When you hear the word “investment,” you might think of banks, stocks or finances. Maybe it procures images of people working on Wall Street or going over budgets and credit card statements. Investing comes in many different forms, which is something we want to showcase within these pages this month.
An investment is defined as putting something in to gain a profitable return. However, an investment in quality of life, in your body, or in your home is not discussed enough. These investments are just as valuable as what you put in the bank.
They lead you on a passage of self discovery.
Over the years, I’ve discovered that investing in the little things that make me happy have created lifelong friendships, memories, and a sense of calmness that are irreplaceable. Whether it is carving out time to have dinner at my favorite local restaurant with friends, curating a zen space in my home for myself and my family, or making sure my body feels healthy, these investments have proven to be my most important ones.
We feel fortunate to show you the different forms of investment that are right here in our community. As you enjoy this issue, we want you to feel empowered and inspired to invest in yourself or in something dear to you.
As the old saying goes, there is no price on happiness.
So go ahead and get those window treatments you’ve been thinking about or start planning how you want to elevate your outdoor space to invest in your home. Take the time to nourish your soul - whether that’s spending quality time with a loved one, treating yourself to a nice cup of coffee at a local coffee shop, or looking for ways to enjoy a return on investment in the future.
No matter what, invest in things, people and places that are important to you. This is your journey - the sky's the limit on how you decide to invest in the essential things in your life.
Cheers to making the right investment for you!
CRYSTAL HOBBS, PUBLISHER @NORTHLAKECITYLIFESTYLECrystal Hobbs | crystal.hobbs@citylifestyle.com
Gabrielle Bailey | gabrielle.bailey@citylifestyle.com
Michele Witz | michele.witz@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Michelle W. Parnell, Kellie Krevosky, Gabrielle Bailey
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Christina Schmidt, Savanna Romano
Schowengerdt
We design timeless spaces with your wellness in mind.
Now that spring is here, it's time to fire up the grill and enjoy the longer stretches of daylight with family and friends outside. Whether you're craving a juicy burger, fresh chicken breasts or that perfect cut of steak, Z Bar Cattle Company has a multitude of beef, chicken, seafood and pork options for a fun afternoon of grilling. Visit their Keller or Argyle locations to see what cuts are available today.
Higher Grounds has expanded! The coffee shop now has ample seating space for customers to relax with a cup of coffee with loved ones or to remotely work with chef-crafted and locally sourced breakfast tacos. From outdoor picnic tables to cozy couches, enjoy a comfortable atmosphere with a tasty a pick-me-up any day of the week.
Higher Grounds is located at 201 FM 156 in Justin.
A&A Air has expanded its family business and welcomed Zach Fraser as its newest air conditioning technician! Zach has received top-notch training from owners Jason and Laurie Fraser and will be on hand to conduct first-class preventative maintenance for all of their customers. Service doesn't stop with maintenance checks - A&A Air provides professional work catered to each customer's needs.
With 18 years of design and renovation expertise, Amira & Co. is a turnkey design remodel firm specializing in kitchen and bathroom renovations. Our full-service approach simplifies the entire process, handling everything from design selections and 3D renderings to procurement, project management, and installation. Homeowners can relax as we take care of every detail, ensuring a seamless experience.
'TRANSFORM YOUR WINDOWS, TRANSFORM YOUR HOME'
Adding value to your home can be as simple as dressing up your windowsARTICLE BY GABRIELLE BAILEY PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRISTINA SCHMIDT
There is something to be said about a house being a reflection of someone’s style. If the windows are like the eyes of the home, then window treatments are like unique accessories that showcase the homeowner’s design palette. For Renee Perez and Michelle Howe, adding that elevated, personal touch to a client’s windows is the basis of their company, American Window Coverings.
While many similar window treatment companies require customers to work with certain materials or have a minimum number of windows dressed, American Window Coverings curtails a design plan to each home. Renee and Michelle meet each client at their home with samples from all their inventory to discuss what type of covering is best for the customer. They take at least an hour for the initial consultation to ensure everyone is on the same page.
“We want you to make the best decision for you,” said Renee. “We're going to talk to you. We're going to ask you what your goal is with this space. We’re going to really get to know you and what works for your family.”
When Renee and Michelle first met, starting a business together was not a thought that crossed either of their minds. Renee had moved next door to Michelle in Northlake two years ago and the pair soon became glued at the hip.
As they grew closer, Michelle said she admired how Renee had started her own window treatment business when she lived in Arizona. In 2023, they felt they had the right dynamic to partner together and start a different business in the same field. They took the time to get the details right to give American Window Coverings their full devotion.
“You're not just going to be a number on a sheet to us,” Michelle said. “You're also
“You're not going to be a number on a sheet to us.”
our neighbors. Whether you're in Argyle or Northlake, there's going to be a huge chance that we're going to see you at the grocery store or out and about.
“We have a relationship with you.”
The duo started American Window Coverings with the goal of giving each customer a fresh look customized to their home and lifestyle. They specialize in plantation shutters, drapes, roller shades, honeycomb shades, and several different styles of window treatments, all of which are custom made in the United States by a veteran-owned manufacturer.
The success from American Window Coverings stems from Renee and Michelle trusting each other to play up their strengths. Where Renee has the experience in owning a company and understanding the processes small businesses must go through, Michelle’s experience in customer service has allowed her to connect with clients on a different level.
“We definitely bounce off of each other,” Renee said. “Michelle has an eye for design, too. It’s great because we are in this fine area where we are not remodeling, but we’re not interior design. We’re a mix of both.”
As their business grows, Michelle and Renee have learned how to balance their friendship while working side by side. They both make it a point to separate their work lives and personal lives, but their willingness to openly communicate with each other has allowed them to cohesively work together to best serve their clientele.
“Our slogan is, ‘Transform your windows, transform your home,’” Michelle said. “What a difference it makes to go from nothing to a custom-made covering for your window. It goes back to that design process and what speaks to you.”
Renee and Michelle take pride in working with any budget and any number of windows. For more information about their services, call American Window Coverings at 469-686-0781.
Sending a child to college elicits many emotions. It is an exciting, yet somewhat stressful and expensive time of life. After choosing the right college or university, the next big financial decision is selecting the best student housing option for the next few years. Lori Blad, who works with Monument Realty and LB Luxury Homes Group, encourages parents to turn this short-term decision into a long-term investment.
“I have two daughters in college and the expense of sending a kid to college is very real and at the forefront of my world right now,” she shared. “When looking at mortgage payments versus rent for four-to-six years, the amount is significant.
“Because nothing grows in value like real estate, so why not buy a house that grows in value during that time and make those expenses work for you.”
Purchasing options vary from studio apartments to multi-bedrooms homes with rooms that can be rented to other students and generate income. Additionally, by purchasing a residence, parents can ensure their student lives in a safe location and does not have to move out each summer or live in a different location year after year.
The short-term peace of mind of having a stable living arrangement organically transitions into a positive longterm financial investment.
“If you bought a $200,000 home and put $40,000 down, in six years you have $70,000 of equity in that property,” Blad explained. “Then, you can do a lot of things with the
ARTICLE BY MICHELLE W. PARNELL | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SAVANNA ROMANOproperty; you can keep it as a rental and an income generator, you can continue to have your child live there if they don't move away, you can refinance and pull cash out to finance something else, or you can sell it.
“There is no other scenario where you can put money while your kids are in college that is going to support them and grow in this way.”
Prior to purchasing a college residence, Blad says to research finding a property that is not only in good condition and in a safe area but is also within close proximity to campus. Having property near the school ensures a higher rental rate for any additional student renters with a lower occurrence of vacancy due to the elevated demand. It is also a great selling point when it comes time to put the home on the market for resale.
In addition to joining online community groups of parents connected with the college or university, Blad suggests talking to a trusted real estate agent who knows the area well.
“Your local realtor can recommend someone who could help in most areas,” she said. “I have so many networks that I'm part of, both nationally and internationally, that it would be easy for me to connect someone with a realtor that specializes in an area where their kids go to school.”
Blad loves helping people find a little piece of Texas to call home. To connect with her, visit loribladluxuryhomesgroup.com, call 214-498-7879, or email LoriBlad@gmail.com.
"Nothing grows in value like real estate; why not buy a house that grows in value during that time and make those expenses work for you.”
Pouring a bit of love into a home through upgrades, both big and small, add up to providing large returns on investment when it comes to home values. Ben Huso, owner of Huso Construction, works with homeowners on additions, remodels, and a variety of home improvement projects that bring both aesthetic and financial value to a home.
“I enjoy meeting homeowners, hearing their stories, and developing a relationship with them over the course of a project.”
Ben, who grew up helping his father in construction doing fire and water restoration projects, remembers the significant transformations he saw take place. One specific restoration project left a deep impression on him that stayed with him throughout his career.
“It was shocking going into a house and seeing that a candle the size of an energy drink basically destroyed it, including the basement. It was still salvageable, but the damage was extensive,” he shared. “I was awed at how it went from black, damaged and destroyed to where you couldn’t even tell something had happened. I really loved it.”
At first, Ben simply enjoyed construction as a summer job with his dad and initially did not pursue a career in the field. Years later, returned to his construction roots and specializes in transforming homes to enhance homeowners’ quality of life while also increasing the home’s value. It is a process he still finds fulfilling.
“I enjoy meeting homeowners, hearing their stories, and developing a relationship with them over the course of a project,” he said. “I love talking with them about the project, hearing the excitement in their voice, taking their ideas and watching it come to life.”
With experience working on homes at all stages, Huso Construction provides a wide range of services for residential and commercial projects, including interior and exterior painting, installing all types of flooring, and working on roofs and gutters. He also works with homeowners on insurance damage claims, making the restoration process as seamless and stress free as possible.
One of Huso Construction’s areas of expertise is creating beautiful outdoor living spaces which blend seamlessly with the home, appearing to be part of the original construction. Since many houses lack outdoor living spaces, he frequently
hears positive feedback from friends and neighbors of clients who notice the additions.
“A lot of these communities are new homes and new builds. Homeowners spend the majority of their money inside the home making it nice and pretty, but they neglect the outside and they don't have outdoor living spaces,” he explained. “I've seen patio covers add value to the home because it may be the only house on that street that has a beautiful backyard living space. The house’s value is going to go up and, when it’s time to sell, everybody is going to want that house because it has that extra wow factor.”
Huso Construction not only specializes in building patios and outdoor kitchens, but also works with designing and installing stained and decorative stamped concrete, which adds a unique, eye-catching touch to an outdoor space.
“There are different ways we can make your concrete different from everybody else,” said Ben. “We can stain it using one of the many choices of colors available and stamp it a variety of ways, as well. Concrete is one of those projects where we can really customize it to make it fit your home and budget.”
Whether the project is major or minor, Ben encourages homeowners to pursue their desired upgrade as it will inevitably add value to their home. Something as simple as adding new hardware on kitchen cabinets or freshening up the interior and exterior of the home with a coat of paint elevates the aesthetic and financial value. He also suggests removing carpet and installing new floors throughout the home.
“Those little investments will help you get the maximum for your asking price because the potential homeowner is coming in and not having to make a list of the things they need to repair or replace,” he explained.
“I treat my customers like they are family. I want them to be comfortable around me and know that they can ask me anything."
When working with a contractor, Ben recommends asking a lot of questions to make sure everyone understands the vision and goals and keeping the lines of communication open throughout the project.
“I treat my customers like they are family,” he said. “I want them to be comfortable around me and know that they can ask me anything. I always tell people that there are no stupid questions. Even if you think it isn’t relevant, I’d rather you ask and let me reassure you.”
Connect with Huso Construction by visiting www.husoconstruction.com or by calling 682587-9612. See finished projects, read customer reviews, and book a consultation through the company’s Facebook page @husoconstruction
North Texas will likely experience a warm spring and a hot summer this year, leading to more activity outside as the temperatures rise. With the freshness of spring comes pesky mosquitoes, making it hard to enjoy being outside without feeling as though you’re being eaten alive.
hibernate in flower beds, soil beds, and other tight spaces, making it easy to forget about them. Once any standing water and junk are cleared, Ostrow said homeowners should begin preventative treatments as soon as possible to ensure better results.
“This will reduce the number of off-
“OUR COMPANY MOTTO IS, ‘LET US HELP YOU TAKE BACK YOUR YARD.’”
Mosquitoes also carry dangerous diseases such as West Nile Virus and Zika, posing a serious health threat to people and pets.
According to Daniel Ostrow, owner of Mosquito Hunters - Lewisville, one thing homeowners can do to keep mosquitoes away is to get rid of as much moisture in their yards as possible.
“Make sure there is no standing water around your home, especially in shaded areas. A thumbnail of water can hold 300 mosquito larvae,” Ostrow explained. “Remove any junk from your yard – anything that can collect trash, water, or things mosquitoes would be attracted to.”
During colder months, mosquitoes
spring a mosquito produces, which is the ultimate goal,” he said.
While it’s impossible to get rid of every single mosquito, Ostrow said scheduling monthly treatments will keep the mosquito count down. He added that Mosquito Hunters use solutions that dry in 30 minutes, are EPA certified, and are pet safe so families don’t have to stay cooped up inside for long periods of time after treatment.
“Our company motto is, ‘Let us help you take back your yard,’” Ostrow said.
With spring fast approaching, now is the time to start a mosquito prevention plan. For questions about mosquito services, call Mosquito Hunters at 972-876-7084 or visit mosquitohunters.com/lewisville-tx.
1. Spring Buying Season: April kicks off the busy spring real estate market, offering a wide selection of homes to choose from.
2. Milder weather: It’s easier to explore neighborhoods and properties without the harshness of winter.
3. Competitive Pricing: Sellers are often motivated to list their homes competitively in April, offering better deals for buyers.
4. Pre-Summer Move: Buying in April means settling in before the summer rush, allowing for a smoother transition.
5. School Consideration: Families can secure a home in April to ensure a smooth transition for children before the next school year.
6. Landscaping Insight: Viewing properties in April gives buyers a better idea of the landscaping potential as plants start to bloom.
7. Prime Renovation Season: Purchasing in April allows time for renovations before summer, maximizing enjoyment of the new home.
APRIL 2024
APRIL 1ST
3220 Botanic Garden Blvd., Fort Worth, TX 76107 | 10:00 AM
Witness the magnificent transformation of nature and marvel at the sight of brilliantly colored living jewels fluttering in the Rainforest Conservatory at the Fort Worth Botanic Garden during Butterflies in the Garden, presented by Central Market. March 1April 14 | Open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tickets are sold by timed entrance.
APRIL 6TH
El Wine Chateau | 7:30 PM
Enjoy music from the 50s and 60s as Pennsylvania Slim takes the stage at El Wine Chateau. Rock out to the biggest blues, rockabilly, rock and roll and R&B hits of that era while enjoying a local glass of wine and curated bites. 155 S. Main St. Old Town Keller, Keller, TX.
APRIL 14TH
Texas Motor Speedway | 2:30 PM
All three levels of NASCAR will head to Texas Motor Speedway from April 12-14 for a full weekend of top-speed competition. The Truck Series will take the track Friday night, XFinity Series drivers will rev their engines on Saturday, and the Cup Series race will be Sunday. Tickets can be purchased at texasmotorspeedway.com
APRIL 20TH
Keller Town Hall, 1100 Bear Creek Pkwy. | 11:00 AM
Roll up your sleeves and get ready to dive into a day of food, drinks and entertainment at the 16th annual Keller Crawfish Krawl! The Krawl welcomes guests of all ages and will showcase a crawfish eating contest, crawfish races and a car show auction throughout the afternoon. Learn more at kellercrawfishkrawl.com.
APRIL 26TH
The Birch Racquet and Lawn Club | 6:00 PM
Get your tennis rackets ready for the Smashing Cancer Tennis Tournament at The Birch Racquet and Lawn Club. This two-day tournament benefits Cancer StrongHER and will have food, drinks, music, silent auction items, exhibition matches, tennis activities, a vendor fair, and much more. To register or learn more, visit smashingcancer.org
APRIL 26TH
Bass Performance Hall | 7:30 PM
For one weekend only, Star Wars fans can listen to the Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra perform live while viewing “The Empire Strikes Back,” creating the ultimate cinematic event. Shows on Friday and Saturday start at 7:30 p.m., while Sunday’s show will begin at 2 p.m. Purchase tickets through fwsymphony.org.
