a remote, smartphone app, or voice command when paired with Amazon Alexa or Google Home. They can also be set to operate automatically in response to the amount of sunlight or temperature of the room. Contact a dealer for pricing.
KITCHEN<br /><br />These kitchen gadgets make life a little easier and a lot more enjoyable. They’re perfect for your busiest friends and family members!
Pressure Cooker
Have you jumped on the multi-cooker bandwagon yet? If so, you know how fast and simple these multifunctional appliances make meal preparation. The <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Instant-Pot-Multi-Use-Programmable-Pressure/dp/B00FLYWNYQ">InstantPot Duo</a> is a pressure cooker, sauté pan, steamer, slow cooker, rice cooker, food warmer, and yogurt maker all-in-one. It reduces cooking time and lowers energy consumption. Who wouldn’t love one of these versatile tools? With numerous cookbooks and blogs devoted to InstantPot recipes, the meal options are virtually endless. Retails for $99.95.
Cocktail Machine
Cocktail connoisseurs will appreciate the ease and convenience of the <a href="https://bartesian.com/">Bartesian Premium Cocktail Machine.</a> Listed among “Oprah’s Favorite Things” for 2019, the Bartesian mixes drinks with the touch of a button. Simply fill the canisters with base spirits, choose a cocktail capsule, and the machine does the rest. Now you can mix a margarita, whiskey sour, cosmopolitan, and other favorites as easily as you brew a cup of coffee. Retails for $349.
Smart Refrigerator
Kitchens are often called the “heart of the home,” and a new refrigerator from Samsung aims to be the hub. The <a href="https://www.samsung.com/us/explore/family-hub-refrigerator/overview/">Samsung Family Hub Refrigerator</a> helps busy families stay organized. Grocery shopping becomes a breeze with built-in cameras that allow owners to peek inside their fridge from anywhere. The interactive touchscreen displays pictures, notes, and reminders for family members. And the integrated SmartThings app enables users to control smart devices and appliances from a central point. Base model starts at $3,099.
BEDROOM
Almost nothing beats a good night’s sleep. Help your loved ones wake up refreshed with these smart devices for the bedroom.
Baby Sleep Soother
As any parent knows, when your baby isn’t getting sleep, neither are you. Help everyone in the family catch some z’s with a <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Bubzi-Co-Machine-Woodland-Portable/dp/B06Y5Q5XRB">Bubzi Co Soothing Owl</a>. This cuddly creature plays lullabies while projecting a starry scene on the bedroom wall to calm young children and help them drift off to sleep. And for every purchase, Bubzi Co makes a donation to Postpartum Support International. Retails for $30.95.
Sunrise Alarm Clock
Know someone who hates getting up in the morning? Alarm clocks that utilize light instead of a noisy alarm can provide a more peaceful transition in and out of sleep. The <a href="https://www.usa.philips.com/c-e/smartsleep/connected-sleep-and-wakeup-light.html">Philips SmartSleep Connected Sleep and Wake-Up Light</a> includes customizable sunrise and sunset simulation, guided breathing exercises, and sensors that track room conditions, like temperature, humidity, noise, and light. Retails for $199.95.
Smart Thermostat
Temperature fluctuations during the night can disrupt sleep. The <a href="https://store.google.com/us/product/nest_learning_thermostat_3rd_gen?hl=en-US">Nest Learning Thermostat</a> uses smart technology to track a user’s preferences and build a schedule around them. Homeowners can place one of its integrated sensors in their bedroom to maintain a consistent temperature throughout the night. And Nest thermostats cut energy consumption, so they’ll rest easier knowing they’re saving the planet and money on utility bills . Retails for $249.
BATHROOM
Bathrooms don’t have to be boring. Technology can add flair to the daily routine.
Waterproof Speaker
Music enthusiasts and podcast fans will enjoy streaming their favorites in the shower with a wireless waterproof speaker. The <a href="https://www.ultimateears.com/en-us/wireless-speakers/wonderboom-2.html">Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 2</a> is a mid-priced and versatile option that can go from the bath to the beach. It packs an impressive 13-hour battery life in a small, portable case that’s waterproof, dust-proof, and floatable. Retails for $99.99.
Digital Smart Scale
A scale isn’t an appropriate gift for everyone, but diet and fitness enthusiasts may appreciate the high-tech features available with the <a href="https://www.withings.com/us/en/body-plus">Withings Body+.</a> It tracks weight, body water, and fat, muscle, and bone mass for up to eight users. It can also be set to display local weather and the previous day’s step count. Customized pregnancy and baby modes make this a suitable choice for a growing family, as well. Retails for $99.95.
Vanity TV Mirror
For a truly luxe bathroom addition, consider an integrated vanity television mirror. The <a href="https://www.seura.com/products/tv-mirrors/vanity/">Seura TV Mirror</a> seamlessly incorporates video into a bathroom vanity. It’s vanishing glass technology makes it possible to view the television through a mirror. When turned off, the screen completely disappears. Add lighting or a custom frame to complete the look. Starts at $3,099 for a 19” display.
OUR GIFT TO YOU
Are you considering a permanent technology upgrade for your own home? Give us a call first! Buyer expectations and preferences vary depending on price point, architectural style, and neighborhood. We can help you determine how the enhancement will impact the value of your home before you make the investment.
2019-12-01T20:44:00-07:002019-12-01T21:11:46-07:00Katie Hanner