Posts in category: Fun Stuff!

Last week, we shared some helpful tips and contact information for those who are moving to Las Vegas from other cities. But that got us to thinking, perhaps we should back-up that train a stop, and discuss some of the things you should consider BEFORE making that big move.

Moving is big business. It’s estimated that about 40 million people in the U.S. move each year, and more than 7.6 million of them are moving to another state. Because of the proximity of Las Vegas, and the fact that it’s a top Sunbelt destination, we may perhaps have a higher percentage of those out-of-state moves than other places – considering our weather, recreation and entertainment, services, and all the conveniences offered in a major metropolitan area.

For those who choose to move to Southern Nevada to be near family or for work opportunities, those two factors will most certainly weigh heavier on the “Pro” reasons to come to Las Vegas, of course.

But if you’re simply trying to decide between one of several different cities to start out in life, find a new start, or in search of a place to wind down after a long career – here is a list of things to consider when comparing one city/state to another. (Because every little bit helps, right?)

1. Where Will You Live?

Whether you plan to rent or buy a home, there are resources that can help give you a fair idea of the cost of the housing market where you choose to move. Check around online at websites like Zillow.com or Realtor.com – as they can both offer some information about both the rental and buying markets. But don’t depend on them as your sole source of information. (And by the way, just beware of the numerous scam listings for both on Craigslist.org.) Check with the local Chamber of Commerce or the website for the city you’re interested in learning about – because they will often have “Moving to …..?” packages they can send to you that include a great deal of helpful information.

Of course, if buying a home is at the top of your list, it makes sense to find an experienced and reputable Realtor® in that city that you can work and communicate with. They’ll be able to help you pinpoint the most important features about your home and the area you wish to live, and as your ‘boots-on-the-ground,’ their assistance can be invaluable.

2. Where Will You Work?

Sometimes the job is what brings you to a new city. Sometimes knowing friends, family, or associates in an area will help you find employment more quickly when you move. But if you’re starting from scratch, research the types of jobs that are available in your field online at places like Indeed.com, or Monster.com – or any number of job-seeking/job-placement websites. It used to be that scanning the Want Ads in the local newspaper was the method to get a feel for employment in another area; but with the move to digital and the efficiency that offers to employers – your best bet is going to be starting with your search through the internet.

That’s not to say that once you arrive, it should still all be done “online.” Quite the contrary, employers are impressed with those who make the effort to present themselves in person for many positions – especially small businesses (of which there are many in Southern Nevada – because we’re not all about huge hotels and casinos, you know!).

3. Weather and Location.

Most people have a pretty good idea if they want to head for a place where the sun shines all the time, or where they can experience the four seasons. What they often fail to consider, though, is the proximity to those “life conveniences” that you’re used to, but may not be available in some places.

For example, if you’re in Las Vegas – the convenience of a major international airport within 30 minutes of virtually any point in the valley is something you get used to quickly – whether you’re the one traveling, or you’re picking up friends and family at the airport. On the other hand, if you’re used to that convenience and move to Vermont, you may not realize you’re going to be a 3-hour drive (one-way) to the Boston airport. The same thing applies to shopping, culture, entertainment, and many other everyday things that you may take for granted now, but might be giving up in your new city. A list of what you can – and can’t – live without can be very helpful in narrowing down your choices.

Those three things are only the beginning, of course. There’s also a need to give serious consideration to several other circumstances – some may affect your life, some may not– but could in the future, and some may not matter at all. But that list continues with such topics as:

• Taxes. State income tax can take a huge chunk of your income (except in places like Las Vegas, since Nevada has no state income tax at all!). Be sure to add this to your financial considerations.

• Quality Health Care. With the changing health care climate in the country, this has become a more important issue than ever before for many people. Don’t simply assume you’ll have easy access to the care you need – confirm it. (By the way, Las Vegas has many – and some of the best – hospitals and health care providers in the country – and resources are growing all the time.)

• Education. If there’s the slightest chance you may want to continue your education now or in the future, be sure to look into universities and college opportunities nearby. A quick look at each city’s Wikipedia page can be helpful to show what schools are available. (Las Vegas is the home of UNLV, CSN, and Nevada State College, along with a number of special trade schools from Touro University to Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts.)

• Transportation. Moving to an urban area? Then do you really need the expense of a vehicle? (Given Uber and Lyft and other options available these days.) On the other hand, the West is a bit of a different animal. Planned and developed during the heyday of the U.S. automobile, contrary to what people think – you can’t just pick up a friend at the Reno airport when you live in Las Vegas. Things are a bit more spread out here, and the public transportation that’s so available in the East isn’t really on display out West. So plan accordingly.

We figure that should be enough to get you started. A move is a big thing – and exciting time – and fills the future with unlimited possibilities. And if Las Vegas should become your moving-destination-of-choice, know that the crew at New Home Resource is here to help you find just the right new or resale home for your family’s needs. We love this place – and we’ll be happy to show you why!

New Home Resource helps current and future homeowners with all of their Las Vegas real estate needs. Whether your preference is for a newly-built home from a local builder, or a resale property in just the right location, a New Home Resource Realtor® is here to find the perfect property for you. Please contact a New Home Resource Realtor® today at 702-365-1000 or at www.newhomeresource.com. Broker Joanna Piette, and agents Denise Moreno Thrasher, Jessica O’Brien, Evelyn ‘Beng’ Kern, Lance Partin and Kathy Paterniti are all here to help!

Few things are more exciting than the adventure of moving to a new city. The possibilities are endless: There are new opportunities, discoveries to make, new friends, activities, exploring – it’s a big deal and a huge lifestyle change for most people.

One of the things that we’ve learned in our years of playing a role in helping people relocate to Las Vegas is that knowing who to call to set up your initial services, or who to contact for information about moving your business – or even just to know where you’re at (physically) in the Great Scheme of All Things Las Vegas – can be a challenge. Most folks are so busy with the “moving from” part that – once they land at their new home and are standing amid piles of boxes and the oh-so-necessary take-out food containers because you can’t find your dishes yet – that even if you were smart enough to make a list of local services, you probably won’t be able to find that, either.

So we wanted to lend a hand with a brief list of phone numbers and website links to services and agencies that will hopefully come in handy and make your landing in Las Vegas just a little bit softer. Enjoy! (then start unpacking!)

Where Is THAT?

This may be “home” now – but you might not be familiar with general areas of town, at least as it applies to major street names. For example, if you’ve just moved to the area of Wigwam/Pecos in Henderson – you’re not going to want to make a quick trip to the Trader Joe’s on Summa Drive in Summerlin (30 minutes+)

Smartphones and tablets will, of course, make the actual navigating easier – but few things compare to a visual image in your head of the general lay of the land. So here’s a map of neighborhoods/districts in Las Vegas you can click on to download (for everyone’s use).

My Internet Isn’t Working!

You planned ahead and got all those services turned on for your arrival – but argh – something’s not working right. No worries – here are a few handy phone numbers to help out with that:

Electric:

NV Energy – (702) 402-5555

Gas:

Southwest Gas – (877) 860-6020

Water:

Las Vegas Valley Water District – (702) 870-4194

City of Henderson – (702) 267-5900

Trash Pick-up and Recycling

Republic Services – (877) 692-9729

Telephone

AT&T – (800) 288-2020

CenturyLink – (855) 524-0369

Cox Communications – (866) 961-0027

Equiinet – (702) 789-6001

Nextiva – (800) 799-0600

Sprint – (866) 275-1411

Verizon Wireless – (800) 922-0204

Internet / Cable TV / Satellite TV

CenturyLink – (855) 524-0369

Cox Communications – (866) 961-0027

DirecTV – (855) 838-4388

Dish TV – (855) 839-589

You’ve Got 30 Days . . .

To get your new resident driver’s license and vehicle registration transferred. So – where do you go and what do you need for THAT? Here’s a hint:

Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles

Office locations

Driver’s License Information

Vehicle Registration Information

Forms

Business Contact Information

Are you planning to run a business in Clark County? Or Henderson? Or Las Vegas? Or North Las Vegas? Most people think you move to Las Vegas, and it’s a simple one-stop process to get your company up and running – but it’s a bit more confusing than that. So we’ll start you off with some basic information – and depending on your specific needs, these entities should be able to point you in the right direction and help you get the ball in motion.

Determine Your Business Jurisdiction for Licensing

Nevada State Business License

Secretary of State – Visit their website here for a list of FAQ’s

City of Las Vegas

Starting a business in Nevada

City of Henderson

Business License General Description

City of North Las Vegas

Business License

Clark County, Nevada

Fictitious Firm Name Registration

Business License FAQ’s

Nevada Department of Taxation

Information about Nevada’s Taxes and The Department

Goodness knows there are going to be many more adventures and plenty of errands to run – so enjoy the journey. You’re about to explore all the things that we Nevadans already know make Las Vegas a great place to live. Welcome home!

New Home Resource helps current and future homeowners with all of their Las Vegas real estate needs. Whether your preference is for a newly-built home from a local builder, or a resale property in just the right location, a New Home Resource Realtor® is here to find the perfect property for you. Please contact a New Home Resource Realtor® today at 702-365-1000 or at www.newhomeresource.com. Broker Joanna Piette, and agents Denise Moreno Thrasher, Jessica O’Brien, Evelyn ‘Beng’ Kern, Lance Partin and Kathy Paterniti are all here to help!

Devoting the time and effort involved in making sure we provide our customers with dependable, market-specific information to help them buy or sell real estate – it’s just our nature. Going the extra mile to make sure they receive the best possible service from knowledgeable experts on the subject of all things “Las Vegas” – that’s just how we roll. The bottom line is this: We’re in this business because we love it – and we love working with customers and others in our industry who really ‘get’ how great this city is.

But it’s always a thrill to have that dedication acknowledged – and when we discovered that our Fearless Leader – Broker Joanna Piette – was chosen as one of the Top 25 Women in Real Estate in Las Vegas for the 3rd year in a row – well, it just seemed like it was something worth mentioning.

New Home Resource Broker, Joanna Piette

Why? Because we know that the company she’s in is pretty darn amazing. Being able to share this honor with two dozen exceptional women who work throughout our industry is something to be both proud of – and grateful for.

Each of the women listed – that will be recognized at next month’s event at Treasure Island Hotel and Casino – is a leader in her field, and we’re awfully proud that the Women’s Council of Realtors considers Joanna Piette to be among this list that represents the best of the best. (We’ve always known it around here!)

Members of The Women’s Council of Realtors exemplify the highest standard of industry professionalism and it is a recognized source of leadership development and the businesswoman’s perspective in Las Vegas. To learn more about the vision, values, and impact this organization promotes in our great city, click here for further information.

New Home Resource helps current and future homeowners with all of their Las Vegas real estate needs. Whether your preference is for a newly-built home from a local builder, or a resale property in just the right location, a New Home Resource Realtor® is here to find the perfect property for you. Please contact a New Home Resource Realtor® today at 702-365-1000 or at www.newhomeresource.com. Broker Joanna Piette, and agents Denise Moreno Thrasher, Jessica O’Brien, Evelyn ‘Beng’ Kern, Lance Partin and Kathy Paterniti are all here to help!

The times, they are a changin’. Boy, Bob Dylan had that right. And it’s a mantra that continues today, especially with the evolution of manufacturing technology and our changing lifestyles. But there’s one thing that is never going to go out of style: We want our homes to be a reflection of “us.”

That brings us to a few up-and-coming trends that will be entering the new home builder’s consciousness. Some of these are available now – some will be joining the party in the future. But all of them are designed to allow us to express ourselves and make our home environment just that-much-more-unique. Enjoy!

Pet Suites

Are ya KIDDING us? Why didn’t someone come up with this about a gajillion years ago? How many of us have aching knees and backs from trying to wash Fido in the tub? This is just like heading to your nearest favorite pet boutique’s self-wash areas, and bringing one of their tubs home with you. A hot new feature that many builders are now offering, these suites are often incorporated into the laundry room and include a dog wash, designated bedding space, plenty of storage, filtered water access, a widescreen television (DogTV anyone?). They may even include wireless cameras so you can check on your pet while you’re away. (There’s a reason pets are a $60 billion a year business. But hey, they’re worth it!)

Interior Carriage Doors

Think: Barn. Big, impressive, sliding barn doors that can be used in any number of creative pursuits in your home. From space dividers to storage disguisers, this new look is one that home builders are all over (at least, if the recent International Builders Show in Las Vegas is any indication). The look can be simple or ornate, colorful or monochromatic. These are definitely open to interpretation for your unique tastes.

Personalized Appliances

We don’t know about you, but we’d leapfrog over grandma for a crack at these custom range grates and knobs. (Maybe it’s because they call this color “Cupcake Blue”?) From what we can tell, they’re not available just yet – but GE’s FirstBuild Studio is in the process of developing 3D-printed accessories for its older model kitchen appliances. When it’s in place, you’ll be able to order new knobs, grill plates, and handles in fun colors like this. The best part? Did you catch that “older model” comment? You won’t even have to fork over the dough for new appliances to dress of your home with this one. Score!

Colored Stainless Steel Appliances

Speaking of new appliances, if you’re on board for that – colored stainless steel is the newest hot-button for buyers. In a recent Houzz poll, nearly two-thirds say they’d consider the new dark stainless to shiny silver metal. (Well, “Duh.” We all want what’s new!) And just in case black isn’t exciting enough for you (LG’s new Black Stainless collection) – head to the light with Whirlpool’s Sunset Bronze finish.

Two-Tone Kitchen Cabinets

Some things, you just wonder why it’s never happened before. Two-tone kitchen cabinets – with upper cabinets white or neutral to maintain a sense of spaciousness, and lower cabinets in deep colors or various wood tones – well, it’s just brilliant. Or not, depending on your taste. For those who prefer the eclectic look, though, we think this is an excellent option.

Copper is Chic (Again)

Yes, copper can add a sparkle and a certain 1940’s Hollywood glamour to your home – but that’s not the full driving force behind the resurgence of copper in sinks, tools, and surfaces. With antibiotic-resistant superbugs on the rise, The Copper Development Association has proven that copper reduces more than 99.9% of bacteria in between routine cleanings. (Seems that your grandparents and Julia Child had it right!)

New Home Resource helps current and future homeowners with all of their Las Vegas real estate needs. Whether your preference is for a newly-built home from a local builder, or a resale property in just the right location, a New Home Resource Realtor® is here to find the perfect property for you. Please contact a New Home Resource Realtor® today at 702-365-1000 or at www.newhomeresource.com. Broker Joanna Piette, and agents Denise Moreno Thrasher, Jessica O’Brien, Evelyn ‘Beng’ Kern, Lance Partin and Kathy Paterniti are all here to help!

It’s getting close to the holidays – and you’re already out of ideas, aren’t you? You’ve been through the malls and the department stores; trolling online sites looking for brilliant suggestions. Do we have the picture? (It’s okay – you can admit it. It’ll just stay between us.)

That’s why we wanted to lend you a hand with some gift suggestions that are a bit ‘off-the-beaten-path.’ And if these don’t do the trick for your needs – perhaps they’ll help to light up that cartoon-like bulb over your head to help you think of something that will! We have to go shop some more now. But you have fun with these in the meantime!

Ring Video Doorbell

Talk about the perfect gift for any homeowner! We all know there’s plenty of technology out there for our homes these days, but we can vouch for the fact that Ring is not only easy to use, but affordable, too. How Ring Works: The Ring™ Video Doorbell lets you answer the door from anywhere using your smartphone. It features an HD camera with night vision, providing a clear view from your front door, day and night.

It installs easily in minutes, with no professional help or additional tools required. A built-in rechargeable battery lets you install the doorbell anywhere, or connect it to existing doorbell wiring. Motion-triggered alerts sent via the free Ring™ app (iOS® and Android™) notify you of arriving guests and deliveries. With Ring, you’re always home.

NomadKey – The Charging Cable That’s Always With You

Small enough to be a stocking stuffer – and useful enough to be a lifesaver (at least for people with serious relationships with their smartphones!). This ultra-rugged, key-sized, flexible charging cable (available in both Apple Lightning and Micro USB form) – makes it easy to charge your device from the nearest USB port without lugging around cables and wires (which is why most of us don’t have a charging cable handy when we need one!).

Gift the Gift of Dropbox Pro

It’s not often you’re able to actually give the gift of “Peace of Mind.” But this is one gift that will truly bring that to your recipient. Think about it: There’s a reason there are so many horror stories about computers crashing – because it happens more than we like to think. If it’s ever happened to you, you’ve probably already taken steps since then to make sure your digital life is backed-up. (If not – hey! Great gift idea for yourself, too!) But for those who haven’t been there – or aren’t as tech-savvy as they would like – giving the gift of online back-up can save them from ever losing those irreplaceable photos, videos, and information. It may not be “sexy” – but it WILL be appreciated. As soon as their friend loses all their data in a computer mishap, and they think to themselves: “Man – I’m glad that’s not ME!”

MOVA Globe

You want “different”? You want “unique”? Then the MOVA Globe might be right up your alley, then. (You really have to see the video to get the full effect.) No batteries, no wires – just amazing technology that allows this globe to remain in perpetual rotating motion using only ambient light and the earth’s magnetic field. It doesn’t get any cooler than that. A real conversation piece for home or office. A calming (and mesmerizing) gift that you’ll score points for! (You can see one up-close-and-personal at Boulevard Trophy right here in Las Vegas, too.)

New West KnifeWorks

Not something for the ‘faint of budget,’ but even a single Chef or Utility knife from New West Knifeworks will bring a work of art to the kitchen of whoever is lucky enough to receive it. Each knife is a finely crafted masterpiece created by America’s premier boutique knife manufacturer. As far as we’re concerned, the images speak for themselves. Visit their website to learn more.

Disney Mickey Mouse Pants Tea Pot

You are saying to yourself right now: “Omg I know someone who would LOVE that!” (Do we know you, or what?) More to the point, this tea pot is so adorable, who Wouldn’t want to have a bit of this whimsy in their home? Definitely something you don’t see in every store you go to (we found it on Amazon.com) – and after all, isn’t “unique” the goal for gift-giving?

Here’s to a great holiday for everyone! (And feel free to send any of those gifts our way, too! <wink!>)

New Home Resource helps current and future homeowners with all of their Las Vegas real estate needs. Whether your preference is for a newly-built home from a local builder, or a resale property in just the right location, a New Home Resource Realtor® is here to find the perfect property for you. Please contact a New Home Resource Realtor® today at 702-365-1000 or at www.newhomeresource.com. Broker Joanna Piette, and agents Denise Moreno Thrasher, Jessica O’Brien, Evelyn ‘Beng’ Kern, Lance Partin and Kathy Paterniti are all here to help!

Did you ever feel like you just spend all year dieting to prepare for….(dum, Dum, DUM!) …. The Holidays? Yep – we do, too. And in the spirit of convincing you to focus on all things wonderful and tasty about this season, to encourage you to bake with abandon in your Home Sweet Home – and better yet, to let you know you’re free to share the spoils with us! – here’s a list of some pretty delicious and gorgeous recipes that we think will help get you in the spirit (if you’re not already there, that is).

Vanilla Bean Shortbread Cookies

What screams “Christmas” more than the tradition of shortbread cookies? These sweet versions add the most delicate of holiday touches in the form of two tiny holly leaves and a red berry for a minimalist “under-the-top” look. The recipe from Sweet Lavender Bake Shoppe is melt-in-your-mouth fabulous (and easy to make, too). And because it took us awhile to hunt down those simple touches of decor, we’ll just let you in on a secret: We found ours in the $1 section of our nearest Target store! (but it’s a simple cake/cookie decoration item to find, too.)

Stained Glass Christmas Cookies

You’re seriously not going to believe how easy it is to make these beauties – or the simple ingredient that it takes to create that “stained glass window” effect. Think: Life Savers or Jolly Ranchers. Yep –it’s that simple. But, we’re going to let Martha Stewart explain how to do it right in her classic recipe.

Checkerboard Cookies

Want to step up your game a bit? If you’re looking for something a little more challenging – and a cookie that makes a bold statement on your platter – try these vanilla and chocolate Checkerboard Cookies. Not a walk in the park – but not as hard as you would think, either. This Cook and Be Merry recipe provides step-by-step instructions, complete with images to help you get there.

Pomegranate Jeweled Cheese Ball

Sometimes, you need a little “real food” sustenance to get you through the baking chores – or perhaps to add something a little more on the “savory” side for your holiday gathering. So give this a shot: Pomegranate Jeweled Cheese Ball recipe for your from How Sweet Eats. White cheddar, toasted almond, and crispy sage – decorated with the prettiest fruit of the season. Beat that.

Sparkling Cranberries

You. Are. Simply. Not. Going. To. Believe. This. One. These Sparkling Cranberries couldn’t be easier to make or more enjoyed by your guests. Not to mention they taste great and you can trust us on that, because we don’t even like cranberries! (unless they’re prepared like this) This is actually a great recipe to let the kids handle – and you are SERIOUSLY going to want to have these on-hand as a “quick-attitude-pick-me-up” – available at your fingertips each time you walk past the table where you keep them on display. (We’ve noticed that location seems to move depending on which room we’re spending time in.) They’re pretty and cute at the same time – festive as the holiday itself – and taste so darn good you’ll find yourself making them more than once this season (we bet). Here’s the recipe from 30 Pounds of Apples.

Mini Gingerbread Houses for Your Mug

Can’t pass up an opportunity to bring gingerbread into the mix. And speaking of, are these the sweetest additions to any coffee cup EVER? A big thanks to Tablespoon for bringing this too-cute-for-words Mini Gingerbread House recipe to the table. Our only complaint? They’re too adorable to eat!

Strawberry Santa Poppers

These are so adorable and so easy! You’ll just need strawberries (the bigger, the better), whipped cream or frosting, and black icing or candy to form the eyes. Simply slice the top of the strawberry off (to make the hat) and place a big dollop of whipped cream or frosting on the flat part of the strawberry. Then top that off with the top of the strawberry “hat”, and bring the Santa to life with eyes and buttons. (For even more fun – figure out how to put a belt on him, too!) Easy-Peasy – and just the right touch of whimsy for your table spread. Plus, you can always say “Hey – it’s fruit! It’s healthy! Have more!”

Holiday Cranberry Syrup

Anyone who loves to entertain during the holidays knows that “themes” are important. You can find all sorts of awesome cranberry-flavored drink recipes online (both alcoholic and non) – and now, there’s no need to run out to find those bottles of expensive drink syrups (that can taste a bit chemical-ly anyway, we think.) Cranberries give this syrup its rich color and characteristic tang in this recipe from Midwest Living. Use the sugar mixture as a base for drinks – or other ideas include as a topper for ice cream, cake or pancakes. Heck, you can even give it away in decorative bottles for food gifts (and add the recipe on the card for that special touch). Bottoms up!

Soft Pretzel Bites

(Because after all that sugar – you need a little salt!)

Keeping that holiday table filled with a variety of tidbits is easy when you keep in mind the main food groups: Sugar, Fruit, Pretzels. (Or maybe that’s just our motto?) Anyway – Two Peas and Their Pod have created this easy-to-follow recipe for Soft Pretzel Bites (dare we say they’re as good as Auntie Anne’s?). We’ll probably just have a separate plate full of these for ourselves. Thanks!

Rudolph-Tini

Yes, Virginia – grown-ups enjoy the holiday season in grown-up ways, too! Although with enough martini glasses on-hand, you can also whip up a non-alcohol version of this Rudolph-Tini for the kids – just because they’re so adorable. Get the recipe here: All Recipes link for this fun cocktail, and while you’re there, you can discover a whole world of other drink recipes for the holidays, too!

We may return our blog to its regularly-scheduled helpful homeowner and home buying tips soon…….but we’re having a little too much fun this month with all our personal favorites for enjoying the holidays – and a few new ones we’ve found. Hope that’s okay with you!

New Home Resource helps current and future homeowners with all of their Las Vegas real estate needs. Whether your preference is for a newly-built home from a local builder, or a resale property in just the right location, a New Home Resource Realtor® is here to find the perfect property for you. Please contact a New Home Resource Realtor® today at 702-365-1000 or at www.newhomeresource.com. Broker Joanna Piette, and agents Denise Moreno Thrasher, Jessica O’Brien, Evelyn ‘Beng’ Kern, Lance Partin and Kathy Paterniti are all here to help!

One of the best things about buying a home? If you ask us, it’s about creating all those new holiday traditions! All the fun and festivities, the family and friends, the feasts and the falalalala’s. It’s a season we look forward to (presents & food!) – we dread (all that work, work, work to make it all perfect) – and we cherish (memories – both good and bad – whichever, they all make up our unique life stories).

We’d like to share some fun things centered on the holidays that we found and that put a smile on our faces. We hope they do for you, too!

A tree to remember. True story (<—-get it?) – because all your visitors will definitely be telling their friends about this one. Imaginatively simple and appropriately studious at the same time – this one tells the perfect tale about the host: Give me books for Christmas!

And for those who would like to take their Christmas tree in a different direction (<—ha! did it again!): An old ladder, a few boards, a little paint, and then bring on the lights and decorations!

What is better than a gift – that’s also food? (Other than a new Jaguar, we mean.) At least it’s great if you have people on your gift list that are passionate about their baking hobbies. Great tip: Offer a gift of holiday-shaped cookie cutters – but bake brownies in them for presentation. Fun, tasty, AND useful!

If presentation is everything, then we’d just like to say we need a few of these around to present our hors d’oeuvres for our holiday party. Arrange your mints on a parchment-lined pan, bake at 350-degrees for 5-8 minutes (watch them closely, though), turn out and let cool. A fantastically-easy and creative way to present your menu in style – and then hey, you can just eat ’em! (A neat twist: Use Jolly Ranchers….we hear they come out like stained-glass windows!)

Decorative balloons placed on a Frappuccino bottle + Ribbons = Are you kiddin’ me? How creative is this? An impressive and inexpensive packaging idea – great if you’re making homemade items such as bath salts or scrubs as gifts. We’ll take two, thanks!

And speaking of packaging, is this the greatest idea for wrapping children’s gifts EVER? We’re betting they’ll be so entranced, they’ll forget about the present INside. At least for awhile. (We know a few adults who would do the same thing!)

Gift Wrapping 101 continues with this clever presentation that will ensure no one at the office party is switching name tags on your Secret Santa deliveries! Note the cinnamon stick for a festive aroma, and the live greenery to enhance the effect.

We wonder how many of those paint-chip cards they have to keep in stock at Home Depot around the holidays?

Keep the kids in the spirit by assigning them the task of making these adorable GrinchKabobs for your holiday events. Or heck, just for breakfast. Green grape, banana, strawberry, mini marshmallow, and a candy heart on top. Couldn’t be simpler – or more fun (especially when they start piping the chocolate expressions on!)

Finally, if you’ve ever wondered how bakeries manage to create those adorable, individual lattice-topped holiday tarts, look no further. (It’s a little bit like exposing a magician’s secret, huh?) Eh – no matter. We figure we can use all the cheat-sheets we can get this time of year.

Whatever your holiday this season, and whatever your personal tastes – we truly believe they’ll all be better served in a home of your very own. If you’d like to make it happen for your family, let’s chat about it over the eggnog!

New Home Resource helps current and future homeowners with all of their Las Vegas real estate needs. Whether your preference is for a newly-built home from a local builder, or a resale property in just the right location, a New Home Resource Realtor® is here to find the perfect property for you. Please contact a New Home Resource Realtor® today at 702-365-1000 or at www.newhomeresource.com. Broker Joanna Piette, and agents Denise Moreno Thrasher, Jessica O’Brien, Evelyn ‘Beng’ Kern, Lance Partin and Kathy Paterniti are all here to help!

So – you think you know everything there is to know about Thanksgiving, eh? Well – maybe . . . and maybe not. But just to make sure you can pass the “Thanksgiving Trivia Test” that someone at the dinner table is sure to deliver this year, here’s a few tidbits that might help you score.

Does Turkey Really Make You Sleepy?

One of the most common misconceptions – but the real answer is “Not so much.” Turkey does contain the essential amino acid tryptophan, which is a natural sedative, but so do a lot of other foods – like chicken, beef, pork, beans and cheese. Though many people believe turkey’s tryptophan content is what makes many people feel sleepy after a big Thanksgiving meal, it is more likely the combination of fats and carbohydrates, as well as the large amount of food (not to mention alcohol, in some cases) consumed, that makes most people feel like following their meal up with a nap.

How Many Turkeys Are Consumed On Thanksgiving?

An estimated 46 million turkeys are eaten on Thanksgiving (the birds weigh, on average, 16 pounds). That is more than double the amount eaten on Christmas (22 million) and Easter (19 million). In 2010, more than 244 million turkeys were raised and about 226 million of those were consumed in the United States. Holy Turkey!

If Not For Thanksgiving – The Freezer Food Aisles Would Be Less Crowded

One of the greatest marketing triumphs of the 50’s, we’d say – because TV dinners have Thanksgiving to thank. In 1953, someone at Swanson misjudged the number of frozen turkeys it would sell that Thanksgiving — by 26 TONS! Some industrious soul came up with a brilliant plan: Why not slice up the meat and repackage with some trimmings on the side? And the family dinner has never been the same since.

Careers To Avoid If Black Friday Is Your Favorite Event

Going shopping the day after Thanksgiving? Not if you’re a plumber. Black Friday is the busiest day of the year for them, according to Roto-Rooter, the nation’s largest plumbing service. After all, someone has to clean up after household guests who, er, ‘overwhelm the system.”

The Movement Of The Turkey Inspired A Dance

Yep – and it’s called the Turkey Trot. Modeled on the bird’s characteristic short, jerky steps, it was one of a number of popular dance styles that emerged during the late 19th and early 20th century in the United States. The two-step, a simple dance that required little to no instruction, was quickly followed by such dances as the one-step, the turkey trot, the fox trot and the bunny hug, which could all be performed to the ragtime and jazz music popular at the time. The popularity of such dances spread like wildfire. (Although we’re just glad they didn’t change the main course to one of those other critters!)

Why Pick An Eagle When There’s Turkeys?

In a letter to his daughter sent in 1784, Benjamin Franklin suggested that the wild turkey would be a more appropriate national symbol for the newly independent United States than the bald eagle (which had earlier been chosen by the Continental Congress). He argued that the turkey was “a much more respectable Bird,” “a true original Native of America,” and “though a little vain and silly, a Bird of Courage.” (While we admit that plenty of people already know this bit of trivia, it’s still an interesting way of gaining our forefathers’ perspective, we think!)

And let’s just wrap it up with a few quickies (or perhaps “one-liners” would be more appropriate):

• A full-grown turkey has over 3,000 feathers.

• Only male turkeys, called toms, gobble. Females, called hens, cackle.

• Thanksgiving is not just an American holiday – Canadians celebrate it, too (except they do it the second Monday in October).

• Turkeys have heart attacks: The United States Air Force was doing test runs and breaking the sound barrier, and nearby turkeys dropped dead with heart attacks. (Altogether now: Awwww! That’s so sad!)

• Green bean casserole came about some 50 years ago – thanks to the Campbell’s Soup people creating new recipes for its annual cookbook. (Now, the company sells about $20 million worth of cream of mushroom soup, most likely for people to make the casserole.)

Now the ball’s in your court. If you can’t win yourself a bar-bet with one of those tidbits, then odds are you’re not the genius in the room. 🙂 Happy Thanksgiving!!

New Home Resource helps current and future homeowners with all of their Las Vegas real estate needs. Whether your preference is for a newly-built home from a local builder, or a resale property in just the right location, a New Home Resource Realtor® is here to find the perfect property for you. Please contact a New Home Resource Realtor® today at 702-365-1000 or at www.newhomeresource.com. Broker Joanna Piette, and agents Denise Moreno Thrasher, Jessica O’Brien, Evelyn ‘Beng’ Kern, Lance Partin and Kathy Paterniti are all here to help!

Just a few of the pumpkin carvings by Las Vegas local, Bryan Yeager of Killer Pumpkins. Catch his talents at the Summerlin Festival of the Arts, October 11-12 at Downtown Summerlin.

Autumn is upon us, and with it comes great weather and all the fun of getting back outdoors again in Las Vegas. From festivals and fairs, to pumpkin patches and plays – there’s probably a million things to do around Southern Nevada this fall.

Unfortunately, we can’t list ALL of them here. But we have cherry, er, pumpkin-picked some of the highlights below. So start penciling these into your schedule and go have some fun with the family! (Besides, it will start getting you ready for the upcoming holiday season, too.)

Sept. 18-Nov. 27 – Bellagio – Bellagio Botanical Gardens – All dressed up for fall, a must-see.

Sept. 22-Oct. 18 – The Smith Center – The Book of Mormon – Back by popular demand.

Thru Oct. 31 – Las Vegas – Gilcrease Orchard – Open Tues/Thurs/Sat/Sun. A Las Vegas family favorite.

Oct. 1-31 – Las Vegas – Pumpkin Patch at McKee Ranch – Farm fun, animals, hay rides, & pumpkins!

Oct. 1-4 – Downtown – Las Vegas BikeFest 2015 – It’s the 15th anniversary!

Oct. 3 – Las Vegas – Hallo-Wiener – 12th Annual -if you’re a wiener dog fan, this is the place!

Oct. 3-4 – Boulder City – Art in the Park – 53rd annual, it’s a Southern Nevada tradition!

Oct. 3-5 – Henderson – St. Francis of Assisi Parish Festival – Carnival, contests, foods, music, and the blessing of the animals ceremony (for all you pet-lovers!)

Oct. 8-31 – Red Rock Canyon – Bonnie Screams -Haunted house, Zombie hunts, Spook walks and more.

Oct. 9-11 – Sunset Park – The Renaissance Festival – The Age of Chivalry returns!

Oct. 10 – Lake Las Vegas – Rose Regatta Dragon Boat Festival – Paddle for a purpose!

Oct. 10 – Moapa River – Rise Festival – Help to fill the night sky above the Moapa River Indian Reservation with paper lanterns and send your message skyward.

Oct. 10-11 – Downtown Summerlin – Festival of Arts – Music, food, entertainment, vendors.

Oct. 16-31 – Las Vegas Farm – The Farm Festival – Fun, educational, and getting back to nature

Oct. 17 – Southern Highlands – Southern Highlands Fall Festival – Games, vendors, contests, crafts, raffles, and a free Pumpkin Patch!

Oct. 17 – Mountain’s Edge – Family Fur & Fun Festival – This one’s good for you AND your pets!

Oct. 17 – MGM – Jimmy Buffett – Who doesn’t love a great Parrothead?

Oct. 23-24 – Logandale – Logandale Fall Festival – Bluegrass music, bbq cookoff, vendors and more.

Nov. 6-8 – Cashman Center – The Craft Festival – Rated one of the top 20 craft fairs in the U.S.

Nov. 18-19 – Las Vegas – 27th Annual Festival of Trees and Lights – To Benefit DSOSM.

Dec. 3-12 – Thomas & Mack Center – National Finals Rodeo – If you’re lucky enough to get tickets!

Dec. 6 – Las Vegas – Nevada International Film Festival – Orleans Hotel.

Dec. 10-14 – Summerlin South – A Holiday To Remember – Entertainment, vendors, holiday fun.

If that list of events doesn’t get your fall fun calendar in order, then we’d have to say that you’re just not trying to get in the spirit. Now – go forth, and enjoy!

New Home Resource helps current and future homeowners with all of their Las Vegas real estate needs. Whether your preference is for a newly-built home from a local builder, or a resale property in just the right location, a New Home Resource Realtor® is here to find the perfect property for you. Please contact a New Home Resource Realtor® today at 702-365-1000 or at www.newhomeresource.com. Broker Joanna Piette, and agents Denise Moreno Thrasher, Jessica O’Brien, Evelyn ‘Beng’ Kern, Lance Partin and Kathy Paterniti are all here to help!

We’ve written before about many of the financial reasons that owning a home makes good sense (especially right now – with interest rates so low and rents so high). And you’ve probably seen many other headlines and articles explaining the monetary benefits that you gain when you buy a home, too.

But let’s set the money aside for a bit, and talk about the psychological aspect of being a homeowner. Because while saving money each month and building long-term equity in a property is certainly important for your future, there are few of us that get that “warm and fuzzy” feeling from our financial statements.

Ahhh…..but memories, that’s another story, isn’t it? Everyone has those – whether they’re happy or sad, they’re the things we cherish, or that spur us to achieve. In essence, they’ve made us what we are today – it’s just human nature. Those memories are formed by the people in our lives, things that have happened to us, and how we shaped our environment. And those three things are precisely what we’re referring to.

Relationships

There is a great sense of belonging to a community once you own a home. You feel more attached to the city and its people, and often even get involved with neighborhood and community events. When you’re a homeowner, you’ve put down roots – and you’ve done it in the midst of many other people with the same mindset. Your neighbors become your friends, sometimes even your family (or at least they seem that close). You form relationships that can last for years – even a lifetime. And as true as that is for adults, it’s even more important for children.

In a home of their own, kids have the security of knowing that “home” means just that. It belongs to them, and they don’t have to worry about suddenly having to change schools and reestablish their friends and lives at the whim of a landlord. They’re able to develop long-term friendships – indeed, they wouldn’t even need to think about them any differently. They get to know your neighbors, who will often watch out for their welfare, too. Studies also indicate better school performance and youth behaviors in children who live in a home of their own – in addition to greater self-esteem.

Research has long proven that people who have healthy relationships with others are happier and less stressed. Owning a home is one of the best ways to give yourself and your family the gift of building those friendships.

Freedom

One of the most overlooked reasons for owning a home is the freedom you get once you’ve achieved this major life goal. Many homebuyers discover that once they buy a home, other aspects of their personal life seem to just fall into place. It’s a huge accomplishment, and because of that, it gives people more confidence in themselves and allows them to pursue other goals in life.

On top of that, there are some incredible perks that come with the term “homeowner.” Just think about it: Your space is yours to do what you please. Indulge your passions with renovations (no reason you can’t have the greatest kitchen in the neighborhood!), paint, plant, and decorate to your heart’s desire. You can choose to make your home the gathering place for your friends and family by installing a pool and landscaping a back yard to die for – or put up holiday decorations that rival the White House display.

No more white walls and beige carpet (not to mention really ugly vinyl!). And no one but yourself to grant permission to enhance your environment (except maybe an HOA). This is your space. Make it beautiful, make it useful, make it playful – it’s all up to you.

Security

Owning a home is like a touchstone, it’s a way of anchoring your life to firm ground. It creates a solid base from which you can go forth in the world to accomplish many things, whether that includes raising a family or starting a business – or following a dream.

Other proven benefits of the positive impact of ownership is that it allows access to neighborhoods with better schools, and to better physical and social conditions. Single-family homes also tend to be maintained at a higher quality, have lower crime rates, and homeowners enjoy a heightened sense of personal accomplishment and social status. All of these elements together combine to lead to greater life satisfaction, resulting in better physical and psychological health.

Given these reasons alone, it’s no wonder that owning a home has always been “The American Dream.” When you combine them with the financial security home ownership offers, too – there’s no reason that dream needs to change, if you ask us.

New Home Resource helps current and future homeowners with all of their Las Vegas real estate needs. Whether your preference is for a newly-built home from a local builder, or a resale property in just the right location, a New Home Resource Realtor® is here to find the perfect property for you. Please contact a New Home Resource Realtor® today at 702-365-1000 or at www.newhomeresource.com. Broker Joanna Piette, and agents Denise Moreno Thrasher, Jessica O’Brien, Evelyn ‘Beng’ Kern, Lance Partin and Kathy Paterniti are all here to help!