Neighborhood News – Dirt2Doorbell

Facebook Friday Contest!

THIS WEEKEND ONLY (April 7-9, 2017), we are holding a contest because we need your opinion! We have two similar homes, and we want to know which you like better.

How it works:

Go to our Facebook post here, and check out the pictures! This link will take you to see two of our homes that are for sale in our wonderful Saginaw Springs Community. You can vote by ‘liking’ or ‘loving’ the post to let us know which you think is better. That alone will give you ONE entry to win 2 gift cards! To gain a second entry, share the post with your friends. It’s really that easy!

The contest will end Sunday at midnight, central standard time. The winner will be drawn at random and announced this Monday, April 10th, at high noon!

FYI

Both of these gorgeous homes are currently for sale! 605 Rocky Haven Court features a dramatic design and a butler’s pantry that makes entertaining a breeze! 605 Ravenwood Drive has 5 bedrooms and a jetted tub! Plenty of room for the whole family to spread out and relax.

Arlington, Best in the South

How do you measure the ‘awesomeness’ of a city? Cultural and entertainment districts? Low unemployment? New jobs? Available housing? These are all metrics used by the magazine Money to choose Arlington as the “Best Big City” in the South, and we couldn’t agree more!

You may think that the big sports and adventure parks are the only big entertainment in the city, but leadership in Arlington has been working hard to invest in other options. Downtown Arlington was recently named a Cultural District by the Texas Commission on the Arts. Over the last several years, the city has encouraged the growth of small businesses in this area and added features such as the Arlington Music Hall and the Levitt Pavilion for the Performing Arts.

Job opportunities in the area also contributed to the distinction bestowed upon the city by Money. A recent expansion of the GM facility is obviously a large contributing factor to the low unemployment in the city (4.1% according to Money). Texas Health Resources also provides a significant amount of jobs in Arlington, and the commute from Arlington to job opportunities in Dallas and Fort Worth makes Arlington an advantageous place to live if you like having a job!

The city of Arlington has done its fair share to create desirable housing spaces through improved schools and traffic options. The city is home to one of the top most challenging high schools in the U.S. according to The Washington Post. The bike lanes throughout the city add to both the traffic infrastructure and the other outdoor recreation opportunities throughout the city. Talks are already in the works to link the bike trails in the city and public transit options to Fort Worth and Dallas systems.

If you’re impressed by the hard work done by the city, you might look into one of our communities in the quieter south Arlington. While Arlington schools are awesome and growing, the Mansfield ISD schools our homes feed have their own accolades. Fannin Farms West provides access to the entertainment and job opportunities in Arlington while offering a sense of peacefulness and solitude.

Until Next Time,

Rebekah R.

Saginaw Springs: Around Town

Saginaw Springs is a great community for families who love the outdoors. William Houston Park is a short walk away where you’ll find a great playground area and two soccer fields. Willow Creek Park is a bit further away, but easy to bike to. It is home to a jogging path with exercise stations, basketball courts, a softball field, an entire disc golf course, tennis and volleyball courts, and multiple playgrounds. The city as a whole also fosters a great environment for other outdoor group activities like the North Tarrant Cycling Club.

If you’re looking for bigger outdoor adventures, they’re just around the corner from Saginaw Springs. Eagle Mountain Lake as well as Lake Worth are both nearby and are home to great state parks. The Fort Worth Nature Center and Refuge is 11.5 miles away and home to all kinds of adventures! Find out about the hiking trails, guided tours, and wildlife here. When indoor entertainment is calling you, TCC is there to answer. With a variety of theater programs throughout the year, you will have plenty to enjoy. If the most recent theater production doesn’t tickle your fancy, you can always head down 287 into the Stockyards or Downtown Fort Worth.

Every school that your child will be a part of within Saginaw Springs has met or exceeded all Texas State Requirements. For this district, though, that’s not enough. EMISD is part of a select few districts participating in the Liink project to help grow and learn at the highest standards. This district has its eye on the future, and will take your child there.

You’ll be hard-pressed to find a community that cares for you like Saginaw does. What I really love about the town is the balance of historical character and modern amenities like bike lanes and public transit. They have a city recreation center that will more than fit any workout needs, and has the most competitive pricing I’ve found. The community even puts on a kid’s night during the school year called ‘Planet Kidz’ geared toward providing age-appropriate entertainment to children ages 8-14 years old.

Until Next Time,

Rebekah

All Things New

As many of our communities finish their last homes, we look forward to the new and exciting things to come. In addition to the two communities we introduced in May, we are now able to introduce two brand new communities on opposite sides of the Metroplex.

The Cove at North Grove

You may be familiar with our other communities in Waxahachie, and this one will be even better. The Cove is the first section of the master-planned North Grove. When all is complete there will be new schools and trails all with the convenience of being near an established shopping center. We recently explored our new homesites amid the sunflowers!

Weatherford Heights

This area is entirely new to Antares Homes, and we are so excited to join the tight-knit community of Weatherford. We have carefully selected this community to continue providing big city living with country ease. From Weatherford Heights, you can visit a nearby farm, take a short trip to a locally owned eatery near downtown, or drive into Fort Worth when you have that ‘big city’ itch.

Weatherford Heights

If you missed the announcement of Chisholm Trail Ranch and our last phase of Summer Creek South, you can read the blog here.

Until Next Time,

Rebekah

Settlers Glen

This week, we are all abuzz about Settlers Glen in Waxahachie! The Grand Opening for the 3rd phase in this fantastic community is around the corner and amazingly we are in closeout already! We only have 8 homesites left. There is mixed anticipation and pride as we see glimpses of the amazing things to come in this area and look toward our 4th phase. We’re getting in pictures as our first homes go up, and it’s hard to focus on much else. More stunning than the final product is the knowledge that we made that happen. To give you an idea of how that feels, please enjoy some photos of said final product:

231 Frontier Drive

As if the homes themselves weren’t enough, this beautiful community is quietly nestled between I-35E and HWY-287. The location alone offers an amazing balance of big city living and country ease. A 10 minute drive south will take you to beautiful downtown Waxahachie. Featuring some of the most unique shops and dining options north of Austin, the town square is beautifully preserved around it’s famed courthouse pictured below. If you’re itching to drive north, a 30 minute drive up 35E will land you in the heart of Downtown Dallas. From there, you can explore the arts, entertainment and nightlife offered by the big city.

Waxahachie_Courthouse

This convenient community is also masterfully planned. The quiet streets access only this community, creating a family-friendly neighborhood. The beautiful park is well landscaped, and perfect for the long summer days. The HOA in the area keeps everyone on the same page and looking great. This little community has everything you could want in a place to call home! Check out the video for more information and pictures of the awesome community.

Best Eats!

This week, we’re featuring 1 or 2 great places to eat near each of our awesome communities!

Fannin Farms – Istanbul Grill

If you’re ever in the neighborhood, Istanbul Grill is THE place for Mediterranean Cuisine! This family-run diamond in the rough offers Mediterranean favorites like kebobs and gyros. With a BYOB option, this is a great spot to sit and relax with friends when they have the space! Find them here.

Selection Studio – Savor Coffee Bar and Eatery

If you are visiting our design studio, there is no better place around to gather your thoughts. Their specialty drinks and delicious food will replenish your spirit while the beautiful atmosphere inspires your mind. Find them here.

Meadow Creek Estates – Moni’s Pasta & Pizza

Moni learned his trade working at a restaurant in Italia as a younger man. He has passed on everything he knows to his son, who has owned and operated this particular location for the last 9 years. Everything about this BYOB Italian restaurant is authentic from the pasta to the delivery! Find them here.

Settler’s Glen – Catfish Plantation

Don’t let the ghost stories keep you away! All of the spirits there are friendly, and the delicious catfish is more than worth it! Located near historic downtown Waxahachie, the Catfish Plantation is the very definition of good food, great service, and a beautiful location. Find them here.

Settler’s Glen – Lonestar Burger Bar

Texans love our burgers, and Lonestar Burger Bar is the best place to grab one near Settler’s Glen! Their Black Angus burgers are dressed up with everything from bacon and BBQ sauce to peanut butter. If it’s too early for a burger, they have great breakfast options! Find them here.

The Cove at North Grove – The Dove’s Nest

‘It’s Worth Flying South’ according to the Fort Worth Star Telegram, and certainly worth the short drive from The Cove at North Grove. This charming eatery serves New Southern Cuisine and delicious desserts! Nestled in historic downtown Waxahachie, eating at this acclaimed restaurant is both relaxing and invigorating. Find them here.

Matador Ranch – Antonio’s Homestyle Cooking

This family-owned Mexican food restaurant works hard to make every customer feel at home. From made-at-your-table guacamole to fresh flan, it’s hard to find a more authentic Mexican eating experience. Find them here.

Summer Creek South – Bonnell’s

Dedicated to working with local farmers and right off the Chisholm Trail Toll Road, Bonnell’s is both convenient and delicious. Opened in 2001 by Chef Bonnell, this restaurant combines Southwestern, Creole and Mexican flavors to create a taste that is authentically Texan. Find them here.

Summer Creek South – The Woodshed

This delicious smoke house is conveniently located just off of the Trinity Trails and the Chisholm Trail Toll Road. The ever-changing menu is a thing that must be experienced to believe. Chef Tim Love loves to bring in creative meats that can be enjoyed indoors or on the patio overlooking the river. Find them here.

Ashford Park – Bella Vita II Italian Restaurant

The second location for this family-owned Italian restaurant, this is a great option for dinner in the Burleson area. The service is excellent, and the fresh food is constantly being updated by their innovative chefs. When you walk through that door, they’ll make you feel like family. Find them here.

Chisholm Trail Ranch – Press Café

Located at the new trail head, Press Café is easily accessed from the Trinity Trails, and from Chisholm Trail Toll Road. Whether you bike, run or drive to this fantastic location, you will be treated to some of the best healthy food in the area. Their modern bar serves alcohol and coffee. You can’t go wrong relaxing and enjoying the view. Find them here.

Saginaw Springs – Boo-Ray’s

Cajun food is widely loved, and not always done well. With Boo-Ray’s zesty recipes and daily fresh fish, they do right by the owner’s Cajun heritage. Along with authentic flavor, Scott Marks brings the New Orleans atmosphere to Eagle Mountain Lake. Find them here.

Saginaw Springs – Ginger Brown’s

If you’re looking for something in Saginaw that’s a bit less spicy, Ginger Brown’s is the place for you. Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner, Ginger brings delicious, home-style cookin’ to your table. This laid-back bakery and diner keeps its cinnamon rolls and customers at its center. Find them here.

Until Next Time,

Rebekah

Chisholm Trail Ranch and a Cow Herding Palette

One of our upcoming neighborhoods is in South Fort Worth, right off the Chisholm Trail Parkway. If you are a Fort Worth native, you’ve heard of the Chisholm Trail all of your life. In elementary school, we took a field trip to the Stockyards and saw the old Swift Meat Packing plant falling into ruin. The magnificent decay continued to instill a sense of pride that our little town was once a hub for cattle on the Chisholm Trail.

From 1867 to 1884 the Chisholm Trail was the route taken by cowmen to bring their cattle north in order to supply beef to the Eastern United States. They drove cattle all the way from South Texas to Abilene, Kansas where there was a cattle shipping terminal to take the livestock East. Over five million cattle traveled this route during its use. It is considered the largest man made animal migration in history.

Since Fort Worth was the last stop for rest and supplies before moving north to Abilene, it quickly became known as Cowtown. In 1876 the railroad came to Fort Worth, making Cowtown the final destination for many cowmen on the Chisholm Trail. Their cattle and other livestock could now be shipped from Fort Worth rather than continuing to drive North risking further weight loss and, in turn, value per head. In 1900 both Armour & Co. and Swift & Co. began construction of meat packing plants adjacent to the stockyards and refrigerated cars began moving meat North and East. This had a huge impact on Cowtown economics. After opening their plants, Armour and Swift were responsible for bringing over six million dollars into the local economy. The rise and fall of this industry in Fort Worth lasted through the 1960’s. Armour closed their doors in 1962 and Swift followed suit in 1971.

In honor of this heritage, which has inspired the name of Chisholm Trail Ranch, I have created a palette based on Steve Devenyns’ beautiful painting In Good Hands. Although the cows in his paintings aren’t the archetypal longhorns associated with Cowtown, the setting and tone are what I imagine a moment in time on the trail would look like. When I was speaking with Steve about this painting he told me that he has “always portrayed the cowboy in my paintings as a good steward. This painting is a good example of that. In this painting, the horse, cattle and the land are all In Good Hands.” If you like this painting as much as I do, you can view and purchase his paintings and prints on his site.

-Carrie Davis

Sources:

https://tshaonline.org/handbook/online/articles/ayc02

http://www.fortworthstockyards.org/history.aspx

http://texastimetravel.com/node/28751

Summer Creek South and Chisholm Trail Ranch- Coming Soon

Hi everybody, I hope your week has been as amazing as mine! I can’t believe April is over already! This may (no pun intended) just be me but it still feels like January. But since it is definitely May, I checked my calendar to make sure… I can share some of Antares fabulous news!

We have a bunch of new communities coming this summer, and we have two as of right now that have promo videos made to share!

First, without further ado… Here’s the promo for our Summer Creek South Phase 2 community coming soon!

Summer Creek South is South of of interstate 20 at the intersection of Summer Creek and Risinger Road. This community is BY APPOINTMENT ONLY, and it’s located minutes from shopping, entertainment, city parks, and the new Chisholm Trail Parkway.

Here’s the promo for our second community, Chisholm Trail Ranch!

We at Antares are very excited for this community as well, first because this is a brand new neighborhood and second, it’s near the new Chisholm Trail Parkway, on McPherson! This area is perfect because it gives you the advantage of living in a master planned community that will have it all! It has a country feel yet it has great amenities near by. There will be a neighborhood pool and cabana, parks and walking trails and a fishing pier. Right now homeowners can take advantage of the The Chisholm Trail Community Center which offers memberships. Viewing this neighborhood is BY APPOINTMENT ONLY as well.

As of right now, we plan to begin construction this summer. I’ll be sure to keep you guys updated on the progress of the neighborhoods as we go along and when we hope to have models built! But for now, enjoy these videos and be sure to talk to our sales consultants if you have any questions about our upcoming neighborhoods!

Summer Creek South: Sharon White 817-701-3010

Chisholm Trail Ranch: Monique Tinsley 817-701-3012

Until next time,

Alexa Katchinska

Saginaw Springs in North Fort Worth

Saginaw Springs Collage

Picture this: You and your family driving around. You have the windows down, the wind is blowing through your hair and you’re searching for that perfect place to live.

You’re looking for that perfect neighborhood away from the hectic busyness of the city but close enough to shopping and entertainment. This place could be right under your nose and you don’t even know it. Have you heard of a neighborhood called Saginaw Springs?

Saginaw Springs is a small town northwest of Fort Worth, with an amenities center, community swimming pool, nearby parks with plenty of activities and top rated schools in the Fort Worth district. It’s also a hop skip and a jump from Lake Worth. This area is perfect for you and your family because it’s new and still growing but is only a 5 minute drive away from a Movie Theater and Retail Center at 820 and Jacksboro Highway.

Sonia at Saginaw Springs Who knows? This could be the place you’ve been looking for all along!

Saginaw Springs Neighborhood Page

If you have any questions about our neighborhood or homes, feel free to contact Sonia Kinnard at 817-701-3013. She can help you and your family find the perfect place to call home.

-Alexa Katchinska

Now Building in Arlington!

Fannin Farm West is open in Southwest Arlington! When it comes to home construction, most Arlington, Texas, residents know land is scarce. Sure, you can buy a pre-owned home, but buyers who want to build a home from the ground up have had few, if any, choices. One local builder has managed to solve this problem by working with a developer to prepare home sites in a gem of a community in Southwest Arlington–Fannin Farm West.

3094
When it comes to home construction, most Arlington, Texas, residents know land is scarce. Sure, you can buy a pre-owned home, but buyers who want to build a home from the ground up have had few, if any, choices. New construction is rare because most of the land is already developed.

One local builder has managed to solve this problem by working with a developer to prepare home sites in a gem of a community in Southwest Arlington–Fannin Farm West. This desirable neighborhood is well-known to local residents; it’s quiet, filled with trees and walking trails, and located right in the heart of the Metroplex. For many homeowners, though, the best feature has nothing to do with trails and everything to do with schools–Fannin Farm West is within the Mansfield School District.

Sharon White, the on-site sales counselor for Antares Homes at Fannin Farm West, says buyers are excited about the new plans being built here. Some customers are empty-nesters who want less space but don’t want to sacrifice luxury features. Others, the “move-up” buyers, are looking for larger homes for growing families.

Modern buyers expect all the usual amenities–granite tops, stainless appliances, oil-rubbed bronze hardware–but they’re also demanding energy efficiency, something you can’t get in a pre-owned home. Lots of builders like to use the “G” word–green. Unfortunately, the term is overused and has become tired because of all the marketing hype. Blah blah blah green blah blah blah. The “G” word at Antares is Guarantee–as in guaranteed heating and cooling costs. Read more about guaranteed heating and cooling costs on the Antares Homes website, or stop by the Fannin Farm West Sales Office and ask Sharon for a demonstration.

Looking for a home in Arlington? Put an energy-efficient new home at Fannin Farm West on your short list. Stop by or call Sharon: 817-447-7502.