The Joy Of Fresh Starts
Spring whispers renewal and growth. From blooming gardens to brighter days, March invites us to declutter our homes, minds and routines.
It’s the birds returning with songs of cheer, the scent of blossoms in the crisp, clear air. Windows flung open, sunlight peeks through, promising something refreshingly new.
Spring is a time to refresh—to swap heavy coats for lighter layers, open the windows, and embrace the longer days. It’s also the perfect season for a new mindset.
Whether you’re clearing clutter, revisiting goals or starting new habits, growth begins with fresh energy.
As the days get brighter and longer, take a deep breath, set your sights forward and step into the possibilities ahead.
~ Elisa McNinch, Realtor
Our Featured Listings
The Houston housing market is soft but seems to be strengthening especially as buyers are beginning to surface again since the FED dropped the interest rate mid-September. 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.
ACTIVE LISTINGS:
- 235 W. 30th in Garden Oaks – (77040) – FOR SALE $549,900 – www.har.com/31159757 – *Prime Investment Opportunity in Garden Oaks!* Unlock the potential of this 11,377 sqft. homesite, offering endless possibilities – build new, renovate, or hold for future appreciation. Nestled in the sought-after Garden Oaks community, where vintage charm meets modern convenience, this property is surrounded by new construction & offers an ideal canvas for your vision. The existing 1940s home features 2 bedrooms, 1 bath, & a study that could easily serve as a 3rd bdrm. Video: https://youtu.be/PJ1hEdZ-JnQ
- 5 Parkway Place in The Park at Jersey Village (77040) – FOR SALE $375,000 – www.har.com/6527588 – Rare 1-story patio home, 2074sqft, 3 bedroom, 2 baths, & 2 car garage in gated community of The Park. Gorgeous view of golf course, double pane windows, engineered wood floors, water softener, high ceiling, island kitchen with granite, Bosch appliances, & more. Owner’s suite with dual sink vanities, separate shower & jetted tub, & walk-in closet with organizers. Video: https://youtu.be/X1KRpROMA9A
- 5 Rocky Ln in Rolling Fork (77040) – FOR SALE $395,000 – www.har.com/46943313 – 2-story home, 2604sqft, 4 bedroom, 3.5 baths, & 2 car garage. Roof 2022. Plantation shutters, crown molding, flagstone & wood floors. Expansive family room with marble wood-burning fireplace. French-country style kitchen with gas cooking, double convection ovens, & more. All bedrooms up. Owner’s suite with remodeled bath with 2 sinks & large walk-in shower. 3 secondary bedrooms + 2 full baths. Bedroom 4 with ensuite bath could be a 2nd owner’s suite. Wooden deck with hot tub with surround sound. Backyard is great for entertaining. Camera security. Sprinkler system. Video: https://youtu.be/4utR2bfII3g
- 8309 Koester in Jersey Village (77040) – FOR SALE $489,900 – www.har.com/34241337 – 2-story, 3061, 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, & 4-car detached garage. Double pane Low-E windows, Plantation shutters; 2-zoned HVACs (upstairs HVAC 2023), Updated kitchen with quartz, stainless steel appliances, 2 Primary Suites (1st & 2nd floor), Interior paint, Porcelain tile/Distressed wood laminate/Carpet, Updated lighting & more! Video: https://youtu.be/-14FQUf28ZQ
- 15806 Tenbury in Jersey Village (77040) – FOR SALE $399,900 – www.har.com/56521408 – 2-story, 2576sqft, 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, 3 car garage. Double pane Low-E windows; Replumbed w/ PEX plumbing (no galvanized pipes); Home roof (2023) & Garage roof (2009); Electrical panel replaced, relocated, & 220 outlet added (2009); 15 SEER 5-ton HVAC; Water heater; Hardie siding. Video: https://youtu.be/4Ed7yoifOvo
- 5505 Hardy St in Ryon (77009) – FOR SALE $199,000 – www.har.com/3027430 – 5,000sqft lot ready to be built on. Lot is 50ft wide x 100ft deep. No HOA. No MUD. Low tax rate.
FEBRUARY SOLDS:
- 15910 Juneau in Jersey Village (77040) – JUST LISTED $367,900 – MULTIPLE OFFERS – www.har.com/55591168 – 1-story, 1748sqft, 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, 2 car garage. Stunning outdoor paradise. A-frame covered patio with 2 flat screen TVs, surround sound, & full outdoor kitchen. Saltwater pool with waterfall, spa & firepit. Home extensively renovated (2015-2019): Roof, high-efficiency HVAC, ductwork, electrical panel, double pane windows, engineered wood floors, lighting, garage doors, Hardie board, blown insulation, replaced sewer line, PEX plumbing (baths), remodeled kitchen & 2 baths, & ETC! Video: https://youtu.be/GhuVqii9ykw
OPEN HOUSE on SAT 3/1 from 1-3PM at 5 Rocky Lane in Rolling Fork
OPEN HOUSE on SUN 3/2 from 1-3PM in the City of Jersey Village: #5 Parkway Place, 15806 Tenbury, & 8309 Koester
OPEN HOUSE on SAT 3/22 from 1-3PM at 235 W. 30th in Garden Oaks
No Contact, No More: A Guide To Healing Relationships
A growing trend online and offline is people going “no contact” with friends or family. A Cornell University study found 27% of American adults are estranged from at least one family member. While some people cut ties to escape abuse or political conflicts, others seek to rebuild relationships later. Here are tips for reconnecting:
- Let go of the past: Avoid dwelling on reasons; complete understanding might never come.
- Listen openly: Hear that person’s side without defending yourself and acknowledge their frustration.
- Apologize: Apologies show strength and foster healing.
- Be your current self: Stay true to who you are now and avoid old family roles or dynamics.
Monthly Recipe: 10 Southern Pies Everyone Should Make At Least Once
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From Southern Living, “We promise, they’re worth the extra effort.
Cakes are quick to claim the title of ultimate celebration food, but a Southerner might beg to differ. Outside of a birthday cake and our annual holiday white cake , there are few situations in which many Southerners wouldn’t rather have a slice of pie. The great thing about pies is that they’re perfect for all seasons and all occasions, from a prerequisite pumpkin pie at Thanksgiving to a cherry or berry pie to make use of your fresh summer harvest. Once you master the art of a buttery, flaky homemade crust, the sky’s the limit in terms of what you can whip up. And if you’re not quite ready to take on the task, a store-bought crust or recipe that doesn’t require a rolling pin (think graham cracker or cookie press-in crusts) are just as delicious, with far less effort. There are a million different pie fillings in the world, but if you consider yourself a Southern baker, here are 10 pies you should make at least once.”
For more go to: 10 Southern Pies Everyone Should Make At Least Once
Foods To Brighten Your Mood
As the season shifts, what you eat can boost your energy and mood. According to Harvard Medical School, foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals play a critical role in boosting mood and brain health. Here are five foods to incorporate this spring:
Spinach – Rich in folate and magnesium, it combats fatigue and brain fog. Add it to salads, omelets or smoothies.
Strawberries – Packed with antioxidants and vitamin C, they’re a refreshing way to sweeten your day.
Avocados – Loaded with healthy fats, avocados support brain health and keep you feeling satisfied.
Asparagus – High in fiber and folate, it’s great for digestion and overall energy.
Salmon – Rich in omega-3s, salmon reduces stress and improves focus.
Combine these foods in vibrant spring dishes for meals that nourish your body and mind while energizing and uplifting you.
March 2025 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 2025
Houston Mom’s: Happenings in Houston in March
Kids Out and About.com: March activities in & around Houston
101 Family Day Trips Around Houston
The Profound Power Of Awe
Awe is that moment of wonder when you encounter something vast, sublime or unexpected. Although nature often inspires it, a 2017 study found that people experience profound awe when witnessing acts of moral beauty—such as courage, kindness or selflessness—rather than wealth or possessions.
According to Dacher Keltner, author of Awe: The New Science of Everyday Wonder, awe reduces stress, improves physical symptoms, such as headaches, and fosters a deeper sense of meaning and connection. It can also help people be less self-focused and more inclined to help others.
Awe has also been linked to spiritual experiences, as noted in a 2013 Psychological Science study. “Healthy doses of awe nourish us,” writes Keltner, “leaving us feeling strengthened, empowered and alive.”
SL: 4 Ways To Remove Grease From Your Cabinets—And How To Prevent Future Buildup
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From Southern Living, “Depending on the color of your cabinets, you might not notice inevitable grease buildup until you feel the sticky residue. Regardless of whether or not you can see the unsightly stains, it’s always a great idea to give your kitchen cabinets a wipe down every now and then. In this guide, we’re dishing out (pun intended) the best methods for tackling grease stains for clean, beautiful cabinets.”The Forgotten Art Of Writing Letters
In a world of texts, emails and instant replies, the handwritten letter has become a rare and beautiful thing—a small act of thoughtfulness that feels more personal than a digital message ever could.
Writing a letter forces us to slow down. It’s about more than words; it’s about intention. From choosing the paper to feeling the scratch of the pen against it, every step feels deliberate. Letters carry a piece of us—our handwriting, our rhythm and our thoughts. They are keepsakes and something to hold onto, unlike a fleeting text.
Studies have shown that writing by hand can reduce stress and strengthen memory, and receiving a letter can create feelings of connection and joy. According to Psychology Today, the tactile act of writing engages the brain more deeply than typing and fosters creativity.
This month, challenge yourself to write a letter. Send one to a friend who lives far away, to a family member you haven’t called recently, or even to yourself. Share a story, express gratitude, or simply say “Hello.” The beauty of a letter is that it’s never just a message—it’s a gift.
Celebrating a Happy St Patrick’s Day on March 17th
SL: 10 Best Things To Do In Glen Rose, TX
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From Southern Living, “This small town southwest of Dallas is known as the “Dinosaur Capital of Texas.”
More than 100 million years ago, an ancient sea covered much of Texas, and present-day Glen Rose sat at the water’s edge. Dinosaurs traveled this area, leaving behind muddy footprints that were buried under sediment. The impressions stayed covered until 1908 when a massive flood roared down the Paluxy River and scraped the riverbed.
A nine-year-old boy discovered the footprints a year later, and hundreds of tracks have been uncovered over time. You can see portions of the tracks at the American Museum of Natural History in New York and the Texas Memorial Museum in Austin. You can also travel to the source and view them in the ground where the dinosaurs walked or help excavate tracks nearby. While in town, visit the quaint, historic square, enjoy a meal, or stroll alongside the picturesque river. Here are the best things to do on your next trip to Glen Rose, Texas.”
For more go to: 10 Best Things To Do In Glen Rose, TX
The Art Of The Slow Morning
In a world that races toward the next thing, there is a quiet magic in starting slow.
The magic begins when the soft hum of morning light filters through the curtains and the way it gently stirs the room to life. The kettle sings and steam curls from your cup, carrying warmth to your fingertips—a small comfort, but the kind that lingers.
You pause, only for a moment, and let the world feel still. There’s no rush to check a screen or fill the silence. The minutes stretch out like a ribbon, smooth and uninterrupted.
Take a deep breath, stretch, and let your mind wander, or simply sit with the sound of the day awakening.
A slow morning is not a wasted morning; it’s a gift to yourself, a reminder that life is not about what you accomplish, but how you choose to begin.
Step into the day softly. The rest will follow.
SL: 6 Vegetables That Are Easy To Grow In Containers
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From Southern Living, “Plus, the best varieties of each to plant in the South.Paint The House Red
The color red is more than a design choice; it’s backed by science to influence mood, energy and atmosphere in surprising ways.
According to Homes & Gardens, red stimulates conversation and creates warmth, which makes it ideal for spaces where people gather. Discover HubPages points to red’s ability to boost appetite, which explains why the color often appears in kitchens and restaurants. Meanwhile, HomeMade Lovely highlights how deeper red tones can make large, open spaces feel cozy and intimate, perfect for creating a sense of calm and comfort.
When thoughtfully incorporated, red can bring life to a room without overwhelming it. Consider a bold red accent wall for a striking focal point, or introduce the color through softer elements, such as pillows, rugs, or artwork. Balanced with neutral tones like whites or creams, red adds warmth and energy while maintaining harmony in your space.
Whether you use it boldly or sparingly, red has a transformative power that can make your home feel vibrant, inviting and alive.
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 WEATHERS SNOWSTORM WITH SUSTAINED GROWTH IN JANUARY
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
A Hidden Giant Beneath The Waves: Discovery Of A Massive Coral Structure
Researchers exploring the Pacific Ocean near the Solomon Islands have made an astonishing discovery: a colossal coral structure made up of approximately 1 billion polyps, which are the tiny creatures that form corals.
This massive organism measures 100 feet in both width and length, making it one of the largest single corals ever found.
Unlike a reef, which consists of networks of many
coral colonies, this structure is a single, uninterrupted coral that has been growing for at least 300 years. Its longevity and scale make it a rare find and highlights the resilience of marine life in the face of environmental challenges.
According to National Geographic, the coral is so vast that it can be seen from space. However, from the ocean’s surface, it blends into the surroundings and appears as an unremarkable rock. Initially, researchers believed it might be a shipwreck. Even local communities, that have lived near these waters for generations, were unaware of its existence.
This discovery serves as a powerful reminder of the mysteries that still lie beneath the ocean’s surface and the importance of protecting these vital ecosystems.
SL: 7 Underrated Mountain Towns For Spring Break
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From Southern Living, “We’ll let you in on a little secret: spring is one of the best times for a mountain getaway. We know, there’s an unspoken rule that spring break is for the beach and fall break is for the mountains, but rules are meant to be broken (especially when stunning views are involved). In the spring, mountain towns really have it all. The weather is pleasantly mild before the sweltering summer heat sets in, and melting snow and seasonal rains create some of the most dramatically beautiful waterfalls of the year. And with tourism peaking in the summer and fall foliage seasons, you’ll have the luxury of uncrowded views. Southern beach towns will always be a tried-and-true getaway, but if you’re looking to mix things up, maybe it’s time to swap a dip in the ocean for a soak in a hot spring. These are some of the most underrated mountain towns perfect for a spring break getaway.”
For more go to: 7 Underrated Mountain Towns For Spring Break
Office Housekeeping & USB Cables
It’s possible to find yourself surrounded by at least half a dozen cords when working or at home of office: One for the phone; the tablet; the tablet keyboard; the laptop; earphone charger; and speaker cord. And don’t forget the power cords.
Two people in the same space? Double number of cables.
Of course, you want some cables fairly long to allow use of the device while charging. But pretty soon, the cables turn into a trip hazard. And in addition to the annoying mess, the devices are also at risk from yanks that can pull them off surfaces or destroy ports.
Don’t allow cords to hang over your workspace onto the floor. Even a foot or two of cord dangling onto the floor can trip you. You might also roll over the cord with your desk chair and damage it.
In offices, workers often staple cables to surfaces. It may be fast, but this is double trouble since it creates an immediate electrical hazard and an ongoing threat to the cords themselves.
Many products are available to channel, hide, and organize cables.
See y’all March 4 – 23, 2025!
Don’t miss the World’s Championship Bar-B-Que Contest, presented by Cotton Holdings Feb. 27 – March 1, 2025!
I just love this time of year! It’s almost rodeo time in Houston. Plan your visit now to get ready for Rodeo Houston. Take a look at all of the events, entertainment, ticket prices, parking, & more.
For more go to: Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo
Facing The Mess: First, Make Your Bed
You’re not lazy — you’re busy, and everyone knows that cleaning isn’t fun sometimes, especially when you’d rather relax after a long week. Instead of looking at your house as one enormous chore waiting to be accomplished, start small. Make your bed.
Marathon cleaning is the worst way to start, according to blogger and author Rachel Hoffman in an interview with Today. Tackling it all at once is exhausting and just worsens your anxiety — after all, you know your house will be messy again soon.
Break tasks into manageable chunks, and instead of worrying about everything that needs to be accomplished, focus on what you can accomplish right now. And according to Hoffman, making your bed is an ideal place to start — it takes a minute or two at most, and immediately makes your bedroom look better. And it’s an easy habit to establish — just roll out of bed and do it every morning. When you do that, you start each day with an accomplishment!
Here’s When The Moon Will Turn Red In March
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From Southern Living, “Mark your calendar!
6 Reasons Your Small Business Needs a Website
It looks like this year is a great one to start or build on an existing business. But does the public know you exist? People love to look before they buy, and having a site of your own allows them to do just that for several reasons.
#1 Credibility
No matter what good or service your business offers, no one will take you seriously if you don’t have a legitimate online presence. Unfortunately, social media pages like Facebook or X do not count. People want to see what you have to offer in your own words, images, and style.
#2 Get Found Online
Nowadays, people tend to search more and more for businesses online. They do so by typing their desires into a search engine or asking a virtual assistant. Google, Apple, and all the others will not list you as a business unless you have a working, multi-device friendly website.
#3 Accumulate Leads
Once you get found, your potential lead will search your site to see if you offer what they want. Their next step is to get in touch with you using the information on the site. This can include your preferred email, phone number, or even contact form. I recommend responding to all leads as soon as possible so they don’t move on to the competition.
#4 Sell Online
Do you sell physical or even digital goods? Your website allows you to sell online at the price you want, for the amount you want. There are all sorts of tools to help you sell online, accept credit cards/e-payments, and deposit them all into the account of your choice. Even those of you who sell services can sell online, have a booking system online, and give detailed quotes all over the web.
#5 The Competition Has a Website
I had a client, let’s call him John Smith, accountant. He would get a lot of word of mouth business. However, when these potential clients would look him up, the site they found was that of accountant Jon Smythe, a competitor. The original John Smith came to me to not only create a website just for him, but showed me his competition’s and shared his desire to create a better, more modern one.
#6 The Same Goes for Old Sites
Just like all technology, website design has advanced a ton just in the last few years. Most B2B sites should focus on mobile design, as that is how most consumers will visit your site. This includes having your most prominent good or service up front, secondary ones to follow, and easy ways to get in touch – all on just the homepage.
Lilia Fabry is the owner and operator of MPP Freelance, a Houston-based web design firm that focuses on designing websites for small to mid-sized businesses of all kinds.
For more go to: Freelance Writer Design
February 2025 Trivia Answer
Question: What was the first product ever to be scanned with a barcode?
Answer: Venus
Congratulations to Judy Morey!
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 2025 Trivia Question
Question: What is the only planet in our solar system that rotates on its side?
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!
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