Royal Oaks Lifestyle presented by Brandey Heckoreth

July | August 2013

www.HeritageTexas.com 281.679.0101

11689 Westheimer, Suite C • Houston, TX 77077

Featured Cover Property

Get Smart!

11422 Gallant Ridge STUNNING golf course home, private gated courtyard entry with seating area and fountain, extensive landscape, two story foyer, slate floors, formal dining with wall fountain, spacious granite island kitchen with stainless appliances, sprawling master suite with pool, golf and lake views, game room up, oversize guest suite up and optional study, private upper balcony, natural rock waterfall pool and spa with breathtaking golf course and water views of the #6 signature island green at Royal Oaks. Immaculate home, great location!

3115 Noble Lakes Fabulous Estate Home 4-5/4-2/2 Private location with huge yard and incredible views

11203 St. Laurent Stunning Custom Chateau 3/2-1/2 Immaculate home, corner lot, extended outdoor living area

2935 Rosemary Park Beautiful Villa 4/4-1/2 Private courtyard entry, spacious casita, 3rd floor game room

Today’s Tech Takes Home Automation Beyond The Jetsons

Your Home’s Square Footage

Is it Measured Accurately?

11606 Legend Manor Spacious One Home with Private Courtyard Entry 3-4/3/3 Neutral colors, spacious dining, views of pool

11711 Bistro Picturesque Estate Home 5/5.2/3 Infinity-edge pool and veranda overlooking golf course

11411 Gallant Ridge One Story Courtyard Home 3/3.1/3 Inviting open floor plan – outside comes in

BRANDEY HECKEROTH

JOANNE ESKRIDGE

AMANDA WALSH

Brandey@HeritageTexas.com

JoAnne@HeritageTexas.com

Amanda@HeritageTexas.com

281.679.0101

281.250.1864

281.451.8107

CHARLIE ESKRIDGE

281.827.9912

Charlie@HeritageTexas.com If your home is currently listed, this is not a solicitation for that listing.

Produced by UpscaleRealEstateMarketing.com • 877.660.0996

Rich & Creamy

Mark’s American Cuisine’s Corn Chowder

Royal Oaks Country Club Real Estate Report

In Good Taste Featuring Mark’s American Cuisine 713.523.3800 | Marks1658.com

GRILLED CORN CHOWDER WITH POTATOES AND THYME Ingredients 1 cup (4 oz.) apple smoked bacon, medium dice 1 tablespoon garlic, finely chopped 1 cup (4 oz.) yellow onion, medium dice 1 cup (4 oz.) celery, medium dice 1 cup (4 oz.) B-Red potatoes with skin on, medium dice 2 cups (12 oz.) freshly shucked corn kernels Lightly pulse 8 ounces of the corn in food processor, or dice by hand. Reserve 4 ounces whole corn kernels for garnish.

1/2 tablespoon unsalted butter 3 cups chicken stock 2 cups heavy cream 1 1/2 teaspoons salt 1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper 1 tablespoon lime juice 1 tablespoon fresh thyme 2 tablespoons thinly sliced chives Method In a medium size sauce pan over medium heat, sauté the diced apple smoked bacon until crispy and golden brown.

Remove the bacon from the pan and reserve. To the bacon drippings, add the garlic, yellow onions, and celery. Stirring occasionally, sauté for five minutes. Add the potatoes and the chicken stock. Bring to a boil and simmer five minutes. Add the processed eight ounces corn to the simmering potato and onion mixture. Continue to simmer five more minutes. Add the heavy cream. Bring to a boil and simmer seven minutes.

Remove from heat, add the lime juice, thyme and the crispy bacon; taste and adjust seasoning.

For the corn garnish: using a non-stick pan, over medium-high heat, melt the unsalted butter until golden brown. Add the reserved four ounces corn kernels. Lightly stir, season to taste with ground white pepper and salt. Place in a 350 degree oven and roast for seven to ten minutes, stirring as needed.

Roast to a rich golden brown. Remove and reserve. To serve the soup, ladle into soup bowls or tureens. Finish with chives and roasted corn.

Yield: Four 8 oz. portions

Event Calendar

the future is now.

Did I turn the thermostat down? Is the security alarm set? Did I forget to close the garage door? Just a few of the questions that will soon be moot once you make the jump and your get home fully wired. That’s right ... your home can soon be smarter than you!

So just what can today’s super-tech homes do for you and your family? One of the coolest new capabilities is the remote access to your home’s climate control. If you like to come home to a nice cool abode but don’t like the bill that comes from running the AC all day while you’re at work, you can turn on the AC right from your smart phone or computer.

This saves on your electric bill in spades.

Some experts estimate you can save up to 10 percent on your bill from using these new systems. And just imagine never again walking into a closed-up, stifling home upon returning from vacation or a long weekend! Where do we sign up?

Security is another highlight of today’s high-tech homes. With the touch of a button on your smart phone or computer, you can set the security system in your home to any desired level of protection.

you can see what’s going on in your home while you’re away or at work.

Have kids? Talk about having eyes in the back of your head! With installed cameras strategically placed throughout your home, you can remotely keep an eye on them in the yard, as they come in the front door from school, or just see what they’re doing in the kitchen with their friends while you run errands. And in the event that the security system is tripped, your home’s system can instantly send you photos or videos of the point of entry so you can be apprised of the situation.

Another great feature which enhances security and makes your life easier is the remote control of your home’s lighting.

Out later than you thought you’d be?

Turn on the front lights with the touch

of a button on your smart phone.

Want to make it appear as if

someone is home while you’re

away? Set up the system to

have lights go on and off in different rooms at specific times throughout the night.

Sounds like a smart home installation may be the smartest thing you can do for your family this year! And since the systems are wireless, installation is usually easy and quick!

IS YOUR HOME WIRED UP?

If the system gets tripped while you’re away, you’ll automatically know via email or texts telling you exactly what has occurred in your absence. Many systems can automatically detect fire, water damage, or broken glass, and instantly let the homeowner and authorities know. Carbon monoxide detection can also be added. And in

case of one of these emergencies, you’ll have direct contact to fire and police for a quick response. An added bonus? You could save up to 20 percent on your homeowner’s insurance when this type of security system is installed.

Many of today’s suppliers can also install indoor and outdoor cameras so

JULY | AUGUST 2013 Museum Talk + Tour Bayou Bend Collection and Gardens, July 17th & 31st and August 14th & 28th 713.639.7759 | MFAH.org Enjoy a themed format lecture and tour of the Bayou Bend Collection. Each lecture takes place at the Kilroy Visitor Center and is paired with a house tour experience. This summer, “Working Artists Examine the Craftsmanship of the Bayou Bend Collection” is presented.

Wine Tasting Class Chilled at French Country Wines, July 30th 713.882.8773 | LocalWineEvents.com So what’s your preference for a Pinot Noir? Oregon or California? The Texas Wine School presents a tasting of four wines from each region with a discussion of why these regions produce differently and why some of us prefer one over the other. You’ll also discover some great vintages and some hidden gems.

23rd Houston International Jazz Festival Bayou City Music Center, August 2nd - 4th 713.839.7000 | JazzEducation.org Headlining the weekend’s festival is the vivaciously talented, American Music Award and Grammy nominated performer, Sheila E. She will be appearing live with other special guests. Don’t miss the city’s

THE FACTS BEHIND SQUARE FOOTAGE Consider this scenario: A homeowner encloses their back patio. When they list their home, they inform the real estate agent that the patio is a home improvement that increases the overall square footage in the house.

The homeowner has measured the room dimensions and calculated the additional square footage that has been added to the home.

While measuring and calculating square footage may appear simple, there are several considerations as defined by an industry standard that makes the process a bit more complex.

The standard for square footage calculation is defined by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). The standard titled ANSI Z765 states, “To claim adherence to this standard, the following methods of measurement and calculation must be employed when quantifying square footage in single-family houses.” Realtors realize the importance of a third-party independent measurement and calculation of square footage because they do not want to make any false statements about square footage that could be disputed by potential buyers. If you have made any substantial addition to your home, you should consider an independent firm that can measure and calculate square footage and can claim adherence to the ANSI standard.

Some interesting facets of the ANSI standard include the discussion of what is to be considered “finished square

footage.” Walls and ceilings must be “finished.” Finishes include painted or wallpapered dry wall or paneling.

In our original example where the homeowner enclosed a patio – the wall and ceiling finishes must be evaluated in order for the space to qualify as “finished square footage.” If the room is dry-walled and taped, but no wall finish such as paint or wallpaper was applied, it is not considered “finished.” Likewise in terms of floor finishes. ANSI recognized floor finishes are carpeting, vinyl sheeting, hardwood flooring and concrete floors with decorative finishes, but does not include bare or painted concrete. Interestingly, stained concrete is considered finished because it is considered long lasting or permanent. Therefore, if the enclosed patio has a bare concrete floor, it is not considered “finished” and should not be quoted as part of the home’s overall finished square footage.

The ANSI standard is also very clear about stating finished square footage that is “above grade” and “below grade” and that those should always be provided separately and identified as such. When a basement is finished, it can be measured and the resulting below grade square footage can be a selling point for the home but must be stated as below grade square footage. The ANSI standard also states, “Porches, balconies, decks and similar areas that are not enclosed or are not suitable for year-round occupancy cannot be included in the

annual event in celebration of all things Jazz!

Luxe Pamper ME Party CWA Banquet Hall, August 10th TotalBeautyLadiesEvent.com Make this day a Luxe day of pampering and fun. It’s perfect as a gift for yourself and a friend to start the weekend off right. Enjoy fun ice breakers, light bites and sweet treats, pampering, and Luxe make-overs. Plus, statement of finished square footage.”

When physically measuring square footage, ANSI requires that measurements be taken to the nearest inch and the resulting square footage be reported to the nearest square foot. Laser-based measuring devices are available that can accurately measure distances with less chance of human error (unlike the standard tape measure). An example is the handheld laser measuring device Disto D5 by Leica®.

The best practice is to have a professional who is well versed in the ANSI standard measure and qualify any square footage that will be advertised in selling your home.

there will be raffles and DJ entertainment throughout the event. Benefiting the National Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc. Bruno Mars Toyota Center, August 15th 713.758.7200 | HoustonToyotaCenter.com The Bruno Mars tour 2013 is finally here and you can see it live this summer. You’ll love the unique sound, incredible vocals, and the unbelievable energy that make Mars’ live music one-of-a-kind. The concert sets show off incredible stage design making the show more like an intimate event than an enormous concert.

In Good Taste Featuring Mark’s American Cuisine 713.523.3800 | Marks1658.com

GRILLED CORN CHOWDER WITH POTATOES AND THYME Ingredients 1 cup (4 oz.) apple smoked bacon, medium dice 1 tablespoon garlic, finely chopped 1 cup (4 oz.) yellow onion, medium dice 1 cup (4 oz.) celery, medium dice 1 cup (4 oz.) B-Red potatoes with skin on, medium dice 2 cups (12 oz.) freshly shucked corn kernels Lightly pulse 8 ounces of the corn in food processor, or dice by hand. Reserve 4 ounces whole corn kernels for garnish.

1/2 tablespoon unsalted butter 3 cups chicken stock 2 cups heavy cream 1 1/2 teaspoons salt 1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper 1 tablespoon lime juice 1 tablespoon fresh thyme 2 tablespoons thinly sliced chives Method In a medium size sauce pan over medium heat, sauté the diced apple smoked bacon until crispy and golden brown.

Remove the bacon from the pan and reserve. To the bacon drippings, add the garlic, yellow onions, and celery. Stirring occasionally, sauté for five minutes. Add the potatoes and the chicken stock. Bring to a boil and simmer five minutes. Add the processed eight ounces corn to the simmering potato and onion mixture. Continue to simmer five more minutes. Add the heavy cream. Bring to a boil and simmer seven minutes.

Remove from heat, add the lime juice, thyme and the crispy bacon; taste and adjust seasoning.

For the corn garnish: using a non-stick pan, over medium-high heat, melt the unsalted butter until golden brown. Add the reserved four ounces corn kernels. Lightly stir, season to taste with ground white pepper and salt. Place in a 350 degree oven and roast for seven to ten minutes, stirring as needed.

Roast to a rich golden brown. Remove and reserve. To serve the soup, ladle into soup bowls or tureens. Finish with chives and roasted corn.

Yield: Four 8 oz. portions

Event Calendar

the future is now.

Did I turn the thermostat down? Is the security alarm set? Did I forget to close the garage door? Just a few of the questions that will soon be moot once you make the jump and your get home fully wired. That’s right ... your home can soon be smarter than you!

So just what can today’s super-tech homes do for you and your family? One of the coolest new capabilities is the remote access to your home’s climate control. If you like to come home to a nice cool abode but don’t like the bill that comes from running the AC all day while you’re at work, you can turn on the AC right from your smart phone or computer.

This saves on your electric bill in spades.

Some experts estimate you can save up to 10 percent on your bill from using these new systems. And just imagine never again walking into a closed-up, stifling home upon returning from vacation or a long weekend! Where do we sign up?

Security is another highlight of today’s high-tech homes. With the touch of a button on your smart phone or computer, you can set the security system in your home to any desired level of protection.

you can see what’s going on in your home while you’re away or at work.

Have kids? Talk about having eyes in the back of your head! With installed cameras strategically placed throughout your home, you can remotely keep an eye on them in the yard, as they come in the front door from school, or just see what they’re doing in the kitchen with their friends while you run errands. And in the event that the security system is tripped, your home’s system can instantly send you photos or videos of the point of entry so you can be apprised of the situation.

Another great feature which enhances security and makes your life easier is the remote control of your home’s lighting.

Out later than you thought you’d be?

Turn on the front lights with the touch

of a button on your smart phone.

Want to make it appear as if

someone is home while you’re

away? Set up the system to

have lights go on and off in different rooms at specific times throughout the night.

Sounds like a smart home installation may be the smartest thing you can do for your family this year! And since the systems are wireless, installation is usually easy and quick!

IS YOUR HOME WIRED UP?

If the system gets tripped while you’re away, you’ll automatically know via email or texts telling you exactly what has occurred in your absence. Many systems can automatically detect fire, water damage, or broken glass, and instantly let the homeowner and authorities know. Carbon monoxide detection can also be added. And in

case of one of these emergencies, you’ll have direct contact to fire and police for a quick response. An added bonus? You could save up to 20 percent on your homeowner’s insurance when this type of security system is installed.

Many of today’s suppliers can also install indoor and outdoor cameras so

JULY | AUGUST 2013 Museum Talk + Tour Bayou Bend Collection and Gardens, July 17th & 31st and August 14th & 28th 713.639.7759 | MFAH.org Enjoy a themed format lecture and tour of the Bayou Bend Collection. Each lecture takes place at the Kilroy Visitor Center and is paired with a house tour experience. This summer, “Working Artists Examine the Craftsmanship of the Bayou Bend Collection” is presented.

Wine Tasting Class Chilled at French Country Wines, July 30th 713.882.8773 | LocalWineEvents.com So what’s your preference for a Pinot Noir? Oregon or California? The Texas Wine School presents a tasting of four wines from each region with a discussion of why these regions produce differently and why some of us prefer one over the other. You’ll also discover some great vintages and some hidden gems.

23rd Houston International Jazz Festival Bayou City Music Center, August 2nd - 4th 713.839.7000 | JazzEducation.org Headlining the weekend’s festival is the vivaciously talented, American Music Award and Grammy nominated performer, Sheila E. She will be appearing live with other special guests. Don’t miss the city’s

THE FACTS BEHIND SQUARE FOOTAGE Consider this scenario: A homeowner encloses their back patio. When they list their home, they inform the real estate agent that the patio is a home improvement that increases the overall square footage in the house.

The homeowner has measured the room dimensions and calculated the additional square footage that has been added to the home.

While measuring and calculating square footage may appear simple, there are several considerations as defined by an industry standard that makes the process a bit more complex.

The standard for square footage calculation is defined by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). The standard titled ANSI Z765 states, “To claim adherence to this standard, the following methods of measurement and calculation must be employed when quantifying square footage in single-family houses.” Realtors realize the importance of a third-party independent measurement and calculation of square footage because they do not want to make any false statements about square footage that could be disputed by potential buyers. If you have made any substantial addition to your home, you should consider an independent firm that can measure and calculate square footage and can claim adherence to the ANSI standard.

Some interesting facets of the ANSI standard include the discussion of what is to be considered “finished square

footage.” Walls and ceilings must be “finished.” Finishes include painted or wallpapered dry wall or paneling.

In our original example where the homeowner enclosed a patio – the wall and ceiling finishes must be evaluated in order for the space to qualify as “finished square footage.” If the room is dry-walled and taped, but no wall finish such as paint or wallpaper was applied, it is not considered “finished.” Likewise in terms of floor finishes. ANSI recognized floor finishes are carpeting, vinyl sheeting, hardwood flooring and concrete floors with decorative finishes, but does not include bare or painted concrete. Interestingly, stained concrete is considered finished because it is considered long lasting or permanent. Therefore, if the enclosed patio has a bare concrete floor, it is not considered “finished” and should not be quoted as part of the home’s overall finished square footage.

The ANSI standard is also very clear about stating finished square footage that is “above grade” and “below grade” and that those should always be provided separately and identified as such. When a basement is finished, it can be measured and the resulting below grade square footage can be a selling point for the home but must be stated as below grade square footage. The ANSI standard also states, “Porches, balconies, decks and similar areas that are not enclosed or are not suitable for year-round occupancy cannot be included in the

annual event in celebration of all things Jazz!

Luxe Pamper ME Party CWA Banquet Hall, August 10th TotalBeautyLadiesEvent.com Make this day a Luxe day of pampering and fun. It’s perfect as a gift for yourself and a friend to start the weekend off right. Enjoy fun ice breakers, light bites and sweet treats, pampering, and Luxe make-overs. Plus, statement of finished square footage.”

When physically measuring square footage, ANSI requires that measurements be taken to the nearest inch and the resulting square footage be reported to the nearest square foot. Laser-based measuring devices are available that can accurately measure distances with less chance of human error (unlike the standard tape measure). An example is the handheld laser measuring device Disto D5 by Leica®.

The best practice is to have a professional who is well versed in the ANSI standard measure and qualify any square footage that will be advertised in selling your home.

there will be raffles and DJ entertainment throughout the event. Benefiting the National Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc. Bruno Mars Toyota Center, August 15th 713.758.7200 | HoustonToyotaCenter.com The Bruno Mars tour 2013 is finally here and you can see it live this summer. You’ll love the unique sound, incredible vocals, and the unbelievable energy that make Mars’ live music one-of-a-kind. The concert sets show off incredible stage design making the show more like an intimate event than an enormous concert.

July | August 2013

www.HeritageTexas.com 281.679.0101

11689 Westheimer, Suite C • Houston, TX 77077

Featured Cover Property

Get Smart!

11422 Gallant Ridge STUNNING golf course home, private gated courtyard entry with seating area and fountain, extensive landscape, two story foyer, slate floors, formal dining with wall fountain, spacious granite island kitchen with stainless appliances, sprawling master suite with pool, golf and lake views, game room up, oversize guest suite up and optional study, private upper balcony, natural rock waterfall pool and spa with breathtaking golf course and water views of the #6 signature island green at Royal Oaks. Immaculate home, great location!

3115 Noble Lakes Fabulous Estate Home 4-5/4-2/2 Private location with huge yard and incredible views

11203 St. Laurent Stunning Custom Chateau 3/2-1/2 Immaculate home, corner lot, extended outdoor living area

2935 Rosemary Park Beautiful Villa 4/4-1/2 Private courtyard entry, spacious casita, 3rd floor game room

Today’s Tech Takes Home Automation Beyond The Jetsons

Your Home’s Square Footage

Is it Measured Accurately?

11606 Legend Manor Spacious One Home with Private Courtyard Entry 3-4/3/3 Neutral colors, spacious dining, views of pool

11711 Bistro Picturesque Estate Home 5/5.2/3 Infinity-edge pool and veranda overlooking golf course

11411 Gallant Ridge One Story Courtyard Home 3/3.1/3 Inviting open floor plan – outside comes in

BRANDEY HECKEROTH

JOANNE ESKRIDGE

AMANDA WALSH

Brandey@HeritageTexas.com

JoAnne@HeritageTexas.com

Amanda@HeritageTexas.com

281.679.0101

281.250.1864

281.451.8107

CHARLIE ESKRIDGE

281.827.9912

Charlie@HeritageTexas.com If your home is currently listed, this is not a solicitation for that listing.

Produced by UpscaleRealEstateMarketing.com • 877.660.0996

Rich & Creamy

Mark’s American Cuisine’s Corn Chowder

Royal Oaks Country Club Real Estate Report