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Summertime brings about welcoming warm weather, sweet summer treats, and dreamy beach vacations. While the nearest beach to Nashville is 7 hours away, that doesn’t mean you cannot bring the beach to you!

Give your home a summer refresh. Now is the perfect time to create a seaside atmosphere in your home!

Luscious Light Color Palettes
Replicate the soothing ocean vibe we all enjoy with luscious light tones. Hues of light blues, greens, and taupe offer homeowners a calming, beachside atmosphere. Combining earthy tones helps bring the outdoors in, while still fitting traditional home color schemes.

Open Air Living
Seaside escapes are known for their open-air living concepts. To replicate this highly sought after feature while also accommodating for Middle Tennessee’s chilly winters, consider simple, light fabrics for window treatments.

Soft Seaside Décor
Soft linens, casual furnishings, natural fibers and textures, and light tones create a calming seaside presence in your home. Pick a cohesive color scheme and select elements that work with your current home. Add in touches of glass and mirrors for a subtle sparkling element, representative of the ocean.

Simple Summer Centerpieces
Creating a cool coastal home does not always require shells and seahorses. Consider creating artful centerpieces that represent the summer season. Fill a vase with seaside-toned flowers, such as hydrangeas for a simple yet stunning centerpiece. For a more beachside feel, fill small glass containers with sand, add in candles, and enjoy a gentle glow in the evening.

Beachy Porches and Patios
The warmer season brings about summer gatherings and poolside parties. Create an outdoor island hangout by adding in neutral furniture with inviting cushions for your morning coffee or happy hour cocktails.

Explore your creativity! Make your home feel like a simple seaside retreat each and every day. Incorporating beachy elements creates a classy coastal vibe that will make every day feel like a vacation.

Start living the seaside life!

Summer is here, which means the weather is heating up. Mosquitos are in full force in Middle Tennessee. It is time to protect your family and loved ones. Today, we are exploring 7 natural ways to keep the mosquitos away.

• Essential Oils
Essential oils have proven effective for a number of uses ranging from migraine relief to personal beauty care. Several essential oils can be used in a vaporizer to repel mosquitos, including Tea Tree Oil and Peppermint essential oil.

 •  Bug Repellent
Whether indoors or out, a natural bug repellent will ensure mosquitos stay away from you and your loved one. Mix 25-30 drops of lavender essential oils with 2 tablespoons of olive or vegetable oil. Rub onto skin to prevent mosquito bites.

 •  Citronella Candles
Citronella candles are a great natural mosquito repellent. Natural Citronella candles ensure you are not emitting harmful toxins. Create your own to burn anytime you want your home to stay mosquito-free.

 •  Dry Ice
Place dry ice in a bowl a short distance away from you. The dry ice will attract mosquitos, allowing you to trap mosquitos with a lid and remove from your home.

 •  Coffee Grounds
Sprinkle coffee grounds at the source of still water in your home. Mosquito eggs will be forced to the surface, depriving them of oxygen and eliminating the breeding process.

•   Basil
Place planted basil throughout your home and garden, as a natural repellent. The plants can double as a source of fresh basil for summer recipes.

 •  Plants
Shrubs, trees, and plants can keep your home and yard mosquito free. Tulsi, Marigolds, Neem, Lavender, and Lemongrass all include repellent properties.

Ready to repel pesky mosquitos? Lockout mosquitos for a pest-free summer season.

Summer is almost here and it’s moving season!

Did you know approximately 11.2% of Americans move each year? Seeking a change in your life? We are here to give you 10 reasons why you should make a move – to Middle Tennessee!

• Business-Friendly Environment
Middle Tennessee is known to foster a business-friendly environment. Middle Tennessee boasts a number of Fortune 500 companies, and many US headquarters locations including Caterpillar Financial Services Corporations, Cracker Barrel, Country Music Television, Dollar General, Firestone Tire and Rubber Company, Hobby Lobby International, Nissan North America, O’Charleys, Pinnacle Financial, and Tractor Supply Company to name a few.

•  Extra Money In Your Pocket
If you are looking for a place to make your dollar go a little farther, look no further! Tennessee residences enjoy no personal state income tax.

•  Commuter Friendly
Tired of wasting time on the morning commute? Middle Tennesseans enjoy an average commute of 26 minutes . Spend more time enjoying the city, and less time on the road.

•  Superb Schools
Middle Tennessee enjoys a number of top-rated school districts, ensuring families a quality education. In addition, Middle Tennessee offers top-tier universities including the highly ranked Vanderbilt University, Tennessee State University, Middle Tennessee State University, and Belmont University.

•  Southern Charm
If you have never experienced Middle Tennessee’s southern charm first hand, you are missing out. Locals enjoy a friendly, family oriented atmosphere as well as a low crime rate.

•  Creative Culture
For those that enjoy culture, Middle Tennessee will be music to your ears. Nashville is known as Music City for a reason. Concerts are offered throughout the city. Catch a concert at Ryman Auditorium, or Bridgestone Arena, or the Ascend Amphitheater, or check out the infamous Country Music Awards.

•  Extra Entertainment
For the die-hard sports fans, unleash your inner sports fanatic at a Tennessee Titan game, or a Nashville Sounds game, or cool down at a Nashville Predator’s ice hockey game. For the college fans, enjoy a SEC sports experience at a Vanderbilt University match or a Middle Tennessee State University match.

•  Enjoyable Environment
Middle Tennessee enjoys a true “four seasons.” The average high is around 70, and the region is known to have a longer fall and spring season, making winter and summer more enjoyable!

•  Walkable Communities
Along with a great environment, Middle Tennessee offers wonderful walkable communities. Nashville boasts a Walk Score of 90 – a walker’s paradise.  Family-friendly and strategically located, families and singles have the opportunity to enjoy all that Middle Tennessee has to offer right at their doorstep.

•  Booming Real Estate Market
Middle Tennessee is the place to be! With a booming real estate market, now is the time to make your move. Find a walkable community complete with biking trails, nature preserves, and resort style pools, or make your move to the country and enjoy a piece of paradise.

Ready to make the change? Explore our Community Locator Map to find your perfect home. Regent Homes is here to welcome you to the neighborhood!

Homeowners often utilize window treatments for aesthetic appeal over function. With careful placement and material sourcing, homeowners have the opportunity to reduce energy consumption and keep their home cool in the summer.

According to the Department of Energy (DOE), homeowners have a number of options that provide a plethora of home benefits.


Blinds
When trying to reduce heat gain in the summer, add interior blinds – a simple and effective solution of reducing heat and sunlight. Reflective blinds (shades of white) have the ability to reduce heat gain by 45 percent.

Shades
Shades are considered the most effective and simple way to save energy according to the DOE. To add an element of functionality, choose reversible shades that have a dark coating on one side and light shade on the other. These shades can be reversed depending on the season, keeping you cool in the summer and warm in the winter.

Draperies
A number of factors are used to determine the effectiveness of draperies – fabric type being one of the most important.  During the summertime, draperies should be placed on windows that receive direct sunlight.

Awnings
Want to reduce the heat on the outside of your home? Add an awning, which can reduce solar heat gain by up to 65% on south-facing windows and 77% on west-facing windows according to the DOE.

Looking to take cool to the next level? Investing in Low-E windows minimizes the infrared and ultraviolet light that passes through the glass while still allowing light to be transmitted. Low-E glass includes a transparent coating, which reflects heat.

Each Regent Home comes equipped with Low-E 71/38 windows with vinyl frames. The ClimaGuard 71/38 window glass significantly reduces solar heat and damaging radiation without sacrificing clear views and daylight. In return, air conditioning expenses are reduces and residence enjoy a more comfortable living environment. Want to learn more about EnergySmart features incorporated in every Regent Home? Read about what an EnergySmart home means for homeowners [here].

Summer is right around the corner. Find the options that work best for your home, and keep cool this summer!

Laundry rooms come in all shapes in sizes. Whether your room is oversized or compact, laundry room organization is key.

Looking to clean up your space? You’re in luck! Today, we are sharing 7 tips to keep your laundry room clean and organized.

• Store Laundry Detergent in a Beverage Dispenser
Laundry detergent can be messy and unsightly. Put a twist on your laundry, and utilize glass beverage dispensers as your new favorite tool! These dispensers will appear more attractive on a shelf and require no heavy lifting.

This trick also works great with softener. You may also add a chalkboard label for an extra personalized touch!

•  Store Tide Pods in Glass Jars
Tide Pods often come in bulky, bright containers. Transfer these handy laundry room essentials to a glass cookie jar, for a more streamlined appearance.

If you are in a home with small children, simply store on a high shelf, or in an unreachable cabinet space.

• Utilize Designated Hampers
No matter what size your laundry room is, separating laundry ahead of time is a must for busy families. Incorporate at least three baskets – lights, darks, and delicates. Many choose a fourth basket for towels.

Working with a small space and are limited on your number of baskets? Incorporate a triple laundry hamper cart. This handy tool is both compact and moveable, as it has four wheels for ease of use.

• Add a Drying Bar
For shirts that are best served-air dried, add a drying bar that will hold several shirts that do not go in the drying cycle. Air-drying will prevent shrinkage and will keep your clothes looking their best. Many households choose to install their drying bar right above the washer and dryer, but you may store the bar wherever you see fit.

• Stack the Washer and Dryer for Tighter Spaces
Most front-loading washer and dryers sets allow for stacking, which saves precious space in small laundry rooms. Larger spaces also work great with this technique, as it adds more room for additional storage.

• Mount Bulkier Items
Bulky items take up much-needed space in your laundry room. Mount brooms, dusters, and ironing boards. You can also add an over-the-door storage set for store smaller items.

• Find a Place for Everything
Creating a storage space that works for you is essential to keeping your laundry room clean. Add wall hutches, shelves, and cabinets for a custom-feel room. If desired, display your laundry detergent dispensers, and hide bulkier items such as your iron.

Take a weekend, and implement the tips and tricks that work best for your space. Before you know it, you will have a Pinterest-worthy laundry room that will be the envy of all of your friends and family.

Clean up your space, and enjoy your new laundry room organization.

Many factors affect a plant’s health and well-being – temperature being one of the most important. In order to sustain the life of your new plants, finding your zone is key. Planting for your zone will ensure that your plants thrive in your local region.

USDA Hardiness Zones
The USDA has developed a plant hardiness zone map, which designates when and where specific plants can survive. The US is broken down into 11 zones, 1 being the coldest, and 11 being the warmest.

For example, Regent Homes headquarters of Nashville, Tennessee is designated as Zone 7a, meaning our average annual extreme minimum temperature is 0 to 5 degrees.

We would then use this information to pick the proper plants that would have the best chance of survival in our winter weather.

Plant tags and seed packages designate hardiness zones, which help you determine if the plant is suitable to survive your winter.

Want to find your zone? Visit the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone website, enter your zip code, and learn more.

Knowing your zone is key, as the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone is the standard across the US.

AHS Plant Heat Zone Map
While winter weather is important in determining plant survival, heat plays a crucial role as well. The American Horticultural Society developed a Plant Heat Zone map, which establishes heat tolerance.

The map breaks the US down into 12 zones, based on heat days – temperatures over 86 degrees. This is the point that plants begin to suffer heat damage.

Similar to Hardiness Zones, many plant tags are also coded for heat zones. Heat zones can be used to establish heat tolerance, and the proper season for which a plant should be planted outdoors.

Finding the Right Plants
Now that you have a better understanding of hardiness and heat zones, how do you establish which plants are right for you?

Plant Tags
If you have questions on what plants are best for your zone, your local nursery is a great place to start. Plant tags often designate cold and heat hardiness zones. Experts can also assist in picking the best plants for your needs.

Plant Finders
Looking to start your search online? The Missouri Botanical Gardens provides a comprehensive search tool that allows you to input key information, such as: zone, sun, water, bloom time, and more. Enter your criteria, and find what plants work best for you. To find your plants, visit the Plant Finder  page on their website.

Planting for your zone may sound complicated, but choosing the best plants ensures health and longevity. Enjoy the spring, and see how planting for your zone can benefit your home garden!

You’ve been waiting for months, and it’s finally arrived! That light jacket, nice breeze, blooming flowers, sunshiny spring weather is here, and it’s sure to turn your winter frown upside down.

So, how can you shake off winter and prep your house for that better weather? Check out our ideas for getting your home in tip-top spring shape.

Rejuvenated Roof
It’s essential. Your first line of defense from the elements. Now is the time to get your roof inspected for any winter precipitation damage or loose shingles.

Glamorous Gutters
It’s not a glamorous job, but someone’s gotta get up there, roll up the sleeves, and clean out those gutters. Make sure they’re cleared of leaves and debris and have no cracks that could potentially lead to water damage in your home.

Fresh Filters
Change out your air filters to ensure no debris creates blockages in your AC that keep you from cooling down when the summer heats up.

Suitable Screens
Picture yourself sitting around the table with that natural breeze cooling down your home instead of turning on the AC. Ahhh, you can just feel it now. Clean your screens with soap and water and patch up any potential holes so you can keep the windows open all night long. Use the extra cash from your AC bill to get yourself an ice cream instead.

Pick your Paint
Refresh your winter warped paint on the outside of your home (and inside if you’re feeling spring clean crazy!). Get the whole family together for a paint party this spring. Kill two birds with one stone by making your home look fantastic while also protecting it from the weather elements.

Laborious Lawnmower
It’s everyone’s favorite chore! (Notice the hint of sarcasm) In all seriousness, your yard will look great this spring and summer so long as your lawnmower is in good shape. It might need an oil change, or the blades sharpened to get that clean cut, fresh look.

Strong Seals
No, not the adorable sea creatures. It’s a perfect time to check the seals around your windows and doors after all that winter weather to keep the cool air in and the bills down.

Bountiful BBQ
We all love our spring and summer BBQs. Take a peek at your BBQ and make sure it’s cleaned out and ready to be fired up on a nice night with friends and family.

Phew! That was a little hard but necessary work. Your future self will thank you for lower cost bills, less potential for damages, and a beautiful home and yard.

Happy Spring Cleaning!

Franklin is a city where the history, music, and culture run deep. From traditional roots to cowboy boots, Franklin, Tennessee has it all.

Franklin is filled with charming culture and long-standing tradition. Named after founding father Benjamin Franklin, the city has increased its population more than fivefold since 1980. Now ranked as the 7th largest city in the state of Tennessee, Franklin continues to enjoy exceptional growth and prosperity.

Successful growth allows the city to support an array of thriving industries and businesses. Several health care companies, Provident Music Group, and Nissan’s North American headquarters call Franklin home.

The unemployment rate is currently at 3.5%, and future job growth is projected at 41.04%, creating a prime economy for residence.

Education is important in Franklin, as families are served by the Williamson County School District, and Franklin Special School District. Franklin also boasts a number of private schools, as well as top-rated colleges and universities, including Belmont University, Lipscomb University, and Williamson College.

Holding true to its roots, Franklin offers several traditional festivals and annual events.

Franklin has been included in many pop culture references. Nashville filmed many of their concert scenes in the Franklin Theater, and Bruno Mars and The Beatles shot notable music videos in the Historic District of Franklin.

There is plenty to see and do. Spend the day sipping local wine at Arrington Vineyards, or sample premium spirits at H Clark Distillery and Leiper’s Fork Distillery. Enjoy an afternoon shopping at CoolSprings Galleria or visit Lotz House, which is known as “ground zero” for the Battle of Franklin.

Looking to make your move to Franklin, Tennessee? Discover Regent Homes at Berry Farms and Westhaven. Both are traditional neighborhood developments that offer a modern, urban lifestyle, in a quiet suburban setting. Homeowners enjoy residential shopping, dining, and offices in a walkable, family-friendly community. Select from town center homes and townhomes at Berry Farms, and town center homes at Westhaven.

Whether it is for work or play, maybe a little in between, visit Franklin, Tennessee. Experience firsthand southern tradition and excellence in one of Tennessee’s favorite towns.

Outdated building codes, exorbitant remodeling costs, and lack of square footage are just a handful of the negative features associated with older homes.

New construction offers abounding opportunities and benefits. Today, we are exploring five benefits for buying new construction.

Modern Layout
US homes are 1,000 square feet larger than in 1973, offering numerous opportunities for luxurious modern features. Today’s homeowners enjoy a master suite with an en-suite bath, additional bedrooms and bathrooms, and a modern open layout.

Present-day homes are designed with the family in mind. Open floorplans allow for ease of entertainment, as guests can move from the kitchen, to the living room, opposed to being closed off in “formal” rooms.

Lower Operational and Maintenance Cost
New homes allow you to move in, knowing that key features are incorporated to save money on operational and maintenance cost.

The average remodeling cost is $36,000, but can be upwards of $100,000. New homes are move-in ready and do not require costly updates.

Regent Homes EnergySmart program ensures homes exceed building and energy codes, and reduce energy usage and water consumption. Advanced construction materials are used to create a healthier, quieter home for you and your loved ones. The result – a durable, sustainable, and cost-effective home that allows you to spend more time enjoying your new home.

Lower operational and maintenance costs will save you both time and money, two of your most valued resources.

Safety
A primary concern of families is safety. Buying new allows you to rest assured that your new home is up to code, built with new quality building materials, and free of harmful materials.

New homes allow you to start fresh, instead of moving into a home filled with unknown history. New homes provide a safer and healthier environment.

Warranty
New homes are an investment, which is why your new home’s warranty is one of your greatest assets. Everything in your home will be brand new, providing you with peace of mind.

Here at Regent, we provide a 1-year builder warranty which includes structural defects and defective materials which are not apparent upon your inspection prior to closing. The warranty is also extended to cover common construction deficiencies that can occur.

Regent Homes also offers an optional 10-year structural warranty through the Bonded Builder Warranty Program.

Many products in your new Regent home will also include manufacturer’s warranties, protecting your investments in the years to come.

New Community
New construction lends the opportunity to live in the best new communities. Whether you are seeking the perfect walkable community, or desire a modern family-friendly neighborhood, new construction allows you to take your pick.

Regent Homes builds in a number of communities, providing the perfect community that will meet all of your needs.

If any of these benefits interest you, a new home may be best for you. Interested in exploring your options? Visit our www.RegentHomesTN.com to learn more about our homes and communities. We offer the perfect home that will meet all of your modern desires.

Tired of coming home to your dull, beige colored walls each day? Looking for a change?

Bring life to your space with an accent wall. This easy update is sure to deliver big results to your next home project.

Follow our 5 simple steps, and see what a difference a fresh coat of paint can do for you and your home.

Pick Your Wall
Where are your eyes drawn each time you enter the room? Choose the wall that will accent the room best.

In a living room, the focal point is usually the wall with architectural detail, such as a fireplace or built-in bookshelves. Often, the best wall in your bedroom is the headboard wall. Adding a pop of color will add just the right contrast to freshen up the look of your room.

Follow the 60-30-10 Rule
When choosing the perfect paint color, do not let the number of options overwhelm you. Instead, follow the 60-30-10 rule, which states:
60 Percent:  60% of the room represents your dominant color choice, including painted surfaces and décor. In a living room, this would be most of your walls, accent pieces such as large area rugs, and a sofa.

30 Percent: 30% is your secondary color, which includes accent chairs, painted furniture, bed linens, draperies, and most importantly, your accent wall.

10 Percent: 10% is the accent color, which includes throw pillows and artwork.

Pick Up the Paint
After establishing the perfect color scheme for your room, head to your local home improvement store to pick out your accent color. Color palettes are a great tool in selecting the shade that will fit your room best.

Be sure to buy a can of primer if you plan on painting a light color over a dark color, or if you are covering up semi-gloss or gloss paint.

Line Away
When it comes to painters tape, be sure you do not cut any corners. Carefully line the wall, as paint roller lines will become very visible against the contrasting walls.

Covering your floors with a protective covering, such as a drop cloth or plastic sheet, guarantees a mess-free project for you and your home.

Paint, Paint, Paint
Once your room is prepped and ready to go, apply your primer as directed. Apply two coats of your accent color, for optimal results.

Allow your walls time to cure, and take into consideration any conditions such as humidity that may add time to the process. Once cured, remove your floor coverings and painters tape, and enjoy your new room!

A fresh coat of paint can work wonders for a home – both new and old. Create your own accent wall, and enjoy the positive changes it can make!