Where Beauty Blooms: The Global Passion For Orchids

March is the month when the world slowly brightens again. Days stretch longer, the air softens, and early blooms hint that spring is near. Among these first signs of renewal, orchids stand out with their striking shapes and elegant presence.

They shimmer like butterflies, balance like tiny ballerinas, or trail long, delicate petals that flow like silk. Their scents range from vanilla and chocolate to mint, pepper, roses, and even unusual aromas designed to attract specific insects. To pollinators, they offer clever invitations. To people, they offer beauty and fascination.

March is an exciting time for orchid enthusiasts, who watch their plants closely for new buds and fresh blooms. What was once an exotic rarity has become one of the world’s most welcoming and social hobbies. Orchid lovers gather in clubs across many countries to share care tips, celebrate the season’s first blossoms, and exchange stories about the varieties they are nurturing.

Destinations from California to Malaysia welcome visitors eager to see some of the 28,000 accepted orchid species, a diversity greater than all birds and mammals combined.

In the 1800s and early 1900s, orchids were scarce enough that people undertook risky expeditions for them, which added to their air of luxury. Today they are far more accessible, often costing around $20, and their care is simpler than many expect. They thrive in bright but indirect light, with good airflow and careful watering.

March showcases all they represent, bringing the calm, colorful joy of watching something extraordinary unfold.

~ Elisa McNinch, Realtor

 

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Our Featured Listings

If you are searching for a Realtor to help you list or buy a home, we encourage you to give us a call to see if we are the “right” agent for you.  

Take a look at our Featured Listings below:

If you would like to search the Houston MLS system for your next property, click on the Home button on the top menu bar to navigate the main BrunerTeam website.

Note: We are taking new listings all of the time. 

NEW 3-D Interactive Floorplans now available via:

ACTIVE LISTINGS:

• 

  18035 Mountfield in Deerfield Village – (77084) –  FOR SALE $329,900  – www.har.com/20447280 – 1-story home with 2197sqft, 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, 2-car garage. Timeless classic located on a corner lot in the heart of Deerfield Village! Spacious family rm w/ brick FP, engineered wood flrs, beamed ceiling, & walls of windows overlooking backyard. Kitchen features gas cooktop, double ovens, ample cabinetry, breakfast area, & French doors leading to the covered patio. Primary suite w/ access to covered patio & well-designed bath w/ double sinks, dressing vanity, 2 walk-in closets, & tub shower combo. 3 sizeable secondary bdrms w/ generous closets, & full bath. Enjoy outdoor living beneath a majestic oak w/ large covered patio, arbor, fully fenced yard, sprinkler system, & storage shed. Deerfield Village is a vibrant, family-friendly community known for mature trees, walking trails, pool, tennis, parks, & year-round neighborhood events. Convenient to shopping, dining, Cy-Fair ISD schools, & easy access to I-10. Low tax rate. Thoughtfully priced to allow buyers the opportunity to update, personalize, & create their dream home  Homes.com 3-D Floorplan   /   YouTube Video

• 2802 Hazy Creek Dr in Creek Bend Estates – (77084) –  FOR SALE $329,900  – www.har.com/62383263 – 2-story home with 2400sqft, 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, 2-car garage. Original homeowners selling their beloved home. AMENITIES: Int paint (2026), PEX plumbing (2023); Double pane windows; Solar screens (2020), High-efficiency HVAC (2010), Electrical panel (2023) & hardwired for portable generator (incl); Whole-house surge protector; Water heater (2023); Roof w/ architectural shingles (2018); 20×15 covered patio w/ tile flr (2016) & firepit (2020); Storage shed (2022); wifi sprinkler sys (2019); Hardie board siding w/ 30yr ext paint; & MORE. Never flooded & flood ins not required. Traditional floorplan w/ formal dining. Dual-sided FP separates spacious living & “hearth rm” off kitchen w/ wood-like tile flr. Updated kitchen w/ Silestone countertop & stone BS, gas range, SS Samsung (2025). W&D incl. All 4 bdrms up. Spacious owner’s suite w/ 2 sinks, jetted tub, updated shower (2021), & large walk-in closet. 3 secondary bdrms+updated bath w/ 2 sinks. Peaceful backyard retreat w/ shade tree, blooming plants attracting birds & butterflies. No rear neighbors. Katy ISD schools.  Homes.com 3-D Floorplan   /   YouTube Video

• 8314 Columbia Forest – (77095) –  FOR LEASE $2,000 a month  – www.har.com/7041459 – 2-story townhome with 1676sqft, 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, 2-car garage. ***READY FOR IMMEDIATE MOVE-IN*** Gorgeous townhome located in Villages at Hanover. Enjoy the newer construction (2016) of this K. Hovnanian home crafted w/ TONS OF ENERGY EFFICIENT FEATURES: Double pane windows; Radiant barrier; High efficiency AC, & more. Wood-like tile on 1st floor & wood laminate on 2nd floor. Kitchen w/ granite countertops, tile backsplash, under-cabinet lighting, gas range, microwave, DW, & double door pantry. Refrigerator, washer, & dryer included. 3 bdrms + 2 full baths upstairs. Primary Suite w/ double sinks, soaking tub w/ shower, & large walk-in closet. Two secondary bdrms & full bath w/ tub shower. Upstairs utililty rm is close proximity to all 3 bdrms. Extended concrete patio & manageable backyard. HOA mows front yard. Tenant responsible for backyard. No smokers. Pets considered: dog less than 10lbs, but no cats. Great location w/ easy access to Hwy 290 & Hwy 6. Close to shopping, restaurants, Cy-Fair ISD schools, & more. 

PENDING SALES:

• 9430 Oratorio Ct in Woodwind Lakes – (77040) –  FOR SALE $435,000  – www.har.com/15267735 – 2-story home with 2789sqft, 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, oversized 2-car garage. Charming, cottage-style David Weekley home in prestigious GATED section of Woodwind Lakes. Updates: NEW ROOF (2/25); exterior paint; Zoned high-efficiency HVACs. LARGE pie-shaped lot features elevated gardens, mature fruit trees, & rainwater system—perfect for gardeners. OR envision your own endless backyard possibilities. 2-car garage w/ epoxy flr, workbench, & Gladiator cabinets. Inside, soaring 2-story foyer leads to an open-concept family rm w/ stacked stone gas FP. Island kitchen w/ SS appls, gas cooking, double ovens, & breakfast bar. Formal dining w/ wine vault. 1st flr owner’s suite boasts wall of garden-view windows, & spa-like ensuite bath w/ 2 vanities, sep shower & jetted tub, & large walk-in closet. 2nd flr: 3 bdrms, game/flex rm +updated bath. Backyard paradise w/ extensive covered deck, impressive outdoor kitchen, & cozy firepit. Homes.com 3-D Floorplan /  YouTube Video
• 16529 De Lozier in Jersey Village – (77040) –  FOR SALE $565,000  – www.har.com/10641619 –  Stunning 2-story 3771sqft, 5 bedrooms, 4 baths, 3 car garage. Ideal setup for multigenerational household. Whole-house Generac generator. Incredible 38’x23′ Auxiliary Dwelling Unit (ADU) – separate, impressive, versatile space that could be workshop, guest house, studio, garage for storing classic cars w/ half bath. Detached 3-car garage w/ 1 bay suitable for lifted truck (8ft tall). Remodeled island kitchen w/ shaker-style cabinets, double ovens, glasstop cooktop, high-end appls. Large family rm w/ gas log FP. 1st flr Primary suite w/ updated bath w/ 2 sinks, walk-in shower, & customizable closets. 1st flr: guest bdrm + full bath. 2nd flr: Gameroom, 3 bdrms, & 2 fully remodeled baths. No carpet. Large utility rm. Covered patio, lawn sprinklers. Homes.com 3-D Floorplan / YouTube Video

FEBRUARY SOLDS:

• 16325 Jersey Hollow in Wyndham Village – (77084) –  FOR SALE $649,900  – www.har.com/82935827 – Timeless classic w/ 3557sqft, 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths home nestled beneath mature shade trees w/ swimming pool & spa, detached 3-car garage, & garage apt in exclusive Wyndham Village. Roof & gutters (2024), zoned ACs, interior paint (2025), primary bath (2025), & MORE. Elegant traditional design w/ hardwoods, high ceilings, crown molding. Formal living & dining. Island kitchen w/ granite, wood cabinets, downdraft gas cooktop, butler’s pantry, & 2 refrigerators. Family rm w/ gas log FP. 1st-flr owner’s suite w/ updated spa bath (2025)—quartz, acrylic tub, curbless shower, & 2 walk-in closets. Gorgeous view of pool from much of home. Upstairs: Gmrm, 3 generous bdrns, & 2 full baths. Backyard paradise: pool, spa, firepit, covered patios, fenced yard & no rear neighbors. Never flooded. Garage w/ epoxy floors. Garage apt (716sqft) w/ full bath. Homes.com 3-D Floorplan / YouTube Video

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Chicago’s Unforgettable St. Patrick’s Day Tradition

Chicago is full of unforgettable quirks, but few are as spectacular as the moment its river transforms into a dazzling shade of emerald green for St. Patrick’s Day. Each year, city boats glide along the waterway, releasing a special environmentally friendly dye that sweeps through the current and turns the entire river into a glowing ribbon of bright green.

Crowds gather along bridges to watch the color spread in a matter of minutes, creating a vivid, dramatic sight that feels almost magical.

This beloved tradition began in 1962 when members of the Plumbers Local Union first dyed the river in celebration of the holiday. What started as a creative idea quickly became one of Chicago’s most iconic annual spectacles, drawing visitors from around the world who come to witness the city’s bold, brilliant take on the celebration.

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At 2AM on Sunday, March 8th remember to turn your clocks forward 1-hour for Daylight Saving Time.

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Fun & Easy Garden Projects For Kids This Spring

Spring is the perfect time to spark curiosity and let kids discover the magic of growing things. These simple projects make it easy for little gardeners to jump in and feel proud of what they create.

Start Seeds in Their Own Patch

Give kids a tiny garden spot to plant easy seeds, such as peas or sunflowers, and watch them sprout.

Create a Themed Garden

A themed garden is a small garden built around a fun idea, such as pizza! For a pizza garden, kids simply plant the ingredients they’d want on their pizza, like tomatoes for sauce and herbs such as basil and oregano, along with a favorite vegetable topping or two. It’s a playful way to connect what they grow to something they already love.

Use Eggshell Planters Indoors

Start seeds in eggshells on the counter for an early taste of gardening success.

Build a Simple Bee House

Create a cozy home for friendly pollinators and help kids learn why bees are garden superheroes.

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March 2026 Happenings In Houston

Take a look at some events and activities Houston offer. Take a look at The Hobby Center; Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion; The Alley Theater; Toyota Center, Theater Under The Stars; Houston Zoo; Houston Symphony; Houston Ballet, Miller Outdoor Theater; Wortham Theater; Jones Hall;  N.A.S.A & Space Center Houston; Art Car Museum; Arboretum & Nature Center; Natural Science Museum; Kemah Boardwalk; & SO MUCH MORE! Take a look at some of the events in the links below for you, your family, & friends to enjoy in Houston & the surrounding areas:

   Southern Living: 20 Best Things To Do In Houston

Visit Houston: March Events in Houston 2026

Houston Mom’s: Happenings in Houston in March

Kids Out and About.com: March activities in & around Houston

  101 Family Day Trips Around Houston

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Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo – March 2-22

From KTRK ABC News “HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — Let’s get ready to rodeo! The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo returns to NRG Park March 2-22, 2026.

The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo first started in 1932. Every year, the event promotes agriculture, showcases Western heritage, and supports Texas students. The best rodeo athletes will compete over 20 days in bareback riding, bull riding, saddle bronc riding, steer wrestling, tie-down roping, team roping, and women’s barrel racing and breakaway roping.

The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo also welcomes the biggest entertainers every year. The 2026 concert lineup includes:

-Monday, March 2: Riley Green
-Tuesday, March 3: J Balvin
-Wednesday, March 4: Rascal Flatts
-Thursday, March 5: Russell Dickerson
-Friday, March 6: Lizzo
-Saturday, March 7: Dwight Yoakam
-Sunday, March 8: Forrest Frank
-Monday, March 9: Luke Bryan
-Tuesday, March 10: Megan Moroney
-Wednesday, March 11: Creed
-Thursday, March 12: Chris Stapleton
-Friday, March 13: Shaboozey
-Saturday, March 14: Kelly Clarkson
-Sunday, March 15: Pepe Aguilar
-Monday, March 16: Cross Canadian Ragweed
-Tuesday, March 17: The Red Clay Strays
-Wednesday, March 18: Koe Wetzel
-Thursday, March 19: Lainey Wilson
-Friday, March 20: Parker McCollum
-Saturday, March 21: Tim McGraw
-Sunday, March 22: Cody Johnson with special guests Jon Pardi and Randy Houser (Concert Only)”

For more go to: Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo

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Six Documents Every Homeowner Should Keep On Hand

Homeownership comes with important paperwork, and some records should be kept long-term for financial, tax, and legal protection. These are the documents every homeowner should hold onto.

House Deed

Your deed is the official proof that you own your home. Keep it stored safely for as long as you own the property.

Closing Documents

Keep all paperwork from your home purchase, including loan documents, disclosures, and settlement statements. Hold these throughout ownership and for at least three years after you sell, since they may be needed for tax reporting or to answer questions about the transaction.

Receipts for Home Improvements

Save receipts for major upgrades until three years after selling the home. They help show the value you added and support capital gains calculations.

Mortgage Payoff Statements

Once your mortgage is fully paid, keep the payoff statements permanently. They confirm that the loan was satisfied and protect you if any questions arise later.

PMI Statements and Canceled Checks

If you paid private mortgage insurance, keep statements and proof of payment for three years after the tax year in which you claimed the deduction.

Property Tax Payment Records

Hold on to property tax bills and proof of payment for at least three years. These may be needed during an audit or when verifying deductions.

Why These Records Matter

Most of these timelines match the IRS three-year audit window. If questions come up about ownership, deductions, or the value of your home, these documents provide the evidence you need. Keeping them organized gives you peace of mind and protection in the future.

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Monthly Recipe: Dr Pepper Texas Sheet Cake

From Southern Living, “With 23 different flavors, no wonder people started adding Dr Pepper to their cakes.

Chocolate sheet cakes were popular among early 20th-century cooks from Kentucky to California. Dr Pepper cake takes its cues from those recipes. Fragrant with spices like ground cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg and topped with chocolate frosting, that’s speckled with pecans, it may remind some of Texas sheet cake. For nearly 20 years, I baked a version of this sweet treat to celebrate the birthday of a friend and neighbor from Wichita Falls, Texas, who was haunted (in a good way) by her childhood memories of the delicious dessert. —Toni Tipton-Martin”

For more and the recipe go to:  Dr Pepper Texas Sheet Cake

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Start Your Emergency Fund With Confidence

Saving for an emergency fund can feel challenging in today’s economy, yet it is absolutely possible to begin building financial security one small step at a time. Even better, every bit you save puts you in a stronger and more confident position.

A 2024 Bankrate report found that many people are still finding their footing with savings. About 27% of U.S. adults have no emergency cushion and 29% do not have enough to cover three months of expenses. The good news is that you can change your own situation starting right now, no matter where you begin.

Although experts often recommend saving six months of expenses, you do not need to reach that level immediately. Start by aiming for one month of essential costs. This smaller goal is both realistic and empowering. Begin by adding up your fixed expenses such as housing, transportation, food, childcare, utilities, and communication services.

Next, create a separate bank account for your emergency fund and set up automatic transfers so saving becomes a simple habit. Even if it takes a year to save one month of expenses, that is a true achievement and an important financial foundation.

As you build your fund, work on reducing high interest debt at the same time. Anthony Martin, CEO of Choice Mutual, encourages this balanced approach because it strengthens your financial future from two directions. Others, like Dave Ramsey, suggest saving one thousand dollars first, then focusing more heavily on debt payoff. Choose the approach that feels right for you and keeps you moving forward.

When you reach your first goal, set your sights on saving three months of expenses. With each milestone, you gain more stability and peace of mind. Keep an eye on your spending and look for small ways to save, such as cooking at home more often. Every positive choice adds up and moves you closer to long-term security.

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  Houston Housing Market Review

Multiple Listing Service of the Houston Association of REALTORS® includes residential properties and new homes listed by 50,000 REALTORS®

HOUSTON HOUSING MARKET RINGS IN THE NEW YEAR WITH SIGNS OF BALANCE

For a DETAILED review from the Houston Association of Realtors, take a look at their comprehensive review posted at https://www.har.com/content/department/mls

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Spring Into Strength: A Healthier Back For A Pain-Free Season

Sudden back pain can strike after something as simple as a twist or a sneeze, but most back problems actually develop over years of unnoticed strain. Poor posture, faulty body mechanics, extra weight, emotional tension, and a lack of consistent fitness all contribute to long-term stress on the spine. With these common issues, it is easy to understand why back pain remains one of the most frequent complaints today.

Posture: Align Your Foundation

Stand tall and keep your ears, shoulders, and hips in a straight line. If you are unsure whether your alignment is correct, a physical therapist or trainer can help you evaluate and improve it. Good posture provides the foundation for healthy movement throughout the day.

Body Mechanics: Move With Intention

Maintain the same alignment of ears, shoulders, and hips during everyday activities, especially when bending or lifting. Keeping lifted objects close to your body reduces unnecessary strain and helps prevent injuries. Simple adjustments in how you move can protect your back more than you might expect.

Exercise: Build Strength, Flexibility, and Endurance

A well-rounded fitness routine supports a strong and healthy back. Include aerobic activity, flexibility training, and strengthening exercises to keep your spine supported and mobile. Aerobic activities such as walking, biking, or swimming can begin at ten to fifteen minutes three or four days a week, eventually increasing to thirty minutes.

Flexibility Is Equally Important

Limited mobility, particularly in the hips, forces the spine to move more than it should and can lead to discomfort. Stretching the areas where your range of motion is restricted allows your spine to function properly.

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SL: How To Clean Baseboards, According To An Expert

From Southern Living, “Plus, how often you should be cleaning them.

Why is it that baseboards need to be covered in dirt and grime before we even notice that they need to be cleaned? If this is your experience, too, know that you’re not alone. It’s pretty easy for most folks to forget about the baseboards when you’re sweeping or mopping the floor. Thankfully, you don’t have to deep clean baseboards often, if you actually clean them properly. 

We’ve asked Taylor Matthews, owner of Sparkling Queens in Savannah, Georgia, to give us the lowdown on how, exactly, to properly deep clean baseboards, how often, and what not to do. “

For more go to:  How To Clean Baseboards

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Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day on Tuesday, March 17th 

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Getting Your Bike Spring-Ready

The early spring thaw is the perfect time to give your bike a little love. A few small upgrades now can help you roll into the new season with confidence, better performance, and fewer mechanical surprises. Here are six smart checks to kick off your riding year.

Freshen up your tires.

Mountain bike knobs lose their sharp edges over time, which means weaker grip on dirt. Road bike tires tend to flatten across the top, making cornering feel clunky. All rubber hardens with age, so even if your tires look fine, giving them a spring refresh can noticeably improve your ride.

Assess your chain.

Chains stretch with use, and a worn chain can lead to poor shifting, a higher chance of breakage, and faster wear on your chainrings. You can measure for stretch or simply make chain replacement part of your yearly spring routine. It is a small investment that protects the rest of your drivetrain.

Check your cables.

They control your shifting and braking, and worn ones can snap without warning. Regular inspection and timely replacement help you ride safely and avoid mid-ride problems.

Refresh the brake pads.

Rim brake pads harden as they age and tend to collect grit that grinds against your rims. Disc brake pads can trap debris that eventually gouges rotors. Spring is a great moment to install new pads, and you can even choose options designed for specific rim materials or rough riding conditions.

Swap out worn cleats.

If clipping in feels awkward or clipping out feels inconsistent, your cleats may be past their prime. Worn cleats can even release unexpectedly. Install new ones early in the season when your mileage is low, and enjoy smoother, safer pedal engagement for months ahead.

A little spring maintenance goes a long way. Refreshing these key components now sets you up for smoother rides, safer miles, and fewer surprises. It is an easy way to give your bike a clean slate for the season ahead. Make these checks part of your yearly routine and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with a well-tuned ride.

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Static Cling A Sticky Problem?

These tips will dispel static cling quickly, according to The Spruce.

1. Rub a wire hanger or foil along clothing. Static cling is caused by static electricity, and metal transfers the electrostatic charge to the metal.

2. Moisturize. Lotion adds humidity to your skin and keeps fabrics from clinging.

3. Hairspray. A few quick sprays on your clothing from a foot away should stop the cling.

4. Damp cloth or paper towel. In dry winters, a little moisture creates humidity and stops static cling.    

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Don’t Put This Down The Garbage Disposal

Frustrating clogs and costly repairs — that’s what you’ll get if you try to put the wrong things down your garbage disposal.

Here are some of them:

1. Grease and oil: Fat can solidify and clog your pipes, leading to unpleasant backups.
2. Fibrous vegetables: Celery, corn husks, and onion skins may seem harmless, but their tough fibers can wrap around the disposal blades and cause them to jam.
3. Coffee grounds: Although they may seem harmless, coffee grounds can accumulate and form a sludgy mess in your pipes, leading to blockages.
4. Eggshells: Despite their hard exterior, eggshells can create tiny granules that stick to the pipes and cause blockages over time.
5. Bones and fruit pits: Your garbage disposal is not equipped to handle these hard objects. They can damage the blades and motor and require costly repair or replacement.

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February 2026 Trivia Answers

January Question: What is the only month that can have no full moon?

Answer: February

Winner: Dianne Maloy

Your name was randomly selected from all of the correct entries. You’ve won a $50 gift card to one of the following: Amazon.com, Target, Khol’s, Bed, Bath, & Beyond, Home Depot, Academy, Petsmart, Outback, Carrabba’s Italian, Texas Roadhouse, Cracker Barrel, Olive Garden, Domino’s Pizza, Papa John’s, Chili’s, Red Robin, Panera’s, OR IHOP.  IT’S YOUR CHOICE!

March 2026 Trivia Questions

March Question: What famous scientist was born on March 14th, also known as Pi Day? 

Everyone who contacts Elisa via email (Elisa@BrunerTeam.com) or phone (832-746-7911) with the correct answer by March 25th will be entered into a drawing for a $50 gift card to one of the following: Amazon.com, Target, Khol’s, Bed, Bath, & Beyond, Home Depot, Academy, Petsmart, Outback, Carrabba’s Italian, Texas Roadhouse, Cracker Barrel, Olive Garden, Domino’s Pizza, Papa John’s, Chili’s, Red Robin, Panera’s, OR IHOP.  It’s your choice!

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Facebook Page

Dear Readers,

You are welcome to check out my business Facebook page where I post our latest listings as well as real estate tips, etc throughout the month. Just go to  ElisaMcNinchRE. 

And as always, thank you for allowing me to be your real estate consultant for life. I love what I do because of clients like YOU! 

– Elisa McNinch, Realtor