Home is the place where we feel most comfortable and secure, where we can be ourselves and relax. It is where we create memories, build relationships, and find comfort in times of need. Every home needs to adapt to every family's evolving needs. Whether it's a fresh coat of paint, a new kitchen renovation, or simply updating your decor, there are always ways to improve and enhance your living space. These improvements not only add value to your home but also make it a more comfortable and enjoyable place to live. Some of the popular home improvement trends include energy-efficient appliances, smart home technology, and outdoor living spaces. These features not only enhance the aesthetics of your home but also increase its functionality and sustainability. Read on and find out what are the latest updates your home needs.   Smart Homes   Smart homes offer homeowners a range of benefits, including increased convenience, energy efficiency, and security. Almost everything in your home can now be operated using smart technology, including your TV, home speakers, thermostat, security system, lights, and more. Even better, invest in a smart home system that will let you manage all of your home's technology from a single device. In addition, the integration of smart technology in homes has also shown an increase in property value and appeal to potential buyers, making it a worthwhile investment for homeowners. As technology continues to advance, it is likely that smart homes will become even more prevalent in the future.   Biophilic     The biophilic or nature-inspired design trend has gained popularity in recent years as people seek to use more natural elements in their living and work spaces. Wood is a key material in this trend, as it adds warmth, texture, and a connection to nature, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Homeowners prefer natural furnishings, such as live-edge tables and reclaimed wood accents, that bring a sense of sustainability to their living spaces. The use of wood in different finishes and colors allows for versatility in design, making it a popular choice for modern and traditional styles alike.   Aesthetic Look   An aesthetic space is one that emphasizes the personal touch. Tasteful and unique, this look is inspired by your current needs and wants for the room but includes trendy touches that reflect your personality. To achieve an aesthetic look, it is important to incorporate elements such as color coordination, texture, and lighting. Adding personal items such as photos or artwork can help create a space that truly feels like your own.   Greener Homes   Homeowners are looking for ways to make their homes more eco-friendly, from installing solar panels to using sustainable building materials. The trend towards greener homes is expected to continue in the coming years. Moreover, most households are now using low-water sinks and toilets, energy-efficient furnaces, and recycled water that can be used to flush toilets and water plants. This shift towards sustainable home construction is not only beneficial for the environment but also for homeowners, who can save money on utility bills in the long run.   Well-designed Kitchens   Kitchens can quickly become one of the most important rooms in your home with the right design. Well-made kitchens offer homeowners fresh options for adding elements that hide clutter, maximize island function and extend the space into the outdoors. This means more space for cooking, entertaining, and enjoying time with your loved ones.   Outdoor Living Spaces     Indoor-outdoor spaces are gaining popularity as homeowners seek more modern and efficient ways to connect with nature. Outdoor spaces can include a porch, patio or deck and functions just like an indoor living room with furniture, curtains, televisions, and audio systems. It's great for families with children as well, providing extra room for play. The outdoor kitchen is also a wonderful gathering place for family and friends. You can make meals ranging from soup to s'mores, or just use the grill to make an easy dinner on a busy weeknight.   Accent Wall Update     The accent wall is a staple of every modern home. The update is created by many working from home during the early days of the pandemic. An accent wall can be an easy way to give your walls a bit of a makeover and instantly add interest to any room. Try adding a little color, texture or pattern to your walls with an accent wall update.   Bathroom Makeover – Floating Sink/Vanities   Floating sinks and vanities are new staples that will be a great way to add more space to your bathroom. These sinks will not rest on your floor, so they are much easier to clean and create extra storage space. It also provides a modern and sleek look to your bathroom, making it a great choice for those who want to update their bathroom's style.   Multipurpose rooms   Multipurpose rooms are versatile and can adapt to different needs, making them a valuable addition to any home. With a little creativity, these rooms can also be transformed into a guest room, a playroom, or even a home gym.    Tiny Spaces Maximized   Tiny Spaces Maximized is a design philosophy that focuses on making the most out of small living spaces. It involves creative solutions such as multifunctional furniture, clever storage solutions, and maximizing natural light to create a functional and comfortable living space. Tiny spaces are being transformed into functional areas that add value to homes. With creative design solutions, even the smallest nooks can become a cozy reading corner, a mini home office, or a stylish storage space.   Home Office Updates     People have had to adapt to working from home because of the pandemic, and many have invested in creating a comfortable and efficient workspace. Most homeowners prefer a flexible home office designed to accommodate different work styles and needs, including adjustable lighting, ergonomic furniture, and adequate storage space. It should also be equipped with the necessary technology and connectivity to support remote work and virtual meetings.   All these home improvements are mainly because you want to give your family a comfortable living space that meets their needs and enhances their quality of life. Additionally, these updates can also increase the value of your home in case you decide to sell it in the future.    

April is a busy time of year in Austin. There are festivals, concerts, art shows and much more to enjoy! Be sure to check out some of our favorite events so you can plan ahead!   THEATRE and CONCERT DISNEY ON ICE: FROZEN AND ENCANTO April 26-30, 2023 | HEB Center at Cedar Park – 2100 Ave Of The Stars, Cedar Park, TX 78613 Disney on Ice brings out the magic of both movies Frozen and Encanto! The show brings joy to both the kids and grown-ups. With its new stage act, sing-a-longs, and world-class skaters that everyone will enjoy.   NEIL DEGRASSE TYSON April 5, 2023 | Dell Hall – Long Center, 701 W Riverside Dr, Austin, TX 78704 An accomplished astrophysicist known for his ability to present information about the universe in layman’s language. Neil DeGrasse Tyson has an engaging style as he explains complex scientific theories in an easy-to-relate style.   PILOBOLUS DANCE THEATER April 8, 2023 | Dell Hall – Long Center, 701 W Riverside Dr, Austin, TX 78704 Pilobolus Dance Theatre welcomes a new era of collaborative creativity with MIT Distributed Robotics Laboratory, Art Spiegelman, OK Go, Radiolab, and more. These artists and thinkers create works that push boundaries through innovative movement forms and collaborations with innovators in other arts. Be prepared to be delighted, moved, and amazed.   BEAUTIFUL: THE CAROLE KING MUSICAL April 22-23, 2023 | Bass Concert Hall – Texas Performing Arts Center, 2350 Robert Dedman Dr, Austin, TX 78712 Listen to Broadway’s Greatest Hits, “Uptown,” “(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman,” “You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feeling”, “You’ve Got a Friend” and many more. Beautiful: The Carole King Musical has become a hit, this showstopper gives audiences the iconic story of her humble start to stardom.   SHOWS and FESTIVAL ABC Kite Fest April 1, 2023 | Zilker Park – Check out the largest kite festival in Texas. Whether you have artistic hands making kites or flying them, everyone will have a great time at this annual event. The festival offers all sorts of food and drink options and live music until sundown.   TexasFest Austin April 1, 2023 | Austin- Georgetown Outdoor Event Center – TexasFest Austin, designed for the whole family, is the creative and cultural event in Central Texas. Enjoy live music, an art bazaar, a muscle car exhibit, a petting zoo, rides and attractions, food and beer vendors, and more.   Austin Urban Music Festival April 1, 2023 | Auditorium Shores – The annual Austin Urban Music Festival is a unique experience filled with the most up-and-coming talents in R&B music. The event explores trends in R&B music mixed up with jazz, indie soul, gospel, and neo-soul.   Balloons Over Horseshoe Bay Resort April 7-9, 2023 | Horseshoe Bay Resort – Horseshoe Bay Resort transforms into the backdrop for one of the world’s most beautiful sights—the annual Balloon Flight Festival. Providing breathtaking views for everyone while enjoying activities such as live musical performances, fairs, rides, and more.   Fusebox Festival April 12-16, 2023 | Various Locations Fusebox is a festival for artists, audiences, and all who love to be inspired by theater, dance, film, music, literature, visual and culinary arts. The festival takes place over five days and showcases local, national, and international artists across all fields.   Indie Meme Film Festival April 14-16, 2023 | Austin Film Society IMFF is a one-of-a-kind film festival dedicated to showcasing the best in South Asian and Iranian cinema, with events ranging from film screenings to Q&As.   The Handbuilt Motorcycle Show April 14-16, 2023 | Austin American-Statesman – The Handbuilt Motorcycle Show is a celebration of the vintage and custom motorcycle industry. The event will feature vendors with parts, apparel, accessories, and more.   Two Step Inn Festival April 15-16, 2023 | San Gabriel Park – Enjoy a weekend filled with good old country music and food, fun, and excitement at the Two Step Inn Festival. With Zach Bryan and Tyler Childers headlining, featuring other established country legends on stage.   CAP10K April 16, 2023 | Austin, TX, USA – If you love running and are looking for a challenge, this race is a great choice. Ranked 6th largest 10k race in the nation, it draws thousands of runners from all over Texas and beyond. Everyone can cheer from the sideline and boost the runners’ spirit.   Old Settler’s Music Festival April 20-23, 2023 | 1616 FM 3158 Dale, TX 78616 The Old Settler’s Music Festival is a unique camping experience unlike any other. Enjoy four unforgettable days surrounded by 145 acres of rolling hills and meadows as you soak up the music, compliments of an impressive roster of bands from around the country.   The 20th Annual Lonestar Round Up April 21-22, 2023 | Travis County Expo Center The 20th Annual Lonestar Round Up is an event featuring vintage car displays, history, live music, and food and drink vendors. Anyone is also welcome to register and share their vintage automobile for the exhibit.   Austin Reggae Festival April 21-23, 2023 | Auditorium Shores Come out and celebrate good vibes at the Austin Reggae Festival! Every ticket sold supports Central Texas Food Bank. What a great way to enjoy the weekend of reggae music!   Austin Psych Fest April 28-30, 2023 | The Far Out Lounge & Stage An annual festival featuring the psychedelic sounds of the 60s, Austin Psych Fest is a unique experience for music lovers. Get hyped with this year’s lineup – Crumb, Hey Cowboy, Melody’s Echo Chamber, Nemegata, and more!   RADwood Austin April 29, 2023 |  Circuit of the Americas RADwood Austin is a lifestyle event that brings back the 80s and 90s with cool cars, bikes, and more. From classics to rare models, RADwood Austin has something for everyone – whether you want to sell or trade your ride or buy one new.   15th Annual Sunset Valley ARTFEST 2023 April 29, 2023 | Toney Burger Center Browse through a wide selection of artwork, drawings, and sculptures as well as trinkets, portraits, glass art, and everything handcrafted at the Annual Sunset Valley ARTFEST. There are over a hundred vendors and artists with unique handmade creations for exhibit and for sale.   SPORTS MotoGP Red Bull Grand Prix of the Americas April 14-16, 2023 | Circuit of The Americas – MotoGP is the leading motorcycle racing, so what better way to experience it than live! Watch as the city’s best riders race around the Circuit of The Americas in Austin, TX. It’s a three-day event with lots of action and a Rider Fan Parade.   MONSTER JAM April 22-23, 2023 | Moody Center ATX – Robert Dedman Drive 2001, Austin, TX 78712 Experience the best drivers and monster trucks battling it out in one of the most epic shows on earth, this event is packed full of all sorts of crazy tricks, jumps and stunts. The show guarantees great entertainment and excitement for everyone!   USWNT vs Ireland April 8, 2023 | Q2 Stadium The USWNT is preparing for its second-to-last stop before heading to Australia for the World Cup. The national team will take on Ireland at Q2 Stadium on April 8th, 2023.   San Antonio Spurs Home Game April 6 & 8, 2023 | Moody Center ATX, Austin, TX Celebrate the Silver & Black’s 50th anniversary, and deepen your fanbase by attending these four special home games at Moody Center. The Spurs will host four special home games during the 2022-23 NBA season, including two at Moody Center on Thursday, April 6 vs. the Portland Trail Blazers and Saturday, April 8 vs. the Minnesota Timberwolves. Events like these are a great way to enjoy the city of Austin. If you have any suggestions for events that should be included on this list, please contact us!

Austin-Round Rock MSA adds housing inventory as home builder confidence grows  In February, home buyers continued to gain leverage across the Austin-Round Rock MSA as housing inventory increased to 2.6 months according to the Austin Board of REALTORS® latest Central Texas Housing Report. This increase in supply fuels growing confidence in the market from REALTORS® and home builders across Central Texas. “Austin’s housing market is trending in the right direction. Buyers have more options and negotiating power with each passing month, and sellers have more time to make their next move,” Ashley Jackson, 2023 ABoR president, said. “Remember, a healthy housing market isn’t defined by breaking records every month, but by market activity that’s steady-paced and sustainable.” Last month, monthly housing inventory increased 2.3 months to 2.6 months of inventory, and homes spent an average of 84 days on the market, up 55 days from February 2022 across the MSA. The median home price fell 12.2% to $436,419 while residential home sales also declined 17.2% year-over-year to 2,106 closed sales and sales dollar volume declined 26.5% to $1,129,639,482. New listings dipped 0.9% year-over-year to 2,764 listings while pending sales dropped 9.5% to 2,465 transactions. Coming off two unprecedented years for the Austin-Round Rock housing market, Jackson added that month-to-month data is important to help contextualize current figures against an overall trend of market stabilization. “Looking at the month-to-month data, we see that pending sales are consistent or rising in neighborhoods that are typically more affordable in areas outside Austin city limits. Along with rising inventory, that’s a good sign for housing market activity this spring.” Taylor Jackson, chief executive officer of the Home Builders Association of Greater Austin, explains that builder confidence is growing and encourages a broader perspective when looking at Austin’s housing market and home building industry. “With each passing month, homebuilders are gaining more confidence in the stability of our housing market. This is evidenced by fewer cancellations and minimized supply shortages. Additionally, first quarter sales incentives have remained strong and for the first time in a long time, builders have a renewed sense of optimism in the direction the market is heading.” “Incentives, down payment assistance programs — anything that increases housing accessibility— are very important right now,” added Jackson. “Many buyers remain priced out of the market, especially in Austin proper. There is still plenty of work to do to address systemic issues in affordability, accessibility, and missing middle construction, and those should remain our community’s number one concern.” Ashley Jackson also placed importance on working with a REALTOR® whether buying, selling or renting a home. “Work with a REALTOR® who’s experienced in your local area. Equipped with powerful MLS data and boots-on-the-ground expertise, your REALTOR® can give a detailed analysis of market trends in your neighborhood and walk through all available options so that you can buy, sell, or rent with confidence. If you’ve been intimidated by the housing market, now is the time to jump in.” City of Austin In February, home sales decreased 29.9% to 577 sales, while sales dollar volume decreased 31.9% to $389,252,605. At the same time, median price decreased 6.0% to $530,000 for the City of Austin. Last month, new listings slightly decreased ​​0.8% to 879 listings, active listings skyrocketed 384.5% to 1,778 listings as pending sales declined by 19.7% to 677 pending sales. Monthly housing inventory increased 1.9 months year over year to 2.2 months of inventory. Travis County In Travis County, home sales decreased 26.5% to 938 sales, while sales dollar volume decreased 31.4% to $596,185,542. Last month, the median price in Travis County slightly dipped 7.0% year over year to $499,990, while new listings increased 5.7% to 1,411 listings and active listings ballooned 464.8% to 3,191 listings year over year. Pending sales declined 16.2% to 1,084 pending sales as monthly housing inventory increased 2.2 months year over year to 2.5 months of inventory. Williamson County February home sales decreased 15.4% to 726 sales in Williamson County. Sales dollar volume declined 25.5% year over year to $336,341,463. The median price decreased 14.0% to $410,000 as new listings decreased 12.6% to 806 listings. During the same period, active listings soared 645.9% to 2,245 listings while pending sales slightly dropped 6.7% to 833 pending sales. Housing inventory rose 2.1 months to 2.4 months of inventory. Hays County In Hays County, February home sales increased 3.8% to 301 sales and sales dollar volume dropped 12.9%% to $145,604,710. The median price for homes fell 13.1% to $380,000. During the same period, new listings increased 5.3% to 359 listings, while active listings skyrocketed by 448.8% to 1,136 listings. Pending sales decreased 10.3% to 375 pending sales as housing inventory jumped by 2.6 months to 3.1 months of inventory. Bastrop County Last month, Bastrop County home sales increased 28.8% year over year to 103 sales, while sales dollar volume also increased by 10.4% to $39,285,549. Median price decreased 20.0% to $349,990 as new listings ticked up 3.6% to 145 listings. Active listings soared 395.8% to 476 listings as pending sales decreased 15.7% to 124 pending sales. Housing inventory increased by 3 months to 3.8 months of inventory, the highest level of inventory across the MSA in February. Caldwell County In Caldwell County, home sales stayed flat year over year with 38 closed sales, and sales dollar volume slightly dropped 6.2% to $11,806,806. The median home price slightly fell 3.1% year over year to $299,990. At the same time, new listings decreased by 14.0% to 43 listings as active listings skyrocketed 340.7% to 119 listings. Pending sales slightly decreased 5.8% to 49 pending sales, and housing inventory increased 2 months to 2.8 months of inventory. Bell County In Bell County, the number of home sales in January decreased 19.5% with 388 compared last year. During the same period, the median price rose 3.2% to $258,000. The number of active listings rose up to 1,000 year over year with 346.4% increase. Inventory increased 1.6 months to 2.0 months of inventory. For more information or to download the February 2023 Central Texas Housing Market Report, visit ABoR.com/MarketStatistics.