Herring Home Team Custom Home Building, Remodeling & Real Estate

News

Reading nook by window with candles, flowers and book.
Home Living & Lifestyle

How to Make Home Cozy: Turn your Home into a Spring Retreat

🌿 How to Make Home Cozy: Turn Your Home into a Retreat This Spring

Spring in Houston can be beautiful—but with the pollen season in full swing, many of us are keeping the windows shut tight, skipping patio season and wondering how I can make my home feel cozy during the Spring season.

If you’re spending more time inside, you might be asking yourself: “How can I make my home feel more cozy, peaceful, and retreat-like this season?”

Good news—you don’t need a full renovation or vacation to refresh your space. With just a few thoughtful touches, you can transform your everyday home into a cozy retreat that feels just right for spring.  Specifically:

🌞 Let the Light In (Without the Allergies)

While flinging open the windows is tempting this time of year, Houston’s pollen makes that a no-go for now. Instead, embrace the light in allergy-friendly ways:

  • Swap out dark, heavy curtains for sheer panels
  • Clean your window interiors to let more sunlight shine in
  • Set up a sunny chair, lamp, and blanket to create a morning coffee nook

As a result, you’ll enjoy natural light without inviting the pollen in with it.

🪴 Create Outdoor Vibes from Indoors

Even if you’re not relaxing on your patio, you can still bring spring inside. For example:

  • Add low-pollen indoor plants like snake plant, peace lily, or eucalyptus
  • Place a few potted herbs on the kitchen counter for fresh scent and style
  • Position planters where you can see them from your windows

These simple shifts can help your home feel more connected to the season—even if you’re avoiding the sneezy stuff.

💧 Bring the Spa to You

If you’re wondering how to make home cozy without breaking the bank, think spa vibes. Bathrooms are the perfect place to start.

Try these tips:

  • Add eucalyptus or lavender essential oils to your shower routine
  • Use soft, neutral towels and remove countertop clutter
  • Play a calming playlist while getting ready or winding down

In short, your daily routines can become more enjoyable—and relaxing—without much effort.

🕯️ Use Scent, Sound, and Texture to Shift the Mood

Since you can’t rely on the scent of blooming flowers or the breeze, use subtle spring elements like:

  • Soy candles with fresh notes of mint, citrus, or vanilla
  • Essential oil diffusers or wax warmers
  • Soft throw blankets and seasonal pillows
  • Ambient music or nature sounds through a speaker

These cozy add-ons make your space feel calmer, cleaner, and more restful.

🍽️ Make Meals Feel Like an Occasion

Eating outside may not be ideal right now—but indoor dining can still feel special.

  • Light a candle at dinner
  • Add a flower centerpiece (tulips or hydrangeas are low-pollen picks!)
  • Use real plates and napkins for even the simplest meals

Even takeout can feel fancy when your space says, “relax and enjoy.”

🛋️ Declutter One Space and Enjoy It Fully

Often, we’re not looking for more stuff, just less stress. That’s why one of the best ways to make your home feel cozy is to simply tidy up. Try for example:

  • Clearing one room (like your bedroom or living space)
  • Removing visual clutter from shelves, floors, or counters
  • Adding one new item—like a basket, throw pillow, or plant—to give the space fresh energy

Therefore, small changes = big impact.

🏡 Your Home Can Be the Escape You’re Craving

Even if the patio is off-limits and allergies are running wild, you can still create comfort, calm, and joy right where you are. Now that you know how to make home cozy, it’s time to start enjoying it.

To wrap it up, at Herring & Co. Renovation & Realty, we understand that every home—and every homeowner—is different. That’s why we offer personalized guidance whether you’re remodeling to enjoy your space or are looking to list your home for sale.

With our combined expertise in renovation and real estate, we help you choose the updates that really pay off.

Cheers! 

Cody & Monica

#HerringHomeTeam

Renovation | Real Estate | Real Results

📍Serving the greater Houston area and surrounding communities including Tomball, Cypress, Spring, Magnolia, Montgomery, and The Woodlands
📩 Contact Us

Contact us today to get started.  Learn more about our Renovation & Realty Services.

👉 Follow us on Instagram, Facebook & YouTube! 🏡✨

Family moving into a Houston home listed during the best time to sell.
Real Estate

When is the best time to sell my home in Houston?

🏡 Best Time to Sell: When Is the Right Time to List Your Home in the Houston Area?

If you’re a homeowner in the Houston area wondering, Is now a good time to sell?—you’re asking the right question.

While every home and neighborhood is unique, real estate data tells us one thing loud and clear: April is historically the best time to sell your home in Houston and the surrounding suburbs.

Why? Because it’s the sweet spot between high buyer demand, low competition, and optimal curb appeal. That perfect window doesn’t last long—so let’s break down why it works and how to take advantage of it.

📈 Why April is the Best Time to Sell in Houston

Based on research from Zillow, Realtor.com, and the National Association of Realtors:

  • Homes listed in April sell faster than in any other month
  • Sellers can earn up to 2.8% more during peak listing weeks
  • Buyer activity peaks in early spring, before summer competition rises

In short: April listings often lead to stronger showings, quicker offers, and better returns—especially in warm-weather markets like Houston, Tomball, and Cypress.

🏘️ Why Spring Works So Well for Sellers

Spring is a season of movement—families planning for summer, school changes, relocations, or fresh starts. Add that to:

  • Longer days and great showing weather
  • Landscaping in full bloom = boosted curb appeal
  • More serious, ready-to-move buyers
  • Still-low inventory in early spring = less competition for you

As a result, sellers who list in April often get more exposure and stronger offers—without the delays or complications of summer inventory spikes.

Should You Wait to List?

Waiting may feel safe, but it could cost you. The longer you delay, the more saturated the market becomes—and buyers gain negotiating power.

By listing during Houston’s prime spring window, you position your home for faster results and a smoother path to closing.

How to Get Ready to List in April

Here’s a step-by-step checklist to hit the spring market strong:

1. Meet with a Local Real Estate Agent

A knowledgeable agent can run comps, help with pricing, and create a game plan customized to your home and neighborhood.

2. Declutter + Deep Clean

Clear counters, closets, and personal items to help buyers imagine the space as their own.

3. Complete Minor Repairs

Tackle anything noticeable: dripping faucets, loose handles, scuffed walls, or squeaky doors.

4. Enhance Your Curb Appeal

Even with Houston’s pollen season, a pressure wash, mulch refresh, and painted front door go a long way.

5. Stage to Highlight Your Space

You don’t need a full overhaul—just thoughtful placement, light neutral decor, and open spaces.

💬 Let’s Get You Listed (and Sold) This Spring!

April is calling, and with the right prep, your home could be one of the success stories. Whether you’re upgrading, downsizing, or relocating, Monica Herring with the Herring Home Team is here to guide you from “thinking about it” to “SOLD.”

To wrap it up, at Herring & Co. Renovation & Realty, we understand that every home—and every homeowner—is different. That’s why we offer personalized guidance whether you’re remodeling to enjoy your space or are looking to list your home for sale.  And with our combined expertise in renovation and real estate, we help you choose the updates that really pay off.

Cheers! 

Cody & Monica

#HerringHomeTeam

Renovation | Real Estate | Real Results

📍Serving the greater Houston area and surrounding communities including Tomball, Cypress, Spring, Magnolia, Montgomery, and The Woodlands
📩 Contact Us

Contact us today to get started.  Learn more about our Renovation & Realty Services.

👉 Follow us on Instagram, Facebook & YouTube! 🏡✨

Modern kitchens have the best roi for remodeling in Houston homes.
Home Renovation

Best Remodeling Projects for ROI in Houston

Whether you’re thinking about selling your home in the next year or just want to make smart upgrades, the Herring Home Team understands the importance of knowing which remodeling projects are actually worth the investment. In the Houston area real estate markets, where buyer expectations are rising and home values remain strong, strategic updates can make a big difference in both livability and resale value.  Our clients often ask us “what are the best remodeling projects for ROI in Houston?”

To clarify, let’s break down 5 renovations with the best return on investment (ROI)—and why they work so well in our Houston area market.

Top Remodeling Projects That Add Value

1. Kitchen Updates (Minor to Mid-Range Remodel)

Estimated ROI: 70–85%

You don’t need a full gut job to impress future buyers or enjoy your space more. Simple changes like new countertops, updated cabinets, modern hardware, and fresh lighting can completely transform your kitchen. In Houston, where open-concept kitchens are king, functionality and flow are just as important as finishes.

Pro Tip: Quartz countertops and matte black or brushed gold fixtures are trending locally and appeal to both modern and transitional tastes.

2. Bathroom Remodel (Especially the Primary Suite)

Estimated ROI: 60–75%

A clean, updated bathroom is always a plus for buyers. In the Houston area, larger walk-in showers, double vanities, and spa-like details are in high demand. Even smaller upgrades like replacing tile, re-glazing a tub, or updating fixtures can go a long way.

Pro Tip: Neutral tile, statement lighting, and upgraded mirrors offer big visual impact without a big budget.

3.Curb Appeal Enhancements

Estimated ROI: 80–100%

First impressions matter! For instance, updating your front door, adding fresh landscaping, pressure washing your sidewalks and exterior, or painting the exterior can dramatically boost both perceived and actual value.

Pro Tip: In Houston’s climate, drought-resistant landscaping and clean exterior lines are especially attractive to busy buyers.

4. Flooring Replacement

Estimated ROI: 70–80%

Old carpet or mismatched flooring can be a dealbreaker. Installing durable luxury vinyl plank or hardwood-look tile (popular in the Houston heat and humidity) offers a cohesive, modern feel that buyers love.

Pro Tip: Choose warm, mid-tone wood styles that are both timeless and family-friendly.

5. Energy-Efficient Upgrades

Estimated ROI: Varies, but offers long-term savings

Think new windows, upgraded insulation, or a more efficient HVAC system. While these may not always show up in listing photos, they do show up in buyer inspections and monthly utility bills.

Pro Tip: Make sure to mention any high-efficiency or green features in your home listing—today’s buyers are paying attention!

 

⚠️ Projects with Lower ROI to Think Twice About

  • Swimming pools: While popular in Houston, they are still considered a luxury—not always a money-maker at resale.
  • High-end customizations: Bold wallpaper or overly themed rooms may limit future appeal.
  • Garage conversions: Can reduce functionality and turn off buyers looking for storage or covered parking.

 

🛠️ Thinking of Remodeling? Let’s Talk Strategy.

To wrap it up, at Herring & Co. Renovation & Realty, we understand that every home—and every homeowner—is different. That’s why we offer personalized guidance whether you’re remodeling to enjoy your space or are looking to list your home for sale.  And with our combined expertise in renovation and real estate, we help you choose the updates that really pay off.

Wondering if your project is one of the best remodeling projects for ROI in Houston?  Reach out—we’re always happy to help.

Cheers! 

Cody & Monica

#HerringHomeTeam

Renovation | Real Estate | Real Results

📍Serving the greater Houston area and surrounding communities including Tomball, Cypress, Spring, Magnolia, Montgomery, and The Woodlands
📩 Contact Us

Contact us today to get started.  Learn more about our Renovation & Realty Services.

👉 Follow us on Instagram, Facebook & YouTube! 🏡✨

Storm Damage & Your Roof
Home Renovation

Storm Damage & Your Roof: What Homeowners Need to Know

Severe Texas storms can take a toll on your roof, and hail damage is one of the most common issues homeowners face in the Houston area.  Whether it’s minor repairs or a full roof replacement, knowing what to look for and how to navigate the insurance process can save you time and money. At Herring & Co. Renovation & Realty, we offer free roof inspections and expert guidance to help you make the best decision for your home.

Signs of Hail Damage

Not all hail damage is obvious, which is why a professional roof inspection is essential. Here’s what a roof inspector will look for:

Dented gutters & downspouts – Small dents or cracks can indicate hail impact.
Holes or cracks in the roof – Even small openings can lead to leaks over time.
Loose, missing, or damaged flashing – Check around vents, chimneys, skylights, and roof valleys.
Siding damage – Hail can dent or crack siding, leading to long-term issues.

Roof Repair vs. Replacement: What Are Your Options?

🔨 Repair: If the damage is minimal, replacing a few shingles may be enough to restore your roof.
🏠 Replacement: If hail damage is widespread, a full roof replacement may be necessary to protect your home from future leaks and structural issues.

What to Do After a Hailstorm

  1. Inspect Your Property – Look for visible damage to your roof, gutters, and siding.
  2. Schedule a Free Roof Inspection – A trusted roofing contractor like Herring & Co. Renovation & Realty can assess the damage and provide an expert opinion.

 

  1. Contact Your Insurance Company – If there’s damage, file a claim as soon as possible. Many homeowners insurance policies cover hail damage, but there may be a time limit for filing claims. Don’t worry, we will walk you through the insurance claim process.

Let’s Protect Your Home! Get a Free Roof Inspection Today

If you suspect hail damage, don’t wait! At Herring & Co. Renovation & Realty, we specialize in roof inspections, repairs, and replacements in the greater Houston area including Houston, Tomball, Cypress, Spring, Magnolia and The Woodlands. We’ll walk you through the insurance claim process and help you make the best choice for your home.

📞 Contact the Herring Home Team today for your free roof inspection!

Bigger, Better Kitchens: 2025 Trends Homeowners Love
Home Living & Lifestyle, Home Renovation, Real Estate

Bigger, Better Kitchens: 2025 Kitchen Trends Homeowners Love

At Herring & Co. Renovation & Realty, we know that the kitchen is the heart of the home. And according to the 2025 U.S. Houzz Kitchen Trends Study, homeowners are going big—literally! More than a third (35%) are expanding their kitchens, transforming them into multifunctional spaces perfect for cooking, entertaining, and everyday living.

With many homes in built decades ago, today’s homeowners are knocking down walls, reconfiguring layouts, and maximizing space to fit modern lifestyles. Whether you’re thinking about building, remodeling, buying, or selling, staying on top of the latest kitchen trends can help increase both function and home value. Here’s what’s trending in kitchen design for 2025 with the 2025 Kitchen Remodel Trends Homeowners Love:

  1. The Trend: Bold Backsplashes

More homeowners are making a statement with full-height backsplashes, extending tile or slab material all the way up to cabinets or range hoods. The top choice? Tile (76%), followed by large-format slab backsplashes (24%) for a seamless look.

  1. The Trend: Classic Tile Choices

When it comes to backsplashes, rectangular tiles are still the go-to (68%), while shapes like hexagonal and diamond tiles are gaining popularity.

  1. The Trend: Traditional Style Makes a Comeback

While transitional kitchens still dominate (25%), traditional-style kitchens have jumped in popularity, now ranking second (14%), ahead of modern and contemporary designs.

  1. The Trend: Black Countertops Are on the Rise

White remains the top countertop color, but black countertops are making waves, especially for kitchen islands, where nearly one in five homeowners (18%) opt for this dramatic contrast.

  1. The Trend: Glass-Front Cabinets for Style & Function

Shaker-style cabinets are still #1 (61%), but glass-front cabinets are trending as accent pieces (36%), giving homeowners a stylish way to display glassware, décor, and cookbooks.

  1. The Trend: Resilient Flooring Options

More homeowners are choosing vinyl/resilient flooring (22%), followed by hardwood (21%) and ceramic or porcelain tile (20%). Hardwood, while still popular, has seen a slight decline in recent years.

  1. The Trend: Smart & Specialty Appliances

Tech-savvy homeowners are investing in smart ovens with features like phone control (39%), automated cooking (22%), and precise temperature settings (25%)—making meal prep easier than ever.

  1. The Trend: Must-Have Storage Solutions

Organization is key! The most popular kitchen storage upgrades include:

♻️ Pullout waste/recycling bins (67%)
🥘 Cookie sheet & tray organizers (59%)
♨️ Spice and microwave storage (43%)

Thinking About a Kitchen Remodel?

We hope the 2025 Kitchen Remodel Trends Homeowners Love article was helpful! Whether you’re looking to build, remodel, buy or sell a home in the greater Houston area, including Houston, Tomball, Cypress, Spring, Magnolia, Montgomery, The Woodlands or beyond, the Herring Home Team powered by Herring & Co Renovation & Realty is here to help. From custom home renovations & kitchen remodels to expert real estate services, we can guide you in making the most of your home investment.

🔨 Let’s bring your dream kitchen to life! See any 2025 Kitchen Remodel Trends you’d like to implement?  Contact us today to get started.  Learn more about our Custom Building and Remodeling Services.

Maximize your home's value in 2025
Home Renovation, Real Estate

Maximize your home’s value in 2025

Whether you’re looking to build equity or maximize your home’s sale price, making thoughtful improvements to your home can significantly boost its value. While some factors like location and the Tomball and Northwest Houston real estate market may be beyond your control, keeping up with maintenance and investing in strategic upgrades can make a big difference. Here are six ways to add value to your home:

  1. Boost Curb Appeal

First impressions matter, and your home’s curb appeal is your chance to shine. A well-maintained and attractive exterior not only enhances your home’s appearance but also attracts potential buyers searching for homes in the Tomball or greater Northwest Houston area if you’re considering selling your home soon.  Start with the basics, like regular landscaping and adding low-maintenance plants or flowers.

For a bigger impact, consider replacing outdated exterior features like doors, siding, or even your garage door. According to Zonda Media’s Remodeling 2024 Cost vs. Value Report, replacing a garage door delivers an impressive 194% return on investment on average nationwide.

Hiring a remodeling contractor or Houston area renovation expert can ensure your exterior upgrades are completed professionally and efficiently.

  1. Upgrade the Interior

Kitchens and bathrooms are high-impact areas for boosting value, especially in the competitive Houston real estate market. Surprisingly, modest updates often deliver better returns than luxury overhauls according to the Remodeling 2024 Cost vs. Value Report.

  • Kitchen Upgrades: A minor kitchen remodel, such as updating appliances or refinishing cabinets, recoups about 96% of its cost. In contrast, a high-end remodel with custom finishes and commercial-grade appliances may only recover 38%.
  • Bathroom Updates: Midrange bathroom renovations, like replacing fixtures or flooring, yield a 74% return on average, while luxury remodels recover just 45%.

For homeowners considering remodeling, look for general contractors in your area who understand both your vision and the local market trends.

  1. Add Square Footage

Bigger homes often command higher prices in the Tomball and greater Northwest Houston area, as price per square foot is a key factor for buyers. Adding a room—like a bedroom, office, or finishing out a bonus space—can make your home more competitive in the market.

Even small expansions, such as finishing a basement or converting an attic, can make a big impact without the need for a full-scale addition.  Partnering with a Houston general contractor experienced in-room additions ensures that your project meets your needs and will bring a good return on your investment.

  1. Improve Efficiency

Energy-efficient upgrades not only lower utility bills but also make your home more appealing to buyers in the Tomball and Houston area. Features like energy-efficient windows, doors, and siding are increasingly important to today’s homeowners, according to a 2023 survey by the National Association of Realtors.

Other upgrades to consider:

  • Enhanced attic insulation
  • LED lighting
  • Energy-efficient appliances

These improvements are relatively affordable and add both immediate and long-term value.  Collaborate with a Houston remodeling contractor to identify affordable upgrades that align with both your budget and market trends.

  1. Prioritize Low-Maintenance Features

Busy homeowners and modern home buyers alike value updates that reduce the time and effort needed to maintain their homes. Replace high-maintenance materials, such as carpets or wood siding, with more durable and easy-to-care-for options like luxury vinyl flooring, hardwood floors or vinyl siding.

For expert advice and installation, consult a Tomball home improvement contractor or Houston area remodeling professional.  Low-maintenance homes are more attractive to buyers and can set your property apart.

  1. Add Smart-Home Features

Smart technology is an increasingly popular way to enhance convenience and safety in a home and is becoming a must-have for homeowners in the Houston area. Devices like smart thermostats, security cameras, door locks, and fire detectors are affordable (often costing $1,000 or less to install yourself) and add modern appeal to your property.

While these features don’t always translate directly to higher home value, they can make your home more desirable to potential buyers in the Houston real estate market.

Work with Local Experts

When it comes to maximizing your home’s value, having the right team on your side makes all the difference. The Herring Home Team is your go-to full-service team for both real estate and home remodeling in the greater Northwest Houston, Tomball, Spring, Magnolia, Montgomery and Waller areas. Monica Herring, a Realtor® with RE/MAX Elite Properties in Tomball, specializes in helping homeowners buy and sell with confidence, while Cody Herring, a general contractor with Herring Home Services, provides expert remodeling, building, and renovation services.

Whether you’re preparing to list your home or looking to update and personalize your space, the Herring Home Team combines real estate expertise with high-quality construction services to meet all your needs. Contact us today to learn how we can help you boost your home’s value and achieve your goals!