The holiday season is synonymous with joy, togetherness and, let’s be honest, a bit of financial stress. But it doesn’t have to be that way. With some clever tactics and a dash of creativity, you can fully immerse yourself in the holiday spirit without putting a strain on your wallet. Whether it’s discovering local events, crafting your own decorations or exploring the great outdoors, there are endless ways to sleigh the holidays if you are on a budget. Here are a few of our favorites.

Explore Free Festive Events

Exploring local festivities is a delightful way to dive into the holiday spirit without draining your bank account. To find these hidden gems, check out community bulletin boards, local event websites or even social media groups dedicated to your area. Libraries, schools and community centers often organize festive activities like holiday story hours, craft workshops, and even small concerts, all at little to no cost. Some events near Sierra Vista include the fabulous Duke Family Christmas Light Show, Manvel’s Parade of Lights, the Pearland Town Center Christmas Market and the Pearland Festival of Lights.

Get Out the Glue Gun

Who needs pricey holiday decorations when you can become a crafting genius with stuff lying around the house? Grab the kids and dive into the recycling bin. Got old newspapers? Turn them into paper mâché ornaments. Toilet paper rolls? You mean future glittery napkin rings. And if you’re feeling extra daring, create some DIY snowflakes from coffee filters. Remember those fairy lights from last year? Wrap them around your new creations for an instant upgrade.

Give the Gift of You

When it comes to thrifty gifts, why not give the gift of something homemade? Start with personalized mugs. All you need is a plain mug and some Sharpies from the dollar store. Scribble on an inside joke or a quirky design, and boom—instant sentimentality. Not feeling artsy? Bake up a storm and fill some mason jars with cookies. Tie a ribbon around the top, and voilà, you’ve got a gourmet gift without the gourmet price. Create a memory jar filled with handwritten notes, inside jokes and little memories. Get creative with a coupon book. “One Free Back Rub,” “Dishwashing Duty Exemption,” or “No Eye-Rolling for a Day” coupons can be priceless. A cute “Netflix and Chill” kit with popcorn and candy can make anyone’s holiday.

Embrace the Outdoors

Engaging in outdoor activities offers a wonderful opportunity to connect with your loved ones. Consider organizing a nature scavenger hunt for the kids where they can search for winter-themed items like pinecones, holly or even animal tracks. Don’t underestimate the charm of a simple evening stroll through your neighborhood either. Many communities go all out with their holiday light displays, transforming ordinary streets into magical wonderlands. Walking through these luminous displays can be a mesmerizing experience, and it’s completely free.

Throw a Potluck Party

You don’t have to go broke impressing your guests with a Michelin star menu. Instead, channel your inner “host with the most” and throw a potluck party. Gather your squad—friends, family, neighbors and co-workers — and ask everyone to bring their signature dish. To keep things interesting, spice it up with a theme. How about a “Retro Recipe Revival” where everyone digs out their grandma’s cookbook? Or go global with an “International Holiday Feast.” The best part? With everyone contributing, you’ll have a variety of foods that cater to all tastes and dietary quirks.

Spread Holiday Cheer by Volunteering

Volunteering during the holidays is the ultimate way to spread joy and feel like a superhero—all without spending a single cent. Animal shelters, food banks and community centers are practically begging for your help. Toy drives are another great gig. You get to be Santa’s little helper, minus the North Pole commute. Sorting toys and seeing kids’ faces light up is the kind of feel-good moment money just can’t buy.

Visit Sierra Vista for the Holidays

Residents of Sierra Vista love decorating their homes for the holidays, so why not take a walk in our neighborhood? While you’re here, stop by our model homes. Our builders might be able to help you find your perfect holiday home.

Remember when the future meant flying cars and robot maids? Yeah, we might still be waiting on the flying cars, but smart homes are here and turning our old-school living spaces into high-tech sanctuaries. While advances in artificial intelligence (AI) have made smart home technology more responsive, smart home gadgets at their heart do one thing and one thing only — let your home do the heavy lifting so you can enjoy being the laziest version of yourself. Here’s a quick overview:

Voice Assistants

Alexa, Google Assistant and Siri have been with us for more than a decade. Each iteration brings these chatty companions one step closer to understanding context and reacting independently. While we aren’t 100 percent there, voice assistants do streamline daily tasks with the finesse of a digital butler. Just remember, if your assistant starts developing a personality, it might be time to cut down on the chit-chat.

Tech-Savvy Security Systems

Most of the advances in smart home technology fall under the umbrella of home security. These setups come with cameras, sensors and alarms that are smarter than a mystery novel detective. They offer peace of mind by allowing you to check on your home from anywhere via your phone. With features like facial recognition and real-time alerts, smart doorbells let you know exactly who’s at your door. With two-way audio, you can tell that door-to-door salesperson “no thanks” without leaving your couch. Smart lights outside are not just motion activated, they can even differentiate between your pet and a potential intruder.

The Future of Cooking

Smart kitchen gadgets can save your culinary dignity (we know most of you have set off the smoke alarm at least once). Smart ovens not only know the perfect temperature for your lasagna but also send you a notification when it’s done. Fridges now have screens that show you what’s inside without having to open the door—because why put in the effort to peek when technology can do it for you? And for the kitchen-challenged among us, step-by-step recipe guidance is just a screen tap away.

Climate Control Meets Smart Tech

Gone are the days of fiddling with that old thermostat dial while trying to find the perfect balance between “arctic tundra” and “inferno.” Smart thermostats learn your preferred temperature settings and schedule, meaning you can finally say goodbye to those epic thermostat wars. With remote control via your smartphone, you can adjust the temperature from anywhere, ensuring you’re not heating or cooling an empty home. Plus, these devices are designed to be energy-efficient, which means you can be eco-friendly and save some bucks at the same time.

The Ultimate Entertainment Hub

Thanks to smart TVs, speakers and media systems that play nice together, you can transform your home into the ultimate hangout spot. Whether you’re binge-watching the latest series or throwing a dance party for one, your smart home has you covered. No more juggling five remotes or getting off the couch to adjust the volume. With everything controlled by your phone—or your voice — you can command your entertainment kingdom without lifting a finger.

Bright Ideas

Smart lighting systems have revolutionized the way we think about home illumination. Now, you can control your lights with just your phone, your voice or even set them to change automatically based on the time of day. These smart bulbs and fixtures don’t just stop at mood lighting. They can sync with your music, change colors to match your decor and even simulate sunrise to gently wake you up in the morning. Smart lighting is also energy-efficient and can save you a nice chunk of change on your electricity bill.

Sierra Vista Has Smart Homes

If the ultimate in convenience (and the opportunity to spend more time lounging by the pool appeals) why not head over to Sierra Vista? Our builders include smart home technology in every home they build. Check out our model homes to see what they offer then get ready to live your best and laziest life.

Great news, DIYers and home improvement fans—Lowe’s is officially joining Manvel Town Center.

The 140,000-square-foot store with garden center is expected to open in the third quarter of next year. Imagine walking through aisles filled with everything from essential hardware to lush greenery. Whether you’re planning a full-scale renovation or just looking to spruce up your living space, Lowe’s will have you covered.

Lowe’s joins H-E-B which opened last year. Pretty soon you’ll be able to pick up a box of nails at Lowe’s followed by one of H-E-B’s ready-to-eat meals.

This year also saw the opening of McDonald’s and Tru Texas BBQ. Soon to open will be Whataburger, Chipotle, Jersey Mike’s, a Memorial Hermann urgent care facility and Heartland Dental.

In addition to those already mentioned, businesses who have executed contracts include:

Great Clips
Marble Slab
Eye Trends
Aki Steak & Sushi
Verizon
Smoothie King

Manvel Town Center is a 273-acre retail development on the northwest corner of State Highway 288 and Highway 6 in Manvel. It’s also just 5 miles away from Sierra Vista. We’re excited to see what else might be coming to our neighborhood!

If you’re still living in a house that requires you to, you know, get up and flip switches, then boy, do we have news for you. It’s time to upgrade to the best smart home features for your home. Imagine lights that respond to your voice, a thermostat that knows your comfort zone better than you do and kitchen appliances that make you feel like you’re on a cooking show. Here are 10 smart home features that might make your home smarter than you.

Wake Up Alexa

Voice-controlled assistants do more than annoy your kids with the music of your youth. They can manage your schedule, give you traffic updates and even tell you not to forget your umbrella. Feel like turning on the lights or adjusting the thermostat? Just ask! Need a recipe for dinner? They’ve got you covered. Now, if only they could fold your laundry…

Flick A Virtual Switch

You could walk over to a light switch, or you could tell Alexa to turn on the lights while you are curled up on the couch with a cozy blanket and a cup of tea. Which sounds better? With a smart lighting system, you can adjust the brightness and color as well as schedule when your lights turn on or off—all from your phone or with a simple voice command. Plus, think of all the energy you’ll save (and the muscles you’ll conserve) by never having to reach for a light switch again.

Adjust the Temperature

Forget playing Goldilocks with the temperature, smart thermostats have your comfort down to a science. These gadgets don’t just adjust the temperature, they practically read your mind. They learn your schedule and preferences and adjust the temperature without you asking. Plus, they’re eco-friendly, which means you can save the planet and some cash.

Keep Your Castle Safe

Since drawbridges are passe, you will have to find other ways to keep your castle safe. Smart locks, motion detectors, doorbell cameras, window sensors and more keep your home as secure as Fort Knox. And let’s not forget the convenience of monitoring everything from your phone, because who has time to actually get up and peek through the blinds?

Be The Master Chef You Were Meant To Be

Have a habit of forgetting to preheat the oven? No problem! With Wi-Fi-enabled kitchen appliances, your trusty phone can do it for you. Need your morning coffee without getting out of bed? Just tap a button. And let’s not forget the smart fridge that texts you when you’re out of milk!

Time to Roomba

Picture yourself at the gym lifting weights instead of pushing a vacuum cleaner around the house. Sounds nice, doesn’t it. Automated vacuum cleaners do the dirty work for you, scurrying around picking up every crumb. Some models even map out your home to ensure no corner is left untouched. It’s like having a mini butler, minus the bow tie.

Mirror, Mirror

When is a mirror not a mirror? When it’s updating you on the weather, news and even what’s on your to-do list while you brush your teeth. Smart mirrors are the newest trend. Some even offer fitness tips, makeup tutorials and reminders to stay hydrated. It’s like having a personal coach — only cheaper.

That’s Entertainment

Your new home came with a media room. Can it get much better? Yes, with the help of an advanced home entertainment system. Whether you’re hosting a binge-watching marathon or just kicking back for a solo movie night, these systems integrate everything from your TV to your sound system. You’ll never have to wrestle with five different remotes again. Plus, with smart speakers and projectors, your home becomes the ultimate entertainment hub.

Make Any Device Smarter

If you’ve got something that plugs into a wall socket, a smart plug can up its IQ. Smart plugs allow you to control whatever you plug into it via your phone or digital assistant. You can use smart plugs to turn your fan on before you walk in the door, or to ensure your holiday lights aren’t still twinkling come February. And for those worried about energy consumption, some smart plugs even track your usage so you can tell Junior exactly why he needs to turn off the lights when he leaves a room.

Your Home’s Brain

Every orchestra needs a conductor, and every smart home needs a home automation hub. Hubs sync all of your devices, allowing you to tell your thermostat, lights and security system to work together. Hubs make life more convenient since you will no longer have to juggle multiple apps. It’s almost like your home can anticipate your needs before you do.

Sierra Vista Homes Are a Smart Buy

If you are looking for a smarter home, tour our model homes. Our builders offer homes loaded with smart devices like thermostats, video doorbells, automatic garage door openers and more. Devices that will give you more time to float along our lazy river and work on your tan. Visit Sierra Vista today.

Let’s face it. Naked windows are not very attractive. Now that you’ve moved into your new Sierra Vista home, it’s time to dress them up. Now, you’re probably asking yourself, “How do I choose the right window treatments?” You aren’t alone. With all the options available—drapes, blinds, shades and curtains—choosing window treatments can be as confusing as trying to assemble a piece of IKEA furniture without instructions. Never fear, we’re here to help you make your windows the talk of the neighborhood.

Function First, Fabulousness Later

Window treatments aren’t just for show. Before diving headfirst into the world of cotton, silk and velvet, consider what your window treatments need to do. Do they need to keep a nosy neighbor from peeking in? Maybe you want them to help regulate room temperature, so your family room doesn’t double as a sauna. And we’re not just whistling Dixie here. Data from the U. S. Department of Energy says medium-colored drapes backed with white plastic can decrease solar heat gain by as much as 33 percent. So, yeah, function does matter.

It’s a Material World

Ah, the materials—velvet, cotton, polyester, oh my! Each fabric has its pros and cons. Velvet screams luxury but can make a room feel claustrophobic. Cotton is versatile and easy to clean, which is perfect for those of us who see dust bunnies as the enemy. Polyester is a no-muss, no-fuss option. Whatever fabric you choose, just make sure it can handle daily life. Pets, kids and even spouses can be hard on window treatments.

What’s Your Window Treatment Personality?

​Your window treatments are an extension of your personality (although like we said, function matters). If you’re a minimalist, sleek roller shades could be your best friend. More of a maximalist? Layered drapes might be your calling. Roman shades offer timeless elegance while wooden shutters are charmingly rustic. Pick something that not only looks good but also makes you happy every time you walk into the room.

The Science of Color

Here’s where it gets tricky. You want your window treatments to complement your furniture, not steal the spotlight. Neutral tones are like the little black dress of window treatments—classic and versatile. But if you’re feeling adventurous, a bold color can be the highlight of the room. If your furniture says comfortable and cozy, floor-to-ceiling velvet drapes are going to look out of place. Your best bet is to grab a color wheel, take photos of your furniture and head out to the store.

Measuring Up

Channel your inner perfectionist, and make sure you measure correctly. No one wants their windows to look like the before picture. First, measure the width of your window. Then, measure the height from the top of the frame to where you want your drapes to end. Don’t just eyeball it unless you enjoy the look of mismatched window treatments. Don’t forget to account for any rods or hardware. If you have crown molding, measure around it, not through it.

Think Hard (Ware)

There’s more to window treatments than material. You’ve got to think hard about curtain rods, finials and rings. Your choice depends on what you intend to hang. Some drapery styles, such as grommet panels, rod pocket, tab top or back tab draperies can only be used on rods without rings. Pleated drapes can be displayed using traverse rods or decorative rods with rings. Finials are the decorative ornaments or knobs on the ends of drapery rods. They punctuate your window treatment style and should enhance both drapes and the room.

Let’s Talk Affordability

You may have noticed that window treatments aren’t exactly cheap. Never fear, there are plenty of inexpensive ways to get that decorator look at bargain basement prices. Thrift stores and online marketplaces are gold mines for budget-friendly finds. Or how about flexing those DIY muscles? A little creativity can go a long way. Re-purpose old sheets or tablecloths into chic drapes. Keeping it simple with blinds is also a great option until you can afford the window treatments of your dreams.

Check Out Our Window Treatments

Need more inspiration? Tour our model homes! Our builders use professional decorators to create 3-D design magazines. Check out their window treatments, then checkout their floor plans. Your new home (and new windows) are waiting for you.