Date Archives: April 2021

International Jazz Day is coming, and our real estate agents know the best places to enjoy it!

Round Rock homes for sale are in the heart of beautiful Central Texas, just half an hour from Austin. Austin, famous as the "Live Music Capital of the World," has distinguished itself as one of America's leading cities for jazz. Every April 30th, it lives up to the name with its celebration of International Jazz Day.

While jazz was first born down in New Orleans, it did not take long for this uniquely American musical style to migrate from coast to coast. Its energetic and highly improvisational nature was perfect for Austin, which became a second home for many of the top legends who defined the original sound of jazz.

Among the memorable musicians who lived or played around the Austin area are such greats as Harold "Money" Johnson, Kenny Dorham, Jimmy Giuffre, Gene Roland, and Harry Babasin. What's more, the tradition of blues music in Texas, which predates modern jazz, lent its influence to many area bands.

Austin's unique musical tradition is given life every evening in the form of its world-class musical venues. That includes auditoriums that can seat thousands as well as warm and welcoming clubs where you can hear soulful sounds from jazz trumpeters and talented musicians. It's the perfect place for International Jazz Day.

When you want to hear the best jazz around, here are some places to look:

• The Skylark Lounge – 2039 Airport Boulevard, Austin, TX 78722
  Best known for its blues, The Skylark Lounge is a local institution that has been around for more than 30 years. It serves as home to many musicians across generations and genres. Live music happens almost every night of the week from an intimate stage in a close-knit atmosphere where staff members know all the regulars.
  
  
• The Elephant Room – Swift Building, 315 Congress Avenue, Austin, TX 78701
  The Elephant Room is a truly "underground" jazz bar, both figuratively and literally. For a jazz experience you can lose yourself in, it's a local favorite. Celebrating its 30-year anniversary in 2021, it serves up drinks from around the world. 
  
  
• The Continental Gallery – 1315 South Congress Avenue, Austin, TX 78704
  The Continental Gallery is a place with a long history. Back in 1955, the Continental Club was a swanky supper club. The Gallery emerged from what was then Irving's Steakhouse, a cornerstone of Continental Club dining. As both brands reinvented over the years, the Gallery has become known for its classic speakeasy vibe.
  
  
• Antone's Nightclub – 305 East 5th Street, Austin, TX 78701
  Antone's Nightclub lives up to its reputation as "Austin's home of the blues." Named for Clifford Antone, the mentor to several home-grown blues greats, it has attracted fans from all around the world. No matter whether you love blues, jazz, R&B, or soul, there's something for you in Antone's two shows per night.

Austin's music scene will move you the way that only good jazz can. To learn more about Austin or discover Austin homes for sale, just contact us at RE/MAX Capital City.

Earth Day is coming up on April 22nd, so it's a great time to start thinking about how to show your appreciation for our beautiful planet. Whether it's cleaning up the neighborhood or just spending time outdoors, it's important to take the time to appreciate our air, land, and water. Our real estate agents will tell you that there are so many beautiful outdoor parks and activities in our area, which makes getting outdoors easy and enjoyable. If you're thinking of ways to spend Earth Day, look no further than this list of excellent places to enjoy nature around Austin.

1. Chisholm Trail Crossing Park - 500 Chisholm Trail Rd, Round Rock, TX 78681
   One of the most beautiful outdoor areas near Austin is Chisholm Trail Area over in Round Rock. Not only is there a beautiful hiking trail that runs along Brushy Creek, but there is also a park where you can picnic and enjoy the beautiful scenery. Over at Chisholm Trail Crossing, you'll also find an awesome sculpture exhibit. All in all, Chisholm Trail Area is a great way to spend a weekend afternoon this spring.
   
   
2. Old Settlers Park - 3300 E Palm Valley Blvd, Round Rock, TX 78665
   Also located in Round Rock, Old Settler's Park is a great place to enjoy nature this spring. With over 645 acres of parks, pavilions, playgrounds, ball fields, and soccer facilities, there really is fun for the whole family. Whether you're looking to get some exercise or need a place to host a family reunion, Old Settlers Park is one of the most beautiful outdoor areas around Austin. Best of all, it's just a short drive from some beautiful Round Rock homes for sale.
   
   
3. Barton Springs Swimming Pool - 2131 William Barton Dr, Austin, TX 78746
   Barton Springs isn't your ordinary swimming pool. The water actually comes directly from a natural underground water spring that pumps water ranging from 68 to 70 degrees. The springs are also listed as a federally protected habitat because they are home to the endangered Barton Springs Salamander.
    
4. Pedernales Falls State Park - 2585 Park Rd 6026, Johnson City, TX 78636
   Just west of Austin near the Pedernales River is Pedernales Falls State Park. This 5,200-acre park has everything -- hiking trails, camping, and even some great river swimming spots. It also has no shortage of beautiful scenery, including picturesque river views and waterfalls. 
   
   
5. Southwest Williamson County Park - 3005 Co Rd 175, Leander, TX 78641
   One of the most beautiful parks in the area is Southwest Williamson County Park, located just over in Leander. This park is not only scenic, but it also has bike trails, soccer fields, basketball courts, baseball fields, and even a miniature train. There is an abundance of grassy fields and picnic tables, making it a popular place for a weekend picnic. After spending the day outdoors, be sure to stop by these beautiful Leander homes for sale, which are just a few minutes away.

Outdoor activities are one of the best parts of living in the Austin area. With so many parks, rivers, and scenery, spring and summer are some of the most popular times to visit the area. Contact us today for more local recommendations. 

Anyone who's ever spent time in Texas knows that the state's diverse dining scene is truly unique, with a blend of cultures and flavors that you simply won't find anywhere else. The dining establishments of Texas are also very innovative and have made many foods famous that are now enjoyed by foodies all around the country. No matter your personal taste, you're sure to find something to love in the Texas dining scene. Our real estate agents are here to help you build an appetite, with our list of 7 foods that Texas has made famous.

1. Texas BBQ
   ​​​​​​​Whether you live near Round Rock homes for sale or anywhere else in the great state of Texas, you're likely to find a Texas barbecue establishment close to home. Texas BBQ is famous for being cooked low and slow, characterized by popular favorites like brisket and ribs. Add on some baked beans and potato salad, then be sure to save room for seconds.
   
   
2. Mexican Food
   While Mexico of course deserves full credit for a culinary tradition that dates back centuries, Texas also gets credit for introducing the amazing flavors of Mexico to the rest of the country. The number of Mexican dishes that Texas has helped share with the world is long enough to create more than a few cookbooks, and the fusion of flavors between the two unique cultures continues to inspire new creations to this day.
   
   
3. Tex-Mex Cuisine
   The blending of culinary cultures between Texas and Mexico also resulted in the creation of the beloved Tex-Mex cuisine that is now featured in restaurants throughout the United States. But if you want the best Tex-Mex, then you need to get it straight from the source in Texas. If you love dishes like fajitas and nachos, then you're sure to love Tex-Mex cuisine.
   
   
4. Bob Armstrong Dip
   You haven't truly tried queso dip until you've sampled the savory flavors of the Bob Armstrong Dip that originated in Texas and has since spread across the country. This delicious dip combines queso, taco meat, guacamole, and sour cream to create a combination that your taste buds are sure to love.
   
   
5. Breakfast Tacos
   Everyone loves tacos, and everyone loves a hot breakfast. That's the simple, delicious philosophy behind breakfast tacos, one of many culinary gifts from Texas to the rest of the world. While the ingredients vary, the theme remains the same. Take your favorite breakfast plate, wrap all of the best ingredients up in a soft tortilla, and start your day with a smile.
   
   
6. Margaritas
   An icy, refreshing drink served in bars around the world, the margarita pairs perfectly with many of your favorite Texas dishes. While there is some debate about where the margarita was "officially" invented, there's no doubt that Texas has helped turn it into a phenomenon and one of the world's favorite mixed drinks.
   
   
7. Pecan Pie
   Did you know that pecan pie is the official dessert of Texas? With a soft crust, sweet, chewy filling, and a topping of perfectly caramelized pecans, this delicious dish is sure to be a hit for anyone with a sweet tooth. Today, you can find pecan pie everywhere, but it's simply better in Texas.

Searching for a home that makes it easy to enjoy all of the culinary masterpieces that Texas has made famous? Let us help. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Round Rock, TX area.

If you're thinking about selling your home, you might be considering some renovations to help you get the highest price possible. Some of the most popular DIY shows may have convinced you that in a matter of days and on a shoestring budget, you can transform your house and have it stand out among other Round Rock homes for sale. Before you jump into any home improvement project, our real estate agents want to make sure you have all the facts and know what home improvement shows don't tell you.

1. Renovation timelines
   Television may create the illusion that major renovations can be completed in a day or two, but the truth is that most projects take time and leave you without the use of that space for the duration. New kitchen cabinets, for example, will probably take two or three days, but countertops will likely take at least two weeks. A full kitchen remodel will typically mean six to eight weeks with the kitchen out of commission. That also means workers in and out of your home for at least eight hours every day until the work is done.
    
2. Realistic budgets
   Home improvement shows have sponsors that not only advertise but they also supply materials. Without their contributions, the upgrades featured would be much more expensive. Before embarking on any project, no matter how large or small, create a budget that includes every single item. Even protective materials such as plastic drop cloths should be included. Otherwise, your total cost will be grossly inaccurate. By the way, do you own all the necessary tools? You may be able to save money by renting them, but they are still not completely free. Cheap materials look just as bad as shoddy workmanship, so be careful you are actually adding value to the home.
   
   
3. Skill sets required
   It may look easy on a screen, but if it was, everyone would do their own remodeling, and contractors would be out of business. Even the smallest jobs often require multiple skills. Going back to the kitchen, you may be looking at cabinet makers, tile setters, electricians, plumbers, and painters. Even a licensed contractor will likely subcontract some specialized labor. Don't forget that many home improvements require permits as well as inspections. 
   
   
4. Availability of materials
   If you think you can walk into any big box store and buy all of the materials you need, you're in for a surprise. You may need to wait for weeks for special orders to arrive. You may also have to go to multiple merchants to find everything you need. Before you begin, you should gather everything you're going to need from beginning to end of the project. 
   
   
5. Detailed plans
   It would be impossible to address the issues already described without a detailed plan. Without a clear path, you can easily find yourself in over your head. If you have to hire a contractor to undo mistakes you've made before they start the rest of the work, your costs are going to skyrocket. When you hire an expert, you'll spend a lot of time going over the details of your vision and discussing at length the actual costs as well as your options. 

Whether you are getting ready to buy or sell, our team is here to help you accomplish your real estate goals. Contact us today.