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        <title>Real Estate Blog</title>
        <link>http://www.regentpg.com/blog/</link>
        <description></description>
        <item>
            <guid>http://www.regentpg.com/blog/austin-landscaping-tips-a-quick-lesson-on-invasive-plants-and-trees.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.regentpg.com/blog/austin-landscaping-tips-a-quick-lesson-on-invasive-plants-and-trees.html</link>
            <author>talley@regentpg.com (Brian Talley)</author>
            <title>Austin Landscaping Tips: A Quick Lesson on Invasive Plants and Trees</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
While that towering Chinese Tallow Tree or shady grove of Ligustrum beside that new Travis Country home may appear gorgeous at first glance, the hundreds of thousands of invasive seeds that will drop and rapidly grow into new trees over the next decade won’t make future landscaping maintenance, or Austin greenbelts, very pretty.


Just as the invulnerable clownfish threatens to take over U.S. coral reefs, these and dozens of other invasive plants species pose a big threat to natural ecosystems on land. Why?


The USDA defines invasive plants as species with five very pernicious qualities:


PROLIFIC: Produce large numbers of new seedlings each season


PERVASIVE: Spread easily by wind, water, or animals


FAST-GROWING: Grow rapidly, outpacing other species


ADAPTIVE: Tolerate many weather conditions and soil types


UNRESTRAINED: Free of natural predators


These qualities are what give invasive species the power to do more harm than good when it comes to greening up Austin neighborhoods and greenbelts. Peerless and unassailable, they spread rapidly across new habitats, crowding out native plants, ultimately reducing biodiversity and taking over entire ecosystems.


What can you do to help? Whether your Austin home is Southwest, Central, or East, here are five ways you can help protect our city:




LEARN: Learn to identify invasive Austin-area plants and trees.


REMOVE: Remove invasive plants on your property, or proactively prevent seed/pollen production. Use herbicides carefully and as a last resort.


REPLACE: Find non-invasive alternatives for existing species, and choose non-invasive native plants when it comes to new landscaping.


PREVENT: If a property borders a natural area, consider using only native plants, trees, and grasses in landscaping to prevent cross-contamination.


TEACH: Help others in your neighborhood understand the importance of avoiding invasive plants and trees.




Removing invasive plants and trees from around homes in Circle C and other Austin neighborhoods, and avoiding invasive species in landscaping will help protect the delicate balance of Austin’s natural ecosystems. Scroll down for an alphabetical list of the Austin-area’s most invasive plants!


The Austin REALTORS® at Regent Property Group believe in protecting Austin’s native beauty, and sharing tips that make a difference. We also want to make a difference in your Austin home-buying experience. Searching for a luxury home in Austin? Our real estate experts will help you stay on top of the Austin market. 


Chinaberry, Melia azedarach


Chinese Parasol Tree, Firmiana simplex


Chinese Pistache, Pistacia chinessis


Chinese Tallow, Sapium sebiferum


Common Privet Ligustrum, sinense/L.vulgare


Common Water Hyacinth, Eichhornia crassipes


Elephant Ear, Alocasia spp, Colocasia spp.


Eurasian Watermilfoil, Myriophyllum spicatum


Giant Cane, Arundo donax


Holly Fern, Cyrtomium falcatum


Hydrilla, Hydrilla verticillata


Japanese Honeysuckle, Lonicera japonica


Johnson Grass, Sorghum halepense


Kudzu, Pueraria lobata


Mimosa Silk Tree, Albizia julbrissin


Nandina, Nandina domestica


Paper Mulberry, Broussonetia papyrifera


Photinia, Photinia spp.


Poison Ivy, Toxicodendron radicans


Pyracantha, Pyracantha spp.


Running Bamboo, Phyllostachys aurea


Russian Olive, Eleagnus angustifolia


Tamarisk (Salt Cedar), Tamarix spp.


Tree of Heaven, Ailianthus altissima


Vitex, Vitex agnus-castus


Waxleaf Ligustrum, Ligustrum japonicum


White Mulberry, Morus alba


Wisteria, Wisteria sinensis/W.floribunda


To learn more, visit your local Texas AgriLife Extension Service, or read more at the City of Austin’s Invasive Plants Management Webpage!
 ]]> </description>
            <pubDate>Mon, 20 May 2013 12:11:00 -0500</pubDate>
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        <item>
            <guid>http://www.regentpg.com/blog/austins-hat-creek-burgers-giving-back-tastes-better.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.regentpg.com/blog/austins-hat-creek-burgers-giving-back-tastes-better.html</link>
            <author>talley@regentpg.com (Brian Talley)</author>
            <title>Austin’s Hat Creek Burgers: Giving Back Tastes Better</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
Hat Creek Burger Co., founded for Austinites by native Austinite Drew Gressett, was born out of a pure passion for fresh cheeseburgers and great fellowship.


You may have been introduced to Hat Creek burgers by the Hat Creek Burgermobile (food truck) at SXSW, the UT Stadium’s Red McCombs Food Court, the Cystic Fibrosis 5K, or the Bon Jovi concert. Maybe you celebrated a big day at the Burnet location with close family, watched your kids play on its fantastic playscape, or met a good friend for burgers and sweet potato fries.


But - chances are, you’ve either heard of Austin’s Hat Creek Burger Co. or already have eaten there. No one-hit wonder, it now has three beautiful locations, each built upon two great founding principles – fellowship and fresh cheeseburgers – and Austinites are tasting the difference.


“We define fellowship as ‘an association or gathering of people with similar interests and tastes.’ In this case, fresh cheeseburgers,” explains Taylor Bixby. “We like to have fellowship with each other, our employees, and with our customers, and with the community.”


Taylor Bixby is the manager of the new Hat Creek Burger Co. location in Westlake. Westlake home-owners fondly remember the location as typically and traditionally adorned with telltale pink flamingos, at the corner of Bee Cave Road and Capital of Texas (aka 360) Highway. (This also happens to be just a hop, skip, and a jump from the new Bee Cave Road Regent Property Group office.)


HCBC also has made a home for itself in Central Austin within UT stadium, and well as just south of Koenig on Burnet Road.


When it comes to the idea of fellowship and doing good in the community, Hat Creek Burger Co. really does mean business. In June, HCBC will serve as Host Sponsor of the Make-A-Wish Foundation’s “Over the Edge” event. They also work extensively with Mobile Loaves and Fishes and their volunteers in serving the hungry.


But that’s not all. In February, Hat Creek Burger Co. celebrated National Heart Month by organizing “Hat Creek Heart Day” and donating 20% of sales to the American Heart Association. By participating in the “Give 5% to Mother Earth” campaign, it was able to support seven local non-profits, including Hill Country Conservancy, TreeFolks, Austin Parks Foundation, and Clean Water Fund. This is a company committed to making a local difference!


And what does HCBC mean by “fresh cheeseburgers?” It means this locally-owned do-gooder doesn’t scrimp on taste, either. Juicy and delicious, all-natural, and always double meat, its burgers use only the freshest possible ingredients. Bixby explains:


“We use 100% fresh, never frozen, hormone and antibiotic free beef, turkey, and fresh all-natural chicken. We make our chicken flashers in-house from scratch, and they are gluten-free! We hand-cut our fries daily and make our shakes with only Blue Bell ice cream.” Hat Creek Burger Co. even makes all of its dressings and sauces.


With its fresh take on fellowship and finely crafted cheeseburgers, this local Austin company’s rising success is no surprise. Gressett’s motto, “One of the greats!” has quickly become a perfect example of self-fulfilling prophecy.


Congratulations, Hat Creek Burger Company! The REALTORS® at Regent Property Group applaud local businesses committed to doing good while helping make Austin a wonderful place to live.


Thinking of buying a new home in Austin, Texas? Regent can help. From waterfront homes on Lake Austin to lakeside homes in Steiner Ranch, it is our commitment to keep home-buyers on top of the ATX market with the best of Austin luxury homes!
 ]]> </description>
            <pubDate>Sun, 19 May 2013 13:05:00 -0500</pubDate>
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        <item>
            <guid>http://www.regentpg.com/blog/austin-texas-real-estate-market-update-and-statistics-may-2013.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.regentpg.com/blog/austin-texas-real-estate-market-update-and-statistics-may-2013.html</link>
            <author>talley@regentpg.com (Brian Talley)</author>
            <title>Austin, Texas Real Estate Market Update and Statistics May 2013</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
Your Austin home search just got a little more competitive and a little more expensive! Following last month’s indications that Austin real estate prices have risen 10% in the last year, April 2013 statistics are revealing more of this trend.


“There has been no slowing down with the quickened home sales pace we are seeing this year,” said Regent Property Group Broker Brian Talley. “If anything, it is becoming even more competitive among buyers. Lower inventory, low interest rates, and increased demand keep cranking up the volume on sales.”


Lower Inventory, Higher Prices 


Comparing this year and last, April 2013’s average sold price of $412,124 is about $74k higher than in April 2012. The median sold price of $299,000 is $49k higher. Looking year to date both years, the average sold price is about $48k higher, and the median sold price is $25k higher. This puts median home prices right on track for a continued 10% increase compared to last year.


It’s also worth noting that already this year, about 450 more homes have sold than at this time last year, a 15% increase. Additionally, an average list price of homes for sale of about $857k and a median list price of about $484k might indicate sales prices will continue to rise, as those are well above the average and median sales prices Austin has seen thus far.  


Let’s take a look at the numbers: 


Sold April 2013




1,075 homes sold


High sold price of $5,860,000 ($702.64 per square foot)


Average sold price of $412,124 ($164.43 per square foot)


Median sold price of $299,000 ($136.30 per square foot)





Sold Year to Date* 2013




3,472 homes sold


High sold price of $5,860,000 million ($755.12 per square foot)


Average sold price of $368,248 ($155.67 per square foot)


Median sold price of $275,000 ($132.02 per square foot)




Active Homes




1,624 homes for sale


High list price of $15 million ($8,681.91 per square foot)


Average list price of $856,825 ($226.93 per square foot)


Median list price of $484,049 ($177.30 per square foot)




Pending Homes




1,823 homes under contract


High list price of $3,995,000 ($720 per square foot)


Average list price of $386,478 ($159.75 per square foot)


Median list price of $290,940 ($136.95 per square foot)




Sold April 2012




899 homes sold


High sold price of $6,541,689  ($1,418.71 per square foot)


Average sold price of $338,174 ($144.05 per square foot)


Median sold price of $266,000 ($122.86 per square foot)




Sold Year to Date 2012




3,018 homes sold


High sold price of $6,541,689 ($1418.71 per square foot)


Average sold price of $319,940 ($139.90 per square foot)


Median sold price of $250,000 ($121.58 per square foot)




What are your thoughts on the Austin real estate market? Are you ready to take advantage of prices before they go even higher? Are you excited it’s finally a good market to sell your home? Call Regent Property Group today at 512.215.0565 to discuss your best options - or if you’re not quite ready, perform an Austin Home Search to peruse available inventory.


*All 2013 year to date figures are based on May 10, 2013.
 ]]> </description>
            <pubDate>Tue, 14 May 2013 11:27:00 -0500</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://www.regentpg.com/blog/mansions-in-austin-texas-what-makes-a-home-a-mansion-versus-a-luxury-home.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.regentpg.com/blog/mansions-in-austin-texas-what-makes-a-home-a-mansion-versus-a-luxury-home.html</link>
            <author>talley@regentpg.com (Brian Talley)</author>
            <title>Mansions in Austin, Texas: What makes a home a mansion versus a luxury home? </title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
Regent Property Group is privileged to help many clients who are interested in buying and selling upscale homes. Austin certainly has its share of upper echelon homes: from the shores of Lake Austin to prized central Austin estates to fine homes in Westlake, the luxury home market is thriving. One question we often are asked when helping clients with these homes is, “What is the difference between a luxury home and a mansion?”   


While there is not a finite distinction, the answer generally revolves around a home’s size and amenities. Once a home reaches a certain square footage threshold and also has additional, classically-associated mansion rooms or sumptuous features, it transitions to a mansion.


Here are some guidelines for determining whether a house is a mansion:




Square footage to become a mansion can be considered as high as 10,000 square feet or as “low” as 6,000 square feet.


If the home includes a ballroom, it is a mansion.


If the home includes tens of bedrooms and/or a dining hall, it is most likely a mansion.


Live-in quarters for a butler, cook, chauffer, housekeeper, etc. increase the likelihood that a home is a mansion.


Impressive entryways with gates, security, porte-cochère parking, circular driveways, etc. add to a home’s probability as a mansion.


Homes that have separate additional homes, such as with a compound, tend to be mansions.


Homes with extensive leisure features, such as separate gardens, large fountains, conservatories, wine cellars, greenhouses, multiple sport courts, and swimming and lounging areas may qualify a home as a mansion, pending their level of quality and distinction.


Appointments within the home must be of fine quality (or historically fine, as in the case of older mansions or manor homes) for a home to be considered a mansion.


In some cases, a home’s “atmosphere” will elevate it – as in the feelings of opulence it provides.




Many luxury homes today offer features such as home offices, home theaters, home libraries, nanny quarters, and high-level technologies so the distinction rests in having these luxury home features, plus taking it up to the next level through square footage or some combination of the above features.


It's important to note that historical homes that were considered mansions when they were built generally are still called mansions today, even if they don't meet all of the modern criteria. This is in deference to the weight and significance of their history.


View a selection of Austin mansions and luxury homes for sale below!





Click to view more Austin mansions and luxury homes for sale! 
 ]]> </description>
            <pubDate>Mon, 13 May 2013 10:52:00 -0500</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://www.regentpg.com/blog/austin-lawncare-tips-choosing-the-right-grass.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.regentpg.com/blog/austin-lawncare-tips-choosing-the-right-grass.html</link>
            <author>talley@regentpg.com (Brian Talley)</author>
            <title>Austin Lawncare Tips: Choosing the Right Grass </title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
From Tarrytown to Avery Ranch, Austin homeowners want the best grass for their lawn and lifestyle. The right type of grass, however, can depend on three factors: foot traffic, shade, and water.


FOOT TRAFFIC


Certain varieties of grass do much better under stressful physical conditions like sports-use, children’s play, and pets. These include Bermuda, Seashore Paspalum, and Zoysia. Be aware that Bermuda can be aggressive and invade nearby gardens, so it will require more maintenance than other varieties. Zoysia (being quite dense) can be difficult to mow, so keep mowing blades sharp. Lawns with minimal traffic are fine for these varieties as well, or ideal for more delicate grasses, such as Carpet, Centipede, and St. Augustine.


SHADE


Only a few types of grass can handle growing in a partially-shaded or shaded yard: Carpet, Centipede, St. Augustine, Zoysia, and Buffalo grass. Live in a shady area, such as a Rob Roy home? These might be for you! Though St. Augustine is one of the most shade tolerant of all grasses, it is also the most disease prone, so keep an eye out. For Ranch at Brushy Creek homes, and others with sunny yards, light-loving Bermuda grass is an option. Just remember, it’s aggressive. Don’t be surprised if it jumps in bed with your petunias!


WATER


Homeowners with an automatic sprinkler system and a large water budget may be able to afford high-water grasses like Carpet, Centipede, and St. Augustine. Owners with less resources, or who just want to be more environmentally-sensitive, might consider drought-tolerant grasses like Bermuda, Buffalo, Bahia, Grama, and Zoysia grass. Buffalo grass is by far the most tolerant of low-water conditions, though it can be more susceptible to weeds than other varieties.




Of course, always check with your homeowners association as some neighborhoods require certain types of grass!




Pets, kids, drought, and Texas heat all can take quite a toll on Austin grass. Is your yard-future looking more grim than green? Try a grass variety better suited for the everyday conditions in your backyard, and with proper maintenance, the elements won’t stand a chance!


The luxury REALTORS® at Austin’s Regent Property Group enjoy providing homeowners with relevant household tips and information. On the lookout for new home? We can help. Check out Austin Home Search!


Read more in Regent Property Group’s Austin Lawncare Tips Series:


Austin Lawncare Tips: Five Greener Ways to Fertilize


Austin Lawncare Tips: When and How to Aerate


Austin Lawncare Tips: Reseed this Spring!


Austin Lawncare Tips: Choosing the Right Grass
 ]]> </description>
            <pubDate>Sat, 11 May 2013 14:38:00 -0500</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://www.regentpg.com/blog/austin-lawncare-tips-five-greener-ways-to-fertilize.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.regentpg.com/blog/austin-lawncare-tips-five-greener-ways-to-fertilize.html</link>
            <author>talley@regentpg.com (Brian Talley)</author>
            <title>Austin Lawncare Tips: Five Greener Ways to Fertilize</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
For homes from Seven Oaks to Senna Hills, the front lawn is fair ground for that make-or-break first impression. Want to keep it healthy and green? Fertilize! When, what kind, and how often? Just follow these 5 essential tips for fertilizing grass the right way in eco-friendly Austin, Texas …


1. TEST


Fertilizers come in endless variations for specific types of soil. Did you know a home in Barton Creek West may have an entirely different soil-type than a home in South Austin? Before applying any kind of lawn fertilizer, it’s essential to conduct a soil test. With the results, homeowners can choose a custom fertilization regimen catered to amend their unique soil type. Buy a kit at a local gardening center. Or even better, follow the directions of your local extension service, and ship a few samples off for testing. Repeat the test every 2-3 years, adjusting fertilizing as recommended. These tests will save money, time, and wasted effort.


2. LEVELS


Homeowners typically choose from three distinct programs. The light (or “low maintenance”) program involves one fertilization per year. A medium or moderate level tends to include two treatments, while a high maintenance regimen typically includes 3 to 4 treatments per year. Just remember, the more you feed, the greener the grass—and the more often you’ll have to mow! Choose the lowest-level possible.


3. PRODUCTS


Slow-release and organic fertilizers are the best options for your lawn and for the environment. Choose a low-phosphorous brand (Phosphorous is the middle number in the fertilizer ratio. Ex: 10-20-10). Be careful not to over-fertilize. Calculate the amount needed based on your measured lawn size (rather than your property size).


4. SAFETY


Be sure to follow all fertilizer directions carefully, wear eye protection and gloves, and always store fertilizer in a cool, dry place away from children and pets. Also, protect our local waterways and wildlife: avoid over-application, as well as spilling excess fertilizer on sidewalks and driveways. This excess may wash into storm drains, infiltrating water supplies.


5. SAVE MONEY


When grass clippings are left on the grass, nutrients are returned to the soil. Want to save money? Homeowners who leave clippings only need to use half as much grass fertilizer, half as often! Or, avoid fertilizer altogether: learn to compost (or just buy Dillo Dirt), and use ¼ inch on top of your lawn instead of fertilizer. Compost improves soil texture and restores nutrient levels naturally!


Austin luxury REALTOR® Brian Talley enjoys sharing the latest home and gardening tips with Austin residents. Looking for a Tarrytown cottage, or a luxury home on Lake Travis? Contact Brian today at 512.554.9714.


Read more in Regent Property Group’s Austin Lawncare Tips Series:


Austin Lawncare Tips: Five Greener Ways to Fertilize


Austin Lawncare Tips: When and How to Aerate


Austin Lawncare Tips: Reseed this Spring!


Austin Lawncare Tips: Choosing the Right Grass
 ]]> </description>
            <pubDate>Sat, 11 May 2013 14:15:00 -0500</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://www.regentpg.com/blog/coming-soon-7521-bonniebrook-drive-in-ridge-at-lantana-offered-at-495000.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.regentpg.com/blog/coming-soon-7521-bonniebrook-drive-in-ridge-at-lantana-offered-at-495000.html</link>
            <author>talley@regentpg.com (Brian Talley)</author>
            <title>Pending! 7521 Bonniebrook Drive in Ridge at Lantana, Offered at $495,000 - MLS #1186600</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
7521 Bonniebrook Drive - MLS #1186600



Discover another exceptional home listed by Regent Property Group!


With four bedrooms, two and a half baths, and a three-car garage, this 3,593 square foot home built in 2006 offers remarkable features, such as hand-scraped hickory floors in the office, formal dining room, and living rooms; a game room with a built-in speaker system and walk-out attic access; sophisticated wiring packages; and decorative features, such as art niches, wrought iron balusters, French doors, crown moulding, shutters, blinds, and more throughout the home.


A two-story stone gas fireplace with a raised flagstone hearth serves as an appealing focal point of the high-ceiling living and entry area. The home’s welcoming kitchen area offers an island, maple cabinets with black appliances, granite countertops and a travertine backsplash, a walk-in pantry, a separate pot filler and stainless steel sink, a convection oven, and a gas range. The spacious, carpeted master bedroom features a custom-built solid wood closet, a granite double vanity, a garden tub, and a separate steam shower with body sprayers and a granite seat.


The entry, kitchen, sunroom, powder bath, master bath, and laundry room all offer Travertine tile floors, and the laundry room also offers cabinets and a utility sink. A 400 square foot exotic hardwood Ipe deck allows for backyard relaxation overlooking trees and the greenbelt. Take a walk or run in the neighborhood while enjoying beautiful hill country views only moments from shopping, employment, and easy access to MoPac.


Click here to take a virtual tour! 




Game room with built-in speakers


Walk-in closets in all bedrooms


Ceiling fans in all bedrooms, living room, and game room


Radiant barrier in attic


Tankless hot water heater


Wood front door with inlaid glass


Christmas light wiring package (outlets in eaves of home, separate switch in garage)


Garden light wiring package (outlet in flower bed, separate switch in garage)


Appliance outlets in garage


Built-in overhead Monster Rax storage in garage


Alarm system


Sprinkler system




View the Listing Details! 


Listed by Regent Property Group. Call 512.554.9714 for more information!
 ]]> </description>
            <pubDate>Sat, 11 May 2013 13:58:00 -0500</pubDate>
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        <item>
            <guid>http://www.regentpg.com/blog/just-sold-in-north-lakeway-village-in-austin-315-montalcino-blvd-offered-at-449990.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.regentpg.com/blog/just-sold-in-north-lakeway-village-in-austin-315-montalcino-blvd-offered-at-449990.html</link>
            <author>talley@regentpg.com (Brian Talley)</author>
            <title>Just SOLD in North Lakeway Village! 315 Montalcino Blvd., offered at $449,990</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
315 Montalcino Blvd.- MLS # 6643318


This new construction home in North Lakeway Village in Lakeway, west of Austin, was just closed by Regent Property Group! With four bedrooms and three full and two half baths, this almost 3,500 square foot, cul-de-sac home offers a stunning layout perfect for entertaining, with an open kitchen and an oversized covered patio backing to a greenbelt view of the hill country. A bonus room and powder room upstairs increase this home’s appeal.


Features




All sides masonry


Granite countertops and island in kitchen


Media/home theatre room


Office


Fireplace


Lake Travis Schools




Did you know it’s important for buyers interested in new home construction to have an agent of their own? 




It is the right of buyers to have their own representation. (The selling agent – the person generally located in the model home - has a fiduciary obligation to the builder, not the buyer!) And, there is NO cost to the buyer for this representation. Builders account for a buyers' agent when they price properties, and simply pocket the extra money when no agent is present. Be clear with the builder's representative that you have your own agent the first time you walk in! Better yet, bring your agent!  




Protect yourself and empower yourself to get the best deal - and home - possible with a knowledgeable and professional agent.


Buyer represented by Regent Property Group. Call 512.554.9714 for more information!
 ]]> </description>
            <pubDate>Thu, 09 May 2013 12:44:00 -0500</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://www.regentpg.com/blog/austin-lawncare-tips-when-and-how-to-aerate.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.regentpg.com/blog/austin-lawncare-tips-when-and-how-to-aerate.html</link>
            <author>talley@regentpg.com (Brian Talley)</author>
            <title>Austin Lawncare Tips: When and How to Aerate</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
Spring (March-May) is the perfect time of year to aerate the lawn of your Northwest Austin home. Annual aeration helps grass recover and bounce back from a year’s worth of foot traffic by improving water drainage, giving grassroots room to grow, restoring access to proper nutrients, and increasing the activity of the soil microorganisms. Proper aeration is essential for reversing the harmful effects of soil compaction and reducing thatch (the build-up of decaying plant material).


From Steiner Ranch to River Place, Austin home-owners are preparing their lawns for summer fun. To aerate your Austin-area lawn this spring, follow these five simple steps:


WATER: To make aerating easier and more effective, moisten the soil the day before.


CHOOSE: Head to the local gardening store and choose the type of aerator that works for you. A hollow-tined aerator is most effective.




Mechanical aerators are helpful for large lawns. These devices are typically pushed by hand or pulled behind riding lawn mowers.


Core aeration (a more serious mechanical method) may be recommended to remove some of the thatch layer in a seriously troubled lawn.


Manual aerators are either rolled across a lawn, or pushed into the earth step by step with the pressure of the feet (aerating shoes can be a fun manual option)!




AERATE: To aerate, punch holes three or four inches apart across the entire lawn. For some aerators, this may require aerating in two different directions. The best aerators will pull out 3-inch cores and leave them on top of the lawn to break down.


NUTRIENTS: After aerating, increase microbial activity by spreading a small amount of compost over the area (like Dillo Dirt).


REPEAT: Aerating annually keep grass healthy, especially in high-traffic areas.


The REALTORS® of Regent Property Group enjoy sharing tips like these with Austin home-owners. Considering a home on Lake Austin, or buying a condo downtown? Homebuyers from Eanes ISD to Lakeway can count on the agents at Regent to stay on top of the Austin real estate market!


Read more in Regent Property Group’s Austin Lawncare Tips Series:


Austin Lawncare Tips: Five Greener Ways to Fertilize


Austin Lawncare Tips: When and How to Aerate


Austin Lawncare Tips: Reseed this Spring!


Austin Lawncare Tips: Choosing the Right Grass
 ]]> </description>
            <pubDate>Tue, 07 May 2013 17:11:00 -0500</pubDate>
        </item>
        <item>
            <guid>http://www.regentpg.com/blog/austin-lawncare-tips-reseed-this-spring.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.regentpg.com/blog/austin-lawncare-tips-reseed-this-spring.html</link>
            <author>talley@regentpg.com (Brian Talley)</author>
            <title>Austin Lawncare Tips: Reseed this Spring!</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
It’s springtime in beautiful Austin, Texas, which means lawncare season has officially begun. However, droughts and winter freezes leave their mark on even the healthiest Central Texas lawns. Facing a yard with thinning grass or bare patches? Consider reseeding. Common Austin-area grasses like St. Augustine and Bermuda grow best when the soil temperature approaches 70 degrees F, and require two months after winter to become established. That means right now (April through June) is an ideal time to reseed. Follow these ten steps to reseed an existing lawn this spring:




PREPARE SOIL: Whether a home is in West Austin or East Austin will affect soil composition. Consider taking a soil test. If needed, amend soil as recommended using compost or fertilizer. Also, treat any existing pest problems or lawn diseases.


CLEAN: Remove any pebbles, rocks, soil clods, branches, or bark.


WEED: Eliminate all undesirable weeds or grasses either by hand, mechanically or chemically. Mechanical approaches include hoeing, digging, and smothering. Chemical approaches involve using environmentally-friendly herbicides, either selective or non-selective. Follow all directions carefully!


AERATE or RAKE: If the soil is compacted from heavy foot traffic or repetitive mowing patterns, aeration may be needed. A mechanical aerator can be rented from a local garden center, or aeration shoes or garden tools can be purchased. Any bare areas should be lightly tilled or raked just prior to planting (only the top inch: going too deep will stir up weed seeds).


BUY SEED: While a shady yard in Barton Creek West could feature St. Augustine grass, a sunny home in Olympic Heights will often have Bermuda grass. Purchase seed that matches the existing variety of grass (i.e.: the cultivar). If in doubt, bring a picture to the local garden center where you plan to make the purchase. The seed bag label should read “certified”. Also, check the bag for the best purity ratings. Grass seeds should have no more than 10% weed contamination, and the germination rate should be about 85%.


APPLY: Apply half the seed in one direction and the other half at a right angle to the first direction. Using a rotary seeder, hand seeding, and drop seeding are common options. Small seeds can be mixed with dry sand (1:1) to make spreading easier.


WATER: Lawn should be kept moist, but not soggy, for ten to twenty-one days. Morning-time light waterings work best. If the weather is windy or sunny, increase waterings to two or three times per day. Be careful not to water roughly, as you may wash away seeds.


MOW: Mow when new grass is 1/3 past its ideal height. For example, grass with an ideal height of three inches should be mowed when it reaches four inches. The lawn should be dry to protect grass from pathogens, and lawn blades should be sharp to protect grass blades from injury.


FERTILIZE: If fertilizer was not applied prior to planting, a complete blend of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium can be applied for 3-4 weeks. Be careful: a blend with more than 10% nitrogen will burn seedlings.


WEED: As the growing season progresses, continue to pull or hoe any weeds. Use herbicides only as a last resort, and environmentally-friendly brands only.




Reseeding a poorly-performing lawn is a great way to reestablish healthy grass. With proper mowing and care, it should thrive throughout Austin’s growing season!


The Austin REALTORS® at Regent Property Group enjoy providing homeowners from Circle C to Avery Ranch with helpful home tips and information. They also help homebuyers traverse Austin’s real estate market, and keep up with the latest residential trends. Thanks for stopping by!


Read more in Regent Property Group’s Austin Lawncare Tips Series:


Austin Lawncare Tips: Five Greener Ways to Fertilize


Austin Lawncare Tips: When and How to Aerate


Austin Lawncare Tips: Reseed this Spring!


Austin Lawncare Tips: Choosing the Right Grass
 ]]> </description>
            <pubDate>Tue, 07 May 2013 12:22:00 -0500</pubDate>
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