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It’s the return of the famous Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty open house tour! This weekend — Saturday and Sunday, October 15 and 16 — come explore more than 60 homes, all across North Texas, from Dallas to Fort Worth and everywhere in between and around! You’ll see every style, from Traditional to Contemporary to somewhere in the middle — at all kinds of price points, too. Clear your afternoons and explore fall’s freshest — and most idea-loaded — listings. Come plan your route at briggsfreeman.com/tour!
Each Friday, Robbie Briggs, CEO of Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty, writes about luxury, trends, business and more in the advertising pages of the Mansion section of The Wall Street Journal. Below is his letter of October 7, 2022. FROM MY PERSPECTIVE It’s hard to think of Texas without thinking of snow-covered mountains and ski chalets. Allow me to explain. Texans and snowy states — like Colorado, Wyoming, Montana and Utah — were made for each other. It speaks to the contrast between our sweltering summers and their cold climes, and to our famously flat terrain compared to their dramatically jagged peaks. Fleeing to a ski spot is an exciting, bracing change for a Texan. That’s why so many of them have vacation homes in the mountains. In fact, we are seeing an upswing in the buying second homes all over. The pandemic caused many folks to rethink how — and where — they want to spend their time. If you are thinking about a second home, anywhere, the same Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty agent who helps you so expertly in North Texas can help you with that, too. That’s the power of our professionals — and of our Sotheby’s International Realty network. But, back to the mountains. Many of our own agents are skilled about ski homes, especially in Colorado, arguably the most popular mountain destination for North Texans. They go throughout the year, and many stay all summer. That’s a migration that makes all kinds of sense, thanks to those glorious peaks and those air-conditioned temperatures. Ironically, mountain fever knows no limits in a state that doesn’t have many. One example? The Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children. Since 1981, it has hosted an annual Amputee Ski Trip, wherein they take a group of teens who have lost limbs to the National Sports Center for the Disabled in Colorado for a week of schussing and slaloming. With special equipment, these kids can not only excel at the sport, they can also build confidence and independence. Skiing creates the focus, but the challenges these teens can overcome can be life-changing. Check it out at scottishriteforchildren.org and nscd.org. I bet you’ll be inspired. I hope you’re inspired, too, by all the delights out there in the mountains. If you can dream it, our agents can help make it happen. Robbie Briggs CEO Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty [email protected] Pictured at top of post: 29 Mulligan Drive in Crested Butte, Colorado, represented by Shelle Carrig of Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty
Rugs are an easy, one-step way to elevate almost any space — as well as an attractive way to provide extra warmth and softness when the seasons call for it. While it’s important to consider where you want your rug to go and how big it should be relative to the room, you might also be wondering which rug works best for each room in your home. Here, we — pardon the pun — walk you through some of the most popular types of rugs, and the pros and cons of each. 1. Natural wool rugs Wool is the top go-to material for area rugs, and with good reason. Wool naturally stains less easily than some other materials, and is easier to clean, too. Because of this, a wool rug is a no-brainer choice for high-traffic areas in your home, such as the living room or hallway. Usually handmade, wool rugs offer high quality, but can come with the price tag to reflect it. The advantages outweigh the downsides, however: Wool is a natural, eco-friendly material, and offers softness and warmth, too. Wool rugs also come in a vast array of styles, including shag (a messy high pile), low or cut pile (a neater, less cozy look) and flat-weave (for a more beach-house or lake-house feel). 2. Flat-weave rugs If you’re going for a lighter, more summery feel, a flat-weave rug is the best choice. Typically made of natural fibers such as jute, bamboo, cotton, silk or sisal, these rugs are a bit less soft but more lightweight than a classic wool rug (though wool can be flat-woven, too). The natural fibers make these styles an eco-conscious pick, and these kinds or rugs are usually more affordable than wool. Although flat-weave rugs are fairly resistant to foot traffic, they are less fond of the elements: Make sure to place yours away from any humidity and never in lots of direct sunlight. They are great for covering larger areas or to layer under smaller, intricately patterned rugs. 3. Hair-on-hide rugs Especially for smaller rooms, such as a cozy bedroom or home office, hair-on-hide rugs (think cowhide or sheepskin) are a great choice. They add luxurious texture and softness and generally last quite long, too, making them a good investment. The few downsides? Hair-on-ride rugs are best for low-traffic areas since they can soil quickly, and they don’t do so well with humidity (they can buckle and emit a musky aroma). If you do feel uncomfortable with the idea of a natural animal rug in your home, you can source a replica rug made from synthetic materials — so you can still achieve all of the same, earthy, textural style that they afford. 4. The new synthetic rugs Modern synthetic rugs have plenty going for them. Made from materials such as viscose, nylon or polyester, they can mimic the look of natural fibers without the higher price tags. They’re also easy to clean and quite sturdy, meaning they can withstand humidity and sometimes even the outdoors. Although you can lose out on some softness with a synthetic rug, they’re not all created equal: By shopping around, you can find ones that feel just as soft as the plushest wool. The main disadvantages? They’re not the most eco-friendly unless they are made with recycled materials and they don’t feel quite as premium as natural ones. Unsure about what rug to unroll? If you’re uncertain about what kind of rug to pick for a given room, make sure to consider whether there is any humidity or sunshine in that room, whether it has high foot traffic and whether you’re looking for a more casual or a more cozy vibe. For much more home-design inspiration, check out our blog. Follow us! Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, Pinterest, Instagram and TikTok.
Rugs are an easy, one-step way to elevate almost any space — as well as an attractive way to provide extra warmth and softness when the seasons call for it. While it’s important to consider where you want your rug to go and how big it should be relative to the room, you might also be wondering which rug works best for each room in your home. Here, we — pardon the pun — walk you through some of the most popular types of rugs, and the pros and cons of each. 1. Natural wool rugs Wool is the top go-to material for area rugs, and with good reason. Wool naturally stains less easily than some other materials, and is easier to clean, too. Because of this, a wool rug is a no-brainer choice for high-traffic areas in your home, such as the living room or hallway. Usually handmade, wool rugs offer high quality, but can come with the price tag to reflect it. The advantages outweigh the downsides, however: Wool is a natural, eco-friendly material, and offers softness and warmth, too. Wool rugs also come in a vast array of styles, including shag (a messy high pile), low or cut pile (a neater, less cozy look) and flat-weave (for a more beach-house or lake-house feel). 2. Flat-weave rugs If you’re going for a lighter, more summery feel, a flat-weave rug is the best choice. Typically made of natural fibers such as jute, bamboo, cotton, silk or sisal, these rugs are a bit less soft but more lightweight than a classic wool rug (though wool can be flat-woven, too). The natural fibers make these styles an eco-conscious pick, and these kinds or rugs are usually more affordable than wool. Although flat-weave rugs are fairly resistant to foot traffic, they are less fond of the elements: Make sure to place yours away from any humidity and never in lots of direct sunlight. They are great for covering larger areas or to layer under smaller, intricately patterned rugs. 3. Hair-on-hide rugs Especially for smaller rooms, such as a cozy bedroom or home office, hair-on-hide rugs (think cowhide or sheepskin) are a great choice. They add luxurious texture and softness and generally last quite long, too, making them a good investment. The few downsides? Hair-on-ride rugs are best for low-traffic areas since they can soil quickly, and they don’t do so well with humidity (they can buckle and emit a musky aroma). If you do feel uncomfortable with the idea of a natural animal rug in your home, you can source a replica rug made from synthetic materials — so you can still achieve all of the same, earthy, textural style that they afford. 4. The new synthetic rugs Modern synthetic rugs have plenty going for them. Made from materials such as viscose, nylon or polyester, they can mimic the look of natural fibers without the higher price tags. They’re also easy to clean and quite sturdy, meaning they can withstand humidity and sometimes even the outdoors. Although you can lose out on some softness with a synthetic rug, they’re not all created equal: By shopping around, you can find ones that feel just as soft as the plushest wool. The main disadvantages? They’re not the most eco-friendly unless they are made with recycled materials and they don’t feel quite as premium as natural ones. Unsure about what rug to unroll? If you’re uncertain about what kind of rug to pick for a given room, make sure to consider whether there is any humidity or sunshine in that room, whether it has high foot traffic and whether you’re looking for a more casual or a more cozy vibe. For much more home-design inspiration, check out our blog. Follow us! Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, Pinterest, Instagram and TikTok. The post Absolutely Floored: How these 4 kinds of area rugs can change any room in your home appeared first on B - the blog.
Rugs are an easy, one-step way to elevate almost any space — as well as an attractive way to provide extra warmth and softness when the seasons call for it. While it’s important to consider where you want your rug to go and how big it should be relative to the room, you might also be wondering which rug works best for each room in your home. Here, we — pardon the pun — walk you through some of the most popular types of rugs, and the pros and cons of each. 1. Natural wool rugs Wool is the top go-to material for area rugs, and with good reason. Wool naturally stains less easily than some other materials, and is easier to clean, too. Because of this, a wool rug is a no-brainer choice for high-traffic areas in your home, such as the living room or hallway. Usually handmade, wool rugs offer high quality, but can come with the price tag to reflect it. The advantages outweigh the downsides, however: Wool is a natural, eco-friendly material, and offers softness and warmth, too. Wool rugs also come in a vast array of styles, including shag (a messy high pile), low or cut pile (a neater, less cozy look) and flat-weave (for a more beach-house or lake-house feel). 2. Flat-weave rugs If you’re going for a lighter, more summery feel, a flat-weave rug is the best choice. Typically made of natural fibers such as jute, bamboo, cotton, silk or sisal, these rugs are a bit less soft but more lightweight than a classic wool rug (though wool can be flat-woven, too). The natural fibers make these styles an eco-conscious pick, and these kinds or rugs are usually more affordable than wool. Although flat-weave rugs are fairly resistant to foot traffic, they are less fond of the elements: Make sure to place yours away from any humidity and never in lots of direct sunlight. They are great for covering larger areas or to layer under smaller, intricately patterned rugs. 3. Hair-on-hide rugs Especially for smaller rooms, such as a cozy bedroom or home office, hair-on-hide rugs (think cowhide or sheepskin) are a great choice. They add luxurious texture and softness and generally last quite long, too, making them a good investment. The few downsides? Hair-on-ride rugs are best for low-traffic areas since they can soil quickly, and they don’t do so well with humidity (they can buckle and emit a musky aroma). If you do feel uncomfortable with the idea of a natural animal rug in your home, you can source a replica rug made from synthetic materials — so you can still achieve all of the same, earthy, textural style that they afford. 4. The new synthetic rugs Modern synthetic rugs have plenty going for them. Made from materials such as viscose, nylon or polyester, they can mimic the look of natural fibers without the higher price tags. They’re also easy to clean and quite sturdy, meaning they can withstand humidity and sometimes even the outdoors. Although you can lose out on some softness with a synthetic rug, they’re not all created equal: By shopping around, you can find ones that feel just as soft as the plushest wool. The main disadvantages? They’re not the most eco-friendly unless they are made with recycled materials and they don’t feel quite as premium as natural ones. Unsure about what rug to unroll? If you’re uncertain about what kind of rug to pick for a given room, make sure to consider whether there is any humidity or sunshine in that room, whether it has high foot traffic and whether you’re looking for a more casual or a more cozy vibe. For much more home-design inspiration, check out our blog. Follow us! Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, Pinterest, Instagram and TikTok. The post Absolutely Floored: How these 4 area rugs can change a room appeared first on B - the blog.
Each Friday, Robbie Briggs, CEO of Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty, writes about luxury, trends, business and more in the advertising pages of the Mansion section of The Wall Street Journal. Below is his letter of September 23, 2022. FROM MY PERSPECTIVE As I write this, 800 agents from around the Sotheby’s International Realty global network are mixing it up in Austin, Texas. There may be disco dancing involved. And light-up cowboy hats. But, the real reasons they are there go much deeper than a little glitz and glam. They are there to trade ideas and stories. There are seminars and workshops and mentors to learn from. There are fresh tips on selling and staying in touch, with each other and with their clients. Bottom line: They are there to better their business — which is better for you. It’s called the Texas Networking Event and there is nothing like it. It is hosted by three of the Sotheby’s International Realty affiliates in the great state of Texas: Kuper Sotheby’s International Realty in San Antonio and Austin; Martha Turner Sotheby’s International Realty in Houston; and Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty in Dallas, Fort Worth and across North Texas. Working together is a hallmark of the most powerful network in real estate. Not only did the Texas brokerages sell an exceptional $9.5 billion in properties last year, the three host brokerages of the Texas Networking Event referred each other $511 million of those sales. (That’s right — more than half a billion dollars.) And because we’re all part of that unique Sotheby’s International Realty network — 1,000 offices in 80-plus countries and territories, including Asia, Europe, Australia and anywhere you can imagine — our agents have made genuine, lifelong friendships with their peers in all kinds of places, which means you will get the same level of information, advice and service that they always strive to give you. We trust other Sotheby’s International Realty agents completely — and that’s a great feeling. The network also means our agents are aligned with one of the world’s most recognized and respected brands: Sotheby’s, which has stood for quality and service since 1744. Working with our agents means you’re in for exceptional quality and service, anywhere. Agents who are this connected, thoughtful and successful are exactly who you want handling your real estate transactions. And, if they’re wearing a glowing cowboy hat, even better. Robbie Briggs CEO Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty [email protected]
Each Friday, Robbie Briggs, CEO of Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty, writes about luxury, trends, business and more in the advertising pages of the Mansion section of The Wall Street Journal. Below is his letter of September 23, 2022. FROM MY PERSPECTIVE As I write this, 800 agents from around the Sotheby’s International Realty global network are mixing it up in Austin, Texas. There may be disco dancing involved. And light-up cowboy hats. But, the real reasons they are there go much deeper than a little glitz and glam. They are there to trade ideas and stories. There are seminars and workshops and mentors to learn from. There are fresh tips on selling and staying in touch, with each other and with their clients. Bottom line: They are there to better their business — which is better for you. It’s called the Texas Networking Event and there is nothing like it. It is hosted by three of the Sotheby’s International Realty affiliates in the great state of Texas: Kuper Sotheby’s International Realty in San Antonio and Austin; Martha Turner Sotheby’s International Realty in Houston; and Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty in Dallas, Fort Worth and across North Texas. Working together is a hallmark of the most powerful network in real estate. Not only did the Texas brokerages sell an exceptional $9.5 billion in properties last year, the three host brokerages of the Texas Networking Event referred each other $511 million of those sales. (That’s right — more than half a billion dollars.) And because we’re all part of that unique Sotheby’s International Realty network — 1,000 offices in 80-plus countries and territories, including Asia, Europe, Australia and anywhere you can imagine — our agents have made genuine, lifelong friendships with their peers in all kinds of places, which means you will get the same level of information, advice and service that they always strive to give you. We trust other Sotheby’s International Realty agents completely — and that’s a great feeling. The network also means our agents are aligned with one of the world’s most recognized and respected brands: Sotheby’s, which has stood for quality and service since 1744. Working with our agents means you’re in for exceptional quality and service, anywhere. Agents who are this connected, thoughtful and successful are exactly who you want handling your real estate transactions. And, if they’re wearing a glowing cowboy hat, even better. Robbie Briggs CEO Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty [email protected] The post CEO Robbie Briggs: How disco dancing helps the world’s finest real estate agents help you appeared first on B - the blog.
That first crisp feeling of fall is the ideal time to focus on something right in front of you: your fireplace. After all, it is one of the main focal points of your living room. If it’s not up to snuff with the rest of your decor, it could tilt toward eyesore rather than eye-catcher. Fortunately, there are many ways to enhance the beauty of any fireplace. Let’s see how painting, tiling, décor and technology can breathe new life into a tired hearth. The anatomy of your fireplace When we hear the term fireplace, most of us probably think of the opening where the fire burns and the area that surrounds it. However, distinguishing between each element helps to plan improvements with more precision. The chimney breast refers to the part of a chimney that may protrude forward from a wall to make room for a fireplace. The fireplace, or firebox, is the opening contained in the chimney breast, where a fire is built. The term fireplace surround refers to the trim, molding or material that wraps around the fireplace opening. The mantelpiece, or mantel, projects from the wall above the fireplace opening. It often acts as a ledge for displaying art and objects. The hearth is the area near the floor that is directly in front of the fireplace opening. It is either flush to the floor or built up above it a bit. How to spruce up your fireplace design and décor When you’ve invested in decorating a room, the fireplace is often overlooked. Don’t fret! We’re here with unique fireplace design ideas that can spruce up your space and make the fireplace the hearth of your home. Update the surround If your current surround is stone, brick or wood, painting it is a simple way to update it and create more visual harmony in the room. Whitewashing red brick or using creamy colors can soften its sometimes-harsh tones. The color is entirely your choice, and an interior decorator can offer suggestions that will maximize unity in the room while retaining the inviting warmth of the fireplace. One trend: Painting the fireplace surround the very same color as the wall, for a chic monochromatic look. Or, consider a German smear. This treatment involves applying textured plaster over brick to give a rustic appearance. Often used on brick exteriors, this technique has grown in popularity to transform brick surrounds, too. Beyond brick, other striking surround options include tile, marble, metal, cast stone and limestone. Style the mantel There are numerous mantel styles for every taste, and there are absolutely no rules you need to follow. A floating mantel is a great way to add character to a room without making any permanent changes. If you want to add some architectural interest, go for a mantel with corbels. These are carved or molded supports that project from the wall and frame the fireplace opening. They became popular in the Victorian era, and they’re making a comeback, due to their ornate detail. A modern surround mantel can add a touch of sleek sophistication. Often, these mantels are made from glass or metal and they lack any traditional ornamentation. If you have a traditional fireplace and want to give it a modern update, consider using a contemporary mantel. Similar to a surround mantel, a classic mantel incorporates slightly more detailed features. Rustic mantels offer old-world elegance. They can be made of unpainted wood or brick or a combination of both. Industrial mantels take rustic to another level by incorporating features that harken back to a preindustrial age, so they become an immediate point of conversation. There are some wonderful high-style mantel ideas, here. Change from woodburning to gas Gas fireplaces have become very popular for two main reasons: They are a great option if you happen to like a modern look and they are extremely convenient — started by flipping a switch instead of with newspaper and kindling. Today’s gas-fueled fireplaces provide a realistic flame appearance and can even generate more heat than their woodburning counterparts. And, unlike woodburning fireplaces, gas fireplaces can be installed almost anywhere in your home where space allows. Add personality with décor Once you’ve chosen the surround, mantelpiece and paint color, you can add in some fireplace décor. This can be anything from framed photos and artwork to seasonal displays. Remember that the fireplace is a place to gather, so make it feel warm and inviting with personal touches. Hanging artwork above the mantel or propping it on the mantel itself is a more traditional approach to fireplace décor. Think about adding other elements, such as a collection of vases, a group of candles or candlesticks or a beautiful or striking clock. Another fun trick? Alternating your décor, depending on the season or holiday. Yes, home is where the hearth is A well-designed fireplace creates a warm, inviting and relaxing environment for family and friends. With creativity and careful planning, you can transform one into an inspiration that reflects the character of you and your home. Whether you are staying in your home or selling, reach out to any Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty agent for sage advice about the fireplace options that can maximize your home investment.
That first crisp feeling of fall is the ideal time to focus on something right in front of you: your fireplace. After all, it is one of the main focal points of your living room. If it’s not up to snuff with the rest of your decor, it could tilt toward eyesore rather than eye-catcher. Fortunately, there are many ways to enhance the beauty of any fireplace. Let’s see how painting, tiling, décor and technology can breathe new life into a tired hearth. The anatomy of your fireplace When we hear the term fireplace, most of us probably think of the opening where the fire burns and the area that surrounds it. However, distinguishing between each element helps to plan improvements with more precision. The chimney breast refers to the part of a chimney that may protrude forward from a wall to make room for a fireplace. The fireplace, or firebox, is the opening contained in the chimney breast, where a fire is built. The term fireplace surround refers to the trim, molding or material that wraps around the fireplace opening. The mantelpiece, or mantel, projects from the wall above the fireplace opening. It often acts as a ledge for displaying art and objects. The hearth is the area near the floor that is directly in front of the fireplace opening. It is either flush to the floor or built up above it a bit. How to spruce up your fireplace design and décor When you’ve invested in decorating a room, the fireplace is often overlooked. Don’t fret! We’re here with unique fireplace design ideas that can spruce up your space and make the fireplace the hearth of your home. Update the surround If your current surround is stone, brick or wood, painting it is a simple way to update it and create more visual harmony in the room. Whitewashing red brick or using creamy colors can soften its sometimes-harsh tones. The color is entirely your choice, and an interior decorator can offer suggestions that will maximize unity in the room while retaining the inviting warmth of the fireplace. One trend: Painting the fireplace surround the very same color as the wall, for a chic monochromatic look. Or, consider a German smear. This treatment involves applying textured plaster over brick to give a rustic appearance. Often used on brick exteriors, this technique has grown in popularity to transform brick surrounds, too. Beyond brick, other striking surround options include tile, marble, metal, cast stone and limestone. Style the mantel There are numerous mantel styles for every taste, and there are absolutely no rules you need to follow. A floating mantel is a great way to add character to a room without making any permanent changes. If you want to add some architectural interest, go for a mantel with corbels. These are carved or molded supports that project from the wall and frame the fireplace opening. They became popular in the Victorian era, and they’re making a comeback, due to their ornate detail. A modern surround mantel can add a touch of sleek sophistication. Often, these mantels are made from glass or metal and they lack any traditional ornamentation. If you have a traditional fireplace and want to give it a modern update, consider using a contemporary mantel. Similar to a surround mantel, a classic mantel incorporates slightly more detailed features. Rustic mantels offer old-world elegance. They can be made of unpainted wood or brick or a combination of both. Industrial mantels take rustic to another level by incorporating features that harken back to a preindustrial age, so they become an immediate point of conversation. There are some wonderful high-style mantel ideas, here. Change from woodburning to gas Gas fireplaces have become very popular for two main reasons: They are a great option if you happen to like a modern look and they are extremely convenient — started by flipping a switch instead of with newspaper and kindling. Today’s gas-fueled fireplaces provide a realistic flame appearance and can even generate more heat than their woodburning counterparts. And, unlike woodburning fireplaces, gas fireplaces can be installed almost anywhere in your home where space allows. Add personality with décor Once you’ve chosen the surround, mantelpiece and paint color, you can add in some fireplace décor. This can be anything from framed photos and artwork to seasonal displays. Remember that the fireplace is a place to gather, so make it feel warm and inviting with personal touches. Hanging artwork above the mantel or propping it on the mantel itself is a more traditional approach to fireplace décor. Think about adding other elements, such as a collection of vases, a group of candles or candlesticks or a beautiful or striking clock. Another fun trick? Alternating your décor, depending on the season or holiday. Yes, home is where the hearth is A well-designed fireplace creates a warm, inviting and relaxing environment for family and friends. With creativity and careful planning, you can transform one into an inspiration that reflects the character of you and your home. Whether you are staying in your home or selling, reach out to any Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty agent for sage advice about the fireplace options that can maximize your home investment. The post Hot Stuff! How to turn up the heat — and add some value — with fireplace updates appeared first on B - the blog.
Each Friday, Robbie Briggs, CEO of Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty, writes about luxury, trends, business and more in the advertising pages of the Mansion section of The Wall Street Journal. Below is his letter of September 16, 2022. FROM MY PERSPECTIVE If you have ever bought or sold a home with us — or ever will — there is something we include, without fail. Excellence. That’s a word that gets misused a lot, but I have some facts to back this up. No. 1: Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty was founded in 1960. The Sotheby’s auction house was founded in 1744. The experience we’ve gained in 62 and 278 years, respectively, can’t be faked by a clever brokerage name or a buzzy tagline. We both have never-ending commitments to quality, exceptional service delivered with passion and our core principles — which separate us from all the others. No. 2: The powerful Sotheby’s International Realty blue sign and sophisticated branding immediately differentiate a property as the finest around. That Sotheby’s brand is exceedingly powerful, placing it in a league with the best fashion, automotive and watchmaking brands in the world — the ones you can quickly name. No. 3: The cutting-edge sothebysrealty.com is the most visited website in the world for luxury properties — at a whopping 46 million visits last year alone. It leads the industry. No. 4: Sotheby’s International Realty leads in the digital realm, too, with first-to-market innovations such as virtual reality property tours, embedded video showings and area lifestyle immersion. The result? Sotheby’s International Realty has more video and VR interaction than the two most popular real estate websites in the world and almost of all of our competitors — combined. No. 5: We’ve never had a better year than 2021. Together, the 25,000 expert agents in the Sotheby’s International Realty network — that’s 1,000 offices in 81 countries and territories — sold $204 billion in properties, for sellers like you and now enjoyed by buyers like you. I could go on. I haven’t even gotten to our unrivaled marketing, exclusive partnerships, property reach and public-relations power. I don’t necessarily need to. I have about 400 other compelling examples of our passion for excellence: every agent at Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty. We couldn’t have better brand ambassadors — and you couldn’t have better advisors. Robbie Briggs CEO Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty [email protected]
Each Friday, Robbie Briggs, CEO of Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty, writes about luxury, trends, business and more in the advertising pages of the Mansion section of The Wall Street Journal. Below is his letter of September 16, 2022. FROM MY PERSPECTIVE If you have ever bought or sold a home with us — or ever will — there is something we include, without fail. Excellence. That’s a word that gets misused a lot, but I have some facts to back this up. No. 1: Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty was founded in 1960. The Sotheby’s auction house was founded in 1744. The experience we’ve gained in 62 and 278 years, respectively, can’t be faked by a clever brokerage name or a buzzy tagline. We both have never-ending commitments to quality, exceptional service delivered with passion and our core principles — which separate us from all the others. No. 2: The powerful Sotheby’s International Realty blue sign and sophisticated branding immediately differentiate a property as the finest around. That Sotheby’s brand is exceedingly powerful, placing it in a league with the best fashion, automotive and watchmaking brands in the world — the ones you can quickly name. No. 3: The cutting-edge sothebysrealty.com is the most visited website in the world for luxury properties — at a whopping 46 million visits last year alone. It leads the industry. No. 4: Sotheby’s International Realty leads in the digital realm, too, with first-to-market innovations such as virtual reality property tours, embedded video showings and area lifestyle immersion. The result? Sotheby’s International Realty has more video and VR interaction than the two most popular real estate websites in the world and almost of all of our competitors — combined. No. 5: We’ve never had a better year than 2021. Together, the 25,000 expert agents in the Sotheby’s International Realty network — that’s 1,000 offices in 81 countries and territories — sold $204 billion in properties, for sellers like you and now enjoyed by buyers like you. I could go on. I haven’t even gotten to our unrivaled marketing, exclusive partnerships, property reach and public-relations power. I don’t necessarily need to. I have about 400 other compelling examples of our passion for excellence: every agent at Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty. We couldn’t have better brand ambassadors — and you couldn’t have better advisors. Robbie Briggs CEO Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty [email protected] The post CEO Robbie Briggs: Why experience can’t be faked by a clever brokerage name or a buzzy tagline appeared first on B - the blog.
Each Friday, Robbie Briggs, CEO of Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty, writes about luxury, trends, business and more in the advertising pages of the Mansion section of The Wall Street Journal. Below is his letter of August 26, 2022. FROM MY PERSPECTIVE I love when great people find their perfect place. I bet you think I’m talking about clients and their homes, being that I’m in the real estate business. You’re right. But I’m also talking about great, established agents. There is nothing like it when the best ones are at the best brokerage for them. (That can happen through recruiting, referrals and destiny.) I have two recent examples, involving two of our offices. In Fort Worth, we have just welcomed two dynamos, Megan Green and Raleigh Green. Megan grew up in Coppell and earned a B.A. from the University of Oklahoma. Raleigh was born and raised in Fort Worth and is a graduate of both Texas Christian University and Southern Methodist University, where he earned an MBA. A top producer, Raleigh just launched The Raleigh Green Real Estate Group at Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty, and they are already wowing their clients with their strengths: Megan in home design, integrity and entrepreneurship and Raleigh in connections, negotiations and market insight. In Southlake, we have welcomed another industry pro, Eric Hacker. The same qualities that made Eric a star in professional baseball — dedication, teamwork and a knockout work ethic — are the same ones that have made him a star in his real estate career. What a resume: He pitched for the Yankees, Pirates, Twins and Giants, and he has a love of art, architecture and design — the perfect complements to real estate. Eric also builds lasting relationships and is a real helper. His clients couldn’t be in better hands — just like with all our agents, across all our offices. On the Southlake note, I have more news: We are underway on a bigger, more modern office there, near Southlake Town Square. It will have an open plan, lots of natural light and a great café area for our agents to gather — not only to collaborate about homes and opportunities, but to just catch up with each other. We will cut the ribbon on it this year. It is an exciting time. Southlake and Fort Worth are growing, just like all of North Texas. We’re bringing on great people and our agent family just gets better and better. I am so lucky to work with them. And that goes for our clients, too. Robbie Briggs CEO Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty [email protected]
Each Friday, Robbie Briggs, CEO of Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty, writes about luxury, trends, business and more in the advertising pages of the Mansion section of The Wall Street Journal. Below is his letter of August 26, 2022. FROM MY PERSPECTIVE I love when great people find their perfect place. I bet you think I’m talking about clients and their homes, being that I’m in the real estate business. You’re right. But I’m also talking about great, established agents. There is nothing like it when the best ones are at the best brokerage for them. (That can happen through recruiting, referrals and destiny.) I have two recent examples, involving two of our offices. In Fort Worth, we have just welcomed two dynamos, Megan Green and Raleigh Green. Megan grew up in Coppell and earned a B.A. from the University of Oklahoma. Raleigh was born and raised in Fort Worth and is a graduate of both Texas Christian University and Southern Methodist University, where he earned an MBA. A top producer, Raleigh just launched The Raleigh Green Real Estate Group at Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty, and they are already wowing their clients with their strengths: Megan in home design, integrity and entrepreneurship and Raleigh in connections, negotiations and market insight. In Southlake, we have welcomed another industry pro, Eric Hacker. The same qualities that made Eric a star in professional baseball — dedication, teamwork and a knockout work ethic — are the same ones that have made him a star in his real estate career. What a resume: He pitched for the Yankees, Pirates, Twins and Giants, and he has a love of art, architecture and design — the perfect complements to real estate. Eric also builds lasting relationships and is a real helper. His clients couldn’t be in better hands — just like with all our agents, across all our offices. On the Southlake note, I have more news: We are underway on a bigger, more modern office there, near Southlake Town Square. It will have an open plan, lots of natural light and a great café area for our agents to gather — not only to collaborate about homes and opportunities, but to just catch up with each other. We will cut the ribbon on it this year. It is an exciting time. Southlake and Fort Worth are growing, just like all of North Texas. We’re bringing on great people and our agent family just gets better and better. I am so lucky to work with them. And that goes for our clients, too. Robbie Briggs CEO Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty [email protected] The post CEO Robbie Briggs: How the best people can end up in the best place appeared first on B - the blog.
Each Friday, Robbie Briggs, CEO of Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty, writes about luxury, trends, business and more in the advertising pages of the Mansion section of The Wall Street Journal. Below is his letter of August 26, 2022. FROM MY PERSPECTIVE I love when great people find their perfect place. I bet you think I’m talking about clients and their homes, being that I’m in the real estate business. You’re right. But I’m also talking about great, established agents. There is nothing like it when the best ones are at the best brokerage for them. (That can happen through recruiting, referrals and destiny.) I have two recent examples, involving two of our offices. In Fort Worth, we have just welcomed two dynamos, Megan Green and Raleigh Green. Megan grew up in Coppell and earned a B.A. from the University of Oklahoma. Raleigh was born and raised in Fort Worth and is a graduate of both Texas Christian University and Southern Methodist University, where he earned an MBA. A top producer, Raleigh just launched The Raleigh Green Real Estate Group at Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty, and they are already wowing their clients with their strengths: Megan in home design, integrity and entrepreneurship and Raleigh in connections, negotiations and market insight. In Southlake, we have welcomed another industry pro, Eric Hacker. The same qualities that made Eric a star in professional baseball — dedication, teamwork and a knockout work ethic — are the same ones that have made him a star in his real estate career. What a resume: He pitched for the Yankees, Pirates, Twins and Giants, and he has a love of art, architecture and design — the perfect complements to real estate. Eric also builds lasting relationships and is a real helper. His clients couldn’t be in better hands — just like with all our agents, across all our offices. On the Southlake note, I have more news: We are underway on a bigger, more modern office there, near Southlake Town Square. It will have an open plan, lots of natural light and a great café area for our agents to gather — not only to collaborate about homes and opportunities, but to just catch up with each other. We will cut the ribbon on it this year. It is an exciting time. Southlake and Fort Worth are growing, just like all of North Texas. We’re bringing on great people and our agent family just gets better and better. I am so lucky to work with them. And that goes for our clients, too. Robbie Briggs CEO Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty [email protected] The post CEO Robbie Briggs: how the best people can end up in the best place appeared first on B - the blog.
Each Friday, Robbie Briggs, CEO of Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty, writes about luxury, trends, business and more in the advertising pages of the Mansion section of The Wall Street Journal. Below is his letter of August 19, 2022. FROM MY PERSPECTIVE I have said this before: No one gives back like this bunch. I’m proud to work alongside some of the most benevolent people in North Texas: our agents and our staff. On their own, they give to charities, volunteer in their communities and serve on boards of all kinds. (Just one example? Our president, Russ Anderson, is on the board of trustees of the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History and on the board of Preservation Dallas.) Together, our folks do even more: They work all year on everything from clothing and food drives to the Salvation Army Angel Tree gift drive. In recognition of this immense spirit, I want to highlight just some of the people and charities who are benefiting from our agents’ time and hard-earned money. Sotheby’s International Realty® is a longtime partner of New Story, the amazing nonprofit that transforms vulnerable living environments into communities of safe, sustainable homes, some even built on-site by 3D printers. Did you know that global homelessness is expected to grow from 1.6 billion to 3 billion people by 2030? That’s why Sotheby’s International Realty wants to raise $400,000, ASAP, in its newest drive, to build 60 homes for 300 people in Haiti by the end of November. Come read all about New Story at newstorycharity.org. Our Fort Worth art show: For this agent-organized event, we have partnered with the Fort Worth gallery Artspace111 to promote works by contemporary Texas artists, all in a modern space: our own Fort Worth office. A portion of the sales proceeds has benefited local charities. Plan ahead: The next one opens on August 26 and is on view through October 26, at 4828 Camp Bowie Boulevard. Insider tip: Don’t miss the additional pop-up exhibit of prints and photographs there on Saturday, September 10 — which is also Fort Worth’s fall Gallery Night — from 12 to 7 p.m. You will see some exceptional contemporary art. For more information, go here. Love Your Neighbors: This is our own year-round program of giving back, funded by agents who voluntarily donate a percentage of every sales commission they receive. We have been able to make cash donations to area food banks and other organizations, including the Children’s Advocacy Center of Collin County, the Crystal Charity Ball and the Union Gospel Mission of Tarrant County. Come see more at briggsfreeman.com/love. Love is the key — and I am lucky to work with people who show it and give it every day. Robbie Briggs CEO Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty [email protected]
Each Friday, Robbie Briggs, CEO of Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty, writes about luxury, trends, business and more in the advertising pages of the Mansion section of The Wall Street Journal. Below is his letter of August 19, 2022. FROM MY PERSPECTIVE I have said this before: No one gives back like this bunch. I’m proud to work alongside some of the most benevolent people in North Texas: our agents and our staff. On their own, they give to charities, volunteer in their communities and serve on boards of all kinds. (Just one example? Our president, Russ Anderson, is on the board of trustees of the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History and on the board of Preservation Dallas.) Together, our folks do even more: They work all year on everything from clothing and food drives to the Salvation Army Angel Tree gift drive. In recognition of this immense spirit, I want to highlight just some of the people and charities who are benefiting from our agents’ time and hard-earned money. Sotheby’s International Realty® is a longtime partner of New Story, the amazing nonprofit that transforms vulnerable living environments into communities of safe, sustainable homes, some even built on-site by 3D printers. Did you know that global homelessness is expected to grow from 1.6 billion to 3 billion people by 2030? That’s why Sotheby’s International Realty wants to raise $400,000, ASAP, in its newest drive, to build 60 homes for 300 people in Haiti by the end of November. Come read all about New Story at newstorycharity.org. Our Fort Worth art show: For this agent-organized event, we have partnered with the Fort Worth gallery Artspace111 to promote works by contemporary Texas artists, all in a modern space: our own Fort Worth office. A portion of the sales proceeds has benefited local charities. Plan ahead: The next one opens on August 26 and is on view through October 26, at 4828 Camp Bowie Boulevard. Insider tip: Don’t miss the additional pop-up exhibit of prints and photographs there on Saturday, September 10 — which is also Fort Worth’s fall Gallery Night — from 12 to 7 p.m. You will see some exceptional contemporary art. For more information, go here. Love Your Neighbors: This is our own year-round program of giving back, funded by agents who voluntarily donate a percentage of every sales commission they receive. We have been able to make cash donations to area food banks and other organizations, including the Children’s Advocacy Center of Collin County, the Crystal Charity Ball and the Union Gospel Mission of Tarrant County. Come see more at briggsfreeman.com/love. Love is the key — and I am lucky to work with people who show it and give it every day. Robbie Briggs CEO Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty [email protected] The post CEO Robbie Briggs, on some people who show — and give — something important every day appeared first on B - the blog.
Each Friday, Robbie Briggs, CEO of Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty, writes about luxury, trends, business and more in the advertising pages of the Mansion section of The Wall Street Journal. Below is his letter of August 12, 2022. FROM MY PERSPECTIVE I do a lot of bragging about our agents and our properties — for good reason. But this week, I want to give kudos to the amazing museums we are so lucky to have in North Texas. From the finest works of art to trains, planes and cowgirls, there are places that celebrate it all — and world-class districts where it can all be found. To illustrate my point, here are just two unconventional exhibits. Both are closing next month, so I hope you are inspired to go see them, ASAP. At the Amon Carter Museum of American Art in Fort Worth, Texas artist Justin Ginsberg is creating a glass sculptural work, one thread at a time, in a kiln on the museum’s lawn. At the end of each glassmaking session, he installs the threads in the museum’s Main Gallery, resulting in a large-scale glass waterfall sculpture. He is scheduled to be on the lawn, with some exceptions, Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sundays from noon to 5 p.m., through August 27. His glass sculpture will be on view through September 25. At the Perot Museum of Nature and Science in Dallas, experience the remarkable story of Jane Goodall, whose groundbreaking study of animals in the wild has changed the science world forever. The Perot’s exhibit features an immersive projection of Tanzania’s Gombe National Park, a hologram projection of Dr. Goodall narrating her own story and even a replica of her research tent in Africa [pictured at top of post]. It’s on view through September 5. Like I said: amazing. Get to the Fort Worth Cultural District or the Dallas Arts District — or anywhere there’s a museum in North Texas — and just roam. Take the kids. Take the grandkids. Take a friend. You’ll all see unbelievable things. Robbie Briggs CEO Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty [email protected]
Each Friday, Robbie Briggs, CEO of Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty, writes about luxury, trends, business and more in the advertising pages of the Mansion section of The Wall Street Journal. Below is his letter of August 12, 2022. FROM MY PERSPECTIVE I do a lot of bragging about our agents and our properties — for good reason. But this week, I want to give kudos to the amazing museums we are so lucky to have in North Texas. From the finest works of art to trains, planes and cowgirls, there are places that celebrate it all — and world-class districts where it can all be found. To illustrate my point, here are just two unconventional exhibits. Both are closing next month, so I hope you are inspired to go see them, ASAP. At the Amon Carter Museum of American Art in Fort Worth, Texas artist Justin Ginsberg is creating a glass sculptural work, one thread at a time, in a kiln on the museum’s lawn. At the end of each glassmaking session, he installs the threads in the museum’s Main Gallery, resulting in a large-scale glass waterfall sculpture. He is scheduled to be on the lawn, with some exceptions, Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sundays from noon to 5 p.m., through August 27. His glass sculpture will be on view through September 25. At the Perot Museum of Nature and Science in Dallas, experience the remarkable story of Jane Goodall, whose groundbreaking study of animals in the wild has changed the science world forever. The Perot’s exhibit features an immersive projection of Tanzania’s Gombe National Park, a hologram projection of Dr. Goodall narrating her own story and even a replica of her research tent in Africa [pictured at top of post]. It’s on view through September 5. Like I said: amazing. Get to the Fort Worth Cultural District or the Dallas Arts District — or anywhere there’s a museum in North Texas — and just roam. Take the kids. Take the grandkids. Take a friend. You’ll all see unbelievable things. Robbie Briggs CEO Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty [email protected] The post A hologram of Jane Goodall and 30-foot threads of hot glass: Ah, the arts in North Texas appeared first on B - the blog.
White Rock Lake is one of the most popular places for North Texas locals to get back to nature while enjoying fresh air and exercise — usually by walking, jogging or cycling the 17.1 miles of paved trails that surround the lake. It’s a very convenient place to visit for residents of Lakewood, Forest Hills, Lake Highlands and greater East Dallas, but it’s also a drive-worthy destination for people living all over the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. The agents of Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty love White Rock Lake, both as visitors to it and for its almost irresistible appeal as a selling point for homes in nearby neighborhoods. So, we’ve gathered a list of seven things you can do at White Rock Lake in addition to — or instead of — strolling, running or riding a bike. 1. Set sail Have you really visited a lake if you haven’t ventured out onto the water? It’s easy to experience the gentle waves aboard the The Spirit of Dallas sailboat. Book a public sail in the afternoon, at sunset or under the night sky. If you have a sailboat of your own, join the Corinthian Sailing Club or the White Rock Boat Club to share tales of the hometown sea with fellow boaters. 2. Paddle for power For anyone seeking something a little more active than kicking back on a sailboat, White Rock Paddle Co. rents single and tandem kayaks and stand-up paddleboards by the hour. (Bonus: Either option is a significant upper-body workout.) 3. Eat BBQ to brag about Across from Garland Road is one of the most popular restaurants by White Rock Lake, thanks to a vibrant, energetic beer garden and a massive, indoor-outdoor, climate-controlled patio. Smoky Rose has an extensive menu to enjoy on-site before or after a visit to the lake. Its barbecue meats by the pound and side dishes are excellent for takeout, too, to enjoy at a picnic table or spread out on a blanket on the lake’s shores. 4. Tiptoe through the tulips Nestled against the White Rock Lake waterfront, the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden features thousands upon thousands of flowers on its 66 acres, including special plantings each spring and fall. It also offers multiple food and beverage options within the park itself. 5. Go birdwatching White Rock Lake made big headlines in 2022 thanks to a pair of federally protected bald eagles that nested in a tree near the reservoir. But even if they have flown away to a new destination, you can still experience plenty of avian species at specific points around the lake. The species you might see? Gulls, loons, herons, ducks and pelicans — the white kind, not pink. 6. Dance to live music The Bath House Cultural Center has regular arts programming, including a series of lakefront concerts through July. The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden also hosts Cool Thursdays concerts on the lawn overlooking the lake each spring and fall, adding a nice soundtrack to the scenery. 7. Set out for a sunset Head to Winfrey Point, then walk down the hill to the lake facing the downtown Dallas skyline. Here you can snuggle up with someone special or gather with a group of friends to catch the spectacular sunset in the western skies above White Rock Lake. So, the next time you need a refreshing escape, consider one of these many diversions at White Rock Lake. For more fun neighborhood guides and attractions to several spots in North Texas, visit our blog. Follow us! Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, Pinterest, Instagram and TikTok.
White Rock Lake is one of the most popular places for North Texas locals to get back to nature while enjoying fresh air and exercise — usually by walking, jogging or cycling the 17.1 miles of paved trails that surround the lake. It’s a very convenient place to visit for residents of Lakewood, Forest Hills, Lake Highlands and greater East Dallas, but it’s also a drive-worthy destination for people living all over the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. The agents of Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty love White Rock Lake, both as visitors to it and for its almost irresistible appeal as a selling point for homes in nearby neighborhoods. So, we’ve gathered a list of seven things you can do at White Rock Lake in addition to — or instead of — strolling, running or riding a bike. 1. Set sail Have you really visited a lake if you haven’t ventured out onto the water? It’s easy to experience the gentle waves aboard the The Spirit of Dallas sailboat. Book a public sail in the afternoon, at sunset or under the night sky. If you have a sailboat of your own, join the Corinthian Sailing Club or the White Rock Boat Club to share tales of the hometown sea with fellow boaters. 2. Paddle for power For anyone seeking something a little more active than kicking back on a sailboat, White Rock Paddle Co. rents single and tandem kayaks and stand-up paddleboards by the hour. (Bonus: Either option is a significant upper-body workout.) 3. Eat BBQ to brag about Across from Garland Road is one of the most popular restaurants by White Rock Lake, thanks to a vibrant, energetic beer garden and a massive, indoor-outdoor, climate-controlled patio. Smoky Rose has an extensive menu to enjoy on-site before or after a visit to the lake. Its barbecue meats by the pound and side dishes are excellent for takeout, too, to enjoy at a picnic table or spread out on a blanket on the lake’s shores. 4. Tiptoe through the tulips Nestled against the White Rock Lake waterfront, the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden features thousands upon thousands of flowers on its 66 acres, including special plantings each spring and fall. It also offers multiple food and beverage options within the park itself. 5. Go birdwatching White Rock Lake made big headlines in 2022 thanks to a pair of federally protected bald eagles that nested in a tree near the reservoir. But even if they have flown away to a new destination, you can still experience plenty of avian species at specific points around the lake. The species you might see? Gulls, loons, herons, ducks and pelicans — the white kind, not pink. 6. Dance to live music The Bath House Cultural Center has regular arts programming, including a series of lakefront concerts through July. The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden also hosts Cool Thursdays concerts on the lawn overlooking the lake each spring and fall, adding a nice soundtrack to the scenery. 7. Set out for a sunset Head to Winfrey Point, then walk down the hill to the lake facing the downtown Dallas skyline. Here you can snuggle up with someone special or gather with a group of friends to catch the spectacular sunset in the western skies above White Rock Lake. So, the next time you need a refreshing escape, consider one of these many diversions at White Rock Lake. For more fun neighborhood guides and attractions to several spots in North Texas, visit our blog. Follow us! Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, Pinterest, Instagram and TikTok. The post Way Beyond Biking: 7 not-so-typical things to try around White Rock Lake appeared first on B - the blog.
Whether you are opening your home to potential buyers or having friends and family over, the first thing they’ll see is your front door — the literal gateway into your space. Although this might not be the first element you think of when you think of decorating your house, it’s possibly one of the most important, so you’ll want to make sure it looks the part. Here are a few front door ideas to spruce it up — while boosting curb appeal at the same time. 1. Consider a lick of paint If you have a wooden front door, one of the most impactful ways to take it to the next level is to paint it in a striking color. If confident hues aren’t your thing, try black or gray for an elegant feel. If your dreams are peppered with English cottages, opt for a lovely pastel tone — think pink, blue or green. Or, if you are feeling bold, a LEGO-style primary color always looks amazing, too. 2. Swap for a whole new door Want to go a step further? Replacing your door with one that seems made for you — or is actually made for you, if you get it custom-built — is a great option. Go for a classic feel with a solid wood paneled door — or try a more modern look with a minimalist, unadorned slab of wood. Is your home contemporary? A metal or iron door could give it an industrial edge. If you’re looking to brighten up your home, a door with glass panels will let in the light, but if you want to maintain a level of privacy, go for frosted glass, which is more opaque while still allowing that healthy light to come in. 3. Add some year-round wreaths If you only put up a wreath for the holidays, you may be missing a trick. In fact, there are wreaths on the market for every season that can make your door look beautiful year-round. These often incorporate a slew of natural elements, including fruits, flowers, feathers or foliage. You can also opt for an evergreen wreath made of more durable materials, such as metal or wood if you don’t think you’ll remember to change it every few months. 4. Then think beyond that Wreaths are a classic decoration for a reason: They’re undeniably beautiful and inviting. That said, if you’re looking to think outside that box, they’re not the only things that can look beautiful on your front door. Other creative ideas for objects to hang from your door include ice skates, an umbrella, a watering can, a hanging basket, an antique object like a camera, a chalkboard sign or, really, anything that strikes your fancy. 5. Invest in a beautiful knocker A doorbell does its job just fine, but why not get a touch fancier? A knocker can add a lot of flair to your front door, and you can find so many different designs out there — from traditional to contemporary — to match your style. Adding a knocker will impress your guests and ensure that you know they’ve arrived. It’s a win-win. 6. Display your house number, proudly Displaying your house number is certainly important for your guests and your mail carrier. (And, for first responders who may need to find you quickly.) But it doesn’t have to be utilitarian: You can use elegant or architectural numbers to adorn your front door — making it more special. You can hang individual numbers directly on the door, or place a custom address plaque above it if there is space. If part of your door is glass, you could order a metallic or frosted decal to beautifully showcase your address. The takeaway from this story? There is more you can do with your front door than you might think — and that’s especially important if you want to welcome guests or impress potential buyers with their first glance at your house. We hope you’ve found some inspiration from these ideas. For more home design inspiration, visit our blog. Follow us! Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, Pinterest, Instagram and TikTok.
Whether you are opening your home to potential buyers or having friends and family over, the first thing they’ll see is your front door — the literal gateway into your space. Although this might not be the first element you think of when you think of decorating your house, it’s possibly one of the most important, so you’ll want to make sure it looks the part. Here are a few front door ideas to spruce it up — while boosting curb appeal at the same time. 1. Consider a lick of paint If you have a wooden front door, one of the most impactful ways to take it to the next level is to paint it in a striking color. If confident hues aren’t your thing, try black or gray for an elegant feel. If your dreams are peppered with English cottages, opt for a lovely pastel tone — think pink, blue or green. Or, if you are feeling bold, a LEGO-style primary color always looks amazing, too. 2. Swap for a whole new door Want to go a step further? Replacing your door with one that seems made for you — or is actually made for you, if you get it custom-built — is a great option. Go for a classic feel with a solid wood paneled door — or try a more modern look with a minimalist, unadorned slab of wood. Is your home contemporary? A metal or iron door could give it an industrial edge. If you’re looking to brighten up your home, a door with glass panels will let in the light, but if you want to maintain a level of privacy, go for frosted glass, which is more opaque while still allowing that healthy light to come in. 3. Add some year-round wreaths If you only put up a wreath for the holidays, you may be missing a trick. In fact, there are wreaths on the market for every season that can make your door look beautiful year-round. These often incorporate a slew of natural elements, including fruits, flowers, feathers or foliage. You can also opt for an evergreen wreath made of more durable materials, such as metal or wood if you don’t think you’ll remember to change it every few months. 4. Then think beyond that Wreaths are a classic decoration for a reason: They’re undeniably beautiful and inviting. That said, if you’re looking to think outside that box, they’re not the only things that can look beautiful on your front door. Other creative ideas for objects to hang from your door include ice skates, an umbrella, a watering can, a hanging basket, an antique object like a camera, a chalkboard sign or, really, anything that strikes your fancy. 5. Invest in a beautiful knocker A doorbell does its job just fine, but why not get a touch fancier? A knocker can add a lot of flair to your front door, and you can find so many different designs out there — from traditional to contemporary — to match your style. Adding a knocker will impress your guests and ensure that you know they’ve arrived. It’s a win-win. 6. Display your house number, proudly Displaying your house number is certainly important for your guests and your mail carrier. (And, for first responders who may need to find you quickly.) But it doesn’t have to be utilitarian: You can use elegant or architectural numbers to adorn your front door — making it more special. You can hang individual numbers directly on the door, or place a custom address plaque above it if there is space. If part of your door is glass, you could order a metallic or frosted decal to beautifully showcase your address. The takeaway from this story? There is more you can do with your front door than you might think — and that’s especially important if you want to welcome guests or impress potential buyers with their first glance at your house. We hope you’ve found some inspiration from these ideas. For more home design inspiration, visit our blog. Follow us! Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, Pinterest, Instagram and TikTok. The post Grand Openings: 6 front door ideas to welcome your guests in style (and impress potential buyers) appeared first on B - the blog.
Though Preston Hollow gets most of the name recognition when it comes to neighborhoods in Northwest Dallas, an equally charming yet more affordable enclave exists — to the immediate east of Preston Hollow and due north of the Dallas Love Field airport — called Midway Hollow. Living in Midway Hollow Mature, towering trees create canopies of shade and vibrant green over most of the streets. Neighbors can be seen throughout the day enjoying the fresh air and strolling, jogging, cycling or walking their dogs and kids. And the neighborhood’s central location within the city makes Midway Hollow a highly sought-after community — especially in recent years, as house remodels and rebuilds have been on the upswing, increasing both the value and curb appeal for everyone. Neighborhood The luxury properties represented by Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty as of August 2022 are in the $1,400,000 range — a healthy increase compared to just a few years ago. The average square footage for all homes in the neighborhood is 2,963, and the average year of construction is 1956. (Most older homes in Midway Hollow have been renovated or fully reimagined by now.) Also as of August 2022, the Harry C. Withers Elementary School in the area has a four-star rating from SchoolDigger and ranks higher than 80 percent of the elementary schools in Texas. Private schools are a popular option, too, for many families in the neighborhood. Transportation Midway Hollow’s close proximity to Dallas Love Field airport and its daily flights to more than 120 destinations makes for an extremely convenient way to get started with a vacation or business trip, quickly. And, easy access to the Dallas North Tollway and other major freeways and roadways allows for reduced-hassle navigation throughout North Texas by car. Shopping Less than 10 minutes away, residents can access the world-class retailers, restaurants, services and amazing contemporary art collection of NorthPark Center or the shops and restaurants of Preston Center and neighboring shopping districts. Food and drink Within Midway Hollow proper, residents have easy access — even walkable access for some — to several popular food destinations, including The Original Pancake House, Fernando’s Mexican Cuisine and the cozy foodie favorite Suze. An outpost of the high-end grocery chain, Central Market, tops the options for gathering ingredients for a delicious meal at home, with Target’s grocery section a close second for selection and proximity. NorthPark Center and Preston Center give locals an abundance of restaurant options, too, including many upscale national chains, such as Eataly, Seasons 52 and True Food Kitchen, but also some beloved local eateries including Malai Kitchen, Muchacho and Il Bracco. Things to do Though the neighborhood of Midway Hollow is primarily residential, it is close to several indoor escapes, such as movie theaters, and outdoor attractions that attract both fitness buffs and families. Bachman Lake offers a great place to fish, walk, bike, cycle, hike or picnic — and, for airplane fanatics, unfurl a blanket and watch the flights coming and going from Love Field. The recreation areas at the Elm Fork of the Trinity River offer more of the same, with an entirely different scenic backdrop. To learn more about Midway Hollow and finding the perfect home there, contact any of the expert agents at Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty and ask to see homes in this quiet and increasingly popular section of Dallas. Follow us! Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, Pinterest, Instagram and TikTok.
Though Preston Hollow gets most of the name recognition when it comes to neighborhoods in Northwest Dallas, an equally charming yet more affordable enclave exists — to the immediate east of Preston Hollow and due north of the Dallas Love Field airport — called Midway Hollow. Living in Midway Hollow Mature, towering trees create canopies of shade and vibrant green over most of the streets. Neighbors can be seen throughout the day enjoying the fresh air and strolling, jogging, cycling or walking their dogs and kids. And the neighborhood’s central location within the city makes Midway Hollow a highly sought-after community — especially in recent years, as house remodels and rebuilds have been on the upswing, increasing both the value and curb appeal for everyone. Neighborhood The luxury properties represented by Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty as of August 2022 are in the $1,400,000 range — a healthy increase compared to just a few years ago. The average square footage for all homes in the neighborhood is 2,963, and the average year of construction is 1956. (Most older homes in Midway Hollow have been renovated or fully reimagined by now.) Also as of August 2022, the Harry C. Withers Elementary School in the area has a four-star rating from SchoolDigger and ranks higher than 80 percent of the elementary schools in Texas. Private schools are a popular option, too, for many families in the neighborhood. Transportation Midway Hollow’s close proximity to Dallas Love Field airport and its daily flights to more than 120 destinations makes for an extremely convenient way to get started with a vacation or business trip, quickly. And, easy access to the Dallas North Tollway and other major freeways and roadways allows for reduced-hassle navigation throughout North Texas by car. Shopping Less than 10 minutes away, residents can access the world-class retailers, restaurants, services and amazing contemporary art collection of NorthPark Center or the shops and restaurants of Preston Center and neighboring shopping districts. Food and drink Within Midway Hollow proper, residents have easy access — even walkable access for some — to several popular food destinations, including The Original Pancake House, Fernando’s Mexican Cuisine and the cozy foodie favorite Suze. An outpost of the high-end grocery chain, Central Market, tops the options for gathering ingredients for a delicious meal at home, with Target’s grocery section a close second for selection and proximity. NorthPark Center and Preston Center give locals an abundance of restaurant options, too, including many upscale national chains, such as Eataly, Seasons 52 and True Food Kitchen, but also some beloved local eateries including Malai Kitchen, Muchacho and Il Bracco. Things to do Though the neighborhood of Midway Hollow is primarily residential, it is close to several indoor escapes, such as movie theaters, and outdoor attractions that attract both fitness buffs and families. Bachman Lake offers a great place to fish, walk, bike, cycle, hike or picnic — and, for airplane fanatics, unfurl a blanket and watch the flights coming and going from Love Field. The recreation areas at the Elm Fork of the Trinity River offer more of the same, with an entirely different scenic backdrop. To learn more about Midway Hollow and finding the perfect home there, contact any of the expert agents at Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty and ask to see homes in this quiet and increasingly popular section of Dallas. Follow us! Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, Pinterest, Instagram and TikTok. The post Neighborhoods 101: Why Midway Hollow — that neighborly 1950s community of Dallas — is having its moment (and why you should get in now) appeared first on B - the blog.
When choosing the style of home you’ll ultimately search for, it’s important to explore all of your options. Though both Ranch homes and Craftsman homes — the latter sometimes called bungalows — can look similar to the untrained eye, there are significant differences you’d want to consider when evaluating them as a potential home option. While both are mostly one-story designs with lots of wood accents, that’s about where the similarities stop. Craftsman vs. Ranch Though Bungalow vs. and Ranch homes can seem similar at first glance, they are two very distinctive styles. Read on to learn more about the trademark features of each, along with the pros and cons of both. The Craftsman story Craftsman-style homes were first seen in the U.S. around the turn of the 20th century. Inspired by the British Arts and Crafts movement — a celebration of handwork and honest construction, which was a reaction to the tall Victorian homes that came before with all their bright colors and whimsical trimmings — Craftsman homes are defined by their simple lines and low-pitched roofs. Horizontality is emphasized here, which is why the homes are sometimes mistaken for Ranch-style houses. Another hallmark of the Craftsman style is a wide front porch, upheld by thick tapered columns. The interiors of Craftsman homes, says House Beautiful, “are just as distinct and important to the builder as the exterior. Wooden features abound: thick trim around doors and windows, built-in bookshelves and window seats, boxed beams along the ceiling, etc. A prominent fireplace (or two) is also a key feature inside Craftsman homes.” The Ranch story Ranch homes came onto the real estate scene after the Craftsmans, with the first ranch appearing in the 1930s in California. Says House Beautiful: “Clifford May, a self-taught architect in San Diego, is considered the father of Ranch houses, as many architectural historians trace the birth of the style to a house he designed and built in 1931 … May’s home designs, which were inspired by the adobe Spanish Colonial homes of Southern California, caught on and became the new standard for modern, informal living.” Ranch homes are defined by their single-level and typically rectangular shape (although L- and U-shaped plans are also popular), which creates separated living and sleeping areas. Ranches embrace open spaces and the connection between indoor and outdoor living: The backyard is usually just steps from the kitchen or living room via sliding glass doors. Ranch homes usually have more square footage than Craftsman homes, thanks to their suburban locations, and have higher ceilings and more windows, which make for bright and airy spaces. They also often have attached garages or carports. Craftsman pros and cons Before settling on a Craftsman, learn more about the perks and disadvantages of this style of home. Pros Because Craftsman homes tend to be compact, they’re perfect for singles, couples or small families. Their open floor plans give them an airy and fluid feel that is also the perfect backdrop for small-scale entertaining. Unlike most Ranch homes, Craftsman homes sometimes have a second floor or partial second floor that offers a separate space, ideal for an office, guest room or second living space. Cons Because of the way Craftsman homes are designed, the bedrooms are usually located right off or very near the main living space. This affords little privacy and can create some noise pollution. As a result, Craftsman homes aren’t typically the best option for larger families, unless the home itself is on the larger side. Similarly, the smaller size of the typical Craftsman home can be limiting, and may not offer the square footage that some buyers are looking for. Ranch pros and cons Ranch homes can be the perfect fit for many individuals, couples and families. Learn more about if this style of home is the right choice for you. Pros Ranch homes are more private than their Craftsman counterparts: Hallways typically separate the living and sleeping quarters, making them a better setup for larger families. They also have lots of windows and are often defined by sliding glass doors, creating plentiful natural light that creates a distinct indoor-outdoor living experience. Cons Ranch-style homes typically have only one floor. This can limit the square footage of the home when compared to multilevel styles such as Tudor, Traditional and Colonial homes. Adding square footage to a Ranch home would come at the expense of yard space. Also, because of the flowing, open floor plans of most Ranch homes, privacy for working from home or studying at home can be a bit more challenging than with other styles of homes, which may have separate rooms more suited for these functions. Find your dream home — no matter what style Whether you decide a Craftsman or a Ranch is right for you — or any of the other popular styles in North Texas — your Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty agent is the best source of guidance for all things home. Shop the available homes at Briggs Freeman, and talk to him or her about off-market opportunities, too. Follow us! Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, Pinterest, Instagram and TikTok.
When choosing the style of home you’ll ultimately search for, it’s important to explore all of your options. Though both Ranch homes and Craftsman homes — the latter sometimes called bungalows — can look similar to the untrained eye, there are significant differences you’d want to consider when evaluating them as a potential home option. While both are mostly one-story designs with lots of wood accents, that’s about where the similarities stop. Craftsman vs. Ranch Though Bungalow vs. and Ranch homes can seem similar at first glance, they are two very distinctive styles. Read on to learn more about the trademark features of each, along with the pros and cons of both. The Craftsman story Craftsman-style homes were first seen in the U.S. around the turn of the 20th century. Inspired by the British Arts and Crafts movement — a celebration of handwork and honest construction, which was a reaction to the tall Victorian homes that came before with all their bright colors and whimsical trimmings — Craftsman homes are defined by their simple lines and low-pitched roofs. Horizontality is emphasized here, which is why the homes are sometimes mistaken for Ranch-style houses. Another hallmark of the Craftsman style is a wide front porch, upheld by thick tapered columns. The interiors of Craftsman homes, says House Beautiful, “are just as distinct and important to the builder as the exterior. Wooden features abound: thick trim around doors and windows, built-in bookshelves and window seats, boxed beams along the ceiling, etc. A prominent fireplace (or two) is also a key feature inside Craftsman homes.” The Ranch story Ranch homes came onto the real estate scene after the Craftsmans, with the first ranch appearing in the 1930s in California. Says House Beautiful: “Clifford May, a self-taught architect in San Diego, is considered the father of Ranch houses, as many architectural historians trace the birth of the style to a house he designed and built in 1931 … May’s home designs, which were inspired by the adobe Spanish Colonial homes of Southern California, caught on and became the new standard for modern, informal living.” Ranch homes are defined by their single-level and typically rectangular shape (although L- and U-shaped plans are also popular), which creates separated living and sleeping areas. Ranches embrace open spaces and the connection between indoor and outdoor living: The backyard is usually just steps from the kitchen or living room via sliding glass doors. Ranch homes usually have more square footage than Craftsman homes, thanks to their suburban locations, and have higher ceilings and more windows, which make for bright and airy spaces. They also often have attached garages or carports. Craftsman pros and cons Before settling on a Craftsman, learn more about the perks and disadvantages of this style of home. Pros Because Craftsman homes tend to be compact, they’re perfect for singles, couples or small families. Their open floor plans give them an airy and fluid feel that is also the perfect backdrop for small-scale entertaining. Unlike most Ranch homes, Craftsman homes sometimes have a second floor or partial second floor that offers a separate space, ideal for an office, guest room or second living space. Cons Because of the way Craftsman homes are designed, the bedrooms are usually located right off or very near the main living space. This affords little privacy and can create some noise pollution. As a result, Craftsman homes aren’t typically the best option for larger families, unless the home itself is on the larger side. Similarly, the smaller size of the typical Craftsman home can be limiting, and may not offer the square footage that some buyers are looking for. Ranch pros and cons Ranch homes can be the perfect fit for many individuals, couples and families. Learn more about if this style of home is the right choice for you. Pros Ranch homes are more private than their Craftsman counterparts: Hallways typically separate the living and sleeping quarters, making them a better setup for larger families. They also have lots of windows and are often defined by sliding glass doors, creating plentiful natural light that creates a distinct indoor-outdoor living experience. Cons Ranch-style homes typically have only one floor. This can limit the square footage of the home when compared to multilevel styles such as Tudor, Traditional and Colonial homes. Adding square footage to a Ranch home would come at the expense of yard space. Also, because of the flowing, open floor plans of most Ranch homes, privacy for working from home or studying at home can be a bit more challenging than with other styles of homes, which may have separate rooms more suited for these functions. Find your dream home — no matter what style Whether you decide a Craftsman or a Ranch is right for you — or any of the other popular styles in North Texas — your Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty agent is the best source of guidance for all things home. Shop the available homes at Briggs Freeman, and talk to him or her about off-market opportunities, too. Follow us! Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, Pinterest, Instagram and TikTok. The post Architectural Showdown: Ranch vs. Craftsman (and the backstory on both) appeared first on B - the blog.
Each Friday, Robbie Briggs, CEO of Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty, writes about luxury, trends, business and more in the advertising pages of the Mansion section of The Wall Street Journal. Below is his letter of July 15, 2022. FROM MY PERSPECTIVE “Don’t worry. A crash isn’t coming.” A senior economist said that in May about the housing market — and I agree. Yes, after two years of soaring sales, we are starting to see signs of moderation ahead, but that’s an OK thing. According to the major news outlets analyzing housing from a national perspective, bidding wars are waning and a cooling-off is on the horizon. Nevertheless, our own markets here in North Texas — while not immune to the economic factors influencing real estate nationally — continue to experience heightened activity. Bottom line: Texas has a strong economy and more to offer than ever — and lots of people continue to move here to take advantage of it all. The nation’s economy has certainly become more turbulent with the fluctuating stock market. The level of inflation not seen in four decades remains a critical concern, and interest rates are rising in response. But, as I write this, the rate for a 30-year fixed mortgage has dropped to 5.3 percent, after peaking at 5.81 percent in mid-June. That rate is up from 3.11 percent on January 1 of this year, but it’s important to remember that the rate at the start of the 2000s was around 8 percent, and the average from 2000 to 2021 is 5.14 percent. (Does anyone remember when we saw almost 17 percent in the 1980s?) There is more positive news in North Texas. According to the Texas Real Estate Research Center at Texas A&M University, the median price in the Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington metro area increased by approximately 21.5 percent year-over-year, from $311,000 to $376,500. (That metro area price exceeds the statewide median price, by the way.) In the first quarter of this year, the total sales volume increased by approximately 0.5 percent year-over-year. We’ve analyzed all of this for you in our latest Market Moves report. It’s all yours at briggsfreeman.com/market-moves. There is a cooling-off coming, and you’ll need to know what that means to you. Guess who your best source of advice is, now and always: Your Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty agent. No one has the information and instincts to put it all in perspective — in markets hot and cool. Robbie Briggs CEO Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty [email protected]
Each Friday, Robbie Briggs, CEO of Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty, writes about luxury, trends, business and more in the advertising pages of the Mansion section of The Wall Street Journal. Below is his letter of July 15, 2022. FROM MY PERSPECTIVE “Don’t worry. A crash isn’t coming.” A senior economist said that in May about the housing market — and I agree. Yes, after two years of soaring sales, we are starting to see signs of moderation ahead, but that’s an OK thing. According to the major news outlets analyzing housing from a national perspective, bidding wars are waning and a cooling-off is on the horizon. Nevertheless, our own markets here in North Texas — while not immune to the economic factors influencing real estate nationally — continue to experience heightened activity. Bottom line: Texas has a strong economy and more to offer than ever — and lots of people continue to move here to take advantage of it all. The nation’s economy has certainly become more turbulent with the fluctuating stock market. The level of inflation not seen in four decades remains a critical concern, and interest rates are rising in response. But, as I write this, the rate for a 30-year fixed mortgage has dropped to 5.3 percent, after peaking at 5.81 percent in mid-June. That rate is up from 3.11 percent on January 1 of this year, but it’s important to remember that the rate at the start of the 2000s was around 8 percent, and the average from 2000 to 2021 is 5.14 percent. (Does anyone remember when we saw almost 17 percent in the 1980s?) There is more positive news in North Texas. According to the Texas Real Estate Research Center at Texas A&M University, the median price in the Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington metro area increased by approximately 21.5 percent year-over-year, from $311,000 to $376,500. (That metro area price exceeds the statewide median price, by the way.) In the first quarter of this year, the total sales volume increased by approximately 0.5 percent year-over-year. We’ve analyzed all of this for you in our latest Market Moves report. It’s all yours at briggsfreeman.com/market-moves. There is a cooling-off coming, and you’ll need to know what that means to you. Guess who your best source of advice is, now and always: Your Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty agent. No one has the information and instincts to put it all in perspective — in markets hot and cool. Robbie Briggs CEO Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty [email protected] The post CEO Robbie Briggs: ‘There is a cooling-off coming, and you’ll need to know what that means to you.’ appeared first on B - the blog.
If you’re an avid reader, there is probably an area for your home that you’ve daydreamed about: a reading nook. Whether you have a nook specially designed for reading or you dedicate space to a reading zone within another area — for example, tucked under the stairs or in the corner of the living room or a bedroom — carving out space for you to do what you love will make you enjoy your home even more. When you’re designing your reading nook, think beyond just the basics. While a chair or sofa is a must-have so you can comfortably lounge, there are a few other elements that can make or break your reading area. Use these insider reading-nook ideas and tips to transform your space from something basic to something beyond expectations. 1. Add all the cozy comforts When you want to sit down with a page-turner, there is one thing that takes priority above all else: comfort. Your reading nook should be outfitted with details that make it a luxurious and comfortable place where you can spend hours with your nose in a book. Opt for an oversized armchair that gives you enough room to curl up in. Add a cozy rug, a plush throw blanket for those cold-weather days, a few accent pillows and a side table where you can set your coffee, tea or other beverage of choice. That way, as soon as you settle down in your nook, you have everything you could possibly need right at your fingertips. 2. Think creatively about storage What’s a reading nook without proper book storage? Think through how you can maximize the storage in your space to make it as practical as possible. If you have vertical space, consider adding a few rows of shelves that make the perfect storage place for your queue of books waiting to be read. It’s also an ideal way to display keepsakes and trinkets that give the space a personal feel and make it an area where you can’t wait to spend more time. If you don’t have room for shelves, it’s just a matter of thinking more creatively about your storage solutions. Consider a storage ottoman that gives you hidden space to stash books, blankets and anything else you want to keep handy. You could even add a custom built-in that doubles as a bench, bookshelf and storage ottoman all in one. 3. Bring the outdoors in Liven up your reading nook with a bit of greenery. From potted plants to fresh-cut flowers, adding plants and flowers is an easy way to infuse the space with a bit of life. If you don’t have a green thumb, plants such as aloe, succulents and cacti are low-maintenance options that don’t require a lot of attention. Or, if you’re looking to make a bolder statement, consider larger floor plants such as a bird of paradise or monstera, or the trendy potted plant Geogenanthus ciliatus (“geo” for short). These leafy plants are the perfect pop of color and shape and will lend your space some graphic punch. 4. Let there be (proper) light Natural and artificial light are both vital components in your reading nook. Ideally, create your space in an area with a window, to ensure that you have natural light during the day. The purpose is twofold: The light will give the space a beautiful glow while also making it easy to read without any issues. For the evening and for the winter months, think strategically about lamps you can use in the space to create an inviting glow. A table lamp or task lamp placed beside your reading chair is an ideal way to create the perfect situation for evening reading. Think of adding a floor lamp, too, where the shade can be positioned right over the book for optimal illumination. But don’t stop at just lamps: Candles are a way to cast some soft light around the rest of the space, while also offering wonderful scents to accompany you during your reading time. Get reading Creating a cozy, calming, well-lit reading nook is an enriching way to build a space around a passion. By thinking strategically about the space’s design, you can transform it from an empty corner into an area where you will spend hours and hours. For more home design inspiration, check out our blog. Follow us! Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, Pinterest, Instagram and TikTok.
If you’re an avid reader, there is probably an area for your home that you’ve daydreamed about: a reading nook. Whether you have a nook specially designed for reading or you dedicate space to a reading zone within another area — for example, tucked under the stairs or in the corner of the living room or a bedroom — carving out space for you to do what you love will make you enjoy your home even more. When you’re designing your reading nook, think beyond just the basics. While a chair or sofa is a must-have so you can comfortably lounge, there are a few other elements that can make or break your reading area. Use these insider reading-nook ideas and tips to transform your space from something basic to something beyond expectations. 1. Add all the cozy comforts When you want to sit down with a page-turner, there is one thing that takes priority above all else: comfort. Your reading nook should be outfitted with details that make it a luxurious and comfortable place where you can spend hours with your nose in a book. Opt for an oversized armchair that gives you enough room to curl up in. Add a cozy rug, a plush throw blanket for those cold-weather days, a few accent pillows and a side table where you can set your coffee, tea or other beverage of choice. That way, as soon as you settle down in your nook, you have everything you could possibly need right at your fingertips. 2. Think creatively about storage What’s a reading nook without proper book storage? Think through how you can maximize the storage in your space to make it as practical as possible. If you have vertical space, consider adding a few rows of shelves that make the perfect storage place for your queue of books waiting to be read. It’s also an ideal way to display keepsakes and trinkets that give the space a personal feel and make it an area where you can’t wait to spend more time. If you don’t have room for shelves, it’s just a matter of thinking more creatively about your storage solutions. Consider a storage ottoman that gives you hidden space to stash books, blankets and anything else you want to keep handy. You could even add a custom built-in that doubles as a bench, bookshelf and storage ottoman all in one. 3. Bring the outdoors in Liven up your reading nook with a bit of greenery. From potted plants to fresh-cut flowers, adding plants and flowers is an easy way to infuse the space with a bit of life. If you don’t have a green thumb, plants such as aloe, succulents and cacti are low-maintenance options that don’t require a lot of attention. Or, if you’re looking to make a bolder statement, consider larger floor plants such as a bird of paradise or monstera, or the trendy potted plant Geogenanthus ciliatus (“geo” for short). These leafy plants are the perfect pop of color and shape and will lend your space some graphic punch. 4. Let there be (proper) light Natural and artificial light are both vital components in your reading nook. Ideally, create your space in an area with a window, to ensure that you have natural light during the day. The purpose is twofold: The light will give the space a beautiful glow while also making it easy to read without any issues. For the evening and for the winter months, think strategically about lamps you can use in the space to create an inviting glow. A table lamp or task lamp placed beside your reading chair is an ideal way to create the perfect situation for evening reading. Think of adding a floor lamp, too, where the shade can be positioned right over the book for optimal illumination. But don’t stop at just lamps: Candles are a way to cast some soft light around the rest of the space, while also offering wonderful scents to accompany you during your reading time. Get reading Creating a cozy, calming, well-lit reading nook is an enriching way to build a space around a passion. By thinking strategically about the space’s design, you can transform it from an empty corner into an area where you will spend hours and hours. For more home design inspiration, check out our blog. Follow us! Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, Pinterest, Instagram and TikTok. The post Book Smart: 4 reading nook ideas that will transform your literary leisure time appeared first on B - the blog.
For all the benefits of small-town living with accessibility to the major metro areas of Dallas and Fort Worth, the city of Carrollton, Texas, checks off a lot of boxes for anyone looking to move to North Texas. With only 133,000 people in a metropolitan area of 6.5 million, Carrollton offers its citizens small-city benefits — including several five-star elementary, middle and high schools — without being isolated from big-city perks. Carrollton has been recognized by several national publications as one of the best places to live or relocate, in no small part because of its landscaped, friendly neighborhoods, excellent homes and top-tier medical facilities. The average list price for a home currently hovers around the $400,000 mark, with prices from about $140,000 and going up to nearly $1 million for something with perhaps five bedrooms and nearly 5,000 square feet. The Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty agents know Carrollton well — so read on for a breakdown of the city’s highlights, then browse through currently available homes for purchase. Neighborhoods Several highly desirable neighborhoods can be found within Carrollton, Texas, city limits, and Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty regularly has listings in each. Just a few neighborhoods of note: Coyote Ridge Park, Castle Hills, Estates of Indian Creek, Hamilton Park. Restaurants When hunger strikes, you won’t have to go far to satisfy cravings of every imaginable kind. Carrollton has an enormous variety of Asian eateries, with traditional, authentic dishes from China, Korea, Japan, Vietnam and Thailand. Many are located side-by-side in large shopping centers, providing a fun way to take a tour of Asia in one day or over the course of weeks and months without ever hitting the same place twice. Highly rated spots include Grand Wok (Chinese), Tom Yum Kung Thai Cafe, Pho Bistro (Vietnamese), Zzizim Korean Kitchen and Tokyo Terriyaki (Japanese). Meanwhile, El Rumbero Taqueria and Tipico’s offer rustic Mexican cuisine; Eggsellent Cafe is a top spot for breakfast; and Cane Rosso’s is tops for Neapolitan pizza, while Babe’s Chicken Dinner House serves up southern favorites (and spontaneous Hokey Pokey moments involving the whole restaurant during your meal). Shopping The best shopping will always be in nearby Dallas — about 25 miles away — but Carrollton has several neighborhood shopping centers for most everyday needs, from clothing and athletic apparel to groceries, appliances and technology. Outdoor escapes Carrollton citizens by and large love getting outside for recreation, and the surrounding landscape delivers plenty of possibilities. Sports complexes, hiking, biking and walking trails, the Elm Fork Nature Preserve, Rosemeade Rainforest Aquatic Complex and several splash parks are among the most popular. Plus, most home lots in Carrollton are large enough for a backyard pool — if one isn’t already an amenity at your favorite real estate listing. Culture and entertainment Historic Downtown Carrollton is a hub of entertainment for Carrollton citizens, but also as a destination from neighboring towns and even Dallas and Fort Worth. There you’ll find restaurants, bars and frequent festivals and events throughout the year. The A.W. Perry Homestead Museum is a fantastic place to travel back in time and get a sense of the town’s storied history. Making the move So, if you’re moving to North Texas from another city or state — or simply seeking a new neighborhood to call home — spend some time online checking out everything Carrollton, Texas, has to offer. Ready to tour homes and neighborhoods in Carrollton? Contact Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International today and we can direct you to one of our in-the-know agents. They are the experts — by far — when it comes to all things North Texas. Follow us! Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, Pinterest, Instagram and TikTok.
For all the benefits of small-town living with accessibility to the major metro areas of Dallas and Fort Worth, the city of Carrollton, Texas, checks off a lot of boxes for anyone looking to move to North Texas. With only 133,000 people in a metropolitan area of 6.5 million, Carrollton offers its citizens small-city benefits — including several five-star elementary, middle and high schools — without being isolated from big-city perks. Carrollton has been recognized by several national publications as one of the best places to live or relocate, in no small part because of its landscaped, friendly neighborhoods, excellent homes and top-tier medical facilities. The average list price for a home currently hovers around the $400,000 mark, with prices from about $140,000 and going up to nearly $1 million for something with perhaps five bedrooms and nearly 5,000 square feet. The Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty agents know Carrollton well — so read on for a breakdown of the city’s highlights, then browse through currently available homes for purchase. Neighborhoods Several highly desirable neighborhoods can be found within Carrollton, Texas, city limits, and Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty regularly has listings in each. Just a few neighborhoods of note: Coyote Ridge Park, Castle Hills, Estates of Indian Creek, Hamilton Park. Restaurants When hunger strikes, you won’t have to go far to satisfy cravings of every imaginable kind. Carrollton has an enormous variety of Asian eateries, with traditional, authentic dishes from China, Korea, Japan, Vietnam and Thailand. Many are located side-by-side in large shopping centers, providing a fun way to take a tour of Asia in one day or over the course of weeks and months without ever hitting the same place twice. Highly rated spots include Grand Wok (Chinese), Tom Yum Kung Thai Cafe, Pho Bistro (Vietnamese), Zzizim Korean Kitchen and Tokyo Terriyaki (Japanese). Meanwhile, El Rumbero Taqueria and Tipico’s offer rustic Mexican cuisine; Eggsellent Cafe is a top spot for breakfast; and Cane Rosso’s is tops for Neapolitan pizza, while Babe’s Chicken Dinner House serves up southern favorites (and spontaneous Hokey Pokey moments involving the whole restaurant during your meal). Shopping The best shopping will always be in nearby Dallas — about 25 miles away — but Carrollton has several neighborhood shopping centers for most everyday needs, from clothing and athletic apparel to groceries, appliances and technology. Outdoor escapes Carrollton citizens by and large love getting outside for recreation, and the surrounding landscape delivers plenty of possibilities. Sports complexes, hiking, biking and walking trails, the Elm Fork Nature Preserve, Rosemeade Rainforest Aquatic Complex and several splash parks are among the most popular. Plus, most home lots in Carrollton are large enough for a backyard pool — if one isn’t already an amenity at your favorite real estate listing. Culture and entertainment Historic Downtown Carrollton is a hub of entertainment for Carrollton citizens, but also as a destination from neighboring towns and even Dallas and Fort Worth. There you’ll find restaurants, bars and frequent festivals and events throughout the year. The A.W. Perry Homestead Museum is a fantastic place to travel back in time and get a sense of the town’s storied history. Making the move So, if you’re moving to North Texas from another city or state — or simply seeking a new neighborhood to call home — spend some time online checking out everything Carrollton, Texas, has to offer. Ready to tour homes and neighborhoods in Carrollton? Contact Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International today and we can direct you to one of our in-the-know agents. They are the experts — by far — when it comes to all things North Texas. Follow us! Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, Pinterest, Instagram and TikTok. The post Neighborhoods 101: Why Carrollton, Texas, is at the top of more and more scouting lists appeared first on B - the blog.
Each Friday, Robbie Briggs, CEO of Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty, writes about luxury, trends, business and more in the advertising pages of the Mansion section of The Wall Street Journal. Below is his letter of June 24, 2022. FROM MY PERSPECTIVE Awards season continues in the real estate world. In the past two issues of The Wall Street Journal, on our advertising page, we’ve shared with you the names of our agents who made two of the most prestigious rankings in the country, both published by RealTrends: The Thousand, which is what it sounds like — the top 1,000 agents in the entire U.S. based on sales volume or transaction sides — and America’s Best Real Estate Professionals, a further ranking of the top agents in the country, also based on volume or sides. Now, we bring it a little closer to home: the D Magazine awards for the best agents in Dallas. D has been covering the city since 1974, and today is an empire that includes the print magazine, the dmagazine.com website, a custom-publishing division and even an events company. D is a staple for Dallasites, covering everything from City Hall to scandals to society. (Sometimes all three in one story.) D is also an icon here, which is why its real estate awards come with an extra dash of pride. As dmagazine.com explains: “To find the Best Real Estate Agents in Dallas, we survey the people who know them best: local homebuyers, D subscribers and their peers in the industry (mortgage, insurance and real estate agents). The winning REALTORS® are those who have shown exceptional customer service and dedication to helping North Texas residents buy and sell the houses they call home.” This is not a pay-to-play ranking. This is the real deal. And, I’m happy to report that more than 100 agents from Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty earned the honors this year. Most of them have before — and most of them will again. Beginning July 1, come see who they are at dmagazine.com and in the July print issue of D Magazine. Working with any of them means you are in the best hands possible. Take it from me. I get to work alongside them every day. Here’s to the best — and to the best clients, colleagues and staff in the business, too. I have a lot to be proud of. Robbie Briggs CEO Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty [email protected]
Each Friday, Robbie Briggs, CEO of Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty, writes about luxury, trends, business and more in the advertising pages of the Mansion section of The Wall Street Journal. Below is his letter of June 24, 2022. FROM MY PERSPECTIVE Awards season continues in the real estate world. In the past two issues of The Wall Street Journal, on our advertising page, we’ve shared with you the names of our agents who made two of the most prestigious rankings in the country, both published by RealTrends: The Thousand, which is what it sounds like — the top 1,000 agents in the entire U.S. based on sales volume or transaction sides — and America’s Best Real Estate Professionals, a further ranking of the top agents in the country, also based on volume or sides. Now, we bring it a little closer to home: the D Magazine awards for the best agents in Dallas. D has been covering the city since 1974, and today is an empire that includes the print magazine, the dmagazine.com website, a custom-publishing division and even an events company. D is a staple for Dallasites, covering everything from City Hall to scandals to society. (Sometimes all three in one story.) D is also an icon here, which is why its real estate awards come with an extra dash of pride. As dmagazine.com explains: “To find the Best Real Estate Agents in Dallas, we survey the people who know them best: local homebuyers, D subscribers and their peers in the industry (mortgage, insurance and real estate agents). The winning REALTORS® are those who have shown exceptional customer service and dedication to helping North Texas residents buy and sell the houses they call home.” This is not a pay-to-play ranking. This is the real deal. And, I’m happy to report that more than 100 agents from Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty earned the honors this year. Most of them have before — and most of them will again. Beginning July 1, come see who they are at dmagazine.com and in the July print issue of D Magazine. Working with any of them means you are in the best hands possible. Take it from me. I get to work alongside them every day. Here’s to the best — and to the best clients, colleagues and staff in the business, too. I have a lot to be proud of. Robbie Briggs CEO Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty [email protected] The post Just announced: The agent awards that come with a little something extra appeared first on B - the blog.
You are probably well aware of how incredibly successful TikTok videos and Instagram Reels have become. Perhaps you even enjoy scrolling through them for fun. But did you know that these seconds-long videos are becoming some of the best marketing tools out there? They’re completely free to use and have the potential to reach thousands of a business’ potential clients. In the case of real estate, that means clients looking to buy and sell homes. What’s more, agents who sell luxury real estate are making much more use of fun TikTok videos and Instagram Reels when it comes to marketing their properties and themselves. It’s a new frontier for the luxury space — and the early adopters are already there. Below, we dig into the phenomenon. Why agents should care about TikTok and Instagram Reels These days, people do almost anything online — from their jobs to meeting people with similar interests, to reading the news. So, when they’re looking to buy or sell a house, it only makes sense that their first port of call would be their favorite search engine. “Ninety-three percent of people start the buying or selling process online,” Brandon Tyler, a real estate agent at Mahler Sotheby’s International Realty in Wisconsin, told Inman. “Forty percent of purchases are influenced by social media. Seventy percent of people use smartphones to search about the home-buying process. I have to have a presence on these platforms because the numbers don’t lie in terms of where consumers obtain their content.” At the moment, real estate TikTok and Instagram are growing exponentially, and riding that wave is simply a smart business move. Even more eye-opening? Nearly two-thirds of TikTok’s users are Gen Z — and Gen Z is set to become one of the primary spenders in the luxury industry by 2025, accounting for a whopping 20 percent of net luxury spending. Combined with the millennials, these two generations will account for a 180 percent growth in luxury markets between 2019 and 2025. Consider another critical insight for a luxury brand: More than 85 percent of luxury purchases in 2020 were influenced by digital content or digital marketing efforts. Luxury brands with a robust online presence leverage their digital footprint to boost sales. The benefits of marketing a property on TikTok and Instagram When people search for certain real-estate-related keywords, it’s crucial that their search returns platforms related to an agent’s brand. By establishing themselves on a variety of social media channels and posting content with relevant captions and hashtags, they are multiplying the chances that their business is the one people come across in their research for real estate agents in their area. Once buyers and sellers find themselves on an agent’s TikTok or Instagram page, their next job is to keep them there by offering content that will entertain or impress them. “In my market, people use social media to understand who I am and what I do,” Tyler said. “Some will ask questions about a home or about the market, while others want to know how I’ve scaled my business. In the end, it’s about being accessible and omnipresent.” Sometimes, this can translate to hundreds of inquiries, and generate more sales than an agent can even imagine, as it did for agents interviewed by CNN Business. The video format itself offers so many possibilities for showing off listings in a more interactive way than through photos alone — and if it’s a particularly impressive listing, or one owned by a celebrity, that could be the making of a viral social media video right there. The more creative agents get, the more views, likes and sales will follow. How agents are using TikTok and Instagram Reels to grow their business If you haven’t seen how agents and brokerages are maximizing the trend for quick, casual videos — even for marketing luxury properties — take a look at the Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Instagram and TikTok pages for a little inspiration. The brokerage has partnered with the developers of a new video-making app designed especially for agents, called Vuse. It has transformed their phones into sales tools they are using to shoot, edit and publish quality videos — with no video skills required. It’s easy to use, too, and it walks them through every step of making fun, quick videos about houses, neighborhoods, you name it. Agents are especially wise to create videos that are about access, exclusivity, luxury, wit, trends and insider knowledge: The TikTok and Reels audiences love to feel as if they are being let in on something. As more and more agents explore creating video content, they should heed Tyler’s advice: “First, get in front of that camera,” he says. “Second, if you aren’t creative, find someone who is and invest in them. Third, have a mixture of relatable and informative content. … If you aren’t obtaining social media leads, then someone else is.” Follow us! Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, Pinterest, Instagram and TikTok.
You are probably well aware of how incredibly successful TikTok videos and Instagram Reels have become. Perhaps you even enjoy scrolling through them for fun. But did you know that these seconds-long videos are becoming some of the best marketing tools out there? They’re completely free to use and have the potential to reach thousands of a business’ potential clients. In the case of real estate, that means clients looking to buy and sell homes. What’s more, agents who sell luxury real estate are making much more use of fun TikTok videos and Instagram Reels when it comes to marketing their properties and themselves. It’s a new frontier for the luxury space — and the early adopters are already there. Below, we dig into the phenomenon. Why agents should care about TikTok and Instagram Reels These days, people do almost anything online — from their jobs to meeting people with similar interests, to reading the news. So, when they’re looking to buy or sell a house, it only makes sense that their first port of call would be their favorite search engine. “Ninety-three percent of people start the buying or selling process online,” Brandon Tyler, a real estate agent at Mahler Sotheby’s International Realty in Wisconsin, told Inman. “Forty percent of purchases are influenced by social media. Seventy percent of people use smartphones to search about the home-buying process. I have to have a presence on these platforms because the numbers don’t lie in terms of where consumers obtain their content.” At the moment, real estate TikTok and Instagram are growing exponentially, and riding that wave is simply a smart business move. Even more eye-opening? Nearly two-thirds of TikTok’s users are Gen Z — and Gen Z is set to become one of the primary spenders in the luxury industry by 2025, accounting for a whopping 20 percent of net luxury spending. Combined with the millennials, these two generations will account for a 180 percent growth in luxury markets between 2019 and 2025. Consider another critical insight for a luxury brand: More than 85 percent of luxury purchases in 2020 were influenced by digital content or digital marketing efforts. Luxury brands with a robust online presence leverage their digital footprint to boost sales. The benefits of marketing a property on TikTok and Instagram When people search for certain real-estate-related keywords, it’s crucial that their search returns platforms related to an agent’s brand. By establishing themselves on a variety of social media channels and posting content with relevant captions and hashtags, they are multiplying the chances that their business is the one people come across in their research for real estate agents in their area. Once buyers and sellers find themselves on an agent’s TikTok or Instagram page, their next job is to keep them there by offering content that will entertain or impress them. “In my market, people use social media to understand who I am and what I do,” Tyler said. “Some will ask questions about a home or about the market, while others want to know how I’ve scaled my business. In the end, it’s about being accessible and omnipresent.” Sometimes, this can translate to hundreds of inquiries, and generate more sales than an agent can even imagine, as it did for agents interviewed by CNN Business. The video format itself offers so many possibilities for showing off listings in a more interactive way than through photos alone — and if it’s a particularly impressive listing, or one owned by a celebrity, that could be the making of a viral social media video right there. The more creative agents get, the more views, likes and sales will follow. How agents are using TikTok and Instagram Reels to grow their business If you haven’t seen how agents and brokerages are maximizing the trend for quick, casual videos — even for marketing luxury properties — take a look at the Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Instagram and TikTok pages for a little inspiration. Agents are wise to create videos that are about access, exclusivity, luxury, wit, trends and insider knowledge: The TikTok and Reels audiences love to feel as if they are being let in on something. As more and more agents explore creating video content, they should also heed Tyler’s advice: “First, get in front of that camera,” he says. “Second, if you aren’t creative, find someone who is and invest in them. Third, have a mixture of relatable and informative content. … If you aren’t obtaining social media leads, then someone else is.” Follow us! Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, Pinterest, Instagram and TikTok. The post Reels Estate: Why luxury agents are turning to casual TikTok and Instagram videos to market some rather magnificent properties appeared first on B - the blog.
A note from brokerage CEO Robbie Briggs: Of all the industry awards our agents earn in any given year — and I am proud to say that it is a lot — one honor comes with a little extra excitement. Each year, a firm called RealTrends ranks the top individuals, teams and brokerages in the United States. The company, launched in 1987, bases its various rankings on sales data that is independently verified, which is why folks in the real estate world anxiously await the results. RealTrends publishes two influential agent rankings: The Thousand, which is what it sounds like — the top 1,000 agents in the entire U.S. based on sales volume or transaction sides — and America’s Best Real Estate Professionals, a further ranking of the top agents in the country, also based on sales volume or transaction sides. This year, we are thrilled that Tyler Thomas, the founder of the TT Ranch Group, which is part of our unique Ranch and Land Division, has earned a spot on The Thousand — a spot that makes him the No. 3 luxury agent in all of Dallas and No. 6 in all of Texas. I tip my hat to him — and to this next group of exceptional agents. These are our Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty agents and teams who earned a spot on the America’s Best ranking because their sales were above $20 million for individuals and $30 million for teams. It gets no better than this. Even more astounding, consider that there are more than 200,000 licensed agents in Texas, including 30,000 across Dallas, Fort Worth, Plano and Southlake. Small teams by volume: Faisal Halum Group — #1 in Dallas — #3 in Texas Jobst Randall Group — #3 in Dallas — #17 in Texas Winchester | Steitle Group — #1 in Plano — #48 in Texas The Gina Lester Team — #2 in Plano — #67 in Texas The Gioia Goyer Group — #31 in Dallas — #135 in Texas Shelle Carrig Team — #33 in Dallas — #143 in Texas Forke + Shindler Group — #38 in Dallas — #163 in Texas Ryan | Roberts Group — #41 in Dallas — #189 in Texas Beca & Paige Real Estate Group — #45 in Dallas — #202 in Texas Devon & Alberto Team — #7 in Fort Worth — #228 in Texas . Medium teams by volume: Burgher-Ray Ranch Group — #6 in Dallas — #13 in Texas The Spann Group — #4 in Fort Worth — #124 in Texas . Individuals by volume: Joan Eleazer — #6 in Dallas — #20 in Texas Penny Cook — #7 in Dallas — #24 in Texas Pogir — #11 in Dallas — #58 in Texas Caroline Summers — #15 in Dallas — #115 in Texas Kim Bedwell — #3 in Southlake — #201 in Texas Linda Baker — #4 in Plano — #273 in Texas Kyle Richards — #35 in Dallas — #293 in Texas Rachel Finkbohner — #38 in Dallas — #313 in Texas Bryan Crawford — #41 in Dallas — #362 in Texas Robert Tyson — #7 in Southlake — #394 in Texas Lisa Besserer — #44 in Dallas — #402 in Texas Jason Garcia — #46 in Dallas — #423 in Texas Isn’t that amazing? And, to have three #1s in the family — Tyler Thomas, the Faisal Halum Group for Dallas and the Winchester Steitle Group for Plano — is especially exciting. We couldn’t be prouder of every pro on this list. Not only are they the finest agents in North Texas, they are the finest agents in the country. As RealTrends says about its America’s Best ranking: “This group of highly successful real estate sales agents represents the top 1 percent of all real estate practitioners in the United States.” We are lucky to work with them, and lucky to know them. Together with their Sotheby’s International Realty colleagues around the world — and their Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty colleagues right here at home — last year they sold a record $204 billion in homes, ranches and land to clients like you. Thank you for trusting them — and all of us — with your business. Robbie Briggs CEO Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty [email protected]
A note from brokerage CEO Robbie Briggs: Of all the industry awards our agents earn in any given year — and I am proud to say that it is a lot — one honor comes with a little extra excitement. Each year, a firm called RealTrends ranks the top individuals, teams and brokerages in the United States. The company, launched in 1987, bases its various rankings on sales data that is independently verified, which is why folks in the real estate world anxiously await the results. RealTrends publishes two influential agent rankings: The Thousand, which is what it sounds like — the top 1,000 agents in the entire U.S. based on sales volume or transaction sides — and America’s Best Real Estate Professionals, a further ranking of the top agents in the country, also based on sales volume or transaction sides. This year, we are thrilled that Tyler Thomas, the founder of the TT Ranch Group, which is part of our unique Ranch and Land Division, has earned a spot on The Thousand — a spot that makes him the No. 3 luxury agent in all of Dallas and No. 6 in all of Texas. I tip my hat to him — and to this next group of exceptional agents. These are our Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty agents and teams who earned a spot on the America’s Best ranking because their sales were above $20 million for individuals and $30 million for teams. It gets no better than this. Even more astounding, consider that there are more than 200,000 licensed agents in Texas, including 30,000 across Dallas, Fort Worth, Plano and Southlake. Small teams by volume: Faisal Halum Group — #1 in Dallas — #3 in Texas Jobst Randall Group — #3 in Dallas — #17 in Texas Winchester | Steitle Group — #1 in Plano — #48 in Texas The Gina Lester Team — #2 in Plano — #67 in Texas The Gioia Goyer Group — #31 in Dallas — #135 in Texas Shelle Carrig Team — #33 in Dallas — #143 in Texas Forke + Shindler Group — #38 in Dallas — #163 in Texas Ryan | Roberts Group — #41 in Dallas — #189 in Texas Beca & Paige Real Estate Group — #45 in Dallas — #202 in Texas Devon & Alberto Team — #7 in Fort Worth — #228 in Texas . Medium teams by volume: Burgher-Ray Ranch Group — #6 in Dallas — #13 in Texas The Spann Group — #4 in Fort Worth — #124 in Texas . Individuals by volume: Joan Eleazer — #6 in Dallas — #20 in Texas Penny Cook — #7 in Dallas — #24 in Texas Pogir — #11 in Dallas — #58 in Texas Caroline Summers — #15 in Dallas — #115 in Texas Kim Bedwell — #3 in Southlake — #201 in Texas Linda Baker — #4 in Plano — #273 in Texas Kyle Richards — #35 in Dallas — #293 in Texas Rachel Finkbohner — #38 in Dallas — #313 in Texas Bryan Crawford — #41 in Dallas — #362 in Texas Robert Tyson — #7 in Southlake — #394 in Texas Lisa Besserer — #44 in Dallas — #402 in Texas Jason Garcia — #46 in Dallas — #423 in Texas Isn’t that amazing? And, to have three #1s in the family — Tyler Thomas, the Faisal Halum Group for Dallas and the Winchester Steitle Group for Plano — is especially exciting. We couldn’t be prouder of every pro on this list. Not only are they the finest agents in North Texas, they are the finest agents in the country. As RealTrends says about its America’s Best ranking: “This group of highly successful real estate sales agents represents the top 1 percent of all real estate practitioners in the United States.” We are lucky to work with them, and lucky to know them. Together with their Sotheby’s International Realty colleagues around the world — and their Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty colleagues right here at home — last year they sold a record $204 billion in homes, ranches and land to clients like you. Thank you for trusting them — and all of us — with your business. Robbie Briggs CEO Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty [email protected] The post Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty triumphs in rankings of best agents in America — three number-ones included appeared first on B - the blog.
Nothing says summer like July 4 fireworks in North Texas! Below, we’ve gathered the top spots for your Independence Day festivities. Be sure to check each website before you go — then prepare to be amazed. . SATURDAY, JULY 2 . DALLAS Fireworks Show Saturday, July 2 7 to 10 p.m. Klyde Warren Park klydewarrenpark.org . SUNDAY, JULY 3 . ADDISON Kaboom Town! Sunday, July 3 5 to 11 p.m.; fireworks at 9:30 p.m. Addison Circle Park Free tickets required for all at addisonkaboomtown.com . SOUTHLAKE Stars and Stripes 2022 Sunday, July 3 3 to 11 p.m.; fireworks at 9:30 p.m. Southlake Town Square visitsouthlaketexas.com . MONDAY, JULY 4 . ARLINGTON Arlington Independence Day Parade Monday, July 4 Parade at 9 a.m. in and around downtown Arlington arlington4th.org . FORT WORTH Fort Worth’s Fourth Monday, July 4 Gates open at 5 p.m.; fireworks at 9:30 p.m. Panther Island Pavilion fortworthsfourth.com . FRISCO Frisco Freedom Fest Monday, July 4 Events begin at 4 p.m.; fireworks approx. 10 p.m. Simpson Plaza and area around Purefoy Municipal Center friscofreedomfest.org . LAKEWOOD Lakewood 4th of July Parade Monday, July 4 Parade at 10 a.m. (starts at corner of Lakewood and Cambria boulevards) facebook.com/lakewood4thofjuly . LITTLE ELM July Jubilee Monday, July 4 All day; fireworks at 9:30 p.m. Little Elm Park littleelm.org . McKINNEY Red, White and Boom! Monday, July 4 Parade at 10 a.m.; events all day mckinneytexas.org . PARK CITIES Park Cities 4th of July Parade Monday, July 4 Parade at 9 a.m.; Goar Park festivities at 9:30 a.m. Route: Highland Park Town Hall to Goar Park Grand marshal Donna C. Pierce, former HPISD planetarium director; donations benefit North Texas Food Bank parkcitiesrotary.org . PLANO All American 4th Monday, July 4 6 to 10 p.m. Red Tail Pavilion plano.gov . ROCKWALL 4th of July Parade & Fireworks Monday, July 4 Parade at 11 a.m.; fireworks at dusk Parade route Wilkerson-Sanders Memorial Stadium to Howard Dobbs Elementary; fireworks at Harry Myers Park playrockwall.com
Nothing says summer like July 4 fireworks in North Texas! Below, we’ve gathered the top spots for your Independence Day festivities. Be sure to check each website before you go — then prepare to be amazed. . SATURDAY, JULY 2 . DALLAS Fireworks Show Saturday, July 2 7 to 10 p.m. Klyde Warren Park klydewarrenpark.org . SUNDAY, JULY 3 . ADDISON Kaboom Town! Sunday, July 3 5 to 11 p.m.; fireworks at 9:30 p.m. Addison Circle Park Free tickets required for all at addisonkaboomtown.com . SOUTHLAKE Stars and Stripes 2022 Sunday, July 3 3 to 11 p.m.; fireworks at 9:30 p.m. Southlake Town Square visitsouthlaketexas.com . MONDAY, JULY 4 . ARLINGTON Arlington Independence Day Parade Monday, July 4 Parade at 9 a.m. in and around downtown Arlington arlington4th.org . FORT WORTH Fort Worth’s Fourth Monday, July 4 Gates open at 5 p.m.; fireworks at 9:30 p.m. Panther Island Pavilion fortworthsfourth.com . FRISCO Frisco Freedom Fest Monday, July 4 Events begin at 4 p.m.; fireworks approx. 10 p.m. Simpson Plaza and area around Purefoy Municipal Center friscofreedomfest.org . LAKEWOOD Lakewood 4th of July Parade Monday, July 4 Parade at 10 a.m. (starts at corner of Lakewood and Cambria boulevards) facebook.com/lakewood4thofjuly . LITTLE ELM July Jubilee Monday, July 4 All day; fireworks at 9:30 p.m. Little Elm Park littleelm.org . https://www.littleelm.org/1058/July-Jubilee McKINNEY Red, White and Boom! Monday, July 4 Parade at 10 a.m.; events all day mckinneytexas.org . PARK CITIES Park Cities 4th of July Parade Monday, July 4 Parade at 9 a.m.; Goar Park festivities at 9:30 a.m. Route: Highland Park Town Hall to Goar Park Grand marshal Donna C. Pierce, former HPISD planetarium director; donations benefit North Texas Food Bank parkcitiesrotary.org . PLANO All American 4th Monday, July 4 6 to 10 p.m. Red Tail Pavilion plano.gov . ROCKWALL 4th of July Parade & Fireworks Monday, July 4 Parade at 11 a.m.; fireworks at dusk Parade route Wilkerson-Sanders Memorial Stadium to Howard Dobbs Elementary; fireworks at Harry Myers Park playrockwall.com The post Pop! Pow! Wow! Where to go boom for July 4, all across North Texas appeared first on B - the blog.
Nothing says summer like July 4 fireworks in North Texas! Below, we’ve gathered the top spots for your Independence Day festivities. Be sure to check each website before you go — then prepare to be amazed. . SATURDAY, JULY 2 . DALLAS Fireworks Show Saturday, July 2 7 to 10 p.m. Klyde Warren Park klydewarrenpark.org . SUNDAY, JULY 3 . ADDISON Kaboom Town! Sunday, July 3 5 to 11 p.m.; fireworks at 9:30 Addison Circle Park Free tickets required for all at addisonkaboomtown.com . SOUTHLAKE Stars and Stripes 2022 Sunday, July 3 3 to 11 p.m. (fireworks at 9:30) Southlake Town Square visitsouthlaketexas.com . MONDAY, JULY 4 . ARLINGTON Arlington Independence Day Parade Monday, July 4 Parade at 9 a.m., in and around downtown Arlington arlington4th.org . FORT WORTH Fort Worth’s Fourth Monday, July 4 Gates open at 5 p.m.; fireworks at 9:30 Panther Island Pavilion fortworthsfourth.com . LAKEWOOD Lakewood 4th of July Parade Monday, July 4 Parade at 10 am (starts at corner of Lakewood and Cambria boulevards) facebook.com/lakewood4thofjuly . McKINNEY Red, White and Boom! Monday, July 4 Parade at 10 am; events all day mckinneytexas.org . PARK CITIES Park Cities 4th of July Parade Monday, July 4 Parade at 9 a.m.; Goar Park festivities at 9:30 Route: Highland Park Town Hall to Goar Park Grand marshal Donna C. Pierce, former HPISD planetarium director; donations benefit North Texas Food Bank parkcitiesrotary.org . PLANO All American 4th Monday, July 4 6 to 10 pm Red Tail Pavilion plano.gov The post Pop! Pow! Wow! Where to go boom for July 4, all across North Texas appeared first on B - the blog.
Nothing says summer like July 4 fireworks in North Texas! Below, we’ve gathered the top spots for your Independence Day festivities. Be sure to check each website before you go — then prepare to be amazed. SUNDAY, JULY 3 . ADDISON Kaboom Town! Sunday, July 3 5 to 11 p.m.; fireworks at 9:30 Addison Circle Park Free tickets required for all at addisonkaboomtown.com . SOUTHLAKE Stars and Stripes 2022 Sunday, July 3 3 to 11 p.m. (fireworks at 9:30) Southlake Town Square visitsouthlaketexas.com . MONDAY, JULY 4 . ARLINGTON Arlington Independence Day Parade Monday, July 4 Parade at 9 a.m., in and around downtown Arlington arlington4th.org . FORT WORTH Fort Worth’s Fourth Monday, July 4 Gates open at 5 p.m.; fireworks at 9:30 Panther Island Pavilion fortworthsfourth.com . LAKEWOOD Lakewood 4th of July Parade Monday, July 4 Parade at 10 am (starts at corner of Lakewood and Cambria boulevards) facebook.com/lakewood4thofjuly . McKINNEY Red, White and Boom! Monday, July 4 Parade at 10 am; events all day mckinneytexas.org . PARK CITIES Park Cities 4th of July Parade Monday, July 4 Parade at 9 a.m.; Goar Park festivities at 9:30 Route: Highland Park Town Hall to Goar Park Grand marshal Donna C. Pierce, former HPISD planetarium director; donations benefit North Texas Food Bank parkcitiesrotary.org . PLANO All American 4th Monday, July 4 6 to 10 pm Red Tail Pavilion plano.gov The post Pop! Pow! Wow! Where to go boom for July 4, all across North Texas appeared first on B - the blog.
White walls are classic — crisp, clean, bright — for good reason. They are utterly neutral, meaning you can get more colorful with all your furnishings, art and accessories. But white’s polar opposite is trending for the walls in homes: black. Yes, people are painting their walls — and cabinets and sometimes the exteriors of their homes — black, and loving it. Why? Against black paint, your art and furnishings will dramatically pop — making your home feel instantly more sophisticated. The inky dark tone will lend a space a cozy feel, too, but without making it feel cramped. In fact, rich black walls (like any deep, dark hue) can seemingly dissolve the physical boundaries of a room because the eye will perceive the space as larger than it really is. So, how exactly can you incorporate this trend? Here, we walk you through some clever ways to bring black into your home. Pick an accent wall or two If painting all four walls of a room black seems intimidating, pick just one wall. And, if you’re intrigued by the idea of a black accent wall, pick either the largest wall in the room or the one where your biggest statement piece is (i.e., your fireplace or sofa). Or, paint two adjoining walls black for a dramatic corner effect. For maximum punch, contrast your new accent wall — or walls — with white walls and ceilings, then layer in bright-colored décor or all-white pieces. A black accent wall also makes the perfect backdrop for a gallery wall, so get framing! Paint a whole room black Painting a whole room black can look — and feel — positively amazing. If you decide to go for it, make sure that you pick a spacious enough room, ideally with higher ceilings. A room with large windows — and therefore good natural light — is also best. Then, contrast your new paint job with lighter décor items, tiled or wood floors and plenty of plants. Add black details If you love the idea of black paint but don’t have a room in your home that easily lends itself to the full treatment, a great alternative is to paint only the doors, window frames, moldings or even cabinets in a room black. This works well for a laundry room, for instance. Another idea is to go for two-toned walls, painting just the top or bottom half of your walls black, and the other half white. The contrast will be quite elegant — and is sure to impress your guests. For more home design inspiration, check out our blog. It is full of advice and information, gleaned from our expert agents and professionals of all kinds. It’s the real estate blog about much more than real estate. Follow us! Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, Pinterest, Instagram and TikTok.
White walls are classic — crisp, clean, bright — for good reason. They are utterly neutral, meaning you can get more colorful with all your furnishings, art and accessories. But white’s polar opposite is trending for the walls in homes: black. Yes, people are painting their walls — and cabinets and sometimes the exteriors of their homes — black, and loving it. Why? Against black paint, your art and furnishings will dramatically pop — making your home feel instantly more sophisticated. The inky dark tone will lend a space a cozy feel, too, but without making it feel cramped. In fact, rich black walls (like any deep, dark hue) can seemingly dissolve the physical boundaries of a room because the eye will perceive the space as larger than it really is. So, how exactly can you incorporate this trend? Here, we walk you through some clever ways to bring black into your home. Pick an accent wall or two If painting all four walls of a room black seems intimidating, pick just one wall. And, if you’re intrigued by the idea of a black accent wall, pick either the largest wall in the room or the one where your biggest statement piece is (i.e., your fireplace or sofa). Or, paint two adjoining walls black for a dramatic corner effect. For maximum punch, contrast your new accent wall — or walls — with white walls and ceilings, then layer in bright-colored décor or all-white pieces. A black accent wall also makes the perfect backdrop for a gallery wall, so get framing! Paint a whole room black Painting a whole room black can look — and feel — positively amazing. If you decide to go for it, make sure that you pick a spacious enough room, ideally with higher ceilings. A room with large windows — and therefore good natural light — is also best. Then, contrast your new paint job with lighter décor items, tiled or wood floors and plenty of plants. Add black details If you love the idea of black paint but don’t have a room in your home that easily lends itself to the full treatment, a great alternative is to paint only the doors, window frames, moldings or even cabinets in a room black. This works well for a laundry room, for instance. Another idea is to go for two-toned walls, painting just the top or bottom half of your walls black, and the other half white. The contrast will be quite elegant — and is sure to impress your guests. For more home design inspiration, check out our blog. It is full of advice and information, gleaned from our expert agents and professionals of all kinds. It’s the real estate blog about much more than real estate. Follow us! Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, Pinterest, Instagram and TikTok. The post Bold and Black: The wall-color trend that is getting all the buzz appeared first on B - the blog.
Each Friday, Robbie Briggs, CEO of Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty, writes about luxury, trends, business and more in the advertising pages of the Mansion section of The Wall Street Journal. Below is his letter of June 10, 2022. FROM MY PERSPECTIVE Of all the awards our agents earn in any given year — and I am proud to say that it is a lot — one honor comes with a little extra excitement. Each year, a firm called RealTrends ranks the top individuals, teams and brokerages in the United States. The company, launched in 1987, bases its various rankings on data that is independently verified, which is why folks in the real estate world anxiously await the results. Its list called RealTrends + Tom Ferry The Thousand, as advertised in The Wall Street Journal ranks the top 1,000 agents across the U.S., based on sales performance. This year, we are thrilled that Tyler Thomas, pictured at top and part of our amazing Ranch and Land Division, has earned a spot on The Thousand — a spot that makes him the No. 3 luxury agent in all of Dallas and No. 6 in all of Texas. If you are a client of Tyler’s, this will be no surprise. The founder of the TT Ranch Group at Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty, he is smart, savvy, dedicated and just plain nice. Tyler’s low-key demeanor hides a drive for excellence in everything he does — and this achievement reflects that. I tip my hat to him — and to all of our North Texas agents. In 2021, together with their Sotheby’s International Realty colleagues around the world, they sold a record $204 billion in homes, ranches and land to clients like you. There is more to come from RealTrends when it announces another prestigious ranking called America’s Best Real Estate Professionals. Stay tuned: I’m betting we have a lot more to celebrate. Thank you for trusting Tyler and all of us with your business. Robbie Briggs CEO Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty [email protected]
Each Friday, Robbie Briggs, CEO of Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty, writes about luxury, trends, business and more in the advertising pages of the Mansion section of The Wall Street Journal. Below is his letter of June 10, 2022. FROM MY PERSPECTIVE Of all the awards our agents earn in any given year — and I am proud to say that it is a lot — one honor comes with a little extra excitement. Each year, a firm called RealTrends ranks the top individuals, teams and brokerages in the United States. The company, launched in 1987, bases its various rankings on data that is independently verified, which is why folks in the real estate world anxiously await the results. Its list called RealTrends + Tom Ferry The Thousand, as advertised in The Wall Street Journal ranks the top 1,000 agents across the U.S., based on sales performance. This year, we are thrilled that Tyler Thomas, pictured at top and part of our amazing Ranch and Land Division, has earned a spot on The Thousand — a spot that makes him the No. 3 luxury agent in all of Dallas and No. 6 in all of Texas. If you are a client of Tyler’s, this will be no surprise. The founder of the TT Ranch Group at Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty, he is smart, savvy, dedicated and just plain nice. Tyler’s low-key demeanor hides a drive for excellence in everything he does — and this achievement reflects that. I tip my hat to him — and to all of our North Texas agents. In 2021, together with their Sotheby’s International Realty colleagues around the world, they sold a record $204 billion in homes, ranches and land to clients like you. There is more to come from RealTrends when it announces another prestigious ranking called America’s Best Real Estate Professionals. Stay tuned: I’m betting we have a lot more to celebrate. Thank you for trusting Tyler and all of us with your business. Robbie Briggs CEO Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty [email protected] The post CEO Robbie Briggs on the low-key ranch agent who just earned a very big national honor appeared first on B - the blog.
Furnishing and decorating your home, whether you’ve just moved in or you’re looking to spruce up your current one a little, is an exciting project. Unfortunately, it often also means buying a lot of new items that aren’t necessarily the most eco-friendly — because, for example, they’ve come from far away, or because they’re packaged in a lot of plastic. Don’t worry, though: There are ways to reduce your footprint when shopping for your home, making for more sustainable living. Every single thoughtful action is worth it. Here are just a few. 1. Choose greener materials What your furniture and décor items are made of matters when it comes to protecting the planet. Ditch unsustainable materials such as plastic or synthetic fibers and opt for greener materials. These might be materials found in nature (cotton — organic if possible — linen, glass, wood, bamboo, cork, metal and so on) or man-made materials that are energy-efficient, eco-friendly and/or ethical to produce (viscose, Tencel or biodegradable plastic, for example). And when it comes to replacing appliances such as washing machines or televisions, do your research and choose a model that’s as energy-efficient as possible. 2. Buy preloved (a k a ‘secondhand’) As eco-friendly as new products can be, you can’t beat secondhand items when it comes to sustainable shopping. This way, you can give home furnishings that would otherwise go to waste a second life — and enjoy décor that’s completely unique rather than mass-produced. Buying preloved items dramatically reduces your carbon footprint, too, when compared with purchasing a newly manufactured equivalent. Shop your local vintage shops and estate sales to get started, and explore online retail platforms such as eBay or Facebook Marketplace. 3. Look for recycled and reusable items You probably already recycle in your home. The next step? Go full circle and furnish your home with recycled or upcycled items (Upcycling is using a discarded object to create something of even greater value than before). The recycling process itself helps conserve Earth’s precious resources and reduce energy consumption and pollution. But if the process started and ended with putting your recyclables into the appropriate bins, what would be the point? Purchasing recycled goods completes the cycle and helps to protect the planet. There is another piece to the puzzle, too: Try to pick furniture and décor that is recyclable as well as recycled, so that it doesn’t go into a landfill at the end of its lifespan. 4. Shop locally For all the convenience of ordering goods online or doing your shopping at a big chain store, both options, unfortunately, involve transporting products from far and wide to get them to your door. This isn’t great for the environment, since the planes, ships and trucks used for commercial transport emit large amounts of CO2. On the other hand, shopping locally from smaller neighboring areas is greener — local businesses usually employ members of the community, which translates to shorter commutes, less highway congestion and less fuel consumption — and helps the local economy. You’re also more likely to find unique or handmade products — just another of the many benefits of staying close to home to do your shopping. 5. Buy in bulk When you need food or household products, consider buying nonperishable items (think detergent, diapers or shampoo) in bulk. This has many advantages, both for the planet and for you. Bulk buys save on transport since only one trip is required to deliver your items rather than several. They also save on excess packaging when items come in larger containers. Last but not least, they save you money, as buying in bulk tends to be less costly in the end. To buy in bulk, you do have to have the space to store your purchases — but if you do, it will avoid those last-minute emergency trips to the supermarket because you ran out of your favorite eco-friendly paper towels. All good things. Sustainable living is the future If you’re looking to reduce your carbon footprint, sustainable shopping is one of the first things to do — and that includes shopping for your home, too. Switching to greener products and to more eco-buying strategies, whether you currently own a home or just bought one, are easy yet incredibly impactful ways to get started. Follow us! Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, Pinterest, Instagram and TikTok.
Furnishing and decorating your home, whether you’ve just moved in or you’re looking to spruce up your current one a little, is an exciting project. Unfortunately, it often also means buying a lot of new items that aren’t necessarily the most eco-friendly — because, for example, they’ve come from far away, or because they’re packaged in a lot of plastic. Don’t worry, though: There are ways to reduce your footprint when shopping for your home, making for more sustainable living. Every single thoughtful action is worth it. Here are just a few. 1. Choose greener materials What your furniture and décor items are made of matters when it comes to protecting the planet. Ditch unsustainable materials such as plastic or synthetic fibers and opt for greener materials. These might be materials found in nature (cotton — organic if possible — linen, glass, wood, bamboo, cork, metal and so on) or man-made materials that are energy-efficient, eco-friendly and/or ethical to produce (viscose, Tencel or biodegradable plastic, for example). And when it comes to replacing appliances such as washing machines or televisions, do your research and choose a model that’s as energy-efficient as possible. 2. Buy preloved (a k a ‘secondhand’) As eco-friendly as new products can be, you can’t beat secondhand items when it comes to sustainable shopping. This way, you can give home furnishings that would otherwise go to waste a second life — and enjoy décor that’s completely unique rather than mass-produced. Buying preloved items dramatically reduces your carbon footprint, too, when compared with purchasing a newly manufactured equivalent. Shop your local vintage shops and estate sales to get started, and explore online retail platforms such as eBay or Facebook Marketplace. 3. Look for recycled and reusable items You probably already recycle in your home. The next step? Go full circle and furnish your home with recycled or upcycled items (Upcycling is using a discarded object to create something of even greater value than before). The recycling process itself helps conserve Earth’s precious resources and reduce energy consumption and pollution. But if the process started and ended with putting your recyclables into the appropriate bins, what would be the point? Purchasing recycled goods completes the cycle and helps to protect the planet. There is another piece to the puzzle, too: Try to pick furniture and décor that is recyclable as well as recycled, so that it doesn’t go into a landfill at the end of its lifespan. 4. Shop locally For all the convenience of ordering goods online or doing your shopping at a big chain store, both options, unfortunately, involve transporting products from far and wide to get them to your door. This isn’t great for the environment, since the planes, ships and trucks used for commercial transport emit large amounts of CO2. On the other hand, shopping locally from smaller neighboring areas is greener — local businesses usually employ members of the community, which translates to shorter commutes, less highway congestion and less fuel consumption — and helps the local economy. You’re also more likely to find unique or handmade products — just another of the many benefits of staying close to home to do your shopping. 5. Buy in bulk When you need food or household products, consider buying nonperishable items (think detergent, diapers or shampoo) in bulk. This has many advantages, both for the planet and for you. Bulk buys save on transport since only one trip is required to deliver your items rather than several. They also save on excess packaging when items come in larger containers. Last but not least, they save you money, as buying in bulk tends to be less costly in the end. To buy in bulk, you do have to have the space to store your purchases — but if you do, it will avoid those last-minute emergency trips to the supermarket because you ran out of your favorite eco-friendly paper towels. All good things. Sustainable living is the future If you’re looking to reduce your carbon footprint, sustainable shopping is one of the first things to do — and that includes shopping for your home, too. Switching to greener products and to more eco-buying strategies, whether you currently own a home or just bought one, are easy yet incredibly impactful ways to get started. Follow us! Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, Pinterest, Instagram and TikTok. The post Going Greener: The 5-step guide to shopping for home décor and necessities in an eco-friendlier way appeared first on B - the blog.
Yes, Texas has a reputation for scorching summers. And though that may be true compared to most of the nation, millions of Texas residents can attest that summer is a great season — for having fun in the sun or somewhere inside, soaking up all that gloriously cold air-conditioning. The agents of Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty can help you find a home with options for beating the heat, from lakeside properties to homes with pools nicer than many resorts. So, grab your SPF 50+ and read on for the answers to your most (sun) burning questions about summer in the Lone Star State. How hot does it actually get during Texas summers? First, some really great news: The hottest temperature ever recorded in Texas — 120 degrees Fahrenheit — was way back in 1936, so anything since then seems cool by comparison. But, here we go: The average high temperatures in the Dallas-Fort Worth area during the summer months are 91.1 degrees in June, 95.4 in July, 94.8 in August and only 87.7 in September. Lows during those months average in the mid to low 70s. In 2021, the month of June kicked off with several mild days in a row where the temperature barely crept above 80. Occasionally in July and August, we get temperatures above 100, but finding ways to enjoy the heat is never a problem (As you’ll read in just a bit). Where can I cool off in North Texas if I don’t have my own pool? Getting wet and wild — or just mild, if that’s how you roll — will always be one of the best ways to enjoy the hot sun while staying cool. If your home doesn’t have a pool out back, fear not. You can dive deep, swim up to a bar for a drink or simply float away the day at a variety of pools and water parks. If you want to brag to your friends that you swam across Texas, a visit to the 168,000-gallon, Texas-shaped Texas Pool in Plano should be at the top of your list. After all, it’s listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Indulge in a staycation at a local resort, such as the Hilton Anatole, and get access to incredible pools like its JadeWaters complex. Several neighborhoods throughout North Texas have their own community water parks or head to Grand Prairie to chill out at Epic Waters, a year-round water park with both indoor and outdoor pools — the latter billed as the largest indoor water park in North Texas — so even if it’s hot and rainy you can still splish-splash your way to a cooler day. What if I don’t want to be outside in the Texas heat? If there’s one thing Texas knows better than almost anywhere on earth, it’s how to make indoor spaces icebox-cold no matter how hot it is outside. (One recommendation that might be surprising: You may want to carry a sweater with you because some places are so air-conditioned that your summer ensemble of shorts and a T-shirt can quickly feel inadequate.) Some of our favorite air-conditioned spaces allow you to enjoy art in a variety of formats, shop for the latest must-haves, dine on delish food and run errands, all to the delight of multitaskers and A/C enthusiasts everywhere. The ultimate example? NorthPark Center. When it opened in 1965, NorthPark Center was the largest climate-controlled shopping mall in the United States. It has expanded over the years and remains one of the top destinations in town for luxury goods, first-class restaurants and a contemporary art collection that rivals many an international museum. Of course, actual museums always keep the temperature at a low level, whether you want to explore the free exhibits at the Dallas Museum of Art or have an indoor/outdoor experience at the Nasher Sculpture Center across the street in the Dallas Arts District. Movie theaters have always provided a respite from the heat and Texas-based Alamo Drafthouse has a number of locations around Dallas-Fort Worth, each with the chain’s famous reclining seats, in-theater dining and strict no-talking-or-texting policy that allows everyone to enjoy the films. Can you enjoy patios in the summer in Texas? Absolutely! Most patios across North Texas have some sort of equipment in place to keep customers cool, whether it’s massive umbrellas, giant fans, misting systems or all three. But the best scenario of all happens when you find a covered patio with air conditioning for the best indoor-meets-outdoor experience imaginable. Encina, Toulouse Cafe & Bar, RH Rooftop Restaurant and Malai Kitchen are prime examples of places where you can enjoy some fresh air, some air-conditioned air and some fantastic food and drinks, all in one transaction. Is it possible to actually go outdoors during the summer in Dallas-Fort Worth? Yes! Once you know your own personal tolerance for heat and humidity, it’s easy to find ways to venture into nature without overheating. Our advice would always be to experience the great outdoors in the cooler early morning hours whenever possible. And, always, always take some bottled water for hydration. Some of the best places to get some exercise and find some nice shade trees, too, are the trails in the Great Trinity Forest, the Oak Cliff Nature Preserve, the Dallas Zoo or Fort Worth Zoo, the Dallas Arboretum or the Katy Trail. Follow us! Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, Pinterest, Instagram and TikTok.
Yes, Texas has a reputation for scorching summers. And though that may be true compared to most of the nation, millions of Texas residents can attest that summer is a great season — for having fun in the sun or somewhere inside, soaking up all that gloriously cold air-conditioning. The agents of Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty can help you find a home with options for beating the heat, from lakeside properties to homes with pools nicer than many resorts. So, grab your SPF 50+ and read on for the answers to your most (sun) burning questions about summer in the Lone Star State. How hot does it actually get during Texas summers? First, some really great news: The hottest temperature ever recorded in Texas — 120 degrees Fahrenheit — was way back in 1936, so anything since then seems cool by comparison. But, here we go: The average high temperatures in the Dallas-Fort Worth area during the summer months are 91.1 degrees in June, 95.4 in July, 94.8 in August and only 87.7 in September. Lows during those months average in the mid to low 70s. In 2021, the month of June kicked off with several mild days in a row where the temperature barely crept above 80. Occasionally in July and August, we get temperatures above 100, but finding ways to enjoy the heat is never a problem (As you’ll read in just a bit). Where can I cool off in North Texas if I don’t have my own pool? Getting wet and wild — or just mild, if that’s how you roll — will always be one of the best ways to enjoy the hot sun while staying cool. If your home doesn’t have a pool out back, fear not. You can dive deep, swim up to a bar for a drink or simply float away the day at a variety of pools and water parks. If you want to brag to your friends that you swam across Texas, a visit to the 168,000-gallon, Texas-shaped Texas Pool in Plano should be at the top of your list. After all, it’s listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Indulge in a staycation at a local resort, such as the Hilton Anatole, and get access to incredible pools like its JadeWaters complex. Several neighborhoods throughout North Texas have their own community water parks or head to Grand Prairie to chill out at Epic Waters, a year-round water park with both indoor and outdoor pools — the latter billed as the largest indoor water park in North Texas — so even if it’s hot and rainy you can still splish-splash your way to a cooler day. What if I don’t want to be outside in the Texas heat? If there’s one thing Texas knows better than almost anywhere on earth, it’s how to make indoor spaces icebox-cold no matter how hot it is outside. (One recommendation that might be surprising: You may want to carry a sweater with you because some places are so air-conditioned that your summer ensemble of shorts and a T-shirt can quickly feel inadequate.) Some of our favorite air-conditioned spaces allow you to enjoy art in a variety of formats, shop for the latest must-haves, dine on delish food and run errands, all to the delight of multitaskers and A/C enthusiasts everywhere. The ultimate example? NorthPark Center. When it opened in 1965, NorthPark Center was the largest climate-controlled shopping mall in the United States. It has expanded over the years and remains one of the top destinations in town for luxury goods, first-class restaurants and a contemporary art collection that rivals many an international museum. Of course, actual museums always keep the temperature at a low level, whether you want to explore the free exhibits at the Dallas Museum of Art or have an indoor/outdoor experience at the Nasher Sculpture Center across the street in the Dallas Arts District. Movie theaters have always provided a respite from the heat and Texas-based Alamo Drafthouse has a number of locations around Dallas-Fort Worth, each with the chain’s famous reclining seats, in-theater dining and strict no-talking-or-texting policy that allows everyone to enjoy the films. Can you enjoy patios in the summer in Texas? Absolutely! Most patios across North Texas have some sort of equipment in place to keep customers cool, whether it’s massive umbrellas, giant fans, misting systems or all three. But the best scenario of all happens when you find a covered patio with air conditioning for the best indoor-meets-outdoor experience imaginable. Encina, Toulouse Cafe & Bar, RH Rooftop Restaurant and Malai Kitchen are prime examples of places where you can enjoy some fresh air, some air-conditioned air and some fantastic food and drinks, all in one transaction. Is it possible to actually go outdoors during the summer in Dallas-Fort Worth? Yes! Once you know your own personal tolerance for heat and humidity, it’s easy to find ways to venture into nature without overheating. Our advice would always be to experience the great outdoors in the cooler early morning hours whenever possible. And, always, always take some bottled water for hydration. Some of the best places to get some exercise and find some nice shade trees, too, are the trails in the Great Trinity Forest, the Oak Cliff Nature Preserve, the Dallas Zoo or Fort Worth Zoo, the Dallas Arboretum or the Katy Trail. Follow us! Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, Pinterest, Instagram and TikTok. The post Texas 101: The insider’s guide to surviving those toasty Texas summers appeared first on B - the blog.
Steve Killingback uses his eye for detail and design, combined with knowledge and instincts, gained from extensive global travel, to transform a house into a home. Contact him today!
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3131 Turtle Creek Boulevard 5th
Floor, Dallas, TX 75219
