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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.
Drawn outside by the allure of light, space and air — and a big dose of vitamin D — folks from Fort Worth to Dallas and everywhere in between are taking to the trails. Here, a primer on bike routes in five areas, plus an expert’s opinion on what to buy, drink and do if you are joining the growing ranks of the pedal pushers. DALLAS There are currently more than 150 miles of hard-surface bike trails and 17 miles of dedicated bike lanes in Dallas County, including Dallas, Richardson, Irving, Addison and Farmers Branch. The trails make it possible to reach major employment centers; to connect with DART light-rail stations; to enjoy views of White Rock Lake, Bachman Lake and the Trinity River; to see concerts and sporting events at the American Airlines Center; to reach SMU or the University of Texas at Dallas; and to travel from beyond the county’s border to downtown Dallas. One popular example: the Katy Trail, “an ideal bike path for those who like to ride with a purpose,” says CultureMap. “Start at the northernmost entry at Dedo’s Place near SMU and ride just east of Cedar Springs Road to Katy Trail Ice House, where you can sit on the shady patio and knock back a summer beer or an iced tea before riding back.” For information about each of the Dallas trails, including maps, distances, key features and destination points, see dallascounty.org. FORT WORTH With more than 112 trails covering 461 miles, you will find trails of all kinds in and around this one-of-a-kind city. In fact, Fort Worth is so bike-friendly that is has established BikeFW, a comprehensive plan for promoting bicycling as a safe and attractive transportation alternative by working toward impressive goals, including tripling the number of bicycle commuters and attaining official designation as a Bicycle Friendly Community through The League of American Bicyclists. Two standout trails: Gateway Park, with both flat and hilly terrain (a 3.5-mile loop on the west side of the Trinity River is relatively level, while hills scatter the eastern 5-mile loop) and Trinity Trails, 40 miles that serve as a central artery and connect with many other trails throughout the city. Insider tips: Start at a popular trail head such as the Fort Worth Botanic Garden or Log Cabin Village, or park at the quieter Trinity Strand Trail.) Information fortworthtexas.gov LAKEWOOD Charming Lakewood has the very good fortune of being sited alongside spectacular White Rock Lake, a 1,105-acre reservoir approximately 5 miles northeast of downtown Dallas. The lake is a wildly popular destination for residents and visitors, because it is one of the best places, anywhere, to experience natural areas, wildlife, kayaking and sailboating in an urban setting. White Rock Lake Trail is a 9.3-mile pedestrian/bike loop around the lake, great for all skill levels and accessible year-round. The trail is paved, smooth, typically at least five feet wide and mostly gentle, and there are multiple parking lots around the pathway. Information dallasparks.org SOUTHLAKE The City of Southlake is always working to ensure local cyclists are able to enjoy an increase in mobility, safety and convenience. There are currently seven signed bicycle routes in the city, with additional routes called out in its Mobility Master Plan. If there are no dedicated bicycle lanes, some bicyclists, including children, may prefer sidewalks to roadways. Cyclists may utilize sidewalks as long as they travel slowly, look out for potential hazards and always yield to pedestrians. For locations of existing and upcoming bicycle facilities, and to see Southlake’s Mobility Master Plan, visit cityofsouthlake.com. PLANO With more than 150 miles of on-street bicycle routes, nearly 100 miles of shared-use paths and more than 10 miles of unpaved soft-surfaced trails, biking in Plano is a fun, safe, convenient and connected form of transportation and recreation. The city’s Parks & Recreation department continues to build and expand Plano’s bike network for all ages and abilities — whether riding for fun, to work, running errands or dropping kids off at school. A great riding spot is the Arbor Hills Nature Preserve, a 200-acre park with about 3 miles of paved trails and 2.8 miles of off-road trails. The diverse animal and plant life that call the park home might convince you that you’re far from civilization, even though the park is only about a mile from the Dallas North Tollway. Learn the rules of the road, explore Plano’s trails and get a bike map at plano.gov. . SPECIALTY TRAILS OFF THE CHARTS “Adventure starts right here,” says the Dallas Off-Road Bicycle Association’s dorba.org, loaded with information about off-road and mountain-bike trails across North Texas, for both experienced and novice riders. Get the scoop on about 20 all-terrain trails, plus competitions, educational programs and DORBA itself, founded in 1988 and now about 1,800 mavens on mountain bikes. ROCK ON Pedaling across pavement? Too easy. Step it up with gravel on the ground. Gravel trails are more work, more unpredictable and more fun, say their devotees. “Plan to get dirty,” says planobicycle.org, which organizes a first-Saturday monthly gravel ride. Other gravel groups: Shawnee Trail Cycling Club (stcycling.com) and Northeast Texas Trail (netexastrail.org). . THE WHEEL THING Woody Smith is pedaling as fast as he can. The president of Richardson Bike Mart — a go-to since 1962 for two-wheelin’ North Texans — says the Covid-19 pandemic “has as much as doubled the bicycle riders in the past year, especially families riding in groups.” With that many wheels whirring all over the metroplex — the mart now has locations in Richardson, Frisco, Dallas and McKinney — we put some essential questions to the expert. What are people looking for in bikes now? “I look at bikes like they’re automobiles. There are truck-like bikes, performance fast-car bikes, road bikes. The most popular bikes folks want are like an SUV, of sorts.” (One Woody recommends from bikemart.com: Trek FX 1 Disc, with lightweight aluminum frame, disc brakes and sturdy wheels.) What are ways to beat the Texas heat while biking? “Ride early. Start from 5:30 to 7 a.m. Find trails or streets that have a lot of trees. That helps a bunch. If you do ride in the heat, the No. 1 rule is hydrate: Drink at least 16 ounces of water before you start. Then, drink 20 to 24 ounces of water or hydration mix every hour.” (He likes Skratch Labs Sport Hydration Drink Mix.) Another alternative? “Ride your bike inside. An indoor trainer converts your outdoor bike to an indoor stationary bike.” (One Woody recommends: Saris Fluid2 Smart Equipped.) How should you equip a bike for North Texas riding? “A water-bottle holder, a water bottle, a cell-phone bag and a good helmet that is five years old or newer. Look inside the helmet for a date when it was made.” (Insider tip: Shop Richardson Bike Mart here.) . BIKING WITH THE BOSS Last spring, our CEO Robbie Briggs and several of our agents met for a glorious morning bike ride through the Mountain Creek Preserve in Irving. “It was pretty magical,” Robbie says, “and a great opportunity to see North Texas from a whole new perspective.” Read his thoughts on North Texas’ bike trails, as seen in one of his weekly letters in the advertising pages of the Mansion section of The Wall Street Journal, posted here on our blog. CEO Robbie Briggs, in neon green, and agents from Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty on a crisp morning bike ride. . PICTURED AT TOP OF STORY: A sleek, safe biking and walking bridge over busy Mockingbird Lane in Dallas
Drawn outside by the allure of light, space and air — and a big dose of vitamin D — folks from Fort Worth to Dallas and everywhere in between are taking to the trails. Here, a primer on bike routes in five areas, plus an expert’s opinion on what to buy, drink and do if you are joining the growing ranks of the pedal pushers. DALLAS There are currently more than 150 miles of hard-surface bike trails and 17 miles of dedicated bike lanes in Dallas County, including Dallas, Richardson, Irving, Addison and Farmers Branch. The trails make it possible to reach major employment centers; to connect with DART light-rail stations; to enjoy views of White Rock Lake, Bachman Lake and the Trinity River; to see concerts and sporting events at the American Airlines Center; to reach SMU or the University of Texas at Dallas; and to travel from beyond the county’s border to downtown Dallas. One popular example: the Katy Trail, “an ideal bike path for those who like to ride with a purpose,” says CultureMap. “Start at the northernmost entry at Dedo’s Place near SMU and ride just east of Cedar Springs Road to Katy Trail Ice House, where you can sit on the shady patio and knock back a summer beer or an iced tea before riding back.” For information about each of the Dallas trails, including maps, distances, key features and destination points, see dallascounty.org. FORT WORTH With more than 112 trails covering 461 miles, you will find trails of all kinds in and around this one-of-a-kind city. In fact, Fort Worth is so bike-friendly that is has established BikeFW, a comprehensive plan for promoting bicycling as a safe and attractive transportation alternative by working toward impressive goals, including tripling the number of bicycle commuters and attaining official designation as a Bicycle Friendly Community through The League of American Bicyclists. Two standout trails: Gateway Park, with both flat and hilly terrain (a 3.5-mile loop on the west side of the Trinity River is relatively level, while hills scatter the eastern 5-mile loop) and Trinity Trails, 40 miles that serve as a central artery and connect with many other trails throughout the city. Insider tips: Start at a popular trail head such as the Fort Worth Botanic Garden or Log Cabin Village, or park at the quieter Trinity Strand Trail.) Information fortworthtexas.gov LAKEWOOD Charming Lakewood has the very good fortune of being sited alongside spectacular White Rock Lake, a 1,105-acre reservoir approximately 5 miles northeast of downtown Dallas. The lake is a wildly popular destination for residents and visitors, because it is one of the best places, anywhere, to experience natural areas, wildlife, kayaking and sailboating in an urban setting. White Rock Lake Trail is a 9.3-mile pedestrian/bike loop around the lake, great for all skill levels and accessible year-round. The trail is paved, smooth, typically at least five feet wide and mostly gentle, and there are multiple parking lots around the pathway. Information dallasparks.org SOUTHLAKE The City of Southlake is always working to ensure local cyclists are able to enjoy an increase in mobility, safety and convenience. There are currently seven signed bicycle routes in the city, with additional routes called out in its Mobility Master Plan. If there are no dedicated bicycle lanes, some bicyclists, including children, may prefer sidewalks to roadways. Cyclists may utilize sidewalks as long as they travel slowly, look out for potential hazards and always yield to pedestrians. For locations of existing and upcoming bicycle facilities, and to see Southlake’s Mobility Master Plan, visit cityofsouthlake.com. PLANO With more than 150 miles of on-street bicycle routes, nearly 100 miles of shared-use paths and more than 10 miles of unpaved soft-surfaced trails, biking in Plano is a fun, safe, convenient and connected form of transportation and recreation. The city’s Parks & Recreation department continues to build and expand Plano’s bike network for all ages and abilities — whether riding for fun, to work, running errands or dropping kids off at school. A great riding spot is the Arbor Hills Nature Preserve, a 200-acre park with about 3 miles of paved trails and 2.8 miles of off-road trails. The diverse animal and plant life that call the park home might convince you that you’re far from civilization, even though the park is only about a mile from the Dallas North Tollway. Learn the rules of the road, explore Plano’s trails and get a bike map at plano.gov. . SPECIALTY TRAILS OFF THE CHARTS “Adventure starts right here,” says the Dallas Off-Road Bicycle Association’s dorba.org, loaded with information about off-road and mountain-bike trails across North Texas, for both experienced and novice riders. Get the scoop on about 20 all-terrain trails, plus competitions, educational programs and DORBA itself, founded in 1988 and now about 1,800 mavens on mountain bikes. ROCK ON Pedaling across pavement? Too easy. Step it up with gravel on the ground. Gravel trails are more work, more unpredictable and more fun, say their devotees. “Plan to get dirty,” says planobicycle.org, which organizes a first-Saturday monthly gravel ride. Other gravel groups: Shawnee Trail Cycling Club (stcycling.com) and Northeast Texas Trail (netexastrail.org). . THE WHEEL THING Woody Smith is pedaling as fast as he can. The president of Richardson Bike Mart — a go-to since 1962 for two-wheelin’ North Texans — says the Covid-19 pandemic “has as much as doubled the bicycle riders in the past year, especially families riding in groups.” With that many wheels whirring all over the metroplex — the mart now has locations in Richardson, Frisco, Dallas and McKinney — we put some essential questions to the expert. What are people looking for in bikes now? “I look at bikes like they’re automobiles. There are truck-like bikes, performance fast-car bikes, road bikes. The most popular bikes folks want are like an SUV, of sorts.” (One Woody recommends from bikemart.com: Trek FX 1 Disc, with lightweight aluminum frame, disc brakes and sturdy wheels.) What are ways to beat the Texas heat while biking? “Ride early. Start from 5:30 to 7 a.m. Find trails or streets that have a lot of trees. That helps a bunch. If you do ride in the heat, the No. 1 rule is hydrate: Drink at least 16 ounces of water before you start. Then, drink 20 to 24 ounces of water or hydration mix every hour.” (He likes Skratch Labs Sport Hydration Drink Mix.) Another alternative? “Ride your bike inside. An indoor trainer converts your outdoor bike to an indoor stationary bike.” (One Woody recommends: Saris Fluid2 Smart Equipped.) How should you equip a bike for North Texas riding? “A water-bottle holder, a water bottle, a cell-phone bag and a good helmet that is five years old or newer. Look inside the helmet for a date when it was made.” (Insider tip: Shop Richardson Bike Mart here.) . BIKING WITH THE BOSS Last spring, our CEO Robbie Briggs and several of our agents met for a glorious morning bike ride through the Mountain Creek Preserve in Irving. “It was pretty magical,” Robbie says, “and a great opportunity to see North Texas from a whole new perspective.” Read his thoughts on North Texas’ bike trails, as seen in one of his weekly letters in the advertising pages of the Mansion section of The Wall Street Journal, posted here on our blog. PICTURED AT TOP OF STORY: Fort Worth’s winding, wonderful Trinity Trail The post North Texas on two wheels: The bike trails to explore (and what to bring when you do) 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 May 20, 2022. FROM MY PERSPECTIVE Has technology changed real estate? Absolutely. And not at all. The way a potential buyer first sees homes has completely changed. The search begins online, where buyers pore over photographs and details before they ever reach out to one of our agents. Our agents are using more tech, too, not only to streamline what they do but also to give our clients up-to-the-minute information — an advantage that is beyond valuable now. That’s why we continue to invest in technology that changes the game for everyone. Just three of our latest tools? BF Boost: Our buyers live on social media. That’s why we meet them there with automatically created Instagram and Facebook ads for every new listing, which then bring interested buyers directly to those listings on briggsfreeman.com. BF Boost uses special artificial intelligence to reach high-intent buyers — which means our social media ads help generate more inquiries, showings and offers. BF Exclusives: This tool gives our agents the opportunity to search, upload and share exclusive and off-market listings with their clients. The system is web-based and easy to use — and it’s yet another differentiator we offer. (I can tell you that it has been very advantageous in this competitive market.) Videos made easy: Did you know that social media posts with videos drive 12 times more engagement than those without? Video marketing is the future — and we’re already there. We have partnered with the developers of a new video-making app designed especially for agents. It’s called Vuse, and 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 our would-be Scorceses through every step of making fun, quick videos about houses, neighborhoods, you name it. All of this is pretty amazing. But even though we’re out in front with tech, no amount of hardware, software, pixels and coding will ever compare to a passionate, professional real estate agent, who can find, advise, facilitate and sell like nobody’s business. I know about 400 of them who prove that 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 May 20, 2022. FROM MY PERSPECTIVE Has technology changed real estate? Absolutely. And not at all. The way a potential buyer first sees homes has completely changed. The search begins online, where buyers pore over photographs and details before they ever reach out to one of our agents. Our agents are using more tech, too, not only to streamline what they do but also to give our clients up-to-the-minute information — an advantage that is beyond valuable now. That’s why we continue to invest in technology that changes the game for everyone. Just three of our latest tools? BF Boost: Our buyers live on social media. That’s why we meet them there with automatically created Instagram and Facebook ads for every new listing, which then bring interested buyers directly to those listings on briggsfreeman.com. BF Boost uses special artificial intelligence to reach high-intent buyers — which means our social media ads help generate more inquiries, showings and offers. BF Exclusives: This tool gives our agents the opportunity to search, upload and share exclusive and off-market listings with their clients. The system is web-based and easy to use — and it’s yet another differentiator we offer. (I can tell you that it has been very advantageous in this competitive market.) Videos made easy: Did you know that social media posts with videos drive 12 times more engagement than those without? Video marketing is the future — and we’re already there. We have partnered with the developers of a new video-making app designed especially for agents. 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 our would-be Scorceses through every step of making fun, quick videos about houses, neighborhoods, you name it. All of this is pretty amazing. But even though we’re out in front with tech, no amount of hardware, software, pixels and coding will ever compare to a passionate, professional real estate agent, who can find, advise, facilitate and sell like nobody’s business. I know about 400 of them who prove that every day. Robbie Briggs CEO Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty [email protected] The post CEO Robbie Briggs shares some tech secrets from the cutting edge appeared first on B - the blog.
A beautiful lawn is a source of pride for homeowners. Turning into your driveway to be greeted by manicured grass and beautiful plantings put a smile on almost everyone’s face. Color psychology tells us that green is associated with tranquility, harmony, stability and endurance. What better way to create a first impression than through lush grass? The agents of Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty are expert advisors when it comes to curb appeal — so here are eight lawn care tips from the field for a healthy and appealing lawn. 1. Determine the right grass variety Knowing what grass variety will thrive in your region is key to a healthy lawn. Climate is the determining factor to make the correct decision. Educate yourself about the average rainfall, temperature and sunlight in your area. For example, Bermuda grass, zoysia grass, bahiagrass, buffalo grass and centipede grass are ideal for warmer regions. Further north, fescues, rye grasses and bluegrasses can tolerate extreme conditions, from cold winters to hot summers. 2. Test your soil’s pH before fertilizing Knowing the pH and nutrients of your soil is invaluable to making a host of decisions for lawn care. That’s where a soil test comes in. If you’re a green thumb, then it’s easy to purchase a testing kit. Otherwise, your lawn service can perform the test for you. The results will determine if your soil is acidic, neutral or alkaline. 3. Create a healthy menu to feed your lawn Your soil’s nutrient composition will be a guide for the correct fertilizers. Fertilizers have various ratios of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and potassium (K). For example, a 100-pound bag labeled 24-4-12 contains 24 pounds of nitrogen (N), four pounds of phosphorus (P) and 12 pounds of potassium (K). The balance consists of fillers such as sand, granular limestone, sphagnum and sawdust that ease spreading and prevent the fertilizer from solidifying. Nitrogen promotes lush lawn growth. Phosphorus stimulates root growth and helps seeds sprout. Potassium helps lawns withstand drought and disease. 4. Implement aeration Aeration is the process of removing tiny clumps of soil to enable better absorption of water and nutrients into the root system. It loosens compacted soil, facilitating deeper root growth and thereby making the lawn better able to sustain heavy rainfall, drought and people-and-pets activity. 5. Monitor water levels and drainage Keep an eye out for spots where water accumulates, especially in the winter and spring and avoid cutting wet grass that will clog a mower or cause damage to your yard. Take steps to ensure proper drainage — since perpetually wet roots lead to disease or fungus — such as: Placing rain barrels next to downspouts, to collect rainwater that would otherwise flow into the yard.Building up low areas with soil can alleviate pooling. Creating a rain garden, a low-maintenance, self-sustaining landscaping feature that captures stormwater that can then be slowly absorbed into the underlying soil.If the problem is severe, you can install a French drain around the periphery of your lawn. A French drain is a ditch filled with gravel and a perforated pipe that creates a sponge effect for proper drainage. 6. Prevent annoying weeds Weeds can be the scourge of a healthy lawn. Be sure that long-rooted varieties are removed, along with their roots. Herbicides are effective for crabgrass and other invasive types of weeds that will sap nutrients and growth. Many fertilizers contain weed-killing ingredients, so if weeds are a worry you may want to consider these options. 7. Use the correct mower height The variety of grass determines the mower height. Warmer-climate grasses such as zoysia and Bermuda grass are best kept in the range of one to one and a half inches. Bluegrass and fescue, however, should be kept at two to two and a half inches. Cutting more than a third of the plant’s height is damaging. The cutting pattern should be alternated to reduce the risk of injuring your grass with your mower tracks. Ensure that the mower blade is sharp, since a clean-cut allows the grass to heal, while a dull blade will tear it, resulting in brown grass vulnerable to disease and pests. 8. Seasonal care Each season calls for different lawn-maintenance practices, so be aware of the seasonal adjustments needed to ensure optimal care of your grass. Spring Remove any debris from the winter so that water and fertilizer can easily reach the roots and fungus can’t take hold. A dethatching machine solves this problem; it should be used when the soil is wet and before spring growth begins. Summer As summer progresses, an increase in activity and heat — and a decrease in rainfall — can stress your lawn. A proper watering program is essential to a healthy lawn, as well. As a rule of thumb, lawns require an inch of water each week to flourish. To reduce evaporation and prevent mold and fungus growth, water should be applied in the morning. Fall Grass growth will slow down in the autumn and it’s that’s the perfect time to repair any dead areas so they can regenerate in the spring. Loosen the soil and supplement it with an inch of compost. Spread seed and keep the patch moist until the grass germinates to a height of one inch. The annual ritual of fall leaf removal and fertilizer application is essential, also, to prepare the lawn for winter. Winter In colder climates, winter means your grass is on its own to weather the season. However, in warmer zones, grass will remain green, albeit with a slower rate of growth, so mowing will be less frequent. Depending on the grass variety, certain herbicides and pesticides may be required to prepare it for the winter. Remember: Whether you are staying or selling, first impressions matter Beautiful outdoor spaces display pride of ownership — and add real value to your home — including your lawn. Our lawn care tips for a healthy and appealing lawn will help you boost curb appeal that will be the envy of passersby — and help you sell your home faster. At Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty, we understand the value of homeownership. A perfectly manicured lawn is a testament to the care the rest of the house has almost certainly received. Reach out to us, anytime, for a personal consultation about your home. We’re here to help you maximize your investment. Follow us! Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, Pinterest, Instagram and TikTok.
A beautiful lawn is a source of pride for homeowners. Turning into your driveway to be greeted by manicured grass and beautiful plantings put a smile on almost everyone’s face. Color psychology tells us that green is associated with tranquility, harmony, stability and endurance. What better way to create a first impression than through lush grass? The agents of Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty are expert advisors when it comes to curb appeal — so here are eight lawn care tips from the field for a healthy and appealing lawn. 1. Determine the right grass variety Knowing what grass variety will thrive in your region is key to a healthy lawn. Climate is the determining factor to make the correct decision. Educate yourself about the average rainfall, temperature and sunlight in your area. For example, Bermuda grass, zoysia grass, bahiagrass, buffalo grass and centipede grass are ideal for warmer regions. Further north, fescues, rye grasses and bluegrasses can tolerate extreme conditions, from cold winters to hot summers. 2. Test your soil’s pH before fertilizing Knowing the pH and nutrients of your soil is invaluable to making a host of decisions for lawn care. That’s where a soil test comes in. If you’re a green thumb, then it’s easy to purchase a testing kit. Otherwise, your lawn service can perform the test for you. The results will determine if your soil is acidic, neutral or alkaline. 3. Create a healthy menu to feed your lawn Your soil’s nutrient composition will be a guide for the correct fertilizers. Fertilizers have various ratios of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and potassium (K). For example, a 100-pound bag labeled 24-4-12 contains 24 pounds of nitrogen (N), four pounds of phosphorus (P) and 12 pounds of potassium (K). The balance consists of fillers such as sand, granular limestone, sphagnum and sawdust that ease spreading and prevent the fertilizer from solidifying. Nitrogen promotes lush lawn growth. Phosphorus stimulates root growth and helps seeds sprout. Potassium helps lawns withstand drought and disease. 4. Implement aeration Aeration is the process of removing tiny clumps of soil to enable better absorption of water and nutrients into the root system. It loosens compacted soil, facilitating deeper root growth and thereby making the lawn better able to sustain heavy rainfall, drought and people-and-pets activity. 5. Monitor water levels and drainage Keep an eye out for spots where water accumulates, especially in the winter and spring and avoid cutting wet grass that will clog a mower or cause damage to your yard. Take steps to ensure proper drainage — since perpetually wet roots lead to disease or fungus — such as: Placing rain barrels next to downspouts, to collect rainwater that would otherwise flow into the yard.Building up low areas with soil can alleviate pooling. Creating a rain garden, a low-maintenance, self-sustaining landscaping feature that captures stormwater that can then be slowly absorbed into the underlying soil.If the problem is severe, you can install a French drain around the periphery of your lawn. A French drain is a ditch filled with gravel and a perforated pipe that creates a sponge effect for proper drainage. 6. Prevent annoying weeds Weeds can be the scourge of a healthy lawn. Be sure that long-rooted varieties are removed, along with their roots. Herbicides are effective for crabgrass and other invasive types of weeds that will sap nutrients and growth. Many fertilizers contain weed-killing ingredients, so if weeds are a worry you may want to consider these options. 7. Use the correct mower height The variety of grass determines the mower height. Warmer-climate grasses such as zoysia and Bermuda grass are best kept in the range of one to one and a half inches. Bluegrass and fescue, however, should be kept at two to two and a half inches. Cutting more than a third of the plant’s height is damaging. The cutting pattern should be alternated to reduce the risk of injuring your grass with your mower tracks. Ensure that the mower blade is sharp, since a clean-cut allows the grass to heal, while a dull blade will tear it, resulting in brown grass vulnerable to disease and pests. 8. Seasonal care Each season calls for different lawn-maintenance practices, so be aware of the seasonal adjustments needed to ensure optimal care of your grass. Spring Remove any debris from the winter so that water and fertilizer can easily reach the roots and fungus can’t take hold. A dethatching machine solves this problem; it should be used when the soil is wet and before spring growth begins. Summer As summer progresses, an increase in activity and heat — and a decrease in rainfall — can stress your lawn. A proper watering program is essential to a healthy lawn, as well. As a rule of thumb, lawns require an inch of water each week to flourish. To reduce evaporation and prevent mold and fungus growth, water should be applied in the morning. Fall Grass growth will slow down in the autumn and it’s that’s the perfect time to repair any dead areas so they can regenerate in the spring. Loosen the soil and supplement it with an inch of compost. Spread seed and keep the patch moist until the grass germinates to a height of one inch. The annual ritual of fall leaf removal and fertilizer application is essential, also, to prepare the lawn for winter. Winter In colder climates, winter means your grass is on its own to weather the season. However, in warmer zones, grass will remain green, albeit with a slower rate of growth, so mowing will be less frequent. Depending on the grass variety, certain herbicides and pesticides may be required to prepare it for the winter. Remember: Whether you are staying or selling, first impressions matter Beautiful outdoor spaces display pride of ownership — and add real value to your home — including your lawn. Our lawn care tips for a healthy and appealing lawn will help you boost curb appeal that will be the envy of passersby — and help you sell your home faster. At Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty, we understand the value of homeownership. A perfectly manicured lawn is a testament to the care the rest of the house has almost certainly received. Reach out to us, anytime, for a personal consultation about your home. We’re here to help you maximize your investment. Follow us! Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, Pinterest, Instagram and TikTok. The post Curb Appeal 101: 8 lawn care tips for a healthy and appealing yard 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 May 13, 2022. FROM MY PERSPECTIVE Ranches couldn’t be hotter. Some statistics to back that up? Ranch sales in Texas nearly doubled between the second quarter of 2021 and the previous year, according to the Texas Real Estate Research Center at Texas A&M University. Prices are up, too, says the San Antonio Report, with the price-per-acre increasing almost 18 percent in the last year. We know all about this: Our Ranch and Land Division at Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty is a world-class group of teams and individuals who specialize in land, farm, recreation and rural properties. They sell in Texas, Colorado, Wyoming, Arkansas, Oklahoma, Arizona, New Mexico, Mexico and the rest of the world, because they are also part of the $204 billion Sotheby’s International Realtyâ network in 79 countries and territories. Here’s what our group has accomplished: They were No. 1 in ranch sales in North Texas in 2021, with a full 32 percent of the market, the latter according to land.com. In the entire state of Texas, our group was No. 3 for the year — at a total sales volume of $371 million. That is on par with ranch brokerages twice the size. We couldn’t be prouder. A standout sale in a very busy 2021 was Rocosa Ridge Ranch (pictured at top) in Clifton, Texas, a superb property of almost 6,000 acres in Bosque County. It was listed for $26,350,000 and represented by Tyler Thomas, who was also our entire brokerage’s top-ranking individual for 2021. Other significant sales have included Sulphur River Ranch in Red River County, represented by Asher Watkins; the Bob Sandlin Ranch in Mount Vernon, represented by David Burgher and Harlan Ray; and Gearhart Ranch in Fort Davis, sold in 2020, represented by James Sammons III. Most of our Ranch and Land Division is based in Dallas; expert agents Eric Painter and Will Woods are based in our Fort Worth office. The entire group’s current offerings are always at briggsfreeman.com/ranch. Our team predicts that the market will continue to be strong. These days, investments that pay in ways other than economic returns — family, fun, time spent outside — have become so important. Drop me a line. I know just the people who could help make that happen for you. 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 May 13, 2022. FROM MY PERSPECTIVE Ranches couldn’t be hotter. Some statistics to back that up? Ranch sales in Texas nearly doubled between the second quarter of 2021 and the previous year, according to the Texas Real Estate Research Center at Texas A&M University. Prices are up, too, says the San Antonio Report, with the price-per-acre increasing almost 18 percent in the last year. We know all about this: Our Ranch and Land Division at Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty is a world-class group of teams and individuals who specialize in land, farm, recreation and rural properties. They sell in Texas, Colorado, Wyoming, Arkansas, Oklahoma, Arizona, New Mexico, Mexico and the rest of the world, because they are also part of the $204 billion Sotheby’s International Realtyâ network in 79 countries and territories. Here’s what our group has accomplished: They were No. 1 in ranch sales in North Texas in 2021, with a full 32 percent of the market, the latter according to land.com. In the entire state of Texas, our group was No. 3 for the year — at a total sales volume of $371 million. That is on par with ranch brokerages twice the size. We couldn’t be prouder. A standout sale in a very busy 2021 was Rocosa Ridge Ranch (pictured at top) in Clifton, Texas, a superb property of almost 6,000 acres in Bosque County. It was listed for $26,350,000 and represented by Tyler Thomas, who was also our entire brokerage’s top-ranking individual for 2021. Other significant sales have included Sulphur River Ranch in Red River County, represented by Asher Watkins; the Bob Sandlin Ranch in Mount Vernon, represented by David Burgher and Harlan Ray; and Gearhart Ranch in Fort Davis, sold in 2020, represented by James Sammons III. Most of our Ranch and Land Division is based in Dallas; expert agents Eric Painter and Will Woods are based in our Fort Worth office. The entire group’s current offerings are always at briggsfreeman.com/ranch. Our team predicts that the market will continue to be strong. These days, investments that pay in ways other than economic returns — family, fun, time spent outside — have become so important. Drop me a line. I know just the people who could help make that happen for you. Robbie Briggs CEO Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty [email protected] The post The race for ranches: How the No. 1 ranch division in North Texas has helped shape one red-hot market appeared first on B - the blog.
At Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty, we understand the importance of having a world-class referral network to tap into. We were founded as a boutique firm in 1960, and we continue to provide that highly personalized service today — all while benefiting from the invaluable resources of the Sotheby’s International Realty global network. If you are an agent, we can’t stress enough how joining the world’s most highly regarded real estate referral network can help benefit your business. If you’re ready to take that business to the next level, keep reading. What exactly is the Sotheby’s International Realty network? The Sotheby’s International Realty network is a real estate network like no other. It spans 1,000 offices worldwide, across 77 countries and territories — with 25,000 sales associates who, together, generated a record $204 billion USD in sales in 2021 alone. As part of that network, our nearly 400 agents at Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty have achieved several consecutive years of multibillion-dollar sales across North Texas. Sotheby’s International Realty is a globally recognized network, and being a part of it tells your clients that you are in the business of brokering the most beautiful and unique luxury properties in your area — or anywhere they are dreaming of. How do referrals work? You already know that referrals are an essential component of your work as a real estate agent. Referrals can come from anywhere — clients or friends, for instance — but, as pointed out by Inman, your colleagues in real estate are often the very best source of referrals at your disposal. When you become a part of the Sotheby’s International Realty network, you immediately gain access to thousands of fellow agents spread out across the country and the world, who can help connect you to their clients who are looking to buy in your area, and vice versa. Referrals are always made to the highest standard, reflecting your clients’ expectations and those of the Sotheby’s International Realty brand. 3 main benefits of being with Sotheby’s International Realty We are proud to be associated with the Sotheby’s International Realty brand, which was founded in 1976. That association has brought our brokerage and our agents unmatched opportunities over the years, especially when it comes to internal referrals and off-market sales. Here are just some of the reasons that joining our network is the best thing you can do for your business. 1. Growing your client base Maximizing all the potential of the Sotheby’s International Realty can help you build up your client list and scale up your business. “My experience with referral networking has been amazing,” Inaky Strick, broker associate with Kuper Sotheby’s International Realty in Central and South Texas, told inman.com at the end of 2021. “Out of the 52 transactions I completed last year, I was able to track 25 percent of my business to referrals from the Sotheby’s International Realty network.” Being part of this network can help you gain new clients and greatly increase your earning potential. 2. Adding unparalleled brand recognition to your business Anywhere you find yourself in the world, the name Sotheby’s will be associated with luxury and high standards. After all, the Sotheby’s auction house has been uniting collectors with world-class works of art — and now much more — since 1744. By associating yourself with this network, you will instantly attract the respect and trust of both existing and potential clients. (“I attribute most of my success to being part of such a well-known and respected brand,” Strick told Inman.) What’s more, as a Sotheby’s International Realty agent, you can connect your clients to appraisal and valuation services for items including jewelry, fine art, wine and more. 3. Making invaluable connections Having access to a strong professional network is important in any business, but it makes a measurable difference in real estate. Connecting directly with agents from around the country and the world can help you better understand your own market and other markets where your clients might want to buy — and it can provide countless other learning opportunities for you. Making personal connections with people you might not have met otherwise will almost certainly enrich your life and career.Join us. There is nothing like being a part of the Sotheby’s International Realty network. Find more information here, and stay in touch by joining us. Follow us! Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, Pinterest, Instagram and TikTok.
At Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty, we understand the importance of having a world-class referral network to tap into. We were founded as a boutique firm in 1960, and we continue to provide that highly personalized service today — all while benefiting from the invaluable resources of the Sotheby’s International Realty global network. If you are an agent, we can’t stress enough how joining the world’s most highly regarded real estate referral network can help benefit your business. If you’re ready to take that business to the next level, keep reading. What exactly is the Sotheby’s International Realty network? The Sotheby’s International Realty network is a real estate network like no other. It spans 1,000 offices worldwide, across 77 countries and territories — with 25,000 sales associates who, together, generated a record $204 billion USD in sales in 2021 alone. As part of that network, our nearly 400 agents at Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty have achieved several consecutive years of multibillion-dollar sales across North Texas. Sotheby’s International Realty is a globally recognized network, and being a part of it tells your clients that you are in the business of brokering the most beautiful and unique luxury properties in your area — or anywhere they are dreaming of. How do referrals work? You already know that referrals are an essential component of your work as a real estate agent. Referrals can come from anywhere — clients or friends, for instance — but, as pointed out by Inman, your colleagues in real estate are often the very best source of referrals at your disposal. When you become a part of the Sotheby’s International Realty network, you immediately gain access to thousands of fellow agents spread out across the country and the world, who can help connect you to their clients who are looking to buy in your area, and vice versa. Referrals are always made to the highest standard, reflecting your clients’ expectations and those of the Sotheby’s International Realty brand. 3 main benefits of being with Sotheby’s International Realty We are proud to be associated with the Sotheby’s International Realty brand, which was founded in 1976. That association has brought our brokerage and our agents unmatched opportunities over the years, especially when it comes to internal referrals and off-market sales. Here are just some of the reasons that joining our network is the best thing you can do for your business. 1. Growing your client base Maximizing all the potential of the Sotheby’s International Realty can help you build up your client list and scale up your business. “My experience with referral networking has been amazing,” Inaky Strick, broker associate with Kuper Sotheby’s International Realty in Central and South Texas, told inman.com at the end of 2021. “Out of the 52 transactions I completed last year, I was able to track 25 percent of my business to referrals from the Sotheby’s International Realty network.” Being part of this network can help you gain new clients and greatly increase your earning potential. 2. Adding unparalleled brand recognition to your business Anywhere you find yourself in the world, the name Sotheby’s will be associated with luxury and high standards. After all, the Sotheby’s auction house has been uniting collectors with world-class works of art — and now much more — since 1744. By associating yourself with this network, you will instantly attract the respect and trust of both existing and potential clients. (“I attribute most of my success to being part of such a well-known and respected brand,” Strick told Inman.) What’s more, as a Sotheby’s International Realty agent, you can connect your clients to appraisal and valuation services for items including jewelry, fine art, wine and more. 3. Making invaluable connections Having access to a strong professional network is important in any business, but it makes a measurable difference in real estate. Connecting directly with agents from around the country and the world can help you better understand your own market and other markets where your clients might want to buy — and it can provide countless other learning opportunities for you. Making personal connections with people you might not have met otherwise will almost certainly enrich your life and career.Join us. There is nothing like being a part of the Sotheby’s International Realty network. Find more information here, and stay in touch by joining us. Follow us! Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, Pinterest, Instagram and TikTok. The post Agent Insider: What joining the world’s most prestigious real estate network can do for you and your business 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 May 6, 2022. FROM MY PERSPECTIVE 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 staff. On their own, they give to charities, volunteer in their communities and serve on boards of all kinds. Together, they do even more. On behalf of our brokerage, they work all year on everything from clothing drives to food drives to the Salvation Army Angel Tree gift drive. In recognition — and awe — of this immense spirit, I want to rattle off just some of the people and charities who have recently benefitted from our agents’ time and hard-earned money. 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 helping organizations. This year, we will be giving to the Tarrant County Food Bank and OurCalling, a local outreach group that helps with everything from addiction recovery to mentoring. UP All Night: This is a very fun annual overnight campout (tents and all) for kids and parents, which benefits the University Park Elementary School. Our Fort Worth contemporary art show: For this agent-organized inaugural event, we partnered with the Fort Worth gallery Artspace111 to promote works of several contemporary Texas artists, all in a modernist space: our own Fort Worth office. A portion of the sales proceeds benefited the Saving Hope Animal Rescue. Swiss Avenue Historic District Mother’s Day Home Tour: Mark your calendars: This one is Saturday, May 7, and Sunday, May 8. Because we have the agents who are the most famous experts in this special part of Dallas, we love being a part of this equally famous home tour, which benefits the district. This year, come see six historic homes and one great garden; the details are at sahd.org. This is just a sampling of the support and sponsorships that our agents and our brokerage are able to give to area charities and folks who deserve some love. That’s why we call our unique program Love Your Neighbors. Come read about it at briggsfreeman.com/love. In fact, I’d love for you to be a part of it. 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 May 6, 2022. FROM MY PERSPECTIVE 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 staff. On their own, they give to charities, volunteer in their communities and serve on boards of all kinds. Together, they do even more. On behalf of our brokerage, they work all year on everything from clothing drives to food drives to the Salvation Army Angel Tree gift drive. In recognition — and awe — of this immense spirit, I want to rattle off just some of the people and charities who have recently benefitted from our agents’ time and hard-earned money. 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 helping organizations. This year, we will be giving to the Tarrant County Food Bank and OurCalling, a local outreach group that helps with everything from addiction recovery to mentoring. UP All Night: This is a very fun annual overnight campout (tents and all) for kids and parents, which benefits the University Park Elementary School. Our Fort Worth contemporary art show: For this agent-organized inaugural event, we partnered with the Fort Worth gallery Artspace111 to promote works of several contemporary Texas artists, all in a modernist space: our own Fort Worth office. A portion of the sales proceeds benefited the Saving Hope Animal Rescue. Swiss Avenue Historic District Mother’s Day Home Tour: Mark your calendars: This one is Saturday, May 7, and Sunday, May 8. Because we have the agents who are the most famous experts in this special part of Dallas, we love being a part of this equally famous home tour, which benefits the district. This year, come see six historic homes and one great garden; the details are at sahd.org. This is just a sampling of the support and sponsorships that our agents and our brokerage are able to give to area charities and folks who deserve some love. That’s why we call our unique program Love Your Neighbors. Come read about it at briggsfreeman.com/love. In fact, I’d love for you to be a part of it. Robbie Briggs CEO Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty [email protected] The post CEO Robbie Briggs on ‘some of the most benevolent people in North Texas’ 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 April 29, 2022. FROM MY PERSPECTIVE Having two home offices is a new status symbol? You bet — especially if there are two wage-earners in the family. (Everyone needs their privacy, you know.) Homes that are of-the-moment tend to have key features in common, and a story in the 2022 Luxury Outlook, the trend-packed annual report from Sotheby’s International Realty, dives into the best of them. Beyond the big movement to energy-efficient windows, appliances and lighting — all extremely important — these are the amenities that luxury buyers are flipping over now. The ground-floor guest suite: A main-level bath and bedroom are great for guests and visiting parents, and many homeowners like the age-in-place option it offers. A greener HVAC system: A wellness-oriented heating, ventilation and air conditioning system will replenish oxygen and clean and filter indoor air to remove excess moisture, smoke, odors, dust, airborne bacteria and carbon dioxide. The stay-in kitchen: A homey feel, good task lighting and plenty of space for storage and food prep are the new musts. Wine refrigerators, built-in coffee makers, warming and refrigerator drawers and dual ovens, sinks and dishwashers are all the rage, too. The sybaritic owner’s suite: Desirable features here include multiple walk-in closets, a sitting area with a fireplace and a private terrace or balcony. The luxurious outdoor living space: Patios, decks, porches, pool decks and terraces are valuable — and more and more expected. Come read the Luxury Report. It is loaded with stories I think you’ll love, including about trends, buyers, second homes, hot locales and more. We put it all on briggsfreeman.com/market-moves. And if you find that your own home suddenly isn’t feeling very of-the-moment, we can help with that, too. Robbie Briggs CEO Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty [email protected] PICTURED AT TOP OF STORY: 5411 Surrey Circle in Dallas, with all the modern luxuries: luxurious outdoor living spaces; guest suites; a sybaritic owner’s suite; and more
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 April 29, 2022. FROM MY PERSPECTIVE Having two home offices is a new status symbol? You bet — especially if there are two wage-earners in the family. (Everyone needs their privacy, you know.) Homes that are of-the-moment tend to have key features in common, and a story in the 2022 Luxury Outlook, the trend-packed annual report from Sotheby’s International Realty, dives into the best of them. Beyond the big movement to energy-efficient windows, appliances and lighting — all extremely important — these are the amenities that luxury buyers are flipping over now. The ground-floor guest suite: A main-level bath and bedroom are great for guests and visiting parents, and many homeowners like the age-in-place option it offers. A greener HVAC system: A wellness-oriented heating, ventilation and air conditioning system will replenish oxygen and clean and filter indoor air to remove excess moisture, smoke, odors, dust, airborne bacteria and carbon dioxide. The stay-in kitchen: A homey feel, good task lighting and plenty of space for storage and food prep are the new musts. Wine refrigerators, built-in coffee makers, warming and refrigerator drawers and dual ovens, sinks and dishwashers are all the rage, too. The sybaritic owner’s suite: Desirable features here include multiple walk-in closets, a sitting area with a fireplace and a private terrace or balcony. The luxurious outdoor living space: Patios, decks, porches, pool decks and terraces are valuable — and more and more expected. Come read the Luxury Report. It is loaded with stories I think you’ll love, including about trends, buyers, second homes, hot locales and more. We put it all on briggsfreeman.com/market-moves. And if you find that your own home suddenly isn’t feeling very of-the-moment, we can help with that, too. Robbie Briggs CEO Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty [email protected] PICTURED AT TOP OF STORY: 5411 Surrey Circle in Dallas, with all the modern luxuries: luxurious outdoor living spaces; guest suites; a sybaritic owner’s suite; and more The post CEO Robbie Briggs on the new amenities that make a home very of the moment appeared first on B - the blog.
From Colonial to Craftsman, you’ll discover probably dozens of architectural styles in any given region. While some of those styles are familiar even to those who don’t follow home design — think Mediterranean or Colonial, which are two of the most well-known and popular — there are others that are harder to place. Some styles are similar enough that it takes a trained eye to tell the differences. That’s definitely the case with Contemporary vs. Modern design — two styles that are often mislabeled or misunderstood. Contemporary vs. Modern Architecture These styles share many similar features, making it sometimes tough to distinguish between the two. Here, we explain each of the styles and illuminate what to look for to identify homes built in each one. Contemporary architecture Contemporary architecture is a term used to refer to cutting-edge design and building. It sometimes blends different styles — including Modern — to create something that is totally new and of the moment. Sometimes, it is a new style all its own. Clean lines are a hallmark of Contemporary design, which can be seen in various elements such as flat roofs, glass walls and oversized windows. Like Modern design, Contemporary design puts an emphasis on minimalism, with a sleek and streamlined aesthetic rather than ornamentation. Modern architecture Modern architecture, on the other hand, refers to sleek homes that were built beginning shortly after the turn of the 20th century — in Europe, especially, then around the world — and through the 1970s. Defined by straight lines, minimal embellishment, open floor plans and industrial materials, Modern homes were designed to express the pure functions of the home. They often have large plate-glass windows, concrete and steel design details and an emphasis on rectangular shapes. They were also typically built horizontally as opposed to vertically, which resulted in them being low to the ground, anchoring them to their sites and keying into the surrounding nature. A zenith in America for Modern architecture happened from roughly the 1940s through the 1970s, with homes that were warmer and more organic than their European counterparts. (The American homes employed more wood, where the European homes employed more concrete and steel.) That period — especially the 1950s and ’60s designs — is popularly called Midcentury Modern architecture. When inside any Modern home, the boundaries between manmade and nature are blurred, thanks to walls of glass and the use of identical materials inside and out (slate for both flooring and decking, for example). Modern homes became more popular as technology began to thrive — especially in the form of insulation and energy efficiency — and they were a way for architects and homebuilders to create a connection with the natural world that was in stark juxtaposition to the homes that had come before. The big design similarities Because Contemporary architecture often blends influences from several sources, there are often strong Modern influences in Contemporary homes. As a result, it is sometimes hard to tell the difference. Both styles incorporate a mix of industrial and natural materials, including wood, concrete and stone, with industrial-style touches such as steel-framed windows and doors. Clean lines and minimal detailing are also defining features of both styles. In stark contrast to the arched windows of Mediterranean and Georgian homes, for example, or the different kinds of columns and chimneys that define Colonial and Craftsman homes, both Contemporary and Modern homes prioritize bold geometric shapes. Both also use glass as a key element: With large windows, sliding glass doors and walls of sheer glazing, Modern and Contemporary homes feature as little of a barrier as possible between indoors and outdoors — making for a much more natural living experience. The big design differences One of the biggest differences between Contemporary and Modern architecture is that one is bound by a specific timeframe while the other is not. Modern architecture refers to homes built during a certain period, predominantly from the early to mid-1900s. Contemporary architecture, on the other hand, refers to architecture that is of the current moment. As a result, what defines Contemporary architecture evolves over time. Another key difference is height. While most Modern homes were built low to the ground, Contemporary homes are often multiple levels and are built taller than their earlier counterparts. Though the two styles have a similar focus on geometric shapes and open floor plans, Contemporary homes are much more diverse in their shapes and structures than the more typically single-story Modern homes. Contemporary homes are also often very tech-forward. Because this style is inherently on the forefront, it’s typical to see advances such as smart home technology, industry-leading appliances, eco-friendly systems such as solar panels and other high-tech features that weren’t originally possible in a Modern home. Contemporary homes are also often built with sustainability in mind in a way that older homes weren’t, prioritizing repurposed or recycled materials. Contemporary vs. Modern: Which one are you? No matter if you prefer a long, low Modern home or a multilevel Contemporary stunner, North Texas has plenty of both. If you are buying, selling or just dreaming big, the expert agents of Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty are here to help you find the one for you. Follow us! Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, Pinterest, Instagram and TikTok.
From Colonial to Craftsman, you’ll discover probably dozens of architectural styles in any given region. While some of those styles are familiar even to those who don’t follow home design — think Mediterranean or Colonial, which are two of the most well-known and popular — there are others that are harder to place. Some styles are similar enough that it takes a trained eye to tell the differences. That’s definitely the case with Contemporary vs. Modern design — two styles that are often mislabeled or misunderstood. Contemporary vs. Modern Architecture These styles share many similar features, making it sometimes tough to distinguish between the two. Here, we explain each of the styles and illuminate what to look for to identify homes built in each one. Contemporary architecture Contemporary architecture is a term used to refer to cutting-edge design and building. It sometimes blends different styles — including Modern — to create something that is totally new and of the moment. Sometimes, it is a new style all its own. Clean lines are a hallmark of Contemporary design, which can be seen in various elements such as flat roofs, glass walls and oversized windows. Like Modern design, Contemporary design puts an emphasis on minimalism, with a sleek and streamlined aesthetic rather than ornamentation. Modern architecture Modern architecture, on the other hand, refers to sleek homes that were built beginning shortly after the turn of the 20th century — in Europe, especially, then around the world — and through the 1970s. Defined by straight lines, minimal embellishment, open floor plans and industrial materials, Modern homes were designed to express the pure functions of the home. They often have large plate-glass windows, concrete and steel design details and an emphasis on rectangular shapes. They were also typically built horizontally as opposed to vertically, which resulted in them being low to the ground, anchoring them to their sites and keying into the surrounding nature. A zenith in America for Modern architecture happened from roughly the 1940s through the 1970s, with homes that were warmer and more organic than their European counterparts. (The American homes employed more wood, where the European homes employed more concrete and steel.) That period — especially the 1950s and ’60s designs — is popularly called Midcentury Modern architecture. When inside any Modern home, the boundaries between manmade and nature are blurred, thanks to walls of glass and the use of identical materials inside and out (slate for both flooring and decking, for example). Modern homes became more popular as technology began to thrive — especially in the form of insulation and energy efficiency — and they were a way for architects and homebuilders to create a connection with the natural world that was in stark juxtaposition to the homes that had come before. The big design similarities Because Contemporary architecture often blends influences from several sources, there are often strong Modern influences in Contemporary homes. As a result, it is sometimes hard to tell the difference. Both styles incorporate a mix of industrial and natural materials, including wood, concrete and stone, with industrial-style touches such as steel-framed windows and doors. Clean lines and minimal detailing are also defining features of both styles. In stark contrast to the arched windows of Mediterranean and Georgian homes, for example, or the different kinds of columns and chimneys that define Colonial and Craftsman homes, both Contemporary and Modern homes prioritize bold geometric shapes. Both also use glass as a key element: With large windows, sliding glass doors and walls of sheer glazing, Modern and Contemporary homes feature as little of a barrier as possible between indoors and outdoors — making for a much more natural living experience. The big design differences One of the biggest differences between Contemporary and Modern architecture is that one is bound by a specific timeframe while the other is not. Modern architecture refers to homes built during a certain period, predominantly from the early to mid-1900s. Contemporary architecture, on the other hand, refers to architecture that is of the current moment. As a result, what defines Contemporary architecture evolves over time. Another key difference is height. While most Modern homes were built low to the ground, Contemporary homes are often multiple levels and are built taller than their earlier counterparts. Though the two styles have a similar focus on geometric shapes and open floor plans, Contemporary homes are much more diverse in their shapes and structures than the more typically single-story Modern homes. Contemporary homes are also often very tech-forward. Because this style is inherently on the forefront, it’s typical to see advances such as smart home technology, industry-leading appliances, eco-friendly systems such as solar panels and other high-tech features that weren’t originally possible in a Modern home. Contemporary homes are also often built with sustainability in mind in a way that older homes weren’t, prioritizing repurposed or recycled materials. Contemporary vs. Modern: Which one are you? No matter if you prefer a long, low Modern home or a multilevel Contemporary stunner, North Texas has plenty of both. If you are buying, selling or just dreaming big, the expert agents of Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty are here to help you find the one for you. Follow us! Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, Pinterest, Instagram and TikTok. The post Know Your Architecture: The difference between Contemporary and Modern homes (and why that matters) appeared first on B - the blog.
COLLEGE STATION — Many Texans have received notices this month that their properties appraised much higher this year than last. Such increases often leave property owners expecting exorbitantly high property tax bills the following year, but an economist with the Texas Real Estate Research Center (TRERC) at Texas A&M University says that’s a misconception. “Many factors complicate how property taxes are calculated, but by and large the increases in property appraisals being reported vastly overstate the average increases in property tax bills that should be expected next January,” said TRERC Research Economist Dr. Adam Perdue. Texas’ appraisal districts are required to appraise all real property at fair market value each year, which Perdue said typically leads to manageable and understandable increases in tax appraisals. TRERC’s Texas Home Price Index showed a 3 percent average annual increase in statewide market value from 2007 to 2019, peaking at 7.6 percent between January 2013 and January 2014. However, in 2020 the average increase was over 9 percent, and in 2021 it hit a record high of almost 20 percent. But in the case of such unusually high appraisals across the board, the appraisal process is only the first step in calculating the tax bill. “The second step is deciding on the tax rates,” Perdue said, “and these are largely determined by the cost of providing voter-approved government services.” Tax rates are recalculated each year. After giving property owners the opportunity to protest the initial property valuations, the appraisal district submits the valuations of all properties to the local taxing jurisdictions which then calculate a tax rate that yields the revenue necessary to continue running the government services voters have requested and approved. “In an ideal scenario, where voters were happy with the previous tax bills and level of government services, even a 20 percent increase in average taxable valuations could be exactly offset with a 17 percent cut in the tax rate and yield the same tax bill for the same level of service, holding everything else constant,” Perdue said. Perdue said many other complicating factors figure into the process. For example, the homestead exemption limits growth in taxable value to 10 percent per year, slowing the growth rate of homesteaded properties’ tax bills. An over-65 homestead exemption places a ceiling on the amount qualifying homeowners have to pay in school taxes (the primary component of property taxes). “Relative differences in value increases will still impact your tax bill,” Perdue said. “If your value increased more or less than average, then your bill may increase more or less than average.” He said property owners also need to remember that any tax rate that would increase total revenues from existing properties by more than 3.5 percent must be approved by voters under state law. RELATED STORY: ‘As Texas home values skyrocket, state officials wrestle with how to slow property tax increases’ MAIN STORY SOURCE: NewsTalk Texas database at the Texas Real Estate Research Center (TRERC) at Texas A&M University
COLLEGE STATION — Many Texans have received notices this month that their properties appraised much higher this year than last. Such increases often leave property owners expecting exorbitantly high property tax bills the following year, but an economist with the Texas Real Estate Research Center (TRERC) at Texas A&M University says that’s a misconception. “Many factors complicate how property taxes are calculated, but by and large the increases in property appraisals being reported vastly overstate the average increases in property tax bills that should be expected next January,” said TRERC Research Economist Dr. Adam Perdue. Texas’ appraisal districts are required to appraise all real property at fair market value each year, which Perdue said typically leads to manageable and understandable increases in tax appraisals. TRERC’s Texas Home Price Index showed a 3 percent average annual increase in statewide market value from 2007 to 2019, peaking at 7.6 percent between January 2013 and January 2014. However, in 2020 the average increase was over 9 percent, and in 2021 it hit a record high of almost 20 percent. But in the case of such unusually high appraisals across the board, the appraisal process is only the first step in calculating the tax bill. “The second step is deciding on the tax rates,” Perdue said, “and these are largely determined by the cost of providing voter-approved government services.” Tax rates are recalculated each year. After giving property owners the opportunity to protest the initial property valuations, the appraisal district submits the valuations of all properties to the local taxing jurisdictions which then calculate a tax rate that yields the revenue necessary to continue running the government services voters have requested and approved. “In an ideal scenario, where voters were happy with the previous tax bills and level of government services, even a 20 percent increase in average taxable valuations could be exactly offset with a 17 percent cut in the tax rate and yield the same tax bill for the same level of service, holding everything else constant,” Perdue said. Perdue said many other complicating factors figure into the process. For example, the homestead exemption limits growth in taxable value to 10 percent per year, slowing the growth rate of homesteaded properties’ tax bills. An over-65 homestead exemption places a ceiling on the amount qualifying homeowners have to pay in school taxes (the primary component of property taxes). “Relative differences in value increases will still impact your tax bill,” Perdue said. “If your value increased more or less than average, then your bill may increase more or less than average.” He said property owners also need to remember that any tax rate that would increase total revenues from existing properties by more than 3.5 percent must be approved by voters under state law. RELATED STORY: ‘As Texas home values skyrocket, state officials wrestle with how to slow property tax increases’ MAIN STORY SOURCE: NewsTalk Texas database at the Texas Real Estate Research Center (TRERC) at Texas A&M University The post Are you in shock over your home’s new appraised value? There is more to the story. appeared first on B - the blog.
Be honest: When you walk into your closet, is it a disaster zone? When you’re short on hanging space, need more drawers or simply don’t have the time to put things back where they belong, closets can quickly become a dumping ground — and a black hole. Instead of giving up and tolerating the chaos, there are some quick fixes you can employ to declutter the space and help keep your closet organized. 1. Organize clothing by color Every time you go into your closet, do you spend extra time on the hunt for a particular piece? Do you never seem to be able to find that sweater that will look great with those jeans? Consider upgrading your organizational system. Hanging your clothes by color is an easy way to always find the piece you’re looking for in just a few seconds. Whether you hang by type and then by color, or vice versa, this is an easy hack that helps you save time — and it gives your closet an instantly put-together look. Whether it’s for your eyes only or to impress prospective buyers, organizing by color — shoes included — will give your closet a professional-looking and practical edge. 2. Add extra drawers While most closets have ample hanging space, they’re often short on one key thing: drawer space. Instead of adding an extra dresser to the bedroom or hanging all of your clothes — some things are much better stored folded, such as sweaters — there is another organizational option: freestanding drawers. Bigger than the plastic bins you’ve seen in dorm rooms and apartments, think metal, fabric, rattan or manufactured-wood drawers that are more sophisticated options that deliver on both form and function. Add some to your closet for tucking away items such as workout clothes, sweaters, undergarments and seasonal items, to help keep the space from being cluttered and to create a more streamlined and functional closet space. 3. Bring in the bins, dividers and organizers Unless you’ve custom-designed your closet, there are likely storage spaces that aren’t quite the size or shape you need them to be. Add a few organizational tricks here and there to make the spaces work for you — namely in the form on bins, dividers and organizers. Some examples? Add drawer dividers to your sock drawer, slip signage dividers onto your hanging rods and add clear dividers to your shelf space. This way, every item has a specific home, and it will be easier to maintain your organization once you implement it. 4. Label everything Add labels for a finishing detail that will elevate your closet to professional standards. But, labels aren’t just aesthetic accents: They’re a practical detail, too, since they make it easier for you or anyone to find something in your closet without digging or searching endlessly. Add labels to storage bins, rod dividers and drawers so that you always know where every item should go. Bonus tip: Instead of using an office label maker, explore other options. Websites such as Etsy have a nearly endless supply of labels in different sizes, fonts and styles, allowing you to pick a design that fits the overall aesthetic of your interior. From sleek and modern fonts to fluid script styles, and from clear acrylic dividers to more colorful alternatives, ideal closet signage is available for every taste. 5. Add extra lighting Most closets are window-free, which can result in a dark look and feel. Think creatively about how you can add some brightness. A floor lamp is an instant way to add light to a closet. (Just make sure its bulb is nowhere near any clothing.) If you have a dresser or island in your closet, bring in a table lamp: It will not only help light the space but will also add some design character. If you don’t have room lamps, add wall sconces for a solution that is both highly decorative and imminently practical. If space is at a real premium, opt for lightweight, overhead, battery-operated lights that affix with adhesive strips or screws. One example? One of the many ceiling lights on the market that are shaped like hockey pucks and come in lots of colors and finishes. Why change up your closet space? Whether you’re looking to upgrade your closets to impress buyers or you just want to create a little Zen calm for yourself, these closet organization tips could transform how you think about your storage space, overall. And, if you need even more space, the agents of Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty have the solution: the perfect new home that better fits you and your things. Follow us! Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, Pinterest, Instagram and TikTok.
Be honest: When you walk into your closet, is it a disaster zone? When you’re short on hanging space, need more drawers or simply don’t have the time to put things back where they belong, closets can quickly become a dumping ground — and a black hole. Instead of giving up and tolerating the chaos, there are some quick fixes you can employ to declutter the space and help keep your closet organized. 1. Organize clothing by color Every time you go into your closet, do you spend extra time on the hunt for a particular piece? Do you never seem to be able to find that sweater that will look great with those jeans? Consider upgrading your organizational system. Hanging your clothes by color is an easy way to always find the piece you’re looking for in just a few seconds. Whether you hang by type and then by color, or vice versa, this is an easy hack that helps you save time — and it gives your closet an instantly put-together look. Whether it’s for your eyes only or to impress prospective buyers, organizing by color — shoes included — will give your closet a professional-looking and practical edge. 2. Add extra drawers While most closets have ample hanging space, they’re often short on one key thing: drawer space. Instead of adding an extra dresser to the bedroom or hanging all of your clothes — some things are much better stored folded, such as sweaters — there is another organizational option: freestanding drawers. Bigger than the plastic bins you’ve seen in dorm rooms and apartments, think metal, fabric, rattan or manufactured-wood drawers that are more sophisticated options that deliver on both form and function. Add some to your closet for tucking away items such as workout clothes, sweaters, undergarments and seasonal items, to help keep the space from being cluttered and to create a more streamlined and functional closet space. 3. Bring in the bins, dividers and organizers Unless you’ve custom-designed your closet, there are likely storage spaces that aren’t quite the size or shape you need them to be. Add a few organizational tricks here and there to make the spaces work for you — namely in the form on bins, dividers and organizers. Some examples? Add drawer dividers to your sock drawer, slip signage dividers onto your hanging rods and add clear dividers to your shelf space. This way, every item has a specific home, and it will be easier to maintain your organization once you implement it. 4. Label everything Add labels for a finishing detail that will elevate your closet to professional standards. But, labels aren’t just aesthetic accents: They’re a practical detail, too, since they make it easier for you or anyone to find something in your closet without digging or searching endlessly. Add labels to storage bins, rod dividers and drawers so that you always know where every item should go. Bonus tip: Instead of using an office label maker, explore other options. Websites such as Etsy have a nearly endless supply of labels in different sizes, fonts and styles, allowing you to pick a design that fits the overall aesthetic of your interior. From sleek and modern fonts to fluid script styles, and from clear acrylic dividers to more colorful alternatives, ideal closet signage is available for every taste. 5. Add extra lighting Most closets are window-free, which can result in a dark look and feel. Think creatively about how you can add some brightness. A floor lamp is an instant way to add light to a closet. (Just make sure its bulb is nowhere near any clothing.) If you have a dresser or island in your closet, bring in a table lamp: It will not only help light the space but will also add some design character. If you don’t have room lamps, add wall sconces for a solution that is both highly decorative and imminently practical. If space is at a real premium, opt for lightweight, overhead, battery-operated lights that affix with adhesive strips or screws. One example? One of the many ceiling lights on the market that are shaped like hockey pucks and come in lots of colors and finishes. Why change up your closet space? Whether you’re looking to upgrade your closets to impress buyers or you just want to create a little Zen calm for yourself, these closet organization tips could transform how you think about your storage space, overall. And, if you need even more space, the agents of Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty have the solution: the perfect new home that better fits you and your things. Follow us! Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, Pinterest, Instagram and TikTok. The post Closet Confidential: 5 quick fixes for organizing and upgrading your closets (whether you are selling or staying) 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 April 22, 2022. FROM MY PERSPECTIVE We were right. We predicted in our final market report for 2021 that the first quarter of 2022 would prove to be a very busy period. The ever-shrinking supply of homes for sale — called inventory in our world — combined with the unprecedented and ongoing buyer demand have created a climate of brisk, competitive activity. That historically low inventory is starting to affect the market, leaving the actual number of sales trailing behind this time last year. But, demand remains elevated and, in most of our North Texas markets, so are the sales prices — so the total sales volume in dollars is actually up. Properties new to the market are swift to go under contract after multiple offers, and they are realizing higher prices. In fact, average home prices nationally increased by a whopping 18.8 percent in 2021, the highest annual increase ever, according to the S&P CoreLogic Case-Shiller National Home Price NSA Index. A fundamental change has certainly driven heightened interest in our markets: The pandemic-fueled movement to remote working appears here to stay, allowing workers to reprioritize their lifestyle needs without basing them around commutes. A generational shift has also occurred. According to a March story on Inman, a news source for agents and brokers, millennials accounted for nearly half of all home purchasers in 2021 — a notable development considering that previous reports from multiple sources had always dismissed the group as less likely to buy. We expect the trend we are now observing — declining quarterly sales figures with limited inventory but rising prices — to continue. The recent uptick in mortgage rates should only further motivate consumers to buy before the rates increase. Even with inflation and those increasing rates, the intrinsic value of owning and investing in real estate has not changed, and for many it remains an integral part of their overall wealth strategy. We’ve crunched the Q1 numbers and have them summarized for you at briggsfreeman.com/market-moves. I hope you find it valuable. But, talk to your Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty agent, anytime. No one knows how to make sense of a market — hot or cool — like they do. 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 April 22, 2022. FROM MY PERSPECTIVE We were right. We predicted in our final market report for 2021 that the first quarter of 2022 would prove to be a very busy period. The ever-shrinking supply of homes for sale — called inventory in our world — combined with the unprecedented and ongoing buyer demand have created a climate of brisk, competitive activity. That historically low inventory is starting to affect the market, leaving the actual number of sales trailing behind this time last year. But, demand remains elevated and, in most of our North Texas markets, so are the sales prices — so the total sales volume in dollars is actually up. Properties new to the market are swift to go under contract after multiple offers, and they are realizing higher prices. In fact, average home prices nationally increased by a whopping 18.8 percent in 2021, the highest annual increase ever, according to the S&P CoreLogic Case-Shiller National Home Price NSA Index. A fundamental change has certainly driven heightened interest in our markets: The pandemic-fueled movement to remote working appears here to stay, allowing workers to reprioritize their lifestyle needs without basing them around commutes. A generational shift has also occurred. According to a March story on Inman, a news source for agents and brokers, millennials accounted for nearly half of all home purchasers in 2021 — a notable development considering that previous reports from multiple sources had always dismissed the group as less likely to buy. We expect the trend we are now observing — declining quarterly sales figures with limited inventory but rising prices — to continue. The recent uptick in mortgage rates should only further motivate consumers to buy before the rates increase. Even with inflation and those increasing rates, the intrinsic value of owning and investing in real estate has not changed, and for many it remains an integral part of their overall wealth strategy. We’ve crunched the Q1 numbers and have them summarized for you at briggsfreeman.com/market-moves. I hope you find it valuable. But, talk to your Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty agent, anytime. No one knows how to make sense of a market — hot or cool — like they do. Robbie Briggs CEO Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty [email protected] The post CEO Robbie Briggs makes some sense of the fast and furious first quarter of 2022 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 April 8, 2022. FROM MY PERSPECTIVE Yes, we just reinvented a concept. Because we pride ourselves on never just doing what everyone else does — and because our agents have a reputation for going way above and beyond — we find ourselves pushing that proverbial envelope, again. This time, it involves information which could — no kidding — change your life. It is called the Real Estate Snapshot and it is just that: a look at your real estate picture, right now. I know you’ve heard of the comps, which are the prices that homes comparable to yours have sold for in your area. This goes way beyond. Our agents, at your request, will prepare a Real Estate Snapshot just for you, which will include your home’s estimated value, homes currently for sale in your area, homes that have recently sold in your area and a snapshot of the market here and across the country. And, they will strategize with you about refinancing and home-equity options, and any renovations you are considering. What this does is give you a much bigger picture of what your home’s worth could do for you — especially in a market that has been a frenzy. I can almost guarantee that your home’s value has changed over the last 18 months, and you need to understand what that could mean for you. One thing: Be careful about the big real estate websites out there. Their valuations aren’t very accurate. Ours is a much more informed look at what you’ve got and what you could do. The Real Estate Snapshot is another innovation that is setting us apart — just like our agents do, every day. Reach out to one. They can’t wait to tell you more — and maybe help you make a dream or two come true in the process. 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 April 8, 2022. FROM MY PERSPECTIVE Yes, we just reinvented a concept. Because we pride ourselves on never just doing what everyone else does — and because our agents have a reputation for going way above and beyond — we find ourselves pushing that proverbial envelope, again. This time, it involves information which could — no kidding — change your life. It is called the Real Estate Snapshot and it is just that: a look at your real estate picture, right now. I know you’ve heard of the comps, which are the prices that homes comparable to yours have sold for in your area. This goes way beyond. Our agents, at your request, will prepare a Real Estate Snapshot just for you, which will include your home’s estimated value, homes currently for sale in your area, homes that have recently sold in your area and a snapshot of the market here and across the country. And, they will strategize with you about refinancing and home-equity options, and any renovations you are considering. What this does is give you a much bigger picture of what your home’s worth could do for you — especially in a market that has been a frenzy. I can almost guarantee that your home’s value has changed over the last 18 months, and you need to understand what that could mean for you. One thing: Be careful about the big real estate websites out there. Their valuations aren’t very accurate. Ours is a much more informed look at what you’ve got and what you could do. The Real Estate Snapshot is another innovation that is setting us apart — just like our agents do, every day. Reach out to one. They can’t wait to tell you more — and maybe help you make a dream or two come true in the process. Robbie Briggs CEO Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty [email protected] The post CEO Robbie Briggs: Be careful about the big real estate websites out there – their valuations aren’t very accurate. appeared first on B - the blog.
Water is the elixir of life, as the saying goes. Besides vital sustenance, it has also offered delightful experiences for every age since time immemorial. So, what could be better than offering some of those experiences for friends and family in your own backyard oasis? Because homes have gotten larger and yard space can be at a premium, we’ve put together five small pool ideas that will enhance your enjoyment and upgrade your outdoor living area — if not the value of your home. 1. The spool Known colloquially as spools, swim spas have emerged as a popular solution to bridge the gap between the best of two worlds: a spa and a pool. You can work out or relax: It’s your choice. But, at only about 12 feet long and 6 feet wide, spools take up considerably less space than even the smallest pool. They can accommodate one or two people, making them perfect for intimate get-togethers. Features include multiple jets and varying depths — and perhaps massage seats and audio speakers to listen to your favorite playlist. 2. The plunge pool Plunge pools, sometimes referred to as dipping pools, are typically just a little larger than a spa and considerably smaller than a conventional pool. They’re made for fun and recreation, providing a refreshing place to take a dip on a hot day or relax after a vigorous workout. Water depth usually maxes out at seven feet, well below the safety standard for diving. A shallow depth makes them ideal for aquafit workouts or injury recovery. Popular options include massaging jets, integrated seating, colored interior lighting, steps and water features. 3. The reflecting pool Designed to reflect the surroundings and create a sense of tranquility and visual interest, reflecting pools are shallow and narrow. They can be as simple as a long rectangle or kidney-shaped with a smooth bottom and vertical sides, or they can be more elaborate, with multiple levels, fountains, water features and lighting. Reflecting your surrounding landscape or architecture can add interest or drama to your outdoor space. Beyond their visual impact, they offer a touch of Zen, for private, contemplative moments. 4. The splash pool A splash pool is just what it sounds like: a small pool where little ones can splash and play. It’s usually about three feet deep, with a gradual slope on one or more sides, making it easy to get in and out of. They’re a great way to introduce kids to the fun of swimming and can help keep them entertained on hot days. Splash pools come in a variety of shapes and sizes, from simple circles and squares to more elaborate designs with slides and waterfalls. 5. The lap pool A serious-minded swimmer should consider a lap pool. Lap pools are narrow and rectangular, and designed for aqua fitness. While there are no prescribed dimensions, fluid dynamics come into play. Width and water depth will affect the amount of turbulence created (Water will remain reasonably calm with an eight-foot to 10-foot width at a minimum four-foot depth). A swimmer’s stroke should determine the pool’s length to prevent the monotony of reaching the opposite end and having to reverse course too quickly. While lap pools are visually appealing, functionality dominates over whimsical features and shapes. Bonus FYI: Small pool design tips Regardless of what type of small pool you choose, it should add to the sense of harmony in your backyard. Unity is a fundamental principle of landscape architecture, and a pool offers the potential to elevate your outdoor setting to an entirely new level. Consider these design suggestions to maximize the impact of your investment: Choose a shape that is contoured to your home or the border of your property.Go vertical. Adding a wall on one or two sides of the pool will add privacy and may also act as a property boundary and retaining wall. (Check all building codes, always.)Keep it shallow. A depth more than 5 feet means that the slope angle of a short floor will be extreme rather than gradual.Add minimal decking. If your pool is nestled against a wall or near the house, consider a deck that borders just one or two sides.Select materials that highlight the color and texture of your home.Bonus FYI: Best practices Like all projects, careful planning is paramount to a successful small pool installation. It’s easy to get carried away by stunning photos, sketches and renderings, but it’s vital to take a measured approach. Get started by creating a scope of work, such as with the following tips: As always, ask your Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty agent for advice and resources. Choose which small pool idea aligns best with your lifestyle.Ask yourself if the pool will be used all year or seasonally.Decide what size is suitable for your space.Determine your budget — and plan for overages.Check with your local authorities to ascertain bylaws that may require safety fencing, special permits, property-line setbacks or other considerations.Research reputable pool installation companies and ask for customer references.Contact your insurance company before any work begins.Jump in! Adding a pool is the dream of many homeowners. A smaller space can realize that dream without limiting the possibilities for luxury, splendor and fun. Consult an agent at Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty for a seasoned opinion about creating your own backyard retreat. We’re always here to help. Follow us! Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, Pinterest, Instagram and TikTok.
Water is the elixir of life, as the saying goes. Besides vital sustenance, it has also offered delightful experiences for every age since time immemorial. So, what could be better than offering some of those experiences for friends and family in your own backyard oasis? Because homes have gotten larger and yard space can be at a premium, we’ve put together five small pool ideas that will enhance your enjoyment and upgrade your outdoor living area — if not the value of your home. 1. The spool Known colloquially as spools, swim spas have emerged as a popular solution to bridge the gap between the best of two worlds: a spa and a pool. You can work out or relax: It’s your choice. But, at only about 12 feet long and 6 feet wide, spools take up considerably less space than even the smallest pool. They can accommodate one or two people, making them perfect for intimate get-togethers. Features include multiple jets and varying depths — and perhaps massage seats and audio speakers to listen to your favorite playlist. 2. The plunge pool Plunge pools, sometimes referred to as dipping pools, are typically just a little larger than a spa and considerably smaller than a conventional pool. They’re made for fun and recreation, providing a refreshing place to take a dip on a hot day or relax after a vigorous workout. Water depth usually maxes out at seven feet, well below the safety standard for diving. A shallow depth makes them ideal for aquafit workouts or injury recovery. Popular options include massaging jets, integrated seating, colored interior lighting, steps and water features. 3. The reflecting pool Designed to reflect the surroundings and create a sense of tranquility and visual interest, reflecting pools are shallow and narrow. They can be as simple as a long rectangle or kidney-shaped with a smooth bottom and vertical sides, or they can be more elaborate, with multiple levels, fountains, water features and lighting. Reflecting your surrounding landscape or architecture can add interest or drama to your outdoor space. Beyond their visual impact, they offer a touch of Zen, for private, contemplative moments. 4. The splash pool A splash pool is just what it sounds like: a small pool where little ones can splash and play. It’s usually about three feet deep, with a gradual slope on one or more sides, making it easy to get in and out of. They’re a great way to introduce kids to the fun of swimming and can help keep them entertained on hot days. Splash pools come in a variety of shapes and sizes, from simple circles and squares to more elaborate designs with slides and waterfalls. 5. The lap pool A serious-minded swimmer should consider a lap pool. Lap pools are narrow and rectangular, and designed for aqua fitness. While there are no prescribed dimensions, fluid dynamics come into play. Width and water depth will affect the amount of turbulence created (Water will remain reasonably calm with an eight-foot to 10-foot width at a minimum four-foot depth). A swimmer’s stroke should determine the pool’s length to prevent the monotony of reaching the opposite end and having to reverse course too quickly. While lap pools are visually appealing, functionality dominates over whimsical features and shapes. Bonus FYI: Small pool design tips Regardless of what type of small pool you choose, it should add to the sense of harmony in your backyard. Unity is a fundamental principle of landscape architecture, and a pool offers the potential to elevate your outdoor setting to an entirely new level. Consider these design suggestions to maximize the impact of your investment: Choose a shape that is contoured to your home or the border of your property.Go vertical. Adding a wall on one or two sides of the pool will add privacy and may also act as a property boundary and retaining wall. (Check all building codes, always.)Keep it shallow. A depth more than 5 feet means that the slope angle of a short floor will be extreme rather than gradual.Add minimal decking. If your pool is nestled against a wall or near the house, consider a deck that borders just one or two sides.Select materials that highlight the color and texture of your home.Bonus FYI: Best practices Like all projects, careful planning is paramount to a successful small pool installation. It’s easy to get carried away by stunning photos, sketches and renderings, but it’s vital to take a measured approach. Get started by creating a scope of work, such as with the following tips: As always, ask your Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty agent for advice and resources. Choose which small pool idea aligns best with your lifestyle.Ask yourself if the pool will be used all year or seasonally.Decide what size is suitable for your space.Determine your budget — and plan for overages.Check with your local authorities to ascertain bylaws that may require safety fencing, special permits, property-line setbacks or other considerations.Research reputable pool installation companies and ask for customer references.Contact your insurance company before any work begins.Jump in! Adding a pool is the dream of many homeowners. A smaller space can realize that dream without limiting the possibilities for luxury, splendor and fun. Consult an agent at Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty for a seasoned opinion about creating your own backyard retreat. We’re always here to help. Follow us! Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, Pinterest, Instagram and TikTok. The post The New Little Luxury: 5 small backyard pool ideas with a big impact 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 March 25, 2022. FROM MY PERSPECTIVE Let’s do it. If you have been considering selling your home, I suggest you talk to us soon. Maybe even today. We are still in one of the hottest markets in memory. Homes are selling so quickly — many with multiple offers — that inventory levels remain remarkably low. (If you’re even a casual observer of the real estate business, that is the word of the moment: inventory. It means the number of homes that are for sale at any given time.) There are several reasons for this phenomenon. There continues to be an influx of people moving to North Texas for the job opportunities, lower taxes and easy lifestyle. Another one? Now that so many folks can work from home, and home can be anywhere, you get a lot of house for your money in North Texas. People are also changing to bigger, better or more useful homes — because we have all been reminded over the past couple of years about what home really means. So, yes, this is a great time to sell. Our clients are doing very well — and finding themselves in even more rewarding homes at the end of the adventure. It takes very skilled agents to navigate a market this competitive. Ours adapt to every situation. They use time efficiently because they know that yours is valuable. They have a critical understanding of both buying and selling strategies, and they can guide you confidently in a back-and-forth situation. They can also create opportunities that no one else can — and that aren’t on any website out there. They not only have unique local networks — built over time and with strategy — they have the global power of Sotheby’s International Realty behind them. I encourage you to take advantage of this moment — but not without the support and guidance of a professional agent. Not only can ours help make great things happen for you as a seller, they can also help make great things happen for you as a buyer. In a market this hot, that’s the real skill. 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 March 25, 2022. FROM MY PERSPECTIVE Let’s do it. If you have been considering selling your home, I suggest you talk to us soon. Maybe even today. We are still in one of the hottest markets in memory. Homes are selling so quickly — many with multiple offers — that inventory levels remain remarkably low. (If you’re even a casual observer of the real estate business, that is the word of the moment: inventory. It means the number of homes that are for sale at any given time.) There are several reasons for this phenomenon. There continues to be an influx of people moving to North Texas for the job opportunities, lower taxes and easy lifestyle. Another one? Now that so many folks can work from home, and home can be anywhere, you get a lot of house for your money in North Texas. People are also changing to bigger, better or more useful homes — because we have all been reminded over the past couple of years about what home really means. So, yes, this is a great time to sell. Our clients are doing very well — and finding themselves in even more rewarding homes at the end of the adventure. It takes very skilled agents to navigate a market this competitive. Ours adapt to every situation. They use time efficiently because they know that yours is valuable. They have a critical understanding of both buying and selling strategies, and they can guide you confidently in a back-and-forth situation. They can also create opportunities that no one else can — and that aren’t on any website out there. They not only have unique local networks — built over time and with strategy — they have the global power of Sotheby’s International Realty behind them. I encourage you to take advantage of this moment — but not without the support and guidance of a professional agent. Not only can ours help make great things happen for you as a seller, they can also help make great things happen for you as a buyer. In a market this hot, that’s the real skill. Robbie Briggs CEO Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty [email protected] The post CEO Robbie Briggs on why this may be the most opportune time to sell your home, ever appeared first on B - the blog.
Is your home leaving you a little uninspired? You may need a dose of texture, a pop of color or a blast of bold pattern — but not on the walls. Look up: It’s time to think outside the box. Changing up your ceilings is an innovative way to transform any space. From your kitchen to your bedroom to your guest bathroom, try using these tips and tricks throughout your home to help give your rooms a refresh. 1. Wallpaper Though wallpaper is almost exclusively used for walls, that doesn’t mean you can’t think more creatively. Use your favorite wallpaper pattern on your ceiling for an unexpected pop of overhead pattern. Whether you choose a subtle seagrass wallpaper to add barely-there texture or opt for a bold and colorful pattern — think paisley or oversized floral — there are infinite ways to incorporate wallpaper into your space. For a less permanent solution, you can even opt to use peel-and-stick wallpaper (it’s perfect for renters, too) that is both easier to install and easier to remove. 2. Paint An easy and low-cost way to update your ceiling is to change its color. If you have neutral walls, opt for a bright shade that provides a bold contrast. Dark hues such as charcoal or navy give the space a more moody look — and make the ceiling seem higher — while lighter hues such as pale blue or light green offer a bright and airy alternative perfect for smaller spaces. You can even play with different patterns, such as stripes, or add a stenciled motif for a more unique ceiling look. But the options with paint don’t stop there. Consider changing up the finish you choose to deliver even more contrast. If your walls are matte or semi-gloss, opt for a high-gloss finish on the ceiling to create a more upscale and design-forward look. If your walls are glossier, a matte ceiling delivers a nice counterpoint to give the room a more multidimensional feel. 3. Exposed beams and wooden planks To add some charm to your room, consider finishing your ceiling with wooden beams or wooden planks. These farmhouse- or lakehouse-inspired looks will give your space a hint of rustic charm. Adding wooden beams to your ceilings can help give your rooms a look that’s equally rustic and refined. They’re especially elegant for vaulted ceilings, to help highlight the height and add some architectural interest. Beams can give rooms with lower ceilings a more cozy feel, creating a cabin-like atmosphere that is perfect for relaxing. For a more impactful change, wooden planks will give your space a bespoke, custom feel. Choose from different plank widths and different stains to totally customize the overall look, creating a final product that perfectly complements your existing space. Install the planks parallel to one another for a classic, streamlined look, or create a herringbone pattern for a more striking statement piece. You can even mix different finishes to create a more dynamic ceiling design. 4. Tin ceiling tiles Tin ceiling tiles are an ideal way to infuse your home with a vintage or loft-like feel. Originally popular in the 1880s, these ceiling tiles are a timeless look that is relatively easy to install. Most modern tiles are easily affixed to your existing ceiling using adhesive, making it a low-maintenance and high-impact option. Choose from nearly endless ornate tile designs or more streamlined graphic designs, all in a wide range of finishes. The best part? These tin tiles will infuse your space with a lot of personality, so you can keep the rest of your furniture and finishes simple and streamlined. 5. Crown molding If you aren’t ready for a total ceiling overhaul, crown molding could be the perfect middle ground. This elegant accent will help to draw the eye up, making your rooms seem taller while adding a sophisticated touch that gives them a classic look. From ornate plaster moldings to more versatile synthetic variations, there are almost endless types to choose from. Polyurethane designs are likely the most affordable and durable options, while wood moldings offer the most traditional look and feel. Upgrade your space up there Using any of these approaches — or a couple at once — will help you refresh any room. By strategically upgrading the ceiling design in your space, you can create a room that you love. But, if it’s time for a bigger change, reach out to the expert agents at Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty. You may need new ceilings — and a new house that comes with them. Follow us! Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, Pinterest, Instagram and TikTok.
Is your home leaving you a little uninspired? You may need a dose of texture, a pop of color or a blast of bold pattern — but not on the walls. Look up: It’s time to think outside the box. Changing up your ceilings is an innovative way to transform any space. From your kitchen to your bedroom to your guest bathroom, try using these tips and tricks throughout your home to help give your rooms a refresh. 1. Wallpaper Though wallpaper is almost exclusively used for walls, that doesn’t mean you can’t think more creatively. Use your favorite wallpaper pattern on your ceiling for an unexpected pop of overhead pattern. Whether you choose a subtle seagrass wallpaper to add barely-there texture or opt for a bold and colorful pattern — think paisley or oversized floral — there are infinite ways to incorporate wallpaper into your space. For a less permanent solution, you can even opt to use peel-and-stick wallpaper (it’s perfect for renters, too) that is both easier to install and easier to remove. 2. Paint An easy and low-cost way to update your ceiling is to change its color. If you have neutral walls, opt for a bright shade that provides a bold contrast. Dark hues such as charcoal or navy give the space a more moody look — and make the ceiling seem higher — while lighter hues such as pale blue or light green offer a bright and airy alternative perfect for smaller spaces. You can even play with different patterns, such as stripes, or add a stenciled motif for a more unique ceiling look. But the options with paint don’t stop there. Consider changing up the finish you choose to deliver even more contrast. If your walls are matte or semi-gloss, opt for a high-gloss finish on the ceiling to create a more upscale and design-forward look. If your walls are glossier, a matte ceiling delivers a nice counterpoint to give the room a more multidimensional feel. 3. Exposed beams and wooden planks To add some charm to your room, consider finishing your ceiling with wooden beams or wooden planks. These farmhouse- or lakehouse-inspired looks will give your space a hint of rustic charm. Adding wooden beams to your ceilings can help give your rooms a look that’s equally rustic and refined. They’re especially elegant for vaulted ceilings, to help highlight the height and add some architectural interest. Beams can give rooms with lower ceilings a more cozy feel, creating a cabin-like atmosphere that is perfect for relaxing. For a more impactful change, wooden planks will give your space a bespoke, custom feel. Choose from different plank widths and different stains to totally customize the overall look, creating a final product that perfectly complements your existing space. Install the planks parallel to one another for a classic, streamlined look, or create a herringbone pattern for a more striking statement piece. You can even mix different finishes to create a more dynamic ceiling design. 4. Tin ceiling tiles Tin ceiling tiles are an ideal way to infuse your home with a vintage or loft-like feel. Originally popular in the 1880s, these ceiling tiles are a timeless look that is relatively easy to install. Most modern tiles are easily affixed to your existing ceiling using adhesive, making it a low-maintenance and high-impact option. Choose from nearly endless ornate tile designs or more streamlined graphic designs, all in a wide range of finishes. The best part? These tin tiles will infuse your space with a lot of personality, so you can keep the rest of your furniture and finishes simple and streamlined. 5. Crown molding If you aren’t ready for a total ceiling overhaul, crown molding could be the perfect middle ground. This elegant accent will help to draw the eye up, making your rooms seem taller while adding a sophisticated touch that gives them a classic look. From ornate plaster moldings to more versatile synthetic variations, there are almost endless types to choose from. Polyurethane designs are likely the most affordable and durable options, while wood moldings offer the most traditional look and feel. Upgrade your space up there Using any of these approaches — or a couple at once — will help you refresh any room. By strategically upgrading the ceiling design in your space, you can create a room that you love. But, if it’s time for a bigger change, reach out to the expert agents at Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty. You may need new ceilings — and a new house that comes with them. Follow us! Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, Pinterest, Instagram and TikTok. The post Looking Up: 5 ceiling design tricks to transform your rooms and spaces 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 March 11, 2022. FROM MY PERSPECTIVE If you’re a numbers person, you’re going to love all this. Sotheby’s International Realty has just released its 2021 statistics and there are some jaw-droppers. (FYI, it takes a couple of months in our business to tally the prior year’s contracts and figures.) The network achieved a record $204 billion in global sales volume — a 36-percent jump from 2020 and an outstanding achievement, helped in part by the nearly 400 expert agents that I am proud to know at Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty. In the U.S. alone, the network’s sales volume grew by almost 34 percent, significantly outpacing the national increase of 20.6 percent reported by the National Association of REALTORSâ. That really underscores the leadership of Sotheby’s International Realty in the luxury market. Sotheby’s International Realty continues to lead the industry with technology and marketing, too. The superb sothebysrealty.com saw more than 46 million visitors in 2021, an increase of 25 percent and the most visits in its history. Videos produced by Sotheby’s International Realty agents were played nearly 90 million times — a whopping 50-percent increase year-over-year. (Video has become vital.) Our own briggsfreeman.com saw 118 percent more visitors in 2021 than it did in 2020, thanks to a new strategy for digital marketing. The network continued to expand its presence around the world. In 2021, it opened 86 new offices, bringing its total to more than 1,000 offices in 79 countries and territories, with more than 25,000 agents worldwide. Those agents, by the way, acted as true global real estate advisors: The sales volume for referrals within the network — one agent entrusting their clients to another, in another part of the country or world — increased by nearly 80 percent last year. It’s head-spinning, isn’t it? Who knows how long these kinds of increases will last. I do know this: One thing that stays steady, in markets that are hot or cool, is the expertise of our professional agents, advising their clients all the way. 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 March 11, 2022. FROM MY PERSPECTIVE If you’re a numbers person, you’re going to love all this. Sotheby’s International Realty has just released its 2021 statistics and there are some jaw-droppers. (FYI, it takes a couple of months in our business to tally the prior year’s contracts and figures.) The network achieved a record $204 billion in global sales volume — a 36-percent jump from 2020 and an outstanding achievement, helped in part by the nearly 400 expert agents that I am proud to know at Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty. In the U.S. alone, the network’s sales volume grew by almost 34 percent, significantly outpacing the national increase of 20.6 percent reported by the National Association of REALTORSâ. That really underscores the leadership of Sotheby’s International Realty in the luxury market. Sotheby’s International Realty continues to lead the industry with technology and marketing, too. The superb sothebysrealty.com saw more than 46 million visitors in 2021, an increase of 25 percent and the most visits in its history. Videos produced by Sotheby’s International Realty agents were played nearly 90 million times — a whopping 50-percent increase year-over-year. (Video has become vital.) Our own briggsfreeman.com saw 118 percent more visitors in 2021 than it did in 2020, thanks to a new strategy for digital marketing. The network continued to expand its presence around the world. In 2021, it opened 86 new offices, bringing its total to more than 1,000 offices in 79 countries and territories, with more than 25,000 agents worldwide. Those agents, by the way, acted as true global real estate advisors: The sales volume for referrals within the network — one agent entrusting their clients to another, in another part of the country or world — increased by nearly 80 percent last year. It’s head-spinning, isn’t it? Who knows how long these kinds of increases will last. I do know this: One thing that stays steady, in markets that are hot or cool, is the expertise of our professional agents, advising their clients all the way. Robbie Briggs CEO Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty [email protected] The post In a real estate market like he’s never seen, CEO Robbie Briggs reports some numbers appeared first on B - the blog.
From concerns about global warming to rising energy bills, it’s no surprise that homeowners and potential buyers are prioritizing an eco-friendly home. In fact, the demand for green home features is soaring. Whether you are looking to buy a new home or you’re staying put, you might wonder how you can make your home more eco-friendly in 2022 and beyond. First, we’ll outline the facets of an eco-friendly home, along with techniques and technologies to conserve energy. Much of this advice applies to both existing and new-construction homes, the latter of which will allow you to make custom upgrades during the home building process. So, what is an eco-friendly home? An eco-friendly home serves the purpose of conserving energy, all while making a lighter carbon footprint on the environment. These homes implement materials and upgrades to improve home performance from the inside out, ranging from solar panels to smart thermostats. Some homeowners choose to build a new home and implement eco-friendly features. Other homeowners upgrade existing homes with energy-efficient products and technologies. In the big picture, what are the features of an eco-friendly home? A key component of any eco-friendly home is thermal insulation, since it not only reduces electricity consumption but also reduces carbon emissions. Homes that contain nontoxic, renewable and biodegradable insulation material are considered eco-friendly.In addition to electrical or gas energy, eco-friendly homes also use less water consumption, thanks to devices such as high-efficiency showerheads, faucet aerators and toilet fill-cycle diverters.The energy source of your home is also a significant indicator of efficiency and impact on the environment. Typical homes use fossil fuels, while eco-friendlier homes rely on geothermal units, heat pumps and solar panels.Eco-friendly homes also use smart appliances as well as smart technology, ranging from thermostats to smart lighting.The possibilities to create an eco-friendly home are exciting and nearly endless. Below are some options to consider for an energy-efficient home, including both interior and exterior upgrades. Inside your home: Easy eco-friendly upgrades Sometimes the smallest upgrades can make dramatic differences for an eco-friendly home. There is a plethora of options to consider, and most are a snap to install. The good news is that you can use these upgrades in an existing home, or ask your contractor to include these options if you are building a home. 1. Install smart thermostats Does your home have a smart thermostat? There are many benefits that smart thermostats can provide, including saving you money on your utility bills, ensuring your home is comfortable and giving you peace of mind about your energy consumption. Thermostats that learn — your schedule and your preferred temperatures, for example — are some of the most popular. Many thermostats also allow you to control the temperature of your home from your smartphone. A smart thermostat is a great investment when you want to lessen your carbon footprint. 2. Change to smart appliances Upgrading your kitchen with smart appliances can also improve energy usage. Smart appliances not only can be controlled remotely via a phone app or a smart-home platform (think Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant) but also they can automatically turn off when you aren’t using them. Your dishwasher, refrigerator, dryer, washing machine, oven and stove can all be smart appliances that help cut down on your carbon footprint. 3. Caulk around doors and windows Did you know that 30 percent of your home’s energy can be lost through drafty windows and doors? Investing in quality weatherstripping, caulking and weather-resistant materials such as foam tape can help minimize air infiltration. Installing caulk around windows and doors is relatively inexpensive and easy to do, and it makes a big difference in terms of home performance. Caulk provides a moisture- and wind-resistant buffer zone between the door or window frame and the outside wall. Caulking can also reduce air infiltration through unsealed door and window casings. 4. Upgrade to LED lighting LED lighting isn’t a new concept for existing or new-construction homes, but it can make a substantial difference in energy consumption. LED lights were first used for accent lighting in rooms and only used when there was a specific need for them, but, now they are replacing older-style fluorescent and incandescent lights. When compared to incandescent lighting, LED lighting can save more than 75 percent in energy consumption. 5. Hang blackout curtains Can blackout curtains make a difference in your carbon footprint? Absolutely. Living in sunny Texas, for example, the heat from the sun can turn your home into a sweltering, uncomfortable environment. This leads to air conditioning systems running in overdrive, especially during daylight hours. Blackout curtains can block out roughly 90 percent of this sunlight to help keep your home cool. During chilly days, blackout curtains also provide insulating properties to help keep heated air inside your home. Outside your home: Excellent eco-friendly upgrades Great for both new construction and existing homes, there are options available to improve the performance of your exterior. These exterior upgrades ultimately impact the interior of your home, too. It’s the best way to come full circle to create an eco-friendly home. Consider upgrades such as the following: 6. Install energy-efficient windows Energy-efficient windows are the epitome of an eco-friendly home — probably the first components homeowners became aware of once energy efficiency became a hotter topic. You’ll notice a big difference in indoor comfort and energy consumption by upgrading, especially if you currently have single-pane windows in your home. Here is a short list of what to look for when upgrading to energy-efficient windows: Insulating gasses, including argon and krypton, which provide insulating propertiesTriple-pane windows, which provide an additional barrier against energy lossInsulated frames that have foam insideProfessional installation, ensuring the windows are properly performing through all seasons7. Install eco-efficient garage doors Installing an eco-friendly garage door might not be obvious — but the garage door serves as the largest opening in the exterior. When a garage door is adequately insulated, it can have a big impact on your home’s energy efficiency. Eco-friendly garage doors contain materials that are ethically sourced, including steel or aluminum, as opposed to materials that require mining and importing, such as wood and some new metals. Consider triple-layer doors that have polyurethane insulation, which provides the highest level of energy efficiency. Polyurethane is a liquid foam insulation that expands as it’s injected, filling every gap in the door’s construction. It has twice the R-value per inch over that of traditional types of insulation. 8. Start using solar panels Setting up your home with solar panels can make a large impact on your carbon footprint. You’ll experience lower energy consumption in the home while substantially reducing greenhouse gasses. Meanwhile, solar panels will also increase the value of your home by roughly $15,000. They can also potentially help your home sell faster. If you are considering any or all of the above, ask your Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty agent about the trends they are seeing in eco-friendlier living. Whether you want to lessen your carbon footprint or improve indoor comfort — or both — an eco-friendly home will help improve your quality of life while making less of an impact on the environment. Follow us! Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, Pinterest, Instagram and TikTok.
From concerns about global warming to rising energy bills, it’s no surprise that homeowners and potential buyers are prioritizing an eco-friendly home. In fact, the demand for green home features is soaring. Whether you are looking to buy a new home or you’re staying put, you might wonder how you can make your home more eco-friendly in 2022 and beyond. First, we’ll outline the facets of an eco-friendly home, along with techniques and technologies to conserve energy. Much of this advice applies to both existing and new-construction homes, the latter of which will allow you to make custom upgrades during the home building process. So, what is an eco-friendly home? An eco-friendly home serves the purpose of conserving energy, all while making a lighter carbon footprint on the environment. These homes implement materials and upgrades to improve home performance from the inside out, ranging from solar panels to smart thermostats. Some homeowners choose to build a new home and implement eco-friendly features. Other homeowners upgrade existing homes with energy-efficient products and technologies. In the big picture, what are the features of an eco-friendly home? A key component of any eco-friendly home is thermal insulation, since it not only reduces electricity consumption but also reduces carbon emissions. Homes that contain nontoxic, renewable and biodegradable insulation material are considered eco-friendly.In addition to electrical or gas energy, eco-friendly homes also use less water consumption, thanks to devices such as high-efficiency showerheads, faucet aerators and toilet fill-cycle diverters.The energy source of your home is also a significant indicator of efficiency and impact on the environment. Typical homes use fossil fuels, while eco-friendlier homes rely on geothermal units, heat pumps and solar panels.Eco-friendly homes also use smart appliances as well as smart technology, ranging from thermostats to smart lighting.The possibilities to create an eco-friendly home are exciting and nearly endless. Below are some options to consider for an energy-efficient home, including both interior and exterior upgrades. Inside your home: Easy eco-friendly upgrades Sometimes the smallest upgrades can make dramatic differences for an eco-friendly home. There is a plethora of options to consider, and most are a snap to install. The good news is that you can use these upgrades in an existing home, or ask your contractor to include these options if you are building a home. 1. Install smart thermostats Does your home have a smart thermostat? There are many benefits that smart thermostats can provide, including saving you money on your utility bills, ensuring your home is comfortable and giving you peace of mind about your energy consumption. Thermostats that learn — your schedule and your preferred temperatures, for example — are some of the most popular. Many thermostats also allow you to control the temperature of your home from your smartphone. A smart thermostat is a great investment when you want to lessen your carbon footprint. 2. Change to smart appliances Upgrading your kitchen with smart appliances can also improve energy usage. Smart appliances not only can be controlled remotely via a phone app or a smart-home platform (think Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant) but also they can automatically turn off when you aren’t using them. Your dishwasher, refrigerator, dryer, washing machine, oven and stove can all be smart appliances that help cut down on your carbon footprint. 3. Caulk around doors and windows Did you know that 30 percent of your home’s energy can be lost through drafty windows and doors? Investing in quality weatherstripping, caulking and weather-resistant materials such as foam tape can help minimize air infiltration. Installing caulk around windows and doors is relatively inexpensive and easy to do, and it makes a big difference in terms of home performance. Caulk provides a moisture- and wind-resistant buffer zone between the door or window frame and the outside wall. Caulking can also reduce air infiltration through unsealed door and window casings. 4. Upgrade to LED lighting LED lighting isn’t a new concept for existing or new-construction homes, but it can make a substantial difference in energy consumption. LED lights were first used for accent lighting in rooms and only used when there was a specific need for them, but, now they are replacing older-style fluorescent and incandescent lights. When compared to incandescent lighting, LED lighting can save more than 75 percent in energy consumption. 5. Hang blackout curtains Can blackout curtains make a difference in your carbon footprint? Absolutely. Living in sunny Texas, for example, the heat from the sun can turn your home into a sweltering, uncomfortable environment. This leads to air conditioning systems running in overdrive, especially during daylight hours. Blackout curtains can block out roughly 90 percent of this sunlight to help keep your home cool. During chilly days, blackout curtains also provide insulating properties to help keep heated air inside your home. Outside your home: Excellent eco-friendly upgrades Great for both new construction and existing homes, there are options available to improve the performance of your exterior. These exterior upgrades ultimately impact the interior of your home, too. It’s the best way to come full circle to create an eco-friendly home. Consider upgrades such as the following: 6. Install energy-efficient windows Energy-efficient windows are the epitome of an eco-friendly home — probably the first components homeowners became aware of once energy efficiency became a hotter topic. You’ll notice a big difference in indoor comfort and energy consumption by upgrading, especially if you currently have single-pane windows in your home. Here is a short list of what to look for when upgrading to energy-efficient windows: Insulating gasses, including argon and krypton, which provide insulating propertiesTriple-pane windows, which provide an additional barrier against energy lossInsulated frames that have foam insideProfessional installation, ensuring the windows are properly performing through all seasons7. Install eco-efficient garage doors Installing an eco-friendly garage door might not be obvious — but the garage door serves as the largest opening in the exterior. When a garage door is adequately insulated, it can have a big impact on your home’s energy efficiency. Eco-friendly garage doors contain materials that are ethically sourced, including steel or aluminum, as opposed to materials that require mining and importing, such as wood and some new metals. Consider triple-layer doors that have polyurethane insulation, which provides the highest level of energy efficiency. Polyurethane is a liquid foam insulation that expands as it’s injected, filling every gap in the door’s construction. It has twice the R-value per inch over that of traditional types of insulation. 8. Start using solar panels Setting up your home with solar panels can make a large impact on your carbon footprint. You’ll experience lower energy consumption in the home while substantially reducing greenhouse gasses. Meanwhile, solar panels will also increase the value of your home by roughly $15,000. They can also potentially help your home sell faster. If you are considering any or all of the above, ask your Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty agent about the trends they are seeing in eco-friendlier living. Whether you want to lessen your carbon footprint or improve indoor comfort — or both — an eco-friendly home will help improve your quality of life while making less of an impact on the environment. Follow us! Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, Pinterest, Instagram and TikTok. The post Buttoned Up: 8 essential ways to make your home more energy-efficient 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 March 4, 2022. FROM MY PERSPECTIVE We are in very good company. In a story in the new Luxury Outlook — the trend-packed annual report from Sotheby’s International Realty — the Dallas suburbs of University Park and Highland Park are talked about by the experts, right alongside Greenwich, Connecticut, the prosperous North Shore towns outside Chicago and the affluent areas of Westchester County, New York, including Scarsdale. Yes, those are some of the most famous suburbs in America — known for their sophistication, convenience and ambience — and they are thriving, poised for even greater real estate growth because of their enduring appeal. I’m going to give you some key takeaways from the story, which you can read — along with all the other thought-provoking pieces — at briggsfreeman.com/market-moves. Sales in the suburbs are up, thanks most recently to the desire for bigger homes and more grounds to roam because of the pandemic. And, buyers are looking at functionality more than ever. When they’re considering three versus four bedrooms, or four versus five, they now see that extra bedroom as an office or classroom. But, the appeal of a great suburb has always been its proximity to the city, the strength of its community and the strength of its schools. There is a real hometown feel to America’s most desirable suburbs, the story explains, and ours have that in spades. So, what other suburbs are hot? In Connecticut: Darien, New Canaan, Westport and Fairfield. In New Jersey: Montclair, Summit and Ridgewood. In New York: Bronxville, Rye and what are known as the Rivertowns along the Hudson River. The story saves the best for last: Besides the Park Cities, it singles out Plano, Frisco, Southlake, Westlake and Preston Hollow. (I would add Fort Worth’s great Westover Hills, Montserrat and Tanglewood.) Surprising? Not at all. These places have all the ingredients that the story says are essential for successful suburbs: great amenities; proximity to the city; a strong sense of place; strong, established schools; even tree-lined streets. Move over, Greenwich and Scarsdale: We’re gaining on you. 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 March 4, 2022. FROM MY PERSPECTIVE We are in very good company. In a story in the new Luxury Outlook — the trend-packed annual report from Sotheby’s International Realty — the Dallas suburbs of University Park and Highland Park are talked about by the experts, right alongside Greenwich, Connecticut, the prosperous North Shore towns outside Chicago and the affluent areas of Westchester County, New York, including Scarsdale. Yes, those are some of the most famous suburbs in America — known for their sophistication, convenience and ambience — and they are thriving, poised for even greater real estate growth because of their enduring appeal. I’m going to give you some key takeaways from the story, which you can read — along with all the other thought-provoking pieces — at briggsfreeman.com/market-moves. Sales in the suburbs are up, thanks most recently to the desire for bigger homes and more grounds to roam because of the pandemic. And, buyers are looking at functionality more than ever. When they’re considering three versus four bedrooms, or four versus five, they now see that extra bedroom as an office or classroom. But, the appeal of a great suburb has always been its proximity to the city, the strength of its community and the strength of its schools. There is a real hometown feel to America’s most desirable suburbs, the story explains, and ours have that in spades. So, what other suburbs are hot? In Connecticut: Darien, New Canaan, Westport and Fairfield. In New Jersey: Montclair, Summit and Ridgewood. In New York: Bronxville, Rye and what are known as the Rivertowns along the Hudson River. The story saves the best for last: Besides the Park Cities, it singles out Plano, Frisco, Southlake, Westlake and Preston Hollow. (I would add Fort Worth’s great Westover Hills, Montserrat and Tanglewood.) Surprising? Not at all. These places have all the ingredients that the story says are essential for successful suburbs: great amenities; proximity to the city; a strong sense of place; strong, established schools; even tree-lined streets. Move over, Greenwich and Scarsdale: We’re gaining on you. Robbie Briggs CEO Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty [email protected] The post Guess what hot North Texas suburbs just made a story about hot American suburbs? appeared first on B - the blog.
It’s true: A clean, uncluttered home makes for healthier living, both physically and mentally. Spring is a natural time to accomplish some household chores and show those dust bunnies who’s boss. Here are 15 tasks to cross off your spring-cleaning checklist that will help get your home in tip-top shape. (Insider FYI: These are especially essential if you are selling your home and preparing it for a photoshoot, open house or private showing.) 1. Dust every surface and everything on it Whether you’re using a dust rag, feather duster, furniture polish or a combination of all three, dusting all flat surfaces is something that’s probably done on a regular basis. But, really look at each room and focus on where dust can hide. As you remove items to dust tables and other furnishings, dust off each individual book, knickknack and decorative accessory, too. Start with the highest items in each room — don’t forget to look atop high cabinets and other tall pieces of furniture — so that when the dust settles, you can catch everything with a broom or vacuum cleaner. 2. Replace HVAC filters and clean vents Most people replace air filters once a month, but some high-quality filters need to be replaced only every two or three. Either way, get in the habit of setting a reminder alarm at the appropriate interval to change out every filter. This helps you breathe easier, keeps odors at bay and helps increase the efficiency and overall life of your heaters and air conditioners. While you’re at it, vacuum or wipe off every air duct in the house, too. 3. Vacuum absolutely everything Vacuuming floors, carpets and rugs is a no-brainer, but don’t forget all those hidden and hard-to-reach places that may need your vacuum cleaner’s long wand attachments to reach. Ceiling fans, air ducts, HVAC returns, blinds, plantation shutters, the tops of cabinets and furniture all hide dust accumulation, so start with the vacuum cleaner and then follow up with dust rags or wipes to get every last speck. It’s not a bad idea to vacuum one last time after the dust has a chance to settle. 4. Shampoo or steam carpets, rugs and upholstery Carpets, rugs and upholstery will all pop back to life with a once-a-year shampooing or steam cleaning. Check your product labels and care instructions first, but this is also an ideal time to apply Scotchgard or similar sprays to protect against stains and spills. While you’re at it, throw all the pet beds into the deep-clean cycle on your washer, too. 5. Dust the blinds and shutters Before cleaning your windows (spoiler alert: that’s coming up), use a feather duster or vacuum cleaner to remove dust from blinds or the slats in plantation shutters and other non-fabric window treatments. By taking this step first, you won’t muss up the windows when they’re freshly cleaned. 6. Polish all the metal hardware From doorknobs to drawer pulls, metal hardware exists in nearly every room in the home. Polishing gloves and wipes are an easy way to buff silver and other metals back to like-new condition. 7. Wash windows and screens Even if you’re doing every other to-do item on this list yourself, window cleaning is something that’s always nice to hire out to professionals, especially if you have large windows or hard-to-reach ones that require ladders, scaffolding or other means to reach. If you do them yourself, a squeegee with a six-foot (or longer) extension pole will be your best friend. Make sure to clean both sides of each window for the most sparkling results. Likewise, it defeats the purpose of getting fresh air if you open your windows and the screens are full of pollen, dust, animal hair and dander, leaves, cobwebs or any number of foreign substances. Remove screens and spray them down with a hose, then prop upright to dry completely before reinstalling. 8. Deep-clean the floors Whether it’s steam-cleaning carpets and rugs, giving a thorough wash and polish to tile and stone, or cleaning hardwoods with a protective oil soap, deep-cleaning every floor surface can have a dramatic effect on a room’s appearance. Pay special attention to portions of the floor that are under furniture, in corners or other parts that might easily get overlooked with regular cleaning. 9. Wipe down walls and baseboards Use a damp, non-abrasive cloth (spot-test a hidden area first!) to clean off scuffed baseboards and walls. Magic erasers can be, well, magical in many of these applications. 10. Organize your closets Decluttering your closets during spring cleaning is an ideal companion project to making your home more livable. If you haven’t worn certain clothes, footwear, jewelry or other fashion accessories in a while, assess whether you still like them — and whether they’re still in style — and donate anything you no longer enjoy. For everything else, try on each item to make sure it still fits. If it doesn’t — you guessed it — add it to the donation pile, too. 11. Clean the kitchen appliances Every appliance in your kitchen needs regular cleaning, but at least once a year, you should remove everything from the refrigerator (toss anything that’s expired) and wash every shelf and compartment — in the dishwasher, if possible. Clean your oven and stovetop next. Then look at small countertop appliances to make sure they’re all clean and free of old food, from toaster ovens to microwaves and every little gadget in between. 12. Freshen the garbage disposal A sour garbage disposal can make an otherwise clean kitchen smell not-so-fresh. Pour in white vinegar, let it sit for 10 minutes, then run the disposal, throwing in some ice cubes toward the end to keep the blades sharp. Or you can purchase special foaming cleaners that are specific to garbage disposals for a burst of fresh air that permeates the entire room. 13. Organize the bathroom cabinets Much like your closets, bathroom storage and medicine cabinets should be cleaned out at least once a year to throw away bottles of dried-out products and any expired medication — prescription or over-the-counter. Follow these guidelines for disposing of medication properly. When that’s done, remove everything from each storage space for dusting and wiping clean, then get rid of any worn or tattered towels and any items you no longer use or need. 14. Flip and/or rotate mattresses With many consumers opting for pillow-top mattresses, flipping mattresses regularly may be a thing of the past. But if you have a traditional, non-pillow-top mattress, it’s a good idea to flip it over and turn it 180 degrees at least once a year, to slow the wear and tear. For pillow-tops and memory-foam mattresses, simply do the 180-degree step. (Check all tags on the mattresses, though: Some may have different recommendations.) 15. Wash or replace pillows After you’ve tackled the mattresses, wash all your pillows on the sanitary cycle. Or head to your favorite home store (or online retailer) and purchase brand-new pillows every time you deep clean. This prevents dust mites and other microscopic creatures from giving your allergies and skin any unnecessary drama. Are you ready to take on spring cleaning? Now that you have an action plan in place, schedule a day or two to work your way through the list. When it’s all over, your clean and organized home will be your favorite place all over again. For more home tips — whether organizing, sprucing up a space or boosting curb appeal — check out our blog. It is loaded with advice, gleaned from the expert agents of Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty
It’s true: A clean, uncluttered home makes for healthier living, both physically and mentally. Spring is a natural time to accomplish some household chores and show those dust bunnies who’s boss. Here are 15 tasks to cross off your spring-cleaning checklist that will help get your home in tip-top shape. (Insider FYI: These are especially essential if you are selling your home and preparing it for a photoshoot, open house or private showing.) 1. Dust every surface and everything on it Whether you’re using a dust rag, feather duster, furniture polish or a combination of all three, dusting all flat surfaces is something that’s probably done on a regular basis. But, really look at each room and focus on where dust can hide. As you remove items to dust tables and other furnishings, dust off each individual book, knickknack and decorative accessory, too. Start with the highest items in each room — don’t forget to look atop high cabinets and other tall pieces of furniture — so that when the dust settles, you can catch everything with a broom or vacuum cleaner. 2. Replace HVAC filters and clean vents Most people replace air filters once a month, but some high-quality filters need to be replaced only every two or three. Either way, get in the habit of setting a reminder alarm at the appropriate interval to change out every filter. This helps you breathe easier, keeps odors at bay and helps increase the efficiency and overall life of your heaters and air conditioners. While you’re at it, vacuum or wipe off every air duct in the house, too. 3. Vacuum absolutely everything Vacuuming floors, carpets and rugs is a no-brainer, but don’t forget all those hidden and hard-to-reach places that may need your vacuum cleaner’s long wand attachments to reach. Ceiling fans, air ducts, HVAC returns, blinds, plantation shutters, the tops of cabinets and furniture all hide dust accumulation, so start with the vacuum cleaner and then follow up with dust rags or wipes to get every last speck. It’s not a bad idea to vacuum one last time after the dust has a chance to settle. 4. Shampoo or steam carpets, rugs and upholstery Carpets, rugs and upholstery will all pop back to life with a once-a-year shampooing or steam cleaning. Check your product labels and care instructions first, but this is also an ideal time to apply Scotchgard or similar sprays to protect against stains and spills. While you’re at it, throw all the pet beds into the deep-clean cycle on your washer, too. 5. Dust the blinds and shutters Before cleaning your windows (spoiler alert: that’s coming up), use a feather duster or vacuum cleaner to remove dust from blinds or the slats in plantation shutters and other non-fabric window treatments. By taking this step first, you won’t muss up the windows when they’re freshly cleaned. 6. Polish all the metal hardware From doorknobs to drawer pulls, metal hardware exists in nearly every room in the home. Polishing gloves and wipes are an easy way to buff silver and other metals back to like-new condition. 7. Wash windows and screens Even if you’re doing every other to-do item on this list yourself, window cleaning is something that’s always nice to hire out to professionals, especially if you have large windows or hard-to-reach ones that require ladders, scaffolding or other means to reach. If you do them yourself, a squeegee with a six-foot (or longer) extension pole will be your best friend. Make sure to clean both sides of each window for the most sparkling results. Likewise, it defeats the purpose of getting fresh air if you open your windows and the screens are full of pollen, dust, animal hair and dander, leaves, cobwebs or any number of foreign substances. Remove screens and spray them down with a hose, then prop upright to dry completely before reinstalling. 8. Deep-clean the floors Whether it’s steam-cleaning carpets and rugs, giving a thorough wash and polish to tile and stone, or cleaning hardwoods with a protective oil soap, deep-cleaning every floor surface can have a dramatic effect on a room’s appearance. Pay special attention to portions of the floor that are under furniture, in corners or other parts that might easily get overlooked with regular cleaning. 9. Wipe down walls and baseboards Use a damp, non-abrasive cloth (spot-test a hidden area first!) to clean off scuffed baseboards and walls. Magic erasers can be, well, magical in many of these applications. 10. Organize your closets Decluttering your closets during spring cleaning is an ideal companion project to making your home more livable. If you haven’t worn certain clothes, footwear, jewelry or other fashion accessories in a while, assess whether you still like them — and whether they’re still in style — and donate anything you no longer enjoy. For everything else, try on each item to make sure it still fits. If it doesn’t — you guessed it — add it to the donation pile, too. 11. Clean the kitchen appliances Every appliance in your kitchen needs regular cleaning, but at least once a year, you should remove everything from the refrigerator (toss anything that’s expired) and wash every shelf and compartment — in the dishwasher, if possible. Clean your oven and stovetop next. Then look at small countertop appliances to make sure they’re all clean and free of old food, from toaster ovens to microwaves and every little gadget in between. 12. Freshen the garbage disposal A sour garbage disposal can make an otherwise clean kitchen smell not-so-fresh. Pour in white vinegar, let it sit for 10 minutes, then run the disposal, throwing in some ice cubes toward the end to keep the blades sharp. Or you can purchase special foaming cleaners that are specific to garbage disposals for a burst of fresh air that permeates the entire room. 13. Organize the bathroom cabinets Much like your closets, bathroom storage and medicine cabinets should be cleaned out at least once a year to throw away bottles of dried-out products and any expired medication — prescription or over-the-counter. Follow these guidelines for disposing of medication properly. When that’s done, remove everything from each storage space for dusting and wiping clean, then get rid of any worn or tattered towels and any items you no longer use or need. 14. Flip and/or rotate mattresses With many consumers opting for pillow-top mattresses, flipping mattresses regularly may be a thing of the past. But if you have a traditional, non-pillow-top mattress, it’s a good idea to flip it over and turn it 180 degrees at least once a year, to slow the wear and tear. For pillow-tops and memory-foam mattresses, simply do the 180-degree step. (Check all tags on the mattresses, though: Some may have different recommendations.) 15. Wash or replace pillows After you’ve tackled the mattresses, wash all your pillows on the sanitary cycle. Or head to your favorite home store (or online retailer) and purchase brand-new pillows every time you deep clean. This prevents dust mites and other microscopic creatures from giving your allergies and skin any unnecessary drama. Are you ready to take on spring cleaning? Now that you have an action plan in place, schedule a day or two to work your way through the list. When it’s all over, your clean and organized home will be your favorite place all over again. For more home tips — whether organizing, sprucing up a space or boosting curb appeal — check out our blog. It is loaded with advice, gleaned from the expert agents of Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty The post The Clean Sheet: The spring cleaning checklist you need for a happier, healthier home appeared first on B - the blog.
In many homes, the staircase is a major focal point — the first thing you see when you walk through the front door, and something that can really set the tone for the rest of the interior. If your staircase is falling flat — or you want to wow at an open house, because you’re selling your home — consider some strategic changes that will elevate your entry space. Read on to learn about ways big and small that will enhance your staircase’s design — and give your guests a magnificent, memorable welcome. 1. Think metals and metallics Though stairs are traditionally wood, think outside the box when it comes to the materials. Switch wooden treads for metal — think raised-diamond patterns or grated styles — to infuse your space with an industrial feel, all while making for a more practical staircase that can withstand the toughest wear and tear. Or, change out the wood balusters for metal ones, such as wrought iron or stainless steel. A bigger idea: Consider installing an all-metal, open staircase for a final product that juxtaposes heavy-duty materials with an airy design. 2. Introduce circles or curves While straight or angular staircases are a classic architectural feature, a curved staircase can lend a more elegant or energetic air. Spiral, circular or curved staircases create a statement as soon as you walk through the front door, making them the ideal option for a foyer that sets the tone for the rest of the house. If you have a very large foyer, consider two curved staircases that mirror each other and meet at the top, for a grand but graceful look. Even if you don’t install a curved stair, consider adding curved balusters to give the illusion of a flowing, statement-making staircase. 3. Reconsider the railing If your staircase is already in place but you want to make a change, upgrade just the railing for a totally refreshed look — without in-depth renovations or construction. An intricate wrought-iron railing or balusters can lend some opulence to your home, while traditional tapered balusters will infuse the space with a classic, Craftsman look. Or, consider clear glass panels instead of balusters altogether, to add a contemporary edge to your existing staircase. No matter what, you can achieve an entirely new look without investing in a more extensive redo. 4. Pump it up with paint If you don’t want to remodel your staircase but would love a new look, adding a fresh coat of paint will make it pop. From painting the balusters and walls to repainting all the stair components themselves — treads, risers, handrails, everything — the ways you can change up your space with vibrant hues are nearly endless. Consider adding a periwinkle blue shade — the Pantone 2022 color of the year — to the stairs for a bright, vivid way to lead to your upper level. If your flooring has a light finish, opt for a rich navy hue or a saturated black or gray, to create a stark contrast. You can even paint the stairs, walls and railings the same color — or variations of the same hue — to create a bold, monochromatic look. 5. Roll out a statement-making runner A wool runner up the stairs is a relatively affordable and low-maintenance way to make a big impact. From geometric styles with stripes and zigzags to abstract options inspired by watercolors, there are countless carpet styles to choose from. Opt for solid, brightly-hued carpeting to make a bold and unapologetic statement, or unleash an animal print such as antelope, leopard or tiger. Whatever you choose, just be sure it has a low-enough pile that it won’t show wear quickly. 6. Reflect on what mirrors can do To make your entry hall look bigger and brighter — and a lot more glamorous — consider leveraging mirrors. Whether you opt for sheets of it, installed floor-to-ceiling on the walls, or hang multiple mirrors on the wall up the staircase, the reflections will bounce light throughout the space and make it feel airier and more open — making mirrors another perfect way to transform your space without undertaking major renovations. 7. Go for a gallery wall If you like your staircase the way it is, but are still looking for a change, adding lots of artwork will pump up its volume. Creating a dynamic and stylish gallery wall is an easy way to totally transform the look of your staircase without making any significant changes or undertaking any expensive upgrades. Ideas to try: For the various art pieces, choose frames in differing designs but all the same shade — black or gold, for example, which make the boldest statements — and hang them along the staircase for visual interest. Mix the types of art — paintings, prints and photographs, for example — for the most eclectic look. Upgrade your staircase Staircases can make or break the overall feeling of a home, so don’t underestimate their impact. And, if your current home has a less-than-perfect vibe for your life now, get in touch with the industry’s finest agents — all at Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty. Any one of them can help you find the perfect home for the way you live now.
In many homes, the staircase is a major focal point — the first thing you see when you walk through the front door, and something that can really set the tone for the rest of the interior. If your staircase is falling flat — or you want to wow at an open house, because you’re selling your home — consider some strategic changes that will elevate your entry space. Read on to learn about ways big and small that will enhance your staircase’s design — and give your guests a magnificent, memorable welcome. 1. Think metals and metallics Though stairs are traditionally wood, think outside the box when it comes to the materials. Switch wooden treads for metal — think raised-diamond patterns or grated styles — to infuse your space with an industrial feel, all while making for a more practical staircase that can withstand the toughest wear and tear. Or, change out the wood balusters for metal ones, such as wrought iron or stainless steel. A bigger idea: Consider installing an all-metal, open staircase for a final product that juxtaposes heavy-duty materials with an airy design. 2. Introduce circles or curves While straight or angular staircases are a classic architectural feature, a curved staircase can lend a more elegant or energetic air. Spiral, circular or curved staircases create a statement as soon as you walk through the front door, making them the ideal option for a foyer that sets the tone for the rest of the house. If you have a very large foyer, consider two curved staircases that mirror each other and meet at the top, for a grand but graceful look. Even if you don’t install a curved stair, consider adding curved balusters to give the illusion of a flowing, statement-making staircase. 3. Reconsider the railing If your staircase is already in place but you want to make a change, upgrade just the railing for a totally refreshed look — without in-depth renovations or construction. An intricate wrought-iron railing or balusters can lend some opulence to your home, while traditional tapered balusters will infuse the space with a classic, Craftsman look. Or, consider clear glass panels instead of balusters altogether, to add a contemporary edge to your existing staircase. No matter what, you can achieve an entirely new look without investing in a more extensive redo. 4. Pump it up with paint If you don’t want to remodel your staircase but would love a new look, adding a fresh coat of paint will make it pop. From painting the balusters and walls to repainting all the stair components themselves — treads, risers, handrails, everything — the ways you can change up your space with vibrant hues are nearly endless. Consider adding a periwinkle blue shade — the Pantone 2022 color of the year — to the stairs for a bright, vivid way to lead to your upper level. If your flooring has a light finish, opt for a rich navy hue or a saturated black or gray, to create a stark contrast. You can even paint the stairs, walls and railings the same color — or variations of the same hue — to create a bold, monochromatic look. 5. Roll out a statement-making runner A wool runner up the stairs is a relatively affordable and low-maintenance way to make a big impact. From geometric styles with stripes and zigzags to abstract options inspired by watercolors, there are countless carpet styles to choose from. Opt for solid, brightly-hued carpeting to make a bold and unapologetic statement, or unleash an animal print such as antelope, leopard or tiger. Whatever you choose, just be sure it has a low-enough pile that it won’t show wear quickly. 6. Reflect on what mirrors can do To make your entry hall look bigger and brighter — and a lot more glamorous — consider leveraging mirrors. Whether you opt for sheets of it, installed floor-to-ceiling on the walls, or hang multiple mirrors on the wall up the staircase, the reflections will bounce light throughout the space and make it feel airier and more open — making mirrors another perfect way to transform your space without undertaking major renovations. 7. Go for a gallery wall If you like your staircase the way it is, but are still looking for a change, adding lots of artwork will pump up its volume. Creating a dynamic and stylish gallery wall is an easy way to totally transform the look of your staircase without making any significant changes or undertaking any expensive upgrades. Ideas to try: For the various art pieces, choose frames in differing designs but all the same shade — black or gold, for example, which make the boldest statements — and hang them along the staircase for visual interest. Mix the types of art — paintings, prints and photographs, for example — for the most eclectic look. Upgrade your staircase Staircases can make or break the overall feeling of a home, so don’t underestimate their impact. And, if your current home has a less-than-perfect vibe for your life now, get in touch with the industry’s finest agents — all at Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty. Any one of them can help you find the perfect home for the way you live now. The post Stepping it up: 7 tricks for upgrading your staircase 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 February 18, 2022. FROM MY PERSPECTIVE If the real estate industry ever gets its full-length feature film, it will be a thriller — and I know about 400 stars who deserve top billing. They are the agents of Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty. In one of the hottest, most challenging markets in our brokerage’s 62-year history, they continue to zig, zag, adapt and excel. In fact, for 2021, they surpassed our own projection of total sales volume and came in at a blockbuster $3 billion. I’d like to shine some light on the ones who had a year they will never forget: Our top team is once again the Faisal Halum Group, with Faisal Halum, Bill Churchill, Jeanne Milligan and Noora Bass. Our top individual is Tyler Thomas, who is in our Ranch and Land Division. Tyler is also our overall top producer, companywide. It gets no better than these expert agents. Their colleagues across our offices had a golden year, too: In our Fort Worth office: Top team: The Spann Group (Jeremy Spann, Laura Spann, Michelle Stum, James Pederson, Carol Van Hook). Top individual: Adrianne Holland. For our Lakewood office: Top team: Sayre Hettrick Group (Kevin Sayre, Karen Hettrick, George Hettrick). Top individual: Becky Oliver. At our North office, in Plano: Top team: Winchester Steitle Group (Patti Winchester, Maureen Steitle, Amy Miller, Cami Rodriguez). Top individual: Linda Baker. For our Southlake office: Top team: Nancy Dennis Team (Nancy Dennis, Jana Fisher). Top individual: Kim Bedwell. In our Turtle Creek office, in Dallas: Top team: Faisal Halum Group (Faisal Halum, Bill Churchill, Jeanne Milligan, Noora Bass.) Top individual: Pogir. In our Ranch and Land division: Top team: Burgher Ray Ranch Group (David Burgher, Harlan Ray, Clay Bebee, Barbara Kurilecz, Connor Hunt, Davis Walker). Top individual: Tyler Thomas. There are many more awards, and I want you to come see them all at briggsfreeman.com/top. Behind this stellar cast, too, is a crew of superstar assistants, staffers and executives — and the very best clients in the world. For all of us, I thank you. You make this movie a lot of fun. 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 February 18, 2022. FROM MY PERSPECTIVE If the real estate industry ever gets its full-length feature film, it will be a thriller — and I know about 400 stars who deserve top billing. They are the agents of Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty. In one of the hottest, most challenging markets in our brokerage’s 62-year history, they continue to zig, zag, adapt and excel. In fact, for 2021, they surpassed our own projection of total sales volume and came in at a blockbuster $3 billion. I’d like to shine some light on the ones who had a year they will never forget: Our top team is once again the Faisal Halum Group, with Faisal Halum, Bill Churchill, Jeanne Milligan and Noora Bass. Our top individual is Tyler Thomas, who is in our Ranch and Land Division. Tyler is also our overall top producer, companywide. It gets no better than these expert agents. Their colleagues across our offices had a golden year, too: In our Fort Worth office: Top team: The Spann Group (Jeremy Spann, Laura Spann, Michelle Stum, James Pederson, Carol Van Hook). Top individual: Adrianne Holland. For our Lakewood office: Top team: Sayre Hettrick Group (Kevin Sayre, Karen Hettrick, George Hettrick). Top individual: Becky Oliver. At our North office, in Plano: Top team: Winchester Steitle Group (Patti Winchester, Maureen Steitle, Amy Miller, Cami Rodriguez). Top individual: Linda Baker. For our Southlake office: Top team: Nancy Dennis Team (Nancy Dennis, Jana Fisher). Top individual: Kim Bedwell. In our Turtle Creek office, in Dallas: Top team: Faisal Halum Group (Faisal Halum, Bill Churchill, Jeanne Milligan, Noora Bass.) Top individual: Pogir. In our Ranch and Land division: Top team: Burgher Ray Ranch Group (David Burgher, Harlan Ray, Clay Bebee, Barbara Kurilecz, Connor Hunt, Davis Walker). Top individual: Tyler Thomas. There are many more awards, and I want you to come see them all at briggsfreeman.com/top. Behind this stellar cast, too, is a crew of superstar assistants, staffers and executives — and the very best clients in the world. For all of us, I thank you. You make this movie a lot of fun. Robbie Briggs CEO Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty [email protected] The post CEO Robbie Briggs: If real estate were a movie, these would be its superstars appeared first on B - the blog.
An outdoor space — or multiple spaces, if you’re lucky — can make a big difference in the enjoyment of your home. If you have grass, a terrace, a balcony, a covered patio or a combination, you want it all to be as inviting and stylish as it can be. But, upgrading the outdoors into an area that will wow your guests — and make you want to spend all your time there — doesn’t have to be complicated. Adding just a few unexpected features can help create the serene, chic space of your dreams. Here are some alfresco ideas that will take you one step closer to that perfect outdoor space. 1. Put up something gorgeous and green You can never have too many plants — not even in your already-green garden. A living wall — also called a green wall or vertical garden — is a great way to delineate a certain area of your backyard and add some architectural interest. A living wall is a wall covered with plants that are growing in containers or on special material attached to the wall. Once the wall is up, you can hang planters from the ridges on the wall and move them around, according to your fancy. For extra ease, set up an automatic watering system that will keep your flowers and plants alive, even when you’re out of town. 2. Turn up your outdoor lighting game If you’re going to spend all the evenings you can hanging out with guests or family in your backyard, the right lighting is so important. Not only should outdoor lights make it bright enough to see, read or do whatever else you plan outside after sundown, they should also create a pleasant atmosphere. Opt for warm-glow light bulbs in yellow and orange tones, rather than colder white ones, and get creative with your light sources. You can mix it up beautifully with wall lights, string lights, hanging lights, lanterns — the possibilities are many! 3. Add a dreamy daybed When it comes to outdoor seating, you’ve likely got a dining table and chairs already. That said, having other types of seating outside can make your deck, garden or patio feel more like an open-air home, where every family member can take up an area and feel extra-comfortable. A daybed not only creates extra seating in that way, but can also look quite beautiful, especially if you choose one with a canopy, and enhance it with a selection of cushions. One or two people can lie on it, or it can make a fantastic substitute for a couch during a party. 4. Roll out an outdoor rug If your outdoor space has a concrete or tile floor, it may feel a bit cold sometimes. In that case, an outdoor area rug can warm things up and make your outdoor space look even more homelike. Make sure to pick a rug big enough to extend out from under your seating, table or daybed — depending on what you plan to place on top of it. 5. Install a playhouse for the kids Whether you have children of your own or you sometimes host friends’ and family’s children, a playhouse can really add to your outdoor décor. Little ones will love playing in one of these pretend houses, and they go just as nicely on grass as they do on decking. 6. Tie in to your interior décor If your house opens directly onto the backyard space, try blurring the lines between the two to create a sense of harmony. For this, use some of the same materials and color schemes for your outdoor space that already feature inside your home. That way, indoors and outdoors will seamlessly complement each other, creating the illusion of one big, boundaryless space. 7. Make it a movie under the stars Who doesn’t love an outdoor movie night? Well, prepare your blankets and popcorn, because creating a cinema outside your home has never been easier. All you need is a projector and a screen — which could even be one of your home’s walls, if they’re a light-enough color. Now all that’s left to do is for everyone to agree on what to watch — easier said than done, we know! 8. Calm things down with water Water features have a way of elevating any space — and lowering stress. You could install a small fountain, for example, which does wonders for that serene feel. A soothing spa tub makes another very welcome addition, as do koi ponds and even water lilies in a simple pot. And, though not water features per se, outdoor showers and bathtubs not only look luxurious but they’re also perfect for a quick refresh after a day spent gardening, or after a dip in the pool. 9. Light a flickering fire To add to the cozy feel of your outdoor space and warm up your guests on those chilly mid-season evenings — or you on those crisp mornings — nothing beats a fire pit. These come in so many styles, from a rustic stone pit to a modern metallic one with sleek lines, and they are sure to bring your backyard to the next level. There’s just something about a fire pit that brings people together. (Think grown-up summer camp.) Elevate Your Backyard Need advice on what’s hot — and what’s not — when it comes to backyards and outdoor spaces? Talk to an agent at Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty, anytime. They are the experts in all things home, whether you are selling or buying or improving the one you already enjoy.
An outdoor space — or multiple spaces, if you’re lucky — can make a big difference in the enjoyment of your home. If you have grass, a terrace, a balcony, a covered patio or a combination, you want it all to be as inviting and stylish as it can be. But, upgrading the outdoors into an area that will wow your guests — and make you want to spend all your time there — doesn’t have to be complicated. Adding just a few unexpected features can help create the serene, chic space of your dreams. Here are some alfresco ideas that will take you one step closer to that perfect outdoor space. 1. Put up something gorgeous and green You can never have too many plants — not even in your already-green garden. A living wall — also called a green wall or vertical garden — is a great way to delineate a certain area of your backyard and add some architectural interest. A living wall is a wall covered with plants that are growing in containers or on special material attached to the wall. Once the wall is up, you can hang planters from the ridges on the wall and move them around, according to your fancy. For extra ease, set up an automatic watering system that will keep your flowers and plants alive, even when you’re out of town. 2. Turn up your outdoor lighting game If you’re going to spend all the evenings you can hanging out with guests or family in your backyard, the right lighting is so important. Not only should outdoor lights make it bright enough to see, read or do whatever else you plan outside after sundown, they should also create a pleasant atmosphere. Opt for warm-glow light bulbs in yellow and orange tones, rather than colder white ones, and get creative with your light sources. You can mix it up beautifully with wall lights, string lights, hanging lights, lanterns — the possibilities are many! 3. Add a dreamy daybed When it comes to outdoor seating, you’ve likely got a dining table and chairs already. That said, having other types of seating outside can make your deck, garden or patio feel more like an open-air home, where every family member can take up an area and feel extra-comfortable. A daybed not only creates extra seating in that way, but can also look quite beautiful, especially if you choose one with a canopy, and enhance it with a selection of cushions. One or two people can lie on it, or it can make a fantastic substitute for a couch during a party. 4. Roll out an outdoor rug If your outdoor space has a concrete or tile floor, it may feel a bit cold sometimes. In that case, an outdoor area rug can warm things up and make your outdoor space look even more homelike. Make sure to pick a rug big enough to extend out from under your seating, table or daybed — depending on what you plan to place on top of it. 5. Install a playhouse for the kids Whether you have children of your own or you sometimes host friends’ and family’s children, a playhouse can really add to your outdoor décor. Little ones will love playing in one of these pretend houses, and they go just as nicely on grass as they do on decking. 6. Tie in to your interior décor If your house opens directly onto the backyard space, try blurring the lines between the two to create a sense of harmony. For this, use some of the same materials and color schemes for your outdoor space that already feature inside your home. That way, indoors and outdoors will seamlessly complement each other, creating the illusion of one big, boundaryless space. 7. Make it a movie under the stars Who doesn’t love an outdoor movie night? Well, prepare your blankets and popcorn, because creating a cinema outside your home has never been easier. All you need is a projector and a screen — which could even be one of your home’s walls, if they’re a light-enough color. Now all that’s left to do is for everyone to agree on what to watch — easier said than done, we know! 8. Calm things down with water Water features have a way of elevating any space — and lowering stress. You could install a small fountain, for example, which does wonders for that serene feel. A soothing spa tub makes another very welcome addition, as do koi ponds and even water lilies in a simple pot. And, though not water features per se, outdoor showers and bathtubs not only look luxurious but they’re also perfect for a quick refresh after a day spent gardening, or after a dip in the pool. 9. Light a flickering fire To add to the cozy feel of your outdoor space and warm up your guests on those chilly mid-season evenings — or you on those crisp mornings — nothing beats a fire pit. These come in so many styles, from a rustic stone pit to a modern metallic one with sleek lines, and they are sure to bring your backyard to the next level. There’s just something about a fire pit that brings people together. (Think grown-up summer camp.) Elevate Your Backyard Need advice on what’s hot — and what’s not — when it comes to backyards and outdoor spaces? Talk to an agent at Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty, anytime. They are the experts in all things home, whether you are selling or buying or improving the one you already enjoy. The post Next-level living: 9 ways to elevate your outdoor space or backyard 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 February 11, 2022. FROM MY PERSPECTIVE There is a real estate blog out there that I bet you’ll love, even if you aren’t buying or selling a home. It is briggsfreeman.com/blog, and we work hard filling it with stories from our world, including home-design trends, the hot neighborhoods in North Texas and, yes, insider info if you are buying or selling a house. It’s also where we occasionally brag about our agents and all the awards they win. There are lots of stories to scroll. Some are quick and easy reads; some are deeper dives. All of them are easily shareable to your own Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest accounts. Just a sampling? We’ve got posts with the hottest new kitchen colors. We’ve got posts about getting your house ready for sale. We’ve got the best places to live in Fort Worth if you’re into golf, history or nature. There are posts about architecture styles, the trends in hardwood floors and how to spend a weekend in Dallas. One of my favorite posts is a story that highlights the many things invented in North Texas. You know, I have always said that we don’t just sell properties — we sell lifestyles. The homes, high-rises, ranches and land we represent are just the ultimate manifestations of the lives that unfold there. The blog is all about that. Come see: briggsfreeman.com/blog. 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 February 11, 2022. FROM MY PERSPECTIVE There is a real estate blog out there that I bet you’ll love, even if you aren’t buying or selling a home. It is briggsfreeman.com/blog, and we work hard filling it with stories from our world, including home-design trends, the hot neighborhoods in North Texas and, yes, insider info if you are buying or selling a house. It’s also where we occasionally brag about our agents and all the awards they win. There are lots of stories to scroll. Some are quick and easy reads; some are deeper dives. All of them are easily shareable to your own Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest accounts. Just a sampling? We’ve got posts with the hottest new kitchen colors. We’ve got posts about getting your house ready for sale. We’ve got the best places to live in Fort Worth if you’re into golf, history or nature. There are posts about architecture styles, the trends in hardwood floors and how to spend a weekend in Dallas. One of my favorite posts is a story that highlights the many things invented in North Texas. You know, I have always said that we don’t just sell properties — we sell lifestyles. The homes, high-rises, ranches and land we represent are just the ultimate manifestations of the lives that unfold there. The blog is all about that. Come see: briggsfreeman.com/blog. Robbie Briggs CEO Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty [email protected] The post CEO Robbie Briggs on the place to be, whether you’re buying or selling a home — or not appeared first on B - the blog.
When you’re ready to buy or sell a house, finding the right real estate agent may seem a little daunting — but it’s crucial to the process. At Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty, we know real estate inside and out, and have since 1960. Especially with the current real estate reality — a hot market that may not normalize for a while — it’s more important than ever to work with a professional agent whether you are buying or selling or both. First, we’ll define buyer’s agent and seller’s agent — the two basic types — then you’ll read on for our tips to make your next real estate transaction the very best it can be. What is a buyer’s agent? A buyer’s agent is the professional who connects you with properties that align with your wants, needs and budget. When they represent you as the purchaser of a home, they are legally bound to act on your behalf and in your best interest throughout the transaction process. In Texas, agents cannot act as dual agents — meaning, they cannot represent both the buyer and the seller in a transaction — so you have extra assurance that your buyer’s agent is working to get you the best terms. What is a seller’s agent? A seller’s agent, on the other hand, is the person who lists your own home or property for sale. This includes advising you about the fair market value; marketing your home on the multiple listing service (MLS) and by other methods (social media, digital ads, print publications; whatever ways the agent feels are best), working directly with potential buyers, negotiating the contract’s terms and managing the entire transaction from start to finish. Your 10-point checklist for choosing a real estate agent Experience. Licenses and certifications. Referrals, reviews and references. Goal alignment. These are a few of the items that should be at the top of your list, each giving great insight into what a real estate agent actually can do for you. 1. Meet multiple agents Love at first sight may be the stuff of romantic-comedy legend, but as much as you may like the first agent you meet, it’s in your best interest to meet with at least two — ideally, three to five — to make sure your goals and personalities align. Start online by comparing agents, then set up meetings or video calls to get to know each one. Whether you are buying, selling or both, you’re about to make a major financial transaction: You need someone on your side who you can trust and who you can speak freely to about your wants, needs and concerns. 2. Ask a lot of questions Once you’ve selected some agents to interview, make a list of questions that are important to you. Some must-ask questions include how long they’ve been in real estate, whether they typically work with buyers or sellers, how many clients they work with at the same time and whether they have a particular specialty. The more questions you ask, the more comfortable you’ll feel with your final agent selection. 3. Transparency When interviewing potential real estate agents, ask them about their approach to a home’s flaws. An agent who praises a property and oversells certain features is less beneficial to you in the long run than one who will be straightforward and honest. Transparent agents may point out any potential issues of which they’re already aware (such as cracked foundations, water stains on ceilings or anything that immediately signals a potential problem) and can help you make the right home-buying decision. 4. Experience Though it’s not an absolute requirement, hiring a full-time real estate agent will almost always be your best bet — though there are great part-time agents who will also hustle on your behalf. But ask the question. Beyond that, find out how many years they’ve been in the industry and how long they’ve been a licensed agent; whether they’re part of any local, state or national real estate organizations; and how many transactions they’ve completed in the past year (or whatever timeframe gives you the highest comfort level). 5. Licenses and certifications Ask for an agent’s license and any other certifications, to make sure they’re indeed qualified (and legally set up) to act on your behalf in a real estate transaction. 6. Referrals, references and reviews When seeking out a professional real estate agent, ask for referrals from other people in the business that you trust: mortgage brokers; real estate attorneys; and other industry professionals. Chances are, if someone you trust recommends an agent, you can likely bank on their expertise and professional opinion. Ask for references from an agent’s previous clients and reach out to them, if possible, with specific questions about their experiences. Read online reviews about the agent and the brokerage or company they work for, too. If you come across any negative reviews, check whether the bad experience was due to the agent specifically, or due to issues beyond their control. 7. Communication style Do you prefer to communicate via text, e-mail or phone? It may seem simple, but if you’re able to respond quicker to a text message than to a phone call in making a decision relevant to the process, it’s important that your agent respects and adheres to, whenever possible, your preferred method of communication. And, no matter the format of your interactions, an agent should always be able to answer questions clearly and confidently, or let you know they need to ask someone else to confirm, rather than give you bad or incomplete information. 8. Market and neighborhood knowledge In addition to asking your agent how many years they’ve been licensed, it’s good to find out how well they know the city you’re moving to. More specifically, find out whether they specialize in a specific neighborhood or neighborhoods that are of interest to you. An agent with in-depth experience in a particular area can provide insight that other agents may not. 9. Personal compatibility No matter how good an agent is or how successful their track record is, it’s usually best to work with someone you get along with on a personal level. They don’t have to share every interest and hobby you have, of course, but a little friendly rapport goes a long way in elevating the experience from good to great. 10. Marketing your home If you are selling your home, ask the selling agent how they plan to market it. Will they limit it to an MLS listing? Or, will they also promote your property on social media, through direct marketing, open houses and/or other methods? Ask them what has worked best in the past and talk about other homes they’ve sold and the marketing tools they implemented. Find the right agent for you Armed with these topics of discussion, you’ll have the tools you need to find the best agent for your real estate transactions, whether it’s selling your current home, buying a new one or both. One great place to start? Right here.
When you’re ready to buy or sell a house, finding the right real estate agent may seem a little daunting — but it’s crucial to the process. At Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty, we know real estate inside and out, and have since 1960. Especially with the current real estate reality — a hot market that may not normalize for a while — it’s more important than ever to work with a professional agent whether you are buying or selling or both. First, we’ll define buyer’s agent and seller’s agent — the two basic types — then you’ll read on for our tips to make your next real estate transaction the very best it can be. What is a buyer’s agent? A buyer’s agent is the professional who connects you with properties that align with your wants, needs and budget. When they represent you as the purchaser of a home, they are legally bound to act on your behalf and in your best interest throughout the transaction process. In Texas, agents cannot act as dual agents — meaning, they cannot represent both the buyer and the seller in a transaction — so you have extra assurance that your buyer’s agent is working to get you the best terms. What is a seller’s agent? A seller’s agent, on the other hand, is the person who lists your own home or property for sale. This includes advising you about the fair market value; marketing your home on the multiple listing service (MLS) and by other methods (social media, digital ads, print publications; whatever ways the agent feels are best), working directly with potential buyers, negotiating the contract’s terms and managing the entire transaction from start to finish. Your 10-point checklist for choosing a real estate agent Experience. Licenses and certifications. Referrals, reviews and references. Goal alignment. These are a few of the items that should be at the top of your list, each giving great insight into what a real estate agent actually can do for you. 1. Meet multiple agents Love at first sight may be the stuff of romantic-comedy legend, but as much as you may like the first agent you meet, it’s in your best interest to meet with at least two — ideally, three to five — to make sure your goals and personalities align. Start online by comparing agents, then set up meetings or video calls to get to know each one. Whether you are buying, selling or both, you’re about to make a major financial transaction: You need someone on your side who you can trust and who you can speak freely to about your wants, needs and concerns. 2. Ask a lot of questions Once you’ve selected some agents to interview, make a list of questions that are important to you. Some must-ask questions include how long they’ve been in real estate, whether they typically work with buyers or sellers, how many clients they work with at the same time and whether they have a particular specialty. The more questions you ask, the more comfortable you’ll feel with your final agent selection. 3. Transparency When interviewing potential real estate agents, ask them about their approach to a home’s flaws. An agent who praises a property and oversells certain features is less beneficial to you in the long run than one who will be straightforward and honest. Transparent agents may point out any potential issues of which they’re already aware (such as cracked foundations, water stains on ceilings or anything that immediately signals a potential problem) and can help you make the right home-buying decision. 4. Experience Though it’s not an absolute requirement, hiring a full-time real estate agent will almost always be your best bet — though there are great part-time agents who will also hustle on your behalf. But ask the question. Beyond that, find out how many years they’ve been in the industry and how long they’ve been a licensed agent; whether they’re part of any local, state or national real estate organizations; and how many transactions they’ve completed in the past year (or whatever timeframe gives you the highest comfort level). 5. Licenses and certifications Ask for an agent’s license and any other certifications, to make sure they’re indeed qualified (and legally set up) to act on your behalf in a real estate transaction. 6. Referrals, references and reviews When seeking out a professional real estate agent, ask for referrals from other people in the business that you trust: mortgage brokers; real estate attorneys; and other industry professionals. Chances are, if someone you trust recommends an agent, you can likely bank on their expertise and professional opinion. Ask for references from an agent’s previous clients and reach out to them, if possible, with specific questions about their experiences. Read online reviews about the agent and the brokerage or company they work for, too. If you come across any negative reviews, check whether the bad experience was due to the agent specifically, or due to issues beyond their control. 7. Communication style Do you prefer to communicate via text, e-mail or phone? It may seem simple, but if you’re able to respond quicker to a text message than to a phone call in making a decision relevant to the process, it’s important that your agent respects and adheres to, whenever possible, your preferred method of communication. And, no matter the format of your interactions, an agent should always be able to answer questions clearly and confidently, or let you know they need to ask someone else to confirm, rather than give you bad or incomplete information. 8. Market and neighborhood knowledge In addition to asking your agent how many years they’ve been licensed, it’s good to find out how well they know the city you’re moving to. More specifically, find out whether they specialize in a specific neighborhood or neighborhoods that are of interest to you. An agent with in-depth experience in a particular area can provide insight that other agents may not. 9. Personal compatibility No matter how good an agent is or how successful their track record is, it’s usually best to work with someone you get along with on a personal level. They don’t have to share every interest and hobby you have, of course, but a little friendly rapport goes a long way in elevating the experience from good to great. 10. Marketing your home If you are selling your home, ask the selling agent how they plan to market it. Will they limit it to an MLS listing? Or, will they also promote your property on social media, through direct marketing, open houses and/or other methods? Ask them what has worked best in the past and talk about other homes they’ve sold and the marketing tools they implemented. Find the right agent for you Armed with these topics of discussion, you’ll have the tools you need to find the best agent for your real estate transactions, whether it’s selling your current home, buying a new one or both. One great place to start? Right here. The post Perfect match: 10 essential points for choosing the right real estate agent for you appeared first on B - the blog.
This just in: A winter wonderland of décor inside and outside your home isn’t just for the holidays. When winter is in full swing, celebrate it with elegant accents that speak to the season. (Insider tip: If you’re selling your home in the winter and your agent is holding an open house or private tours, these things will add a lot of seasonal ambience — which will make your home feel even more warm and welcoming.) 1. Wreaths and garlands Evergreen and boxwood wreaths and garlands are the perfect holiday-agnostic winter décor to have out until spring has sprung. The rich greens add a natural element to your home — both indoors and out — and help breathe a bit of life into the otherwise cold and barren winter months. The best part about wreaths and garlands? They are timeless symbols of a warm welcome. 2. Candles During the holidays, candles are the perfect way to add a touch of ambience and infuse your space with scents, especially the scrumptious ones such as peppermint and cinnamon. But, once winter has really settled in, opt for scents that speak to the whole season: Notes of cedarwood, patchouli and fig perfectly recall the cozy warmth of the winter. Be sure to choose candles in neutral colors and neutral metallics, to avoid any overtly holiday feel. 3. Table linens Opt for a look that will give your tablescapes a winter-wonderland aesthetic — minus any colors that signal popular holidays. Creamy ivory linens, burnished metallic accents and pops of sage or forest green are the perfect ways to make your dining spaces feel stylishly seasonal. For centerpieces, try a big bowl of metallic baubles or a little forest of bottlebrush trees, on wooden stands, in off-pastels such as corals, pinks and soft greens. Either idea will complement your winter-white linens, superbly. 4. Throw pillows and blankets Throw pillows and blankets are perhaps the easiest way to add real coziness to your home during the cold winter months. Instead of colors, though, play with textures and patterns. Fuzzy faux-fur pillows mixed with sweater-like knit pillows — all in neutral winter shades such as whites, creams and beiges — are ideal options. Chunky knit blankets on sofas and beds are other snuggle-up accents that complement the season. Try shades such as caramel, forest green and heather gray. These versatile options will easily blend with — or perfectly contrast — the rest of your décor. 5. Twinkle lights Using these holiday staples inside rather than outside is a great way to add some warmth to your spaces. Instead of stringing them along doorways or winding them around stair rails, as you might at the holidays, reimagine how you can use their soothing glow. Drape them across a mirror or over a bar cabinet. At your windows, hang special strings of cascading twinkle lights made like curtains, just for that purpose. Fill a clear glass vase with a strand of battery-powered twinkle lights: It’s an instant, gleaming centerpiece. The glow of twinkle lights here and there will add some wonderful coziness to those cold, dark winter nights. Insider tip: If you’re looking for a change that’s bigger than new décor, reach out to Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty today. Our award-winning agents are the experts when it comes to finding dream homes — in any season — in North Texas, across the country or around the world.
This just in: A winter wonderland of décor inside and outside your home isn’t just for the holidays. When winter is in full swing, celebrate it with elegant accents that speak to the season. (Insider tip: If you’re selling your home in the winter and your agent is holding an open house or private tours, these things will add a lot of seasonal ambience — which will make your home feel even more warm and welcoming.) 1. Wreaths and garlands Evergreen and boxwood wreaths and garlands are the perfect holiday-agnostic winter décor to have out until spring has sprung. The rich greens add a natural element to your home — both indoors and out — and help breathe a bit of life into the otherwise cold and barren winter months. The best part about wreaths and garlands? They are timeless symbols of a warm welcome. 2. Candles During the holidays, candles are the perfect way to add a touch of ambience and infuse your space with scents, especially the scrumptious ones such as peppermint and cinnamon. But, once winter has really settled in, opt for scents that speak to the whole season: Notes of cedarwood, patchouli and fig perfectly recall the cozy warmth of the winter. Be sure to choose candles in neutral colors and neutral metallics, to avoid any overtly holiday feel. 3. Table linens Opt for a look that will give your tablescapes a winter-wonderland aesthetic — minus any colors that signal popular holidays. Creamy ivory linens, burnished metallic accents and pops of sage or forest green are the perfect ways to make your dining spaces feel stylishly seasonal. For centerpieces, try a big bowl of metallic baubles or a little forest of bottlebrush trees, on wooden stands, in off-pastels such as corals, pinks and soft greens. Either idea will complement your winter-white linens, superbly. 4. Throw pillows and blankets Throw pillows and blankets are perhaps the easiest way to add real coziness to your home during the cold winter months. Instead of colors, though, play with textures and patterns. Fuzzy faux-fur pillows mixed with sweater-like knit pillows — all in neutral winter shades such as whites, creams and beiges — are ideal options. Chunky knit blankets on sofas and beds are other snuggle-up accents that complement the season. Try shades such as caramel, forest green and heather gray. These versatile options will easily blend with — or perfectly contrast — the rest of your décor. 5. Twinkle lights Using these holiday staples inside rather than outside is a great way to add some warmth to your spaces. Instead of stringing them along doorways or winding them around stair rails, as you might at the holidays, reimagine how you can use their soothing glow. Drape them across a mirror or over a bar cabinet. At your windows, hang special strings of cascading twinkle lights made like curtains, just for that purpose. Fill a clear glass vase with a strand of battery-powered twinkle lights: It’s an instant, gleaming centerpiece. The glow of twinkle lights here and there will add some wonderful coziness to those cold, dark winter nights. Insider tip: If you’re looking for a change that’s bigger than new décor, reach out to Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty today. Our award-winning agents are the experts when it comes to finding dream homes — in any season — in North Texas, across the country or around the world. The post Warming trend: 5 ways to cozy up your home when it’s cold outside appeared first on B - the blog.
Take it from our agents: Smart-home products give you the incredible opportunity of managing your home remotely using your smartphone, tablet or computer. They can make your life more comfortable and efficient by controlling heating and air-conditioning systems, lights, alarms and locks. But, just because you can doesn’t mean you should. With the enormous variety of smart-home products on the market, deciding which ones are actually beneficial can be overwhelming. Our recommendations are based on devices that will help you, personally, and add some value to your home. If you choose to add smart-home features, research highly recommended installers in your area — your Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty agent may know some, too — who can make product recommendations based on their proven experience. We’ve witnessed our clients’ experiences with smart devices and we’ve researched the options on the market. The result? Below are our top eight smart-home upgrades — and five you could avoid. 1. Thermostats that save energy and money Today’s smart thermostats can learn your schedule by tracking your patterns over time. Others are programmable so that you can choose the temperature for different periods during the day. Research proves that smart thermostats yield an energy savings of 9 to 15 percent annually. They’ll also give you the ability to adjust your home’s temperature remotely so that you have an optimal room temperature when you walk through your door. Price range: Expect $70 to $300. 2. Detectors that may save lives Smart carbon dioxide and fire detectors can help keep your family and house safe. If they detect smoke or abnormal Co2 levels, they’ll send an alert to your phone, and they can notify the authorities. They also take on the responsibility of battery checks and they self-test to ensure they’re in proper working order. (No more seasonal checks required.) Price range: About $40 to $60 each, plus installation 3. Speakers that can help around the house Uttering voice commands that control smart devices was once the stuff of science fiction. A smart speaker such as Amazon Echo or Google Home gives you access to a computerized assistant that will obey your wishes and control your smart-home devices, while Amazon’s Alexa, Google’s Assistant or Apple’s Siri provide the ultimate convenience to manipulate your smart surroundings. Price range: Think $30 to $150. 4. Smart locks that can keep things safer Goodbye, keys. Hello, smart locks. These devices offer many advantages. They have multiple programmable functions, such as automatic locking within a certain period after you’ve left the house. Or, say you’ve forgotten to lock the doors and you’re already settled in bed: Lock them remotely from your phone. What’s more, if unauthorized access ever is detected, a siren will sound in your home and a message will be sent to you instantly, as well as to a security-monitoring service if you’re subscribing to one. A side bonus? A keyless entry gives a stylish, modern first impression to anyone coming to your front door. Price range: Typically $150 to $400, plus installation 5. Doorbells that show you who’s calling When the doorbell rings, you can eliminate any mystery of who’s standing outside by simply checking your phone or tablet. Smart doorbells have cameras that will live-stream video to your phone, revealing who is waiting at your door. Some devices allow you to communicate directly with the visitor. Footage can be recorded in a cloud or on a hard drive. Price range: $100 to $2,500, plus installation 6. Lights that can really set a mood Smart lighting is a blend of style and substance. You can display changeable ambiance in your rooms using multicolored, dimmable LEDs, which allow you to control the luminance and temperature of the lights. Smart LED bulbs are controlled remotely, which could eliminate the need for light switches, and they can last for years. Did you forget to turn off the bedroom lights when leaving home? Not to worry, just tell Alexa or Siri. Exterior smart lighting offers similar convenience and style, while adding another layer of security: You can turn any lights on at any time, or program them to come on and off. Price range: Expect $1,000 to $4,000 for a system, depending on size of plan. 7. Garage doors that do more than open You drive up to your garage and the door opens, sensing your presence. No fumbling for the opener or getting out to enter a code: Smart garage-door openers track your location so that when you arrive, the door begins its rise. Some even have laser guidance to assist you in parking perfectly. And, once again, full remote access ensures that this important point of entry can always be kept secure. Price range: Typically $200 to $500 8. Shades that can help heat — or cool Motorized smart shades and drapes offer some money-saving and comfort advantages. They can be programmed to automatically adjust according to the time of day and level of sunlight. Working in unison with your HVAC system, electronic shades can help warm your home by allowing sunlight in, or help cool it by blocking out hot rays. Saying goodbye to cords on blinds and shades also means one less worry when it comes to children and pets. And let’s not forget the convenience of controlling the shades at the tap of a button — with your head resting on your pillow! Price range: Plan on $100 to 250 each, plus installation. The flip side: When easy gets complicated While smart technology can be a great investment for many homeowners, it’s easy to get carried away. Some improvements can downgrade your lifestyle with complicated, expensive solutions to problems that don’t really exist. Many of these fall into the kitchen-appliance category. We’ve put together a shortlist of smart-home upgrades you could skip. 1. Smart refrigerators Smart refrigerators certainly look futuristic, but you’ll pay a significant premium for the design. Added features usually include a touchscreen built into the front — to create grocery lists, show recipes and set expiration dates, for example — and the ability to remotely ‘see’ inside the refrigerator to check if, for instance, eggs are running low. But, these improvements add little to the core functionality of this standard appliance. Furthermore, manufacturers are not providing guarantees regarding software upgrades, so today’s smart refrigerator could be rendered somewhat senseless as technology advances. 2. Smart microwave ovens Microwave ovens have added enormous convenience to our lives, and their basic functions have stood the test of time. But, ask yourself if you really need remote access. When you close the door on a bag of microwave popcorn or a preprepared meal, is it easier to press the button on the front, or does voice control make the experience better, faster or more efficient? Only you can decide. 3. Smart dishwashers You’ve loaded your dishes in a hurry and left for an appointment. Then you realize that you forgot to press the dishwasher’s start button. No worries: Open an app and activate. But, for this convenience, you’ll be spending considerably more. And, if anything does go wrong, you’ll be paying a premium for repairs. Also think: Do you really want push notifications that your rinse agent is getting low? 4. Smart insta-pots The whole idea of producing a wonderful dish quickly is what makes the new insta-pots so popular for families on the go. They are designed to operate quickly, anyway, with little prep time: All you do is add your ingredients, set the cooking time and press start. That’s it. Is Wi-Fi access to your insta-pot going to make your life easier, faster or better? 5. Smart toasters Toasters have always been a remarkably simple device in the kitchen. Yes, you have to keep an eye on them when toasting is underway — but attention should be paid to kitchen appliances when they’re operating, whether they are smart or not. And, is it worth paying more for a toaster with a screen display and a countdown? The bottom line: Go smart and go home Smart technology has produced phenomenal devices that can revolutionize how we live. If you are considering smart-home upgrades, consider the ones that will improve your life — not complicate it. For expert advice about what improvements will benefit you, reach out to Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty. Our expert agents are always available to help you make smart decisions when it comes to all things home — not just the house itself. — More to the story: The smart first step: Is your Wi-Fi up to the task? Homeowners get excited when they add smart-home upgrades. However, what they often encounter are slower connection speeds (video buffering, anyone?) caused by multiple devices simultaneously requiring bandwidth from the router. Before you implement smart-home technology in your home, having sufficient bandwidth is essential. Contact your internet service provider (ISP) and let them assess your system to determine if it is smart-home friendly, then follow their recommendations for any upgrades that may be necessary. Price range: Depends on your plan, your current system and the need for upgrades Some FYIs about Wi-Fi What happens if the internet goes down? Wi-Fi-enabled smart-home devices rely on an internet connection for full functionality. If the connection is lost, most devices will continue to operate at a base level, sacrificing more sophisticated features. Alternatives to Wi-Fi: Enter Zigbee and Z-Wave There are two sophisticated platform options, known as Zigbee and Z-Wave, that are capable of connecting smart devices without relying on the internet. That means constant connectivity, without the worry or risk of an outage, and superior data privacy. Know that Zigbee- and Z-Wave-compatible devices are usually more expensive and they require the purchase of a smart hub. The smartest smart hubs A smart hub acts as the nexus to provide a connection to all your devices. Zigbee hubs work with Zigbee devices while Z-Wave hubs operate with Z-Wave devices. The good news is that if you don’t want to confine yourself to one of these options, you can purchase a smart hub that is platform-agnostic, so you give yourself the widest possible product choices from both platforms.
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
