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“Summer afternoon—summer afternoon; to me those have always been the two most beautiful words in the English language.”
– Henry James
As July winds down and August peeks over the horizon, things are heating up in Northern Nevada—and we’re not just talking about the weather! At HomeGate Realty, we’re fired up about summer entertaining, new developments reshaping our region, and helping you make smart real estate moves that pay off.
In this edition, we’re serving up fresh inspiration for outdoor kitchens that not only elevate your backyard but offer strong ROI. We’re also diving into upcoming development projects shaping the Reno-Sparks landscape, spotlighting the vibrant Double Diamond neighborhood, and showcasing some incredible listings you won’t want to miss.
Plus, check out the latest events to keep your calendar full, see what’s trending on our social channels, and hear from a few clients who warmed our hearts with kind words.
No matter where you are in your real estate journey, we’re here to help you make the most of the season—because summer is better when you love where you live.
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Alan Hoffman, Broker
(775) 742-2591
Alan@HomeGateRealty.com
www.HomeGateRealty.com
Alan on LinkedIn
B.26300 LLC |
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Magda Martinez, REALTOR®
(775) 284-2615
Magda@HomeGateRealty.com
www.HomeGateRealty.com
Magda on LinkedIn
S.44936 |
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Save Thousands When Buying A Home…
Did you know there’s a free consumer report revealing ways to save time and money when buying a home? It’s called “8 Secrets For Saving Thousands When Finding and Buying Your Next Home,” and it’s great even if you’re not planning to buy soon. Get your free copy by calling Alan at 775-742-2591 or Magda at 775- 284-2615.
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If you’ve ever dreamed of hosting the ultimate backyard BBQ or simply want to upgrade your outdoor living space, adding an outdoor kitchen or BBQ island is a smart move. Not only does it enhance your lifestyle and curb appeal—it can also offer an impressive return on investment (ROI) when it’s time to sell.
Let’s explore the best types of outdoor kitchens and BBQ islands that strike the perfect balance between enjoyment and value.
Why Outdoor Kitchens Are a Smart Investment
Outdoor kitchens are one of the top features buyers look for in upscale homes. According to the National Association of Realtors, homeowners can expect to recoup an average of 71% of their investment on an outdoor kitchen. When done right, it adds square footage to your entertaining space and creates a seamless indoor-outdoor flow.
Best Outdoor BBQ Islands and Kitchens to Consider
1. Modular BBQ Islands (Prefabricated Units)
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Best For: Quick installations and budget-conscious upgrades
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Features: Built-in grill, storage, prep space, and optional bar seating
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ROI Bonus: Easy to relocate or upgrade, which appeals to buyers who like flexibility
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Price Range: $2,000–$10,000+
These plug-and-play systems are perfect if you want an attractive and functional outdoor kitchen without a custom price tag.
2. Custom-Built Outdoor Kitchens
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Best For: High-end homes and luxury entertaining
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Features: Full suite of appliances—grill, smoker, fridge, sink, pizza oven, and even dishwashers
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ROI Bonus: Tailored to your home’s architecture and landscape, boosting resale appeal
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Price Range: $10,000–$30,000+
Custom kitchens allow you to design around your lifestyle and maximize entertaining potential, which buyers love.
3. Stone or Stucco BBQ Islands
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Best For: Blending with traditional or Mediterranean-style homes
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Features: Natural stone or stucco finishes, grill, burners, sink, and storage
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ROI Bonus: Durable, low-maintenance, and visually cohesive with landscaping
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Price Range: $5,000–$20,000+
Using matching materials to your home’s exterior gives it a polished, cohesive feel that adds perceived value.
4. Stainless Steel Kitchens
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Best For: Contemporary homes or climates with heavy rain or humidity
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Features: Sleek stainless steel cabinets, grill, storage, and often a warming drawer or side burners
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ROI Bonus: Modern look with maximum durability and resistance to the elements
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Price Range: $7,000–$25,000+
These kitchens hold their value well because they’re built to withstand harsh weather conditions while maintaining a high-end appearance.
5. L-Shaped or U-Shaped Outdoor Kitchens
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Best For: Dedicated entertaining zones with multiple chefs or guests
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Features: Expansive prep areas, multiple cooking stations, and bar seating
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ROI Bonus: Creates a natural gathering space—like a second dining room
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Price Range: $15,000–$40,000+
These layouts are ideal for maximizing space and offering a true open-air cooking and entertaining experience.
Tips to Maximize ROI
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Use quality materials: Stainless steel, stone, and concrete last longer and appeal more to buyers.
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Add lighting: Task and ambient lighting make the space usable and safe at night.
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Include seating: A bar area or built-in bench adds to the usability.
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Stay cohesive: Match the kitchen’s look to your home’s style and landscape.
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Consider utilities: Access to gas, water, and electricity may require permits—factor this into your budget.
Final Thoughts
A well-designed outdoor kitchen or BBQ island does more than elevate your backyard parties—it elevates your property value. Whether you’re installing a sleek stainless steel unit or a fully custom cooking haven, these upgrades can be a win-win for both your lifestyle and your long-term investment.
Looking to add an outdoor kitchen before selling or renting out your property? Reach out—we’d be happy to connect you with local contractors and offer advice on what features buyers in your area are looking for most.
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Our region is growing, and 2025 has already proven to be a pivotal year for new residential development across Northern Nevada.
Whether you’re looking to buy your first home, relocate within the area, or invest in up-and-coming neighborhoods, knowing where future development is planned gives you a distinct advantage. Click here, and let’s review what’s on the horizon in Reno and Sparks, including neighborhoods that have been approved or are currently moving through the planning process.
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Late summer is a unique window of opportunity in the real estate market. Families may be looking to settle in before the new school year, buyers are wrapping up vacations and getting serious, and the weather is still ideal for showcasing outdoor living spaces. Staging your home to match the season can make a lasting impression and help your property sell faster—and potentially for more money.
Here’s how to stage your home for a successful late summer sale:
1. Maximize Natural Light
Take advantage of longer days and bright skies:
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Open all blinds and curtains to let the sunshine in.
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Clean windows to ensure they sparkle and provide clear views.
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Use mirrors strategically to reflect light and make rooms feel larger.
2. Refresh Your Curb Appeal
First impressions matter, especially in the summer heat.
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Keep the lawn freshly mowed and watered.
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Add potted plants or colorful late-summer flowers like zinnias, black-eyed Susans, or marigolds.
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Repaint or clean the front door, and add a new doormat with a sunny, welcoming vibe.
3. Cool and Comfortable Interiors
Buyers don’t want to step into a stuffy house.
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Set the thermostat to a comfortably cool temperature.
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Use ceiling fans for air circulation.
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Lightly scented candles or diffusers in citrus or linen scents can freshen the air without being overpowering.
4. Highlight Outdoor Living Areas
Late summer is ideal for outdoor entertaining, so make it easy for buyers to envision themselves relaxing in your yard.
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Stage patios or decks with seating, cushions, and an outdoor rug.
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Add a pitcher of lemonade, a tray with glasses, or even a small potted herb garden for a pop of color and charm.
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Clean the grill and consider adding ambient string lights or solar lanterns.
5. Use a Warm Yet Neutral Color Palette
Late summer calls for rich neutrals with a hint of warmth:
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Swap heavy blankets and dark pillows for lighter throws in ivory, sage green, or soft gold.
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Add seasonal décor like sunflowers in a vase or bowls of fresh fruit (lemons, peaches, or apples).
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Keep clutter to a minimum to maintain a relaxed, airy feel.
6. Stage Key Rooms to Reflect Lifestyle
Focus your efforts where it matters most:
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In the kitchen, add a clean cookbook on a stand and a bowl of seasonal produce.
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In the living room, create a cozy conversation area.
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In the bedrooms, use crisp white bedding and accent pillows to give off a resort-like feel.
7. Showcase Storage Space
Late summer often means buyers are thinking ahead to fall and school routines.
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Organize closets and pantries to look spacious and functional.
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Tidy up garages, mudrooms, or entryway cubbies to show practical storage solutions.
Final Thoughts
Staging a home in late summer is all about embracing the warmth of the season while preparing buyers to fall in love with their future home. With a little effort and attention to detail, you can highlight your home’s best features and help buyers see themselves living there.
Thinking about listing your home before the fall? Now’s the time to shine–contact us today to set up a pre-listing appointment.
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What’s My Home Worth?
If you want to know your home’s current value, we will gladly conduct a Maximum Value Home Audit. Request this “no charge” in-depth home value analysis by calling Alan at (775) 742-2591 or Magda at (775) 284-2615, or send us an email by tapping the button below:
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Click on the property’s image to view more information.
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Would You Like to Know How Much Your
Neighbor’s Home Listed or Sold for?
Maybe you’re just curious. Or maybe you want to know how much your home is worth. Either way, we can help…with no “sales pitches” or run-arounds. Call either Alan at 775-742-2519 or Magda at 775-284-2615 and we’ll give you all the facts. Or, click on the button below to send us an email:
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Nestled in the heart of South Reno, Double Diamond is a thoughtfully designed master-planned community that continues to be one of the most desirable places to live in Northern Nevada. With its modern homes, scenic views, family-friendly layout, and strong community appeal, it offers a lifestyle that blends suburban comfort with convenient access to all that Reno has to offer. Click here, and let’s explore this incredible neighborhood together! |
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“I can’t say enough about the team at HomeGate Realty. So professional. They communicate very well before and even after the sale. Alan & Magda are just so professional and Pam is such a big part of the team. You can’t go wrong with these pros.”
–Bob F., 5-Star Google Review
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“Success usually comes to those who are too busy to be looking for it.”
– Henry David Thoreau
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