The Ranch Lifestyle presented by Debra Janes

The Ranch

DEBRA JANES

July | August 2013

LUXURY REAL ESTATE

DebraJanes.com 210.573.4040 As specialists in Cordillera Ranch real estate, it is our goal to empower you with information on the community. We look forward to supplying you with specific information regarding area real estate. From comparable properties,

DEBRA JANES Luxury Realtor 210.573.4040 dj@gvtc.com

a detailed list of what is for sale,

to a full valuation of YOUR property – we’re just a phone call or email away!

NATALIE BIGGERS

Licensed Realtor Associate 210.710.3713 Natalie@NatalieBiggers.com

FABULOUS CUSTOM SMART HOME OFFERING IN CORDILLERA RANCH

2825 Rio Cordillera | $2,295,000 | 6 Bed | 6 Bath | 7,401 Sq. Ft. | 1Bed 1 Bath Casita | 3.9 Acres

Get Smart!

LD

SO

M AY 2 0 1 3 C L O S I N G S MAY 2013 CLOSINGS

Today’s Tech Takes Home Automation Beyond The Jetsons

CORDILLERA RANCH - 27 Sunriver

LD

SO LD

SO

HILL COUNTRY VILLAGE - 508 Tomahawk Trail All information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed.

If your home is currently listed, this is not a solicitation for that listing.

Produced by UpscaleRealEstateMarketing.com • 877.660.0996

Is it Measured Accurately?

Photo: sRagnar Fotografi

THE DOMINION - 20 Esquire

Your Home’s Square Footage

Chocoholics Unite!

Luxury Realtors Serving

Cordillera Ranch

Frederick’s Chocolate Lava Cake

In Good Taste Featuring Frederick’s Restaurant 210.828.9050 | FredericksSA.com & Frederick’s Bistro 210.888.1500 | FredericksBistro.com

CHOCOLATE LAVA CAKE Ingredients 4 1/2 oz. dark chocolate 4 1/2 oz. butter 3 1/2 oz. powdered sugar 2 oz. flour 3 whole eggs

Method • Preheat oven to 450 degrees.

In a bowl: • Melt together dark chocolate and butter.

• Then add powdered sugar and flour to chocolate, and whisk.

• Lastly add the eggs.

• Whisk all ingredients together.

• Spread 10 ramekins with butter. Fill ramekins with batter and cook in the oven for 12-13 minutes.

Recipe yields 10 cakes

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 Balcones Heights Jazz Festival Wonderland of the Americas Amphitheater Fridays in July and August 210.732.0055 | ReachForTheHeights.org The Balcones Heights Jazz Festival has been captivating South Texas jazz fans for more than 16 years. The free concert series takes place each July and August, on Friday evenings at the spectacular outdoor Amphitheater at Wonderland of the Americas. Bring a picnic dinner, your sweetie and tap your toes to the tunes!

34th Annual SARR Women’s 5K Run/Walk Lincoln Heights, July 20th 210.416.1723 | SARoadRunners.com A chip-timed 5K run and walk for women only along the streets of Alamo Heights. Separate run and walk divisions, awards for overall and masters in run and walk divisions, age group awards and pre-race yoga stretch led by Southtown Yoga Loft.

Ford Canoe Challenge River Walk, August 3rd 210.227.4262 | TheSanAntonioRiverWalk.com Over 90 canoe teams compete in the Canoe Challenge…local celebrities, city officials, corporate teams and Boy Scouts & Girl Scouts compete in timed heats. The race begins at the Chamber of Commerce, heads east through and around the Convention Center Lagoon, through the Rivercenter Mall Lagoon and ends

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

back at the Chamber of Commerce. Don’t miss it!

Knights of Columbus Golf Tournament benefitting Wounded Warriors Project JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa, August 5th 210.276.2500 | 2013TexasKOFC.org The Knights of Columbus International Supreme Convention Charity Golf Tournament, benefitting the Wounded Warrior Project with a field of players from 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.

around the world, will be a fun way to raise money for a very worthy organization. Grab your clubs and come hit the links.

Culinaria’s Restaurant Week Various Restaurants, August 17th – 24th 210.822.9555 | CulinariaSA.org Sample some of San Antonio´s most exciting restaurants during the 2013 Restaurant Week. Some of our city’s top dining destinations are cooking up something incredibly delicious, offering delectable fare with specially priced menus. You can enjoy a fabulous three-course meal for just $15 at lunch and $35 at dinner.

In Good Taste Featuring Frederick’s Restaurant 210.828.9050 | FredericksSA.com & Frederick’s Bistro 210.888.1500 | FredericksBistro.com

CHOCOLATE LAVA CAKE Ingredients 4 1/2 oz. dark chocolate 4 1/2 oz. butter 3 1/2 oz. powdered sugar 2 oz. flour 3 whole eggs

Method • Preheat oven to 450 degrees.

In a bowl: • Melt together dark chocolate and butter.

• Then add powdered sugar and flour to chocolate, and whisk.

• Lastly add the eggs.

• Whisk all ingredients together.

• Spread 10 ramekins with butter. Fill ramekins with batter and cook in the oven for 12-13 minutes.

Recipe yields 10 cakes

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 Balcones Heights Jazz Festival Wonderland of the Americas Amphitheater Fridays in July and August 210.732.0055 | ReachForTheHeights.org The Balcones Heights Jazz Festival has been captivating South Texas jazz fans for more than 16 years. The free concert series takes place each July and August, on Friday evenings at the spectacular outdoor Amphitheater at Wonderland of the Americas. Bring a picnic dinner, your sweetie and tap your toes to the tunes!

34th Annual SARR Women’s 5K Run/Walk Lincoln Heights, July 20th 210.416.1723 | SARoadRunners.com A chip-timed 5K run and walk for women only along the streets of Alamo Heights. Separate run and walk divisions, awards for overall and masters in run and walk divisions, age group awards and pre-race yoga stretch led by Southtown Yoga Loft.

Ford Canoe Challenge River Walk, August 3rd 210.227.4262 | TheSanAntonioRiverWalk.com Over 90 canoe teams compete in the Canoe Challenge…local celebrities, city officials, corporate teams and Boy Scouts & Girl Scouts compete in timed heats. The race begins at the Chamber of Commerce, heads east through and around the Convention Center Lagoon, through the Rivercenter Mall Lagoon and ends

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

back at the Chamber of Commerce. Don’t miss it!

Knights of Columbus Golf Tournament benefitting Wounded Warriors Project JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa, August 5th 210.276.2500 | 2013TexasKOFC.org The Knights of Columbus International Supreme Convention Charity Golf Tournament, benefitting the Wounded Warrior Project with a field of players from 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.

around the world, will be a fun way to raise money for a very worthy organization. Grab your clubs and come hit the links.

Culinaria’s Restaurant Week Various Restaurants, August 17th – 24th 210.822.9555 | CulinariaSA.org Sample some of San Antonio´s most exciting restaurants during the 2013 Restaurant Week. Some of our city’s top dining destinations are cooking up something incredibly delicious, offering delectable fare with specially priced menus. You can enjoy a fabulous three-course meal for just $15 at lunch and $35 at dinner.

The Ranch

DEBRA JANES

July | August 2013

LUXURY REAL ESTATE

DebraJanes.com 210.573.4040 As specialists in Cordillera Ranch real estate, it is our goal to empower you with information on the community. We look forward to supplying you with specific information regarding area real estate. From comparable properties,

DEBRA JANES Luxury Realtor 210.573.4040 dj@gvtc.com

a detailed list of what is for sale,

to a full valuation of YOUR property – we’re just a phone call or email away!

NATALIE BIGGERS

Licensed Realtor Associate 210.710.3713 Natalie@NatalieBiggers.com

FABULOUS CUSTOM SMART HOME OFFERING IN CORDILLERA RANCH

2825 Rio Cordillera | $2,295,000 | 6 Bed | 6 Bath | 7,401 Sq. Ft. | 1Bed 1 Bath Casita | 3.9 Acres

Get Smart!

LD

SO

M AY 2 0 1 3 C L O S I N G S MAY 2013 CLOSINGS

Today’s Tech Takes Home Automation Beyond The Jetsons

CORDILLERA RANCH - 27 Sunriver

LD

SO LD

SO

HILL COUNTRY VILLAGE - 508 Tomahawk Trail All information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed.

If your home is currently listed, this is not a solicitation for that listing.

Produced by UpscaleRealEstateMarketing.com • 877.660.0996

Is it Measured Accurately?

Photo: sRagnar Fotografi

THE DOMINION - 20 Esquire

Your Home’s Square Footage

Chocoholics Unite!

Luxury Realtors Serving

Cordillera Ranch

Frederick’s Chocolate Lava Cake